Amelia Bones walked through the great doors of the Wizengamont and took her seat in the chamber with a sense of anticipation.
Chief warlock, Albus Dumbledore slammed his wooden gavel on the podium, sending out a reverberating sound throughout the room. "Let this Wizengamont season of August 10th, 1992 be officially open," he said in an authoritative voice. "I am Chief Warlock, Albus Dumbledore, elected to this chamber as its leader." He gestured towards Cornelius Fudge, Baron of Aylesbury who was seated at the Minister of Magic's chair. "What we have on the day's agenda is."
The scribe cleared his throat and adjusted the round glasses perched on his nose. As he shuffled through the paperwork on his desk, a sense of importance hung in the air. He paused, looked up at Dumbledore with a serious expression, and spoke. "We have a couple of items brought to us by Dowager Lady Amelia Bones, Earl of Glamorgan."
Dumbledore nodded solemnly and gestured for the scribe to continue. "I give the floor to Madam Bones," he said.
"The first thing on my list is documentation signed by the current Lord Harry James Potter, Marquess of Anglesey assigning me as his regent as he is only 12, to be brought forth for approval by this chamber," Amelia began, her tone commanding the attention of every member present. She carefully unfolded the parchment, her fingers lightly brushing the wax seal that bore the Potter family crest. "As you are all aware, the Potter family is one of the ancient and noble houses. The recent events leading to the untimely demise of Lord James and Lady Lily Potter, have left young Harry with responsibilities and decisions much beyond his tender years."
A murmur went through the chamber, as whispers filled the space, some voices filled with sympathy for the young lord, while others filled with skepticism.
"Lord Potter has willingly and trustingly designated me, his closest living relative, to act on his behalf until he comes of age. This arrangement has been made not only for the protection of his estate and inheritance but also to ensure his personal safety and well-being," Amelia continued, emphasizing each word.
Cornelius Fudge shifted uncomfortably in his chair, his face turning a shade redder. "While we recognize the importance of the matter, Madam Bones, I trust that proper procedures have been followed in this arrangement?"
Amelia met Fudge's eyes squarely, her gaze unwavering. "Indeed, Minister. The document has been authenticated by the Goblins of Gringotts, and also bears the signatures of two witnesses, both respected members of the wizarding community in Lord Cygnus Greengrass, as Duke of Powis; and Lord Henry Abbott, Duke of Monmouth."
She paused, letting her words sink in, before adding, "Furthermore, I believe that the safety and well-being of one of our community's youngest members, especially one of such importance, should be our top priority."
There was a moment of silence before Dumbledore raised his hand, "Are there any objections or concerns regarding Madam Bones's proposal?"
The room was silent, and it was clear that the majority was in favour. The weight of the responsibility, however, was evident in the lines on Amelia's face. It wasn't just about the title or the wealth; it was about safeguarding Harry's future, both as a young boy and as a noble of the wizarding world.
Dumbledore, sensing the approval of the majority, concluded, "Very well. The documentation assigning Dowager Lady Amelia Bones as regent for Lord Harry James Potter will be accepted for review. Let us move on to the next order of business."
Amelia stood before the chambers, her shoulders squared as she began to speak. "11 years ago on November 10, 1981, I petitioned this chamber for custody of my nephew, Harry James Potter, my sworn godson. This Motion was denied by the Office of Chief Warlock," Amelia continued, her voice quivering with indignation. "Later this summer, while my daughter and I were in the muggle world, we discovered that muggle aurors had arrested and charged his guardians with abuse: physical, mental, emotional, and psychological; false imprisonment; child neglect; starvation; child slavery; cruel and unusual punishments; torture; attempted second-hand child murder; fraud; tax evasion; bribery; and resisting arrest. It was also found during their investigation that Albus Dumbledore had willfully ignored the last will of Lord Potter which stated that Harry should never be taken near Petunia Dursley nee Fairchild due to her vehement hatred of magic."
The room erupted in whispers, shock apparent on many faces. It was a moment before Dumbledore could bring order once again.
