Harry Potter and the Odd Rebellion
**ODD**
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz. Thanks also to Alix33 for helping tighten up the story.
**ODD**
Stop Before Proceeding: The roller coaster rides are found in other places, including some of our work: 'HP and the Big Black Dog' for example. This story is not fast, in fact is building slowwwly.
So sorry for all those who are offended by a free HP story that is not exactly to their design and desires. Oh gee, if only there was a solution. Some seem to want fast food menu options: "Hold the pickles? Add some mayhem? Y'all want fries with that?"
One solution comes to mind: write one yourselves, perhaps? We'll read and review gently. I promise.
If this story isn't to your taste, thanks for stopping by. The exit is on the upper right at the big X.
For everyone else, and those looking for it, Welcome to the Fireside. Jam will bring snacks and warm beverages for you soon. No we won't be serving Neville's worms as conde lumbra, a goblin spicy dish made from live earthworms.
**ODD**
Scorecard of what has happened so far:
This story is AU: It appears that Dumbledore is behind a quad blowing up in Harry's face, giving him a concussion. Only safety measures prevented him from getting broken bones or worse.
Alchemy on those quads could have been used to kill hundreds - was it restraint or a ploy?
O.D.D. (Order Defying Dumbledore) Meetings still happening in the background.
After seeing the cheer/dance perform, everyone is glad Emma said no for Sally-Anne trying out until the uniform changed. They were far too short and suggestive. All of this is happening in the background.
Thanksgiving went very well, as did the community dance the next day. A couple of villagers are unhappy with Harry, spending the family gold on 'frivolities' like Thanksgiving, apparently. You can't please everyone.
Carmen Cordero, Alejandro's cousin, is being gossiped about now that she was seen dancing with Lord Black.
Remus sees Agent Abigail Addams again but did not approach her. While he would like to court her, until she is ready, he's keeping his distance.
Christmas is now on the horizon. What will the family do for the holidays?
Arglwydd means Lord in Welsh, it's in the notes below. Ar glue eeth. Thanks to Fenchurch1 who wrote: Arglwydd is pronounced Ar glue eeth with a hard th like in' then'.
Back to the story.
**ODD**
Chapter Eleven - Misunderstood Agendas
**ODD**
Alejandro looked at the clock installed in the small living room of the tent. The dance had ended more than half an hour before, and Carmen was still not back.
The door opened, and the young woman entered; obviously trying to be discreet. The man stood, assessing the woman. She had become his cousin when he married his wife, but she was really from his family. She was of an old and ancient bloodline of Aztec magicals of great power, if no longer so wealthy.
Hair mussed, lips swollen, a blush on her cheeks that was no cosmetic charm. She had clearly been up to something.
"Don't look at me that way, Alejandro. We are in America now. I do not have to follow the old ways if I don't wish to. Besides, nothing happened. Well, not much."
"What are his intentions towards you? I brought you here to get you out of danger! To protect you better than I did my wife. I did not bring you here to thrust you into the path of a dilettante playboy."
"Sirius is no playboy, and has not pursued a single witch here. I'm tired, and going to bed. Don't be like this, Mijo, please?"
"We have done the renaming ceremony; and given you my family name. I am trying to keep you safe.
"The other part of this situation is the villagers like to gossip about their liege lords. I don't know how much is true. Please be careful. "
"I will. Now, I will sleep, and so must you. Goodnight."
Alejandro tried to sleep, but his thoughts kept twirling. He was concerned about their situation here, his livelihood felt to be at stake. What if she refused the Black lord; if he wanted more from her than a few innocent kisses? He didn't want to have to move again so soon. Not with everything finally looking up. Ricardo was making good friends and was in a good school.
He finally managed a couple of hours of rest before the day dawned anew.
**ODD**
Friday, Nov 29th, Hogwarts morning
"Is this report true? All of it, about this game? The boy escaped serious injury?" Albus asked in his grandfatherly voice. He had clearly been expecting to hear that Harry had nearly been killed in a school accident.
Was his anger he was attempting to hide because the boy wasn't hurt worse? Or even killed?
"Someone did tamper with school equipment. The Potter lad was paid weregild for it." Moody shared only unimportant information widely available. He kept secret the important things. Like just how much the Potter lad didn't appreciate Dumbledore at all. Past, present or future.
Nor did he reveal Nicolas' involvement. Had Albus made a mistake in his alchemy? Alastor didn't share that he suspected his old 'friend' had a hand in this plot. It didn't seem…relevant.
"Of course Alice would pull him from the team after such a scare. Poor dear boy."
Moody suppressed a shudder. Did the man know how cold his voice was?
"With the time change, I could really use some rest. Good day, Albus."
