Hey everyone,
This chapter – is weird. At first I wanted it to be about Harry at breakfast, Percy at lunch and Lea at or after dinner, but then remembered something I thought about in an earlier version and decided to implement that here – and then that took a life of its own and made this chapter so long, it became about breakfast and breakfast only.
Seriously,
Venquine1990
Chapter 09
Breakfast, Speeches and Safety
28th of September 1995
Private Chambers, Hogwarts
Harry's POV
I wake up feeling quite groggy and a little confused as the blurry-looking room around me doesn't look at all like the Gryffindor Boy's dormitory. But then I feel my left arm wrapped tightly and protectively around my waist and instantly all my memories of the previous day wake me up as I remember it all; the pain, the fight with Dumbledore, Umbridge trying to curse Pomfrey, the other confrontations and my friends supporting me.
Then something happens that makes me wonder if my little one is already forming a mental bond with me or something as I suddenly feel a wave of magic rush through me and reach out, feeling like a painful twinge at first, but then starting to feel like stepping into a warm bath after a really cold winter's day; feeling like the water burns you at first, but then getting used to the pleasant sense of heat that comes off of it.
Instantly a huge smile adorns my face and I whisper: "That's right, little one. You call out to your daddy. You need to make sure he comes here as soon as possible. I want him in our life and I feel he deserves to know that he created a little treasure like you. And between you and me, precious, I don't care if you're alone in there or not. Whether it's one of you or more, I love you nonetheless." Yet then suddenly a voice breaks me out of my reverie and says:
"And you are absolutely exactly like your mother in that sense." I look up, startled but smiling when I see Sirius leaning in the doorway as he says: "Lily said the exact same thing a few days after it became known that she was pregnant. She was actually hoping that she might be pregnant of twins, but when she heard it was just you, she said that is just fine, now I can give all of my love to just my one precious little angel."
And while the man is absolutely horrible at trying to mimic my mother's voice, do I still feel my eyes tearing up at the thought that my mum loved me that much even before I was born. The man comes to walk over and sits down at my bedside, running a gentle hand through my hair as he says: "You were her world, pup. She loved you more than anyone else. James even joked a few times that he feared she loved you more than she did him. He never cared though. That idea just made him love your mother even more – and he definitely loved you."
At this I sigh and mutter: "I know, Sirius. The – the Dementors allowed me to hear their final words and I had to face a Boggart version of them every time I was training to learn the Patronus charm. I know exactly what they said when that monster killed them. I know their last words were vocal evidence of their love for me; of how much they loved me." And the man shows me a smile that is also a bit of a grimace.
I smile back at him and decide to change the subject as I ask: "You want to have a feel? He, she or maybe even they just started calling out to their daddy." The man laughs at this and says: "You better just call him the other parent. Madam Pomfrey told us earlier this morning that some soul mates would rather decide for themselves what they want their offspring to call them. You slept in, pup, I was just about to come wake you."
This makes me turn a little red and I mutter: "Give me five minutes. I'll go get changed." The man nods and says: "I'll go let the others know that you're awake. Also, I did sense it, pup. The wave went through me after it left you. It felt brilliant." I beam at him over this and then dash out of my bed and over to the bathroom, which is attached to my bedroom. I make sure to hurry up in washing myself, yet still rubbing a gentle hand over my stomach.
And upon returning to my room, do I actually feel a twinge of pain run through me, making me hiss and reach for the Pain-Relief Potion that Madam Pomfrey gave me the other night. I happily gulp down a bit of it and feel the draught instantly take effect. Sighing in relief, I put the rest of the potion in a drawer of my bedside table before quickly getting dressed, checking my schedule for the day and packing my bookbag for the day.
I head out and everyone happily greets me as Neville says: "We actually felt that wave of magic, mate. It felt really powerful, but I guess that's only natural seeing how far it's going to have to reach and whatnot. Still, with a wave that strong constantly going out, I doubt your mate is going to take long before he shows up." At which I happily reply: "Let's hope so, Neville. For now, heh, let's go face the music." And this makes the others grimace.
Sirius smiles as he wishes us all luck and after leaving the portrait, the others all making sure to grab onto the frame for a minute or so to help the maiden inside register their magical signatures, do we head out and downstairs. "So Harry, what do you expect?" Alicia asks and I sigh as I mutter: "Honestly? Nothing good. I doubt the Lions are going to take my statements of yesterday kindly and none of you came back either.
