Chapter 28 Christmas, Firebolt and Greengrass's surprise

25th December 1993, Gryffindor Tower third-year boys dorm, Hogwarts, Scotland

Harry was woken up by Ron for the first time since the start of the term he decided not to run as it was snowing outside and he didn't find a place to run inside the castle. Ron has shaken him awake and almost screamed as he did in his first year "Harry presents."

Ron was only awake before Harry on Christmas and his birthday unless Harry sleeps until noon.

Harry looks at his foot end and sees a big pile, but what surprised him the most was a long thin package that leans against the pile. Harry sees after he has grabbed his glasses from the bed table that it looks like a broomstick. Harry almost jumps out of his bed because every broom would be better than the shooting star he borrows from the school.

Harry decided to leave the package that was obviously a broom as last he couldn't use it anyway not until Madam Hooch and one of the other teachers would accompany him to the Quidditch pitch so he can try out his new broom, but Madam Hooch said that there will be no flying during the Yule Holiday to minimize the risk from the Dementors appearing.

Harry starts to open his packages. The smallest one is from Dobby and he sees that they are socks. Harry had tried to make clear to Dobby that both socks are the same and it seems that Dobby wasn't certain but made an effort. Harry looks to one sock having the Gryffindor colours with gold snitches and the other was black with snitches flying around in Gryffindor colours.

Harry smiles to himself and thought 'I didn't send Dobby something but maybe I could ask what he wants. I can't give him clothes, I don't know if elves read and I also don't know what kind of candy Dobby like if he even likes candy.'

He got more candy from Ron which Harry found weird as he used all his money according to their other dorm mates for his own candy, but decided to not dwell on it. Hermione gave him a book about ancient runes as Hermione saw that Harry liked ancient runes. Ginny gave him candy and a book about defence against the dark arts that was quite old but relevant. Neville gave him a book about arithmancy.

Katie gave together with Angelina and Alicia the book 'Quidditch through the ages" the newest version. Wood (with Vanessa) gave Harry some candy and a Puddlemore United book, poster and seeker shirt with a golden snitch moving on the shirt.

Harry was surprised when he got also presents from Seamus, Dean, Fay, Parvati, Lavender, Padma, and Susan. The biggest surprise was a present from Daphne Greengrass. He got candy from Seamus, Dean, Fay, Lavender, Parvati, Padma and Susan. Susan gave him also a book about magical creatures that was just a book.

Daphne gave him a beautiful quill but it had the Gryffindor colours, two inkpots from high quality that at least 3 times refill themselves it seems and three types of candies: Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans, Chocolate Frogs, and Sugar Quills. Daphne sends a note that read:

Potter,

I know I am a Slytherin but I think I need to at least thank you for preventing me from getting injured because of Malfoy and Buckbeak. I don't blame Buckbeak or Professor Hagrid. Tradition dictates I owe you a favour. Potter that I owe you a favour, doesn't mean I do anything you want, as others may do. If you think of something let someone know I can tolerate talk to me and maybe I can repay the ….. favour.

Daphne Greengrass

Hagrid gave Harry some candy, a clipped claw, and a feather which were probably from Buckbeak and a letter to come to lunch tomorrow (26th). Bill has sent Harry a book about ancient runes in Egypt. Charlie gave Harry a book that was similar to that Ginny got a few years back but Harry's book was the newest with a few extra things they didn't know a few years back. The last present was from Mr. and Mrs. Weasley. He got a scarlet sweater with a Gryffindor lion on the front plus a dozen home-baked minced pieces, Christmas cake, and a box of nut brittle.

He was only with Ron and Hermione in the whole Gryffindor Tower as the twins wanted to go home, Percy decided that in the Burrow he could better study as he didn't have prefect duties at home and at the Burrow he has books about the jobs in ministry so he could find with the department he would like to have his first job in and Ginny got a message Sunday before leaving that Mrs. Weasley wanted Ginny home for the Yule holiday. Ginny didn't want to but after talking with Hermione and Professor McGonagall she relented and went home on Monday 20th December with the other students that left which were much more than usual.

Hermione stayed as her parents were in America and after that in Switzerland and weren't home the whole Yule holiday. Her parents were very sorry that they couldn't see Hermione as Hermione is, for not seeing her parents but all three knew that the conferences were important.

