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.
**ODD**
Scorecard of what has happened so far:
This story is AU: Sirius has created a way to see who is under an Unbreakable Vow, but is still trying to find ways to detect the imperius curse.
The newlywed Lupins have a new bouncing baby boy - well he's 6, but he's theirs now. They are calling him Teddy, short form of Teddy Bear. In the background, The Gregory-Symthes were charged with a variety of crimes that included child abuse and intent to sell a child for a dark ritual. That is something Americans are very against. They are in prison for a long, long time and never getting their adopted boy back.
In the background, Harry continues to work on his skills in both flying and pottery. He donated a bowl with complex magic to a charity auction for the aurors. He doesn't know it, but his work will slowly become known in art circles. Magicals in America will be interested in his work without ever knowing about any Boy-Who-Lived nonsense.
In the background, Harry wants to try and recover some of the missing books from the library. The pottery section is quite depleted.
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.
Luna was in Black Keep for a minute, and is now writing to Harry on a regular basis. Only time will tell when is the right time to bring her to safety, though Dumbledore is acting like he has no real interest in the child.
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 18 - Knowledge Found
**ODD**
July 19th Grand Prix, Rock Island, Illinois
The competition started with an exhibition from their neighbors to the north. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police came and did an aerial display that had the crowds gasping and glad they had their omnioculars to rewatch it. Very, very impressive.
The day started with eventing in a different location, but the steeplechase was where they had their box.
The competition had been fierce! Fleetwing came in third, but she had nearly been hit by one of the arms of a trap - it had been close! The referees had pocket pensieves though, and used them: Nothing like being able to show someone they didn't fault!
Ricardo and Harry cheered loudly, proud of the job done by Papa Cordero.
For this event the top ten riders were given nice prizes. Placing so well their first season was a compliment to their jockey and full team. Harry was escorted into the 'Winners Circle' for pictures.
During the time when Harry was out of the box, Frank saw a different familiar face than who they were expecting and went instantly on alert. He got Weaver's attention to the potential threat. Then Lord Longbottom did the smartest thing. He bowed to Fleetwing, and put Harry on her back. Harry reached out to Hermione but the rest of the family was being hustled to the trailer area where they had a portal home.
Harry understood why, but worried about his friend. Friends. Anyone, especially a stranger, approaching the boy to do him harm would have to get past the racer's natural weapons!
There was a flurry of pics of the young Potter boy. Word had gotten out about him. Their merchandise stall was sold out of everything, down to the last feather. Newspeople shouted questions both kind and a bit rude, but Harry just waved. Weaver pulled the potential threat away and came back smiling…Without anyone with him.
The young lord wasn't sure what was going on. Diggle had been 'arrested' earlier. his picture would be in the Salem paper at least. Who was this other threat?
Harry would find out later why he was smiling. Yet one more of Dumble's dwindling minions had been taken into custody. It still didn't make anyone less on edge.
Due to the scare though, Harry was sent home immediately with BloodRage. Harry thought splitting up was a plan to make the enemy reveal themselves. He certainly hoped they did in front of this scary goblin!
BloodRage did not offer to take anyone else, and Harry had to be blindfolded once they got to the carts at Gringotts, Rock Island (near Chicago). Harry thanked Jam for the quick extraction from the race itself.
"Because you are a personal friend of Ragnok's…" Harry could suddenly see. BloodRage continued, "Because you are his friend, you may use this conveyance. You however must remain blindfolded."
Harry started to object that he could see just fine, and then realized that his goblin guard friend would not have pulled such a maneuver if he didn't have permission.
"I understand." Harry intoned.
The boy whooped his way through the well lit caverns. There was one stop where the lights had been turned off for a time, but Harry understood why when they came to a brief stop at a crystal river of sparkling blue sapphires. The sight was so lovely and so magical that Harry cried. Was BloodRage wiping tears?
"Thinking of how grateful my mate will be. I did not bet for you to win, but to place in the top five. I have made profit upon your House again without any effort on my part, and I got paid to watch."
"And you'll get your emergency extraction bonus. Sweet!"
"Yes. You must be careful, Lord Harry. You have a dangerous enemy out there. One who wants your House to be poor, lost, and extinct."
"I was lucky I got to go today at all. I doubt I'll get to go another time. Well, the next race is in March, anyway. Oh, BloodRage. I meant to ask. How's what's-her-name? Your mate doing?"
"That was a pathetic attempt to find out Thistle's name. Oh no! I let it slip." The tone was clearly jesting.
"Ha, ha. Whatever it is, I can be guaranteed it isn't Thistle."
And Harry was right, in a way. BloodRage's mate's real name was the goblin word for an obscure type of thistle.
**ODD**
After seeing their 'griffs safely home, Sirius, Carmen, Remus, Alejandro, and Harry had a very serious meeting over the racing season.
Some of the calculated costs had been higher than anticipated; others, like stabling, had been lower due to using the trailer portal. They reviewed the year's expenses, and made an estimate for the following year.
Alejandro's bonuses came off the top, before anything else. Then, they kept a good part of the purse won aside for those expected expenditures. A share was set aside for Harry, and the rest was going to the House.
Alejandro was obviously fighting tears before the meeting ended. "Never. Never have I been treated like family, like a good friend. Always a servant. I was never included in planning - just told where to go, sometimes being forced to overfly a racer, over my objections, and was then penalized when further injury resulted."
The jockey blew his nose.
