Harry and Hermione's Unexpected Family Ties
**OO**
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.
**OO**
Chapter 4 - Reunions
Cairo Gringotts
Penny was looking at the list. If Percy wasn't…no, she put her left hand in her pocket and fingered the precious beads there. The girl that Penny had done a terrible job of protecting, had given Penny a beaded circle of remembrance. Each bead was something from Percy's life.
It was given with love, with no expectation of thanks or appreciation or anything. Penny had hugged the girl, and kept the beads close.
She made a vow to herself to make sure that Luna Lovegood would be protected next year. Just because the girl was different from others didn't mean that she should be mocked. And if she was Head Girl to Percy's Head Boy, she'd get all of the Prefects to act.
She wasn't going to dwell on Percy's…situation at the moment. She had decisions to make.
Professor Flitwick was giving her the choice of venues, but Cairo was crossed off on his list for some reason. Well, part goblin. Maybe he didn't like the heat?
She had her top three picked out for purely scholastic reasons, and Egypt was where the Weasleys were headed for Ginny's healing, so she wanted to interview there in Cairo, and had talked her mentor into meeting there first.
The Luxor Spa (a place of healing) was not in Cairo, but with magical transportation, Penny could visit the Weasleys on a Friday (the goblins day off) or at least meet once in a while.
She didn't want Percy's sister to be ignored or have treatment withheld at the last minute. She should have been sent the minute the basilisk was slain in many people's opinions.
So, ignoring the lump in her stomach that she was making a mistake, she headed to Gringotts, Cairo a full forty-five minutes before the interview, prepared and ready. Or so she thought.
The goblin came out a full hour late, which was not a good sign at all.
The lead of the team met her in the hall. Penny quickly stood, and bowed, but he openly scoffed at her clothes and snapped his fingers. A genie! A real genie popped in and the being gave her the ugliest thin scarf wrap she had ever seen.
"You are too old to go about with uncovered hair. For shame, hu-mon! Your people have no manners. Or culture! This is borrowed. Leave it here when you depart or you'll be counted as a thief."
He pulled a few brass knuts from his pocket, but Penny knew from her mentor that nothing was free at Gringotts. She paid for the rental of the sad item of clothing herself before wrapping it around her blonde hair.
At least it was clean.
He pointed her inside a small conference room and they sat at a table. At first, she thought he was insulting her muggle heritage, but after another few questions, it was clear that this goblin just didn't like magical humans in general.
"Do you have a parent or grandparent who is a goblin?" The manager demanded angrily.
Just then, there was a knock, and a guard came in with her professor.
"There you are, my student. Manager, good day to you. I am here to collect my apprentice. Is there a problem?"
The guards on the other side of the door bristled, and Penny could swear that the temperature of the room dropped.
"Be gone. She is not worthy enough for this project, anyways." The unnamed goblin stated.
"Do not apply to Hogwarts for any more of my students. Our transfiguration is top notch, but potions and especially charms will not meet your standards. Good day." Flitwick stated.
It was clear that the goblin interviewing Penny wanted to fight, but the presence of the bank guards in addition to the Charms master stopped a brawl just by being there.
Filius was sure he could have taken the p'tahk: he wasn't the previous World Dueling Champion several times for nothing.
Penny dropped the scarf on his desk without another word and followed the professor to the portkey point. He looked upset and tense.
Penny had wanted to visit the Weasleys, but Molly requested she wait for a bit longer before coming. This was definitely too soon. Flitwick suggested that they go to his number one choice, which was her second. She nodded, too spooked to object.
After they were safely away in Peru, Penny dared ask. "What was their issue?"
"Alas, I do not know. That clan does not like humans much, I guess. Prejudice. It is a shame. And very odd that if you applied to the Ministry of Magic, you would get much the same response from wizards. Sad, so sad."
Penny thought there was more to it than that, but Cuzco, Peru was second on her list, and there were a couple of places here that Flitwick thought would be perfect for them. Penny would just have to save up a few days to do some touristy things with the Weasleys later.
The only disappointment was coming here in their coldest time, as it was winter. She was told they would be inside, and at a comfortable room temperature during their work. Outside, it was freezing, or close to it.
The sun was only one of the reasons for her wanting to go to Egypt, but the welcome she'd received made her feel it would be warmer here!
**OO**
Hogwarts
Percy had spoken to Hagrid, and had a place that was already very barren due to some magical mishap years before. They wouldn't be doing damage to his pumpkin patch if something went wrong here.
Narcissa wanted to cry at the waste of it all, but Albus had pulled her away. Severus too was quick to drop the venom on the priceless crown and then moved rapidly away to stand back near the others, and cast a strong shield charm.
It was good that they had moved outside to destroy the horcrux. The backlash was evident.
The screams as the diadem of Ravenclaw was destroyed were most distressing.
Narcissa noted the time, and quickly rushed back to the castle to change with Dittany's help. She was in charge of the fancy dinner and auction event at Saint Mungo's that evening, and would be late if she didn't leave soon.
The men returned to the castle, with Dumbledore floating the destroyed thing into a metal box.
Severus was chilled to the bone, and Albus pensieve. While the woman dressed for Saint Mungo's, Severus made his own preparations for leaving.
Dumbledore himself would say that his bottle of venom was empty if ever questioned. But there was enough left.
**OO**
Severus met her in the hallway next to the door. How he wished he could attend with her, but he had a different date tonight.
"Thank you for coming, 'Cissa." Severus bowed over her gloved hand.
The woman gently cupped his cheek for just a moment, savoring the pet name. How she wished this man could escort her there!
Albus was discussing something with Percy when they all met on the way to the floo in the antechamber.
Narcissa turned before leaving, "We are united in a great cause here, gentlemen. I do not know if Grandfather lingers on, but I will write to him. See if I can borrow some books that might aid us in our quest. I will be circumspect. The Black Library is most comprehensive."
She finished the thought in her head that she would never admit to the Headmaster, 'In fact, Kreacher might remember what books the Dark Lord had borrowed over the years.' And she needed to visit Gringotts soon and see if she could make arrangements to visit Bella's vault to see if her sister was just bragging or really did have something precious of the Dark Lord's.
Or was she about to trade goblin-made objects for a jar of Riddle's toenail clippings? With Bella, one really didn't know.
"I'll see you at Saint Mungo's, dear lady. So kind of you to lend your talents to public works. Well done." Albus twinkled at her.
Narcissa left, wondering if Dumbledore had been about to give her house points. It was impossible to do enough good to wipe out the debt of evil her husband did, but she felt it her duty to try.