The old wizard nodded, gave him a small smile, and waved Mad-eye away. He pulled out parchment and quill, but just left the tools alone. Albus sat in thought, petting his long white beard like a cat. He was lost in those thoughts for a moment, while Moody went to go sleep near his wife's quarters for twelve sodden hours. Near her was the only time Alastor felt truly safe, even if Albus was in the building. Hogwarts wouldn't let Alastor be attacked here. Not here.
By the time Alastor fell asleep, Dumbledore had written his letter.
'My dear Harry, I have heard terrifying news of your life in Salem…'
Albus himself was nowhere when Moody woke. Summoned to the ICW according to Professor Snape.
Odd, since they were shut down for the next month, and not due to begin again until the New Year.
**ODD**
Same day, afternoon, Elegant Townhome near ICW Headquarters, Vienna, Austria
"How did the alchemical concentration not kill the boy? He has to die! You know the prophecy we face!"
"We? I'm suddenly your partner again after all these years of imprisonment?" The incarcerated man asked with deceptive mildness.
"Now, now. You know this is for your own protection. If it came out you were still alive, well, people would try to kill you."
The elderly wizard walked over to the hall mirror. Mismatched eyes stared out at him. His hair was trimmed too short; his facial hair kept to a simple goatee.
He despised looking like this.
The visitor paced the elegant Viennese sitting room. The old-fashioned, overly stuffed furniture escaped his notice, "Don't fail me again. If I lose, remember who else does too."
The other man nodded his head and waited for his not-former-enough partner to leave.
**ODD**
Saturday, Nov 30th, the former Potter Keep, the former Grangers quarters
"Emma, I want you to sit here with me while we talk with the girls." Dan suggested as he poured her morning tea to her liking.
Everyone was freshly showered after their workouts. The night before, the couple had talked about school, boyfriends, activities, boyfriends, the outrageous costumes worn by the cheer/dance squad. Followed up by talking about boyfriends.
The girls wandered in, sitting down at their father's invitation.
"We appreciate that magicals and mundanes differ in family mores." Apparently, Sirius and Carmen had gone off to be alone, causing quite a stir, but Alice had shrugged it off since Sirius was neither engaged nor married. Then it would have been scandalous. "We worship a Divine Being, and will ask you to keep those commandments until you are adults and can choose for yourselves. You may 'date' after your sixteenth birthday as long as that dating is in groups and nothing like marital relations happen until well…marriage."
Sally-Anne had immediately signed up to uphold those rules, having already diffused unwanted attention at school. But Hermione had a beau in mind.
"You mean Harry and I can't be boyfriend and girlfriend right now?" Hermione had tears in her eyes. Other magicals were doing so already, and she was sure that people her age who didn't have magic were starting to date.
"Once you are thirty, you will thank me. In the meantime, I don't expect you to understand or even agree. You could sneak out, disobeying the rules. But I don't think you will do that."
Then Dan took out a picture of celestial beings, walking and conversing. "You two have sacred spirits. Are sacred spirits. I want to keep you safe."
Emma had remained quiet, but saw Hermione was unhappy about this. "Are you alright?"
"Yes, mother. What about dances and things like last night?" Hermione asked.
Sally-Anne was now all ears.
"I think participating in group dances shows community spirit." Other children from the village, even much younger ones, were dancing there. No one was excluded. The oldest grannies came, bringing handwork with them. It had been a novel experience to a Londoner like Emma.
"I won't disobey you, Father. But don't be surprised if Harry and I become boyfriend and girlfriend on my sixteenth birthday." Hermione added vehemently.
Emma broke in when she saw that Dan was about to say more. "We'll argue about the value of dating other boys first later, love. Four years is a long time."
"Please excuse me. I have homework to do." Hermione left, trying to hide tears.
Sally-Anne went over and gave her adoptive father a rare hug. "I know she's hurting right now, but believe me: That pain is much less than it could be."
Emma nodded. Sally-Anne's mother was very young when she had her baby. Too immature. If anyone understood, it was her.
**ODD**
Harry was waiting for his friend when he saw her come in. There were others in the room, so he cast a privacy charm as he held out her seat for her. He saw she looked upset, "Hermione? Last night, there was a question I wanted to ask you…"
"And if it was what I think, I would have said yes. But this morning…" Hermione proceeded to explain the 'draconian rules' she was expected to live with. Well, draconian in her mind.
"I asked Sirius about asking you to be my girl. He said 'go for it' but if it doesn't work out, don't let it affect me forever. No hatred in the House." Harry took a breath "I think I know what caused this. Neville asked Alice something about dating one of the girls from the village. His gran was just coming into the room, and the fight began. Neville really likes Sarah, but she's not from a wealthy family." Harry explained.
