[A/N: And now... "LAAAADDDIIIEESS AND GENTLEMEN! I GIVE YOU THE MUCH ANTICIPATED AND REASON FOR WHY I EVEN STARTED WRITING THIS STORY! I GIVE YOU THE FIRST ANNUAL HOGWARTS 1992 MAKERS' FAIRE!]
Sunday 26 April, 1992 First Annual Hogwarts Makers' Faire
The date for the first annual Hogwarts' Makers' Faire was locked down to Easter Sunday. The morning of the event, the weather was near perfect. Bright, clear skies with only the occasional small puffy clouds in the distance. The Hogwarts Express had been loaded with extra carriages and was quietly steaming at Platform 9 ¾ in King's Cross Station while waiting for the parents to board before heading north. Onboard would also be the Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge and his entourage and a contingent of press. The departure time was set for 8am so the guests would have more time to visit and partake in the festivities.
The school had been primped and primed from top to bottom. Everything was scrubbed and cleaned to the point where the suits of armor gleamed like new. Anything that was in need of repair was fixed or replaced, the windows were washed and new flags were hoisted. The Common Rooms and dorms were aired out and cleaned to within an inch of their proverbial lives. Argus Filch was happily busy coordinating with groups of students and the elves to make sure everything was in tip-top shape. Despite the rush to get everything done on time, there was an undercurrent of excitement. Never in living memory had something like this been attempted. Some of the more interested Ravenclaws even attempted to research through the library to see if there were any references of a faire being held in the past. They did find some records but the information was sparse.
Albus was again in a snit but that was being resoundingly ignored by more and more staff members and especially by the students. Everyone was excited and preparing to showcase the school so it made for an somewhat sporadic conversation topic as to why the headmaster would be so against it.
The evening before the Faire, the senior staff was gathered to go over last minute issues. Professor Flitwick motioned in the general direction of the headmaster's office, "I still don't see what Albus' problem is?"
"I've heard a rumor that he's tried to floo call the Minister and the Prophet telling them that the Faire had been cancelled." Commented Pomona as she rifled through her notes.
"Aye, he tried but on the invitation letter that was sent to them, there's a little note that if they have any questions to floo call me. I set them straight," sighed Minerva. "The portrait of Headmistress Eupraxia Mole informed me of Albus' plans."
Severus gave a disgusted sneer, "He's upset that nothing is going according to his plan for the 'Greater Good.'"
Minerva harrumphed at that, "Just how could holding a Makers' Faire and bringing in the public and parents be against that?"
"I think it's more the fact that he wasn't consulted or even approached for advice and approval. He's throwing a temper tantrum like a spoiled child."
They rolled their eyes and groaned at Albus' contrariness.
The Faire grounds were laid out in a relatively loose grid-like fashion though the lanes were slightly winding to give it a semi-organic feel. It had been decided to locate it in the main courtyard and the surrounding grounds. There were designated 'zones' for each of the different disciplines. The artists of the Papercraft Guild, as they liked to be referred as, drew up the maps to be handed out to the guests as they entered.
Each of the zones had two representatives to guide those who wished it. They would be responsible to describe the art displayed and answer any questions that may arise. There were food and drink stalls, the alcoholic drink stalls separated from the others by a fence and an age line. All manner of dishes were being served, each representative of the chef's family history, geographical region and personal preference.
For those who got tired of walking and just wanted a place to relax, there were plenty of little 'islands' of stone and wooden benches encircled by decorative bushes and flowers and warded to deaden the sounds of the faire slightly.
Greenhouse 1 and 2 were chosen to be a display for the easier plants, both magical and mundane, and allow the students to show off what they'd learned in class. The ghost of Sir Nicholas would handle tours of the school itself. All House Common Room guardians were instructed to open regardless who approached them.
There was even a section for the smaller children who wanted to ride or pet the friendlier animals. Hagrid had been approached by the Council and heartily agreed to bring a select number of more advanced creatures to be displayed. In addition, he and Professor Kettleburn, the Care of Magical Creatures instructor would be on hand to answer any questions.
Professor Kettleburn examined the paddock for the Mooncalves. They were currently resting inside their shelter so that gave Silvanius the opportunity to sweep out any bits of detritus from their last outing. He nodded to himself that the area looked fine before heading over to the aviary. He merely looked in through the window and spotted one of the Auguries gently swinging on its perch before he turned and headed back to the castle.
