Harry Potter and the Odd Rebellion
**ODD**
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.
**ODD**
Welcome to the fireside.
**ODD**
A/N: Thank you, bahnannah for letting me know about someone posting my and MelJ's stories as their own. I can't understand why they would do that.
Scorecard of what has happened so far:
This story is AU: Dumbledore has something evil planned. He insists that Moody go early for Thanksgiving. This can't be a good sign, he clearly wants Mad-eye to spy on Harry's activities.
O.D.D. (Order Defying Dumbledore) Meetings still happening in the background.
Tryouts for cheer/dance happened in the background, with Amanda Billingsly making the squad. Emma said no for Sally-Anne trying out until the uniform changed.
Harry, in stepping up to make sure that this American festival of Thanksgiving on November 28th is properly prepared, has hired an experienced organizer, Widow Beddew, to handle things. This gives Remus a bit of pause; their cub is growing up.
Carmen has gained Lord Black's eye. Will he pursue her or not?
Remus sees Agent Abigail Addams again at the full moon, but until she makes peace with her inner wolf, nothing will be happening between them. A strong sleeping draught ensures that.
Thanksgiving is coming, and old friends are invited.
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 Ten - Blowups
**ODD**
Agent Abigail Addams, MFBI werewolf, was back at the counselor's. She hated to admit that she hadn't read the assigned book yet. The mind-healer was trying to keep an even tone.
"Can you please explain why you didn't complete the task given you by me at our last session? You know that I work with the MFBI. While the details of our sessions are confidential, I do have to report whether or not a client is cooperating with the process."
"I just…I mean…" Abigail looked out the window. The trees were a bit less full than last time. Soon, their branches would make lace against the grey skies that were so prevalent in winter. She gathered her courage, and bared a little of her heart.
"Counselor, I was a lonely child. I didn't make friends easily, not ever. But I always wanted to be an auror. My father…" Rebellious tears were forming. Abigail reached for the potion on offer on a nearby tray. "My father was a lifelong criminal. I won't go into his record, but I was constantly ashamed growing up. How could I have friends when our family name was linked with fraud, theft and more? I was determined to prove that I was above all that. I wanted no part of the 'family business'."
The counselor nodded and made notes. Of course she knew this client's history. "And now you feel like you are one of them, just because you're a werewolf?"
"Don't you understand? They set me up to be mauled and killed! I was lured there by a cousin, giving me a 'tip' to help me in my career! I was supposed to die!" Abigail sat back in the chair, weeping despite her attempt to stop the tears. "That I survived serves their purpose just as well. I have had several offers to return to the fold, now that I'm a monster. Just like them." That last was added very softly.
The counselor called for tea from an elf; her own special herbal blend. There was nothing about her attack in the file. Clearly, prosecution was either pending or quashed. Either way would be detrimental to this witch's mental health.
"I want to give you something." The healer went to the table and brought back an empty shoebox, some paper and a pen.
"I want you to write down two lists on this paper. Leave enough space to cut in between the rows. One list are things that you are unhappy about that you have no control of whatsoever. You didn't choose your father or family. You haven't talked about your mother. I have her as deceased, but nothing more."
"She disappeared when I was at college. I had been accepted for my Mastery of Criminal Studies. My father says she is dead…" The woman stopped talking.
How did you explain to an outsider that she thought her mother escaped 'the life' and was too afraid to reach out to her only daughter for fear that she would be found?
The counselor made more notes and had an internal attitude shift. This poor girl had been through so much already and was infected on the orders of her grandfather! She had no family support, no friends.
It was amazing that she was vertical, much less able to function as well as she was.
"Now, back to the paper. On the other column, things you are unhappy about but can control. Do you like where you live, for example? If not, there are options."
Abigail tried to bite down on the thought of sharing a cozy cottage with Moony. Her inner wolf wanted to curl up in front of the fire there!
"I think I understand. Things I can't control, things I can. Yes. I believe that I can complete that task."
"Good. Cut up the list, and put the things you are able to control in the box. Pick one once a week or once a month. As regularly as you can handle. And work on overcoming that issue."
"I really don't like my off-duty clothes. I haven't bought anything new since college. I need new outfits." Abigail wrote that down. "And you are right. I can afford a better place. Maybe living near…"
She dropped the pen, and put her face back in her hands. This counselor was making her confront her past – and future.
"You don't have to finish this task here. I just wanted to get you started on it."
The agent looked up. 'Family who wants me dead' was not something she had power over.
"For this list, things you can't control, I suggest a different box. One that is never opened. One you burn. You cannot change what other people do or feel or think. You can only control yourself. Don't let them win; put them away in a box, and try to put it aside."
Abigail nodded. This was good advice.
On the way out, the counselor reminded her about the ritual in the book she hadn't read. "You don't have to have the entire book finished but I want you to read the first chapter. Be ready to discuss it."
The agent nodded sadly. They'd not conversed about the last full moon. Remus had taken medication that made him sleep the whole night so he wouldn't try to be friendly with her when her wolf was in control. It had made him cranky, his inner wolf clearly upset, as was her own.
But it showed her in action that Remus was not intending to force anything from her either.
There were four individuals in this relationship-to-be, and one of them was a highly traumatized young woman.
No pressure.
**ODD**
George reread the note received at the beginning of the year. Such a simple request that also benefited his son. His family. Oaths were sworn that nothing lethal would happen.