"Well, that's not exactly true. Our people make very good money…" Hermione stopped talking when Harry showed her the book he was working on.
"Tell me this is your annual income?" Hermione asked in a small voice.
"Last month, net expenses, and once we start racing? I expect to see a jump. Right now, the 'griffs are eating and training. Not much coming in except from feathers and fertilizer. The Longbottoms have similar income with their lands. They'll do better once Frank and Alice can return to manage it, but the mirrors and weekly meetings with Silvanna, their farm manager, are helping. Without coming from a House, Sarah's not in the same…umm…what I mean is that Crouch woman is really responsible for this mess.
"Hermione? That woman doesn't think Sarah is from the 'right kind of family'."
Harry sighed and got up to walk around. He abruptly waved the villagers to their seats. He had to explain this. And quickly. He returned to his seat and recast his spell.
"Don't you see? It seems a lifetime ago, but do you remember the day we met? Well, the day before that, I thought I didn't have a tuppence. But I never felt that I was worthless, no matter what the Dursleys said."
Hermione nodded understanding. "I really like Sarah, and I understand what you mean. Some people are just too…class conscious."
Suddenly the young girl had an epiphany; She was Harry's very first friend, and no matter what happened in the future, they would always be friends. Regardless of titles, gold or anything else. He didn't care about any of that, and neither did his close family.
And Harry wasn't going to be mad if she wasn't his girlfriend right now. He thought of himself in a different way than Gran, no Madam Crouch thought of others.
If it were up to Harry, Neville could marry Sarah one day, just as Ricardo could marry Susan or Sally-Anne or anyone else.
Just as long as the other boys were kind to their ladies. Always.
**ODD**
Remus was dealing with a colicky foal. Fortunately, the application of magic, along with some time-tested and approved potions meant that this wasn't nearly as onerous or potentially fatal a task as it once might have been.
Moony noted Alejandro on the edges of the paddock; he was fidgeting. The man never fidgeted.
Was there a problem? He had seemed happy enough. The people from his hometown had been settling in well, fulfilling tasks that few in the village wanted to do.
Finally, after a nod and small smile of encouragement, the jockey approached, "Seneschal Lupin? May I have a word?" His tone cold, formal.
The werewolf's curiosity was piqued: Alejandro's and his interactions had long since settled into a respectful informality; what had caused this sudden shift? Casting a cleansing charm at his hands, Remus became all business, "Certainly! Shall we stroll?"
All of the guests were gone, so Moony didn't really need to hide anymore. Not that he minded Moody. New people like Detective Weaver had made him feel like an awkward teen again. The man was handsome, funny, and clearly of the same social status as Harry and Sirius. Putting aside his feelings, he focused on what the talented wizard was saying.
"This is awkward for me, but this is about family. I mean I have to know!" Alejandro insisted.
Remus just waited, making a rolling motion with his hand.
"Lord Black! What are his intentions towards my cousin?! Flying with her, dancing in front of everyone like that? People are talking and I don't want to see her hurt!"
Several different responses came to his mind, but the truth stopped him cold.
Moony had no idea of what Sirius was really up to. And this had the potential to be bad. Very bad.
Alejandro had enough money to buy himself out of his contract now; Harry's dream could be gone in a moment if Remus wasn't careful. There was a potential culture clash here.
"I'm sure I don't know, Mr Cordero. But part of my responsibility is watching out over the interests of the people working here, especially the women of our House. Something that you and your family are now a part of. I will find out, and if it is anything less than honorable, I will stop it. Now."
"But you don't understand! I want…" Alejandro broke off, realizing what was said. "Oh."
Moony stood there, and in an instant transformed into the strong Seneschal, House magic swirling around him. A house-elf popped out, unbidden, and returned with the regalia of his office.
"I will return and report later, Mr Cordero. Have no concern of me ignoring this."
**ODD**
Harry felt pulled to the formal entry way the minute that Remus came through the front door. He had no idea what was going on, but he wasn't going to fight it.
Besides, Moody had given him a new shrunken broom. What better way to test it? Harry took off running, activating it at the railing at the top of the stairs.
Oops, maybe he should have waited until most of his parental figures were elsewhere before trying that. He managed to brake in time before nearly crashing into a horrified Great-Aunt Caladora.
"Oh really young man! Get off with you!"
But most of the glares from the living people weren't aimed at him. Well, not yet.
Harry controlled his tongue, and didn't stick it out at the portrait. Instead he landed, and walked quietly up to Remus. When had his robe changed to House formal wear?
