A chapter that is a little longer than my average, but I felt it necessary after rereading it.
This also marks the second to last chapter for this particular story, but don't fear. I plan to continue the story of Aura Guardian Harry Ketchum.
However the rest will take place in another fiction that I hope you will all look forward to an enjoy as much as I've enjoyed writing it.
So without further a dew let's go! REMEMBER UNLESS IT'S OC I DON'T OWN IT!
Chapter Ten
The morning of February 24th dawned bright and cold with Harry meditating in the main living area of his TARDIS tent. Lora sitting beside him both centering themselves.
The day before Minerva had called all the champions to her new office which had been decorated warmly with a few tartan wraps hanging from the windows. As well as a couple Quidditch team banners throughout the room showing that she always had a love for the game.
"As you all know tomorrow you will enter into the Black Lake for the second task. To settle some nerves, I will now explain to you the particulars of the task." She said, making the Champions nod.
"Despite what the poem of the egg said there will be nothing more than an object or treasure waiting for you. No lives other than your own will be placed in this task." She explained making Fleur breathe a sigh of relief while the others relaxed.
"I will not tell you which treasure will be yours all you need to know is it will be obviously shown which is yours. Meaning taking any treasure other than your own will be seen as cheating." She said looking into all their eyes making sure they all understood her point.
"While under the water the dangers you face…" She continued to list off the possible dangers they would face ranging from creatures known as Grindylows to the Merpeople. "The time limit will be used to determine your final points so take it just as seriously as the poem intended." She said, making the group nod. "That is all. You're dismissed." She said, making the group nod as they made to leave.
"Lord Black…a moment please? I have received word from Madame Bones that is tied into your house." She said, making Harry turn towards her.
"Of course, headmistress." He said as he stayed behind sitting down in one of the plush red sitting chairs that were placed before the Scottish woman's desk.
"Sirius Black has been released and given a proper trial. He was found innocent." She said, making Harry nod.
"I would've been shocked if he was found guilty after what Sharpblade found." Harry said, making her nod before she lifted a teapot up motioning towards him. Harry nodded at the silent invitation as she poured out two glasses and placed a wedge of lemon on the edges for the Earl Gray tea.
"He was transported to St. Mungo's hospital where he is being looked after."
"Any idea of just how bad he is medically?" He asked, making her sigh.
"Medically he is severely malnourished. Mentally…that is another story." She explained making Harry sigh.
"Long term Dementor exposure." He said, making her nod.
"Luckily the knowledge that he was innocent helped him keep his mind. The mind healers are positive that with proper work and time he will be able to function in daily life in time. For now Remus Lupin has taken on the role of his caretaker for when he is released from the hospital." Minerva said, making Harry relax slightly.
"Both have expressed an interest in meeting you once Mr. Black is healthy enough to travel." She added, making Harry look towards her.
"Why? I know they were friends with my biological parents, but they are both little more than strangers to me. Not to mention Mr. Lupin had plenty of chances to meet me long before now." Harry said, making Minerva nod in agreement.
"Honestly, that was more Albus than Remus." She said, making Harry raise an eyebrow. She reached into her desk before setting a small stack of letters down before her.
"After your return was announced Remus tried to reach out to Albus for permission to come and meet you. Unfortunately, after the incident revolving around his resignation last year Albus has been stalling his return. Since he was the headmaster, and you did not leave the grounds…"
"He continued to deny the visit." Harry finished making her nod. "Very well. Once Mr. Black is cleared for visitors or to travel, I will agree to a meeting." Minerva smiled and nodded as Harry rose to his feet and headed out the door once more.
"Are you nervous?" Harry opened his eyes from the memory to see Hermione walking into the tent wearing a periwinkle blue sweater, and jeans.
Her hair was pulled back into a ponytail held by a green scrunchy. "Just preparing. I honestly think Mystic is more worried than I am." He said, making Hermione giggle lightly as she made to join him.
In order to keep things fair Mystic and Shellshock would both have to remain in sight on land so no one could claim Harry was using them to cheat or get ahead of his fellow competitors.
Something Mystic didn't take well since she saw herself as one of Harry's protectors/bodyguards.
"So, you have your gear ready?" She asked him to make Harry nod.
"Yes." He motioned towards the bag next to him, making her sigh in relief. "Please remind me to thank you father for recommending the diving store." Harry said, making her nod.
A month before the task Harry had written to Daniel Granger asking where the best place was to find diving gear for cold weather dives. The dentist sent back an address of one store with the message that they would have everything he could possibly need.
The note also included a message to make it back to his daughter in one piece or he'd hunt the teen down with his spear gun.
Hermione joined him in silence pulling a book out and started enjoying the moment. Harry returned to his meditation with Lara who just had a smile on her face at the sight of the two teenagers.
"Like father, like son." She joked internally remembering the times when she would see Ash Ketchum and his wife interact with one another.
Much like her trainer and his mate the pair would compliment one another in actions. For instance, while Ash was busy talking about training routines Selina would sit nearby writing everything down so he wouldn't forget himself when he was on a roll.
On the flip side when Selina would talk about Showcase routines Ash would help by modeling clothing or dancing with her to get a smile if she lost herself in her projects.
