Chapter 24: Returned and Surprises
On April fourteenth, an uneasy Bill Weasley sat behind his desk in his office with a bewildered expression and nursing a large cup of coffee. The last couple of days have been rough as his younger brother Percy—who he still considered an idiot for being blinded by his arrogance and putting so much faith in Fudge and a corrupt government had found himself in deep trouble. While disliking Percy for what he had become and did, the arrogant pencil neck prick was still his brother. He only hoped that the punishments the Wizengamot set for him would make him a better person. Adding to his concern was the letter get got from his father about the letter he got from King Ragnok. He wanted to discuss their finances, but why? Not only that but on the following day, the members of the Wizengamot sent him a summons to remove the Blood Traitor status on the family and anoint him as a Lord. He knew he should be happy, elated even, but there were too many unknowns. What was going on?
When he tried asking his superiors, and Ragnok himself, they would say that the information was confidential and could not reveal anything until the appointment. Bill knew better than to persist in his questioning and to interfere with the allotted time of the higher-ups, as it would likely mean the end of his career. The Goblins are strict and do not play. However, that did not stop him from being concerned. Just as he finished the last of his coffee, a knock on his door was heard.
He threw the cup he was drinking into the trash can beside his desk and looked around to ensure that his office was in order in case any of his superiors decided to do a surprise inspection. "Come in," he said after making sure everything that wasn't needed was squared away.
A second later, his door opened to reveal his father, Fred, and George standing behind King Ragnok. The Head of the Goblin Nation silently inspected his employee's office, then gave an approving nod when he saw the place's condition. "Curse Breaker William Weasley, it is time to discuss your family's finances. Please come with me to the conference room." He turned around and walked through the wizards who stood behind him.
Leading them to the conference room, they walked inside, where another goblin was already sitting at the long table waiting for them with a stack of folders in front of him. They each took their seats where the members of the Weasley family sat on one side and the Goblins on the other. After a moment of silence, Ragnok addressed the Weasley family. "I'm glad the four of you could make it today. Allow me to introduce my associate Bowin," gesturing to the male goblin next to him. "As I'm sure you all are wondering. The reason why you were summoned today is to discuss your finances."
He raised a hand to stop Arthur from speaking, "allow me to explain. Once I'm done, then you can ask me any questions you'd like." Arthur and his children nodded. "It has come to our attention that the business contracts and investments your ancestor made with the House of Malfoy and House of McNair were indeed breached, and the fees your house has to make were illegal. Thus your ancestor was cheated out of a significant amount of money." Ragnok motioned for Bowen to pass them the first folder.
Arthur accepted the folder containing the original deals the Weasleys made with the Malfoys and McNairs. He read through the original documents and the new evidence very carefully and was shocked and outraged by what he read. His ancestor had been cheated. No ruined by these families.
Ragnok then resumed, "now understand that since this was so long ago and according to Goblin law, the money transferred to them could not be reclaimed by your family. Only the person who brought us this information has a right to it. However, this person had no wish to keep it, stating that the money was not theirs to keep. Rather than risk the gold fall into the hands of someone like or worse, they came to the only viable conclusion: return it to its owner. Henceforth, the money that was paid to settle your family's debt has been returned," the next folder was passed over.
Arthur had to do a double take as his heart nearly stopped beating. "Is this accurate? Like undeniably legit?" His hands were shaking, and it looked like he was going to drop the paperwork until Bill took it from his hands. 26.71 million galleons had been transferred to the Weasley family account.
"It is," Ragnok and Bowen confirmed. "Right now, the money in your account is on hold, but if you sign in the designated areas, the money will be made available within the next couple of hours."
Arthur frowned, and his hands were still shaking when he reached for the blood quill. This black quill had been the cause of so many problems this year at Hogwarts. Fred and George informed him about their detentions with Umbridge and how she forced them to use the detestable object. He was about to object, but Ragnok brought out a bowl filled with the Essence of Dittany. Fred, George, and Bill each gave him a nod, and he signed the documents. Close to two hours later, he finally put the black quill down and rubbed his bleeding hand.
As their father placed his hand in the Dittany-filled bowl, Fred and George spoke, "um, King Ragnok may we ask. . .
"Who had this money transferred?"
"That would be Lord Potter," he said, shocking the Weasley men. "He was adamant in saying that this was by no means any form of charity, rather him just returning what was rightfully yours. He also said it would make the former Lord Malfoy and Lord McNair roll in their graves. His only request was that neither you nor your future descendants act like the former Lord Lucius Malfoy, his friends, or any of their arrogant and overly pampered children." Ragnok let loose a chuckle. "Quite honorable and reasonable of him."
Bill looked about, ready to floo to Hogwarts and give Harry a bone-breaking hug while singing his praises to the heavens. Fred and George wanted nothing more than to throw themselves at Harry's feet and kiss his shoes while thanking him. Yet they knew him well enough to know he didn't want the attention or for them to feel like they owed him anything. This was just Harry being Harry. Arthur's mind was going a thousand miles an hour at what had happened; Harry had done this for him and his family. He could never have imagined that something like this would happen. Despite all the trouble some of his family members have caused him over the years, Harry showed them compassion and returned what was stolen.
