Harry Potter and the Odd Rebellion
**ODD**
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.
**ODD**
Welcome to the Fireside. Jam will bring snacks and warm beverages for you soon. No we won't be serving Neville's worms as conde lumbra. (A goblin spicy treat)
**ODD**
Scorecard of what has happened so far:
This story is AU: Behind the scenes, it appears that someone really wanted Harry dead. Was it mistake, accident or something more that thwarted those plans? Alchemy on those quads could have been used to kill hundreds
O.D.D. (Order Defying Dumbledore) Meetings still happening in the background. New people are coming and going in Black Keep, pursuing freedom, some escaping horrific death.
Harry appeared to want to ask Hermione to be his girlfriend. The young Arglwydd now has to wait. What's a few years for true love?
Plans for a holiday party are progressing, with all of their yearmates being invited. This will be a good chance for Harry to mix and mingle. Right?
Lord Black has decided to try dating Carmen Cordero. Not everyone will receive this news with great joy, however.
Remus asks Agent Abigail Addams to eat dinner with him, and the wolves are ecstatic.
Christmas is now on the horizon. What will the family do for the holidays?
Arglwydd means Lord in Welsh, it's in the notes below. Ar glue eeth. Thanks to Fenchurch1 who wrote: Arglwydd is pronounced Ar glue eeth with a hard th like in' then'.
Back to the story.
**ODD**
Chapter 12 - Let the Holidays Begin!
**ODD**
Friday, Dec 12th after school
Harry was met after school in the hippogriff barn. He had to hurry, as it was getting darker earlier, and didn't have much time to fly.
Sirius was gearing up to go with him, something he did on a regular basis. But unlike normal, his boyish smile was missing.
"Everything alright, Padfoot?"
"Well, I hope so. I think so. Maybe we should talk." The animagus led Harry over to a convenient bale of straw, and bade him sit. He didn't say anything to the boy's silent wand wave of the spell they used to prevent poking.
Such casual use of magic in one so young! Of course, Charlus had been like that too.
"Harry, tonight Carmen will be joining us for dinner. Well, I want to announce. That is I've decided to…if it's going to be alright with you…"
Harry jumped up and hugged his godfather warmly, "I think it's great Padfoot. I do. I like Carmen, I like the whole family. And if all of this works out, then Ricardo would be like my cousin, right? So truly, it's all good to me. And if you have a boy, he can be your heir if you want. I have enough to do with House Potter. I know that Narcissa is managing the Black properties for you while you're here..."
Harry took a breath. All that had been said at ninety miles an hour.
The man chuckled, smiling indulgently, "Peace, Harry!" He ruffled Harry's hair and then sobered, "You're not mad?"
Harry looked up at Sirius, "I'm so happy that we're together. You finding the right someone to share your life with is important. Dumbbells took that from you. I would never stand in the way of your happiness. Besides, I don't lose here. I win."
The wizard blinked tears from such a response, and took his godson into another embrace. "You will always be my son, my life, no matter what. Remember that."
Harry took another breath, "Sirius? Why not just date for at least a bit before declaring formal courtship. I mean, you did ask Alejandro, right? Why not keep this quiet for a time?"
"That's not a bad idea, but we'll have to announce it soon. Or dissolve the courtship as she comes from a very old, highly magical, and very respected family line. I expect there to be a few fireworks from people who don't know Carmen's genealogy. Not everything is about money, son. But you already know that, don't you? Hey, we best get going before sunset."
Then they hurried to finish getting ready.
It was time to fly!
**ODD**
Alice let her son take the lead on this issue. Remus was discussing a problem with Neville. "You see, the tree is the only one on that entire slope. It's in the way of where we want to plant next spring. But I don't want to just cut it down."
Neville thought it was a wonderful tree, and with a few shrinking charms, they could fit it into the hall as a Christmas tree. Then plant it elsewhere later.
The boy looked at his mother for advice, "The transplanting charm? Wrapping the root ball carefully? Cooling charms?" He was trying to think of the best way to keep the tree alive.
Llewellyn's team had suggested cutting charms, and using the wood after it had cured. Sigh. All of the cottages had enchanted heaters - no one needed to burn vegetable matter for heat anymore, but they could have a fire now and then if wanted.
Alice brought out a book for just this situation, and the three went to work.
**ODD**
Lord Black sat down to a much reduced table. Alice had rearranged rooms for that night. Sirius was dining with Harry, Dan, Emma and their daughters, Tonks and her parents, and no one else but their guest, Carmen.
Apparently Alice thought her mother-in-law couldn't attend without saying something…insulting.