In this case both Harry and Hermione could handle being in one's presents without having to fill the room with noise.
If Harry was meditating, Hermione would start reading. If Hermione got lost in her books Harry would simply use himself as a brace for her while gently running his fingers through her hair to allow her to relax.
Lara also noticed that the pair had a way of working with one another without communication. Sometimes in the kitchen Harry would handle most of the cooking, but Hermione was always willing to help with prep and handing him the tools he needed.
Neville walked out about an hour later dressed for the day not even phased by the sight of Harry and Hermione sitting quietly in the living area. "Tea?" He asked the pair as he headed to the kitchen.
"Please." The pair said together without looking towards the brown-haired teen.
"There should be some muffins being kept warm in the oven if you're hungry brother." Harry said a few seconds later, making Neville blink before turning and opening the cooking appliance.
He smiled as the smell of fresh blueberry muffins hit his nose. "Thank you very much." He said with joy as he took an oven mitt and pulled out the tray to set a muffin on a plate. Blueberry happened to be his favorite.
"Hermione?" Neville asked, making her look up to see him holding a plate with said muffin.
"Oh please!" She said, sounding excited, making Neville nod. Soon he walked into the living room setting down two plates with muffins, while Scrapper walked behind him holding the kettle and a tray of cups.
"Thank you very much." Hermione said with a small bow towards the Pokémon.
"Where's Amphi?" Neville asked using the shortened name both and Tonks had for Hermione's Eevee. Hermione gained an irritated look but didn't comment on the name.
Her partner had expressed a liking for the shortened name. "She ran off with Kali and Lunar for a game of tag." She said, making Neville nod in understanding.
Amphitrite liked to spend time with her siblings when she wasn't spending time with Hermione. Scrapper poured out the tea before handing off the cups.
"Thank you young warrior." Harry said, accepting the cup with his eyes still closed. Scrapper smiled at the nickname before he joined his trainer as the pair sat beside one another and took a sip of their tea.
Much like his mother Scrapper seemed to enjoy little rituals like this something Neville had absolutely no problem aiding in. Lara smiled at the sight of her son and his partner sitting side by side drinking tea and eating food prepared by her trainer.
About an hour later Vixen walked in with a bounce in her step followed by a clearly tired Tonks who still had a case of bed head while wearing her PJs. "Bloody morning people/Pokémon…" She grumbled as Vixen sat by with a saucer of milk placed before her.
"Morning Nymphadora." Harry said, ignoring the growl from the purple haired teen as she accepted a cup from Neville before she planted herself on the comfy couch.
"Blech!" She said sticking her tongue out before taking a sip of the caffeinated drink. After a moment she opened her eyes, yawning.
"How do you lot function so early in the morning?" She asked, making the other teens chuckle.
"Lots of practice." Harry said.
"Some plants require early morning work to stay alive." Neville said with a shrug.
"Early morning shell hunts with my dad every summer." Hermione answered her friend who stuck her tongue out once more.
"Blech!" She said for a second time making everyone laugh at her.
"Good morning Hogwarts!" The loud voice of Ludo Bagman called out later by the Black Lake.
"The man is in love with his own voice." Harry thought as he stood on the platform stretching and limbering himself up.
He wore a black wet suit without sleeves, a pair of dark blue swimming shoes, and on his hip was a diving knife opposite his usual sword. On his belt was also a diving mask from the Pokémon regions that had its own supply of O2 that would last for two and a half hours.
A gift from his aunt Misty when he visited Cerulean City for the first time on his journey, and she took him to the best diving spots to hunt for water type Pokémon.
Nearby Harry also laughed at the sight of his fellow champions all dressed in nothing more than swimming suits. He felt bad for the three of them, especially Fleur who seemed to be wearing nothing but a blue bikini.
"I don't know whether to laugh at those three or run down and offer them a sweater." Tonks said next to Hermione who couldn't help but nod.
"I feel like if they had been nicer to Harry he would've told them about muggle diving suits so they wouldn't freeze during this task." She said, making the purple haired teen smirk.
"I don't know Fleur seemed very friendly the last time she was around Harry."
Hermione growled at the reminder of the quarter veela's interest in her boyfriend.
"Not from the way Harry reacted to her use of her allure." Neville's calm voice made Hermione blink.
"After all he hates the feeling of someone trying to influence his mind." He added, making Hermione nod after a moment, relaxing the jealous rage that had built slightly.
"Thanks to the sponsors of Magical Mirror today's event will be available for all to view." Bagman announced as a man in the stands stood up and waved.
When Harry had figured out the task he also asked if there was a way for everyone to watch, or if the spectators are just supposed to stare at a lake for an hour in the February weather.
While looking at the journals found in the Potter family vaults Harry discovered his fathers notes on communication mirrors he and Sirius had invented between themselves.
Taking the notes, he and Hermione spent the time leading up to Yule and after the ball recreating them. After they succeeded, Harry took the mirrors to Sharpblade who approached the Magical Mirror shop in Diagon Alley.
The store that sold almost all the sentient mirrors found in the magical UK. Needless to say, the owner was more than willing to buy and sell the mirrors with a percentage coming back to the Potter family with each sale.