25th December 1993, Gryffindor Common Room, Hogwarts

Harry comes downstairs with the package that is almost certainly a broom. When he went downstairs he finds Hermione sitting on the couch by the fireplace apparently reading a new book. It was the book he had given her beside the quill that was the same as Daphne's quill and Honeydukes chocolate she especially seems to like. The book was about ancient runes that were used in the United Kingdom until 1689/ 1692 in the muggle world (also which runes aren't used anymore because they don't work in the magical world and household) and the difference between the different languages and dialects in the United Kingdom.

When Hermione sees Harry she gave him a big hug and said "Merry Christmas Harry."

She had a nightmare of the troll last night in which Harry came for her but was killed after leading excruciating pain. That was also the reason she was already a couple of chapters in the book she got from Harry. When she sees Ron she coolly said "Merry Christmas Ronald."

She didn't hug Ron and sat back down. Harry sat down next to her with the broom and unwrapped it. It was badly wrapped and when Harry removed the wrapping Ron's screamed "BLOODY HELL."

Before Hermione could complain about Ron's language Ron continued screaming "THAT IS A FIREBOLT, THE FASTEST BROOM IN EXISTENCE. ONLY THE RICH PROFESSIONAL TEAMS AND ALMOST ALL NATIONAL TEAMS HAVE ORDERED FIREBOLTS FOR THEIR TEAMS."

Hermione looks up immediately. She knew the Firebolt as she was in Diagon Alley with Harry when he looked at the Firebolt mostly through the window. She asked "Harry you got a Firebolt? Who sends it to you?"

Harry looked around the wrapping but there was no note with the name of the sender. He said "I don't know Hermione. There was no sender."

Hermione looked worried and said "we should give it to McGonagall with all we know Sirius Black has sent it and cursed. Like suddenly stops flying making you crash down or something similar."

Ron said, "that is ridiculous come on Harry let go to the Quidditch pitch to fly on it."

Harry saw Ron almost drooling at the sight of the Firebolt. He was very happy he got a Firebolt but found drooling a bit too much. Before Harry could say something Hermione said "you can't Madam Hooch said she would not supervise during Yule Holiday and without her none of the other professors would. I think you need to show it to Professor McGonagall."

Ron said "Hermione are you mental. It is a Firebolt."

Hermione huffs at what Ron says. She looks at Harry and Harry doesn't know what to do as he didn't want to lose Ron. Harry said "I am sure it is fine Hermione. I mean why would Sirius Black give me an expensive gift to kill me. I mean he has already successfully entered the castle. If he wanted to kill me he could probably do it again."

Hermione sacredly agreed with that. Hermione thought to herself 'Harry has a point but I still think I should tell Professor McGonagall. I will try to convince Harry in a few days. Maybe, Neville, Ginny or Katie could help me convince Harry.'

She sat back and continued reading. She tried to stop thinking about the Firebolt but that was impossible as Ron kept talking about it even when Harry tried to talk about something else as he felt Hermione having a problem with talking about it.

25th December 1993, Gryffindor Common Room, Hogwarts

It was late. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner were a strange ordeal as in the whole castle only 13 people were left. Besides Harry, Ron, and Hermione the others that were in the castle were Professor Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall, Professor Snape, Professor Sprout, Professor Flitwick, care-taker Filtch, Derek (first year Ravenclaw), a nervous first year (Hufflepuff), a sullen fifth year Slytherin, and 'Professor' Trelawney. According to Professor McGonagall, Professor Lupin was in school but was unfortunately not feeling well.

Harry was losing badly with chess as he played against Ron as Harry was almost done with all his homework. Hermione went to the library after dinner and hasn't returned yet. Harry actually wanted to read to pass time as he wasn't allowed to fly, but Ron almost badgered him into playing chess. Harry tried his best but he lost badly as his thought weren't on the game. His thoughts about if Hermione was right and the flash he had in his mind earlier today. When Hermione said Sirius Black could have given the Firebolt he saw a younger Sirius Black giving him a smaller broom as sees his father laugh, his mother having a wry smile and a younger-looking Professor Lupin trying not to laugh. When Harry saw that he felt almost deliriously happy.

Harry tried to visit the Chamber but Ron didn't leave him alone not that Harry wanted to be left alone but he was sure nobody would understand letting Medusa live and even more to talk to her almost like he did with Hedwig he was the only one to understand both. Well, the only one if you didn't count Voldemort could also speak to Medusa.

Suddenly the entrance to the Common Room opens and Professor McGonagall walks in followed by Professor Flitwick and Hermione. Hermione looks ashamed and avoids looking at Harry. Professor McGonagall walks toward Ron and Harry.

