Harry Potter's Secret Weapon
**OO**
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.
Get out your flashlights/torches/etc. It's getting a bit dark but the Light will return.
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Chapter 17 Meeting at the 'Mot
**OO**
Correspondence before the World Cup
'Dear Soffia,
'I am only writing to you because my mother told me if I didn't apologize, then I couldn't attend the World Cup OR the birthday party my mum is throwing for Harry.
'So, I'm sorry this took so long to write. I'm sorry that I didn't take well to you being so snooty, and stuck-up. And French. Now I can tell my mother the truth that I apologized. Oh, one more thing she commanded me to say.
'We really should be friends.
'Ginny Weasley
'PS Harry Potter saved MY life twice already. How about you?'
**OO**
Thursday, July 14th, Arundell House, (Greengrass home)
Daphne had a small tea ready, and was expecting her friend anytime. Tracey would behave this way being protective. She was actually a very nice person. But more than once she had taken claws to the Death Eater wannabes in Slytherin.
And both she and Tracey had thought that Adrian was one of them! Just because Adrian hadn't made a huge statement against his father's politics wasn't a reason to hate him personally.
In fact, now that she had spent time with him, she found him rather sweet. Tracey and she shared hugs that lingered a bit long to be comfortable, and Daphne offered her a chair and served her food.
"So, are you okay? I've been trying to get him to give you up! You are worth twenty of Pucey!" Tracey stated, taking tea and putting the finger sandwiches on offer on a plate.
They'd had tea at Blackmoor, but Tracey had left before it was served.
Daphne took one to be polite, and nibbled, "He swam with Hermione in the pool, my darling friend. Think about it. What is his father going to say?"
Tracey looked down, "So, you really are…I mean, you really are going to marry him?" Tears were in her eyes.
Daphne gasped, and finally grasped what was going on. This wasn't mere protectiveness on Tracey's part, it was possessiveness! She was in love…With her! Oh dear! Daphne didn't return those feelings in the least.
"Tracey, we have been friends since forever, and I want to continue being friends. I am betrothed to Adrian, and I want to get to know him. We both know that something is going on out there. Something big. I've already chosen my side. I have a duty to my house. Can't we still be friends if I try to build a relationship with my future husband?"
Tracey nodded, trying to control her tears. She had known that this was a possibility the minute the boy showed up. That was why she was so vindictive! She didn't want to lose, but she had. She had lost all hope of the future she wanted.
"I wish you every happiness." Tracey cried as she stood suddenly and dashed to the floo. Daphne let her go without attempting to stop her.
Daphne felt incredibly sorry for her friend, but couldn't comfort her right now. She hugged herself, and went to check on Astoria.
**OO**
The hardworking NPG team were already keeping an eye open for shop space and different ventures that could succeed. After speaking with Silvia, drawing out her interests, the clothing shop was the best fit.
Adrian was brought in to talk finances, and given different options for ownership. The Black family was going to sponsor this venture, and depending on their true interest, could become the full owners through their diligence.
Silvia would rather make and sell accessories than just about anything else. They could stay in the house, each had their own personal vegetable gardens. And she could bring her daughter with her to work as she was too young to stay at home alone.
Many families had shops like that.
A plan was made, and just like that, Adrian Pucey, pureblood, was the proud owner of a shop. Well, at least on parchment.
**OO**
Friday, July 15th Diagon Alley
Adrian wanted to help in the shop, at least during the summer. Adrian's mother, who happily separated from her unwanted Death Eater spouse, applied to be the manager of the gothic-themed clothing store. At least at first, it was simply reselling clothes purchased from the muggle world via the new workers.
Silvia Pucey had no problem hiring muggleborns. If anyone complained to her about it she would simply say that 'she was keeping an eye on them.' Ha!
The name of the shop was "Queen Vicky's Mysterious Wardrobe – Unlocked".
Silvia and Adrian were very aware of the law, so she couldn't put her name on the business without risking Marcus taking it away from her. She, herself would soon be paying the very reasonable rent on her home, and wouldn't allow the charity on offer.
Items made in the muggle world were significantly cheaper, but the markup was far above what was needed to maintain the shop and workers. If it wasn't expensive, the outfits wouldn't have been accepted by the purebloods. And fashion trends tended to follow the 'elite' of society.
Recent graduates were recruited who wanted to work in the magical world but hadn't been able to find work. Ones too well known to work as NPGs.
Both Lavender Brown and Parvati Patil had stopped in the shop to see if they needed people to sew for them. They were both interested in being designers one day, and so they too had part time jobs for the summer copying the 'styles' on display to make new and interesting clothes.
Harry and Hermione ordered special duds for the next French ball that they had to attend. It was time to make a splash with British designer clothes.
As a precaution, Madam Pucey carried a "panic button" on her at all times which would summon a contingent of goblin guards to her store. If it turned out to be a DE attack, Gringotts would pay her!
Harry didn't mind spending gold on this venture. He wanted this and the other NPG businesses to succeed, and was willing to support them.
He knew it was only a matter of time before each galleon returned, and brought a few sickle friends along with it.
**OO**
Saturday, July 16th
Molly's hands were on her hips, and her face was already red, "Where do you think you three are going? No note? If I hadn't forgotten something, you'd be gone and I wouldn't have known anything!"
Arthur stood in front of his twin sons before they could say anything that hinted at the truth. "I was going to take them to the post office. We're low on stamps, and I wanted to go to the big one in London. You know, and then do something with just Fred and George. The house will be quiet all day."
"Hmm. They have been up to something! Quiet, too quiet in their rooms!"
Well, the Fred and George dummies they had just placed in their beds didn't move. Or prank. Or experiment, so of course their room was quiet. But the matron wasn't 'allowing' them out of the house to work either.
So subterfuge. Or the lack thereof.
"Dinner is NOT formal, and will have servings that people can actually see! The nonsense in the papers about the Solstice Ball. The other one, not ours. The French one. Be home in time for supper!"
`The three squeezed in together into the floo to say the words Parlor something.
What in the world?
**OO**
Clarice and Remus greeted the twins and Arthur warmly.
