BH; Chapter 4 – Remembrance
Author's Note: The remaining Death Eaters are exploring ways to revive their Master, but their allegiance is not to him. For them, he is merely a means to an end. I welcome all reviews and feedback. If you have any questions, feel free to ask—I've mapped out the world as thoroughly as possible. Additionally, I plan to post an appendix story that will include various notes and details on the world-building aspects of this story.
22nd June 1998, Phoenix Foundation Offices, Diagon Alley
Harry sat at his desk in his new office within the Phoenix Foundation. The office had a view of Diagon Alley, and he often found himself gazing out at the bustling street below. His office was furnished elegantly, with a large meeting desk and all the furniture crafted from rich mahogany. It was a setting that exuded both professionalism and comfort.
A week ago, he had stood and opened the Foundation, and since then, the pressure had been on to move things along quickly. His first meeting was with Professor McGonagall had spoken to him about his plans and suggested that he reach out to her niece, Clara McGonagall. This turned out to be one of the best meetings he had ever had.
Much like her aunt, Clara was a gifted witch. She worked as the Clerk of the Hogwarts Board of Governors, assisting in the management behind the scenes of the school. But she wanted to be part of more, and Harry had offered her a job at the Foundation.
Clara wasted no time in building a team. She hired, to Harry's surprise, Penelope Clearwater as the Foundation Secretary. Penelope managed the administrative and day-to-day affairs of the foundation with efficiency and skill.
The next hire was more personal. Fleur Weasley had approached Harry, asking if she could help. With her background working in Accounts at Gringotts, she was well qualified to manage the finances of the foundation and started work immediately.
Brian had introduced Harry to one of his colleagues, Artemis Spencer-Moon, who would be taking on the Foundation as a individual client. Artemis was qualified in Ministerial and Financial Magical Law, which would free Brian up to help Harry directly and more personally.
Harry leaned back in his chair, reflecting on the progress they had made in such a short time. The team was coming together, and the vision he had for the Foundation was beginning to take shape. He knew there was still a long way to go, but with the right people by his side, he felt confident they could achieve great things.
Just then, there was a knock on his door. Clara entered, holding a stack of documents.
"Harry, we need your signature on these," she said, placing the papers on his desk. "Also, Penelope has confirmed the meeting with the Children Welfare and Advocacy Commission for tomorrow morning."
Harry nodded, taking the quill from his desk. "Thank you, Clara. You've been a tremendous help."
Clara smiled. "of course Harry."
As Clara left the office, Harry returned to his thoughts. The Foundation was more than just a project; it was a new beginning for many, himself included. With determination, he picked up the first document and began to sign.
23rd June 1998, Phoenix Foundation Offices. Diagon Alley
The next morning, Harry found himself in a meeting room at the Phoenix Foundation, waiting with Clara and Artemis. The atmosphere was tense but filled with anticipation. They were about to discuss a crucial plan with some of the most influential people in the wizarding world.
Professor McGonagall, Kingsley Shacklebolt, and Mark Wilks, representing the Ministry Childrens Advocacy and Welfare Commission, entered the room. Harry stood up to greet them, shaking hands with each one.
"Thank you all for coming," Harry began, motioning for everyone to take their seats.
McGonagall nodded. "Harry, we appreciate your initiative on this matter. As you know, Hogwarts and St. Mungo's have partnered to house 250 children who have no family left as a result of the war. The Ministry has given us temporary guardianship, but this arrangement is only for the short term. We need a permanent solution before the start of the school year."
Harry leaned forward; his expression serious. "Well Professor, that is where we might be able to help. I've received Riddle Manor as part of the inheritances, and we as the foundation plans to open it as a Magical Children's Home."
McGonagall's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Riddle Manor? That place has quite a history."
"I know," Harry acknowledged. "But Gringotts Bank Curse Breakers and our own Potter Elves have worked tirelessly. They've transformed the rooms into dorms and single bedrooms. The entire manor now has 300 beds, including staff quarters. It's been repainted in fun, neutral colors, and the layout is completely different. Not an ounce of the original estate remains."
Kingsley leaned back in his chair, nodding thoughtfully. "This is excellent news, Harry. The Ministry has been actively seeking a solution."
