Harry Potter's Secret Weapon

**OO**

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

New Pureblood Graftees - NPGs - formerly muggleborn or half-blood magical people that are getting a new lease on life after being drafted into a new family. A cleansing and renewal of the gene pool.

**OO**

Chapter 28 Second Chances

Monday, August 8th, Paris

While his Gran went to discuss finances with the goblins regarding his parents' care, Neville had asked to speak to Sirius and Harry alone.

"We all know that Darlene put her life in danger to save my parents. If she had been caught…" Neville sniffed, "She forgets that she too has royal blood."

Sirius looked poleaxed as did Harry. The look they exchanged was clear. Darlene would not be going out in public without a goblin phalanx, and all of both Bones and Black private security forces.

Hmm. Neville's mother was Scottish, maybe they could hire some of the Black Watch as well.

It would make going out…crowded.

"She's given me so much, and now she saved my parents' lives. Harry! Your book! I know that you can find a cure for them - maybe not turn them into aurors again, but at least help them a bit. I know it."

Harry nodded, "I'm very willing to try."

Sirius tried to get Neville back on track. "We need to be going soon, my young friend. You asked to speak with us alone."

"Darlene is a healer, and she's going to be hosting my parents there at Blackmoor with your permission, because of the blood wards. I just want to say thank you. But it's not going to be forever. Harry, you forgot a recent gift. The old mansion in the middle of London. Muggle notice-me-nots failed a while back, and now the muggle world encroaches. You could renovate the place and have a death-eater free hospital."

Sirius and Harry were stunned. Harry had been asking a lot of questions of healers both at the goblin facility and Saint Martins looking into the costs of a new facility. Wouldn't it be cheaper to renovate what they had?

"I don't know how to duplicate scaffolding, but I bet one of the new elves can figure it out." Harry enthused.

Neville and Sirius looked at each other. "What's scaffolding?"

Harry felt that every historical place they wanted to visit around the world was covered in it for renovations. Harry explained its use in construction and they nodded, clearly not understanding.

But Neville was right. How would Byron Ambrose react to his old home being turned into a hospital? Well, once it was up and running, as long as he got all of the expired blood, he'd likely not complain at all.

"Ready to do a few reparo charms? I foresee a Charlus and Dorea Potter Memorial Hospital, with a Darling Darlene children's ward." Harry rubbed his hands. But Sirius was wiping a tear and hugging Harry.

"And a Gerard Longbottom ward for retired aurors needing long-term care. Even if you can heal my parents completely Harry, there might be some who need it. My Crouch inheritance - let the gold that I am earning be used for good."

Sirius pulled Neville into a hug after he was done with Harry. "Mum and Dad Potter and the former Lord Longbottom would be so proud of you two. So proud."

**OO**

A mirror call to Miss Black was enough to get her started on renting a few white lorries. No one seemed to notice that far more scaffolding came out of the trucks than was possible to fit inside. Also taken out of the lorries were the patented generators, whisper quiet, and no one would complain about them after hours.

The house would need to be wired for electricity, but they had the right people for that sort of work. They would need to add ensuites and redo the plumbing to work off of magic. They had the right people for that. They would also need staff for the hospital when it was done.

They didn't have the right people for that, yet. But hoped to do so when they were closer to opening. Filius Flitwick had offered his services as Magical Resources (HR in other places, but replace 'human' with anyone effective at their job) for House Black. For a reasonable fee of course.

They made a plan, right then and there, and how to begin.

**OO**

Harry, Sirius, and Neville, along with all of the elves, popped in after dark. The elves made sure to cover every single window first.

For the next few days before bed, they were popping to the interior to work until they were magically exhausted. They would go even on days they had DADA; they felt tired but happy. Very happy.

Moody came over to check on the wards. They didn't want to make this inhospitable to anyone, but lay down the wards that all magical hospitals traditionally used. A warning. A warning that Saint Mungo's seemed to be missing.

"Santos, Santos Sanctum" A blessing requesting that this was a place of peace not war; of healing. A sacred place not to be violated by violence.

They would now be looking for staff to come and work here too. They knew what the normal pay scale was for healers. And what Saint Mungo's paid their muggleborns. But Frank and Alice, no matter their condition, would be staying under strong wards and have a family's care.

Neville was willing right then and there to kill any enemy of Darlene's that dared to try and hurt the witch; as much as Harry was dedicated to healing, Neville had soaked up the lessons for fighting. A person willing to cast to protect. He'd rather spend his life encouraging difficult blossoms to bloom. But he would fight if needs be.

**OO**

The outside of Potter Hospital needed renovation as well. Any elves working during the day, would wear the glamour bracelets that made them look human. It helped them blend in with the human workers, and the muggles wouldn't notice anything off.

Once, a muggle inspector stopped by to ask to talk to the boss, which caused a bit of panic at first. Percy, in a glamour bracelet, did not have a clue about permits, licenses, and so forth, but did have willing accomplices in Winky and the others.

"Just a moment sir. I think that I have that in my lorry. Or it might be back at the office." Percy prevaricated, and ran to the nearest rented vehicle.

A panicked, "Winky! I need…" and proceeded to list what was asked for. "Can you make sure they list the house as an 'historical renovation'?"

Within fifteen minutes, Kevin Rosier drove up in a very nice Aston-Martín classic car, and got out.

"Weasley! Why did you forget the permits back at the office! I have a 3:00 tee time."

Kevin handed over the needed paperwork.

"Sorry to interrupt your tea. Thank you, sir."

"Golf! Golf, you country bumpkin…never mind. I hired you for other abilities. Get back to work!"

As Kevin roared off, the inspector patted Percy's shoulder as he looked through the paperwork, "That's the Duke? It's always that way with the toffs. We do the hard work, they yell and play golf. I thought your joke was funny."

