Harry Potter, Dark Legacy

by The Fallen One 2012

Harry has been ostracized by most of Hogwarts due to his name coming out of the Goblet of Fire, the isolation has given him a new perspective however and when he decides to not take this attempt on his life lying down he finds a strange book which will lead him to great things. Will the world be ready for it though? HarryXMulti Harry/smart Eventual/GreyHarry.

17. Chapter 17

I do not own anything from the harry potter universe, unfortunately.

"Normal Talking"

'Thoughts'

"Parseltongue"

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Hermione had many ideas of what the ministry would be like, she had read all about it after all. But she didn't expect her first-ever experience to be so hectic. Even Daphne and Susan who had been to the Ministry before were ill-prepared for the sheer chaos when they arrived. Imagine the most packed concert you have ever been in, now remove the music and increase the crowd by about double and that's what the girls felt like they were experiencing. Flashing lights, loudly speaking people, and questions being thrown out left and right at them.

Thankfully Amelia had foreseen this and had made sure the girls had a squad of well-trained Aurors to escort the girls along with the other witnesses that would be making statements at the trial. Truly while it was a bit overwhelming it wasn't surprising. You can't exactly take a man who the public saw as a hero and not expect such a reaction. The girls looped their arms together so as not to be jostled around so much as they made their way to the trial room. Though even if the Aurors kept the crowd physically away their voices still carried the questions they asked.

"Daphne! Daphne! Your family has a history with the dark lord is this some form of revenge in his name?"

"Susan! Any comment on how it may look for your family after this trial is concluded."

"Hermione! Is it true that you agreed to be nothing but a consort in your relationship so that you could make your way into the Pureblood world?"

These were the questions that were being thrown at them which the girls had to block out. And more than a few of them had made inquiries to Harry as well. Asked for juicy tales of their relationship and whether or not they have discussed possible line continuation plans or if Harry had coerced them in some way to be in a relationship with him. The girls just blocked it out and any time a question would be asked that would get to them they would just think back to Harry and that night in the Astronomy Tower and they would feel a wave of calm and comfort rush over them.

Finally, they made their way through the sea of people and into the corridor that would lead them to the trial room. Thankfully no one except those that were cleared for attendance was allowed in.

"Are you girls alright?" The lead Auror of their group asked.

"Yes, just a lot to handle." Susan assured and he offered a small smile and a nod.

"Don't let them get to you, nothing but a bunch of gits with no sense of decency." He said as the group made their way to the trial room. Entering it was well lit but made with the same dark theme as the rest of the ministry with black marble floors and walls and dark wood furniture. It was a large circular room with miss matching furniture. On one side is where those who came to observe the trial or were witnesses had long rows of half-circle benches. On the other side where the Wizengamot would sit they instead had rows of chairs large and comfortable looked. Some slightly more so than the others which probably belonged to the old pureblood houses. Already there were some members of the Wizengamot finding their seats and gathering papers.

In the middle of the Wizengamot side was a higher podium where the judge for the trial would be. From what they learned the Wizengamot would be presiding over such a high profile case together as a council so the podium would be used by the Minister who would pass judgment with the council and not on his own. He would be leading the trial however and trying to keep order during the proceedings. That had the girls a little concerned as they knew he was probably in the pockets of some of the members of the Wizengamot.

Though in place of Dumbledore seeing as he couldn't be Chief Warlock during his own trial so the position had fallen to one Lady Augusta Longbottom. Neville's grandmother and a rather strict but fair choice for the position and one that the girls felt was the best choice.

"Here, you'll be sitting there, with your families. I apologize Miss Granger but we were unable to get your family access." The lead Auror said and Hermione nodded but was comforted when Susan brought her close.

"We'll be here for you the whole time, don't worry about it."

"I know thanks." The Auror ushered them towards their appointed section before having to return to his duties along with his team. Daphne smiled widely when she saw her family.

Her mother was an almost spitting image of Daphne only older with a few small differences. Next to her was Daphne's father, a tall broad man with black hair and a well-trimmed goatee. He sat straight his hands resting on a dark slightly bluish cane with a silver eagle adorning the top. He wore a long coat and generally dark colors with a vest and dress shirt which was white. He looked over and smiled softly with a deep breath and Hermione had to do her best not to stare.

She hadn't noticed until he turned to look at them but he had a large burn scar over his left eye along with what looked like a claw mark running down his cheek down his jaw. His healthy eye was a warm brown while the scared one was milky blue.

Next to him was another girl with black hair like Daphne's father and a bit more of his features but retained her mother's softer details, she would surely grow up to be just as pretty as Daphne and her mother. Her eyes were also a bright blue like Daphnes and she smiled when she saw Daphne.

"Daphne!" the girl cheered as she hopped off her seat and hugged her sister tightly.

"Astoria! I missed you!" Daphne smiled glad to see her little sister again after so long. "How was your trip?" She asked and Astoria grinned.

"Lots of naked statues!" She said and Daphne laughed.

"Of course because that's the reason we went to Greece." The father sighed his voice deep and slightly raspy. "She gets that from you." He said smirking at his wife who merely smiled smugly in response before turning to address Hermione and Susan.

"Susan, so lovely to see you again, though I wish it was under better circumstances." Daphne's mother said bringing the girl in for a hug.

"Agreed, Missus Greengrass but it is good to see you again."

"And I don't believe we have been properly introduced." She said turning to Hermione.

"Hermione Granger Ma'am." Hermione greeted with a slight bow of her head and a bit of a curtsey. From the books that Daphne had given her, she knew this was a typical greeting style for those of Pureblood heritage.

"Oh, you don't need to do any of that with us dear, I am Ophelia Greengrass. This handsome hunk of man is my husband, Alcides Greengrass. And of course our second daughter, Astoria." Ophelia introduced the family with her husband shaking his head with a chuckle at his introduction.

"As flamboyant as ever my dear."

"I married an amazing man, I'm not going to hide that fact." Ophelia said with a smile.

"Nice to meet you, Hermione, don't worry if you're used to Daphne then my mum will be nothing you shouldn't be used to." Astoria said shaking Hermione's hand.

"It's lovely to meet you." Hermione greeted her and Susan went to her aunt who was waiting till the introductions were finished.

"Aunty." Susan greeted and hugged Amelia who returned it.

"I'm glad to see you made it safe and sound. The trial will begin shortly I believe we are just waiting on everyone to arrive. I can't stay however though I am sure that Ophelia will watch out for her." She said and separated.

"As always funbags." Ophelia smirked at Amelia's sudden scowl.

"We are in a professional environment here Ophelia." She said as Ophelia nodded.

"Oh dear me, I seemed to have forgotten, well anyway off with you. Do us proud." Amelia kept her scowl but it soon melted as she shook her head with a small smile and chuckle. The girls took their seats next to Daphne's family. Hermione took this chance to look around and see if she recognized anyone else in the room. There were many people with more trickling in and taking their places as time went on. Then she saw a pair across the room one of which she recognized.

It was Gabrielle Delacour and for a moment she thought that Fleur was next to her but that thought left her mind. It was impossible for her to leave Hogwarts grounds at the moment. Plus the longer she looked the more she noticed the slight differences, for instance, this woman was slightly older but from what Hermione could see she didn't look that old if she did at all. If she was in Hogwarts Hermione could fully believe she was just an older student. She also had a bit more regal look about her, Hermione reasoned that this must be Fleur's mother, here for the trial of the one who contributed to her youngest being put in such danger.

Hermione didn't see her husband with her so she guessed that his duties as the French Prime Minister kept him from attending. Either that or he just wasn't in the room yet. Beyond that, the only other person she recognized was Rita Skeeter. She was practically drooling at the coming story that she was going to cover. Hermione wanted to throttle the woman but she would just observe her instead. Perhaps she would let something slip on how she was able to peek into private conversations without being seen.

As the minutes went by more and more people filed in and the room began to fill up until it was nearly full. A few of the Professors had joined them in the witness section of seatings. Though it was only the head of Houses that were called in. Snape as always looked calm if a bit disgruntled at the situation. McGonagall, Sprout, and Flitwick looked uncomfortable being here. It also couldn't help that they were being called as witnesses for the trial of a man they all respected. That would probably change after today.

Finally, it appeared that the entirety of the Wizengamot had arrived and taken their seats. After that Fudge entered the room and took his seat on the Podium and to his immediate left was a woman dressed in a puffy pink outfit and the most annoying and wretched smile on her face. It unnerved Hermione in all honesty. On his right, Lady Longbottom sat dressed almost exactly how Neville had shown during the Boggart lesson. Complete with the large feathered hat.