"Why didn't you tell me that you were chasing after one of the village witches? Didn't Lord Charlus lay down the rules to all of us when we were teenagers? I didn't go to the community dance. I didn't see what made Alejandro so upset. What did you do, Sirius of House Potter?"
Harry felt it; old magic. Magic that had protected the weak throughout the ages. He had no idea that his ancestors were powerful mages back in the day. Powerful enough to gain loyal followers, loyal workers.
Harry looked up into the handsome face of his godfather. The man had just turned thirty two, but looked older than Dan.
"Intentions? I just…I mean I haven't been…" A hand went through heir-length hair, though he was a Lord in truth. He was standing, by chance or by magic, in the central mosaic of the entry hall.
The griffon stretched, and seemed to come to attention. This place could hold a hundred men standing, and still have room on the second floor galleyway for spectators.
Had his ancestors ever stood here as Harry did, watching an accused stand in this circle?
Sirius took a knee to Lord Harry, "I swear on my magic. I will not intentionally harm anyone, much less a witch of our House. I didn't mean to dishonor you, Carmen or Lord Charlus. I think I…I don't know. I think I want to court her. I certainly want to snug…I mean. I think I need to think about this."
Harry nodded, and took Sirius' hands in his, "No one is pushing you or Miss Cordero into anything. Will you promise me to follow the rules of the House, asking her head of house for permission to court if you decide to pursue this path? If things don't go well, will you give the parting gifts, and live in peace with all? Will you swear this to me?"
The wording was a bit fudged, but the spirit of the oath was there. The Potter family didn't force servants to their beds. It just wasn't done!
"I don't know what I want right now, but I will swear your oath. I will follow the rules of the House."
The magic swirled around Sirius for a moment, and then was suddenly gone. Both Harry and Remus nearly joined Lord Black on the floor.
"What was that about?" Gran Crouch demanded.
"Sirius has to decide whether or not he wants to court Miss Cordero." Alice shared softly. She too had been called by family magic, and stood behind Harry, her hand on his shoulder.
The old curmudgeon sniffed, "Well, at least that's an easy decision."
Auntie Caladora disagreed, "Not likely. He might not be exactly her social level, but Sirius is a nice boy. If she's willing, I say let him try."
Remus smiled at her humor, then noted that she was being very, very solemn.
**ODD**
"Sirius, may I have a word. Please. In private?" Moony beckoned him into his office.
Remus closed the door behind Sirius and, holding his hands up placatingly, pleaded with Sirius, "I had no intention of doing anything like that. I was just going to talk to you in private. And then, all of a sudden, there was magic swirling, a house-elf brought me my staff robes, and all that happened. I'm so sorry!"
"Not your fault, old bean. Not your fault in the least. Family magic. I have seen it push Dad Potter before. Not often, mind you. But yes.
"Last night, I was kissing a very healthy young lady, and wasn't really thinking of the consequences. I wasn't thinking! You know how protective Charlus was of his people. I want to take time to really think about what I want. I don't want to do anything to offend you or Harry, nor the family magic."
"Me either. So we're good?" Remus stuck out his hand, but Sirius just wrapped him in a warm embrace, and didn't hold it too long either.
But then he had to try and kiss his cheek. Berk.
Lupin shook himself. Jam was waiting on him to switch out robes. How did he not track mud into the front hallway? He always used one of the mudroom entrances. Normally.
A switching spell had him in clean work robes and the helpful elf went back to his duties.
Remus wondered whether or not Sirius would pursue the witch. His inner wolf took the moment to remind him that their mate was still not living with them yet. And with all of the people there, surely a hunting party was needed. And we could invite Abi to go with us.
Wasn't that a good idea? Huh? Huh?
Silencing his inner Moony, Remus went to work. The things he could put on his CV if ever needed.
**ODD**
Monday, Dec 2nd, SAM
Matt Felton apologized in person to Harry on the first day back after Thanksgiving. "Hey. I'm sorry about that quad. I had no idea it was sabotaged. No hard feelings?"
Harry shook his hand briefly, "Not on my part. You may want to be careful with some of the others from the Potter village. You know."
Warning received; after that, Matt tried to act as though Potter didn't exist. Well, until they were partnered in potions.
Sometimes life just wasn't fair.
**ODD**
"Sally-Anne? Aren't you coming home with us?" Harry asked. The rest of them except for the older students were heading to the carriage.
"Sorry, Harry. I explained it before. I'll see you at dinner. Don't worry, I have my chores covered."
Something had been said about extra tutoring or lessons that morning, but Hermione had been talking when Sally-Anne interrupted, so he hadn't really been engaged with what she had said. Now, his pseudo-sister wasn't leaving with them, and he didn't feel comfortable with that.
He looked around carefully before calling for Sculls.