Fred held up his finger signaling needing a moment and calling for Jam. He quickly asked him to pop to the twins' room at the Burrow and remove the dummies from their beds. Knowing that the little elf was more than reliable, the twins turned with a sigh of relief to the 'serious' matters of the pranking business.
The World Cup was coming up and ideas were flowing. Arthur gave Tonks a warm hug before apparating to London. He really did intend to go buy some muggle stamps that he was now collecting.
As for the Pranking Parlor, they had plans. Today was about pricing and Clarice had sample catalogs from other stores. And a list of prices from the two pranking businesses in Britain. And Fairfax Flint would be by very soon to go over the ads for the World Cup.
"You all are brilliant, truly. Neither Zonkos or Gambol and Japes have anything like what you have been making. And they are missing out on owl-order. If you want something, you have to go and buy it. Or send your elf. But not a lot of students can do that. Maybe a few Heirs. But we both heard how Baxter treated Harry. And he's powerful." Clarice pointed out their very pricey merchandise based on high overheads of a shop. It wasn't just the cost of the item. The rents, salaries, everything had to be added in.
"Where did you learn this?" Fred asked, smiling, "I've never heard of it."
"I tried to take some uni classes in the muggle world. I didn't do well. So then I read. A lot of books that everyone else ignored."
George took a look at some of her figures. "So we take annual salaries, rents, and all of our expenses and sum them. Then estimate sales, and apply a percentage of something to something? I think I got lost in the maths. Where's Hermione or at least her brain, when you need it?"
"No maths for you. We'll see what people like. We can't sell too low at the World Cup, or people will be angry when we raise the prices once we have premises that we need to pay for. But we can't be too high either, or people will take their sickles elsewhere." Remus expounded.
Clarice spoke up as Remus finished, " I want to suggest buying two carts. One each for Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. They don't cost much, and could be manned by just one or two people. This would let us know if we need a shop or not. I say using the cost of those two carts plus six workers, as a base salary for you four marauders, and a bit for Tonks' help. Then we add that to the cost so far .. ."
The wizards were definitely lost in the maths, but the brilliant witch had suggested prices for their own catalog. Darlene and Sirius knew people in Paris who would make the catalog for them, and were happy for the extra business.
Flint was there with a borrowed pensieve. It was time to review the ads while there was still time for improvements.
And as part of the family 'PR' person job, the small team also got to see the preview of a certain important announcement.
**OO**
Same day, Pranking Parlor
Then they got to do the fun part of the day. Making pranks.
The Marauders' booth (Remus had teased the twins about being his displaced children and both were accepted as Marauders) was only going to be open for two days. The temporary help was already hired. The twins wanted to be there on Monday, but knew sneaking out was a non-starter. They could at least help on game day.
Sirius was more than happy to do the enchanting work for the business, but wanted to control, for the time being, who had mirrors. He had no interest in being the person actually selling anything, but it gave Moony a sense of security he didn't have before to be a partner in this venture.
Remus Lupin would have been willing to use his wand to clean floors or anything else for a pranking business!
Clarice would be minding the booth both days, and helping out. Arthur wished that Molly would support this, but there was no chance.
"You two are going to have to have a plan for after the game if she finds out you are some of the partners. At least I have a place to sleep for a time." Arthur, looking at his boys, shared. He was thinking of his muggle shed.
The twins shrugged. If all went well and the booth was a success? No problem. They worked hard at making fun.
George however had a thought. His mother liked to threaten his father with the bathtub, others threatened the doghouse. What about a miniature magical tent that appeared to be a doghouse but had a cot? Hmm.
Watching Padfoot? Oh yeah, he'd be needing a doghouse sooner or later.
**OO**
Same day
The steeplechase course was tricky. Harry loved it though. The twins were going to be working in the Pranking Parlor, but the team was about to pull a prank on them.
At least he had made friends with Professor Lupin at the start of the year, and begged for private lessons. Remus in turn was appalled by his defense essay and turned it into an arrangement. Harry would get extra lessons (coming with Hermione) so that when the dementors next attacked, he would not faint; not embarrass himself. Keep himself from being a dementor snack!
He could have lost his broom if he had fainted from that high up! And his Nimbus, from first year, was still a very decent broom.
Darlene had offered to buy Harry a new broom. Instead of the latest greatest, Harry asked for brooms for his friends to fly there. All 'upgrades' to the brooms that they currently owned, except for the twins. They already had been given better brooms.
Harry went through the course first, demonstrating to his quidditch friends how the course worked. Cedric, Angelina, Alicia, Katie and Lee Jordan were there to play quidditch and were disappointed that they could not. But they all agreed to a race. Timed, of course, as one person at a time flew through.
The cheering for the flyers came from everyone not flying but also included those in the new stands that Remus had commissioned. Hermione, Neville, and Clarice were all ready to cheer. She'd been in and out of the Pranking Parlor, switching with Penny so there was always an adult someone with the teens. Wand ready, just in case, fulfilling their promise to Darlene.
Cedric had a terrible broom! Harry had never noticed. But like Arthur, Amos Diggory's was not a highly paid position. The family lived in a modest home. His mother was a traditional pureblood witch, and volunteered in various good works.
Harry held up a nearly new Firebolt. It was scarred: the Vratsa Vultures had had an incident with one of their quidditch players getting angry and throwing a broom on the ground. Then insisting on a new one when this one proved 'dented'.
It had been safety checked by the manufacturer, and when they found who it was going to, Harry received it as a gift.
Well, the dementor troupe had destroyed a few local pests while they were in the area, and the locals were grateful. In addition to the backstory for an NPG, Harry got a new broom.
And everyone won, as it would have just gone to waste otherwise.
Now, Harry had to figure out how to get Cedric to accept it when he 'won' their friendly bet.
When they were all wrung out, they went and showered and changed into swimming gear.
All of them left with better brooms than they came with, leaving their old brooms behind for flying games with friends. And Cedric had Victor Krum's old broom.
Harry had a prankster's spirit instilled now with living with Marauders. He'd wait to tell Cedric at the right moment; preferably with a beverage in hand.
**OO**
Sunday, July 17th
Harry donned the new bracelet, standing next to his godfather and in front of a mirror. He went from looking like a James Potter clone with Lily's eyes to looking like a son of Sirius and Darlene. Her nose and cheekbones, his coloring.