When she stands in front of Harry she said "Mr. Potter I heard that you got a new broom without a note who send it to you. As it is the possibility that it is jinxed or cursed by Sirius Black I am here with Professor Flitwick to take the broom so it can be examined before we allow you to use it."

Harry looks shocked while Ron looks mad. Ron looks at Hermione and he said "how could you go behind our back to Professor McGonagall. You, You …"

Harry interrupts Ron and said, "not now Ron."

After the shock, Harry was also mad but he would not let Ron call Hermione names even if he was mad at her. A small part of Harry's mind knew if Ron wasn't interrupted and calls Hermione names that Gryffindor would lose points, but most of his mind didn't want to hurt Hermione.

Professor McGonagall was silently proud of Harry for stopping Ron as she also knew that Ron would call Hermione names. She said, "can you please show us the broom, Mr. Potter."

While she was walking here with Professor Flitwick and Hermione or better said Miss Granger she made sure she kept saying in her mind Mr. Potter, Mr. Potter all the way until she reached the entrance of the Gryffindor Common Room afraid she would otherwise say Harry and while she wanted to be able to call Harry by his name now was not the time or moment and she wasn't close enough to Harry ….. yet she hoped.

Harry went upstairs followed by everyone. Next to Harry's bed was the Firebolt. Harry went to grab him but Professor McGonagall stopped him and said: "I think it is better if nobody touches it."

Harry said, "but Professor McGonagall I already touched the broom directly when I unwrapped the packing and carried it back upstairs."

Professor McGonagall said, "well it will be better Mr. Potter if you do not do that again until we examined it."

Professor McGonagall pulled out her wand and cast a spell to make it follow her while floating behind her (Wingardium Leviosa). Harry, Ron, and Hermione follow Professor McGonagall and Professor Flitwick downstairs to the common room. When they have left Ron was mad and Harry angry. Hermione saw that and immediately said, "I am going to bed."

Ron wanted to scream at her but Harry stopped him again before they also went to their dormitories where they talked far into the night.

26th December 1993, Hagrid's cabin, Hogwarts grounds

Harry and Ron were visiting Hagrid as Hagrid asked in his note that he put with Harry's present. Hermione wasn't as Harry and Ron hadn't seen her after last night when she went to her dorm. Ron was still mad about it while Harry was angry for not talking with him and going behind his back. Harry and Ron went in the afternoon a few hours before dinner.

Hagrid knew but didn't say anything. Hagrid was also very nervous. Three days ago he got a message from the ministry that he needed to appear on the 20th of April 1994 for the attack on Draco Malfoy. He was ordered to keep the Hippogriff away from the herd and not use him for lessons until this situation was resolved. Dumbledore managed to allow Buckbeak to be with his herd until the hearing.

Harry offered to try to help Hagrid with the hearing while Ron didn't want to as Harry said that he would go to the library and that meant a lot of reading. Ron thought Harry was going mental even more than taking hard classes earlier this year as to why would Harry read anything more than necessary, but decided not to comment on it and said he would help but had no intention to read much more.

After almost two hours they went back to the castle mostly because it was almost dinner time and Hagrid went with them. Harry was not allowed out of the castle without a Professor with him unless it was for class. With dinner, Hermione was there but made sure she sat as far away as she could before when she was done leaving immediately after saying goodbye to the others and excusing herself.

1st January 1994, Greengrass Manor, Eastern Wales

It was almost lunchtime when Jacob and Isabel were in the kitchen while Astoria and Daphne were still asleep according to their house-elf Siri. They had a wizengamot party in Malfoy Manor last night. They didn't want to go but they had no choice. As they were the only family that gave a New Year Eve's party this year. With Sirius Black on the loose, not many families wanted to open their houses for a party.

Jacob understands almost halfway through the party why Malfoy held the party did it as he saw Draco Malfoy talking with Daphne which was clearly annoying her. Daphne tried to ignore most of the children, especially from Slytherin but also from the other houses bare a few like Susan while keeping on her mask. When Draco was becoming a bit too much Jacob wanted to stop it when he was blocked by Lucius Malfoy. Lucius started to talk like they were friends which they most certainly weren't.

Lucius was probably delusional as he thought that Daphne was having a good time with Draco and that they should go to the study to talk about a marriage contract to make Daphne Draco's second intended beside Pansy as Pansy needed to continue her line as an only child from the Parkinson family. Besides Pansy, there was no one eligible to become head of House Parkinson.

