Abhorrent Reptiles.
A couple of days before Hogwarts would begin anew, in more ways than one. The Daily Prophet had been talking about the changes coming and the fact that there would be a big announcement regarding them. Speculation, rumor, and innuendo stated these changes were not well-received by many in the Ministry and the recently abolished board of governors, who still labored onto the misinterpretation they had any say. Lucius Malfoy had been the most vocal of such, shocking I know. Granted, Rita neutered him slightly, by slipping in a few remarks reminding the public that Lucius claimed to be under the Imperius Curse and thus is vulnerable.
Presently, I enjoyed some rare downtime with Kara, who had looked in thought. The fire cackled around us and I wrapped my arms around her. Peaceful, tranquil, and yet I could sense something heavy weighing on Kara's mind.
I leaned over and kissed her lightly on the top of the head. She smiled.
"Just thinking about Izzy and her friends," Kara said. "And your mother. And just other things in general regarding elves. Things that I don't understand."
"I understand what you're thinking about," I said. "Someday, once I eliminate the final Horcrux, Mum will return home. And Izzy and her friends will protect what is left."
"Yes," Kara agreed. "She would. But, I'm wondering if they could go back. If possible. Centuries, generations of them serving witches and wizards, you're not going to be able to convince them freedom is even an option. But, I just wonder how they will react."
"Elle made her thoughts clear," I said.
"Yes, although she was betrayed and she had to make a decision she's regretted for centuries now," Kara said. "Tricking them to accept their freedom, it's an insult to their intelligence as well."
I just pursed my lips and wisely did not comment. Let's just say for those who advocated for house elves in the past, mistakes were made, due to ignorance. Granted, with so much about the true origins and nature of house elves unknown, some form of ignorance was there.
"Understanding is the first step to resolution," Kara said. "I can't really make an informed decision without getting all of the facts? And we can't impart our values on another species. That's a bad road to go down."
And unfortunately, it's a road many have gone down in the past.
"Kreacher," I called. Kara raised an eyebrow. "Start now."
Kreacher appeared and bowed low to myself and Kara.
"Master Harry, Lady Kara, what do you wish of poor Kreacher?"
"Kreacher, how would house elves react if they all had the freedom to do what they wish?" I asked them.
Kreacher's eyes bugged out in horror.
"Has Kreacher offended? Kreacher has served Lord Black without question. He has kept all of Lord Black's secrets…"
"Kreacher, I'm not saying I'm going to free you," I told the elf.
"Why would you ask something like that of poor Kreacher?" Kreacher asked.
"Because, we want to know about elves and how they think," Kara said.
"Proper elves, they don't think, they merely obey," Kreacher said. "Although, Kreacher does have thoughts and feelings of his own, they must not conflict with those who head the Most Noble and Ancient House of Black. And Kreacher will say that you have been quite the delight to work with."
"If House Elves were freed, all over, how would they react?" Kara asked again.
"Well, if house elves can do as they please the same as people?" Kreacher asked. Kara nodded. "Kreacher…is not certain. Many will not know what to do with themselves if it does not mean serving their family. Many would be shocked. Many may not last long with the weight of their new-found freedom."
"Do you think house elves would seek revenge on humans if they were mistreated?"
"The Most Noble and Ancient House of Black has not treated Kreacher any worse than what he deserves!" the house elf bellowed. "Why would…"
"Kreacher, we know you're loyal," I said. "House elves are extremely powerful. Just limited to their master's orders."
And some are crafty enough to find loopholes, as I learned famously in the past.
"Yes, we live to serve them," Kreacher said. "But, if we did not have those restrictions, Kreacher…fears that some house elves would not be grateful to humans. Once the shock has worn off. Some would want to work alongside people and work for them if given the choice, yes, but others, they would take it as an opportunity to harm anyone. It's like people. Not all elves would be good. It's for their own good that they have these restrictions on their power."
Kreacher shuddered and added quickly.
"Not Kreacher. Kreacher would never…"
"Thank you, Kreacher," Kara told him. "What do you know about how house elves came to be?"
"No house elves talk of the before time, before we served," Kreacher whispered. "It's forbidden."
"What about Cringle?' I asked him.
I never saw a house elf look so horrified.
"Please master, do not speak of that name, to Kreacher!" the house elf bellowed. "He is unspeakable."
I let the matter drop.
"Do you know about Penerelle Flamel?" I asked.
"Kreacher does not know of her," Kreacher said. "Why do you ask such questions to Kreacher?"
"I want to know house elves, because I want to help them," Kara said. "One of my friends is a shadow elf."
Kreacher's eyes widened in response, but he offered no further comment. Almost as if he was scared at the implications of what Kara informed him of.
"Kara Danvers should not burden herself," Kreacher said. "Our place is to serve our family until the end. And that is what Kreacher will do until he can no longer hold a tea tray. And then he will have his head mounted on the wall alongside of his ancestors."
Kara grimaced at that tradition and to be fair, it was disturbing.
"Thank you for your input, Kreacher," I told him.
"House elves should not think of such things," Kreacher said. "Humans should not burden themselves with such things. Kreacher bids you good night."
Kreacher disappears without another word.
"Kreacher knows more than he's letting on," Kara offered. "I can tell."
So did I. So did it.
The chaos at the King's Cross platform was somehow worse. People moved around with an intense hustle and bustle. Off to the side, Tonks eyed me for a second.
"Harry, keep your eyes open," she told me in a somber voice. "I've just got a bad feeling there's something going on."
"If you want to talk about it, we will," I told her. "Until then, we won't."
"Just…don't dig around in the past," Tonks said. "People have gone mad with their own obsessions because of this mess. Someone at the Ministry calls me at least once a week to ask about CJ. I don't know where she is though."
"I know you don't," I said. "They always look for a scapegoat because it's the easy situation."
Tonks nodded and headed off. I turned my attention to Penny who had been waiting for me on the train.
"Can't wait to see everyone's reactions tonight," Penny said. "She's been hard at work to get everything ready."
"There will be more changes after this year," I told her.
"You okay?"
I caught sight of a blackbird nesting in the tree. I swear it was watching me, but then it flew away before it got a good look at me.
