Chapter 15: Blood quill, freedom, and it's time
To say that Harry was pleased would be an outright lie. His friends showed him their recording of the meeting in the Hog's Head, and for lack of better words, he was furious. Granger had formed an organization and named herself the leader. This was likely done on Dumbledore's orders as the old goat had become desperate enough to induct two foolish Gryffindors into the Order. Moreover, Granger was putting the other students in danger as Delores would never allow them to have their little group. The nosy cow would think they'd try to take over the Ministry in Dumbledore's name. D.A. could stand for a number of different things, but knowing the foul toad, she believed it to stand for Dumbledore's Army.
Another foolish move was the lack of security during the meeting held in an open pub. Anyone could walk in and eavesdrop, and knowing about Fudge's increased paranoia, he'd no doubt have a spy waiting. If Granger wanted a meeting, she should have had it in a more discreet place like the Shrieking Shack. Hardly anybody goes there as they still believe in the rumors of it being haunted. Nevertheless, her plan had flaws that could cost her dearly.
Throughout the rest of the weekend, Harry was in contact with several people. First, Ulrich's father had come through about their side of the bargain, delivering several boxes filled with complaint forms from the werewolves sent to Azkaban, forced out of their homes and away from the country. This was a good start as he could advance his plans. In addition, Councilmember Marchbanks managed to get him some private files regarding the DADA professor's O.W.L and N.E.W.T results. Harry nearly found himself laughing as he read through them. The time for payback was drawing near.
When Monday came, two new Educational Decrees were being posted in front of the Great Hall:
Educational Decree #2
By order of —The High Inquisitor of Hogwarts
All Student Organizations, Societies, Teams, Groups, and Clubs are henceforth disbanded. An Organization, Society, Team, Group, or Club is hereby defined as a regular meeting of three or more students. Permission to re-form may be sought from the High Inquisitor (Professor Umbridge). No Student Organization, Society, Team, Group, or Club may exist without the knowledge and approval of the High Inquisitor.
Any student found to have formed, or to belong to, an Organization, Society, Team, Group, or Club that has not been approved by the High Inquisitor will be expelled.
Signed,
High Inquisitor Delores Umbridge
Minister of Magic Cornelius Oswald Fudge
Blaise and the rest of the present group of students frowned in displeasure. "This is hardly a surprise as someone informed her of what happened at the Hog's Head," whispering to the others.
As the others nodded, Susan shifted her gaze to the right, "don't look now, but it appears we've irked some people."
Following her eyes, they saw Granger and Weasley staring daggers at them. The two Gryffindors must think they sold them out.
"Hey, look," Neville pointed to the second decree. This one was much worse as Malfoy, his gang, and four Hufflepuffs were grinning like a pair of idiots. They all wore tiny silver I' badges.
Educational Decree #3
By order of —The High Inquisitor of Hogwarts
Due to the lack of respect for Authority figures (High Inquisitor Delores Umbridge has appointed a select group of well-behaved students to act as her representatives. The members of the Inquisitorial Squad will have the same amount of power as the Head Boy and Head Girl. Any Inquisitor can be identified with the silver badge with an 'I'.
Signed,
High Inquisitor Delores Umbridge
Minister of Magic Cornelius Oswald Fudge
"Well, this keeps getting worse," Neville groaned.
When Malfoy turned to sneer at them, the others refused to give him an inch, returning the sneer with more vengeance, warning him to choose his actions carefully. Instead of doing what he wanted, Draco and his colleagues went into the Great Hall for breakfast.
Following along, they found seats at the Ravenclaw table, where they conversed with a couple of the eagles. Emily found it hard to resist the urge to look up at the head table where the professors were seated. Even then, they seemed uncomfortable. Some were furious, especially her brother, who sent a frightening death glare at Umbridge that would have made a group of dragons afraid. She knew he still harbored a grudge against her for sending dementors after them. Nevertheless, the anger flowing through their bond was present, so she tried to send some positive energy to help him settle. It took a good few minutes for his anger to subside, but she could tell there was still some remaining.
"Anyone want to take a bet on how the toad and her enforcers are going to fuck up today?" Adrian tried to break the awkward silence with a half-hearted joke.
"It's too early for one of your bad jokes," Blaise shot him a tired look. Yawning for a minute, "we already know the ferret and his entourage will make life hell for us. The best we can do is not give them any ammo."
"Blaise is right," Lilith took a swig of her coffee. "To an extent, at least. Remember, we're Slytherins. If those pompous assholes want to come after us, then we'll send them a response they'll never forget."
"We just need to be patient and strike when they least expect it," Neville added.
A wide grin appeared on Tracey's face, "we'll make a Slytherin out of you yet." Checking her watch to see they only had twenty minutes left. "Better hurry up and eat before class starts."
Today was the thirteenth meaning that Daphne would have to take her Arithmancy test after lunch. Hopefully, the questions would be easy as she'd studied her butt off.
When breakfast ended the group went their separate ways with none of them looking forward to what the professors had in store for them. When History of Magic ended, Professor Greengrass did not assign her fifth-years any homework, something the group was thankful for as they wanted a breather. When Potions came around, the Slytherins and Gryffindors were waiting on the opposite end of the classroom.
"Ten points from Gryffindor Longbottom," said Pansy, whose pug face appeared beside Draco.
"For what?" Not giving her an inch.
"Your shirt is untucked…meaning you are violating the dress code."
Shrugging her shoulders in an uncaring way, "really? Haven't you looked at Crabbe…" Gesturing to the fat boy standing next to Nott. "He doesn't have his shirt tucked in, and his tie is undone."
"That'll be five points for snitching on your superior," sending an ugly smile at him.
He only rolled his eyes, looking at her like she wasn't worth his time, and then turning away.
"That's another ten points for rolling your eyes at a member of the Inquisitorial squad…" Just then, the classroom door opened, revealing an unhappy Professor Potter.
"What is going on out here?" Looking at the students until his cold eyes settled on Parkinson.
"Nothing that concerns you," Pansy sneered.
"Oh, I beg to differ as I heard you unjustly took twenty-five points from someone." The tone is his voice says you better not deny it.
"I was doing my job as a member of the Inquisitorial squad," showing the 'I' badge below her Prefect badge.
"What you did was earn your first strike," he replied coldly. "Congratulation on earning a month of detention with Professor Hagrid. Also, that'll be ten points for failing to show respect to your professor."
"What?" She screeched. "That's not fair you—"
"I suggest you think before finishing that sentence, little girl," shutting her up immediately with a glare similar to what Snape would give the Gryffindors. "Keep in mind that here you are nothing but an insignificant broke brat; now get in the class," whirling around, ignoring the hurt and anger in her eyes.
Snape came storming out of his ingredients room when everyone was seated behind a cauldron. "Pass your homework assignments to the end of the table…" he coolly said before waving his hand against the chalkboard revealing the potion they would be working on. "Potter, gather their essays and place them on my desk." Receiving a nod, Harry went to collect their papers, "today, you will be working on the Strengthening potion, be careful this is a difficult potion that will require precise handling. Get to work!"
A handful of the students rushed to get the ingredients from the stores while the rest stayed to write down the instructions. No one noticed the subtle grin on Snape's face as he watched as some students decided to write the steps down before rushing to get a head start on their potions. When Harry brought the papers over, he silently whispered how some students failed to turn theirs in. Severus sent a mental message saying he would handle it and for him to begin his rounds.
Throughout most of the period, Harry walked from table to table, evaluating everyone's potions and giving them some feedback. Finally, his senses told him something was wrong, and following his instincts he turned to the culprits, "Mr. Finnegan, Mr. Weasley stop what you're doing," strolling over to evaluate their potions.
Taking two separate vials, he filled them with their potions; when done, he sent a heart-stopping glare. "It would appear the two of you have neglected to read the sixth and ninth lines. Were this on the practical of your Potion O.W.L then you would have failed. Therefore, ten points will be removed from each of you," taking his wand, he vanished their potions.
On the other side of the room, Goyle started chuckling, "stupid Gryffindors cannot do shit right," his comment made Nott and Crabbe snicker.