Mark Wilks, who had been listening intently, spoke up. "Harry, your plan sounds promising. As a representative of the Children Welfare and Advocacy Commission, I'll ensure we fully support this initiative. We need to guarantee that these children receive the best care possible and will work closely to monitor and advocate for their welfare."
Harry nodded. "The agreement will be that I, along with two others from the Foundation, will share guardianship on the Foundation's behalf. We'll work in conjunction with the Commission to ensure the children grow up under the care and attention of responsible adults."
Kingsley extended his hand. "Thank you, Harry. This is a significant step forward."
Harry shook his hand firmly. " Artemis will handle the necessary paperwork and agreements with the Ministry."
Artemis, who had been quietly taking notes, looked up. "I've already drafted preliminary documents that outline the terms of guardianship and collaboration with the Commission. I'll get started right away on finalizing everything."
McGonagall smiled. "Thank you, Artemis. Your expertise is greatly appreciated. We need to move quickly on this."
As Artemis began discussing the legal details with Wilks, Harry took a moment to look around the room, feeling a sense of purpose and determination.
After a few minutes, McGonagall turned back to Harry. "Harry, there's one more thing. We're holding a memorial service for the Battle of Hogwarts. I'd like you to speak."
Harry hesitated, thinking about the memories and emotions tied to that day. After a moment, he nodded. "I will. It's important to remember and honor those we lost."
McGonagall's eyes softened with gratitude. "Thank you, Harry. It means a lot to all of us."
Harry took a deep breath, feeling the weight of responsibility and the promise of a new beginning for the children. "We'll make sure they have a safe and loving home," he said firmly.
Harry sat at his desk, the polished wood surface barely visible beneath the stacks of documents and plans laid out before him. His brow furrowed in concentration as he sifted through the paperwork, each sheet representing a crucial aspect of the massive undertaking he was overseeing. As Head of the Foundation, the weight of responsibility was ever-present, but Harry was determined to see every detail through.
The plans for the Children's Home were among the most pressing matters. Harry meticulously reviewed the proposals for hiring three matrons, each responsible for a different age group: one for the 5–7-year-olds, another for the 7–10-year-olds, and a third for the 11–17-year-olds. He made a note to increase the number of house-elves to assist the matrons, ensuring they would be adequately supported. He also approved the hiring of eleven additional carers, who would not live in the manor but would visit daily to engage with the children. His pen scratched across the parchment as he signed off on the necessary approvals.
Harry's attention shifted to another set of documents concerning the distribution of resources throughout the manor. The library and rumpus rooms were strategically placed to provide easy access for all age groups, while daily lessons in writing, speech, and reading were scheduled to ensure the children received a well-rounded education. He added a few annotations, refining the curriculum to better suit the needs of the children.
The paperwork from the Ministry caught his eye next. Inspectors from the Commission were scheduled to assess the manor's safety, and Harry was pleased to see that Kingsley would be accompanying them, along with two Muggleborn witches with experience in Muggle safety standards. Harry made a quick note to follow up on their inspection report once it was completed.
Another document required his attention—an update from Gringotts regarding the replacement of the warding stone. Harry read through the report carefully, nodding in approval as he noted the completion of the process. The new wards would ensure the manor was impenetrable, with protective charms and secrecy wards keeping local Muggles unaware of its existence. He signed off on the final details, ensuring the manor was unplottable and secure.
The list of tasks seemed endless, but Harry pressed on. The reconfiguration of Riddle Manor was another priority. He approved the layout changes, ensuring the younger children would have three-bed dorms, while the older ones would have single ensuite rooms for privacy. The matron staff quarters were also addressed, with Harry making a note to follow up with Mrs. Weasley about the lead matron position he had offered her.
His eyes flicked to a final set of papers brought in by Clara. St. Mungo's had approached the Foundation for a donation to help manage the increased load following the war. Clara had suggested a generous 25,000 Galleons, but Harry quickly amended it to 50,000 Galleons, knowing the Foundation's finances could more than support the increase. With a flourish, he signed the donation agreement, satisfied that the funds would help expand the Mind Healers department.
As he stacked the signed documents neatly on his desk, Harry felt a sense of accomplishment. Each piece of paperwork he completed brought the Foundation one step closer to providing a safe and nurturing environment for the children. But Harry knew that the task extended far beyond the office. Ensuring the long-term sustainability of the project was just as crucial as its initial setup.
