Harry Potter's Secret Weapon

**OO**

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

**OO**

Chapter 34 Back to Hogwarts

Last Time:

Daily Prophet Evening Edition

'Harry Potter is up to his old tricks again. Not satisfied with slaughtering ministry workers, he is now dosing innocent royal witches to have his wicked way with them.

'Indeed, the House of Black announced that Harry Potter was now betrothed to Duchess Hermy Dogworth-Granger. She is the magical girl closest to the throne, and was reputed to have a relationship with the younger muggle Prince William where they were seen kissing at a summer tea held for the muggle queen.

The grainy picture did indeed show Hermione helping a young Prince Harry with a mallet in a croquet game. They were certainly not kissing! Prince William was nowhere in the picture.

'Isn't it time that the Potter brat be taken to heel? First killing workers, now potioning young girls. When is it going to end?

'Rita Skeeter, Investigating Reporter'

**OO**

September 1st, Welcoming Feast, Hogwarts

Minerva McGonagall spat soup in reaction to reading the headline of the paper. She only read it due to trying to keep abreast of any problems that her little Lions might be facing.

After what someone tried to do to Mr Potter's schedule, probably Albus, under her name, she was taking no chances!

She looked for Harry in the crowd. There he was, sitting with Miss Granger on one side, and surrounding them was the remnant of the Quidditch team. They were clearly making plans for the year. She had hopes that Harry would fight to keep the school matches going, perhaps adding teams from the visiting schools. Now he would have this twaddle to deal with.

"Albus! Please tell me you have a way of dealing with this nonsense!"

"Minerva, remember that Rita loves to use a mite bit of truth to create a mountain of lies. This too shall pass - the less said the better."

'Moody' enjoyed watching the reactions of people around Potter. He had plans in place to kidnap the boy during the final round of the tournament. Clever of the old auror to teach the boy defense. But he was still a boy. Too bad he couldn't have taken the boy's little girlfriend during the summer. It wasn't him that botched that plan; he had offered. What the Dark Lord commanded was his will to obey. His part had gone perfectly.

Well, now they had a different ritual to prepare for. This was going to be such a fun year.

Susan Bones jumped to her feet and went running over to Professor Sprout.

"Professor! Auntie told me all about this situation! That toad Umbridge was complaining about missing dementors, notpeople! Harry's team has been going around the world taking these monsters out!

"This makes it sound like Harry Potter was going around killing Mr Weasley and Mr Diggory or something! It's awful! We have to do something!"

Susan felt very guilty about Harry. He had been so nice to her, and had invited her over to his home for his birthday party and to swim and play games several times. She had believed Justin when he said that Harry tried to sic that horrible snake on him, but Justin figured it out later on that Harry was telling it not to attack.

If Harry really did control the basilisk, then Malfoy and his cronies would all be gone, and Hermione would never have been hurt. If he was evil, Harry wouldn't have killed it and donated the money to her Auntie!

She was now determined to stick up for Harry in compensation for her cruel words from second year. And in support of their ongoing friendship.

Dumbledore stroked his beard. "If the Ministry wants to hold Harry Potter responsible for the disappearance of the dementors from around the world, they will have to allow him a defense. A defense that will include memories. Hmm. Maybe, for once, I will support Rita Skeeter. Yes. A trial is a very good idea, don't you think Minerva?"

The cat animagus hissed "Yer daft! The Benjamin Franklin Kite of Merit? The Jean Lafitte Medal of Honor that's been announced? Japan's Imperial Shōgun, which is no small honor! That boy has made friends around the world takin' out a real threat to others. He shouldn't be put on trial here, but given an Order of Merlin! Oh, that's right. All of the current holders have to agree. We'll, I'll wait until yer safely dead and nominate the boy meself, ALBUS."

Albus appeared to have bitten into sour prunes, and he turned to happily see Professor Snape's sneer.

The potions master was terrified of 'Moody' and very unhappy that the elves seemed to be serving HIS Egyptian roast coffee to the new DADA professor.

Dumbledore knew that Barty couldn't stand it, but was doing a better job of pretending he liked the treat. Adding cream and sugar? Anyone who knew Moody well would catch that!

**OO**

Hermione read the article from the Prophet and raised an eyebrow at Harry.

"And where was I when you were having your 'wicked way with me'. Please tell me that you didn't obliviate me as well? I demand that you demonstrate this activity. Soon!"

The people around them chuckled as they were clearly making a joke. The twins clapped and gave the Pranking Parlor twenty points for a well played jest.

Juniper popped in with a miniature House counter of gems, only these were orange and pink. The number displayed thirty.

Harry saw his chance and gave the elf a miniature plastic sword like the kind used to spear sandwiches.

She mouthed "now?" and he nodded his head, but she needed to finish with the twins.

"Juniper giving the twins five points each for being here. You be helping me very soon." She whispered into Fred's ear, "Please tell me that you brought more flea powder?"

Fred's wink at the head-elf, saw her pop away happily.

**OO**

While the Headmaster was busy at table, Juniper unshrunk the replacement sword and did a switching spell. Professor McGonagall was clearly an expert; she made the copy.

The original would be checked and sent on to Ragnok from a grateful client.

Harry's note about apologizing for his pureblooded, inbred, ignorant ancestors was based on the prose style that those people liked.

Ragnok laughed and laughed. He also made a little historical display and labeled it an 'authentic replica' of the famous sword.

For a sickle, customers could hold and watch one of the memories designed to entertain in the queue. "Harry Potter and the Troll", "Harry Potter and the Basilisk", "Harry Potter and the Dementors".

Even Harry Potter and the Hippogriff version one, two, and three. The first one was his original flight, and the second his flight with Gabrielle which was done in such a way that made the child feel they were in her shoes. The third was a memory of the twin hippogriffs, taking shaky first steps, and other shots, including eating little kibbles from Harry's hand and being petted by him. Those were for children.