The Feltons still had shirttail relatives in Britain, some of whom served the magical dictator and had no compunction about using compulsion to get what their leader, their master, wanted.
George was just a little puppet, but it would be too late for him to do anything but dance to the master's tune before his strings were cut.
**ODD**
Wednesday, Nov 27th, SAM
Alice and Moody went early before the game to meet with someone working at the school. She was about to introduce Alastor to the wizard who was acting as head of security, when the Native American broke into a broad smile. "Mad-eye! What brings you here?"
The men caught up for a few minutes. Flying Hawk was a part of the MFBI team who was assigned to Salem, and wanted to be on hand for any sport where Harry was playing.
"We've double checked the equipment, the gym, everything. But I would be happy to put you in a spare invisibility cloak if you want to be on the team." Flying Hawk offered a good quality cloak, but Moody shook his head.
He pulled out his own, slightly better, one.
"The game starts in forty-five minutes. Let's get you in place first." The security chief spoke into his badge, making Moody jealous yet again.
Alice shook her head, "I'd best head home. If I know where Moody is placed, I'll be looking at him during the game. Be careful, Alastor. We'll expect you for dinner at 8:00. Mr Hawk, you'd be very welcome to join us for Thanksgiving, and you can catch up with Moody. The game is limited to two hours, the first team to reach fifty points, or for one side to be out of players."
Flying Hawk laughed, "I'll gladly come to your Thanksgiving tomorrow. I'll bring some venison."
Alice missed the reference but smiled anyway. Moody settled into a corner that had three easy ways to get around if there were trouble…three ways, not counting flying.
Of course he had a spare broom stashed away.
**ODD**
Quadpot Gymnasium, SAM
The smells coming from the holiday baking in the community kitchens were making everyone hungry for the next day's feast.
The plan was for the family to come and watch Harry play, and the whole village and manor turned out. The cheer squad ran, tumbled and danced their way onto the pitch, and did a short routine before the teams were announced. The players all landed and formed up to listen to the MAGUSA anthem.
Then, it was time to get the riot, um, game started. The initial quad was tossed into the air, and the chaos began.
**ODD**
During the first part of the game, the older boys of the team were hogging the quad but that meant they were the first ones taken out. Each quad had a random amount of time before exploding, time that kept going even if you threw it. Once you were in the scoring circle at the end of the pitch, it was legal to try and shoot the quad into the target – a pot filled with calming solution. Most quads wound up blowing up before getting thrown in a legal shot.
Teammates were trying to get you to toss the quad to them while opponents tried to knock you off your broom or otherwise disrupt play. It was impossible to make a clean run to the pot. Everyone was interfering with the progression of play. Most of the interference came from the other team.
It was a bit like rugby if the rugby ball blew up randomly, and if you were the player holding it at the time, you were chucked out of the game. Harry had yet to get a chance to even hold the ball!
Then his chance finally came, and oh, how the boy could fly!
**ODD**
Alice was trying not to scream. Sirius was on his feet, yelling like it was the World Cup. Remus was sitting, but the family workers were not so reserved. Harry scored, successfully dunking the quad into the cauldron, splashing potion. The cheers from their section was intense.
Something snapped in George, or rather his fingers did. Unseen by most, the supply of quads was quickly changed out.
Of course, most are not the same as all.
**ODD**
The game continued. The slamming of small bodies seemed to be with the intent of sending the flyers to the ground, and the Felton boy seemed to not be able to distinguish between teams at all, at least where Harry was concerned.
Then, something very odd happened. Matt seemingly held onto the quad just a bit too long. There was little notice, but Felton threw it hard. The young lord tried to catch it, but it was going too fast, and slipped through his hands, right into Harry's face. The moment it touched him, it blew up.
BOOM! That noise was far louder than the other quads had made!
The fall to the pitch wasn't far, but referees were blowing their whistles as Alice practically apparated to Harry on the ground.
Only the coach and one other noticed the house-elf that popped in to trade out the entire supply of quads.
The house-elf missed the six awaiting in the holder next to the refs' table. But the old auror, sitting away from the family, didn't. And before the house-elf could return, had done a silent switching charm with the newly supplied quads. The six were now in an extended pocket, and the old auror watched under his cloak in the corner to see what happened next.
**ODD**
Dan watched as the young wizard flew. He had such skill for one so young! Then the bang! He nearly drew his weapon and did scan the crowd.
For one hideous moment, he saw a parent with glee on his face. Felton! He'd been warned about the family. Blond hair, with magical ancestors going back forever.
Hermione next to him wanted to dash to the pitch, but spectators weren't allowed. They'd been told to keep their seats or face the player's ejection.
"Sally-Anne! Hermione! Stay with your mother!" Dan commanded. Sirius pulled his wand and scooted towards the girls.
Their Potter Welshmen were letting young Matt know exactly how they felt about his actions in words and gestures. Dan chuckled. Well, they weren't suppressing their feelings. Remus went to handle them before there was bloodshed.
Dan went to cover Alice in case this was an attack. Frank was already there doing the same.
**ODD**
Harry's entire face was covered in black soot. If he hadn't been wearing goggles, who knew what would have happened to his eyes.
The healer tutted, but the referees just wanted the people off the pitch. One of them made a mistake and tried to grab Alice's arm to escort her away.