Part of this sustainability involved transforming Riddle Manor into a self-sustaining estate. Plans were already in motion to build greenhouses and utilize pasture lands for raising sheep, deer, and cows, ensuring a proper rotation to provide the estate with a steady food supply. Four large greenhouses—two dedicated to vegetables and two to fruits—would soon be constructed. To better understand the logistics of managing such a complex system, Harry consulted with Missy, one of the Potter house-elves, about how the House of Potter maintained its food supplies and managed its animals.
Missy gladly walked Harry through the process, explaining how each Potter estate was equipped with orchards, greenhouses, and pastures, all carefully managed to ensure self-sufficiency. As she introduced him to three of the house-elves responsible for farming the outer estate, Harry began to grasp the scale of the operations. Missy mentioned how, during the world wars, the Potter residences had fed multitudes, a testament to their efficiency and planning.
However, what truly shocked Harry was the realization of just how many house-elves he now owned. With the combined resources of the Potter and Black estates, he had inadvertently become the fifth largest owner of house-elves in Britain, with 50 in total—25 from each house. This revelation was startling, placing him just behind the British Ministry of Magic, Hogwarts, the Greenthumb Grocer Company, and Gringotts Bank of London in terms of ownership.
A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. Clara stepped in, holding a stack of papers.
"Harry, I've got the finalized hiring contracts for the matrons and assistants," she said, placing the papers on his desk. "Also, St. Mungo's has confirmed their agreement to our donation. They're incredibly grateful."
"That's excellent news, Clara," Harry said, glancing over the contracts. "I'm thrilled to see everything coming together so smoothly. How's Mrs. Weasley? Have you heard from her about the lead matron position?"
Clara nodded. "Yes, she's considering it. She wants to discuss it with her family first, but she seems very interested."
"Wonderful. I can't think of anyone better suited for the role," Harry replied, signing the papers. "Once she's on board, we can finalize the rest of the staff and move forward with the opening."
"Absolutely," Clara agreed. "I'll follow up with the candidates Professor McGonagall suggested. And Kingsley mentioned he'll send over the Ministry inspectors next week."
"Perfect," Harry said, leaning back in his chair. "Thank you, Clara. You've done a fantastic job managing all of this."
Clara smiled. "Thank you, Harry. It's been a team effort. We're all committed to making this a success."
Harry nodded, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. With Clara and the dedicated team, they had assembled, he was confident that the foundation and the Lily Potter Home would thrive, providing a safe and nurturing environment for the children. As he watched Clara leave to continue her work, he knew they were on the right path, and he looked forward to seeing the positive impact their efforts would have on the lives of those they aimed to help.
His thoughts turned to his own household and the many changes that had occurred. He, Andromeda and Teddy were comfortably settled into Rowan Hill Estate, the House Elfs had been reorganized which was a lesson in itself for Harry to understand more about their ways of thinking and doing things.
Missy was the eldest house-elf and therefore within house-elf culture, she was considered the Head House-Elf of the Potter family, while Burke was the Head House-Elf of the Black family. Kreacher became his personal valet, alongside Winky, who Harry made sure to call "Winky" to him. She chose to bond with him out of respect for Dobby's last wishes. Kreacher and Winky fiercely looked after him, Andromeda, and little Teddy.
Another significant change was the family move to the Rowan Hill Estate. After seeing Rowan Hill Estate and feeling the sense of home when he was standing there, Harry knew he would move. He discussed it with Andromeda, and they decided it would be nice. Although it was big, Harry, Andromeda, and Teddy all moved into the family wing and followed the same regiment. Andromeda would be starting her work at the Foundation soon as one of the project leaders, and Winky had also taken a liking to Teddy, so she would assist Andromeda with Teddy while she worked.
Rowan Hill Estate was now in full function. Gringotts was hired again to ensure that the wardstone was usable and reworked the ancient wards. Harry was happy to hire them to do extensive work on the ward schemes and bring the estates up to date. According to their final report, all Potter and Black residences were some of the most defensively warded properties in the land, including The Lily Potter Home. All the properties were tied to the Lordship Rings of the Potter and Black families.
