Disclaimer: See Chapter 1
-oOo-
Chapter 17
12 Apr 2024
-oOo-
This time on Duel of Fate: Dumbledore may fashion himself a god amongst men, but the mighty always fall. Or how the Longbottoms get part of their comeuppance.
-oOo-
July 20, 1995
Hogsmeade, Scotland
"RRRAAAAHHHHH!" Harry bellowed in rage as he jabbed his wand a few times at the practice dummies. The first two wild looking balls of destruction hit dead on, the explosive hex shattering the wooden dummies and sending burning hunks around the heavily warded room. The third missed its mark. When it hit the wall, it was like a small firework, exploding in a spray of sparks and crackling blue lightening as the wards struggled to contain the magical output of Harry's wild magic.
He didn't wait, spinning and slashing his wand down, up and down again across his body. White blades of crackling magic six feet wide sped across the room. They sliced the three dummies into numerous pieces.
"AAAHHHHRRRRAAAH!" he screamed again in rage, the lightening that had crackled across his hands in the hospital wing that day he almost killed Madam Longpiddle leapt from his fingers, channelled along his wand and then shot clear through the chest of a wooden dummy. The wards were a visible blue shield as the magical lightening hit and he kept channelling his magic. It was ten seconds before he stopped. He was panting, sweat heavy on his face and swaying at the draw on his core.
The wall behind the dummy was smoking and had a hole in it. Harry could see the galleon-sized hole in the stone wall through the fist-sized hole in the dummy.
Tears where biting at his eyes as he fell to his knees. He was panting, having a tough time to catch his breath.
"Are you done?"
Harry's arm whipped up. He almost cast another of the explosive hexes he had found in his father's diary before he saw the dark eyes of Sue. The girl looked understanding, but not impressed.
Harry's arm dropped and the wand rattled to the floor.
"He… got… off…" Harry managed to get out, his body shaking from anger and the amount of power he had used.
Sue nodded. "I'm aware. Master Flitwick called me over to keep you from destroying his house." She said with a small smirk before becoming concerned. "Harry, are you alright?"
Harry grabbed at his chest and sunk down until his head was almost on the floor. He had tried to shove this all down over the last month, but the pain was too much. His heart hurt. "How…?"
Ted had told them this morning that Longbottom was going to get off. He had said he had been sworn to secrecy and couldn't tell them of any the details until the next hearing in a week. Harry had run out of the house just after Ted had told them. He wasn't sure how long he had been at Master Flitwick's practicing and being as destructive as he could on the dummies. He already knew he would have to replace a few of them as there was no way they could repair themselves with the damage he was doing.
Harry broke down. He hadn't cried since before her funeral. Not like this.
An arm wrapped around his back and a gentle hand was put onto his right arm. Harry leaned into Sue. She held him as he just totally lost it. Harry wasn't sure if it was him screaming out in pain or if it was in his head.
After a while, Sue was still holding him tight as he was on his side and partially in her lap. He was hiccupping as his body tried to recover. She put her forehead onto his head. "I'm so sorry, Harry. I know how much you cared for her."
Hic. "Why?" Hic. "Why did he get off?"
"I don't know," she said, sounding emotional herself. For all the teasing, all the snipes at each other, all the times they argued like bickering siblings, Sue was his best friend. It was hard not to be friends when they spent so much time around each other.
"I want to kill him," Harry said, his face scrunching into an angry mask.
"Hannah wouldn't want you going to Azkaban," she said. It hurt. He felt his chest constricting as she said that. "But if you ever decide to really do it, don't go without me."
Harry gave a dark chuckle. "I thought you didn't like me like that?"
She tapped his head. "Bloody prat! I would be at your side, like you would be at mine."
"You have a high opinion of yourself," he remarked.
She gave a watery chuckle. "Merlin, it is hard to like you."
"But you do," he said, giving a small smirk before they both fell silent.
They sat there until he stopped hiccupping. Harry sat up. Sue picked up his wand and held it out to him. "Are you up to duelling or are you done?"
Harry shook his head. "You wait until I'm tired to challenge me? Afraid you can't beat me?"
She didn't look impressed. "I can beat you anytime I want."
Harry took his wand. The familiar warmth it always had was more a song today. It seemed to call for the same thing he wanted. Revenge for its mate, but willing to calm in her memory. He let out a long breath. "I just don't understand. Longpiddle killed her. Ted said they had all the evidence to convict him. Why the bloody hell did he get off!"
"I know he killed her, Harry. I'm telling you now, if you go after him, don't go without me. I don't think he's worth your time though. Once the Daily Prophet finds out, they are going to bury him for you. Hannah wouldn't want you to go to Azkaban and I need someone to practice with," she said.
"You always were selfish," he pointed out.
She gave him a cheeky smile, even if her heart obviously wasn't into it. "It's all about me."
Harry shoved her shoulder and she laughed. "I just want to know why."
Sue looked ready to say something when someone said, "I know why. Pup, we need to have a talk."
Harry and Sue turned around to see Sirius standing at the bottom of the stairs. He was looking around the room. "Damn, pup. This is going to cost me to replace all these."
Harry gave a pained grinned. "I thought you said you have more money than the Malfoy's?"
"I do, but still, if you keep burning through training dummies like this, I'll have to take it out of your allowance," Sirius said.
Sue snickered. "You'll be paying for these for years."
Harry groaned. "Bloody great!"
There was silence for a moment. Harry could see the slightly guilty look to Sirius' face. "How long were you there?" Harry asked.
"Long enough," Sirius said understandingly. As much as his godfather had been trying to give him room to grieve, Harry was thankful he didn't look at him pityingly, like so many seemed too. "Unless you want to spend more time with Sue, I think we should head back home and have a talk."
Harry let out a long breath. "Sue…"
"I'll beat you tomorrow," she told him.
Harry nodded. He got up and held out a hand for her. It wasn't their normal routine, but she took it and let him pull her up. She moved in and gave him a hug. "If you need to talk, you know where I am."