Fudge took his gavel and proceeded to smack it down to get the room to quiet.

"Greetings all, I thank you for your attendance in this matter. We are surely shocked at the proceedings occurring today however as always your ministry shall remain fair and ensure that justice is done. With that said I will hand it over to our Chief warlock Lady Longbottom." Fudge addressed the room.

"Wow, he almost sounded competent." Hermione heard Daphne snort next to her.

"Thank you, Minister, we are gathered to witness and enact justice with fair and clear judgment for one Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards, and Chief Warlock of the Ministry of Magic. Let it be said for the record that during this time his titles and administrative powers have been revoked temporarily for the duration of this trial pending the outcome. Aurors bring in the Defendant." Augusta said and a door at the side of the room opened and the sound of jingling chains was heard as two Aurors entered each holding the one arm of Dumbledore leading him to a conjured chair in the center of the room.

"Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, you are brought before the Wizengamot today facing charges of three hundred and eighty counts of willful endangerment of minors under your charge as Headmaster of Hogwarts School. Child endangerment, tampering and withholding official documents, abuse of your powers and positions as well as the illegal practice of Legillimency upon a minor. Attempted murder of the first degree and second degree. As well as possible line theft and illegal potion dosing. How do you plead?" One of the Aurors waved his wand and Dumbledore cleared his throat.

"Augusta..."

"Dumbledore, you are speaking to the temporary Chief Warlock and are currently on trial, as such you will respond in the proper manner of your given situation." Augusta said a slight bite to her tone. Dumbledore sighed but knew better than to try to continue his usual charade with so many people present.

"I plead innocent." He answered.

"Very well we shall continue, let it be stated for the record that the defendant will be referred to as Dumbledore for the remainder of these proceedings and has pleaded not guilty. To begin we shall go in chronological order of the alleged crimes. Madam Amelia Bones will prosecute. Madam Bones, your statement." Augusta said as Amelia approached the center of the room from her position on the wall.

"Thank you, Chief Warlock. Of the charges brought on today, we shall begin with the attempted murder of the first and second degrees of Harry James Potter, Hermione Jean Granger, and Ronald Billius Weasley during the nineteen ninety-one and nineteen ninety-two school year at Hogwarts School. To begin, Dumbledore did you or did you not agree to house a priceless and highly dangerous artifact within Hogwarts grounds known as the Philosopher stone?" Amelia asked and Dumbledore took a deep breath and remained silent for a moment.

"Dumbledore, be warned that if you try to withhold information or are found to be lying we shall administer Veritaserum." Augusta stated and Dumbledore sighed.

"I did, it was at the request of my dear friend Niccolus Flammel."

"So the greatest Alchemist in history asked you to protect his stone on Hogwarts grounds?"

"He asked me to keep it safe."

"Did he specifically ask for you to place the stone within Hogwarts Grounds to keep safe?" He was silent for a moment.

"Not specifically, however, I could think of no place safer than Hogwarts to house such a precious item."

"So Gringotts is not safe enough?" Amelia asked and Hermione could swear she was Dumbledore's lips twitched into a smile for a moment.

"If you will remember, Madam Bones, Gringotts was broken into at the time."

"That's right, good memory, I too have a good memory and know that the vault that was broken into was the very same one the stone was housed in. The vault you cleared out only just the previous day. It's curious how it happened just after you cleared it out. One could suspect that perhaps you knew that someone was after the stone. Someone with enough skill to break into Gringotts and not be caught. And yet you still had it housed within Hogwarts."

"I do believe you are supposed to be accusing me of attempted murder and I don't see how this is related." Dumbledore challenged but those who were seasoned in the art of law knew what he was doing. He was avoiding having to answer.

"The defendant speaks true, Amelia how does this pertain to the charges?" Augusta asked and Amelia nodded.

"I'll get to the point then, to protect the stone you had a series of traps set in place to achieve this correct."

"That is correct." Dumbledore answered shortly.

"Then why is it labeled as tests instead in your personal journals?" Amelia asked summoning a worn leatherbound journal to her hand and Dumbledore's eyes widened. She then dug into her pockets and fished out a pair of black gloves and put them on.

"That is private property!"

"No it is evidence found within your office and with the charges raised against you the entirety of Hogwarts has been considered a crime scene. Meaning this is a perfectly valid piece of evidence to be presented. Am I mistaken, Chief Warlock?" Augusta shook her head.

"You are not, you may continue."

"Thank you, Ma'am, I will now read from this journal in accordance with the incident." she cleared her throat and flipped through the pages which were marked with outlying strips of paper.

"Harry has encountered the Mirror of Erised, as I wished. His heart is true and pure considering the life he has led. He has used his cloak just as I had hoped, inching closer and closer to the answers he must find. Flamel's stone remains safe, the professors are curious of course. However, they have done as I asked to perfection. Harry must be tested, and he must face these tests head-on. If he is to triumph over what is to come." Amelia readout and Dumbledore for the first time since they began looked upset.

"Let it be known for the record that this was found in a sealed trunk and hidden with many enchantments. The defendant Dumbledore did not want this to be found or read. And as you have just heard Dumbledore specifically states a desire for Harry Potter to face the traps set by the teachers and knew Harry Potter's involvement. Again according to the notes found here, was by design." Amelia said.

"Thank you Madam Bones, we shall now hear the testimony of the Defendant. Dumbledore, your argument?"

"There has been a miss understanding, these notes simply speak of the tests he faces at school. Not to mention that his use of the invisibility cloak which was handed down from his father, was just him exploring the castle. The mirror incident was something I wanted him to see since it shows the heart's truest desire. I had hoped that it would show him his parents and it was just as I thought. As for Flamels stone, of course, I wrote down it was safe, it was my task to keep it as so." Dumbledore stated and if you followed it made sense in some twisted way.

"And what is it that Harry must face? What is to come?" Augusta asked referring to the last line read by Amelia.

"Why his OWLs of course and then after that his NEWTS. What else would you expect him to face in Hogwarts."

"Is that all Dumbledore?"

"It is, I would never want to kill Harry Potter."

"Madam Bones your response?"

"Yes, I wish to call in a witness for this event. Miss Hermione Jean Granger, Gryffindor fourth year at Hogwarts School."

"Very well, Miss Granger if you would stand." Augusta called and all eyes turned to her and Hermione suddenly felt very small. She rose from her position and walked a bit forward taking a breath to calm herself.

"Miss Granger, tell me. What was the main reason Harry used his invisibility cloak in school during your first year at Hogwarts?" Amelia asked and Hermione took another breath before answering.

"He used it at first to explore the castle, after that he used it to research Niccolus Flamel."

"Did he find anything in his research?"

"He did not, I had a book checked out about the Flamels and presented it to him. After that, he was able to deduce that the object which was hidden in Hogwarts was the Philosopher stone. He figured it out due to the fact that he was there with Hagrid when the stone was taken from Gringotts." Hermione explained.

"Thank you, Miss Granger." Amelia said and Hermione sat back down getting reassurance from Susan and Daphne.

"If I may Chief Warlock, I would like to read another entry from Dumbledore's journal." Amelia requested and Augusta gave her the go-ahead. she opened it once again and began.

"He has done it, he found the answer. If all goes well, then he should find the stone soon. He has the knowledge and even has allies to aid him, this was unforeseen but a pleasant surprise. Miss Granger and Mister Weasley shall prove invaluable. All that is left is for Harry to lead them and for him to face the tests. I have examined them, they are ready and waiting for all they need now is a challenger." Amelia read.

"Again he refers to the tests and this time we can infer that it is not the tests sanctioned by the school. And now we know that Dumbledore has been hoping for Harry Potter to find the stone. Which we know are protected by traps which Dumbledore refers to as tests. This shows how Dumbledore wanted Harry to pursue the stone despite the dangers he had arranged for it. I now call on the professors to provide descriptions for the tests they had made at Dumbledore's request." Amelia said and Augusta nodded and one by one each Professor rose to describe the test they had made.

Amelia went into further detail to ask if Dumbledore asked them to make them in a certain way. They revealed that he had requested that each trap be solvable, the teachers who knew what they were protecting were confused but complied. Though from their descriptions any one of their traps could have resulted in the death of either Harry, Hermione, or even Ron. Amelia then presented the memory of Harry's chess match led by Ron and showed how Ron had to sacrifice himself to win the match the blowback of which nearly killed him.

