A/N: I am thrilled that I am able to create my own universe in the reality created by JKR. I own the ideas and characters and places which are unfamiliar. Anything you recognize belongs to the Creator.
Keith came to, slowly and blearily. Without moving or opening his eyes he began to take stock. The feel of the air and of the bed both screamed hospital. Finally, the memories of the day before(?) returned. The last thing he'd felt was the warmth and safety of Auntie Amelia's arms and the Floo call to St. Mungo's.
He also recalled why it all happened. He couldn't have had much more than a teaspoon's worth of magic left after dealing with the diary. Poor kids. They must've been scared out of a year's life to see me like that. Aunt Amelia too. Then, he became aware that there was a hand in his and a bed next to his. He worked it through. The hand was smaller than his, so not Amelia's. Most likely Susan's. Could all five of us be in one room? That wouldn't make sense.
He worked on the problem of freeing his hand without waking his neighbor when he heard the softest of whispers "Keith, are you awake?" He nodded. "Thank Merlin. Whatever you did last night almost killed you, they said you had almost no magic left. You've had several potions to help your magic regenerate and a dreamless sleeping potion too. You won't be out of here until tomorrow, earliest. Please don't scare us like that again!"
Keith moved his head. "Auntie," he was pleased his word came out softly and the more so when he felt her ear near his mouth "what time is it?"
"4:47 am. We'll eat at 7:30 and then you'll be looked over by the healer and then potioned again. You'll come around again at about 6:00 pm, then more of the same, I'm afraid."
Keith gave a slight nod. "If Harry is OK to travel outside, he needs to go to Gringotts. He doesn't know his status and needs to. Likely needs to buy some things too."
"I understand. Rest now, sleep if you can until breakfast."
"'Kay". Keith relaxed and did find slumber.
-BFtF-
Keith woke a second time that morning to the sound of cutlery and muted conversation. Opening his eyes, he saw the other four eating full English breakfasts and another, likely under a stasis charm, on a bedside tray near him. He only just started to sit up when a chorus of 'Keith' rang out and he was engulfed in hugs; Susan first, Hermione, Harry and Amelia quickly following.
"We were so scared, don't you ever do that again!" Susan's sentiments spoke for the group, if the nods and looks he got were any indication.
"I'm sorry I frightened you. Can we eat before the healer comes?" His stomach let loose with an enormous grumble, evoking a howl of laughter. His tray was pushed up and they all attacked their meals.
Conversation was general and light. Keith learned that Harry's regimen of potions were pretty bearable, though he'd been told to expect the onset of bone pains in a week or two. He'd been told that he'd need to exercise in order to get the full value of the therapy. Susan blushed a shade that clashed terribly with her hair when Keith thanked her for holding his hand. It scarcely abated when he said how comforted he felt waking and knowing she was there. Her blushes though, were nothing compared to Harry and Hermione's when he asked if their sleeping arrangements had been the same. Keith roared at the sight. He asked Amelia about her rest, he discovered she'd slept here on a lounge chair. She'd posted Aurors at both doors and was roused every two hours by their reports.
The healer appeared, scanned Keith and repeated a scolding for depleting his magic so badly. Harry was told he was fine and could be and ought to be active today, but would stay overnight, just to be certain. He would have made Keith drank his potions, but the others promised to see to that. Muttering, he left.
They surrounded him, grave looks on their faces. "I, Amelia Susan Bones hereby release Keith Krukmakare from his vow to me." The flash of light left him stunned and confused. He felt progressively worse as each of the others followed her lead. (1)
When Keith tried to speak, nothing passed his lips. The others could clearly read his 'Why?' He saw in their eyes, melancholy, sternness, but over all else, concern.
"We almost lost you last night, not once but five times." Amelia's voice was soft and heartrendingly tender. "We were in shock and numb. Had we not been, we'd have been devastated, it would have invoked the oath and killed you. You were too lucky."
"Ever since we met, you've been unbelievable Keith, but you're only one kid. I'm not gonna see you be stupid and toss your life away. Please Keith, you're my brother." Susan whispered; she was adamant, angry, fearful, all together.
"Baby bro, Who'd ya think you are anyway? Harry Potter, in one of those silly books they sell on the Alley?" Harry, being that unexpectedly silly, broke up everyone but Keith.
"Honestly Keith, did you even think about what you said? 'I, Keith Krukmakare, swear upon my life, magic and soul that I intend to do no harm to Susan Amelia Bones or Amelia Susan Bones, neither by action nor by inaction. My whole purpose is to protect Susan, physically, emotionally and in all other ways. My oath shall last my entire life or until such time as Susan Amelia Bones or Amelia Susan Bones releases me from my obligation. As I have said it so mote it be!' I know most witches and wizards don't have an ounce of logic, but anyone I adopt better have plenty!"
Hermione huffed loudly. Amelia and Susan hadn't been exposed to a full-bore Hermione rant until now and their expressions were comically stunned."You can take your potions now and think about this. You can swear new oaths if you must, but we approve them first!" Hermione panted slightly.
"Yes, Lady Hermione." Keith's woeful tone and look was such a whimsical caricature that he and the others broke up. More soberly, "I'm sorry, I did go overboard. Thank you all for pulling me back into the boat". He drank the potions, except for the sleep potion, gave his family a hug and kiss on the cheek each, then drank up. They tucked him in and left.