I don't think they're going to like the fact that you all got to spend this much time with me, especially after I talked down on them so much. So, at the very least, expect the same treatment they've been giving me this past month. At the worst – keep your wands at the ready and dash for any available teacher, if you can. And definitely make sure you stick together at all times." The others nod, even though they are all grimacing in concern.
"You don't think they'll attack Ron or myself, do you? I mean, no offense, but we are Prefects. Wouldn't they know that we can get them in trouble for that?" Hermione asks yet Ron sighs and mutters: "They probably do, but they also spent three years with Percy as their main example of what a Prefect is supposed to be like. And let's face it, last year, we didn't even know who any of the Prefects were, let alone the Head Boy or Girl."
My female best friend sighs and mutters: "Good point." Yet as we reach the Fourth Floor, does my grimace of concern change into a smile of relief as I spot Madam Pomfrey waiting for us. "Good morning, you lot. Harry, I hope you took my advice and took the potion?" I nod and say: "Only a few gulps, though. The pain wasn't all that bad, just a twinge after I got changed." The woman nods and says: "Good, now let's go."
And while part of me wonders what kind of image it will send to the others to see me walk with the school Matron, do I just feel giddy with excitement over how they will feel when they hear that said Matron is now the Regent of my House and that she already got rid of Umbridge for us. This also makes me wonder what will happen to the DADA position, but then I remember something and snicker: "The curse strikes again."
Making the others snicker and giggle as well, at least until Madam Pomfrey sends us a reprimanding glare. Yet at the same time do I notice that she herself is fighting a grin from growing on her face and I can't help but think: "Hypocrite." Yet I don't care. "Wow Potter, you really just can't help yourself now, can you? Are you that vulnerable that Madam Pomfrey thinks you need constant guidance? What? Is she going to follow you into classes?"
A really annoying voice then breaks through my amusement and I glare at Malfoy as he actually exits a doorway on the Second floor, making me wonder what he was doing taking such a detour from the school dungeons. Yet before either Ron or I could retort, does Madam Pomfrey state: "Mr. Potter does not need me as his Medical Examiner, Mr. Malfoy. Unlike you. It would appear that you are suffering from a terrible case of blindness."
"What are you talking about, witch?" Malfoy angrily spats at her, yet the Matron only smirks and taps a very interesting looking badge on her lapel with her fore and middle finger. And Malfoy, upon spotting the symbol on top of the badge, whitens and turns to look at me, yet I only smirk at him, not really feeling the need to taunt him back the way he keeps taunting me. "I need to be a proper example to my little one, after all." I think to myself.
"That's right, Mr. Malfoy. Umbridge was only half right and half wrong yesterday when she claimed Heir Potter to have used Dark Magic to become pregnant. The Dark Magic was not the case as Heir Potter turned out to be one of the lucky 1 in 348 to have his soul be perfectly compatible with that of another, someone far away enough that Heir Potter's own soul was not strong enough to make the call of summoning. Therefore, Mr. Potter became pregnant.
And as the pregnant Heir to a very important family, Heir Potter required a proper representative. I offered, gave Mr. Potter a sample of some of the ideas I had that I would do as Regent and he accepted. And before you ask, Yes, Mr. Malfoy, Heir Potter's former Regent also accepted the transfer and no, it is none of your concern on how I got in contact with his previous Regent. That is a private matter, not a public one.
An Heir of your status should be able to understand that." Malfoy is glaring in seething rage at the Matron, who has actually kept a calm composure throughout her entire speech, even though her words have drawn in a crowd to surround us and I notice a lot of them whispering amongst each other. "Why are you calling Potter an Heir, but only address me as Mister. What's the deal with that?" Malfoy spats, yet Madam Pomfrey calmly answers:
"Ask your father." Stumping the boy as she actually uses his own catchphrase against him. And while I just know that Ron is doing everything he can to keep a straight face and not burst out laughing, does the Matron turn to our group and calmly advises us: "Let's carry on. Breakfast awaits and Heir Potter is eating for two now. Also, we all know that we don't want to miss the Morning Announcements." At which all of us nod in agreement and follow her.
(well, this is unexpected)
Poppy's POV
When I woke up this morning, it was with a sense of exhilaration and determination. For the past four years I have seen fame and popularity go to way too many students' heads and turning them on whoever actually holds the most of either of these factors and doesn't use them the way those sheep like or want them too. And the fact that it's one single student almost nine cases out of ten just makes the whole thing ten times worse.
