Chapter 2
Greengrass, Malfoy, and The Alliance
Having finished dinner, McGonagall retreated to her room and returned with a thick, leather-bound tome. As she laid it out on the table, Harry could make out the title, "Light House Alliance Charters of Magical Britain."
She flipped through several pages, before finally stopping at a section marked, "Invocation of Alliances."
"Here," she said, pointing at the parchment. The page was filled with formal language and archaic expressions, detailing the process of invoking an alliance. However, one thing was immediately clear: The Weasleys were not mentioned in any of the historical alliances.
"Remember, Harry, this is not just a symbolic gesture. These alliances will bind the houses in mutual aid and protection." She looked up at Harry and offered him a small, encouraging smile. "Alright, Harry. Now write out the houses in the alliance charter that have been present for centuries, This alliance was led by the Potters for years."
As she spoke, Harry started to list down the names on the parchment.
House Longbottom
House Abbott
House Bones
House Bell
House Patil
House Lovegood
House Corner
"There are others too," she continued. "But these are the primary ones you should be aware of. You must remember that as a Potter and Black, you hold a significant position of power in the alliance. You are the Lord, Harry. You have the power to call upon these families for help and they have the right to ask the same of you. But more than anything, the alliance symbolizes unity, mutual respect, and understanding."
She then started explaining about every house. Each house, she explained, had its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and it was important to consider the balance of power.
As she spoke, Harry penned down the strengths next to their houses as a draft, his hand steady. He was aware of the gravity of the situation, and he knew that he could not afford any mistakes. When they were finished, he carefully read the list back to her, making sure every name was correctly spelled and properly placed.
"Now," she said, taking a deep breath, "you need to officially write out the charter. Begin with 'I, Harry James Potter, as the head of the House of Potter and the House of Black, hereby invoke the ancient alliance charter...'" She continued to dictate the formal language, guiding him through the intricate details of the magical contract.
Together, they spent the evening studying the texts and drafting the charter for Harry to present during Daphne's trial. It was a binding magical contract, requiring an oath of mutual protection and aid amongst the Light families of magical Britain. It was an oath that hadn't been invoked in generations, but the times called for drastic measures.
By the time the draft was completed, it was well past midnight. The parchment was filled with Harry's neat handwriting, detailing his commitment as the Lord of both House Potter and House Black to the Light House Alliance Charter, and calling for the other light houses to support the Greengrass family in their time of need.
"Thank you, Grandma," he said, reaching over and hugging Minerva. "I will do my best to uphold our alliance and protect those within it."
Minerva smiled at Harry and placed a hand on his cheek, "I know you will, Harry. You were born to lead and protect. It's in your blood."
As Harry left the room, parchment in hand, he felt a strange sense of purpose. With the upcoming trial, he knew he would need the support of his alliance. And for Daphne, he would move heaven and earth to ensure she was safe. It was his duty as a friend, as a leader, and as a Lord.
The day of the trial had finally arrived. Harry was in his room at Potter Manor, carefully choosing his attire. It was important to look formal and composed. After selecting a dark, tailored robe that signified his status as the heir of the Potter and Black families, he began to make the final touches.
Just as he was adjusting his cufflinks, a frantic call came from the fireplace. Harry rushed over to see Mrs. Greengrass's face in the flames, her expression panicked and tears in her eyes.
"Harry! Harry, please come quickly!" she stammered, her voice filled with fear and desperation. "It's Daphne! She's had another episode of the Malediction curse. The stress, it's just... Please, Harry, you have to come!"
Harry's heart pounded in his chest, his mind racing. He had seen Daphne suffer from the curse before, but it had never been this severe. The stress of the trial must have been too much for her.
"I'm on my way, Mrs. Greengrass," Harry assured her, grabbing his cloak and heading to the fireplace. "Hold on, Daphne, I'm coming."
He threw the Floo powder into the flames and stepped into the fireplace, calling out the address of the Greengrass Manor.
As he emerged from the fireplace at the Greengrass estate, he was met by both Mr. Greengrass and Mrs. Greengrass, their faces pale and their hands trembling.
"She's in her room," she said, tears streaming down her face. "Harry, please do something. I don't know what to do."
Harry rushed up the stairs, his heart heavy with worry and fear. As he entered Daphne's room, he found her on the bed, writhing in pain, her eyes wild and unfocused.
"Daphne!" he cried, rushing to her side.