-BFtF-
They used the Floo to speak to Mr. Weasley, who canceled Keith's oath, then a call to Headmaster Dumbledore to update him and finally took the Floo to the Leaky Cauldron. When Harry fell out, Amelia gravely explained how to exit the Floo properly. They entered the Alley and walked to Gringotts. There, Amelia took the lead, approached the nearest teller and asked for the Potter Account Manager.
Soon they entered a large office. "Welcome, Lord Potter! I am Bloodaxe, the account keeper for the Ancient and Noble House of Potter. Do you trust your companions?"
"Yes sir. This is Hermione Granger, my closest friend, my friend Susan Bones and her aunt, Amelia Bones, head of the DMLE. I was raised by magic hating non-magicals and know very little of our world. They'll help me ask the right questions."
"Very good. Lord Potter. To start, the Potter family is old, older than the formation of the Wizengamot, the magical government of Britain. In fact, it reaches back to the time of the Hogwarts Founders. House Potter has always been at the forefront of magical society and governance, earning the status of Ancient and Noble. There will be books about your family in one of your vaults.
"Your monetary assets are around ₲75,000,000 and the properties and artifacts are, at the very least, worth double your cash holdings". Your mother, Lily Evans Potter, made very astute investments in both worlds and even now those have a splendid rate of return. We will send you monthly reports, but we wonder why you haven't contacted us once you turned 11."
Harry shook his head in confusion. He then told Bloodaxe, "I don't know anything about this. I've never got any mail from you. Why is 11 so important?"
Bloodaxe explained, "At 11, you became Lord Potter, as you're the last of your family. Legally, you have the same rights and obligations as an adult. You now have complete control over your holdings. We will keep you abreast of the state of your holdings. Someone, like Madam Bones, can advise you until you are 17 and a legal magical adult. Until then, your school vault holds ₲25,000 and is renewed to that amount each year on your birthday." Amelia agreed to be his official adviser and the documents were produced and signed, then registered.
"Lord Potter, your family rings are here. Place the large ring on the third finger of your right hand, the family magic will recognize you. Harry put on the ring, then the ring flashed and resized. Bloodaxe smiled. "Excellent, my Lord. The family's magic accepts you as the Lord. This ring will go to your betrothed, then when you commit to marriage, this ring will be added and be the Potter engagement ring. This, as I imagine you've already deduced, is Lady Potter's ring, which is also a wedding ring. This then, is the Lord's wedding ring. These rings were last worn by your parents." Bloodaxe paused, Harry was overwhelmed by this news. "For some reason, not known to me, this ring," pointing to a small, golden band, bearing a stylized 'G', "should have been given to you on your first birthday. It is the heir's ring, marking your status as your father's heir. These other plain gold rings would have been worn by your brothers and sisters. Now they will be worn by your own children, when the time comes. You should keep the ring case with your belongings." Harry bowed his head, with Hermione hugging him tightly, keeping him from breaking down. (2)
Bloodaxe became solemn. "Another matter to deal with is your parents' wills. We understand that there are parts that will be of great interest to you. The other parts can wait until later."
Bloodaxe read the germane parts of both wills, as Harry, then the others grew angry. With a visible effort, they calmed.
Amelia interjected. "Thank you Master Bloodaxe. It is a shame and crime this information didn't come to light much earlier. Please make me three certified copies of what you've read to us. There are criminal proceedings for which this document is needed" With Harry's approval, the copies were made and stored.
Bloodaxe raised another issue. "My Lord, your house really hasn't been fully functional since your paternal grandparents' deaths in 1977. Your dear parents, yes, I call them that, for in my dealings with them before their deaths they impressed me greatly, could not reestablish the House of Potter, due to the war with Voldemort. As a result, the rest of the wizarding world will look at you closely, even more than they do with the Boy-Who-Lived frou-frou.
"I suggest taking a truly traditional action. You should name a Seneschal." (3)
Amelia looked startled, then pensive. Harry and Susan were simply confused, while Hermione chewed on her lip a moment and slowly nodded.
Harry queried, "Master Bloodaxe sir, What is a Seneschal?"
Bloodaxe smiled to himself at this polite, earnest young wizard, who reminder him so strongly of another verdant-eyed youngster he'd met. "Lord Potter, a Seneschal is an officer having full charge of domestic arrangements, ceremonies, the administration of justice, etc., in the household of a medieval prince or dignitary; that is to say, a steward. Its main value for you is symbolic; it shows your world that you take being Lord Potter seriously. As a result, House Potter will be taken seriously in Wizarding Britain and elsewhere. You can well choose someone your own age; by the time that you're an adult the actual tasks of the Seneschal of House Potter shall be as many or few as you determine."
Harry questioned Amelia with his gaze. "Harry, Bloodaxe is right. Silly as it may seem, important people in our world will look at you favourably. It's a simple and safe action, with no real downside."
"I'll do it then." A slow smile, reminding Amelia of his father formed on his face. "I know just who gets the job."
