Harry Potter's Secret Weapon
**OO**...
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.
**OO**
Chapter 8 - Solstice Ball Fallout
**OO**
Wednesday, June 22, Chateau Lumiere
Baxter returned from his early morning call. A set of vials, clearly memories, were set at the place where Auror Tonks would be seated with a note. Another set was sent to both Mistress Calladora and another to Lord Black's steward. Odd, since the Head of House Black was in residence. Memories that might be dangerous for the Master to see until he could be healed, so Baxter had been told. Baxter was just too old to question such things.
It was copies of the records that Mistress Darlene had promised to send last night.
Auror Tonks was professional enough to keep a confidence, well, rather share it with the right people.
As for Mistress Darlene herself, she had shared with the old elf that she had an appointment with a mind healer to try and find out why Master Sirius didn't remember her!
**OO**
Wednesday, June 22, Ministry of Magic
Dolores Umbridge, Undersecretary to the Minister of Magic, was responsible for making sure that all dementors had been properly returned to the island prison after being recalled.
Her findings had made the cranky witch, well. Cranky. Crankier.
Storming into Fudge's office upon her return from Azkaban had everyone on the nearest levels being informed by Umbridge herself of the current situation. Her nasally complaints carried far and wide.
"Dementors! The dementors sent to Hogwarts never returned! Not one!" Dolores shouted.
Leading workers to giggle behind their hands –and out of earshot of Umbridge– several of Dolores' 'closest friends and family' were missing. Umbridge was thoroughly despised within the halls of the MoM!
The average witch or wizard would never complain overly much about any dementors vanishing from Britain.
What was scary is where they might be, or what they might be doing.
"Not now, Dolores! Can't you see I'm occupied!" Fudge pointed to the door, in clear dismissal. That woman needed a different job. She had too much dirt on him to just sack. Hmm. A promotion to lead dragon handler in Sweden? Likely not.
Not getting the answers she wanted from Cornelius, the toad-like woman hopped over to the DMLE department offices.
Jumping over several heads to go straight to the top, Madam Umbridge tried to intimidate Amelia Bones, much to the amusement of several aurors in the pen.
"I demand you find out what happened! We have missing Ministry personnel. Missing on YOUR watch."
Amelia finished reading the report in her hand before looking up.
"May I remind you that I objected strenuously to the use of dementors in the manhunt for Sirius Black? I couldn't find anything regarding his conviction - only a very brief arrest report filed by then Obliviator Cornelius Fudge. I can't get anything from the Wizengamot secure records, thanks to our kind Minister.
"France has been requesting arrest records, witness testimonies, trial records, and other official documents from us for the last year and I have been blocked at every turn."
Amelia had no idea who this Darlene Fenwich was. She asked Dumbledore once if he remembered her, and he muttered something about meddling witches.
Healer Fenwich was insistent that Sirius was innocent. But Amelia could find no proof of anything one way or another.
The Director continued, "I can't stand those soul-sucking creatures. I am not responsible for them. I have it in my contract that I am not responsible, as you well recall. You insisted at the time that you were. You had the best control of them, you claimed. So, what is it that you want me to do for your missing family, Dolores? Hmm? Send flowers?" Amelia finished, sarcastically.
"Family? Dementors! This is no time for your jokes! I want you to do your job!"
"I would if I was allowed to. I'll tell you what. Let's trade. I'll find out about your missing dementors, and you find me those trial transcripts. Fudge would have been called as a witness - maybe he kept a copy."
Umbridge turned a bit green, but she was desperate.
"Fine! But I want a report today!"
"As long as I have my trial records today as well then." Bones purred.
"One week!" Dolores backpedaled. "No longer, or you'll be looking for a new job!"
Laughter ushered the squat woman out the door.
"Honestly! Does she think that she can threaten you?" Proudfoot asked softly, worried about the situation.
"I don't think so. Moody's preparing to teach at Hogwarts this coming year and, knowing Alastor, he'll be in and out of the school all summer. That man is the definition of 'thorough'! Let's send him an express invitation to do a bit of research for us. Investigating the disappearance of poor Dolores' siblings." Amelia commented, reaching for parchment and quill.
The aurors near her laughed and went back to work. Auror Tonks followed Director Bones back to her desk, shutting the door behind her after getting a nod of permission.
"Um, boss. Well. You know that I spent some quality time as part of Harry Potter and Hermione Granger's security detail over the last couple of days."
Director Bones nodded, "Sure, Moody told me about the situation. I'm sorry you had to go without pay. I could give you something out of my own pocket, should you need…"
Tonks held up a hand. "No, thank you, mam. Lord Black paid us, but I think that Moody loves Harry like a long lost relative, and would have paid us himself."
Amelia smiled. "Mad-eye? He doesn't pay for his own drinks!"
Tonks half-smiled, "I want to share a story with you. Or at least a part of one." Tonks whispered.
Bones cast a silencing spell, not noticing the beetle crawling on the back of her chair, well within the spell's influence.
"Harry Potter destroyed every dementor at Hogwarts, about a month ago. He did it in defense of his friend Ron Weasley, his girlfriend Hermione Granger, and in defense of Sirius Black."
"Gone? Truly destroyed? A third year student?!" The woman demanded. "This confirms what Susan said about Harry Potter being upset over the Black situation. Black doesn't want to kill Potter."
Tonks noticed a bug on Amelia's chair and transformed a blank parchment into a fly swatter. She missed but the thing flew off. Tonks continued her testimony. "Why would Harry Potter's sworn godfather hurt him?"
"What?"
Tonks confirmed, nodding, "And I've seen memories of the baby blessing and godparents oath ceremony.