"Madam Bones," Dumbledore began, his voice uncharacteristically shaky, "If these allegations are true, then they are grave indeed. However, at the time, the decision to place Harry in his aunt's care was made with the best intentions, based on information available to us."
Amelia's blue eyes were like ice, "Information that seemed to conveniently ignore the welfare of a child, Chief Warlock. Given the nature of these serious charges, I would ask this chamber to initiate a formal inquiry into the guardianship and treatment of Lord Harry James Potter. Additionally, I would request a detailed review of all decisions made by the Office of Chief Warlock regarding his placement."
Minister Fudge, ever the politician, quickly jumped in, "Now, now, let us not jump to conclusions. We should ensure we have all the facts before we make any decisions."
Amelia's gaze shifted to Fudge, "Minister, surely you aren't suggesting we ignore allegations of abuse towards a child of the wizarding world, especially one with the status and importance of Lord Potter?"
"No, Madam Bones," Fudge replied defensively, "But we must also consider the repercussions of such allegations. The wizarding world is still recovering from the aftermath of the Dark Lord's reign. We must tread carefully."
Amelia sighed heavily, her brow creased with distress. "The Muggle government has placed my nephew, Harry, in my care. despite being a magical myself it still lists Albus Dumbledore as his Magical Guardian that must change," said Amelia. "Before we continue further I propose a vote to make me the official magical guardian of my nephew."
Dumbledore's eyes met Amelia's, searching for any signs of deceit. For a split second, their shared history flashed before his eyes – the numerous battles fought side by side, the trust built over the years, and the many disagreements they had shared.
"Very well, Madam Bones," he finally said, breaking the silence, "This chamber shall conduct a vote on your proposal."
The room was charged with tension, the gravity of the situation weighing on everyone. Many turned to their neighbours, discussing in hushed voices, while others looked deep in thought, considering the implications of their votes.
As each member cast their vote, Amelia waited with bated breath. She knew how much was at stake, not just for Harry but for the entire wizarding world. The outcome would determine the direction the community would take in the face of grave revelations.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the votes were counted. The scribe, looking visibly nervous, stood and cleared his throat, "The vote has been tallied. By a majority, this chamber approves Madam Amelia Bones as the official magical guardian of Lord Harry James Potter."
A murmur of relief spread through the chamber, and a few members even applauded the decision. Amelia, with a slight smile on her face, nodded her acknowledgment to the chamber.
"It shocked me that he was completely unaware of our world and its customs – a clear violation of the Wizengamot's Guardian Act of 1211. He had never gone through the proper training required for someone of his station, which should have started at 8 years old." She paused for a moment before continuing. "As Lord Cygnus Greengrass, Duke of Powis can testify, he didn't even know of the betrothal contract between House Potter and House Greengrass signed by the late Lord Potter in 1980. So, tell me Dumbledore, why shouldn't this chamber charge you with Violation of the Wizengamont Guardian Act?"
Dumbledore's face, usually calm and serene, now held traces of genuine surprise. The chamber echoed with a pregnant silence. Everyone turned to the Chief Warlock, waiting for a response. Even Minister Fudge, who often had much to say, was silent, his face a mask of shock.
Dumbledore took a deep breath, his fingers steepled before him. "Madam Bones," he began, "I do not deny that mistakes were made in the placement and guardianship of young Lord Potter. My decisions were based on what I believed were the best interests of Harry and the wizarding world at large."
Amelia's expression was implacable. "Mistakes? Albus, a young boy's life and magical potential were compromised. He was left vulnerable to the worst kind of abuse. How do you justify that with the greater good? Why were there illegal blood wards on the home you placed Harry in, which everyone in this chamber knows drains the magic of the person living inside the ward and gives it to the caster? Dumbledore, I demand Honest answers from you, and I will not accept the greater good crap you sprout."
Dumbledore's face paled slightly, but he maintained his posture, facing the stern gaze of Amelia Bones directly. "I understand the gravity of the situation, Madam Bones, and I recognize the rightful concerns this chamber has. But I must stress that my intentions were to protect Harry from Lord Voldemort's followers, who I believed would seek him out."
