Harry Potter's Secret Weapon

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A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.

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Chapter 13 - Justice! Delayed but Denied no More

**OO**

Tuesday, June 28th, Hamptworth Lodge, the Malfoy home, Wiltshire

"Lucius, I appreciate seeing you again so soon, but I have precious few days of freedom! I should be harvesting right now." Severus complained.

"So you said. But I have important news for you. You know that my family originated in France. Black is going to surrender himself there for a trial. I know when. I know where."

"And you would rather not have him live through it?" Severus stated disingenuously. "Garrotting gas, poisonous vapor, hmm? So many possibilities. I love putting a stopper in death, don't you know. Will he be alone in the box as we do prisoners here? I assume you want to limit collateral damage."

Lucius' smile chilled him to the bone. "The prosecutor's grandfather is the reason that we had to leave as we did. No need to limit yourself, my friend."

A bag of gold was placed on the table, and went into Snape's robes with soft a clink of real gold coins. Some people were never cheated. And one who could brew tasteless poisons? Not a man to cross.

"I can't leave my work to place it." Severus reminded him.

"No need. I will take care of this myself. He needs to die, then whoever is the new Lord Black, and then Harry Potter. My son is the rightful heir to the family."

"Speaking of Potter, where would he be in a French court? Here, the family is seated right behind the accused."

"As it is in France. Such a shame for the boy to lose his godfather. We'll have to make sure that he is reunited with his father, godfather and all at the same time, don't you think?"

Severus' occlumency was pressed to the extreme, talking of killing Lily's son. But then Lucius added one more thought.

"Once Black is gone, we can track down this Lord no name Black, and your revenge will be complete."

He wondered if Lucius was being blind on purpose about who Lord Black really was. There weren't many who qualified for being Lord Black. Severus figured it out in an instant, but kept the knowledge to himself. For now.

Like gold, secrets could only be spent once, and this one was too valuable to share openly.

With that, he thought no more about the Potter brat, or had a bit of concern for his health.

The opportunity for revenge had arrived so soon.

Deciding just what to brew for best result, Severus returned to his shabby home, now plotting with each plant he picked.

**OO**

Tuesday, June 28th, Blackmoor Hall

Finally! Hermione would be coming over later, after afternoon potions, but right now it was just him and Winky. Remus was somewhere with the work crews, and Harry finally had time to work with his elf.

The first thing he wanted to do was review the next potion with her.

"If I'm reading this right, this potion is used to ease the pain of childbirth." Harry restated. Winky nodded patiently. They had already translated the title and much of the ingredients, but she could feel his uncertainty, and the need to talk it out.

"I don't know if we should go ahead and translate this one, or work on the potion after this that seems to talk about ailments of the blood. That seems more in line with helping Astoria."

Winky really looked at the young man before her. He didn't just want her to agree mindlessly with him. He was relying on her opinion on how to progress in this work! It made her feel…respected. She had never had that, not even from her Mistress Rosemary.

"I think" Winky was not only trying to speak properly, but she was nervous too. How many times had Master Crouch asked her that, only to proceed to beat or berate her or both. And she tended to revert to the house-elf patois when frightened.. She didn't need the talk from Karr again. "I think," Intently studying Master Harry's face, "That we should work on the blood potion first, then come back to the other."

Harry smiled, pleased with the opinion and agreed, "You know. It would be nice to have a simple way to talk about this work."

"Mistress Astoria, sweet girl. Maybe name it after her?" Winky suggested.

Harry beamed and nodded, well pleased. "Project Astoria it is. Simple and to the point. Excellent work, Winky!"

Winky greened, and set aside the notebook for the childbirth potion, and started a new notebook for this one. Lady Greengrass had emphasized to Harry the importance of this project, and had spared no expense to see it done well.

They worked all of the rest of the day until lessons, slowly puzzling out, word by word, the ancient writings of a very intelligent wizard.

Moody still wanted to meet to have a 'discussion and debate' over tactics. Harry was hurt and couldn't risk injury, so Moody was going to beat up on his mind. Not fair!

**OO**

Tuesday, June 28th, Blackmoor Hall

Hermione wasn't the only one who joined them after lessons. Neville had helped with the wedding, and was now working on the gardens.

Karr and Neville got along so well that Harry was worried he'd lose the free elf to another. Hmm, was that part of why wizards had bound them? Useful people! Smart too.

Neville was using his Black stipend to buy a new greenhouse at both his home at Cherry Hill and Blackmoor Hall. And he was buying up plants that his gran wouldn't let him have at home to cultivate here.

Madam Longbottom may not have been given the stipend directly. Oops.

**OO**

Tuesday, June 28th, Blackmoor Hall, Steward's Office

Remus had a mirror call during tea that afternoon from the newlyweds to check in on him and Harry. And they were surprised to find out that Clarice had already moved in, and had been there since the wedding.

Darlene had an idea she wanted to share with everyone.

"I didn't want to bring this up at dinner, especially with my parents and so many people who are strangers to our godson. I'm only talking to you because you are part of our family. I'm sure you've noticed Harry's physical condition is not what it could be or should be. Moody complained about that just now to Sirius. I don't mean to embarrass you either, but I would like to offer the gold to put in a swimming pool there at Blackmoor Hall.

"You remember how much I love to swim everyday when I can. It should be enclosed, or have retractable sides and a cover, so it can be used year-round. If you approve, I will pay for it."

Sirius nodded to the idea of a pool. "No need to pay for it, sweetheart. That is something else that we need to discuss another time: House finances. We'll make an appointment with Goldrub while we're here. The House finances are doing so much better because of Moony. He needs a bonus."

Moony stuck out his tongue companionably, and Padfoot continued.