"You…listen. Your people here - Miss Susan, who bought healing plants, and Lord Neville who is growing more…Lord Harry who listens and learns more and more every day…Thank you."
Carmen held him closely for a moment, "Mijo! You have deserved something good after all of the trials you have been through. You are a wonderful father to our Ricardo." She then squeezed her husband's hand. "We are in a very good place here."
Harry gave Alejandro a hug when Carmen released him. "I'm so glad I met you, sir. I'm glad you're here. Your victories are our victories, but they are yours too."
Lord Harry understood. Alejandro nodded at the wisdom shown here. Always before any victory he ever had won had been tromped on by the owner of the farm, the managers. Not here, and never again.
**ODD**
Harry had been concerned with the new baby, and everything going on, that Neville was not only feeling ignored, he was rather overworked.
"What's your favorite pastime, and don't say plants! I mean, for fun!"
"Plants are fun! I know you enjoy your work, too, Harry, or you wouldn't spend so much time in the pottery workshop."
The boys shared indulgent looks. Both had been a bit neglected, though Neville had never been physically abused or denied food. But the young wizard understood what his godbrother was trying to do.
"How about a game night? Twice a week - once with just us playing something, and another with everyone." Heir Longbottom suggested.
Harry beamed, "You're on!"
"Great! I got this game just recently. It's like your trivia game, but it's about magical plants, their common names and proper names. You'll love it."
Harry's face turned from happy to horrified, "WHAT? You're joking! That's, that's…"
"A jest, a jibe, or some might call it a prank. Gotcha!" Neville poked his arm, then dodged away.
The subsequent tag game was sent outside by two different aunties of the painted variety who smiled indulgently once the boys were away.
**ODD**
The following weekend, Harry held a grand feast to celebrate the winning season. Harry was worried with the amount of coin being given out that he would lose his people. But these wizards and witches knew they were only getting started in racing. There were other venues, and their flock of hippogriffs had some very valuable bloodlines.
Being able to share in the profits was a huge incentive to stay! Some might be requesting improvements to their cottages, or getting a new one to let someone else take theirs, but people were staying.
No, there might be a bit of excessive drinking down at the pub, but the Seneschal had a strict 'no drinking on duty' policy, and had Marauder ways of dealing with anyone who tried to show up to work less than stone-cold sober.
And unlike some farms in the area, one Moony Special was enough to convince anyone not to try it again.
Neville hadn't wanted a big fuss, so a part of this feast also had a toast to Neville for his birthday. Harry tried to find a game like Neville had teased about with no luck. He was able to find some beautifully done flashcards meant for NEWT study for Herbology that had moving pictures of the plant on one side, and the names, planting guide, where found, and other facts on the other side.
The boy loved them, and Harry saw the older teens eyeing the cards.
"I bought two sets, one of which will remain in the library as part of the revising materials." Harry intoned. Which was a good thing he had.
Sarah looked ready to pounce on those cards. Instead, she hugged Neville and thanked him for all he did.
Hermione saw Harry's face, and gave him a hug as well. "Thank you, Harry. A perfect gift. For all of us."
**ODD**
July 31st, Harry's Study
Alice came in. Harry was late for his birthday dinner. The young Arglwydd was clearly thinking since they'd just had a big dinner celebrating Alejandro's success, he could sneak out of having one for himself.
The boy was clearly dressed for dinner, but was entranced in a book. A very old looking book.
"Harry? Are you alright?" She had her wand out in case somehow, one of Harry's presents had snuck through the safety check, and her godson was now ensorcelled. They had received a note saying BloodRage's birthday gift was delayed for a good reason, and part of Spurnik's gift was the delivery of a request Harry had made.
"The museum up in Quebec that had that bowl with the celtic knotwork? I sent them a request, you know, through the post. To see if they knew anything about the artist who made it. They did. And he was a Potter by birth. He published a book! Spurnik found a copy of it for me. It apparently didn't sell very well. He sold it to me for only a 25% upcharge. I think I accidentally cheated him though.
"I don't know how it landed there, but somehow, one of my ancestor's bowls and this book wound up in Canada. I might have relatives in that country! But aside from that, it talks about the enchanted ornaments that I made for Christmas, and other enchantments. Family magic. I had to drop blood for the book to open completely. The beginning was very basic so that might account for it not selling well.
"Look! There's a cup here. I want to make this!" Harry showed off the picture.
Alice looked and read the inscription, "'In vino veritas, in cervisia, magna proposita et in aqua vero imperium.' I recognize the first. In wine, truth. The second? In ale, all my goals? Well, boasting goals? And this last, in water, who controls me? I don't understand."
Harry handed over the book to show Alice. She too was soon mesmerized. Livy popped in, looking for them both.
"Oops. I was coming to get you for dinner. You, birthday boy, are late. Neville and the others are waiting. Let's take a look at this together tomorrow first thing. I want Frank to see this."
Harry nodded, carefully putting a bookmark in place. If he was reading this right, putting wine in that cup would have anyone drinking out of it speaking truth to any question posed.
Drinking ale would have them boasting of their goals.
Drinking water from it would show if they were under any kind of mind control.
If it worked as he thought he was reading, it meant he could check on everyone at their home or entering their home to make sure they weren't imperiused. Harry wasn't thinking about implications outside of his little sphere.
Of course, there was the little issue of getting it made correctly.
**ODD**
Monday, August 10th, Lupin Cottage 9 AM
They had made arrangements for the night of the full moon for their new son, but just when to send him away was not yet decided. She'd wait to see how she was feeling tonight, but she might call in Harry and Neville a night early. Wednesday night was the full moon.
