A/N: Alright everyone, this is the chapter that many of you have been waiting for! The Reading of the Will! I know that my updating hasn't been regular and I apologize for that. But I have been working 10 to 12 hrs a day for the last few weeks. Not to mention the snow and wind chills! So don't expect this to be updated anytime soon. Enjoy!
potter8668
Chapter 6:
The week following Harry's birthday and Sirius' death was a busy one for Harry. He, Lily, and Marble moved from Gringotts to Stonehill with Susan and Amelia. The fact that Marble came with him caused Amelia to question why. She knew for a fact that goblin women were never let out of their homes, let alone Gringotts. Harry explained what had happened.
(Flashback)
Harry returned from his 'kidnapping' intent on packing and moving his family to Stonehill that night. That included Marble.
"Marble?"
"Yes, Lord Potter?"
"I wanted to ask if you would be willing to be Lily's permanent nanny?"
The female goblin gave him a sad smile. "Lord Potter as much as I would love to, I can not. I am to marry a chieftain of our tribe. He would not allow it."
Harry studied her closely. "You don't want to, do you?"
"What I want is irrelevant. I will do as my leader commands."
"And he commands that you marry him?"
"Yes. Bellock has already refused the more traditional way."
"Why?"
"I do not wish to be tied to anyone in such a way. Bellock has allowed me this for most of my adult life. Rarely has he ever told me no. The Chieftain refused to accept Bellock's dismissal of his suit and then ordered him to present me by the 1st of September."
"Is there anything that I can do to help?"
"I have no idea. Perhaps if you spoke to Bellock, he might know if you may or not."
Harry gave her a smile and went to find the other goblin immediately. What happened next was only written in history. Harry had 'bought' her from Bellock, making her his slave, thus forcing the upcoming union between their chieftain and herself from ever happening.
What had sealed the entire transaction was that the supreme leader of the Goblins had not only agreed with it, he had helped in the writing of the contract. It seems that the leader had no lost love for the chieftain either. This was a way of showing the arrogant goblin that he didn't always get what he wanted.
Almost at once Marble became more cheerful. Her new master was kind and generous. It was as if she wasn't a slave at all! She had her freedom, in a sense, even more than Bellock had given her. She truly loved taking care of the young witch and looked forward to caring for the future children of her Master and Mistress.
The only unpleasantness was that her Master didn't like to be called Master. But she won that round by refusing to acknowledge his order to do so. Telling him that he had told her she never had to follow an order from him, ever. He didn't like his own words used against him, so they came to a compromise. She could call him 'Master' when it was just the family around or if other Goblins were in hearing distance. If anyone else was in the room she would refer to him by his title. Her Mistress had a good laugh over that one, so had Marble.
(End Of Flashback)
Amelia didn't say another word about the affair, only cautioned Susan to treat Marble as she would any other servant. Susan did better than that and the two were soon fast friends in very little time.
The unusual family was barely settled into their new home when the invitations arrived for Sirius' funeral. Only those invited could attend. Harry had no idea who or who wouldn't be there. Marble agreed that Lily shouldn't go. They would stay behind the reinforced wards that Harry had strengthened and added to. Marble was beside herself with pride at how well her Master had done them in so little time. He matched the best of the goblins!
As the family made ready to attend the service, she couldn't help but note that her master had attended way too many of these in the past few weeks.
In the early morning hours on the day of Sirius' service, several members of the Order were meeting at their headquarters. Those there were the so called leaders, Dumbledore, McGonagall, and Snape. Others were Lupin, Tonks, and the Weasleys, namely Arthur, Molly, Ron, and Ginny.
The previous night a general Order meeting was held. Dumbledore gave his announcement about 'retiring' from his other duties, except Hogwarts and the Order. He wanted them to hear it from him first instead of in the morning edition of the Prophet.
From there the meeting went down hill. Kingsley, Hestia, and Tonks all gave their resignations from the Order, citing conflicting schedules. Dumbledore knew the true reason. Harry and Amelia. This announcement caused a rift within the Order and not much else was done that night.
But this mornings meeting wasn't a true Order meeting, else Tonks couldn't attend. No, this meeting was dealing with Sirius' will reading later that morning. To be held after the service.
"Thank you all for coming."
"What's on your mind, Headmaster?" asked Tonks
"Sirius' will."