When Jacob tried to respectfully decline Lucius leaned forward and whisper menacingly in Jacob's ear "my patience I running thin. No other respectable house will ask for a marriage contract for Daphne or Astoria. I would suggest signing the marriage contract I gave you this summer or accidents could happen but I sure hope of course that your business doesn't lose suppliers from the mainland or can't supply our stores as I heard a shortage was expected very soon."

Lucius leaned back and walked away like he owned the world with a grin to match. Jacob immediately downed a Firewhiskey as this was nothing less than a threat although the accidents and shortage of supply were new. He owned a successful import/ export business. His family was one of the families that were spared any contact in the first war from Voldemort or the light side safe the Potter family and its allies. Jacob's father before he got killed saw opportunities with dark families in trouble, light families extinct the small legal import/ export business the Greengrass had grown very well in the first year after the war against Voldemort. They had a large illegal import/ export business but when their legal business grew they stopped most of the illegal import/ export business and Jacob stopped almost completely what his father and grandfather tried to do but never did because they had no other means to support their family if they stopped with the illegal import/ export but now could Jacob easily stop with the illegal import/ export what he did... well almost.

Sure they lost a few suppliers but still had more than a decent income and had a very well-filled vault at Gringotts, not like the most ancient and most noble houses but still more enough to live comfortably with a certain amount of luxury. He knew that the Malfoys once had a lesser amount of wealth but after Narcissa Black married into the Malfoy family even with all the bribes the Malfoys were suspected to be very wealthy enough to bring him problems. Lucius was also right that none of the 'dark' families, the ones who followed or supported Voldemort would go against Malfoy as he was one of the top lieutenants from Voldemort who was still free which gave Draco quite an amount of power in Slytherin house.

Jacob knew some neutral houses and light houses were afraid of Lucius Malfoy, were afraid for their sons or were afraid for their businesses. Most of the light families saw the Greengrass family as dark or at least dark alined that was pretending to be neutral which was, of course, wrong as the House Greengrass are neutral. None of the light houses wants to 'darken' their house with a dark alined house if not completely dark. Most of the so-called Great Alliance knew it but after the Potters were killed and the Longbottom's tortured the Great Alliance fell apart. Some of the 'weaker' families became afraid of the Malfoys or held on to traditions like the 'dark' families and with everything Malfoy spouted, nobody didn't want to intervene in the marriage talks about Draco and Daphne by trying to get a marriage contract with House Greengrass. Jacob knew that before the end of January he needed to convince Isabel about the marriage contract with House Potter.

Jacob was shocked out of his thoughts when Siri put down his food, tea, and anti-hangover potion as after Lucius he drank quite a lot to ease his nerves. He was almost done when an owl entered the kitchen with a letter. The owl flew to Jacob before dropping the letter he had in his beak. It almost fell in his food but Jacob grabbed it before it could. He looks at the back and saw the wax seal from Gringotts. He wanted to open it when a second owl came in also carrying a letter in his beak. This one flew to Isabel before dropping the letter. Both owls immediately left after delivering the mail so fast they almost hit each other.

They both open the letter at the same time. In Jacob's letter was written:

Lord Greengrass,

I, Account Manager Ripsword from the most ancient and noble house of Greengrass hereby want to inform you, Lord Greengrass, that Lord Black has activated the marriage contract for the daughter of House Greengrass that is not the primary Heiress if House Greengrass hasn't got a son. Your daughter Astoria Anne Greengrass is from this moment forward betrothed to Heir Black and will become Lady Black when Heir Black takes the Lordship when the current Lord Black dies.

Jacob turned pale it was commonly known that Draco Malfoy was the next in line for Lord Black and is essentially Heir Black. He knew there was a contract but Malfoy didn't as he never called him on it even though Malfoy was more interested in Daphne certainly as primary Heiress. Maybe Malfoy knew but without Lord Black or Heir Black's ring Malfoy couldn't get the contract from Gringotts to show him. Jacob was afraid that if Daphne becomes betrothed to Draco what will happen to his family if Daphne becomes Lady Malfoy and Astoria becomes Lady Black, Malfoy would get the Greengrass money, businesses, and properties when Jacob (and Isabel) die as Daphne is the oldest.

Jacob looks at the letter and sees that there is more writing and continues reading.

Lord Black wanted to let you know that the Heir of house Black is not Draco Lucius Malfoy. Lord Black doesn't want to tell you who is the real Heir but that in time the Heir will be revealed. The Heir himself would not seek out Astoria Anne Greengrass unless Lord Black will let you know even if the Heir isn't revealed at that time.