"Pool! Yes, We can have one installed in a week or two, I'm sure. Oh, Steward of mine, can you please arrange it? Make sure that my darling wife approves the plans before installation." His tone was teasing.

"We could put shuffleboard and other activities around the pool…" Remus started to suggest, but Darlene shook her head.

"I have dreamed of this for years, dear Moony. While I will gladly share the pool with Harry's friends, I want to put plants in it, have it enclosed in glass that retracts like a bread box. A jungle pool. Why not build a separate brand new addition that can be a game room? Maybe something muggle, with that power source and what did you call it? A tono-phone. And those loud dinging games that you Marauders liked to play at that muggle mall."

Remus made a face. "Maybe not pinball. I'm trying to add culture and dignity to the House. Not make it less. Um, but other things…" But seeing the disappointment on the big kid's face, his best friend's face had him backtracking. "Or maybe just really good silencing charms." He went back to his notepad.

Remus added notes while Darlene sketched out her vision of a tropical pool. She was quite a good artist, and this was something that she had dreamed of for some time.

Sirius looked at his oldest friend. "How are you holding up? This has been a whirlwind for us."

"I will be happy when Percy discovers that the Ministry is a cesspool and comes and works for you full time. His part time work is going well. The tenant farmers are starting to ask to deal with him exclusively. Look, word has gotten out that I'm what I am. And people are afraid of me. It will take time for them to accept that I am a person most of the time. Enough of that.

"What is the budget limit on the pool, my Lord Black?"

Sirius knew his personal vault numbers, so gave a limit several times above what a decent pool would cost.

Darlene quickly sent a few sketches to Remus via his postal box. "Thank you for doing this for us. How is our godson doing? He was very angry when he left last night. The family dinner. Did he tell you?"

"Hasn't left the library all day. In fact, he's late for tea. He didn't talk about yesterday, but I was in bed when he came home. I'll go fetch him, shall I? And make sure he's okay."

Darlene frowned. A teen late for food? And spending all day in a library? He needed to get outside too, unless it was as rainy there as it was in Paris this early summer day. They knew this from the enchanted windows in their room that gave a real-time view from a hotel near Rue Magique.

The couple signed off to let Moony go fetch Harry down for tea, but he wasn't in the library. Where had the boy gone?

**OO**

The newlyweds were going on a cave tour later.

If they weren't late.

**OO**

Tuesday, June 28th, Afternoon Blackmoor Hall Kitchen

"Finally! A chance to use a nice magical kitchen. All by myself." Harry stated aloud, rubbing his hands together in anticipation.

Four elves popped in nearly simultaneously.

The boys deferred to the Head Elf. Winky asked diffidently, "What Master Harry be doing?" Slipping a bit in her nervousness. Even Karr was nervous about challenging this young mage.

"I bought a cookbook when I was staying at Ron's house. I bought the ingredients but they were left at the Weasleys. I was going to check the pantry and see what ingredients we had. We have the four of you, me, Penny, Percy, Remus and Clarice. That's nine. So if I double the recipe, there should be enough for all of us with leftovers for tomorrow. Since Winky and I are going to be working again, it makes an easier lunch preparation to have a few leftovers.

Jam pulled his ears and Dobby looked ready to cry. "Don't you be liking our foods?" Jam asked.

"Well, of course I do! But chefing is a skill; I need to keep it up, or I will forget things. Watch, don't cry. My food won't be too bad. I promise! As picky as Petunia was, she never complained about anything I made. Well, once I was older."

The elves were shuffling and clearly unhappy. "What's wrong? Don't you trust me? Please? Give me a chance?"

Karr finally got up the courage to say something, "It's not that we don't trust you, Great Magus. It's just. Well. You are THE Harry Potter. You be savi…I mean you saved us. You cooking for us? You serving us a meal?"

Even Karr in his nervousness reverted to the patois of his childhood, "How can we be accepting this?

"By going and buying me replacements for this recipe. I really want to try it as it sounds great. And buy a nice dessert. I never got a chance to taste anything I made, so I really don't know if I do okay there or not. Petunia never ate it, and Dudley would eat apple pie made out of wax apples if it didn't move fast enough."

Karr laughed at that, and Harry jotted out estimated quantities and sent Karr out shopping. They had an account at the green-grocer, so at least the elves didn't have to worry about money.

The rest of the elves still hadn't left.

"Look, if I was brewing a potion, would you come in and tell me to stop? Like I was doing something wrong?"

"No, master! That be wizard's work!"

"Oh! So it's not that you don't trust me, but that I am doing elf work? Well, you'll just have to adopt me as a cousin or something, because I was raised to BE a house-elf. But seriously. I love cooking. And can you see it? Cooking for Penny and people who like me? She used to help tutor me in school, and I bet you she'll help me again this year via mirror. Don't you see? I just wanted to make her a nice meal as a thank you. Mrs Weasley barely allowed me to dice onions. She wasn't going to let me Chef in HER kitchen. And that is what I do. I Chef. So I declare THAT to be a wizard's job!"

The elves all clapped, and then clamored to help Master Harry once Karr returned with beautiful, quality ingredients. He likely paid more than Harry had, as Harry was used to being beaten for spending too much of Vernon's money.

The five of them got busy. Karr went out to the garden to gather fresh herbs that were needed. All of them wanted to help in at least a small way so that they could have the memory of the Mage Harry Potter cooking for them 'when he was just a lad'.

**OO**

Tuesday, June 28th, Hogwarts before dinner

The Headmaster's office was empty, so Severus used his password to gain entry after sending his finished potion to Malfoy. What a prat! Seeing Fawkes looking so forlorn had him calling for an elf to bring food, water, and have them clean the papers under the specialized non-flammable perch.