Albus was ever so condescending! And treated her like she was still a child instead of the matron of her own home.
The wizards went back to the Headmaster's office. They all made plans as to how they could help. Severus' eyes lingered on Percy, the ruined diadem, the diary, and all that Lucius had wrought. If Lucius knew what they were doing, he'd kill his wife.
As he was pondering, Albus repaired the diadem. Sadly, it would never again be the magically powerful original artifact, but it was indeed a beautiful piece of artwork again.
He put it on the shelf next to Godric's sword as Severus watched, but the potion master's mind was far away.
Seven pieces. That is what Percy had said. The diary was first, this diadem, likely third or fourth. He'd scanned it as had Albus before its destruction.
Severus was suddenly worried for the lady; he would do anything to protect the woman who was his only friend, and was becoming more important to him by the day.
"Headmaster? I am having dinner and spending the evening and all day tomorrow at Prince Manor. If I get the opportunity, I will inventory the library there to see if there is anything relevant."
"Give my best to Septimus, dear boy. We will talk anon."
Severus was carefully noting the time. Yes. He had a little errand to run, and then he'd spend a nice weekend with family.
**OO**
Number Four back garden
"So Dobby, you can look and act human, even talk like a human. That's a neat trick!"
They were filling out the parchmentwork for a passport for Harry. The Grangers didn't want to give the details of where they were going on holiday until they were safely away. Which Harry understood!
He was just enjoying learning a bit more about house-elves while Dobby asked about the muggle world.
Going to the muggle market with Harry was hysterical, as Dobby didn't know how much things cost in galleons, so Harry bought him a cheap calculator and put the conversion for galleons in.
The goblins greeted Dobby warmly each time he came in with lovely galleons to exchange for ugly muggle paper. The exchange rate was quite favorable towards the latter.
Some things in the muggle world were much cheaper, some more expensive, and others weren't available in the wizarding world at all.
"Does it come from Mars? How interesting." Dobby waited to talk about the treats that Harry bought for them until they got back.
"No, see Dobby. It's made here in England. Slough? Never heard of it. Oh you!"
Harry saw Dobby's sly grin. He was a prankster too! As was Harry, a little bit, now that he was coming out of his shell.
"This is my very first one, and it is delicious." Harry was taking tiny bites,
Dobby thought so too, as he sat next to his friend, and they talked about what they would do for the next couple of weeks.
Maybe he could get the great Harry Potter with his moon-cheese joke later. He was going to buy the boy a full case of these treats. This was so very good.
And Dobby would only allow them after a nutritious meal. He truly cared about Harry's good health. He was being a better parent to Harry than he'd ever had since that horrible Halloween of '81.
After Harry went to bed, Dobby went to make arrangements for Mistress 'Mione's family. The Grangers were invited to stay in a Black property while in Paris.
All because when asked by Dobby back in Hogwarts, Harry said he would do anything to help the ones petrified, and he meant it.
**OO**
Paris
House-elves are people; people who share jokes, stories, and even a bit of gossip when their master's think their secrets safe. Not if something is already known or about to go public.
Dobby found out that Fudge had bought up all of the mature mandrakes in France for a lot of gold. Far more than the plants were worth, and was trying to sell them at an even higher profit. This made him cackle most evilly.
Fudge didn't know that Harry had talked to many countries, and it was only the law of him not having a license to buy plants older than five months that caused issues. The plants Harry had bought were all kept safe, and after the owl redirect wards fell, all were forwarded to Potions Master Snape.
Fudge was going to lose a lot of gold, and the mature mandrakes he held were in a very poorly done stasis field. In fact, some had already died of old age, and would be worthless in potions.
Apparently, Lucius Malfoy had connections that helped the minister obtain these things. Buy but not get them legally inside of Britain. The minister didn't have a license to import them, nor did Lucius. And once Lucius' own powerful owl wards fell, Malfoy had stopped trying to help Fudge. That cauldron had exploded, and there was nothing to be gained from continuing to try.
Malfoy was incensed at whoever had figured out the ward schema, having not a clue that he'd been potioned by Severus himself. After Harry Potter had hired him to brew for those paralyzed, Snape had acted. And Severus had figured out that Lucius had to be behind the illegal owl wards. That wizard drank too much, and it had been so very easy for the potions master to find out all.
Helping to ruin Fudge as part of reviving the muggleborn students was just another bit of revenge for Severus.
That they would use this attack against students in order to make illicit profits? Then Severus had another revelation. The berserker potion!
Had Malfoy primed his own son for all of this? Just to make a fortune from unfortunates?
As if Severus didn't have enough reason to want to stop Lucius from stealing his air.
**OO**
Paris
The healing of Hermione was taking longer than expected.
"Tell me why you did not bring her to Saint Martìn's immediately! Her core could have been damaged!" The French healer demanded of her parents.
"I tried, I begged! The school refused to answer my letters, and when Harry, I mean, my daughter's boyfriend tried, they threatened to bind her magic! I didn't know what to do!"
"She was at Hogwarts when this happened? I will file a report with the ICW immediately. And there were others affected? If you have their names, they should be treated here as well."
Hermione did have the names. Penny, being the oldest, had been checked by Gringotts healers in Peru, and wasn't hurt as badly.
Colin Creevy was the worst, but Harry had sent him a vault key with money for him to repeat the year if needed, and a scholarship for both siblings. When Hermione sent Harry a letter talking about this, he was furious, and promised to pay for Colin's healing as well.
The Creevys and Finch-Fletchleys were all invited to stay with the Grangers at the Black townhouse.
The families got to go on holiday to France, and stay at a nice place for free. An old house-elf named Baxter waited on them all hand and foot no matter that some of them were 'merely muggles'.
The Grangers did like to holiday in Paris from time to time. Many of the elite families had holiday homes in various spots in France, including Paris, where the Black townhouse was.
Harry didn't even know that he had access to this sort of thing before this summer, but was glad that he could share when asked.
Colin taught Justin and Hermione simple games, while Justin shared posh manners with Colin. Hermione knew some, but not all.
Baxter explained wizarding eating silver and even Justin learned something new!
The wizards bonded, an odd couple, and by the end of their healing, were all good friends.
Hermione tried to talk both into going to a different school. Colin was looking into others, now that Harry had given him money and they had options. But despite magical travel, Justin's parents didn't want him going abroad for his studies.
The previously petrified students were responding to treatment, and their healers all wrote to the ICW about the abuse that had happened at the so-called premium school of magic.