Abigail had taken care of the child in the middle of the night again, another nightmare, and Remus and he were both gone when the phone had rudely awakened her from a very pleasant dream of hunting with her mate.
Why did people think it was a good idea to pick on a werewolf just days before a full moon?
"What?" Agent Addams snarled picking up the phone. She was supposed to have this time off!
"Sorry Agent. Intel has been delivered. There's going to be a special inquest regarding custody of your foster son. You and your husband are requested to come in to meet with the legal team today at 10:00 AM. City Hall, Room 4, main level. Meet the ADA."
"Will do. Addams out."
Abigail paled. Had she and Remus made too many mistakes? Been too harsh or too lenient? Oh dear!
Grabbing a specialized calming draught that allowed her to appear as normal as possible in public on days close to the full moon, she went to track down her mate. Oh, and she grabbed some protein snacks from their mini-fridge next to the bed.
No need to go snarling at innocent people after all. It didn't make her appear all that kind or competent as a parent.
She put in an urgent call to Dharma Briokz. Thanks to not having apartment rent, she tried not to worry about his bill. She never even thought of asking Sirius or Harry for help with it. It was not who she was.
She found Thomas in a specialized backpack watching Daddy work. How adorable their cub was! His hair and coloring was just like Moony's. The boy was chattering away, ever so happy. The scene had her ready to pull her wand against their enemies.
That or just rip their throats out. That worked too.
By the time she was done relating what had happened, Moony had picked up his mirror to make two quick calls. One was for a replacement for his work, the other was to his best friend. Sirius in turn made a call to Detective Weaver. Higgs agreed to meet them at court.
Something was very fishy here, and no one liked the odor du jour in the least!
**ODD**
Jennifer Weaver was a beautiful witch, no doubt there. She had a teenage daughter, Erin, at Salem who was in the same grade as Sarah Miller. As ADA, she'd been informed regarding the hearing about to happen, "I'm sorry Higgs. Are the muggles guilty? Yes, and they had a fair trial. I'm happy to bury them under the prison for what they did and what they intended to do. And the court ruled all their assets be turned over to the child and held in trust. But you have to understand: With this much gold involved, of course people are going to go after custody of the child!"
"I've known Seneschal Lupin for almost a year! He's not in this for money! He has a great job, and works with a wonderful family. And you know Agent Addams!"
"I also know that she is not getting a knut of family support, Higgs. No one just gives up their career for a kid without a good reason." Jenny made a motion of rubbing her fingers together in accusal.
Higgs was incensed. "She would never! I was there when WCS brought the child to the Blacks for safety. There was no mention of money at the time - they opened their hearts and home on the spot! This isn't about treasure in the least!
"She was already on leave when the parents were sentenced. And they celebrated, knowing it meant they could keep the child as theirs. Permanently if all goes well!"
Moony and Abi could hear all too well, and what they heard didn't sound good. They joined the brother and sister. The Lupins were early, and Dharma Briokz was to meet them here. Remus pointed to the assigned room and engaged the privacy runes once they were all there. Higgs waited for that before introductions.
"Ah, Remus and Abigail. Please meet my sister, ADA Jennifer Weaver. People from England were worried about the Gregory-Smythes or at least about their investment capital. It seems your goblins have upset a few people, and it has led to Aunt and Uncle Gregory to try and claim custody."
Abigail was past due for a second potion. "Those monstrous guardians admitted under truth spells to beating the child in England and here. They somehow found out about Dumbledore looking for magical children - likely from others who had escaped, and they intended to try and sell or give the boy to that evil wizard. Isn't that why they are in prison?"
"Yes. Partially. The reasons were different here…that doesn't matter. They intended to sell a child who would then likely be murdered. Heinous crime, and they are being punished for it. Really, all these relatives are after is the family money. A larger purse now with the proceeds from the insurance money for the house and contents burned…" Jenny admitted. "The court deemed all such monies to belong to the minor child."
Remus gave his mate a look before stating, "Then let Teddy keep whatever college or trust he already had, and give them the rest. See if they continue to fight to be with Thomas. Or if they had nothing set aside for Thomas, then send it all. We aren't interested in him for his money. He's our new son."
"One we will fight to keep." Abigail growled. "My apologies. I already love Teddy. We of course want what is best for him."
There was a knock at the door. Higgs and Jenny straightened, and nodded heads. Their grandfather was here, "Commissioner, sir."
Remus smiled, "It's good to see you, Commissioner Weaver, though I wish it were under better circumstances." The two shook hands amiably.
Another knock had their lawyer invited in and introduced all around.
Abigail informed Briokz, "This appears to be a play for the family treasures. Spurnik changed some investment strategies and 'upset' people."
Remus admitted, "Some of that is my fault after going over similar investments of Harry's. We dumped some businesses that had shady connections, and bought stock in companies with sterling reputations, and lower yields. I shudder to think about just where some of that money actually came from."
"Rocking the boat because of potential evil dealings? Good for you." The commissioner smiled. "We have to hear the British representative, but we don't have to give him anything at all."
Remus knew the amount of coin they were talking about. But did the relatives? "I think we should find out how much they are looking for, and give them most of that, as long as they sign a contract to never try and dip in the well again."
Abigail just wanted to give it all away in order to close the door. But if they thought they were getting most of it…"That could work, my husband. But you folks need to know, I won't willingly give up Teddy unless we are found to be somehow negligent.