The coin made from this was all deposited for the Charlus and Dorea Potter Memorial Hospital, opening October first. Dragon Pox treatments available for a modest fee.

But the tests of the single memory pensieves were going well. Another product of Some Enchanted Evening, and was going to hit the market soon. Everyone would be able to afford one. Changing minor bickering forever.

'Love, I asked you to do (fill in the blank)' and the resulting 'You did no such thing!'

Oh yes, the single memory, affordable to anyone new toy of Yule was going to be a huge hit.

Then next year, they could start the better versions. Hehehe.

**OO**

Back at Hogwarts

The high table looked most uncomfortable. The rest of dinner limped along, with Dumbledore finally announcing that they would be having visitors and canceling Quidditch due to the Triwizard Tournament. A tournament for of-age wizards and witches which had the twins scowling but Harry's face reflecting sudden understanding.

Further details of which were interrupted by Harry standing on the now cleared House table.

Aunt Calladora was obviously a Seer. And a Slytherin one. The oath he had found in his pocket now made much more sense than when he first found it getting out sickles for the trolley lady.

"I, Harry James Potter, swear on my life and my magic that I will never enter my name as a school champion for this TriWizard Tournament. I have just had my fourteenth birthday, and am a minor."

Only Snape noticed that Alastor Moody went for his wand during this little speech. What was going on here?

Severus had been hearing tales all summer of the boy being pampered and praised by the retired auror. Proud of the boy?

Right now, Moody looked ready to kill.

Snape had his own wand out, but before he could perform a silent disarming charm, the auror looked around and their eyes met.

Startled, the wand was suddenly released and retracted back up into Moody's sleeve, and the man looked away. Acting as if nothing happened.

Severus would definitely be talking to Albus as soon as the interminable meal ended.

Before Harry climbed down from the table, he addressed Madam Hooch.

"I have an order for twenty-five new Cleansweep Seven's for beginning flying class. Will you help me, Madam Hooch? Get quidditch back? Or I guess I could send them to another school that does have quidditch."

Madam Hooch frowned mightily at this pronouncement. Her sister had been waxing rhapsodic about this boy. What a natural he was on horses, flying or not. What flying talent! Why hadn't he been having private flying lessons on brooms with Rolanda? On and on. He needed to see her as a resource.

"Angelina is trying to get on a professional team. Canceling quidditch this year means no scouts, and no chance of being recruited."

Fred and George were family to Harry; Harry had noted that she and Georgee were very close. That made the girl family by extension even BEFORE the prank with Eva.

Madam Hooch was Slytherin to the core. The boy was clearly trying to be cunning with this threat/bribe. She didn't like being backed into a corner like this, but it had been at least two decades since the school had seen new brooms that weren't for a team. But she had been manipulated for years by the headmaster; she didn't need the students to start.

But did she really object to supporting the quidditch season being restored? She turned to the vibrantly robed school Head.

"Headmaster. You have a choice. Twenty five new brooms from your own purse, or restoring quidditch. The boy is right. More than Miss Johnson are relying on the scouts that come to the matches during their seventh year. If you had told me last year, I could have made arrangements. Pulling it out from under them now is cruelty. May I point out that Marcus Flint might finally manage to graduate this year? And what about some of our other talented flyers? Adrian Pucey? And what about Hufflepuff? Diggory will be graduating next year, but it's never too early to be noticed. There are other quality students that are also affected by this decision."

Angelina huffed at the not-so-subtle snub, but Harry made a public comment to Hermione, obviously meant to be overhead. "Hey, how much would it cost to start a quidditch team? Think about it. Jobs for all sorts of support staff and vendors. We could have a gimmick with the twins doing special fireworks like EuroDisney had. All sorts of things."

Hermione made a show of reaching into her bag to grab supplies and started writing notes and ideas. One of their friends started to ask about the Basilisks, but was quickly hushed, and with a wink and nod, was brought into the prank on the rest of the school. Right. Not everyone knew about the new team yet. No adverts would be published until final approval was made.

Dumbledore wasn't his normal twinkling self during Harry's little speech. In fact, he was looking nearly angry.

"I won't make any decisions lightly as we have much planning to do. It's time for the prefects to escort the new students to their Houses. We will sing the school…" Dumbledore bit out. But was again interrupted.

Cedric Diggory stood up on his table. "Why does it have to be teachers doing the extra work for quidditch? We have the stadium, we have the uniforms. The team captains could take over all of the duties that fall to the professors regarding the games. I'm sure that there are enough volunteers that if we needed more help, we could get it. We can meet with Madam Hooch to work out the details. My father would likely know people in the Ministry who could help as well."

Minerva stood and started to clap.

Suddenly Roger Davies jumped up onto his house table, but before he could begin speaking, Minerva interrupted him; loudly, "THANK YOU, Harry, Mr Diggory, and Mr Davies! These are excellent suggestions. And I am sure that there are some recent graduates that might make time to help. Let the professors …"

Marcus Flint chose that moment - he wasn't the sharpest parchment knife in the drawer - and decided to share his two knuts, "Hey! Just because I struggled a bit doesn't mean I won't pass my NEWTs this time!" Marcus Flint interjected. "But Quidditch! You can't cancel Quidditch! I just gotta be a Chaser! It's the best thing I do!"

He obviously had more to say, but the silencing charm cast by Harry, Roger, Cedric and Professor McGonagall assured that he was only seen - and smelled - by those within range– but not heard.

Professor McGonagall cast a sonorous this time and finished, "As I was saying, we'll discuss this, and we'll get back to you. I think that we can forego the school song just this once, Headmaster. We're all a mite tired."

Having trouble controlling his temper from being interrupted not once but five times the man merely nodded agreement, and waved the doors open.

Angelina put her hand on Harry's arm and kissed his cheek.

"Thank you, Harry. I've only rarely had family stick up for me. I'm glad that you're a part of my new one."