"Just thinking about the past few weeks," I said. "After you, my lady."
"You're too kind," Penny said with a smile.
We made our way onto the train with time to spare. I had a feeling something big was about ready to happen. The material I received from CJ over the holidays, had been transported into the Chamber of Secrets. Tonks was glad that it was out of her sight and she could play dumb about it. And to be fair, I had not had a chance to do more than skim through the contents.
"Harry!"
A few familiar faces waited for me in the compartment. Su, Padma, Cho, and Marietta were among them.
"Prefect meeting," Penny said. "Be back soon. See you for lunch."
Penny hugged me goodbye and I snuck in a quick kiss, not caring about the reaction of the other girls. Although none of them looked surprised. Marietta motioned me over.
"Eddie's at it again," she told me.
"What's he done this time?" I asked her.
"Well, he's created a bunch of coupons for a spot in your harem," Cho said with a shake of her head.
"You're serious?" I asked her.
"Well, obviously, that's Eddie's latest con," Marietta said. "Of course, anyone dumb enough to buy a harem coupon from Eddie Carmichael isn't going to even get a single NEWT, much less five."
"You heard about that?" I asked her.
"It's smart of you to do that," Cho said. "It buys you some time."
"So you're not interested?" I asked her.
"I didn't say that…but there's plenty of time to figure out what we want to do," Cho said. "I'm only a second year, feels like a lifetime away."
"So, do you think anyone will buy those coupons?" Su asked.
"Not even Parvati would be desperate enough," Padma said. "And she's obsessed with being on the ground floor. I swear, she and Lavender are going to form a cult centered around Harry in Gryffindor before our fourth year."
Would not be the first time a cult unfortunately sprung up around worshipping me.
"Crabbe and Goyle bought the lot."
Daphne grinned when she entered the compartment.
"Crabbe and Goyle?" I asked her. "Vincent Crabbe and Gregory Goyle?"
"Yes, them," Daphne said in amusement.
"They're not my type," I said.
"Oh, I think they might be a bit confused," an amused Daphne said. "One of the fifth year Slytherins was joking about how she did not need a coupon to get Potter's cream pie…"
"Mmm," I tittered.
"And Crabbe and Goyle must have thought that Eddie had a bunch of coupons for your ice cream bars," Daphne said. "So after some haggling, they bought the lot. They're going to be disappointed."
"So, are Crabbe and Goyle the only people that Eddie's ever successfully conned?" I asked her.
"Seems so," Marietta said.
"Can't recall, but yeah."
"Well, they do share a single brain cell," Daphne said. "Although that may be giving them way too much credit."
The door swung open and a frantic looking Penny rushed inside.
"Penny, what's…"
"Someone unleashed a bunch of snakes on the Hogwarts express!" Penny told us. "We all need to move further down the train."
She looked clammy, but pushed through to attend to her responsibilities as prefect. Penny ushered everyone out, and I took a step back.
"Why would they release snakes on the Hogwarts Express?" Su asked.
"If it's a prank, it's not a very funny one," Padma said. "What kind of snakes?"
"I don't know, but Gemma was scared to death," Penny said. "I really hope they didn't get anyone."
I made sure everyone was safely into the next compartment and I could hear even further screams coming down the train.
"Feast on them," one of the snakes hissed.
Oh, fuck, that's not good. I rushed off to deal with it.
Scrambling, screams of terror, and I scrambled down the train. A pair of Hufflepuffs had been cornered, trapped from running by a hideous looking snake with dark and yellow skin.
"I can't do this!" one of the Hufflepuffs screamed.
I caused a loud bang to echo down the hallway and the snake to fly away. The trembling Hufflepuffs had been pushed down the corridor.
A small group of first year Slytherins had been protected by their prefect, Gemma Cooper. Among them included Ron, Blaise, and that utter douchebag Zacharias Smith. Being first years, they were out of their depth and even Gemma was struggling to keep them away although the prefect did her best.
"You won't harm them," Gemma said.
"You can't protect them," the snake hissed.
"Back away from them!"
The hideous snake turned its face towards me.
"Speaker," he hissed. "I hear you. But, you can't control us because I hear you."
The snake coiled and sprung. I caught the snake in my hands and it hissed, almost spitting at me.
"Move, move, move!" Gemma gasped. "Potter, you need…"
"Did Potter just speak to it?" Smith asked.
"Did you not hear, Cooper, she said run!" Blaise yelled.
"Potter's a Parselmouth! He can speak to…"
Yeah, I'll deal with that later. Susan, Hannah, and Megan ran past me as I froze the snake cold and caused it to crumple to the ground.
"You girls should go down the corridor, where it's safe," I told him.
"So, should you," Susan said.
"I should, but I'm not going to," I said.
"What are those things?" Megan asked.
Gemma motioned for the Hufflepuffs. The moment they were clear, the doors shut behind them. Only to hear another scream which pierced the air.
"Shit!"
A half a dozen snakes circled around their captive.
"Her insecurities, they taste delicious."
I realized it was Hermione Granger. What are the odds? Despite our differences, I was not going to see her devoured by this snake.
"Get away from her!" I hissed more forcefully.
"Oh, he speaks, but does he really think we listen?" another one of the snakes asked. "Arrogant human."
Two of the snakes turned their attention away from Hermione and coiled at me. Hermione refused to move, paralyzed with fear. I decapitated the snakes in mid-air, only to watch as their heads grew back, angrier than ever.
Well, that's not good.
"Yes, it will be delicious when we feast on every one of these children on the train!" the snake said. "Come on, my brothers!"
"No, no, please, no," Hermione gasped. "I'll do better."
A bombardment charm almost blew a hole through the ground. I turned my attention to a short-haired blonde dressed in Hufflepuff robes who stood at the edge of the corridor. Fourth-year by the looks of things.
"Granger, move it!" the fourth-year said. "Unless you want to lose your head."
I subdued two more of the snakes. The door opened and Ron stuck his head in.
"Ron, what are you doing here?"
"I thought you…"
"You first-years are trying to get killed, aren't you?" the fourth-year asked. "You need to get out of here! Now!"
"Why?" Hermione whimpered.