He paused for a moment, collecting his thoughts, before continuing. "The choice of the Dursley residence was not arbitrary. They were, after all, Harry's only living family after the death of Lily and James Potter. The blood wards, while unorthodox, were intended to strengthen the protection around him, to keep him safe from those who might want to harm him."
Madam Bones cut him off sharply. "And you believed that stripping a child of his magic was the right way to go about it? To keep him away from the very world he belonged to? To deprive him of his heritage, his rights, and the training he should have received. Can you stop lying for once, Lily Potter nee Fairchild had two sisters, Petunia Dursley nee Fairchild and Jocelyn Fray Nee Fairchild the twin sister of Lily, a trained Shadowhunter, like Lily Potter, like the Greengrass's. So, tell me Albus the truth."
Dumbledore's face grew even paler, and for the first time in a long time, the venerable Chief Warlock looked truly cornered. The entire chamber seemed to hang on his every word, the gravity of the situation palpable.
"I was unaware of Jocelyn Fray's existence," Dumbledore began slowly, choosing his words carefully. "My information led me to believe that Petunia was the only living relative. I admit, the blood wards were a desperate measure, one I hoped would serve as an added layer of protection for Harry. I had no knowledge of their draining effect on Harry's magic."
"Can you stop lying Albus, in my hand, I have the muggle copy of the will of the Late Lord Potter. It states clearly the list of guardians whom Harry should have gone to, in order was me, Amelia Bones, his father's twin sister, and Godmother, Jocelyn Fairchild, Lily's twin sister, Sirius Black and his wife Marline Black, Andromeda Tonks... if they were not available then he was to be placed in the care of a house that was politically allied with House Potter. This was witnessed by yourself and Alice Longbottom."
Dumbledore's eyes darted to the document in Amelia's hand, his normally unflappable demeanour showing signs of discomfort. "I remember witnessing that will, but I was under the impression that it had been lost in the chaos of the war," he admitted, his voice wavering slightly.
"Convenient," said Lucius Malfoy commented from his position, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "I don't normally agree with Earl Bones, but Dumbledore can you stop lying, first you say you didn't know Jocelyn Fray didn't exist then you say you witnessed a will that says she exists, so which one is it?"
"As a warder, I can tell you blood wards not only drain the magical living within them of their magic, but it gives that magic to the caster, meaning you Dumbledore," said Thadeous Nott, "you were stealing the boys' magic, and you knew that so the question is why?"
"I agree, with Lord Nott," said Lucius Malfoy, "so please Albus Dumbledore, can you answer Madam Bones's Questions, it is not good to lie to the director of the DMLE, I am of the mind to charge you with Violating the Wizengamont Guardian Act, and Child Endangerment."
Dumbledore sighed deeply. His demeanour, once commanding, now appeared defeated. The room felt colder as everyone anticipated his response. "I did what I believed was necessary for the greater good of our world. Yes, I was aware of the wards and their function. But my primary concern was always Harry's safety, even if it meant making difficult choices. Regarding Jocelyn Fray and the will, I genuinely believed it had been lost. And yes, I was aware of Jocelyn, but I had concerns about her ability to protect Harry given her ties to the Muggle world. This was a time of great turmoil and uncertainty. The choices I made, however questionable they seem now, were done with the best intentions at heart."
"That is good and all, but Harry is a Black," said Arcturus Black, "He is the Grandson of my sister Dorea Black, and Blacks protect their own, so tell me, why did you do it? I understand Madam Bones has a few questions but has the Duke of Inverness and as the head of the black family you're answering my question, or by the gods you will regret it."
The intensity of the situation had reached its peak. The atmosphere in the chamber was thick with anticipation, and many members of the Wizengamot shifted uncomfortably in their seats. Dumbledore, once the revered Chief Warlock, now stood before them all, facing accusations from multiple fronts.
Dumbledore's gaze met Arcturus Black's. The elder Black's presence was formidable, his voice resonating with authority and the weight of family pride. For generations, the Blacks had been known for their fierce loyalty to one another.