"If the Defendant still wants to argue that these traps are not in fact tests for Harry Potter, who we know now that he desired to face them in the first place. Then why were the traps designed to be solved at all?" Amelia challenged before backing down.

"Dumbledore?" Augusta asked.

"As I have said before this is all just a misunderstanding. My statement stands." Dumbledore said sticking to his story. He couldn't argue his way out of this. He cursed for not being able to hide the journals he kept. They were meant to keep his thoughts organized seeing as he had so many things to keep track of. He could only hope she failed to find any of his records concerning Harry's possible connection to Voldemort as far as he could tell she only found the journals he kept for the first year meaning she didn't have the ones he kept for any of the years after that. It would be easier to argue his case without them for her to use.

"Madam Bones?"

"I rest my case for the presented charges of attempted murder of the First and Second degree."

"Very well, we shall move on then. Madam Bones the next charges if you would." Augusta requested.

"Yes, the next charge I wish to bring to the court is the charge of willful child endangerment of minors within the care of Dumbledore during the Hogwarts school year or nineteen ninety-two and nineteen ninety-three." She said and faced Dumbledore.

"During this year, it was found that the chamber of secrets was opened and a beast was released upon the school." This caused some murmurs to circle the room as Fudge banged his gavel.

"Order!" He called out and Amelia continued.

"You knew of this and yet requested no aid from the DMLE and you didn't call for the temporary closure of the school to ensure the student's safety, which as Headmaster is your first priority. Is this correct?" Amelia asked.

"Yes, However, I feel it pertinent to point out that anyone can claim the chamber of secrets was opened. That doesn't make it true." Dumbledore argued.

"Indeed, a fair point to be sure. However when the petrifications began why did you not call in for aid then?"

"Again, I must reiterate that the case was shaky at best. There was no concrete evidence that any monster had been released and I had full faith in my professors to defend the students if necessary."

"Admirable. However that is not their purpose, they are educators, not security. As for having no concrete evidence of there being a monster within Hogwarts, even if that were true the fact of the matter remains, students, students under your charge, were being petrified by something and you made no efforts to ensure their safety."

"I object, we did enforce a strict curfew to ensure that our students were safe within their houses."

"Making sure the children were in bed on time. Extreme measures I am sure. If the Chief warlock will allow, I would like to call on Daphne Greengrass fourth-year Slytherin, and Susan Bones fourth-year Hufflepuff to stand." Augusta nodded.

"Very well, Daphne Greengrass, Susan Bones please rise." The two girls did so and Hermione noticed a change. Susan looked very serious for one which wasn't surprising but the biggest change came from Daphne. Her face was set and her stare was cold, Hermione even felt a bit of chill run down her spine seeing her like this. Looking toward her family she saw they had all adopted similar expressions. A far cry from the flamboyant personalities that the ladies had shown before.

"Young ladies, I would ask you about your second year at Hogwarts school during the incident. Tell me what was believed to be the cause of these attacks within the castle? Miss Greengrass if you would begin." Daphne nodded.

"During my second year, I remember coming upon the corridor where Mister Filch's cat was discovered petrified. Along with the message written on the wall stating that the chamber of secrets had been opened, enemies of the heir beware. Filch then became angry and thought that Harry and his friends killed his cat since they were the first on the scene. However, Dumbledore calmed him down saying that the cat had been petrified not killed. A fact he knew and stated without even observing the cat." Daphne said adding that last detail in to aid Amelia.

"Thank you, Miss Bones, anything to add to the statement."

"I have nothing to say about Daphne's story except it is true. I would also say that the professors seemed convinced that the chamber was indeed opened. They all stressed the need for all the students to be careful and stay in groups and go nowhere alone. The curfew only came into effect after the third petrified student was found and the order from Dumbledore came to enact the curfew." Susan supplied.

"Indeed and may I also inquire as to why neither of you wrote home about these occurrences?" Amelia asked and both girls responded in the negative.

"Did anyone write about what was going on in the school during the year?" She asked and again shook they shook their heads.

"Why is that? Why would something that was plaguing the school and petrifying students not be spoken about. not a single letter, and not a single request for aid from Dumbledore." Amelia said and some of the Wizengamot began to whisper and discuss amongst themselves before Fudge brought them back.

"The only reason that I can think of is that for some reason, Dumbledore didn't want word to get out about the incidents. Miss Greengrass, Miss Bones beyond the curfew what other steps did Dumbledore take to ensure the safety of the students?" She asked.

"Beyond the curfew, nothing. Everything proceeded as normal except for that." Daphne supplied.

"I see, Chief Warlock, I wish to call Miss Granger to stand."

"Granted, Miss Greengrass, Miss Bones thank you for your input you may be seated until called. Miss Granger rise." The girls did so with Hermione now standing again.

"Miss Granger, you were one of the petrified students correct?"

"I was Madam Bones."

"Would you like to relay to the court what you were doing before you were attacked?" She requested and Hermione nodded.

"I was worried about what was happening and wanted to get to the bottom of it. So I went to the library to do some research. With the knowledge that it most likely was a monster from the Chamber of Secrets. The chamber was made by Salazar Slytherin and I knew he was a Parselmouth so I began to research all the possible magical snakes and found only one that could've been the culprit. From what I researched the only snake that could petrify anyone would be the Basilisk." Hermione said and again a murmur rang through the room.

"The Basilisk stare kills anyone who looks them in the eye. However, anyone that see's the eyes in a reflection is petrified instead." Hermione explained.

"Miss Granger that is a large jump in logic, there are many creatures that can cause Petrification." Dumbledore said and Fudge banged his gavel.

"Dumbledore, it is not your turn to ask questions. Control yourself." Fudge warned.

"Thank you minister However, he does bring up a point. How did you know for absolute certain that it was a Basilisk?" Amelia asked.

"There were a few factors such as the fact the Basilisk is a snake and Salazar Slytherin could control a snake with his ability. And the only other option for the monster according to my research at the time was the Cockatrice. However, the Cockatrice petrifies its foes with a screech, not a stare which would've been heard around the castle." Hermione explained.

"Thank you Miss Granger that is all." Hermione nodded and sat. "So, a young girl in her second year was able to use the clues presented and piece together the truth. Meanwhile, all you did was... make a curfew." Amelia stated and stepped away.

"Dumbledore your response."

"Miss Granger, while a brilliant young witch, was only a second year at the time. While she may have made the logical conclusions that still doesn't make them true. A theory is all she has and no evidence." Dumbledore argued.

"Furthermore let's not forget that as she has stated the Basilisk is not the only creature capable of petrification. She named the Cockatrice as a possibility. I can name the gorgon, a weakened banshee, or even an Ishida Osoroshi. A brilliant mind she may have, but it is still young and inexperienced." Dumbledore said with a nod.

"The defendant has spoken, Madam Bones?" Augusta asked.

"Yes, interesting, you are right to assume that perhaps Miss Granger did not know of all the possible creatures that could cause petrification. Yet you can as you have just demonstrated. And yet still you prepared for none of them. As I have stated before it was a student that took on the challenge of trying to discover what was plaguing the school and the student body. And when she was petrified someone else had to take up the challenge. How interesting that once again it was Harry Potter that was involved. I will now present to the Wizengamot memories of mister Potter for this incident." Amelia said as Aurors brought out a retrofitted pensive so everyone could see the presented memories.

She presented every memory she had extracted from Harry. Everything pertaining to the Chamber of Secrets. Every experience and step he took. Most were quite impressed at the actions of the boy to solve the mystery.

"Now before I present the final memory I will show undeniable proof that miss Granger was correct in her research and conclusion. If you will allow it." Augusta nodded and looked to Minister Fudge who looked professional but anyone could tell he was having a field day.

"Of course." He agreed. Amelia then nodded to her Aurors who disappeared behind the door. After a minute the doors widened as the Aurors wheeled in a wooden cart that held the severed head of the giant Basilisk. At the sight of the beast, many cried out in shock some standing others too surprised to even move. Fudge was shocked as well, so much so that he failed to notice the commotion in the courtroom. Once he snapped back he began to bang his gavel.

"Order, there will be order in this courtroom!" He called out and after a few moments, the crowd began to settle.