Emma used the opportunity to recruit Carmen's help for the party the next day - all of the adults were helping in some way.
Carmen replied, "I enjoy being out in the snow - I love it. I didn't have it when I was growing up. I am happy to do warming charms, and keep an eye on our guests."
Harry smiled at her, "Thank you. I know we don't know each other well yet, but I would like to change that. I was raised in Surrey, how about you? What was your home like?"
Her face fell, and she hid it in her long silky black hair. Sirius grabbed her hand, "Harry didn't mean to make you sad. In fact, we've all had difficult pasts."
She looked up, brushing a tear. "My apologies. I should have expected that question. I will answer you one day, Harry. For now, I want to concentrate on my happy future. I get to work with hippogriffs everyday. I get to fly them. The new barn will be done soon, and then we'll even have an indoor place to ride and fly."
Hermione chirped happily, "I love to ride horses. Having an indoor arena? That is going to be epic. Sally-Anne is naturally athletic. You should see her on a horse."
Dan smiled at both his girls. Riding horses was normal, and he enjoyed riding with his family too. Hippogriffs? He'd leave that to the magicals in the room.
The conversation got back on track, and overall, the meal went very well. Sirius went for a walk with the lady on the way back to her tent. If he gave her more sweet kisses, well, that was between them, wasn't it?
**ODD**
MFBI HQ, Salem
Amelia's team was researching Dumbledore - anything and everything about him. She informed the group something they didn't know. It was a missed fact.
"The historian Madam Bagshot is a refugee, living here in Salem. She has to be going on two hundred. The Dumbledores lived in Godric's Hollow when Albus was growing up. She likely knows more about his childhood and youth than is written in any book." Madam Bones informed them.
"Truly? That is very interesting. Do you think she would like to participate?"
"To help stop this wizard? Oh yes, she's put her life at risk before this." Amelia affirmed.
The woman was thrilled to be included, and was asked to review what they had. Some kind of magic was happening that seemed to be thwarting their efforts in digging, so she was a good person to have help.
**ODD**
Saturday, Dec 13th, Black Keep, Holiday Party
Harry adjusted his cloak, and put the last pair of skates on the transfigured shelf next to the bleachers set up by the front pond.
Distant sleigh bells were coming closer at a good clip. He was disappointed they were using mundane horses today; he really wanted to go for a wintry fly with Hermione. And just Hermione. But now, everyone had to come. Sigh.
At least some friendly faces would be there. Something Harry insisted on was the inclusion of the village youth. Each one had an invitation, and the teens were allowed to bring a friend if they wished. A quiet word from Seneschal Lupin made sure that everyone from the young people now in college to the youngest knew that they were expected to be on their best behavior.
If Colin Elam got an additional hard look, well, he earned it.
Alice gave everyone a colored card upon entering: blue, red or green. It was very simple. While the blue team guests were riding the sleigh, the green team was skating. That left the red team on conjured sledges, going down a hill that Harry would occasionally add snow to.
He didn't mean to bury Matt Felton in a snow drift, it was an accident. And that was the story he was sticking to!
It had nothing to do with his non-stop snide comments since the blond had arrived.
Neville was in charge of hosting the green team, with Sarah as his assigned 'assistant'. Remus offered her money but she was happy to volunteer. Sally-Anne was in charge of the blue team, with Susan as her assistant. Miss Bones, even though eleven, was familiar with the roles of a hostess. Hermione was in charge of the red team, with Harry as her assistant.
"Where's Amanda? I know that she is going to be on our team. Mum told me." Sally-Anne whispered to Susan.
"I don't know. I know Harry had an invitation for her." Susan's smirk lasted only an instant, and was gone, but being around so many pranksters had honed Sally-Anne's instincts.
"What did you do?" The dancer demanded.
"Me? Harry asked us to help distribute invitations so that they all went out. I made sure that Amanda's invitation was put in her hands in homeroom. Nothing more."
Sally-Anne wanted to be angry, but couldn't. The Billinglsey girl was constantly belittling others, was incredibly selfish, and showed her bigotry at every turn. She looked at her watch. "It's nearly time for snacks. Should I see if they are ready for us?"
Susan pointed to Remus, using a charm to let his voice be heard, "Make way to the community hall!"
**ODD**
"Figures you'd have a girly activity like this. I was expecting more." Matt breathed into Harry's ear, taking two of the largest cookies available.
"One per person, at least until everyone has had a chance." Widow Beddew chided gently.
"What? You can't talk to me like that! Do you have any idea of who I am?" The boy tried and failed to puff out his chest.