"Can you please assign an elf to Sally-Anne? I don't like leaving her at school alone."
Something was off, up, down…something. Harry pulled his wand on the way to the carriage and didn't put it away until he was through the front doors at home.
His godfather, meeting him with a long face, confirmed the feelings he was already having.
**ODD**
Monday, Dec 2nd, afterschool at Black Keep
Nicolas was back, this time with his wife, Perenelle. They and the local MFBI team were there as Harry had received a letter. An unwanted letter from a distrusted source.
Before he could open it, it was copied to safe paper, enlarged and the entire company present read it. The original was given to the techs from the lab for further testing.
'My dear Harry, I have heard terrifying news of your life in Salem.
'I want you to know that you will always be welcome in my home, wherever it is. I have more places that you know; France, Austria, and two homes in Britain. You have but to say the word,
'I know you don't know this, but my partner and I wanted to adopt you as a baby. The ICW is so very narrow-minded when it comes to couples. We could have been a good family, and you wouldn't have been raised with abusive muggles.
'I'm sure that those driving the narrative have told you that I placed you with Petunia. That is not true! It was the law, following the stupid, outdated laws of the land that placed you there. Blood family.
'I look forward to the day that mundanes, muggles, no-majs have no power at all! None over the lives of magicals. That was one thing that I did agree with Tom about.
'No muggle should ever rule over a magical child. I do hope that with your…unpleasant…beginning that you can at least see the wisdom in that.
'Once you are fourteen, you can choose with whom to live. But even now, should you find a way to Britain, know that I would protect you. I have always viewed you as the son, well, I guess grandson, that I would like to have had. Family.
'Please forgive an old man his faults and flaws. I should have written to you a long time ago.
'If you have any needs, any at all, contact me my dear boy. I will do my best to aid you.
'Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore'
Perenelle looked at the individual letters in the missive. Perhaps Albus was using a dictaquill, but his handwriting had changed so much since he was a boy.
Nicolas thought his old student was completely delusional. Harry had already known that Albus was somehow behind the quad. Oh sure, it appeared that another family was responsible, but Lord Potter was his grandsire's true heir. The lad knew it.
And none of the three of them; Sirius, Remus or Nicolas had said word one about the alchemy involved. And the MFBI were not people to share such information.
Nicolas invited Harry to go for a walk, where he was scanned several times. Harry was under no undue notion to go running to Dumbledore to beg for Sanctuary.
One of Abigail's team, who hadn't taken enough precautions, was the one who fell under that particular curse. But he was young, and direct. He hadn't tried to hide his destination, and was caught at the airport screaming for Sanctuary at Hogwarts.
His entire savings was in one shrunken bag, and he broke down into tears, begging for Headmaster Dumbledore to please rescue him. The werewolf slapped him, hard, then proceeded to take him in for yet another cleansing ritual.
She gritted her teeth about the damage being done to the budget, knowing that a single hint would have the boy helping to pay for protection.
When she returned to the manor to finish up her notes, Moony was in his office, the door open. It was past dinner, but he had waited for her.
"Agent Addams? I kept some dinner aside for us, as I am sure in all of this mess you have not had time to eat. Prime rib, scalloped potatoes, and roasted sprouts."
Her nose twitched. She didn't know how he had found out some of her favorites. Had a team member blabbed? Regardless, she was hungry enough to eat a hippogriff, feathers and all
"That sounds delicious. Please tell me we won't have to eat at a ridiculously long table or anything?"
Moony was tempted for a full second to have the elves change the seating to the most formal of dining halls, but instead, nodded reassurance.
"Agent Addams, we do have smaller, cozier dining options. Will you join me?" Remus offered her an elbow, which she took with only a moment's delay.
Three out of four of the personalities involved were absolutely cheering on the way to nearly raw but warm meat. But the last one was starting to lose a bit of frost.
Only time would tell if she would crack or thaw completely.
**ODD**
Harry and Ricardo were finishing up their chores when Ricardo started asking questions about Sirius. He started to ask Sculls to leave, but the elf was in a nearby corner, sitting, and doing a bit of knife sharpening.
"As much time as we spend together, I'm still getting to know my godfather. One thing I do know, Ricardo, is what he told me after that bit of family magic. He would never deliberately hurt your auntie or cousin or whatever. I believe him."
"Yeah, I do too. It's just. Well. My mother was murdered…killed…I still don't know anything about it. I think my father knows more than he's willing to say. He's very protective of Carmen. Harry..." Ricardo swallowed, "No one else would say this to you, but you know what it's like to be targeted. I don't want even more trouble to come to you. Not because of me. Or my family."