The Quidditch field tribunes were inspected and repaired as needed then given a fresh coat of paint. The magical loudspeaker was tested and tuned by Lee Jordan of Gryffindor who was going to be the announcer for the exhibition games. Madam Hooch, the school's flying instructor went through all of the available brooms and made note of which desperately needed to be scrapped. Unfortunately, that was most of them. She approached Minerva and again requested the school purchase some new ones so their guests wouldn't be in danger.
"Have you checked the storage rooms or with the elves, Rolanda?" Minerva asked.
Rolanda blinked back nonplussed, "You think they'd know?"
Minerva harrumphed, "There's very little that happens here that they don't know about. Go check with them and see what they say."
So Rolanda did check and low and behold, the elves came through. They brought out dozens of brooms from who-knew-where for inspection. Rolanda's eyes widened at the sight of some of the older brooms. 'Some of these are ancient but brand-new! This Moontrimmer is practically in mint condition and is worth a fortune.'
Hermione had spoken with Professor Sprout, the Council as well as the Head Elf for the school's complement of elves to be present within the faire and be visible as well.
"I know that they're normally invisible but I don't think that it's fair that they do all the heavy work and not be recognized." She commented during one planning session.
"We is being happy to help, young miss." The Head Elf, Rimsy, replied.
Hermione examined the elf's uniform, "Rimsy? Do all the elves wear the same sort of uniform? I mean, is there any way to differentiate between who does what?"
Rimsy glanced down at her tea towel before looking up and shaking her head, "No, miss. We is knowing which elf is responsible for what. We is not usually seen."
"What did you have in mind, Miss Granger?" Council leader Marcus Robertson of Ravenclaw asked.
Hermione shrugged a shoulder, "I don't know. How about a different colored tea towel to denote area of expertise?"
Breakfast for the denizens of the castle were a simple affair, most of the thousand or so were too busy to be eating as they were in the process of getting their shops, stalls or zones opened for the day. Those who used fire as part of their craft, such as Harry's kiln and Vincent's forge, were being tended to by a couple of assistants. The other zones who needed the feeds off of those fires, such as hot water for the leather and woodcrafters and candle makers would need to have those features ready to go when the faire opened. The cobblers were busy polishing the last of the shoes they'd planned to sell that day and making one last check to ease their minds and to give their twitchy fingers something to do.
Despite the rampant nervousness from the artists, there was laughter and joking heard throughout the grounds.
When the train steamed into the station at Hogsmeade and began unloading its passengers, the excitement and anticipation ramped up to stratospheric levels. The guests were escorted over to the horseless carriages and driven up to the entrance to the highly anticipated Makers' Faire. Muggles and magicals mixing joyfully in large numbers for the first time in centuries.
Draco located his father and mother fairly easily. 'Our blonde hair certainly makes that easy.' "Mother, Father. It's a pleasure to welcome you to the first Hogwarts Makers' Faire" he intoned pleasantly, "I have a map for each of you and I'll be your designated guide to the festivities."
Lucius quirked an eyebrow at his son. The boy's attitude was amusing to say the least, a bit pompous but still with an air of superiority. "What is your involvement with this event, Draco?"
Draco puffed up proudly, "I'm in charge of the first year planning team for Slytherin House. I'm also the one who liaisons with the other planning teams to make sure that everyone knows where they need to go and what to do in case of an emergency."
Lucius straightened proudly, "That's excellent, son."
Narcissa examined the map, "Where would you recommend that we start, Draco?"
"There's a 'Makers' Faire Introduction' seminar happening at the main tent in ten minutes. It's where the Council will introduce themselves as well as the representatives for the different zones and go over some basic rules. The rules are simple, really. 'Be nice and be courteous. Magically raised, please don't insult the muggle parents.' That sort of thing. Mr. Weasley's even got a mention in the speech. He's going to be warned not to pester the muggle parents with his questions on how things are done in their world."
Narcissa and Lucius laughed as they gestured for their son to lead the way.
As Council leader, it was up to Seventh year Ravenclaw Marcus Robertson to open the festival. He climbed up the stairs to the Welcome Platform and cast a Sonorous charm on himself.