He hugged her back. This was very abnormal for them, but he was eternally grateful for her. "Thank you. I'll be here for you too."
When they separated, Sirius gave him a look. Internally Harry groaned. The man was probably going to wonder if there was anything between them now. Harry loved Sue. She was his best friend, well more a sister, really. His annoying sister.
Upstairs, Master Flitwick was sitting in the chair he seemed to prefer while drinking some tea and reading a book. "How many?"
Sirius reached into a pocket on his coat and pulled out a small pouch. It clinked when it dropped on the tea table. "That should cover it and then some."
Master Flitwick nodded. "I am going to have some Ward Weavers over next week. It's apparent the wards need strengthening."
"I'm sorry, master. I didn't mean to destroy things," Harry said, feeling contrite.
Master Flitwick looked up to him. "I would rather you come here and take out your anger then out there. There will be a time when you will use that anger and aggression, but only when needed. Miss Li, since you are here, you can run through forms one to five, twice each. Mister Potter, I will expect to see you by ten tomorrow morning."
Sue rolled her eyes. "Slacker," she said to him with a small hint of a grin at the side of her mouth.
"I would still beat you," Harry said out the side of his.
"Now, Sue," Master Flitwick said. Flitwick looked more amused at them than upset. Sue winked at Harry and then moved back towards the stairs and the basement training room.
"I'll take this one while you still have a house standing," Sirius said, putting a comforting hand on Harry's shoulder.
"Please do. Tomorrow you will be focused," Master Flitwick told him, the man's black eyes showing some sympathy.
"Yes, Master Flitwick," Harry said before moving towards the fireplace.
-oOo-
A short bit later…
Great Easton, England
Harry was looking at Sirius. His eyes travelled to Ted and then Andi. His mouth worked a few times, then he snapped it shut.
"Harry, we aren't pleased with this either," Sirius said.
"I am furious," Andi said in barely held rage. "Is there a prophecy?"
"We know a prophecy was made months before Harry and Neville were born. Amelia and I had a conversation with the Unspeakables and there is some debate who it pertains too as Dumbledore had identified both Harry and Neville as parties of interest," Ted told them.
"Neville is getting off because Dumbledore thinks there's a prophecy? This prophecy could have involved me or Neville? You-Know-Who went after Neville and that is why he is the Boy-Who-Lived, and I'm not?" Harry asked. His fourteen-year-old mind was trying to process this. "And this is enough to get the wanker off? He killed Hannah and tried to kill me!"
"Dumbledore has used more influence that what a mere prophecy should be worth," Ted said. He held up his hands. "I can't tell you any more. I can only tell you what I can because what we talked with the Unspeakables was not covered under the oath the old man made us swear."
"But this is why Longpiddle is getting off?" Harry pressed, unable to get off that point.
"As far as I can tell," Ted said calmly. Andi was fuming, looking ready to kill someone. Harry just looked at Ted, his anger, grief and confusion unsure who to lash out at.
"Harry, I'm as livid as you are, but if there is a prophecy, we should forget about the Longbottoms for the moment and focus on that. We are all here for you," Sirius said comfortingly.
Harry looked between them, settling on Andi. Harry had never really relied on another adult besides Professor Flitwick, so was unsure about this, but felt he could trust them. Andi let out a long breath, visibly working to calm herself. "I think we should go and hear the prophecy and then decide what this all means. We know You-Know-Who is back. Sirius and I have been approached by a few dark houses to get the Black and Potter votes. Sirius is raising a stink at the ministry over your treatment by the ministry and Longbottom. Lucius Malfoy is in a tizzy that the minister is talking with Sirius, not to mention the goblins breathing down his neck for loans he took out with backing from the Black accounts. The dark aligned houses are paying attention to us. The goblins are all over the dissolution of the Potter-Longbottom alliance, with a hearing before the Wizengamot in late August. One thing I do know is that you are now at the centre of how things are moving in our society. If this prophecy is real, then we will need to be prepared."
Harry swallowed, before sitting a little taller. Harry didn't want the attention he had seen Longpiddle get over the years. Harry didn't mind the attention but didn't relish it. He did want the people that killed his parents and Hannah to pay. He wanted to see Longpiddle and Malfoy destroyed. If he wasn't the Boy-Who-Lived anymore, then Longpiddle would lose any status the ponce still has, especially once the Longpiddles lose everything with the disillusionment of the alliance. Harry just wished that politics and paperwork were quicker.
Harry let out a long breath. "When do you want to go?"
"We have submitted a request to be shown to the Hall of Prophecies. We should be able to go in the next few days, a week at most," Ted replied.
Harry didn't want to wait.
-oOo-
July 24, 1995
Hogwarts, Scotland
Albus stood outside the closed doors of one of the only places in the school that he could not enter at will. The Governors' chambers were used for official meetings of the Board of Governors and only when it involved the school directly. Most times the members met in the Department of Magical Education in London and allowed him to do his job to implement their demands.
Internally he frowned, realizing that Minerva had been the one to actually do most of the implementing for years now, and the paperwork, and the staff management, and the budget… the stresses were starting to show as he tried to manage everything while saving the Boy-Who-Lived. The fact he was looking for three professors was galling him, and he was running out of time before the ministry or governors stepped in. The book lists were due to go out next week.
Given the way he had been summoned to this meeting, he had a feeling his time to resolve this was shorter than that. Looking at the door, he had an uneasy feeling. It was not common to have an unannounced meeting of the entire board, especially inside Hogwarts.
In his agitated state, he subconsciously noticed something was different and began pacing.
Nothing had gone right for months now. The Tri-wizard Tournament had turned into an international scandal. With the death of Krum, the ICW and the Bulgarian ministry were breathing down the ministry's neck for answers. Cornelius was refusing to investigate properly, which had led to the international outcry on the continent and the request to question Neville and to have international Aurors on British soil. He was wondering how long the minister, and the new Head of International Relations, could keep them away. Cornelius had moved quickly to remove him as the British representative, thus having him lose his Supreme Mugwump position and removing his ability to smooth things over.