"And that will be fifteen points from you, Mr. Goyle," not even bothering to turn around. "Being one of the dumbest students in the entire school, you suddenly believe you can comment on how bad others are performing. Might as well leave before you get someone killed like your dead father."
Everyone stopped what they were doing to look at him with shocked expressions. They already knew he was harsh, but this was almost too much. An enraged Goyle looked moments away, taking his wand out.
"Put that wand away before you make do something I won't regret," Harry warned. "Let me make this clear so even you can understand. You and Crabbe are the worst students this school has ever had the pleasure of having, and the reason why you have made it this far is 'cause your fathers. No one would be upset if the two of you left. On the contrary, I would consider it a blessing as it's no skin off my nose. Whether you live or die is no concern to me as I would leave you for dead."
Goyle was so enraged that he marched out of the classroom.
"Pathetic," Harry sneered. Then telling the others to finish their work.
At the end of class, Harry instructed them to take a sample of their potion, ma them with their names, and place them on Professor Snape's desk.
(0^0)
For the rest of the day, Harry spent his time in the Potions classroom assisting the other years for the day. Everything seemed to be running smoothly until the second to last class, where he noticed a first-year Hufflepuff wince in pain each time the back of his right hand would rub against his gloves. Not only that, but he smelled blood and could see traces of dark magic on the boy's hand. Taking a piece of parchment, he wrote down a quick note, then subtly used the switching spell to exchange it for one of his ingredients. The scared boy gave a gentle nod.
As soon as classes were over and before dinner, Harry sat behind his desk in the room of requirement, watching as the students worked diligently on their reports and practice spells. The puff to whom he sent the letter was surrounded by his friends and could tell they were far from happy. Slowly the boy and his friends came up to his desk with one of them folding his arms.
"Well, so you going to tell him?"
"Tell me what?"
The tears in his eyes, "it hurts. It always hurts," removing the glove to show that words were carved into the back of his hand. I will not question my betters.
Harry activated the room's wards to surround him and the boys. The anger building in him alerted his animal companions that something was wrong. "How did you get this?" The edge in his voice bordered dangerous as his magic began leaking out.
"I had detention with Professor Umbridge," he replied in a small voice.
One of his friends continued, "he was given a week of detention for contradicting her about you. She said some very nasty things about you not being a proper professor and how you should have died during the battle."
Canceling the wards, he addressed everyone in the room. "Who here has had detention with Umbridge?" The hard edge in his voice let them know he was not happy. Some students seemed hesitant to speak up as they clutched their hands. "I guarantee none of you will be punished if you answer truthfully. Please understand that none of you will be harmed."
Fourteen students stood up and came over to show their hands. The shocked expression on Harry's face was only toppled by his mounting rage. His inner beasts were roaring in anger, vying for Umbridge's blood. If not for his rational mind, he would have marched to the woman's office, blasted the door off its hinges, and subject her to torments that were thought to be myths. But, instead, he called a five house-elves.
"I need the five of you to bring the four heads of houses and Madam Pomfrey here. Tell her to bring some large bowls, Murtlap Essence, and some medical report documents," earing the seriousness in his voice, they popped away.
"As for the rest of you," looking up at everyone else. "How many of you want that toad-faced cunt gone?"
Everyone raised their hands. A fair amount of them seemed nervous while the others scowled indigently as they had no love for the woman.
"All right, I want all of you to take a piece of parchment and write down why you want her removed. When done, put them in these boxes marked in your year," out of nowhere, seven boxes with the numbers 1-7 appeared on his desk.
"U-Um, professor," a second-year Ravenclaw raised his hand. "Wouldn't that make her and Fudge crack down harder on us?"
"Mr. Sharp, I understand your fear and hesitance. I truly do, but if you do not speak up, then who will?" He asked back. Whispers ran around the room as the students discussed what they should do. "I know many of you are scared, but there comes a time when you need to speak up and stand for what you believe to be right. Believe me when I say that none of the staff members save for Filch and Weasley like her. If up to me, I would have chucked the woman out by now."
"You're not alone," the students turned to see Professors Flitwick, Sprout, McGonagall, and Snape standing in the doorway with Madam Pomfrey and a couple of her healers in training. "What has happened?"
"Professors, I called the five of you here as a matter has risen regarding Umbridge's way of punishing students," lifting one of the student's hands to show the carved words.
Pomona gasped as her fellow professors looked outraged, especially Snape, who, while did not like kids that much, was disgusted by what Umbridge had been making the students do. Poppy and her team of trainees began treating the students who wrote with blood quills. Minerva was so enraged that she swore in Gaelic, while Filius did the same in Gobblegook.
"I want everyone to report to their head of houses after they've been treated. Professors, we need to talk. Now," narrowing his eyes, giving them a meaningful look that said it was important.
As soon as the four professors were near him, he erected some privacy wards. "How could this have happened? Why did they not say anything about their detentions?" asked Pomona, who was crossed between anger and shame.
"All excellent questions," Severus's black eyes were set ablaze. "This has gone far enough…that loathsome woman needs to be removed. It's one thing to make a student miserable during detention, but to force them to use a dark object is crossing the line."
"We all feel the same, Severus. However, our priority, first and foremost, should be the students," an infuriated Minerva rationalized. "I do not care what Albus says about being unable to do anything. Something needs to be done about her."
"Agreed. I knew something would happen after she was granted additional power within the school. Damn you, Fudge." Filius was red with anger. "This is enough to have her sent to Azkaban."
"Do you really believe Fudge would allow this to happen?" Severus shot his colleague a look. "Fudge would think we planted the evidence in her possession and keep her out of prison."
"We should inform Albus about this," Pomona suggested. "He might have been left with little choice but to accept her as this year's professor. But he might listen to what—"
"Let me stop you, Pomona," Harry cut her off. "I spoke to him twice about having her removed; he'd say she's Fudge's employee each time and that he could not do anything. If we bring this to him, all he'll do is give some excuse."
"Then what do you suggest?" Severus asked.
They spent the next hour debating how they would handle Umbridge and their students. Harry explained how he had the students write their complaints and that he intended to make copies. One for the press, the other for the Department of W.E.A. Any further discussion revolved around the students as they feared any future detentions with the woman. Pomona recommended that whenever they were given detentions from the woman, they would go to them immediately. Minerva, though, looked only moments away from exiting the room to go and curse Umbridge within an inch of her life. Thankfully, Severus had a calming draught attached to his belt so she could keep her rational mind.
Once the wards were deactivated, the professors spoke with their students to enquire how they were given the detentions. When Poppy was finishing her reports, Harry asked for everyone's attention. "From this moment on, if any of you receive or somehow find yourself in detention with Umbridge, inform your head of house. Those quills she has you use are considered Class-B and are only authorized to use for signing certain documents."
Madam Pomfrey and her students completed their rounds as the students deposited their complaints into their year boxes. They were told to inform the people who were not present except for the Inquisitorial Squad, and if they or Umbridge had any issues, they could send them to him. Not too long later, he sent the students off to dinner while he and the other professors left to deal with Dumbledore.
Reaching the gargoyle, the statue looked at them for a minute and, after judging the expressions on their collective faces, allowed them to proceed. Marching up the stairs, Harry promptly kicked the door open to see a shocked Dumbledore sitting behind his desk. "You insufferable goat-fucking ignorant piece of shit," he yelled.
"Harry. Professors, what is going on?" The old warlock looked at them in confusion. Their expressions were of pure loathing; if looks could kill, he already be six feet under.
"Were you unaware that Umbitch has been using a dark object to torture students?" Slamming his fist on the mahogany desk. Positively taken back by the boy's anger, Albus had to do a doubletake. While the wards around the castle did warn him about the arrival of dark objects being brought in, he ignored them out of concern for more important things. Delores had proven difficult as she seemed hellbent on ensuring that Cornelius would have control. But he never thought she go so far as to attack students.
"Dark object? Torture students?" Feigning confusion. Unfortunately, the façade only infuriated the young man even further.