A knock on the door made Harry stop reading and look up to see Brian standing with a folder in his hand.
"Come in, Brian," said Harry.
"We have received the Wizengamot summons for the first session since the war. The June session will happen on the last few days of the month," said Brian. "It will likely be a full two-day session."
"Two days," Harry said, shaking his head. How was he meant to do a full two days there?
Brian smiled knowingly. "That is why I've booked you an appointment with the Chief Clerk of the Wizengamot Council the day after tomorrow. Clara mentioned that you're taking part in the Hogwarts Memorial Service? Well, after that, in the evening, you'll take your vows ahead of the session, and your proxy can handle the rest. We've also received an invitation to the Wizengamot Evening Ball—an event traditionally held on the eve of the first official Wizengamot session of a new ministry. With Amelia Bones now officially serving as the British Minister of Magic, she's decided to host the ball, keeping with tradition.
My mother insists this will be an excellent opportunity for you to forge potential alliances. I suggest you take Andromeda as your guest. And I'll be accompanying you as your acting steward. It wouldn't be wise for the Lord of two such important families to attend without a proper retinue. Having someone experienced in these environments who can also represent the House of Potter and Black is essential. And who better than me?"
"You?" said Harry. "Acting steward? If you're sure?"
Brian waved it away like it wasn't a big deal. "It will only be for the night. Plus, it's important that you show up for things like that with a strong retinue. We want you to be able to gather as many allies as possible. And with all the press at the moment around the Foundation, you are the one people think is holding all the power. Also, I have heard that the Minister will want to capitalize on your attendance to ensure that things will be different than they were before."
"I see. Well, that's fine," Harry sighed, though his voice lacked conviction. He ran a hand through his hair, a familiar gesture of uncertainty. The idea of being used as political fodder for the Ministry's wellbeing was something he still wasn't comfortable with, and it showed in the way his shoulders tensed slightly. Resigning himself to the situation, he looked back at Brian. "So, what's on the agenda for the first session?"
"First is the swearing of the oaths of office. All remaining members of the council take their oaths of fealty, the government benches fill, and the common benches also fill and take their oaths of office. The docket says the confirmation of the Minister for Magic, the confirmation of the government benches, and the election of the Chief Warlock/Witch. My mother is hoping that my grandfather, Nathanial Templeton, would be nominated. He served as an elder of the Wizengamot under the Bagnold Ministry and, according to her, the only one she trusts. But the vote could sway in the hereditary seats."
During their time together doing a tour of all the residences, Harry asked Brian about his father, noticing that he rarely mentioned him. Brian revealed that his father, Andrew Templeton, had been killed by Voldemort during his first rise to power. As a senior Auror, Andrew had led the first raid against the Death Eaters in the First Wizarding War, where Voldemort himself had struck him down. Brian never had the chance to meet his father; his mother had been pregnant when he died.
Raised by his grandfather, Nathanial Templeton—a half-blood wizard and a politically astute member of the Wizengamot—Brian grew up in a household steeped in both legacy and duty. Nathanial had earned his seat on the Wizengamot through an Order of Merlin: First Class, awarded for his service during the Grindelwald War. Minister Bagnold had personally selected him for the honor, and in his retirement, Nathanial dedicated his time to lobbying for the rights and protections of Muggle-born witches and wizards.
Brian's mother, a pureblood, had raised him with an awareness of his ancient magical lineage but never pressured him to follow pureblood politics. In a surprising revelation, Brian mentioned that he shared a distant ancestor with Severus Snape, their great-great-great-grandfather connecting their families.
This conversation deepened Harry's bond with Brian, as they found common ground in their complex family histories and the legacies they carried.
25th June 1998, Hogwarts Castle, Scotland
The next day, Harry stood on the shores of the Black Lake – Hogwarts serenely in his view. His gaze was not fixed, however, on the great castle above him but rather on the speech cards in his hand. He was practicing his speech and reflecting on what he was to do. He had written the speech throughout the night, trying to find the right words to say that would fully satisfy, but they were elusive to him. He only hoped that what he wrote would be okay and helpful to those grieving.
"Harry, are you ready?" came the familiar voice of Professor McGonagall.
Harry turned to see her approaching, her expression softened with understanding. "Almost, Professor," he replied, his voice steadying as he saw her.