**OO**
Malfoy Manor, three days after the destruction of the diadem horcrux
The funeral for Lucius Malfoy was a somber one. Narcissa, in widow's weeds, accepted everyone's sympathies. It felt as if the entire Wizengamot and all their spouses were here, and she wasn't wrong.
Albus took her aside, having a feeling that something more happened than was being stated.
"He just suddenly fell ill?" Rumors from the aurors investigating said his body was found au naturel in bed in one of the dowager houses on the property. He knew for himself that Narcissa had been at Saint Mungo's that evening. Albus had taken the time to bathe and change, but he knew she was there at the time of his passing as he attended the same fancy dress dinner that Lucius was late for.
"It was dreadful. One of the elves floo-called me during the charity auction. I was concerned it was poison as Lucius had had a bad…business arrangement come to a sudden end mid-February with a long-time partner. A witch. I told the aurors that I suspected she had something to do with it. I was questioned, of course."
Severus stepped up just then, took her hand gently in his and bowed. "My lady. The Prince family offers you sincere condolences in this terrible time. I do hope that you know that I will help you in any way that I can. I am Draco's godfather."
His eyes conveyed he was also her friend. Her champion.
"Severus! How kind of you to come." Albus' eyes were twinkling. Inappropriate to the occasion.
"Headmaster." Severus gave Albus the barest civility. Turning back to Narcissa, he continued, "Of course I would come. At least Draco got to spend a few days with his father before this terrible thing happened."
Draco Malfoy was there, looking far too young, and too pale in his black mourning attire. As Heir to the House, he would be expected to wear it for a full year. Well, except for classes. Albus would not consider allowing an exception for anyone on dress code.
It would give Professor Snape the excuse to allow the boy normal clothes during the school year at least.
Severus gave the lady a nod before moving off to stand next to the boy.
Albus nearly missed it, the look of interest on Severus' face. Oh? Had he, at long last, extinguished the torch he'd carried for Lily Evans? Had time finally healed that wound?
It was good that the heir to a great house was interested in a proper witch. His childish attachment to a muggleborn girl had not been appropriate. At all.
Narcissa Black was a much better match, and she was wealthy. Good, they would have resources for their horcrux search if needed.
Fudge asked for a private word, and when Severus saw Narcissa's ire rise, he grabbed a goblet of water from a passing elf and brought it to her.
"The lady is going through a difficult time, Minister." Severus offered his arm, got the lady a chair, and gave her the water to sip. Anyone watching would see nothing wrong in his actions at all. Of course, Albus knew what had caused the upset.
Fudge asking if he was mentioned in the will? That was most inappropriate. And unkind. The ritual fire was still going! (Lucius had always been afraid of inferi which is why both he and his father requested funeral pyres.)
No, Severus hadn't been listening in. Like Harry, he could lip read very well, and terribly, for the same reason Harry did. Albus watched all from a distance. How protective Severus was of Narcissa.
The young wizard was sporting the Prince family Heir ring. Right. Septimus, Lord Prince was supposed to have one foot in the grave and needed to make a choice of who would lead the family. Young Ronald's attempt to build up his friend in the paper using Miss Skeeter had unexpected consequences.
Albus was sure that Severus' mother had been expelled from the family. He did not know that Severus was still considered a part of the Prince line.
If he could wear the Heir ring, he was indeed in the family. Well. How would this play out? He hadn't accused him of hiding this connection. Well, not yet. Hmm. Would this ruin Albus' plans for the Slytherin boy, once Tom came back?
Harry was not the only wizard that might suffer death during this conflict. Anyone with a dark mark would not live long after Tom was defeated. Moody or his moral heir would see to it, Albus was sure.
Albus moved along. Narcissa was clearly implying that Lucius' mistress had poisoned him. A fight at Valentine's?
Who fought on the day of love?
Albus worried that somehow brewer Molly had gotten her hands on something poisonous and had murdered the man in retaliation for what he had done to her children. Or maybe Fudge turned on his ally due to the gold he lost in the mandrake speculation.
Well, the people with motive were being tracked down.
**OO**
Tent, sweet tent
Harry was very confused. Right there, on the edge of the tent's wards, in the back garden, was a letter. And money! Harry read the note.
'That terrible Snape boy stopped by to check on you. He wanted to know why I had banished you to a tent! I told him the truth: That I had nothing to do with it, and he smiled. He smiled at me!
'He then insisted that I buy you new clothes before school started again, but Marge is coming and I never see you. I felt threatened by the horrible man; he claimed he was a professor in that freak school of yours! Well, you deserve each other!
'Here is a hundred pounds. Get what you want. We never wanted you, and this tent is just the perfect arrangement. No one seems to notice, though you could cut the grass better.'
She didn't even sign it!
Harry wondered how much Professor Snape really left for him if she was giving Harry a hundred pounds. He'd write a letter thanking him for that amount. That should put the kneazle amongst the pigeons!
Harry was confused. He hadn't been cutting the grass… That Dobby! It was to wizarding standard not muggle, and looked great to him, now that he paid attention.
So why did Professor Snape stop by? Oh yeah, Harry was wearing Dudley's cast-offs that one day before Dobby had gotten to them. Things from two years ago were now the right length, but had been stained and too big around! Now, they fit perfectly.
Calling for Dobby, Harry asked if he wanted to go on a shopping trip.
Having something nice to wear on holiday would be great. Just what did Egyptians wear in the heat?
Dobby had a wonderful time helping Harry pick out several things from the charity store. Secondhand things would look new with a bit of magic. And neither one wanted to spend all of the money now on clothes as Harry was growing. And going to be getting taller, once the goblins were done with him.
Only socks, underthings, shoes and boots were purchased new, and the boots they would get from Hogsmeade.
Seeing Harry in new clothes, walking with a distinguished older gentleman had the neighbors confused. This was not the ragamuffin they were used to seeing.
Odd how everyone seemed to notice his oversized, ugly clothes, and not notice that Dudley was in designer clothes that fit. All blamed the messy black-haired boy for his appearance.
Seeing a stray dog come right up to the boy for pets and treats? Oh, it was his. He should take better care of his animal. And get it on a lead!
**OO**
Dobby was ready to do magic in front of muggles if needed when a Grim appeared, but it bounded over to Harry and licked his hand. Oh. Right.
"Sir? May I bring this dog home? There's something about him." Harry's eyes met the dog's silvery ones. He just liked this dog, and didn't want to part from it!
Dobby felt very uncomfortable being called 'Sir' but they were in public.
"Yes, Ma…Harry. Let's see if it follows us home."
And it did.
The poor thing was hungry, but if there was one thing that Harry was good at, it was fixing food, and Dobby was more than willing to help.