"Yes, you fool. The professors and I just found out that she's been forcing the students to write with blood quills."
A purely shocked Albus paled slightly. "I never knew," he said before composing himself. "As disturbing as this is—"
"Disturbing? Albus, this woman has crossed the line; she's greatly overstepped her position as a teacher and is using blood quills to silence anyone who disagrees with the Minister. On top of that, she's granted some of the biggest bullies in this school more power than they should have," Minerva ranted. "I will say this again: Delores Umbridge needs to be removed…"
"And arrested," Filius added.
Albus released a deep sigh and started massaging his temples "we have been over this; I cannot remove her as she is Fudge's employee. As reprehensible as her actions may be, my hands are tied."
"Bullshit, man," Harry roared. "For once, will you stop thinking about yourself and consider the safety of the students? That bitch is torturing students, and as the headmaster, it is your job to fix the situation. The hell with Fudge, she needs to go, and if you won't do anything, then I will."
"To what end?" Albus questioned. "You know who she answers to and who is funding his campaign. If we push the issue, then Cornelius will use every bit of influence to stall any proceedings that will make him look bad. Admitting that placing his secretary here will certainly do that, and there's a chance he'll send someone worse."
"So that's it?" Pomona angrily stared at him. "You're not going to fight this!?"
"At this point, there is little I can do," Albus sadly said. "I will, of course, be having words with her."
Severus sneered in disgust. "Have words with her?" Scoffing at the notion. "Albus wake up and smell the potion…that woman will not listen to you…time and time again, you were warned about bringing her within these walls." The coolness of his voice concealed his anger.
"This is our only option," pinching the bridge of his nose. "Like I said, I will talk to her."
"No. There is another option. You're just too soft and unwilling to take action," Harry sharply retorted. "Umbitch deserves more than some words—from you no less—this is another of your failings added to a very long list. Unwillingness to take decisive action. Umbridge is one person you have allowed to remain just to please Fudge. This has gone on long enough, and either you need to get your head out of your arse and fire the bitch, or you need to go. Which is it?"
The previous headmasters and mistresses nodded in agreement as something needed to be done.
Releasing an irritated sigh, "we may not see eye to eye about everything. But I am doing what is best for everyone, and you will need to accept that some things are out of our control."
"No, this is about you. From now on, the students will no longer serve detention with her; this is non-negotiable. I don't care what she says to that miserable sack of shit. You can sit up here eating your sweets, acting like everything will eventually turn out fine, but we will protect the students. So either you get on board or get out of the way!"
He then turned to leave with the professors who firmly agreed with him, leaving a bewildered Albus Dumbledore to sit alone in his office.
Walking towards the Great Hall, they saw Delores rounding the corner with her signature sugary sadistic smile. "Professors, I was just about to wonder where the four of you were as we have much to discuss," ignoring their angry glares and Harry most of all.
"I have received word that," she did not get to finish as Harry punched her dead in the face breaking her nose in the process.
Again and again, he hit her, continuing to break her face, ribs, and chest bones. "Dirty! Fucking! Shit!" Grabbing her hair, he slammed her head against the wall several times until he was sure her skull was cracked. Then, pulling her close till she was at eye level, "if you ever touch our students again, it will be the last thing you ever do, and I will have you begging for mercy." Then, delivering a quick kick to the head, knocking her out.
Pomona and Severus called one of the house elves to take the woman to the hospital wing, even though they didn't want to. Minerva had to resist the urge to jump in and deliver a couple of hits of her own. Filius kicked Umbridge in the stomach, breaking another rib before the elf could take her.
(0^0)
Two days after his encounter with Umbridge, Harry found himself walking through one of the towns of Transylvania with Daphne and Miwa. The three were on their way to one of the biggest Apothecary shops in the world to collect some additional ingredients for their potion. Strolling through the streets, he told them about what happened with Umbridge, how he and some of the professors spoke with Dumbledore about having her removed and arrested, and what he did to her. Miwa sympathized with him as she would have done the same, if not worse. Umbridge wouldn't even be breathing had she been there. Miwa had heard what the woman did with the Dementors and was pissed in every sense of the word. Daphne looked ready to return to Britain, file charges against the woman, and then end her.
"At least Severus erased her memory of the incident, though it still doesn't justify her actions as she deserves worse. So much worse," the dark tone in her voice showed how she felt. "But first things first. We need to let the people know our project is done."
"Everything is falling into place. The facilities are built, we have the money, and our potion actually works." Miwa opened the door. "It may have taken months and been expensive, but we finally managed to create a cure."
Close to an hour, they were able to get what they needed and found the missing ingredient, and boy, was it expensive. After they finished paying, hitched screams from outside filled the shop. Rushing outside, they saw several people running in fear as the assailants threw curses everywhere, destroying building after building. Immediately they recognized who was attacking; Greyback and his pack members.
The anger that burned within Harry increased to new levels as he sensed one of the few bastards who had dared to cross his family. The three wasted no words fighting back, throwing dangerous spells in retaliation. Miwa and Daphne created the darker versions of the anti-portkey and anti-apparition wards that would only work against those with the lycanthropy infection.
"We're done," Daphne joined the battle killing a handful of the werewolves with cutting, blasting, piercing, and several other spells in her arsenal. Miwa wasn't far off as she decapitated a few herself.
"Greyback," Harry roared after finishing off two of his lieutenants with an explosion hex making their guts and various body parts fly in different directions. The battle stopped as the alpha wolf calmly walked forward. "You and I have a score to settle for what you did to Cassie." He wasted no time firing dangerous and painful spells as the werewolf.
Fenrir was mentally thanking his enhanced reflexes as he could avoid Potter's attacks, but only barely. He had only fought him once; back then, Potter burned the side of his face. After his magical maturity, he became a shit more powerful and faster than ever.
"The dark lord will reward me for taking you out of the equation," he snarled, dodging another spell aimed at his neck. Laceration and blood-boiling spell left his wand and was quickly followed up with many different dark charms and curses. All of which were sent back by a banishing charm. "Don't play with me!"
Activating his inner wolf, he began transforming into his beast form. When the transformation was complete, he released a howl into the sky and raced toward Harry, who showed no visible expression. Instead, he reached into his pocket to pull out a vial of the new potion. "This is for you, Cassie," he mentally said, rushing forward while firing spells trying to unbalance Greyback.
As his spells drew Greyback closer, a large ring of fire surrounded the two, not that he noticed, something Harry was hoping for. Harry quickly severed Fenrir's right paw making the wolf howl in pain. Then, seeing an opening, he threw the vial straight into his mouth, making him revert to human form.
"My wolf. You took my wolf!" Fenrir screamed in both shock and anger.
"Got that right. Now it's payback time," with a sadistic grin, the young man charged forward and delivered a hard punch directly into Fenrir's face. This was followed up by a few quick yet powerful jabs to the stomach and a swift kick to the groin. "You sadistic piece of shit. This is for everyone you ever bitten and killed."
Throwing him a fair distance, he charged up some lightning into his hands and unleashed it. Fenrir did not have time to dodge as the blasts of lightning were coursing through his entire being. His screams were echoing all around as Harry upped the power. A couple of minutes later, Harry paused, "make no mistake, as you will die like the rabid dog you are." Then using every painful spell in his arsenal Harry made sure Greyback knew his ire by making him scream his lungs raw. "You should have brought more backup. And you should have learned from the graveyard… Never mess with the Blacks!" Finishing him off with the darkest and most painful spell in the Black family library.
The spell hit Fenrir square in the chest, one by one, his organs started to incinerate as his bones exploded, and his mind became filled with the worst nightmares known to man. Then finally, one by one, his various body parts blew off his body, spraying his blood everywhere. Finally, what remained of his head rolled on the ground. At long last, Fenrir Greyback, the person who'd been one of Europe's most wanted criminals, was dead.
Witnessing the death of their leader, the remaining werewolves lost morale and started to flee. However, a retreat was easier said than done as the girls finished off their remaining lieutenants and managed to take many of them down.
"Come on, we better leave before the Aurors arrive," Daphne said. Harry took her hand and teleported away with Miwa following behind, just before the Aurors appeared on the scene.
