Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or anything to do with the franchise.
Here is Chapter three. We get another visit to Gringotts where a surprise is revealed, and Harry and Rose are taken back to Greengrass Manor.
Chapter 3 Vaults, politics, Quidditch and History
by Kevin1984
Florean Frostescue's Ice Cream Parlour
Iris held her cup and took a sip of her tea while she looked over the table next to them. All five kids were eating ice creams and smiling and chatting. It bought a warm feeling to her chest. In all honesty, she had been dreading meeting Harry and Rose, she had been worried that both would reject her for not being there when they were little. However, her fears were unfolded both Harry and Rose had been polite and accepted her apology. She decided once they had finished at Madam Malkins then they would grab some ice cream. It also gave her a chance to chat with the witch opposite her. She wanted to know what Harry and Rose's home life had been like. She also wanted to confirm her suspicions about Dumbledore.
"So Professor, you were the first person to see Harry and Rose today, can you tell me your thoughts on their relatives and how the twins have been looked after all these years. From my eyes, I can tell Harry and Rose are near enough skin and bone."
Minerva lowered her head in shame, she knew leaving the twins with those blasted muggles was a mistake, but Dumbledore had assured her that he would be keeping a close eye on them. She at the time had no doubt to trust the man, however now seeing the twin with her own eyes, and what they have been through. It was making her see the Dumbledore in a new light. She noticed Iris was looking at her, she could literally see the cogs turning in her head. There was a reason the sorting hat placed her in Ravenclaw.
"I tried to warn Dumbledore the night he left them on those muggle's doorstep. But he wouldn't listen, he kept going on about blood protection and how Petunia was their last relative then they would be safer with her than anywhere else. He promised me that the twins would be looked after, and both would be happy, and if not he would step in as their magical guardian. But today when that muggle opened the door to me and when I saw the twins I knew then that Dumbledore had lied to me. I could sense no love or warmth in that house just hatred. When the twins I appeared my heart broke. Harry was dressed in muggle clothes which looked like they were too big for him, Rose didn't look much better. Both were covered in grime and sweat. And then on top of that, the muggle tried to stop them from leaving the house. Telling them that if they left then they would never be welcomed back."
Iris had heard enough, she herself knew those two children had suffered neglect and never known love since their parents had passed away. The moment she had hugged Harry she felt the stiffness and worry. Rose hadn't been much different except when she had first looked at Harry to make sure it was okay.
"Professor, you mentioned that their relatives were not going to allow Harry and Rose back, so where exactly were you planning to take them until September the 1st?"
Minerva placed her cup on the saucer. "I was going to rent a room out for them both at the Leaky Cauldron, then I would be back tomorrow to finish off their school shopping. We have spent a great deal of time in the goblin Infirmary this morning and afternoon. The Goblins were not pleased with how Harry and Rose looked."
Iris smiled, of course, they wouldn't. She knew just how much wealth the Potter had, in fact, the Potters were the second richest family in the Wizarding world. The Goblin would have expected to see the Heir and Heiress dressed in the finest robes, and have a certain poise and grace about them.
"Professor I wouldn't think it wise to leave Harry and Rose on their own, even for one night. So I offer an alternative. I would like to take Harry and Rose home with me tonight, and then they can stay with us until September 1st when they will board the Hogwarts Express with Daphne and Samuel. While they are at school we can look at a possible more permanent arrangement for the twins. After all, I am their Godmother and as their Godfather is locked up in Azkaban then their welfare falls to me and Clyde. If you are not convinced by my claim that Harry and Rose are my Godchildren, we can go Gringotts now."
Minerva had been surprised by the request, she was happy for the twins to go with Iris, but if she had proof then she could show Dumbledore, should she been challenged on her decision. In fact, Dumbledore had expected her to take the twins back to their relatives, but that was never going to happen now.
"If you wish to take Harry and Rose home with you Iris I am more then happy for you to do so. However, I think it wise that we do confirm your claim with Gringotts, just so I have some type of evidence to present to the Headmaster. After all, he was expecting me to take the twins back to their relatives.