Half of which was set up in a vault for Hermione to use as she saw fit. The only condition Harry had really had for the deal was that the owner had to help set up viewing mirrors for the second task.
Said mirrors were in the water in checkpoints throughout the task spelled to repel damage and creatures so nothing would block out a person's view.
For seven silver snickets anyone could watch from a handheld mirror. For two galleons the viewer could have a mirror that focused on a specific champion.
Hermione had her mirror to view Harry in hand waiting to activate it the moment he was in the water.
"Champions take your places!" Bagman called as Harry approached the edge of the docks built just for this task. "On your marks!" He pulled his mask on taking a couple breaths to make sure it worked.
"Get set!" He approached the edge and bent down, getting into starting position.
"GO!" Without hesitation Harry jumped into the Black Lake.
Hermione immediately raised up the mirror as it showed the image of Harry swimming quickly through the murky water. Harry tapped the side of his mask making the lights inside the mask activate allowing him to see better, along with the two lights that activated on the side showing beams in front of his view.
Harry swam down noticing the marker set along the path, another addition added by Minerva, so the champions didn't deviate and possibly drown or enter the territory of a very dangerous animal.
"This is dangerous and stupid!" Mystic growled from her place by the enclosure where she and Shellshock were forced to sit out.
"This is a human only event. If we get involved the boss could be disqualified." Shellshock explained used to the temperament of his fellow Water type.
Even if he agreed with her growling, he knew that there were times when humans must handle things on their own. "I didn't hear you grumbling so much during the first task." Both turned to see Lara sitting beside them.
"That's because everything about that task was known and planned for! This one has too many unknowns involved in it!" Mystic growled again, making the other two Pokémon nod after a moment of thought.
Had she heard Mystic Hermione would have agreed with the possible dangers. Hermione gripped in mirror tightly as Harry turned to the side to avoid a school of fish that passed by him.
"Nothing has happened to him." Neville said before he reached out and gently placed his hands over hers. Hermione growled slightly but relented when he pulled the mirror from her hands and moved to sit between the two girls.
"You sure that was a good idea Nev?" Tonks asked him, making him look towards her.
"Better her almost break my arm instead of breaking this mirror and getting worked up not able to see what is happening." He explained making Tonks blink but nod in acceptance at his words.
Harry internally sighed as he passed another marker. So far, this task was rather boring compared to the dragon packed task of the first.
A second later he felt his senses go off. "Me and my big mouth." He internally growled before he turned and drew his sword swinging it quickly against the small body charging at him.
The creature looked like it had a humanoid body with tentacles instead of legs and claw like hands. The creature cried out as Harry sliced it below its head filling the area with black blood.
"Grindylows!" Hermione called out at the sight of the little beast as it was soon joined by others like it.
Harry moved quickly slicing and dicing. Harry paused after he felt his senses tell him the danger was rushing away. He moved his hand using aura to clear the view of black blood showing himself unharmed in the mirrors.
Hermione sighed in relief as she relaxed her hold on Neville's left arm. "See she definitely would've broken the mirror if she still held it." He smugly said looking towards Tonks who stuck her tongue out at him.
Harry took a moment to look around before flicking his blade and sheathing it once more returning on his path towards the merpeople village.
"He might be onto something with the weapons training to that level." Tonks said after a moment making Neville chuckle.
"It certainly looks like it would help." He added. Hermione was slightly thankful to the pair for trying to keep everything light.
Harry continued to move when he noticed a sound hitting the air. "Must be close now." He thought before his senses went off again.
Moving quickly, he placed his foot on the giant stone next to him and jumped over a large shape that shot past him.
"What the bloody hell?!" Tonks called out in shock.
Swimming before Harry was a shark/human-like hybrid wearing gray and red swimming shorts. "Krum?" Neville asked when he saw the shorts of the hybrid.
"It's a partial transfiguration…but I don't know why he would pick such a dangerous animal!" Hermione called out as she squeezed Neville's arm tightly.
Harry looked at the Krum/shark hybrid in annoyance as it tried to attack him once more. Harry used his aura to push himself around the creature avoiding its sharp teeth.
Harry kept himself from reaching for his weapons knowing he couldn't harm Krum. Even if the Bulgarian was out of his mind right now. "This guy holds a grudge!" He mentally growled as he launched a one-handed aura sphere towards said Bulgarian.
He heard a growl when it struck the transfigured human/animal hybrid.
"I didn't know he could do that." Tonks said in shock at the blue attack.
"It's an advanced technique that aura guardians learn near the end of their training…that is if they have enough power for it." Hermione explained as she watched Harry launch another sphere at Krum this one missed barely.
Harry waited as Krum lunged towards him again before he glowed blue and turned his body, so he was above Krum and grabbed onto the body fin that was on the hybrid's back.
"Night night time!" Harry internally called before his hand glowed a yellowing color and he placed it against one of Krum's gills. Krum roared and bucked in pain while Harry held on.
"What's he doing?!" Neville called in shock at the sight before Krum stilled on the mirror. "Looks like he used a mild jolt to put Krum to sleep." Hermione said as she studied the mirror.
Harry released his grip on the back fin before waving his hand surrounding Krum in a bubble of air as he reverted to his human form. "You're lucky this isn't the regions." Harry internally groused as Krum started floating towards the surface at a slow pace.
