I was unfortunately delayed by a back injury. First the pain was bad enough I couldn't sit at my desk. Then I broke down and went to see the doctor. I felt better after that, but I was so high I couldn't sit at my desk (and didn't care!)
So I'm back now- I stopped this at 10k. Next chapter we'll have everyone meet Ronnie. And Sirius' trial.
I received some feedback that I want to comment on. - Please remember - if you leave a comment as a guest- then I will not be able to answer you.
Some thought that I was being unnecessarily hard on Percy. I don't think so. First of all in every story there has to be enough of a variety of characters to keep the stories different. If I portrayed everyone as JK did, then I might as well just tell you to reread her books. Percy in this story is very much like his brother Ron. But he is much smarter than Ron and is overly fond of rules and regulations. He up to the point the prank was played on him, only concerned with himself. Now he is though a unique method being forced to look at things differently.
Also some were surprised the Witch's council was done in the nude. There are no sexual overtones there- at all - clothing is a type of armor and removing the armor is a way of "baring one's soul." The leading Percy/Priss around by his penis is as stated just showing dominance. I have no plans currently to do anymore scenes in that vein, but I will not entirely rule it out either.
Finally- thank you all- I'm enjoying writing this and learning as I go. Please continue to share your thoughts with me- whether you agree or vehemently disagree.
b.
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Astoria followed her nose. She had been invited by the voice. She was told go to the second floor, the back corridor and follow your nose. She thought it a prank at first. The Weasley's weren't the only jokesters in the castle. Then she heard voices. Slowing down, she took out her wand and moved slowly. Tory knew her sister thought that she had nothing but disdain for the triads and their work ethic. The truth was she was in awe of them. And very jealous of the way they all interacted and she felt left out. No matter how many times Neville tried to involve her in their lives. He was stealing her sister.
"I see you made it." Patty Boyle Seventh year Slytherin welcomed. "See, there are plenty of others here that are as fed up with Potter and Longbottom. Blood traitors, mudbloods, and half-bloods, the lot of 'em."
"Aren't you afraid of the castle telling them?"
Several snorted. "Nah. Like I told you, no one has heard the castle. Just them saying it. Plus there are ways of ensuring privacy." The pretty blonde Slytherin pointed to the corners of the expanded room.
Astoria saw where runes had been carved. The runes glowed with an unnatural blue light. Continuing her examination, she saw every house represented as well as plenty of people from the other schools as well. She spied Bruno sitting being tended to by an elf as he ate from a large plate of food. He had been released from the hospital for over a week. Talk said he had nearly died. He looked fine now though. There were wild rumors in the snake pit that Bruno had told everyone that Potter had secretly helped his bond mate and the house of Bruno was going to move against Potter for the affront.
"Grab a seat. I can hear your stomach rumbling from over here." Boyle still wore her used car sebaceous smile. "We have plenty of food and we are served like the masters and mistresses we are. Dumbledore is too soft on his elves. We are the pinnacle of evolution. Everyone should serve us!" Her eyes held the light of a true believer as she spoke with fervor.
There were plenty of happy voices joking around. As a half dozen beleaguered house elves "popped" around trying to serve anyone before being beaten too severely. They were dressed in filthy rags and pillow cases. One filthy recently beaten elf was only dressed in a loin cloth. Just looking at him made her want to cry.
Patty poured some wine into a crystal goblet for the little girl. "So tell me," she began conversationally. "Where did your sister go this past weekend?"
Distracted by the rich food, the carnival atmosphere, and her first taste of the sweet wine, the little girl didn't realize she was being pumped for information.
"Probably Potter Manor, they've been trying to spend time there. I know that's where Harry went when he was hurt last week."
"Really? How did Potter get hurt?"
Suddenly embarrassed, as people stopped talking to listen to her. She didn't want to be the center of attention. "I'm not sure. Something about giants."
The wine was very sweet. Mom and Daddy never let her have more than one glass and this glass didn't seem to empty and she was suddenly very thirsty, not that she noticed. The rich food after several meals of soup and sandwiches, all made her very sleepy. She woke hours later in her bed with a bad headache.
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Once more Daphne left her with silent tears, her little sister was mad at her again. She missed her and didn't know how to breach the expanding gulf between them.
Astoria was aghast. She couldn't remember anything after eating and drinking. Since she was old enough to listen, her mother had insisted that she never lose control of herself. She had heard all of the stories and her mother was most insistent that she adheres to her instructions. She remembered the details of several blood feuds all started in furor over a woman's purity. Bride price's or dowry's changing because of it. Astoria just hugged her knees and cried.
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Elizabeth the Second rubbed her tired eyes. She had for many years tried her level best to promote equity. No matter how hard she tried there was always an aggrieved party. Someone was always going to be unhappy, no matter what she did. She learned a long time ago not to worry overmuch about injured feelings though. As long as she knew she had done her level best to ameliorate issues, then she was able to move on.
She wasn't sure she had done her best, well over a decade ago, when a peer of the realm was left in the hands of abusers. The fact that she didn't know anything about him being a peer was beside the point. That was no excuse. She vaguely remembered hearing about a baby surviving a tragedy to the rest of the family and being raised by relatives. Somehow that baby had been instrumental in resolving an insurrection.
"If I understand you correctly. Once more this group raises their head, and once more this baby, ... now a young man acts to save us."
"That's right mum. He, along with his friend and their betrothed responded to save my family and me last week. Introduced me to the Goblin Ambassador, and offered themselves as surety, and then they offered 'their wands' to resolve the current situation.
She placed her glasses back on and took another sip of her tea. "I've dealt with the Goblins before. Warrior bankers if I remember correctly. They can be very testy. I also remember the last time these terrorists ran about. We had thought them defeated the last time."
"Apparently not. The leader of the terrorists, one Voldemort was not destroyed as everyone thought, he is some kind of ghost and is now gathering resources."
"And this," she paused to read the notes again. "Potter and Longbottom are going to stop him?"