"What about it?"
"I understand that you and Lupin received invitations to the reading?"
"Yeah. So?"
"I find it odd that neither I nor the Weasleys were invited."
Lupin hid his amusement behind a carefully constructed mask. Tonks was more confused than ever. "Why would you be?"
Dumbledore sighed. It wasn't worth it some day to get out of bed. "The Will that I witnessed a few months ago named myself and the Weasleys as beneficiaries. I find it disturbing that we haven't received any notice of this. The Weasleys were only notified that there was a stipulation in the Will that required at least Arthur, Molly and young Ginerva to be there. I know at least the Betrothal Contract is active because of that."
"Perhaps Sirius had a change of heart?" suggested Remus, knowing full well that Sirius had.
"It is possible, but why? And who controls the new will, if there is one? Or do the goblins not know of the one that I have already mentioned?"
"All reasonable questions, sir, but I haven't an answer for you."
"Remus is right. For all we know Sirius' will reading could be one massive prank."
"That sounds like something that Black would do." muttered Snape. "Perhaps we should await those that are attending in the lobby of the bank?"
"I had planned on doing that anyways, Severus. I hope to see and speak with Harry. He has to attend as he is the main heir. I wish to offer my services as his advisor during the reading."
Remus mentally snorted. Dumbledore was in for a rude awakening. He was glad that he was going to have a front row seat for the proceedings.
Dumbledore turned to the Weasleys. "I suggest that you dress in your best and wait in the lobby of the bank. Once Harry has been declared Head of the Black Family, the Betrothal ceremony will need to be done. This will give Harry the stability that he has sorely needed in his life. Not to mention that it will get our foot in the door concerning his safety."
Remus frowned. He didn't know exactly what Sirius cooked up but he hoped that it wasn't what these people wanted. He made his decision to resign at the next meeting. With Sirius gone, it just wasn't as fun any more.
Susan stepped into the nursery that had been set up next to Harry's room. He was busy feeding Lily her bottle while telling her the story of Rapunzel. Only in this version Rapunzel wasn't as helpless. She had to snort over some of the things that this princess was getting away with. She had to admit it made for a good tale. Harry finished the story and was currently burping Lily.
"Interesting tale Lord Potter."
Harry simply blushed.
"I especially like the part where Rapunzel used a wand to transfigure a bed sheet into a replica of her hair. Allowing her to climb down the tower and rescue the Prince from the evil witch, who sounds a lot like Bellatrix LeStrange."
"I just want her to know that she can do what ever she wants and doesn't necessarily need anyone's help."
Susan laughed. "I agree but what are you going to say when she finds out you changed the tales?"
"That I told her the truth as far as I'm concerned."
Susan laughed again. "I'll reserve judgment. How do you know so many fairy tales anyway?"
"It was one of the books that Dudley never looked at. I snuck it into my cupboard and would read it when I was locked in for what ever Dudley did to get me punished. I was probably five or six at the time. They became my friends in a way."
Susan was slowly starting to get mad. If those damned relatives weren't in St. Mungos at that very moment she would tempted to hex them into oblivion.
Harry, seeing that Susan was losing control of her temper, decided to change the subject.
"Do you think that it will be safe for Lily to go?"
Susan rolled her eyes. "Yes. Between Marble, Bellock, and the rest of the Goblins guarding her. Not to mention her over protective father, Mum, and Auntie right there as well, I'd say that it'll be safe enough for her."
"I hope so. I didn't want to expose her so soon. Once Dumbledore and Voldemort find out about her, they'll do anything to use her to get to me."
"I know, Harry. But this prevents so many things from happening. Besides Sirius is getting the last laugh."
Harry had to chuckle. She was right. Sirius was getting the last laugh.
A most unusual group was congregating in the lobby of Gringotts. On one side were those who represented the 'light'. Dumbledore, the Weasleys, the Tonks, Remus, and several other Order members. The other side held those of the 'dark' side. The Malfoys and three other men who looked rather snobbish. All were waiting for one person to arrive. Harry Potter.
Unknown to them, Harry, Lily, Susan, Amelia, and Marble had already arrived and were waiting in a small chamber off to the side. At five minutes until the reading, Bellock arrived and escorted Marble and Lily into the conference room. Harry, Susan, and Amelia left the room for the lobby. It was show time.