He had also lost his ability to smooth things over here by being removed as Chief Warlock. To save Neville he had had to use more favours than he wanted too. It was just another reason to not like Black and the need to have Potter on his side.
This school year he was going to have to get more personally involved with Harry and Neville. Their world wasn't going to survive without Neville and the houses that don't support Voldemort getting along.
His thoughts on the starting conflict were interrupted when the doors opened. A younger woman was in the doorway. She was in rather fetching green robes and had a quill in her hands. "Professor Dumbledore, the governors will see you now."
"Thank you, Felicity," he said to the woman. She had been a prefect a hand full of years back and he remembered her because she had been one of the few in the last few decades to go onto a NEWT in History of Magic.
She didn't smile or anything to his usual congenial manner. Once inside the room, she shut the door, then walked over to a desk in a corner. She was obviously the scribe tonight, making this a much more formal meeting than he expected.
Looking around the room, his brow rose to see who was here. He managed to keep the frown off his face at his surprise. Without his knowing, the board had changed since the last time they all met in May. At the far end of the table sat his current headaches. Sirius Black, Amelia Bones and Andromeda Tonks were sitting to the left of the chairman. Tiberius Ogden didn't have the usual welcoming glint to his brown eyes. The man was looking at him rather severely. To his right were three Albus had expected to see: Caradoc Dearborn, Dedalus Diggle and Emerick Greengrass. Greengrass had his usual stoic expression. Dearborn wouldn't meet his eyes. Diggle looked terribly upset.
The more surprising addition to the room was Pomona. She was sitting nearest to the door in one of the two normally empty seats. She had the same hard look towards him she had had for the last month. To lose one of her Hufflepuffs had turned the woman against him, even if the whole thing had been a horrid mistake. He never wanted a girl to die in such an accident, but it was rather insignificant in the scheme of everything. People were just too emotional at times.
"Professor, please take a seat," Tiberius said.
Albus pursed his lips. "I can see this is a formal meeting. I would prefer you use my title of headmaster."
"I would, if you were still headmaster," Tiberius replied.
He stood where he was, shock quickly being taken over by anger. "Excuse me? I am the Headmaster of Hogwarts."
The insufferable Black gave a grim grin. "As of about ten minutes ago, the board voted to promote Pomona Sprout to headmistress. She has graciously accepted and the magics of Hogwarts have accepted her."
A panic rushed through him. He reached out to touch the wards and realized that he couldn't. "You can't do this! I am the headmaster. Who would protect the students and manage the school?"
"That is no longer your concern as to whom manages and governs Hogwarts, professor. I don't know if it has ever really been your concern," Andromeda stated.
"I still protest this change," Dedalus spoke up.
Albus bristled. "I have always been concerned with the students and Hogwarts, Andromeda."
"That is Madam Tonks or Regent Potter, professor," she replied with a cool tone.
"If you had been concerned with the students and Hogwarts itself, then there would not have been so many grievous situations in the last few decades. The former deputy headmistress goes on trial in three weeks. I expect charges to come about for more people involved. I know that as a former-headmaster you will avoid prosecution, but this board has no faith in you, professor. You will retain the title of professor emeritus per the Hogwarts Charter and the laws of the ministry, but you will be barred from instructing any student. You can have an office, with office hours. During those hours, you will have a minder with you. You may only teach those that seek you out during those hours," Tiberius informed him.
"You can't do this! I am Headmaster Albus Dumbledore. There is no Hogwarts without me," he told them, his magic flaring.
Never before had the castle responded.
He felt the weight of the wards… wards not activated for many years. He winced as the infused magic of a thousand years reacted to protect itself and those inside its walls. His surprised eyes snapped to Pomona. She had a grim expression.
"Professor Dumbledore, I would warn you to restrain yourself. Hogwarts castle has many wards and protections to ensure that the children and staff have a safe environment to learn and teach in. I have ensured they are active. If you prove to be a danger, the wards will react, emeritus or tenure status be damned," Pomona told him.
The crushing weight of the magic of the castle brought him to his knees before he pulled his magic back. The only sympathetic face in the room was Dedalus.
"You will clear out the current Headmaster's Office by six in the evening tomorrow. You will only take items that belong to you and a house elf will confirm that," Tiberius told him.
Anger, fear and betrayal all warred within him. He had just lost the one position that he needed. The control over the students by ancient laws he could have enacted was his largest pressure point he had to ensure the petulant houses and others stayed in line or to ensure things didn't spin out of control as Tom increased his attacks. Without control of the children, how was he to control the unruly members of the Wizengamot and their society!
As though being dismissed, Amelia turned to Pomona. "Headmistress, the board has been vetting potential candidates that we presented to Professor Dumbledore last week. I know most are still available and if you would like, are willing to interview this week."
"I think that prudent. Are we still of a mind to delay the start of the school year to ensure the curriculum is up to the current standards?" Emerick questioned.
Albus blinked. "What do you mean delay? Hogwarts has always started on September first."
They all turned to him. "You are still here, professor?" Sirius questioned.
"Due to your ineptitude over the years, we have been discussing delaying the start of school this year until September sixteenth. The ministry has instructors lined up if we cannot agree on replacements before August fifth. If you had attended the meetings over the last month that you were requested too, then you would know all this," Tiberius informed him. "Now, if you please, Professor Dumbledore, these matters do not concern you."
His temper rose again, and he flinched when the power of Hogwarts reminded him he was no longer the headmaster. He had never felt the school assert such power and wondered if the suppression of the schools magic had been done over time? Even when he had become headmaster the wards weren't this powerful. Then again, he never bothered to learn much about them except how to get around them. He didn't understand, though, how Pomona could cause the wards to change so suddenly?
He glared at Sirius, Andromeda and Amelia. Somehow, they had gone around a large part of his threat to cut him out of his largest bargaining chip. As he realized this, he had a sinking feeling. Tomorrow was Neville's hearing. They wouldn't dare send him to Azkaban? Would they?