John Major had a good working relationship with her majesty. Although she and Thatcher butted heads frequently, they respected each other. He inherited and did his best to keep the same working relationship. He knew what he was going to say next was going to upset her, but weary is the head... and all of that. "Yes, Mum. According to the Minister OF Magic Fudge. One of them is fated to finally defeat him."
"That is Minister For Magic!"
He nodded. He had mentioned that to him. And a second time when the title came up again. But Fudge had given him a "You're just a helpless muggle way beyond your depth" look and soldiered on. "Interestingly enough, both of the young men in question felt that Dumbledore, he is their headmaster, as well as several other positions of authority in their community, and to a lesser extent, Fudge was as big of a threat as Voldemort."
"Indeed? I had met him once many years ago. As I remember he was very... colorful. It made an impression."
John nodded, and more to himself but was overheard answered, "That may be one reason he does it."
"Apparently," he continued. "He is according to the group, doing his level best to keep the wizarding world in the 19th century."
"You mean the 20th century, don't you?"
"No mum. The 19th. The average wizard has no idea the technology the rest of humanity has and looks down on the rest of us. He has a large following in that world so the dichotomy between their world and ours grows larger every day."
"Very interesting." She motioned to her social secretary who was at her hip in a moment's time. "We wish to meet these lords. I believe the best time will be during the Easter holiday." She looked into her calendar as both Mr. Major and Marjorie her social secretary made notes of their own. We will be at Balmoral by then will we not?"
"Yes, mum," the well dressed middle aged lady answered.
"Did you wish to include the fiancé's and their families?" They each have two."
She looked over the top of her glasses. "Two?"
"Yes, apparently it's a magic thing."
"Oh, this shall be exciting. We shall have them stay in Craigowan Lodge." She smiled for the first time today, amused at her next thought. "The more the merrier. Charles will be so jealous, Di will be beside herself, and Harry, William, and Charles will be begging me to find a way to make it legal for them as well."
By the next week, she would know everything she needed to. Including whether the titles were extant or attainted she thought as she made some notes in her journal.
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Albus Dumbledore was pleased. He cared not that his school reneged on the carefully crafted contracts. The lack of quick resolution to this incident would further impede relations between the English and the rest of the European community. Which was one of the stated reasons for reintroducing the Triwizard Tourney. He also cared not whether the bellies of the children were underfed. The headmaster of Durmstang being a death eater even furthered his plans. Everything he did was for the greater good after all.
No Albus was happy because the children were ready to revolt. All it was going to take is one more little push, and a word would be said, then a spell cast, then someone getting seriously hurt. And he didn't care who. All were pawns in his game and all expendable. Even if one of the two knights got injured or worse, ... he still had a spare. If it was one of the bond mates, better still. The little sluts were worthless to him. Anyone of the four could die. He would publically shed many a tear but privately exalt in another step forward. The fact that either or both of the two knights would become unhinged at the loss was immaterial. Just point the weapon in the right direction and let everything play out. The two remaining bond mates could remain alive for months, or even years before descending into madness and then death. Leaving Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore once more the pinnacle of magicals everywhere. And then he would oh so gently explain why the half-bloods and mudbloods just had to keep their place. He would once more be their savior! Then certain things would be said, and they would pray to him even before he died. Let Merlin top that! His eyes glazed over as he reveled in the fantasy.
It was breakfast and once more the schools were gathered to eat whatever was left. The elves worked hard at finding food. More than one wrung their ears and hands in frustration at the lack of food for their charges. They searched far and wide for nuts and berries, but it had been a cold hard winter and most of everything was gone. A few had even pilfered some food, they of course had immediately punished themselves. They knew better to tell Bossman he would have to inform Professor Beardman Goatface, and that could earn them clothes.
The six came down together. The grumbling at their presence growing daily. The few people brave enough to speak in their defense pointed out they ate the same as everyone else.
However the detractors, and there were always detractors. Pointed out that they could afford pizza every night. Everyone glossed over the dinner the other night. When the Hogwarts elves delivered a huge amount of pizzas to everyone. But even those willing to defend Potter and Longbottom had to stop before the grumbling and growling children grew angrier. There was no need to poke the wasp's nest.
Harry was disgusted. These people didn't know the meaning of hungry. The Dursley's sometimes went a week before feeding him. And then he had to thank his uncle profusely or it would be another week before he ate. No these kids weren't starving. They were hungry, but not starving. They had food, just not as much or the variety that they wanted. No, the magical world had lost its appeal. If he had his way he would forgo it altogether. But his mates and his friends were a part of it and deserved his support even if he wasn't quite as gallant about it as he might have been.
The doors of the main hall had been closed at the headmaster's direction. His reasoning was the sound would be kept in and the angry muttering would echo causing even more discontent.
He kept his smile even as the doors were thrown open. Just the sight of the people in the group had him realizing that one of his ploys was ending. He was content, however, it had been so easy and caused so much ...mischief. Raising his star and tweaking the noses of the upstart lordlings.
He stood up. "Welcome. Welcome, all. I see Matron Longbottom, Madam Bones, Lord Brown. and many other distinguished guests. What can Hogwarts do for you today?"
Madam Bones took it upon herself to answer. "Headmaster. The houses associated with Potter, Longbottom, Davis, Greengrass, Lovegood, and Black have brought enough foodstuffs for at least three days. Even now our elves along with Hogwarts are preparing breakfast and it should be ready in a few short minutes."
This was met with a loud roar of approval, as almost everyone, including the six, rose and applauded.
She let the commotion die before continuing, "Following breakfast, we will need to have a meeting with Lords Potter and Longbottom and their ladies. As well as all of our children."
He looked apologetic, "Oh. I'm afraid we all have classes. We having been missing many of those of late so I'm afraid we'll have to reschedule that meeting." He knew that delay most likely wouldn't work, but it didn't cost anything to try.