"And after deescalating a dangerous situation Lord Black continues on his way in the lead. Victor Krum is disqualified from this event for attacking a fellow competitor unprovoked." Bagman called since the judges had seen the fight as well.
Harry continued and entered the village of the Merpeople past a stone arch. He arrived in the center of the village where a large stone platform sat. Sitting on it were four spheres each a different color.
One blue and silver, one blue and black, one yellow and black, finally one red and gray. "McGonagall wasn't kidding when she said each treasure would be clearly marked." He thought as he approached and picked up the blue and black orb.
Once secured he made his way back passing Diggory who was entering the village with a large bubble around his head. "That looks flimsy as hell." Harry thought as he continued his way by.
"Looks like he's home free." Tonks commented as Harry made the return trip.
"Considering what he faced?" Neville asked as he watched Krum being dragged onto shore after a couple aids brought him back via a boat, they had been out just in case one of the champions had to be rescued.
"I'd say that's a fair bet." He added as he looked down at his arm that was turning slightly purple from the grip Hermione had on him.
"Wish he'd hurry up so I can transfer Hermione's squeezing from me to him." He said, making Tonks laugh out loud. A few minutes later Harry rose out of the water removing his mask as he did.
Once ashore Harry replaced his mask on his belt as Madame Pomfrey approached and gave him a quick check up. When she found no marks on him, she fed him a Pepper up potion and allowed him to continue his way.
The moment the steam was done leaving his ears he was side tackled to the ground with a sight 'oomph' leaving his mouth.
"Hello Mia." Harry said from his place on the ground as he looked up at the bushy haired woman lying on his chest, her ear pressed against his chest.
"You dodged Krum like he was a fly, but you got taken down by our resident bookworm?" Tonks asked in a joking tone as she and Neville approached.
"To be fair Krum approached with the intent to harm and or kill. Mia is just worried I was harmed." Harry explained making the meta morph chuckle.
Harry glowed blue before he and Hermione rose into the air and were placed on their feet once more. Harry kept his arm around Hermione allowing her to stay pressed against his side. "Speaking of which, has anyone said what's going to happen to that Bulgarian?" Harry asked, making Neville nod.
"He's been disqualified from this task earning a zero score. Unfortunately, they can't throw him out of the competition since it's still a magically bound contract till the start of the third task." He explained to his Godbrother who sighed in annoyance.
"Mum also approached us after the start of the task." Tonks said, making Harry turn his attention towards her. "First she apologizes for the delay on the release of the Riddle article, something about dealing with the fallout from the Sirius Black trial." Tonks explained with a shrug making Harry sigh but nod in understanding.
Originally they had planned to release an article revealing the truth behind Tom Marvolo Riddle the day after the article showing Sirius was an innocent man thrown into jail without a trial.
However after the article and the following trial there was too much attention on those events to allow them to release such a truth bomb and have it actually paid attention to.
"So does that mean we'll have to wait longer before that particular article is released?" Hermione asked, turning her head from Harry towards her female friend.
"I don't know, but Mum did ask for us to come and find her once Harry was free to do so." Tonks said, making the pair nod before Harry moved off towards the changing tents that were nearby.
Once back in his normal uniform Harry traveled to the press box of the tournament where Andromeda sat with her favorite pair of Lane and Olsen while the other newspapers were writing.
"Lord Black." Andromeda said with a slight curtsy. "Andromeda. Dora tells me you wished to speak with me." Harry said making her nod as she rose to her feet and motioned the teenagers to follow behind.
The group moved off heading towards the castle. Once inside they entered a room off the Grand Hall. Harry and the teens paused once they walked in seeing a woman with cold blue eyes standing there with blond hair with black roots.
"Lord Black allow me to introduce my younger sister Narcissa Malfoy nee Black. She is an expert in pureblood politics and the political field in general." Andromeda introduced as Narcissa curtsied before Harry.
"My Lord." She said making Harry return the bow. "And what does Mrs. Malfoy have to do with our current situation?" Harry asked once introductions were done.
"As you know as Lord of house Black you are responsible for certain roles in the political world. Something I know you personally hate." Andromeda said making Harry raise an eyebrow towards her but kept his mouth shut.
"After the arrest of her husband, and the release of our cousin Narcissa reached out to me. She has offered information of the Death Eaters as well as their master in return for a few conditions.
Such information could be helpful in exposing the former Dark Lord not to mention shake up a lot of truths that have been hidden away." Andromeda explained making Harry understand just what was happening.
Harry waved his hand making a small circle table appear along with a few chairs. "By all means…let's negotiate." Harry said as he took a seat. Once everyone joined him Harry looked at Narcissa.
"First and foremost, just what are you looking to get out of this?" Harry asked her plainly not wanting to beat around the bush.
"An annulment from my husband, reinstatement into house Black, and all the rights that come with it."
"If that last one includes allowing your son to once more inherit from House Black? You will be disappointed." Harry mentioned making Narcissa sigh.
"I understand that my Lord. Draco is far too much like his father. Luckily the Goblins have seen fit to leave behind a sizable amount of house Malfoy's money after selling all their business avenues and heirlooms to cover the debt that my husband placed upon us. If my son is smart with his money, he can make it last long enough for him to graduates and secures himself a job." She explained.