Under her breath, she asked in a sweet tone in Welsh, "Something that belongs in a fertilizer sack?"
The Arglwydd covered his laughter as he caught a few of the words. She winked at him.
His written and read comprehension of the language had grown leaps and bounds with practice, but speaking it? Not so much.
"Never mind, ma'am. He can have mine." Then Harry leaned in to whisper in Matt's ear. "You need it to fill the hole in your head. If this is so girly, why are you here?"
Emma had suggested cookie decorating as part of the party. Trays with frosting, sprinkles and all sorts of add-ons were spread out on the tables. It was grouped so that four could share a tray. No longer in teams, everyone could sit at the long tables, and be near friends. Or that was the plan.
Harry just wanted some of these people out of his home!
Servers were passing out hot chocolate and plates of snacks, but Matt just sneered in disdain. His family would never serve such rot, or so he said.
Before Harry could explode, Hermione took his hand, and guided him to Ricardo's table. Susan was there, showing him what the different decorating options were. Terry Boot came to sit down, and rave about the sledging.
That was when young Lord Harry realized that indeed, most of his classmates were enjoying the activity. People were drinking the warm chocolate, enjoying treats, and having fun decorating cookies.
Harry relaxed and truly enjoyed the look on Matt's face as he observed a server dropping off a plate with a respectful bow and commenting, "Thank ye, Arglwydd. It's good to have this sort of thing again."
Sarah waved, as did Megan Beddew, working with her gran on some ginger hippogriffs.
This was fun. More than one guest stopped by to show off designs. The party was wrapping up, people stuffing decorated treats into the prepared bags. Overall it had gone very well with everyone having a good time.
**ODD**
Emilia Billingsley was not having a good time. Every other student was invited to this party. Everyone else but her Amanda! Who was busy crying up in her room. She had tried to telephone about it, but the servant on the other end said Lord Harry was busy, could she try again tomorrow? Tomorrow was too late!
She was sure the girl had brought home the invitation, but without it, they couldn't get past the gate. She remembered reading something in the papers, should others try to invite themselves.
Lord Potter and Lord Black! And they weren't even having any kind of fancy party for the adults either due to 'unwanted attention from abroad.' Until that situation was resolved and the children no longer in danger, the manor would not be hosting such soirees. Indeed!
Although, there really had been some unusual happenings around the Potter lad. The little thief!
Thumping came from the stairs. The matron had tried to instill grace and manners into her daughters. Emilia glided to the base of the staircase as if her actions could somehow make up for her daughter's.
"Oh Mother! I decided to try and read for that Potions essay and look! I found the invitation. I can go! I can go! I'll go get dressed…"
The woman pointed to the elegant grandfather clock in the entryway. It displayed moon phases, upcoming comets and other celestial events.
It even told the time.
There were fifteen minutes left of the party to go. It normally took the girl that long to decide what to wear. "NOOOOO!" The girl turned and fled back up the stairs, thumping even louder than before.
Emilia sighed. She knew it had to be something like that with the Felton boy going. Potter would know better than to pointedly exclude someone.
She had no idea that Susan had learned timed charms from Sirius, used in pranking, to make things disappear and reappear.
Harry may have felt compelled to invite her, but Susan didn't want to share breathing space with the bigot. The invitation had been visible when given, and for the last half hour - just enough time to get there to see all the happy people leaving.
Susan really, really didn't like her for being mean to Ricardo. She felt it justice for her banishing his food, paper and new pens for school.
**ODD**
Parents started showing up to escort children home, and Harry was unexpectedly being given small gifts.
"Thank you for including my girls. They never get invited," One woman confided to Emma, after putting a homemade scarf in Harry's hands. "I'm an Adept, you know."
Emma nodded, "As am I. That doesn't matter to our family. While there are days I would like to have magic, I am so happy for my blessings."
"Oh yes. I hear Sally-Anne will be dancing next week. I can't wait to see her. Good luck. Bless you." To Emma's bewilderment.
Harry stuttered out thanks. Despite months of a new life, the simple gift had touched him greatly, and had his tongue-tied. His eyes said it all.
The woman left with her children, all smiles and glowing cheeks. Their decorated biscuits were carefully packed for the trip home.
That would be a question for Sally-Anne another time. Right now, she was helping make sure that all invited guests were on their way out.
Matt 'accidentally' bumped into Harry on the way out, "Too bad Amanda wasn't here. Then it would have been an alright gig. Nothing like what we do, of course; it's an exclusive list. I can try to get you an invite. You know. If you want."
"Really? Let me guess. People like Ricardo won't be getting one?" Harry mused.