I hoisted Hermione's body off of the chair. Her legs dragged like limp noodles. Dead weight. And no, that was a commentary on Hermione's worth at the moment, she was literally dead weight becacuse she was completely paralyzed with fear.
What in the hell were these bloody snakes? She did not get bitten. Although, I did not want to know what would happen if anyone did. I dragged Hermione across the ground under one arm while repelling snakes with the other.
"Bloody hell, Granger, move it!" I hissed angrily.
"We will savor her," one of the snakes hissed.
"Fine, if we must!" I snapped.
"Petrificus Totalus!" the fourth-year snapped.
Hermione's arms and legs snapped together and she folded up like a board. Not sure if that was necessarily, but it allowed Ron and I to haul Hermione out of the corridor.
First time the three of us are together in about the same place in this timeline and this is the circumstances. Honestly! Fortunately, Fred and George were waiting at the end of the corridor.
"RON!" George yelled.
"Help me with her!" Ron yelled. "She's locked up with fear."
"She's not the only one!" Fred yelled.
With the Weasleys safely dragging one body-bound Hermione Granger out, I could focus on dealing with the remaining snakes.
Really sick of these mother fucking snakes on the mother fucking Hogwarts Express.
"Diggory is in the next room, with a couple of first-years!" the fourth-year Hufflepuff gasped.
"Were you bitten?" I asked her.
"No, they don't seem too interested in biting us," she gasped. "Something is wrong though. Really wrong!"
And I could hear the screams coming from further on down.
"The train's stopped!"
"We have to get out of here!"
"Why can't we get out of here?"
Screams of terror which I blocked onto them. I saw Cedric Diggory blocking the way with two first-year students behind him. Neville Longbottom and Draco Malfoy, of course. Malfoy looked more locked up with fear than Hermione did, which was saying something.
"No, Uncle Algie, please, I don't know why I can't do magic," Neville gasped. "Grandmother, I'm sorry I'm not like Dad…please don't…"
"Neville snap out of it!" I yelled.
Cedric was doing his best to fend off the snake which cornered them. He was only a second-year student doing his best. It was not like he was Batman or anything.
"Get away from them!" I yelled.
"Speaker," it hissed. "You will be the last we devour. And your despair will be the most delicious!"
A freezing charm blasted the snake while it was distracted. I grabbed Cedric, Neville, and Malfoy and pushed them out into the corridor.
"Run, keep running, don't look back, don't stop for anything," I said.
"It's going to be okay," Cedric said.
The fourth-year Hufflepuff girl was screaming her head off. One of the snakes coiled around her and was pearing into her soul.
"Yes, feed me!" the snake yelled.
"PENNY! CASSIE!" she screamed out loud. "GET ME OUT OF HERE! IT'S SO DARK! SO COLD! SO MUCH NOTHING! PLEASE! DON'T LEAVE ME HERE!"
I unsheathed the enchanted dagger which Su gave me for Christmas and stabbed it through the mouth of the snake. It recoiled from the fourth-year Hufflepuff and left her dropping.
The snake turned to stone before my very eyes. I pulled away.
The other snakes slithered in closer, although they eyed the dagger very nervously.
"You think doors can stop us, foolish little speaker!"
"We will find your weakness! One taste and we will have you!"
"There is no way out for any of you!"
I realized everyone was trapped on the train. And thus this was my nightmare.
They were feeding off of fear. Off of trauma. Off of insecurity of children between eleven and seventeen.
Just like Dementors.
What in the hell were these snakes?
Doomed. Because I summoned all of my strength.
"Back off," I hissed. "EXPECTO PATRONUM!"
A bright blinding light filled the train. The fourth-year Hufflepuff I held up with one arm twitched underneath my grip. And the snakes fled in terror as the bright Patronus lights stampeded against them. They withered and slid all the way down the train.
Now, they were trapped down here with me.
"Here," I said to the fourth-year Hufflepuff girl and handed her chocolate.
"T-thanks," she breathed. "Thank you. I thought it was going to swallow me whole."
I maintained the Patronus as the fourth-year took a slab of chocolate. I waved a hand and a large bag appeared next to me. My new friend raised an eyebrow.
"The ice keeping us sealed in the train is fading as they lose their powers."
"Good, I hate enclosed spaces," she breathed. "I don't want to be trapped."
"Get this chocolate to everyone," I told her. "I'm going to make sure our little friends don't go on a feeding frenzy again."
"How much chocolate is in this bag?" she asked.
"Enough," I told her. "Better get it to them, Ms…."
"Haywood," she told me. "Beatrice Haywood."
Oh, that must be the younger sister of Nymphadora's friend. The door opened and Cedric poked his head inside. Beatrice walked over towards him.
"You okay?" she asked
"I am, but are you?"
"Help me pass out this chocolate," she said.
"Chocolate?" Cedric asked. "Were those things like Dementors?"
"Yes," I told him. "By the way, I'm Harry Potter."
Beatrice did a double take. The situation had been so traumatic that she had not realized she was in a compartment with Harry Potter. It happens.
"Nice to meet you," he said. "I'm Cedric Diggory. I see you met Beatrice."
I let the two Hufflepuffs take my really absurdly large bag of chocolate and walked down the train. No stragglers, which was a good thing.
A dozen terrified snakes cowered from the light. The shining bright light caused them to wither, as weak as kittens when I approached them.
"What are you?" I asked them.
"We do not answer to you uppity human," one of the snakes hissed.
"You don't have the upper ground anymore," I reminded them.
"Unfortunately, they aren't able to give you details or name names anymore than I can."
I almost jumped up, seeing that Rosemary appeared right beside me in the train.
"Sister, you live?" one of the snakes asked.
"Do not call me that!" Rosemary hissed.
"We have the same creator," another one of the snakes said.
"Although she is a traitor!" another snake hissed. "How does she live?"
"That's for me to know," Rosemary said.
"She's aligned herself with this human," the same snake who ensnared Beatrice spat. "He deprived me of a gourmet meal!"
"I'm going to throw out a guess, these are earlier rejected attempts to create a working clone of Voldemort," I remarked.
Rosemary nodded in response.
"Although, they decided to tinker with these rejects since I last saw them," Rosemary said.
"And set them on a train of school children," I said. "What were they playing at?"