He placed his hands on her, focusing his magic, trying to soothe the curse's effects. It was a dark and powerful curse, one that required immense concentration and power to counteract.
"Stay with me, Daphne," Harry whispered, his voice filled with determination. "I'm here for you. We'll get through this together."
He continued to pour his magic into her, feeling the curse's grip loosening. After what felt like an eternity, Daphne's body began to relax, and her breathing returned to normal.
Harry sat back, exhausted but relieved, as Daphne's eyes fluttered open, her gaze finding his.
"Harry," she whispered, a small smile forming on her lips. "Thank you."
Harry smiled back, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Always, Daphne. Always."
Leaving Daphne in the careful hands of her parents as they will get her to the trial, Harry, now somewhat composed, stepped into the Floo network once more. This time, he was headed for the Ministry of Magic. Daphne had given him a weak nod of encouragement before he left, and that was all the motivation he needed.
As he arrived at the Ministry, he was escorted to the Wizengamot chamber by a Ministry official. The atmosphere in the room was heavy, with stern-faced witches and wizards waiting for the trial to commence. The entire magical community was abuzz with the high-profile case and the involvement of two of the most influential Pureblood families in Britain: the Malfoys and the Greengrasses.
As Mr. Greengrass was called to the center of the room, the room fell into a deep silence. Lucius Malfoy, looking arrogantly satisfied, sat smugly with his attorneys, his gaze fixed on the fearful Mr. Greengrass.
Just as Chief Warlock, Griselda Marchbanks, was about to open the proceedings, Harry rose from his seat.
" I have something to say before the proceedings'" he called out, his voice echoing around the chamber. The crowd turned to look at him, a murmur spreading across the room.
Though he was not the chief warlock and was only from a minor house, Dumbledore cannot stop himself, his half-moon spectacles reflecting the shock in his eyes. "Mr. Potter," he said in his usual calm manner, "this is not the appropriate time for such actions."
"It is Lord Potter Black or Lord Hogwarts, Sir, you do not see me calling you either Albus or Dumbledore, and Perhaps," Harry responded, his green eyes hard, "and as an involved party and an interested observer, I have something crucial to say before the trial begins."
Marchbanks seemed to come out of the stupor and said " Yes, Lord Potter Black. You can proceed."
The crowd watched in anticipation, waiting for what the young lord of the Potters and Blacks was about to reveal. Despite the initial confusion, the gravity of the situation was not lost on them. Harry had just interrupted a high-stakes trial, and whatever he had to say, it must be of utmost importance. With all eyes on him, Harry swallowed his nervousness. He had prepared for this moment, and there was no going back now. Clearing his throat, he began to speak, his voice filling the silent room.
"I stand before you today as Harry James Potter, the Lord of House Potter, House Black, and the Lord of Hogwarts," Harry declared, his voice steady. "Under the ancient charter of alliance, dating back centuries, the House of Potter stands as the head of the Light Houses of Britain."
A ripple of murmurs moved through the Wizengamot. What Harry was referring to was not unknown to them; the Potter Alliance Charter was a historical document, a symbol of unity amongst the old families who sought to maintain peace and uphold the principles of justice.
"I hereby invoke the Potter Alliance Charter," Harry continued, his green eyes challenging those who dared to question him. "Under this Charter, the House of Potter can call upon its allies for support in times of need. Today, one such ally, the House of Greengrass, is in need."
Gasps filled the room. The Potter Alliance hadn't been invoked since the last war. The House of Potter had remained light for decades, yet Harry was now calling upon a privilege that could potentially alter the political landscape of the magical world.
"I call upon the Houses of Longbottom, Abbott, Bones, Macmillan, and all other houses who stand with the light," Harry declared, his voice resonating in the chamber. Harry went to Marchbanks and gave her a scroll, " Cheif Warlock, Here is the old Alliance charter, please have a look at it."
Griselda opened the scroll and started reading it out loud,
Alliance Charter
Preamble
In recognition of the shared values, heritage, and mutual interests between the ancient and noble houses of Potter and Black, we, Lord Potter, hereby establish this Alliance Charter. The purpose of this alliance is to foster unity, cooperation, and support amongst the esteemed light houses that form the foundation of our united magical community.
Article I: Purpose
The Potter Alliance aims to promote harmony and solidarity amongst the light houses, forging an unbreakable bond to safeguard the wizarding world against the forces of darkness and oppression.