They looked at him blankly, then Hermione seized his eyes. A quick, silent exchange, then she began to laugh with him. A moment later, the Boneses kenned his choice. "Oh, he's perfect", they laughed.
Bloodaxe continued with the last of the immediate matters. "I think our last issue is money on hand. Your ring's impression is accepted throughout the magical world for payments. Should you wish to use cash, you'll have a money pouch holding ₲100. It will automatically refill when the balance is under ₲10. For non-magical currency, you'll have a wallet with ₤500, or its equivalent in any other currency you need. It refills when it's less than ₤10." In a few minutes the money holders arrived, along with the Seneschal's staff of office, which would shrink to pocket size by being tapped twice on the ground and expanded by saying 'staff'. Harry arranged for twice-yearly meetings, with Bloodaxe promising to notify him if need arose, then they left the bank to shop in the Alley
-BFtF-
At Hogwarts, the Great Hall was packed. A mild uproar would have been an understatement. Nearly all the students were there, in addition to a good score of aurors and even a few reporters who'd slipped in. Professor Dumbledore had briefed the staff, who'd mostly took it in stride. The notable exceptions were a seething Severus Snape and a still out of sorts Gilderoy Lockhart . With Snape, this was no more than the usual animus he had for Harry Potter; animus he now extended to include Hermione Granger, Susan Bones and the new wizard, who seemed to have stolen the brat's eyes. Lockhart was still confused over the scene the night before. He neither understood what had occurred, nor could he shake his vague sense of grievance over the glares still coming from his colleagues.
The aged mage held up his hand the hall quieted, "I'm aware that you all are wondering about the events occurring after last night's feast, I also know that wild rumours are spreading, I have been in contact with Madam Bones of the DMLE. This is what happened. A wizard, long thought dead, mysteriously appeared in the Gryffindor Common Room and was revealed as a Death Eater." He had to wave his hand to quiet the frightened buzz.
"He has been taken into custody and it is apparent a gross injustice was done in the incarceration of one Sirius Orion Black, accused of betraying James and Lily Potter, parents of our own Harry Potter. The investigation is ongoing. I urge you all to cooperate with the Aurors and not hinder them.
"Also, a new student, one Keith Krukmakare, collapsed in the same common room from apparent severe magical exhaustion. Madam Bones rushed him to St. Mungo's,along with Mr. Potter, Miss Granger and Miss Bones. Mr. Krukmakare is expected to recover fully, but will not return any earlier than tomorrow or the next day. The four students are also part of the investigation.
"This is all the news you can reliably believe. Classes will not begin until Monday. The four days missed will hopefully be made up during this year, if not, the term will be extended, but an announcement will be made later.
"First year students will have tours to learn the castle and how to find your classrooms. You will also have orientation sessions with your professors. Third years will also have orientation with the professors for your new classes. More on that tomorrow. For now, enjoy your extended holiday and prepare for Monday. Misbehavior will not be tolerated. First year tours begin after lunch. Dismissed."
At the Gryffindor table, the first years had discussed the seemingly nice boy who had to be taken to St. Mungo's. They decided to send him a get-well note and found a table in their common room, hoping to have Professor McGonagall send it for them.
Other tables were crowded with the members of the Lions' Quidditch team and the second year students, all writing to Harry and Hermione.
In the Hufflepuff common room, Susan's best friend, Hannah Abbott, thought worriedly about her friend. She told her about the new Gryffindor boy and how she'd hoped he'd be sorted into their house. She wrote a note to her, hoping she wasn't hurt. Along with notes from a couple of their friends, she took them to Professor Sprout, hoping they'd get to her today.
In the Slytherin common room, Jamison Flint thought hard about the odd, compelling boy he met the night before. He knew as a Slytherin, he shouldn't care, house rivalries as they were, but he did. He hoped Keith would get well, he wanted to talk to him more. He wanted to send him a message, but his head of house didn't look approachable. So, as he wrote, he resolved to speak to Professor McGonagall at lunch.
-BFtF-
After Gringotts, the four spent the rest of the morning at Madam Malkins, buying Harry an entire new wardrobe, fit for a lord. This included dress robes with the Potter arms emblazoned, top quality school robes, shirts, ties, socks, leather shoes and boots. Having seen the state of Harry's non-magical clothing yesterday, they bought new undergarments and casual clothing, including pairs of trainers that fit. They also bought two sets of everyday Potter Seneschal robes and one set of Potter Seneschal dress robes for Keith. Harry might've been bored to tears, but knew that his new station required it and positively reveled in a feeling of emancipation when he paid for it all with his lord's ring. Madam Malkin promised the order would be ready after 2:00.
Leaving the shop, they went to the Leaky Cauldron and with Tom's help, they were put into a private room without fuss. After a large meal (Harry was chivied into to eating as much as he could to aid the potions), Harry paid and they left and did more shopping.
They spent a happy hour or so at Flourish and Blotts, buying books on wizard customs, the nobility and a number of supplemental books for school and any other things they liked. Harry loved paying with his ring.
They wandered, visiting the little shops they saw, buying a few things that caught their fancy. After 2:00, they picked up the robes and returned to St. Mungos.