He would free the immortal bird if he could. He couldn't even free himself! But he did have sympathy for him. And more than a bit of desire for revenge against their captor.

The note he left was done with a dictaquill, but not many could gain access to this bastion of the head of Hogwarts. The castle hummed in approval of the wizard's actions.

The letter was a warning to keep Potter away from France on Friday at all costs or all was lost. His oath had broken through the miasma of pain and revenge on the lad's godfather, and he had come to his senses.

The letter, marked urgent, was left where such important correspondence would be actually looked at: The man's chair. Fawkes, seeing Severus turn to leave, chirped out a quick burble that the potions master interpreted as 'thank you.'

"I am so sorry for the mix-up with the talisman. I would never hurt Miss Granger on purpose. If she wasn't with Potter, I would be offering her private lessons."

Fawkes ignored that for now, and flew down the length that the magical tether allowed and pecked at a drawer. He could leave the castle now only when summoned. Otherwise, it was short hops. Punishment for helping the lad.

Curious, the man opened it manually to leave no trace of magic behind. What was this? He gasped. It was a token to Xanadu. NO! It was THE token to Xanadu. The one that Severus himself had made inert. He knew it as he had scratched it on the side to identify it. Quickly checking it, the object had no magic. It wasn't him that failed.

Dumbledore had sent the real one! Was it a mistake? Oh, please…please let it have been just a mistake.

**OO**

Tuesday, June 28th, Blackmoor Hall 8:00 PM

The Beef Bourguignon, scalloped potatoes, fresh green beans garnished with bacon, a garden salad with a homemade sesame garlic dressing sent mouth-watering smells from the butler's pantry down the hallways and into the main areas of the house. Enticing even the pickiest of eaters to the table on time.

Karr had bought apples knowing that Master Harry really wanted to taste the apple crisp recipe that he had made so many times. And bought fresh cream to be whipped for the topping.

Harry had fun with the magical whisk that whipped the cream to perfect peaks. The kitchen was now filling with the smell of apples, cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg as the apple crisp baked while they started eating.

The dinner was served with Harry forgetting to change until the last minute. Jam snapped his fingers just like Karr had done when he was sick, and his floury work tunic and apron were in the laundry and he was wearing dress robes.

Penny came in and gasped. All of the elves, all four had individually told all of the people coming to dinner that Master Harry was cheffing the food tonight.

Penny was early tonight for the first time ever. She hugged Harry and kissed his cheek. The elves were dressed in formal wear, knowing that once Lord Black was back that they would never be welcomed at table again. Or at least until Master Harry had a place of his own.

But Harry and Penny were raised muggle, Percy by his family, and the werewolves were just grateful for a meal and a roof and the acceptance on offer in this place. They would never forbid staff from eating with them.

Harry led a simple but sincere blessing. "Thank you, Creator, for this bounty. And good friends to live with. Good Family to live with."

Clarice had to get up out of her chair to hug Harry for that. "This smells just wonderful. I ne'er had this except at Hogwarts. And they only did it for a special night once."

The food was some of the best that any of them had ever eaten. Winky didn't even know how to make fresh pasta.

Jam did as he learned at Hogwarts and had helped with that.

Dobby had garnished everything professionally, and had offered expert advice now and then to the lad. But Dobby was a gem who the Malfoys desperately missed, especially come dinner time.

And the apple crisp was better than any of them had ever tasted before. Definitely made with love and care, and certainly not made with wax apples!

**OO**

Wednesday, June 29th Muggle home of Professor Slughorn

Harry showed both Professor Slughorn and Marius Greengrass the translation of what might be a flower petal.

"Oh! I think I know this one." the professor shared.

Sluggy walked over to a single elaborate bookcase that held only the finest of unique books. The charms on it were very clever but dangerous.

Harry was a bit too close but it was Slughorn who was bit. Sucking his wounded thumb he handed the book to Neville, "Towards the end, I think. Wormancia."

The man had a memory as good as Hermione's. They saw a small green plant with near metallic gold colored petals. Due to the plant's use to make a version of leprechaun gold, it was nearly extinct. But it was supposed to be available, if very rare.

"Oh, that's not going to come cheap. And needing so much?" Slughorn tutted, and went to floo Lord Greengrass about the need for the rare plant.

Harry tried to memorize the name, 'wormancia melia frumentum nitidioribus'. Even Neville seemed to be struggling. At least the old herbal book had good pictures both moving and non, and clear sketches of the leaves, stems and petals just like they did in class.

"I know that I don't have this at home." Neville shared sadly.

Sluggy returned, rubbing his hands, "Don't worry my boy. We'll find it. The title of this potion is most enticing for your project. 'Blood Cleanser'. Yes, yes. I'll put out feelers."

"I could write to Professor Sprout. And ask Fleur to write to her professors." Neville offered.

Sluggy's eyes gleamed, "Yes, please do. And don't hesitate to tell them that I am willing to travel to consult. I have seen this plant before. I just can't remember where."

**OO**

Wednesday, June 29th, Steward's Office just after breakfast

Remus handed over the small bag with a 'well done'.

Percy went to work smiling. He had just earned a minor bonus from the Steward, well really, Lord Black. He'd not only found a contractor who built private pools, he found one willing to reorganize his work crews and begin immediately on the one at Blackmoor Hall. They actually started the day before.

Percy had put Adrian Pucey on the work crew helping to prepare the site. The boy was good with a wand, and listened to others. His main issue was that he had a chip on his shoulder for having a Death Eater as a parent. Something that Remus well understood.

Sirius had them for parents, his only sibling, cousins and so forth!

"This is going to be a wonderful place for Potter, um, I mean, Heir Black, to hang out with his friends." Pucey remarked to the Steward.