"Iris eyes darkened once more. "Not a chance, let's go then it is getting late. I can finish school shopping tomorrow with Harry and Rose. Daphne and Samuel also need to finish their shopping too. Once the Ice cream had been paid for, the group left the shop and headed over to Gringotts.
Gringotts
Iris, Minerva and the children were seated in front of an old Goblin, who was the Potters account manager. The Goblins name was Hookfang, and he had served as the Potter account manager for 50 odd years. He surveyed the group in front of him he was most displeased when he had heard from his boss about the young Heir and Heiress of the Potters.
"Lady Greengrass to confirm you are the Godmother of the Potter twins I would need a sample of both their blood. A few drops would be enough. Master Potter, you will go first." Hookfang handed the small blade to Harry, who in turn looked at the curved edge worried.
"Excuse me Hookfang, but why do you need my blood, and will this hurt?"
Hookfang smiled showing all his teeth. "Master Potter, your blood will be able to tell us a lot about you. I assure you the blade is enchanted once you have given the amount of blood needed then the cut will heal. I only need about 10 drops."
Harry handed the knife to Iris. "Lady Greengrass could you do it, I don't want to cut myself too deep. "
Iris smiled at Harry, she had only known the twins for a few hours and already Harry was trusting her. She took the blade and use the point to prick his finger. She then held the cup underneath as exactly 10 drops fell into the cup. Just as Hookfang had said the cut healed. Iris then handed the cup over to Hookfang who spread a large piece of Parchment onto the table. He dipped an enchanted quill into the blood which then began to write on the parchment on its own. Harry and Rose smiled as the experienced another wonder of the magical world.
Name Harry James Potter
Age 11
Father: James Charlus Potter
Mother Lily Ann Potter (Former Evans)
paternal Godfather: Sirius Orion Black
Maternal Godmother: Iris Isabelle Greengrass (Former Hammond)
Titles: Heir to House Potter, Heir of house Slytherin (By Conquest)
Vaults entitled too
Vault 657: 5,000 galleons (to be filled by 10,000 every year starting on the eleventh Birthday)
Vault Potter: 30,000,000 galleons 567 sickles and 56 knuts
Vault Slytherin: 2,000,000 Galleons, journals, armor, and heirlooms
(Those wondering Conversion: 1 galleon equals £5.00 x 30,000,000 x 5 = Potter worth at £150 million in muggle money.)
Hookfang's eyes bulged at Lord Slytherin. It seems when the boy defeated the Dark Lord in 1981 he gained the headship of the former Heir's house. "Well, I must say this is a surprise. Master Potter appears when you defeated the Dark Lord 10 years ago you also gained his title. At the time the Dark Lord was head of the Most Ancient and Noble house Slytherin. Although he never actually took up the position, also Lady Greengrass is your Maternal Godmother."
Harry looked confused. "Sorry, who is this Dark Lord, was he the one who killed my parents?" Harry noticed the bewildered look on the Goblins face. who then turned to the adults.
"You mean Master and Miss Potter don't know about who killed their parents?" It was a general question for both adults. Hookfang assumed that someone might have informed the twins on why Harry was so famous. But it seems no one had. "Master Potter I suggest you ask either Lady Greengrass or Professor McGonagall about the circumstances of the Dark lord demise at your hands. Now though we have a situation here that I must admit I wasn't expecting to explain to you until you turned thirteen Master Potter. In the Wizarding world, you normally have to be 17 to take up a headship. However, there are certain exemptions for this law. As you are the Last male Heir of House Potter then you may take up the headship at age 13. But as being Heir to house Slytherin there is no minimum age to when you can take up the headship, this is due to something called the founder's Law. So, master Potter, the question is. Do you wish to take up the headship of Lord Slytherin now, or would prefer to wait until a later date?"
Harry stayed silent for a few minutes and looked to the adults around him for guidance. Thankfully it was Iris who stepped in. "Harry why don't we talk about it tonight, and then if you want we can return tomorrow. "
Harry liked that idea. He wanted to know more first. "I will wait until I have discussed it with my family." Harry noticed Iris wiped a stray tear from her eye at the mention of family, this caused both Daphne and Samuel to smile.