"You know, you aren't as stupid as people say!" The blond smiled. "So? Want to dump him for a better class of friend?"
Harry didn't know that Alejandro was right behind him, dealing with a cranky horse. He was worried about what would be said next. He didn't have been.
"Dump a friend like Ricardo? He's only what? Kind, funny, loves to fly. So I can be friends with someone like you? You want to be King of the School. Well, go buy your tiara, the job's yours. Just keep your comments like your quads to yourself. Next time, they'll blow up in your face. I was willing to extend an olive branch. You didn't accept it. Don't expect an invitation again."
Agent Addams was suddenly there. "I'll take it from here, my lord. You have people waiting for you at the sleigh. Come along now. Did you say that you were George Felton's son? And just what does your father tell you he does for his business?"
An audible gulp from the blond put whipped cream on this day.
Harry nodded to her as she left.
"I think I love that woman." Remus stepped next to him, putting his hand on the lad's shoulder.
Harry jumped, "Moony! Don't do that!"
The pair watched as the Felton boy was strong-armed off the property.
"Yeah. I can see the appeal," Sirius stated, sneaking up behind them.
"PADFOOT!" in unison.
**ODD**
Harry's thank-you gifts to the staff were distributed by his godmother, but the ornaments were accepted with surprise and affection.
Clearly, Harry was worried about someone being disappointed. A miniature snowflake was given to Widow Beddew for her charm bracelet. Apparently, something like this had been done in years past though his father had never done so. Homemade ornaments from the Arglwydd himself!
He knew it was likely most would wind up on the tree they were now fetching, and that didn't bother him in the least.
**ODD**
After all the guests had left, and before entering the sleigh to go get the tree, Emma asked Sally-Anne what the twins' mother was talking about her dancing next week.
The girl knew she was caught and confessed all. Harry couldn't believe it. Sally-Anne had lied to her parents, to him, to everyone. Her 'tutoring' after school wasn't tutoring at all.
She was starring as Clara in the Nutcracker at school! She hadn't given them much notice, as the ballet was on the 18th.
Dan was stunned, "But I thought…I offered to…I didn't think you wanted to dance?"
She hadn't told them as she had intended on it being a surprise.
"Time to break out the mink stoles and pearls." Emma murmured. She secretly loved the ballet, and loved getting dressed up.
She didn't notice Sally-Anne's bright look that was quickly hidden.
"At least at school, we won't be wearing dresses." Harry stated, then quickly added, "And it will be brilliant to see you dance. Everyone knows how good you are."
Normally, the high school productions were exclusively performed by the older students. But their original Clara had backed out. Not many people were trained and ready to dance that part in the school.
Hermione squealed in support. Sirius sent Jam to get tickets, and everyone would later make sure they had appropriate clothes for the event. After the sleigh ride. Everyone was bundled in, and the horses were off. But the girls of the house were talking about dresses excitedly.
In a whisper, Emma teased Dan about bringing his 'dress' bazooka.
The posters at school had made it very clear; mundane formal-wear for this. Harry and Neville had cheered at that. They had nice suits; they were set. Terry and Susan had new or gently used clothes to buy, but the rest of the family just made mental plans.
But for now, it was time to go get the uprooted tree that was planned for the hall.
**ODD**
Sirius was trying to hide his anger over something he felt was his own fault. Harry had never been allowed to decorate for Christmas before. The Dursleys had never included their nephew, much less allowed him to eat the holiday foods he made.
He actually drew his wand, thinking of some great prank spells to pull when he remembered they were already dead. Well, he wouldn't have killed them, but his revenge would have made them sorry they were ever mean to the boy.
Padfoot had no idea that such justice was already being meted out. The animagus decided to focus on more positive thoughts.
For the last couple of weeks, all of the young people of the House were working on homemade pottery ornaments for the large tree that was about to be brought in.
"Ready?" Sirius asked his godson.
The sleigh that had been used to give rides to his classmates for the last two hours was now rigged to pull a large tree.
It had been carefully uprooted, preserving the root ball in burlap until it could be moved to a new location. After Christmas. In the meantime, it was going to be the center of attention for a time.
The procession of the tree being brought into the community hall was done with the tree being levitated into place, then enlarged a little to fit the hall, and everyone singing carols. Sirius was trying to make jokes, and sing alternate lyrics. A small music book was passed over to him. Others were passing out the same book to anyone who wanted it. Everyone took turns putting decorations on the tree, and leaving a wish for the new year for their homes and lives.