This alliance shall strive to uphold principles of justice, equality, and compassion, ensuring that the well-being of magical society remains at the heart of our endeavors.
Article II: Membership
The PotterAlliance comprises the noble houses that have demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the cause of light and the betterment of the wizarding world.
The following houses are hereby welcomed as esteemed members of the Alliance:
House Longbottom
House Bones
House Abbott
House Shacklebolt
House Ilian
House Corner
House Goldstein
House Macmillan
Article III: Obligations and Responsibilities
All members of the Potter-Black Alliance shall stand united in times of crisis, extending support and aid to one another when facing threats to the safety and stability of our community.
The Alliance members shall actively cooperate to share knowledge, resources, and magical expertise, ensuring collective strength in the face of adversity.
Each member house shall pledge to uphold the principles of tolerance, respect, and inclusivity, rejecting any form of discrimination or prejudice within our ranks.
The Potter Lord shall act as the presiding figure of the Alliance, guiding and facilitating cooperation among the member houses.
Article IV: Meetings and Council
The Alliance Council shall convene annually to discuss matters of import and strategize ways to safeguard the wizarding world from dark forces.
The presiding Potter Lord, with the counsel of his advisors, shall oversee the organization and execution of these meetings.
Article V: Oath of Allegiance
Each member house, represented by its respective head, shall take an Oath of Allegiance to the Potter-Black Alliance, pledging loyalty, cooperation, and commitment to the cause of light.
Article VI: Amendments
Amendments to this charter shall require unanimous consent from the member houses, signified by the seals of their respective heads.
In witness whereof, the Potter Lord, Lord Henry Amor Potter, and the esteemed representatives of the member houses have set their signatures and seals, affirming this Alliance Charter on this day, the 15 of May, in the Year 1682.
May this Alliance Charter stand as a beacon of hope and unity, guiding us through the darkest of times and heralding an era of peace, progress, and prosperity for the wizarding world.
With his declaration, Harry locked his gaze on Dumbledore. The old wizard's face was unreadable, his blue eyes hard under his half-moon spectacles. Yet, even Dumbledore couldn't ignore the ancient laws and traditions that governed their world. As silence fell upon the room, it was clear that Harry's bold move had changed the dynamics of the trial. Now, it was time to see how the rest would respond.
"Order!" came the stern voice of Griselda Marchbanks, the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot. The chamber quieted. "This is an unexpected turn of events," she said, eyeing Harry over her spectacles. "The Potter Alliance Charter hasn't been invoked in generations. It is a serious matter."
Turning to the other members, Marchbanks asked, "All those in favor of acknowledging the Potter Alliance Charter and its invocation, say 'Aye'."
One by one, the heads of the Light Houses stated their approval. "Aye," said Augusta Longbottom, followed by Amelia Bones of House Bones, and so on. It was clear that the Light Houses were standing in support of Harry and House Greengrass.
There was a grating sound as Dumbledore stood, his face hard as he addressed the assembly. "This is a dangerous precedent to set," he said, his tone smooth. "The Potter Alliance Charter was established during a time of war, during an era that needed unity against a common enemy. I object to its invocation in this circumstance."
"Your objection is noted, Albus," Marchbanks said coolly. "However, the Charter does not specify that it can only be invoked in times of war. The head of House Potter has the right to call upon his allies in times of need, regardless of the circumstances."
Dumbledore looked as though he wanted to argue further, but the tide had clearly turned against him. The Wizengamot was in support of Harry and the ancient Charter he had invoked, and Dumbledore was forced to return to his seat, his plans thwarted.
With the agreement of the Light Houses, the Potter Alliance was legally reformed, signifying a shift in the power dynamics of the magical world. The House of Potter, with Harry at its head, was once again a force to be reckoned with.
Not even after a moment, Minerva McGonagall stood up from her seat and said, " I want to claim my Rosier seat." The gasp that echoed around the courtroom was audible, even in the massive, echo-filled space. All eyes were drawn to the towering figure of Minerva McGonagall, her stern face set with a resolute determination that was mirrored in her steely gaze. The buzz of murmurs was deafening as whispers filled the chamber.
"Minerva," Griselda Marchbanks began, her voice carrying a note of surprise, "are you sure you wish to claim the Rosier seat?"