Hookfang coughed politely after all time was money. "Very well now let us confirm Rose's heritage."
Rose accepted the blade, she had seen Iris prick Harry's finger and decided she would let Iris do the same. She allowed ten drops of blood and the cut healed on her finger, magic truly was a wonderful thing.
Hookfang again tipped a quill inside the cup of blood and watched as it wrote on a clean piece of parchment.
Name: Rose Lily Potter
Age: 11
Father: James Charlus Potter
Mother: Lily Ann Potter (former Evans)
Paternal Godfather: Sirius Orion Black
Maternal Godmother: Iris Isabelle Greengrass (former Hammond)
Titles: Heiress of House Potter
vaults entitled too
648: 5,000 galleons (To be filled every year by 10,000 galleons from the eleventh Birthday)
Vault Potter: 30,000,000 galleons 567 sickles and 56 knuts
Hookfang nodded. "Well no surprises there, however as you can see again Lady Greengrass is the Maternal Godmother of Rose Potter too. is there anything else I can help you with?"
Minerva smiled, now it had been confirmed she was happy to leave Harry and Rose in the care of Iris. "Hookfang if you don't mind, could you please make a copy of those parchments but I just want the Maternal and Paternal Godparents on it with their names. If you could stamp it with the Gringott seal it would be appreciated."
Hookfang looked to Harry and Rose. "Master and Miss Potter, do you consent to this request?" Hookfang noticed both children nodded their heads and so the goblin made four copies, he handed the two full copies to Harry and Rose. and then the requested Godparents part to the Professor after he stamped it. he had already assumed this was in preparation so that the headmaster could see it.
"If that is all then I wish you a Good Evening, Master Potter, Miss Potter, I look forward to seeing you when you both turn thirteen. If you wish to take up the title of Head Slytherin Master Potter, then you will need to see Ragnok, as director of Gringotts the founder's accounts are his responsibility. "
The group left the bank and then made their way to the Leaky Cauldron, they entered the old taproom and walked over to the fireplace to the confusion of Harry and Rose.
Minerva turned to Harry and Rose. "Remember me telling you about one of the methods we witches and wizards use to travel. Well, this is how we travel by floo." Minerva took a handful of powder and then turned to the twins. "Harry, Rose I would like you to go home with Iris and her family, I think it would be good for both of you. Iris, I will leave their remaining shopping too you. I look forward to seeing you both at the Welcome feast on 1st September. " She then turned to the fireplace and announced in a clear voice. "The Three Broomsticks" Minerva threw the powder into the fire, it turned green then she stepped through, much to the horror of Harry and Rose.
Iris seeing the twin's reaction decided she would take both their hands. The fireplace, after all, was big enough to fit three people. "Daphne. Samuel, I want you to take Astoria through, I will bring Harry and Rose." Both twins grabbed Iris's hand quickly, she could feel both were shaking. she watched as her children stepped in, announce their location and step through. "Okay, you too our turn." she dropped the hand of Harry and threw some powder in. she then called out. "Greengrass Manor" Quickly she took the hand of Harry and pulled both through before they could hesitate.
Greengrass Manor
Clyde Greengrass looked up at the clock in his study, it was nearly 6.30 pm. He was certain Iris would have been back by now. Suddenly there was pop and a small elf like creature appeared. it had long ears and was dressed in a tabard with the Greengrass coats of arms.
"Forgiving the interruption Lord Greengrass, but the miss and Master Greengrass are back with young miss Astoria."
Clyde stood from his desk. "Thank you, Mindy, that will be all." Clyde watched the elf pop away and then made his way to the door of the study. He wondered why his children would return without their mother, however as he turned the corner towards the main foyer he noticed his wife was on the floor, with two young children. Clyde quickly moved across the floor to help his wife.
"Iris what is the meaning of this, who are these two children..." The last syllable died on his lips as he noticed the lightning bolt scar beneath the bang of black messy hair, of the boy. He noticed his wife was in tears.