The snakes angrily hissed and spat at me. I could feel my temper rise in anger.
"Shut up!" she snapped at them.
"Do not think you can ever be among these humans, sister," the snake gasped. "They will see your true nature. And your true nature is to feast upon fear. You will only cause pain. And enjoy it."
"Rosemary, you're not…you don't have those abilities, do you?" I asked her.
"I'm…not like them," she said. "I'm human. I am!"
Rosemary's hands shook and I pulled her in close to me.
"Everyone calm down!" a booming voice yelled from outside of the train. "We're from the Ministry of Magic. We're here to help."
Oh, that statement caused me chills when those things did not.
"I've got to go," Rosemary said. "They can't see me."
"We won't forget your betrayal!" the snake yelled.
"We will eliminate everything you care about, sister!" another one of the snakes yelled.
"SHUT UP!" Rosemary snapped again.
For a brief second, the fucking Hogwarts Express levitated off of the ground before she settled it down. She disappeared as quickly as she appeared. I maintained the bright lights of the Patronus.
"Step back from the snakes, son."
I turned around to meet a small group of Aurors and other Ministry officials. I did not lower my wand. It was the only thing that was keeping these snakes at bay. I caught out of the corner of my eye the people on the Hogwarts Express being escorted away from this emergency stop.
This would be a fine catastrophe.
"Harry Potter?"
"Yes," I said.
"You need to come to the Ministry for questioning."
"Well, first I need to send an owl to my attorney and my legal guardian," I told them. "And I hope you brought someone who can wrangle snakes and dementors. Because these are both."
The Patronus faded away. Fortunately, their food had been taken off of the train by the Ministry. Not sure how they were going to be wrangled. Or if they could even be destroyed. A Patronus Charm was their Kryptonite.
Or least mine was.
"I suppose that having a quiet train ride to Hogwarts without any incident was too much to hope for."
Andromeda showed up, with Sirius giving his consent for her to act as my guardian in this case. Given that Sirius would be the first to admit that she was a lot better at these things, it was for the best. Miranda showed up just seconds later and moved over to me. My attorney was looking at me like I lost my mind.
"Yes," I said. "So, what do you think?"
"Are you sure you want to go in this direction?" Miranda asked. "There's a risk."
"There is," I agreed with her. "But, there were witnesses on the train. The best way to control the narrative is to get in front of it."
"Well, it's your play," Miranda said. "But, you know the stigma it has in our world."
"I'm aware," I said.
"I'll back your play, if you decide to go that way," Miranda said.
"HARRY POTTER!"
I turned and caught a very familiar face.
"My name is Amos Diggory, and I would like to thank you for saving my son and the rest of the students on the train," the man said as he vigorously shook my hand.
"Cedric did all he could to help as well," I told him.
"Well that's my Ced, always lending a hand," Amos said. "But, it was very lucky that it was not worse than it was, that we could get those students off of the train, and away from those snakes! We're having a hell of a time wrangling those snakes right now and keeping them away from anything. They're hissing like mad. Not sure what their venom is like, but I've never seen anything like that in my entire life."
"I hope not," I told him.
"Whoever created those things, they will need to be brought in," Amos said. "Just know that Cedric's told me what you've done. If there's anything, anything at all, don't hesitate to ask!"
Amos shook my hand one more time and moved away. Andromeda, Miranda, and I entered the chambers of the Ministry. Members of the press waited along with several distinguished Ministry officials, and oh, Umbridge and Fudge were there as well. And Lucius Malfoy, but I had a plan to deal with him should he become a problem.
I caught a glimpse of the dozen snakes which had been set loose on the train. And about six Patroni just kept them at bay.
"Mr. Potter, could you tell us what happened?" one of the Ministry officials demanded.
"These snakes were set loose on the train and they intended to feed on all of the students on the train," I told them.
"How do you know this, Potter?" one of the Ministry officials asked.
"They told me about as much," I said.
"Told you?" one of them asked me.
"Yes, I'm a Parselmouth."
Silence.
"I can speak to snakes."
Silence.
"So they told me."
And there's the terrified outrage I expected. And the pointing fingers.
"I knew it, that boy's nothing but trouble," Umbridge said.
"What ever do you mean?" Griselda Marchbanks asked.
"He saved all of the students on the train!"
"He can speak to snakes!" Umbridge snapped. "That's a mark of a dark wizard!"
"According to who?" Miranda asked.
"Well, it's a fact that Parselmouths are historically dark wizards," Umbridge said.
"Can you cite any studies?" Miranda asked. "Can you even give me any proof that the ability to speak to snakes is inherently connected to Dark Magic users?"
"Everyone knows Salazar Slytherin was a Parselmouth," one of the Ministry officials stated.
"Yes, one wizard, a thousand years ago," Miranda said. "Can you name any others?"
Well, I can name a few, but Miranda's not asking me, is she?"
"You can't name a decent one, can you?" another wizard asked.
"Well, if that's how the average wizard reacts, it's a wonder most keep that ability under wraps," I said.
"Most would not admit it in public," Amelia said evenly. "For fear of a public lynching."
There was a bit of a heated debate from both sides of the argument.I had a feeling if I was not the Boy-Who-Lived, there would be a public lynching. Thankfully, I had that cushion to fall back on.
"Well, we all did wonder why the boy defeated He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, or why he went after Potter in the first place," Lucius said. "Perhaps this is the reason. If he can control and create hideous creatures like this, then who knows what he is capable of."
"Given that Lucius Malfoy has proven to be susceptible to the Imperius Curse, I will have to insist that he is removed from my client and the rest of these people, as he does prove to be capable of violent actions when impaired," Miranda said.
"She does have a point," Marchbanks added.
"Yes," Augusta Longbottom said. "Unless, there's something that Lucius Malfoy wishes to share with us."
"I have a right to be here," Malfoy said. "My heir was attacked by these things. If Potter is responsible, and the evidence is high that he is…"
"Aurors, I want you to escort Mr. Malfoy out of here," Amelia interrupted.
"Now, Amelia…."