All there agreed, and in force, went to face the enemy. Well, their lawyers at least.
**ODD**
Remus read a story to Teddy that night, while being held by Abigail. She was calm enough now that she was glad she hadn't changed plans. Harry and Neville were going to spend time with the child on the morrow, as the boys planned to help keep watch over Teddy the next night.
The boys would be staying in a tent in the Community Hall, and being doted on by Dotty.
It did indeed turn out that the relatives were just as greedy as the father, and were happy with a pay-out, and signing over any future claims to the child. They were checked with the new potion, and either it didn't work, or they were not under the imperius. Either way, this door was closed.
The Lupins didn't know that for the child's safety, the authorities took WCS Stevens' advice and obliviated the Gregory's. They thought the money was an inheritance after the brother's family all died in the fire. They spent a small portion on a family marker and placed the provided fake ashes in it. And that closed the door on Teddy's past.
His future looked bright indeed.
**ODD**
Friday, August 14th
Harry looked out the window of the new Master's study. He had his own desk here now; Remus was still using Lord Charlus' old one. He and Luna had been sharing letters ever since he rescued her. She was going to be attending Hogwarts, but wasn't imprisoned in mind or body. She wanted to go to Gryffindor to be with her friend Ginny. Since meeting the twins, his bet was she would go to Slytherin, just as he would have.
Despite what Harry had told his godparents, Harry wanted to be old enough right now to take out Dimmer. Maybe Luna could dream about it? Tell him the secret to taking the old wizard out without killing him? Killing him without a spell. Or sword. Or bullet for that matter. Dan didn't know that Harry knew about that failed mission.
Just what did that prophecy mean? There had to be a way!
In the meantime, he had correspondence to address. One of the companies that bought Dragondew Deluxe ™ had an early and hugely overabundance of peanuts thanks to the new fertilizer. They wanted to know if Harry wanted some for his little carts?
First ton was free.
Harry would have to do some research on that. Oh sure, back when he lived with the Dursleys, Dudley wanted peanut butter sandwiches and snacks. He knew from other racers that the farm in Virginia boiled their peanuts in various flavors to sell at their merchandise booth.
Harry shuddered. His family had the pottery and the quills, along with the standard racing stuff everyone sold. That was enough 'unique' items. He did not need to copy another farm. But wait! What about the carts?
He looked up kitchen equipment, and saw the cost of a magical processor to make peanut butter. Wait. It cost that much? Why?
Oh, it roasted, then shelled, then sorted bad ones, then ground them. The side assembly pieces to add oil, and optional sugar were included, but the assembly to put the product into jars wasn't. Still.
Harry was good at this. Without the labor, he had the quote per ton, the wastage in shells and bad nuts, and the amount of raw peanuts/jar of finished peanut butter for the 22 ounce size jar figured out.
Was it really that cheap? Well, he'd have to add labor, but still.
And if he wanted to add the other kind, the pots to boil peanuts were very cheap. That could be done just as a lark! A 'snack from the colonies'. People would try it for the novelty.
The roaster was part of the peanut butter, but whole peanuts could be bagged up right then. Hot roasted peanuts purchased on the way home on a windy day? He could see the twins' father purchasing the treat if it were cheap enough. Of course, it could be used for the more traditional chestnuts as well.
Harry ran some more numbers. This really had potential! It did! Yes! Yes!
He might not be closer to solving the Dummer problem, but he was going to make Neville happy. And provide jobs for the newcomers. Good!
He loved fresh roasted peanuts. He started a letter to Spurnik and Dharma Briokz requesting a meeting, and pulled out his linked meeting notebook. Sirius had created them. Clever mage.
Getting Alice's yes, Harry sent the request. He just needed one of his guardians to go with him. He wrote out the cost of the machine, and jars. The estimated labor to just create roasted peanuts. Oh, how much were bags? How long did it take to bag up the roasted snacks? Hmm. Perhaps, how many bags could be filled and sold in an hour would be better. Oh, and allow wastage in spills and such…
Harry never realized he was doing far more complicated math than he complained about needing to learn as he would never use it!
He wrote it all out, and sent it to Remus, Sirius, Alice, and Spurnik. He even sent an elf to find a source of some fresh roasted peanuts to share with the goblins when they met.
Spurnik had tear stains on his return letter confirming the appointment. Harry was sure they were fake, but it was his code in how sad he was that Harry wasn't his goblin son!
**ODD**
Harry was working in the pottery workshop when a chime sounded. He looked up to see Teddy trying to get in. Adults were there to deal with it, but the boy was looking for him.
Uh oh. Only children old enough to do actual work were allowed in. Widow Beddew would hold arts and crafts in the community hall that included slab working…and that gave Harry an idea.
Neville was there just to hang out, and didn't come every day.
"Teddy? Would you like to make Neville's mummy a very special pot?" Harry asked.
Neville knew Harry would never mislead a child. "Can I come too? Please?"
"Yes, but we need to take clay and aprons with us. If you will excuse me, ladies."
Susan's nose twitched. Hermione wasn't staying if they could go to the community hall. As a group, they took platters of clay, the smallest apron available, keeping their own, and made their way in a different kind of procession.
Harry had protective sheets on the tables before they even arrived!
**ODD**
Once they were outside, Neville went to 'check on something'. Harry figured he'd be back in an hour or so. Pottery wasn't his passion, and he only did it to be with his friends.
Harry took advantage of his absence as they settled down to work, "You see, snails are part of Neville's coat of arms. He really likes them." Harry whispered the white lie.