"Welcome one and all to the first ever Hogwarts' Artists' Row 'Makers' Faire of 1992!'" The crowd cheered loudly. "I'm sure everyone here is just anxious to get out there and see what's in store for them and I promise to keep this speech short. I do want to mention a few rules to everyone. First and foremost, have fun! This faire was put together and organized primarily by your sons and daughters so please let us know if there are any problems. Second, please be courteous to each other. There are parents here from both sides of the magical divide and they may not be aware of the prevailing customs and etiquette that you may be familiar with. If that is the case, ask for clarification! We here have no problems helping you solve yours. Third, (he glanced pointedly over at Mr. Weasley who blushed profusely) please do not approach the non-magical families solely in the intent of pestering them for information about the non-magical world. If you wish to have a conversation, there are plenty of 'relaxation oases' scattered throughout. Well, those are the major points I wanted to cover. So without further ado, LET THE MAKERS' FAIRE COMMENCE!" The crowd cheered one more time before dispersing through the gate.
Dan and Emma Granger were enjoying themselves immensely. This was Emma's first time to the school so her head was on a constant swivel trying to take it all in. The sights, smells and sounds were at times both confusing and exciting. Nearly everything she thought she recognized had some elements of magic in it, which made even the mundane act of trash collection interesting. The garbage cans, once filled were magically emptied without even being touched!
They and Hermione met up at the entrance; Hermione launched into her now usual 'Hermione-babble' greeting and hugs. She handed her parents a map and began explaining at high speed all the things that she wanted to show them.
"One thing I'm really excited for is I'll finally be able to show you what kinds of magic I've been learning, mum. I'm taking part in the Dueling competition and the First Year Spell Demonstration Team."
Emma slung her arm around her daughter and smiled happily. Dan took his wife's hand as their exuberant daughter dragged them into the faire.
The biggest surprise of all, for Harry at least, was the appearance of the Dursleys. All three were there; Petunia was nearly in tears when she stepped onto the grounds. Harry ran up to them and was enveloped in a strong hug by his aunt.
"I didn't know that you were going to be here! Why didn't you tell me?" he exclaimed.
Vernon grinned as he clapped Harry on the shoulder, "Wanted to surprise you. It was a near thing; the surprise nearly got ruined. Your aunt almost wrote to you in our last letter. I spotted it and stopped her."
Harry was nearly swooning in giddiness, "I have so much to show you! I'm in charge of the Pottery Zone as well as a general representative of the whole faire."
Vernon nodded as he looked around, "So what sort of crafts do you have here, Harry?"
Harry listed them as he ticked them off his fingers, "My section, obviously. Then there's the blacksmithing/weapons area, cobblers, leather goods, jewelry making, glass making, clothier and hats, wood crafts, stone crafts, textiles and candle makers, and finally the painting crafts like portraits and whatnot."
"On top of that, we have a couple of theater tents set up for both live actors and puppet shows. When you get hungry or thirsty, there is various food and drink stalls scattered throughout. Dudley, keep in mind that there will be alcoholic drinks served but you won't be able to get to them due to some security enchantments, so please don't try."
"What sort of activities will there be," Petunia inquired, "Will we be able to see you perform magic?" Harry nodded, "I can perform just about anything I want to here. No restrictions other than the nastier sort."
"Nas-nastier sort?"
Harry tilted his head in affirmation, "Yeah, there are some cutting spells that could be considered 'dark' depending on who or what they're used on."
He partially turned to Dudley to include him, "There will be plenty of activities to both witness and participate in. There's an exhibition Quidditch game going to be held later between two teams of students of each House. There'll also be broom rides available to anyone who wants to try it." Both Dudley and Vernon perked up at the sound of that. "There's an area set up for archery and axe throwing, magical dueling, animal rides and petting zoo for the smaller children, face painting, and jesters will be circulating throughout the faire. I will be hosting a pottery do-it-yourself crafting table in my zone later in the afternoon."
"Dudley, you'd probably be interested to hear that they'll be having an eating contest just before lunchtime. I don't know what they'll be serving for the contest but it should be fine."
The Makers' Faire was a huge success in terms of excitement; the sharing of knowledge of skills, crafts, and public relations. The press corps roamed through the crowds, interviewing various parents, shopkeepers and students. All were positive of their surroundings and experiences. There were a couple of minor incidents of ruffled feathers when the parents from the darker families were disgusted that they were being forced to mingle with the muggleborns and their parents but each problem was dealt with quickly and quietly. The DMLE was onsite to deal with anything big that might arise but for the most part they were just handling perimeter security.