May your gold flow,

Account Manager Ripsword
Account Manager from the ancient and most noble house of Greengrass
Gringotts wizarding bank
Diagon Alley, London, England

P.S: Lord Black sends his apologies that he could not reveal the Heir at this time and he would contact you as soon as he is able.

While Jacob was reading Isabel opened her letter while she recognizes the Gringotts seal. Isabel began reading her letter.

Lady Greengrass,

Hereby I want to inform you that the marriage contract between Daphne Isabel Greengrass and Harry James Potter has been accepted. As unfortunately Lord and Lady Potter have been murdered the legal regent of House Potter has accepted the marriage contract. As you and your husband Lord Greengrass had already signed the marriage contract Regent Potter has signed and therefore sealed the marriage contract.

Regent Potter request that Harry Potter will not be bothered with the marriage contract and will not be approached this school year as Regent Potter will tell Harry Potter later about the marriage contract. If you want to talk to Harry Potter about the marriage contract you cannot before next (school) year but only when Regent Potter or one of his representatives is present with written consent to talk about the marriage contract, act in Regent Potter's place and make sure Regent Potter (and Harry Potter's) wishes are met.

Magic has accepted the marriage contract, which means there is no other marriage contract signed for Daphne Isabel Greengrass. We send a copy of the marriage contract and as you can see it cannot be broken unless your daughter can say with a vow (and Veritaserum) that she doesn't love Harry Potter and never will while Harry Potter does the same and Lord Potter (or Regent Potter in this cause) accept it. I do want to add if you want to break this marriage contract there will be a chance of a fine if Lord Potter (or Regent Potter) wants to add that, it is the same as they want to break it but then, House Potter can be fined if you and Lord Greengrass desire that.

Also as Daphne Isabel Greengrass is the primary Heiress I advise you when you talk to Regent Potter (or Lord Potter) that Daphne Isabel Greengrass can keep her last name or add Potter becoming Daphne Isabel Greengrass-Potter so the honourable Greengrass line doesn't die out. A third option is letting the second son bear the Greengrass name.

As of last I want to inform you that there is a chance that there will be more wives as your ministry laws contain last scions from a most ancient and most noble house (besides the few expectations that also have the right or lost it) like the honourable and respected house of Potter that is a most ancient and most noble house that has the right and almost if required and the law to have more than one wife.

May your enemies tremble at your name,

Account Manager Bonecrusher
Account Manager from the most ancient and most noble house of Potter
Goblin wizarding bank
Diagon Alley, London, England

P.S.: Regent Potter sends his apology that he could not meet you and your husband but will send word as soon as Regent Potter can.

Isabel looks shocked. She saw that the marriage contract was drafted up by her and Lily. She sighed deeply before wanting to hex herself or slam her head on the kitchen table. She didn't want Jacob and in addition, Daphne tricked Harry into a marriage contract she totally forgot about the marriage contract she sent to House Potter a few days before the attack on them. Well, she sent it to Gringotts as all mail was going there as Isabel didn't know where James, Lily, and Harry hide, but she knew they went into hiding 'Lily' has let her know but didn't tell her where.

She was devastated while Jacob was happy until he saw his wife cry and Isabel told her why. Jacob didn't cry but stopped being happy He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named was gone as it cost James and Lily Potter leaving Harry orphaned, not to mention other casualties and orphans like Susan Bones. Jacob may not be the best friends with James and Lily but he didn't dislike them and even started to like them very much and wanted to join the Great Alliance besides hoping to call each other friends if not good friends.

Just as Jacob finished another Owl came in with a letter in his beak. Jacob grabbed the letter and again saw the Gringotts seal. Jacob thought 'what now?'

Lord Greengrass,

Due to certain reasons, this offer was sent to me as your Account Manager. I will discuss the offer and need an answer before Monday 3rd January at noon.

Jacob knew he needed to send something back if he agrees or not if he didn't send something he could be fined and he needed all the money he could get for when Malfoy found out about Daphne already being betrothed to Harry Potter no less, he only needed the get them in a marriage contract without getting in problem with Isabel but if it is needed I would risk Isabel's wrath of ire. He heard from Daphne herself that Draco Malfoy and Harry Potter were each other worst enemies with most of the time Harry Potter easily coming out on top.

The offer contains your company as someone who wants to invest by buying a percentage of the company with a favourable outcome with bringing in new and easier available recourses and (potion) ingredients. Lord Black has shown interest to invest in your company. He wants 12,5 % in shares for 35.000 Galleons. I know that it is quite low to accept however Lord Black wants to give your company the chance to import and export products that are quite difficult and expensive to obtain.