He also knew that after going a long time without food, the dog would need little snacks many, many times a day. And Harry would be happy to hand feed him.
Their eyes locked as Harry gave him a small bit of meat.
A smiling man with silvery eyes with a barking laugh; a flying motorcycle. A woman with red hair and vibrant green eyes. A young man, Harry's older twin with brown eyes full of love. But the memory was there and gone as Harry looked into this dog's soul.
It was a memory tickling the back of his mind that this dog helped him remember. He was in it. Wait. Was it that actual same dog that somehow found him?
"Dobby! I think this might be my dad's dog!" Harry exclaimed. "Magical animals live a long time according to the book you got Hermione."
"Lord Black? Would you like a nice bed?" Dobby asked, sidestepping the statment and proceeded to conjure a nice, soft fluffy dog bed that he then resized. "It won't last a long time, Master Harry, but it will serve while we feed and clean up Lord Black here."
Dobby refused to lie to Harry, so like any good house-elf, he was forced to evade, evade, evade.
"Lord Black? I like it. He is a noble dog." Harry thought the name fit, and asked the pooch if he liked it.
Well, he wagged his tail, and gave him a doggy smile before woofing once. He took it as a yes.
A quick bath first, and while Dobby scrubbed the pooch, Harry fixed them all a nice snack.
The puppers ate, and then snuggled into Harry. His fur was still a bit matted…and damp, but Harry thought that between the two of them, he and Dobby could get the dog sorted.
Dobby went to buy a few things for their new family member, and Harry read aloud to them all later, his off hand never leaving the dog's deep black fur.
Harry, for really the first time in his life, felt safe and warm and loved. It was glorious!
**OO**
Prince Manor
A hundred pounds? Severus had left the boy three hundred in brand new twenty pound notes with instructions that Petunia was to get him a good wardrobe for school, and listed the needed things.
And here Severus was, at his grandfather's house, attending him to learn some of his secrets before he passed away. The secretive man truly didn't like sharing much. At least he had a portrait, so Severus knew that he'd find out what he needed one way or another.
They just wanted enough time in the day. The aurors had asked Lord Prince where his heir was the night that Lucius Malfoy was found dead, but Severus had been there since just before dinner until Sunday night, when he returned to the castle.
Time-turners. And without proof they couldn't question him. Not that there was any Veritaserum outside of Gringotts that might work on him.
Lord Prince then told the aurors to check into a plant manufacturer in France. Severus' eyebrow rose.
"Potions Master Snape? Wasn't that one of the places that raises mandrakes?" one of the aurors asked.
"Indeed, and when I was trying to find them to purchase after the loss of the crop at Hogwarts, I was told that they wouldn't have any plants available until next fall. Peculiar."
Snape had no idea of Fudge's actions, but Lord Prince was suspicious after a dinner conversation regarding the plants.
"I suspect that someone was trying something nefarious, even if it has nothing to do with Lord Malfoy's death. But my boy was here with me, I swear it."
The aurors thanked the men for their help and departed, leaving the potions master grateful for this grandfather, who upon short acquaintance had stood up for him.
"Well, that was exhausting, my boy. I'll take to my bed, and see you in the morning. Thank you, Severus, for being here with me." Septimus nodded his head.
Severus bowed, "Thank you, sir. For accepting me here and what you said to the aurors."
Dittany's brother Hyssop popped him to his bath, and would tend to the man.
The potions master was left alone to contemplate his missive from the Potter boy.
Severus was angry with Petunia. Everything that he could think of to punish the woman was too vile. Being around Death Eaters was bad for him. And his temperament.
The Dark Lord liked to throw crucios around like confetti as well. Not that Tom Riddle should ever be followed.
Dressed as a professor, with tweed coat, and leather patches on the elbows, even scuffed dress shoes, and holding a satchel that had an ancient history book, he first went to Petunia's to give her a chance to repent. No luck.
He then went to the nearest police station. Sometimes, it was wonderful having a muggle address, even if it was a modest muggle address.
'Cokeworth?' they had asked.
"I am not as well paid as you might think, but the home is owned free and clear. I like to travel on holiday."
Severus handed over the names of the family as well as Harry's particulars. Information that only someone at his school should have access to. They nodded as Snape proceeded to explain.
"The boy is truly a genius, as was his mother. The woman who was made his guardian could enter an intelligence competition with a brick and lose. And her son Dudley is just as…noteworthy."
"Dudley Dursley? We've had complaints about him for years, but this last summer it's gone from bullying to hints he's selling drugs."
"I have not seen him do that. I am a mandatory reporter, which is why I am here. But the lad's mother and I were friends in school. I gave the boy's aunt three hundred pounds that I took out the other day, here's the receipt. And here's the thank you note. Oh, the art classes are doing calligraphy, so he's trying to practice. All the students are this summer.
"'One hundred pounds.' What?"
"When I asked Petunia about the difference, as she did not spend the money on the boy as I requested, she was ready with her poor excuse. Oh, here's a copy of that letter, she said I hadn't bought anything for her son, and he was twice the boy Mr Potter is, so he deserved twice as much. I was impressed she did the maths right on that one, actually. And the boy is twice the Potter lad. Twice the size that is."
This time the man did laugh.
A pair of officers came bursting into the captain's office, "They caught them again, kicking and hitting a seven-year old girl. Four of the blokes. They're bringing the children in, I'm about to call the parents."
"The mother will be here shortly. I appreciate you being concerned for the lad, Professor…"
"Snape. Severus Snape."
"I'll be in touch."
Severus stopped himself from bowing, nodded, and returned to his grandfather's for the time being.
If the aurors wanted to talk to him, let them find him there. If he got any mail or phone calls at his mother's house, the elves would tell him.
He hoped this helped Potter. He really did.
**OO**
The investigation into the murder of a Lord of one of the great houses was brutally efficient. No one killed a personal friend of Cornelius Fudge without facing the consequences!
Narcissa was one of the prime suspects. A pureblood, she did not have to submit to the truth serum. They never suggested doing so during the investigation. Amelia Bones made sure that the aurors treated her with respect the entire time she was questioned.
Narcissa volunteered to clear her name with Veritaserum, and described in detail the falling out between the mistress and her husband.
So what if it fed the gossip columns if this was leaked. She even bared her arm, swore on her magic she was not a marked Death Eater, and was not even near the property the evening of Lucius' death.
She also swore that once Mina was allowed into the dowager house that she, Narcissa, had not stepped foot out of the manor except for her own greenhouse and herbal garden. She had no desire to run into her husband's paramour.