-BFtF-
Harry, Hermione, Susan and Amelia returned to Keith's room at 3:00, after first stopping at Harry's room. Harry took his next set of potions, and left all but one of the shrunken shopping bags there. He took the remaining bag to Keith's room.
While Keith continued to sleep, the four sat quietly and chatted. The Boneses shared an amused look when Hermione sat and pulled Harry into her lap. They thought the two sets of blushes, faint as they were, complemented their coloring.
Hermione gave the Boneses a stern look, then in a comforting voice, spoke to her friend, "Harry, I don't think we'll be able to sit like this once those potions get working. The last three days have been very hard on you. You need to relax and take all this in, before classes start, if you can. We're best friends and whether it takes your sitting on my lap, or our sitting together, or my sitting on your lap to help; I'm here for you. As long as you need me, as long as you wish me to be."
Harry sighed, then thought. She was his best friend, but something felt like it was changing between them. He needed to be as honest as she'd been. "We couldn't have stayed alive last year, if we'd not become best friends. That hug was the first touch I've ever had that wasn't hurtful. I'm here for you too, you know. As long as you need and want me there." Harry snuggled into Hermione as close as he could.
Amelia's radar was screaming. "Just how bad was it for you two last year? Susan told me some things, but this sounds like things happened that should have crossed my desk."
A brief communion and they began, taking turns. Though they didn't go into detail, what they did tell had Susan pale-faced and trembling in her aunt's lap; Amelia's eyebrows had disappeared into her hairline.
"I think that neither of you have been well served by the adults in our world, not even from the start. Will you help me to fix things?" She relaxed when they both nodded. "I think too that I need to take your statements about last night now. Harry, remain here and Hermione, go back to your room. Harry will fetch you for your statement." After Hermione left. She produced a dicta-quill and parchment, and took Harry's statement, had him summon Hermione and took hers. Then the four reconvened and chatted about the shops in the Alley.
All of them started when Keith said "Looks as if I've missed out on all the news."
They filled him on their day. Keith was very pleased to know that Harry now had decent clothing. His smile melted into a brown, pensive study as Harry informed him of his decision to name a Seneschal, described the position's duties; his face became a mask when he was told of Harry's choice.
A long, tense silence. "Why me?"
Harry was confused. "Because I trust you."
Keith shocked them with a short, sour-sounding snort. "Based on what? Look, I'll play devil's advocate. Lady Hermione, Auntie Amelia, stop me if I go too far or not far enough." A bare hint of a smile ghosted across his lips and vanished, having never reached his eyes. "Yes, I've helped you, but what if it was just a ruse? What if I'm scamming you, gaining all your trust?
"What if the oaths were made so deliberately over the top as to trick you into revoking them? What if I planned it so you'd think to trust me? Do you really know my motivations? What if I truly intend to harm one of you, or all of you?
"Look at what you all risk, based on what, fifty-odd hours of acquaintance? All that on one side of the scale. Maybe these suspicions are weak, but look how many there are? What do you have on the other side? What have I really done that would earn the trust of any of you?"
The room was silent as a vacuum. Finally, Harry shook his head, and one set of green eyes locked with another. "I trust you, Keith.I've looked into you, deeply as I can, and I feel nothing bad, I don't fear you. The first friends I made might have been made too trustingly. But I don't think so. The Dursleys made me wary and I hide things, maybe that's why the Hat wanted me in Slytherin." He looked at Hermione apologetically. "Took me longer than you think to really trust you and Ron. You might be right, with my luck you might be my Mordred. My gut's kept me alive this long and says to trust you. That's all I need to know. Swear to me, Keith."
Amelia chimed in. "I told them yesterday and I say it now; you'd have to be the greatest actor ever to be lying. Sorry Keith, you're not that good. Somehow, I know I can trust you with me and Susan, and with Harry and Hermione too. Deal with it."
Susan slowly added, "I believe in you. I can't prove to you or anyone why, Keith, but I do trust you, I think I wouldn't be me if I don't."
Brown eyes held his. "I see you and feel the same trust I feel for Harry. That is all I know or need to know."
Gradually, Keith's head inclined. "My Lord Potter, you honour me by your offer. I would be bound to you and your household. Would the ladies retire, so I might vest myself?"
When they returned, Harry sat with the staff laid along his lap, and Keith was kneeling, his hands on the staff's middle. Then, he repeated slowly, following Amelia's prompts: "Here do I swear fealty and service to the Ancient and Noble House of Potter, and to its Lord, to speak and to be silent, to do and to let be, to come and to go, in need or plenty, in peace or war, in living or dying, from this hour henceforth, until my lord release me, or death take me, or the world end. So say I, Keith Krukmakare."
Harry, prompted by Amelia, responded: "And this do I hear, Harry James Potter, son of James Charlus Potter, Lord of the Ancient and Noble House of Potter,and I will not forget it, nor fail to reward that which is given: fealty with love, valour with honour, oath-breaking with vengeance." They were engulfed by a scarlet flash of light. Then Keith received back his staff, shrunk it and put it into his pocket. Harry rose and the two boys hugged fiercely, then were joined by the other three. (3)
-BFtF-
After the hug ended, Susan looked at Keith severely. "You sir, are still a patient. Get out of those robes and back into bed."