Harry made his grand entrance by walking into the lobby holding Susan's hand. Amelia was to his right. They made a very powerful trio. A trio that had several regular customers moving out of their way. Dumbledore wasted no time in getting close to Harry.
"Harry, I had hoped to see you before the reading."
"Headmaster."
"I wish to offer my services as your advisor in these proceedings."
"That won't be necessary. Madam Bones has graciously consented to fill that role for me."
"I understand that you are upset with me. I mean no disrespect to Amelia, but I feel that I am better qualified to help you."
"The answer is still 'no', sir. Now excuse us. We have a reading to attend."
Harry stepped around Dumbledore, never letting Susan's hand go. Ginny's eyes narrowed. She stepped in front of the couple.
"What is she doing here?"
"Susan was asked to be here by me."
Several gasps were heard as people, including Molly Weasley, understood what that meant and the implications involved. Something that both Ginny and Mrs. Weasley chose to ignore.
Ginny focused on Susan. She didn't like what she saw in her rival. Granted they both had red hair but Susan had more curves than she did. Not to mention that she and Harry were in the same year. Susan, also, was dressed in the latest fashions and obviously had money. Ginny was pale in comparison.
"When the reading is done, we'll see where you stand Bones. Once that's done you will NEVER touch Harry again!"
"We'll see Weasley, we'll see." smirked Susan.
Bellock chose that moment to announce that the reading of the will would now commence. Harry and his group entered first, followed by the Malfoys and the men with them. Remus and the Tonks went in last. Dumbledore was let in after Tonks agreed, publicly, to let Dumbledore 'advise' her. Ginny smirked as she sat down across from Harry once the family was let into the room. It was then that the rest of the group noticed the baby amongst them in the arms of a goblin. But no one could ask whose it was or why it was there because Bellock had started the reading.
"This gathering is to hear the final requests and statements from Sirius Orion Black, dated July 20th of this year."
Dumbledore paled at hearing that. That date meant that Sirius had made a new will. Who knew what the unhinged man had done.
"Lord Black asked that I forgo the usual statements as he was of sound body and mind. He realized that you all would be on pins and needles over what was left to each of you. So let us commence, shall we?"
Everyone gave their agreement.
"Very well. To Bellatrix Black LeStrange: I leave my regret. You get nothing else except for a spanking that you sorely need. I leave it up to the new Lord Black to administer that.
To Nymphadora Callisto Tonks: I leave the Black family seat in the Wizengament. May you vote with your heart and not with you head. Let no one tell you how you should shape the future of our world.
To Remus John Lupin: I leave the contents in vault 68. I'm sure that you will enjoy what's stashed away in there. I only ask that you share it with future Marauders.
To Lily Elizabeth Potter: I leave the Black family home. If a certain bird club is still meeting there, they will need to have your specific permission to continue to use the house."
Several people looked around trying to find out who this mysterious person was. Ginny's eye narrowed even more. 'He better not have married some tart behind my back. His arse is mine!' she thought.
Bellock cleared his throat. His amusement was clearly evident.
"To Narcissa Black Malfoy: I leave my mother's wedding ring. May it bring you as happy a marriage as it did to her."
Narcissa scowled.
"To Draco Lucius Malfoy: I turn the mantle of Lord Black over to you. Use it wisely. Also anything that I or any other Lord Black has done can not be undone or else Andi and her family would be reinstated."
Draco's smirk was seen by all. No doubt he was already counting all of 'his' fortune. Dumbledore and the Weasleys looked stricken. This was not supposed to happen.
"To Andromeda Black Tonks: I leave all of my muggle property. I know that you will put it to good use.
And finally to Harry James Potter: I leave everything else that hasn't already been given away. I know that you will use it for the good of the people and for your family. I love you Pup and Puppy too.
That's it folks. No changes can be made and no one can contest this document. I hope to see some of you in heaven or in hell depending on where I end up. Enjoy life! Also Moony, you owe me ten galleons. I won! Finally I won a bet with you!"
Remus laughed outright. Of course Sirius would remember that stupid bet. Both had got completely smashed one night and the two of them made a stupid bet as to who would be the last to go. Ten galleons was the stake and that money was to go and buy drinks in the winner's honor at the Three Broomsticks. Remus planned on doing just that as soon as he could convince Harry to join him.