Angelina and Alicia began whispering. At dinner, the rings that Harry and Hermione wore weren't that noticeable, and the group that ate together was there when they were purchased.

There was a small bet going on as to the first reactions. Dorm room? Common room? Class?

Whatever the reaction was, it was going to spread quickly. Harry Potter was just too well known, and for him to go from 'single' to 'dating' to buying a girl a betrothal ring? And a matching ring for himself?!

Many of the students seemed to have not really cared that Harry was betrothed. Nothing had appeared in the paper about it. Well, not in Britain.

Oh yes. And people thought that the evening Prophet had Rita showing her claws about Hermione. Ha! Wait until this truth really comes out.

Harry smiled at Hermione. "Limited classes tomorrow, but we get to see Moody on Saturday at least."

"I'm looking forward to it."

As the rest of the diners rose to begin filing out, Marcus Flint waded through the crowd and approached Harry. Seeing the brutish Slytherin on a collision course with Harry, Roger Davies and Cedric moved to intercept or at least back Harry up.

To all their surprise, Flint merely held out his hand and stated, "Thanks! Quidditch is important!" Turned and walked away. Much to the perplexity and amusement of the other three.

**OO**

After dinner

Severus whispered into Dumbledore's ear in passing before turning to take a secret passage to the common room.

"You need to put a leash on your attack bulldog. He is very angry with the Potter brat; pulled his wand during Potter's grandstanding."

Albus hmmm'd while Snape went to get into place before his firsties arrived. It wasn't his responsibility to keep Potter safe from a known Death Eater catcher. And who knew that he, a former Death Eater, would be worried about Mad-eye going after the reckless Potter prat.

**OO**

After dinner

Harry didn't see Adrian sharing looks across the way at his sister, newly sorted into Ravenclaw. Evelyn was sitting next to Luna Lovegood, and looking far too pale. The siblings both felt odd about reading about their father's death. What had really happened?

The man that had beaten Adrian since he was young, the wizard that Adrian had protected Evelyn from, and had beaten his mother repeatedly, was gone. Truly gone.

As they were finally dismissed, brother and sister made their way across the Great Hall and shared a supportive but relieved hug.

"You'll be called to Gringotts, won't you?" Evelyn asked worriedly.

"I'm not sure. I want to feel sorry for our grandfather losing his son but I really can't." Adrian stated, "But they shouldn't summon you. I'll let you know what is determined. We have school paid for for all seven years. We're going to be fine. Mother is going to be fine. Especially now that she doesn't have to be afraid of HIM anymore."

Adrian was very angry that the shop was burned down. Would he have to pay for it to be repaired? They were renting that space temporarily until the village was ready. They planned to have a new shop there anyway. Warded land. And their own, non-rented quarters right above it like the people do in Hogsmeade.

Evelyn asked her big brother, sadly, "Is it wrong that I don't feel bad?"

Giving her another hug and kissing the top of her head, the 6th year turned to go as a Ravenclaw prefect showed up to gather up the firstie. Adrian shooed her to her dorm with a quick caress of her cheek. Evelyn waved to Daphne and Astoria waiting and watching from a distance.

No, the Head of the House Pucey had made it clear that Adrian had two choices. Serve the Dark Lord or Adrian would not be the Heir. He had until the end of the school year to decide.

The black envelope that came in the morning wasn't a surprise. At least it was a short day. His mother would come to Hogwarts with a portkey, and they would go to Gringotts together.

**OO**

Earlier that summer,

August 24th, location unknown

Mad-eye was furious with himself. Why had he put house-elf wards on his trunk? As much as he distrusted the little buggers, Jam would have come to him if he could. So might have Winky. He couldn't remember the other elf's name hired to help at Grimmauld Place.

The trunk compartment he was in was meant to hold prisoners for up to three days. It had a sink and toilet in the corner, a cot with a thin blanket and pancake for a pillow, but at least he wasn't on the hard floor.

He was allowed to keep his undergarments and socks; he'd been thrown a spare robe from one of the other compartments of the trunk. Bad mistake there.

Barty Jr –and just how was that monster still alive? Stealing his air?!- had checked him thoroughly for disillusioned wands, knives etc.

The robe that the ill-mannered boy tossed down not only had a spare wand sewn into one of the fideliused, wizard-spaced pockets; it contained money, weapons, and even an aging invisibility cloak.

His captors had clearly harvested several hairs from him, and the food delivery system was automated, so there was no hope there for escape. But eventually, they would have to open the trunk and get him out for more hair. And they would have to feed him adequately if Barty was posing as him, or he would look wan and wasted, and given even the myopic Divination professor enough clues, SHE would notice something was wrong with him.

He placed the throwing dagger on the tiny table next to the cot, and made a strap for the wand from the laces of his spare boots from the pocket. He couldn't believe he didn't pack a wand holster! Where was he supposed to put it?

Certainly not in a back pocket. He'd never live down losing that part of his anatomy after all of the shouting at his recruits, and more recently, Potter himself.

Finally feeling more 'clothed', Moody could actually start to truly think. Why was he targeted? Barty had implied that his life span was measured in months, not days.

Where was Remus Lupin? A regular wizard would have died from that blow to his head, but the boy was a Marauder. If Black had ever over-shared about his friend, it was about just how tough he really was.

And the man was physically strong as well.

Ah ha! He hadn't acted yet because of the recent full moon. Remus would have to recover before doing anything.

With his head injury, he didn't remember that Remus was cured.

Alastor debated the wording just in case Barty was around and felt the magic. Hmm. He really needed more information.

"Remus. Am being held, not sure where, but not in danger yet. Hold off rescue as I need to gather intel. Am waiting to see what enemies want. I solemnly swear I am up to no good. Moody."

The bulldog patronus was enough of a password, but adding the Marauders supposedly 'secret code' would definitely identify him.

Casting a patronus was always bittersweet as he used his memories of his beloved Seanaidh when he cast it.