I've always known Potter wasn't studying for his practical exams back in his first as some of his injuries were on locations he wouldn't have been able to reach without several reflective spells cast at various locations around him, but my Healer's Oath prevented me from seeking further action or consulting others with the authority to set this right. But now I have a form of authority that trumps even Fudge and Dumbledore and I know it.
And as I plan to make everyone else – especially the students who have been around since young Harry's Second (bar those who were in First back then) and the ones who went above and beyond to show Hufflepuff support last year – know this as well, do I sit down at my seat, having escorted Harry and his friends all the way up to Gryffindor Table and ensuring them a group of seats that I also enchanted to keep them safe.
I had already called on several Elves working for Gryffindor before leaving my own private rooms and ordered them specifically to supply this group with their food and drinks for all three meals of the day for the foreseeable future and to not let any other elves interfere. I did get a shock when another Elf, one who is just loosely bound to Hogwarts, came in and begged me to let him join, but I could sense his devotion and accepted the request.
Yet while I passed the Lion and the Raven Table did I notice something that made my heckles stand on edge and made alarm bells ring in my head. Romilda Vane, Lavender Brown and both Patil sisters were sitting together. And the last time I saw this happen, a horrible rumor about what broke the friendship between Mss. Granger and young Harry spread itself through Hogwarts, becoming public knowledge in only one day.
And the fact that the four of them are actually glaring at Harry and his group of friends just doesn't sit well with me and makes me hope that Minerva has had enough time to think last night and that she is ready to take on her responsibility in case it becomes necessary. I make sure to pass Albus and whisper: "Tell the students the truth, rumors are spreading." And the man shoots only a short glance at what concerns me before he nods.
I sit down and after the man has determined that everyone, all of the staff and every student, is in the Great Hall, does he stand up. Instantly silence is all over the room, making me smile as it proves that even those who believe the Prophet still respect the man. "Good morning students, I'm sure some of you have noticed some very important changes that have taken place here at the Hall. Both to Mr. Potter and to our table here.
As I am sure you've noticed, the chair of Professor Umbridge is still vacant. This is not because she has slept in; she has been arrested. Yesterday she tried to press charges against Harry Potter on ridiculous claims of him having used Dark Magic to become pregnant of another family's child. This is not the case. Harry Potter is pregnant, because Destiny has seen it fit to connect his soul to that of another, someone who is far away.
Madam Pomfrey has also, upon discovering this, requested Harry Potter to accept her as his new Regent and, after this, taken charges of her own against Dolores Umbridge when she dared to bring Aurors into her Hospital Wing, all of them already – so I was told – with their wands in hand and ready to take Harry Potter by force. These charges concerned Dolores Umbridge using a Dark Magic Object on Harry Potter – on multiple counts.
Madam Pomfrey was able to prove this in multiple ways and with that proved Dolores Umbridge's guilt, something Umbridge did not like and responded to by trying to cast an Unforgivable, the Cruciatus Curse, on our own Matron. Madam Pomfrey managed to sidestep the spell and was after that defended by Harry until our own Minister for Magic struck Umbridge down and stunned her. This is the reason she is no longer at the table with us."
This story obviously shocks everyone in the hall, even most of the staff, and while I wonder how Albus knows that the Aurors were already armed, does he turn to me and say: "And now Madam Pomfrey wishes to speak to you all as she has things on her mind in regards to both the past, present and future of her new House and its Minor." I nod at the man gratefully, but also send him a short glance to warn him that this won't be pretty.
I move around the Head Table and over to the Owl Stand, simply to prove to the rest of the Hall that I have much on my mind. "Thank you, Headmaster. Now, before I speak my mind, I wish to make a few statements. First off, as Healer, I was restricted quite badly by my Healer-Patient-Confidentially Oaths. If someone were to come in with obvious signs of abuse or bullying, but then made an excuse that denied this, I would not be able to do much.
I'd be able to heal my patient of their injuries, but my Oaths would prevent me from inquiring further or sharing my findings with other members of authority. And I can only say this; over the past four years, I have never seen this problem be more of an ongoing fact than with Heir Harry James Potter, which is another reason I have taken on the title of Regent. As my role as Regent makes me primarily responsible for Heir Potter's health, welfare and future.