"You don't get it do you, Albus? We are not asking for permission. This is critical house business. If you refuse us hospitality, then we will all take our children out of school and return them when we are through."
"Of course Paulus. Please calm yourself. Hogwarts will be happy to accommodate you, Lord Brown. I'm sure there is a classroom or two large enough."
"One room Albus," Augusta punctuated with an upraised finger in case he was suddenly deaf.
"Yes, we'll get the elves right on that. Why don't you join us here at the head table? We can lengthen it to accommodate all."
"We spoke of this," Amelia was once more the spokeswoman. "We don't get enough time with our children as it is. Thank you, but we'll all be sitting with our heirs."
The cheer from that information drew almost as much applause as the announcement of the breakfast.
There were a lot of happy faces as breakfast ended. The elves long used to working quickly had the food appearing almost as fast as the kids took it and devoured it. There was plenty for all, even the fruits and pastries favored by the Continentals. The heavy English breakfast still unpalatable for most.
The headmaster was happy to lead them to a large space on the second floor. The kids vaguely remembered it being just another unused classroom, but the wonderful Hogwarts elves quickly repurposed it.
"Thank you, Headmaster," Madam Bones said outside of the classroom. "I think we can take it from here."
Putting on his most obsequious manner, "I would like to offer my assistance in the resolution of this matter. Lords Potter and Longbottom are still very young and could benefit from my years of expertise."
"Thank you, Headmaster. We'll muddle through without you," Neville couldn't hide the smirk from his face. While Harry looked at the aged man with disdain.
"The kids have been doing fine without your assistance Albus. Thank you for showing us the room and your offer, but this is for allied houses only."
He really didn't think he would get an invite. But he did want to get his wand inside the door, which he just managed to do before it closed on him.
Everyone took their seats. They had divided themselves into two camps. Neville and Harry sitting in the middle of a long table with Hermione and Luna to Harry's right and Tracey and Daphne to Neville's left. The rest of the adults spread out down the table. Harry did a quick head count. There was a total of 18 adults sitting across from them. Some of them obviously together, for example, Lord and Lady Patil sat together. On the other side of the table, Madam Bones sat next to Lord Brown, and then Lord Perks with his wife and Lord and Lady Patil. The children were all in seats more or less behind their parents. There were few smiling faces in the room.
"Are we all here?" Bones asked not really expecting an answer. "Then why don't we begin?"
"Hold a minute Madam," Daphne said standing and pulling her wand. "We need to secure the room." She then raised her voice and looked at some of the students sitting in the chairs. "What's said in this room is private and not to be shared with others." Her gaze made it plain who she referred to. She and Hermione began to cast charm after charm sealing the room from prying eyes and ears.
Seeing the charms they were using Madam Bones added a couple of her own. "Good idea. There are some that are much too interested in our affairs. Finishing she once more resumed her seat. "Are we ready then?" Expecting her question to be rhetorical.
"A moment madam," Harry answered opening his eyes. He had been meditating since walking in here. The sight of so many that had assaulted his girls had him edgy. "There's one more thing that needs to be done." He spoke to the air, "Dobby!"
The elf "popped" in wearing his uniform.
"Whats cans I doos for the great Lord Harry Potter!"
Dobby's enthusiasm always brought a smile to his face. "Dobby please seal the room from house elf spying."
Bones' monocle dropped in surprise. She had never even considered such a thing.
"There already bees an elf hidey hiding here."
Several conversations broke out in surprise. "Do you need me to call another elf to help?"
Dobby's smile was an indulgent one, like a parent for a favorite, but dim child. "No. I bees Dobby Potter. Just one moment Master Harry." There was plenty of rustling and "snaps" and a "crack" or two. Dobby reappeared with a thoroughly disheveled and contrite looking elf. "This be Titus. He be elf to Goatman Beardface."
Harry spoke to the frightened elf. "Tell your master that I will ignore his affront this time."
"Thank you, Dobby. Seal the room after you get him out."
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The two sides sat and faced one another. The girls had made it plain, the guys would obviously have to talk but they were to let the ladies do most of it. This wasn't something that was arbitrarily decided by them, but as with everything else discussed as a group. Whether this was a by-product of the bonds, or just a "guy" thing. (They theorized it was both most likely.) But both Neville and Harry were having an increasingly difficult time of keeping their composure. The longer they felt the girls were in danger, the angrier they became. Since they didn't have a target they could physically attack, the guys remained frustrated.
Amelia had just opened her mouth to start when Harry beat her to the punch. He stood and growled, "You are here to observe. Be silent!" His ire was directed to both Lavender and Parvati. Since they had sat down they had begun to whisper and giggle. In the best of times, it was distracting. Now, it was beyond rude.
"You two are a perfect example of why we are here. You assault my betrothed in the loo, call her a mudblood, and infer that she had somehow beguiled me! If you were males you would have died that day." He spoke to the other heirs and heiresses. "Take that as a word of warning. Unless you're a lord or lady direct, you are to be silent."
He regained his seat and then looked at the adults arrayed across from them. "Those two are by no means the only ones guilty of such affronts. Hermione and I are the newest to this world, but we are learning our roles. Apparently, you have all failed in your duties to educate those that follow." His eyes almost glowed with intensity. Hermione grabbed his hand and Luna stood and went behind Harry and bent over whispering in his ear. They didn't want either of the guys getting angrier and losing all control.
"Our lords are justifiably upset. I would be remiss if I didn't tell you that Lord Longbottom feels the same."
A quick glance at Neville showed him at first blush to be calm and collected, but Bones had been "reading" people for a long time. The knuckles of his right hand were white, his brow was furrowed as if in concentration.
"It's the contention of Lords Longbottom and Potter, that they are not responsible for the comportment of your charges. It is not their duty to keep your get free from potions and spells. They are happy to help all who ask for assistance, but your children are your responsibility," Tracey finished. Many of the adults looked embarrassed and or angry.
"We need a minute my lords," Paulus Brown said. Several small privacy wards went up as these incidents were discussed.