"However if the money has to go to supporting myself as well as him it will run out long before he's ready."
"So you wish to become dependent on my money instead of his?" Harry asked, stressing the 'my' making both Andromeda and Narcissa flinch at his sharp tone.
"No my Lord…at least not beyond a regulated allowance." She said making Harry once more raise an eyebrow.
"You already have employed Lady Longbottom as proxy of House Potters votes in the Wizengamot. Although you have yet to do such a thing for House Black." Narcissa mentioned making Harry snort before he shook his head.
"And what guarantee do I have that you won't incorporate your husbands' ideals or the ideals of pureblood supremacy into your run as proxy?
After all, while you weren't a Death Eater yourself you also didn't try to stop your husband from teaching such ideals to your son." Harry said, making Narcissa flinch once more.
"I am more than willing to swear a magical oath to keep the house votes to the mindset you believe it should follow." Harry turned towards Neville.
"Such an oath works like a magical binding contract. Narcissa would have to follow the oath to the letter or face the consequences of loss of her magic at best and loss of life at worse." He explained to his God Brother since he was the only one among the teens that had been trained in magical politics.
"So in return for an allowance for everyday life you'll work for the family via proxy of the Wizengamot seats earning whatever salary comes from such a position?" Harry questioned making Narcissa nod.
"Yes my Lord."
Harry took a moment raising his hands to lock his fingers together resting his chin atop of his hands. "I will agree with the annulment since your husband already violated the terms of your marriage contract when he allowed himself to be branded by Voldemort." Narcissa looked at Harry in shock at the use of the Dark Lords name and confusion.
"The Dark Lord was from House Slytherin one of the four founders' houses."
"True…if he had inherited such a title from the main branch of the family." Harry said, making Narcissa tilt her head in confusion.
"Your Dark Lord inherited from the cadet branch of the Slytherin named Gaunt. While Gaunt had ties to both Slytherin and Peverell they would not inherit from either in their lifetime. Not to mention his mother came from house Gaunt…while his father belonged to the muggle family of Riddle."
"Mu…muggle?!" She called out in surprise.
"Indeed." Harry raised to his feet moving his fingers through the air making a fiery message.
"His full name given to him by his mother Merope Gaunt before she died bringing him into the world is this." He said as a name appeared. Tom Marvolo Riddle. It read in fiery letters before Harry waved his hand making the letters move around before they spelled something different. I am Lord Voldemort.
Narcissa starred in complete surprise. "Your so-called Dark Lord is no more a Pureblood than I am." Harry said, making the letters disappear before retaking his seat.
"In point of fact Harry is more of a Pureblood than he is." Neville added, making Narcissa turn towards him.
"Merope Gaunt was little more than a squib posting passing grades only in potions and herbology failing everything else." Neville said before Hermione took over.
"Whereas his father is Tom Riddle Jr. esquire of Little Hangleton. Son of Thomas Sr. and Mary Riddle. From the testimonies of the village Tom Jr. suddenly fell in love with Merope and ran off to marry her.
Only to return months later claiming temporary insanity and drugging. Meaning he was dosed with a love potion. Make their son a half-blood son of a muggle and a witch little more than a squib." She finished showing the newspaper clippings from the local papers from Little Hangleton telling such a story.
"This means your husband broke a portion of your marriage contract that stated he would in no way, shape, or form lower himself or his family in the eyes of magical UK. The moment he took that mark while under the imperius curse or not he violated that contract. So granting you an annulment is relatively easy to do." Harry explained to the woman before him.
"He wasn't under the imperius curse." She said, making Harry raise an eyebrow at that point.
"The things one must do to be initiated into the Death Eaters could never be done while the influence of such a curse." She explained making Andromeda take out a notepad
Narcissa began talking about all the information she had on her husbands' crimes both during the time of the Dark Lord and after it. As she talked Harry used a recording orb to keep everything on record for Madame Bones.
By the time she was done Harry was once more glancing at her while resting his chin atop of his clasped hands. A look of focus on his face while the other teens looked both shocked and appalled at what they had learned.
"How soon can you get together with Madame Bones and get the process started?" He asked Andromeda who put away her notebook and accepted the recording orb from the Lord of her house.
"First thing tomorrow once I mention you're involved." She said, making Harry nod. He took a moment to stare down Narcissa making the highborn daughter squirm.
"If I name you proxy your first priority will be to help convict all of your husbands' friends and maybe your husband as well." He said making Narcissa stiffen her back in her chair.
"After that you will then do everything to push for reformations of the laws that allowed them to get away with so much for so long." He explained making Narcissa nod. After a few moments Harry leaned back and made a piece of parchment appear before him.
"I will send a message to Head Accountant Sharpblade scheduling an appointment for us to meet with him to talk about reinstating you into House Black as well as setting up an allowance for your everyday life." He said making Narcissa relax.
"Once the justice process begins for the Death Eaters we'll release the articles not only on the truth behind them, but the truth on their master." Andromeda said to Harry who nodded in agreement.
By the time the quartet left the castle the announcement of points was made but none of them cared as the meeting that very afternoon set their minds a blaze with information.