"Remember, once you're done with your speech, we'll lead the procession to the Fountain, where we'll unveil the monolith with the names of the department," McGonagall said gently. "That will mark the end of the ceremony."
Harry nodded, appreciating the clarity of her words. "Thank you, Professor. I hope I can do this justice."
"You will, Harry," she said, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "You always do."
As McGonagall moved on to attend to other preparations, Harry saw Amelia Bones, Kingsley Shacklebolt, and Ron and Hermione approaching. Each of them carried the weight of the day's significance in their eyes.
"How are you holding up, Harry?" Amelia asked, her voice filled with genuine concern.
"I'm managing," Harry replied with a small smile. "Just hoping my words will be enough."
"They will be," Kingsley said firmly. "You've always had a way of speaking from the heart, Harry. That's what matters most."
Ron clapped Harry on the back, his familiar grin in place despite the somber occasion. "You've got this, mate. We believe in you."
Hermione stepped closer; her eyes full of encouragement. "And remember, we're all here with you, Harry. This is about all of us, together."
Harry took a deep breath, feeling the warmth of their support bolster him. "Thank you, all of you. I couldn't do this without you."
He turned back to the lake, the words of his speech echoing in his mind. He knew that in a few moments, he would be standing before a sea of faces, each one looking to him for solace and strength.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, Friends and Families, and Esteemed Guests,
We gather here today under the spires of Hogwarts, a place that has been our home, our sanctuary, and our fortress. We stand united to honor the memory of those who have fallen in the shadows of two great wars, battles fought not only on the fields of conflict but within the hearts and minds of each of us.
Today, we remember the brave souls who gave everything to defend our world from darkness. We remember the parents who shielded their children, the teachers who stood tall against tyranny, and the countless unnamed who fought with courage and conviction. Their sacrifices were not in vain; their legacies live on in every corner of our society.
It is difficult to find the words to truly capture the depth of our grief and the magnitude of our loss. Each name etched in our hearts carries with it a story of bravery, love, and unwavering hope. They are the heroes who showed us the true meaning of resilience and sacrifice, who proved that love is the most powerful magic of all.
We also remember those who were lost to us in the quiet battles, the ones who bore the scars of war within, long after the last spell was cast. Their struggles remind us that the fight for a better world does not end with victory in battle; it continues in the lives we lead, the choices we make, and the way we treat one another.
In honoring the past, we must also look to the future. We stand at a crossroads, with the opportunity to build a world that reflects the values for which so many gave their lives. A world where every witch and wizard can live without fear, where our differences are celebrated rather than condemned, and where the bonds of friendship and family are our greatest strengths.
Today, let us make a solemn vow: this country has no more room for hate and bigotry. We must root out the seeds of intolerance and prejudice that seek to divide us. Let us stand together against the darkness of discrimination and let the light of acceptance and understanding shine through.
We must commit ourselves to the principles of equality, justice, and kindness. Let us remember that the true magic lies not in the power of our wands, but in the goodness of our hearts. Let us be the generation that moves forward with purpose and conviction, inspired by those who came before us.
As we honor the fallen, we also pay tribute to the races that stood with us in our darkest hours. We remember Dobby, the brave house-elf who gave his life so that I could live. His sacrifice, and the sacrifices of so many others like him, remind us that true courage knows no bounds of race or status.
As we renew our pledge to create a brighter, more inclusive world, let us also honor the contributions of all beings who fought for freedom and justice. A world where the light of hope outshines the darkest of nights, and where the spirit of unity and love triumphs over hatred and division.
In their memory, we will strive for a future worthy of their sacrifice. Together, we will forge a path of healing and transformation, ensuring that their legacy endures for generations to come.
Thank you."
As Harry finished, the crowd erupted in applause, tears mingling with smiles. Harry stepped off the stage, and he and McGonagall led the procession to the landmark that had been built in honor of the fallen.
In the front courtyard leading out to the Hogwarts Grounds, in the center of the fountain, a single white marble monolith stood gleaming. Names written in gold script appeared on the monolith, almost standing out to him. The Fountain was enchanted to respond to each person, bringing up the names of the loved ones they were looking for. The gardens themselves had been restored to their former glory. As people passed, they dropped their roses into the fountain, and at the touch of the water, the roses ascended like golden showers rising to the sky—a touching tribute.