The inspector handed them back, "Well, these are all in order. I heard that the nearby home improvement store had flats and flats of plants on order for here. I was worried it was a prank. Thank you for buyin' locally, young man. Helps the neighborhood twice."

"Yes, sir. Thank you."

"I'll be by periodically. Do you have a card?"

"Not yet. But I can give you the office phone number."

The game room had a telephone, and the elves somehow knew who was calling. Odd that.

"No need. You'll be out here. Good luck, young man."

Later, Kevin caught up to Percy back at Blackmoor. "No hard feelings, right? You knew what I was doing?"

"Oh yes. Everyone was going on about your car. It's very nice."

"Yeah. I bought it at a place that sells wrecked cars. Your dad helped me restore it. Wants to put in a flying mode. I said no thanks after what Harry and Ron went through."

Percy laughed, "Let me guess. Harry was there restoring the car that he bought for Father as a replacement?"

"Yes indeed. But once he got it to a certain level, Arthur sent him home. Wanted to do the rest himself. Your dad is something else, Percy."

Percy hadn't thought much of his father in his younger years. But now? Seeing the real work of an estate? Oh yes. And managers like himself were not normally paid so well, or treated like family. He and Penny had been accepted since the first day. So had Clarice, and she was in a lower position!

Only when the family had certain high powered political dinners were Remus and Clarice sent away. And they would be bored by them!

Sirius was raised by his grandfather and the Potters with a strong sense of duty, noblesse oblige as was Darlene. It could be seen in the way the couple and their godsons viewed this project. They were helping themselves now and then, but providing the resources to make it happen.

**OO**

Tuesday, August 9th, Riddle Manor, Little Hangleton

Lucius Malfoy missed the August meeting of the board of governors. It was one he shouldn't have missed.

Never mind that he and several fellows were eating less than upscale cuisine on the Dark Lord's sickle. Trying to inform an insane man that he had to attend a school meeting when he was in the middle of a rant about wasting portkeys and other resources was not a safe or wise course.

The crucio would come from MacNair's or Nott's wand instead of him being the one dishing out just punishments. Apparently, no one had read last night's Prophet yet, or he was being saved for 'dessert'.

As a result, he missed the changeover. Lucius had been delighted when Albus Dumbledore had asked him, as a personal favor, to vote the Potter seat on the Board of Governors. How delicious it had been!

Now, he would likely lose his post. Well, better than his life.

He pretended to look interested and watched for signs of dissent in the ranks. And hide his fear of being punished for the Longbottoms' escape.

**OO**

Tuesday, August 9th, Tempura Joy and Sushi House, Hogsmeade

Minerva took the opportunity to introduce Percy Weasley as he sat down, a new face at the table, and his wasn't the only one.

Several new people were now stepping up to take their seats that had been held for years by others. Gifts had already been sent to all but the most recalcitrant. With no Dumbledore being there, the meeting was held not at Hogwarts but the new Japanese restaurant in Hogsmeade. This upset the ones that had no business being there.

As for the rest? Several of the longtime serving members felt like they were waking from a long slumber.

They were warned to leave anything magical at the door coming into their private dining room. There were a dozen small boxes attached to the wall, and decorated with the House heraldry of each seat. Boxes provided for wands and other magical devices.

Unbeknownst to them, their chairs here were enchanted. The ultimate version of a 'finite incantatem' was initiated. Many felt the scales drop from their eyes.

They were not happy. And most felt more than a bit of anger towards Headmaster Dumbledore.

Unlike most meetings of this School Board, they immediately got down to work. Several new rules were introduced including random visits by the governors to both the headmaster, to make sure he was doing his job, and to professors, to make sure they were performing professionally.

Then Percy Weasley, acting as Steward for House Potter and Harry's voting regent for the Board of Governors, dropped something far worse than a stink pellet in the punch bowl.

"Should Hogwarts find itself in need of a new head, well. You either saw or heard rumors of a certain couple being seen in Godric's Hollow. I have been assured they would be willing to step in for as long as we need until we do our own hiring."

"Is House Potter set on revenge then?" one man asked. He was one of the few not shaking his head.

"Mr Diggle? I didn't know that you voted for a seat. May I ask which one? The roll doesn't say." Percy asked quite civilly. The others appeared to be curious as well. The question had never come up before.

Minerva McGonagall, acting in Dumbledore's spot at the meeting since Albus was in gaol, looked down at her clipboard.

"Longbottom? Longbottom? Why haven't I noticed that before? Betsy?"

Minerva whispered in the elf's ear, and it wasn't long until the great lady, free from compulsions herself, was there. Her dress was regal and elegant, black silk satin and black lace, and of course her signature vulture hat sporting a miniature pearl necklace made for her by Madam Pucey that was a miniature of the pearl choker that Augusta favored for day wear. Was the vulture wearing a miniature hat with a little vulture? No, just a wee sweet summer hat.

Madam Longbottom was impossible to ignore and yet, the short man just continued to turn a blind eye to her regal presence.

"I believe you are in my seat." The lady stated softly.

"You aren't Lord Longbottom!" Diggle snapped.

Several people gasped, and one man tutted, "no call for rudeness!"

The woman conjured a magnifying glass and inspected his face. "You were friends with Gerard, but you have nothing in common with him. My husband, alas, is dead. And has been these past fifteen years, as you well know!

"Until Neville is of age, which is coming closer every day, I am his Regent. His legal Regent, not self-appointed. I don't recall appointing you."

The other lords and ladies stared at him as though truly seeing him for the first time. He'd replaced Lord Longbottom - why hadn't they noticed before?

Dumbledore's appointee had been slipped in during a time of upheaval and war; all the better to have a voice that Albus could control than the previously vocal and obstructive Lord Longbottom.

McGonagall stood, the others rising when they hadn't before. "Mr Diggle, you can leave, or I can have you seen out."