Remus gave him a wary look but it was more a wistful tone than anything else. Too many attacks against Harry, even from his supposed best friend Ron had Moony jumping at nothing.

In many ways, Adrian's life was better than Harry's had been the last several years. He had his mother, a very decent if small home, enough to eat. And tuition paid for; for all seven years.

Remus would just have to keep an eye open. He had more important cauldrons to tend.

Darlene was right. Harry's fitness wasn't the greatest. With a covered pool, Harry could swim everyday.

The boy did know how to swim, right? Suddenly anxious, Remus called Percy who called Penny who bought new swimming costumes for everyone in the House. Including Harry.

She'd be home later to start his instruction. With Hermione's joyful help, the muggleborn witches would take Harry to a public pool for some private instruction before theirs was finished.

**OO**

Wednesday, June 29th, Gringotts, Paris morning meeting

Appoline had received Hermione's request for legal help for Sirius Black. She had come through with an accomplished barrister who appeared to have dwarves in his family line. He was a short, blocky and stocky man with an impressive brown beard in braids. His hair was also long, and in the same Danish style braids. He spoke in an unfamiliar accent, but both his English and French were impeccable.

He was gruff, and to the point, but the newlyweds met with him to prepare for the trial.

"You aren't going to let your godson attend are you? I hear that there's a bounty on his head." The barrister shared.

Darlene looked appalled, but really? After hearing about all of Harry's adventures, she wasn't surprised.

"I think that Harry can watch via mirror." Darlene suggested, looking at Sirius for his opinion.

"Absolutely. The crazies will be out. We'll hire extra security for us all. You should stay with Aunt…"

"Don't! I'm a healer, and I will be at my husband's side. Besides, you never know when someone might need an emergency tonsillectomy."

The barrister laughed and promised himself to never get on this witch's bad side. But they had work to do. Even though he saw it as an open and shut case.

He had copies of everything that Healer Fenwich had given to Lord Black, copies of the few legal documents from London collected during that time, and sworn affidavits regarding the memories.

The gruff man cleared his throat. "The next item of business…"

**OO**

Same day, Blackmoor Hall, After elevenses…

While Winky and Harry struggled in the library, Clarice was working in her new office. Remus wanted to have her office in the same room as his, but just couldn't. Her every move distracted him from his work, and his work was important. So they moved her to a room next door, and the elves put in a connecting door.

With Sirius also being Regent for the House of Potter, he wanted the three of them; Percy, Clarice and himself to come up with a way of building back House Potter. They did have some of the sales of the basilisk meat. Lord Greengrass had convinced the Potter boy to keep some of the money and so the profits from the basilisk steaks would be available as start-up gold for whatever they wanted. One project was the NPGs which was already humming along nicely and promised to be profitable.

Remus was going over the holdings list just now, and was appalled. He couldn't call Sirius on his honeymoon about it, but everything had been lost! The pottery business, the magical creature ranch, even the farming land in Wales that had been held for centuries.

Remus stormed to Gringotts to talk to Spurnik. How could any goblin, as honest as most of them were, allow this to happen? And the goblin account manager for House Potter had been downright friendly with the lad. Chatting over different commercial opportunities for investment. This made no sense! At all!

**OO**

Wednesday, June 29th, Gringotts, London

"Greetings, Steward Lupin. I got your message that you wanted to meet with me. Would you care for a snack?" Spurnik offered.

The goblin offered the werewolf a goblin snack of goat jerky. One had to have tough teeth to eat the treat, and it was not often offered to hu-mons. These were expensive compared to say a weak cup of tea and last week's broken biscuits from Madam MacMillan. It was a sign of friendship. Goblins would not eat with an enemy. Their honor didn't allow it.

Remus took a quick bite, proving that he trusted the goblin not to poison him, and drank some goblin coffee. Lupin wondered if the earthy flavor really came from dirt as some claimed? He sipped the bitter drink on offer, and tried to figure out a diplomatic way of asking for some sugar. Honey. Sweetning. Something.

"Spurnik, you are held in high regard in our House. Individually and collectively. I do not know how this came about, so I want to show you some accounts."

"I don't need to see these." Spurnik interrupted, "Until Lady Greengrass came to me, I had been suspended as the Potter account manager. Learning that Harry Potter was about to receive a huge windfall that would immediately be siphoned over to an unknown account is why I am fully restored to this position.

"You see, enemies of your friends were very clever, and the goblins involved steal not one breath more of cavern air. I wanted to wait until you were more settled into your job before I brought the theft up.

"Most of it was done years ago when I was still in the hospital myself after an attack on Gringotts proper.

"You know, the one where Ragnok's mate was kidnapped and killed when he refused to back down? The day before the Potters were killed? No? Well, I digress."

Remus made a vow to himself to sit down with the account manager and wring the full tale out of him. Maybe over a mug or more of goblin ale or coffee.

He cleared his throat and the account manager looked up, waving for Lupin to speak, "While I am appalled at the perfidy here, I am not angry with you or your clan. I know you! I want to know what you have found, who is responsible, and I want them brought to justice."

"Justice! There is no justice for some. Their gold, their positions, their power protect them. Do you know what the difference is between Dumbledore and Tom Marvolo Riddle? One claims that muggles and mixed breeds are worthless and attempts to kill them, one claims we are all the same and acts in ways that are far more devious, far more dangerous, and far more deadly to our world than most people know. Or want to know.

"I have several ledgers for you already prepared. I know where the money went. I know who didn't pay, I know who didn't collect. I know everything. And what is worse, it appears to have been planned to destroy the boy's resources down to the last knut.

"The only thing Potter would have been left with after graduating would be a few hundred galleons, certainly not enough to support himself during a full time apprenticeship.