Frank was there between them before violence struck. The referee waved his wand at the stretcher the healer had put under the boy.
"You can't just come onto the field like that, lady."
Alice thought he was trying to remember her name. "Lady Longbottom. So, when my godson is hurt, I'm not supposed to go to him?"
"Potter is suspended from the next game due to your actions, madam!" The wizard shouted. Parents!
"Good! Take him off the team. Now! More than once during the game, players were shoved off their brooms, cannonballs were blowing up. That was more than a normal quad thrown at Harry! I can hear just fine! An opposing player didn't do this! A teammate did! Tell me what action is going to be taken against Mr Felton?"
Harry was being floated off the pitch, and towards the infirmary while the adults argued.
"What action? He should have aimed the ball at an opponent but he did nothing wrong." The coach stated firmly.
The coaches were arguing, the quads confiscated by the aurors, and the teams were sent to different areas before everyone could be questioned.
**ODD**
Alice followed the signs to the nearby health clinic, where a school healer was seeing her godson.
"Good for you wearing your protective gear. You saved your eyes." The healer bustled about, doing scans and jotting notes.
The safety equipment also prevented a worse concussion than Harry had. It was part and parcel of the gear. The healer's assistant came in.
Harry was woozy and clearly out of it, but drank the concussion potion as urged by his godmother. He immediately fell into a deep healing sleep. Now there was nothing to do until the boy awoke of his own accord. They were playing this by the book.
Matt Felton was a stuck up brat of those Feltons. Making sure the Potter lad was safe, the healer had to act immediately. Per protocol, he would check the blond Felton for compulsion charms.
He put his assistant in charge, a qualified nurse, and left to his other duties.
**ODD**
Flying Hawk went into his animagus form the second the quad exploded. His eyesight was so much better, as were his other senses.
He missed the quads being switched out, but did see the refs and players confusion. He scanned the audience, looking for the tell-tale signs of guilt. He saw nothing suspicious, other than a couple of parents.
And there were no terrorists in this known group.
He 'saw' his invisible team go to work. Agent Addams was as far away from the Black contingent as she could get. The Hawk screeched derision at her, but his human side knew it was her choice how to live her life.
As long as she focused on the job. Addams was sneaking around her zone, clearly trying to sniff out troublemakers.
Hawk wanted something to fight, something tangible, but he detected no enemies here.
**ODD**
The healer went back to the stadium. The Black Seneschal had already sent a majority of his people there home. No one wanted a brawl at what was supposed to be a friendly junior high match.
The healer caught a glimpse of the man's amber eyes. No, he didn't want that wizard angry with him in the least.
The healer scanned first the boy, nothing wrong there. Then he cast at the father. Oh. "Do you know that you have traces of a compulsion? I think you might be involved in this."
The pureblood wizard was in shock. He needed a ritual before anyone he did business with learned about this. "No! You can't say anything! If this gets out…"
The healer looked the father dead in the eyes. "A child was hurt. I can't say how badly. Regardless of reason, this could be seen as deliberate sabotage - and your son was involved. I know it."
The Felton boy had been held back a year as his birthday was in August - a ploy that gave him a leg up. In magic, sports and everything else.
The man saw he'd been trapped. "Potter is known internationally, but his godparents are protective. They'll pull him from the sport. It's not Matt's fault, but mine."
The healer scoffed. "I have a feeling that you know more than you are saying. I want an oath on your magic to never pull anything like this again. Against anyone! And a promise you give the injured lad the amount you'd have been fined for this sort of…action."
The man quickly agreed, knowing he'd put his son's entire sports career in jeopardy, and they both wanted him to play pro. He knew he should have done more to fight this sort of compulsion.
This solution was win-win, and had the Felton boy under scrutiny. All the rest of his time at Salem.
The healer had no idea the majority of the proof had been popped home. And the remainder was never to be available publicly.
**ODD**
"Should I call Mount Sinai?" Alice anxiously asked the nurse there.
The assistant did the scan again, "He got the same concussion potion he would have there. You could take him in, but I think you'd pay a lot of gold for exactly the same treatment. A lot of us trained there, you know."
Alice nodded. She did know that. This was terrifying to her! It was supposed to be just a school game. She hadn't wanted him to play in the first place! 'Oh, Lily! Can I ever do right by you and your boy?' she thought to herself.
The worried godmother inquired, "Did someone put more explosive in that ball than normal?"
The nurse was waiting for the aurors. There was no way she was hiding evidence like this. "I think so. But I doubt a sixth grader was involved. Nor any of the Feltons. They are sports mad and wouldn't endanger their youngest's chances to fly pro. Not their style."
Great, an unknown enemy. There were a lot of people here. How hard was it to get tickets? And who provided the seemingly endless supply of exploding quaffle balls?
Alice may not have succeeded against four death eaters' surprise attack. But they had held out until help came. And she had protected her son.
She would do anything to protect her best friend's only child; her godson.
Aurors arrived, and Alice didn't put her wand away until she had verified their identity. Detective Weaver also showed up. After his investigation, he started to head home, but Alice found out he was single.
"No. You are coming to the Manor for our first Thanksgiving. Please. We have plenty of room. You are welcome to stay for as long as you like."
"You want to trade guard duty for food?" Higgs shook her hand. " I accept."
And it got him away for the holiday! Yay!