The House of Longbottom had a thistle and rose. However, Harry had found someone painted a slowly moving snail on the Patent of Arms for House Longbottom. It was likely a bored artist, working on the illumination of the document's flowers and vines, but Harry had gently jibed him ever since.
"You roll out the pieces carefully like this…" Harry made little cigar shapes, then demonstrated rolling them up into a snail shape. "A pinch for the eye-stalks, and your snail is done. We let them dry for a bit, and make a coil for a base. We can then make a row of snails around the outside of the coil, then add a long piece of clay on top of that row, and add another row of snails along the outside. When it gets tall enough, we glaze it, bake it, and it will be ready."
Showing tenacity beyond his years, and with a bit of help from Sally-Anne, Hermione, Susan, and Ricardo, Teddy soon had his growing pot ready to glaze.
"It's way better than my first piece. Why didn't you tell me this, Potter?" Ricardo demanded.
"Maybe because he hadn't learned it yet, Cordero." Neville defended, coming in with a tray of snacks. "Hey! That's really good Teddy! Is that…?"
"I mades it just for you, New..ville." Teddy was trying to enunciate. "Do you likes it?
Neville's eye twitched only a little. "I'm sure mum will be very surprised. Thank you, Teddy. What color do you want it to be?"
"Slytherin green, cause that's your favorite house. Right?" Teddy asked.
"It certainly is someone's…isn't it, Harry?" Neville growled lowly.
**ODD**
Alice and Sirius accompanied Harry to Gringotts, but planned on letting Lord Harry do the talking. Harry was disappointed Bets wasn't coming with them, but had pictures to show their goblin friends.
BloodRage's job description included keeping Spurnik safe. Therefore, the goblin was throwing himself on the unexploded peanut butter. Harry found six different kinds in the US who used the machines they were talking about purchasing.
One was even selling to mundanes using trucks to pick up products! All of their costs were far higher than Harry's as he didn't have to account for overhead like rent, utilities, and so forth.
He had worked hard on the actual typed business proposal.
Spurnik liked the roasted peanuts, but the shells were messy and didn't banish nicely. BloodRage was having trouble swallowing. Harry might have pranked him a bit, and brought out the cup of cold milk. In a Potter racing team mug that was a gift. Harry had a clean empty one for Spurnik.
The goblin took a tentative sip, then asked what it was. Harry told him. He drank more, pronouncing it very good.
Harry handed over the card for the dairy manager. They sold excess fresh milk through the carts, and were happy to provide their friends homemade cheese and other dairy products that were available. For a reasonable fee.
Spurnik burst into laughter.
The plan for the peanut butter business was approved. The meeting was breaking up, when suddenly, BloodRage bolted out of the room.
"What? Did I insult him?" Harry truly looked concerned, but Spurnik just smiled a toothy grin. The guard had sent him an apology about his birthday gift being late. Was he embarrassed?
The guard returned with a young pup or cub. Alice backed up against the wall. That thing had more teeth than any animal she'd ever seen!
"My mate's targ had cubs. We wanted you to have one, you know, for protection. Many goblings get their first cub at your age."
Sirius looked a bit taken aback as well. His inner puppy was crying and scratching at the walls, begging to run far, far away.
"Perhaps you can get permission to bring it to school." BloodRage sat the puppy-like being down on the stone floor.
Harry was there petting it in a trice. It's whip-like tail thumping everything around them. "We just need to get Dumbledore's magical signature and this little guy would just eat him up," the lad cooed.
Spurnik came over and the pup snarled and snapped at him, nearly taking off a finger.
"Yer nay bringin' tha' hoom!" Alice snapped out, her Scottish burr at full bore, then modified her tone, "I'm sorry. I'm sure this is a valuable gift, and clearly Harry has a way with the baby…"
"Targ, godmother. It's a baby targ." Harry informed.
"It's a lovely targ. But how would it treat the animals back home?" Alice was so very grateful for the occlumency lessons learned early in her life, something that all the children of the manor worked on regularly.
"Oh, this precious guy is a carnivore, a full grown one can bring down a hippogr'…Oh, I see your point. Who's a good boy?" Harry pulled some liver treats from his pocket, and gave the ugly thing one more pet.
"I really appreciate it, I really do. But I don't have a safe place for it. Though I really would love to mail one to Dumbledore, but I can't accept it. No offense." Harry held out his hand to BloodRage.
BloodRage shook it. "None taken. I will arrange for it to go to a good family." The guard picked up the animal to take it back home.
The smart boy seemed to understand what was happening, and yipped.
"I'm sure I will see you again. Good boy!" Harry tossed it another treat, and it was snapped up happily.
Sirius forgot all manners, and just pulled Harry out to the waiting carriage. Alice mumbled something, but both adults were spooked. Harry on the other hand was feeling very sad, and hoped he would see the puppy again one day.
Alice and Sirius exchanged looks clearly hoping to ne'er experience that animal again.
He tried to focus on the jobs and opportunities for his people this new venture represented.
With magic, and hired help, it didn't take long at all to have the roasters, finished peanut butter and the bags ready to test the waters if these would sell or not.
**ODD**
Friday, August 28th Hogsmeade
After getting some of the equipment, they decided to run a test in Hogsmeade. It was the largest customer base. If they bought fresh roasted peanuts, they could roll it out to the other vendors.
Besides, school would be back in session, and a small bag of peanuts was cheaper than most things at Honeydukes or the Three Broomsticks. Tasty, healthy, and cheap. Now that was a good snack.