"No, Minister," Amelia said. "Ms. Brocklehurst is right, Lucius Malfoy's past history indicates he is easily compromised. If he is compromised now, I do not want him anywhere near such a sensitive Ministry investigation. And I want him to be taken to St. Mungos for observation to ensure he has not been placed underneath the Imperius Curse again."
"I refuse to be forced to go like a child," Lucius said.
"Resist, and you will be sent to Azkaban," Amelia said. "Right, Minister?"
"Lucius, ease all of our minds," a tense Fudge said. "Just go. Sort this out."
Lucius had been led off by the Aurors, like a juvenile delinquent who had been caught spray painting the side of a building.
Soon Lucius, I'll have your money, your house, your wife, and your pimp cane.
"The snakes were all weakened by the time we broke through the train," Rufus Scrimgeour said. "How did you do it, Potter?"
"A Patronus Charm, obviously," I said.
"A Patronus Charm?" Marchbanks asked.
"Yes," I told them.
"Why would you feel the need to learn the Patronus Spell?" Umbridge demanded. "Why are we believing this eleven year old child saved the train from these creatures?"
"We have eye-witness testimony, from several reputable and trusted students," Amelia said. "Saying that they owe their lives to Mr. Potter."
"They are children, we can't take them seriously," Umbridge said. "They are obviously infatuated with this brat, and he's caused nothing but trouble. They must be lying."
Dolores, you're off the Christmas card list.
"Are you calling my son a liar?"
Umbridge, you did not, and at the same time, you really did. This could get good. Even Andromeda flinched and it took a lot to make her flinch.
"Amos, I'm saying that…"
"ARE YOU CALLING MY SON A LIAR?"
Amos Diggory was practically in Dolores Umbridge's face and his wand was almost out. The Auror Guards had to put themselves between these two.
"Amos, enough," Amelia said.
"Dolores is just trying to play devil's advocate," Fudge reasoned.
"By calling my son a liar?" Amos practically thundered.
"She didn't mean anything by it."
"Perhaps she would like to tell me herself, Minister," Amos said.
"Amos, I don't know what I was thinking," Umbridge said. "But, do you think your son could be mistaken?"
"Are you calling my son, delusional?"
Umbridge shut up. No actually keep talking. Please, keep talking.
"DOLORES!" Fudge snapped. "Apologize to Amos."
I can tell what Fudge was thinking. Finding a new Senior Undersecretary might be a bit of a bother at this point. And I never saw Fudge raise his voice to Umbridge in the original timeline. This is an interesting development.
"I'm sorry you feel I offended you, Amos," Umbridge said.
Amos gruffly nodded although I really wished looks could kill. Or Amos was part-Basilisk. Then we would all be rid of Umbridge.
"This is all his fault," Umbridge grumbled.
"Whose?" Scrimgeour asked.
"Potter's!" Umbridge snapped. "He always causes things to derail into complete and utter chaos."
To be fair, she might have a point. She's a bitch, but she might have a point.
"Yes, because I'm the one who called the man's son a liar," I said. "She can't take any responsibility at all, can she, Mr. Diggory?"
"No, she can't," Amos curtly said.
"Back on track," Miranda said. "My client told you that he used a Patronus to cause the snakes on the Hogwarts express to retreat."
"Yes, although I can't help and wonder why a boy would need to learn a Patronus," Scrimgeour said.
"Well, it's after I visited Sirius while he was illegally imprisoned in Azkaban."
And just twist the knife a little bit more.
"I heard my parents, screaming, and Voldemort killing them," I said. "I never wanted to be that weak again, so I learned the Patronus spell."
"Who taught you?" Umbridge asked. "Because, Ministry educational guidelines indicate that spell is only to be taught to those who have achieved an Outstanding on their Ordinary Wizarding Level examinations."
"I taught him," Andromeda piped up. "Because, if the Dementors affected him that much, he needed to be prepared if they were ever compromised."
"The Dementors are with the Ministry," Fudge said.
"So, you can cast a Patronus Spell, Mrs. Tonks?" Marchbanks asked.
"Yes. EXPECTO PATRONUM!"
A large grizzly bear appeared. Pretty powerful, given that Andromeda was a capable witch, extremely capable.
"Yes, she's capable of one," Umbridge said. "But is Potter?"
"My client is not on trial here," Miranda said. "It's his choice whether or not he displays the Patronus Spell."
"I suggest you protect your eyes," I told them. "EXPECTO PATRONUM!"
Shock and awe followed with the Patronus, or rather Patroni, erupting out of the wand in mid-air. Needless to say, my Patroni evolved.
"Wow," Fudge gasped.
The snakes were terrified of the power that the Patroni showed. And they started to solidify in stone when my creation zoomed around the room.
"I've never seen anything like that," Marchbanks said. "Impressive."
"Yes, but the more impressive it is, the more dangerous it is. If he's capable of this kind of magic…"
"Spectacular, Mr. Potter," Amelia said, cutting Umbridge off at the pass. "And multiple forms as well."
"Is anyone going to question how an eleven year old wizard is even capable of this?"
Umbridge's statements fell on deaf ears and she just growled.
"Three, if I counted them rightly," Amelia added. "A majestic looking dragon and a phoenix of some sort, if I'm not mistaken?"
It's actually a Flamebird, but I can't be bothered to split hairs right now.
"And is that a Honey Badger?" Amos asked.
"Well, that's not magically impressive when compared to the others."
"Oh, you would be surprised," I said.
"Excuse me!" Umbridge yelled. "No eleven year old wizard should be capable of this! There's something not right about Potter!"
"No one survived the Killing Curse before," I reminded her. "And yet here we are."
"Dolores, do try and lighten up and enjoy the spectacle for once," Fudge said. "I believe that's settled. No one who could create a spectacular Patronus spell like that could be a dark wizard. Yes, yes, quite magnificent!"
"Minister, there's something not right! Potter doesn't act like any eleven year old! There's something really wrong about him! I would highly recommend he is…"
"Fudge, she's proven herself to be hostile and biased against my client," Miranda said. "And against children in general."
Amos nodded firmly in agreement. Umbridge had decided to finally give this up. For now. It was not over yet.
"Not even Dumbledore could be capable of something like that," Marchbanks said. "And those hideous creatures…they're immobile."
The cold was gone. A figure in the shadows leaned over the case and peered over them.