The only daughter of hardworking, middle-class purebloods, Seanaidh Cochrane was a beautiful Scottish lass. She and her parents were killed in a Death Eater raid in the village of Hogsmeade after several family members had refused to join the malignant growths.

That had the farmer Alastor Moody transfiguring his ploughshare into a sword.

Tommy Jr, the half-blood illegitimate child of Merope Gaunt and the muggle Tom Riddle forged a dangerous enemy that day. Forged in blood, forged in guilt and regret for all of the things that he should have done to protect his wife and their unborn child.

He would find out what the so-called Dark Lord was up to. Even if it cost him his life, he would stop him.

Children, the survivors of the Potters, Longbottoms, Bones, and other orphans deserved a chance to live, to grow. It wasn't their responsibility to excise the disease that was trying to destroy the forest of family trees.

No, he was responsible. Madam Bones. Aurors. Those in office.

Where was Dumbledore? They had been friends for years. What about his pet seer?

Trelawny really was a fraud if she could sit at table with his polyjuiced doppelganger and not notice a problem.

End flashback

**OO**

Evening of Thursday, Sept 1st

"What did you do? How did you know?" Barty Crouch had opened the lid of the trunk and was maniacally screaming down into the captive's cell. Alastor positioned himself to move if he had to, but it was hard without his leg.

"I don't know what ye mean," Moody stated sincerely. "I swear on my magic."

Well, he now knew that he was at Hogwarts. It was strange looking up and seeing himself, and beyond that, the lovely vaulted ceiling of the DADA office. He'd been in and out all summer. He recognized the place.

He hoped that his exclamation would deter a beating.

"Potter! My master told me to enter him into the tournament, and you RUINED everything with that vow! Now, I have to figure out how to kidnap his chit AND him and get out of the castle without being caught! Ugh! And I had to sign that stupid contract! Why hadn't you signed it yet? I mean I signed it with your name, but it was still a magical contract."

"I'm sorry. I told you. I did sign a contract. The ICW insisted on all professors promising not to molest or harm all visiting students, or their own for that matter." Moody was using the tone of voice that aurors were taught to use with insane suspects. And this one was clearly a few ingredients shy of a perfect potion.

"I had no such designs on either of those brats! Eww! As if I would touch a mudblood. The Dark Lord has no plans to do so. Only Lucius does that, but only behind his wife's back. Brave man, even if you don't consider it cheating." Barty mused, then remembered his master's plans for the girl. "Besides, she's royal and not to be touched but well taken care of on pain of death. That is the Dark Lord's orders! Well, our little boy will be coming here with his little girlfriend for private lessons. I'll capture them then. Perhaps I can offer to help search for them, and take you all with me out of here. I am not lingering to teach a bunch of whinging spotted teens!

"Just letting you know, Master Auror Moody. My master told me that I can kill you anytime I want, if you are no longer needed. Well, let me tell you. With that little stunt of Potters? Your days are numbered, and even in base five, it doesn't go very high."

Moody waited until the lid had closed before activating the lights again. They came on automatically when the lid was lifted, but could be turned on at a command.

What kind of ritual was done in base five? There were clues here, and Potter was in potential danger. He knew that Lucius was a willing Death Eater, his wife too, but hearing it from someone who had fought with Bellatrix Lestrange confirmed it in his mind. Jr would really know who the players were.

What about Harry? If he had taken some kind of magical oath, it must have been printed in the paper before getting on the train.

Potter would be at school soon. Hmm. Maybe Moody should send him a Patronus, but then others would see and hear. What to do now? Best wait. Barty Crouch was no match for him, even without his leg.

Alastor didn't know that he had been knocked out for several days, and his mental calendar didn't match the real one.

**OO**

Riddle Manor

Both Snape and Barty Jr were banished from the ballroom during the actual ritual. Snape couldn't leave as he had to escort his rather anemic number of students back to Hogwarts when they were done. Severus was trying to figure out what was going on, but the Dark Lord was too canny to reveal everything to everyone.

Barty smirked at him. Then gave him the pureblood nod.

"You caught me earlier at dinner, and said nothing. I truly thought that you were Dumbledore's pet, and had lost your way. Thank you."

Severus was not slow. "Who is doing your brewing for you? Polyjuice for a year is going to be a monumental task, not to mention the risk of poisoning."

"Narcissa Malfoy is. She is more than adequate. Apparently, her Aunt Walberga was a Potions Mistress of some use to our Master."

Snape sniffed. Use? Use? Perhaps for paying for expensive ingredients. But her talents were not above third or fourth year. Well, he wasn't revealing anything more. Or offering help. He was no Hufflepuff. If this man wanted help, he could ask for it.

Or in his case, beg for it.

Dumbledore needed to be told they had an unexpected Death Eater in the castle; Severus not being told about Barty in advance? Was this a test? Him finding out here? Well, he didn't need to tell Dumbledore directly. Not immediately. He would watch. And wait.

But he certainly wouldn't let Barty hurt Potter either.

Oh, blast! The coffee! He was always adding whatever sweetening was available at table to the coffee. He needed to be more mindful of such things.

He hadn't noticed the slip until now.

**OO**

Friday, September 2nd, Slytherin common room

Astoria Greengrass awakened her first morning in Slytherin, feeling ill and went to find her sister. She hadn't felt well since the middle of the night.

Their head of house, a somber looking Potions Master Snape, has escorted Draco Malfoy along with some others out of the common room for 'private lessons', after giving his 'Welcome to Slytherin' speech.

Astoria heard the older students saying that the Death Eaters hadn't returned until after midnight.

Midnight. That was when Astoria started feeling horrible. She went to the nurse, as Daphne recommended, but as good as Poppy Pomfrey was, she couldn't find anything wrong.

**OO**

Headmaster's Office

Albus had won too many political battles so knew when to quit and concede the conflicts that didn't matter.