"Wow! What's this for?" Harry asked.
"Camouflage. You are very well known. Me, not so much. When we go out in Paris, as long as your godmother wears her caduceus pin, no one sane would ever attack her. And now you look like our child."
The illusion had him looking more like eleven than fourteen.
"How did you do this?" Harry asked, eager to learn something new.
"I made a promise to my darling wife that when you asked, the answer would be 'after the Astoria Project.' So, if you want to work on something together, how about that?"
"Sure. Hey! You took runes. Maybe you can help with a puzzle." Harry asked, just as Hermione and her parents showed up via portkey.
They were going to have tea together, and Dan was meeting with the builder to talk electricity for the game room. Not elketlites or whatever the builder had written about.
"Puzzles? Did someone say puzzles?" Emma's nose twitched.
"Oh no. You're doomed now. She likes to haunt Cryptography…books too. Buys them by the dozens in the chemist's shop," Dan offered quickly.
He had not blown cover ever. What was it about these people?
"Sorry. Testing a new product." Sirius put it in his pocket after showing the talisman to Dan, "I made it for Dumbledore. I am looking for the perfect time to spring it on him!"
Magic. Whew. It wasn't him that had slipped. He had mostly caught himself. Good.
Sirius had Harry don the bracelet and the two were instantly interested in that.
"Oh! Oh! Will it work on…" Emma started to ask.
Harry offered it to Dan, and standing next to them was Sirius and Darlene's eleven year old son.
"I think we need to talk disguises, Lord Black." Dan whispered in stunned amazement, returning the bracelet.
**OO**
Monday, July 18th
Harry's life was more than lessons and learning, and translating. More than formal dinners and practicing manners and such. He also had a social life for the first time ever outside the Burrow.
Harry was invited over to Susan Bones' house for swimming later that afternoon. Daphne and Millicent were coming along with some other friends. Including Adrian Pucey.
Daphne had written to Tracey that she was still willing to be friends, but there hadn't been a reply as yet. But it wasn't her that Tracey was blaming for the situation.
Apparently Tracey wasn't speaking to Harry, and made Susan choose between them. Ouch, well, for her, as Harry was the one invited. Along with Hermione and Neville. Harry had to try again and awkwardly asked for and got permission to invite Ron along.
The Chudley Cannons fan declined as he didn't want to have Susan Bones see him in a bathing costume. Or so he said.
But it wasn't at Blackmoor Hall! And if he dared accuse Susan or her aunt of being dark, Harry would have called him out.
Harry looked at Hermione who looked at Neville.
A new group of friends was forming. Harry really didn't want Ron to feel left out, but it was his choice to come or not.
He had no idea that the rest of his friends didn't think much of the redhead. And were actually relieved that he hadn't come.
Manners mattered in this crowd. Ron's way of speaking, eating, and lack of respect for their positions was grating.
Harry felt really really bad for asking now. At least Neville was here. And when Hannah found out about a foreign witch named Fleur, instead of being angry, she seemed happy for her friend. And asked sweet questions about her, drawing him out of his shell.
Harry offered to have them over the next time that Fleur and Gabrielle were visiting, and they all seemed happy with that.
**OO**
Monday, July 18th, Wizengamot
Penelope Black was walking down the hall towards the Wizengamot session. Her hat, nearly as tall as Madam Longbottom's, was a festive delight of summer, and sported many flowers.
Madam Pucey was such a delightful person, and had done just an inspired job on the hat. Like the flowers that decorated it, she was blooming as a person as the sun came out in her life, and the darkness receded. The veil had a bit of magic so that it softened her face, and changed her appearance. Voting Regent Black looked nothing like Penelope Clearwater.
The designer for the dress, however, wasn't mentioned in 'polite' company. People would start to credit the shop manager, but that wasn't true. A young muggleborn Gryffindor girl who was far too well known to be an NPG was the real designer. She would have given Colin a run for his money in the over-the-top devotion to Harry Potter. Especially now that she had a paying job…using magic.
Penny and Percy were taking their oaths today, and she was wearing a new British designer dress. From Queen Vicky's.
The aurors at the door tried to prevent her from entering. "Only Wizengamot members at this entrance."
Penny thought she saw Dumbledore put away his wand, but it could have been a trick of the light.
She had been sad to put away her Olivander wand, but it was just too distinctive. This wand, by Guierre D'Orléans, was a much better fit for her as, like the dress, it too had been custom made. And was very expensive.
"Penelope Arista Black, I am 'ere to vote the Black seat as Lord Black's proxy."
She handed over her wand, and the signature was recorded.
She made her way to the Black seat, easily found with the heraldry on the comfortable chair.
Gentlemen around her gained their feet, and nods were shared all around.
Amelia Bones entered the room, and went up to Miss Black, "My dear, I am Amelia Bones, pleased to meet you. I hear that you live in Paris. By any chance, do you know Darlene Fenwich?"
"Mais oui! She is my very good friend. In fact, I will be dining with 'er and 'er 'usband tonight. 'Ow can I 'elp you?"
"Let's talk after the session. I have been desperate to find out more about this lady. Thank you!" Madam Bones left to go sit in her place just as Percy entered the hall.
Dumbledore did act to physically intercept the young man himself this time, "Percy, my boy! Think! This voting job is best left to the experts. My good friend Elphias has had this job for thirteen years! To be sacked so abruptly…"
"Sacked? You don't think it was justified by his voting record going contrary to everything that House Potter stands for? This is supposed to be a paid position for the House, taking care of its concerns. I wonder if that is how he justified his lack of action for the House. No payment, no work. Or if he did do something, then why are there no records of such. Did you pay your friend? If so, from what purse?"
Dumbledore reared back at the bald accusation. Such things were not done in this place!
But Percy wasn't done fighting, raising his voice slightly, "Did you use the money that people sent Harry Potter for his birthday, perhaps? The vault in Paris has a nice nestegg due to the grateful French citizens who remember his brave father and godfather risking all to fight Death Eaters. I have a statement here of the Potter accounts, all of them."
Percy paused for effect, "No gifts of money, no rents, and no dividends were deposited to any Potter accounts. There were no deposits of any kind from November 1st, 1981 until late May of this year when a new Regent was named."