Taking a deep breath, Dumbledore began, "Lord Black, I deeply regret the choices I made concerning your grandson. My actions, though gravely mistaken in hindsight, were driven by the fear of Voldemort's return and the belief that Harry, being the one prophesied to vanquish him, needed to be kept safe from his followers at all costs."
Arcturus's eyes remained unyielding. "That may be, but it does not excuse your actions, Dumbledore. You stripped him of his birthright, his family, and his magic. And for what? The 'greater good'? You had no right to make those decisions for him."
Dumbledore's voice, usually so steady and wise, was filled with remorse. "I understand your anger, Lord Black. I can only say that in the dire times that followed Voldemort's fall, decisions were made hastily and without the thorough consideration they deserved. I saw the Dursleys as a means to hide Harry, to keep him humble and away from the limelight until the time was right. I feared what fame and knowledge of his heritage might do to a young boy."
"And the Betrothal contract between House Greengrass and House Potter, and why not place him with Jocelyn Fray or Amelia Bones, where he would have been loved and cared for," said Arcturus Black. "Lord Cygnus Greengrass, your family is known to be a family of Shadowhunters, would their angelic runes or wards be better for what Dumbledore was trying to do,"
Cygnus Greengrass, a tall man with piercing eyes, rose from his seat, the emblem of House Greengrass evident on his robes. The hall was silent as he began to speak, his voice calm but filled with conviction.
"Indeed, Lord Black. The angelic wards and runes used by Shadowhunters are amongst the most potent protective measures known. As many in this chamber might be aware, Shadowhunters bear the blood of angels. Their wards and runes are designed to protect against both magical and mundane threats. If Harry had been placed with Jocelyn Fray, a trained Shadowhunter and Lily Potter's twin sister, he would have not only been protected but would have grown up with an understanding of his heritage, both magical and mundane."
He continued, his gaze now resting on Dumbledore, "The betrothal contract between our houses was not just a political alliance but a bond forged out of friendship and mutual respect between the late Lord Potter and myself. It was intended to unite two families and ensure that Harry and my daughter would have the support and protection they needed in the tumultuous times ahead. This contract was signed in the presence of witnesses and is binding. It is an affront that it was ignored."
"Thank you, Lord Greengrass, Madam Bones can you tell me what were the injuries that Harry had, and if his magical core is damaged?" asked Arturus.
"His magical core was not damaged, I had my House elves check as he was sleeping," said Madam Bones, "as for his injuries I am going to read what Doctor Sofia Delphic testified in court, a doctor in the muggle world is the equivalent of a master healer in our world," she opened a binder and read "According to her report upon examining his body she found: 61 percent of his body was covered in scar tissue, each older than 9 months, his neck had markings of a hand of an adult male, his femurs felt weird and were later confirmed via X-ray to have had multiple healed fractures. He had a fresh broken rib, which was not older than a week. There were multiple contusions and abrasions on his torso, arms, and legs. His wrist showed signs of frequent restraints, possibly from being tied or chained. He also had signs of malnutrition and dehydration, suggesting that he was denied food and water regularly."
Arcturus Black's face darkened with every word Madam Bones read. The atmosphere in the room was thick with rage and disgust, the shock palpable on the faces of all those present.
"Such treatment of a child, a Black nonetheless, is unforgivable," Arturus said, his voice cold and cutting. "Dumbledore, this child suffered, not under the hands of Death Eaters or Voldemort's followers, but under the roof of those you placed him with. And to think you knew of these blood wards, which only further compromised his situation. It's a gross violation of everything we stand for."
Dumbledore's blue eyes seemed clouded with deep regret, the weight of the accusations heavy upon him. "I deeply regret the choices I made," he whispered, the usual fire in his voice extinguished. "I cannot change the past, but I do take full responsibility for my decisions."
Madam Bones shook her head. "Regret is not enough, Dumbledore. Actions have consequences. The sheer extent of the injuries and the abuse Harry endured is heart-wrenching. How could you be so blind to the suffering of a child?"
The murmurs of agreement from the members of the Wizengamot grew louder. Many of them had been supporters of Dumbledore, but the revelations had left them questioning their loyalty.