The three appeared outside the gates of Potter Castle, where they were met by a handful of house elves, a startled Nymphadora, and a shocked Amelia.
"What happened to the three of you?" Amelia asked as the teens were led into the castle, noticing the blood stains on their clothes.
"Long story short: Fenrir Greyback, his lieutenants, and members of his pack are dead," Miwa answered.
"What?" Sirius exclaimed as they entered the sitting room with Arcturus.
"Look, we'll tell you guys the rest after we get a shower and some fresh clothes," Harry said before his godfather could ask any further questions.
"Fair," Arcturus grunted as the teens went to clean themselves of the blood stains.
The adults were locked in a serious discussion, with most of the questions directed at Amelia. "Can this really be true? Is Fenrir dead?"
"I do not know," Amelia looked at Arcturus, knowing that he would have killed Fenrir himself, given a chance. "I will need to speak with my contacts in Transylvania to learn anymore. But, if what they say is true, then those three have done something that the Aurors and I.C.W. agents in Europe couldn't do."
"This is also a victory for us, as Voldemort will lose an important asset to his forces," Sirius voiced with a big smile. "I imagine old-snake face will be quite upset once he learns what happened to the werewolves—more importantly, Fenrir."
Dora quickly added, "do not forget that once the International Press gets word of this, it will become the talk of every country. Fenrir had been wanted for decades, and to hear that his forces were bested by three teenagers will bring loads of attention."
"Fine, Here's what'll happen, Amelia. Find what you can from the Aurors in Transylvania. I will contact the International Press and whatever media is used abroad and try to get them to stall for as long as possible. But first, we need to know what happened," Arcturus said.
"I believe we can help with that," the adults turned to the staircase to see the teens had returned with the Potter family pensieve. Daphne pointed her wand against her head to extract the memory and place it in the device. "That'll show you what happened."
The adult walked over to dip their heads into the pensieve. Together they saw what happened while trying to restock on potion ingredients. A scream was heard outside, and there was mass chaos courtesy of Fenrir and his pack members. Amelia was pleasantly surprised to see the three work together; their teamwork was better than her Aurors, which she found embarrassing. Arcturus and Sirius watched without blinking as Harry fought Greyback and not only managed to remove the wolf part of him but also killed him. Arcturus was pleased and nearly cried as he saw how his nephew finished that overgrown mutt.
Exiting the pensieve, Arcturus pulled Harry into a tight hug that surprised Sirius as he had hardly ever seen his grandfather embrace someone.
"Nicely done, Harry," complimenting his heir, then turning to address all three of them. "Do you lot realize what you've done today?"
"Defeat Greyback and his lieutenants and create a potion that cures lycanthropy," Daphne replied.
"More than that," Sirius snorted. "Fenrir's pack made up a decent amount of Voldemort's forces, and you three managed to cripple them. As a result, the I.C.W. will likely award you three with an Order of Merlin First Class and present you with the bounty on their heads."
"We did not do it for money or any recognition," Miwa responded. "We did it because they needed to go. Without Greyback and his lieutenants, I suspect there will be a decrease in werewolf attacks. The ones who are already infected and were forced to join will now have a chance to regain their lives."
"Greyback was a special case as he crossed the Blacks. No one crosses us and lives to tell about," Harry stated fiercely. "How do you think we'll have until the media reveals what's happened?"
Daphne answered. Two to three days max. However, we can use this to our advantage," a sly smile appeared on her lips.
Miwa nodded in understanding, "I like the way you're thinking. It's about time for the people to be free again. They can finally have what they have long desired, their freedoms."
"Boy, I'm sure glad I gave Byakko and the others the day off. They likely would have gone ballistic," Harry joked.
Once the talks were over, the teens returned to their schools via floo travel. Harry and Daphne arrived in his office and sat on one of the sofas. Leaning her head against his chest Daphne decided to relax a little, as today was Thursday. "You were amazing out there," Harry looked down at her.
"Well, I had a good teacher," meeting his gaze. "I wonder what else you'll have to show me," giving him a wink.
Leaning down to kiss her lips, "maybe one or two more things."
A small laugh escaped her lips, "then, by all means, Professors. Educate me," wrapping an arm around his neck.
"As milady wishes," bringing his lips back to hers. The kiss slowly grew as he wrapped his hands around her waist. Daphne moved to sit on his lap as their lips moved in sync.
However, the good mood was interrupted when someone knocked on the door. Daphne internally groaned as she wanted to know who was interrupting their alone time. With a wave of his hand, Harry summoned the Marauders' map to see who was at the door. The names clearly read Blaise Zabini and Tracey Davis.
Hopping off him so he could look presentable. "Come in," Harry said. When the door opened, they were greeted by their angry expressions, automatically alerting Harry as something must have happened. After closing the door, he asked what had happened.
Tracey started ranting about what Malfoy did at the entrance of the Great Hall and how Umbridge tried to get Granger and Weasley expelled after the ferret's crew in the Inquisitorial squad verbally assaulted the duo and three others. "The slimy sack of dung even threatened that Voldemort would have them dead soon enough."
A dark smile tugged his lips. "Really? Did you guys get this recorded?"
Blaise pulled the crystal from his pocket to toss it over, which Harry easily caught. The recording lasted for no longer than eight minutes, but it revealed a great amount of detail. Draco and his entourage went out of their way to antagonize a group of students, lording their positions over them and unjustly taking points. When Granger brushed him off, saying he had no right to issue punishment, things began to escalate as words were said by both sides. Eventually, Malfoy became angry enough when Weasley and MacMillian insulted him and his father and commented on how he would end up with nothing. That was when the Malfoy heir mentioned how close his father was to Fudge being his advisor and that Voldemort was back and would soon be the death of them. His followers said the same, etc.
"This is excellent."
"What are you talking about?" Tracey looked at him like he had grown a second head.
"I'm talking about how we could use this to expose Voldemort's return," beginning with a grin, "Voldemort likes to operate in secrecy. He would not make a reckless move that would inform the public he was back. I am also sure that he told his followers to keep it quiet, and if he told them to do so, then…"
"The same would go for their children as well," the brunette said, realizing what he was getting at. "But wouldn't that be risky? Fudge is currently in Malfoy Sr.'s pocket, and say the git was pressured into talking about Voldemort's return."
Twisting his lips in a way that looked familiar to Severus's, "true…though you forget Tracey. We also have a recording of Draco boasting about his father's connection to the Minister and how Delores quickly reinstated the Slytherin quidditch team."
"You're saying we can use this information against Fudge and Umbridge and, by extension, show the public how they're willing to bend the rules for the Malfoys." Blaise smiled at the plan. "Time for some payback."
"Blaise, my old friend. I hope you're ready to have some fun," a lopsided grin overtook his face and was matched by the dark-skinned boy.
"Time to bear are fangs," rubbing his hands together.
Stealing a glance at his clock, he saw it was almost time for their next class and sent them off. He then teleported into Salazar's personal quarters, where he spent the next couple of hours speaking with the Founders about the new project he, Miwa, and Daphne created. Salazar, in particular, had a superior look as he swelled with pride that a member of his house had a hand in creating what was thought to be impossible. However, the expressions on their faces changed when the topic changed to Umbridge being within the castle as an educator. Harry kept them apprised of what's been going on and the recent changes. They were furious at how their prized school quickly became a version of Azkaban.
"The Ministry's influence must be removed from the school," Helga was not pleased to hear that two of the students were a part of the Inquisitorial squad.
"Calm yourself, Lady Helga. To defeat their enemies, they must be patient and lure them into a false sense of security. Then when the moment is right, do we deconstruct and destroy them." Harry began. "Acting rash and throwing everything into one attack will not do much to hurt the enemy."
Salazar released a booming laugh, "with a mind like that, you should have been in Slytherin. Unlike this man-child," gesturing to a scowling Godric, "you actually know how to strategize and strike your opponents."
"Too bad, Sal," Godric used his hated nickname, "despite what you wish, Harry was sorted into Gryffindor. However, I still think you should release everything you have on the toad and her boss."