"Mr. Bode?" Amelia asked.
Ah, the Unspeakable who got strangled by the Devil's Snare at St. Mungos in the original timeline Interesting to see him appear from the shadows.
"I believe Mr. Potter's Patronus spell reduced them to a catatonic state," Bode said. "And an even bigger mystery than their creation in the first place."
"Is it permanent?" Scrimgeour asked.
"Time answers all mysteries," Bode said cryptically.
The rest of the questioning had gone off without a hitch, after Umbridge had been shut down and shut up. I walked off with Andromeda and Miranda.
"Everyone made it to Hogwarts," I overheard Marchbanks saying. "Mostly alright."
"Thanks to Potter."
"Yes, again."
"Thanks, Miranda," I told her. "And you as well, Andromeda."
"It wasn't any trouble at all," Andromeda said. "Watch out for Umbridge.
"If she says anything out of turn she can't prove, we can have her brought up in charges," Miranda said. "The only job she could get at the Ministry is at the Centaur Liaison office."
I hid my grin recalling all too well the last time Umbridge Liaisoned with Centaurs went. I caught Amos Diggory leaving the room.
"Mr. Diggory," I said. "Can I have a word with you?"
"Of course, anything for the hero of the day," Amos said.
"I'm interested in a house elf," I said to him.
"Well, I can ask around and see if one may be available for you to take into your family," Amos said. "Although, house elves do not last long after the lines die out. You have to move quickly to save them before they perish."
"You mean, house elves die when they don't have a family to serve?" I asked.
"Give up the will to live, as they lose their only reason for existence," Amos said. "But, I can see what I can do…"
"Actually, I'm interested in one house elf in particular," I said. "Her name is Winky. She worked for Bartemius Crouch Senior and his family."
"Oh, the Crouch elf," Amos said. "Are you sure about this, Harry? She'll be damaged goods after what happened. With the guilt that she could not protect her family's secrets."
"Your son is rather helpful to anyone who needs it, Mr. Diggory," I told him. "I was hoping you could arrange a meeting with Winky."
"Well, I did say if you needed anything," Amos said. "She's at Crouch's house. Waiting for them to come home. Once the verdict comes out, I'm afraid that she will go to pieces given how long she's served that family."
"When is the Verdict coming out?" Andromeda asked.
"Friday evening," Amos said somberly. "It doesn't look promising from what I've heard."
"I'll be able to meet with Winky, then?" I asked.
"If you think it will do any good, I will arrange you a meeting," Amos said. "Next week."
We shook hands and I went over to Andromeda and Miranda to return to Hogwarts now that the Ministry was done. Before we left, Bode viewed me with beady little eyes.
"They see you now, Harry Potter."
And as suddenly as he appeared, he was gone. Should head to Gotham City and give that guy a run for his money in a few years.
Back at Hogwarts, for the second half of my first year. I had been busy filling in Penny regarding my little side trip at the Ministry.
"The Parselmouth thing was overlooked when I showed them my Patronus," I concluded.
Daphne walked in from behind us.
"That thing's evolved quite a bit," Daphne said. "Oh, Rita's put out her article in a late night edition of the Prophet. She's talking about how stunning and brave you are for revealing your gift, despite the consequences with many students talking about how valiant and heroic you were, and all that rot. And she's talking about how you could be the one to change how people think of certain types of magic."
"Wish I knew how they got the snakes on the train without anyone noticing," I said.
"I hope they aren't going to try anything else," Penny said. "But, what about Bode?"
"Bode certainly knows there's something going on," I responded. "Not sure how I read him right now. Be careful around him."
Always are.
"Unspeakables are always shifty, and we only know a bit of what they're up to," Daphne agreed.
We entered the Great Hall, and Padma and Su rushed over to me, along with Cho and Marietta along with several others making their way over to eyeball me. After yesterday's events, I daresay I might have been even more famous.
"That was really brave of you, to put yourself out there like that," Cho said. "There's going to be people who are saying that you're the next Dark Lord."
"Which is stupid," Padma said.
"Yes, Parselmouths aren't bad," Su said. "But, why would anyone share that gift to the world because of a few bad people did?"
"And because a bunch of idiots would lynch them just for sharing a gift with those bad wizards," Penny said in disgust.
"Yes," Marietta agreed. "I mean, if I didn't know you, I might think badly of you. But, now I know you, it's not too bad."
"A lot of upper year witches are showing a lot more interest now that this news has come out," Cho said.
"Along with a few boys plotting your untimely murder," Padma said. "If the rumors about Parselmouths are true."
Well, I hated to brag. Okay, that was a complete lie.
"This is not about me though," I said. "Not this morning."
"Oh, you say that, don't you?" Lisa asked me as she popped over to get a bit of toast.
"Harry Potter and his bold announcement is all everyone's talking about," Sophie said.
"Yeah, way to steal the show from the new Headmistress and her announcement," Tracey said.
Oh, we'll see. Granted, a few people knew or at least guessed what was going on. We all sat down to eat breakfast. Several people moved over to thank me for the rescue and I just smiled gratefully.
"I hope we find out who set them loose on the train in the first place," Marietta said with a shudder. "Those things were terrible."
"Some got it worse than us," Cho said. "That second year Hufflepuff what's her name again…"
"Granger," Daphne offered icily.
"Yes, she looked like she got one of the worst," Cho said. "Not that any of us had a pleasant time and until that Patronus was released. Some got it bad though."
"Malfoy too," Daphne said. "Can't believe I would ever feel sorry for a Malfoy."
"Me either," Padma murmured.
Several students were missing from the tables. I only saw a small sample of students when running down to deal with those things so I would imagine a lot of them would be terrified.
"You've done it again," Parvati said as she edged over to the table. "And Parselmouth, eh?"
She wiggled her tongue playfully at me.
"Well, good luck, because there's going to be a lot of witches who will persist in being included," Parvati said. "Right, Padma?"
"Well, wizards with that particular skill are sought after as partners, yes," Padma evenly replied. "But, we have at least another six and a half years before we think about that?"
"So you remind me every day, Pads," Parvati said. "Guess we better hit the books harder."
The chatter died down and we had a nice long meal. McGonagall rose up to her feet and cleared her throat.