"That day last month, all of those I just named would have been killed if Potter hadn't acted. Having those monsters at a school! They swarmed Harry at a quidditch match earlier in the year. If he hadn't been able to cast a patronus, they would have Kissed him then. It was when he was first learning the patronus charm, and just got mist out, but it was enough to save himself. That night he cast a fully corporeal patronus. Then, well, you just have to see it."
"Umbridge, and whoever paid to pull her strings, has much to answer for. Thank you for letting me know. I'll ask Moody to get me a copy of the memory…" Amelia began but stopped at the sound of a clunk.
A set of vials was plunked on the woman's desk from Tonks' inner pocket.
"Sworn Godfather. I have a copy of that ceremony here as well. You do know that the Potters were living in a cottage in Godric's Hollow when Harry was born? Not a lot of people were invited to the event - not even blood family. Oh, we're keeping part of this hush, hush for now, but Harry's oath-sworn godmother is in there too."
"Wait. If his Head of House didn't preside, then who did?"
"Three guesses. But his initials have five letters."
Amelia paled, as Tonks continued.
Placing more vials upon Amelia's desk, Tonks informed her, "Some of my own memories are shared here along with others that Harry asked me to give to you. We were attacked returning to the townhouse from the ball. Look, realistically if they wanted to kill us, we'd all be dead! It was clearly a kidnapping. Oh and this, if you swear on your magic to keep it in a vault that can't be accessed by any Death Eater, he has a small gift for you."
Tonks set down a tiny golden key with a copy of the estimate expected from the sale of basilisk skin, bones, organs, blood and venom. He was setting aside some of the gold for gifts to others who were affected by the attack.
Harry was hoarding the basilisk meat for some reason, keeping it at the 'proper setting' whatever that meant.
Amelia picked up the golden object. It was a key for an estate-sized vault. "What?"
"Harry commissioned the basilisk carcass to be sold, but doesn't want to keep all of the proceeds. Harry says, 'I only killed it because You-know-who set it on me. His followers are trying to bring him back, and they have lots of gold. The people who were petrified deserve some compensation'.
"Ron Weasley broke his leg, Ginny was nearly killed. They all got something. But the rest? Harry could have pocketed it all, and called it a day. But you know what he said? 'The good guys need gold to fight him. Let them have it.'
"Dumbledore's going to be miffed that Harry didn't give the gold to him, but Harry refused since the headmaster sold all of Harry's presents from the last twelve years to fund his Order. Not something that makes Harry feel particularly warm and fuzzy despite liking Fawkes personally."
"He did what? Can a regent do that? Legally?" Amelia made notes. Dumbledore wasn't her favorite person on a good day, She was sure that he was involved with why she couldn't get access to records that should reside in her secure file room.
Amelia read and took the oath. A shrunken trunk containing armor, enchanted items, and invisibility cloaks were then deposited on the desk in addition to the vault key.
"Harry wants to live with family. He stayed with a bunch this past week, including Penelope Black. Lovely girl. Light sided Black family has to be celebrated."
"You just met her, Auror Tonks. You can't possibly know that she's light-sided…" Amelia reasoned.
Tonks interrupted again, tapping the pink vial. "Memories of oaths that me, Calladora, Penelope, and Lord Black all took to protect Harry as best we can, to fight against you-know-who and never support his followers. Auntie Calladora looked ready to go hand-to-hand with a boy she called Tommy, 'a little nothing with delusions of grandeur' that had hurt her family.
"As for Miss Black? She really is kind. We went to several events together, and brewed potions too. Worked and played. She and I had so much fun during this visit."
Tonks then plunked down a wooden case. Amelia's busy desk was definitely becoming overwhelmed. She slid the lid to show the improved polyjuice base, healing potions, and all sorts of interesting things for an auror in the field. "A gift. From a grateful protegée. For your information, the polyjuice base is an improved version not based on the one from 'Most Potente Potions' as used to be standard. You have been a wonderful mentor. We want you to have this for backup."
"Thank you, Auror Tonks. I see that you were working very hard this holiday. I must see that you get a bit of time off at Yule if you bring me this sort of intelligence back. And resources. Yes, indeed. Keep up the good work. Dismissed."
Tonks desperately wanted to ask her to help in the House's quest to aid more people like Penny, but she really had to keep that part quiet for now.
**OO**
Flashback
"What do you mean I have inherited Houses?" Harry demanded. "I'm not marrying ten thousand women. That's for those Aladdin tales, not for me!"
Lord Black reassured his Heir, "No, you don't have to have multiple wives, many mistresses, line contracts or anything else. You gave me the idea with what you did for Penelope. The problem is that the Death Eaters have wiped out entire families and trimmed others to the point of one or two struggling branches. We need to graft in some new lines!"
Neville caught on instantly. "Susan Bones, Hannah Abbot, you, me. Daphne has only one sister, who is sickly, and has been forced into a contract with Malfoy. I think her grandfather was trying to protect their family. Daphne is pledged to Adrian Pucey, the son of a known Death Eater. Harry, we can't use people like Colin that have annoyed too many others. He'd be remembered. But people who've kept their heads down? Did their school work quietly in order to maintain wand rights? I bet a lot left school after OWLs, seeing what happens to other muggleborn."
Hermione looked appalled, but was included in the discussion, just as Neville and Percy were.
"It isn't right! Breaking up people in love! But this! This shouldn't be necessary." Percy complained.
"No, it shouldn't. But if it gives people a chance to do what they want to do, what they love to do and stay in the Magical world, then we all win. And one day, their children will go to school, free of 'taint'. Truly able to do anything they want." Harry shared.
"How are you going to keep this quiet? Muggleborns popping up inside shops that they now own will receive a lot of negative attention." Augusta Longbottom asked sincerely. "I support the idea of allowing muggleborns into families, especially lines that are now extinct. But if word gets out about what we are doing, we will be stopped before we can help."