"His tuition was already paid for by his parents when he was a babe and yet, his trust vault was being billed duplicate tuition at the very highest rate. As though he was a wealthy muggleborn. He would have been homeless and destitute after seven full years of that. Something I find worse than the attack on him as a baby. Malfeasance is what it is, but they'll claim busy-ness, lack of thought. As though that was a valid excuse when accepting responsibility for a great House."

Remus growled low in his throat, "Let me guess. Dumbledore sealed the will. Appointed himself guardian of Harry and Regent of the House. Made us forget about Harry's godmother, and likely any other living elderly relative of James' if there were any. Then Dumbles left everything to rot."

"After appointing his own favored minions, some of whom were known thieves in places of responsibility that had no training or ability to succeed. They too were set up for failure. A good manager would have seen and acted before that happened."

Spurnik nodded, "After the boy saved so many lives. Yes. That is exactly what happened. And was rewarded with what? After saving more? Hu-mons!" The goblin swore in his own language.

"So legally, the nation can do nothing to Bumbles. Because he didn't steal, or take gold out of the account?" Remus asked.

"Except for the tuition. I personally know that Minerva McGonagall is an honest woman." High praise from a goblin. "We can appeal to her for a refund. Her mat…I mean her people are well connected. We should have no problem as we can prove both the original and redundant payments."

Spurnik continued, "As for the non-action. That is a moral matter according to British Magical law. And yet. It is so very evil. And the Ministry wouldn't prosecute malfeasance on a guardian when there were so many Heirs and Heiresses left after the war. That would open up the doors to so many false claims in the Wizengamot that the few truly heinous acts, like what happened to our young magus, would be lost in the deluge of legal action."

Remus shared, "He didn't want Harry to know he was an Heir. Has done nothing to prepare him for his role as Head of House. His only good friends are a muggleborn girl and the Weasley children. Now don't take this wrong, I personally like the Weasleys, and am ready to adopt the twins as my own.

"But they are not socially the same as Harry at all. He should have been introduced to his peers other than Neville before this. I hesitate to ask, but since I was obliviated or whatever happened, I need to know. Are there any outstanding betrothal contracts for Harry? As I do believe that he has chosen his life mate.

"I watched them all last year. They complete each other. They support one another. There were times that I truly felt that I was watching James and Lily reborn, in love at a younger age. These two will wed one day. I wish to protect them."

Spurnik had a suggestion, "Let's call in Dharma Briokz. There is a line continuation contract here. With one Miss Ginevra Weasley's name on it. Very strange, as it was signed by someone other than her parents, one Madam Muriel Prewitt. Which makes no sense to those few of us in the know, as she could easily ask for any of the Weasley boys to take that surname. Their mother was a Prewitt after all. But it is not a valid contract, as Dumbledore was the other signatory, and it was signed on Yule of 1981. Well after the Potters were attacked."

The solicitor made himself available, thanking the House Steward for all of the recent contract work. Lupin shook his hand, and the suspicious line continuation contract was sent to the High Auditors. The unspeakables of the goblin nation. They could see if there was a way to try to bring charges if they could. Especially since Dumbledore knew about the godmother!

In the meantime, a betrothal contract was written for one Harry James Potter and his girlfriend, Hermione Jean Granger.

Remus didn't know how the other adults in the family would react, and planned on a visit to Aunt Calladora before discussing anything with anyone else.

It wouldn't be valid without several people's signatures. But to have it ready, to hold in abeyance would have them ready to act if needed. There was too much going on to risk Harry's happiness in his future. Remus wanted to protect him now and forever.

It was a good plan to keep Harry safe. But was a betrothal really necessary?

A certain dictator had way too much power, and for now, Remus only reported the findings to Alastor Moody and Percy Weasley. He asked that they keep this between themselves for the time being as Remus didn't want to ruin Harry's first family vacation, nor Sirius' honeymoon, nor the family gathering at the World Cup. It was thirteen years too late for Sirius to do anything besides whinge anyways.

And this would give Dharma Briokz time to research the law with Percy to see if there was anything that Dumbledore could be charged with.

Spurnik and Briokz would invite Arthur over for a private chat regarding his daughter, and made a copy of the contact that made his precious little girl into a concubine.

Something that a goblin would go to war over if it had been one of THEIR daughters.

**OO**

Blackmoor Hall, afternoon

Winky yawned. She was having the time of her life! Helping Master Harry and helping the Deputy Steward of the House. It was her responsibility to help him, wasn't it?

Harry looked away from the squiggly letters for a moment. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't translate these few in the corners and random places. He felt it deeply that this was incredibly important, a key to understanding, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't get it. Like Hermione, they slithered away. Strange.

Maybe after a couple more years of runes? That's what Hermione had suggested before she went home for supper with her family.

Harry's eyes saw movement through the window. A few other boys outside, three in the attitude of mocking a fourth. Harry looked more closely, enjoying the freedom of not having to squint through poor glasses.

"Winky? Is that Adrian Pucey out there?"

Winky looked up and looked sad. "Hims, I mean he doesn't have nice clothes to wear. Other boys being mean, but they working here too."

Harry thought about it. Adrian Pucey? The stuck up (well, to him) Slytherin Prefect? He had new robes, hadn't he? Wait. Like himself, Pucey had never worn anything BUT school clothes during the year. And last year's growth spurt had his robes on the rather short side in the sleeves and ankles. Well, for a pureblood.

Harry felt a twinge of pity for the lad. What could he do? Look how Ron acted. He was really mad at Harry now that he had moved out of the Burrow. Didn't Ron realize that he had something far more important than money?

Winky made a squeal of excitement, and Harry leaned over to see what she was happy about. All thoughts of Adrian's clothes fled from his mind as he sought answers to the secrets of this journal.