The children then practiced their magic, putting the rest of the homemade decorations all over the tree. A box of a giggle of fairies was sent via the portal from Alastor. His note claimed his goddaughter had friends looking for a warm home for Yule. The winged creatures flew hither and thither before settling in; some of the bird ornaments in the tree chirped; the music of Christmas.
Then dinner was served, and everyone ate a simple meal together. No albino peacocks or pheasant under glass.
After dessert, Widow Beddew shushed everyone and encouraged Sarah Miller to lead several traditional carols; one of which she sang, passing the light from her candle to others. Voices joined hers as their candle lit.
Harry led the procession out of the hall holding Hermione's hand. The children were singing 'Joy to the World', and all of them felt that joy.
And peace.
**ODD**
Colin knew that he had done well on his OWLs. Imagine, staying to work on NEWTs. Sniff. As if he needed a paper to tell him what he was good at!
He was very good at Magical Creatures, and had gotten extra points for demonstrating his abilities that were so well honed.
Abilities that earned him a bit of coin under the Potter banner.
Part of him wanted to stay in America - take the full oaths of an adult, go to college, get his Mastery in Magical Creatures. But he knew his father would never allow it. He and William Gower were still grumbling over every little slight and flaw in the Potter brat. Not that Colin disagreed.
He had grown up WITHOUT a lord to bow and grovel to. They had been just fine. Of course, his subconscious just had to point out all of the good things that had happened over the last few months. And hippogriff racing! Wasn't that amazing?
No! No! It was a waste of good gold, just like the wizards in his family grumbled about.
He just had to make a choice. Go back to Wales, and be with his people again? Or stay here, and bend his knee to Potter.
His pride and stubbornness refused to allow him to do what he had to to stay. Instead, he returned that day, eschewing the normal farewells and formal leave-taking. Nor did he ask permission of the Argylwydd.
The younger students still had another week of school, but he was done. They could forward his results through his grandfather, who was refusing to return back to Wales with the rest of the family.
Fine, let the old man be alone. At least he'd be reunited with his father, and other like-minded souls.
Some would consider these slights as burning bridges, and if he had been an adult, he would likely have been dismissed right then.
**ODD**
It wasn't just Christmas in the air. The upcoming Boxing Day was a huge tradition of the House and Remus was going over the business accounts with Harry in preparation. The villagers who worked for them received year-round room and board, and all their medical needs were taken care of. A healer came by once a quarter for cyclical health checks, but anyone could ask for a healer or go to the hospital if they had need.
Their potions business was doing well with all of the New World animals and plants that had previously been unavailable or difficult to source. Lord Cygnus was very pleased with them about that. There was a request once or twice for a body of a non-racer hippogriff for a critical need, but Harry's emerald glare was enough to put a stop to that avenue of approach. No meant no.
The staff were paid monthly, but would receive a performance dividend, as Charlus called it, at the end of the year. He shared out seventy-five percent of the net profits made with all workers, regardless of age. There were some people, like the head of the pottery workshop, or someone who had stood out that got a slightly larger piece of the pie.
The pottery workshop was doing very well, but they had only had a couple of months of selling, not the whole year. It was still highly profitable though, with the selling crew happy to have new products, and the potters not having to waste time selling!
Compared to any other two months in the past when the workshop was going, they had more than doubled the profit. Their holiday wares were going gangbusters!
This year had a lot of unexpected expenditures, though. The community hall was just one. The move here was not free though safely and well done.
But it was the racing expenditures that stood out like a sore thumb. In going over the budget, Harry saw that too, and knew that this annual report would be seen by all involved. There were a number of racing foals expected next September that would be very valuable. There was also the potential income if the goals of winning just two races out of the whole season were successful. But those were hopeful profits, and real expenditures. It was all theoretical for now.
"I don't want people to not get their normal expected stipend because of me!" Harry shared. "What can I do?"
"Why don't we apportion the moving expenses, and relocation costs from the people rescued to the carts?" Remus suggested. "You choosing to race isn't that expensive. And our first race in March will show whether or not we can recoup these expenses. Here is a ledger of past bonuses. Truly, they are in line."
Harry nodded and went to the pottery workshop to continue making a few more presents. His shoulder blades itched though. He wished he knew more about all this.
**ODD**
But neither Harry nor Remus fully realized the depth of resentment for a new venture that appeared to be taking gold from the hard working people's pockets and putting it to use in a 'princely pastime' that would have no positive benefit to anyone but the Arglwydd of the manor.
**ODD**
Harry wasn't the only one interested in business. Harry had no issue sharing the overabundance of dragon and other animal dung with a friend. There was no profit in banishing unwanted dung from multiple properties.