"As you can see this is the head of the Basilisk, one that was slain by Harry Potter!" Amelia announced and that got the room going again and Fudge reigned them back in. "An enormous specimen, the biggest we've seen. And yet even still Dumbledore was unable to discover it. Three students did, Hermione Granger, Ronald Weasley, and Harry Potter. Harry Potter was able to fight and slay the beast in his second year. Chief Warlock if I may provide the memory."

"You may." Amelia did so and the entire memory of Harry's battle with the Basilisk was about to be played out and Dumbledore panicked.

"I object!" He called and the Memory paused before it could begin playing.

"Defendant Dumbledore your objection?" Dumbledore cursed, he couldn't think of any proper reason to object. He knew that in the memory the secret of Voldemort, Tom Riddle would be revealed and it was much too soon for the public to know.

"Dumbledore?" Augusta asked again but Dumbledore couldn't come up with something fast enough that would make sense.

"Objection denied continuing, Madam Bones." Augusta said and the Memory began to play again. Just as he feared it began with Harry and Tom arguing then the topic of Voldemort came up. When Tom began to write his name out and then reshuffled the words to spell out the dreaded words and the room descended into Chaos. Cries of surprise and disbelief rang through and Amelia halted the memory. Fudge was frozen seeing the memory his eyes fixed on the face of Tom revealed to be Voldemort.

The Purebloods in the room were just as shocked to realize that their master, their supposedly pureblood leader was actually a half-blood. Augusta was the first to recover before she sent a resounding boom through the room to get everyone's attention.

"That is enough, everyone will retain their seats and stay calm or the gallery will be excused!" She called and looked to Fudge who was shakey but nodded. It took a minute before the crowd settled and Amelia continued the memory. It showed how Harry, with his very limited knowledge of magic, managed to defeat the beast. Everyone was also surprised when Fawkes appeared to Harry with the Hat and the sword of Gryffindor. He didn't know enough magic nor was he powerful enough to fight the Basilisk with his spells. So he used his quick thinking to trick the Basilisk when he needed to all leading up to finally stabbing the serpent in the head and killing it. Amelia took down the memory and gave the courtroom a chance to absorb what they had seen.

"An incredible feat of bravery, skill, and intelligence. However, it was a task that he should never have been involved with. Now I wish to point out something for the court. Dumbledore, who has claimed no knowledge of the Chamber of Secrets, and no knowledge of the beast that lurks within. Who has this entire time claimed that there was no evidence to suggest that a beast truly plagued Hogwarts, despite what has been found to the contrary. How is it then that your phoenix knew exactly where to go, and what to bring for Harry during his time of need? What have you to say to that Dumbledore." Amelia challenged.

"Phoenixes are miraculous and intelligent creatures. Fawkes has always liked Harry so it doesn't surprise me that he came to the boy's aid." Dumbledore explained and Amelia nodded.

"So not only did second-year students manage to figure it out. But apparently, your bird did as well? Perhaps we should make Fawkes the new Headmaster of Hogwarts School."

"I'm sorry?"

"Your bird was smart enough and knew the situation well enough to understand that Harry Potter had entered the Chamber of Secrets. Not only was your Pheonix able to find the chamber but it was also able to deduce that Harry would need a weapon in order to defeat the beast. Which again you claim to have had no knowledge of. So you're saying that your pet Pheonix is better at protecting the student body of Hogwarts than you are?" Amelia asked.

"No! Of course not."

"Then you sent Fawkes to aid Harry? If that is the case then wouldn't that mean that you have been lying this entire time and you knew not only that the Chamber of Secrets had been open but also where it is located. As well as knowing that Harry Potter, Ronald Weasley, and Hermione Granger were investigating it, found it, and proceeded to enter to face the threat. Is that what you are saying?" Amelia asked.

"No! I told you Fawkes aided Harry of his own accord."

"You have to pick one Dumbledore! Are you willfully ignorant or incompetent?" Amelia challenged. The room was silent as the two stared each other down.

"You have made your point Madam Bones. Defendant Dumbledore, your argument?" Augusta requested.

"The events that transpired are unfortunate. Fawkes responded of his own accord." Dumbledore was fuming but keeping it on the inside. He was used to planning things out, keeping things close to the chest and secret. He was ill-prepared and ill-equipped to handle this line of direct questioning. There was a reason he was sorted into Gryffindor and not Slytherin he was not good at lying on the spot, he was used to being the one with all the cards, the one who was in on the know while keeping everyone else out. That had made him slow, he was way out of his comfort zone here and it was showing.

"Lords and Ladies of the Wizengamot, of the evidence, presented and the memories submitted. We can conclude that Dumbledore did in fact know, or at least have had a suspicion of the monster plaguing the school. And did not request aid, or close down the school and did nothing to properly protect the students. And now he has given us conflicting statements on whether or not he had sent his Phoenix to aid Harry Potter in the chamber. During the year he endangered all three hundred eighty students that are supposed to be safe under your care. Madam Chief Warlock, I rest my case for the charge of three hundred and eighty counts of willful child endangerment." Amelia said.

"Very well, Dumbledore, is there anything you wish to add in your defense?" Augusta asked and Dumbledore with tight lips shook his head.

"No, my statement stands." Dumbledore was losing he could see this. And as the trial went on it only got worse. Dosing the student body and attempting to do the same to Harry was a losing battle. No argument he could make would suffice and it couldn't be swept away. He was able to twist the Legillimency a bit since the memory provided was shakey as most memories dealing with Legilimency usually are. It wasn't foolproof but it was something. Then came the tampering with official documentation.

"Now I will present to the court evidence of the charge for the tampering of official documentation which also correlates with the charge of abuse of power and his positions. Which shall also relate to the charge of the possible line theft." Amelia said.

"Proceed."

"First I would like to reiterate for the room and for the record that under magical law, all witnesses brought to the case are not to be harmed, or coerced in any way during the proceedings. Is this correct Chief Warlock Augusta?" Amelia asked and August nodded.

"You are correct, for any witness that is brought before the Wizengamot if they are related to the case and charges at hand."

"Then I would like all the members of the gallery as well as the Wizengamot to remember this and act in accordance with these rules when I call on my witness for this charge." She paused for a moment letting that settle before turning to the doors.

"I call on Sirius Orion Black to stand as a witness for the charges presented." Amelia barely got her sentence out before the courtroom expectedly erupted in a panic. Fudge again was frozen in fear as two Aurors led a cuffed Sirius into the courtroom.

"Minister!" Augusta called and Fudge shakily got his bearings and began to bang his gavel.

"O-Order! Order in t-this court!" He called out trying to get the crowd to calm down. It took several minutes before the crowd began to settle again but still, the pervasive chattering persisted.

"Madam Bones, you understand this is most irregular." Augusta warned eyeing the cuffed man warily. Sirius looked as if he wasn't a wanted man in the middle of a courtroom. A grin on his face and winking at some of the pretty ladies in the room.

"I understand this, however as you can see Lord Black is in my custody, upon apprehending him I found evidence that includes him in the charges being presented at the moment. As such he is an asset in the present case." Amelia explained calmly. Then an annoying high-pitched hem hem was heard as Amelia looked towards the pink-clad woman next to Fudge.

"Forgive me, dear..."

"That is Madam Bones, Miss Umbridge." Augusta said, "and you do not have clearance to ask questions in this matter. Amelia, as Chief Warlock I accept your witness as long as he remains bound, is this acceptable?"

"I might prefer the cuffs to be on the lady but it's nice to switch it up once in a while." Sirius joked getting a huff from Augusta.

"Lord Black please... terms are accepted, thank you, Chief Warlock." Amelia said bowing slightly. She then summoned a thin folder to her hand. "I hold here, the following account of Lord Black's arrest report, I would also like to say for the record that this was all that was found pertaining to his criminal file. There was no record of Lord Black's trial or any other proper paperwork. However, there was a written form on his transfer to Azkaban. A written document that as we on the Wizengamot know has to be signed by two officials. This document is signed by the Supreme Mugwump and the Chief Warlock of the time. Both of which were held by Dumbledore. Now I would like to know why? Why would you condemn a man to Azkaban without a proper trial or any proper processes?" Amelia asked and Hermione heard a snort from her left from Daphne.

"Not the first time they've done that."

"Daphne not now." Her mother said holding her Husbands arm and rubbing up and down its length soothingly. He looked very uncomfortable with the topic of Azkaban. His hands were white-knuckled with how tight he gripped his cane and his eyes were shut tight as he took calming breaths.