(0^0)
Over the next couple of days, Harry Potter and Alastor Moody stood before the members of the International Society of Potioneers. The latter had been invited by the former to see the unveiling of his current potion project. Initially, reluctant Alastor agreed as Potter said he had something that would greatly intrigue him. When he tried to prod the boy for more information, all he said was that it would be a surprise. Alastor growled in response as he wondered what Potter had up his sleeve and why it was so important that he had to be present? Swallowing his annoyance, he agreed to attend the meeting as his honored guest. So when it came time for the conference to begin, Alastor took sat in a chair and watched as Potter addressed Potioneers.
"Honored Potion Masters and Mistresses, thank you all for attending today's conference. Regarding my last visit, some of you were skeptical and, if not reluctant, to grant me additional time to complete my project under Master Snape. In fact, a few of you seemed unconvinced that my potion would actually work." There was a collection of nods from the members present, for they remembered the meeting. "Well, I am proud to say thanks to the more open-minded members of this group because I managed to accomplish what the few of you thought to be either dark or impossible."
"You know we demand proof of your work Apprentice Potter," the Chairman said. "Our time is precious, and if you've dragged us here to simply trick have failed to meet our expectations, then we will have little choice but to remove your apprenticeship."
Harry smirked, "oh, I'm more than confident that what I managed to achieve will leave you at a loss for words," he said with absolute confidence. "As you lot know, I have chosen to study Master Snape's restorative potion. After spending a decent amount of time researching it, I was able to create a new potion that utilizes the same design principle as its predecessor and make it so that the potion will not only heal the body but also regrow any body parts that were lost or destroyed. That includes bones, organs, and limbs. I call it the: Regrowth Potion."
Then reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a few recording crystals to show the recorded proof that his potion did indeed work. One by one, the footage was played for the spectators who watched intently. The people missing body parts were helped into the potion-filled healing chamber. To the astonishment of everyone in the room, especially Mad-Eye, who stared in disbelief at how the people who entered the healing chamber came out with new limbs. Like they had never been gone before.
When the last recording ended, Harry retrieved the crystals, returned them to his pocket, and addressed everyone. "Now, I know recording can be tampered with, and like the Chairman said, he demands proof. Obviously, he is a person who believes in the phrase seeing is believing." A few of the people chuckled. "That is why I've asked Mr. Moody to attend today's conference," gesturing for the old grizzled Auror to come forward. Ladies and Gentlemen, allow me to introduce Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody. A war veteran, Master Duelist, Master Auror, and a friend of mine."
Turning to the grinning man, "Master Moody, you have fought for us during the first war with Voldemort," some shuddered when he said He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Name's name. "Have sacrificed life and limb (the latter more than the former), and have proven numerous times to be a better man than most. Will you allow me to repay you for your services by returning your left eye, left leg, and the missing part of your nose?"
"Yes!" Alastor cried. "Let's do it now! I have been without some of my limbs for years! And this infernal magical eye has been causing me nothing but trouble since I got it back from that swine Crouch Junior."
Harry gave him a nod and then turned back to the audience. "How about it, people? Do I have the green light to demonstrate my project before all of you in person?"
They all nodded their heads at the Chairman, who in turn gave his consent. "Go ahead!"
A grinning Harry pulled out a shrunken healing chamber, and a sealed cauldron filled with his potion. Then flouring his wand, he waved it to return the chamber to its original size. "Okay, for this to work, I'm gonna need two things from you, Alastor. One: I will need a few strands of your hair. Two: You will need to remove your fake eye and leg."
"Done," Moody grunted, pulling out a few strands of his hair and handing it to the bow, who put it in the green smoking potion. Harry then opened the chamber door, conjured a chair for the man, and poured the potion inside as he sat down to remove his replacement limbs. "How long will this take?"
Twisting his lips at the eager man. "Three hours. Are you ready?"
"For over fifteen years, lad." Growled Moody.
"Then here we go. Fair warning, this may sting a little," waving his wand again, Harry conjured the bubblehead charm to give Alastor a supply of air, then closed the door. The green potion then rose until it filled the chamber.
For the next three hours, everyone watched as Moody's body parts started to regrow. An uncomfortable Alastor felt like his entire body was on fire, but it was nothing he couldn't handle as he waited years to have his eye, leg, and part of his nose restored. A brief amount of pain was nothing compared to the reward he was receiving. When the process was finally over, the potion surrounding him in the chamber glowed brightly, signaling that it was done and started to decrease. Harry opened the chamber door a minute or two later, conjuring a couple towels for the wet Alastor to dry off.
"I'm. . . I'm back," Alastor exclaimed as he rubbed his regrown hairy leg and his eye to ensure they were indeed real and not a figment of his imagination. In addition, he could breathe out of his nose a lot easier. "It has been years! Years since I was whole! Thanks, Potter."
"You're welcome. Come on, let's get you out of there," reaching out to help the man out of the chamber but was gently pushed back.
"I have my left leg and left eye back after over fifteen years, and by Merlin saggy balls, I'm going to use them," he declared. "Please, you got to give me this one."
Harry sighed as he could understand the man's impatience. Meanwhile, the Potioneers watching were like he said. . .at a loss of words. None of them could muster the ability to speak. "All right. But you should take it easy for a few days and not over-exert your new body parts."