"Regent? Regent?! That's impossible! I am Regent of the House!" Dumbbells falsely claimed.
A loud bang stopped their verbal fray that had everyone on the edge of their seats.
The normally boring meeting wasn't; of course, it hadn't really started yet.
Madam Bones was just too happy with this situation, "I do believe this comes under House business. Take your place, Weasley. And welcome. I have the letter from Regent Potter letting me know of the change in voting proxy."
Percy enjoyed Dumbledore's glare. The bracelet on his wrist was supposed to help with his own shields but he didn't caress it in public. In fact, he could hardly feel it. He really shouldn't lose control like that though. But it was his father's concern that broke the moment.
Arthur was all comfort, "Albus? You looked peaked. Percy, why don't you get seated, it's about to start. I'm going to go get the headmaster a…"
"Supreme Mugwump! I mean Chief Warlock in this arena!" Albus snapped.
Arena was right, and it looked like the old cronies up in the gallery were vultures waiting to see who was killed first.
Percy merely turned to obey his father, leaving a concerned looking Arthur Weasley offering his arm in support to the suddenly frail looking man.
"There's nothing wrong with me!" Dumbledore shouted, gaining even more unwanted attention.
Penny took good notes all the way through. The prank worked brilliantly, and the victim couldn't see the results. Just brilliant. To everyone else, it appeared that Albus Dumbledore was aging and weakening before their very eyes.
The proceedings finally got started, with more than one goblin in the gallery betting on Dumbledore's date of demise as measured in days instead of months. No one was betting years.
**OO**
Monday, Jul 18th, after several items of business…
Percy and Penny were sworn in as proxies to the Houses of Potter and Black respectively; suffering glares from the feeble looking headmaster, and the less feeble Houses of Malfoy and Selwyn.
"Next on the agenda is House business. House Potter wants to lodge a notice. Mr Weasley? Oh, the younger, if you please." Sally Fortescue called.
The young witch had just been hired as the clerk. Miss Fortescue smiled awkwardly, pretending not to know Miss Black earlier. Or thank her for her new identity in public.
Percy looked like a hunter about to set a trap, "Two items I would like to present. First is a notice that the Regent Potter's ring has been reclaimed from the goblins on May 24th of this year for the first time since 1884. Regent Potter has elected me to be Heir Potter's voting proxy until such time as Heir Black chooses to take up the Head's ring. Next, I want to submit a complaint against the Potter…"
"Nothing but hearsay!" Elphias Doge was on his feet from the gallery. Someone must have passed him a copy of what had to be submitted in advance of a session. Too bad for Doge that he was just the starters of this meal.
"Out of Order!" The clerk cried, "There will be no interjections from the gallery! Keep your peace, or be removed. Please continue Mr Weasley, the Younger."
Percy's regal nod had him start where he left off, "I wish to submit a complaint about the payment of the prior voting proxy. No monies were removed from any House account, and nothing due was collected in thirteen years. So how were you paid, sir? If I may beg for indulgence?"
The people around Percy looked worried. This did not look good for Dumbledore. He had never had the Regent's ring? He acted as Regent without collecting rents or monies from Potter held businesses?
"What about bill payments, young Percival? Please tell us that at least the old insane man paid the taxes on the estates?" Someone shouted from the floor.
Percy continued, "Every Potter owned business is now defunct. Every building was lost. The only thing that Harry Potter has to his name is his trust vault, and a bit of scavenged items from ruined homes and a bit of gold that no one could steal in the family vault."
Madam Marchbanks stood, "Nay! This is not true! I bought the property in Wales when it came up for taxes. I bought it and am holding it in trust for the Boy-Who-Lived. I told Dumbledore that, but he seems to have forgotten about it. I tried to write to the lad, but had my letters returned." She finished, looking venomously at Dumbledore who pretended not to see her.
Spontaneous applause broke out amongst the people there.
Percy appeared to have just remembered something, "We'll make sure that you have my owl address Madam, and I will act as intermediary for you. I did forget to mention one thing. Lord Greengrass is rendering the basilisk that Harry Potter killed towards the end of his second year…"
"That basilisk belongs to the school, not Harry personally! It was created by Salazar Slytherin. Only a parselmouth could have controlled it. And everyone knows who that is now."
Percy glared daggers at Dumbledore, "Are you saying that Harry controlled it before he killed it? I have memories of that event that I would be happy to share with the Wizengamot. I know that is not what happened!"
"I am saying that the money is MINE to control!" Dumbledore now looked on death's door. Fearing more for his health than fearing him, the new clerk banged her gavel.
"The voting proxy for House Potter has the floor, sir. Please sit down, Mr Dumbledore. Can I have tea brought to ye? You looked peaked."
The old wizard glared at her, as though she had been condescending rather than kind.
Percy saw that Dumbledore sat, and continued, "As I was saying. Some of that gold was donated for private security. Another part is going into new businesses for the House of Potter. You will be compensated Madam Marchbanks, with interest. I will deal with that separately to this concern with Mr Doge.
"House Potter owes you a great debt. Thank ye, Madam." Percy bowed and stayed low for a minute. She nodded regally at him, and the show continued.
"So again, I ask the man now cowering in the gallery. How. Were. You. Paid?" Percy demanded. "You didn't act for the good of House Potter, clearly."
Doge refused to speak, but the message was clear.
"I state publicly that the diversion of gifts from Harry Potter to an account not held by him has ceased, and all new gifts will be promptly and properly acknowledged. Not that Heir Black expects anything. Just to let people know."
Dumbledore interjected, "You should address him as Harry, my boy. Heir Black makes him sound like an incipient Dark Lord."
Griselda was back on her feet, "Albus, you are a pustule on the posterior of a donkey! How dare you steal from a child and when his defender calls you on it, you accuse the child of being evil. Excuse me, but I thought theft was wrong. Madam Bones, please tell me that Mr Weasley's request can at least be investigated?"
"It can indeed. In fact, a full audit on Elphias Doge can be enacted by the Head Auditors if need be. You know, the goblins? This sounds very shady to me."
As Elphias had only Dumbledore protecting him, the vote was short and decisive. The investigation was approved, much to two old men's dismay.