**ODD**
Flying Hawk landed next to Agent Addams. The attack they had worried about happening had happened. At least the boy had not been blown up with an actual bomb in the middle of both teams - that could have been a real tragedy.
"I've deployed a pair of aurors to the infirmary, but I have a feeling this was a message. What it means, I cannot say." The older wizard stroked his face, looking into the future, perhaps?
Abigail nodded, "I think the message is 'I can get you anytime.' I bet that's what this meant. Terrorists are the worst. I don't know the wording of the prophecy, but everyone says it. Ever since 1945, Dumbledore has gone completely round the twist. Both allies and enemies noticed the changes. That this family has been so targeted – well, if I wasn't already on the MFBI team, I'd be wanting on it. I swear on my magic, Hawk, I will do everything I can to protect our cub. I mean Lord Potter. And bring his enemies to justice."
Moody joined them, transferring the evidence into the lead's pocket, suffering sudden pain as he did so.
"Well, that confirms it. Dumbledore has something to do with it. I know you didn't know when you gave me that parcel. But the pain of magic? Get back to Black Manor my friend. Oh, and here's your parcel back. Don't want you to lose your magic now." Flying Hawk ordered, handing back an evidence bag that had weight.
But was empty of the quads that Moody had given him.
**ODD**
Harry woke, not remembering the last few minutes of play. "What happened?"
"Oh Harry! You had me worried there." Alice stroked his hair. No one else was inside the cramped quarters. "You'll not be doing that again! Never!"
She leaned down to embrace him, but the boy shied away. It was the first time Harry had ever pulled away from a hug offered by Alice.
The nurse went over his vitals, and the healer came back just to release him.
Harry left the room a little unsteady, but quickly without a word to those who helped him. Lady Alice was left to thank the nurse and healer for his care.
He left the stadium with a scowl to the healer's assistant, his godmother and the entire situation.
The aurors at the door had a carriage waiting to take him home. He ignored Sirius on the way out as well. He was told to lie down for the rest of the day and take it easy. No problem. He'd find Livy and help in the kitchens.
He was miffed that his family had pulled him from the team without his consent and had no chance to complain or argue his case. He was ordered home to rest, and the minute he was dropped off at the door, he called for Livy.
He decided to hang out with the elves in the community industrial kitchen. At least he could do some good there. But only after he agreed to Livy's demand to work from a lounge chair, equipped with the tools of his craft.
**ODD**
Nicholas Flamel finished his experiment, and carefully recorded the result. He remembered with old melancholy the days of teaching not just Albus, but a meticulous inventor and enchanter, the boy's lover at the time, Gellert Grindelwald.
After Gellert went so homicidal, Nicholas had never taken another student. He had spent time with the children of the House here, and might take Hermione as a student in future, but it was his other potential student causing him grief now.
The alchemy on the quads had been targeted to the boy. One touch, and the ball would explode. Enough to cause a concussion. But it could have easily been formulated to be strong enough to have taken out the building.
What was the purpose here? Terrorism indeed in this deed.
He had only two suspects, and one of them was dead. Supposedly. There was no marked grave for Grindelwald, but Flamel figured he had to be dead.
Otherwise, he'd be trying to take over the world.
**ODD**
The MFBI appreciated M Flamel's expertise and willingness to help. The source of the 'doctored' quads wasn't hard to track down. It would be very difficult to find evidence that would pin this on Dumbledore, and yet, not a one of them doubted the source of this latest trouble.
Whether or not George Felton was a willing or unwilling minion would be investigated, but he was being escorted by agents to an interrogation and perhaps a later ritual if the healer's readings were correct.
No one was taking anything at face value there.
**ODD**
Community Kitchen
Hermione, looking for her friend, eventually found Harry amongst the huge cooking pots, vast counters, islands, and multiple large sinks of the professional kitchen of the community hall.
Jam came over to try and push a plate of nibbles on her, just in case. He refreshed his master's snacks and beverage before popping away.
Hermione took a seat next to Harry's lounger. He kept to his task for a time without looking at her. She nibbled raw carrots with yogurt dip.
The witch finally asked, "What did I do wrong? I feel you're ignoring me."
Harry then turned the question right back at her, "Well tell me this. What did I do wrong? I don't understand why Alice and Sirius just pulled me from the team like that. Why would they do this? Why!?" He had a fifty pound bag of potatoes and a peeling tool. His industry was mostly fueled by anger, but the bag was already a quarter of the way done. The magical peeling tool was meant for Adepts and children. It peeled the potato easily and the peels fell into the wide shallow bowl on top of his lap.
He didn't know which animals would be eating them, but somebody would. A mini-portal was set up next to him that was taking the peeled potato and sending it to the sink to be washed. Some of the potatoes were going to be mashed, others thinly sliced to bake in casseroles.
He was so upset that one load of peelings got sent to the sink, and a small group of potatoes wound up on top of a growing pile of peelings. Livy reversed the situation with a snap and a smile. Harry tried to smile back, but was still in growl mode.
Hermione had heard he was awake, and avoiding the others until he got his temper under control. She grabbed a spare peeler and positioned her chair near his lounger to share the same bowl for peelings.
"Harry?" She asked diffidently, "Can I ask you a question? If that had been me, nearly knocked off my broom with a legal play, then blasted off of it with an illegal one, how would my parents react?"
Harry scoffed, "They'd lock you in one of the highest towers, lock up all the brooms, and likely withdraw you from school. Matt, his parents, and their pets would all wind up dead. 'Fifty-seven different fatal accidents; no sign of foul play'."