Alastor conceded with a nod. "Now, I want to ask you to do a couple of things for me." Harry resumed when the man stepped out of the chamber while still rubbing his eye and leg. "Can you walk to the end of the stage and back? I want to know if you feel any distress or any pain."
Alastor did as he asked and walked to the end of the stage and back without his staff and without any complications. "All good."
"Next: please place your right hand over your right eye," he instructed. "Follow my hand movement with your left eye," waving his left up, down, side to side. "Any problems?"
"No," Alastor said, following the boy's hand movement with his left eye.
"Very good. Now last thing. Suck in a big breath and flare your nostrils." Alastor understood the stood the point of these tests and questions, as Potter wanted to ensure that his regrown body parts were working properly. Sucking in a big breath, he then released through his nose. "Any issues?"
"None at all," the man confirmed.
Harry then turned his attention back to the wide-eyed and gaping potioneers. More accurately, the Chairman, whose jaw had hit the ground, couldn't even blink or say anything. "Have I met your expectations?"
The man shook his head to regain his sense of reason. "Apprentice Potter, you have done more than meet my expectations. You've exceeded them beyond my wildest dreams. Brilliantly done," he and the others started clapping their hands in earnest. "Your research paper will be sent out in the next couple of days."
With a respectful bow, he grabbed the briefcase he brought and said, "this is the resolve of a new generation. Master Moody, I'll see you back in Britain." He then hopped down the stage and took his leave.
When Harry exited the building, he teleported to his office at Hogwarts, threw his case on the coffee table, and later himself onto the couch. That was exhausting. Thankfully, it was over, and he now has the rest of the school day to himself. Ten minutes later, he was fast asleep when Suzaku flamed into the office with Byakko and Genbu. Naga unwrapped himself from Dayvee.
". . .Seems our young companion here is getting some needed well-earned rest," Naga slithered over to the sleeping boy. "About time too. He's been working exceedingly hard lately."
"Master of understatement," Dayvee chimed in. "The way he's been pushing himself lately-it wouldn't surprise me if he slept for the rest of the day." She had to admit that she was happy to have formed a pact with Harry last year, as she never expected to meet someone like him.
Dayvee, then looked at Takashi and a trilling Kai after Naga rewrapped himself around her. "You know it won't be long beforeshe makes an appearance. I can sense it now; she is most eager to meet Harry."
Byakko growled. "Well, hopefully, that will happen sooner than later. For now, though, let's get Harry to his room," giving a pointed look at Suzaku.
"Yeah, I'm on it," Suzaku flew until he grabbed onto Harry's robes and flamed him to his bedroom.
In another area of the castle, the fifth-year students were attending their Defense Against the Dark Arts class under a new professor named: John Gavin. The man might be in his mid-forties, but he had proven to be a fountain of knowledge when it came to the subject and was a whole hell of a lot better than Delores Umbridge. Though, that should be expected since he's been an active member of the Defense Guild for more than two decades.
"It is not simply enough for someone to perform the counter curse; it's about knowing how and what curses need to be removed in order," he explained. When the bell rang, signaling that class was over, he added, "I want two rolls of parchment over removing curses and jinxes from an object and the importance of knowing which ones to counter first due by next class."
The students groaned as they left the classroom. "In a matter of weeks, all this revising and doing essays will finally be over," Tracey said with a small grin.
Blaise gave her a gentle squeeze, "believe me, Trace. You are not the only one who is anxious for this year to be over."
"Look at it this way. It won't be long before the exams roll over," Lilith yawned and moved a few strands of hair away from her face. "Once they're out of the way, we can finally relax." Truthfully she had been feeling just as anxious as Tracey, but rather than say anything, she would pull out a few pieces of candy from her sweets bag and pop them in her mouth. Her feeling of anxiety would then decrease. She then decided to change the topic of their conversation. "I, for one, am glad there is a new Minister of Magic around. Interim Minister of Magic or not, they are still better than Fudge."
"Here, here," replied Neville. Kingsley Shacklebolt being made Interim Minister of Magic was a good move. Mr. Shacklebolt is a good man who will do what is right rather than what is easy and has already made some headway. Senior Auror John Dawlish was caught selling classified information and discovered that he had been tampering with evidence for years. I bet old Mad-Eye had a hell of a time expressing his displeasure."
Blaise snorted in response, "that's putting it mildly. When the man was brought before the Wizengamot for his trial, he had several deep cuts and bruises all over his body, was missing his left arm, and looked like he had been through hell," remembering the conversation he had with his mum since she was present during the trial. "Oh, and did you guys hear? Goyle was sentenced to sixty years in Azkaban and will be placed under house arrest for the rest of his life when he eventually gets out, assuming he survives his stay in prison. On top of that, Marietta Edgecombe received seventeen years, her parents lost their house, all of their money, and her mum was fired from the Department of Magical Transportation. Her dad was able to keep his job, and they are currently staying in a room at the Leaky Cauldron."
"Ouch," the three said in unison.
"What about Finnegan? What was his punishment?" Lilith asked.
"Ooh," the dark-skinned boy shuddered, "that was a doozy. When Lord Patil got word on what the Irish boy intended to do, he was all kinds of angry." The feed from the trial was still fresh in his mind. "Since Finnegan hadn't taken his O.W.L.s, he was still technically considered a minor. He would have received ten years, but Lord Patil interceded and demanded that he be given thirty. Patil also had the boy castrated and took all of his parents' money as recompense," Blaise explained.