"It was a time of war Madam Bones, I felt it prudent to expedite the process. I was unaware of his lack of trial if I had known I would never have signed those papers."

"Indeed, you managed to request and file the transfer documents without once looking into his file which is the proper procedure for any criminal transfer to Azkaban. Not only that but you signed all the paperwork on your own. Abusing your double position to not have anyone else observe or be involved with the processes. Lord Black, may you relay to the court the events of your transfer to Azkaban." Amelia requested and Sirius gave Dumbledore a cold glare before starting.

"After I was arrested, I was held in the Ministry for a time. After about three days, some Aurors took me from my holding cell and transported me straight to Azkaban. Beyond that, I remained there with no word of my upcoming trial and after a few months I knew it wasn't coming." Sirius explained.

"How long was it again, repeat it for the court." Amelia request.

"Three days Madam Bones."

"Three days... the standard processing procedure for any criminal is ten days. Tell me Dumbledore what compelled you to, expedite, as you say, this process a full seven days before you were legally allowed to?" Amelia asked.

"I have already stated for the Wizengamot that it was a trying time. I recognize my mistake." Amelia scoffed.

"Spilling your tea on your papers is a mistake, forgetting your equipment or documents is a mistake. Twelve years of high security within Azkaban without proper processing or trial is not a mistake! Why did you send this man to Azkaban!?" Amelia demanded.

"The evidence presented pointed to the conclusion that Sirius Black was guilty of the crime committed." Dumbledore tried to explain but Amelia wasn't backing down.

"What Evidence?" Amelia asked as she took the thin folder and opened it.

"All I see here is an arrest report. Madam Chief Warlock, if you would refresh my memory. Is the arrest report enough grounds to send a man or woman to a high-security cell in Azkaban?" Amelia asked.

"No Madam Bones it is not." Augusta answered.

"Give us the truth Dumbledore, why?" Amelia asked and Dumbledore remained silent.

"Let the record show that the Defendant refuses to answer, this is your last warning you shall have Dumbledore. If you continue in this manner we shall be forced to administer Veritaserum." Augusta warned and Dumbledore said the same thing he had been saying since the start of this trial.

"My statement stands."

"Then let us move on, Lord Black you may stand down, I have no further questions for you." Amelia said and Sirius nodded.

"Does this mean I'll get my trial? It might be a bit late but hey better late than never right?" He asked loudly as he took his place on the wall. The Wizengamot remained silent but the question was now in the air and the public gallery heard it as well. If they didn't give him a trial the Wizengamot would look incompetent at best, or tyrannical and cruel at worst. Not to mention the Sirius is a Lord of a pureblood household.

"Now may I draw your attention to this." Amelia said sending the folder back and summoning another document to her hand this one bound in an envelope with a wax seal.

"I hold in my hand the last will and testament of James Potter and Lilly Potter." At this announcement, the room began to chatter excitedly. "As we all know the Potters were murdered on October thirty-first nineteen-eighty one. This document was then sealed on November first nineteen-eighty one. The day after the Potter's murder, those sitting on the Wizengamot should know but I shall state it for the record. A will can only be sealed with the approval of a ministry official and through the use of the Family ring. Now I sincerely doubt that Harry had the cognitive function at the time to be able to seal his parent's will. So then how did the will get sealed? Well, it would appear that once again Dumbledore had his hand in this seeing as it was by his powers as Chief Warlock at the time and signed off on the sealing. I am going to give you this one chance to come clean and explain to the court why you did this." Amelia said looking at Dumbledore. He made no move to answer.

"Chief Warlock, I wish to present the memories collected from a serpent conjured by Harry Potter. It is unorthodox I know however given Harry Potters's abilities these memories are essential and valid." Amelia requested and she was banking on Augusta agreeing. If she didn't she would be hard-pressed to prove the charge. Augusta was silent for a moment as she contemplated. She then nodded.

"I will allow it, only this once. A conjured creature is seen as an extension of the Witch or Wizard therefore I will allow it. But only this once." Augusta.

"I object, an animal's mind is feasible and easily altered. These memories could very well be fabricated." Dumbledore claimed and Augusta nodded.

"The defendant raises a valid concern. Amelia, what guarantee does the court have that these memories are true?" She asked and Amelia nodded.

"I'd be willing to take a drop of Veritiserum and swear to the validity of the memory. Or if it pleases Wizengamot I may also make a magical vow." Augusta looked to her fellow Wizengamot members as she thought.

"A magical oath will suffice, does this please the Lords and Ladies of the Wizengamot?" Augusta asked as slowly the members nodded their consent. Amelia then took her wand and raised it high.

"I, Amelia Bones, Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, Do hereby swear that the memory I am about to present is valid and true with no tampering. Lest my magic be ripped from my core. So mote it be." She said and there was a flash from her wand and nothing else. With this Augusta nodded.

"Madam Bones you may present the memory." Amelia nodded and proceeded to play the memory. Most in attendance were intrigued by the perspective of the snake. How it slithers through the tiny cracks and crevices in the walls. It wasn't long until it came upon a room that everyone could recognize as Dumbledore's office. They moved around and from their perspective, the people could see that the snake was not alone. It had a partner as both of the serpents began to make their way up on the desk. The second snake had maneuvered so its head was hanging under the desk as it began to wrap around one of the legs.

It then twisted and from the memory, a click was heard as a secret compartment suddenly jutted out. The second snake unraveled itself as it then gripped the compartment and pulled it out further. From the memory, as the perspective then peered into the compartment all could see a single ring with the Potter's family seal upon it.

The courtroom roared only this time it was from many of the Wizengamot members.

"Thief! Blood Thief!"

"Blood Traitor!"

"Thief!"

They cried out in outrage as Fudge banged his gavel viciously.

"ORDER!" He screamed out and it took several minutes for the Wizengamot members to calm down.

"Chief Warlock as you can see from the memory presented, Dumbledore had in his possession the Potter family ring. An item that is meant to be returned to the care of Gringotts by law until the rightful heir comes of age. Not only that but Dumbledore had also in his possession the Potter Vault key. Meaning he not only stole and held the Potter ring but also stole access to their vaults. This also answers the question as to how the Will was sealed. Dumbledore illegally had the Will sealed abusing not only his position of power but also using a stolen family ring!" Amelia said and some of the Wizengamot members started getting rowdy again but Fudge was able to quiet them.

Dumbledore visible sagged in his seat. He had lost and he knew it. There was no way to argue out of this one. No way he could twist the story. Even if he did manage to convince the Wizengamot that James had given him the ring then why did he keep that fact secret? And there was still the matter of his sealing of the Will. They wouldn't understand, how could they? It was all necessary but they could never see that. They were too small-minded and too short-sighted. Fools.

"Dumbledore, your defense?" Augusta asked though most in the court could tell it was nothing more than a simple courtesy.

"There is nothing to say." He sighed.

"Madam Bones?"

"I rest my case."

"Then the Wizengamot will need to deliberate. I call for a ten-minute recess after which we shall reconvene and deliver the judgment." Augusta said and nodded towards Fudge who looked relieved as he banged his gavel.

"Ten-minute recess, all members of the Wizengamot we must discuss." He stated as they all began to file out of the room the gallery took this chance to stretch or gather their bearings. This trial had been one hell of a train ride.

"That went well." Hermione said relaxing for the first time since the trial began.

"Yes, but it matters not there is no way they are sending him to Azkaban." Ophelia hissed.

"You really think so, even after all that?"

"If my auntie was able to gather her case and had more time, I think she could've done it. But like she said, we had to move up our time scale. I don't think the first-degree murder charge will stick." Susan said taking this opportunity to stand and stretch a bit.

"He won't get away scot-free, I think the ring sealed the deal on that. Even if he doesn't go to Azkaban we will hopefully never have to deal with him again." Daphne said going to her father.

"Daddy? Are you doing alright?" She asked softly and the man took a deep breath.

"I am doing just fine. Don't you worry about me." He assured with a soft smile.

A truly momentous occasion with swirling emotions and a slew of high and low points. However, it was not the only momentous occasion taking place. Back at Hogwarts Harry had been going about his day. He spent time with his friends and continued to reconnect with old ones. Though he wanted nothing more than to hold his girlfriends and be with them while they were in the ministry. However, until the tournament was officially over he couldn't stray too far from Hogwarts grounds. Fleur, Krum, and Cedric had wished him well and hoped for the best for the trial even if he couldn't be there. They were still competitors but after all that has happened he had come to see them as friends.