Two months had passed since the second task when the first article of the arrest of former Death Eater Josh Dawlish was released.
It first talked about his part in the wrongful conviction of Hagrid for the attacks during the second opening of the Chamber of Secrets. The trial itself was looked at closely since the use of Veritaserum had been authorized as Dawlish was also an official employee of the Ministry.
It continued and brought up the question from Madame Longbottom about how Dawlish received his second chance in life since he was a marked Death Eater. Dawlish as it turned out was released after claiming influence under the Imperius Curse and some gold greasing palms.
It was Madame Longbottom again who asked the next big question. "Was there any truth to your claim of being under the Imperius Curse? If you were willing to commit another crime that would carry such great consequences it makes me question just how innocent you were the first time."
Dawlish seemed to be fighting the potion for a moment before he opened his mouth. "NO!" He called out. "I…I was never under the influence of the Imperious Curse." He said after catching his breath.
"Was anyone else who claimed such lying as well?" Madame Bone said, sitting up anger clear on her face to no surprise to anyone. After all, many knew her hatred of those who were responsible for the death of her friends and family members.
"None of the marked Death Eaters were under the influence." Dawlish said.
The article went on to explain just how one earned the Dark Mark. With the death of a family chosen and brought before the Dark Lord where the initiate would perform three acts.
The first was the torture of a member usually the husband/father figure to the point of near death so the fight was out of them. Second was the rape of a member usually the mother or young daughter before the family. Finally, was the death of each member in whatever order the initiate chose.
The means of each act was up to each initiate leaving their imagination to determine just how highly they ranked. The combination of these tasks was tried on multiple victims under the Imperius Curse.
Every time the one under the influence fought tooth and nail never going through with the initiation proving that the claim was nothing more than empty words.
Slowly every former member that wasn't accounted for was arrested and given a proper trial. Since each claimed innocents via the Imperious Curse had an interview more than an actual trial covering the double jeopardy issue.
Soon every family that had gotten rich from or kept rich thanks to criminal activity during Voldemort's time were facing the full consequences of their actions.
It was then that Harry authorized the release of the truth of just who Voldemort truly was. After all, where better to hit those reeling from the loss of wealth and influence than in the core of their beliefs.
"You-Know-Who nothing but a great fake!" A newspaper seller called from his stand holding up the latest issue.
"Dark Lord never a lord to begin with! Son of near squib witch and muggle squire!" He continued to call as patron after patron bought the Prophet and the Quibbler both selling the full story of Tom Marvolo Riddle AKA Voldemort.
"It is through intensive research of Lord Harry Potter-Black that it was discovered a cadet branch member of Peverell had been trying to take the money/influence of said family for decades." Tom the Barman read aloud.
"House Gaunt would never come to inherit do to being thrown out of the main branch when it was discovered their attempts to use the influence to try and restart muggle hunting." He read grimacing sickened at the idea of such a thing returning.
After all it was because of Magicals hunting Muggles like animals that led to the start of the Witch Trials. "After years of the main branch eventually being adopted by the Potter family the cadet branch of Gaunt tried constantly to regain its influence but never succeeded." He continued.
Meanwhile, in a crooked house in the middle of an apple orchard a balding red head read the paper aloud to his wife and three eldest sons as they had all returned home upon the news of Dumbledore's arrest.
Mainly to see if the real reason behind their sister's death would be revealed. "Eventually the family fell to only three members. Father Marvolo who died in Azkaban for attacking a ministry employee as well as encouraging the attacking of nearby muggles.
Only son Morfin who likewise was a former inmate of Azkaban for the attack of a muggle as well as attacking the aurors that came to arrest him, and even eventually died imprisoned for the death of the Riddle family.
Finally was only daughter Merope who while having no criminal record officially would go down in history as the most infamous of them all." He looked up at his sons who were confused by the sentence.
"Academically Merope was rather lacking in terms of power and years of mental abuse laid upon her by her father caused even more suffering. Leaving Merope as little more than a squib in terms of power. However, she excelled in the art of potion making and if had been allowed could have earned her mastery in such an art." Arthur read also becoming confused on just what this had to do with You-Know-Who.
"It was during the time when both Morfin and Marvolo were locked away together in Azkaban that Merope saw a chance to escape her fate and took it. While also brewing and using a love potion. Research found shows proof of the effects of such narcotics on muggle victim Tom Riddle Jr. son of Tom Sr. and Mary Riddle." Narcissa Black read while inside the nearly repaired and cleaned kitchen of Grimmauld Place, the ancestral home of house Black located in London. She was reading to her cousin and his friend as they ate the breakfast prepared for them by her former house elf Dobby.
Once shown to be free of Lucius the little elf was more than willing to come work for her again this time with pay and a companion named Winky. Both of whom were godsend to Narcissa and the recovering Sirius as neither knew a thing about cooking, nor clearing a long-abandoned house.
"Tom Jr. and Merope later were wed only for Tom to return to his home no longer under the influence of Meropes potions.
Merope herself seemed to vanish until a witness placed her at Borgin and Burkes trying to sell a family heirloom to feed herself while very obviously pregnant. Once again vanishing never knowing what happened until the night Albus Dumbledore paid a visit to a muggle run orphanage named Wool's Orphanage where her son Tom Marvolo Riddle was born and left upon her death." She read knowing they were getting to the good part.