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Things were changing in the snakepit. Draco smiled at his own folly. He remembered how bold and brash he had been. So certain of everything in the pureblood agenda. So committed to furthering his head of houses vision. All of it dedicated to Lord Voldemort. Then Potter, an ill-bred half-blood, with no redeeming social values dressed as a vagrant refused,... refused his offer of alliance. Certainly, he would get the better of this half-blood who associated with mudbloods and blood traitors. For the longest time, he couldn't understand why anyone would want to be a blood traitor. It was plainly obvious that magic itself had made the family poor in retribution for their departure from the natural order of things. He looked at himself in the mirror. He missed the naiveté of youth, but at the same time would not go back to it. Not an adult yet, he was now certain of his path. One he forged himself with his eyes wide open, instead of the blinders imposed by his father.
The more things change in Slytherin house, the more they stayed the same. Instead of being coddled by an evil head of house, the Slytherins now had to rely on themselves. There were many that displayed cunning. There was still plenty that couldn't even spell it. Draco now considered himself in the former category. Even though he would have taken an oath believing he had been the whole time.
Pansy and he had been very careful on how they operated amongst their peers. Many were uncertain as to their allegiance. The fact that Goyle and Crabbe no longer followed him everywhere was telling in some eyes. But Draco and Pansy were quick to point out, they rather enjoyed each others company and two extra guys were very ... limiting.
It was actually Pansy that had gotten the latest piece of news. She had overheard a couple of the sixth and seventh years talking. In Slytherin fashion, one hinted in gossip that certain things had been done to one of Longbottom's whores.
Warding his room every way he could from spying, scrying, and outright assaults. He took a deep breath and spoke to the air, feeling very foolish as he did so. "Hogwarts. I need to get a message to Lord Longbottom. It's very important."
The individual conferences were breaking up. No one looked happy. Irrespective of the door being sealed, a black snake slithered from underneath it. Padma Patil who shed tears for her sister and her sister's friend was the first to notice it and screamed. Harry was impressed with Madam Bones reaction. Maybe as fast as his own. His first smile of the day as the thought of a duel between the two of them.
"Hold your wands. This is a Hogwarts messenger. It won't harm anyone unless it's attacked."
Everyone watched as the snake slithered up the table leg and down its surface. Everyone expected it to stop in front of Harry, including Harry. But it continued and slithered up Neville's arm and began to whisper in his ear.
His visage grew even grimmer. He turned to Harry. "This is family business. Do you and the girls mind if you take over here? This is important."
"Glad to Nev. We've got it. Call me if you need something."
Neville signaled to Lord and Lady Greengrass and another privacy ward went up.
After a protracted minute, the privacy screen came down. "Please forgive us, we have an urgent family emergency. Lord Potter and Lord Black will be here." Neville stood up with his girls and Lord and Lady Greengrass and Lord and Lady Davis and finally Matron Longbottom. They quickly dispelled the locking and privacy charms. Hermione and Luna put them back up while Harry took out the small mirror from Hermione's ubiquitous bag. Enlarged it and propped it on the table facing the assembled guests and children.
"Sirius Black," he called to the mirror.
He had been expecting their call. A moment later he appeared. "Lord Potter, ladies. Is everyone here?"
"That's Sirius Black!" Lavender nearly screamed.
"Were you not told to be silent?" Luna chastised. Too long had the castle been used to the "dreamy, soft" voice of Luna.
Lavender was immediately reminded of the duel that absolutely destroyed an internationally ranked dueler. Without breaking a sweat. She had only just recently stopped crying but began once again. Horrified that she had embarrassed her house yet again. Her sire and dame turned a baleful eye on her.
"Our apologies Lord Potter, Lord Black, and ladies. Our daughter will be silent. As part of her punishment, she is forbidden to speak unless it is to answer a direct question until the next new moon." As he spoke, he pulled his wand, channeled a good bit of magic into it, and intoned, "As I command, so mote it be!"
The light that emanated from his wand traveled to the girl who still hid her face in her hands. The family magic covered her, she looked up in surprise at the strange feeling. She didn't try to speak though and just rehid her face while Parvati and Padma rubbed her back consolingly.
"I believe that further remonstrance is needed, however. The children are embarrassed now but later in the evening, they may be tempted," Lord Patil started. "Therefore, As Lord of the Patil family. I forbid my daughters from communicating with her both orally and in written form until the next new moon. As I command, so mote it be!"
He too had pulled his wand and channeled magic into it. With his spell, the light divided into two and settled on both Patil girls. They each appeared discomfited.
"That was well done," Sirius spoke to everyone. "Even I, as isolated as I am have heard of these two. And don't think that Harry or the girls have complained either. I have my sources there in Hogwarts like many of you do. Apparently, I am one of the few paying attention. Before we start, Amy after this is done, stay with us a moment longer please." Seeing her nod he continued, "Good. Let's begin. We're going to start with specific instances that you may not be aware of, and then we are going to speak on fixing this mess you've caused."
A voice or two rose in protest but stopped on their own. They didn't need to be humbled like the girls were. In this forum, if your liege lord said you're at fault, then you keep silent until you can convince him in private.
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It wasn't so much that the small party walked to the dungeon. It was more of a forced march. The kids left the elder Greengrass' behind, and that was okay. Lord and Lady Greengrass decided to let them vent some of their frustration. Not that they weren't angry and frustrated as well. But now one of their babies was violated? Heads will roll.
He didn't remember pulling his wand. There were a bunch of Students either just entering or leaving the Slytherin entrance. The last one closed the entrance intentionally in front of the enraged Neville.
"You're not allowed in there Longbottom," a sixth year said. He didn't ever remember talking to him before.
"Just stay out of the way and you won't be hurt." He looked to the door. "Open."
A few of the students began to laugh but stopped suddenly when the door did open. Naturally, curious everyone followed.
Draco was in one of the chairs. Everyone more or less designated it his chair since he used it so much. It was to the point that even a few upper years would move when he came in. That always gave him a private smile.