He gained nothing fighting for the quidditch season to stay canceled. Certain parents of sixth years may have given a donation to the school for it to be canceled, but it wasn't the equivalent in cost of twenty five new learning brooms.

Albus demanded that the parents had to choose: cough up the cost difference of the new brooms or accept a refund and quidditch going forward. They claimed that they knew nothing of what he was talking about. They had made a minor donation to the school with no strings attached.

Dumbledore had bowed, and made his way back straight through their wards as though they were not there. Something that always impressed the former Slytherins of the school.

Now that that was settled, he reviewed the boy's schedule. How could Harry be taking both second year Runes and Arithmancy? And with EEs for both from the previous year? He had tried to stop it, and been blocked. Again.

Minerva hadn't bothered to explain, but did say that the results were real, and the boy had the approval of his LEGAL magical guardians to take the classes that his parents had paid for before their deaths.

Minerva also mentioned refunding the boy an 'accidental' duplicate billing at the wrong rate for the past three years. And the gold had been removed from the account that it had been siphoned to earlier this month. By the goblin High Auditors.

Those, those, high-handed, long, sticky-fingered monsters! Beasts!

His face looked like curdled milk. His fortnight-long holiday in a cell had not been good for him. Not at all.

She implied but didn't state that Potter would be willing to leave Hogwarts to pursue his desired classes if the Headmaster tried to put his foot in it again this year.

The board had again denied Hagrid from teaching COMC and again that awful, expensive Grubby woman was hired. She was going to ruin his plans! And unlike past years, the school had to pay for the thestrals! James Potter said that he was going to let the school use them at a reduced rate. Then Black raised it! Back to what Charlus Potter used to charge; the pirate. Sirius had been taken in by them in more than one way. There was another thief! Of his gold, his dignity, and his tool.

He needed to get the boy back; one way or another.

"Minerva, please go and fetch Harry. We need to talk. Clear the air between us." The headmaster demanded.

The Potter family Regent had given the school a decent rental rate for the thestrals. The same that had been paid to Charlus Potter's father when he was lad. Minerva had somehow forgotten about that. It had always been that way, since the Deputy had begun teaching…

Right up until a few days after the deaths of the Potters. Then the annual payment had just…stopped. And she hadn't noticed. Until going over the books this summer. It was being paid now.

There was surprisingly little inflation in the magical world since it was a gold-based economy.

"I'm sorry, Albus. Lord Black stated quite clearly that his heir is to have nothing to do with you one-on-one. He somehow found out that you refused to sign the ICW contract." And the manipulations, and the attack on the grandmother, and, well. She was a busy woman, and didn't have time to deal with this soon to be gone wizard!

"But that's only for the teachers! I can't sign something like that right now! If one of the participants was hurt, I could lose my magic. Besides, I swore an oath in public."

"They do seem to be worried about children dying. Until you do, you can not be a judge."

"They will be adults entering. Not children!"

"Do you know that the goblin age of majority is thirty? I think that is a more reasonable age, especially as long lived as we can be if we take care of the young ones with foolish notions."

"Minerva! I need to speak with Harry Potter! Now." Albus spoke slowly and carefully as though talking to a toddler. An angry one.

The deputy had her claws out, "What part of 'no' didn't ye understand Albus? You're not his guardian anymore, even if you ever were. I understand that the Dursleys are missing. Did you have anything to do with that?"

Arabella Figg, who might have been on Albus' list of people to care for the boy, had disappeared as well. She had actually moved back to Godric's Hollow unbeknownst to Dumbledore, and was now working at the Potter Hospital.

"Me? No! I told that boy that the wards needed to be charged…"

Minerva interrupted with cold, hard facts, "Arthur confirmed that the boy stayed there for seventeen days, three days beyond your minimum before coming and staying with them for a time."

"Well, next summer it will be ALL summer." Albus commanded.

"With who? An empty house? And you're going to kidnap the boy, yerself? Oh please! Tell me when you have that planned so I can sell tickets. The goblins are most ferocious fighters, and make fabulous bodyguards."

Filius popped around the corner just then. "Oh! Tickets to a fighting event? What's on the schedule then?" Rubbing his hands in glee!

Albus reddened in anger before stomping off. "Nothing. Minerva was having a laugh at my expense. Again. Don't you two have something to do?"

Filius waited until the man was around the corner before levitating himself to kiss her soundly.

"As a matter of fact I do. I need to kiss my mate. Well done, my lady. So very well done. And bonus points for that shade of crimson."

"I think that we should talk with some of your brethren. I'm not very happy with Albus right now. He objects to Harry's schedule. And wants to have a 'one-on-one' meeting with him. That is not ne'er going to happen." Minerva's disdain 'broom' was in the full tilt position.

Filius produced a scroll, one with an "O" in the corner. "Read this, my dear. Albus is going to be very upset that his applecart wasn't just upset, but that someone stole all the fruit and made applesauce with it."

"This is brilliant! Concise, well laid out…Harry Potter? This isn't his normal illegible scrawl! I need to do my own marking. How wonderful!"

"You can thank Professor Slughorn. Well, likely a young protegee of his, but yes. Lessons all summer. Polite boy normally, but Gryffindor to the core. He knocked out twenty strong wizards and witches when Miss Granger was in danger at the World Cup. And one of the miscreants was knocked black and blue and missing teeth! Something is happening behind the scenes that I am not allowed to know the details of. Did you know that the family has withdrawn their request for Gringotts to search for a new Headmaster? I think that we are in for an interesting year, my beloved heart."

"No doubt, gràidh (beloved). I best get back. Do stay safe." Minerva stated, bending to give him a quick peck before returning to her multiple duties.

She knew he was there shadowing her, but said nothing as her secret mate escorted her back to her office, before returning to his own.

**OO**

Friday, September 2nd, Daily Prophet

An advertisement taking up a half page - full color, showing the former Hamptworth Lodge cleaned up with new balconies, new landscaping, and a lovely portico in front for carriages, with a view of the shops and park below.