"And that is your problem, ancestor," Harry quipped, stopping him from continuing. "Times have changed. With Voldemort back and Fudge unknowingly aiding him, this has to be taken care of in a sensible manner. I cannot afford to be reckless."
Sucking in a breath, "do what you have to do. Just make sure you break those arseholes."
"Consider it done," Harry said before turning to leave.
(0^0)
At Malfoy Manor, Lord Voldemort was in a towering mood after hearing what happened in Transylvania. Fenrir Greyback, along with his lieutenants, were killed by Harry and his two companions Daphne Greengrass and Miwa Kawada. It had been less than 10 hours, yet the remaining werewolves who belonged to his pack were fighting over who would be the new alpha. What's more, Lucius's influence in the Ministry of Magic was being stretched to its limit now that Nott and the others were dead. What really pissed him off was that they lost everything from the money in their vaults to potential meeting places and companies that could have provided beneficial resources. The only thing that managed to pacify his rage somewhat was Rowle finding Igor in Norway and silencing him.
Sitting alone in his throne room, he felt Nagini coming from behind. Slithering up to her master, he likely caressed her skin, and the two began speaking in parseltongue. "No, my friend. I am not worried. The loss of Greyback has only delayed my plans. There are other contingencies in place; however, I think we'll have to move up the timetable." He began thinking about Dumbledore's people guarding the Hall of Prophecy. This will require some precise handling.
Another thing that concerned him was Severus's latest report about the things going on at Hogwarts, namely between Harry and Umbridge. The two were constantly at odds with Harry, often putting the woman in her place as he held more authority within the castle. Several students have chosen to side with him as he took the time to talk with them and not dictate, similar to what Delores had been trying to accomplish. When he heard she began using blood quills, he did not know what to make of it as that would have the opposite effect of what was needed. The students hated her with a passion and wanted her gone. This will not do for his overall plans. There was even the concern as to what the boy was planning that caught his attention.
(0^0)
Later after dinner, Harry was currently monitoring the student's progress in the room of requirement with Professors Flitwick and McGonagall. The two would switch between helping the students when Harry could not or discussing his recent findings for his mastery of their subject. Minerva was pleased by how far her apprentice had come; he dedicated as much time as possible to learning from them along with his other responsibilities. Quietly observing him as he assisted a group of third-years practice the banishing charm.
"Remember, the banishing charm has two functions: one for combat and the other to banish unneeded items. The first will require a certain level of power and force, while the latter only requires a minimum amount. Allow the magic within you to guide your actions," watching as they perform the spell.
A ghost smile tugged at his lips as the group worked on the different functions. Unfortunately, his smile disappeared when the door flew open, drawing the room's attention to an unhappy Delores Umbridge standing in front of her Inquisitors and Filch. Draco and the old caretaker looked exceptionally pleased as they thought the people present would be punished.
"Seems like you were right, Mr. Malfoy. Forty-five points for informing me of an unlicensed organization," giving a smile.
"It was my pleasure High Inquisitor," Malfoy responded in a superior voice. "When I heard that Potter gave the students lessons, I assumed you'd like to be aware."
She sent him a nod before turning to everyone else, namely Harry. "Mr. Potter," beginning in a falsely sweet voice. "You have been caught violating Educational Decree number two and will be punished. As for the rest of you, you will receive a month of detention. Now all of you out!"
"Stay and continue your work," Harry said in an even voice. "Also, that will be sixty points from you, Mr. Malfoy, for disrespecting a professor and interfering in the education of your fellow students." Draco sent a glare which he returned, "it astounds me at how you lowered yourself to being nothing but a bootlicker…though given who your Head of House is, I shouldn't be surprised. Oh, one more thing that is a strike for endangering the others."
"What, that's not fair," he protested.
"Potter, you are in position—"
"That is where you are wrong, Umbridge," Harry cut her off. "Mr. Malfoy is nothing more than an arrogant, spoiled child who thinks he can get away with anything since his daddy is so close to that joke of a Minister of Magic. Since you've taken such an interest in his family and appointed him leader of the squad, you allow him free reign to harass those that do not agree with him. His punishment will stand. If you want to complain, do it to someone who cares about your opinion though I can assure you that is not here."
"I care," Filch spoke up, showing his yellowing teeth.
"Let me reiterate someone of importance and is not a useless idiot," glaring at the old caretaker. "No one likes nor do they respect you, Filch. Just because you're miserable, you believe others have to be. That is sad. Remember that you are very close to being relieved of duty. Were it up to me; I fire you right now."
Argus was torn between being angry and scared, as Potter was essentially correct. He's the castle proprietor, meaning he could remove him at any given moment.
Harry turned his attention to the students, "there will be no detentions or any other punishments as this organization has already been approved."
"You lie," Delores raised her voice a little, "I did not approve of this being part of the school. Now I want everyone out," she became angry when no one moved. "Why are none of moving?"
"Oh, I do not know. Maybe it's because we don't respect or care about your opinion," someone replied.
"Who dares speak to me like that?" Delores ordered.
"That will be me," Cedric stood up. "In the time you've been here, things have grown worse. It wasn't bad enough that you're basically turning this school into a miniature version of Azkaban. But now you are making it difficult for us to pass our classes."
"That will be ten points from you, Mr. Diggory." Umbridge sharply retorted, to which the seventh year rolled his eyes.
"And you," looking at Harry. "I did not approve of this little group of yours. You will come with me to the headmaster's office, or I will—"
"What? You will what? Call the Aurors on me for doing my job?" Asking in a sardonic voice. "For someone as old as you, you're pretty stupid. Not that it should be a surprise, given how you are nothing more than a desk jockey secretary." That earned a round of laughs. "These sessions have the authorizations from the Directors of the Ministry and I.C.W. Examination Departments." With a wave of his hand, he summoned the paperwork from his desk drawer to his hand.
"Bring your sorry carcass over here, Filch, and deliver this to the toad. It's about as much as your good for," holding the documents out so the balding man could collect them. Grabbing it out of his hands, Filch returned the forms to Delores, who quickly read through them.
"What…t-this ca-cannot…be right," spluttering in rage at what she read.
"There you see," Filius finally spoke. "Professor Potter has the approval from the I.C.W. and the Ministry education departments to hold these sessions. Contrary to what you may like to believe, this is a legitimate organization and above your jurisdiction."
Delores sent a murderous glare at him, Minerva, who responded with a frosty glare of her own and then at Harry. "I will consult with Cornelius about this," whirling around and leaving the room. Before she could say anything, a powerful banishing charm sent her flying across the floor courtesy of Harry, who closed the door in the other's faces.
"That is how you use the banishing charm to get rid of unwanted pests," Harry twirled his wand as everyone clapped in appreciation for the way he made a fool of Umbridge or for an excellent demonstration of the banishing charm.
Minerva tried to look disappointed but found it hard to suppress the small smile from appearing on her face, "if you were still a student, I'd take points and give you detention for attacking another professor. However, you're not…nice example of how to use the charm."
(0^0)
Over the next three days, things for Delores have not gone well as Cornelius could not get Potter's little study group to close down. What with it having the backings of both Griselda Marchbanks and Yasmine Quinn, who basically told him to kiss their arses. However, that did not stop her from interfering by showing up to question him at every turn or trying to assert her authority by taking over. Each time he would make an example by demonstrating spells on her.
Adding to her misery was that she received a summons to Dumbledore's office, where he vehemently told her to stop using blood quills in her detentions and that if she did not listen, the consequences would be on her head. This was a surprise as she wondered how he found out and what he intended to do with her? His new attitude perplexed her greatly as the normal twinkle that usually resided in his eyes was replaced by cold darkness. Quickly composing herself, she responded by saying she was sent by Cornelius himself and that he would most appreciate her actions.
Dumbledore shook his head and told her to watch herself as she was only at Hogwarts for a limited time, and her actions will catch up with her. Delores turned on her heels and walked out of the office, ignoring the dark glare he was sending her. Not long after her encounter with the headmaster, the other professors subtly commented they knew what she'd been doing and told her to stop or there will be trouble. A disaster in the making as they were mounting resistance against her. She could only say that she still had more authority over the rest of the staff.