The sound of clanking in the hallway was enough. Without another word, the wizard was gone. Lady Burke welcomed Dowager Lady Augusta by introducing herself. And several of the members kindly inquired about the health and well-being of Alice and Frank.

She was gratified by their well-wishes but soon directed the members back to the task at hand.

Percy put his wand back in the marked box (Potter heraldry) by the door and smiled. That was a really good cantrip that Clarice had suggested: The sound of armored men (or perhaps goblins) coming down the hallway.

The meeting then got underway without further delay. The new rules were discussed and revised, and passed unanimously. One of the first times that all present saw eye-to-eye.

Augusta proposed hiring the Flamels to aid in the castle this coming year; even going so far as to offer to cover their salary herself. That proposal was also accepted, with thanks for her generosity.

Percy cleared his throat during the break, when small plates of a sampling of the restaurant's bill of fare appeared, along with tea. He wanted to share a bit of gossip. "Did you know that my brother Charlie went to the ICW to complain about the use of nesting mother dragons for the tournament?"

The appalled governors' outrage required muffling charms to prevent them being ejected from the peaceful and serene environs of the restaurant. It was paper thin walls between the rooms after all. One voice finally rose to ask, "What moron would suggest that sort of 'challenge' around CHILDREN?!"

Percy made a noise of disgust, "Headmaster Dumbledore. I certainly didn't hear of it until after the request was made. There have been more than a few letters from upset people going through the Ministry since."

Well, he wouldn't have to deal with that nonsense anymore. Percy had nightmares about being sacked, but Lord Black had reassured the Head Boy that it was his competence that was disliked, not him personally. Now, he could help the House by helping with Moonsgate, and watching out for the real dangers around them. What was Dumbledore thinking?

The looks around the table said it all. They needed to keep a tight rein on the headmaster going forward and planned to.

Percy watched koi swim under their table in the meandering tiny stream that was designed to bring peace and tranquility to the diners. He certainly needed it right now. He tossed a few of the koi kibbles provided on the table for a small fee, and several of the fish's friends came to eat.

Albus Dumbledore had no idea that he was now being watched. Inside and outside the castle.

**OO**

Tuesday, August 9th, Healer Aiden Lynch

When Clarice MacMillan made the appointment, he wasn't sure what to expect. Several abused elves? House Black had been buying up any old elf apparently, healing them in body and mind.

These folks here had the horror of being enslaved with other human slaves. And elves were very empathic.

"Welcome, welcome. Can we go around the group and introduce ourselves? I'm Healer Lynch, and you may address me as such or call me by my first name, Aiden as you prefer. We're going to be touching on some difficult topics, and I want you to be comfortable. In fact, Miss Clarice sent treats for you for our sessions. She truly cares about you."

The elves nodded. Oh, people could say they cared, but these people knew.

Lolly, Earnest, Quiggs, and Sculls eagerly gave their names. They were Potter elves forced into bondage with the Prewitt woman while the rest of their family went to Hogwarts. Clearly separated to keep them apart and prevent them from finding Master Harry.

The rest of the group had various backgrounds, but similar stories. Inherited by Harry Potter, and thrust into servitude in a variety of places, and not allowed to find a master they knew was hurting, lonely.

They all felt much better now. Slavery in general was discussed, and the topic of freedom was brought up.

Samuel, a little elf originally born in Switzerland, summed it up best. "When Masters are good and powerful and kind, it makes for a wonderful bond: Everyone working for good. When masters think they being good, think they are being a force for good, and working to enslave everyone? That is a nightmare. For us all."

It was a great session. Many of the elves were beginning to realize that freedom, though a terrifying thought at first, meant that they could choose to leave an abusive environment. It was eye-opening.

And they had felt nothing but love from the young mage, Harry Potter.

Lynch would be seeing these elves, and others as needed, but already, this group was on their way towards being fully healed. Resilient people, elves.

Harry was keeping his promise to help free the elves by buying them, or sometimes inheriting them and giving them choices. Choices that were empowering these people. Healer Lynch foresaw a day when all elves would gain their freedom through this young man.

**OO**

Tuesday, August 9th, DMLE

Auror Dawlish ran to the floo to call a colleague after hearing this delightful gossip.

"Lord MacMillan is punishing his former heir by returning a brand new broom to Quality Quidditch! The Heiress is a multi-animagus - fruit bat, wolf, dog, kitten, all sorts of things. He tried to get her killed out of jealousy, apparently. Won't be able to sit a broom much less have permission to fly one!"

Corban Yaxley changed and walked quickly back to the floo. He'd been wanting a professional level broom. He managed to get to the shop before the broom had been resold. Gently used, hah! He doubted that it had been flown, but it would be the Laird paying the twenty percent 'restocking' fee, and him getting a nice fifteen percent discount.

He had wanted to play for a professional team since forever, and the Chudley Cannons were advertising open tryouts for all positions.

He had a real chance with a professional broom like this! He bet it would be a dream to fly too; why else would they sell them to Hogwarts students? Wealthy Hogwarts students, for the broom, even with a discount, still had a steep price tag.

**OO**

Tuesday, August 9th, DMLE

Dolores would never lower herself to make an appointment. She was finally a Director! And she would go where she liked!

Amelia Bones ignored the hem-hem and the shuffling for as long as she could but she just wanted this woman out of her office.

"Was there something you needed?" Amelia asked in a bored tone.

"I want you to arrest Percy Weasley! Dereliction of Duty!" Madam Umbridge complained.

Amelia held up a finger and pulled a file. "Would this be the same Percy Weasley that you sacked on Thursday August 4th? And just how is dereliction of duty something that can get you arrested? If it is breaking the law, then I am quite sure there are several people committing the crime. These reports here being ignored come to mind."

Amelia patted a half-dozen scrolls in a basket all marked urgent.

Dolores sneered, "Well, your reports need doing, don't they?"