Percy glared at Dumbledore and stopped him on the way out. "Do you remember Miss Clearwater? That job that you got for her? Assured her it was the perfect job for a muggleborn?" Percy's eyes bored into him, "The man expected her to do sexual favors for him like it was nothing! When she said no, he tried to assault her right there in his office like it was his right!
"When she wrote to you about this situation, you wrote a one line sentence that she should be grateful for a Ministry job, and what was she expecting as this was her place in magical society!
"Were you trying to drive one of the brightest girls it has been my pleasure to meet away from Britain? Have her flee to a foreign country. Because I can testify that is what happened.
"You are done here, Dumbledore. Theft, assault, and ruining the finances of a great House? A purveyor of sexual favors? Do you want me to make you a plaque with your new title of Pimp?! "
Percy eyed Dumlbedore's flamboyant robes and whispered to him, "Or in your case, is it Madam?"
Arthur gasped at his son's audacity in his first political foray, but the older neutral and darker members of the Wizengamot were eyeing this young man with interest. No one had gone toe-to-toe with Dumbledore since Charlus Potter had been killed. And that man COULD take Albus apart.
Some felt that the Potter House magic had clearly blessed this young man's tongue, and he was applauded for upbraiding the appalling actions of the Chief Warlock.
Even if they personally had no problem with the concept of muggleborns being so ill-used.
"What is next on YOUR agenda? I'll tell you what is on mine! To expose your actions. I won't lie, I won't have to."
Arthur came down and cast a wandless calming charm on his third eldest son. The least hot-headed of the group; he had never seen Percy lose control like that.
And with that, the young man stormed away, leaving behind a very embattled looking old man. Arthur went after his son after dithering a moment.
But as much fun as it would be to punch Albus in the nose, it would likely get him into trouble.
"Clearly, that Weasley boy is the bad apple of the family. The rest adore me. Harry's not the evil one, he is!" Albus muttered, but Crouch Sr heard all, and later reported the news to his son, his new Master who laughed and laughed at the circus he could picture in his head.
He had heard it all on the radio and rejoiced in his enemies' pain just as though watching someone suffer from the cruciatus.
**OO**
Penny waited for Madam Bones. And here she was claiming she didn't like pranks when she was involved with more than one that day.
The headmaster was patting his pockets and scowling, looking around, but the ladies moved away from the man.
At least he was looking healthier. Good tea that Miss Fortescue provided.
"Director Bones, you wanted to ask about Darlene Fenwich? Maybe we could meet sometime for dinner. You see, she is recently married."
"Oh? To a local wizard then?"
"Mais oui. Sirius Black."
Amelia looked pale, connections in her mind. "Oh dear! Well, at least he's free now, but I should have helped more. Can you please tell him I'm sorry. I'll write to him soon."
Penny nodded as Dumbledore swore and pushed passed them as though they were just house-elves in his way.
**OO**
Later, at Blackmoor Hall
Percy stood in front of Lord Black's desk, notice in hand.
"I'm sorry. I lost my temper, and went off script. I tender my resignation in shame."
"The plan was supposed to be to publish the notice against Doge. Period. I listened to the 'Mot meeting on the radio. Did you know that they started airing even before the official gavel? Entertainment for the masses, surely."
Percy reddened, but said nothing. He knew he messed up, but there was something that had made him lose his temper, wanting to throttle Dumbledore right then and there.
"Where's your bracelet? The one that was supposed to protect you?" Remus demanded.
Percy extended his arm. It had a bit of thread, but the real bracelet was gone.
Moony panicked, "Winky! Bring Harry! Now! We have a problem, a HUGE one."
Sirius jumped into action as well, applying a muggle phrase onto a spare unenchanted bracelet.
Remus wrote instructions for Harry to read out loud. The boy, confused, complied, "Juniper! This is an emergency! I need you now." Harry shouted, reading from the provided script.
A small elf popped in and wrapped herself around Harry. "Master Harry, finally calling his Juniper!"
Remus placed Harry's hand on the new elf's head, with a sorrowful look knowing that the lad would rather free her, Harry bonded with the elf. She looked happier and healthier immediately.
Remus took over, "Percy was wearing a bracelet. I think Dumbledore stole it. It is very important that it be returned before Dumbledore has a chance to really look at it."
"Replace it with this." Lord Black commanded.
"Please?" Harry added.
Remus offered her a time-turner, and Percy gave her the time when he entered the Mot chambers. He had checked the bracelet just before he entered. It had to have been taken shortly after that.
To them, no time passed, the elf popping back and the bracelet was on the desk.
"Not-Master Whiskers now has a bracelet that says 'Percy and Penny 4-ever' on it. I think Master Percy should be asking at Wizenplace for it back."
"Juniper!" Moony hugged her. "The unseen and bestest Marauder ever."
Harry smiled, "Look, today was rushed, but if you ever want your freedom, just let me know."
"Juniper be wanting to be Head Elf of Potter family, but knows she has to earn it. Need to be getting back. Nearly time to put flea powder in Headwhisker's sleep cap."
Karr popped in to meet the new elf and give her the proper speaking instructions. Juniper nodded, but Harry was processing what she had said.
"Why flea powder? Does he have fleas?" Harry asked, back to being confused.
"No, not yet. That's why I need the powder!" Juniper explained and popped away.
Mistress Lily had taught her long ago to speak properly, but at Hogwarts, she used the patois to fit in better.
It was time for another ritual, removing this compulsion, and Moony reluctantly called in Healer Greengrass. He was good enough to substitute for a priest.
Harry tugged on Remus' sleeve and whispered in his ear.
"Blast! You're right Harry. Percy, we need to bring your mother. Any chance of getting her there?"
"Hmm. Her and Father, just to be sure. Oh, dear. You don't think that she…after the wedding? Oh my, I should have seen this before. Mum really does love you Harry. She wouldn't do anything to hurt you. But to use that mother's love to manipulate her? I do believe that I know why Lord Black went after Scabbers as he did. I feel very…odd. I think Father prevented murder with his calming charm. I was so very angry."
The group made plans to go to Gringotts after a brief appeal to Moody for help.
And since hearing about the good news for Harry, Sirius made arrangements to meet with Madam Marchbanks at the bank as well. After the rituals.