"Alright, students, settle down, I have an announcement," McGonagall said. "I have been the Acting Headmistress at this school since after Halloween when Professor Dumbledore took a leave of absence. I inform you all that Professor Dumbledore will not be returning and will in fact be enjoying a long overdue retirement."
Well, if you must put it that way, Minnie McG. Last I heard, Dumbledore was still in St. Mungos, heavily sedated. Because otherwise he would be screaming bloody murder about my childhood memories.
"I will be stepping down as Headmistress and will be lessening my responsibilities, stepping back as Deputy Headmistress and the head of Gryffindor house to focus on teaching Transfiguration. It is my honor to introduce the new Headmistress of Hogwarts, with the return of one of our esteemed founders, Rowena Ravenclaw."
Rowena flickered into the light and stood up wearing lavish sequined blue and silver robes. Everyone at Hogwarts went completely silent for a long time. It was not every day that someone returned from the dead.
For me it was Wednesday.
"Rowena lives!"
"Yes, I do," Rowena said. "Hogwarts has gone through it's share of struggles in recent years and the education of the students has suffered. However, I intend to fix these problems. There have been a few changes of staff which I would like to announce. First, let me introduce my new Deputy Headmistress and the new Muggle Studies teacher, Professor Zari Tarazi."
Zari stood up to her feet and smiled and waved at the students.
"Thank you, to Professor Ravenclaw," Zari said. "I wish to help bridge the gaps between the world I was born into and the world of magic. While, I do not have the ability to perform magic like you know, I do have many good friends who have said abilities, and I aim to translate the many wonders of the non-magical world, along with it's diversity of culture and history to you."
"Did she just say she was a Muggle?"
"A Muggle teaching in Hogwarts?" a seventh year Slytherin asked in disgust.
"And she was made the Deputy Headmistress?" another student asked.
"Starting this term, all students from magical households will be required to study Muggle Studies," Rowena said. "You will treat Professor Tarazi with the respect you would treat anyone."
Yes or they would have to answer to me. And Astra. And Kara as well. And Bellatrix, because those two bonded over the holidays over brownies. You don't do something like that and not become friends.
"Students who were first-generation magical users will be studying a sister subject, called Magical Studies, where you will be learning about the culture and the traditions of the magical world," Rowena concluded. "And to teach this subject, I am proud to introduce the extremely talented and knowledgeable, Professor Katerina Zabini."
Well, I knew Rowena found a teacher for Magical Studies, but this was interesting indeed. Kat's reputation was well known in many circles and few would dare mess with her. The stunning dark-skinned woman met my eye and winked before facing them all. The students of Hogwarts were in awe at this notorious woman.
"I am flattered that Rowena Ravenclaw chose me to help guide first-generation magical users into this world," Kat said. "I think you will all find my class very useful."
"Our previous History of Magic teacher has finally gone on…"
Everyone woke up and quite a few people exploded into cheers.
"And therefore it is my pleasure to introduce you to our new History of Magic teacher, Penerelle Flamel," Rowena announced.
Elle stood up and everyone looked in awe at the ageless witch. Daring to hope they would get a competent History of Magic teacher.
"It's an honor," Elle said. "And I hope you all will find my class interesting and educational."
"And last but certainly not least, I would like to introduce our new Potions instructor, famed Potioneer, Professor Preeti Patil."
Loud cheers came through the hall. Mostly because a new teacher met the Ministry of Magic was not going to try and force Snape back on us through the work release program. Preeti just smiled.
"It will be an honor working with the students of Hogwarts," Preeti said. "Better late than never."
"Also, our former caretaker Argus Filch has retired with a generous severance package…"
And somehow, even louder cheers because while Snape had his share of delusional fan girls every now and again, no one liked Filch.
The cheering went on for about five minutes to the point where Zari waved her arm and caused a gust of wind to blow through the Great Hall to get everyone's attention.
"Yes, no one liked that guy," Zari said.
"Our new Caretakers are Sirius Black and his assistant, Remus Lupin."
A polite applause followed for the recently pardoned Sirius Black. Fred and George cheered and hooted loudest all given they learned that Remus and Sirius were two of their inspirations over the Christmas holidays.
"And lastly, the positions of head of Slytherin and Gryffindor house have been filled, by Professor Sinistra and Professor Babbling respectively," Rowena said. "Your updated schedules and timetables to accommodate your new courses will be passed out at Breakfast and I thank you all for giving Hogwarts a chance for your magical education for…"
"ROWENA! You should have told us the students were finished with breakfast!"
Three more figures appeared behind the new Headmistress. One of them, a large broad shouldered boisterous fellow with wild hair and red and gold robes appeared. The next was a tall blonde woman with Nordic features. And the third was a slightly hunched over fellow with an apathetic expression on his face, with hands wedged in his pocket. He had been the least corporeal of the four founders, due to the state of which his artifact was in before Rowena brought him back. He had several cracks in his face.
"And my fellow founders are fashionably late as usual," Rowena said. "Godric Gryffindor. Helga Hufflepuff. And Salazar Slytherin."
"Hello everyone," Helga said in a bubbly and cheerful voice.
"STUDENTS!" Godric cheered. "Welcome! I must say, I hope you are all ready for the temptress of adventure that is Hogwarts!"
"Good evening," Salazar deadpanned.
"It's morning, Salazar," Helga said.
"Whatever, does it matter?" Salazar dryly responded.
"We would have been here earlier,had we not pulled Godric away from the Forest," Helga said. "He wanted to test his skills against a troll."
Not surprised.
"Well, I was looking for a Manticore or a Chimera, but a troll would do," Godric said. "I have to say though, I was talking with that friendly chap of a Gamekeeper. And we both agree, dragons would be quite the sight to see as mascots for Hogwarts Children still like dragons, don't they?"
"Oh, what kid doesn't want a dragon?" Hagrid asked. "I'd still like one."
"As would I!" Godric yelled.
"No," Rowena said.
"But, Rowena…"
"I said no!"
"Salazar got his B…"
"Godric, no!" Rowena yelled. "You cause enough fire damage without a dragon."
"But, I really want one!" Godric whined. "Think of the children! It could be a seventh-level Care of Magical Creatures project!"