Harry stopped actively controlling the scrubbing spell on the saddles he was cleaning, but the brush continued the work. "Ricardo? I think magic brought us together. I felt it that first day. You and I both lost our mothers. Both were killed. Both of us had difficult lives, though at least you were always wanted. What I'm trying to say is that your family is facing an enemy, as am I. Why don't we stand together? We have security here, wards here, not to mention a village worth of stout Welshman who get a mite cranky when people tread on their turf."
Alejandro laughed at that. Most were as short as his own kinsmen, but all had an inner strength. "I just wanted you to know. In case it made a difference to us being here."
"It doesn't, won't. But don't be surprised if Sirius starts hanging around Carmen more often. If he finds out she might be in danger? Well, he too is a mite protective."
Sculls walked over to pick up the cleaning brush that was still moving, and had gone on to 'polish' the bits of straw in the walkway. He handed it over without a word, and continued working on sharpening more knives for the kitchens.
**ODD**
Emma pulled Harry aside to ask him, confidentially, if wizards celebrated Christmas.
"I don't know, Emma. My parents did, but then, my mother was muggleborn. I certainly hope so. I've never been allowed to celebrate Christmas. Just cook for it."
His eyes full of negative memories, the now renamed Mrs Black wanted to give Harry a month full of wonderful happy memories.
She had pulled out a picture album of Hermione's childhood - ice skating, pantos, ballets. Their home was decorated with a tree and under it, presents for everyone.
Harry pulled out his ever-ready notebook, "I think we need to speak to Widow Beddew, and make a few plans. I don't know about the shows, but I think we could arrange to skate on the back pond. Oh, and maybe get out the sleigh. Where was that book on Winter Magic?" The lad added a few more notes, then took Emma by the hand to head out to the community kitchen.
There, they found the lady who had organized Thanksgiving so well.
Apparently, since the death of the Potter parents, the main house had gone into lockdown, so the village hadn't been able to celebrate Christmas together. But in the past, they had.
"Can you please arrange for a tree, and decorating materials for this coming Saturday? Oh, a simple meal, maybe stew in bread bowls so people can snack while we decorate the halls?" Harry asked.
"Nice idea about the snacks Harry. May I make some suggestions for treats?" Emma asked.
"Of course, Madam Emma! That's good of ye. May I suggest Sunday instead of Saturday sir? Many of us rest on the Sabbath day, but this is a busy time of year. Don't want to have people having to choose to work or participate." The older witch suggested.
A plan was quickly made for decorating the hall. The widow also told Harry that his grandparents used to take the large sleigh out with friends to go caroling.
"Ye have young friends at the school. Ye could invite yer class. We have enough room in the hall."
Harry got a stubborn look. Dudley used to have class parties, and the rule was you had to invite everyone. There was no way he was inviting Amanda to the manor; not even if they only stayed in the community hall.
"You don't have to interact with everyone, Harry. Just greet them. I have some holiday party ideas. Like a cookie decorating party, Secret Santa, taking treats to the elderly, things like that. I picked up this book…"
"Gee, it's such a surprise that Hermione and you are related…"
Emma stuck out her tongue at the boy, making the three of them laugh. Then Widow Beddew brought up the difficulties of Christmas being a Thursday, and everyone would expect their annual stipend on the day afterwards.
"I think I need a bigger notebook." Harry sighed, and turned to yet another page.
December was going to be busy!
**ODD**
Back at Hogwarts, Harry's response arrived. The Headmaster really wasn't expecting an answer, but eagerly opened it.
'Albus, my not-very-dear old man,
'I received your invite. I'm not sure just what your interests in me are. Are you trying to court me to replace your prior companion? If so, no thank you. No. I may be young, but I already know I like girls. So, no!
'I have four father figures, all of whom are kind, and have never beaten me or starved me. I can only guess at the tortures I would suffer at your hands before begging for death if I ever fell into your claws.
'I have not one but two mother figures. You do not want to make either of them mad, but then you went and sent that letter after your little bludger-bomb. Not a funny prank, Percival. Not at all.
'Brian, when you were born, were you dropped a lot? Picked on by bullies? I bet neighborhood animals disappeared when you were growing up. It's a sign, they say, of bigger things to come.
'Leave me alone. You can't even enter the USA anymore. You are losing friends and allies over your irrational behavior. Do yourself a favor, and get a good therapist.
'Wulfric, I just have to advise you, I am raising some animals that would love to chew on your head. Just friendly advice. Leave me be.
'So Dumbledore, to finish. I am not interested in you, never will be. I'm not interested in your school. Never will be.
'Leave me alone. Do all five of you understand that? Gee, multiple personalities. Such a shame. Did I mention getting a good psychiatrist? You need one. I'll even pay for it if you go.