"Oh, I see the squib is back. Returned your ladies to us did you? Finally realized they are too good for you blood traitor?"
"Shut up Malfoy. I'm not in the mood for your inane narration."
"Ooh too bad little Lord all put out. His girls don't like him anymore."
By this time the students, as well as the two adults, had entered the common room followed closely by Professor Sinestra, alerted by one of the snakes.
"One more word out of you Malfoy and you will join the portraits on the wall." He turned to his girls. "Why don't you go and see her. I've got this. If anyone gets in your way, hurt them."
"Lord Longbottom! You may certainly not hurt anyone. Lord or not these are my demesnes. That's 20 points from Gryffindor and three nights detention!"
"I'll go with the girls Aurora. You have your hands full." As Lady Greengrass disappeared down the hallway with Daphne and Tracy.
"Aww, poor squiby has detentions."
"What did I tell you Malfoy?" Without another word he gestured, using his wand because they were in front of witnesses, and Draco hung on the wall.
"My father will hear of this Longbottom. He will demand reparations."
"As will we," Lord Greengrass said speaking for the first time. "Your actions here do not speak well about the house of Malfoy. Insulting a lord of an ancient and noble house. I hope your father's pockets are deep Scion Malfoy."
"Much deeper than yours. Why don't all of you blood traitors just leave? Your stench is almost too much to bear."
About that time the girls came out with a crying Astoria. No one said a word. The atmosphere in the room became much heavier. Everyone expected Malfoy to say something else but he was silent as well.
Neville wanted to have the last word. "When I find out what happened, and you can believe that I will, then a full accounting will come due."
Too upset to speak further, he left firmly closing the common room entranceway behind him. As he did, Draco slid down to wall. In almost no time at all the Slytherin children pretended they hadn't been afraid, as everyone dissected every nuance of every conversation. Their own thoughts and speculations spoken aloud told Draco everything he needed on who stood where.
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"We're agreed then?" No one was happy. There was never any chance that anyone was going to leave here with a smile on their face. But it was a much-needed meeting. And Sirius was the perfect one to lead it. The kids had always planned on bringing him into the meeting. The sudden departure of the Greengrass' just accelerated that. Everyone was called accountable for their actions. McMillian's belief that Harry was the Heir of Slytherin was mentioned, as well as his public apology. So too Hannah's initial support, and then her wavering under pressure from her house mates. There were plenty of people not in the meeting that would be receiving missives from Lord Black and Lord Greengrass. Just like everyone else, they would demand public apologies and reparations or continue to face further increasing interdiction of goods and services associated with those houses.
"You can expect owls from Tonks and Tonks. They represent us and will be coordinating everything. But beginning tomorrow, all restrictions, all businesses and anything else that has been impacted shall be reopened. Once more, we will be operating under good faith. We have had friendly relations with some of you for hundreds of years. It would be a shame to make it purely a business arrangement."
Everyone stood and the adults all needed to have a private word, all of them beginning with something like, "We unreservedly apologize both for our child and our failure to direct them properly. There was a lot of bowing and curtseying from all quarters. Lavender tried to say something and her hand went to her throat when she forgot. Still furious with her, they turned their backs on her.
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Albus almost ran to the entrance hall. Several suits of armor and portraits had given him a blow by blow.
"Lord and Lady Greengrass. I am glad I caught you. I just received a report that Miss Greengrass is injured. Come. It's much quicker to Pomphrey and she is the best mediwitch in England."
"No thank you, Headmaster. Poppy is very good, but she is not ours. We will take her to our family practitioner." Her tone made it clear that they would brook no interference with their decision.
"At least tell me what exactly is wrong. I need to launch an investigation and report to the governors."
"Headmaster. This is a family affair. We are taking all of our children now," Lord Greengrass was just as firm as his wife. "We will owl or floo you and let you know when they will return."
"But Mr. Longbottom has missed many classes. If he misses much more he will have to repeat the year."
The triad snorted. "Yeah, like that will happen," Daphne answered.
He wanted to continue, but suddenly there were more parents removing their children for an undetermined amount of time.
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"Amy, thank you for staying."
"Siri, you know I should be arresting you right now."
"Dumbledore and the Minister literally have just a day or two to send the notices out. I'm certain the truth shall see me free at the Wizengamot meeting."
"You know I am too."
"Let's cut to the chase Siri, is this where you two chew a bit of my arse?"
"No this is the bit where we figure out how to best help the House of Bones."
It was just the three of them Sirius, Amelia, and Harry at the table. Two lords of Ancient and Nobles house, and the regent of the third. Since all of this had been preplanned, Hermione and Luna went and sat on either side of a very distraught Susan Bones. She didn't hide her face, she had tired of that. Her Aunt had rightfully chastised the pretty young redhead.
She would always remember her aunt saying in a quiet voice, "I have never been as disappointed with you, as I am now. You have the right to like or dislike whomever you choose. You do not have the right to act in a manner that embarrasses our house. I taught you better than that."
She had tried to reason with her aunt, "But he's a cheater. Everything he does is for the betterment of his ego."
"I gave you a clue when I came to the school with the Unspeakable. At that time you told me you hated him, everyone hates him."
"That's because everyone does! Except his sluts."
That was not the only sound of flesh striking flesh heard in that room. Normally hitting children, especially teenagers, was a rare thing in the magical world. However, now was not the time to give her a potion and to gently remonstrate with her. Actions have consequences and Susan needed to see that and see it now.
"Voldemort isn't hated as much as Potter is. Doesn't that tell you something?" Her voice had rose trying to drive the point home.
"What I'm feeling isn't my feelings?"
She shook her head negatively. "No. But your words are your own. And not that it is any of your business, but I have it on good authority that all of those girls are still pure. You and I will be having a long talk this evening. For now, I expect you to sit down, be silent and pay attention. Do not put yourself in the position for Lord Potter to focus on you as he did those other girls. Tell me you understand what I am saying."