He had planned to let the Weasleys and Minerva be sacrificial lambs, but he couldn't afford that now. Keeping allies had just become far more important.
"Good evening, professor. Please make sure the door is closed on your way out. If Professor Snape is outside the door, please tell him we should be ready to talk with him about seven," Tiberius said.
It took a great amount of strength to not scowl at them. Standing up and holding his head high, he stated, "You have just made a mistake that could cost the lives of many."
"And how many do you already have on your hands?" Andromeda asked in her cold tone.
He glared at her, but the power of his station, reputation and political prowess seemed to be temporarily broken. Once he could bring Tom out into the open, then they would be falling over themselves to get him to protect them and to pardon Neville. Only he knew what was needed. After a moment, he turned and stalked out.
"Headmistress, are you ready to review the candidates for the professor of Herbology position?" Tiberius asked.
He took in a sharp breath before the doors slammed on his back. "The bloody bastards had this all planned," he seethed under his breath, trying to figure out how this had all happened under his nose.
Ever since Sirius had come back and he turned his eyes towards Potter, nothing had gone right, and now he truly feared that the war would be lost before it began.
Severus was sitting on a bench across from the door. The man rose a single brow to him. "Are they ready for me, headmaster?"
Albus scowled at the man, stalking away without answering.
-oOo-
July 25, 1995
London, England
Harry was clenching the edge of the seat as he looked down into the circular pit. Today he wasn't going to be called as a witness, so he had been allowed in the courtroom. Harry was feeling rather bitter about this, still holding out some hope that Longpiddle and the Weasels would pay but knew they wouldn't.
Luna was there with him again. She was humming away, looking around the room. "You know, you can't make him disappear by just staring at him. Not unless you have a kernimple."
Harry snorted. "No kernimples today. He's going to get off."
Luna put a hand on his. "I think fate has different plans. I found some fairies down by the stream. Will you come over and help me make friends later?"
Harry looked to her. Luna was very perceptive, and he was trying to figure out what she had meant before squeezing her fingertips with his. "Sure."
She gave him a smile. A moment later, the Chief Warlock and the thirteen-member board walked in. The courtroom could sense that something was different, and it only took the Chief Warlock sitting to quiet the room.
"This Wizengamot Court is called into session for the case of the wrongful death of Hannah Abbott and the endangerment of Heir Harry Potter and Heiress Susan Bones. A petition has been submitted to the court and would be heard before any further proceeding," Chief Warlock Williams said. Harry noticed he was holding a mask of indifference. Harry was wondering just how many bridges Dumbledore had to burn to get his way?
Barrister Edwards stood up. He looked as emotionless as Williams, sounding rather mechanical as he held up a stack of parchments. "If it would please the court, Chief Warlock Williams, the DMLE and the accused have come to an accord."
There was a bunch of grumbling around the court. This had managed to be kept mostly silent with the involved parties having been sworn to secrecy until the trial. Harry glared at the headmaster, who had a sour look on his face today.
"What is this accord you wish to present to the court?" Williams enquired. Harry saw a few Wizengamot members looking unhappy.
Edwards held the parchments up. "Heir Neville Longbottom will plead guilty to involuntary manslaughter, the endangerment of Heir Bones and Heir Potter, and the aggravated assault on Miss Lovegood. He will be granted leniency of the harshest punishments for his show of remorse and testimony against Ronald Weasley. The DMLE has agreed to one-thousand hours of community service, a fifty-thousand galleon fine to the DMLE, an eight thousand galleon fine to each Heir Potter and Heiress Bones, a thousand galleon fine to Miss Lovegood, a monitoring cuff for no less than three years and expulsion from Hogwarts and barred admittance to any other school under the British Ministry of Magic's purview."
Harry's mouth opened. That wasn't what Ted had told them. There was a stir around the courtroom.
"I object, this is not the agreement we presented to the DMLE," Solicitor Reynolds shouted as he shot out of his seat.
"The Barrister for the defence has agreed to this, otherwise the trial will recommence," Edwards said, some colour coming to his voice.
Harry looked towards Dumbledore, who looked like he was building a towering rage. He noticed Sirius was giving an evil smirk. He caught Harry's curious expression and returned one that said 'later'.
"I never agreed to this, and Heir Longbottom's guardian didn't sign this accord," Reynolds stated again.
"Very well, the DMLE will withdraw this petition…"
"NO! You can't! This will destroy my client," Reynolds almost sounded like he was pleading.
Chief Warlock Williams tapped his wand on the podium. "Barrister Edwards, please finish reading the petition and then Solicitor Reynolds will have a chance to confer with his client and guardian."
Reynold looked desperately toward Dumbledore, who just sat their eyes burning a hole into Edwards.
"Very well, chief warlock. The DMLE will agree for Heir Longbottom to keep his wand and seek his OWLs and NEWTs through the Department of Magical Education, or to go abroad. At the end of each month, Heir Longbottom will have to attend standard tests in the DME, or submit scores from his school. If Heir Longbottom fails to adhere to the code of conduct for home schooled children or to have a minimum of four exceeds expectations and to pass all your courses at the end of any month, he will be called into a hearing to determine if he is to keep his wand. If he is to lose his wand before his OWL's, his magic will be bound."
Harry felt his magic crackle at the way Longpiddle looked about ready to throw up. He knew that Longpiddle wasn't a great student. This wasn't the revenge he wanted, but it wasn't bad.
"If Heir Longbottom breaks the law at any time while under surveillance of the monitoring cuff, this deal will be considered void, and he will be submitted back to the courts for the proper punishment and considered an adult under the law."
Luna shifted. "Harry, as much as I enjoy your light shows, now is not the time," she said in a far more lucid voice than normal. Harry realized that his magic was causing sparks at his fingertips. He closed his eyes and worked to calm himself. The burning sense of injustice he had felt the last week was turning into righteousness. It wasn't Azkaban or the veil, but it was far harsher than he had hoped.