"I am," McGonagall responded, her voice echoing loudly across the chamber, leaving no room for argument or doubt. "It is my birthright, a seat that belonged to my mother and her ancestors before her. I claim it now for the benefit of the future of our world and in defense of those who need it most."
The silence that followed was absolute. Not a single wizard or witch dared to break it, even Dumbledore remained quiet, his eyes wide and staring. It was a momentous occasion; Minerva McGonagall, widely respected and known for her stern, fair approach, was laying a claim to a seat she'd ignored for years.
"And I," she added, her gaze swinging around the room to meet the eyes of every witch and wizard present, "stand with the Potter Alliance. This is where our future lies. It is where our unity is, and where we can strive to make a difference.
After a pause that seemed to stretch for an eternity, Marchbanks finally spoke, her voice strong and clear, "Let it be known that Minerva McGonagall of House Rosier, also a member of House McGonagall, has claimed her rightful seat. Furthermore, she declares her allegiance to the Potter Alliance. This day will indeed be remembered in our history."
Amid the hushed whispers, the trial of the Daphne Greengrass marriage contract finally commenced. With a clear voice, Amelia Bones, the legal counsel of the Greengrass family, rose to present her case. With Amelia leading the defense, they hoped that they could turn the tide in their favor.
As Amelia began to speak, her voice echoed in the silent chamber. "Ladies and Gentlemen," she said, "We are gathered here today to address an issue of grave importance. The proposed marriage contract between Miss Daphne Greengrass and Mr. Draco Malfoy is one that carries severe consequences, not just for the individuals involved, but for our society at large."
She detailed the insidious manipulations of Lucius Malfoy in his desire to secure this contract. Lucius Malfoy, a cunning and ambitious wizard, had been using his wealth and influence to corner the Greengrass family. The details were appalling.
Lucius had approached various businesses and proprietors with whom the Greengrass family had contracts or outstanding loans. He had bought them out, placing the Greengrass family in a position of dependence. Every legal counsel the Greengrasses approached had been mysteriously bought off or otherwise influenced to decline their case. It was a staggering display of the lengths to which Lucius would go to secure this alliance.
Even more alarming were the implications for Daphne Greengrass herself. As Amelia explained, the contract was extraordinarily one-sided. It would place Daphne in a position of complete subjugation, with no rights to her own properties or inheritance. It would effectively render her powerless, turning her into little more than a chattel to be used at the whims of her husband.
As Amelia laid out these details, the audience listened in stunned silence. The depths of Lucius' machinations were horrifying. The wizarding world had known that Lucius was ambitious and ruthless, but few had realized the extent to which he would go to secure power.
Towards the end of her speech, Amelia's voice took on a grim note. "Ladies and Gentlemen," she said, "We stand on a precipice. The decisions we make today will shape our society for years to come. Will we allow wealth and power to manipulate us and bend us to their will? Or will we stand up for justice, for equality, for the values that we hold dear?"
As she sat back down, the chamber was silent. The implications of the trial were far-reaching, not just for Daphne Greengrass and Draco Malfoy, but for the entire wizarding world. It was a trial that would test their society's principles, and as Amelia had pointed out, shape their world for years to come.
One thing was clear - this trial was about far more than a marriage contract. It was a fight against manipulation, corruption, and the undue influence of wealth and power. And with Amelia Bones leading the charge, they hoped that justice would prevail.
Lucius Malfoy rose, a picture of elegance in his finely tailored robes. His silver hair glinted under the bright lights of the courtroom, his pale eyes cold as he surveyed the audience.
"Esteemed members of the Wizengamot," he began, his voice silky and smooth. "I find myself in a unique position today. I stand accused of exerting undue influence over the matter of a proposed marriage contract between my son, Draco, and Miss Daphne Greengrass. Let me assure you, nothing could be further from the truth."
He continued, outlining his actions in a calm, measured tone. "I will not deny that I have approached businesses and proprietors with whom the Greengrass family have contracts or loans. As a businessman, it is my prerogative to make strategic investments and acquisitions. That these actions have placed the Greengrass family in a difficult position is... unfortunate, but purely coincidental."
His tone was confident, his demeanor unapologetic. "As for the allegations of buying out potential legal counsel for the Greengrasses," he continued, "I merely offered them a better opportunity. It is the nature of our world that better prospects come to those who align themselves with power and influence. It is not my fault if they found my offer more appealing."