This idea would benefit House Longbottom, House Black, and House Potter; Neville's own private stock of fertilizer.
The industrial sized vanishing cabinet was now used to bring in a couple of metric tons of dragon, thestral (of those who escaped Hogwarts), migrating pegasi, griffons, and the occasional unicorn waste.
Neville offered piece-work prices, paid daily, for people doing the mixing and bagging of Neville's own special blend of fertilizer, marketed as Dragondew Deluxe ™. The teens of the village jumped on this opportunity.
Orders started coming in from around the United States. With 'delivery included for a reasonable fee'. Neville started an international business and had to hire more help.
It wouldn't be until the following September, but this business helped them find the chink in Dumbledore's armor.
**ODD**
Monday, Dec 15th, Principal Franklin's office
It was Emma who received the call at lunch time, so she asked for a carriage ride up to school. She left a note for the others.
Harry had a black eye, and another boy across the waiting area, had bruised knuckles. He appeared to be much older and at least fifty pounds heavier.
"Principal Franklin will see you now, Lady Black." the secretary called in.
Emma started to correct her, but wouldn't in front of the other boy who was now paling, "Thank you Ms Davis."
The secretary shut the door and raised the runes behind her.
"How can I help you, sir." Emma asked, anxious to call a healer for Harry.
"I understand there was a holiday party at the manor last weekend. I was informed that all of the sixth graders were going to be invited." The principal stated.
"Yes, Headmaster, we had invitations issued, and double-checked to make sure they included any new students. Oh dear. Was someone missed out?"
"Well, Bruce Billingsley, a cousin of House Billingsley, took offense. At first Amanda said she wasn't invited, then revealed information about an invitation 'hidden' in a potions book."
Emma winced, "I questioned the children about it that night. They had divided up the invitations between them. Then I called to check with her homeroom teacher. He remembered Amanda getting hers. She was rather boisterously excited about it. It was so busy…"
"Oh yes, I should have talked to the staff too. Well. I can't condone fighting in the school, and Lord Harry did well to limit his response to one hit. I doubt anyone will hit him again after seeing Bruce on the ground like that."
He was actually impressed the boy was still breathing after seeing a memory of the fight.
The wizard cleared his throat, "Both boys are getting detention, but this is standard for any fisticuffs."
"I'm happy to provide memories of the invitation being delivered, but honestly Headmaster? After some of the terrible things said? Our next party won't include everyone; It will be more than just Miss Billingsley left out. Excluding just one would be wrong. We did not do that, I assure you."
James thought he could likely make a list of those left out in future. He knew he didn't want any of them in his home for a social function.
Emma didn't like Harry getting punished, "Harry didn't hit first sir, I know him. It doesn't seem fair when he was just defending himself."
"I can see your point, but he has a personal elf allowed in school that was quickly there, and others had called out for school monitors. Help was available."
Principal Franklin paced a bit and added, "Off the record? I was proud of him. He needs to be ready to fight back.
"Bruce is on the quadpot team; him getting a detention means he won't play the next game. His coach will make sure this is the last time he hits another at school."
Emma thought about it, "Punishment enough for boys so young. Is there anything else?"
"No. Thank you for coming in." The principal shook her hand.
Emma wanted to say something more, "If Harry had been the aggressor, or had been taunting this boy, I assure you, the family would have a very different response. Susan is the one most likely of all our group who could have been stuck up, snobby, and bigoted. Instead, she, like my daughter Hermione, is a social justice warrior."
Unspoken message received. Emma suspected but had no proof there was a prank here. The principal smiled briefly.
Emma continued, "I didn't want to say it in front of the Billingsley boy, but can you please let Ms Davis know I don't have a title?"
"Not yet, perhaps. But I predict a day when you will be a Lady in truth. Thank you."
"May I take Harry with me to see a healer?" Emma was concerned about the bruised boy.
"He's been seen, and healed. The coloring charm will last for a few days. I'm hoping that Amanda apologizes."
Magic. Would she ever get used to it? With a farewell to the staff and a hug to Harry, Emma left.
**ODD**
Harry got a lot of treats that night, and sympathy from many of the ladies. More than one village wizard offered to take his wand to whoever had blackened his eye. But then rumors that Harry had nearly 'kilt' the attacker started to circulate.
Harry laughed at the story as told by Remus. What, did they think he gave them a brand new kilt to wear?
**ODD**
Thursday, Dec 18th, Dan and Emma's quarters
Sally-Anne was practically bouncing with excitement. "Mum? I have a small surprise for you to wear tonight. I wanted to give it to you later, well, Happy Christmas!"