'Sincerely, very sincerely,
'HP (lightning bolt sigil)
PS Careful about touching the seal. You'll be shocked.
Albus didn't read the warning before his left hand strayed to the sigil. He was unable to use that hand for almost three days, and Harry only meant to shock him.
Accidental magic. What can anyone do about an angry, budding mage who feels like his life is in danger?
**ODD**
The Christmas tree decorating was delayed a week after finding out that a longtime tradition of making homemade pottery ornaments for the tree had been abandoned for the last decade.
It was time to bring it back. And the best thing was, in the past, after an unofficial contest of the best ornaments, they went back to the creators to sell or give away, or keep for future Christmases.
Harry found notes in the Seneschal's office on how to make a bird ornament that really sang. The magic was etched as runes, and powered by a wand, or even magic from fairies that were attracted to such trees.
His first few attempts to make the body were less than professional, but he kept trying.
Then Sally-Anne sighed, and pulled out some tools from her bag. "I was going to give you these for Christmas. But Brother, you need them now!"
Harry got up, gave her a hug and thanked her. Mrs Morris came over and showed the group how to use those tools.
Hermione was trying not to be jealous of the joy Harry had in the gift. It was perfect for him! What was she going to do to be able to match that?
After twenty three tries, Harry finally made a pottery bird he was willing to have put in the kiln.
While it baked the first time, the group discussed the best colors - red and gold, blue and silver or white, or just all white, like the dove of peace. The glaze was carefully applied, and the last trip into the heat set everything in place.
When it was done, and painted in pearlescent white, the ornament sang so beautifully that everyone in the shop stopped for a moment in pure appreciation. There was a wash of family magic, and everyone there knew that their House was blessed.
**ODD**
Alice paced the floor. She had spent an unknown number of months in healing at Mount Sinai. The time chamber was very expensive, but somehow, Seneschal Lupin had arranged for it for them. And that was before Sirius' release!
Gold, or rather a lack of it was on her mind. Oh, not her own vaults, but some of the refugees who had lost almost everything.
But at least they were alive.
She didn't want anyone feeling beholden to give gifts when times were so difficult for many. Christmas was about family and friends, having joy in one another. Her family's focus had never been about what they were going to get.
Then she had an idea for those staying with them. They would draw names and have a strict spending limit. There were books and used clothes available.
She sat down and wrote out a list of places, knowing that Remus had already tried to offer anyone willing to work at least a temporary job.
As she was finishing writing down her lists, she felt a small kick on her left side, as light as a flutter of a feather. Then it happened again.
Frank came in just then, seeing her look of joy. She guided his hand over her slowly growing belly. A third kick touched his hand, and his heart.
"Rowing strangely." Frank stated before kissing his wife.
She just smiled. Yes indeed, their child, perhaps a little witch, was swimming strongly. And just being together meant all the world.
Frank straightened as Augusta joined them right then demanding, "And just what are we going to do about servants joining us at table?"
She thrust a missive into Alice's hands. Apparently, Lord Black had decided on a course of action, and planned to dine with the Cordero witch that evening. With everyone else.
Frank just growled and turned away, before offering his arm to his wife. His scathing look spoke volumes of what his tongue couldn't manage.
Oh, yes indeed. Family for Christmas. That was most important, wasn't it?
**ODD**
"Harry? We really should be sending out the invitations soon if we're going to have a party before school ends." Hermione stated at the study table. Again. Ever since Emma suggested it, Hermione couldn't wait to get started planning.
The last day of school was Thursday the 18th, with the Nutcracker being shown after the last class. Magical Dance was presenting the show. Harry felt that the only thing in danger going there would be falling asleep around Sally-Anne. She adored dance - participating or watching. Ballet? Ugh.
Hermione wanted to have the party that Thursday night, or perhaps the day afterwards. Harry didn't really want to have a party, but everyone else seemed to think it was a good idea for him to socialize 'a bit' with his peers. Having it as a sledging party meant the MFBI could pose as workers with the local aurors and detectives openly monitoring the scene as themselves.
It felt to Harry he was almost being used as bait. He hoped that Dumbledore's ears were still ringing with the howler that Alice sent as reply to his ever-so-cordial invitation. She saw it as an invite to stop her godson's breathing rights. And reacted, in verse, accordingly.
His godmother seemed to take such things personally. Shame really.
He'd have to take into consideration the full moon being on the 21st. Having the party too close to that date could have some very cranky people there.
The smart thing seemed to be to hold it Saturday the 14th, the day before they would decorate the tree. Or maybe have it in the afternoon, and try to get Widow Beddew to agree to decorate the tree that night?