Lucius Malfoy, taking advantage of the moment, stood up. "This is a clear case of negligence and abuse of power," he declared. "Harry Potter, the boy who lived, suffered at the hands of muggles, while the one who claims to be his protector stood by, either unaware or willfully ignorant. It's time for accountability."
Many heads nodded in agreement.
Arcturus Black rose, his voice carrying a heavy authority. "As the Head of the Black family, I demand justice for my kin. Dumbledore, your intentions may have been for the 'greater good', but the results of your actions are inexcusable. The Black family will be seeking reparations, and I believe it's time for you to step down as Chief Warlock."
"I second that motion, I call for a vote of no confidence, against Albus Dumbledore in his role as, Chief Warlock and Britain's representative to the IWC," said Madam Bones.
The room buzzed with murmurs and whispers. Dumbledore sat in his seat, head slightly bowed, his usually twinkling eyes dimmed with the weight of the situation. The call for a vote of no confidence was a significant blow, and many in the chamber realized the gravity of the situation.
"Order!" The gavel struck, silencing the chamber. "All those in favour of the motion of no confidence against Albus Dumbledore as Chief Warlock and Britain's representative to the International Wizarding Council, please raise your wands," Madam Bones said with authority.
One by one, wands were raised into the air, casting a sea of glowing tips throughout the chamber. The numbers were telling; the majority of the Wizengamot were in favour of the motion. There were a few who didn't raise their wands, likely out of loyalty or disbelief at the turn of events, but they were in the minority.
Dumbledore raised his head to look around the room, taking in the sight. The disappointment and sadness in his eyes were evident. For all his wisdom, prowess, and good intentions, he was not infallible. His decisions, however well-intentioned, had led to this moment.
He slowly stood up, his age suddenly more apparent than ever. "Members of the Wizengamot," his voice was soft, filled with deep remorse, "I deeply regret the consequences of my actions. My intention has always been to protect and guide the wizarding world to the best of my ability. However, I acknowledge my mistakes, especially regarding young Harry Potter. If the majority feels that I am no longer fit to serve as Chief Warlock and as Britain's representative, then I shall respect the decision."
Madam Bones, though stern, seemed to respect Dumbledore's humility. "The motion of no confidence has been passed, Albus Dumbledore. You are hereby relieved of your duties as Chief Warlock and as Britain's representative to the International Wizarding Council."
Dumbledore gave a small nod. "Thank you, Madam Bones. I hope that the Wizengamot will continue to guide our world with wisdom and justice. I shall take my leave." With that, the once great and powerful Albus Dumbledore made his way out of the chamber, the weight of his decisions pressing down on him.
Henry Abbott broke the silence, his voice rising with each word. He gestured around the chamber as he spoke, emphasizing his point. "Now that this matter has been settled, I suggest we form an independent committee comprised of individuals from each leading faction of the Wizengamont - The Welsh Alliance, The Pure Alliance, the Light faction, the central faction, the Northern Ireland Alliance, The Scottish Alliance, and the progressive alliance - as well as international representatives. The purpose of this committee is to investigate how Harry Potter was abused underneath our noses, to determine what laws need to be changed in order to prevent something like this from happening again and to help Mr. Potter, a 12-year-old boy about to start his second year at Hogwarts, recover from his ordeal."
"I propose the following members for this committee: Dowager Lady Augusta Longbottom of the Welsh Alliance; Viscount Richard Parkinson from the Pure Alliance; Emmeline Vance, Earl of Westmoreland representing the Light Faction; Authur Le Fay, Duke of Cornwell for the Central Faction; Luis Henley, elected seat for the Northern Ireland Alliance; Arcturus Black, Duke of Inverness from the Scottish Alliance; and Charles Coulson, the Viscount Coulson for the Progressive Faction," As Henry Abbott continued, the room was silent, awaiting reactions to his proposal.
Augusta Longbottom, a strict-looking witch with a distinctive vulture-topped hat, nodded her head firmly. "I accept the responsibility. It is high time that we ensured the safety of our young wizards and witches."