'Reserve Moonsgate Hall for your social event. Appointments available from January first. Ballroom, dining and lodging available.'

The owl address for the Hall's event coordinator was included. Another NPG. The Daily Prophet also ran a small retraction, on an inner page, about Percy Weasley. That there was nothing personal, ever so sorry.

Lord Black had given notice to the paper that any more personal attacks against his Steward would be met in court. They had obviously taken the warning to heart.

**OO**

Friday, September 2nd, Gringotts

"Lord Pucey? Welcome to Gringotts. Let me express our sorrow for your loss." BloodRage had asked for the privilege of escorting him and his mother to the Will reading.

"Just Heir Pucey. For now." Adrian countered, his mother silent and pale beside him.

She was so grateful that about ninety percent of the store's materials and merchandise were grabbed by helpful elves in the first frantic moments of the attack. She could have lost everything, including her life, if Marcus had been aiming at her. As it was, she was still very shaken up by the violent attack.

They were led to one of the smaller rooms for this sort of business; Will reading. The side table was draped in white, as it was the goblin color for death. No goblin bride would wear white to a wedding.

The silver tea tray was to the side; calming draughts were available, for a small fee, but the tea and refreshments on offer came as a package with the will reading.

Silvia's attention was drawn back to the helpful goblin, as he spoke to her son, "Technically, you cannot take up the ring until your birthday. November 17th, if I remember Heir Potter's words correctly?" BloodRage stated.

"That's right, hey! But Grandfather Pucey…" Confused, Adrian began but was interrupted by Spurnik.

Spurnik explained, "Your grandfather's body was found in a cemetery in Little Hangleton very early this morning. The killing curse."

Interrupting himself at seeing Sylvia's shocked face, "Apologies, Widow Pucey, for being so blunt. It's the goblin way to get bad news out in the open, before the business side is addressed. Can I get you something for your distress?"

She demurred, with a shake of her head and signaled for him to continue.

"The signature was ignored, since it belonged to a person that the Ministry has listed as dead."

"Someone killed my Grandfather? That's awful!" Adrian stated firmly. It was awful the man was murdered. He just wished it happened before his mother had to endure so much. "But a dead man killed him? I'm confused."

Spurnik nodded, "Peter Pettigrew. Clearly, he is not as dead as the Ministry would like to think him. I'm sure you've heard of Alastor Moody's 'Constant Vigilance' phrase. Follow that, as he is clearly not dead! This is very strange, killing a follower like that. One supposedly with money." Spurnik bowed. "I offer my services to you and your mother if you would like to make a change of House account managers."

Adrian nodded, "Yes please! The former one knew my grandfather was a Death Eater. I want no discourse with that being. You've been a huge help to Mother and I already. I would appreciate the benefit of your wisdom."

Studying the boy for a moment, caused Spurnik to think, 'This boy had learned by leaps and bounds just being around Heir Potter. What an amazing transformation he had seen in him this summer. Having a job, earning his own money; having a family business had done much for the lad. Clearly willing to work hard, he had a goblin's nose for profit, and ears to hear the wisdom of the counsel offered him at Blackmoor.'

Spurnik gave Adrian a deep nod of the head in acquiescence to his request for aid. On this, they could both profit.

There was a polite knock on the door. It was Sage. "So, where did your sister sort last night?"

The diversion of Sage's interruption and the mention of her daughter, caused Sylvia's countenance to lighten and she smiled at the kind gobliness.

Adrian smiled, "Ravenclaw. She and Luna look to be friends already. We sat together on the train in a huge carriage."

Sage nodded, and looked at the boy, "This is very odd, losing your grandfather right now. I think that they will be after you. Do be cautious."

Her words caused Sylvia to frown in concern for her son.

The lady goblin left. Her warning was far more personal than Spurnik's and sincerely given.

He needed to be careful. They, the family,needed to be careful.

Why had his father been killed? Why had his grandfather been killed? Both on the same day. What had happened; was it related?

Silvia could tell the boy had questions; questions that she was uncomfortable with.

She repeated the same phrase she'd said when she picked him up at Hogwarts. "There are some things that I know, some things that I am guessing. I will write it down. Later. I'm still going through something here. You can ask questions of the goblins once we are done."

BloodRage leaned over, "I will tell you what you need to know, Lord Pucey. Just know that my blade is available to aid you if needed."

**OO**

The first question that Adrian asked once the Will reading was done and an appointment set with Dharma Briokz to understand it all, was, "Why do you call me Lord Pucey instead of Heir Pucey?"

"By law, you cannot take your seat until you are of age. But goblins do not reckon manhood by a number. Some hu-mons never attain adulthood in the eyes of goblins. By your actions, your choices, you are an adult. I have seen you work and save every knut so that your sister and mother have food on the table. I have seen you save half of the meal served at Blackmoor so that you can later share it with them. Do not be embarrassed that I saw! Your mother's magic, adding that meat with her garden vegetables and a bit of multiplication turned it into a feast.

"But the biggest reason is your moral choices. There were great pressures on you to join the Dark Lord. You turned aside from your father's and grandfather's teachings. I applaud you for making a stand against evil."

BloodRage came to attention and bowed. Adrian stood and returned it.

Adrian pointed to a chair, and they both sat. They talked about truth and supposition regarding the deaths that had happened. BloodRage implied he thought that his grandfather died trying to bring back the dark one last night in another failed ritual. Evidence of dark magic was everywhere in the graveyard and nearby, but no one could see a nearby house. Which to them bespoke a fidelius in use; It was clearly a private family graveyard. The wrought iron gate said Riddle, and that was the clue for the goblins.

They spoke until Adrian's mother came to get him. He politely asked for one more minute, and she left him alone.

"BloodRage, you said I could ask you anything. So, who won the bet, you or Sage regarding Evelyn's sorting?" He asked with a sly grin.