That sounded like it had possibilities. Hmm.
**OO**
Remembering the pain of how it felt to not be included, Harry planned on handing out invitations to all his classmates for the sleighing party. But first, they needed some snow and ice.
Sirius took Harry to play with the weather charms to see if they could get the pond in the back pasture to freeze. And maybe practice some snow charms.
Harry might have overpowered the freezing spell. Just a little. Their village cottages were suddenly all covered in hoarfrost; the back pond had expanded with the freeze, and now appeared to be an iceberg sitting several feet above the frozen pasture.
"Harry? Did you check the notes? I don't think it's supposed to affect the water all the way down." Sirius looked at the book again. "No it says a good solid foot."
The cows had been moved for this experiment, but some of the more curious of beasts got a bit of the blast. They were just fine after being thawed out, though for many weeks afterwards, Harry was sure the bovines were still giving him the stink eye.
Harry got to play with warming, cooling, freezing, and other charms. The cottages were back to normal by the time Moony walked up, if glowing a bit. He slapped Sirius upside the head with a rolled up newspaper. "Bad Padfoot!"
Then the Seneschal showed, in active form, why several of the village teens were well above their grade level in magic. He transformed into Professor Lupin, teacher and mentor, and guided Harry through the fine art of weather spells. And showing him how to freeze only a foot or so of the pond. A full three feet was better than the whole depth, after all.
Sirius followed along, not a bit ashamed of his prior activities, as they had all been in fun.
The back garden of their home was transformed into a winter wonderland. By the time they were done, Moony was ready to install a new pond in the front just to have the skating and sleigh rides as far from the cows, cottages, and manor as they could.
**ODD**
Harry went to find his first friend, well that was his age. Hermione was helping her mother with small gift bags for the party.
"Hi Harry! How did it go?" Hermione asked.
She was disappointed about not being allowed, but the way the wards were, if someone other than Remus, Sirius or Harry cast large spells, they might react with prejudice against her. Harry was not willing to risk it.
"Pretty well. There's enough snow to go sledging, if you want. I've never tried it before…"
"And you came to an expert to teach you. Most wise." Hermione bowed, smiling.
Neville shared looks with the others at the table, but only those living in the manor rose to join the young lord.
He looked at Sarah, sitting next to Tonks. She had no hope of passing her OWLs on the two classes she took but she was going to try.
"There are plenty of sledges, Sarah, Morgan," After a brief pause, "Elam. All of you are welcome to come. Sirius is rigging some outdoor lighting for us. Come on, Ricardo."
Cordero smiled, but it was Sally-Anne who was exuberant, clapping her hands, "I haven't done this in quite a while. Yay!" Earning a shush from Euphemia Potter, Library Witch.
Colin rolled his eyes, but Harry noticed he put away his studies to join his friends.
**ODD**
Harry couldn't help but hear Colin's less than kind remarks on his skill, but Hermione just waved the Elam boy away. Frank took the boy aside to have a few words with him. He appeared to be struggling to understand the man.
Ignoring the prat, the two young friends shared a sledge on the hill which was chosen for the snow party. Hermione got Harry seated first, then sat in front. Remus pushed them off, Sirius snapping pictures. The pair flew down the slope.
Frank was overseeing the older teens, but Colin didn't make any more side remarks and just enjoyed the snow with the others.
The rest of the young people were happy to do a few test runs of the slopes. You know. Just to help their Arglwydd.
Warming chocolate awaited them as reward for their efforts. Everyone pronounced the hill adequate, and were looking forward to the holiday party coming up.
**ODD**
ODD (Order Defying Dumbledore)
A/N: Our friend Csheila has a couple of good ones for us.
Story recommended by the late but never forgotten Broomstick Flyer. Richard Granger and his Justice.
"Mild mannered Richard Granger along with Professor Flitwick decides to deal out some justice. Harmony." - the author's summary.
What's not to love?
s/12075891/1/Richard-Granger-and-his-justice
We haven't read it yet, but Beepkeeper is keeping busy as bees with another new story: The Wall of Stone
s/14315745/1/The-Wall-of-Stone
"The Goblet of Fire isn't a simple artifact – it possesses vast amounts of magic, a rudimentary sentience, and multiple sets of rules for past Triwizard Tournaments. The goblet gets aggravated by interfering wizards, throws out the rules, and takes steps to protect the underage contestant who is drafted into the contest." - the author's summary.
A/N: Your story recommendation here -
Vienna was just visiting Switzerland for a day - this has been updated to show it is back. Thank you, Alix33. Edits made on Jan 12th at 'why am I up this early' AM.
**ODD**
ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language
O.D.D. (Order Defying Dumbledore)