"I found them, Clyde, finally I found them. Harry, Rose"
Clyde noticed the boy and his sister were now standing next to Daphne and Samuel for years they have both been trying to find out where the Potter twins were, he had gone through every department in the Ministry, trying to find any clue to where the children had been whisked off too. However, every time he came close it led to a dead-end but now both twins were standing in front of him, both looking afraid and worried.
Clyde helped his wife to stand then turned to the two children. "Harry, Rose its a pleasure to meet you both again. I am sure Iris has already spoken to you. We have been looking everywhere for you. Daphne why don't you take Harry and Rose to the lounge, we will join you shortly. Mindy?"
Harry and Rose's eyes widened as the small creature appeared. "Lord Greengrass calling Mindy, how can Mindy serve Lord Greengrass?"
Clyde had noticed the surprise on both twin's faces, so they had never seen a house-elf, many wizarding families had them, but there were a few who didn't. Clyde, of course, ignored the thought for now. He was certain Iris would fill him in.
"Mindy could you please start cooking a meal for seven people. and ask Plussy to serve drinks to the children."
Mindy curtseyed and popped away. Clyde noticed Daphne and Samuel led the twins away along with Astoria. he then led his wife into his study.
Greengrass Study
Clyde knocked back the glass of fire whiskey he was furious. From the report, his wife was giving both Harry and Rose had grown up in the muggle world. But not just any muggles, but Lily's sister, the one person that the Potter will state the twins were to go nowhere near. Albus Dumbledore had gone against the will of The Most Ancient and Noble house Potter, a crime punishable by being sent to Azkaban for 10 years.
What upset Clyde more, was Dumbledore had told the twins nothing of their past, both assumed their parents had died in a car crash. That was until Professor McGonagall had told them otherwise. They still didn't know the true extent of the horror though. Iris wanted to sit them down and talk to them after dinner. Once she had told him about the visit to Gringotts and Harry's status as Heir of house Slytherin, he had started to think about how this could work to the twin's advantage. House Slytherin carried a lot of respect, in fact, there had been no Heir to the founder in his reason memory. Everyone knew the Dark Lord had, of course, accepted the title but he had never used the influence of the house. The boy didn't know it yet, but he had held a lot of political power. When the boy turned thirteen he would tell him more, as he would be able to accept his title of the head of the Most Ancient and Noble house Potter. Iris had also mentioned that she wanted the twins to live with them permanently until they came of age. Clyde was more than happy to accept guardianship of the twins, also perhaps Harry could help him with another problem he had.
Being Neutral during the first war hadn't come cheap, he had been forced to hand over large sums of gold towards the Dark Lord and his followers, just so that he and his family would be left alone. There had been times when he had struggled with the money and several of the Dark families had offered various other means of him being able to settle the debt. betrothed Contract to be precise. Clyde had come close to signing one with Lucius but thankfully Harry had defeated the Dark Lord. with is demise the demands stopped and he hadn't been forced to give up his daughter. But Clyde was no fool, he was not convinced the Dark Lord was dead. No, he believed the Dark Lord was laying low waiting to emerge and plunge their world into chaos once more. when he did return the demands would start again. Luckily the family fortune has had time to recover and now his family was in a much more stable position. But should the Dark Lord return then there was no doubt in Clyde's mind the demands would eventually bankrupt his house? But now he had two daughters Daphne and Astoria, he didn't want harm to come to either one and certainly didn't want to tie them up in contracts. But if he did then he would ask Harry to take both his daughters. As head of house Potter and House Slytherin. The boy would carry a lot of power and influence. More than enough to keep others at bay. Harry also had to take at least two wives. As One wife couldn't provide for both lines. of course this was all far in the future, for now, he would enjoy the peace.
He was going to convince Harry to take up the mantle of Lord Slytherin soon as he can. While the Dark Lord was down, maybe they could do some networking of their own, to try and convince those families who had sided with the Dark Lord in the last war to side with House Slytherin this time. After all, if the dark lord did rise again, then he would be less influential if he had is support removed from him. Yes, time was at hand to prepare for the worse. He would start Harry's political lessons very soon alongside Samuel. Iris would be happy to teach Rose how to behave in public and the correct etiquette to use. He would do the same with Harry. It was a plan. Of course, he would discuss this with Iris another time.