"Is there anything else?" Williams asked.
"Not for Heir Longbottom," Edwards replied.
"Does the accused solicitor have anything to say?"
The man next to Longpiddle looked down at the green tinged boy. "I need time to confer with my client and his guardian, Chief Warlock."
"Are you representing the Weasleys as well? I do not see their solicitor today," Williams asked.
Reynold turned to look at the Weasleys. He was about to say something, but Harry caught the slight nod to Dumbledore's head. "I do, chief warlock."
"This court would hear the other petitions before we adjourn for an hour to let you confer with your clients," Chief Warlock Williams told him. Reynold pursed his lips and sat. "Barrister Edwards, please continue."
The barrister put down the parchments in his hand and then picked up another stack. "Given evidence and testimonies by Heir Longbottom, it is suggested that Mister Ronald Weasley was the instigator and planner. It was his brothers that dosed Heir Potter. It is alleged that Mister Weasley also picked the spot and cast the first spell that initially hurt Heir Potter and almost injured Miss Lovegood.
Mister Weasley has pled guilty to aggravated assault and being an accomplice to involuntary manslaughter. Given the DLME's doubt in his total guilt, no other charges were considered in this plea deal. The recommendation will be the same as Heir Longbottom."
Harry saw Mrs Weasley fall back, causing a commotion. Harry grinned, knowing the Weasley's were not a rich family. A sixty-seven thousand galleon fine, not to mention if Fred and George got fines, should more than bankrupt the family. Harry also knew that Weasel was a worse student than Longpiddle, so there was a good chance his wand would be snapped and magic bound.
"Solicitor Reynolds, any objections?" the chief warlock asked.
The man looked into the stands. "No, chief warlock," the man said in a strained voice.
"Continue," Williams said to Edwards.
Edwards took up a new stack of parchment. "The next petition is for Misters Frederick and George Weasley. Testimony given during DMLE questioning has proven that Misters Weasley knew about the planned attack but did not know the extent that Heir Longbottom or Mister Ronald Weasley were willing to go to. Misters Weasley stopped their attack and tried to stop Heir Longbottom and Mister Ronald Weasley before the fatal fall of Miss Abbot. They will plead guilty to aggravated assault against Mister Potter and Miss Lovegood. They did not raise a wand to Heiress Bones or Miss Abbott.
They will also plead guilty to charges of using unregulated substances on a minor and illegally obtaining controlled substances for non-harmful use.
It is the recommendation of the DMLE to monitor Misters Weasley as they each serve one hundred hours of community service, pay a one-thousand galleon fine to the DMLE, a thousand galleon fine to Heir Potter, wear monitoring cuffs for no less than two years and academic probation until such time they either achieve their NEWTS. If either fails to adhere to Hogwarts' code of conduct or fail to keep a minimum of an exceeds expectations the end of any month in the three classes they are taking, they will be suspended for the next month. If they are suspended twice, they will be expelled."
Chief Warlock Williams looked towards Reynolds. "Do you object to this, Solicitor Reynolds?"
The man was rather put out. "No, chief warlock."
Harry heard a sob over the growing noise. Their mother must have been revived and was now sobbing into a handkerchief in the stands behind them.
"I will allow you to confer with your clients. The court will meet again in one hour," Williams stated.
When the court quieted an hour later, Williams looked to Solicitor Reynolds. "Will your clients accept these petitions, or will I recommence the trials?"
Reynolds was already standing. "We will accept the petitions if the Wizengamot agrees to them."
"This court will vote on the petition for Heir Longbottom first. Those in favour, please raise your wands," Williams said.
Harry clutched the edge of the seat so hard the wood creaked. Nine wands went up, lights at their tips. Only the Dark aligned houses were against it when Williams asked.
"It is the court's decision to accept this petition. Heir Longbottom is found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and the endangerment of Heir Potter and Heiress Bones. As the court has previously reviewed this petition in private session, it is the decision of this court that Heir Longbottom did not enter any plea into the charges of attempted assassination, thus the Houses of Potter and Black have just cause to bring this to a civil suit," Williams said.
Harry felt a jolt of vindication shoot through him.
Solicitor Reynolds shot up. "I object! The deal was to drop all other charges!"
"The signed documents do not say that," Williams said hotly.
Reynolds pulled up his documents. "It says on page two, paragraph four, that 'All other pleas are not considered and not recognized.'"
"That is not the same as dropping the charges or clearing the accused. Unless you want me to overturn the deal and continue with the trial, sit down," the chief warlock told the man.
Dumbledore was behind them. Solicitor Reynolds looked towards him. After a moment, Reynolds turned back. "I strongly protest this interpretation of the agreement."
"Your protest is recognized and rejected. Do you accept this vote?" Williams demanded.
"Yes," Reynolds said through clenched teeth.
Williams rolled on. "Next is the petition for Mister Ronald Weasley."
The vote was nearly unanimous this time, leaving the Weasel looking as sick as Longpiddle.
"The last petition of today is for Misters Frederick and George Weasley. Please light your wand to accept this petition," Williams ordered.
Harry looked at the twin Weasels. They were rather sullen.
"The deal is accepted. As all charges against Misters Weasley are handled, no civil suit can be filed," Williams said.
Williams was about to close the hearing when Dumbledore stood. "Excuse me, Chief Warlock," the man said from the gallery. The distaste he felt in saying it instead of being up there himself was hinted at.
"Mister Dumbledore, you are not part of this trial and there are no petitions from the audience today," Williams barked out.
"You will excuse me, but I do have some concerns that should be addressed now," Dumbledore said.
The Chief Warlock looked like he wanted to tell Dumbledore to sod off but nodded his head. Harry's eyes narrowed on Dumbledore. He must have some good extortion material on everyone. "What is it you want?"
"Thank you, Chief Warlock. I would like to stress my disappointment in the interpretation of the plea deals. As such, I would ask for this court to put in place an order for Heir Potter and his allies to not interact with Heir Longbottom and his allies or friends to prevent any further incidents," the man said in a placating tone.