**OO**

Simultaneous to Harry and Winky working

Clarice reread the application letter for a merchandise booth at the World Cup. Working here was going to be so very different. Being trusted with any amount of gold was an honor, but the box she had for expenses contained hundreds! She counted out the fee for the booth, and sent it along with the application properly filled out. And recorded the amount in the ledger as she had been shown. She sighed. At least it wouldn't be sent back due to the 'blood status' of the owners. The Pranking Parlor was officially owned by a joint effort of various members of the Black family.

A squeal of delight. Ah. Winky learned another word in the snake tongue. Brilliant elf.

Clarice got to work on the next thing, humming. Later, she would head to the library to help Heir Black and the clearly happy transcriptionist.

**OO**

Thursday, June 30th Blackmoor Hall

Formal dinner that night had Hermione and her parents, Penny and Percy, Clarice and Remus, with Harry reluctantly in the Head's seat again.

Emma said a brief blessing on the food, something that Harry wanted to start doing at every meal as he truly was thankful for the food and blessings that he had.

"That large pit is going to be a swimming pool?" Dan asked dubiously.

Great progress had actually already been made, and the contractor claimed he'd be finished with it before the family part of the honeymoon holiday was done. The goal was Monday, July 11th.

"Swimming everyday? Hermione and I won't want to ever leave." Emma shared.

"Good. Then you won't mind helping me give Harry more swimming lessons." Penny stated. "He has no natural flotation!"

Emma raised her eyebrows but it was Dan who pointed out the obvious. "We live on an island, and you can't swim?"

The former commander tried to picture an op where the rest of the team was already through the air lock of the submersible, but there on the deck, the most dangerous of them all was waving goodbye, standing there in his blues.

'What? You were expecting me to go with you? But I don't swim!'

Dan focused on the boy speaking, clearing his head of the humorous thoughts.

"Well, not yet. But Hermione is brilliant, so I'll likely get it quickly. As for living on an island, I wouldn't know about that. I saw the sea once, sort of. The day that Hagrid brought me my letter. And then he took me to get my supplies."

Percy scoffed at that. "HAGRID? Your introduction to magic came from Rubeus Hagrid? The groundskeeper?"

Harry smiled and nodded, "Great man, Hagrid. Don't get me wrong, he has a problem with naming, I mean. Fluffy? What kind of name is that for a Cerberus? And keeping him locked up all year? I know that they are great guard dogs, but it was really irresponsible to keep Fluffy in a school. You know, it's full of students."

Dan and Emma were sharing appalled looks just as Percy and Penny were. Clarice, though, saw the love on Harry's face for the man. She had similar feelings. Hagrid was the only one, besides her mam, who came to visit her in the hospital after she was attacked. Brought her handpicked thistles, her favorite.

"Aye, 'tis strange that the lovely man was chosen to escort ye. But then, I don't know any Death Eaters brave enough to attack him. He kept ye safe from them and worse." Clarice confirmed, earning a shy smile and a permanent place in Harry's heart for that defense.

Everyone else always put Hagrid down, but Harry thought that the first adult to be kind to him was just brilliant.

**OO**

Friday, July 1st, Pouvoir Judiciaire 8:00 AM

The trial nearly didn't take place in Paris for Sirius Black: The morning of the trial, before it was due to start, a small vial under stasis and disillusionment charms was found in the courtroom.

It might not have been discovered until it was too late –under a chair where the accused would sit– had Rita Skeeter, reporter, not suddenly appeared out of nowhere, seriously hurt and would have certainly died without the prompt healing she received.

If they had recognized who she was, their aid might not have been quite so prompt.

At least she was heavily overcharged for the life-saving services. Mistake in exchange of galleons to nostros, no doubt. Shame that.

All that was mentioned in Britain about Skeeters mishap was a tiny blurb on the back page of the Daily Prophet that implied that Rita may have had one too many before attending the trial. It was the only mention of the assassination attempt in Britain and didn't have a grain of truth other than they spelled her named right. Of course, that didn't mean it was her real name.

If Sirius, sitting down, had breathed in the fumes of that potion, it would have been fatal. Not just to the accused, but any near enough to have gotten a good whiff.

Rita was very, very lucky.

Also lucky were all of the magicals involved in its brewing and placement. Magic would defend a healer so attacked.

And Snape, when he found out that his potion had failed, would be very, very angry. And wanting revenge. At least he, unlike Lucius, knew about muggle forensics and left no fingerprints. Lucius was not so wise.

**OO**

Friday, July 1st, Pouvoir Judiciaire, 1:00 Afternoon

Security after finding that device was insane, and Penny was nearly unable to attend. Shacklebolt had already taken Harry back to Britain despite his protests. The compromise between him and Darlene was for Harry to watch from Aunt Calladora's in the first place. Stupid paranoid aurors! He was worse than Moody!

Harry had never been in danger sitting next to Aunt Calladora and petting the pooch. (Harry kept forgetting that the ottoman wasn't really a dog!) So why did he have to leave her and France? And if he was in danger there, wasn't poor, sweet Aunt Calladora in danger then?

His arguments had fallen on deaf ears, and towards a retreating back. Shacklebolt had just dropped him off like a toddler. Giving him over to Clarice and Winky to watch him.

Of course, in Harry's case, he had never been heard since he was the one silenced!

Remus came into the room, removed the silencing charm, handed Harry a shrunken basket reminding him that they couldn't eat in the formal living room that all called the 'Imacula Room'

Harry smirked, and the four of them made their way to the children's informal parlor where Moony had an expanded mirror that they could all watch the trial on, together.

Snack tables walked over, the cooler with butterbeer opened, and soon everyone had snacks and beverages just like it was a football game. Not that Harry had yet actually been to one of those!