The morning of October 19th, she found herself sitting at the head table. The tension within the Hall was immense as most of the ire was being directed at her. Ignoring them, she ate her breakfast as the crystals hanging above the double doors formed a screen; a reporter from the International Press appeared.
"Good morning, everyone," the Chief reporter began, "today, we bring you a special report as we face an international issue and some growing issues in Magical Britain. To start, we begin by introducing those from their native land. Here with me today are some distinguished individuals who have something interesting to say. Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you…"
Everyone in the Great Hall turned to the screen, where they saw a handful of students, Professor Potter, the Commander of the I.C.W. with two of his agents, a Potion master, and a couple of lords and ladies. Delores internally cringed when she saw that Potter was an interviewee.
The severe expressions on their faces let the citizens know they were serious. Alex was the first to speak. "To every witch and wizard, I am Commander Alex Taymore of the British I.C.W branch. It has recently been brought to my attention that one of Europe's most notorious criminals has been killed along with several members of his pack in a town in Transylvania. I am pleased to report that Fenrir Greyback, along with his lieutenants and at least twenty other werewolf criminals, are no more."
That shocked everyone in the hall, save for some people who were already aware of their demise. "The people who deserve the credit for defeating them are: Lord Hadrian Potter, Daphne Greengrass, and Miwa Kawada," ushering the three to come forward. "I consider it an honor and privilege to stand with these exceptionally brilliant witches and wizards as they were able to accomplish something Aurors and I.C.W. agents from all across Europe could not. To think that a bunch of teenagers could defeat a gang of criminals is astonishing, to say the least, as the reward bounties on the fugitive's heads and everything they've had will be transferred to them."
The students began whispering amongst themselves as they listened with rapt attention. Fenrir Greyback and the werewolves who served under him were notoriously feared and caused chaos either by brutalizing, infecting, or killing those in their paths.
Harry, Daphne, and Miwa showed no visual expressions. Then, when it was their turn to speak, the latter among the three stepped up, "this is a special announcement to the people who have been bitten by Greyback and his inner circle and forced to join up with them. You no longer have to be afraid as they can do you no more harm. My friends and I feel like you all have suffered enough under their rules, and return to you what's been taken. Your freedoms!"
Daphne added, "the three of us have spent close to a year creating a potion that cures lycanthropy and are proud to say that it works." The people watching went silent after hearing what she said, as the Wolfsbane potion was the only known potion that helped werewolves. A big smile plastered across her face, "yes, your ears do not deceive you as it is true. We have found a way to help those who have lost their lives because of this affliction. Here with me is the Chairman of the International Society of Potioneers, Trevor Rhodes."
The elderly Chairman, who seemed to be in his late seventies, was dressed in pristine robes and shot the three an appreciative smile. "We at the Society of Potioneers have reviewed and tested the potion presented to us and are proud to say they have accomplished a thought to be an impossible task. Their success would undoubtedly earn them a Potion's Mastery, though they declined, wishing to undergo apprenticeship. Therefore, we congratulate the three and reward them with 1.5 million galleons. In addition, their research paper and instructions regarding the potion will be distributed to every settlement worldwide in the coming days. Well done!" Clapping his hands as Harry came forward.
"Thank you, Mr. Rhodes." Harry gave him a curt nod. "While we appreciate the gesture…we did not do it with the thought of gaining an award. We did it to help the people who lost everything and were forced into slavery. As I'm sure you're already aware, those who have lycanthropy are treated with scorn and considered to be nothing more than dark creatures. The people who are bitten—through no fault of their own are struggling to find jobs, afraid to be near people, and are living in poverty," taking a breath. "To my regret, the situation in Britain is much worse as the werewolves, along with anyone who tries to help them, are evicted from their homes and sent to Azkaban prison without a trial."
"What?" The chief reporter snapped his eyes open. "How is that possible? In some communities, their treatment is less than desirable, even reprehensible. But arrested is pushing it too far. And what of the people who try to help them? Why are they being imprisoned when all they're doing is trying to protect their friends and/or family members? Furthermore, why are they not getting a trial?"
"All excellent questions. It starts with the Office of the Minister of Magic in magical Britain. Namely the senior Undersecretary Delores Jane Umbridge, who drafted the anti-werewolf legislation in 1993. The legislation violates both International and National law as it goes against Humanitarian law. Despite knowing the illegality of the legislation, he's endorsed it, meaning they have broken the law by ostracizing the citizens under their care. Though, it should not surprise me as he has repeatedly bent and broken the law since taking office."
Delores was seething with rage as she listened to that liar. She was hoping that Cornelius was watching so he could finally arrest him.
"You have proof, I take it, Lord Potter?" He asked.
"I do," motioning for Ulrich and his father to come forward with the boxes. Harry continued as they set them down, "these boxes contain over a hundred reports from werewolves and their associates who were sent to Azkaban without a trial, forced out of their homes, and now live in poverty. We know we've checked the transcripts. None of them received a trial." This will cause a shit load of problems for Fudge and Umbridge. "As such, the three of us have come to an agreement. All the money we got from creating this potion and the bounties from Greyback's pack will be used so that anyone with lycanthropy can have access to the potion. This also includes all the money I got from the Death Eaters I killed during my battle. We have Werewolf Rehabilitation Centers built all around the Countries in Europe and in Japan. They shall be the first to receive the potion as even as I speak these words, my lawyer Mrs. Schwarber is negotiating contracts with potion masters and mistresses. In total, we are giving around 648 million galleons so that anyone who's a werewolf can have the chance of getting their lives back."
"Oh my god, that is so generous. Are you three content with donating so much money just to help the people who were bitten?"
"We are," they said in unison, much to the shocked expressions of the people behind them. Daphne added, "this should have been dealt with years ago as the werewolves should have the chance of getting their lives back."
"For this reason, we petition for the werewolves and their wrongfully imprisoned associates to be released or given a fair trial and for the Lords, Ladies, Department Heads, and other representatives to repeal Umbitch's anti-werewolf legislation."
"To mitigate this miscarriage of justice caused by the Office of the Minister of Magic, I am also donating a portion of the money I got from that overweight dumbass Fudge to the people whose lives he's ruined with that law. Out of the 37,811,450 million galleons, I am giving 29,400,000 million for it to be distributed among them. The Ministry's budget committee has already been made aware and is waiting for the trials to begin."
"My word, that is amazing," the chief commented. "However, there are some things I wish to ask. Why do you think your Minister's Senior Undersecretary created the law? Do you think this was done simply because she hates werewolves like the general public, or is there something else behind her reasonings?"
Clicking his tongue, "in my opinion, she is nothing more than a pureblood racist bitch who thinks she's better than everyone. For years she's threatened, bullied, and abused those not of the same station as her. You can ask anyone in the Ministry who had the unfortunate privilege of meeting her, and I guarantee they will have something to say. It can be a number of reasons why she created that werewolf law; I think it was to supply Fenrir with additional troops."
"Why do you say that?"
"Let's play a game, and I want you to follow along. Fenrir was a monster who mainly preyed on kids; after they've been infected, he'd take and raise them to despise anyone not of his kind. People were already weary of werewolves as they did not know what might happen if they were associated with one. Correct?" Garcia hesitantly nodded. "Well, consider their feelings as they're equally as scared. She added fuel to the fire, telling people they're right to be afraid and that the werewolves should be locked up or executed."
"I'm a little confused as to what you're getting at, but I'm also intrigued," Garcia leaned in with interest.
"I'm saying that she might have been an associate of Greyback and was secretly supplying him with more werewolves. That may sound farfetched on my part, but it's something to think about. Greyback spread terror across Europe, and Umbridge's law caused several werewolves already in Britain to be angrier. A clever tactic, I'll admit; Fenrir spreads fear and terror. Umbridge passes a law that gives them only three choices: join Fenrir's pack, be locked up in Azkaban and or killed, or live in poverty away from the magical world."