Ted stood up. "Chief Warlock, I object to this. This is not the place to ask for such a restraining order, and if anything, it should be Heir Potter and his allies to be protected."
Solicitor Reynolds stood up. "There is real concern that Heir Potter will attempt harm on my clients."
"Heir Potter has not been the aggressor, nor was it him that caused Miss Abbot to be killed! I demand this be heard by a formal petition," Ted exclaimed.
Harry glared at Dumbledore as he spread his hands. It was clear that some were split on this in the chamber. Longpiddle hadn't lost all his support it seemed.
"Chief Warlock, I do not want to see this turning into a feud while tempers are still hot. The Longbottoms and Potters have been vast allies for generations and I would petition to keep them separated for now until a resolution to the rift can be found," Dumbledore said.
Harry gripped his seat harder. His magic gave him strength to cause the wood to crack.
"There is a feud. The proper notifications have been filed," Ted stated. "A feud started by Madam Longbottom and perpetuated by her grandson. If the court is to consider this petition, the Houses of Potter and Black petition that it is Heir Longbottom and his allies that are to be kept away and face any repercussion for breaking a minimum one-hundred-foot distance. Lord Black will not have his heir face a potential assassination attempt by Heir Longbottom again!"
"It is Heir Potter that is currently threatening Heir Longbottom!" Solicitor Reynolds yelled back.
"My client has never made any direct or indirect threats to Heir Longbottom or his allies," Ted stated. Though technically true, but only because Harry hadn't seen any of them outside the courtroom this summer. Harry would love to let Longpiddle know he wanted to kill him.
"We have witnesses that can contest they have heard Heir Potter," Reynolds said.
"That is hearsay unless verified by the DMLE or questioning under oath to sworn witnesses. Does Headmaster Dumbledore or Solicitor Reynolds have proof?" Ted demanded.
"It is obvious that is Heir Potter's intent. Look at how he is looking at my client," Reynolds stated.
The court suddenly focused on him. He was still glaring at Dumbledore, who had turned his head to look at him. Dumbledore's forehead had creased. Harry turned to Reynolds.
"That is not grounds to support a request for Heir Longbottom. There are years of evidence of the House of Longbottom attempted line theft and worse against my client, and then the threats made by Heir Longbottom and Mister Weasley over the last four years at Hogwarts. At no time did my client make any threats before being threatened himself," Ted said back hotly.
"That is enough," the elevated voice of Williams declared over the noise of the room. "It is my decision to grant a restraining order against Heir Longbottom, the House of Longbottom and their allies. If they approach within a hundred and fifty feet of Heir Potter or his allies without permission, the DMLE may arrest and charge them for violation of this order. Case closed," Williams declared.
The room exploded in noise and people clambered to get at him, Longpiddle, Dumbledore and everyone involved. Harry grabbed Luna's hand to make sure she didn't get caught up in the crowd until Sirius and Ted could join them and Andi. They managed to exit through the back door of the courtroom usually reserved for the sitting Wizengamot.
-oOo-
That night…
Wiltshire, England
Voldemort was pondering the memories of the court hearing earlier today and the news that was set to break in the Daily Prophet tomorrow. Longbottom had fallen for his ploy and the results were spectacular in the downfall of the annoying boy and his family. Bringing down Dumbledore and some of his largest supporters was just a bonus. Of course, Black and his new alliance were the main cause, as much as he was sure Lucius would like to claim his own machinations.
For now, he would leave Black alone. In the last few weeks Lucius and his other supporters had lost ground as Neutral houses aligned themselves with Black and Potter, while the Light houses were splintering, with a few key ones, like Brown, Bones and MacMillan aligning themselves with Black. So far, the man hadn't done much to gain his ire except thwart a few bills to further marginalize creatures and some ministry 'reforms'. Black was making a fuss though about the corruption that saw his godson and heir lost to the system for years.
The most concerning issue was the potential blood feud between Black and Lucius if Lucius was not brought to account for his stupidity against the Potter heir. Should a blood feud go the wrong way, he could lose one of the largest financial supporters for his plans.
Less concerning was Black annoying him as he countered some plans. Voldemort didn't think anything he did would be that detrimental long term. He was proving to be an unseen asset as he tore apart those that supported the old man that had been a thorn in his side since his first year in Hogwarts.
Longbottom and their allies were the main thrust of Black's effort right now, and frankly that was a boon to his cause. He couldn't allow Black to get too powerful though. He would have to ponder which of his allies to eliminate. Someone like Bones would further throw his opposition into fits. Having Amelia Bones in charge, and the way she was silently changing things in the DMLE, was worrying, but still was mostly focused on Longbottom and their allies and cronies.
A sardonic smile crossed his face to think of the amount of political capital that Dumbledore had to expend to keep his golden boy out of Azkaban. He couldn't save the boy from being expelled though. Was there an opportunity in this somewhere?
As he thought about this and whether he should do anything about it, a knock came at the door to his throne room. Nagini lifted her head from her spot by the fire, giving a soft hiss. There would be only a few reasons that someone would disturb him, and he hoped it wasn't anything frivolous. He was not in a forgiving mood tonight.
"Come," he called out.
The door opened. Yaxley walked in confidently. The man stopped about six feet away before bowing. "My lord, I've been able to get the full trial folders on the Longbottoms."
Voldemort looked at the man curiously. "I thought Bones was keeping a tight lid on it until the trials were over?"
"Black was in the DMLE pushing for the old crone's trial to start tomorrow instead of next week," Yaxley told him, standing up when Voldemort indicated for him too.
"And will he be successful?"
Yaxley put the report on the table. "The owls went out about an hour after Longbottom's trial this morning. It is scheduled to start at one PM tomorrow to meet the minimum twenty-four-hour notice."
"Did Lucius or anyone need to support this?"
Yaxley frowned. "I don't believe so, my lord. I didn't see Lucius at all today."