Now, what I am about to say, which will not be pretty, pleasant or easy for some of you to accept, does not concern the following parties. In regards to 1991-1992, I do not hold the First years of that year, aka those currently in Heir Potter's year, accountable. The same counts for those currently in their Fourth, Second or First. I am well aware that, more often than not, you are all victims of peer pressure and I won't hold this against you."
This makes some of those in front of me smile and even grin at each other and instantly I frown and snap: "However, that fact only counts for the year in which you yourselves were eleven and just starting First years. In other words, I may not hold the actions of the current Fourth years against them when it comes to the actions of 1992-1993, but the same can and will not be said for their actions in the years that followed. Let that be clear."
"Oh come on!" Someone in Hufflepuff yells at me, but I just glare at him, making him cringe, falter and sit back down. "Another point I feel I must emphasize on before I start telling you all exactly what I think of your behavior of the last four years is this; those of you who, over the past few years, approached Heir Potter with the desire to apologize for their House's behavior when they themselves never did anything, I commend you.
You have true loyalty, true intelligence and true courage – and you are covering for the spineless, lazy and stupid cowards who can't bring themselves to answer to their own consciousnesses and do the right thing, so they hide behind you. And just so we're clear, I'm being kind in how I think about people like that. You do not want to hear my actual opinion about you lot." And while I noticed many wanting to argue, does this silence them.
I spare a short glance at Harry and his group, twitching with my fingers to ensure that the spells I cast on the seats around his friends are still strong and haven't been messed with and then focus back on the Hall at large. "Hogwarts, listen to me and let us recap. Tell me, who here had the courage to ask Heir Potter how the points were lost? Who here had the intelligence to remember Mss. Granger was Heir Potter's Muggleborn friend? Who here was loyal and hardworking enough to study the Tournament and realize its dangers?"
"EVEN WEASLEY DIDN'T DO THE LAST OF THOSE!" Someone in Ravenclaw then yells, but I roll my eyes and retort: "No, but Mr. Weasley was still courageous and courteous enough to apologize after seeing his friend in danger and has been proving his loyalty ever since. He did not need someone to hide behind to do what's right, he did it himself. And the next person who wants to interrupt me because they have their ego hurt, loses their House 5 points."
This doesn't just make the dumb Raven sit down in annoyance, but makes many others wince as well, making me know they were already preparing for something like that. I sigh through my nose and ask: "Hogwarts, honestly, how many times does Heir Potter need to prove you lot wrong? What needs to happen to him or those close to him before your common sense overtakes those egos of yours and you start studying your own beliefs?
Think about it, in his First Heir Potter had to end up in my Wing, with a completely drained core, I'd like to add, before you lot – those currently in Sixth and Seventh year – realized that he was more than just your scapegoat. Mss. Granger had to be Petrified before you realized her blood history. You had to see him survive a Dragon before you remembered he was a Minor in a dangerous tournament. What? Does he need to lose someone dear before you realize that the monster that took him his parents is actually back?"
And while I am sure that some might think that this goes far, do I snarl: "Was Cedric Diggory not enough for you lot?" And other than a lot of horrified gasps, does silence answer my question at which I continue: "Think back, Hogwarts. Think back on that horrible night. Think back on Heir Potter, on the state he was in when he returned. Does that, to your memory, look like someone mad with a need for fame – or mad with grief?
Can you – any of you – actually look me in the eye and tell me that Heir Harry James Potter would rather have the murderer of his parents and the many families of those close to him back than someone who was growing to be a friend of his, who he helped with the Dragons and who helped him with the Merepeople hint? Do any of you feel tough, bold, brave or better said, stupid enough to dare claim that? Or are you finally willing to see the light?
No one wants that monster back, let me assure you, but there will always be a difference between what we want and what is real life. And Heir Potter, I know, is still suffering the mental and emotional consequences of that night. But he is also brave, loyal, intelligent and ambitious enough to not let Cedric's sacrifice be in vain, to not let the sacrifice of his parents be in vain, thus he tries to move on and continue the fight. And how do you lot repay him?"
Almost the entire Hall is now looking down, yet I can easily discern that a lot of them are trying to hide looks of annoyance with their fake grief and senses of guilt. I mentally shake my head at this and say: "Exactly, and that is why I have taken on the role as Regent of House Potter. My voice has been silenced for too long and I am done. Though I will not let my personal opinion of you lot keep me from treating you as is my job.