Then he moved on to the topic of the contract itself. "The contract between Draco and Miss Greengrass," he said, "is nothing more than an agreement between two families wishing to unite. The Greengrass family has been, unfortunately, embroiled in certain... difficulties. This union would provide them with stability and support. Moreover, there are no previous contracts between our houses that might render this agreement null and void."
Lucius paused, turning his gaze to Daphne. "It is a marriage contract, nothing more. There is no intention to subjugate Miss Greengrass or rob her of her rights. She will be a respected member of the Malfoy family."
His concluding words echoed ominously in the courtroom. "In our society," he said, "wealth and power are not just given, they are earned. They are tools, wielded by those who have the courage and the cunning to seize them. I have used these tools to secure the future of my family. If that is a crime, then I am guilty."
With those words, Lucius Malfoy sat back down, a picture of composed elegance amidst the tension of the courtroom. His defense was cleverly spun, painting himself as a victim of circumstance rather than a ruthless manipulator. "Esteemed members of the Wizengamot," Amelia began in a clear and authoritative voice, "Mr. Malfoy has painted a picture of himself as a simple businessman, who is merely trying to unite two families for mutual benefit. However, I ask you to consider the means by which he has gone about this."
She swept her gaze across the court, making eye contact with several members as she continued, "Mr. Malfoy's 'strategic investments and acquisitions' as he put it, have conveniently put the Greengrass family in a precarious situation, forcing them to accept his terms. A coincidence, he claims. Yet, it is a well-known fact that coincidences in such matters are often anything but."
She paused, her stern gaze turning towards Lucius. "As for buying out potential legal counsel for the Greengrass family, it reeks of manipulation and coercion. Our world may be one where power and influence matter, but there's a fine line between influence and force. Mr. Malfoy crossed that line."
Amelia then turned to the contract, "A marriage contract is a sacred bond, not a tool to exploit and control. It is an agreement made with mutual consent, not under duress. The Greengrass family was not in a position to deny the contract due to the precarious financial position they were maneuvered into. This is not a fair negotiation."
She looked at Daphne, who sat with her head held high and a defiant look in her eyes, "Miss Greengrass deserves better than this. She deserves a future that is not marred by manipulation and control. We, as the Wizengamot, owe her that much."
With that, she concluded her speech and took her seat, her expression unyielding. The courtroom buzzed with whispers, and the members of the Wizengamot leaned into one another, discussing the arguments that had been put forward. The trial was far from over, but the stage had been set for a rigorous legal battle.
Lucius Malfoy rose again to his feet, his face a mask of calculated calm. "Esteemed members of the Wizengamot," he began, echoing Amelia's earlier address, "I must clarify that my actions were never intended to manipulate or force anyone. It was a business proposition, pure and simple."
"There was never an obligation for the Greengrass family to accept my investments. They chose to do so. And as for their legal counsel, it is not my fault if they cannot find someone willing to represent them. It was unfortunate, yes, but I am not to blame."
His gaze swept over the crowd before finally resting on Daphne. "And as for Miss Greengrass, I have always held her in high regard. The contract was a means to unite our families, nothing more. It was not meant to control or exploit anyone."
Before Lucius could continue, Mr. Greengrass stood up from his chair, "That is a lie, Lucius," his voice echoed around the courtroom. "You pushed us into a corner, using your influence and wealth. You presented us with the contract when we had no choice but to accept it."
"All you cared about was acquiring more power and control. We were merely pawns in your game. And as for Daphne," Mr. Greengrass's voice broke slightly as he turned to look at his daughter, "You never cared about her. She was just another pawn to you."
The courtroom fell into stunned silence as Mr. Greengrass concluded his statement. Lucius Malfoy's mask of calm shattered for a moment before he regained his composure. The trial was becoming more heated than anyone had expected, the stakes higher with every passing minute.
Amelia Bones spoke again, her voice a clear, cutting note in the tense silence. "Esteemed members of the Wizengamot, it is clear that this situation has become far more complicated than a mere contract dispute. It is time for us to vote and decide the matter at hand. Does this contract stand or fall?"
Before she could continue, Lucius Malfoy interjected, "A vote? This matter is strictly between the Malfoy and the Greengrass family! It's a matter of honor and personal agreement. A vote is not the correct measure for such situations. All we need is the approval of all members to continue with the contract."