Richard Parkinson, a tall man with pale blue eyes, looked around the chamber and then nodded slowly. "For the sake of unity and justice, I shall participate however, any changes to the law must reflect our culture."
Emmeline Vance, known for her loyalty and dedication to the Light, spoke in a gentle voice, "It is an honour to serve and to ensure that the future remains bright for our young ones. I'm in."
Author Le Fay, a wizard of average height with a neatly trimmed beard, smiled, "Cornwell stands with the rest. We need to ensure the safety and well-being of our children."
Luis Henley, a wiry man with salt-and-pepper hair, stood. "Northern Ireland has faced its share of challenges. It's time we stood united for the future. I'm in."
Arcturus Black's voice was deep and resonant, "The Scottish Alliance has always held family values dear. It would be an honour to be part of this committee."
Charles Coulson, a young wizard with bright eyes and a sharp wit, looked determined. "The progressive alliance aims for a future where mistakes like these do not repeat. Count me in."
Henry Abbott looked around the chamber, "With the committee members decided, I believe the next step is to elect a head for this committee, someone who can act as a neutral arbiter, overseeing the proceedings and ensuring that the committee stays on course."
A voice, clear and strong, rang out from the back, "I propose Madam Bones. She has shown great integrity in this matter, and her position as the head of DMLE lends her the experience required to lead such a committee."
There was a murmur of agreement from various members of the Wizengamot.
Madam Bones looked surprised but responded, "If the members of the Wizengamot believe I can provide guidance and leadership to this committee, I accept."
Henry Abbott smiled, "All in favour of Madam Bones leading the committee?"
The majority of wands in the room lit up in agreement.
"Very well, let the records show that Madam Amelia Bones will head the committee tasked with the investigation and the well-being of Harry Potter. This committee will report back to the Wizengamot in two months with its findings and recommendations. Let's ensure that no child in our world ever suffers the way Harry did."
Fred trembled as he walked to the window, checking both ways for any sign of his mother. Taking a deep breath, he opened the window and used a wire hanging from the frame to unlock the door. "Come on. Okay, come on. Shhh! Shhh!" He frantically waved for the others to enter, eyes darting left and right.
Ron's head appeared in the opening first. "Do you think it'd be all right if we had some of this?" he whispered, pointing at various items stashed around the room. Before Fred could answer, George stepped up with half a grin on his face. "Yeah, Mum would never know," he said.
Ron anxiously chewed his nails and said, "I just wonder where Harry is, we checked the house but nobody lives there he is also not answering our letters." He was met with sudden silence.
The boys nearly jumped out of their skin when Molly Weasley's voice boomed behind them.
She stood in the doorway with her hands on her hips, a wave of orange hair crowning her head and eyes ablaze with fury. The breakfast rolls were clutched behind their backs, forgotten for the moment as Mrs. Weasley scolded them.
Molly's voice was laced with fear and anger as she scolded her children. Her hands were trembling, and the colour had drained from her face.
"Mum, I had to check, Harry has not been answering our letters," said Ron nervously, looking between his mother and Ginny who had just come running down the stairs.
"Dumbledore has said he was missing, and we have not heard of him since before the Wizengamont meeting yesterday, I told you that, Ronald Weasley! Now hurry along to breakfast." Molly tried to sound stern but the worry in her voice was unmistakable.
Ginny skidded to a stop in front of them, her eyes wide with concern. "Mum. Mummy, have you seen my jumper?"
Molly's lips quirked in amusement as she gestured to the sleeping cat curled up on the sofa. "Yes, dear," she said softly. "It was on the cat."
Just then, Arthur entered the room with an exhausted look on his face and a noticeable slump in his shoulders. "Morning, Weasleys," he sighed.
Fred, George, and Ron all replied in unison, "Morning Dad!"
"What a night," Arthur muttered. "Nine raids. Nine!"
Molly sighed. "Your sons took the enchanted car to Surrey and back last night,"
Arthur's eyes widened in surprise. Fred, George, and Ron were biting their lips, trying not to laugh.