I will still do so, treat you just like I do any other student and make sure that your health is back to top-notch levels, but if I spot my Charge enter my wing and he shows signs of another attack on his person, I will not allow him to give another weak excuse like that. I will make sure he tells me the truth and I will report you to your Head of House, if worse the Headmaster and, if you push me far enough, Madam Bones of the DMLE."
This makes a lot of those around me wince and cringe and I take a deep breath, feeling my control over my own patience and strength waver and state: "However, these facts will not be for Heir Potter only. I do wish to extend this kind of help to any of you who are also suffering abuse, bullying or any other kind of crime or rule-breaking from your peers. Just be honest with me and I will do what I can, to protect you and to bring justice to your situation."
And to my personal pride do I actually notice a few grateful smiles showing up on faces of those around me, yet for some reason I notice one of them being on a very peculiar face. I spare a quick glance at my Charge again and notice that he has spotted it too as he turns to me and gives me a very short nod. I nod back at him and then say: "Now, let me finish with these words; Hogwarts is a privilege, not a right.
Heir Potter's fame is not for you lot to exploit and treat however you please. Heir Potter is a living being, a person with rights of his own just like the rest of you. And I have heard him speaking to his friends in my wing enough times to know this; Heir Potter hates and despises his fame. He would give his very magic to get back what it took from him; his parents. And I dare you all, or at least those who are guilty of bullying, to tell me otherwise.
Now, I do know what the source of the latest grapevine pleasures is, but let me ask you one question. Who here knows about the Skeeter Scandal?" And while I can actually hear Albus, Minerva and Filius hold back a snort and a chortle at this and know that Severus is now looking at me with a raised eyebrow in curiosity, do I feel a strong sense of pride when I notice that mostly those in the younger years are raising their hands.
"It was a case between Rita Skeeter and someone she had recently written about. She lost the case something horrible and was prohibited from writing for over a decade. Even threatened with Azkaban if she dared so much as to write for a small town's local newspaper or something." Someone in Second year Slytherin says and I smirk in pride as I say: "Yes, and Skeeter lost that case – against yours truly." Making many of those around me gape at me.
"Look it up, there's a newspaper report of it still in the library. It may not have a name, but I dare say –." And while pulling off my cap, letting my greying blonde hair flow freely as I say: "I really haven't changed much in the past two decades or so. You should still be able to recognize me on the picture that is connected to the article." And while I can clearly see that a lot of students are now excited to go find the piece, do I say:
"Why do I tell you this? Because I plan to make Mss. Skeeter retire – permanently. And I have almost a year's worth of Minor Slandering Articles to use against her. So trust me when I say, the days of you reading something negative about Heir Potter – that doesn't first go through me – are over. This is not a warning against you, just me desiring to let you know this in advance. Thank you all for listening." And with that I turn around.
Harry's POV
I may not have liked to have Madam Pomfrey remind the whole school of the last four years, but I can easily see that it has had an affect on many of the students around me. Yet like my Matron and new Regent had I also noticed that there was someone odd who had been looking relieved when Madam Pomfrey offered to help them against bullies and thieves as long as they were honest. "Neville, isn't that Susan Bones, Madam Bones' niece?"
I ask after Madam Pomfrey turns around and actually repositions her seat to be next to Professor Sprout instead of between Professors Sinistra and Burbage like before. The reason behind this doesn't escape me and Neville turns to look at where I'm looking, at a girl our age who has reddish blond hair in a plait and who seems to be fiddling with her cutlery, as if trying to decide something, but hesitating – or fearing the consequences.
"Yeah, it is. What's up with her?" Neville asks, his voice showing clear concern and I whisper back: "I noticed her looking strangely relieved when Madam Pomfrey offered help to those who were being bullied as long as they're honest. And now that I think back on it –." And Hermione voices my thoughts as she says: "It was always Susan. She was always the one to apologize to you for how her House treated you every time they bullied you."
I nod and mutter: "Except for during one Herbology class after you were Petrified, Hermione. Back then both Hannah and Ernie approached me themselves to do so, but they only did it for themselves. A few days later Susan did the same thing, but then for Hufflepuff as a whole. And going by how she's looking now, I wonder if we'll be getting a repeat of that. And besides, Susan fits Madam Pomfrey's description perfectly.