"In other words, Finnegan simply didn't play with fire. . . He irked a dragon," Neville commented.
They then went to their last class of the day, which so happened to be Ancient Runes. Professor Babbling had them work on the different runic sequences and various matrixes for the period. "I must admit that I am impressed," she stated after handing back their previous graded assignments. "Many of you have improved greatly by leaps and bounds this year. Some more than others, but still, it's an achievement." Hermione was widely grinning, figuring she would be at the top of the class.
"However, that does not mean any of you should slack in your work as your O.W.L exam for this subject will be here before you know it. This month's class rankings will be posted on the wall before you leave today."
Five minutes before the bell rang, several of the students ran to the wall to view their class rank. Hermione was in the front of the pack looking for her name on the list and immediately frowned when she found she was in fourth place. In first place was Blaise Zabini, this was followed by Tracey Davis and Padma Patil, who tied for second, and Lilith Moon in third. This had aggravated her to no end as she looked around to see where they were, only to see them leaving, not even bothering to check the ranking.
(0^0)
The next day in the Transfiguration classroom, Minerva and Harry were having a quick discussion before class. Trust me, what I have in store will leave an impression on the students, and you at a loss for words."
"Why do I get the feeling I'm going to regret this," Minerva shook her head. "You, young man, are going to turn me more grey than I already am."
Harry laughed, "it's my job as your apprentice to amaze, surprise, and keep you on your toes." He then flashed her a cheeky grin when a small frown appeared on her face. "Oh, come on, Minerva. You have about another 25. Maybe 30 years in you. You are not that old."
She flashed him a cold glare though her eyes softened a little, "young man, I will have you know that I am old enough to be your grandmother. One more crack like that, and I will rescind my permission for you to demonstrate what you've discovered."
Harry quietly sobered up. "You are a brilliant Transfiguration Sorceress," he bowed at her.
"Just get ready," she shook her head at him trying to hide the small smile tugging against her lips. "Dorea, your grandson is going to make me go into early retirement," she mentally said as the students started piling in. "All right, have your essays placed at the edge of your desk so Professor Potter can collect them. Before we get to today's lesson, he would like to demonstrate his most recent findings while becoming my Apprentice."
The raven-haired young man silently picked up the students' essays while simultaneously ignoring the whispers going around and the death glare Malfoy was giving him. He and his friends have been cut at the knees. Neither Draco nor his friends were no longer able to live their luxurious lives anymore. They couldn't even take up the mantle of Lord or Lady since their Houses were kicked off the Wizengamot, and their names were permanently blackened.
After gathering up their reports, Harry placed them on Minerva's desk and took out his wand. "As Professor McGonagall said before we begin today's lesson, I have a few things to show you." He then turned his head slightly at Minerva, "the last one is for you regarding my improvements to your work in the animagus field."
She gave him a nod so he could continue. "Now, the first spell falls in the category of human transfiguration," he waved his wand in a complex motion, and the next second, he turned into a cloud of blue smoke and slithered around the classroom at incredible speed. "I have successfully transfigured my body into a cloud of smoke. As a result, I can travel around much quicker than when I'm walking or running. This spell is designed to last for only twenty minutes. After that, if you haven't cast the counter-spell will be turned back to normal" He then untransfigured himself turning him back to normal."
"For the next spell, I will need an assistant. Any volunteers?"
"I'll do it," McGonagall immediately said. "Since you are my Apprentice, that makes you my responsibility." There were a few groans from the students, though they were silenced when she gave them a sharp look.
"By your wish," he gave her a mock bow. Waving his wand again in a complex way, he finished it by pointing the tip of his wand at himself, and a white spell mixed with light blue tagged him. The spell had taken effect. "Please conjure a large brick wall." Minerva looked at him skeptically but complied, waved her wand, and a brick wall appeared out of thin air before him. What he did next was not something she or anyone had expected. He walked right through the wall like it was nothing. Literally walked through it.
"What the bloody hell!" Ron exclaimed from his seat beside Hermione, who was trying to comprehend what Potter had just done. "How in the name Morgana's tits did you that?!" Hermione flashed him an angry look for his use of language.
"The spell I used grants me the ability to phase through solid objects and spells for a brief time," he explained and then added. "To demonstrate, Professor McGonagall will now use the blasting and reductor spells. Don't worry, I'll be fine," he said to a hesitant Minerva.
"I swear if anything happens to you-"
"Just trust me, okay," he said.
Reluctantly she complied with the reductor curse and let loose a long breath of relief when it harmlessly passed through him. She then followed up with the blasting curse. It, too, passed through him.
"As you all can see, I am not harmed," quickly waving his wand, he performed the counter-spell to make himself tangible again. Touching the wall to prove he was solid once again. "All right, before I show you the animagus form, I need to get these out of the way. To start," he looked at Weasley, "that will be fifteen points for your language, and if I hear another swear from you, it will be twenty and detention with Professor Snape." The redhead boy gulped." Now that spell, I used to make myself intangible as it has limits. While it will enable people to walk through solid objects and avoid physical attacks. It doesn't mean every spell will pass through you. Spells that are black in nature, like the unforgivables, have been tested yet, and I am not keen on testing the waters on that front. For those of you interested in experimenting with the spell, you will need to sign a form saying that I am not responsible for what could happen if something goes wrong."