**OO**
Monday, July 18th, Blackmoor Hall
Clarice was walking past the floo room when a floo call came in. Knowing the healer's name was one thing, smelling him was something else.
Harry was right behind her, as he was expecting this call, when the she-wolf went into the most intimidating stance that a female wolf can take: protecting a cub of the pack.
"Back off! You wear healer robes, but you smell of Death! Take one step closer, and this day will see your last breath!" Clarice promised.
"I swear on my magic that I have no evil intentions against Harry Potter or anyone else in this House. I came to aid in a cleansing ritual. Clearly, I should have bathed after my last stop. My apologies, Miss MacMillan."
"How do ye know me?" Clarice asked less angrily now.
"I saw you at the wedding. I'm Healer Marius Greengrass."
Remus entered and tried to calm her, "Clarice, remember how I told you that Harry meets a healer who helps him over at Slughorn's usually? This is him. He doesn't usually come here smelling like…this. We need a direct floo inside the Pranking Parlor. Sorry about that. I should have told you. I'm sorry, lass." Remus patted her arm the whole time.
Neither werewolf bothered to apologize to said healer!
"Can you please let me go, now?" Harry asked in a small voice. Remus hadn't thought that Clarice was doing anything wrong, but Harry was clearly in pain.
Clarice didn't realize it either, but she had grabbed him so hard, it cut off the circulation to his arm, and he was bruised.
Marius tutted, "Oh dear! This is my fault, Harry. Please, take this, and let's get to Gringotts." He also handed over some bruise balm.
Harry gagged down the potion, while Remus made preparations to leave. Percy was taking his parents to Gringotts as they spoke. Whether or not they would be conscious was something that was up to them. And Percy.
Remus looked at the bangle that was supposed to protect Percy while out and about. He was no longer angry with the lad at all, neither was Sirius, and along with Harry, met their friends at the bank. All of them went for a cleansing ritual.
Molly cried and cried, and wouldn't stop begging Harry for forgiveness which he freely gave. He had to be part goblin as he would rather be hacking up the person responsible for her tears rather than awkwardly patting her back and trying to reassure her.
Clearly, Dumbledore was up to his old tricks. Revenge compulsions. Good for many settings, especially since everyone here wanted revenge against him!
Molly in particular.
Lord Black gathered the evidence to take it to the Wizengamot. Penny and Percy were not pawns in the Headmaster's games. It was the Headmaster's fault. If he had left Percy alone, it would have been delayed. But now, it was time to start the path to war.
He looked at the time. They had another meeting here. He kissed Darlene and she headed home after a quick hug for Harry.
**OO**
Monday, July 18th, Gringotts
Harry Potter hugged the woman who had saved his ancestral homeland.
Griselda was thrilled that the boy was so kind and not acting like an entitled prat, "I put everything from the pottery shop in one of the outbuildings that survived. Potters, a hard-working bunch. There's clay on your land; clay that was turned into beautiful dishes, potion bottles, all sorts of things. I'm hoping that the family grimoire was put in the vault."
Sirius tried to pay her back, but she waived it off. Marchbanks stated, "No, no. I know how much was stolen from the boy. But more. I know why. And so does a certain historian."
Sirius looked upset, "Yes, he wanted Harry to be under his control. Poor and supplicant."
"It's worse than that," Griselda eyed the curious boy, "He wanted to take revenge for Charlus Potter. What the Lord Potter did to him that he could never forgive."
Sirius shook his head, "They fought together, I thought."
"Did Charlus ever invite him over?" The witch queried.
"Yeah, after our last year. It was strange, as Charlus was pretty wary of visitors, then Albus…I don't remember. Shortly after that, I lost Mum and Dad Potter."
Griselda pulled out a picture of beautiful gates with spell damage. "I checked the magical signatures. This happened AFTER the events of Halloween. I think that the wards locked down tight. Maybe even during the attack on Charlus and Dorea. I think that Dumbledore was ejected violently. Taken off the wards suddenly. Maybe it was an animagus that snuck in with him that started the attack. I don't know. But something destroyed the home and the Potters."
Harry spoke up, "You said revenge. What did my grandfather do to hurt Dumbledore?"
Griselda looked at both Harry and Sirius, "He killed, purposefully targeted mind you, the only person that Albus had ever loved. And tried to banish the things he had summoned to this world."
Harry made a face, "Professor Dumbledore was in love with the guy who summoned the dementors?"
Sirius breathed, "Grindelwald."
The woman nodded, "Grindelwald. We've been trying to get Dumbledore out of Hogwarts for years. And we will. He has no respect for knowledge or passing it on. I hear that you have a married couple in the wings to play Headmaster and Headmistress when we do."
"Yep. They have a child at Hogwarts, and are very disappointed with the haphazard curriculum. Oh, and if Snape tries to bully anyone after they are in, well. I hope I get to watch the fight. It would be epic."
BloodRage was terrible about staying out of things sometimes, but had stayed mostly silent.
Only his eyes glowed in delight of the thought of the gold that could be made selling tickets to such an event.
Sirius called in some help to go check on the wards on the Potter property in Wales.
"No pup, you head home. Let's make sure that there are no traps first. And no, I'm not going alone."
**OO**
Blackmoor Hall, later that evening
The twins were the first through the floo. The family was arranged in a line to receive the Weasleys.
"Professor Lupin! Nice to see you again!" Fred shook his hand…enthusiastically. Then his twin took over.
"You two. Welcome. Let me introduce the staff. The elves are under strict orders to not pop in and out of the Pranking Parlor, so please don't call them there."
Harry enjoyed their faces when finding out that Moony was Professor Lupin.
"We should have figured that out!" George declared.
As all four of the Marauders, two 'classic' and two 'Next Gen', went out to the outbuilding, Clarice was eyeing Ginny. Everything about this girl was setting off alarm bells, but Hermione was greeting her like a friend.
At least Sofia wasn't here for the girl to clash with this time.
"Would you like to see the library?" Hermione asked. Harry was letting her take charge.
"Library? No, not really. Don't you have a place to fly here?" Ginny asked.
Molly put her foot down, "No flying, no riding. I don't want injuries just before the World Cup."
Hermione suggested. "We could go swimming?"