Amelia managed to take enough time out of her busy schedule to wander the grounds with her niece, Susan. The bubbly first year was listing off everything that the faire had to offer that wasn't mentioned during Marcus' speech or in the advertising flyer as only an eleven-year-old girl could do. It was said very fast and all at once. Amelia could only nod at random intervals since she could barely get a word in edgewise. She was pleasantly surprised at how outgoing Susan was, since she was rather shy when not paired up with her best friend, Hannah Abbott.
Neville had convinced his grandmother to attend saying that some of the biggest names in magical Britain were supposed to be there. As the two walked around, he managed to convince her to sample some of the foods that were available at a special kiosk in the entranceway to the stretch of food tents. This kiosk had been set up with the sole purpose of assisting those who wished to try some of the more 'exotic' dishes without wasting their money if it didn't agree with them later. Maps and a pair of knowledgeable students were there to guide guests to the designated location of the proper tent of choice.
Augusta's look of surprise when she sampled a mini macaroni cheese pie made Neville smirk. When she inquired why he was smirking, he replied that it was his tent that was serving the dish!
"Neville? You cook?"
Neville bobbled his head and waggled his hand, "Some. I was introduced to the pies back in September and have been trying my hand at making them as well. I add a dash of smoked paprika and dried chili powder to the pies to give it that subtle smoky flavor."
Augusta could only shake her head slowly in disbelief as she allowed herself to be led over to Neville's tent.
In addition to what the students and staff put together, there were also shops and stalls from the townspeople of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. The Goblins had been invited to demonstrate and offer information to what sort of services Gringott's could offer as well as set up a portable branch outlet to handle the exchange of muggle currency to Galleons. Riptooth mentioned to Harry later that never in recent memory had the interactions between the magical population and the muggle parents been so good.
Petunia finally got her lifetime wish to enter the castle and stayed within as much as possible. She was introduced to Minerva McGonagall and the two women bonded over their love of Lily Potter nee Evans. Petunia was even allowed to enter Gryffindor Tower so she could see how Lily would've lived whilst in school. Tears were abundant during that time…
Vernon and Dudley loved the broom rides, the magical dueling competitions as well as the various foods and drink stalls. Vernon got to experience firewhiskey for the first time and began to ask around as to how he could purchase some for home. He had to sign a waiver not to share it with any muggle not in the know about the magical world but he managed to procure a couple of bottles and arranged to have them delivered to his home.
Dudley fell in love with Butterbeer and begged his father to allow him to purchase a six-pack to take home. He received a promise to get some before they left that day. Over at the animal exhibitions, he was entranced with some of the creatures that he'd read in one of Harry's books back in August. He nearly lost his watch to a Niffler but managed to grab it away from the kleptomaniac critter at the last moment.
When the Quidditch games were held, both found themselves utterly captivated by the speed and aerial acrobatics that took place. They made it on time to watch the Gryffindor versus Slytherin game and had with them a short booklet that outlined the rules of the game as well as hints and pointers for which team member played what position and what the names of the equipment was. Vernon commented to the fellow next to him that he fervently wished that he could share this with the chaps back home.
As it turned out, it was Lucius Malfoy whom Vernon was seated next to. Lucius merely nodded and turned back to continue watching the game. The stray thought that if someone had told him a month ago he'd be sitting next to a muggle whilst enjoying a Quidditch game and cheering on the same team, he'd think they'd been nipping at the cooking sherry a bit hard.
The Dursleys caught up with Harry after the game and congratulated him and his fellow artists on an absolute wonderful job.
"This was so much fun, Harry! I got to see and do everything I'd ever dreamt of." Dudley gushed, "I got to ride a broom, I got a wizard's hat and…" he began rambling off the list of everything he'd done or gotten. Harry just smiled happily at his cousin's exuberance.
Vernon sat down next to him and put his arm around his nephew's shoulders, "Seriously, Harry. This was a fantastic time. I can't remember when I've been somewhere, if you pardon the pun, magical. It's too bad that I can't tell my friends about what we've experienced here. That Quidditch game was intense! I doubt I'd ever had that much fun watching football at a stadium. I'd love to figure out a way to bring it to the non-magical side without running afoul of your government."