"My mate did." his eyes gleamed brightly.

"I don't get it. She won, but you are clearly happy?"

"This is one of those things that I will explain to you when you are older and have a mate of your own."

Adrian smiled, "Yeah, Daphne's pretty special…wait. What aren't you telling me?"

BloodRage's laugh echoed down the stone corridor, somehow filling the lobby with menace and glee.

The customers waiting were most polite, and several decided to wait until the morrow to do business there at Gringotts.

**OO**

Percy was in the 'Mot meeting currently, but had plans on meeting Silvia later. The builder had asked for Madam Pucey's input for the shop, and she had wished aloud that Adrian would come along, knowing he couldn't.

Adrian looked at the vault numbers again. His and his sister's education vaults had been held inviolate, under their names. Their father couldn't get it, no one could. Dowry and education for Evelyn; a mastery and money for setup for him. Adrian wondered if the Dark Lord had known about his twenty five thousand galleons set aside for just himself, and killed his grandfather over it?

A recent withdrawal of that amount had been made on the family vault, leaving less than seven thousand total.

Where were the hundreds of thousands that had been bragged about? He was able to take a thousand of that to put in a vault for his mother over her objections.

"Father just destroyed your shop! We will buy one of our own in Moonsgate, and have a place to live without worry of being kicked out when a new Lord comes. Mother, I insist!" Adrian knew that this is what his mother truly wanted. It was a huge sum; but they would be able to make a profit.

Silvia hugged her son and cried. If her father-in-law had tried to provide that while Marcus was alive, he'd have destroyed everything. Everyday. She didn't feel safe yet; the reality hadn't really hit home. But she was happier.

"What are you going to do with your grandfather's home?" Silvia visibly shuddered. She'd been forced there as a child bride of fifteen; hadn't been allowed back at Hogwarts, and was not interested in the place in the least.

"The goblins have a curse-breaking package. I'll have them clean it up and sell it for us. I don't want to live there, and I don't want my sister near it."

The goblins would, this one not having nearly as many horrors. The wizards would be laid to rest in a small family ceremony, and the remaining Pucey's would leave to ne'er return.

But now, Adrian had to return to school, and his mother was meeting with the Steward to see her new shop.

**OO**

Hogwarts

Albus tried twice more to get Harry into his office on his own. The second time, Fred Weasley pushed in front of the young mage and started expounding, in fast foolish, on the benefits of serving fried Scot's eggs at breakfast since they were Scottish, and they all lived in Scotland most of the year, and the DADA professor was Scottish.

Harry slipped away from the conversation using his cloak, which he immediately promised to loan to the twins for any pranks they planned.

Good deeds like that needed to be rewarded after all.

The twins were happy to run interference on Dumbledore's pushy and unwanted ways, and were watching the new maps that the elder Marauders had made for them. Not to mention, Harry had provided the start-up money for the Pranking Parlor that was already making them all a fortune.

**OO**

Friday, September 2nd, Vote on Patronage Bill, Wizengamot

Lord Black smirked walking into the chambers. Amelia knew that look. Someone was about to be pranked.

Several people were in the gallery in designer fashions, including an elderly looking couple, that older people in the room recognized. Small, discreet waves were exchanged. Nothing improper.

This was going to be fun.

The Steward for House Black was sporting new robes declaring him Steward of House Potter as well. He bowed to Mrs Cattermole-Burke when she was sworn in.

The International Cooperation office was back purring along nicely.

Sally Fortescue read the announcement, "Lord Pucey passed away last night. Miss Black has been asked to be Regent Pucey's voting proxy until she has time to grieve, and make final arrangements for both her husband and father-in-law."

Lord Selwyn forgot all protocols, and shouted, "But why is the Black family involved in this when Lord Black is a suspect in the murder?"

Amelia glared at the man, "I do not know who told you that. We know who killed Lord Pucey, but I was not allowed to submit an arrest warrant. And won't say more about an open investigation. And just to remind you, Miss Black is not the same person as Lord Black. She is acting as temporary Proxy to Regent Silvia Pucey. Just in case you were confused."

Miss Fortestcue took back control, and continued the swearing in.

Lord Lestrange hadn't made it, but the Carrow lass and Healer Yaxley did. As did the new Lord Parkinson. The newcomers were mostly sworn in without fuss. The Dark faction smirked as they thought their numbers had swelled.

As if.

The one guaranteed to cause a problem came up. So good of Lord Malfoy to join them and play his part.

Hehehe.

**OO**

Lucius Malfoy stood as the now named Kevin Rosier, who was a mudblood that had graduated top of his class several years before, was about to take his oaths. No one had taken the bet on who would be first to object. It was no surprise.

"How can a great House have an Heir with such a muggle given name?" Lucius demanded of the Rosier heir, while giving a different wizard a pointed look.

Arthur Weasley just ignored him, though Malfoy had been looking right at him.

Auror Tonks presented her findings, "His branch of the family refused to serve You-know-who and was killed for it. The poor boy was being watched over by a hired carer for the night, at the time of the attack. Friends smuggled him to the muggles to hide his survival. I have the documentation here."

Amelia Bones had appointed the bright witch to be the detective in the case. She was recognized as a member of one of the Sacred Twenty-Eight families, she was an auror in good standing, and had access to several libraries that kept private genealogical records.

Amelia had been deliberately kept out of it. Something more was going on, but if it resulted in family members being 'found'...Tonks wasn't telling. She had offered access to the Black family library to anyone who wanted to look into it, knowing that the wards would fry an intruder. So generous.

Call her a Marauder, but Tonks was Hufflepuff loyal to what she felt was right!

"His grandfather's name was Merchem. Perhaps Kevin could adopt that as his first name, and allow his friends to call him by his 'nickname'," Madam Marchbanks suggested. She was happy to see a family restored. So what if it was a light branch, dark or even plaid! The family was gone. Well, all except Dolores, who laid a verbal claim to the Rosiers, but had no proof of it. And had never tried to make a legal claim with goblin or wizard courts.