But with nothing to do Harry could feel a yearning in the back of his mind. At first, he thought it might be Demona but that wasn't right. He could recognize her anywhere. He then thought it was his family ring yearning to be worn but that also wasn't it. It wasn't until he returned to his dorm room did he figure it out.

It was the Grimoire, it called to him it was just like back in the library where he found it. There were voices though he could make out a single masculine voice more clearly than others. He still couldn't understand what it was saying but he could definitely feel a pull. He pulled the Grimoire from his trunk and as he held it he could feel a slight thrum from the book. Almost as if it was shaking with anticipation. He opened it and flipped through the pages passing the one about Protego Diabolica he saw that the next page was still blank.

However, it only remained that way for a moment as slowly black ink began to appear on the page. Harry didn't read anything though, he wanted to be in a more secure and empty space. He thought about the usual classroom he trained in but he decided against it as he knew of an even better and more secure place to practice.

With that thought in mind, he gathered his wand the Grimoire, and left the Dorm. He said a quick greeting to his friends and said he was going to do some training. They knew what he meant and so didn't question him. It was late in the castle and so there were no students around since they had all retired to their dormitories. Making his way up the flights of stairs he quickly found himself in front of the wall that leads to the Room of Requirement.

Pacing in front of the room, he didn't think or request anything extravagant just a large space that he could train and cast magic in. After that, a large door melted out of the wall made of oak and reinforced with iron. Harry entered seeing that the room had formed itself into just a simple room though it was huge. Stone walls, floors, and ceiling with only a few windows in place to allow light to shine through from somewhere. He knew that this wall wasn't facing the outer wall so it wasn't coming from outside but he didn't dwell on it much.

Instead, he took the Grimoire and opened it back up to the new page that had filled out and began to read.

"Well done, if you are reading this then that means you have tamed the flames of Purgatory. A feat that is worthy of praise and reward. What comes next shall be something different and will be a culmination of all you have learned thus far. Though I must tell you that after the experience of Protego Diabolica this will seem like child's play. However never underestimate anything. No matter how small or how insignificant. You have before you instructions to perform a ritual, a ritual that calls for the use of hellfire and the flames of purgatory. Both of which you will have access to now. Follow the instructions to perfection, do not deviate, and do not alter the plans."

That's all that there was to the page. Not much but the rest of the page was lined with instructions, measurements, and diagrams. On the page, there were also necessary tools and items for the ritual. He would need bone chalk, a handful of shadow raven feathers, and a pile of

Ashwinder ash. Next to the items were numbered, a handful translated to about six primary feathers from the wing. A pile of ash should amount to roughly three pounds.

Harry groaned as he could get the ingredients enough but how was he going to make sure the measurements were exact? His musings were interrupted as he suddenly heard a jostle in the room to his left. Looking over he saw that a small table had appeared and on the table was a scale much like the ones he would use during potion lessons. there was also a large stick of white chalk next to the scale along with triangular weights.

"Of course, there's a reason you're called the Room of Requirement." Harry chuckled to himself as he approached the table. Placing the Grimoire down he took some of the weights and placed them on the one side of the scale to equal three pounds.

"Serpenmaiora!" He cast the image of the Ashwinder clear in his mind and three of the chalky uniquely colored serpents appeared. He greeted them and thanked them for their ash which they had no issues giving to him. It took a moment before their bodies disintegrated to ash. Levitating some of the ash he asked the room for a weightless bag. After a second a small leather pouch appeared which he began to gather the ash into. He placed the pouch onto the scale and added extra ash as needed until the scales were even. Tying off the bag he placed it to the side.

"Corvius." He cast and a single shadow raven appeared it fluttered for a bit before Harry directed it down to land on the table. He then gently extended the wing taking six of the primary feathers. He then banished the bird but the feathers in his hand remained. As he moved them a slight flutter of black dust with purple flecks puffed from the feathers. He placed them next to the bag of ash as he looked at the instructions.

Next, he would have to draw a circle with an approximately five-foot radius. He once again asked for aid from the room and next to the table a large compass appeared. It came nearly up to his shoulder and he saw that there was a slot for where the chalk would have to go and on the other limb a spike to keep its position.

He said a quick thanks before fastening the chalk in place and picking up the heavy tool and bringing it to the center of the room. He split the limbs until the marker in the center rested at five feet. Placing the spike at the center he brought the chalk down and began to draw the circle. Once it was complete he returned to the Grimoire to follow the next steps. He had to request the room to create a ruler for him as well as a navigational compass.

Taking his new items, the Grimoire, and the chalk and came back to the circle. He then found the northern direction and began to draw a triangle with the top point facing the north. He repeated the process and drew another triangle only this time with the top point facing the south. Now in the spaces between he had to draw specific runes, with the Grimoire in hand he copied the runes as closely as he could with the biggest one being in the center of the six-pointed stare he made. The runes were jagged and wicked in appearance.

After that, he had to draw another circle around the first forming a ring which he then filled with similar runes. It was complex and Harry would be lying if he didn't admit that he was nervous. This whole thing seemed like it had to be very precise but Harry steeled himself and went to the next step. He took the feathers and used them to trace the runes found in the spaces between the six-star points and then placed them into the inner empty space on the inside of the six-star point. The trace had left a dark dusting with those same purple flakes over the runes. He then took the bag of ash and carefully began to pour the ash into the outer ring over the runes and he had just enough to complete the ash circle.

Once this was complete the next step was to take three drops of his blood and let them fall on the center rune. Harry mentally called out to Demona who manifested next to him.

"Hey girl, I need to poke me real quick." He said extending a finger Demona looked concerned at first but opened her mouth for Harry. He brought his finger to one of her smaller incisors and pressed his finger against the tip before he could feel the sudden jolt of pain as his skin broke. Pulling back he saw a single bubble of blood on his finger. He patted Demona's snout to reassure her and thanked her.

Careful not to disturb any other part of his circle he went to the center and squeezed his finger getting three drops on the rune and he withdrew his hand after that. Retreating he looked to the Grimoire and saw that the next step required Hellfire.

"Alright, Demona, just a slow burn on the ring there." Harry instructed out loud but also sent mental images of what he wished Demona to do so she completely understood. Approaching the circle he heard her take a quick breath before smoke began to curl around her maw. Then in a flash, the familiar crimson flame poured from her maw. In an impressive show of control, she kept the flames to the ash circle feeding them until the circle was engulfed in the flames. Now it was time for his turn and this would be the final step. Harry focused and felt in the far recesses of his mind that familiar and slightly alarming feeling of gluttonous desire and called to it.

"Protego Diabolica!" He cast a sudden whoosh heard in the room as the tip of his wand ejected azure flames. Before the beast in the flames could do anything Harry made sure to keep a tight and firm hold with his magic as he directed the flames around Demona's own crimson flames. He commanded them to swirl around and as they did he began to recite the incantation that accompanied the ritual.

"Flammas inferni et purgatorii, festa et umbras et cinerem vorant. Fer spiritum exspectantem. Non pereat virtus, non cedat concordia. Afferte mihi spiritum, loquantur." He recited and as he did the runes he had drawn began to glow. The flames that he and Demona had created began to swirl around the circle. Slowly the flames began to meld until all that was left was a swirling ring of purple flames. They then flushed into six distinct spinning tendrils as they dived into the runes in the spaces between the points of the star.

Once they did this again they began to swirl consuming the feathers and when they did the ash in the outer circle was drawn in before the purple flames formed into a cyclone that stretched easily ten feet above the circle and swayed and writhed for a moment before there was a sudden pulse of power that caused Harry to stagger but Demona was behind him to help steady him.

The flames began to die down and slowly began to reveal a figure. It was a man dressed in dark clothes which contrasted with his pale skin. A black long coat with a slightly flared collar and a pinstripe suit complete with a silver chain that connected to something in his pocket. He had white hair shaved short on the sides with longer strands going down the center which were slicked back in a sort of mohawk style. It sort of reminded Harry of the Viking hairstyle. He also had a well-trimmed mustache and a patch of beard right on his chin but the rest of his face was smooth and well shaven. Then he opened his eyes, the right was dark like coal but it was the left eye that caught Harry's attention the most. It was a bright nearly glowing silver color.

The man took a deep breath as he seemed to savor the air as he released the breath from his mouth as a puff of fog came from him as if he were surrounded by chilled air.