Jacob looks at the offer from Lord Black and sees that if it was the price itself was quite low, but with the products, Lord Black could bring in Jacob expected to not lose money the first year and a 'big' profit the second year and the years after that.

Jacob decides to accept it when he sees there is something written under the offer.

The Account Manager from House Potter has also taken notice and offered the same as Lord Black. 12,5% for 27.500 including the ability to obtain expensive products to supply stores in Great Britain through your company and let your company export products. I also want an answer to this offer.

Account Manager Ripsword
Account Manager from the ancient and most noble house of Greengrass
Gringotts wizarding bank
Diagon Alley, London, England

Jacob found the offers quite similar but didn't think anything of it as the money and suppliers could help to resist Lucius Malfoy for a marriage contract for Daphne. He looked at his wife and see her shocked face and asked: "Isabel is something wrong?"

Isabel managed to nod but couldn't speak. Jacob waited for her to speak but when after a few minutes she still didn't say anything he grabbed the letter out of her hands. He read it three times before a large smile formed on his face. He was happy that he didn't need to trick Harry Potter and mislead his wife. He was only afraid of how Daphne would react to Harry Potter will be her husband and the big chance that Harry Potter may have more wives. Jacob was happy that Isabel has learned from Daphne and Astoria that there was a chance that they wouldn't be the only wife of their husband, but Jacob knew Isabel tried to learn Daphne and Astoria ways to become the first wife if you carried his name but only Daphne had the attitude for it when she was at school or around other students. When she was home with Astoria and when Tracey Davis her best friend visited she was the same warm girl as she was in her youth very close that Astoria still is Jacob thought.

Isabel looked at Jacob when he grew a large smile. Isabel wasn't happy that what she forbade Jacob from doing she did many years ago but both she and Jacob forgot it.

Jacob said, "Isabel this is wonderful."

Isabel hoped that Daphne and Harry would have kind of the same relationship she has with Jacob. She also had an arraigned marriage but they still loved each other with their whole hearts not like Lucius and Narcissa as it was commonly known that Narcissa (among other wives married into dark families) was not very happy and at the best content and that was on a good day those were far and wide in between. Fortunately in Daphne's marriage contract, there was a way to get out of it, but Isabel knew that it was too soon to ask Daphne if she loved Harry or not.

Jacob said "Siri."

Siri pops while she bowed and asks "what can Siri do for Master?"

Jacob gently asks "Siri are Daphne and Astoria awake?"

Siri said, "Miss Daphne and Miss Astoria are awake but look Miss Daphne and Miss Astoria completed homework over and try to improve it if possible."

Isabel smiled hearing that. She was a Ravenclaw and was happy despite both girls being in Slytherin there was still a part of them being Ravenclaw. Both girls looked like each other and were a younger version of their mother. Isabel was happy that both her daughters have more than just her looks, but she expected Astoria to be a Ravenclaw not that she wasn't 'proud' Astoria became a Slytherin while Jacob was overjoyed. According to Daphne, she was mostly among the top of her class between the Ravenclaw and a Gryffindor …. Granger if I remember although in Herbology it was Heir Longbottom. She was also a friend of Alice and despite Neville being shy he looks a lot like his father she remembered last night as he was present with his grandmother.

Jacob said, "could you ask to come down when they are done, Siri?"

Siri bowed and said, "Of course Master."

Jacob said, "thank you, Siri."

Siri bows and pops out.

Isabel asks Jacob "are you going to tell Daphne?"

Jacob handed her the parchment and wait until she was done. Isabel again looked shocked but was happily surprised that Heir Black was not Draco Malfoy.

Jacob said "I am going to tell them both even though we don't know who is Heir Black … yet. First of all, I am going to ask if Daphne and Astoria can try to find out if someone else than Malfoy is going to claim to be the Black Heir. As House Black is the most ancient and most noble house most of the purebloods would have trouble keeping that for themselves. It should be male or Draco couldn't be replaced. I would also consider half-bloods but the Black family was a strong supporter of blood purity, not mentioning the motto that was Toujours Pur if I remember correctly."

"Secondly Astoria needs to not alienate anyway not even Gryffindors and no dear I don't hate Gryffindor as the rivalry between Slytherin and Gryffindor try to let you believe. I mean most wizards and witches think Slytherins and Gryffindors hate each other and to be true most if not all Slytherins do I don't know about Gryffindor, but I do not but I must admit Harry Potter a Gryffindor saving Daphne does strengthen my opinion."