Minerva had to admit that was more than fair, as she wanted to try the spell herself. All of the students nodded, with a few who were reluctant.
"Good, now for my last demonstration. I would first like to say thank you to Professor McGonagall for taking me as your Apprentice, laying the groundwork on how to achieve the animagus form and apologize for the shock you are about to receive. Also, you might want this," he conjured a nice comfortable armchair for her.
"Oh, may the mother of magic help me," she prayed, levitating the chair behind her against the wall as he vanished from the brick wall.
"Everyone, please get up and move to the back of the room," no one remained seated as they all went to the back. Then taking a deep breath, Harry morphed into a Hebridean Black Dragon, much to everyone in the room's shock, and released an ear-destroying roar that shattered the windows. The students put their hands over their ears to protect their eardrums, and a handful of them screamed in fear at what they saw. Professor Potter has a new form. An extremely dangerous one at that.
Turning his massive head at a ghostly pale Minerva McGonagall. The poor woman looked seconds away from passing out. "Is this too much, Professor?"
Minerva's mouth went dry as she heard her protege talk while he was in his animagus form. Dismissing his question, she asked. "Yo-You can talk. . .? She then fainted onto the armchair.
Blowing smoke rings from his nose, he transformed back into human form. "Yeah, I think I overdid it this time," he walked over to her to see if she had a pulse. Thankfully, it was still there, and she was just unconscious. "Everyone, return to your seats. I'll be back after taking Professor McGonagall to see Madam Pomfrey." Shakingly the students retook their seats as he grabbed McGonagall's shoulder and teleported her away.
"That. . .was. . .unexpected," Blaise retook his seat. Looking at the people behind him, he saw that Malfoy had become so pale and could smell that he, along with Nott, had crapped themselves. Parkinson and Bulstrode had wet their pants and were ghostly pale. Granger was making a cross over her heart, speaking gibberish. On top of that, Tracey dug her nails into his skin enough to make him bleed. "Easy love. You know Harry has a thing for the theatrics."
"How are you not afraid right now?" His girlfriend asked.
"I've spent enough time with Harry over the years to know to expect the unexpected with him. Plus, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't startled and a little shaken by what I just saw him do."
"Sorry, Mr. Zabini. My intentions were only to surprise and have a little fun," Tracey jumped to her feet, clutching her heart as it was beating like a rabbit. Harry appeared back in the room.
"For, Merlin sake Harry would you stop trying to give me a heart attack," Tracey exclaimed. "Jesus Christ, are you trying to scare me to death?!"
Harry was miserably failing at trying to conceal his laughter. "I'm sorry, Ms. Davis. Also, you are hurting your boyfriend."
Blaise wiggled his red hand, as it was numb from how tight she squeezed it. "No offense, Harry. You might be a good friend of mine, but you're a real bastard scaring me half to death."
"None taken, Ms. Davis. Though that will be ten points for your language," he pulled a roll of SweeTART from his pocket and gave it to her. "That should help with your nerves."
"Fair enough, and thanks," opening the roll, she pulled out a couple of pieces for her, Blaise, and Lilith.
Harry then went over today's assignment, going into great detail about what they would be doing. Several of the students were still shocked at what he did before they started, and a handful of them were sent back to their common rooms to change their pants. Throughout the period walked, he went over the importance of conjuration while at the same point repairing the windows he destroyed. And during the last few minutes of class, he gave them their homework, which was, surprisingly, not an essay assignment, but to practice the spells they've been learning this year. He had a feeling they could use a breather. More importantly, his thoughts went to Minerva, as she was bound to be steamed at what happened earlier today.
Later that day, true to what he thought, Minerva had woken up and given Harry an earful. But after she was done giving him an hour-long lecture about nearly giving an old lady like her a heart attack and making her pass out, she became intrigued by the spells and improvements to the animagus form he demonstrated to the class. He went over what he showed in class, saying that he had already submitted his work to the Transfigurations Guild. Furthermore, he went into great depth about the animagus project and his new form. Apparently, he achieved it much faster while under the full moon and discovered that the transformation was only the start. Learning how to talk while in your animagus form took a lot of effort on his part, but later discovered that practicing under the full moon could enhance one's animagus form and grant the person the ability to speak.
Then, after his hearing had been restored, he joined the professors at the Head table during dinner. What he did today had spread like wildfire. The news had reached every single student and the members of the staff. Professor Flitwick looked like a kid who had eaten too much candy, given how he was bouncing in his chair. The Charms Professor wasted no time in asking to see the spells he created with his own eyes.
"Let's take that up tomorrow," Harry suggested, then turned to seventh-year Hufflepuff that approached him. "Mr. Diggory, is there something you need?"
Cedric smiled at his professor/friend. "Evening Professor. I just wanted to ask why it takes so long for our O.W.L and N.E.W.T results to get delivered?" Some of the professors and the older students who heard the question looked at him. If we take our exams in June, then why do we have to wait until the end of July to get the results?"
"Why indeed," Harry began to think. It was a topic that had been discussed numerous times by the fifth and seventh years. "To be honest with you, I don't entirely know the answer. I have to often ask myself why they take so long and only have a theory."