As people continued to pay their respects to the Fountain, trays of food were served. Ron and Hermione joined Harry, but the three of them remained quiet. Soon after, people began coming up to shake hands with all three of them.
Teddy came running up to Harry and immediately wanted to be picked up. Teddy's hairstyle was exactly the same as Harry's, as it always was when he was around Harry. He smiled at Harry, and Harry smiled back, as if some unspoken words were exchanged between them.
Andromeda smiled. "He was eager to run to you while you were on the stage and so we couldn't leave without saying goodbye."
Harry nodded. "Please go and take all the time you need – we can look after him for a bit."
Andromeda smiled and turned to walk back towards the fountain. At that moment from a distance, a tall, brooding wizard walked towards Harry and nodded to him. Harry nodded back, then turned to Teddy but with his lips asked Hermione, who was currently sitting with Teddy on the ground, "Do we know who that wizard is? The one walking away now. He just nodded at me."
From his other side, Ron grunted no, his mouth full of food, and Hermione also said no.
From the side, Kingsley Shacklebolt leaned in and said, "I believe that is Valerian Burke. He is about to be sworn in as the new Lord Burke. He recently arrived from the United States, where he served as a British Ambassador to the Magical Congress of the United States. His father and cousins died in the Battle of Hogwarts, so the title is left to him—one of Fudge's appointees, I believe. Why, Harry?"
Harry just shrugged as if uninterested but made a mental note to see if Brian knew of him. Harry could see Rita Skeeter in the crowd, talking to Valerian Burke as if they were old friends.
They were soon joined by the Weasleys.
"That was a very nice speech, my dear," said Molly. "Thank you." She turned to start playing with Teddy and engaging with conversation with Hermione.
"Absolutely, Harry," joined Arthur, with agreements from the rest of the Weasley clan.
"How are you both?" asked Harry.
"Well enough and busy," Arthur replied. "I am busy with work thanks to Kingsley, working on a big new project, so lots to do. Molly sent in the paperwork this morning. She has agreed to your offer, and truth is, I am rather grateful that you should think of her. She showed me, and you were awfully generous with the pay offer there."
Harry held his hand up to stop him. "Mr. Weasley, after all you and your family have done for me, it's only fair. Plus, I know that Mrs. Weasley will certainly earn her keep and more. I am just so happy she accepted."
Arthur smiled at Harry. "Thank you."
As Andromeda returned, they all spent the rest of the morning speaking with each other and greeting the other visitors. Harry beamed as he remembered those who came and sacrificed. He would make this world a better place for them.
After the Memorial had concluded. Harry was walking towards the Headmistress Tower to speak with Dumbledore before he left for the Ministry. Andromeda and Teddy had returned to Rowan Hill once the ceremonies were complete. As he was walking, he felt a presence fall into step behind him – in a quick turnaround, he whipped out his wand and pointed it at the intruder.
Draco Malfoy. But not the one he knew during his childhood; this Draco was wearing a dark suit and had a bearded face with bags under his eyes. He held his hands up in surrender. "Woah, woah, Harry. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to sneak up on you, but I need to speak with you if I could have a moment."
Harry looked around and back to Draco, observing him. He remembered the strain Draco was under when he last saw him, and a part of him felt almost sorry. Harry nodded and indicated that they talk as they headed up to the Headmistress's office.
As they walked, silence confronted them.
"I didn't know that Dobby died," Draco said, his voice low and sad. "I just wanted to know how he died, defending you?"
"Malfoy" started Harry.
"No, no, call me Draco. Don't call me that," snapped Draco. "Call me Draco."
"Okay, Draco." Harry went on to tell him what had happened, how Dobby had died, and how he was buried. Harry was surprised to see Draco tearing up as they reached the Gargoyle that guarded the Headmistress Tower.
"Semper Fi," stated Harry as clear as day. The Gargoyle moved, spiralling upwards – both Harry and Draco quickly climbed the stairs.