"I want a complete list of everything that I own now as Lord Black." stated Draco pompously.
"I am not sure what you mean, Lord Black." answered Bellock, fully aware of what the young man was referring to. He was hard pressed not to laugh outloud.
"Are you stupid or what!?! Whatever I own now that I'm Lord Black and be quick about it! I have other things to do today."
"There is nothing other than a marriage contract that you have inherited Lord Black."
"WHAT!?!"
"I said that there is nothing…."
"I heard you the first time, you stupid creature! How is this possible?"
"Simple Lord Black. The previous Lord Black didn't want the family wealth to fall into the wrong hands. As nothing is entailed with the estate, you receive the title and all of its problems. The marriage contract is part of that."
"YOU MEAN THAT I HAVE TO MARRY FERRET FACE!?!" shouted Ginny, giving away that she knew of the contract.
"WHAT!?!" shouted Draco in return.
"Indeed, Ms. Weasley. The contract that was signed by your father and the previous Lord Black is with the next Head of the Black family. In this case it is Mr. Malfoy Jr., the new Lord Black."
"NO! I was supposed to marry Harry! Not this….." she gestured towards Draco while trying to find an adequate word that described him from her point of view.
"Lord Potter is betrothed to marry Ms. Bones. Their Family honor demands it."
"Family Honor? What family honor do you refer to, Bellock?" asked Dumbledore. He was beyond furious over what was happening. Sirius had to go and change a perfectly good plan. Another thing that was bothering him was this Lily Potter. Who was she? He needed to know so that he could speak with her about the Order's continued use of the Black family home.
Bellock looked to Harry, who nodded, before answering. "Lord Potter is the direct heir to the Gryffindor line. Ms. Bones is the direct heir to the Hufflepuff line. It was discovered that there was still an active marriage contract between the two families."
No one knew what to say. Ginny was stunned at learning that the couple across from her were to be marry. It was then she remembered the baby.
"YOU TWO TIMING BASTARD! HOW DARE YOU HAVE A CHILD WITH THIS TRAMP BEFORE YOUR VOWS!?! YOU ARE MINE!"
Harry stood up. Susan remained seated, too stunned to move. Lily began to fuss as she woke up from all the yelling.
"You will apologize to Susan RIGHT NOW!"
"NO! SHE"S USING YOU HARRY! ALL SHE WANTS IS YOUR FAME AND MONEY!"
That got Susan up. She forced Harry back into his seat before launching herself across the table at a stunned Ginny. It was hardly a fight as a stronger Susan pinned Ginny to the floor and had her wand drawn before the young girl could recover.
"You listen to me, bitch. Harry had no choice in this just like me. He was very honest with me about who he truly loved before all of this happened and it wasn't you. Now get over yourself and accept that there is nothing that you can do about it."
Susan got up and waited for Ginny to regain her feet before punching her in the jaw.
Rubbing her sore knuckles she gave a parting shot to the younger girl. "Besides you have your own betrothed now. Enjoy being the ferret's property." she smirked.
Ginny, hurt and angry, paled at those words. Dear Merlin! She's contracted to Malfoy! Moaning, she wished that someone would just kill her now and end all of her problems for good.
Dumbledore did or said nothing during the rant. He, like everyone else, heard what the younger girl had said and connected a few dots.
"Mr. Potter."
Harry glared at his one time mentor. "Lord Potter, Headmaster."
"Very well then, Lord Potter. May inquire as to who Lily is? I know that it doesn't refer to your mother as her middle name was not Elizabeth."
"Lily is my daughter."
Everyone who hadn't known before was stunned into silence. The boy-who-lived a father! When had that happened?
"And the mother?"
"Is none of your concern."
"I think that it is. She would need protection when the child is returned to her."
"Lily lives with me. Susan is her mother now."
"Harry…"
"It's still, Lord Potter" growled Harry.
"Lord Potter, what happened to the mother?" He feared the worst, that the deceased Ms. Granger was the child's true mother. He knew of possible ways for this to have happened in such a short time. He could hardly believe that the studious Ms. Granger would stoop to such levels. But it would appear that she would and did.
"Still not answering." growled Harry in reply. Turning his attention to Bellock he asked, "Is there anything else that I or my family are needed for?"