"That's the brilliant thing. A few can be like Penny, adopted into families by blood, coming from all over Europe, well, all over the world really. Some can pose as workers in the shop held by a mysterious Head of House that is really themselves. We can add to all of the ideas, but the trick is to get people to stay." Lord Black finished his impassioned speech.
"I can't tell you the number of times I have wanted to run away from the magical world." Harry shared.
"Not everyone has had to face the Dark Lord so many times in their lives, young man." Calladora patted Harry's hand gently. "I approve this plan. Anyone whose papers will reflect them coming from a foreign country can come and stay with me. Get the language and accent changes done, coloring charms, etc. And I can help with the etiquette lessons as well."
"Please, Auntie. There are a lot of us. You don't have to do everything." Tonks cautioned.
"Pish posh. It's so wonderful to feel useful. I'm happy to do this. It's up to you young people to find our new apprentices. It will be mine and Augusta's responsibilities to find the families that can be safely 'grafted' into. Including this long list of Mr Potter's inherited lot." Calladora insisted.
Hermione beamed proudly at Harry. She also smiled at Neville, his gran and Aunt Calladora as she insisted that all of the youngsters call her.
Calladora continued, "And you should have plenty of gold from all of the gifts that I know that the people of France alone have sent you. The goblins here have small parties at Yule and your birthday to collect it. We should visit your vault here before you go."
"Madame, I mean Aunt Calladora? I know nothing of this."
A disguised Sirius frowned and wrapped his arm around Harry's shoulders in support, sharing, "Moody found out that Dumbledore had deposited gifts of gold meant for you, meant for holidays and your birthday, into the Order's account. He was also selling your owl-posted gifts and depositing that gold as well. 'After all, a hero like you would want to help all of Britain.' He claimed that he confirmed this with you at the end of your first year."
"If he did, it was when I was out of it after facing against Vol… You-know-who. Again. Killed Quirrell. But you know what? Other than family gifts, I really don't care. I just want to have enough to help these people get a decent start in the magical world. I know what it's like to go hungry, to not have people who care. Thank you, Lord Black. Thank you, Madame Black. Your support is so important to me. You can't know."
Calladora rose from her magnificent chair, and beckoned Harry to her. She hugged him warmly, a sweet hug. Harry hadn't noticed how frail she was before this. Or that she shook a bit. But since she claimed to be age mates with Queen Victoria ('Vicky' to her closer friends, b 1819), Harry could understand. Muggles didn't live so long – yet another reason for the magicals to live in seclusion.
Bringing muggleborns into society for them to be accepted, to stay; Now that was a goal that they all wanted to work on.
If only Ron could be a part of this, but only family members ready to take the oaths were allowed to be in the know.
It kept them all safer.
Harry took Aunt Calladora aside. "I wanted to tell you. Before meeting Sirius, I never had hope of family, you see. Being bullied by a professor, being one moment vilified, the next lionized, I just couldn't take it. I loved reading, and my best mate treated me like I was barmy for studying! My muggle family was like that too. But you, and Sirius are different. You support me to do more than just live to face Vol...You-know-who again. Thank you.
"Wizards are barmy. And I don't want to live up to anyone's expectations except those people who matter."
"Like me?" Aunt Calladora asked gently.
Harry hugged her, again, her magic wrapping around him.
"Definitely."
End flashback.
Sitting at her desk, Tonks took a second to look at her family ring, new and full of meaning. Lord Black was turning the family into something to be proud of. Tonks liked the scheme that they had voted on. A lot was riding on Harry's shoulders in this, but family magic would help keep the secret. She turned back to her report, humming softly to herself.
**OO**
Wednesday, June 22, earlier that morning
"Lord Black," Bill bowed, standing next to Harry as they used his mirror to call. "We are finished here, and I am ready to report."
"Well done. I hope Harry has enough gold with him to pay you. Otherwise we can have one of the elves fetch your fee."
Bill made a motion, and the wizard on the mirror understood instantly.
"Heir Black, a great service has been provided to our House by this man. Can you please step aside to allow us to talk in private, and arrange proper payment?"
Harry did step aside, only with the mirror for a moment so that Sirius could tell him a number. He then handed it over to Bill, went outside, and summoned Winky.
Harry still had issues with Baxter, and didn't want him getting another whack.
"Winky? If you have time…"
A very mussed Winky in a plain brown work tunic popped in. She was wearing a miniature version of what Penny wore while brewing! Harry thought it adorable.
Winky saw and instantly banished the dirt from herself. Well, mostly. She had a smudge on her nose that Harry knelt and quickly cleaned with a fresh handkerchief and some conjured water.
He nearly knocked her tiny work hat off, and it was already askew from her work. Also adorable.
"I need you to go to Gringotts for me, please. We are paying for the Burrow's ward upgrade, and for some other things."
The number on the paper would have made any other elf panic carrying so much. But Winky was thrilled.
YES!
And another bite of Barty Jr's gold was gone forever, and the goblins would never tell him where it went.
**OO**
Wednesday, June 22, Afternoon MoM
Auror Shacklebolt related to Amelia a part of what happened with Neville's wand drama in Paris.
"Neville Longbottom was being forced to use a burned out wand. Augusta was very friendly except for when we talked about Frank's old wand. Very odd. Reminded me of a compulsion charm."
"Ugh. That is not good! I'll tell you what. Susan is friends with him and Hannah. Come over later on this afternoon when they are done swimming. You can take the boy to buy a new wand, and let's just keep this between ourselves."
"No need. I took him this morning."
Shacklebolt noted Amelia's widened eyes of surprise followed by a small smirk of pleasure. "Well done, lad."
Kingsley nodded and continued, "I told him that I would ask for the underage permit. We'll be working together to get his power under control before school starts again."