She always apologized, but was never one of the culprits. Even when she was wearing those Support Cedric badges, she never changed hers to say Potter stinks like Hannah and a few others did. She showed her support and chose a side, but she was never mean about it." The others around me nod in agreement to this and Neville squints his eyes before he asks: "Hey wait a second, where's her Heiress ring? Why isn't she wearing it?"
This makes me turn to him and Neville taps his left ring finger with his right hand, showing a gorgeous looking ring made of bronze with a very distinct design up top. "Maybe she's hiding hers?" Ron asks, but Neville shakes his head and says: "She's a member of the Great Alliance. We members can sense the magic hiding each other's rings. I can't sense hers. She's not wearing hers. And unlike you, Harry, she was handed hers by her aunt. I – I don't know why no one has handed you yours yet, but – yeah. This isn't right."
"And it's about to get worse." Fred suddenly growls and I look from him to where he's gazing as George says: "Basically everyone in Seventh Year Hufflepuff seems to be glaring at her. And those glares are very obvious warnings. Don't do anything. Don't rat us out." At this Angelina gasps and she says: "They've stolen her Heiress ring and are using it to blackmail her. We have to do something. She'll never come out by herself."
At this I nod and mutter: "Let's go. We'll guard her on the way to Madam Pomfrey and Professor Sprout, just like you guys did with me when I shook hands with the other Pomfrey." The others nod and as one do we collectively stand up, Fred, George, Angelina and Alicia with their wands already out and Neville pressing his ring against his lapel, causing for a badge of similar design to appear there, which Angelina does as well.
Many eyes are now upon us and I think: "I'm going to make sure I get to do the same soon; before my mate arrives and definitely before I have my baby." As I guide the others past Gryffindor and Ravenclaw table and over to Hufflepuff. We move over to Susan, Fred and George aiming their wands at the Seventh Years seated there, and move to stand around her. The timid girl looks up and I whisper: "Come on, let's report. We'll protect you."
And with tears gleaming in her eyes, does the sweet-looking girl take the hand I reach out to her, standing up. Instantly Neville, Katie, Lee and Ron come to stand behind her, causing for another protective circle of all my friends to surround us both. Susan looks at this startled, but I just smile at my friends and mutter: "Let's go, you're safe, Susan. My friends won't let anyone harm you, not while you're around me and my unborn child."
The girl whispers a tearful thank you and we start to move again, over to the Head Table and to where Professor Sprout and Madam Pomfrey are seated, the latter of the two smiling at our group in sheer pride. Yet to my resignation do I notice that McGonagall, who I thought would have changed her tune after last night, is glaring at us.
"Need time to think, my wand." I think to myself before deciding that the woman just isn't worth my time or attention. Ron and the others again part when we reach the table, but they also make sure to stand around our sides in such a way they form another row of bodies around us, making it so that both they and those closer to us can cast shields in case someone tries to curse us. Yet Susan still hesitates and so I state:
"Madam Pomfrey, Professor Sprout, my friends and I noticed Susan looking greatly relieved when Madam Pomfrey stated that she would help anyone who is being bullied as long as they're honest. Neville also told me that she's not wearing her Heiress ring and the twins noticed the Seventh years glaring at her. We suspect that they stole her ring and are using it as blackmail. Especially because Susan always apologized, but never bullied me."
"I noticed the same. And Mss. Bones, let me tell you, that tanner is not the right color for your skin tone and is just making it quite obvious that you are trying to hide a bruise there underneath your chin, a recent one if my eyes aren't fooling me." Madam Pomfrey gently tells the girl, who winces so badly I actually reach out for her as she almost shrinks down on herself. Instantly Professor Sprout is on her feet and she says: "Let me see that, Susan."
But the girl actually shakes her head, whimpering in fright and I frown at this as I softly ask her: "They didn't just steal your ring, did they Susan? They stole other things from you as well, am I right?" And the horribly frightened look on her face as she looks at me says it all. "Heir Potter, have your friends take Heiress Bones back to your rooms. You all have my permission to skip your first class of the day. Not now, Severus."
Madam Pomfrey snarls at the annoying Potions Teacher, who just glares at her and then states: "Fine, but I expect Potter and those in his year to hand in an essay on the draught against bruises and broken bones for their next class." At this I nod in acceptance and then suddenly get an idea as I realize that we'll need to pass the tables to leave the hall.