"No Lord Potter. Nothing else remains but the ceremony between Lord Black and Ms. Weasley."
"My son and that girl are NOT getting betrothed" announced Lucius Malfoy.
"Then both your son and Ms. Weasley will lose their magic and die."
Harry stood and looked Ginny straight in the eye. "I, Harry James Potter, do herby call forth the life debt that Ginerva Molly Weasley owes me."
Several gasps were heard through out the room. Bellock asked the one question that all the others were wanting to.
"The conditions?"
"That the afore mentioned Ginerva will repay me by marrying Lord Black and never seek me out during the course of her natural life."
Molly looked like she wanted to explode, while Ginny, Dumbledore, and Mr. Weasley paled rather quickly. Mr. Weasley came out of his stupor first and had to nudge Ginny several times to get her to even respond. One glance at the Malfoys was enough for Harry to almost lose it. Draco looked like he had swallowed one of Dumbledore's lemon drops the wrong way.
Ginny did the one thing she could. She fainted. Mr. Weasley caught her before she hit her head,
Molly Weasley, shocked and furious found her voice. She ignored Ginny as she began to yell.
"HARRY JAMES POTTER! HOW DARE YOU DO SUCH A THING!?! IS THIS HOW YOU TREAT FAMILY!?! NOW YOU RECANT THOSE CONDITIONS OR SO HELP ME MERLIN I'LL…."
Whatever she was going to say next was never heard as Amelia placed a Silencing charm on her. "Molly, once a debt is acknowledged and the conditions spoken, there is no recalling it. Your daughter must accept them or lose her magic."
"Harry, I am very disappointed in you." stated Dumbledore. "You need to understand that Sirius was not in his right mind when he made this will. As head of the Wizengament and Chief Warlock I declare that this Will is invalid and Sirius Black's previous Will be the official one." He had forgotten that he had been forced to resign those posts in his attempt to regain control over Harry.
"You may declare it so, Chief Warlock, but the previous Lord Black assumed that you would attempt this. He had several documents from various healers all stating that he was in the proper frame of mind when he made this will. He met with all your objections and surpassed them. This document is valid and will remain so." answered Bellock.
Harry led the way as he, Susan, and Amelia faces left the room, each with a smirk on their faces.
A couple of days after the Will reading, Dumbledore's 'retirement' announcement made the front page of the Daily Prophet. The story had been delayed due to needing the confirmation of some of the issues that Dumbledore stated. It wasn't as if he lied. No it was how he had worded each phrase. He was trying to blame both Harry and Amelia for his problems.
But Dumbledore soon found out that they were only the tip of the iceberg. The Board of Governors was interfering in his school.
Harry was giving Susan a Defense lesson when Amelia interrupted them. She had stood in the doorway for ten minutes and watched as Harry carefully explained how to properly cast the spell and how she should make it work. It wasn't until a silvery badger erupted from Susan's wand did Amelia realize that Harry was teaching her the Patronus Charm.
"Very good Susan!"
"Thanks Auntie."
"How long have you two been working on that one?"
"Since this morning."
Amelia felt her jaw slip in surprise. Harry had taught an extremely difficult charm in less than a day! He was better than she hoped for.
"Harry, I need to discuss something with you."
"Sure Amelia."
"Perhaps we should go into the Drawing Room and sit down."
"That bad, Auntie?" asked Susan.
"No, minx, but it isn't that fantastic either."
The group went into the Drawing Room. Harry and Susan sat on one sofa, while Amelia sat on the other across from them.
"As you know I'm on the Board of Governors for Hogwarts."
Both nodded yes.
"We have met to discuss a growing problem within the school."
"What kind of problem?"
"Defense Instructors."
Harry understood immediately. "You're referring to the lack of, aren't you?"
"Yes. Dumbledore's choices have been getting worse. Other than Lupin, each one has been a disaster."
"True."
"This year no one has even applied."
"Some how that doesn't surprise me."
"It doesn't to me either but now Fudge is interfering."
"How?"
"By forcing us to accept his choice."
"Why do I get the feeling that if I were attending Hogwarts, I wouldn't like it?"
"Because he wants Delores Umbridge in that spot."
Harry tried to remember where he had heard that name before. Then it dawned on him.
"The brown noser?"
Amelia had to chuckle. That particular nickname had spread through the Ministry like wildfire. Now it was whispered in the halls as she passed. The woman was more livid than ever.