The others, except for Keith goggled a bit. This seemed out of character for this normally shy girl. Amelia in particular, thought it odd. Whenever did you get so assertive and possessive even? If Hermione said that, I wouldn't wonder, but you, Susan? Keith, on the other hand, smirked and waggled his eyebrows.
"By your command, then," and Keith started to pull the robe off in an exaggerated manner.Susan turned scarlet and fled, with the others following, convulsed in laughter. He then removed and folded the robes and settled into bed.
Some few minutes later, an abashed sounding Susan asked, "Are you decent?"
Keith had to laugh. "Of course not! They've got me wearing a hospital gown! But I am under the covers."
Everyone trooped back in and sat around the bed. Amelia had a sheaf of parchments. "One of my Aurors passed these along from Hogwarts. You should be happy that a lot of people miss you four. We also have copies of today's Daily Prophet. Everyone settled in and read their mail. Harry and Hermione got several letters from their year mates. They also got notes from Professors McGonagall and Dumbledore.
"I got a nice note from my year mates in Gryffindor, they hope I'm better and coming back soon." Keith's smile told them he was happy he'd made that much of an impression on them, with such little exposure.
"You made an impression last night, Keith. I didn't think the Quidditch team would have asked me anything other than if I thought I'd be ready for tryouts, but what you told that boy got them all thinking." Harry's surprise was plain in his voice and on his face.
"Yes, Keith, my friends wrote to me about that too. They hope I'm OK, but they also want to get to know you." Susan remembered how excitedly she described Keith to the Hufflepuff table.
"Keith, I take back what I said about logic; I think you've a few dozen kilos of it. You have to know, don't you, that you didn't take it nearly far enough, right." Harry saw the warning signs, Hermione was winding up for a long, detailed lecture/discussion/rant about the issues Keith raised – likely one that would leave the rest of them, including Keith, far behind.
He needn't have worried, Keith handled her like a pro. "I know Hermione, but these concepts were totally new to them. I suppose I could have gone farther; I doubt they were ready for it though. The larger world out there has the same problems, just far greater and more complicated. Gonna be hard enough, just changing our little patch. They wouldn't be ready for the rest, not now, anyway. It's baby steps"
Amelia looked at this youngster with new respect. "Minerva was right, you said some really profound things. Just when I think I couldn't get more impressed, you impress me again." Keith blushed and looked away.
"I impressed the guy I spoke to, too." Keith pulled out a sheet of parchment, and passed it around.
Krukmakare, You gave me a lot to think about last night. It left me feeling strange. It was like the lake and the giant squid, you feel it more than see it. The other new Slytherins talked about it last night too. Even some of the older kids seemed like they want to know more. My big brother Marcus said you corrupted me and that he was writing mum and dad. I don't think so. I'm sorry you are sick, I wanted to talk to you. I gave this to Professor McGonagall and I hope you get it. Talk soon.
Jamison F.
"Last year, none of us could get a single civil word out of any of the Slytherins. Maybe they should give you an award or something!" Harry's gentle jibe was belied by his smile. That didn't stop Hermione from giving him a mock smack.
Hermione considered. "Some of them seemed as nasty as their reputation, but I thought a few would have liked to talk to us, but I think it was peer pressure. Susan, what did you see in the classes you had with them?"
Susan grew thoughtful. "Malfoy and Nott both seemed almost as if they didn't belong in Slytherin. They're both very aggressive. If anything, it is almost like the Hat should have put them into Gryffindor, but their sort of meanness isn't brave. Auntie, do you know if there is anything like legacy sortings?"
Amelia chuckled. "I've never heard of anything like that, but then I suspect that that the full lore of Hogwarts is only held by the Headmasters and mistresses, maybe the deputies too. Certainly, Hogwarts: a History doesn't have the full story." Hermione's expression was interesting; it was shocked, outraged and abashed all at once. "Hermione, that's the truth. You're not the only one who has read it, you know."
Susan resumed her observations. "It is hard to know much about anything with Crabbe and Goyle. They just follow Malfoy around and I can't even remember saying a word."
Harry put in his two knuts, "They didn't fail last year and I thought they might, never saw them do magic at all. Weird."
Susan went on. "Parkinson just seems to be attached to Malfoy, I heard rumours about betrothal contracts, but I don't know. Bulstrode seems unpleasant, but I think her looks are against her. Davis and Greengrass and Zabini seem more like real Slytherins, sitting back, seeing all, giving nothing away, but you might be right about them, Hermione."
Conversation died out and they finished their reading. Whatever Amelia received from the ministry affected her. She seemed to try to figure something out, and failing. A couple times, Keith caught her looking at him, as if she wanted to talk to him alone.
She took quill and more parchment, wrote something long, then summoned the Auror from her post. "Have this sent to Dumbledore at once." Then she sat back.
Soon, their dinner arrived.Harry downed his potions, then they all tucked in. About 8:00, the healer entered and checked both Harry and Keith. He informed them that Keith would take the same potions, but they should expect to be released tomorrow afternoon.
Before he could exit, Keith asked, "Healer, would you bring in another bed for tonight? Madam Bones shouldn't have to sleep on a chair." The healer acceded, and left. Keith said his good nights and drank the potions.