She then listed several people in the Wizengamot who were there at the charity auction at the time Lucius was murdered. And all the evidence pointed to a murder.
She was asked if she had used her connection to Potions Master Snape for any poisons.
"No! And he's my husband's friend, and is godfather to my son. Why would Severus do this? What would be his motive?"
After several questions that went too far afield for Amelia, Lady Malfoy was given the antidote. Odd, that drug.
She then provided the receipt and the cost of the necklace she had thrown away rather than allow Mina to own… She would not let that strumpet benefit from her hard work.
Throwing away jewelry bought with her own gold was not a crime, but Amelia Bones asked one last question.
"Did you do this to have her kill your husband?"
"No! My marriage vows would not allow that, nor would I think of that. I have never killed anyone. I don't kill spiders, but rather escort them outside. Ask my elves!"
The woman was becoming distraught. She had gone above and beyond what any other pureblood would have done to prove it wasn't her. It was time to let her go.
**OO**
But aurors went out to Prince Manor, and Lord Prince got huffy with them.
"You've already been here before and I answered you! My grandson has been dancing attendance on me since school let out. I was invited to that charity auction, but Severus here didn't want to go in my place."
The man had a coughing fit, sounding much like Hermione's relative. The man was ill, dying, and these people didn't want to be responsible for any more distress. The elves gave them a menu secretly and asked Snape what he had eaten.
"A dinner? You want me to remember a dinner from a week ago? Well. It was a Saturday, I was working on the new potion, had picked some water dropwort…I remember. Tomato soup, with some kind of shrimp dish, just lovely really. Peppered roast, with jacket potato, honey glazed carrots, red wine served with the roast that was a bit too bitter for me so I didn't drink it, and some fresh garden greens. Do I pass? Or do I get a Troll?"
The elves mentioned the plants he picked, the wine he didn't drink, and that, more than anything, convinced the aurors he really had been there. This was their second time out, due to finding the basilisk venom had killed Malfoy.
"If I were to get approval for the department, would you sell me a basilisk fang?"
"You've listened to fairy tales. Potter slew a basilisk and used it to hire me to brew the potion to heal the paralyzed students. I gave some of the venom to Saint Mungos already. I do have fangs, but I cannot sell them, as you know. I swear on my magic, I have not sold any venom, and the only venom I have been using is for the health and better of our society. I have donated some basilisk venom to Saint Mungo's and you can check with them there, but I certainly have not sold any to criminals. "
Since basilisk venom was sold by the drop when available, and he had documented what he gave, and the proper vial, they knew he wasn't the culprit.
**OO**
The aurors arrested the mistress, and an empty vial of basilisk venom was found in her flat. No receipts were found, but it was illegal for a reason. She was found to have a faded, but visible Dark Mark. No mention was made during the trial that when Lucius' naked body was found that he too was found with the same evil tattoo. The dowager house showed the recent occupancy of two people. Two people did magic there, and a house-elf or two.
Narcissa's magic was not found, though Mina pointed the finger at the wife during her questioning.
Marietta had watched her mum being dragged off, and ran to the floo and found sanctuary with her friend Cho. The Chang family would be taking care of her from now on. At least the ministry wouldn't fine her, and Marietta would have some resources, and be cared for.
Her life would be much better now.
Knowing what questions would be asked if she volunteered to take the truth drug had Miss Edgecombe refuse.
And at the trial, Veritaserum was not forced on her either. She stayed very quiet and refused to answer most of the questions put to her.
After Fudge had testified, she did answer one question that put the spotlight back on Fudge. How Lucius tried to help him with a business deal that went sour, and Fudge lost a lot of gold.
Mina Edgecombe tried to plead for mercy, as she had a teenage daughter to raise. Everything pointed to her being a murderess, and when asked to swear on her magic she had never killed anyone, she couldn't. She knew she would be found guilty.
**OO**
Mina was sentenced to the Veil over her protests of innocence.
If she had wanted to appear 'innocent', she and Lucius shouldn't have taken so many pictures of torturing muggles to enjoy later. Not that those were brought into the courtroom.
Fudge had met her before and knew that she was Lucius' mistress. He also knew what they had fought about - a promised valuable trinket that was never delivered. It was Fudge's testimony that sealed her fate.
Later, at Hogwarts, when the subject was brought up, Severus' only remarks were that he would be teaching Draco remedial potions over the summer and continuing into the school year, and didn't want to be chastised for it if he brought his godson to the castle during the break.
To himself, he thought, 'And if his mother was with him to watch? Well, it was natural that she was curious as to the child's progress.'
Clearly Severus hadn't heard from Sprout that young Draco would be at the castle each day anyway to tend to the mandrake plants that were due to arrive soon.
That they would both be helping him render the basilisk while Dumbledore was absent was mentioned not at all. Not that Narcissa would be doing the actual work, but rather like an orchestra conductor, would direct house-elves hither and yon in an effective method.
It would make a good cover for the horcrux recovery effort.
**OO**
Neither Arthur nor Harry knew that some poor muggle had walked home after a faulty gauge didn't show him that he was running out of the needed fuel. And now, he was never getting his car back!
The insurance company claimed he must have been drinking to first claim he ran out of gas, and then couldn't find the car again!
They finally paid out after a threat of a lawsuit. The vehicle was then reported as stolen, with the color and VIN numbers and all reported to the police.
Which was all useless to them, as Arthur had changed all of the numbers to his wife's birthday or anniversary or anything he liked, had painted it several different colors before settling on two colors that could be changed at will: cherry red for when a button was pushed, and basic shiny black for the other. Arthur also changed the shape of the exterior, extending it a bit.
It was nothing like the original when he was done! But it was a beauty. And was now able to fly to Hogwarts and back without issue.
Though he had installed some security devices so that only he and Bill could actually do so.
Molly didn't drive automobiles, didn't want to learn, barely wanted to be in one on the road, and definitely didn't want to go flying in one.
Arthur had perfected the invisibility shield, and no more muggles would be seeing him in the sky!
**OO**
The greenhouses at Hogwarts were busy at the summer. Especially busy this summer.
Narcissa's replacement plants were here. And there were not forty baby mandrakes, as Sprout had been expecting to come to replace the lost plants, but eighty!
But Lady Malfoy had hired knowledgeable help, and the burden was not on Professor Sprout alone.
Draco winced as the teething mandrake bit him. At least he was wearing his protective gloves!
"Nasty little blighters," the cheerful blonde stated. Abigail Abbott, Hannah's older sister, had been hired to watch over Draco's efforts. Since she was pursuing her mastery in Herbology, it was the perfect summer job. Not that Professor Sprout wasn't popping in now and again to supervise.