Amelia whistled in relief and quickly wrote out an underage wand use permit for Neville. He was likely the only one of the magically raised children, outside of the Weasleys, who didn't sign up for one.
"Great idea. If he's been using a stick in lessons, he's going to be a powerhouse. We don't want any deaths on our hands at Moody's." Amelia opined.
"Especially with Harry Potter there." Kingsley stated.
Amelia could only nod. While unhappy that the children were taking these sorts of lessons, she herself debated asking if Susan could join in. Hmm, maybe later this summer.
Best wait for Neville to gain use of his wand first.
"On a related note, Lord Black hired curse-breaker Bill Weasley. He's at the Burrow right now, checking out an old tent, and increasing the wards on the family home. Is there any way to get Madam Longbottom and Bill in the same room in order to check her?"
Director Bones sat down heavily at her desk. "What a day. An innocent Sirius Black, a toady out of control –worried about dementors of all things! – and now this. Augusta Longbottom! She'll be by the Ossuary to collect Neville. I don't want her hurt. Best stun and ask for permission later. But do remember who helped capture Bellatrix Lestrange when Frank was attacked by that witch. That is one mother dragon you do not want to anger."
Shacklebolt saw Tonks at her desk. Like him, she had the day off. Camouflage. She was likely working on the family plans already. He was a part of the Black family officially as Head of Security. Tonks was his deputy, and they were allowed to hire people at need.
And would hire private security just as the Delacours did if Amelia was blocked from beefing up the aurors in preparation for facing Moldy again.
Something that only he and Lord Black had talked about. Kingsley's older brother was in the Order before he was killed, but Kingsley had never joined himself. Too young. Though the headmaster had tried to recruit him for a few 'spy' missions within Hogwarts.
For some reason, working for the headmaster had never appealed to him. Of course, Kinglsley was immune to many types of compulsion or imperius charms. A family magical gift.
The then Hufflepuff student had huffed and walked away, ignoring the request. Shacklebolt didn't like the headmaster's plans that had gotten good people killed and given the evil ones infinite second chances. He also didn't think of Dumbledore as King at Hogwarts, nor of Britain, either. Neither then nor now.
Lord Black wanted someone keeping an eye on both boys who lost their parents. He couldn't remember it, but there was something about those two. Something important.
And something had happened that made them all a bit suspicious of Dumbledore, beyond his 'unusual' funding methods for his Order.
**OO**
Same day…
Lord Black nodded as Bill cast a privacy spell, "Lord Black." The eldest Weasley addressed the mirrored visage formally. "The wards are complete. Peter Pettigrew or any other marked Death Eater will not be happy if he does try to get in. There are several nasty surprises in store."
The man didn't look happy at the knowledge but made a motion, and the curse-breaker continued, "Working with your Heir was a delight. He obliterated a boggart that had taken the form of a dementor. Amazing power. If Heir Black ever wants paying work, he could make a fortune on the bounties for all sorts of dark creatures that he has the power to destroy."
"You are evading reporting on the more onerous task you accepted, Mr Weasley. Get on with it!" The impatient man barked.
It was the full moon, and Moony's edginess had been contagious. They were actually at Blackmoor Hall and going to run in the forest there as it was well warded.
"Madame Longbottom was successfully incapacitated without injury to herself or anyone else. She was under a long-term compulsion. I took the initiative to bring her to Paris for the scan and the removal so that French aurors could record the signature. She now believes that she stayed to socialize with Madame Black while her grandson went to the Bones residence. "
"Is it…I mean…"
Bill nodded. Blast! Dumbledore! Again!
They swore together in such a way that if Bill had been paying attention, he would have known that Lord Black was definitely raised in London.
The team had done a good job of not running into themselves in Paris with the use of a Gringotts time turner. Everything was done in such a way that it was still morning there in Paris, and Madame Longbottom returned in time to pick up Neville from his friend's home, not suspecting a thing.
But no longer under what really was a form of the imperius curse.
**OO**
Once Neville and his gran were back at Cherry Hill, Neville asked his gran to conjure a wand rack.
"Gran, look at my new wand! Cherry and unicorn tail hair. Ollivander said that Father's old wand had been burned out in a fight. It was unusable. Little better than a stick. But I want to keep it to honor him."
Much to his relief, the Wicked Witch of West County did not reappear. Kingsley had said she had gone through a cleanse, but Neville had seen her transform more than once over his father's wand. The Longbottom lad knew that he would be safe within the House wards as he was Heir.
"Of course, my darling boy. We'll display it right here on the mantle." Her strong, clean magic created one also of cherry wood, and her Frank's wand was lovingly put on the stand by her.
And Neville showed her that Kingsley had even bought him a wand holster too, one just like aurors had.
Augusta clapped her hands in delight, and called for a late tea to be served. She knew growing boys could eat anytime!
**OO**
Still Wednesday, June 22nd, The Burrow
All the young people wanted to play quidditch except for Hermione.
Aunt Calladora was staying in the tent that night, but for now, she was on a comfortable chaise lounge, fruity non-alcoholic drink in her hand, her black lace umbrella doing a much more thorough job providing shade than was implied by the airy lace.
The giant book of family genealogy was on her lap, but she had a decent view of the children flying, and a goal to help find families that needed a new member or three.
She'd stay in Britain for a couple of days before she and Baxter returned to Paris.
The urgency, and thoughts of her investigating the mystery of the cause of Sirius forgetting about Darlene seemed just so far away. Nothing to worry about right now. It was very comfortable here in the shade, hearing the children play. A situation that had she been aware of, would have caused great alarm and had her calling for Bill Weasley to check on herself!
Percy was starting late due to attending the ball as a representative. He had been told to come in around elevenses. Penny laughed. There was about an hour window for that, but Percy decided to show up a half an hour early, before the start of the morning tea. Just in case.