"These are copies of the international reports that have been ignored; copies have been sent to me for some reason. I can't imagine why. I am not the Director for International Cooperation. Are you quite well, Dolores? Haven't you been doing your job? Why haven't you hired a new Deputy or at least advertised for the position again?"

"Well! Not everyone speaks a dozen languages!" the toad huffed, "I've sent a letter asking Mr Weatherby to come back. He's already in a different position, the ungrateful brat!"

"Imagine that. Well, I'm busy fighting real crimes here…"

"This is! I demand that you arrest him and bring him here to do his job!"

"Madam, I have the proof right here that it isn't his job, but yours. Can you please go read the notice on my door."

"Notice? What notice?"

Amelia pointed to the door that was closed, "It's on the other side."

Dolores got up, but trying to read it with the door open was not going to happen. The secretary came in and, saying a sweet but firm good-bye, shut the door and locked it up tight.

The woman returned to her desk, leaving Director Umbridge fuming. But outside of her boss' office. Amelia immediately ordered a Honeydukes basket for her secretary.

Dolores read, 'The Department of Magical Cooperation is currently in need of an assistant. If you know of anyone desperate for a job, please let them know. Oh, no foreign borns, muggleborns, half-bloods, anyone with creature heritages or house-elves need apply.' That was on her advertisement notice posted in the Human Resources office AND the Prophet on Thursday, August 4th.'

The new one, admitting that half-bloods might be acceptable if they would also bring tea, had just as many replies as the first one.

Crickets.

Pity, most toads liked those.

**OO**

Wednesday, August 10th, Moonsgate Village

Sirius, with his arm around Harry, got out of the carriage and planned to walk the village. Adrian tipped his hat, Fred and George got back on, and the carriage returned home. Likely via a short flight.

"So, what did you think of his spa day idea?" Harry asked. Adrian had the thought of taking groups of ladies out for a spa day, and shopping and out to lunch using the coach. All very high priced of course.

"I think that Heir Pucey is looking for other reasons to get to drive the carriage other than taking Darlene around. But her clients love it, and I like her having extra security around. Let's go see how progress is going here."

The clever elves were using enlarged cardboard right now to demonstrate the size of the shops, the road, and the paths to the park. 'Winky's Welcome was real, and the first home built in Moonsgate in tribute to the elf that was such a wonderful person.

Any elf, bond or free, could find a meal here, a place to rest, a place to socialize with other elves. The exclusive elf spa was truly magnificent, and sized for house-elves.

A pinboard of Honor was started that had copies of the items used to release elves. Dobby's ugly mustard yellow sock with a hole that Harry had tricked Malfoy into giving him; Winky's white glove, Karr's garden glove (still with a bit of dragon dung). Livy tacked the actual piece of Dumbledore's robe up on the board: Why would she want to keep that?

Each one, no longer a symbol of shame, but a symbol of freedom.

Healing potions were stocked for common ailments, but requests for specialized brews would be filled by House Black, and delivered there. This was a stop gap until the hospital was open, as Saint Mungo's didn't treat house-elves. Or goblins. Or squibs.

Harry stopped in to say hello, and gained three new bonded elves who promised to help once they were healed up. Harry was sorry to see people in such bad shape, but was happy that they had a place to rest at least. Sirius frowned, and thought about legislation that could be brought forward to protect such beings.

Sirius pulled Harry outside and away from any sad thoughts. Today was about planning and seeing the progress so far in the village.

In winter, the gentle slope from the manor house gardens could be used for sledges, something that Harry had never done before. The manor itself was now a gleaming eggshell white - as if to say that the building itself rejected the dark. A lovely color for something named after the moon.

As they approached one of the shops, Harry heard a dinging noise.

"That sounds like pinball?" Harry guessed.

Sirius smiled. Darlene truly detested some sounds, and refused to allow pinball near her home. But as they entered, there were elves and wizards everywhere! Pinball, no. Multiple pinball machines, and other games that dinged and whizzed and made all sorts of noises.

There were stairs going up and down. Harry loved magic, as the place was much larger than it seemed. The front counter was clearly finished but currently unmanned.

Billiards and darts and hundreds of other games. It was like the gaming parlor at home after an engorgio.

Harry laughed as he and Sirius played pinball working the flippers together.

"This place is amazing!"

"We're going to use a talisman. People can reload it. A day pass, a ten day pass or thirty days. Reloadable. We debated serving food, but decided that would be very messy. A limited amount of drinks in non-spillable containers will be sold. Let the food merchants feed people."

Harry laughed, and saw that indeed, the pizza parlor was going in. The Italians had come through with their NPG background, and what better than authentic food.

"The new people coming in, need a place to shop and eat. And the best part is, since it is our land, we can request that folks say a simple oath before entering the grounds. No unauthorized portkeys or apparition; there'll be designated spots outside the wards for those types of arrivals. And no Dark Marks allowed, with a list of exceptions for people like Healer Marius." Sirius shared.

"Maybe get Byron to move High Octane here, well, the magical part." Harry suggested.

Sirius hmm'd. He was a bit prejudiced, like Remus, against vampires. But Byron was just so cool.

They left, and entered the cardboard front of the children's hospital. This plan was now scrapped, and it was going to be converted to a day clinic, which Harry hoped Marius would enjoy working at along with other rotating staff. There was a sign waiting for Harry there.

"Thank you. For all of the elves and children and people who are going to be treated here. Thank you."

It was signed by a couple dozen workers, and Harry saw Winky's name in there too. The people knew that the hospital in downtown London would be open to all, and understood the change.

Harry appreciated the sentiments. Many of the elves had been working at both spots, and having a blast doing so.

Sirius then asked Harry for a favor. Since he hadn't seen or heard the confrontation between Ernie and his sister, he was fine with inviting the boy and giving him a second chance. Especially if it meant getting Justin over. He was just as stuffy as most of the pureblood children, and hadn't been around yet to play games.