-BFtF-
Albus Dumbledore sat at dinner, looking rather distracted; anyone bothering to look would have seen he ate his meal automaton-like. Inside, he considered Amelia's message and it's import, in Hogwarts and beyond. Really no point in belabouring Amelia about this decision. Someone with her astuteness couldn't have not noted the state of Harry's clothing. Perhaps I should have monitored his home life more actively, knowing Petunia's attitudes, but I feared it would have thrown more fuel on the fire.
Harry ascending to his station will raise questions I'd rather not have answered. Still, her handling of the matter seems proper. Respecting the old forms will mollify many and keep away some unwanted attention. My difficultly now will be in how to guide him to meet his fate. He will have to ignore the outer trappings, learn there are circumstances that will go past having living for things and status.
I'll inform Minerva tonight, she can make the proper arrangements and speak to the staff tomorrow, after breakfast. Most will fall in line and help to ensure the students accept this and smooth out difficulties. Severus will be a challenge; he's never abandoned his grudge against James and he barely achieves meeting the spirit of his oaths – to say nothing about their substance.
Finding his dinner finished, though hardly tasted, he rose, summoned his deputy with a look and left the hall.
-BFtF-
Keith returned to the land of the living with a definitive feeling of déjà vu. He felt Susan's hand in his own again and felt someone's eyes on him; likely the reason he was now awake. He managed to disengage his hand from hers without rousing her, then sat up to find Amelia looking at him. Sighing to himself, he sat up. Not sure I'm going to enjoy this.
"Good morning, what time is it?"
"3:22. I'm surprised you woke. I didn't touch you, I just looked at you." She seemed a bit embarrassed.
"It's fine, I think it means I'm all right now. What's the matter, and for that matter where's the bed you're supposed to be sleeping in?"
"I got disturbing news from the Ministry. You used Fiendfyre the other night. Why? How could you control it? Merlin on a mushroom! No wonder you almost died! And that book; the Department of Mysteries says it is the darkest magic they've ever encountered. You have to tell me what is going on and now!" Even speaking in sotto voce, Amelia threatened to wake Susan.
Keith made a 'shushing' gesture, rose, seated her in the lounge chair and squatted before her. If he had any embarrassment from wearing the hospital gown, he gave no sign. "Auntie, the answer is yes, it was Fiendfyre, yes I knew how to control it and knew I had enough strength. Remember who was there and remember my oaths; they were still in full force then and I have no death wish! Also, you and Susan were in the castle and I'd never would have endangered either of you.
"Even with the oaths canceled, I still feel bound to them. I won't lie to you either, but now is not the time or the place for a fuller story. The time will be before Halloween and I will satisfy enough of your questions to ease your mind. Let the Unspeakables study the diary; you'll know more by the time I can speak more freely. You say you trust me. If you do, then have patience, please trust me now. I'd never let you down.
"For now, though, have you a vial into which a memory strand can be placed?" Amelia rummaged in her professional kit, produced the vial and stopper,then Keith pulled his wand. "You must allow me this oath: I, Keith Krukmakare, swear on my life and magic that the memories I now offer are complete, accurate and untampered. As I have sworn, so mote it be!" As the flash died, Susan stirred fitfully, but did not wake and the other two relaxed. Keith pulled a silvery strand of memory from his temple with his wand, placing it in the vial. Amelia then stoppered it, and returned it to her kit.
"Now, why don't you have a bed? You either have to transfigure this chair and promise me you'll use it, or you'll share mine. And I'll bear hug you to keep you there! Caring goes both ways; I care for you too you know, quite a bit."
Amelia's glare at him took a lot more relative time than the clock showed. She backed down first, rose, pulled him to his feet and into a tight hug. Then she turned, waved her wand and the chair was a bed. Her gaze laughed at him as she disappeared under the covers. He bussed her forehead, whispered "Sweet dreams, Auntie Amelia" and kipped into his own couch, careful to capture his big sister's hand again.
-BFtF-
Susan woke that morning to find Keith looking at her and still holding her hand. She couldn't fathom the look he gave her. "Keith, is something wrong?"
He shook his head and whispered "Remember yesterday morning and you told me I'd been unbelievable?" She gave him a nod. "I got you trumped, I think. I know four unbelievable people. Thanks." He pulled her close, and hugged her tight. While he held her, he wondered a bit at how dependent on them he'd already become, then decided that was something to consider some other time. "I've got the best big sister ever."
"Well, now that we've got that settled, Susan, I think we both need to get dressed, so Keith can." Once the two pried themselves off the ceiling, they both halfheartedly glared at the older, smirking witch.
"Auntie, you enjoyed that a bit too much!"
"Maybe I did, Susan, but I still think we need to start the day." The giggles she got in return demonstrated no harm was done. The two witches vanished to prepare for the day. They returned dressed and then went to visit Harry and Hermione.
Once gone, Keith found and expanded his trunk, selected clothes and bathed. Once clean and dressed, he pulled out the dress set of seneschal robes laid them aside and went out of the room. The Auror outside the door directed him to the other room. Entering, he saw the Gryffindor duo, looking a bit distraught, as if nonplussed still at having shared a room. When he came in, they positively blushed.