Hermione didn't bother to hide her chuckle. Her father wouldn't kill a boy their age! Well, not unless he'd tried to kill Harry…um. Should she write a letter of warning to the Feltons? No.
Harry sighed and put down the potato he was peeling for a minute. "Yeah. I get it. Alice was nearly dead for a long time. Attacks directed to my head? I think she's channeling my mother. I want to see a memory of the event though."
"Detective Weaver is collecting those now. Using several different people's perspectives. He thinks someone messed with the quaffle. They are sourced from Britain." Hermione shared.
No, she didn't know about the MFBI's discovery, but she was smart!
The boy started swearing, so Livy popped a large piece of sponge cake into his open gob, "If Master unable to talk, he be unable to swear. No bad language in elf kitchen! Peaceful place!"
Harry nodded, and was allowed to pull the huge piece of cake out of his mouth to nibble it. He offered half to Hermione, mostly spit free, but she declined for some reason. Girls. Neville would have eaten it.
"Well, at least no one can mess with Buckbeak. He'd eat 'em if they tried." Harry pointed out. Only certain people were allowed close to the 'griffs for grooming and feather gathering and such. And even they had to be careful.
Alice came in just then, "You are absolutely right about hippogriffs being protective. I'll look into sending Vendaval with you to school as a personal bodyguard.
"Our dinner for tonight is delayed, but will be ready in a bit. We're having a simple stew and bread since tomorrow will be a feast day. Detective Weaver is joining us for our family meal tonight and the upcoming festivities. Flying Hawk, his granddaughter, and several other newly invited people will also be attending tomorrow. Thank you both for helping with tomorrow's event. Livy, set a timer for ten minutes. Then these two need to get ready for supper."
"Yes, Mistress Alice." Livy bobbed a curtsey before turning over a ten minute kitchen timer whose sands flew up.
As the woman turned to go back to the manor, Harry called out, "Godmother? I'm sorry you were scared. It was just supposed to be like football back home. A team sport. I'm also sorry I was rude to you. I will write a note to the nurse and thank her for her help."
"Oh Harry, you're forgiven. It might feel like a punishment to be pulled off the team. But I heard what you said. You continue practicing racing. I'll sign permission for you to race as a freshman. And in the spring, there's baggit. That looks much safer than quadpot."
"What about my grades?" Harry prompted.
Alice put on her evil smirk #3. "Grades? If your grades are too awful, you won't have to worry about any dangers of flying as you and Mr Jeffries, or his replacement, will be busy, busy, busy."
Alice turned to make her way back to the house. She was wearing a new American style witch's dress. It had long black sleeves with little puffs at the top. The black overrobe had an open bodice that was connected to the outer skirt. This flowed down into a full, wide, open robe. The under bodice was the same color as the underskirt in muted golds and greens that shimmered and shifted colors. Very autumn. The bodice lacings were black. It was a different kind of outfit, with a modern feel, but still very elegant.
Harry waved as she turned at the door to go to the main house.
"Mr Weaver is staying for the whole weekend." Hermione shared quietly.
Harry grinned. "I'm sorry he doesn't have a wife to share the holiday with, but that means that I can show him my newest diorama! Moody too. You know they'll both love it."
Hermione facepalmed and at the timer put her tools away.
"Do you need me to come back later on?" Hermione offered. After trying it once, she learned not to 'voluntold' Harry for chores. He offered to help on his own, more than his share.
Livy took a look at the bag, "If Mistress wanting to peel a few more, that's fine. Peeler too awkward for elves. Not finding right size handles."
Harry picked up a spare, and measured the human size bumps against Livy's hand. Even for Harry, it was really too big.
He pulled out his wand, leaving the peeler part alone, but fixing the handle to fit her perfectly. They were spell resistant, and she hadn't been able to do that!
"I'll transfigure some more later, but I'm supposed to rest. This work really is peaceful."
Livy chided herself for letting her Master Harry use magic, then nodded. She popped the boy to his room. Hermione walked on her own. Livy was willing to pop her too, but the young witch didn't like asking.
**ODD**
Dinner that night was jovial. Amelia was sharing stories from the auror pen during Sirius' and James' time as rookie trainees with Moody adding snide comments and kibitzing in general; leaving Weaver doubled-over laughing. He shared how his family all served. The detective's father served as Auror Commissioner, his sister a trial lawyer, his grandparents on both sides served in law in some fashion. His younger brother was an auror trainee.
Alice was confused, "But you told me you weren't married…I thought you were alone?"
Higgs laughed, "That is precisely the problem. I haven't met anyone yet, and am approaching thirty. Even my younger brother is bethrothed. The pressure of a family gathering right now? No thank you!"
Andromeda couldn't help but look at her daughter sizing up this man as a potential date. Her hair cycled right then, catching the man's notice.
"How did you do that?" Weaver asked. "I've never seen anyone who can do that."
She changed into a copy of Amelia for a moment, then back, "Metamorph. Handy skill in the field."
"You're an auror? You should apply here! We need people like you. What an amazing skill!" the detective eagerly admired.
Dora explained, "I was going through a three year training program for aurors when we moved here. I found out why it was so long. My education at Hogwarts was…lacking. I'm back in school, but feeling like a kindergardner surrounded by seniors."