It would be a blast seeing him just relax and laugh!

And so a plan was made.

**OO**

Wednesday, August 10th, Riddle Manor

Narcissa was pointedly excused. The Dark Lord feared few; this witch knew too many of his secrets, though she was a faithful follower. Bellatrix had warned him not to hurt any Death Eater's child, especially her little precious nephew.

He shivered that day. The two of them would protect this boy.

Draco tried not to cower. Walden MacNair thumbed his axe. Just like one of the beasts, he preferred a bladed weapon to magic. Likely due to his practically being a squib! Which wasn't true, but his crucios were easier to bear than other peoples. Thaddeaus Nott's were the worst: strong. He was eager to be the Dark Lord's right hand.

"Lucius, you came to me practically pen…knutless. Poor." Tom was struggling to hide his misstep. "Your son though. Did he not understand my request to all of my followers to keep their eyes open for a royal maiden? And there was Marius Greengrass, risking his magic to bring me a prize. He begged you to let the girl land, did he not?"

Did the Dark Lord have Marius' memories of the event? If so, lying would only bring a worse punishment.

Lucius knelt and bowed his head, "I'm to blame, my lord. We have not studied the newer French families. The French healer's marriage was so recent. We didn't know about the connection until later…"

A flick of the hand, and Lucius was on the ground screaming in pain. Draco wanted to aid his father, wanted to kill Nott, but he stood there.

Another wave ended the torture, but not the labored breathing on the floor.

Draco stepped forward, and knelt, visibly shaking, "Master, all I can give you is my apology and bring you hope for more strength. If you would forgive me, I can use my bond with my betrothed to renew your strength. Isn't that what the first Greengrass Lord promised you? Eternal loyalty? Well, if the new Lord won't follow…"

"Then let the daughter be sacrificed. I detect your mother's words in your mouth, Draco. What say you?"

"It was her idea; her work; her research." Draco bowed low, trying to hide his fear.

"And what of your bride? Would you lose her to me?"

Draco remembered not to shrug, a bad habit he picked up around those of 'lesser quality'. He straightened his spine, still on his knees, "My lord, I will marry as my mother, as you command."

"If Adrian Pucey will not come to me on his own, perhaps you should be Daphne Greengrass' husband, and bring the Greengrass wealth here."

Draco tried to hide his fear, "She is the heiress to her House, my lord, I…"

"Don't be tiresome, boy; stick to your mother's script. 'Yes my lord. How may I please you, my lord?' Isn't that better?"

Though small in stature now, Draco knew that this was a being to be feared and respected. The dark one continued.

"You had a royal! A maiden of House Orléans in your grasp and you nearly killed her for what? For what? You cost your mother a significant portion of her magic; you lost much of your family wealth. I hope that you learn your lesson here, Heir Malfoy. Your mother is trying to save your life. For all of me, I would take your magic and that of your father to aid me.

"Prove useful to me, or that is your fate. I gave you a job to recruit! Your mother said that you would spend August bringing other pureblood followers to me!"

Draco was dismissed and helped his father rise. MacNair was pointed at, and Draco also had a brief bout of torture.

"Remember." The Dark Lord's red eyes pulsed eerily in the dim room, and the Malfoy wizards were allowed to retreat.

**OO**

Narcissa was called back into the room.

"I didn't hurt either of them. Well, not much. When is the best time for this ritual of yours?"

"An unfortunate day, my lord. September first. Midnight."

"You are preparing?"

"I am, Master."

"I will not have you perform this ritual. Pucey has displeased me, and I wish to make an example for his son, Marcus. Marcus Pucey will serve me better after seeing the consequences of failure."

Narcissa bowed at her Master's decision and took her leave.

Lord Pucey was late with his promised payment. She should have remembered that the son had been convicted, and killing the Lord would not bring the Dark Lord the tribute that had been promised.

Everything would go to Adrian - a son who was not falling into line as they wanted.

**OO**

Harry and Hermione started to brush the horses upon the return from their ride, but Karr took over and pointed to the rose garden.

Harry took the hint. There was a book of poetry sitting on the bench. How kind of Karr!

He opened it, and was sprayed with purple juice of some kind.

"KARR!"

Hermione pulled her wand and cleaned up the mess. "You know, the elves follow the rule of no pranking in the house. Maybe it would be safer to read to me inside?

Harry laughed and pulled her to his side for a sweet kiss. "Perhaps. But isn't it wonderful, Hermione, that he did that? Played a prank? I hope one day that elves can all feel so free."

She kissed him sweetly on the lips, and then took his hand. "I agree, but I want a poem now. Please?"

The pair repaired to the library, Hermione's favorite place, sitting on the sofa in the snack area. Hermione waited for Harry to sit and get into position - she then reclined into him, positioning herself for a nice cuddle.

**OO**

Wednesday, August 10th, Saint Martín's, Paris

Sofia had been required to write another letter of apology. The first dozen had not been good enough, and the Duke was here overseeing the next effort.

At least she had kept her ability to write!

She had been questioned under Veritaserum, and Giuerre did not like the answers one bit.

Sofia still expected to wed Harry Potter one day so that her children were strong in magic, regardless of his feelings or his betrothal.

"I am telling your mother and your sister. You are not welcome at any public event where Harry Potter is present. As for our family events, you say hello, goodbye and only speak to him if he talks to you.

"That boy faces horrors on a daily basis to protect the world! He uses his time to help heal a little girl of a deadly blood curse. He wants to be a healer when he is older. You will never be his patient. I won't allow it.

"Your mother has spoiled you to the point of ruin. It stops now. I want a weekly letter from you talking about what YOU are doing to make the world a better place. I don't care what it is! Whether that is art or music or poetry or whatever else; it is your choice.