Elves were sent to retrieve their bathing costumes so they could swim, but once in the pool, they really had nothing to talk about. Ron and Ginny knew nothing of the foreign lands that Harry and Hermione had been visiting, and didn't seem interested.
The youngest Weasleys were simple country people like Sofia had claimed. Well, mocked. But did that mean that they couldn't still be friends?
They had to have something in common!
A noise issued forth from the nearby Pranking Parlor.
"Wow. That's an interesting color. And smell. Padfoot wouldn't let them make anything toxic would he?" Harry wondered aloud.
"I hope not." Hermione chimed in.
Ginny's ears actually wiggled. "Pranks? I wonder if the twins need help."
"Oh, not you too!" Ron complained.
"Do you know how many times the twins have lost points for pranks they had nothing to do with?" Ginny's smirk was pure Evil Overlord #3.
Hermione got out of the pool, taking out her wand, and heading to the cabana. "I guess that a tour is in order."
The other teens promptly joined her. But none of the rest looked for Death Eaters on the short path to said cabana that was inside the House wards.
**OO**
Monday, July 18th, Closing time, Granger Dental Clinic, London
Most of the staff had already filed out. Per the habits from longstanding, the dentists cleaned and checked the machines themselves for the next Monday.
"Dan and Emma Granger?" The short, stocky man asked, a stick in his hand. If he was trying to look menacing, he really should think about his oral hygiene more.
"No sorry, though we do get asked about them. They'll be on call tomorrow. Can you call back during office hours?"
Monica was dialing 999 as her husband distracted the insane looking man dressed in odd vicar's robes.
"We're Monica and Wendell. You look upset. We're cleaning up here. Do you need some food? I'd be happy to share. We don't keep any drugs here; we don't have a chemist shop onsite." Wendell spoke softly, calmly. He had never been so afraid.
"Where's your daughter? Hermione?"
"What? That's Emma's girl. We don't have a…"
Another man just appeared, out of thin air. This one was darker, taller, and had a look of madness in his eyes.
"I'm tired of waiting, and you know what the master said to do."
"I don't think that this is the right…" The shorter man tried to prevent problems.
"Imperio."
**OO**
"Why isn't the marriage contract showing as gold? Is it because the mudblood's parents are muggles?" Wormtail asked, very concerned about being blamed for the failure.
Lily had taught them all how to use a telephone book years ago. It's how they found the Granger Dental Clinic in the first place.
But he was sure that the man introduced himself as Daniel when they met in the bookstore two years before. Not Wendell. But no one listened to him. Or to the muggles' denials.
The Granger couple here had tried to state that their daughter, Linda, had been killed at preschool, or so she thought so. The coroner couldn't find out what happened, and no one could remember anything. It happened when she was a toddler – she was just three. And that she had been born in 1975, not 1979. But the magicals didn't want to listen to them.
Barty Jr was getting frustrated, and lost his temper. Apparating back to the clinic with the woman, he made sure that she would never defy him again. Her blood and the slaughterhouse left behind would be a warning to these animals that a new day was coming.
The husband was brought by Lucius Malfoy to be a witness; torture times two as he was bound and unable to help his wife.
At least they would be reunited with their daughter, and when the night cleaning crew came in, they too were murdered.
The Death Eaters had what they came for: A marriage contract between Hermione Granger and her future groom.
Tom Marvolo Riddle.
**OO**
The phone rang. It was the other phone. Dan clicked off the movie they were watching. It was just past seven according to the clock on the mantle.
"Don't bother packing. We have a team for that. You and your wife were killed in the clinic earlier this evening. We need to review the security cams. We have both stills and videos. We hope that you might be able to identify everyone. Whoever it was was messy. Come in. You are being pulled from the field right now."
Emma was horrified and Dan was visibly shaken, "Our friends we met in school? This is our fault! We should have…"
Leaving her husband to deal with the Office, she grabbed her mirror and rushed down the hall.
**OO**
Their life had just changed. Emma wouldn't mind leaving this neighborhood nor the bullies that had made Hermione's younger years so miserable. But it was so sudden, if always expected at some point.
She pulled open the mirror. Who to call? The family was going to the World Cup tomorrow!
"Clarice? Clarice?'
A well-dressed woman appeared with a concerned face, "Emma? Do ye need help?"
"Yes, but it's a long story. I need to get Hermione packed and over to you until we figure out what we're going to do. No, wait. She needs to be seen by the neighbors, going in a car. Going camping with friends on the morrow! It's very important. Before anyone else arrives."
"I ne'er learned how to drive, but I could send a hired one?"
"Can you get Tonks or Shacklebolt to come? We'd pay House Black back, of course…
"I'll call you back as soon as it's arranged. Don't be surprised if one of the elves shows up. Ye look pale, and I'll expect the full story later, m'lady. Ta. What time should we come?"
Hermione's room was empty, clearly a quick evacuation. The girl was far too used to that. The note said '5:00 PM'.
"Five please." Emma requested, trying to hold in her tears. Only in the magical world could she arrange travel for when before the need to leave.
"Don't worry, ma'am. She'll be well protected. Call if ye have need. Yer family."
While Emma went to go get her and Dan's go bags, her husband was on the phone with the Office.
**OO**
Dan's conversation
"A car is there now. Send your daughter to a friend's house for a few days. For what it's worth, I'm sorry. "
Dan pulled a gun, checked it and loaded it. His wife was already back with their things and they were getting ready. "Not as much as they will be for killing Monica and Wendell. They may have supplied our cover, but these animals killed innocents tonight."
The secretary was clearly holding back tears. Losing an operative was always difficult; but losing the well established cover used for so long? And to have innocents hurt? They had worked in that clinic from time to time! They'd filled in for Monica and Wendell for them to go on holiday just recently! The other Grangers, the real full-time dentists, were friends.
This would not go unpunished.
As soon as the car pulled out, Emma got a message scrolling across her mirror. 'Don't call tonight. Wait. You sent Hermione so that you and Dan could work late. She'll be fine.' A pawprint was the signature.
Two hours earlier, a fancy black limousine pulled up. Harry was a common sight in the neighborhood, and he was dressed in a tuxedo. Hermione came out in a nice dress. One of the people in the back of the car got out and took pictures, even as another loaded a sleeping bag and carryall.