Hogwarts was going to have a nice crop of mandrakes in the coming future, with staggered maturing times as the rising second years took even more of the planned young plants in September. Pomona was in heaven!
With one hundred and twenty plants in different stages, it meant that the rising third years would get a chance to finish what they should have during their second year, and give fourth and fifth years a chance to handle more mature plants safely.
Draco cursed himself for his stupidity in destroying the plants. His godfather made money for both himself and the school brewing healing potions over the summer with the annual mandrake crop. Severus had had to buy the plants from others for those same potion needs. So Mother insisted that the gold come out of Draco's trust vault to repay him the cost of those plants.
Neither Malfoy knew that Severus had turned the money over to the Potter account manager to return to Potter's vault. He was the one who had paid for the multiple plants he received. He also had plans to share in any profits he made brewing with rare basilisk ingredients.
Narcissa believed in natural consequences as much as possible. And raising replacement plants was part of her plan. That it gave her the excuse to visit the castle everyday from their Hogsmeade house was just a benefit. Draco had to be here to tend the plants.
Neither one missed the Manor. Too many bad memories. Draco knew Mother was having it cleaned of all 'dark objects' with the help of a Gringotts team.
She would of course blame Lucius for everything, but not all of the dark items removed came from his family. None came from her personally.
Unbeknownst to her son, Narcissa was using this as an opportunity. A trade agreement with Gringotts that allowed her to deal with one item in Gringotts care they wouldn't want hanging about.
**OO**
The freedom of practicing magic was just one of the joys of living in a magical tent with Dobby. Fleeing the Dursleys while powering the wards for another year?
Brilliant, just brilliant. That should give them enough time to find somewhere nice to live.
Harry had no idea how the wards were being powered up so quickly. Just that Dobby informed him that he wouldn't need to stay there until his birthday. It wouldn't be long before they could leave.
Dobby cheered as common household charms were used to remove stains from his used clothes, freshen, and even do some color changes. Dobby then resized them all to fit comfortably like he had his Dudley castoffs. Harry's magic was adding to the wards as well, something that magical homes took for granted.
Learning that Marge Dursley was spending the summer and Harry didn't have to wait on her or worse, her dog was just brilliant. No more enduring her vicious mouth or her canine's! She could rant and rave all day at Petunia. And what were they going to do when it came time for chores?
Dobby had even put in a magic mirror so they could listen in at dinner if they wanted to, but Harry had just silenced it. It didn't make him happy to be put down, and have others be told he was in a criminal institution.
Dobby and Hedwig were taking good care of Harry that summer, and Harry had a new pet that needed bathing and food and love.
Harry was checking off the days until he could join Hermione. The expected invite hadn't come yet, but he was eager with anticipation.
If it hadn't arrived by the time the wards were charged, they were leaving anyway.
Harry loved how the dog loved to pretend to read with him sitting at the couch. He would even put a paw up if Harry tried to turn a page too early. Why hadn't he thought of that when reading with Hermione?
He was clearly a magical dog, and though he got pets and love each day, Hedwig wasn't jealous in the least. She was still getting her share of pets, but disagreed with the dog about page-turning timing.
She preferred reading with Hermione who was more her speed, and missed the witch-chick.
**OO**
Spurnik questioned Dobby the next time he was in Gringotts.
"I have a deposit receipt for you. And a note for your master." Spurnik stated. He knew that even free elves called everyone master or mistress. It was just custom.
"You clearly are teaching him, first with the pranking business, and now with this. Well done, Free-Elf Dobby. Should you ever need a job, come and work for me."
Dobby bowed. Dobby had suggested giving Potions Master Snape the basilisk parts as they would help him, but not as an investment!
He should have known that the man was honest, and was already sharing with Master Harry.
The slip was from "Mr Basilisk" for one, and "Mr E Restorer" for the other. The way that Dobby read the latter signature was 'Mystery Restorer'.
Harry was so happy when he found out that the basilisk was being used. Dobby didn't want him to know that all of the plants he bought were earning far more with Draco's massacre than he would otherwise have made.
Both Harry and Severus benefited from Draco's tantrum, which had Spurnik taking his mate out for Troll wrestling in celebration at the increased profits.
**OO**
Lord Prince left Severus a letter with a short list of 'worthy witches' to marry and begged him to no longer delay matrimony. That Narcissa was on the top of that list showed Severus he had shared too much.
But who was his mother's father going to tattle to?
The letter was left with a most beautiful engagement ring in a white-gold setting. Perfect for the blonde witch.
It was too soon to speak of marriage, far too soon. Blast the man! A year and a day, and that day was firmly etched into Severus' memory.
He was not waiting a year and two days!
**OO**
The care package from the Weasleys had included all of Harry's favorites, and was down to the crumbs. Crumbs that a still skeletal pooch who'd followed them home, was anxious to share.
The stray dog had been horribly dirty when he first came to them. He was still acting starved and really was far too thin. Dobby fed him leftovers from breakfast and gave him yet another bath this time with a trim.
He suggested goblin healers for both the dog and Harry when they left the Dursleys. Harry didn't know why. Maybe goblins had good veterinarians?
The previous day, they had taken the Knight Bus up to Hogsmeade so that Harry could buy new boots as well as get a basket of Honeydukes. They took the House-Elf Express (HEE) home.1
Dobby wanted him to know about the emergency transportation. Harry didn't think that riding the bus in an emergency was a good idea. In fact, he was fairly sure that this conveyance was the cause of at least three emergencies on the way!
Today, they had then spent a calm day inside while it rained, with the dog alternating eating and sleeping, until it was nearly dinner. Per Harry's request, Dobby was first fixing food for the puppers.
Harry was really enjoying something he had never been allowed to do at home before. He was reading for pleasure. Another thing he'd never been allowed to do was finish homework. Harry was prepared. Just in case his Potter luck struck, all of his homework was done, including the initial assignments for Runes and Arithmancy. The Enchanting class was supposed to read the first chapter, but Harry had read the whole book!
Now, he was leaning back, his hand once again touching the silkier fur of the dog. With all of the brushing, it was getting better.
"Dobby? 'Lord Black' is not a bad name for a black dog, but he's really skinny. I'm happy for us to take him in, he really likes me and you! And I like him. But what can I do with him after school starts?" Harry hand fed the dog treats slowly. There was just something special about him!
Owls were great, cats superb, toads? Well, they were all on the 'approved pet list'. Ron got away with bringing Scabbers as he had been listed under 'pet food'. But dogs? Harry had never seen a crup, or anything canine, unless you counted Fluffy or Hagrid's personal pupper.