Fred, George, and Ron started to say something but Molly cut them off.
"Arthur!" she said sternly.
The boys looked down at the floor, struggling to contain their mirth.
"I mean...that was very wrong, indeed, boys. Very wrong of you," Arthur said through gritted teeth.
In the distance, an owl screeched its eerie call. "Oh, there's Errol with the post," said Molly, her face lit up in anticipation. The great brown bird flew right towards the house, but slammed into the window and fell to the ground. "Oh, fetch it will you Percy, please?" Molly asked as Percy rose from his seat and walked to the window.
Taking the letters from Errol, he examined them and gasped in surprise. "Oh look, it's our Hogwarts letters! And the Daily Prophet," he said as he glanced at the headlines. "Mum listen to this," he read aloud in a trembling voice. "'12-year-old Harry Potter Guardians Arrested for Child Abuse; Gildroy Lockhart New Hogwarts DADA Professor; Albus Dumbledore Removed From Wizengamont for Violations of The Wizengamont Guardian Act; Panel Formed To Investigate How The Boy-Who-Lived Was Abused Heavily for 11 Years; Betrothal Contract Between Harry Potter and Daphne Greengrass signed in 1980, 12 years ago.'"
As the Weasleys sat in stunned silence, the implications of the headlines settled heavily in the room. Fred and George exchanged worried glances, while Ron's face turned a shade paler. Ginny's grip tightened on her jumper.
"This is madness," Molly whispered, her fingers trembling as she took the paper from Percy. "Harry... abused? How could they?!"
Arthur adjusted his glasses and cleared his throat. "Well, this explains why he hasn't been answering your letters. If he was going through that..." Arthur's voice trailed off.
Ginny's voice, small and full of concern, broke through the silence. "Mum, what's a betrothal contract?"
Molly sighed, rubbing her temples. "It's an old, traditional agreement where families betroth their children to one another. It's not as common these days, but some pureblood families still follow the tradition. The thing is, these contracts are binding and can only be broken under very specific circumstances."
Fred raised an eyebrow. "Daphne Greengrass? Isn't she in Slytherin?"
George nodded, "Yes, but we've never heard of any beef between her family and the Potters. This is bizarre."
Percy interjected, "The key here is that the contract was signed 12 years ago. Harry was just a baby then. His parents must have agreed to it."
Ron looked horrified. "But he never mentioned anything about it! And now with all this abuse... What's going to happen to him?"
As the family pondered over the situation, the room was filled with a mixture of anxiety and anger. The Weasleys, having had their share of battles and challenges, knew that they would do everything in their power to support their friend.
Molly stood up, her face determined. "No matter what, we'll be there for Harry. This family sticks together."
Arthur nodded in agreement, "First thing tomorrow, I'll see if there's anything I can do at the Ministry. And as for the Wizengamont, they better give Albus a fair hearing."
Ginny, clutching her jumper to her chest, whispered, "We have to find Harry."
Fred and George shared a determined look. "We'll start planning," George said.
Just then, a massive, white owl swooped into the room with its wings outstretched. It hovered above Ron for a few seconds before dropping a letter at his feet and quickly flying back out of the open window. Ron picked up the letter and held it in his trembling hands. "Mum! It's from Harry!" he exclaimed.
"well go on read it," said Molly
"Dear Ron and Hermione, I am sure you all heard the news lately, I just ask you not to ask me anything about what I suffered or about the Dursleys'. (Ron I am looking at you, last year you asked me if I have the scar from the night my parents were killed please don't ask something similar because of the news headlines.) My Aunt Amelia Bones, is very furious at Dumbledore, for what happened to me. I will be in Diagon Alley later today to get my school supplies for my second year at Hogwarts, and yes I will be with Daphne Greengrass, the contract was signed with our blood, therefore it is unbreakable. She is as a part of my life as you are, and I rather get along with her than ignore her. It wasn't either of our choices to be in this situation, and I hope you understand that.