She didn't expect him back until eight, which was when dinner was planned. At least with Percy at work, Penny could work on her flying a bit. Something she liked, but she had never owned a broom before.
Something she could now afford if she wanted one.
In quidditch, Penny wasn't aggressive at all and so switched from chaser to keeper and back and forth. She was there flying because she had the whole week off and was just enjoying being with friends.
It was Ginny who was flying like a demon. She seemed to be trying to flirt with Harry but he thought of it as a tactic like Cho Chang used. And treated it accordingly, by ignoring it.
Angelina and Alicia showed up to play quidditch as invited by the twins. They were also invited to stay for dinner.
Angelina was very impressed by the youngest Weasley's flying skills and would be keeping an eye on the rising third-year.
**OO**
Wednesday, June 22, MoM
The report from the Ball was well received in the afternoon staff meeting. Several people noted the young Weasley had attended, while Barty didn't and afterwards congratulated Percy on his engagement.
Amos Diggory shook his hand and winked. Penny had been about Ottery St Catchpole many times over the last few years. He was the only one that recognized the future Mrs was the same girl that Percy had been dating all that time. His motion of holding a finger to his lips had the boy understand he was saying nothing.
Amos did share his opinion, "There were many displaced orphans during the war. Shame that some purebloods were lost. So happy that they are now found."
Percy nodded, "I have certainly benefited."
Amos turned serious for a moment, "You weren't here earlier. Crouch was a mess. If he can keep himself together for another couple of years, I would support you as Director of your department when he does fall apart all the way. Just make sure to keep up on those languages."
Percy nodded, "He and his wife used to attend that ball together. People asked about him the other night. He told me that since I was going, at least he didn't have to endure it anymore. I think it is held on his anniversary. The Delacours were celebrating theirs."
"Of course. Many in our world marry then. Well, I'll let that be quietly known. Perhaps this was just a one time flub."
But it wasn't, and Jr would make sure of it.
**OO**
Still Wednesday, June 22nd, The Burrow
The group helped set up an overloaded table outside to enjoy a nice dinner together in celebration of Percy's engagement. He was surprisingly on time considering Percy's work ethic.
Toasts were made - this time without bread, just the sparkling cider. Some of the salutes were silenced by Mrs Weasley.
And then it was time to get ready for bed.
While Harry had his own room in Aunt Calladora's tent, his girlfriend was sharing with Ron's only sister. Molly insisted on propriety.
Penny went to visit her family and hoped to stay there until Blackmore Hall was finished.
Hermione kissed Harry's cheek, wishing him sweet dreams.
"They will be if they are of you." Harry shared, not knowing how Hermione melted hearing such sweet words from him. So kind!
Hermione blushed, "Good night."
**OO**
Wednesday June 22 Evening
When Penny arrived home, it turned into a huge fight with her parents over becoming a member of another family. Her sister wasn't happy either, and Penny was asked to leave. And not come back.
She showed up at Blackmoor Hall, her small carryall holding much more than it appeared. The Steward was indisposed, and did not greet her. There was still a lot of work to be done, but the house itself was looking much better. Several of the servants' rooms were ready, and Penny chose one at random to enter.
"Mistress Penny can't be staying here!" Karr objected strenuously.
Penny burst into tears, thinking that he too, even an elf, was rejecting her.
Karr popped away and got a pyjama-clad Master Percy, his sleepcap slightly askew. Karr quickly conjured a luxurious red dressing gown with gold trim that he gave the lad to don.
The couple hugged, and Karr tried again.
"Mistress Penelope's room is ready. Her moving here is important so that Master Harry can stay. I am very, very sorry that I said something that hurt your feelings, my lady."
Karr popped away again, and returned with a small vase that had a single brilliant peach rose bud with darker peach tips. It would be a lovely flower when blooming.
With a smile now blooming on Penny's face, she asked, "Thank you Karr. Can you show me where my room is?" Wiping her eyes, she knelt and gave him a sweet hug which he returned.
Karr greened and escorted the couple to the family section.
Percy helped her get settled into her brilliant room that had some formal dresses already hung in the wardrobe, and work clothes in the press. It had a lovely view of the jungle that was the garden at the moment. But with Karr's hard work it would be a wonderful place soon.
The elf served them a late dessert in the informal dining room (purchased with his own money) and Percy left to floo back home.
His father, pipe in hand, indulging in his rare treat of a fine smoke, greeted his third son coming home clothed in a dressing gown.
"I hope that you had a nice evening, um, Percival. I didn't know you were going out. Costume party?"
Percy nodded, "Something like that. Good-night, Father," as he returned to the tent outside.
Arthur knew from the wards that Percy had left the tent suddenly and wasn't worried about it. The improved wards would not allow an abduction by an enemy.
Settling his Popular Mechanics magazine in his lap that he kept hidden from Molly, he returned to his smoking and reading.
**OO**
Percy peaked in on Harry before resettling into his room inside Aunt Calladora's tent. It was nice having a reprieve from the twins but he knew it was temporary. Sigh.
Shacklebolt had asked to borrow the tent to set it up where the family would be staying on the site of the World Cup. It would be used for the security staff that was helping out at the stadium prior to the game.
Harry had his own room for a couple of days to avoid Ron's snoring. Finally!
Harry wondered if Aunt Calladora needed the tent during the school year. A question to be asked soon. He wanted it for a potions lab, but only if the sweet elderly witch didn't plan on using it.
**OO**
Ginny's room same evening
"Hello, Ginny." Hermione said, coming into Ginny's small room.
She put her things on the portable cot, and got out her bathroom kit. She was a bit jealous of Harry who was staying with Aunt Calladora in the tent. She'd like to be out there, but couldn't.