**ODD**
The headmaster knew that detestable smell! Roasting nuts - he and his friend had tried them just that once. And never again!
He refused to have this in his school; or near his school.
Peanuts were insidious. Yes. The economy would be irreparably harmed…something…This would not be tolerated!
He rushed from the area as if on fire.
**ODD**
While the roasted peanuts were being tested, Harry had another idea to pursue. He needed to educate the British magical community just what was being offered in this new product.
Harry asked for and received help in the community hall kitchen. He arrived with a dozen jars of fresh peanut butter, a muggle recipe book, and several fancy recipe cards.
Moody had arranged safe printing of the book. This order was a sort of apology to someone for something. Harry hadn't really paid attention. What kind of a name was Xero or Nero? Something.
Mrs Morris showed up with an apron for Harry that men wore when cooking. The camera was old and wizarding, and several people wound up helping with the new cookbook.
Harry signed the first couple off the press to Mrs Morris for all her help. And one for each of the twins that said to Gred and Forge. One for Hermione that had a 'your my inspiration'. The rest were heading to carts. Hehehe.
**ODD**
Alice had asked Hermione to watch Fiona Elizabeth for just a minute while she did something. The girl had taken the baby without question, knowing there was a lot of help around if needed.
Harry came into the manor from the community hall and saw his friend holding the baby, playing with her little hands. For just a moment, his mind jumped to a vision of a dozen years from now. Hermione, sitting there, playing with not just some random child, but their baby. She wore a smile deeper and more loving in that brief vision, her hair was tamer, and her body was more fully adult. She glowed with happiness, then saw him there and gave him a look, eyes full of love.
The vision faded quickly, but Harry went to greet both witches, and would carry that vision with him for the next dozen years until it became true.
**ODD**
Last Wizengamot of Aug, 1992
Lucius Malfoy saw the perfect opportunity, and mirror-called Sirius Black to warn him of his plans. "Headmaster Dumbledore is completely right. These so called peanuts are not only not a real nut, they aren't even grown in England! Nor harvested here. The crop does not support our people. Roasting these underground nuts is ludicrous! Let these little merchants roast chestnuts, or hazelnuts, or walnuts or other British-grown food. Let no more smells from foreign foods foul our nation's air."
Dumbledore blinked. Maybe the people there were still a bit spooked. Most everyone had been quiet for months. It was a good sign that Lucius supported him. Yes.
The law was quickly implemented; signed, sealed, and Dumbledore had Scrimgeour place aurors to stake out all of the little carts waiting for law-breakers. Instead, they were treated to fresh roasted walnuts, hazelnuts and of course the most traditional chestnuts. Different nuts in different carts. All with proof of British provenance.
What went unnoticed, as he didn't know what it was, were jars of peanut butter. The new cookbook, 'Harry Potter Welcomes you to his Kitchen', had several recipes. It also had little stories, and the truth of the heartbreaking law behind it 'being illegal to sell freshly roasted peanuts in Magical Britain.'
Moving pictures in the book had Harry demonstrating several recipes using peanut butter as an ingredient.
Harry sent the goblin version of the cookbook, which included Satay Goat, to Ragnok in time for one of the goblin holidays that Harry had made mugs for.
With the glut on the market for peanuts, Harry was able to buy tons of the legumes at a steep discount. He bought what he thought was enough for five years. The advantages of magical food storage with stasis features. He underestimated the need for people to make Potter Peanut Butter ™ Biscuits at home, with Potter Peanut Butter ™.
As stock ran low, the vendors of the legumes were happy to restock at the same, low, low price. Brilliant!
**ODD**
Since the workers hired were people rescued from Britain, Harry didn't want to take too much gold out of the profits for himself, but he had a need.
And it certainly wasn't for speed! And Harry had worked with his team to deal with that. Hehehe.
Nope, he needed reliability, stability, and safety more than anything else. Rumors were they would be flying at school. So he used his Peppridge inheritance instead, asking Pepper what he thought. The elf teared up to be asked, but did agree his mistress would approve the purchase.
His watch beeped. He was late for the workshop, and hustled out the door, waving to Neville, inviting him to join him, but he declined. He didn't like swimming, or biking much. He didn't like basketball. He didn't even want to try basket-weaving. At least he was coming to game night.
Neville had been too quiet during the summer -all Neville did was work, work, work. Harry'd have to correct the issue. It was past time to add some more fun to his friend's life.
Thinking these things, Harry hustled so he wouldn't be late for his work, and never seeing the irony.
**ODD**
The most experienced potter in the shop was an old woman that rarely spoke to the others. Her blood family was all grown, and none of them had any patience for the 'mud-working' craft.
She had gone nearly mute when the shop was closed, and had only recently begun speaking to others, and then only in short phrases.
She had watched the young lord, expecting him to be another James at first, and was pleasantly surprised to see a young Charlus in him. No, Charlus had no patience for working the clay either.
She saw him struggling with yet another attempt at a difficult shaped cup.
"One of the great challenges in pottery is the amount of clay. Too little, and the vessel cannot grow, the walls of the shape collapse, and one has to begin again.
"Too much is also a problem. The trick is to determine your goal, and strive for just the right amount. Adding or taking away at the wrong times can destroy your effort."
Harry had seen her of course, working in her corner, but didn't know her name. "I'm Harry ma'am."