"Right in one. She has personally said that she will 'bring you down a peg' for the safety and well being of the Ministry."
"Doesn't she know that I've graduated?"
"No but we do and wish to make you an offer."
"What offer?"
"First, I want you to know that Susan isn't returning to Hogwarts. I've hired Remus to tutor her so that she can take her OWLS during the winter holidays. We want you to teach Defense."
"You're kidding!"
"No, we're dead serious. You had the highest recorded score in that subject since records started being kept. I just watched you teach Susan a complicated charm that very few can do. All in less than a day. We need a teacher to teach the next generation how to fight and how to run away. We need you."
Harry looked at Susan. "It's your decision. I'll support you no matter what." she said.
"I have some conditions."
"Fire away."
Dumbledore and Snape both arrived at the Board of Governors meeting slightly early. Neither truly wanted to be there. Snape had dodged a bullet with the Ministry about the accusations of his Legilimency escapades. They never said that Potter was the one that turned him in but Severus knew in his heart that the boy was the one. Now the Board decided to meddle as well. How he wished for the old days when children did as they were told and didn't complain.
Dumbledore was just as put out as his Potions Master, only for different reasons. He had no luck in talking with Harry, finding out who the babe's mother was, or blocking that contract that he forced Black to sign. The Weasley's were up in arms over it as well as the Malfoys. Both sides had exhausted all avenues and the Betrothal had taken place just that morning. As per custom, young Ms. Weasley was placed in the care of her future in-laws. Narcissa took the girl under her wing and was actually civil to Molly in regards to the girl. That had surprised quite a few people, including her husband and son. Now there was no way to force a marriage between the girl and Harry. He sighed in defeat. It seemed that everything was starting to turn against him.
His attention was drawn to the Board entering the room. Unfortunately Lucius Malfoy was found to have bribed, as well as to have accepted bribes, one too many times in his office as one of the Governors. He had been replaced by Amelia Bones. Someone that was fair and strict. Someone that Dumbledore couldn't sweet talk or bully his way around.
"Let us call this meeting to order. First we have a serious issue to deal with. Severus Snape."
"Yes?"
"Do you know why we asked you before this body?"
"No."
"Very well, then we shall enlighten you. You have flaunted your position for the last time."
Snape stood up. He would not be talked to like that!
"SIT DOWN!"
Snape sat.
"We have heard rumors for years about your abuse and unfairness. Until recently they were brushed aside, thanks to Mr. Malfoy and the Headmaster. However in reviewing your grading of assignments and a look at the points systems log we are in agreement that you have violated several regulations that have been in place since the founders. You are therefore on probation. A neutral party will be in your classroom at all times. Any unfair point taking, purposely failed assignments or general high handedness will result in your termination. Do you understand?"
"Just a minute!"
"I said do you understand?"
"Am I not allowed to defend myself?"
"No, I have seen the results firsthand. Never have I been ashamed to be associated with Hogwarts until now."
"I see. Who is it?"
"Who is who?"
"The one that tipped you onto me? Potter I suppose?"
"No, Lord Potter didn't. My granddaughter did."
That shut Snape up. Several times the Headmaster had warned him about getting 'caught'. Each time it was swept under the rug and forgotten. Now it couldn't be. He stood and swept from the room with a swish of his robes, too angry to speak.
"Now that that unpleasantness is out of the way, we have something else to discuss with you Headmaster."
"Certainly. How may I help you?"
"This doesn't require your help per say."
"Oh?"
"We know that no one has applied for the Defense position."
"That is true. Several people refused outright. They claim that the position is cursed."
"If it is or isn't is not the issue."
"Then what is?"
"The Ministry has been pressuring us to accept their choice."
"Oh? Who would that be?"
"Delores Umbridge."
"No, she can not be allowed to teach! She would poison the minds of every student there!"
"We agree with you. That is why we have found someone who will teach part of the classes."
"Really? Who?"
"We had to give in to some conditions that he required before he accepted the job. You must adhere to them as well."
"Who is it?" Dumbledore demanded.
"Harry Potter."
Dumbledore was surprised and it showed. Inside he was jumping up and down with joy. Finally a way to control the boy!
"I was unaware that Harry submitted an application."