Harry really didn't want to think about Hagrid's naming conventions, when his other dog who was a complete coward was named 'Fang'. Was he dropped on his head as a child too?
"Leave him with me to take care of, Master Harry. One of two things is going to happen. We are going to move to a new home. Then he can stay with me. If something interferes with those plans? There are caves near Hogsmeade where free elves sometimes hide. You can visit there, and we can move back here when on holiday."
"Brillant! You could let the free elves stay with you in this tent. Give them food, and stuff. We can start an underground railroad. I learned about that in history."
"Elves don't really like traveling underground, Master Harry." Dobby countered as the dog choked a bit on the piece of meat that Dobby had just given him. Harry missed the twinkle in his eye.
"It's not actually underground…Never mind, I'll ask Hermione to explain later. I hope she's going to be alright. Hedwig isn't back yet. And we don't have a phone to call her."
Harry was currently reading a book that Dobby had somehow found written by I M Grimm talking about enchanting muggle items like telephones, cars, and even flying motorcycles.
Showing Dobby the moving pictures in the book, Harry innocently remarked, "I just thought about my dream about these the other day. Hey! There's Hedwig!" Harry exclaimed, setting down his book carefully.
She was carrying a small box with a scurrying, scratching sound coming from it. He had sent her to the Burrow with a letter for Ron, and a thank you for Mrs Weasley for all of the treats. She was clearly worried about him starving again. Harry was happy that he'd made up with Ron before leaving. Not that the redhead wasn't going to be furious with him again if he could escape and not return to Hogwarts.
Harry read aloud so Dobby could listen in while working. "'Dear Harry. Guess what! We won a huge prize in a drawing - our picture was in the paper! We took that gold along with what Dumbledore gave Dad to get a good healer for Ginny. Mum doesn't want me taking a rat into a hospital. Scabbers is getting old.
"'Can you please look after him? Don't feed him to Hedwig - she might get sick. Ha, ha. Seriously mate, if he passes this summer while we are away, no worries, as then Mum would buy me a new pet. She's already talking about my own owl as the twins have been keeping Errol busy.
"'Wish you could come, but Dumbledore said no. Dad did ask. Sorry, mate. Hermione can't come either since her family is on holiday during that time. Dad got them a good deal on a portkey.'"
Harry had exchanged letters already with Hermione. They were returning to Egypt themselves soon. He continued reading to the busy elf.
"Ron writes, 'Oh, oops. Look here, I accidentally included the card of the man who makes them. You know. If you ever need an international portkey. Hey mate? Did you know that Dumbledore is in Switzerland basically from July 20th to Aug 20th every year for some ICW thing? Nowhere near Privet Drive, mate, if you get my meaning.
"'Bring your new tent. It sounds wicked. Bill says thank you for all of the information you sent, whatever that means.
"See ya soon, mate,
"'Ron.'"
"Bill must not have told him that he asked me for memories regarding the last couple of run-ins with Moldy. Don't worry, I'm not saying Voldemort anymore. "
Dobby shuddered, as did the dog for some reason, but the knife in the green being's hand never threatened Harry as he continued. Harry did get a green tongue poked at him though, once he recovered.
"Bill sure does want me to visit. Ron too. That was good of you to take the memories to Gringotts. They got them to him fast it appears. Thanks."
"You are very welcome, Master Harry." Dobby consulted a book on animal care before pouring a potion into some water and stirring it with wandless magic. So cool to watch!
The dog shuddered again, but he was a good boy, and took the medicine. He then wolfed down his meal before jumping on the couch next to Harry. He circled thrice, and plopped down. Putting his head on the boy's knee, and pretended to get ready to sleep. The interesting box from Ron had never left his sight.
"Look Dobby. Here's the portkey maker's card. But what about Lord Black here? We can't just leave him! Can we take animals with us by portkey? I am not leaving Hedwig." Harry was clearly worried about the dog who was eyeing the box that the owl delivered with the letter. So Harry's eyes were not on the right animal.
Before Dobby could answer, several things happened all at once. The normally well behaved Hedwig was hungry, and couldn't resist the treat that she knew was in the box. She flew over to the container, grabbed it and flew up to the ceiling; dropping it from that height. The box popped open, spilling the stunned rat.
The well behaved but alert dog saw a rat, and dived for it. Any hungry dog would. He nearly tipped the couch over with his powerful launch! Harry moved his center of balance, so the couch would glide back to its original upright position and not tumble backwards.
Before Harry could gain his feet from the ride down on the couch or stop them, the predators had split the rat between them, Hedwig getting the lion's share and Harry was feeling sick.
Dobby cleaned up the mess, and warned both animals to be neater in future or no special treats.
What? You only get one dessert not three for killing a friend's pet? Okay, clearly kicking and hitting one's house-elves caused brain damage.
Harry started a letter to his friend apologizing, and promising to buy him a new pet for next year.
Besides, Scabbers was really old. Harry would lie and tell Ron that he died peacefully in his sleep, not in pieces as he actually went. The rat that had been listed as pet food at Hogwarts, sadly he finally became some.
Harry had no idea that Percy had asked Ron in his dreams to send the rat there. He hadn't remembered it.
**OO**
The letter from Gringotts was not unexpected. Dobby brought it to him in the middle of the night. He waved his hand for the dog to leave the bed he had been slumbering on in the room next to Master Harry.
"Lord Black be receiving mail." Dobby whispered, disturbing the sleeping child next door not at all.
Dobby escorted the dog to the tent's library, the closest it had to a Master's study, and left the letter on the desk with the dog.
The man transformed and confronted the elf. Seeing what was happening, Dobby threw up a silencing charm around them so as not to wake Master Harry.
"You clearly remember me, elf. How?" the animagus demanded.
"Dobby being made Mistress' Narcissa's and her new husband's house-elf when they married. Before that, I served Master Arcturus. House Black. I knew you as Heir, Master Sirius. Welcome. I wasn't going to talk to you until after we's leaving here. I know you is being godfather to Master Harry, only loving and never hurting hims."
"You got that right. I can't stay in Britain. I was sent to Azkaban for killing Peter. Well, I finally did that earlier tonight. With the owl's help. I didn't really eat him, you know."
Dobby had slipped into the house-elf patois speaking to a pureblood so as not to get beaten for 'putting on airs'.
"Oh! That beings a man? Dobby thought it was strange magic rat…maybe best for Lord Black to bes living in Egypt if he be escaping." Dobby suggested. He suggested Egypt to the man because Dobby knew they were heading to that country for at least a time soon.