"What kind of theory?"
"Consider this the standard O.W.L. exam has about eighty to ninety questions for the theory portion of the exams, and the proctors can assign you any kind of spells they wish for you to perform," he explained from his own experience. "The same could be said for the N.E.W.T. exam, except for the theory portion, which has over a hundred questions. Among the two portions, it is easier to grade the practical part of the exam since they need to carefully evaluate how well you accomplish the tasks they set for you. But when it comes to the written part, they have to check your answers to make sure they are what they need to be, which I can probably surmise takes time as they need to read the answers carefully and then compare them to the ones on the answer sheet. That alone can take some hours. They then have to average your written and practical scores together and then have it recorded to your record. Given the number of exams they need to grade, how many people are grading them, the time it takes to implement them to your record, and getting them ready to be sent out. Well, it shouldn't surprise why they take so long. But, like I said, this is only a theory? You will need to ask her and Madam Quinn when they arrive."
"They're coming here?" Another seventh year asked.
"Tomorrow morning at breakfast," Harry confirmed. "You can ask them then. Is there anything else?"
"One more thing," Cedric replied. "I heard a rumor that: it's not what you know. It's who you know that will determine your score on the exam. But that can't be true, right?" The professors cringed at what he said, with Professors Snape and McGonagall seeming insulted that such a rumor would exist. The dark glares they were giving would terrify a Hungarian Horntail.
"Ooh, bite your tongue. You goin' to hell," said Harry. A wave of fear crossed Cedric's face as he went pale. "I don't know who started that rumor, but I can say that it is an absolute lie. If either Head of the Education Department heard you say that, especially Madam Marchbanks, they would raise stripes up your back and skin you alive."
Septima then added, "I can confirm what he says is the truth. I've known Griselda for years; she does not play nor allow anyone in her department to cheat nor give special favors to any of the examinees. No matter how close she or any of the members of her department are close to a family." For as long as Griselda's been the Head of the W.E.A she installed a few protocols in which she has the examiners take a census on who will be doing the grading and perform a magical vow saying they will not knowingly or unknowingly give assistance to any of the students or their families.
"That's all I wanted to know, professors," Cedric and the other seventh year turned around and returned to their tables.
Several fifth and seventh years were discussing why the International and Ministry Heads of the Education Authorization Department were coming tomorrow. From what the sixth and seventh years remembered, Madam Griselda, along with another, would only come a few times, but that was only to deliver a missive to the fifth and seventh-year students stipulating the rules and regulations of their O.W.L and N.E.W.T exams. But now Madam Quinn of the I.C.W's Education Department was also coming? That was new. That was only one of the few things they discussed, as many were thinking about what Professor Potter said about their results being sent out at the end of the year. In a way, they could understand why the examiners would need to take so long, though that hardly did anything to calm the nerves of a few students-they didn't want to wait for over a month to know what they got. The thought of that made a few of them cringe as their nerves tightened.
At the end of dinner, many students went to work on their essays, revise for their fast upcoming exams, or practice their spell work. Harry was sitting behind his desk in the Come and Go Room, grading quizzes and tests for the fourth, fifth, and seventh years. Since he was busy, Professors Flitwick, McGonagall, and Sprout were free to assist the students if they needed it. Not long later, Professor Snape entered to collect the quizzes for his classes.
"Ugh, finally, I'm done," groaned Harry, who leaned back in his chair as his right hand was sore and stained with black ink from all the marking he'd been doing.
Severus glided over with his usual cold-expressionless mask plastered on his face. "I assume that since you have time to gather your thoughts. . . that you are finished grading the quizzes for my classes," coolly stated with a small smirk tugging against his lips.
"The fourth and fifth-year exams have been graded," pointing to the two yellow stacked folders at the edge of his desk. He had to use his left hand since his right was numb. "Why do I get the feeling that you enjoy the idea of pushing your work onto me? You and Professor McGonagall."
Snape grunted, "sounds like you want more things to grade." An amused Minerva turned her attention to a seventh-year who raised her hand. "I could use some help in grading the sixth-year potion essays. Perhaps I should have them brought up."
Harry's eyes went wide, "when did you become my torturer?"
"The day you agreed to be my apprentice," Severus chuckled. "However, I am only kidding. Or am I?" He added when Harry released a tired sigh. "Have a good night," gathering the folders and turning to leave with his robes billowing.
A sympathetic Emily walked over to her brother's side. "Would you like some water?"
"Please," lifting his right hand as she took out her wand, then with a quick jab, water came out to cover his tired ink-stained hand. He watched her wave her wand over the water as it removed the ink stain, and he could comfortably move his fingers and open and close his entire hand again. "Thanks, sis," he some fire to dry off his hand when the water vanished.
"Happy to help. Once school ends, it will be time for a well-earned vacation," she took a seat on his lap.
". . .That we agree. I will be able to catch up on some sleep. Thankfully, I get to relax a little bit now." His spirit soared a little since he didn't have to worry about completing any more projects for his masteries for a while.
"You need it," she replied without hesitation. "I've seen the dark circles under your eyes and know you haven't been sleeping much lately."
"That's the price of trying to achieve four masteries and having to attend meetings with the head of the I.C.W. to discuss the new national and international security measures," he kept silent about the part of the Council sending him on multiple assignments with Miwa. He had no desire to reveal that he was a Magus to so many people just yet.