You must be wondering about my relationship with Aunt Amelia. I didn't even know she was my relative until recently. She took me in after the Dursleys were arrested. It's been an adjustment, but she's kind and is trying her best to make me feel comfortable. The house has been filled with members of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement going over every detail of the past eleven years, trying to figure out how everything went unnoticed.
I'm sure you also read about Dumbledore's removal from the Wizengamont. I don't know how to feel about it all. He was supposed to be my protector, but then again, so much has happened without him noticing. Aunt Amelia is furious at him, but I am still processing everything.
Ron, please tell your family that I am grateful for their concern. I've always admired the bond you all share, and in these trying times, I cherish the thought of having friends like you who genuinely care.
Let's meet at Diagon Alley, in front of Flourish and Blotts at 2 PM. I hope you understand if I seem a bit distant or overwhelmed. I'm still trying to make sense of everything.
Take care and see you soon, Harry.
P.S. Fred and George, please refrain from any pranks when we meet. I need some sense of normalcy right now.
P.P.S. Hermione you and Ron are reading the same letter at different places please understand that you do not know much of this world before you go on about how barbaric our culture is.
P.P.P.S. Ron I know your sister (I don't know her so I will just call her Little Weasley) is starting Hogwarts this year tell her to be careful of writing in diaries. I cannot tell you why only that I inherited my mother's ability to see visions of the Past, Present, or Future. Please keep in mind I am not a seer but a shadowhunter, and every shadowhunter has a connection with an angel due to the angelic blood flowing threw my veins, this connection is what showed me that particular vision. also keep in mind the vision was not very clear.
P.P.P.P.S. Actually I will tell you, I had a vision of a Diary possessing Little Weasley, and forcing her to release a basilisk. If you see Little Weasley with a Diary with the words T.M. Riddle written on it please give it to me so I can hand it to my Aunt this diary will possess her. ANYONE WITH MY GIFT CAN TELL YOU THE FUTURE IS NOT SET IN STONE.
P.P.P.P.P.S (final one I promise) You ever seen why the Greengrass's have runes tattooed on their skins that is because they are Shadowhunters, like my mother was I am one as well, you will see me with those rune Tattoo's. they are not for show they grant those with the blood of an angel unspeakable power. A Shadowhunter main job is to keep demons from attacking and banishing them.
The room fell silent after Ron finished reading Harry's letter. There were too many revelations to process all at once, and a tension wrapped around the Weasleys like a cloak.
Ginny, looking more confused than ever, mumbled, "Diaries, basilisks... what's all this about, Ron?"
Ron, trying to make sense of it all himself, responded, "It seems like Harry's got a sort of... power? He sees visions, and one of them involved you, Gin. We'll have to be extra cautious this year."
Fred and George both had twin expressions of disbelief. "Shadowhunters? Runes?" George muttered, "This is a lot to take in."
Fred agreed, "And we thought our Extendable Ears were something! Harry's life seems even more complicated than we imagined."
Percy, ever the logical one, tried to bring order to the conversation. "Alright, let's break it down. First, Harry is okay, and he's coming to Diagon Alley today. That's good news. Second, he's given us a warning about Ginny and a diary. We need to keep that in mind. And third, this... shadowhunter business. I've read about them in obscure texts, but to think Harry is one..."
Molly interjected with a motherly tone, "One thing at a time. Harry's safety is our priority. We'll meet him today and ensure he's alright. Everything else can be dealt with later."
Ginny seemed to contemplate Harry's letter for a moment. "The vision he mentioned... I'll be careful, Ron. And I'll make sure to stay away from any strange diaries."
Arthur, rubbing his chin thoughtfully, spoke up, "It seems the world we know is expanding rapidly. We need to be vigilant and support Harry as much as we can."
Ginny nodded. "He's our friend. We have to be there for him."
Ron added, "Especially now that he's going through all of this."
Molly gave a determined nod. "Agreed. We'll see him later today, and we'll show him that he's not alone in all of this. As I said before, this family sticks together."
AN: Now before you complain about Inconsistencies just remember A. Politicians lie and B. the mist is a very powerful thing in PJO.
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I may not be able to update Friday due to working on the Outline for PTATF act 2.