His protest was cut short as Madam Marchbanks rose from her chair. "Mr. Malfoy," she said, her voice sharp, "You were the one who brought this case in front of the Wizengamot. It has now become a public matter. The moment you called for this trial, it ceased to be a private matter between two houses. A vote is, indeed, the only fair solution."
Lucius attempted to protest, but Marchbanks overrode him. "Enough, Lucius. The Wizengamot will now vote on the validity of the contract."
The courtroom was filled with a palpable tension as the members of the Wizengamot prepared to vote. Despite Lucius Malfoy's protests, the fate of the contract was now out of his hands. The next few minutes would decide the future for Daphne Greengrass and the relationship between the Malfoy and Greengrass houses.
One by one, the members of the Wizengamot cast their votes. It was a solemn procedure, each vote recorded with magical precision. Those allied with the Malfoys voted for the enforcement of the marriage contract, but it was clear from the outset that they were outnumbered. The recently reinstated Potter Alliance, a powerful group of houses that were bound by mutual trust and respect, united in their votes against the Malfoys.
It was a sight to behold as each member of the Potter Alliance – old houses of power and influence, guided by the newly reinstated head of the alliance, Harry Potter – stood and voiced their votes.
"House Longbottom votes against the enforcement of the marriage contract," declared Augusta, her voice echoing around the courtroom.
"House Abbott, votes against," said Maximus Abbott firmly.
"House Macmillan votes against," Leonard Macmillan added, his face stern.
One after another, they cast their votes. The Potter Alliance, bound by unity, stood together, firmly against the Malfoys. It was a clear testament to the power of unity and a significant blow to the Malfoys who had long been used to having their way in the political arena.
When the votes were counted, it was a landslide. The Malfoys had lost. The enforced marriage contract between Draco Malfoy and Daphne Greengrass was declared invalid. The courtroom buzzed with murmurs, the ramifications of this outcome spreading like ripples in a pond. The Malfoys had not only lost the case, but they had also been publicly defied by a powerful alliance of houses, led by the youngest Potter.
After the verdict was announced, Sirius, wearing a triumphant grin, turned to face Lucius Malfoy. "I think we all learned a valuable lesson today, Lucius," he said loudly, his voice echoing throughout the room. "No matter how much gold you have, you can't buy honor, respect, or the loyalty of the decent and honest members of our society."
Lucius Malfoy glared at Sirius, his pale face flushed with anger and humiliation. The room was silent, the only sound being Sirius' laughter. It was a moment of sweet victory for the Potter Alliance, and they enjoyed every second of it.
As the applause quieted down, and the assembly regained composure, House Davis and House Greengrass stood, almost simultaneously. Their patriarchs, Mr. Davis, and Mr. Greengrass, had a resolution in their eyes.
"We of House Davis would like to formally extend our support to the Potter alliance," Mr. Davis announced, with a respectful nod to Harry. There were nods and murmurs of approval around the room.
"House Greengrass stands with the Potters as well," Mr. Greengrass added. His eyes were shining with gratitude as he turned to Harry.
The room broke into chatter again, with some members expressing surprise at the sudden turn of events. Harry felt a rush of pride and relief. The Potter alliance was growing stronger, just as it needed to be.
However, not everyone was pleased. From the corner of his eye, Harry saw Dumbledore stand, his face tight with displeasure. "Surely, the decision to lead such an alliance should be made by an adult," he interjected, his gaze fixed on Harry. "Mr. Potter is still a minor."
There were murmurs of agreement from some members of the assembly. But before Harry could retort, Sirius beat him to it.
"Age has never been a determinant of leadership ability, Albus," Sirius retorted, standing up to face Dumbledore. "You, of all people, should know that. Harry is more than capable of leading the Potter alliance."
Harry felt a swell of gratitude for his godfather, and he nodded at him, a silent 'thank you.' The room was filled with murmurs again, but this time, there were more nods of approval.
In the end, it was clear that while some still doubted Harry's capabilities due to his age, the majority were standing with him. The Potter alliance was back and stronger than ever, ready to face any challenges that lay ahead.
Mr. Greengrass, with a look of gratitude, addressed the members of the Potter Alliance. "I am truly indebted to all of you," he began, his voice filled with emotion. "Without your support, we could not have faced the Malfoys. We are a small House, but with friends like you, I believe we can stand tall in the face of adversity. I extend my deepest gratitude to the Potter Alliance."