"Good morning, my Lord,and apologies for not having waited upon you earlier. I trust your rest, and Lady Hermione's were peaceful and restorative." This time their blushes were incandescent. "If I may, I shall check for the morning Prophet and any mail and inform the hospital staff that we're ready to break our fast." Silently, he withdrew.
When the door closed, their company collapsed into merriment. "Oh my, he may be the perfect choice, Harry, but you're in for an interesting time!" Amelia tried, unsuccessfully, to restrain her chortling, Susan was little better.
Several minutes later, Keith returned, bearing a stack of newspapers. "No post as of yet, my Lord, however, breakfast will be brought in presently."
Harry groaned and sighed dramatically. "You're really going to take the mickey out of me for this, aren't you?"
Keith looked at him, at him, utter ingenuousness in his features. "M'Lord, I but seek to fulfill my oaths, freely taken and accepted. Have I offended? His wide-eyed, innocent expression couldn't last, as first he, Hermione, the Boneses, then finally Harry exploded into mirth.
"Got me good, Krukmakare! When it's just us, be informal." Just then, came a knock, Keith resumed formality and opened the door.
"Breakfast, M'Lord, Miladies." Once the meal was bought in and served, they all visibly relaxed.
-BFtF-
They finished eating and considered what to do until they went back to school that afternoon. Amelia had a letter from Dumbledore. "He tells me that one of the lord's quarters in Gryffindor Tower will be prepared for your and Keith's use by the time we get back. By then, he'll have met with the staff. This has not happened in about 92 years, so he and the staff will ready to help the students understand this and adjust to it. Hopefully, that will reduce any friction to a minimum. Unless the healer forbids it, we'll be back by about four this afternoon. You'll have a chance to get comfortable in your quarters before dinner.
The investigation will last through tomorrow, classes will not start until Monday. I've been informed that Keith's year mates have received an orientation and Professor McGonagall will make sure you get to see your classrooms and meet your instructors. At the least, you'll have a chance to settle in by Monday."
At that moment, the Auror on guard duty knocked. "There's a woman asking for Krukmakare, says to tell him that Veronica's here." Amelia looked at Keith, got his nod. A gesture to the Auror and the woman entered.
"Keith! This is Rita Skeeter and she's one of the yellowest of yellow journalists in this world! She'll take any information and it might sell papers, but it won't be accurate."
"Madam Bones, that has been true before, but Mr. Krukmakare and I have an arrangement. He tips me off, I write. But, nothing is published unless he says so. He gave me an interesting memory on the 31st, and here is a story I've written." She spread out some sheets of copy. It was about Keith's encounter with Lockhart.
What was written was as Keith told them. There were parts that went beyond the facts of the memory, but she had quotes for attribution and everything not of Keith's had two or more corroborating sources. Keith nodded and smiled at the scribe. "This is fine, it can go like this."
"I'll have more in a day or two to show you."
Keith came to a decision and pulled a memory. "Here is a memory from the feast." He hesitated. "I'll give you the memory of Pettigrew's unmasking, but only if Madam Bones permits and she'll act for me regarding the copy. Amelia stared at him, then nodded.
"Finally, there is what you all did yesterday. Harry, I told her if she played straight, she might, and I stressed might get an occasional interview. I didn't think it would come this early. Talking to her is up to you."
Harry looked startled, then at Hermione and Amelia. "Ms Skeeter, would you mind waiting outside for a moment.?" She nodded and stepped out. They talked about it for a few minutes and called her back in. Harry looked and said, "This is what happened..."
Rita took it down, using a standard dicta-quill. Taking further notes as she asked questions, she interviewed each of the four. After an hour, she packed up. "Lord Potter, I'll send copy to your Seneschal in a day or two. Look it over, suggest changes if you wish. When we have something approved, it will be printed verbatim."
She shook each of their hands. Amelia's manner was still slightly frosty. "I don't want to regret this."
"You won't." Rita replied and saw her way out.
-BFtF-
After lunch, the healer gave both boys their examinations. Declaring both healthy, he said they could return to Hogwarts. He suggested regular exercise,particularly for Harry, while stressing that Harry had to keep to his potions schedule. He left a case of potions, enough for a week and a stack of notes for Madam Pomfrey.
The rest of the afternoon, the quintet read some of the books about wizarding houses and their customs. By the time 3:45 arrived, they felt they had a good grasp of the situation, at least for the present. They packed up, the boys donned their new robes and they flooed to the Three Broomsticks. From there, a coach awaited and Amelia sent her Patronus on to warn the school. Hagrid led them into the castle and the Headmaster and Professor McGonagall escorted them to the Lord's quarters.
-BFtF-
That morning, Dumbledore convened a meeting of the full staff immediately after breakfast. It turned out to be longer than he'd wanted it to be, simply because it was so novel for them. Once they understood this part of Hogwarts' tradition, he found they mainly accepted the situation and already were thinking of how to deal with potential problems. He expected the two exceptions. Gilderoy still was not on page; mainly, Dumbledore thought, due to his egotism. Once more, he damned Tom for somehow cursing the position; ever since he'd turned down Tom's offer to take the students in hand regarding the Dark Arts, not one teacher he'd hired had lasted to teach a second year.