Winky went to go fetch a variety of healthy offerings from the garden. Oh look, there were a few cucumber slices accidentally next to her. Munch, munch.

**OO**

Back in France

Penny just had to make it into the courtroom for Harry. Remus couldn't come, or wouldn't because of him being a werewolf, but at least Percy could.

Penny was wearing the latest in fashionable French day-wear. Calladora had introduced her to several acquaintances. Penny had been seen sitting with the Minister of Magic, the heroine Hermione Granger, and Harry Potter no less! Everyone wanted to meet her.

Penny found instant acceptance in Paris magical high society, and felt a bit of a fraud for it. But while the coin of her new family name and acquaintances bought her a place 'at the table', it was her own warmth and wit that had her truly welcomed. And invited again.

For himself, Percy was enjoying the introductions immensely. His own bodyguard was getting strange looks. A bit of accidental magic on Harry's part. The front of Kinglseys robes were red, but the back were blue. He also had parti-colored face paint in red and blue as well.

What was weird, is that no one in the family noticed the problem. Only outsiders.

Percy joined her in the gallery. Taking the saved seat that an older gentleman had helped her defend. They kept their greeting to a quick squeeze of hands. Kingsley took a spot on the back wall next to one of the dementor troupe members who soon had his colors sorted out into a fine local blue.

Percy had barely made it in time. He was the one late for once. The doors shut, and the judges filed in, everyone standing in silent respect.

It was time to begin.

**OO**

The actual trial was as short as Sirius' barrister. The French had a very rigid set of rules. Veritaserum was required for all testimony, however, no one could be forced to reveal any secrets, or incriminate themselves. Questions were presented and approved in advance. Then aurors cast truth spells.

Unbeknownst to the public, there was also a bit of muggle drugs that prevented occlumency use for a short time.

There were few criminal trials in France as a result. Most captured criminals who were guilty pled so, and accepted the punishment. The proof was shown to them beforehand.

This trial was different, and a lot of people wanted to witness the handsome Sirius Black get his long awaited trial. Anyone in Paris society, who knew Darlene Fenwich, knew his story.

The mysterious Lord Black was absent, but then so was his Steward. It was assumed because of the changed times, that the owl was still catching up to him.

The pensieve memories were impressive. Someone in the gallery tried to claim that they were false so the barrister presented the oath sworn affidavits to the judges' panel. After verifying them, and doing a quick check of the memories themselves to make sure that they matched the affidavits, they were admitted into evidence and the heckler in the gallery was ejected. Later, someone would recognize that it was Elphias Doge who had been causing a disturbance.

One of the memories in evidence was of Sirius Black and Darlene Fenwich taking solemn oaths as godparents. And look who was presiding:

Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore.

They also 'accidentally' included the destruction of a hundred dementors. The crowd cheered the Boy-who-Lived defeating monster after monster with his strong patronus. The news from Notre Dame was still in the local press but this was huge. Questions were even asked about Harry's changed patronus that Darlene was able to answer.

"Harry Potter has a pet black dog that greatly resembles his new patronus. A guardian to the boy. Clearly, his guard dog makes him feel safe."

Murmurs of Harry Potter having a pet Grim filtered through the gallery in an assortment of European languages. Unlike Britain, the rest of the international crowd knew that the Grim was a protector of the innocent. A defender. Not an omen of death to anyone except the wicked.

Well, maybe that did account for the so-called 'elite' of Britain to fear it so.

The news of the destruction of the dementors was worth the price of admission and was going to be front page news - the world over!

After that, the trial was really anticlimactic. The monotone voice of the handsome man sharing the truth that he didn't kill the Potters and would have given his life to save them. His love of his godson Harry Potter. How much he was looking forward to them being reunited as a family.

The French audience soaked up the drama and collectively sighed. The verdict was in no doubt - Not Guilty. By that point, any other verdict would have been met with violence!

Lord Black twirled to his wife, Darlene, seated behind the accused, she suddenly stood on her chair and put her hands on Sirius' shoulders. He picked her up and swung her jubilantly over the half-wall into his arms. Their kiss was snapped eagerly by the press. Her wedding ring left no doubt as to their status.

Fenwich Jewelers was popular with this crowd, and rather than sporting something old from the vaults, Darlene's ring was new. Custom made by her father for his precious eldest daughter years before.

The lovely ring would later cause a small storm in Paris as everyone wanted a 'new' wedding ring rather than some old nasty bit of work from a vault.

Penny wiped tears from her own eyes seeing Harry's reaction to the good news as he watched via mirror. Thankfully, Hermione was there to provide the boy with the hug he so desperately needed with this joyous news. Remus and Clarice on the edges of her view also seemed to be hugging. All of the house-elves were clapping and cheering.

It wasn't the final step in getting Sirius' freedom, but after all they had done for the couple, Percy would be doing his best at work to see if he couldn't leverage this trial into something more.

The scum of Britain tended to flee when the rocks were flipped to expose them to the Light. Truth was here. Light was here.

How best to shine it?

How to present this the right way to Fudge?

Percy smirked, kissed his fiancėe right there in public as everyone was celebrating and made his way to the portkey room.

The former Mr Weatherby needed to get back to the Ministry before the word spread further than the Channel.

**OO**

Friday, July 1, Just outside Fudge's Office

Percy Weasley made a beeline for Fudge's office, and wound up encountering the Head Toad of the department.

"Well? Did they see past his lies, I hope?" Dolores demanded, smirking. Lucius had been so adamant for her to go, to sit as close as possible to insure justice was done…But she didn't speak French, and wouldn't understand what was going on!

Percy plunked down memories. All but the one with the destruction of the dementors. Amelia Bones had that report now, delayed by an aging Errol, ever so sorry, Madam.

Percy looked around, as though just noticing that the pensieve was actually stored in Fudge's office.