His words were met with a round of applause from the members of the Alliance, their faces beaming with pride and satisfaction. They had come together to stand up against the tyranny of the Malfoys, and they had emerged victorious. It was a day they would remember, a day when justice was served, and the power of unity was proven once again.
Harry nodded, glancing at Remus and Sirius, his determination solidifying. He knew what he had to do. He stood, commanding the attention of the entire assembly. His voice echoed around the room, clear and confident.
"As Lord of House Potter, I appoint Remus Lupin as my proxy for House Potter." He glanced at Remus, who looked taken aback but gave him a firm nod, indicating his acceptance of the role.
Harry then turned to his godfather. "And as Lord of House Black, I appoint Sirius Black as my proxy."
Sirius raised an eyebrow in surprise but quickly recovered and gave Harry a quick nod and a proud smile. He looked up at Dumbledore, who looked taken aback but didn't comment further.
There was a moment of silence before the assembly broke into applause once more. Harry's heart swelled with pride.
As Harry concluded his appointments, a familiar, sickly sweet voice filled the room. "I object!" Dolores Umbridge declared, standing up with a pink-tinged parchment in hand. Her toad-like face was flush with anger, and her eyes were narrowed.
"This man," she said, pointing a stubby finger at Remus, "is a known werewolf. The law clearly states that creatures of such nature are not allowed to hold any high-ranking position in the Wizengamot."
The room was instantly filled with murmurs, while Remus simply stood tall, his face stoic. He glanced towards Harry, who gave him an encouraging nod, his face determined.
Before Harry could object, however, Griselda Marchbanks stood, her ancient face set in stern lines. "Miss Umbridge," she began, her tone ice-cold, "if my memory serves me correctly, and it always does, there is no such law that restricts a werewolf from serving as a proxy in the Wizengamot. The law you're referring to was proposed by you, but it was never passed. Also, You are just an under-secretary to the minister, meaning just a paper pusher. You do not have any rights to object."
Umbridge turned a particularly unattractive shade of pink at the correction. Marchbanks didn't stop there. "Furthermore, as the Chief Warlock, I say that the appointments made by Heir Potter are valid and within his rights. If you have a problem with it, I suggest you bring a motion in the next session. Until then, this matter is closed."
The room erupted into applause, the echo of Marchbanks's final statement ringing in the air. Umbridge sat back down, her face still pink, and she seemed to shrink in her chair.
Harry shot a grateful look at Marchbanks and then turned to Remus, who looked a mixture of relief and gratitude. He gave Remus a reassuring pat on the shoulder, saying without words that they would face any obstacle together, no matter how many objections came their way.
The rest of the assembly was a blur. House by house, the Alliance was formally recognized and given the power to act. The last vestiges of Dumbledore's control were crumbling. Harry felt the weight of his new responsibility, but he also felt the support of his family and friends, and he knew he wasn't alone in this.
Once the room had settled down and the applause had dwindled, Daphne stood up from her seat. Her eyes were bright, and a relieved smile graced her face. She walked briskly across the room, her gaze firmly set on Harry.
"Daphne!" Harry exclaimed in surprise as she threw her arms around him. He could feel the relief radiating off her, and he hugged her back tightly.
"Thank you, Harry," she whispered, her voice muffled against his chest. Pulling back slightly, she rose on her toes and planted a quick kiss on his cheek, causing a jolt of surprise to pass through him. Her cheeks reddened, but her smile didn't falter as she met his gaze.
The entire room watched the exchange with a mix of amusement and delight, and Harry could hear Sirius and Remus chuckling nearby. But at that moment, he didn't care about the onlookers or even the fact that he was blushing furiously. Daphne was safe and happy, and that was all that mattered.
Daphne squeezed his hand tightly before letting go and stepping back. "Thank you, Harry," she repeated, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I can't tell you how much this means to me."
"Anything for you, Daphne," Harry replied, squeezing her hand in return. "Always."
It was only the beginning, but Harry felt more confident than ever. He would guide his alliance, protect those he cared for, and stand up to those who threatened them. It was a daunting task, but Harry Potter was ready for it.
A/N:
Hi, Guys. Thank you so much for all the reviews. I am over the moon, hope you will like this chapter the same. Please give me an opinion about whether I should make Narcissa leave Lucius or disinherit her from the Black family.
Please leave me a few reviews and any suggestions that you have, Cheers.