"Follow me." I hiss at my friends and while confused, do they walk with me, away from the table and again forming a full circle, this time with everyone holding their wands in hand. And while keeping Susan in a comforting, reassuring hold with both my arms, do I head over to the antechamber, George checking the Great Hall at large before closing the door behind us. "Ehm, Harry?" Katie asks, but I just smirk at her and then loudly state:
"Dobby!" And to the shock of most of my friends and pleasure of Ron, Hermione and me, does the excited little creature with large bat-like ears and tennis balls for eyes appear in front of me, actually bouncing on his feet as he says: "The Great Heir Potter calls on Dobby! Dobby be ever so happy! What can Dobby be do for Great Heir Potter." And while I wonder why he changed my name, do I say: "Dobby, take us to my chambers, please."
And with just a snap of the elf's little fingers do I feel my whole form disappear for just a second before it feels like it's back where it's supposed to be. Except this time we are all standing in the warm browns and reds of my private chambers. And to my relief, as I suddenly remember him being here as well, do I notice that Sirius is lying in the corner, fast asleep in his Animagus form. Yet Susan still yells in fright when she sees him.
Instantly the dog wakes up, yelping himself and jumping up. Yet I quickly go stand between them and lock eyes with Susan as I say: "He's not a Grim, Susan. He's just a regular dog. Well, not really, he's an Animagus. He just feels more comfortable in this form. You're safe, Susan. Even Madam Pomfrey has to ask my permission to get in here and Dobby is the only Elf I will ever allow to let anyone bring in here. You're safe, Susan, really."
The girl takes deep breaths at hearing this and I turn my head, noticing Sirius looking down in shame, but I just smile at him as he couldn't have known that I'd come back this soon or bring unexpected extra guests. "Thank you, Harry. Wait, why does even Madam Pomfrey need permission?" The girl asks confused and I grin as I say: "Call it my inner Moody coming out. I don't want to take the risk that the other portraits might hear the password."
This makes the girl giggle and I turn to Dobby as I say: "Tell the other Elves that, will you Dobby? That you are the only Elf allowed in here unless it's for cleaning and even then it's only under your supervision. And I won't accept any Elves in here that work for other Houses unless they work for the families you see here around me. Do you understand that, Dobby?" And while teary-eyed, does the Elf nod his head like crazy before he pops out.
The others then finally part away from us and I gently guide Susan over to the chair I was seated in the other day, helping her sit down. Sirius also shuffles over, carefully as to give Susan a chance to back away, and lies his head in her lap when he's near her. And the girl sends him a grateful smile before she starts to softly run her hand through his fur, the action obviously having a calming and relaxing effect on her.
She then sighs and mutters: "My – my mother's necklace. They have that – and my father's broch. They stole the broch in my First, while you were in the Hospital and hit me in the eye enough to make it hurt, but not enough to turn it blue. They stole my ring in Second after I dared to tell them I told you so after Hermione was Petrified. They broke one of my ribs for that. And they stole my necklace at the start of the year; just in case they called it."
This seriously infuriates me and I feel surprised at the fact that Sirius isn't growling himself, but realize he must be holding back in order not to scare Susan again. Then suddenly I notice one of the portraits in the room getting a guest and see that it's the maiden that guards my portrait entrance. "Professor Sprout and Madam Pomfrey are here to see you. They say they have – guests a few portraits down."
I nod at her, smile at Susan as the girl squeaks in fright and say: "I'll meet them at the portrait, thanks." I then share a quick glance with Angelina, Alicia and Katie and the three follow me as I leave, staying behind at the door in the hallway and drawing their wands once again. And while I'm sure that this will reassure Susan, do I head on, trying to reign in my own anger and just keep a calm façade as I head for the portrait.
It opens as I approach, yet I raise an eyebrow in question when I notice that someone else is with the two ladies as well. "Seamus?" I ask confused and the Irish lad asks: "Susan's with you, right?" I nod, but keep silent and the boy shocks me as he hands over a ring. "Malcolm sold it to me in Second, said it had protective enchantments to keep the monster away." Yet to this I glare and say: "Susan just told me that they stole it after Hermione was Petrified."
"He was still selling at the time, just not through stands like they were before. He kept his merchandise in this robe that he was wearing over his official school robes and would reveal this to anyone who was still feeling scared and threatened. I was just one of those. The fact that it was Hermione, someone in my year and House, terrified me. And I am a Half-Blood, I don't know anything about what official Heir or Lordship rings look like."