Hermione had left her book bag on the bed while she went to shower. The expandable bag was being used as luggage right now, but Ginny had seen the French newspaper poking out and was curious.
The fangirl witch sighed over the pictures of the dancing.
Penny and Percy were clearly in love, and some lucky photographer had gotten a perfect shot of the proposal. Percy had mentioned that he even owled him to get a few copies of that photograph so he could have it framed for Calladora Black and their parents. And one for himself and Penny.
Seeing Hermione dancing with Harry like that brought a tear to Ginny's eyes. Hermione was dressed beautifully; wearing expensive jewelry, flowers in her softly curled hair, everything. She looked amazing!
Ginny had begged her mother to be allowed to go, but she hadn't been invited to the townhouse or the ball. Mum had put on a weird face, and claimed there would be other balls in future. As if!
Hearing the girl coming back, Ginny hastily put the paper back, and jumped on her bed. The quidditch magazine was ready to hand.
"Hermione! Did you know that Aiden Lynch is tied for the record for being ploughed by the Wronski Feint?"
"I do believe that is why Fred and George are going to bet the way they are. I do hope that you are not doing research in order to gamble."
Ginny was all innocence.
"I wish we could camp before the World Cup. Some people are going to be showing up two weeks early." Ginny complained.
Hermione wasn't sharing that security concerns regarding Harry would be a nightmare. As it was, they were trying to be smart, and use the knowledge of past attacks to plan the best defense if they were attacked. Moody was adamant about still living and not spending their lives under a rock.
"Oh! Ginny, I have a copy of the newspaper article that shows pictures of the ball. Would you like to see Percy and Penny's picture?"
Ginny sighed. As much as she wanted to dislike this girl she just couldn't. The witch was friendly and kind. She had even offered to allow Ginny to borrow her personal broom which was new. A Comet 360 was far better than any of the old brooms, but Ginny declined. Her new (gently used) broom was a very decent one for a chaser.
As Hermione handed over the newspaper that Ginny had already perused, she couldn't help but notice the last picture. One of Harry and Hermione. This one of them kissing!
They just looked so in love! Ugh!
**OO**
Wednesday, June 22nd, Crouch home
Barty Jr reread the hatchet piece on Harry Potter in the Prophet. Rita was in a mood. Apparently she had been caught and removed from the annual Solstice ball in Paris. Unknowingly kicking off yet better security. The goblins in particular wanted to know how she evaded the Thieves' Downfall.
She accused the Weasley boy of being a golddigger, accused the French Minister of cheating on his wife with none other than Harry Potter's girlfriend, then accused that same teen of potioning Potter to get him to date her.
She even had quotes from a few classmates talking about how advanced Hermione Granger was in potions, and how very plain she appeared normally.
Seeing the picture of the young couple dancing spread the truth. If Rita had wanted to be believed, she should have left it out. The Boy-Who-Lived-To-Find-True-Love was what every witch in the land saw in THAT picture.
Today had been a fun day for Daddy at work. Getting sent home in disgrace!
And tomorrow, Thursday, he'd be forgetting that he was meeting the Minister of Magic for France! And forgetting they were long time allies. And treating him like dirt.
Hehehe.
**OO**
Thursday June 23, Ministry of Magic, London
Percy was at the International floo ten minutes early. It was nearly time for the Delacour delegation to arrive. Where was his boss?
The floo disgorged its passengers, and Percy shook hands with the French witches and wizards.
The French were there to talk about the ongoing Death Eater threat, invited by Bartemius himself. They were going to discuss strategies to prevent another kidnapping attempt. Also on the agenda was asking if perhaps Harry Potter might do France a small favor.
Before Percy had time to offer to escort anyone or even offer up a cup of tea, Mr Crouch was bearing down on the group.
Jean-Claude stepped forward, hand out. "Ah, Bartemius, 'ow do you…"
"What is the meaning of this, Weasley? Who put you in charge here?" Crouch Senior demanded, his mustache bristling in anger.
Percy was clearly confused, "I'm not sir! I'm not in charge – you are. You arranged this meeting, sir. I was just going to escort our guests to the conference room." His look said, 'you know, since you weren't here to greet them.'
Crouch was having none of it, "I know of no such meeting! This is a waste of time. If I want to talk to amphibians, I'll go to the pond behind my house." And with that, the man stalked off.
'Or find Umbridge' Percy thought to himself but did not say aloud. "My apologies, sir. One moment, please."
Percy called for a ministry elf, and asked the elf to request if Madam Bones could join him and the delegation in the Fleur-de-Lis conference room.
"I am very sorry about that. I have no idea what is wrong, but please. Let us sit in comfort and meet together."
"Is he always like this, Percy? He might be angry that you went ahead and met with us. If you should need another job soon, let me know. I do take care of my friends." Minister Delacour promised. The rest of the delegation noted that the Minister was calling the young wizard by his first name! And the new department secretary was comfortable with the familiarity.
Percy bowed to the group, "Thank you, sir. I am truly sorry about the insults," he added, clearly mortified.
Madam Bones had been banned from this meeting at first, by Fudge himself. So she figured that he could muck up these interactions as she had other channels of cooperation within the French MLE.
So, she wasn't happy with this summons, but enough people had informed her of Crouch's words, that she planned to have some of her own with Fudge. It was intolerable that the head of International Cooperation would act this way.
And Crouch had done nothing for his job all week. She'd have a talk with his able assistant afterwards to see if he could take up some of the slack.
Madam Bones swept in and took immediate charge of the meeting. She introduced herself, and asked for everyone's names. She apologized for Director Crouch's rudeness. The anniversary of his marriage had him overwrought, and he wasn't dealing with it well. Etc., etc. Ever so sorry. He would be reprimanded for his uncouth words. And so forth, and so on.