"Pity," he said. Perhaps Lucius's influence was waning more than he had thought. He opened the folder to the old hag. "Did you read this?"
Yaxley snarled. "It has Dumbledore's influence all over it. He sent the Aurors away before entering the hospital wing. I doubt it was Potter that used mage lightening. No boy could be that powerful."
Voldemort's hairless brow rose. "Mage lightening?"
"That is what Richards from the Magical Reversal squad called it," Yaxley stated.
"Interesting. That is raw elemental magic. I didn't think Dumbledore dabbled in that type of magic or teach it. It's a bit unrefined for his normal flare," Voldemort commented as he perused the folder. The magical signature of the 'unknown' spell was clearly Potter's. The boy's parents had been strong, but not that strong. Perhaps he should watch the boy's progression? It was certainly uncommon to have that much raw power, but not unheard of. He could think of a dozen witches or wizards in the last fifty years that had that type of power at his age. A follower with that type of power would be a large boon.
Voldemort continued to look over the report. "You do not believe Potter could use elemental magic?"
Yaxley shifted uncomfortably. "He is only fourteen."
"He is someone to keep an eye on," Voldemort told him. "Don't disappoint me like others have lately by underestimating potential allies or future foes."
Yaxley swallowed hard. "Yes, my lord."
"That is interesting," he said, his ire at being disturbed dropping. He finished looking at the report and evidence in the folder. "Is there anything else?"
"Lucius has been getting some pushback from the minister," Yaxley stated.
"I was already informed of that. Is there truth behind the rumours that Potter and Black truly are against Dumbledore or is this all just some large play by the old fool?" he asked, already knowing the answer.
"I would say they are not on the headmaster's side, my Lord. It is plain that Black has no faith in the old fool and Potter didn't even acknowledge the man besides glaring at him today. They are not allies or friends of Dumbledore," Yaxley affirmed.
"Very interesting," he said, knowing how much Black and the Potters were in Dumbledore's pocket last time. He had never seen such ardent supporters of the old man turn so completely. Dumbledore must be losing his silvered tongue, or his support of the losing side is finally coming to roost? Why the old man didn't let Longbottom go was something bothering him, though. Dumbledore must believe in the prophecy that had been his downfall almost fourteen years ago.
Voldemort wasn't sure how much he bought into the prophecy right now. Longbottom was lucky, but the boy was nothing spectacular for his age. If he was supposed to be his equal, he felt extremely disappointed, or his assessment of his own abilities was sorely lacking. Voldemort doubted that. He was an extraordinary wizard. Longbottom was only a little above average with an extreme amount of luck.
Potter, on the other hand, was showing to be a powerhouse and very skilled, like the Potters he had faced in the past. If Pettigrew hadn't messed up, he would have gone after Potter that night and put more credence into the prophecy.
"If you have nothing else, you can go," he ordered Yaxley.
"The only other thing I have is that Potter has submitted a travel request for a portkey in a month to attend the duelling tournament in Switzerland. I hear that is invitation only, my lord," Yaxley told him.
Voldemort nodded his acknowledgment before Yaxley bowed and made his leave in a dignified way.
Reading through the report again and thinking of the chasm that seemed to be between Dumbledore, Potter and Black, he was pondering if he could use this to find a new supporter. Perhaps going to the underage tournament would allow him to see if Potter was as skilled as this report suggested? Looking at Longbottom's file, Voldemort felt a little impressed with the boy to be potioned as he had been and still fend off four attackers for as long as he did.
It could be worth it to recruit someone that skilled to build up his forces in Hogwarts. Not to mention, to turn a Potter to the dark side of magic had a certain appeal.
He grinned as he leafed through the pages.
-oOo-
July 26, 1995
London, England
Sirius stood when the Auror came to the door. He would have preferred to spend his time with Harry but couldn't today. Andi was sitting in a different room with him as they waited their turn to testify against Augusta Longbottom.
This trial was happening much sooner than it was originally scheduled too, but with Dumbledore losing his last vestige of power as headmaster and the expelling of Neville, Andi and him had been able to manoeuvre Fudge and Williams into pressing forward with this trial three weeks earlier than scheduled.
They all – Amelia, Andi, Ted and him- felt that doing this before Dumbledore could regroup was the best way.
It would also help in the alliance renunciation hearings next month.
He wanted to see the Longbottoms and everyone associated with them burn for what they had done to Harry and the Abbotts. Most that didn't already know not to tussle with a Black, only learned after they lost everything. The Weasleys were a case in point, though he doubted most remembered why they were Blood Traitors anymore. It had been more than two hundred years since the Blacks had exacted their revenge on the clan.
Walking out into the courtroom, Sirius's eyes narrowed to see the old crow sitting in a straight-backed chair at the defendant's table. She was in a nice set of clothes with her trademark vulture hat and lovely black wrought-iron manacle etched with runes. He didn't understand why she wore that ugly thing, as it clashed with the more Medieval appeal of her bracelets. He wondered if she thought it a status symbol?
Her eyes hadn't dimmed in their hatred of him when they landed on him.
He held a straight face and turned to ignore her, indicating she was nothing to him. He knew it was a petty thing to do, and something he hated in his parents, but today it was something he knew would get her dander up. He cringed internally to think his mother might actually be proud he remembered one of her lessons. He just barely stopped the shiver from going down his spine as he sat in the witness box.
Edwards was the ministry barrister again. Sirius gave the man a slight nod as he approached the box. "Good morning, Lord Black. If you would repeat after me the oaths of truthfulness, please?"
Sirius took his wand and held it up to repeat the oaths.
"On behalf of the DMLE, I would like to thank you for your testimony today and to remind you that you have sworn to be as truthful as you know it," Edwards told him.
"Thank you, Barrister Williams. I can assure you I do not intend to lie," Sirius replied.
The man inclined his head. Longbottom looked to be clamping her mouth shut. He supressed the urge to smirk. He was to be all 'uppity' today. "I'm sure you don't. You are aware of why you have been called as a witness?"