The toad didn't green like an elf would, but she was not amused. "I don't know where the Rosier pensieve went. A position like mine should have its own. Why don't you go buy me one?"

Percy flinched. "Ma'am? They are very expensive. If we have the budget for it, I will. But it would have to be commissioned. I can find out who could make one, and how much?"

"Department budget! I thought that you as Deputy for the House of Black might want to create a bit of goodwill with people in power here."

"I'm sorry Madam, however, I am but a lowly clerk in many ways. I could certainly write up a request for you to sign, if you wanted me to ask Lord Black for one."

Dolores was now the one to react, swallowing flies, it appeared. "Just tell me what happened at the trial!"

Percy took out his notebook, and started to relay it all, much to the increasing distress of the undersecretary.

"Why didn't you object?" Dolores demanded.

"Ma'am? He was given the truth drug, had truth spells cast at him! He'd been in Azkaban for more than a decade. He's not a Death Eater. He doesn't have a mark - they checked all of that. I was in the gallery with the other international guests. I had no official standing, and was observing proper procedure. I was able to see with my own eyes the memories of him taking his godparent oaths."

Percy swallowed, how to word this just right?

"Ma'am? There's something else. They are going to go to the ICW next. We need to meet with Dumbledore about it. They are going to appeal for an international trial. If that happens, they can force Britain to accept their results. It might be best, politically, since he appears to be innocent, to offer Black a trial here. Do you want to meet with Minister Fudge about this? I can make an appointment for you."

Umbridge knew that Cornelius would blame her for this disaster. She wasn't the one that went. This was clearly all the Weasley brat's fault! Let him pay. No wonder Lucius couldn't stand him!

"Why don't you go inform the Minister. I have this very important memo to deal with regarding cauldron bottom thicknesses. I don't have time to deal with riffraff like Black." She replied.

Percy smiled as he did his short bow.

This was going to be fun!

**OO**

Same day, Hogwarts

Albus knew that he had very little pull with the French government. Not since that Veela-lover made Minister for France.

Today's trial was a chance for justice, unless…

One of his minions came limping in. Putting on a smile he didn't feel, the headmaster inquired as to health, welfare, and offered lemoned sweets.

Severus was going to be furious, and his pawn was going to move further out of reach. For a time.

What to do now?

In a letter full of sincere sounding apologies and an offer to work together in future for the betterment of all, Albus invited Sirius and his wife to the castle to talk. Clear the air.

Darlene was a fine artist and sent him a drawing out of Harry's memories of the boy's hand petting the phoenix. The face of the phoenix was sad, the hand comforting.

Albus destroyed it in a fit of pique, the phoenix rising to collect the parchment. It's magic saved the picture, and the hidden message on the back.

"Your phoenix doesn't look happy, monsieur. Perhaps you should attend to your own first. We will take care of what is ours to safeguard.'

**OO**

Friday, July 1st, Pouvoir Judiciaire

Back in France, their version of the DMLE was quick to investigate the assassination attempt. And act on those findings. That got all sorts of negative attention, and for some reason an arrest warrant for Lucius Malfoy was sworn out in France. Again.

The last one was regarding exchanging leprechaun gold for nostros at Gringotts Paris. Stealing from goblins? Not smart. Something that was not only highly illegal, but would guarantee him a good view of their training field as he watched them practice. Well, at least his head would.

Copies of the arrest warrant were sent to all department heads in London. Just like the last one. France actually paid attention to the goblins in their country and acted on sworn out complaints.

Britain's Head of International Cooperation sent a very politely worded letter to their request for extradition. Crouch wasn't around, so the reply must have dictated to Madam Umbridge via floo to send along. Percy found a copy and the meat of the letter was as follows:

'Lucius, Lord Malfoy is a fine upstanding British Citizen who has no reason to portkey to France just because someone did something wrong! You're just blaming him because his son should be Lord Black's heir. Lord Malfoy is innocent! We tried him here, and found him so. We invited you but you didn't come. Too bad. Now, leave off bothering decent people!'

Percy, making sure that his borrowed time-turner was well hidden, ran to his father's office. He handed the letter to his father to peruse, and asked quite formally. "What do you think, Director Weasley?"

Arthur took a minute to read it. Twice.

"This is very polite. For Dolores. Will you be joining me for lunch today?" Arthur asked his hardworking son.

"I'd like that. Then I need to track down Fudge. He isn't in his office, and hasn't been seen."

**OO**

Harry was staring at his godparents who had just invited them to dinner. Dinner tonight. In Paris. To celebrate Sirius' freedom and start the family holiday early.

"Harry! Do you realize what this means? When you get home, you're going to have a family of your own! Not just visiting now and then, but living here!"

"Well, maybe one day. If they declare him innocent here. But yeah. It's a big step closer."

Hermione snuggled in. "I think that it's wonderful, Harry. And I'm invited as well. How kind is that?"

Harry kissed her on the lips gently. He needed to go fly, do something, cook or weed or something. His heart was bursting, and just sitting wasn't enough.

"Come on! Let's go for a fly!"

"Harry! You're not allowed!" Hermione warned, "But we could go for a walk."

Harry nodded. Buckbeak was around somewhere. The hippogriff that had saved his godfather had been spotted.

Harry didn't know that the hippogriff was originally owned by the Potter ranch raising magical creatures, or that it was attracted to the strong blood wards on the place.

He just knew it felt like home. Just like Harry did.

A home of his own at last.

**OO**

A/N: Recommended Story: your story recommendation here!

A/N: Our friend cshella recommended: Two Finger Salute by WolfgangNH (finished)

A/N: Kind reader apls79 recommended: The Boy Who Planned by TomHRichardson

**OO**

ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language