"Yes, Auntie. I understand completely. I am to sit and observe and not further disgrace the House of Bones."
The pretty red head looked to the girls on either side of her. "You must hate me."
They each shook their heads, but Luna answered. "No. We don't have enough energy to hate everyone who wronged us. But we are fed up with everyone. If it wasn't for this tournament Harry would have told Magical Britain to go screw itself and left everything to Voldemort and the Death Eaters."
"He would do that to us?" Already feeling righteous indignation over the thought.
"Why would he want to stay?" Hermione's voice was firm, almost hard and unyielding. "Every place he goes he's called a liar and a cheat. Then next week he's everyone's hero and then the new month rolls in and he's the next dark lord."
Luna took up the talk, "but that's not the worst of it for Harry or Neville. No matter how hard they try, they can't completely protect us. Do you know just how many assaults, how many epithets, and how much danger we've been in, just this year?"
Hermione took up the twin speak, but for once words failed her, "No we don't hate you. We... nothing you."
Susan's eyes went wide with some realization of what these girls felt. She remembered how it felt to be alone. Only having Hannah as a sometimes visitor through the long days and nights without "auntie."
Harry watched Amelia. At first glance, she appeared calm. But there was a tightening around the lips and a hardness of the eyes. "You know, everything I know about the culture we are in, I've learned in the last 10 months. So If I get something wrong, it's most likely ignorance." Seeing her nod he continued, "Among the first things I was told, is that the ancient and nobles houses set up the Wizengamot and still pretty much direct Magical Britain."
"That's true."
"But then why do I see such a weak minister pushing around a regent of an ancient and noble house?"
Sirius, added his two knuts in, "It's true Amy. That' the way it was when we were kids."
She kept her voice low, she kept in control. "But you weren't there were you Siri? Frank and Alice for all practical purposes are gone." She looked at Harry, "and James and Lily passed. The Greengrass' were marginalized, the Davis' is our only friend. The House of Bones lacks teeth." She had started talking with her peers, but her vision changed as she looked at yesterday and remembered. However she regained her focus and her voice once more grew hard, "They knew they had us. 'The Great Alliance,' a bright shining moment, gone. And I'm not sure we can bring it back."
Harry watched her, he saw the pain there. "What did they do to you, Amelia? They killed the Potter's, effectively killed the Longbottom's, killed and then framed The Black." Harry was referring to Sirius Great Uncle, The Black. He continued, "I'll tell you the truth, at first Hermione thought I was a conspiracy nut, looking for things that weren't there, but she's slowly coming over to my view of things."
Hermione looked up at the mention of her name. She whispered just loud enough for the other two girls to hear. "Listen to this. This is important. I used to be as you, believing in the great Albus Dumbledore. I always believed Harry, he just needs to get more proof."
"These are not in any particular order. When I have more information I'll develop a timeline. But for the moment I want to reiterate, I don't have enough proof. If I had I already would have taken more direct action. I'll start with myself and then we'll look at some of the other families in the Great Alliance. First, my parents made a will, which Albus WAS a witness to, that both listed Sirius as my godfather, via the godfather ritual and also specifically stated that I was not to be sent to the Dursley's. The families listed were all Alliance families. And you remember how that worked out. Then as my," he made quotes in the air with his fingers, "magical guardian, he never once checked on me despite the deprivations I suffered. I still haven't seen any of my mail from that period. And before I forget, the reasons my parents left Potter manor in the first place is very murky. Leaving a place of almost impenetrable wards for those of a shack supposedly under a fidelius."
"But let's switch to Neville," he continued. "Very similar in many respects. Except this time, they didn't leave the wards. Instead, the wards were changed. And the ministry got there just a few moment's too late. And before I forget, Dumbledore had visited just that morning and shut himself inside Uncle Frank's office for almost an hour and left. To this day, no one knows what happened inside the office. It is believed by Augusta, that Frank was told to lower the war wards to the normal ones. Much easier to subvert. And despite how Frank was raised, Neville was raised to be timid. It was only magic acting to protect itself that he had a dramatic change and is now a worthy Lord Longbottom."
Sirius took up the tale, "and you know most of what happened to me, Amy. Tossed into Azkaban without a trial, again Albus Dumbledore should have prevented it. Or at the very least, the Wizengamot never heard a whisper of it. And I know this because we checked all of the minutes. We're just covering the basics, I don't want to lay out the whole sordid tale right now, because just as the kid says we don't know it all yet. What we want to know, is why you let Fudge and Dumbledore push you around? Why do you let the next Lady Bones live with that potion in her?" He changed his pitch, "Amy." He locked eyes with her, "What hold does he have on you?"
She looked guilty, peering over her shoulder to see if Susan was paying attention. Her shoulders slumped in defeat when she saw the three girls sitting silently. "It's not generally known but House Bones is nearly destitute."
Susan's sharp intake of breath alerted Amelia that she was indeed paying attention. She peered over her shoulder and spoke to the girl. I've been trying my best to fix this, but no matter what I do more and more business interests of Bones are failing. And loans made by our family are coming due, and merely paying the interest isn't doing anything except delaying the inevitable."
She turned back to Siri and Harry, "Fudge and Dumbledore hold the loans now. But these loans were set up back in the 1960's right before Charlus reformed the alliance." She turned back to the girl. "I'm sorry sweetie. I was going to tell you everything this summer. Your grandfather and great grandfather made some bad business decisions and Bones has been bleeding since then. Except for matters of law, every time I go against those two they hint they are going to present this information to the Wizengamot. They 'allow' us to pay the minimum on the loans and hint that if House Bones doesn't follow their lead, they will show our insolvency and we will lose the Ancient status."
"Which would put you in the same boat as the Weasley's," Sirius finished.
"We can't have that, we need the families we have now in order to fix this," Harry added, more to himself than anything else. He pulled out a calligraphy pen and parchment and began writing. "Madam Bones," he paused and looked at her. "Do you know what clan the Bones goblin belongs to?"