"How interesting." He said his voice deep and carried an air of authority yet still sounded a bit like he was whispering even if he was not. He then took a look around at the surroundings nodding to himself before returning his attention to Harry.

"I see that you have performed the ritual admirably, and your beast looks strong. Well done." He complimented with a bow of his head. "If you would indulge me... where are we?" He asked and Harry gripped his wand before cautiously answering.

"Hogwarts." He answered and the man suddenly grinned.

"Truly?" Harry nodded and the man suddenly began to laugh. "What fortuitous circumstance, never would I imagine that my Grimoire would end up here of all places. The irony is delectable indeed." He laughed to himself. "So then, you are the one who has found my Grimoire, what do you call yourself?" Harry kept his cool as he answered.

"Perhaps you should introduce yourself first, I mean no disrespect but I have a bad history with spirits in books." Harry said remembering the last time he dealt with one. The man studied Harry for a moment before nodding.

"Very well, I'll give you the courtesy. I am the figure you know as... Death." The flames fluttered slightly as Harry stood there for a moment and as the man stood there completely serious Harry's eyes began to widen. At least until the man suddenly smirked before chuckling, his voice filled with mirth as he did.

"Dear boy, you are quite gullible aren't you?"

"To be fair, given the life I've led so far, meeting death wouldn't be as big of a surprise to me." Harry admitted and the man nodded.

"Interesting indeed, then I shall give you my real name then. I am known as Gellert Grindelwald." He introduced himself bowing in greeting this time Harry couldn't hide his surprise as well. He might not have been as well read as Hermione but he did know about Grindelwald, the Dark Lord that Terrorized the world before Voldemort. From the bits, he had heard about Grindelwald, unlike Voldemort he truly terrorized the world, whereas Voldemort had not made it out of Britain.

"So I have given you my name, will you show me the respect to give me yours?" Grindelwald asked. Harry was silent for a moment, he still didn't know exactly what he was dealing with.

"Harry, my name is Harry." He said not giving his last name.

"Harry? Harry Potter, I assume?" Harry's eyes widened as he raised his wand ready to defend himself.

"Peace son, I am a construct of your magic, I cannot hurt you unless you will it."

"Is that how you know my name?"

"Not quite, you see while this form may be a construct my consciousness is not. The ritual you perform summons me by spirit to this place and temporarily puts me in this body. The Ashwinders come from serpents that exist in a realm parallel to our own and their ashes preserve this quality. The feathers from the shadow ravens possess powerful binding magic that you can see as the excess comes off their wings. Hellfire and the flames of Purgatory on their own are highly destructive however when mixed and bonded become a powerful source of raw magic. All these items come together in this ritual thus summoning me."

"So does that mean I performed Necromancy?"

"Not quite, if I was dead then my spirit would be far weaker than it is and it wouldn't truly be me, it instead would be my memories. Similar to the painted portraits you keep around the castle." Harry nodded.

"How did your Grimoire get to Hogwarts? You sounded surprised that it was here."

"Indeed, as you may have guessed my Grimoire has some sense of sentience. It seeks out powerful wizards and witches who may be worthy but if they are not it then influences their minds. Not full control mind you just enough to nudge them. Leave the book here, it'll be fine, Take the book there. From what I can guess the Grimoire must have made its way to Hogwarts on its own until finally, it found you."

"Why me though?"

"I don't know, the enchantment has grown since I placed it but I am not dissatisfied with the results."

"So what is it you want? Or was the ritual just so you could greet me."

"Partly, you have gone through the first part of my Grimoire and have practiced the spells and techniques I have provided for you. Tell me though do you remember what I said when you first found the Grimoire? I left a note." Harry nodded remembering the letter he found with the Grimoire when he first came across it.

"Your legacy, you said you wanted to pass on your legacy."

"Yes."

"So what, you want me to take up the flag of muggle oppression in your name?" Harry asked scowling.

"Whatever would give you that idea?"

"That's what you wanted? It's what you terrorized the world over." Harry said calling on what limited knowledge he had of Grindelwald. Grindelwald then began to laugh.

"What I value, above all else, is freedom." He said staring Harry down. "Freedom to be who we are without having to hide amongst the shadows of the world. To hide who we are and what we are, a world where Dragons, Thunderbirds, and Pegasi can fly free. Where we do not have to hide from the wondering eyes of the Muggles, where we could live in the light where we belong! I did not wish to subjugate muggles, I do not hate muggles. But I knew that to live in the light without shame or fear, the war would be necessary. Lest they hunt us down or worse enslave us for our abilities. It was also to save the world from the Muggle's arrogance and destruction. And what I foresaw came to pass, the event known as World War Two. The Holocaust, where muggles marched their kind into chambers to gas them like animals at the whims of a madman. All things that could be avoided if what I wished came to pass."

"You may have prevented World War Two but you still would've caused another war, a war we could not have won." Harry said he knew the power of muggles, any Muggleborn or magical that was raised in a Muggle environment knew.

"Perhaps, but we will never know now. But that is not my legacy, that was my mission. As I have said I value freedom. My legacy, is my knowledge, my magic, and this." Grindelwald said raising his right hand and in a pulse of light, a ring appeared on his middle finger. It was a ring of blackened steel with a band shaped to be a chain and the face of the ring was the same sculpted skull symbol that was on the front of the Grimoire.

"This is my legacy, what you do with it is up to you, I will not ask you to pursue my mission for it was mine. What I ask is you carry on my magic and my name."

"And if I refuse?"

"Then the Grimoire will abandon you, along with all memory of it including me. You may keep the magic you have learned, but you shall learn no more. And my Grimoire will seek out another worthy soul. But I ask you if you do refuse then what shall you do when my Grimoire falls into the hands of someone who has no issue taking up my failed mission?" Grindelwald asked and Harry shuttered at the thought of Malfoy somehow getting his hands on magic within the book.

"As I have said what I wish is for my legacy to persevere and live on. How this is done matters little to me, for I will be dead and will leave this world behind." Harry took a moment to think about it. This was both an enormous offer and a huge risk. However with Dumbledore out of the picture the risk was lessened significantly. Plus the magic he had learned so far had helped him improve by leaps and bounds. And with the threat of Voldemort still looming he wanted every advantage that he could gain.

But there was the matter of his own family legacy, he didn't want to throw that away.

"What about my family name? What will happen to that?" Harry asked.

"Nothing, you will simply take up my name while also retaining your own. The Potter family has a rich history, your grandfather Charlus was a fierce warrior."

"You knew my grandfather?"

"Not personally, we were on opposite sides you see. But his ferocity and power were legend. If he had an appetite for politics I have little doubt that he could have led the ministry with an iron fist. Instead, the people leaned on the fool Dumbledore."

"Didn't Dumbledore defeat you?" Harry asked, he definitely didn't think that he should defend Dumbledore but it was still a fact. Grindlewald laughed at that.

"Dumbledore could never have defeated me in a true fight, It was you Grandfather, and Arcturus Black that faced me first if it wasn't for them Dumbledore would be dead and the world would be very different." That was a surprise.

"But then why doesn't anyone know that?"

"Tell me is Dumbledore still a slimy, cowardly lion that likes to play mind games?" Grindelwald asked and Harry came to the answer himself.

"He obliviated them?"

"In a way, from what I understand they knew they were part of the battle but Dumbledore had swapped their roles to make it appear that he was the one doing the fighting while the other two supported him." Harry thought about it and had an epiphany. If Dumbledore was truly powerful enough to defeat Grindelwald then why did he not do the same to Voldemort? Most accredited it to the fact that he was old now and not in his prime. That may have played a factor but Voldemort wasn't as powerful as Grindelwald, he was more feared but not as strong.

"I can see you're working something out in your mind. However it matters not, what matters now is what are you going to do on my offer." He said and he was right.

"I don't know if I can put the ring on just yet, I can't even wear my own ring." Harry said fishing his Family ring out of his pocket and rolling the silver item in his fingers.

"I see, why is this?"

"There is just a lot happening in my life, but I feel that someday soon I will be able to wear it like I want to."

"Then you will be able to take mine as well, but I will not simply take your word for it. I will need an oath... that is if you choose to accept to carry on my legacy." Grindelwald said and Harry went quiet again. He didn't feel anything from Demona, he couldn't ask his girlfriends and he couldn't seek out his friends.