This satisfies me and I nod, taking the ring and putting it in my pocket before I turn to Professor Sprout and say: "Susan confessed. They stole her mother's necklace in First while I was in the Hospital and her father's broch this year; called it a security measure. They also punched her in the eye in first and broke a rib of hers when she used that age-old saying I told you so in second. And I'm sure the bruise was just to emphasize the threat."
The woman nods, yet she turned strangely furious when I mentioned the necklace. "Those boys are in a lot of trouble. I just hope poor Cedric never knew about any of this. He must be rolling in his grave by now." And while I remember what might soon happen to said grave, do I shake my head and say: "I don't think so. I think he might finally stop, knowing that his year mates are finally getting their just deserts. I think this helps him be at peace."
And while I silently wonder if I will ever be, considering the nightmares that still haunt me almost every night, does Professor Sprout nod in tearful pride at me and Madam Pomfrey says: "Keep Heiress Bones safe and entertained, Harry. We'll handle those students. And in case you're curious, the Sprouts and the Bones have a tradition of sharing that very necklace, so that the ladies of each respective House – can wear it on their wedding day."
This astounds me and as the portrait closes between us, do I whisper to myself: "That lot is so dead." Before I turn around and head back. The Chasers smile at me as they see me return and I head over to Susan, who squeals and pushes Sirius out of her lap to hug me when she sees me hand her the ring. "How did you get it?" She asks squealing and I smile at her, wrapping my arms around her before I explain the whole thing.
"Seamus had it. That no-good Malcolm advertised your ring as some protective jewelry and Seamus being a Half-Blood didn't know what an Heiress ring looked like. He was with Madam Pomfrey and Professor Sprout and handed it to me, even explained that Malcolm was wearing a double robe to hide his wears in back then. I could tell he was feeling pretty bad. And I don't recall ever seeing him wear it. He was just scared at the time, because of Hermione."
The girl nods and I help her back into her seat, Sirius lying his head back in her lap, but also giving her a look that proves he's slightly upset with how she pushed him onto his back. The girl blushes but giggles and resumes her petting. I grin at them and say: "And that necklace? Apparently your family shares that with the Sprouts line and they wear it on their wedding days. Professor Sprout looked furious when I told her about it.
That lot is dead, trust me." At this the others also nod in agreement and Susan starts to softly cry as she sees this. Yet then Ron asks: "Just a question. Why didn't you ever report this to your Aunt? Don't you have a mirror like Angelina and Alicia?" But the girl winces and says: "That's why I was always the one to apologize. As the Niece of the Head of the DMLE, I should do my job and make her proud. That's what they always said."
At this, even though I just said what I did, do I ask: "Cedric was never with them, was he? When they pulled these tricks on you?" The girl shakes her head and says: "No, they – they always did it when he was at practice. I – I don't think he ever knew about it. I – I know he wouldn't approve." I nod and mutter: "Well, if he did know, at least now he can rest, knowing it's being handled. That you're safe and won't be bullied like this anymore."
Susan smiles at me as I say this and I go on, crouching down so I am at eye-level with her and say: "Contact your Aunt, let her know. I know she has two really big cases coming up this weekend, but – she deserves to know this. And now that you're safe, you can reassure her. Besides, I think she'd rather hear this from you than Sprout. And considering this is thievery we're talking about, I'm sure Sprout will report it sooner or later."
The girl nods, even though she had turned white at hearing me talk and I motion with my head for the other door as I say: "You can use my bedroom, have some privacy while you talk." This makes Susan smile and she pets Sirius one last time before, gently this time, pushing his head off her lap and heading for the bedroom. And as she closes the door behind her, do I turn to my friends, all of us thinking the same thing: "What a mess."
That's for sure,
And to be honest, with Pomfrey now being one of the main characters, I'm probably going to be writing about a few more cases like this. I always thought Hogwarts was a bit of a mess, what with students able to bully and harass Harry without the teachers ever stepping in. Then I thought; would they really keep it to just Harry? And to be honest, I doubted that so much, I decided to implement it into this story.
So yeah, this chapter was, again, mostly about Harry, which really wasn't part of the plan. But I do PROMISE, next chapter WILL be about Percy and Lea. And with it I am going to create a new alternate ending to KH III and the whole "Sora searches for Kairi" thing. At first I just wanted them together, no explanations whatsoever, but that didn't feel right. And then I got an idea, one that mixes HP with KH perfectly.
Excited yet,
Venquine1990