Emily, of course, had known what he'd been doing lately and sighed. "Oh brother, what am I going to do with you?" An idea then popped into her mind, "there is a Hogsmeade visit this weekend, and you're going!" She said, leaving no room for argument.
"Yeah, all right. I can probably use some time away from the castle."
A grateful smile crossed her lips, though it faltered when Granger asked. "Aren't you too old to be sitting on your brother's lap?" The bushy hair of the fifth-year female Gryffindor had become more noticeable, likely due to the stress of studying for thirteen O.W.L exams. "I mean, you're thirteen. Shouldn't you have outgrown that by now?" She then looked at Harry. "And you. Why are you allowing it? You are a professor and shouldn't be allowing such indecent behavior."
"He was my brother before he became a professor and is still my brother now," Emily said in a firm voice. "This is also normal between siblings. You would understand that if you had a brother or sister. Besides, shouldn't you be more concerned with trying to pass your exams than a simple show of affection between two siblings? They'll be here faster than you think."
That immediately shut Granger up. Emily then pressed on. "Also, why are you butting into our conversation? The only thing I'm trying to do is get my brother to relax from all the work he's been doing as of late, and compared to what you have to do, he desperately needs it."
A thoroughly chastised Hermione returned to her seat. The girl would have said more, but the younger had a point, as her upcoming exams would be here sooner than later. From that moment onward, she read through five years of Charms notes.
Eventually, it came time for the students to return to their common rooms. Minerva and Filius collected the folders that contained the graded quizzes and exams before following Pomona out. When the last of the students exited, the room Neville and the others remained to chat with a tired Harry.
"You do look like hell," Adrian commented, taking a look at his friend. "It might do you some good to get some sunlight."
"What's today?" Harry yawned.
"Thursday," Luna said in her usual dreamy voice.
"Ah, thank god," Harry released a long breath. "I still find it hard that so many things have changed in such a short amount of time. Though I am thankful."
"I still can't believe you gave the Weasley family a whole chunk of money," Aaron said in disbelief. "Technically, it was the right thing to do since the money was illegally taken, but aren't you worried that they might get the wrong idea?"
Shrugging his shoulders, "one step ahead of you. I've already met with Mr. Weasley and told him that it wasn't charity, but rather me just returning what was rightfully his. Besides, I have more than enough money than I know what to do with, so my descendants or I won't have to work a day in their lives." He pulled a water bottle from his watch, removed the cap, and took a hearty swig. "And if anyone deserves to get some peace, then it's Arthur. The man has worked hard his entire life and has been through much. Compared to what Miwa and I got from Malfoy and McNair returning what they cheated the House of Weasley out of is nothing. What he does with the money is his business."
"How much did you get anyway?" Astoria asked, ignoring the scathing look her sister was sending her. "You said you and Miwa each got half."
"True," chuckling to himself, "with the money we got from their vaults at Gringotts, the money they had secured in their multiple homes, the homes themselves and their contents, the money we got from their businesses both in the magical and muggle, the illegal treasures that were returned to their respective countries, family jewelry, and heirlooms, plus turning in some wealthy muggle Drug Kingpins whom they have associated it with. All that except for leaving Cousin Draco a flat and fifty thousand galleons. We did pretty good," he said, then added. "I'm still surprised they did business with the muggles despite their obvious hatred of them. But I guess money talks."
"Would you stop milking the drama and tell us?" Asked a slightly irritated Neville.
"Fine. Way to ruin my fun," he knew the suspense was killing some of them. "In total, we made about 153.47 million galleons."
"What?!" They all exclaimed. Neville's eyes became comically wide, and his trousers fell to the floor, exposing his underwear.
Harry covered Emily's eyes, and Daphne did the same to Astoria. "Look down, man!" An annoyed Harry cringed.
Neville's face became beet red when he saw that his pants had fallen, and he hurriedly pulled them back up and tightened his belt. "153.47 million galleons?"
"She got her half, and I got mine." Harry removed his hand from Emily's eyes. "Minus the 26.71 million from my share, I have 50,025,000 galleons left from the ordeal. However, I don't really want it and am undecided on what to do with it."
"You undecided on something is rare," Emily quipped and briefly giggled along with Astoria. "Anyway, have you thought about Sakura's proposal?"
"What proposal?" Adrian asked.
"A partnership in which I invest in the Five Dragons band. It's actually a good idea when you think about it. Plus, the benefits would be nice," smirking as he explained. "I can get a portion of their company's earnings, free tickets, and VIP backstage passes whenever I want."
"Then what are you waiting for?! Get a quill, some ink, and parchment, and write a letter saying you agree," Astoria exclaimed. The Five Dragons are a greater band than the Weird Sisters, and Sakura is amazing."
"And you do not have any ulterior motives? Like, get the opportunity to meet Sakura in person," raising an eyebrow that made her flush. Astoria "Oh, come on," Astoria whined.
"Let it go, Stori. It is his decision, and I have met Sakura before," Daphne interjected, stopping her sister from saying anything further.
"You met Sakura? When?" Blaise asked. He, Aaron, and Neville leaned forward, wanting to know.