As they arrived on the landing, the door was open. Gone were the trinkets and swirling artifacts; in fact, the office was largely empty except for the desk and chair that had always been there. It seemed McGonagall had yet to move in. And there, on a seesaw stand, stood a portrait of a sleeping Severus Tobias Snape, captioned:
Professor Severus T. Snape
Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry, 1998
Both men stood there, frozen in an unexpected moment. Suddenly, Draco dropped to his knees, his shoulders shaking as he began to cry—no, to sob uncontrollably. Harry's breath caught in his throat, stunned by the raw emotion pouring out of his childhood enemy. He had never imagined Draco capable of such vulnerability, and the sight left him at a loss for words.
The intensity of the moment made Harry feel as though he were intruding on something deeply personal, something he wasn't meant to witness. Unsure of what to do, and more than a little unsettled, he turned abruptly and climbed the stairs towards Dumbledore's portrait. The old Headmaster's eyes were twinkling knowingly as they followed Draco, as if he had expected this all along.
Both men stood there, frozen in an unexpected moment. Suddenly, Draco dropped to his knees, his shoulders shaking as he began to cry—no, to sob uncontrollably. Harry's breath caught in his throat, stunned by the raw emotion pouring out of his childhood enemy. The sight left him at a loss for words. The intensity of the moment made Harry feel as though he were intruding on something deeply personal, something he wasn't meant to witness.
Caught in the corner of his eye by a shadowy movement, Harry turned abruptly to see Draco had vanished from the spot where he had been sitting. The flickering candlelight cast long shadows on the stone walls, making Draco's sudden disappearance even more disorienting. Feeling a mix of confusion and discomfort, Harry decided to retreat and climbed the stairs towards Dumbledore's portrait.
The portrait of Albus Dumbledore watched him with a gentle, knowing smile, his eyes twinkling as they always had.
"Good evening, Professor," Harry began, his voice steady but tinged with the reverence he still felt for the old wizard.
"Harry, my dear boy," Dumbledore's portrait responded, the twinkle in his painted eyes as lively as ever. "What brings you here tonight?"
Harry took a deep breath, steadying himself. "It seems I inherited your estate."
Dumbledore's expression remained serene, though curiosity sparked in his eyes. "Ah, not too much of a responsibility, I hope, my boy?"
"I plan to use the funds to support my work with the Phoenix Foundation and its mission," Harry said, then proceeded to update Dumbledore on the progress they were making.
Dumbledore's smile widened, and he nodded approvingly. "That is a noble endeavor, Harry. I am deeply touched by your intentions. You have my full blessing."
Harry felt a weight lift off his shoulders at Dumbledore's words. There was one more matter he needed to discuss. "There's something else, Professor. I found your journals in your personal vault. What should I do with them?"
Dumbledore's expression grew thoughtful. "Those journals contain many of my thoughts and notes on magic, spells of great power, and intricate instructions. While I never had the opportunity to teach you everything I knew, those journals are a repository of that knowledge."
Harry's heart skipped a beat. "I always thought you held back, Professor, that you had so much more to teach me."
Dumbledore's eyes softened. "Time was not on our side, my dear boy. But those journals were my way of ensuring that the knowledge I gathered would not be lost. I had hoped to pass it on to you, Harry, for I believed you would use it wisely."
Harry looked down at the journals in his hands, feeling the weight of their significance. "I'll make sure they are used for good, Professor. Thank you."
Dumbledore's portrait seemed to glow with pride. "I have no doubt that you will, Harry. You have always had a remarkable ability to find the light, even in the darkest of times."
Harry nodded, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Thank you, Professor. For everything."
As Harry turned to leave, leaving only the quiet presence of the portrait of Severus Snape. The abrupt shift from the emotional moment with Draco to the calm interaction with Dumbledore only deepened Harry's sense of disquiet.
In the stillness, Harry's gaze lingered on Snape's portrait.
He felt a renewed respect for all that Professor Snape had done for him, acknowledging the sacrifices and the complexity of the man he had once considered an enemy. The legacy of Snape's actions and the depth of his hidden contributions now resonated more profoundly with Harry.
As he walked away, the last thing he heard was Dumbledore's gentle voice, filled with warmth and hope. "Take care, Harry. And remember, help will always be given at Hogwarts to those who ask for it."