"She shook her head. "Traditionally the Bones family does not have to close a relationship with Goblins. We have a less than stellar history with them," She almost looked apologetic and added, "We don't treat them bad, we just don't interact with them."
"Probably a mistake," Harry said bluntly. "Here's the guy you are trusting with the family fortune and he literally holds the future of House Bones in his hands, and you treat him like an employee, or worse? Did you know that Dumbles is in the pocket of the Gravel Clan? If that is where your goblin is, it's a wonder you still have any gold at all."
"What are you writing Harry?" Sitting in while on a mirror call was great, but you couldn't see the little details.
Before he could answer, there was a packing at the door. "Get that will you Luna love? That's Hedwig coming for a delivery."
Luna opened the door after removing the charms and let Hedwig fly in. She was sure to close the door and reapply the privacy charms once more before sitting down.
Confused, Susan asked, "When did he call for her?"
"Oh, he didn't. Hedwig just knows when Harry is writing a letter and comes to him."
She shook her head, still trying to process it. "That's not normal."
"That's our Harry," Hermione said. "Sometimes I think he loves her more than us."
"That's not true!" Harry said still writing his letter. But he stage whispered to Hedwig, "Yes, it is. Don't tell the girls!" He already began to feel better. He got a lot off his chest and expected his girls to be given the respect due them. Not as the next Lady Potter or Black, just as ladies.
The girls smiled, they knew how their Harry felt about them. Even Hedwig laughed as she "preked," and then nibbled a finger appreciatively.
Harry put the pen down. "Okay. So the honorable thing to do here is to help House Bones. We need to pay off all of the debts and have the required assets on hand to prove profitability."
Amelia froze at the thought, she knew off the top of her head just how much she needed. With what little free time she had; much of it was looking through the "books," hoping to find a way out of the jungle. She nearly ruined everything when she asked, "And what will this largess cost the House of Bones?"
Harry immediately stood his face mottled with anger, the burgeoning good mood evaporated as the morning fog with a scorching sun.
Sirius' voice demanded attention, "Scion Black! Sit and reign in your temper!" He knew he really didn't have the authority to do that there, since the three of them were there as Heads of House. But he had hoped he would get Harry's attention.
Harry's retort died before he could give it life. His lips were a thin line, obviously angry. Even Hedwig's feathers were suddenly ruffled. She appeared ready to attack along with her master.
"Heir Black was going to suggest the House Potter fully fund this by itself. But that would be a disservice to The Alliance. I propose that each of the alliance members pony up an equal amount. This will ensure that each of them members are on the same footing. The only payback I propose is if and when another of our Brother or Sister houses in the Alliance is in trouble, you or your descendants aid them as you are aided."
Amelia didn't need long to work through it. She knew the Alliance was at its core more honorable than any others. She glanced over at Susan who quickly nodded her head.
It was quickly determined that each of the four houses would supply Bones with 750,000 galleons. Mollified Harry wasn't going to ask for any kind of written agreement, but Amelia insisted on at least an oath continued friendship one house to another.
"The only fly in the ointment is if Dumbles cottons on to what we're doing, he'll take steps immediately. This has to happen today."
Amelia agreed and included a written note to Bloodbringer, requesting that he forward to the proper goblin that a complete examination of all House Bones accounts be quickly initiated. Harry in his letter apologized if he was violating established guidelines, but explained he didn't trust any except those that Bloodbringer trusted. Meanwhile, Sirius had contacted everyone the Longbottom's and Greengrass'.
"Be careful Hed. You know I don't trust that whiskered wanker."
She preked and barked and quickly nuzzled his cheek. "Okay. I won't tell you how to do your job. Just be careful and quick. Remember, no one but Bloodbringer."
Amelia felt better than she had in a long time. There was now hope for the House of Bones, and maybe, just maybe for Magical Britain.
A very much humbled Susan dipped and in a soft voice said, "Thank you, Harry."
He turned a baleful eye on her, "Oh so now it's Harry. Now I'm a good guy? Save it Bones. I did it for The Alliance. If you want to know the truth, I voted against the Alliance. But Neville and the ladies all know these matters better than I. You want to know something Heir Bones? I don't need a fair-weather friend. You want to be my friend, then be my friend. You want to be an acquaintance? That's fine, then we'll do that. But insult my girls just one more time..."
This time she did a full curtsey while her Aunt looked on. Tears were streaming freely down her face. "Yes my lord."
A part of him hated that he was taking such a hard line, but he remembered hearing her in the library and all the talk in the corridor. Last year, he had heard who said what then, but that was before he learned of the Alliance and his place in it.
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(A/N: All conversations n this section are in the Goblin language)
Ragnoc met with the senior members of the different clans at least once per month. Then the last week of the month it was all three of the clans. Obviously, he could call for a meeting of all of the clans should the need arise. It was the week for Obsidian clan, his own clan with the three senior black rock clan members as well other select members of the clan. It was one of the ways that they honored a junior, slowly introducing him to more and more issues. It was a given that being his clan they were all related, but several of the senior account executives were close kin.
It was in this setting that Hedwig flew into and landed in front of Bloodbringer. Naturally, all talk ceased. Owls, even Gringott's owls would not normally be allowed here.
"Whose owl is this?" Ragnoc growled.
"This is Lord Potter's owl Hedwig," Bloodbringer wasn't worried that his leader growled at him. This was normal. The smarter Goblins always modulated their tones when speaking to humans, they seemed to take offense at the slightest thing, so they tended to speak to them as they would a baby.
He removed the letters from Hedwig, who looked at him and barked.
"Why did she not drop her message off at the normal drop point?"
Bloodbringer continued to read both messages before putting them down and looking the Goblin leader in the eye. "As a guess? Most likely because he told her no one else was to see the letters."
Hedwig bobbed her head up and down and barked and preked.
"You understand Goblin?" Ragnoc asked.