"During the Yule break. Emily was with us when we met Sakura, and she invited us for dinner at her villa," she replied. Emily grinned at the memory. "Sakura really is nice and a great person to be around."
"Lucky," Aaron groaned. "I give my left hand to have one hour with her."
Blaise pat him on the back. You forgot one thing: Katie would not be happy if hung around fox like Sakura without her." He then looked at Tracey, who fixed him a glare. "It's just an observation. Besides, you are ten times as hot and sexy as she is."
Adrian coughed, "nice save."
"Keep talking, mate, and I'll tell Cecelia about that girl from Hufflepuff that's been flirting with you." Adrian froze at Blaise's threat. Knowing his girlfriend would not be happy to learn that Gisele had been making passes at him.
They all laughed. Harry then weighed his options regarding Sakura's proposal and came to a decision. He asked the room to give him some materials to write a letter and a board to write on.
"You made a decision, huh?" Daphne gave him a small smile as he quickly the letter. Then after signing and sealing it with his family rings, he folded it up, put it in the envelope, and sealed it with the House of Potter ring.
"I'll send this out in the morning," Harry kissed her and put the letter in his desk's drawers. "You guys might want to head back to your dormitories before curfew."
One by one, they all left the room to return to their common rooms and apartment to get ready for bed.
(0^0)
The students were all gathered in the Great Hall for breakfast the next morning, and before any of them could dig in, Madam Yasmin Quinn, Madam Marchbanks, along with two others arrived. This was a mandatory announcement that every fifth and seventh year needed to hear. It was the only reason why some members of the Inquisitorial Squad were allowed to be present. "May I have your attention, please," Madam Quinn requested, and everyone stopped chatting to look at her. "As I am sure many of you will recall, you received a letter in which you needed to write down the list of subjects you wish to test for your O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s."
There were several nods from the students as they remembered having to fill out and send in the forms. "After much deliberation between the school's board of governors, I.C.W, and British Ministry's Education Departments, we have decided to give you all the choice in which you can take your exams here at the school, the Ministry, or the I.C.W and if you'd like to take two exams instead of one per day." Whispers were running through the Hall as the students were talking to one another about what they were being offered. "Understand that this is not mandatory as you can still sit your exams in the castle if that is your choice. But if you'd like to do them in any of our Departments, then please let us know by the end of next week. The same applies if you wish to take two exams instead of one. Professors McGonagall, Flitwick, Snape, and Sprout will distribute the forms to you at the end of the school day. Again you need to submit them by no later than the end of next week so we know how many students we need to accommodate."
"Dibs at the I.C.W," Neville, Blaise, Daphne, and Tracey," said together in unison.
"Imma take mine at the Ministry," Susan stated, to which Lilith and Hannah agreed.
Lilith then added, ". . .doing two of them." She then turned to her boyfriend, Cedric. "What about you? Going to the Ministry, I.C.W, or take them here?"
Cedric drank some of his water. "Ministry for me. I'm eager to get these N.E.W.T.s out of the way. I've been up for the past four nights revising and practicing different spells." Lilith giggled and kissed him on the cheek.
Madam Marchbanks then went on to explain the process of how and when the proctors will arrive to administer the exams either in the castle or outside of it. This was followed by giving them the timetable under which they will operate under. The theory portion will be in the morning, and the practical after lunch, adding that those taking the practical for Astronomy will be held at night, obviously. She then went on to answer the many questions the students had.
Septima added her two knuts in, "now, I must warn you that the most stringent anti-cheating charms have been applied to your examination papers. Auto-Answer Quills are barred when the exams are being administered, as are Remembralls, Detachable Cribbing Cuffs, and Self-Correcting Ink. It grieves me to admit this, but at least one or more students think they can get around the Wizarding Examinations Authority's rules. That has not happened in nearly three decades, and I hope that no one is foolish enough to try and break that streak. The Headmaster, Madam Quinn, and Madam Marchbanks have also requested for each Heads of House to tell their students that cheating will be met with severe discipline. Remember that it is your future, and if you wish to make a life for yourselves when you leave Hogwarts, then we encourage you to do your best."
A/N: Listen, people, I was working on my other stories, so it makes sense why this chapter is late. However, I am proud to say that I have finally reached my quota for the two Harry Potter stories I've been writing: The Dragon's Silver Flower and The Mystic Rises. They will be available on Pa tre on an hour or two after this story is posted. That's if I get the chance and nothing unexpected pops up that stops me from posting them. Meanwhile, my other two stories have five chapters which I hope to change in the next few weeks. Do not worry, as you all will be briefed.
Now to this latest chapter: The money Harry and Miwa got from Malfoy and McNair was divided between them. The money those two ancestors cheated the Weasley out of has been returned to its rightful owner, and Arthur was granted the rank of Lord. Thus this now makes the House of Weasley a Noble House. Moreover, thanks to Harry's new potion, Alastor Moody was finally able to regain his original left leg and eye and the piece of his nose that was taken.
Admittedly I overdid it a little when I made Minerva faint. A woman her age should not be given a near heart attack, though it was exciting to see Harry surprise her with what he demonstrated to her and the fifth-years.
I have just created my Pa tre on account. It is currently under review at the minute by the people who designed the site. /TigerSwarm9122.
If there any problems then let me know and I'll try to work the bugs out.
Next Chapter: The plan? Time for exams