"I'm Elsbeth Peascomb. My story is simple enough; I fled an unwanted betrothal with that awful Flint boy and sought refuge with the newly married Euphemia Potter, a friend from school. And then I did the unthinkable, and fell in love with a commoner. Euphemia didn't mind, and invited us to live in the manor, but my young Edward wouldn't do it. When it was discovered I had a talent with the wheel, she lent me copies of the books you once had in your library.
"I was waiting to see if this was a ruse of yours, or if you truly cared about the craft.
"Dumbledore seemed determined to ruin House Potter I think. Convinced Lord James to shut the workshop down, wanted him to bring all of the craft books to Hogwarts. And he did. Rather, he thought he did.
"He didn't know that most were empty copies, and it seems that no one bothered to check. The few real books were ones that we had multiple copies of. I know you've spent money getting them back. I'm sorry for the waste of coin, but I had to be sure. We've been betrayed before."
Harry reached out to take hold of her hand, holding his breath, "Are you saying you know where those real books are? The ones I've been searching for?"
"Aye. They're in a safe place. I've kept my oaths to Euphemia, and to you, keeping them safe. Away from being sold; away from Dumbledore."
The young lord closed his eyes. He could almost feel the old wizard's searching, like an octopus tentril, reaching out. Grasping.
Why coerce James into closing the workshop? It was bringing in money. Did his grandmother's death have anything to do with the old wizard? She was killed in an attack on their community hall in Wales. Was it to stop something she was doing? How was an elderly lady throwing pots a danger to the not-dear-old-man?
Or maybe the books had nothing to do with it, and were just another resource to exploit.
Harry showed Madam Peascomb the tome he was working from, "See this book? I think it was sold by Dumbledore to keep it away from me. I'm trying to make this cup…and you have more books like this? Yes! I knew it! I knew they were somewhere. Well, I hoped they hadn't been destroyed. Thank you!"
Harry looked into her watery eyes. She was trying to save the family magic for her friend who had saved her life. She didn't care about social status, or she wouldn't have married a farm worker.
What this woman must have seen over the years! Harry could tell she still wasn't ready to reveal where the books were kept. He had an idea of how to gain her trust.
"Madam Peascomb? I don't understand the scale here, or how big this cup should be. If I knew that, then I would have a better start. Would you be willing to help me? Or could I commission you to make this cup for me?" Harry asked softly.
She looked at the project. "You and I will work on two cups. These markings are for drams, as in a volume of liquid. Silliness. I think whoever wrote this must have imbibed a bit too much of his ale or wine or beer."
Harry nodded at that.
"Call me Elsbeth. If yer grandfather had lived, he would have introduced us. I was most upset with your father, but can forgive him his mistakes. Yes, I will forgive."
The two worked together. Harry's cup fell apart again and again, but she kept encouraging him. He got a piece set on a board off to the side to half-harden. He set a timer to come back and do the runes. He wanted to go watch Hermione's lesson.
When he returned, Elsbeth was working on her third attempt. This was not an easy project.
"We need to go to Wales, and visit yer dragons, Arglwydd. Whenever you wish ta go."
Dragons? Dragons were protecting his books? That sounded rather…combustible.
**ODD**
Saturday, September 5th, Potter Dragon Reserve
Charlie Weasley received unexpected visitors, "Yes, Seneschal? Was there something you needed?"
Remus stood at the door, and was waving. Was someone shy? No, an old lady was there, and moving slowly.
"Charlie? Don't you need something in Diagon? Or Romania?" Lupin asked.
"Certainly, sir. I'll just go get those…things. Yes. And I'll be back in…?"
"Give me an hour. Thank you, Mr Weasley." Remus nodded. The old woman appeared to be looking around. Had she lived here at the dragon reserve at some point? She seemed to be humming. Best leave them to it.
There was a sound at the window, but then Remus coughed. Weird. No one was over there. Charlie got on his cloak, and left through the floo. He'd have to apparate back, as Remus shut it down.
"It's okay Harry, he's left." Remus stated, pulling his wand. He scanned the room, but saw nothing dangerous.
The young lord appeared at the far window, facing towards the Welsh dragons. "They are just so beautiful. I swear, that female winked at me. How could she even know I was here?"
"They see magic. We're here Madam Peascomb. Do you want me to leave?" The seneschal offered.
The woman shook her head no. Instead, she went over to the fireplace and tapped the bricks like she was entering Diagon Alley. They parted, and a full library case appeared near the doorway.
"Of course that's the first place I would look for books, made of paper and parchment. Behind a fireplace. Guarded by fire-breathing dragons. That seems a bit contraindicated to me." Harry muttered under his breath. Then he stopped.
The room was small and there was only one bookshelf. He could tell things had been tossed in here willy-nilly before sealing the room up. Nothing was in order. A book on throwing grow pots, circa 1940 was next to a book that Harry couldn't read. Not due to its age, but language. It might be Middle English? Maybe?
There was the original of the book he was using. What was this? Missing sections?! Oh, that might help!
Remus helped Harry load up the library trunk he had brought with them, and they were heading out when the sound of apparition startled them. Harry had his family cloak back on in a trice. It was Charlie, returned early.
"Seneschal! I was in the Alley and overheard some aurors talking. They know you're in Wales! You need to go. I called for a portal."
The three of them (one unseen by Charlie), wasted no time getting out and were gone as the first auror was knocking at the gate of the reserve.
The redhead sauntered to the boundary of the property, wards singing to him on his skin, "Hello Aurors. Welcome to the Potter Dragon Reserve. Our dragons are nesting right now and cannot be disturbed. If you would like to do an inspection tour, I suggest you return later, when they don't want to feed on you, or save you for hatching day. You are, of course, welcome to come in. At your own risk."