"You will contribute something positive before Yule, or your stipend, you are allowed from the House, will be withheld from you. As it is, I have diverted most of it to a vault that is going to Healer Greengrass. He risked his life and magic to save you. NO fancy new gowns! You can pretend to be the victim here to the others, but I know the truth."

Sofia had a stubborn set to her jaw the entire time that he was haranguing her. Couldn't he see that she was injured? If Harry was going to be a healer, and was working on research to cure a different girl, then why couldn't he cure her?

This injury was his fault since he didn't save her.

Wards? Wards? What wards could stop him if he wanted to try.

And she knew the truth. He hadn't tried, didn't even see what was happening until it was over.

The man slapped down a dozen teen magazines. From America, Britain, Japan, France, and other countries.

Harry's picture was in all of them, some on the cover with his Grim patronus destroying dementors.

"You are not the only girl obsessed with the Boy-Who-Lived. But unlike the witches who write him love letters on a daily basis and try to gain access to him, they are not family.

"You have ruined any hope you had of friendship with him. That is the consequence of your own actions. Do not blame Hermione. Or anyone else. If you try to ruin the family Yule holidays with Darlene and her family, you'll spend it alone in your room. Don't test me on this."

Her nanny, Mary Smith, walked into the room and curtseyed seeing the visitor. Sofia was going home soon, and Mary needed to be taught the spells to aid her charge.

The lift chair was ready, and brought in by the healers. Juliette came in as well, but waited for her father to finish.

The powerful wizard gave her a final chilling warning in front of her mother and everyone else. "If you ever put another toe out of bounds, I will cast you out of House Orléans for cause!"

Stopping to kiss his daughter on the cheek, he left to allow them to do the final steps in getting out of this hospital.

He did stop by to check on the guard seated outside the door. There were three in the hospital; two on patrol, and rotating to rest with one right here. They spoke in English softly.

"No Death Eater activity has been noticed. Nor has there been any remotely hinted at in the chatter, sir, nor have we seen anything in the hospital."

"Good, good. I will be relieved when she is no longer in such a public place, but the goblins were not eager to take her. Harry has been nigh adopted by those people. And they do not approve of plural relationships. Or pushy girls."

The man chuckled. "Teenagers, especially girls, are a trial, Your Grace. She'll grow out of it."

"I do hope so. For the peace of family gatherings in future. I truly hope so."

**OO**

Fenwich Townhome

"Maman! Did you hear what he said! The rules! They are so unfair!"

Sofia had waited until she was settled back at home. She had to ride in a rented carriage. Her own grandfather had refused to send his for her! No worse, he had ridden home in his and did not send it back for her!

"Sofia! Stop! Now! I bought your books for school. I want a nice outline for an essay before dinner for the first chapter of the herbology text. If it's not done, no dessert. I made a mistake in encouraging your relationship with Harry Potter. I saw the magazines that my father brought. I had no idea Harry was so famous. I was blind. For my part, I apologize, petite." Juliette stated.

Sofia had tears in her eyes, "You too? I thought that you'd be on my side! Helping me!"

"I am going to help you. And tomorrow, we'll go shopping, with you in your chair to gain control, and find something that interests you to do. That is one way I will help you. Focus on something new. Oh, and you have a healing appointment on Friday."

"I'm sick of healers!" Sofia pouted.

"This one is different. It's a mind healer. Your grandfather insisted. When I said no, he promised me consequences and proved to me why you needed them. You are going."

Sofia was shocked. Even her mother was against her now?

Sofia called for Mary with the bell next to her bed, and asked for help.

"I'm tired and going to take a nap." Sofia explained, and asked to be put to bed. So what if she missed out on dessert. She had no intention of reading a school book before school started!

The girl was left alone to cry herself to sleep over the inexplicable changes in her life. It was so unfair!

**OO**

Wednesday, August 10th, MoM Main Conference Room

Fudge could delay the weekly meeting no longer. He'd had a half dozen complaints already about Dolores. He couldn't sack her!

Why couldn't the Weasley boy have held on a bit more? Dolores said he up and quit to elope with that foreign chit. But there was nothing in the paper other than Skeeter's article on the dangers of fairy circles that were really time portals and how all fairies should be relocated to Ireland where they belonged.

The meeting started without the former undersecretary's presence. They were getting quite a bit done, and then she came in thirty minutes after it started.

"I'm so sorry for being late Cornelius. I was interviewing a potential assistant."

Dolores had gone down to the DMLE cells looking to see if any of the people in holding could speak at least French.

Maybe Barty could be put on work release?

During the meeting, every time that someone complained about her not doing her job, she blamed Percy or came up with a poor excuse. But Amelia said nothing until it was her turn and brought out a pensieve.

Dolores tried to stop her, but it was too late. It was Dolores screaming at Percy for making her look bad and telling him to leave and not return.

People shared embarrassed looks; no one should look so happy being sacked.

Amelia started, "Madam Umbridge…"

"Director! I am Director Umbridge!" the toad interrupted.

"Yes, well, you claimed several times during this meeting that Mr Percy Weasley abandoned his post. I reminded you of the true facts yesterday when you wanted me to arrest him for dereliction of duty like he was a military officer! You sacked him as you seemed to have forgotten. Now, I also told you about the several reports that needed to be addressed. You aren't taking care of the ones written in English. Is there a different language that you can read and write?"

The implication was clear. She was only fluent in toad; Not a language taught anywhere.

"I will give you until the end of the week to catch up, Dolores. I will remind you of your contract." Minister Fudge read the note that Amelia gave him. It was clear that it was a final notice as the work needed doing.

This was the best opportunity he had of getting rid of the toady/millstone around his neck.

Everyone else had filed out, and Dolores grabbed Fudge's arm; her eyes narrowed, "Are you sure you want to be giving me ultimatums, Minister?"