Everyone remembered when Emilia Billingsley wore a fur cloak to a school event in October. She had clearly wanted attention, and gotten it.
A fur stole was in Sally-Anne's hands. The soft grey pelt just begged to be petted.
"Is this…?" Emma's hand snuck forward.
"Chupacabra. Yes. The first batch has been culled. The hippogriffs prefer their meat without hair, actually. So this is just a bi-product." Sally-Anne shared.
"I have no idea what they use ferret pelts for, and I don't particularly want to know. But this is lovely. Oh Mum, you have to put it on." Hermione gushed, squeezing Sally-Anne's hand.
Dan stepped forward to put out his hands. He lovingly wrapped the fur around his wife's shoulders, stealing a kiss on the back of her neck, much to the delight of the girls.
"What a lovely and unexpected gift. But this is too much! You could have sold it…" Emma started to say, but Dan hushed her.
"I think you meant to say 'I love it, thank you.' Didn't you, darling?"
The woman nodded, "Yes, absolutely. Thank you. I truly love this."
Hermione had clearly been part of the planning, when she brought out a triple stranded set of pearls. "This isn't a gift, mum, but borrowed for the evening. Harry wanted to let you and Alice wear Potter jewelry for tonight. Lady Alice selected this out for you. We hoped it would still be a nice surprise."
Emma hugged both girls, then opened the box, then hugged the girls again. Dan pouted, so he got a hug and cheek kiss.
"Alright, so the plan is to watch the ballet, then come home for a fancy dinner. I have no idea who is in charge of that." Emma looked right at Hermione, who blushed.
"I have no idea what you are talking about. But I need to get going, or we'll be late for breakfast."
"Might as well all go." Dan held open the door as the girls picked up readied bags from the cupboard near the door.
"Only a half-day of classes, and then a ballet, and then days and days of time to practice dancing!" Sally-Anne twirled at the door.
Hermione smiled indulgently. This was yet another gift she had no hope to match, but she had no anger or jealousy about it.
**ODD**
Remus was pleased that so many tickets were available. Abigail accepted the invitation, knowing very well he was asking her for protection duty. Remus mentioned there would be a celebratory dinner after the event. She happily accepted.
Detective Weaver also accepted, and Tonks invited him to dinner afterwards as well. It was going to be a jolly party, and a great way to begin the holiday season.
**ODD**
The members of House Potter, along with all of House Black and guests were gathered in the large formal dining area. Lord Black seated at the 'foot' of the table.
Harry was at the head, and defying conventions a bit, had Hermione at his right. He might not be able to have her as his official girlfriend, but they could only try and make her sit elsewhere!
A surprise to the table was Carmen, followed at a discreet distance by one of the older village witches. Ricardo and Alejandro were also a surprise to most there. Lord Black stood, and held out the chair to his right.
Despite being warned, Augusta started to stand to complain about the 'unwanted' servants at the table. Then, before many words could be spoken, she began to choke.
"Livy? Madam Crouch appears unwell. Please, take her to her quarters, and see to her needs." Neville asked in a surprisingly cold voice.
Everyone expected Alice or Frank to attend her. Only Neville stood. "I'll go and get the elderly matron settled. Please excuse me for a time. I shall return as soon as I may. Sally-Anne? You were amazing today. This is the first ballet I didn't sleep through."
The group chuckled softly, and gave Neville indulgent looks.
Frank winced a bit at what his son said, but couldn't help but agree with the sentiments. Sally-Anne's performance was exquisite, and she was so young, so slight, she was perfect for the role of a child in the lead of the Nutcracker.
Madam Bagshot decided after dinner to retire to her rooms. "Lord Potter? It's none of my business, but did you know there is a secondary dining room in the Elders' Hall? One that could serve early or late as pleases you. It once served your great-grandparents in their day, after they had stepped down as Heads of House. Not everyone waits until death, ye know. Some elders are smart enough to step down from their responsibilities. And the new leaders don't have to put up with abuse. From anyone."
Harry bowed his head in understanding, and she left. Dinner continued apace, with gentle conversation. Everyone was trying to focus on the ballet for the moment.
Toasts were made to Sally-Anne for her marvelous work and the discussion flowed around the table.
Ted, always one of the shiest of the group, stood, "Last week, my daughter took her NEWTs in two subjects. She completed the work in just one term."
He didn't mention that her earlier training had covered some of the work. That really wasn't relevant. More toasts were made to Tonks.
"I have been accepted at MIT&T. I will live at home for this quarter, as all housing is full at the moment. But I might live near or on campus next quarter."