"The werewolf Remus Lupin is wanted for crimes against the Wizarding World!" One of them shouted, looking at what appeared to be the size of a portable radio, its dials circling rapidly.
After Remus' escape from Wales the year before, Dumbledore had requested Lupin be held for 'questioning'. That warrant was upgraded after Amelia Bones' departure to include a warrant for not only her arrest, but Remus' as well.
"That's very disturbing. Um, I guess you guys didn't get notified. Mr Lupin moved to America about a year ago. Colorado or something. I forget. Your device must need recalibration. We have a new manager in charge of the reserve and the family farm in Wales. Master Gilford is not as nice, but is a very powerful wizard. I could send him an owl if you wish to speak to him."
The aurors cast some spells and apparated away without a farewell or attempting to enter the reserve. Which was good. If they had gone beyond the lodge visitors center there at the front, they would have been happily snacked on by the dragons.
**ODD**
Harry had hours worth of sorting and copying ahead of him; he wanted the originals kept at Gringotts, far from the reach of Dummy.
He didn't know how to address this pureblood witch who was so very, very good at pottery. A dear friend of Gran Euphemia, and clearly welcomed as part of the family back in the day.
Just like Remus and Sirius were when they were teens. Just like Thomas was being taken in by the Lupins. This House believed in family.
"We have a portrait of Lady Euphemia if you ever want to talk to her." Harry offered.
"The one done just after the wedding? She was just a month shy of her 21st birthday. Or was it for their fiftieth wedding anniversary?" Madam Peascomb asked.
"Hmm. She's older, so I would guess the second one. She's been monitoring the library, shushing us. I should have known she loved books."
The woman declined. "She remains ageless, while my mirror shows an old crone. Not how my inner-eye sees myself. I doubt she'd know me." The woman coughed then continued, "For keeping these books secret, I do apologize. Just in case, you were…I mean Lord James…." The elder stuttered to a pause.
"You are forgiven. And for keeping my family heirlooms safe, I do thank you. Sincerely." Harry showed her the original of the book they were working from.
The copy had several missing sections. This book appeared to be complete, except for blank framed spaces. Were pictures torn out?
"Oh dear! I didn't know. I wonder if this was done on purpose to save family magic? May I make a copy, Lord Harry?"
"Allow me." Harry waved his wand at the page, and a precise duplicate appeared.
They exchanged looks of understanding. "I'll see you tomorrow at the wheel, Gran Elsbeth."
"Cheeky, but I think you should call me that. See you tomorrow. Harry."
And with that, Harry had new family, a new mentor. One he knew he could trust with Family Magic.
But he was late to meet Hermione, and had to leave. Right now.
**ODD**
Last day of summer vacation, Sept 7th
Harry had arranged with Hermione to go for a walk with him after she was done with lessons. They went down to the large back pond. Madam Grubbly-Plank's husband liked fishing, and someone had stocked the man-made pond weeks before.
The hippogriffs were fascinated by the new treats. Seeing a few Scottish trout, Harry decided to request restocking it.
"There's going to be some people dating this year, Hermione…"
"And you want my permission to ask someone out?" The witch asked dubiously.
"What? No! I just meant…what I wanted to say was…I really enjoyed flying with you over the summer, and making pottery, and attending classes with you. I don't know what our schedule is going to be like, but if we get separated I just wanted you to know…"
Harry took a breath as all of that had been said very quickly.
"IfIcouldIwouldaskyouout."
"What? I don't understand." Hermione tried to parse what he said.
"I would ask you out, if I could. I like you, Hermione. A lot. At least I know we'll have lunch together."
"Harry! You don't have to…I mean…I would…do you want to go for a bicycle ride and get ice cream? With the others, I mean?"
"Sure. I'd like that. Wanna take Buckbeak?"
Hermione laughed at the thought. There weren't many places that had parking for carriages, and Franklin's did. But they definitely did not have hippogriff stalls or hitching posts.
"No, it wouldn't be fair to Neville. Ricardo and Susan would go for it though." Hermione laughed. "And Teddy. He likes flying as much as you do."
The young people took bikes; Harry and Hermione making sure that Thomas had his helmet and stayed with them as they rode. Abigail went as well, to let Harry and Hermione bring back ice cream for everyone, except for Bets. Alice said she wasn't ready for dairy. Harry called an elf, as Teddy was going pretty slow and even with charms, the ice cream would melt before they could get back.
They had the icy treat with family, but Harry shared looks with his friends. Summer was ending, but this had been the best one of his life.
Hermione offered him a taste of her Raspberry Ripple, and he gave her a bite of his orange sherbet with vanilla. They shared a smile and Emma hid hers behind her Dark Fudge Delight.
No, they weren't dating. Not yet. Just being friends and sharing a last ice cream before school started.
**ODD**
ODD (Order Defying Dumbledore)
A/N: A new and complete story for everyone, by my friend Ducky1776: Yule at Grimmauld Place
Sirius decides to have a small celebration of Yule. An unexpected guest shows up and throws the whole thing into chaos. Sirius gets cleared. Fudge and Dumbledore are dead. Gringotts and the Ministry join forces to finally end Voldemort once and for all. Harry has multi-lordships but is not super powerful.
s/14325284/1/Yule-at-Grimmauld-Place
A/N: Your story recommendation here -
**ODD**
ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language
O.D.D. (Order Defying Dumbledore)