"I warned you about this job. I tried to get someone else in the position as I knew that you lacked the language skills. If you think about it, you will remember how you forced me to give you this chance. Now: you signed a contract. You forced me into this position, and YOUR position has responsibilities; not just a salary! Tasks that have to get done."

"I shouldn't have fired Weasley." Dolores admitted between gritted teeth.

"Well, then. You could try and sweet talk him into coming back? I'm sorry Dolores. The next move is yours. We have a busy Ministry here." Fudge pulled his arm out of her grasp, waiting until he was away from her before wiping off the non-existent slime.

**OO**

Thursday, August 11th Blackmoor Hall Library

Harry looked at the seventh year potions book and at the potion that he had just finished translating.

He asked Livy to see if Penny was available and she was elf-popped in.

"What do you have there, Your Grace?" Penny bowed with a wink.

Instead of a potion, Penny now had a bracelet for her accent. This one made her sound just like Princess Diana. So cool! She had one for French too.

"A strengthening draught. It's supposed to fight magical exhaustion. But look Penny! Look at the extra ingredient and note here! I think that this one is made to boost someone with a low Merlin quotient!"

Penny reviewed the ingredients and the directions. "I wonder if Dan would be willing to test this for us? For me?"

"Can you imagine if 'Nicholas Flamel' could really work a wand? I mean other than the twins' lightbulb wand." Harry mused.

The twins did have a good business going in prank wands. One of them was lumos and nox for children to practice the light spell pronunciation and wand movement. Both Dan and Emma carried those when in the wizarding world. Interesting what carrying a focus did for others perceptions of their worth.

A quick mirror call, and both Grangers volunteered. One would be given the standard draught, the other the 'improved' version.

"If this works, do you know what this would mean to people like Filch?" Penny breathed.

Harry nodded. There was a real danger here though. A lot of purebloods were weak magically. What if all of the death munchers who could barely hold a wand now cast 'Avada Kedavra' like they meant it. Most really couldn't kill with it right now.

"Penny? If this works, we're not telling Slughorn. We're not publishing this one. I'm telling Winky too. Please keep it to yourself."

Penny nodded, "You're worried what would happen if guys like Marcus Flint got ahold of it."

"Got it in one."

"I'll brew this for the family, and use a code for the recipe. Don't worry, Harry. I can keep a secret. And I owe you."

"You owe me nothing, Penny. You've been, I mean, before Sirius was free, you offered me a real home. I won't ever forget that."

Penny hugged him hard. "And that is what you've given me too. Let me go set up my chemistry set, wizarding style!"

Harry laughed. She got it, she really did.

And the potions did help Harry after exposure to dementors as well. But it likely wouldn't keep him from getting annoyed with prats. Looking at the clock, it was time to go. At least he had Adrian and others to help.

**OO**

Thursday, August 11th, Moonsgate

Ernie couldn't believe the invitation. He was getting a second chance? He, along with several Hufflepuffs, were being asked to join Harry Potter in testing a game parlor opening in a new magical village. Games and food provided, feedback requested.

This was…unexpected.

His mother helped pick out two sets of gloves. Why gloves were the gift of apology, he didn't know, but it didn't mean they had to be plain white. He chose a new pair of dragonhide gardening gloves for Neville, and a pair of seeker gloves for Harry. They would be sent by elf to Blackmoor Hall to make sure that they were not intercepted again. Harry had to be taught about appropriate gifts for accepting an apology. He wanted to send a warning, but apparently that was Not Done in their crowd. Harry asked Clarice to handle it for him as she would know what he liked.

Ernie shouldn't have been so mean to Clarice, and had apologized to her as well. And wrote her a letter asking how she was doing. No reply yet, but it was likely still on the wing.

This gathering sounded like fun, and the oath wasn't onerous or dangerous, despite his gran's whinging about it, well, whinging about Harry Potter being high-handed.

Ernie got permission to go, his mother beaming that he was being given another chance with this group, and he had a blast.

Cedric pointed out the stadium in the distance, "Do you see that? That is going to be the home of the Blackmoor Basilisks, and we can buy season tickets soon. A real quidditch stadium! Private boxes with snacks and drinks and all sorts of merchandise included with the tickets. I wrote to Professor McGonagall. The games are all going to start on the weekends in the spring. We might be able to attend, as long as we leave by Monday morning in time for classes if the snitch isn't caught yet."

Molly and Ginny Weasley had the cart ready, taking a leaf from the twins' book of success. They had cold and warm cider for sale, as well as meat pies, and apple tarts. Harry had hired them to feed the people gaming.

Ernie smiled at the redheaded witch, "Did you bake these tarts? They're really good!"

Ginny smiled, "I helped. Did you hear that once the safety charms are on the pitch, we might get to play some pickup games? You play, right? What position?"

Ernie blushed, "Well, I'm not on the team. Yet. I had hoped to play keeper this year, but don't mind being a chaser in a pickup game. What about you?"

"I prefer chaser, but can seek if I have to. We've played a lot this summer."

Molly saw very well what was going on, "Ginny, why don't you show Mr MacMillan the pitch."

"Ach, it's just Ernie ma'am. That sounds fun. And after, I could challenge ye to air hockey. That looks fun too." Ernie shared.

"Sounds great!" Ginny chirped.

Molly smiled. She didn't know that Ernie was no longer heir, and wouldn't have cared if she did. She just saw her youngest finally getting over her crush, and moving on.

The early apples were a bumper crop, and Ron loved doing his chores of picking the ripe ones. And Molly loved turning apples into profit! (The meat pies were really transfigured apples, but who was going to complain?)

**OO**

Friday, August 12th, Blackmoor Hall

"I know it's one of your women there! You have a researcher on staff and your fiancée lives there. One of the people working there has been doing all of your work since you started! How else could you have gotten so much done? Arthur is a mewling weakling! There has to be another reason for your success.