Severus, though, was a different matter. Although he could scarcely admit his failing, even to himself, giving him a professorship and house headship at 21 was proving to have been an unfortunate choice. Severus was a marvelously talented Potions Master, but had little real skill in instructing and worse, no inclination to improve himself along those lines. In the past eleven years, the number of students finishing with N.E.W.T credentials had dropped to less than a third of what it had been before Horace retired. British Wizardkind was now starting to feel the effects of this error. He shook himself out of his reverie, ended the meeting, asking Severus to remain.
"You seem upset, Severus, why?"
"This continual pandering to Potter, a scarcely adequate brat with nothing more to his credit than a scar and a hugely inflated ego. He's his father all over again, but lacking even his dubious merits. These privileges you're handing him ensure he'll float through the halls, buoyed by his own sense of entitlement..."
"That is more than enough!" Dumbledore suddenly had had all he could stomach of Snape. "Did you not listen at all? This is not a choice I've made, this is a matter that is covered in the bylaws. This is automatic, now that he knows his station and place in our world. I'd have spared him this additional burden, but it is too late for that and we will fulfill our obligations. You will fulfill your obligations. I fear I erred in giving the title and responsibilities you now bear." He ruthlessly aborted the Potions Master's attempt to argue. "You are a great Potions Master, you will perhaps become the greatest in the world, if you're spared. But your ability to teach, to bring out the best from your students, to recognize and nurture those talented in Potions, those who'll be needed in our world in the future is sadly lacking.
"Were you to apply yourself, you could be a more than serviceable Professor. But you've made no effort along those lines, moreover, your bias towards your house and against the others can no longer be ignored. It ends now! Should it continue, you'll not be here a year from today, on that you may depend. You may go now and pray let Minerva know I need a word?" (4)
Albus scarcely noticed Snape's enraged exit. McGonagall arrived a few minutes later. Having offered refreshment, he came to the point. "I have always been reluctant to empower you to oversee the giving and docking of points, and of supervision over assigning detentions,though it is enshrined in the bylaws. I've felt staff collegiality to be fostered that way. However, I've changed my views. You are granted full authority in these matters.I'll trust you to notify the staff. If you've no questions . . ." McGonagall knew a dismissal, nodded and left, leaving himself to his thoughts.
-BFtF-
Thus, when the five reached the doors, they were met by the Headmaster and his Deputy. "Lord Potter, Seneschal Krukmakare, Madam Bones Miss Granger, Miss Bones, welcome back. You look to be well and ready to start classes. We will escort you to your quarters, near the Gryffindor Common Room and you have time and enough to explore them before dinner tonight. As you doubtless know, tomorrow is a free day. Mr. Krukmakare, Professor McGonagall shall give you your schedule at breakfast, will show you where your classes are held and introduce you to your professors. Make the best use of your time until Monday, please, all of you." A few minutes later, they arrived at a portrait a short distance from the Fat Lady. The knight straightened at their approach and the painting swung out at the password, 'Noble Gryffindor'.
The quarters opened into a rather spacious sitting room, with a divan, love-seat and chairs, near a cheerful fireplace. There was a table and chair set, next to a small open kitchen. Two doors opened into bedrooms, one large and opulent, with Harry's processions from his dorm room present and already unpacked. "If you leave your new purchases by the bed, they will be unpacked by the time you return from dinner, My Lord." Harry complied. Moving to the next bedroom, they found a room three quarters the size of a dorm room. "Seneschal, the same holds for you."Opening the next door revealed a luxurious bath. "Unless we are needed, Professor McGonagall and I will see you at dinner." They exited.
The five spent some time looking at the suite in more detail. Susan was pleased to see that the dining set was expandable and the chairs could be converted into parlour seating as well. Hermione was pleased to find bookshelves in both bedrooms and provision for a library in the sitting room.
The Auror in Amelia warmed as a few surreptitious detection charms disclosed the built in protective wards worked into the rooms. Harry marveled at the space in his room; in fact in the quarters in general. This, in addition to the knowledge from Gringotts, still had him in something of a daze.
Soon enough, though, it was time for them to go down for dinner. "Ready for the goldfish bowl?" Harry's question was met with slightly hollow laughter. They left and were greeted by a noisy reception by the fellow Gryffindors and went to meat.
A/N: As always, a tip of the keyboard for my Beta, Alix33; one of the absolute best.
Notes á la chem prof
(1) The problems with Keith's oaths was pointed out to me by a reviewer, who is awarded a Gold Star from petty cash. Well done!
(2) The types of Family Rings is adapted from a story, Potter's Bones that the writer, sadly took down, due to plagiarism. Let it be a lesson for us all!
(3) The definition of 'Seneschal' is almost verbatim from a dictionary site on the web. The oath Keith and Harry exchange is adapted from the one Pippin gives Denethor in Tolkien's The Return of the King.
(4) Dumbledore's actions vis-à-vis Snape are not OOC. He realizes that the landscape has changed ans is attempting to adapt, in order to manage and guide things back into his control.
Once more, thanks to all you who read my efforts. Visitors, hits, reviews, follows, favorites, C2s are my only payment. Believe me, they make me feel rich!
RePosted 08/11/2022
Words 8,602