If she showed up now to try and usurp the seat, she'd be arrested on the spot! Likely why the lad showed up now and not beforehand.

This young man had his dragonhide portfolio of documents ready for perusal. Backed by the goblins and with a seal of the Ministry itself.

Lord Nott stood to be recognized, "I'm on the Board of Governors for Hogwarts. It's clear that the boy is a pureblood. Look at his OWL and NEWT scores. I accept him here, and second the motion for the name change. Clearly, the muggles gave him one to blend in with them."

Lord Nott's tone would lead one to believe that he didn't approve of muggles. Imagine that!

Auror Tonks turned to Heir Rosier, who nodded in agreement regarding the name. The documents in front of her already had it, as planned.

The Lord's ring was apparently missing, with one shy elderly man admitting that he was at a card game where the last Lord had gambled it away. Lost to a foreigner. Shame that.

Madam Bones asked for permission to have a new Head of House ring commissioned, at Merchem Rosier's expense of course, which was quickly passed.

Auror Tonks was given the honor of escorting him to his Seat. There was a smattering of polite applause.

The gavel sounded, ending all hopes of Umbridge ever gaining the house as the Wizengamot went on with other business.

Madame Longbottom, Calladora Black, Penelope Black, Madam Marchbanks and Tonks shared a quick smile of sisterly solidarity. Only one NPG placed with any fanfare and it had gone swimmingly.

Penny shared a sweet look with Percy and blew him a kiss.

Sirius' plans for the wizarding world were moving forward. With Harry's help and support of course. All while the lad was at Hogwarts, struggling with that last squiggle of the last rune in the board he was carving, working ahead as they had received the syllabus for the first term.

**OO**

Hogwarts

Harry tried to catch Mad-eye's eye during lunch, but the man just sipped his bitter coffee. Wait. Did Moody just add honey to coffee? It must be awful!

Harry smirked. Karr. Had to love that elf, but he was walking a dangerous course, trying to prank Moody.

There it was again. The death glare. He had really worked on the essay, so it couldn't be that. Alright, the 'Welcome to Hogwarts' basket had been a bit flowery, but the message, according to Neville, had been 'we missed you, and look forward to the year.' It had chocolate, and roasted coffee beans of his favorite flavor and other assorted treats. Including some very…unique…flavors of Scottish shortbread. In the 'Dumbledore in Peril' tin. Appropriate for their mentor.

"Longbottom? You didn't prank me, did you? With the flowers I mean." Harry demanded.

Neville's look was too innocent. "The chrysanthemums and lilies? Welcome to Hogwarts."

Harry's eyes narrowed, but it was Luna across from him that reassured him.

"Oh yes. And purple poppies. Ever so. You really must open a book now and then, Harry Potter."

Evelyn Pucey's eyes went wide, "You can read? Wow! I thought that you had Hermione read to you, used a spelling dictaquill to write and just knew how to fly really well. Great job, Harry."

Harry turned to Hermione, "Will you protect me from these vicious attacks, my Amazonian warrior?"

"Of course, Harry. Now girls, if we are to be fair. Let's see. Moody gets to beat up on Harry tomorrow. Luna gets Monday, Evelyn Tuesday, Neville Wednesday. That leaves Thursday and Sunday for me and the twins. I think we have a schedule!"

Harry pretended to beat his head on the table. Well, they had successfully distracted Evelyn for a time at least.

Adrian had just returned, looking wan but resolute, and clearly looking for his sister. As he walked over. Harry stood, no word, just a hand for shaking. Many around him stood. Ginny shoved the sandwich Ron was eating into his face when he started to object about the company's robes.

"When the Wizengamot is over, Steward Weasley is showing Mother to her new shop."

"I wish we could go! A new home!" Evelyn stated, excited.

"Mother said the same, but Hogwarts isn't a day school. Sorry."

Neville waited for lunch to be over, and handed both Evelyn and Adrian a white Chrysanthemum to wear. In French, he invited Adrian for a little trip later on, with his sister.

Confused, Adrian nodded, heading to the library. The school needed a place for siblings from other houses to be able to just be together without having to be quiet.

Of course, in this case, it might be more appropriate.

**OO**

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

Csheila recommends: Apprentice James by Liz Nezumi. Ollivander takes on Harry as an apprentice when he is about 6 or 7. Fantastic

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.

Here are the NPGs planned and current for replacement of ICW seats:

Avery - NPG Healer and Surgeon Greyson Avery

Burke - DE in prison, NPG Mary Cattermole Burke

Carrow, DE had been in prison, NPG Araminta Carrow, (Graduated Alicia Morgan, Gryffindor class of '88)

Crouch - Neville inherits, is renting out the house at the beach to use to help others, and plans to have another take the name eventually.

Flint - NPG Fairfax Flint, PR for Pranking Parlor; is in place for when that family is all convicted.

Gaunt - NPG needs to be a brave adult knowing what they are getting into. Plans in place, but not happening until You-know-who is gone

Lestrange, NPG Ralph Gentry is ready and in the wings. He will be known as Aristotle Lestrange, works for an American candy maker

Malfoy - House Black is waiting on this.

Nott - Teddy is a good guy and needs a business to run; plans to hire Colin Creevy for photos and will likely put up with him through liberal calming and silencing charms.

Parkinson - Johannes Jonker is taking over the Parkinson seat

Prewitt - is confiscated as punishment for illegal contract and is given to House Weasley. Fred and George take on the mantle, Eva Prewitt-Weasley, Angelina's older sister, is the Heiress.

Rosier - NPG Kevin will soon be known as Merchem

Rowle - NPG, Healer Radagast Rowle

Yaxley - NPG Reginald Yaxley

NPGs of other than Sacred Twenty-eight

Sally Fortescue - formally Sally Smith

ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language