"That person has a responsibility to the Ministry! If they aren't applying as my assistant sometime today, you won't like the consequences!" Dolores warned.

Percy loved his job as Steward, and had been given a raise. He was making the standard amount for someone in that position; which was far more than an assistant to a toad like her.

Winky popped in next to him, and he had a brainwave.

"You want me to send the person responsible for the Department's success down to apply? Well, I do have a secret weapon here, actually. It's Harry Potter's secret weapon. Crouch's former house-elf."

Winky tilted her head towards the floo and waved impudently.

The green of the flames made the pink one look like a very demented witch, and she clearly didn't believe him one bit!

Percy continued, "I don't have the authority to force her to apply anywhere, you see. She's a free elf. And she was of great assistance to me the short time I was in the Ministry. So go ahead. Apply to Lord Black. Apply to Harry Potter. Ask Winky herself if you dare. Do you know how many people work for them? Good day."

Percy went to cut the call, when suddenly there was a dementor trying to come through!

"Get Harry." Percy commanded, trying to conjure his patronus in a moment where he needed it most. He managed to keep the monster at bay until help arrived.

Harry had been hosting a group of friends in the pool, but never went anywhere without his focus. He was dripping water onto the hallway carpet, but stood ready to do battle.

A Grim was soon attacking the dementor in the fireplace; all the while Winky was moaning and pulling her ears as she watched in fascination as the young mage destroyed the horrible monster in the floo.

Winky had been hearing over and over again how worthless and unlovable she was; the vocal vitriol of her previous cruel master.

"Winky bad, bad for not helping toady woman do her job. Winky should go…"

Harry pulled her into a hug as Percy snatched a bit of cloak from the fireplace.

"If you hadn't been home, whoever was here could have been killed." Percy stated in horror. "I shouldn't've baited her, but I knew she would not leave me alone until I told her the truth. Then she did this! Harry, I am so sorry! This is all my fault!"

Realizing that Winky and Percy were suffering the aftermath of Dementor exposure, Harry called for Karr to fetch chocolate, and pulled up his mirror to call Healer Marius. Then he sent Jam to make hot chocolate.

And wasn't he glad that he hadn't mixed up the two elves' tasks! Or they'd be sipping something vile.

"We can try to complain, but I think this and any other of our floos, needs Penny's and Hermione's new and improved Flamel runic circles." Harry suggested. Dementors could come in and not leave, but people could come and go.

Percy accepted and gratefully ate the chocolate Karr brought, handing it around, and then had him pop a message over to Madam Bones. As Susan and Hannah were in the home right now, this endangered them as well.

The aurors there covered their mugs, worried Karr would top off their tea. They had heard the stories from some of the ones assigned to come, after the little witch was assaulted. Fortunately Jam was there, with hot chocolate and other beverages on offer.

Madam Bones gathered up her cloak and pointed to people to help that she truly trusted; gathering her team.

They were going to Blackmoor Hall to investigate a murder attempt. Nothing was being swept under the rug today!

**OO**

In the meantime, Harry was comforting and reassuring Winky. It had been a shock for the family that she had been doing the majority of the translating work previously thought done by Crouch. In fact, without her, the Department of International Cooperation was going to be in real trouble.

"Winky, you are my friend. And no one can force you to work anywhere. We're getting close to having the book done, right?"

Winky nodded and Harry knelt down next to her. She conjured a towel, an orange and pinky striped one just because she knew it would make him laugh.

"Yes, Master Harry."

"Which means that you and Dobby will bond soon, and you will be busy with baby elves and stuff for a time. When they're older, and IF you still want the job, we can have one of our NPGs apply for it. Several are older with lots o' languages already."

Winky stopped pulling her ears. "Even if Winky having a baby, Winky could help. Winky love translating."

Giving her the side-eye, "Really? I hadn't noticed." Harry teased. "We'll let Amelia know about some of our people, but they won't serve the Toad. Nope."

Winky nodded. Amelia was furious that Umbridge had tried to kill innocents, but by the time she had returned to the Ministry to arrest her, she and her kittens were packed and gone.

An arrest warrant was happily signed by Fudge, and the aurors were more than happy to be on the lookout for the evil woman.

She had left behind a poorly worded and misspelled note on the desk.

'I had no idea that the bogert that jumped into the flew would turn into won of the Magnificent Domontors of Azkabilbble. That wasn't my vault. It was all Wetherby's. He tried to say that Minister Bangnold's old elf had been helping in the Ministry for the last thirty years. None-cents! Elfs don't kno nuffin!

'BS I shal bee talking my usual hooliday and wil be goon for a month. Dolores Umbridge, Diretor of DIMC'

It appeared that Fred and George's prank quill worked very, very well. Instead of having a spell-check, it guaranteed misspellings. Only today's batch of quills in her desk was affected; they were supposed to help her to decide to quit since she couldn't do the work, but no one else knew about them, except for Karr who had placed them. And he was sworn to secrecy. And to insure the secret was kept, he popped to the Ministry and retrieved the quills, replacing them with normal ones, after the "damage" was done of course!

Percy would later show them a copy of the letter, and they decided to wait until closer to Yule to sell them; they could even name it after her when this story got out.

Within a week, Mrs Mary Cattermole, an NPG of the House of Burke, was settled into the job. She wore the most up-to-date fashions, but consistently wore a lovely pendant that she claimed was a special gift from her patron. He got it in Japan. No one else needed to know that it had been reverse-engineered by Sirius Black and now worked with twenty-seven of the most common languages of the magical world. And counting.

Mrs Burke hired a highly capable, highly recommended part-time assistant whose salary was automatically deposited to her vault like every other worker. Her 'secret weapon'. Miss Wilhemina Elvenhouse.

Winky to her friends.

**OO**

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

ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language

Minor edit for quotation 18 Nov 2022