"It would be a useful security measure against intruders," Helga admitted.
The Hogwarts Founders bickered like school children over the merits of a dragon. Well, three of them did. Salazar sat back, sighed, hands firmly in pocket.
"They need not resurrect me for this," Salazar said. "The number of failed dark wizards who are in Slytherin is too high,never mind this nonsense."
"HEM, HEM!"
Why? Did I not see enough of her last night? Dolores Umbridge and a small group of Ministry Aurors entered the Great Hall. Still a couple of security holes which Rowena needed to patch up. Dawlish, habitual loser, was one of them and there were a couple of others who were not the cream of the crop.
"Madam Umbridge," Rowena said with icy politeness "What do I owe the honor?"
"I've come to warn you that the Board of Governors will not stand for your newest staff appointments," Umbridge said. "Or your claim that you are Headmistress of Hogwarts."
"It's too bad that we're not going to stand for the Board of Governors," Rowena said. "And did they not receive my notice that they were abolished?"
They honestly did not get the hint that abolished means they were done, did they?
"Some imposter claiming to be Rowena Ravenclaw is not going to dictate the education of these children," Umbridge said.
"And you will?" Rowena asked.
"I am a Magically Certified Educational Expert and the Board of Governors have declared me the most qualified to be the new Headmistress of Hogwarts. All twelve members signed off on my appointment. I have brought these Aurors to clear you and your illegally appointed staff out of my school."
Easy, Harry. Don't blow up the Great Hall with Fiendfyre until you see how this one plays out.
"This one must be having a laugh," Godric said with a chuckle. "She thinks she can go into Hogwarts, and say she can be the new Headmistress and override the will of the founders? Such a lark!"
"You are not the Founders!" Umbridge yelled. "I don't know who you are, but I will get to the bottom of this!"
"Oh, she really is taking the mickey, isn't she?" Godric asked. "Salazar, look at this one. Is she one of yours? The cross-bred reptilian features point to something you've whipped up on a slow morning."
"Trust me, I would drown myself in the lake if I was responsible for such an abomination," Salazar dryly stated.
"Do you know who I am?" Umbridge asked
"Annoying," I chimed in.
"Potter, do understand you are skating on thin ice," Umbridge said. "As a Ministry Certified Education Expert I…"
"Big deal, I'm one too," I told her.
"No, you're not!"
"Yes, I am!"
"No, you're not!"
"Yes, I am!"
"No, you're not!"
"Yes, I am!" I shouted. "Here's my certification to prove it!"
I shoved the papers into Umbridge's face and she snarled before throwing them back at me. I took that test over the holidays. It was almost terrifying how easy it was. I believe Lockhart was one as well and the only thing genuine about him was his teeth.
Maybe.
"See, a mere child can do it," I said.
"You're not a mere child, you nasty little brat!" Umbridge yelled.
"Look, Dolores, I've seen your NEWTs," I said. "Even you were not an abomination for the eyes, you're not anywhere near remotely qualified. So, your attempts at flirting are not going to get you in my good books."
Umbridge looked outraged.
"Excuse me, excuse me," Zari said. "Hey, toad lady?"
"What?" Umbridge asked.
"At least three members of that Board have admitted to being put under the Imperius Curse and it's on record," Zari piped up. "You need ten out of twelve to get anything done due to your silly little Ministry law. Which means there is only nine members that are not compromised. Which makes your little decree legally worthless."
"You're nothing but a filthy Muggle and have no clue what you're talking about!" Umbridge yelled. "Mind your manners around your superior! And where is Bellatrix Lestrange?"
"Present, Kermit!"
Oh, I'm glad she discovered the Muppets. Really, I am. Bellatrix had been just chilling and actually behaving herself for once.
"Bellatrix Lestrange, you're to return to Azkaban," Dawlish said. "Madam Umbridge will be teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts. And all of you other unapproved teachers and these imposter founders are to leave Hogwarts or be taken into Azkaban for resisting Ministry sanctions."
"Some people really are too dumb to live, aren't they?" Bellatrix asked.
Dawlish, yes, he is.
"Come quietly, and no one needs to get hurt," Dawlish said.
"I prefer to make a lot of noise when I come!" Bellatrix sang. "Makes things more interesting!"
"Professor Lestrange is not leaving nor are any of my new teachers," Rowena said. "But, you are. You can either leave the easy way or the hard way."
"Oh, the hard way is fun!" Godric cheered.
"I know, right?' Bellatrix asked. "Wait, am I agreeing with Godric Gryffindor? I should take fifty points off Gryffindor for that!"
"I was appointed by the Board of Governors," Umbridge said. "I am the rightful Hogwarts Headmistress!"
I knew what was going to happen if Umbridge refused to comply with Rowena's suggestion. I was on the edge of my seat.
"Last warning," Rowena said. "You have sixty seconds to leave my school."
Umbridge withdrew her wand but Zari blasted her with a wind blast from the air totem to knock her on her keister. Umbridge's wand blasted off to the side and Bellatrix caught it.
"Souvenir!" Bellatrix cheered.
"Not bad for a mere Muggle," Zari smugly replied.
"Give me back my wand, you depraved b…"
Umbridge never finished her sentence because she was catapulted out of Hogwarts, screaming like mad.
The Aurors watched Umbridge's flying body hurl over the Hogwarts grounds and land somewhere in the Forbidden Forest. They turned their attention back to the four founders. Three of them smiled. Salazar looked apathetic as ever.
"This is the part where you all run away," Helga quietly said.
Never one to engage in common sense, Dawlish stepped forwards Bellatrix. His fellow Aurors held him back before he got humiliated again.
"But, Lestrange, she's…"
"Dawlish, don't be a hero!"
The Aurors ran straight out of the school and kept running to the gates as fast as their legs could carry them.
I think they got the message. I would imagine Amelia was going to give than an ass-chewing when she found out what they did. Umbridge honestly thought she was going to get away with this, the arrogant bint.
"Whatever," Salazar said. "If anyone needs me, don't bother."
"You know Rowena, a dragon would be ideal for keeping out unwanted toads," Godric said.
And so we were off again.
To Be Continued.