Jean-Claude had fought side by side with this woman's brother. He could tell that she was very angry; not at him or his people, but at the feeble excuses that were all she had to offer. It was clear in a perfect world she would have escorted Crouch home and gotten a competent person to do the job!
Despite that rocky start, the meeting went well.
The head of the DMLE wouldn't have even known of the attacks if it weren't for Tonks. And the French newspaper reporting the first attack.
She asked intelligent questions, and listened carefully. Madam Bones was grateful for the information provided. Like many purebloods, she could speak French just fine.
Silent nods were shared all around the conference table by the attendees; from now on, they would insist upon Madame Bones being included in future information sharing meetings. It was clear that she was completely different from what they were used to.
The kidnappers in both schemes didn't know who was paying them. Layers upon layers of evil. And men willing to turn over underage girls for a thousand nostros. Monsters. But they did know why they were hired.
An evil ritual to bring back You-know-Who! The second attempt, well, that was murkier but likely revenge, ransom, torture. The usual Death Eater party tricks.
Hermione Granger being a target was a surprise. How awful that a young schoolgirl was set up like that. But that first attack was thwarted - wholly by the brave girl's own actions. The second with her help.
Then they got to the last item on the agenda. The small favor. A request for Harry Potter's help. Percy's smile for a moment grew incredibly sly. But it was only a moment.
"I happen to know where Harry Potter is visiting this weekend. Perhaps I could meet with him personally. If you could let me know what you want to ask him?"
Jean-Claude nodded. "Let us take a break. Madam Bones? Is there somewhere that one of my assistants can purchase food?"
"No need. I will have refreshments brought in and have our tea tray refreshed. Mr Weasley, will you escort Minister Delacour to the private floo in the room next door? I do believe he has someone to talk to, and it's nearly time for lessons to start. Can we possibly ask Mr Potter to join us here beforehand? You do know the word of the day?"
Percy blushed, "I do. I'll be right back."
And within minutes, the tall redhead was back, accompanied by a boy in sturdy robes of an unusual design. It looked like something out of the past, very full robes; split legs, easy to move in. To fight in.
Monsieur Delacour's own liveried bodyguards were green with envy of the battle robes.
"'arry! So good to see you so soon!" Minister Delacour greeted.
The Minister exchanged a warm embrace and cheek kisses, making the boy blush. "It's nice to see you too, sir. Are your ladies here?"
"Ah, you look for your petite soeur Gabrielle, I think. Alas, she is at 'ome. A bit under the weather."
"I will have to send a note with you then sir. I shall send my elf for the honey-lemon drops she likes. Unless she's sick from all the Honeydukes I sent? Then that won't help."
"You sent her chocolates? Oh dear. I will let my wife know. That is likely the culprit. But I need to ask you a serious question. Your lady is rather enamored of you, and I fear that 'er tales were perhaps a bit embellished with 'er affection. 'Owever, if your abilities match what she feels you can do…"
Director Bones put up her hand, and took the young mage to the side. After a brief conference, she came back. Harry looked pale, but he was still feeling a bit guilty about his actions.
After all, a lot of people didn't like spiders, but he had never killed any of those either.
Amelia called for a pensieve. "I have already watched these memories once. If you would all care to join me. I have Mr Potter's permission to share them with you."
…
As they exited the pensieve, the members of the delegation were pale, except for Jean-Claude.
He was grinning like a loon. His wife had tried to tell him that the boy was powerful. Veela could sense these things. But he had been stubborn. And now he believed.
"Please, Mr Potter. Can you please 'elp me? 'Elp Paris? 'Elp France? You owe us nothing, but I am asking as a personal favor."
Harry paced a bit. "I will. However there is a condition. I want to be paid."
The delegation was shocked for only a moment as Harry continued. The difference between a hero and a bounty hunter was apparently the amount of gold involved.
"I want to be paid, but not in gold, mind you. Sirius Black is my godfather. Oath sworn Godfather. Family members have copies from someone who attended that ritual. They won't let me watch the memory yet, saying it's complicated, but still. There is no record of a trial. Please. Can you help him?"
"'E is listed as a fugitive right now. If we were to catch Sirius Black, we would be under treaty to turn 'im over to Britain, to return 'im to justice 'ere."
"THERE IS NO JUSTICE HERE!" Harry stated passionately, "He didn't even get a trial the first time! There is a Kiss on Sight order for him! How is that JUSTICE?!"
Amelia placed a hand on Harry's shoulder to calm the child as the heavy conference table was vibrating and a cracking of wood could be ominously heard, "Actually, there isn't. I have been receiving requests for information about Sirius Black for the longest time, and everything about him is sealed away."
Harry fumed, "And that doesn't bother you?"
Jean-Claude hugged the shaking lad. "'Arry! Tait-toi, mon jeune guerrier courageux. You need to listen. It will take time. If Sirius Black 'ad French citizenship, then we could give 'im a trial. I met Lord Black the other day. As his 'ead of 'Ouse, 'e could apply. I would be willing to grant that application, and see 'e got a fair trial. Or you could talk your godfather into marrying a single French witch. That would give 'im instant citizenship."
"WHAT? Do people do that? Sirius wouldn't marry for money or anything else but love! Something that has been denied him… Denied us. And for what?"
Calmer now, but with cheeks still flushed, Harry spoke somewhat contritely, "But I am willing to help you at your word. I'll come to Paris. But Lord Black will want me to come with backup. Remus Lupin, maybe Bill Weasley if he's available. Percy can also cast a patronus."
At that, Percy nodded. "Mine doesn't destroy anything, though it does have a corporeal form." The small terrier might have gotten him teased but it had gotten him an O+ on the NEWT test. Penny's was an elegant swan, bravely defending its nest against invaders. Both of them were so very grateful for having a competent DADA professor for their last year of school. He had taught them well.