"Oh my god," Garcia gasped. "That would mean she's been supplying one of the most feared and notorious criminals with people."
"Your catching on," a smirk tugged against Harry's lips. "This means that Fudge has also been helping since he endorsed her and never once did anything to stop her. That makes two laws he's broken so far. Like I said before, it doesn't surprise me in the least, as he has a knack for bending and breaking the law. Not to mention likes to eschew the truth and only tell the people what he wants them to know."
Wiping the sweat off his forehead, Garcia went on to ask. "How so?"
"After my trial, I invoked the oath he swore upon taking office to find the culprit who sent a pair of dementors after my sister and me. Two days before the deadline, he and three Aurors arrived in the headmaster's office, where he gave me this file," pulling the thing from his watch. "According to this, Mr. Stanley Shunpike was the person responsible. Hippogriff shit, in my opinion, as I looked into the man's profile to discover some interesting things regarding him."
"Interesting, you say. Then, by all means, continue."
"He comes from a poor background, was an only child raised by his mother, barely an average wizard based on his academic results, and got a thankless job as the Knight bus conductor. Never once did he enter the Ministry of Magic, as there will be a record. Also, why would he come after my sister and me? We've done nothing to him. Seems to me like he was being used as a scapegoat for the real culprit. He never even had a trial."
Frank then came in, "it's true as a few other Aurors, and I looked for any records of his trial…we found nothing. The report Lord Potter has is completely false. Therefore, as the Lord of the House of Longbottom, I hereby petition for Stanley Shunpike to be given a fair trial."
"I, Lady Cariana Zabini of the House of Zabini, second this motion," a fierce expression on Cariana's face showed she was serious.
"This is a lot to digest," Sebastian had to release a breath. "I hope the Ministries of the world will do what is right and support your efforts. Is there anything else before we end this morning's report?"
"Mr. Garcia, we are far from done," Harry casually said. "The Aurors and their budget are pathetic, to say the least. If you do not believe me, you can ask Lady Amelia Black, the Director of Law Enforcement. Who is very much aware of what is happening in her department."
Amelia came into view with a stern expression, "it is a travesty to admit, but what Lord Potter says is the absolute truth. My department is severely understaffed and full of untrained Aurors. Gathering a head count, I discovered only forty-nine, less than 1/3 of what is needed to secure Britain and Ireland. Time and time again, I have asked the budget committee to send more funds, but each time I get told they can't because the Ministry cannot afford to send any additional money. Why or how this has happened vexes me greatly as the most important department in the Ministry is receiving less than what is needed."
"Already, I have lost count of the number of reports I've gotten about towns being attacked by werewolves, giants, dark witches, and wizards. With my forces stretched to their limits, it won't be long before Britain is left defenseless, and we will no longer be able to offer protection against a greater threat."
"Greater threat? What greater threat?" A nervous Garcia asked.
"Voldemort and his death eaters," Harry answered, causing the reporters and several of the students at Hogwarts to flinch. "Make no mistake, that murdering psychopath is back. Contrary to what Fudge believes, he has returned with the help of the people who braved Azkaban and is stronger than ever."
"Y-your te-telling me he's really back. But if that's true, why didn't you say anything?"
"And who do you think would believe me if I announced he was back? Think about it if I claimed that the worse Dark Lord of all time was back without any proof, no one would believe me."
"If what you say is true, why hasn't your Minister issued an alert? Why are Death Eaters running amok instead of in prison? How do you know he is back? What evidence do you have?"
"Let's take a stroll down memory lane, shall we. Shortly after his first defeat, the Ministry was in the middle of restoring order to Britain and electing a new Minister of Magic. At the time, there were two candidates, the late Barty Crouch Sr. and Cornelius Fudge. The former would have had the position had it not been discovered that his son was also a Death Eater and took part in attacking Lord and Lady Longbottom. With him out of the way, that opened the door to the only remaining candidate Fudge." The scowl on Harry's face deepened. "They knew they would need a plan if they wanted to avoid Azkaban, so they funded his campaign, knowing that if they supported Crouch in any way, they would end up behind bars."
After the election, Death Eaters were still being rounded, and while some reused to denounce their master's name others pleaded they were placed under the imperius curse. Fudge had just been elected, and if it was discovered that his campaign managers and financial backers were found guilty, it be curtains for him. To avoid any scrutiny, he pardoned them. You ask me why are Death Eaters running amok? That is because Fudge let them walk after they ensured he got the position of Minster of Magic. You recall what happened last year at the World Cup, correct?"
"I do," Sebastian confirmed with a nod. "From what I heard, that became an international incident as several high-ranking individuals were being attacked. So you're telling me that was caused by the pardoned Death Eaters."
"Yes. Only Death Eaters wear masks and dress in black robes. What's more, they left their calling card…the Dark Mark. A spell only known to Voldemort and his Death Eaters. Throughout the chaos, Delores Umbridge kept the British Aurors from intervening, who stalled them by saying they had another task to complete. I found it irregular as she has no business interfering in official Auror business. It also baffles me as she is far too chummy with the people who pleaded to be cursed."
"You think she intentionally stalled the Aurors as a favor to the Death Eaters?"
"It makes sense. Because my sources report that she was good friends with them for years, it wouldn't surprise me about her having a hand in their extracurricular activities. Think about it. Pardoned Death Eaters are running around, not being checked by the Ministry official. Why? Because they're getting inside help from one of the most influential offices. The Minister of Magic. Another thing I would like to mention is why are the funds that should be given to the Auror office being, and some laws not being passed?"
"What are you saying?" Garcia looked like he was about to shit himself.
"Corruption. The most dangerous weapon in government institutes is money. By throwing a few thousand galleons to the right people under the guise of donation can go a long way. Especially if that person is under your payroll."
"You're saying Fudge has been taking bribes," the edge in Cariana's voice showed her ire.
"Indeed. It's well-known that he is close to the Malfoy family as they were his main benefactor, and he frequently meets with them both out and in the Ministry. What do you want to bet Lord Malfoy has been slipping him gold! After I took the money in his vault, I noticed an irregularity…Fudge has a lot more gold than he should. His overall salary should not be higher than 129,000 a year. His wife is 71,000. They will not be able to afford a luxury's villa like the one I recently took without help. So where is all this money coming from? These are the types of questions that need to be addressed. When you get right down to it, only a few people truly benefit from this arrangement, and most definitely not the people he swore to protect."
Daphne said, "if you decrease the overall security of one sector, you're giving a free pass to the people who should be locked up. And I am not convinced they were even under the imperius curse."
"Why do you think that, Ms. Greengrass?"
"Their testimony about being under the imperius curse for over a year would have caused mental issues and would have affected their magical cores." She answered smoothly. "I think they lied about being cursed because they should have been admitted to St. Mungo's long-term ward to receive treatment."
"Rest assured, I will be looking into that later," Rufus Scrimgeour grunted. This was going even better than he had hoped. "I would also like to know where the funds that should be going into our Auror budget are going. The money from the taxes helps pay to keep our department functioning, and as a fellow taxpayer, I'd like to know I'm getting my money's worth."
"Another issue I would like to address would be the growing at Hogwarts," Harry said in an unhappy voice. "Ever since Umbridge entered, the atmosphere has plummeted significantly, and things have only worsened after she was made High Inquisitor and added her educational decrees. Put simply, the school is starting to feel like a prison."
"We can verify that." Neville, Blaise, Tracey, Lilith, and Daphne nodded fiercely
Blaise took the lead on this, "from day one, her intentions were made clear as she has not once taught us any practical magic or defensive spells needed for our end-of-year exams. This is one of the many reasons why a handful of students dropped her class. If not that, she struts around the castle as if she owns it."
"Really. Please elaborate more on what goes on at the school," Sebastian implored
"Oh, where to begin…" rolling his eyes and rubbing his chin. "She punishes anyone who disagrees with the Minister by docking points or giving detentions. Has repeatedly interrupted the professors while they're trying to teach under the pretense of ensuring they are qualified. What kind of educator punishes students just because they disagree with the Minister's decision? That's not being a good professor that's abusing power."