"Well, when you catch up a bit, please? Keep the force in mind? You'd be a valuable asset." Higgs promised. Dora nodded, hiding a blush that was wont to show on her cheeks.
The conversation flowed around the room, talking about anything and everything. Just as long as it wasn't quadpot!
**ODD**
George saw his wife waiting for him as the agents escorted him home.
"If you ever get any more correspondence from overseas, you are to contact us immediately, sir. My card has a telephone number, floo and even a post owl address. Use it!" Agent Addams demanded.
"Thank you, dear. Would you and the others like some refreshments before you go?" Mrs Felton's tone was professional but her body language, posing at the door was less than inviting.
One of the men responded a bit more politely than Abigail had been, "No, Happy Thanksgiving all. Do be careful."
Martha waited for the coach to be gone. "Well? Matt is clearly upset with the match's cancellation, but you just disappeared. And the account book shows you took out 2,000 galleons. What is going on, George?"
"I will explain later. I have a headache from a cleansing ritual, and I need to send that gold right away, or we'll be in trouble."
"WE? WE? There is no 'we' here! And don't pretend I didn't see Sadie vanish the rest of the case of quads when Matt and I got home. You got what you wanted: Harry Potter pulled from the team. How that boy was a threat to you, I don't know. No one seems to know much about him, and he's kept his head down at school." Martha was angry. There was something odd going on here!
"No, he hasn't! He befriended the Cordero boy, then wound up stealing the Billingsly's griff-jockey for his own new racing farm. You can't tell me that was innocent!" George shouted, then held his hands over his ears as if to protect himself from the sound.
Martha had demanded and watched Matt's memories of their first interactions at school. Both the Potter boy and the Cordero boy looked underfed. And it was rumored that until recently, he'd been living with no-maj's; mundanes who hated magic.
"Pay the boy if you want. Just post it with an apology letter. From you, not Matt. Tonight, or we'll have Weavers descending on us in force. I won't have it! Now, I have an event to oversee for tomorrow, so I will be busy in the kitchens and dining halls. I will have nothing to do with this. Or whatever stupidity this is!"
The Feltons would be hosting a wide variety of the upper class for Thanksgiving. Too bad Lord Black and Lord and Lady Longbottom with their families, had long declined their invitation due to hosting their own celebrations at their manor. It would have been nice to try and get to know them a bit. They'd try again at Yule.
George sighed. He might be the head of the family, but Martha was the neck, and had a way of changing his view. The Feltons were an old proud family that dated back to the Mayflower. So what if the Potter boy hadn't tried to make friends with Matt and he felt insulted! The child clearly had a large group of associates, and was being a bit isolated from others at the moment due to security. For the first time, George felt this had all been a huge mistake.
Even if he had been coerced before, he really had agreed with the action, if only to eliminate competition for Matt to have everything he wanted!
"You are of course correct my dear. I'm sorry. I will send one of the men directly. I don't want two thousand galleons going missing in the post."
Martha gave him a look, then kissed his cheek. It was the best she was going to get.
"Oh, and in future, if you plan to do something against the Potter boy? Let me know beforehand so I can go to one of our vacation homes? Thank you dear."
Neither party had won. Neither party had lost. The status quo of their arranged marriage had been maintained. That was all.
The woman went to check in on the staffs' work for Thanksgiving. Well, that threat was clear. She'd separate from him for a time if he tried anything else. The school's healer would act as well, regardless of circumstances.
The man delivering the gold, along with the brief thank you note returned from Potter. "Weaver was there at table with them, sir. The man from their village who scanned me before letting me go up to the manor house? Well, he let me know just how many wands the manor had, and how many generations had watched over the Potters. I have never feared so much for my life, sir. And that was from a servant!
"'Let yer laird know we take care of our own. Leave the boy be.' I hadn't even told him why I was there, just that I had a gift from you."
The man was dismissed with a small tip for delivering the letter. The man didn't mention that the Seneschal of the house had already given him one. A better one.
George heard the rowdy crowd earlier at the school. Was that just today? No, he'd do nothing more against Potter. But he would watch his step around that extended family.
Why hadn't he waited to send the apology? Higgs Weaver at their table? His servant wouldn't know his parents. There were older folk there, possibly the old Weaver witch. This was not good news.
He'd already been interrogated by the MFBI. He didn't want the Weavers investigating him further.
No thank you!
**ODD**
Harry was dragged away from the kitchen after the first fifty pound bag of potatoes was finished. Livy must have told on him about doing magic! Traitor.
The family stayed up late, playing games and laughing. Enjoying a warming spiced apple cider. Harry was finally able to relax a bit.
Higgs took Dan aside, "Thank you for not shooting anyone. Even if Felton deserved it. That two thousand galleons he sent? Old ritual. Weregild. But he did apologize."
"What do you think his goal was?" Dan was curious.
"That is the sixty-four-thousand dollar question, isn't it. Sorry, old game show my grandmother loves to watch reruns of. There was a lot of maneuvering around today. I think Felton just wanted Lady Longbottom to pull Harry from the team. George wants his own son to be the Captain of the Quadpot team. Impossible to promote with the Harry Potter in the picture. I don't think he meant real harm; just a concussion. Serious enough to scare her. And you."
"He pulls something like this again, and the law doesn't act? I will call in some friends." Dan promised. "You are becoming a friend of the family. You could be a resource for our agenda. But I want you coming in with oaths. One of which is we protect the children from all enemies, foreign and domestic. Got it?"