Once again she barked and nodded.
He spoke to her directly and after she thought about it for a few seconds, flew up, around the room twice, landed on the shoulder of one of the other goblins in the room, pulled a strand of hair before hopping down in front of Bloodbringer.
"Remarkable, she followed the directions precisely, except for pulling out Wrongtooth's hair."
He once more addressed Bloodbringer, Does Lord Potter speak goblin?"
He shook his head, "Not completely, one of his mates do so I imagine the other two are learning it because of their bond."
Hedwig once more bobbed her head indicating it was a good guess.
"As remarkable as this is, I assume that this is important?"
"He's being polite about it, but he wonders if the House of Bones accounts is above board. Included is a letter from Regent Bones requesting a thorough examination."
Thickblade added that he had received an order from Lord Black to transfer funds into the Bones account.
Ragnoc took a pull from his ale and mulled over the implications. While he did so Hedwig walked over to his cup and tasted the hearty ale.
"We can then assume that the Great Alliance will once more lead the Wizengamot."
A shaky Hedwig bobbed her head.
Verify to see if the others are doing as Lords Potter and Black. Bloodbringer, I want your team to go through the Bones accounts. Keep me advised I will want to know if Gravel Clan makes deals with wizards that I don't know of. Any questions?"
Runespor, the youngest of the Obsidian clan in his first meeting growled, "What do we care if a clan makes gold off the wizards? It follows one of our core principals, 'Watch your gold or it's mine."
This was a valid question from a youngster in his first senior account meeting properly quoting a Goblin tenant. There was no rancor in his answer.
"Normally true. But Lord Potter is Goblin friend. He along with a few others are not like the rest of the worthless herd. Besides, if there is an agreement to fleece humans I better be aware of it. Making gold is one thing, the honor of the Goblin nation an entirely different affair."
Hedwig tried to fly out the room but dropped to the table three times.
The assembled group laughed at her. "We finally found something you can't do Hedwig. Can't hold your ale. Come with me and when you've slept it off I'll send a letter back to Lord Potter."
The lady owl unsteadily hopped over to Bloodbringer and placed her on his shoulder. While the others continued to laugh, Bloodbringer rose and half bowed. He had a lot to do and very little time to do it.
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The headmaster lingered near the entrance. He had seen many angry people over the last 30 minutes. He made a point of speaking to everyone in an attempt to gauge reactions and read the thoughts of the unwary. Miss Brown and both Miss Patil's were the most upset. If they had any shields to prevent intrusion, their emotions certainly left them wide open. Albus was happy to read everything he could. The preeminent thing he saw was their distress over Lord Potter's anger. He had shifted to his mage sight to see that all three young ladies had a spell recently cast upon them. But he couldn't appear too interested in the girls lest their parents grow suspicious.
It had taken a little time, but the last to leave was Madam Bones and her niece Susan.
"Headmaster. I am taking Susan home with me. There is some important family business we need to attend to."
This was his chance. Time to turn the screws a little, the House of Bones would bend to his will or he would break it. "Of course Madam. Most of the families in your alliance are doing the same. But before you go, is there anything that I or Poppy can do for you?" He had been watching Susan. She stood behind her aunt, her eyes downcast, she was obviously a victim of Lord Potter. He could use that. "The best alliances," he chose that word specifically, "are those where we help each other. It's so easy to lose one's way. In my many years, I've seen gold lost and even prestige. All because people don't know their place in our world. Isn't that right Miss Bones?"
She never stopped examining her shoes but very softly answered, "Yes headmaster."
"Thank you for your reminder and offer Albus. But Susan and I must leave. I haven't spent enough time with her and her education has suffered for it."
Without explaining further, she walked out followed by Susan.
Dumbledore had been speaking aloud to himself more and more. He mumbled, "I need to speak with Cornelius. We need to remind House Bones just how much free will they have."
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It had been a rough week. Neville and his girls came back after another three days. The children of the associated houses staggered back by ones and twos. They each looked at Harry and the girls sadly, as if they wished to speak, but none of them approached. Hermione surmised that everything had been coordinated between them and they were waiting until they were all back to make some gesture.
"Mother decided that Astoria would not return. She may be physically and even mentally able to handle the workload, but she doesn't feel as if she's able to continue emotionally."
"Did you ever find out if anyone hurt her?" An edge had crept into Harry's voice.
"We're unsure. If they did they covered their tracks well. But we're certain there's no imperius. Her parent's are considering Beaubaxton's next year. It will be easy to catch her up on anything she's missing."
"Her French is passable now, we'll all be speaking it this summer to help," Tracy added.
"What else happened?"
"Bloodbringer wrote back the following day. The sudden infuse of gold, along with a complete account review found... something." Harry stopped and amended, "Well he said they found that some internal controls had not been followed completely and they reassigned this to Obsidian clan. But he really didn't explain anything."
"That means you were right Harry. And someone in the Grovelers were doing something they shouldn't have." Luna giggled while explaining to them.
"Bottom line, Bones has been given a last minute reprieve and owe the Alliance big time."
"Let's hope Susan pulls her head out and wakes up."
Too much of Harry must have rubbed off on Hermione, so Luna hopped in her lap and began to kiss her to regain her focus. It was a most novel way keeping anyone from getting too angry.
"So what's next?"
Luna started to hop up and down still on Hermione's lap. Hermione didn't have guys to break, so she decided to punish the girls. Harry snorted thinking, "Better her than me."
But of course, Luna just knew what that snort was. So suddenly had his own lap full of Luna. He began to plan some comeuppance for his littlest mate but continued in vein, "Well I have a meeting tonight with the champions."
"And tomorrow we can take a walk in the forest!"
"Are you sure Luna honey?"
Her head nodded quickly, eyes wide open with a thousand yard stare. "Yeah. It's time. We need to move this forward."
"And Siri's trial next week."
Neville sighed and echoed Harry's thoughts. "Sometimes I hate being Fate's favorite toy."