Petunia agreed with her husband, "Now I understand why Lily seemed to drift away from our family as she got older. If you can't share what you've learned with your family, then you tend to stay with those you can. It's been very cathartic to finally be here and experience it. How are you holding up?" She noticed his lagging energy.
Harry waved her off concerns gently, "I'm getting a bit hungry and tired but overall I'm having a blast. It's tough trying to coordinate with the others all the while keeping track of what's going on here."
Severus surprised everyone that had ever met and worked with the man. He set up his own zone where he would brew various potions, elixirs, salves and other things that he taught the students in their respective years. He even had an area cordoned off where anyone who wanted to try his or her hands at the simpler potions could attempt it. Petunia did the best of the three Dursleys. She approached the Potions Master afterwards.
"Mr. Snape, I'm not sure if you remember me?" Severus nodded and replied that he did, "Right, I wanted to apologize for the things I've said about you when we were younger. I-I was jealous of yours and Lily's ability and bitter that I'd never have the opportunity to learn alongside you both. Now that this has happened, I just wanted to say 'I'm sorry.'"
Severus' face was impassive as he listened. He finally broke out of it and responded, "Petunia, I accept your apology and I also wish to apologize for anything that occurred between us. Your nephew has been an absolute joy to teach and I compliment you on the fine job you did in raising him. He's just like Lily; he inspires others without even trying. All of this, this faire and other things that's happened this past year has been because of him."
The only person in the entire school who wasn't having a good time was Albus. He put in the obligatory meet and greet with the Minister and press before leaving and sequestering himself in his office, brooding moodily at how things had transpired without his input and wisdom being solicited! 'I should've been in on the planning from the first moment! This is my school, my castle; my knowledge and wisdom should've been consulted! There are too many outside influences here to contain. Why won't people listen to me? After all I've done for our world, they just toss me aside…'
Little did he know that his ruminating and plotting on how to wrest control back from those 'evil outside influences,' he was being monitored by the portraits of the past headmasters and headmistresses. They would report anything important to a new boss…
At Potter's Place…
Harry was in his element. He was busy running back and forth between the sales counter and displays, the crafting tables and answering all questions sent his way. Additionally, he was fielding reports of things that needed dealing with throughout the rest of the faire. Draco was there as well as a couple from the other zones.
"Harry, we're running low on chairs for the amphitheater," a fourth year Slytherin girl mentioned as she consulted a clipboard.
Harry thought for a moment, "I thought the amphitheater was stepped? Are all the steps filled?" The Slytherin nodded to both. "Okay, have the elves transfigure some rocks into chairs." The girl nodded in acceptance as she made a notation on her clipboard before leaving. A second year Gryffindor stepped up next, held out an order form and requested the elves bring out the extra feed stored for the animal pens. Harry signed the form and moved over to where a muggle parent had requested help on how to shape a slab of clay into a pattern he'd seen in one of the books.
Once that was done, Draco made himself known, "Harry? My parents wanted to ask if there was anything you needed help with?"
Harry looked rather surprised, "Are they getting bored or something?"
Draco kind of bobbled his head, "Sort of. Mother isn't too interested in the culinary section and doesn't want anything to do with the animals. She's mentioned that the craft zones are interesting but I think she just wants to hide herself away in the library."
"And your father?"
"He's like me; he prefers to get in the thick of things in regards to organizing and execution."
Harry shook his head and thought for a moment, "Have them get in contact with the Council. See what they say?" Draco cocked his finger at him and left.
Harry caught sight of the Weasley family as they wandered through the various shops. He waved to get the twins' attention and when they slowed down long enough to allow him to join the gaggle of redheads, he asked how everyone was faring.
"It's been wonderful, Harrykins," commented Twin One.
"Indeed, brother of mine." Replied Twin Two.
Harry was introduced to the rest of the Weasley contingent though his interaction with their little sister amounted to nothing more than an embarrassed squeak and a profuse blush from her as she hid behind her father. Eyeing the twins curiously, they quietly remarked that she had a bit of a crush on him, being the whole 'Boy-Who-Lived' and all. Harry rolled his eyes and groaned before stating loud enough for them all to hear that he wasn't anything like was written in those silly children's books and that if 'someone' wanted to know more about the real Harry Potter, to swing by Potter's Place and ask. Twin One smirked and patted him on the shoulder in quiet congratulations.
Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were interested in how Harry was able to get along with the twins over their youngest son, Ronald.
"It's simple, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley. Ron's jealous of anyone not showing him the slightest bit of attention and if said person got something without sharing with him, he got belligerent and rude. He's repeatedly insulted my girlfriend every time she offered to assist him with his wandwork and studies. He thinks I'm 'too good and bloody arrogant' to hang out with him. He is never seen studying and barely pays attention in his classes."
Both Weasley adults were flabbergasted at the failings of their youngest son! "But…but, he's such a sweet boy at home." Mrs. Weasley stammered."
Harry could only shrug and open his arms wide in a defeatist position, "I don't know what else to tell you. His 'greatest claim to fame' to date is being able to fit an entire sausage roll into his mouth without choking." Mrs. Weasley's face greened a bit before turning purplish in anger.
He turned to the twins, "Where is he anyways?"
Percy spoke up instead, "He's over at the tent where they'll be holding the eating contest soon." The others weren't surprised and just a little bit disgusted.
"Percy? I've been wanting to ask you," Harry began after a pause in the conversation, "When you graduate, what do you want to do?"
Percy thought about the answer for a moment, "Probably go work in the Ministry like my father though probably in a different department. Why?"
"Well, I've heard that you have a memory like a steel trap. Is it true that you memorized the school's charter and student/staff rulebook?"
Percy nodded so Harry asked him some questions that he'd memorized for this very conversation. To his credit, Percy stated the relevant rule or section within the page and also gave opinions as to why said rule was created. When Harry finished testing him, Percy asked what was so fascinating about his ability.
"It's just that with that talent of yours being able to memorize obscure facts and precedents as well as knowing where to look to obtain said information, I think it'd be the greatest waste if you were to end up as some flunky for some stuffed shirt who had you running endless and thankless chores just to pass the day."
Mr. Weasley joined in the conversation, "What department would you suggest then?"
Harry pursed his lips and thought about it, "What about the legal department? All that case law, statutes and such? You'd be worth your weight in gold as a paralegal, you know, someone who helped prepare the solicitor for the upcoming case? At least you would in the non-magical world."
The look on Percy's face was priceless…
Later in the day…
Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge, was enjoying himself immensely. Here was proof of all that the magical world had to offer. It was, in his opinion, a public relations bonanza! He ambled his way down the thoroughfares, examining everything, buying a few trinkets and generally just pleased with how everything was turning out. 'If this is what can happen when the students get organized, imagine what could be possible if his Administration got involved!'
The only darkened aspect was the sour attitude displayed by Albus. Oh, sure the man did come out and shake a few hands and officially opened the event but it was clear to Cornelius that the old codger was in a royal snit and it wasn't difficult to suss out why. 'I can't believe he'd be so petty as to be jealous of the efforts of the students and the townspeople! Sad.' He shook himself to dispel the melancholy that built up and sought out the organizers.
He found Harry just as the boy flopped down into his chair to take a much-needed break.
"Ah, Mr. Potter! I hope I'm not disturbing you?" Harry sighed and shook his head as he gestured to an empty chair. "Thank you, young man. So, I hear that this whole Faire was the result of your idea. I must say that I'm impressed!"
Harry smiled tiredly, "Thank you, Minister. It's been a long, hard journey but I think it's paying off in spades. It's amazing really. All of this started because I was looking for a space to put up a simple shed out back to continue working on my pottery. I had no idea it would grow to encompass all of this interest."
Cornelius was surprised, "Really?"
Harry gave a single nod, "Yup. I mentioned it before to various people but I think it was because so many students and the staff were practically starved for some kind of creative outlet. It makes me wonder why the headmaster never allowed it to happen before? You'd think that he'd be more than willing to let others express themselves through art."
Cornelius sat back as he pondered that, "It does seem suspect as to his motives…"
Harry gestured with a hand, "Right? I like to give folks the benefit of the doubt but my interactions with the man haven't been the greatest during this year."
"Oh?"
Harry told him about the instances where Dumbledore's actions seemed…off, starting with the Cerberus that was being held on the third floor corridor to the Mirror of Erised in an abandoned classroom where anyone could've come across it. Finally, there was the still lacking of a qualified professor for the Defense class. He mentioned that Director Bones was kind enough to station an Auror on disability leave to cover the classes but someone really ought to try and find a teacher to fill in for the man.