"Tom M Riddle is later known to have earned a reward for special services to Hogwarts as well as being both Prefect and Head Boy of his year. However, we have all come to know and fear Riddle under another name.
Through the combined efforts of Lord Black, Goblin account manager Sharpblade, three other students of Hogwarts…who wish to remain anonymous…it was discovered just who Tom Marvolo Riddle truly is." Minerva McGonagall read while in the staff room of Hogwarts with all her staff minus Severus and Albus gathered around her.
Even Hagrid had managed to squeeze himself into the room. The next page showed Harry writing the name Tom Marvolo Riddle then with a wave of his arm it changed to read I am Lord Voldemort.
"The Dark Lord as it turns out is as much a lair of his true past as he is a true believer in the so-called Pureblood supremacy act." Minerva went on to read how Riddle had concocted his rise to power all for the times he believed against him during his time among the muggle world.
It was eventually discovered that Riddle had started his campaign early with the death of his father and family, framing Morfin Gaunt for the crime.
Later in life the death of an heiress named Smith stealing the goblet of Hufflepuff as well as retaking the locket his mother had sold that once belonged to Slytherin.
This time framing a house elf.
By the time the article was done all of Riddles dirty little secrets had been aired out meaning everyone now knew the truth about him…well except for one thing that would be released later.
Two weeks before the third task another article was released this time on another matter many were dying to follow.
"Dumbledore convicted!" This time the newspaper seller barely had to say a word as he sold paper after paper nearly running out within the first hours of being opened.
"Albus Wulfric Percival Brian Dumbledore was convicted today for multiple counts of child endangerment, child neglect, as well as unlawfully manipulating events that would've led to the extinction of up to three ancient and noble houses." Arthur Weasley read this time his wife was bound and silenced to a chair as he read since she had already tried to hide this paper from him before he could read it.
"This combined with the charges of the death of Ginny Weasley, willingly wrongful arrest of Sirius Black, as well as the improper use of his stations have led to a life conviction of said former headmaster." He read a part of him nervous but also relieved as he was finally getting the answers, he and his family had been denied for years now.
The article went on to mention the fact that Dumbledore had knowingly allowed a nest of Acromantula to live on the property of Hogwarts; he had done nothing but the bare minimum to keep them under control. The time he tried to use a copy of the Philosophers Stone to draw out what remained of a still alive Voldemort/Tom Riddle.
"That's right readers! Dumbledore knew that Riddle was not only the former Dark Lord, but that Riddle is to this day still alive!" A shocked Tom the barman read in fear.
"As it turns out for years knew the reason Riddle attacked the Potters all those years ago and began his plans to manipulate the events that would've led to the death of not only the Potters, but the members of house Longbottom as well as house Bones as well." Tom read.
The article went on to explain the drunken prophecy of Sybill Trelawney. All while destroying her reputation with witness accounts of many members of Hogwarts staff speaking about her drinking habits.
All backed by the House Elves that constantly cleaned up after her. Thus, making it seem like the so-called prophecy had never been more than an excuse that Dumbledore had used to back his plans.
Since there were only two sober witnesses to the so-called prophecy there was nothing stopping the pair from using the information as they saw fit. The second witness identified as Severus Snape had reported to his master the words that would influence his decision to attack and kill the Potters.
"Seeing an opportunity Dumbledore used his influence to have the Potters, Bones', and the Longbottoms hideaway making them believe he meant to help them protect their young ones.
However, he always intended for the 'chosen child' to die. It is revealed that the moment Snape came begging for help in the protection of former friend/crush Lily Potter nee Evans Dumbledore began the steps to manipulate events even farther."
Narcissa read looking up in slight fear at the anger that was on the faces of both surviving Marauders…neither of them counted Peter…before she continued.
"Witnessing the Fidelius Charm with Peter Pettigrew as the secret keeper had just been the first step. The next being the witness to the Wills of Lord and Lady Potter just to illegally seal them from view to make sure curtain events took place."
The article went on to explain that it had been Dumbledore who leaked the information of how to find the couples of Edgar and Angela Bones as well as Frank and Alice Longbottom allowing both to suffer greatly at the hands of Riddle's followers.
"The disappearance of Lord Black then only known as Harry Potter, was a wrench in his plans that turned out to be a benefit for the young lord.
Using his influence as Supreme Mugwump Dumbledore set up an illegal betrothal contract between Ginny Weasley and Lord Black. A contract that was known only to mother Molly and youngest son Ronald." George Weasley read pausing in shock there before glaring up at his little brother who had been shoving his face full of food listening to tidbits.
Only now to notice that everyone in Gryffindor was glaring at him. He swallowed and tried to run only to find himself wrapped up in robes and gagged by his two brothers who levitated him to remain next to them before Fred continued to read.
"The contract in question would allow Molly to receive a continued payment of ten thousand galleons every three years from the moment Ginny turned eleven until the age of eighteen as a bride price. To be used as she saw fit." Fred clutched the paper close in anger at the knowledge his mother and brother had been stealing from an orphan who had lost everything in one night.