25th June 1998, Ministry of Magic, Whitehall, London
Harry stood in the Atrium, feeling a mixture of anticipation and solemnity. Andromeda, Brian, and Geraldine were with him, waiting in the Ministry lifts as they descended to the Wizengamot Level. The Ministry building had undergone dramatic changes since the regime's fall. Gone was the ugly statue, replaced by a veiled object that hinted at the new era ushered in by Amelia and Kingsley. They had done much to change the Ministry for the better.
As they reached the Wizengamot Level, an attendant in full council regalia awaited them. "Welcome to the Wizengamot, Mr. Potter and guests. I will lead you to the office of the Chief Clerk," he said, nodding respectfully.
They were led down the main chamber, through a series of hallways, and finally into a conference room. "The Chief Clerk will be here soon. In the meantime, please accept these refreshments," the attendant said, bowing his head before leaving the room.
Harry stood, waiting while the rest of the company settled into their seats. He approached the attendant managing the tea service. "Tea, please," he requested. The attendant poured him a steaming cup, and Harry returned to his seat in the middle of the table.
Moments later, the doors opened, and an elderly man entered, followed by Kingsley and a tall woman. The attendant who had led them in carried a large, ancient-looking brown book and an antique box.
"Mr. Potter, we have been notified that you wish to take your oaths before the commencement of the Wizengamot session in the next fortnight. Gringotts has also informed us that you have successfully claimed the Lordship Rings and Seals of the Ancient and Noble Houses of Potter and Black," the Chief Clerk said.
"Yes, to both," Harry replied with a smile.
The Chief Clerk nodded to his attendant, who presented two clear documents before the party. "This is a Declaration of Office, declaring that you will fulfill the functions as Hereditary Member of the Wizengamot to the best of your ability."
The Chief Clerk began, "Harry James Potter, you stand before the Wizengamot as the 91st Head of the Ancient and Noble House of Potter and the 83rd Head of the Ancient and Noble House of Black. Do you accept the responsibilities and privileges bestowed upon you by the Wizengamot Charter, acknowledging your rightful place as a blood descendant of the Hereditary Members of the First British Ministry of Magic for the House of Black and the House of Potter?"
"I do," Harry affirmed.
"Do you solemnly swear upon your honour and lineage to uphold the laws and traditions of the Wizengamot, ensuring justice and fairness in all proceedings?" the Chief Clerk continued.
"I do," Harry replied.
"Do you pledge to protect the interests and welfare of the magical community, both within the United Kingdom and globally?"
"I do," Harry said.
"Will you maintain the honour and legacy of the Ancient and Noble Houses of Potter and Black, acting in accordance with the values and principles they represent?"
"I will," Harry stated firmly.
"Do you vow to promote unity and cooperation among all members of the magical society, and unique contributions of each individual?"
"I do," Harry responded.
"Do you pledge to safeguard the secrecy of the magical world, preserving its harmony and security from any external threats?"
"I do," Harry confirmed.
"By accepting this solemn duty, do you commit yourself to the service of the Wizengamot and the magical community, guided by the wisdom of your ancestors and the unwavering resolve to contribute to the greater good of our society?" the Chief Clerk concluded.
"I do," Harry said, his voice steady and resolute.
"So mote it be. Welcome, Harry James Potter, to the Wizengamot," the Chief Clerk declared, sealing Harry's place among the British wizarding world's highest council.
Harry signed the documents, feeling the weight of his new responsibilities settle upon him. This was not just a title or a duty; it was a commitment to uphold the legacy of his ancestors and to serve the magical community with honour and integrity.
After signing, Harry turned to the Chief Clerk. "I would also like to appoint two proxies to sit in my absence. I appoint Andromeda Tonks and Brian Templeton as my proxies, granting them the authority to represent the Ancient and Noble Houses of Potter and Black in the Wizengamot."
The Chief Clerk nodded. "Very well, Mr. Potter. We will make the necessary arrangements. Andromeda Tonks and Brian Templeton, do you accept these responsibilities?"
Andromeda and Brian both stepped forward, acknowledging their appointments. "We do," they said in unison.
"Then it is settled. Andromeda Tonks and Brian Templeton will serve as your proxies, Lord Potter. We look forward to your contributions to the Wizengamot," the Chief Clerk concluded.
With the formalities complete, Harry felt a sense of fulfilment. The legacy of his family was in safe hands, and he was ready to face the challenges ahead.