"I heard a rumor that the position is cursed. I don't know the details but it would seem to me that perhaps the rumor ought to be investigated then dealt with. I find it difficult to believe that after all this time of having said 'curse' in place, no one has tried to lock it down and eliminate it."
Cornelius pulled out a piece of parchment and quill to make a note of it before gesturing Harry to continue.
"Then there are the constant headaches I would get whenever I had to be in his presence. I don't know what causes them only that they'd only happen when he would be staring at my face."
The Minister was stunned! That description sounded like Albus was performing illegal Legilimency on an underage student!
"Thank you for telling me this, Mr. Potter. I'll be sure to inform the necessary people. So, on another topic! If you had the opportunity, what kinds of changes would you want to have happen here?"
Harry leant back in his chair as he thought about that before speaking, "Well, first and foremost would be the restart of a formal Arts program. Bring in professionals to teach us how to make art. Those of us in our various zones are fairly knowledgeable but for the general population? There's only so much we can do, you know?"
At dinner, Harry joined the Dursleys at a stall that was serving a traditional Irish stew and paired it with a helping of bacon and cabbage and a bottle of Butterbeer. Vernon had a roast dinner complete with all the trimmings and a pint of a student made craft beer. Petunia went with a lighter selection of a grilled chicken garden salad with light vinaigrette dressing. Dudley was busy chowing down through a plate of fish and chips.
Sighing as he finished swallowing a bite of his food, Harry said, "It feels so good to be sitting down and not being pelted with requests."
"Pass me that napkin would you, Harry?" Vernon teased with a sparkle in his eye. Harry groaned and whapped him on the arm with it.
Hermione and her parents showed up not too much later and Harry invited them to join their table. Harry made the introductions on his side while Hermione made the ones for hers.
Dan was intrigued on hearing that Vernon's company made drills, "Are they just industrial drills or do you produce medical grade?"
Vernon wiped his mouth before replying that they made all grade levels, "Let me get your contact information and I can send you some brochures, if you're interested?" Hermione transfigured a napkin into a piece of paper and produced a pen that she handed over. Dan proudly accepted them both and grinned at his daughter's ease of magic use.
"So what's been your favorite part of the Faire, Mr. and Mrs. Granger?" Harry asked.
Emma described her experience happily, "I'd have to say…everything! How can I possibly choose one thing out of it all? I've met so many interesting people and the magical creatures that live here at the castle. There's this one tiny being, I think it was introduced as an…elf?" Hermione nodded at her mother's question. "An elf, then. Very polite and eager to please. They're so adorable! Then there were the greenhouses where Hermione here showed me some of the fascinating magical plants that are used in their potions lessons."
Dan picked up at that point, "Even though I've been here before, it's not been to this level of inclusion. My favorite parts have been things like the blacksmithing area and your pottery, Harry. That Vincent Crabbe is a talented young man! To watch him sculpt metal into a delicate filigree is just astounding. Are you sure he's only eleven?" Harry laughed and nodded. "Then there were the cobblers who produced some of the finest shoes outside of Saville Row."
"Did you get anything from the shops, sir?" Dudley asked of Dan.
The older man nodded, "Yup. I picked up a gorgeous pair of boots made from dragonhide. Dragonhide, I tell you! The quality is far superior to regular cow leather in my opinion." He picked up the bag that contained the boots and showed them off to the Dursleys.
"I was surprised that another blacksmith was producing weapons to be sold. I thought there were laws against ownership of such things?" Vernon remarked.
Hermione interjected that in the magical world, things were different. "The likelihood of a duel or some form of combat is a fairly regular occurrence. The social construct here seems to have stalled out at the Victorian era." She replied knowledgeably.
The Makers' Faire ended with a serenade by the Frog Choir led by Professor Flitwick followed by a stupendous display of fireworks. The parents, staff, townspeople and especially the students were exhausted but utterly thrilled and satisfied with the results of the faire.
Harry had flopped down on the heater bench inside Potter's Place and groaned as his body protested the sudden change in orientation, "I think I'm going to sleep here tonight. I just don't have the energy to get up." Hermione, Neville and Draco giggled from where they were sitting; both boys were each drinking a bottle of Butterbeer while Hermione, a cup of hot tea.
[A/N2: Well, there you go! I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed researching and writing it. Please leave a review or a suggestion. Thanks!]