"There is a wonderful school there, Alexandria Magical Académie. I wanted to study for my mastery in Enchanting there upon graduation, but with the war on, Dumbledore convinced me to stay and help. I…I wasn't much. Help that was. Maybe by studying, I can be of use to society. I am not going to sit around and do nothing for the next dozen years. Harry certainly needs me. And I, him."
Dobby patted Master Sirius' hand awkwardly. Such a nice boy, but looking so gaunt, so aged. Wait. They could use this.
"Does Dobby have Master's permission to use Black library to find goodly name for master when you's take up Lord's ring for reals? You appear to be mid-sixties now for a wizard. Wait! There was your uncle, Alphard! Him being killed, but Mistress Bella saying how she destroyed the body."
Dobby was mentally reviewing the family tapestry before Sirius' mother had taken her wand to half of it.
Sirius nodded, "I inherited from him. But Egypt wouldn't know that. I have his passport and such in my vault. I do favor him. Hmm. I could add his name to my own. And Dobby? I noticed how you were speaking to Harry. Please, continue doing so. Harry clearly adores you, and treats you as an equal. I grew up with an abusive house-elf, but I will try and do the same. "
"Master Sirius? May Dobby be getting…may I get you fresh clothes? Master Arcturus would have many things stored away."
"Do that, please, and grab me a wand if you can? Thank you for all your help, Dobby."
As the elf popped away with his tasks, Sirius opened the letter from Gringotts, eyes twinkling.
Goldrub, the Black Account Manager, warned him about the Kiss-on-Sight order now his escape was know. The goblin wanted to bring him the Lord's ring that had been kept safe, and wanted to meet with him.
The goblin complimented Narcissa's management of the estate during Arcturus' declining years and suggested keeping her. She did not draw an excessive salary, and worked hard for it.
Goldrub also said that he didn't know how the death of Arcturus, Lord Black was kept quiet, as he was sure that there was a Will. He expected that it had something to do with Sirius' escape, but wasn't sure. The Will was active and ready to be read at Sirius, Lord Black's pleasure.
Padfoot's doggy brain was evidently affecting his intelligence as he finally realized why Dobby had been calling him 'Lord Black'.
The old man's passing saddened Sirius. He had visited him in Azkaban only once, and had been banned from coming back when he hexed the warden, trying to free his grandson. Arcturus always stood up for him, and had said how he should have just taken Sirius away from Walburga to allow Dorea to raise, and was sorry he hadn't.
So sad that they couldn't bring the old man on this adventure. Sirius had been planning on sending him a letter. He continued reading the goblin's message.
Goldrub was suggesting a meeting in a foreign country that had no extradition to Britain. Egypt was the center of Gringotts banking, and was one of the places that was on the list of potential sites.
All Sirius had to do was pick one, and tap it with a wand. Easier to do with Dobby getting him one from somewhere. Probably his grandfather's old wand. It had always worked well for him as a boy, before he had his own.
Dobby was back quickly with a trunk full of clothes and several wands. Yes!
Having a wand that worked for him was marvelous. Dobby was able to find his grandfather's. And having nice, clean, even if dated, clothes to wear? So wonderful. It wouldn't be so noticeable in a foreign country, and once there, he could invest in a local wardrobe.
Lord Black needed to depart Britain's murderous shores now. Someplace warm and sunny where he and Harry could recover from their horrid pasts. Alphard had citizenship from Bahama, and would get the parchmentwork filled in so that Harry could officially be a citizen from there. Yes! That would offer them extra protection.
Harry was already planning on visiting Egypt. Sirius wanted to visit the school he'd heard so much about, and see what he would need to do to catch up and enroll in the Master's study program. Would Harry be willing to go to school there? Well, the summer was a wonderful time to leave on holiday, regardless of what happened with further education.
They definitely needed to leave before the dementors found him. Because now he really was guilty of murder. One he had no regrets about as Peter had been a marked Death Eater who had killed an innocent to get that mark:
For four days and nights, Sirius had tracked him after what happened at the Potter cottage. Several times, the auror had cornered Pettigrew, and tried to get him to surrender peacefully for a trial. The second to last confrontation changed Auror Black's methods.
Pettigrew had bragged about helping kill a family with others. Bragged about killing Marlene, a girl Sirius and James had both dated at different times in the past. A lovely witch who rejected Peter's advances. Not because of his less than handsome appearance. No.
She had never liked or trusted him, and had tried to get Sirius to drop him as a friend when the couple became close.
She was one of the muggleborns, like Lily, who joined the Order straight out of school. Others joined Dumbledore as well, like James and Sirius had.
Pettigrew bragged about kidnapping her. How other recruits had killed the rest of her family before her eyes. Bragged of holding her captive for a week of torture and terror before ending her suffering to gain the Dark Mark. The maniacal gleam in his once friend's eyes, now deepened to darkest obsidian, had haunted him for years since. Sirius had been intent on ending the chase then, and bringing him in alive to face trial for everything.
He had killed twice in the line so far, and Dumbledore had threatened him with Azkaban for doing so ever again, no matter what the circumstances. So, he had not killed Peter at the time, trying to bring him in alive.
After a dozen years of Azkaban with no trial? Auror Black was dead. His training of second chances, stunning, and peaceful arrest was gone.
Peter had betrayed James and Lily. Allowed access to the cottage so his dark master could kill an innocent baby. He claimed to kill Marlene, and his mad look had implied she was not the last he had killed.
Pettigrew's death was a deserved death, and without him here, Harry's familiar should have earned an award.
Order of Merlin, given to an owl? Was it possible? Peter had gotten one after all.
The rat.
**OO**
A/N: Story recommend: Your story recommendation here -
A/N: Story recommendation: kind reader Tork01 likes QuestionableQuotation's 'If Looks Could Kill',
s/11572455/1/If-Looks-Could-Kill
After Arthur Weasley nearly dies at the Ministry, Harry wonders why Voldemort's snake isn't something more exotic...really, no self-respecting Parseltongue should limit himself to something as mundane as a regular snake. In which Harry makes use of what he learned in Care of Magical Creatures, Kreacher is forced to cooperate, and the Chamber hides a new Secret.
A/N: Story recommendation: Busymom75 recommends: Delivery-for-the-Death-Eaters
s/14071561/1/Delivery-for-the-Death-Eaters
We have others that recommended stories as well waiting for next time.
Arabic ﷼
1 Thank you Sinyk for unauthorized use of the HEE. Sending you virtual Scottish Shortbread in payment.