"I am," he said.
"Then would you tell the court of the events of June sixteenth of this year in the hospital wing of Hogwarts that led to Madam Longbottom casting the Killing Curse?" Edwards asked in an open question.
"Objection!"
"What is it this time?" Chief Warlock Williams sounded exasperated.
"It has yet to be proven that Madam Longbottom cast such a curse," Reynolds said. Sirius hated the slimy guy. At least it was a different defence barrister this time.
"Chief Warlock, we are getting to the events and then I have the evidence from the Aurors and Magical Reversal squad to present after questioning of Lord Black," Edwards stated.
"Be that as it may, we have not established that Madam Longbottom has casted that curse. Please stick to the facts that have been presented so far," Chief Williams warned.
"Yes, Chief Warlock. Lord Black, please tell us about the events that led to the altercation on the day of June sixteenth?" Edwards requested.
He had been coached, so started on his diatribe. "I was at Hogwarts after being called there the night before after my godson, Heir Harry Potter-Black, had been gravely injured by Heir Longbottom." He smiled inside when the defence solicitor and barrister didn't say a word but the old biddie looked upset. "Heir Potter-Black had just recently awoken and had been told about the death of his girlfriend when Madam Longbottom came barging in, screaming about her grandson being setup and cursing out my godson and his family…"
He described everything the best he could up until Harry had blasted the room.
"You are sure that it was an act of accidental magic?" Edwards queried.
"It had to be. There was no form or purpose to the magic. He was going through an extreme amount of anguish and was being told he would be better off dead. Then Madam Longbottom made a comment about Miss Abbot being a whore and she was glad she was dead. Wouldn't you give off a bit of accidental magic in that case if you were only fourteen?" Sirius questioned.
Edwards gave him a sad smile. "I would think that a situation that many might experience something like that, even at my age. Can you tell me about Harry threatening Madam Longbottom?"
"He didn't threaten her. Heir Potter called upon the old laws and magics. The Longbottoms had broken a blood sworn alliance and it was my godson's right to judge those responsible," Sirius said. "Magic responded to his renunciation and call for judgement."
"That is a blatant lie!" Augusta yelled.
"Augusta, please," Reynold said, trying to calm his client. The man looked like this wasn't the first time today.
Sirius sat up, regally looking down his nose as she tried to struggle against the cuffs holding her to the chair.
"That is a LIE! It was the Potters that betrayed us!" she yelled out.
"Solicitor Reynolds, quiet your client or she will be tried in absentia. This is the last warning," Chief Warlock Williams demanded.
After a moment, a seething Longbottom sat back in her seat.
Edwards had been watching it rather passively before turning back to him. "Did Heir Potter-Black declare he was judging Madam Longbottom for a breach in alliance?"
"My godson did. You could feel magic accept his words and give him power of judgement," Sirius said.
This caused a little bit of a stir.
"This is ridiculous! How can you prove magic accepted this?" Solicitor Reynolds demanded.
Edwards gave a slight uptick to the corner of his mouth before turning towards the evidence table. "If it would please the court, I do have the official copy of the alliance charter that belongs to the Potters. Exhibit thirty-two is the blood signed charter. Exhibit thirty-three is a Gringotts sealed report that clearly shows it is still magically protected and that the blood signatures of the Longbottoms has been burned off."
This got a stir from the gallery. A blood signed seal would only do that if that party betrayed the alliance. The old biddy paled.
"That's not possible," she said in a voice just loud enough for him to hear.
"Lord Black, you say you felt magic accept Heir Potter's claim that the Longbottoms broke the alliance charter?" Edwards asked.
"I am willing to give a pensive memory or attest under veritaserum that I did," Sirius said, this time letting a small smirk come briefly to his face as the old vulture turned even whiter.
"I demand Lord Black do this! Then Heir Potter is to do the same," Reynolds demanded.
Sirius gave a look to the man that had Reynold pursing his lips. "As Heir Potter-Black's primary guardian, I will agree to the questioning if Heir Potter-Black desires."
Reynolds eyes widened a little. The man had probably thought Sirius would never let Harry testify under veritaserum. They had nothing to hide.
"The DMLE will accept these terms," Edwards said quickly.
"You can't! I'm a pureblood. The laws don't allow this!" Longbottom screeched.
"Aurors, take Madam Longbottom into a holding cell!" Williams roared over her protests. "If Lord Black volunteers, there is nothing stopping this court from admitting the testimony. Get a sealed vial from the Aurors."
"You can't do this! I'm a Longbottom! My grandson is the Boy-Who-Lived! You need us! I did nothing wrong! I was only defending myself! The laws allow me to use deadly force if threatened…" her voice was silenced as the doors to the courtroom closed. Sirius had enjoyed seeing her dragged out, kicking and screaming.
Edwards gave him a little nod as they waited for the veritaserum. He was hoping the old biddy would finally get a kiss, because he couldn't imagine anyone wanting to kiss her otherwise.
-oOo-
The Daily Prophet
Evening Edition
July 26, 1995
By Steel Grey
Two months to life! Madam Augusta Longbottom sentenced to Azkaban!
Guilty! A verdict of guilty on two of four charges against Madam Augusta Longbottom, 76, has been declared by the Wizengamot. Madam Longbottom has been found guilty of casting an unforgivable curse with intent to kill and in slander of Heir Harry Potter-Black on the day after her grandson, Heir Neville Longbottom, 14, killed Heir Potter-Black's girlfriend, Hannah Abbot, 14.
Sentencing was still being debated at time of printing, but the debate was for how long Madam Longbottom would serve time in Azkaban prison, as being found guilty of casting any Unforgivable Curse had a mandatory two months for use of curse without loss of life.
This is another blow to the mighty House of Longbottom as the Boy-Who-Lived was recently expelled from Hogwarts and served very harsh penalties for the manslaughter of Miss Hannah Abbott…
-oOo-
The next time on Duel of Fate: The weight of prophecy…