This decision had to be made now and it had to be made by him alone. Accepting the name of Grindelwald would be both a boon and a hindrance. There were many things Harry had to consider so he was sure to take his time and think it through.

Meanwhile, the recess that had been called came to an end and the Wizengamot returned to the chamber and the Gallery once again found their seats. Hermione, Daphne, and Susan took their seats in the witness section and the Auror's escorted Dumbledore back to the center chair.

"Do you think Amelia did it?" Hermione asked and Susan nodded.

"As I said, I'm sure she was able to convince Wizengamot for most of the charges. But Dumbledore still has connections, we'll see just how strong those connections are."

"I doubt those connections are going to remain whatever the outcome is." Daphne said as the girls held each other's hands waiting until Fudge banged his Gavel to bring order to the room and begin.

"Ladies and Gentlemen we of the Wizengamot have reached a verdict for the defendant Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore." Fudge said holding a parchment up.

"On the charge for Murder of the First and Second Degree, we find the Defendant... Not guilty." He called out and the girls felt a pit begin to form in their stomachs as Amelia scowled.

"On the charge of three hundred and eighty counts of willful child endangerment, we find the Defendant... Guilty on all counts! Of the charge of Tampering with official documentation and the abuse of the powers afforded to you we find the Defendant... Guilty! On the charge of Illegal Dosing as well as the Illegal practice of Legillemency on a minor, we find the Defendant... not guilty!"

Daphne cursed, that was Dumbledore's connections in the Wizengamot coming through on those last two charges. Her feelings were shared among Susan and Hermione as their grips tightened.

"On the Charge of possible Line theft, we find the Defendant... Guilty!" Fudge announced and Dumbledore could not even pretend to hide his displeasure at the situation.

"Dumbledore, with our authority as the Wizengamot it has been decided that effective immediately, you are hereby stripped of your powers and positions. You will also receive a ban upon yourself to never be accepted in any position of authority nor will you be able to take a position that requires you to oversee children. You will also be placed under a strict six-year house arrest. You will be monitored around the clock by our finest Aurors during this time. It is also felt by this governing body that your obsessive interest in Mister Harry Potter requires an order of restraint. You are not to contact Mister Potter or use any of his associates to contact him in any way. You are not to approach him or seek him out, if you are found to be in violation of these orders you shall be sentenced to a minimum of ten years of Azkaban prison. The will of Wizengamot is final!" Fudge called out banging his gavel. Dumbledore looked like he wanted to argue but the Aurors quickly removed him from the courtroom.

"Sirius Black." Fudge called and the man in question grinned at the minister causing him to gulp down in nervousness.

"Given the presented evidence we of the Wizengamot have decided to rescind your order of arrest as well as the kiss order. You shall receive a proper trial with all haste." Fudge said but everyone could see the fear in his eyes. With that said Fudge banged his gavel.

"I officially call this trial of Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, to a close." The gallery became lively with excited chatter.

"Daphne, Your father and I think it would be best if you return home with us for the night, Hermione, Susan you are of course welcome to come along." Ophelia said and Daphne nodded. While she wanted to get back to Harry and tell him the good news it had been a long day, and it would be late at the castle anyway. It'd be better to wait and have the whole day to celebrate.

"Alright mum, Hermione? Susan? Sleepover?" She asked with a grin and the other two girls smiled and nodded.

"I would love to." Hermione agreed.

"Me too, but I want to talk to my auntie first."

"Of course dear, we aren't going anywhere." Ophelia said as Susan nodded and quickly took off to find her aunt. All was well, for now at least, things at school would probably be a bit awkward for them but they didn't care. Dumbledore had managed to escape Azkaban but with how obsessively controlling he was there was little doubt he would break either his house arrest order or the order to leave Harry alone. If they catch him in that then it's off to Azkaban! The mood in the room of Requirement wasn't much different. Hectic and heavy.

Harry had been pacing the room for some time now considering his options. Weighing whether or not accepting the name of Grindelwald would carry enough of a boon to outweigh the hurricane that would be the public if they found out. He could always keep it under wraps, but from what he knew the second that ring went to his finger he would have to take up the Grindelwald seat. He wasn't even sure if he had a seat but seeing as he was a Pureblood from an ancient house most likely the return of his name would mean that one would have to be opened for Harry if he took up the name.

"I'm glad you are giving proper consideration, if you had immediately jumped at the opportunity I would be concerned."

"Why's that? I thought you would be happy someone would be so ready to accept your legacy."

"Perhaps, but you're considering my name as well as the magic that will come with it. If you had gone for the deal too quickly I would know you were more interested in the magic rather than the entirety of my legacy." Harry could understand that the magic was a large part of what Grindelwald wanted to pass down, but there was more to it than that. He wanted people to know where that magic came from, and who created it. After all, what's the point of handing off your legacy if no one knows it's yours.

"Is there something I can request?"

"Bold of you, what is your request."

"I want to be able to speak about the Grimoire."

"You can, once you have mastered the spells and rituals in their entirety." Grindelwald answered calmy.

"No, I need to be able to talk about some of this, not to everyone of course but there are people in my life that I should be able to discuss this with?"

"Who are these people?"

"Three girls I love, and my Godfather."

"Love? That is a dangerous path, and easily poisoned." Grindelwald said his expression becoming tight with a hint of remorse.

"Have you been in love?"

"I thought I was."

"Well, I know I am and I would trust them with my life."

"Good for you, I do not know them, so why should I trust them with the information."

"Because if you want to ensure that your magic and name have the best chance to truly flourish then you should let me work with them." Harry offered as Grindelwald pursed his lips and walked about the circle he was in for a moment.

"Just these girls, and your godfather correct?"

"Yes, I need to work with them, and to do that I need to be able to explain the situation as clearly as I can." Grindelwald was quiet for a moment gathering his thoughts.

"It can be done, however, they shall be under the same restrictions as yourself. So until you master the Grimoire they shall not be able to speak of the contents, the Grimoire, or me. Agreed?" Harry nodded, It wasn't perfect but it was something.

"Yes, then... I am ready, I accept your request." Harry said taking a deep breath. Grindelwald grinned.

"Good, take the grimoire and place the insignia on your left palm." Grindelwald instructed. Harry looked down at the book before slowly taking it and doing as he asked.

"Now repeat after me. I, say your name."

"I Harry James Potter."

"Do hereby swear, to uphold and protect the Grindelwald name." Harry repeated the phrase.

"To raise high the magic and its majesty, to raze our enemies and protect our line." Harry once again repeated the words.

"When I shall don my family's name and responsibilities so to shall I take up the name of Grindelwald, and shall bear them both with pride." Harry repeated.

"Should I fail, then let the flames of purgatory devour me, mind, body, and soul. So mote it be." Grindelwald finished and Harry hesitated for a moment before taking a deep breath and repeating the phrase. After that, there was a flash of ghostly blue light underneath his hand and a sudden stinging sensation on his palm.

Taking his hand away he saw that there was a tattoo that was the same demonic dragon skull that was on his Grimoire. Grindelwald smiled though it was cold and lacked any true joy. More like he smiling at a job well done.

"Good." He said simply before his body began to flack away in much the same way as an Ashwinder snake.

"Wait, what about my request?" Harry asked and Grindelwald chuckled before closing his eyes for a moment. Harry then felt the Grimoire vibrate in his hand for a moment before stopping. Grindelwald said nothing else as his body began to disintegrate and the purple flames on the ring of the circle came in over him. They then crashed down on his form and a pulse of energy was released that sent Harry skidding back but he caught himself.

When he looked back up all that was left to prove that Grindelwald was here or that the ritual took place was a single blast-like scorch mark on the stone floor and the Grimoire felt heavier than it has ever had in Harry's hand. He could only hope that he had made the right decision and that he wouldn't come to regret it.

_SCENE_

Here it is! Longest chapter yet! This has been my first ever attempt at writing anything that has to do with courts and law and what have you. I hope that I did it justice and made it as believable as I could. I know a lot of other stories just throw in the Veritaserum but I felt that would be lazy. I wanted to have that feeling of a proper courtroom and using the Veritaserum would've felt cheap to me. Anyway hope y'all liked the chapter with the big trial as well as the reveal of the Grimoire's author. I know plenty of you had probably already guessed it so I hope it lived up to your expectations. I also tried to make the Grimoire have an almost "The One Ring" vibe to describe how it got to Hogwarts. Anyway hope y'all enjoyed and until next time this has been your Average, Ordinary, Everyday Fallen Angel!