"Lastly Daphne needs to talk to Harry Potter without talking about the marriage contract while not being seen or known by the Slytherin that does hate Gryffindors especially Draco Malfoy also the same goes for Astoria if Gryffindors start to talk to her. I know that to the outside we look like one but in the Common Room you can be shunt or worse if you talk with Gryffindors except to call the names mostly by using their blood purity or curse them."

Isabel nodded agreeing with all as Jacob told her about how Slytherin's house works. Jacob asked Siri for ink, quill, and parchment to thank Ripsword for letting them know that an old marriage contract was activated with the knowledge it was no Draco Malfoy and to accept both offers that were present to him. Normally he wouldn't sell that many shares but the gained money and suppliers that Malfoy couldn't stop was a too good opportunity to pass up.

Jacob was thinking about who could be Heir Black and how to tell his daughters the 'good' news while Isabel was happy that Draco was not Heir Black as almost everybody was better. Isabel was also happy hoping that Daphne and Harry could like and love each other as they looked so cute together before the Potters went into hiding and got attacked.

After almost an hour Jacob and Isabel hear their two daughters coming down as they were freely talking as their house was one of the few places they could. They walked into the kitchen and see their parents sitting at the kitchen table. Astoria said "good morning mom and daddy" while Daphne said, "good morning mom and dad."

Jacob and Isabel greeted their daughters. Jacob almost changed his mind as he saw how happy Daphne and Astoria were, but he still thought it was better to tell them and not keep it a secret.

Jacob said, "girls I am happy you are having a good time and I know that your mother is happy that you both tried to improve your homework but I need to tell you both something."

Astoria asked, "what do you need to tell us, daddy?"

Daphne was looking at her father with anticipation as Daphne didn't see any problem writing on her father's face as there weren't any signs.

Jacob gave a small smile and said "a couple of years ago when we taught you about traditions together with Daphne we told you the truth that we have an arranged marriage but we really love each other. We promised to not do it unless you wanted it and your future husband would really love you. Unfortunately, we can't keep that promise."

Astoria and Daphne started to think why when after a few seconds they both understand why and look afraid at their father who still had a small smile. Before Daphne or Astoria could respond Isabel said: "first listen to your father before you say anything."

Daphne and Astoria nodded and look at their father to continue.

Jacob said "earlier today we got a couple of letters from Gringotts. Two of them were important as they pertain to both of you one for each of you."

Jacob focussed fully on Daphne and said "Daphne many years ago before Astoria was even born your mother was good friends with Lily Potter. I wasn't a good friend of James Potter but we were very far from enemies. After the Potters went into hiding Isabel managed to convince me to sign a marriage contract she and Lily drafted up, but the Potter hadn't signed at that moment. Isabel had very good arguments for me to sign it so Daphne long story short you are betrothed to Harry Potter. The regent Potter signed it, but you don't have to do anything now or start having a relationship as the Regent Potter didn't let Harry Potter know … yet. It will also give you time to see if you will ever love Harry Potter or not. The only way to get out of it is you or Harry Potter by vow and if we deem necessary Veritaserum to claim you do not and never will love the other the marriage contract can be broken."

Daphne almost screamed "how can I not love him? He saved me from serious harm caused by Buckbeak and indirectly by Malfoy. The Slytherin boys are the worst lot of them all. Harry saved the school last year and when I see him with his raven black hair and green eyes …"

Daphne stopped talking and started blushing as her brain caught up with her. Astoria squealed and screamed "I KNEW IT" Astoria lowered her voice to a normal volume when she said, "those things were for Harry Potter."

Isabel smiled and thought 'was I right all those years ago when they played together?'

Both Isabel and Jacob knew what Daphne send as they saw her pack it but didn't see for who it was.

Jacob said "Daphne there is one thing you need to consider. Harry Potter is the last of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter. Tradition and certain laws almost required Harry Potter to have more than one wife so there is a big chance that you would not be to only one and won't change your name as you will continue the Greengrass family name, which means you will not become Lady Potter. If Harry's parents lived and he had another son within a few years after Harry he could take our name but alas that cannot happen as he is an only child and even if there will discover a Potter if he is not near Hogwarts age it wouldn't change it. The law requires an age gap of fewer than seven years."

Jacob turned to Astoria and said, "Astoria when I first read about halfway I was scared for mostly you and our family, but in the end, I was mostly happy for you and partly for the family."