"I will make arrangements for a team to meet us at the Cathedral." Jean-Claude shook Harry's hand.
Amelia offered, "I am very sure that Kinglsey Shacklebolt and Auror Tonks would be willing to go with you, Mr Potter. They seem to benefit from the Parisian air."
The Minister then shook hands with Director Bones, saying "I accept. Send anyone you can spare 'oo can cast a patronus."
Amelia replied, "If I could arrange it, I would go myself. I'm afraid that I need Mr Weasley here, but I will try to make up for his loss. Yes, I know that you'd like to visit your lady, but you have work, as do I."
Percy walked with Director Bones to escort the delegation back to the international floo.
Several members promised themselves to send a little gift to the brave lad who was helping in order to gain justice for his beloved godfather.
And what did that say about Britain?
And a wedding gift to the polite young man marrying a jewel of France.
Miss Black had hit the social scene in Paris with a splash, but it was her fiancė who was impressing the French delegates with his respectful ways. And listening. That was new for a Brit wizard!
It was also noted that not once did Minister Fudge show up, even though he was supposed to attend this meeting as well.
At least he didn't foist his under-toad on them again!
**OO**
After the meeting, Amelia pulled Percy aside.
"Weasley, I have three reports that absolutely have to be done by your department. I don't care if Crouch is having a breakdown of some kind. The work needs doing. I need your help - will you aid me, young man?"
"Of course, Madam Bones! At your service!" Percy did the pureblood half-bow.
"Fine attitude, Weasley. Good job in there. Keep it up."
Percy didn't know what was bothering Mr Crouch. He went to fetch the reports the DMLE director needed, and was very busy all day long.
Barty Crouch had gone home 'sick', smelling of alcohol. Again.
At least the Weasley lad was clearly up for taking on the load. In fact, if he had been working there longer, many would suspect that it had been his work all along.
**OO**
Winky popped in to check on Harry after everyone had gone to bed. She'd like to go into the room where Master Percy was sleeping, as she was sure that there was work for her to do in there, but he hadn't called her.
The very thin blood relationship between Percy and Harry meant that she could completely ignore Percy's needs, or help him. Her choice.
Never did it cross her mind to talk to him, or to offer. It wasn't in her nature.
But she missed the work. It had been very interesting.
Not that what she'd been working on with Great Master Magus Harry Potter wasn't interesting, she thought, feeling suddenly disloyal, but… She knew she could be of greater help and itched to be doing so.
**OO**
Thursday June 23, Gringotts, London
Lucius Malfoy snuck into Gringotts very late. His face appeared to have been scratched very recently. He went to the fine gems counter. Before Goldrub could be summoned to speak to him, Spurnik was there.
"I will give you a better price than the Black account manager." the Potter Account Manager promised. He didn't after all promise who it would be better for.
"I have a charmed necklace. My wife doesn't know what the charm is. It's from her Aunt Walburga. She finds it too ugly to wear often." He lightly touched one of the scratches on his face, clearly made by a manicured nail.
Right. This lovely piece was on the front cover of Sunday's Daily Prophet with Lady Malfoy wearing it. But by law, the husband could sell the wife's jewelry. Most unfair.
"It is indeed enchanted. She didn't know with what? Pity."
Spurnik knew to the knut how much Malfoy owed the Black account. The necklace was worth ten times the amount from what he offered, but it was two hundred galleons more than what he had to have. And likely the wizard knew that Goldrub would not give him much more, if he offered anything above what was owed at all.
The wizard didn't try to haggle; likely he thought it was a cursed piece, and took the offered gold.
He'd pay the bonus to BloodRage and his precious daughter. But he wasn't letting her near the necklace. It was either cursed or blessed depending on the view of the person.
His daughter had confided in her parents that she was planning on quitting work soon once she was with child. The proud grandfather-to-be knew that the young couple had been working extra shifts to save up for such an event. They must be near their nest egg goal.
If Malfoy knew what this necklace did, he could have rented it out to make up the funds he needed.
If Spurnik was right, and he had the nose for this sort of thing, the necklace was cursed. Wearing it for one night would prevent pregnancy for a year.
Spurnik checked the records.
Walburga had given it to Narcissa in June of 1980, two days after the birth of her only child.
Goldrub ran over to the gem station just then and cursed his friend.
"How much did you give him?"
Spurnik told him the truth, but to be honest and honorable, gave Goldrub a dagger that Lord Black used to pay Gringotts for getting Bill Weasley to Britain. Something from Blackmoor Hall, and carried Goldrub's clan seal.
"Your cut of the profits from this exchange," Spurnik stated.
Since the Black account manager would have traded the necklace for that dagger, he was indeed satisfied.
But wait.
"That necklace you bought from Malfoy. It's cursed, isn't it? You're going to uncurse it?"
"Me? No. I have not yet decided to keep or sell it. But I won't be doing that." Spurnik boxed up the jewelry, enjoying the look of confusion on Goldrub's face. "But if you're curious as to what the necklace does, that information is available." As he rubbed his fingers together in the age old sign.
"For a fee. Right? A reasonable one?" Goldrub demanded.
Spurnik laughed aloud, scaring all but the vampire in the queue. Cold-blooded thing liked his laugh, but Spurnik enjoyed scaring the hu-mons.
"Reasonable? Perhaps…" Spurnik chuckled, Goldrub clearly deciding how much it would be worth to know.
**OO**
A/N: Recommended Story: your story recommendation here!
A/N: Recommended Story: From our friend apls79 they recommend:
Foundation for the Future by TeddyLongLong
Summary: Before Harry and Hermione begin their first year, they are transported back in time and undergo training with the founders of Hogwarts. Warning, Dumbledore and Weasley bashing
A/N: I have not read this one, and plan to try it.
**OO**
ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language