"The payments were never once used for her life or children. In fact everything that the money was used for was kept in the vault, all to make sure no one could connect the dots to the money and her. It wasn't until two years ago with the unexpected death of Ginny Weasley that this was allowed to continue.
As it turns out the cause of her death was also known to Dumbledore but kept hidden because the knowledge tied into just how Riddle survived." Fred read in shock looking at his brother.
"As it turns out Riddle was given the idea from a former professor named Horace Slughorn, but the information was discovered by Dumbledore and kept hidden. Riddle made use of an ancient evil ritual to create objects called Horcrux or soul jars. A ritual that dark wizards in ancient Egypt created to house a portion of their soul on this plain of existence never allowing for a true death." Minerva read in shock and sickness.
"According to Gringotts Curse Breakers, Horcrux are commonly found among the treasures of terrible tyrants long believed dead and no longer dangerous. However, if said soul jar is found by an unsuspecting individual and allowed to remain in their position for a long period of time the soul piece inside can begin to possess the new body. This is the case of what happened to Ginny Weasley.
Through the actions of Lucious Malfoy the diary turned Horcrux of Tom Marvolo Riddle ended up in the hands of the eleven-year-old." She closed her eyes in fear at that passage.
Arthur wasn't doing much better. "For the summer months leading up to her first year to the entirety of the year Ginny was influenced by the diary eventually allowing the soul inside to reopen the Chamber of Secrets. Releasing the monster inside a centuries old Basilisk to once more torment the students.
Knowing that the chamber was open Dumbledore allowed the events to play out, hoping that Neville Longbottom or Susan Bones would step up to become the next chosen children since Lord Black was still missing. Eventually Ginny in a great act of bravery overcame the possession and threw herself at the Basilisk stabbing the diary with a fang while also being injected with the beasts' venom leading to her death.
While also activating spells placed by Salazar Slytherin that killed the beast for daring to attack his heir even if they were just a spirit possessing a young girl." Arthur broke down at that point the paper falling from his hands as Bill walked over and took the paper with Percy allowing a pair of aurors in to officially take his mother into custody.
"These along with the most recent events were finally brought to point thanks to the combined efforts of Gringotts, the DMLE, Lord Black, and his allies." Pettigrew read in fear as he looked towards his master who had a look of pure anger upon his face.
"How…how did he discover it all? Not even Dumbledore knew everything." He growled in anger and shock.
Ever since the article of his past had been released, he had lost contact with Crouch Jr. meaning the man had turned full traitor. Pettigrew was only still around out of desperation and a lack of power.
"My Lord…" Pettigrew began before he yelped before fainting, Riddle looked up to see Amelia Bones herself standing behind his only remaining servant, a serious expression.
"Tom Marvolo Riddle…you are under arrest." She said with a satisfied tone as the baby form realized he was surrounded. He even saw a pair wearing Gringotts uniforms wrangling Nagini nearby.
Glaring back at Amelia he hissed out. "You'll never find all of them." He said feeling slightly smug.
"The diary." She said a smug smirk coming over her face. "The ring of house Peverell. The locket of Slytherin. The cup of Hufflepuff. Ravenclaw's Diadem. That snake. Finally, the one you mistakenly created back on Halloween 1981."
"Just because you know what they are doesn't mean you know where they are." Voldemort said feeling slightly smug until Amelia laughed in his face.
"Destroyed at Hogwarts by Ginny Weasley. Recovered from the Gaunt shack by Gringotts curse breakers. Located inside the house of Grimmauld Place by the house elf Dobby after Regulus Black betrayed you…that honestly had to be the proudest I've ever seen Narcissa and Sirius of the youngest Black heir.
The vault of Bellatrix Lestrange after an authorized search by her head of house. The room of requirement of Hogwarts once more by Dobby as he recognized the signature from his time employed there. Right there." She motioned to the pair taking out knives before stabbing them into Nagini only for her to burst into a cloud of black smoke with the image of a face screaming in pain.
"Finally…personally delivered to the goblins by Lord Black himself. Where the goblins used their magic to find the other pieces connected to that fragment.
So, you could say he set your end into motion with the power of a Goblin friend inherited from his mother." She said, making Voldemort look at her in fear.
"A power you know not." She said with a smug grin.
Two days later Harry, Hermione. Neville, and Tonks stood in the room known as the veil of death. The oldest execution chamber in the Ministry of Magic.
Soon Pettigrew was marched into the room holding the little form of his master once more. "Tom Marvolo Riddle…Peter Edward Pettigrew…you two have been found guilty of multiple counts of rape, murder, torture, as well as acts of terrorism. You have been sentenced to death via the veil." Madame Bones read out the scroll once she and the other witnesses took their places.
"Do you have any final words?" She asked. Pettigrew seemed too busy sobbing to bring any words out.
"One question. How did you do it?" Voldemort asked, looking at the same pair of eyes that had first brought about his first end, now they would help bring along his last.
"The Goblins are good to their friends." Was all Harry said to the being responsible for the death of his biological parents before he and his servant were shoved into the veil never to be seen again.
That's all for now. I hope you all liked it. R&R
Remember one more chapter to go then we're wrapped.
Ja Ne