Mr Jenkins next door waved, "A fancy dress up camping trip?"
"Something like that. We're celebrating Harry's birthday early, and then tomorrow we're going camping with his family. This is our chance for a nice evening. My parents are working late, and will join us there."
The lights lit inside the house, "Don't worry Mr Jenkins. It's just the timer. The telly will go on in a bit too. See you soon!"
But she wouldn't. She didn't know what was going on, just following Kingsley's lead.
"Your parents are going into the Office for a bit. But you and Harry are going out to dinner tonight. We need to get some public pictures, and ask that you call your parents' phone from the restaurant. Can you please try to act relaxed and happy for a bit?"
Kingsley handed her a potion just as Tonks hit her with a cheering charm.
"That's going to overdo it." Harry opined, as Hermione burst into high-pitched and non-stop giggles for a few minutes.
In Harry's mind? She was adorable!
**OO**
Monday night, July 18th, The Ossuary
Amelia Bones was not happy. Due to some vague warnings, Moody was suggesting that Hannah and Susan were better off not attending the World Cup the next day. Their friends were all going!
The auror had managed to obtain a portkey that would allow the girls to come in the morning and leave straight afterwards. They were instructed to get to the portkey pad straight after the game and not tarry.
At least security for the massive event was not her responsibility!
She was very unhappy hosting the Weasley parents in her home.
Amelia struggled to keep her mind on the task, but didn't want to listen to another complaint from Molly Weasley about Harry Potter's living conditions. The woman was more paranoid than Moody.
"Here are the results of the scan that was made before the cleansing ritual. I know that you are more open-minded about goblins than most, but Bill was called in. He is very angry right now." Molly offered with uncharacteristic soft words.
This wasn't the same song and dance! What was going on here?
Amelia looked, and recognized the magical signature without pulling his card.
Oh my. And though a bit of a disgrace around the Ministry, the Weasleys were purebloods. Sacred twenty-eight even. And so was Molly's birth family of Prewitt.
Both Percy and Molly had been manipulated in the worst of ways. Someone of Dumbledore's power? It was like an imperius curse.
Oh. My.
"Lord Black needs to find out what House Nott and House Selwyn want that he is willing to give them, or he won't have the needed votes for a guilty verdict."
Molly snorted. "Doesn't the truth count for anything?'
Arthur tried to pat her arm. "I will consult with Lord Black on this issue. I have a few ideas." The mild-mannered wizard listened far more than he spoke and was actually a very good source of quality information to the developing new faction.
Amelia added, "And Arthur, don't let your future daughter-in-law vote that day. Ask Lord Black to come and be sworn in himself. People want to meet him. And they'll vote against anything brought by her just because she's foreign."
The man nodded, "Come Mollywobbles. We did what we came to do. We knew that it was going to be a long fight."
"Just to let you know, Miss Black is trying to develop a potion that can detect this magic." Molly told the Director of the DMLE.
"She's friends with Healer Fenwich? Sirius Black's wife? We spoke briefly. I have sent a letter to Darlene Fenwich. Dumbledore is fighting her guardianship of Harry Potter."
Molly raised her voice for the first time that night, "No doubt. She loves him. Sees that he has good clothing, proper nutrition, exercise, friends. She's acting like a mother. Something that Harry was denied. I was denied most of the time, though I did offer to act as his surrogate mother. Didn't I Arthur?"
"We both did, well, parenting. I'm happy to see the boy being safe and loved; Dumbledore is outright lying about his home life. Or using facts from the past. And if Harry was abused by muggles, whose fault was that?" Arthur bit out.
"Amelia, what do you advise other than gathering allies?" Molly asked, back to being soft-spoken.
The head of the DMLE shook her head. Everyone was afraid of Dumbledore. Even the so-called Dark Lord. Magically powerful, he had managed to frighten them all as small children; easier to keep everyone in line that way, no doubt.
"Madam Marchbanks would be a good person to talk to. She can't stand Albus. And that old historian in Godric's Hollow. Basically, anyone still living that is older than him."
Arthur nodded, and took his wife home. He was taking the children to the World Cup on the morrow. Bill would be coming by later tonight to reinforce the wards yet again. They were removing Dumbledore. Permanently.
He just hoped that all of this was over before September 1st or none of the children involved would be at Hogwarts.
**OO**
Tuesday, July 19th, Crouch Residence
Finally. The day had come that HIS FATHER's torture would really start. He had passed messages back and forth. Everyone faithful of the old crew was meeting later today to do a ritual that would resurrect the Dark Lord!
Taking his father's wand, and readying himself, he realized all of a sudden that he had made some mistakes: likely from years of being imprisoned and imperiused. His memory wasn't what it should be.
Winky had his World Cup ticket! Winky had the money that he was going to bring today! He hadn't thought about it as he was so used to her just being there.
Winky had the key to his mother's vault that was morally his. Even if he gave her the key and granted her access. But what would happen if he showed up at Gringotts?
Oh no!
He couldn't send his father imperiused there! If he ran through the Thieves' Downfall, the imperius would be loosened to the point he could be free. Or the curse could be eliminated completely.
He wasn't going to be able to join in the revels planned tonight! And that made him very angry.
Well, fine!
He'd just send his father to his jobs for the day, over-wound like a toy about to break, and see if he couldn't get Potter killed. At least his father would be disgraced. Yes.
If all went well, Daddy dearest would be thrown into prison. Maybe he'd get the cell that his father had rescued him from all those years ago.
Kicking himself for his mistakes, he made a vow to not make any more of them. At least, not this morning!
And he sent his father off to work with the imperius curse and other incriminating spells recently cast on his wand. But it would be the last one that clinched Junior's success.
**OO**
A/N: Recommended Story: your story recommendation here!
The kind reviews are truly appreciated!
Recommended Story: tld110166 recommends anything of their FFN favorites, but one story is 30 Minutes That Changed Everything by Radaslab
Recommended Story: Astra Leo recommended story: A Different Halloween by Robst (in fact all of Robst's stories are really great)
I'm saving psay's recommend for the next chapter - tried to pm you, but it was closed. It's nice to see you along for the adventure. Your supportive reviews are much appreciated.
ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language