Higgs nodded. Dan had a quiet word with Felton's man before he left. How did he not fall down in a babbling heap? This man knew how to threaten people. Without much magic in him either!
"Miss Tonks. I know she's still in school, but she's eighteen. When she's done, I think I might like to court her. Interesting witch. I certainly want to be friends now." Weaver shared.
"Ted gets to give you any shovel talk for that. Me? I think you're one of the good guys." Dan was now smiling.
"'Shovel talk'?" Higgs asked nervously.
Dan had to explain that the shovel talk was about a father threatening a potential beau with '20 acres and a shovel, they'll never find the body if you hurt my little girl.'
"Oh? You think I'd be approved to court Miss Tonks? Why is that?" Higgs asked.
"Juniper, the head elf here sniffed you, and served you your favorites. She thinks you're here to help 'Master Harry'. That's good enough for me." Dan offered his hand.
"Wait. Who are you? We have you and your wife as dentists." the detective asked.
Dan smiled, "I am. A military dentist. I just like to keep in shape, as I see you do. Want to join me in the gym tomorrow? 0700. I'll guide you there."
Higgs nodded. What had he gotten himself into? But the man felt like a comrade in arms, not his enemy. Just an enemy to any who would hurt the children.
How could he possibly argue with that?
**ODD**
The home gym was most impressive. It was bigger than the one at the Franklin building! Higgs had padded on soft slippers following the route directions that appeared on his pillow at ten minutes of seven.
Harry was already there, as was Neville. Neither boy was lifting heavy weights, just doing multiple reps with light weights, and some cardio. The Longbottoms were working a circuit that had various machines to work muscle groups, lower muscles, legs and abs this morning, while Dan and Emma were working uppers. Amelia and Susan followed along with the Longbottoms. A clear plan was in play, as no one was waiting for a machine. Then Dan and Emma started sparring, and going full speed!
Their daughters joined them in the gym sleepily, and far less enthusiastically, but again, concentrating on cardio. Dora too was late, but cheerfully joined in. Neither of her parents came though.
Then the music started, and the group went for some sort of dancing aerobics that Emma led. One of the Granger daughters had a real talent for dance that needed to be nurtured.
Higgs thought himself in shape, but was puffing at the end of it all.
Harry complimented the detective. "Wow! We thought all magicals a bit lazy. Dan has us all in training. It has really helped all of us with our magic! I don't know where Sirius is. Remus gets enough of a workout during his day; he doesn't normally come."
Alice laughed, "Sirius had been sharing some stories of the witches of Hogwarts. I think he had a bit too much to drink last night. Juniper was…annoyed with him."
"How are we going to retrieve him from the moon?" Harry asked in a teasing way, "Wasn't that the last place that she threatened to send him if he overdid again?"
Lord Black came in just then, in wildly colored sleep pants. "Alice! Please! Make them bring me the cure! I'm begging you."
The witch went over to a first aid kit, and gave him the hangover potion. Why that was in a first aid kit, Higgs didn't ask.
Sirius down the vile concoction in one go. Then he shook his head like a dog trying to get rid of excess water. His grey eyes started to clear, but he was clearly miserable.
"And so what did you learn from this?" Harry asked in Alice's teaching tone.
"Give Juniper clothes, and get my own elf who will obey my every wish and whim." Lord Black stated grumpily.
"Padfoot! No! Bad Dogfather! The answer is to stop after two drinks. And don't annoy Juniper." Harry shared.
He got a two-fingered salute that Higgs didn't understand, but had all of the young ones laughing.
**ODD**
Thanksgiving day, November 28th
Harry had talked Hermione into eating a light breakfast at the head table, and making small talk. It wasn't Christmas so no presents, just a lot of wonderful food.
Harry had help to read out a blessing in Welsh before the meal, but was still struggling with the language a bit.
"Why is Vanna White being so stingy with this group? She won't sell them any vowels?" Harry asked.
He had perfect timing, and Hermione nearly spurted pumpkin juice at table.
"Harry!" Quietly mopping up, she hoped she hadn't been seen, but Mrs Morris coming up and offering a handkerchief and napkin made it clear that wasn't true. She added, "Lord Potter! If you want me to sit up here with you where I am very visible, then please? Try not to make me a spectacle!" Hermione chided in soft tones, her eyes laughing.
"Yes, my lady. I'm sorry I forgot I was on display. Hey! How did that happen? I'm actually getting comfortable with all this. I don't think it's my family ring. Or magic." Harry didn't want to annoy her so much she stopped being up here with him.
The girl rolled her eyes, and made for the large facilities in the back corner. When she came back, Harry really did try to just talk about classes and things, and didn't crack anymore jokes.
Hermione accepted that as an apology.
**ODD**
Flying Hawk, his granddaughter and any MFBI agents without family and were on duty were taking their meal with the rest of the village in the community hall. The venison had been sent on ahead, along with some native dishes they hoped would be acceptable by the group at large.
He couldn't help but notice that Seneschal Lupin warmly welcomed everyone, and Agent Abigail had defrosted enough to give the man a small smile.
Flying Hawk was invited to sit at the high table. Unaware of the honor offer, he declined but was curious as to what these Old-worlders were going to do next.