"He didn't. We went to him. He agreed to take the position with a few conditions. Those conditions were granted and you will have to follow them."
Dumbledore didn't like the sounds of this.
"First Lord Potter will live outside of the castle, in a place of his own choosing. You will not know of the location, nor will you contact him in any way outside of the castle. If you have need to do so, direct your requests to Amelia."
"But…"
"That is non-negotiable! Lord Potter refused to accept our offer unless we agreed to that point and frankly given your obsession with him I have to agree! Now continuing with our agreement. Second, Lord Potter will only teach years 1st through 4th. At no time will he teach his peers or those older than himself. As the years progress, Lord Potter will assume those classes as well until he is teaching all 7 years. He felt uncomfortable teaching students his own age or older."
"Then who will teach 5th through 7th?"
"Amelia has offered two of her Auror instructors to handle that. They will remain at the castle the entire time. When one is teaching, the other will be monitoring Professor Snape. Also, if I were you, I would warn him of Lord Potter's arrival. The animosity between those two is well known. I would hate to see your 'pet' lose all credibility."
Dumbledore sighed. This was becoming a very big nightmare.
"Third, Lord Potter will attend the main feasts during the school year."
Dumbledore began to plan fast when he heard that. Severus could brew several potions that would place the boy back under his control. Things were beginning to look brighter. However what the chairman said next dashed all those hopes away.
"But Lord Potter will be served by his personal servant with food prepared by them."
Dumbledore only nodded. His defeat was almost complete.
"Fourth, Lord Potter has agreed to remain each night until 8 in the evening to help any of his students. He will not help those outside of his own classes. Those students should seek out their own Professors in that regard."
The chairman stopped speaking and looked at his one time friend. "Albus I don't know what happened to you over the years, but this obsession with controlling every little thing that concerns Harry Potter has got to stop! Never have I had to give in so much for one person to teach at Hogwarts! You had best stay away from him while he's there or so help you Merlin we will not stand in his way."
"Very well, I shall leave the boy alone."
"Too right you will because you're going to give us your wizard's oath about it right now."
Later that night Lord Voldemort called a meeting of his followers. He needed news of the outside world and of his enemies. To him, several of his inner circle were less than enthused to be here.
"Lucius, what of Black's Will?"
"My Lord, Draco has been given the title of Lord Black."
"Very good, Lucius, I am most pleased. I want you to instruct your son to place half of the estate into my main vault."
"There is a problem with that, My Lord."
"Yes?"
"Draco did get the title but only that and the marriage contract that goes with it. I have been told by the goblins that the estate wasn't entailed and that Sirius knew that. Most of what was in the Black Family is now in the hands of Harry Potter."
"The Wizengament seat?"
"Went to Andromeda's daughter. The Auror and one of Dumbledore's people."
"Your wife and Bella?"
"Narcissa was given the former Lady Black's wedding ring and Black gave orders that Bella be spanked by Draco."
Voldemort blinked several times before he began to laugh hysterically. "I have to give Black points for originality in that one. Send for your son, Lucius. I wish to witness the event. Wormtail!"
"Yes, My Lord?"
"Find Bella and tell her that she has a surprise coming from Black's will. Do not tell her what it is, understand?"
"Yes, My Lord." Wormtail scurried away. He wanted to witness this as well.
While he was waiting for the main event, Voldemort spoke to Severus next.
"Severus, what does Dumbledore think of all this?"
"The Headmaster is furious at the moment. It seems that Potter refused to allow him to represent him at the Will reading. He also is upset over the fact that Potter will be teaching Defense this coming term. It seems that the Board went over his head to acquire Potter for the position. I was not told of the details involved. However I have learned that Potter and the Bones girl are betrothed and that Potter has an infant daughter with someone else. No has been able to find out who the mother is."
"So the boy is not so pure and golden anymore? I bet that raked the old man's temper."
"Indeed. He had forced Black with a Compulsion charm on a marriage contract between the House of Black and the House of Weasley. From what I have been able to learn, Draco and Ms. Weasley were forced to acknowledge the Betrothal. Potter went so far as to use the life debt owed to him by the girl to get her compliance."
Voldemort actually laughed. The boy was proving to be quite entertaining. His thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of Bella and Draco.
"Bella, my faithful one. Lord Black has your inheritance. I wish to witness the event."