Astoria couldn't wait and hoped she would get a dream guy as close to Harry Potter as she could get and was a little bit disappointed that her sister got Harry Potter so she couldn't even with the multiple wives as it was forbidden to have a younger or older sister marry in the same family as the other sister(s). There was one exception and that was that twins were allowed to marry in the same house (and man) as long as they were 'identical' twins like the Patil's she saw yesterday. She knew many arranged marriages, but as her father kind of assured her, she had hope.

Jacob continued when he saw Astoria focus on him again "there is an old marriage contract only you can fulfil. A long time ago our family had a debt that was only able to fulfil a marriage contract for the daughter of our family or second daughter if we didn't have sons at that time. I am very happy to have you both but as you don't have brothers you automatically need to fulfil it otherwise Daphne could have fulfilled it."

Astoria nodded and was getting a bit impatient with what Isabel and Jacob noticed. Isabel said, "don't let her wait any longer, Jacob."

Jacob gave a smile and said, "we, the ancient and most noble house of Greengrass have a marriage contract with the most ancient and most noble house of Black."

Astoria fell immediately because she like all the other Slytherin's including Daphne heard Malfoy boasting about being the Heir of House Black and said that before the end of the school year Black will be caught and kissed he would be the heir of two important houses. Astoria started to cry. Daphne and Isabel immediately hugged her and Jacob said: "honey I know it seems bad but I don't think it is."

Daphne had her ice-queen mask on and glared at her father before saying "how could you say that father Malfoy is one of the worst if not the worst from Slytherin and the school. Not even mentioning what Pansy will say as his wife for the Malfoy line even though I think she hates it."

Daphne doesn't dislike her dormmates but Pansy was under Draco's thumb now and it made her almost as worst as Draco but the normal pride would mean it would be an all-out war between Astoria and Pansy if Astoria is Draco's wife for the Malfoy line. Pansy would be lower in standing in the house Slytherin and house Malfoy hierarchy but Pansy's pride will fight against it.

Jacob said "Daphne I am still your father" and with that Daphne glared fell and said "sorry."

Jacob focused on Astoria and said "I have good news as I agree with Daphne about the Malfoy's in general. Lord Black promised me through the letter that Draco Lucius Malfoy is not the Heir of House Black."

Astoria managed to dry her eyes and immediately asked: "who is it then?"

Jacob looked apologetic and said "unfortunately I don't know and I am sorry to say but this marriage contract has no out unless your husband dies, is in Azkaban for more than 10 years or is convicted as part of a terrorist organization like the Death Eaters as an example. Lord Black decided to keep the Heir's identity unknown for now."

Astoria has calmed down after believing her life was over.

Jacob said "just like Daphne Lord Black promised me also that at this moment Heir Black will not contact you. I do want to ask you both to try to find out if you can discover who it is even if Malfoy continues he is not it. House Black is a very important house and I don't think the real pureblood heir can keep that a secret for long except if he is afraid of Malfoy. Lord Black would not have kept the Heir's identity unknown for now if it was Malfoy I am certain."

Daphne said, "we will keep our eyes open father."

Jacob said "good. Astoria I do want to advise you to not turn away any friendship from the other houses as Heir Black may try to become friends to help the love for each other to grow and be there when you marry. You will marry between after you have taken your OWL's and age 20. I am sorry to say that depends on Lord and Heir Black as that is one of the rules in the marriage contract. That also means we can't control if you sit for your NEWT's or not. That depends on House Black especially your betroth or by that time husband."

Astoria nodded but was happy that it was still a couple of years away and that when the time came she could maybe convince her husband to wait until she finished Hogwarts. He hopes at least that she was able to finish Hogwarts as it doesn't always is the case as Narcissa Malfoy is the prime example.

Isabel said "dears, why don't you go enjoy the rest of the holiday as the train leaves tomorrow afternoon and you would be busy with school again before you know it."

Daphne and Astoria nodded and went back upstairs.

Isabel and Jacob hoped their daughters could relax after hearing they are betrothed. Jacob and Isabel were happy Daphne has a crush on Harry Potter and both hoped it would develop into love, but both for different reasons, in the end, similar reasons although Jacob had other ulterior motives for his family with no malicious intent toward Harry Potter or his house.

Let's stop here for now. In the next chapter, we visit Amelia, and Susan and see how far along Arthur's training and the department is going forward.

But also are Harry and Ron still mad at Hermione?

Will Harry be able to visit Professor McGonagall and Medusa?

How will Oliver react to Harry losing his Firebolt for now?

How would the first day of the second term start?

That and more (if the word count allows it) in the next chapter.

There are some changes in the previous chapter(s).

Please review and let me know what you think of my story.