**ODD**
The procession for this feast was a little different. Hermione came in on Harry's arm, Sirius escorted Madam Bagshot, and the rest of the family lined up behind. Moody was going to sit with his friends in service. Tonks was in front of instead of next to the detective.
"I was going to offer to escort you in." Higgs nearly pouted.
"But I wanted to talk to you during dinner."
It was only after the procession, seeing people splitting left and right, he understood that decision. He was grateful for the borrowed robes from Dan of all people.
He didn't think an Adept would have such clothes back in jolly ole England!
The whole family took their places at the high table for the second Thanksgiving feast served. Harry had a nice gift for Widow Beddew who had organized everything. She came forward wearing a simple new dress in burnt orange, with a matching frilly apron of greens, golds and the same orange. He'd chosen an elegant but simple charm bracelet as a thank you gift. The first charm was a cornucopia to commemorate her work for their first Thanksgiving. It was wrapped up in a pot he had made himself. It was a little wonky, but had the growing runes etched in it. It was meant for kitchen herbs.
She smiled in appreciation for both gifts.
The villagers, and temporary families like the Boots all clapped for her. Dessert was served including various pumpkin dishes. Harry loved the spices of the pies, and said so to Livy who helped make those.
Some of the people from the high table had quickly vacated after the opening blessing. Moody had gone to sit next to Flying Hawk, and talk shop with some of the agents. Abigail and Moony were sending each other looks. Their inner wolves were getting frustrated with their silly humans though. They wanted to eat together!
Toasts from Mr Boot were made to his hosts there, and after a few more toasts, Harry knew that that was their signal to go.
Lord Harry stood, "Tomorrow night, there will be a community dance. Please understand. No work is being done except the minimum - let's feed and water the animals and such, but this really is meant to be a holiday. I'm grateful the dance is not being held today: I don't think I could move, much less dance."
The locals cheered, and were encouraged to stay and mingle, but the Arglwydd was tired and headed to bed. The family then made their rounds, thanking everyone for their help. The agents left knowing they had found welcome and acceptance in this group.
Their first Thanksgiving had been fairly quiet after the excitement of the quadpot game. All in all, a good day.
**ODD**
Detective Weaver talked Tonks into going to the dance the next night. She thought she looked very foolish, but the villagers were welcoming to all.
Tonks did not tease Sirius for his attempts. He exchanged partners, but wound up talking to Carmen Cordero - Alejandro's unmarried witch cousin. She danced with grace and laughter, wearing a colorful holiday full-skirted light dress from her homeland.
The local folk dances were taught by an expert; there was good-natured laughter at the minor mistakes but it was all in good fun and without rancor. No lunch had been served, but a full tea/supper had been served at four so everyone would be ready to dance.
Refreshments included Welsh favorites that Higgs had never tried. Dora and he shared a plate that included slices of Glamorgan sausage and Caerphilly cheese with warm homemade bread slathered in fresh butter.
They had a very nice evening, and Higgs was tempted to try and kiss the girl, but wanted to wait until she was no longer a student at Salem, just for appearances sake.
Tonks wanted a kiss too, but understood that wasn't happening right now. She was starting to think about going into the force here. Harry made it clear the world was her oyster, and he'd be happy to fund her college if she wanted to go.
She was thinking about that. Higgs would date a college witch, just not a schoolgirl. It was a thought.
**ODD**
Harry watched the villagers just enjoying music and dancing and being carefree. Sirius was dancing with Carmen. He didn't see the older women of their village gossiping about it behind their knitting.
Neville was hiding from Sally Anne, who wanted to dance each and every one, and Ricardo was happily showing Susan the wrong steps, but she was cheerfully trying. The rest of the House was just enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
Then a dance was called that Harry actually knew, having had instruction that Alice had arranged. This was his chance.
"My lady? May I have this dance?" Harry bowed formally to Hermione.
Hermione beamed. She didn't feel she was as talented as Sally Anne, but she truly loved dancing.
Harry and she danced and danced, becoming closer with each turn of the wheel. Harry took Hermione for a stroll, just to ask her a question. He was working up his courage.
That was when the shouting started.
**ODD**
"I can't believe you bend the knee to that weak shadow of his grandfather. Now there was an Arglwydd to be proud of! Not wasting the family gold. Our gold." A Welsh male voice was heard, but they were around the corner, and couldn't be seen.
"I'm taking my NEWTs next month. I'll be home by Christmas. I'm coming home, sir." It was clearly Colin Elam's voice
Well, no love lost there. Let him go back.
Harry took Hermione's hand, and they returned to the main house, unseen from the people talking. But the mood was lost, and Harry wondered where he was failing his people.
He was only eleven, and only had a few months of 'Lord' training, but he was determined to do better.
Hermione sensed Harry's unhappiness, and gave him a sweet kiss on his cheek for goodnight.
**ODD**
ODD (Order Defying Dumbledore)
A/N: Story recommended Mourning Dove By: MissMusicalSurge
s/13950795/1/Mourning-Dove
No one thinks to check on Harry Potter after being placed at the Dursley house. No one cares enough to make sure that Harry Potter is safe, loved, and cared for. Now Hogwarts has a new ghost and Severus has taken on the responsibility to guide and care for the broken child since he failed in his duties and promises to Lily Potter to keep her son safe.
A/N: Your story recommendation here -
**ODD**
ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language
O.D.D. (Order Defying Dumbledore)