"Not to mention her inspection of the school's professors are unwarranted," Tracey had to resist the urge to sneer. "She might be the High Inquisitor, but that does not give her the right to harass the professors or the students. In addition to the time she's spent in the castle, their Educational Decrees, with Fudge's signature that, grants her more power within the school. Already she's shut down the school's clubs, organizations, and study groups and made some of the biggest bullies her enforcers. The Inquisitorial squad is a group of bullies led by Draco Malfoy, who is the absolute worst as he continuously makes the lives of others, especially within our house, miserable. The twerp threatens everyone by saying that his father has the Minister's ear."
"He and his friends even threatened a group of students by claiming that Voldemort would have them killed if they did not fall in line."
"I see. Do you have proof?"
She took the recording from her pocket and played it. The students at Hogwarts, namely the rest of Slytherin's house, sent murderous glares at the Malfoy heir and his companions. Draco was torn between being angry and fearful as he remembered his encounter with Weasley and MacMillian. The stupid Gryffindor had made him mad, so he revealed some personal information about the Dark Lord being back. Turning to his head of house, he immediately went pale at the hard look Severus gave him; his black eyes said they would be in trouble later as the Dark Lord will not be pleased. Nott looked on the verge of fainting while Parkinson, Goyle, and Crabbe ran out of the Hall.
Tracey also showed a recording of Draco boasting about how close his father was to the Minister and Umbridge, granting the Slytherin's permission to reform their Quidditch team. This infuriated the other houses as they had to wait for an extended period of time to get permission, while Malfoy was given the green light almost immediately.
At the end of the recording, Lilith spoke, "what you have here is a confession that Voldemort is once again at large. Before you say anything, no one forced them to spout off about Voldemort. This is also proof that Lord Malfoy and the others lied about being put under the imperius curse as only Death Eaters—their children included refer to him by the alias Dark Lord. Anyone else would say his name or any other names given to him."
"Not much of a surprise as Lord Malfoy would tell his son about what it was like to be a Death Eater and fight for Voldemort. Now he's using his wealth and influence to stonewall any investigations that may lead to revealing Voldemort's return. That includes sending Fudge's number two to prevent the students from learning magic so they could defend themselves."
"You all seem to have a lot of hatred towards Professor Umbridge and the Minister of Magic," Garcia commented.
"And with good reason," Harry vehemently replied, bringing the attention to him. "Professor," scoffing at the mention of her being called anything resembling an educator. "A professor is supposed to have knowledge in their fields and pass down that information to the students. She has not done anything like that. Multiple times she's made a nuisance of herself when I'm conducting my after-school sessions. Always attempting to takeover or get it disbanded, each time she is rebuffed as I have written permission from the Head of the W.E.A. in the Ministry of Magic and the I.C.W. themselves. These sessions are to help the students gain a better understanding of magic outside of their classes. Since its creation, professors have reported that the students are receiving higher marks on their assignments and exams. While that is good, it's becoming a problem as she continues to interfere with their educational abilities."
"I've looked at her grades from when she was a student; to find nothing that makes her qualified enough to teach a core class like Defense Against the Dark Arts. In fact, I have her O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. results on me right now…"
"You have access to the professor's results?" the reporter asked in a surprised voice.
"Of course. As the castle owner, I have a right to know if the professors are qualified. Ah, here we are," pulling to separate documents from his watch.
"The O.W.L. results of Delores Umbridge:
Ordinary Wizarding Level Test Results
Pass Grades:
Outstanding (O)
Exceeds Expectations (EE)
Acceptable (A)
Fail Grades:
Poor (P)
Dreadful(D)
Troll(T)
Delores Jane Umbridge has Achieved:
Charms: A (76)
Defense Against the Dark Arts: A (70)
Transfiguration: A (75)
Herbology: A (71)
Care of Magical Creatures: A (74)
Potions: A (72)
Astronomy: P (66)
Divination: P (65)
History of Magic: D (58)
Congratulations, Ms. Umbridge, you have achieved six O.W.L.s
"This is just sad. Only five O.W.L.s. Nothing above an Acceptable." Showing the reporter and everyone watching her results. "Now we get to her N.E.W.T.s. These results would make me cry."
Nastily Exhausting Wizarding Test Results
Pass Grades:
Outstanding (O)
Exceeds Expectations (EE)
Acceptable (A)
Fail Grades:
Poor (P)
Dreadful(D)
Troll(T)
Delores Jane Umbridge has Achieved:
Charms: A (72)
Defense Against the Dark Arts: D (58)
Transfiguration: A (71)
Herbology: A (70)
Potions: P (66)
Care of Magical Creatures: A (74)
Congratulations, Ms. Umbridge, you have achieved four N.E.W.T.s
"With results like these, she should not be within a hundred feet near a school, let alone have a teaching position." The disgust in his voice was palpable. "I even contacted the Defense guild to ask if she was a member. They all laughed, saying they would soon burn the organization down before welcoming her as a member. From what I've seen, I sympathize with them, as I wouldn't hire her. To add insult to injury, she has no credentials nor qualifications that would enable her to become a professor at such a prestigious school."
"There is also the fact that the students want her removed." Neville quipped. He and the others brought out seven familiar boxes. "These boxes contain the complaint forms from the first through seventh years. I reckon over 90 percent of the student population wrote some unflattering comments about her being a professor and as a person," pausing for a minute. "For security reasons, we won't reveal the names; instead, we created copies and sent them to the Director of the Examination department."
The rest of the news report lasted for an hour, with the interviewees explaining how they wanted Delores Umbridge removed from her post. When asked what Dumbledore was doing about her? Harry replied that he was doing nothing to stop her from interfering with the education at Hogwarts and that he went to speak with him three times. Every time he said he couldn't oppose her appointment as she was Fudge's employee and that his hands were tied. Harry called bullshit as he was the headmaster and, like him, had the final say in the matter. By not doing anything, Dumbledore was helping the toad and Fudge cheat the students out of their educations and the parents out of their money. The student's parents are paying money so their kids can receive an education from what is believed to be one of the best schools in the wizarding world. If the professors are not qualified to teach a subject, he is stealing from the child and parent.
When the topic changed to the school's budget, Harry thoroughly explained how the Ministry made up the difference by showing how much it costs to keep the school open every year. However, the money from the Ministry of Magic had strings attached. To get funding, the headmaster or mistress must adhere to the wishes of the Wizengamot, W.E.A., and any educational department within the Ministry. He went on to talk about how some well-off families were borrowing money from the student loans, leaving the people who desperately needed them with scraps. In short, it was a mess as the headmaster, Umbridge, and Fudge took advantage of the school's budget by providing a second-rate educational system. Due to what is happening, Harry and the others urge the parents who have been paying to demand retribution. Either demand to have their money returned, threaten to take their charges out of school, push for Dumbledore to be removed as headmaster, or replace Delores with a proper professor.
To end things, Harry donated the rest of the money he got from Fudge to the Auror budget, along with an additional 7.4 million galleons. If Fudge did not allow the budget committee to give Amelia and Rufus any additional funds, he sure was. The 15,811,450 million galleons were to be handled by the Head Auror and DMLE only. No one else would have access to it.
Times are changing, and it's long past time for the citizens of Britain and Ireland to get a clue as to what is going on.
A/N: First let me say Happy New Year's everyone. Delores's control in the school is starting to grow, however, that doesn't mean that Harry and his friends are going to give up without a fight. It's always bothered me that none of the teachers did anything truly helpful, sure they've let the other students torment her, but that's about it. Greyback got what he deserved as he screwed with the wrong family. Yes, I know this was a lot of money they gave away, but it's worth it for both security reasons and so the werewolves could have a chance of being fully human again.
This news segment will have a severe effect on Delores, Fudge, and Dumbledore. Now the outside world will finally know that Voldemort is back and what is going on at Hogwarts. How'd you all like her grades? If you ask me with grades like her's she should have been removed immediately as it's a miracle she even got a job to begin with.
Next Chapter: Punishments. Time for a change.