"And what Mastery are you pursuing, if I may ask?" Higgs interjected.
"Transfiguration, including Battle Magic. It's my favorite subject." Tonks shared a bit shyly. She knew this was a sign to the detective. She was no young girl, but an adult. One that was available.
Looks were shared around the table as Sirius cleared his throat.
"After a brief discussion, and a promise that if we choose not to become betrothed that no strife will enter the House, I am declaring that I am courting Carmen Elaina Florentia Cordero for a year and a day. If we do not become engaged before then, I will give her House the promised price. I raise my glass and wish you to join me in a toast to Miss Cordero, and a blessing on our courtship."
Only Harry knew this was coming. Well, him and Alejandro. As Sirius explained, once a month, he, Carmen and Harry would be doing a special family activity aside from work. Harry had a feeling that new games would soon be coming his way. Not that he spent a lot of time in trivial pursuits.
Harry stood and lifted his glass, "Sirius, son of House Potter. I, as Lord of House Potter, stand with you in acknowledgement of your courtship, and wish both you and Miss Cordero much joy. Let no one of House Potter interfere or denigrate this happy time nor attempt to thwart this courtship. So let it be spoken. I approve!"
After everyone sipped, Remus then lifted his glass in a new toast and gave a warm look to Abigail. She too wished the couple all the best. The warmth in Moony's amber eyes was full of a promise of love.
Something that her inner wolf accepted with a sip.
**ODD**
Agent Addams acted on this latest development by starting a new investigation into Carmen and her family. The oaths and questioning when they first came was deemed sufficient at the time. But now, the timing of her arrival was suspicious to the agent.
Of course, Sirius was Pack to her and Remus, and this Cordero witch was an outsider. Abigail was naturally suspicious. Someone had tried to hurt Harry several times since coming here. Would she be the conduit to the next attack?
There was strange magic hanging about her; something Abigail could smell. Not a Dark Mark - she knew what that was. But something else. Something near her shoulder.
She had better not try to hurt Harry, or anyone else of the House. Not only would Carmen lose her magic; Abigail was crankier than usual. The Latin witch would find herself on the wrong end of the agent's wand. She blamed it on the upcoming full moon, but it was more than that.
The more she was around Harry and Moony, the pair of them, and how they interacted, the more she wanted in. Into the hearts and home here.
And anyone threatening that home was going to have to deal with not only an agent of the MFBI, but an angry werewolf who wouldn't stop fighting for her Pack.
**ODD**
Harry thought that now with the old witches banished to their own dining room, they could have casual dress every dinner.
But no!
Christmas was around the corner, so it was this and that special feast, and don't forget the villagers.
Harry felt he was stuck in formal garb from that night to Christmas.
NOOOOO!
**ODD**
Harry had struggled mightily for gifts for the family. Fortunately for him, they had drawn names, and he got Ted Tonks. The man was spending a great deal of time in study. The problem was, finding a quiet place of his own. At least at times.
Harry had been trying to find something in his vaults that was his and his alone. Pepper had brought him to the new vault Juniper had obtained for him mid-summer. It had the oddest assortment of junk and treasures. One of which was a slightly used, definitely beat up old traveling desk.
Like a wizarding tent, or wizarding trunk, it packed into a small space, and when opened, created a small, private study.
Using help from some of his people, Harry fixed and restored the desk to near new condition. Harry brought a trunk of some of the other broken bits as gifts to his tutors. They could pick some of the broken furniture to fix up and sell, or use as they chose.
It was on the third trip that Harry found a beautiful brooch of a hummingbird. Carmen loved hummingbirds. Hermione had chosen her name, and didn't have a clue what to get her.
He also found a book of Basic Alchemy that was perfect for Hermione. He then made a spill-proof tea cup he made himself on the wheel. It wasn't perfect, but was glazed in her favorite shade of periwinkle blue.
Christmas was looking to be so much fun, and he truly thought he had done well with the presents.
**ODD**
ODD (Order Defying Dumbledore)
A/N: Our friend Millie072 recommended LIFE AFTER DEATH by Birdwoman95. WIP
Warnings for slow posting, but her stories are amazing.
s/14271533/1/Life-After-Death
A/N: James Marx recommends: Angry, Overpowered Harry Potter by TomHRichardson( standard hp fic) Harry with Merlin level power, HP/HG pairing.
Wonderful Author! s/14060075/1/Angry-Overpowered-Harry-Potter
A/N: Your story recommendation here -
**ODD**
ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language
O.D.D. (Order Defying Dumbledore)