"Iris I will be coming with you to Gringotts tomorrow, I want to encourage Harry to take up the mantle of Lord Slytherin. He could be a beacon to our cause."
Iris frowned, already Clyde was planning to use the boy's political power, the boy wasn't even thirteen yet, however she nodded her head. Just as the two had mentioned talking, Mindy popped in and announced dinner was ready.
Time-lapse 30 minutes Lounge
Daphne and Samuel led Harry into the lounge, Astoria had immediately walked off to grab one of her many dolls. this allowed the older children to talk and get to know each other more. Daphne took a seat and then offered Rose and Harry and to do the same. Samuel took a seat next to Daphne.
"So Harry, Rose, what do you think of the magical world?"
Harry and Rose looked at each other before Harry spoke. "Well, to be honest, it has all been overwhelming, I mean this morning we knew nothing about magic, in fact, Rose and I thought our Hogwarts' letter was a hoax. That was until Professor McGonagall picked us up and took us to Diagon Alley. You already know what happened in the Infirmary, and then after that, we met you both,
Samuel nodded. "Yes I was curious to hear the Goblins were able to correct your vision Harry, it's not something I have actually heard of."
Rose decided to join in the conversation. "They also helped us by providing us potions to combat the symptoms of our malnutrition disorder. We have to take our potions every day for the next month or so. Both taste very nasty."
Daphne giggled. "Most potions are like that Rose, most if not all leave a nasty taste in your mouth. I've come down with a number of things in recent years and the cure was always some type of potion."
Samuel wanted to direct the conversation to more pleasant things. "So Harry I take it you have never heard of the game quidditch?" Samuel watched Daphne roll her eyes in annoyance. "Forgive my sister she can't stand the game."
Harry was intrigued he had seen the word Quidditch in the window of a shop and someone on a broom, but that was all he knew. "No I haven't heard of the game, how do you play?"
Samuel grabbed a book off the table beside him. and tossed it to Harry. It was called Quidditch Through the Ages." When you get time I suggest giving that a read. but the basic of the game is. it played between two teams. Each time consists of a keeper, three Chaser, two beaters, and one seeker. There are four balls in the game. One is called the Quaffle, then you have the two bludgers and the last is the smallest which is called the Golden Snitch. The chaser's job is to throw the Quaffle through one of three rings that the opposition keeper is guarding. The job of the beaters is to hit the bludger at the opposition trying to break up play and some times knock a player off their brooms. Now the job of a seeker is to catch the Golden Snitch which is the most valuable ball in the entire game. The seeker who catches the golden snitch earns 150 points for there team. in most cases, this would lead to winning the game. As once the snitch is caught the game is over. As you might have guessed there is no time limit. They actually play Quidditch at Hogwarts, but first-years are not allowed to try out."
Daphne groaned she hated the sport. "Well thank you, Samuel, for that boring explanation. let's talk about Hogwarts, shall we? After all, I am sure the Professor didn't explain much to you."
Harry and Rose shook their heads. So Daphne grabbed another book from the table. and passed it to Rose. who looked at the cover. History of Hogwarts.
"The school we will be attending was built by two witches and two wizards. Their names were Godric Gryffindor, Rowena Ravenclaw, Helga Hufflepuff and the last was Salazar Slytherin. They're also known as the Four founders, this will be especially useful to you Harry, as you being the Heir of Slytherin. The four wanted to create a place where young witches and wizards could learn magic safely. The founders created four houses, each would be head of their respective house. Godric Gryffindor admired bravery and courage so he only took students who shared these traits. Rowena was the smartest of the four. She believed her house should be for those who desired knowledge, who were clever and had an intellect ability as well as a creative mind. Salazar Slytherin according to Hogwarts history only took in purebloods, but this is false. My dad has done much research on Salazar. However, I am sure you will learn more about him later Harry. You being his Heir. He two had traits that he looked for in his pupils. Those who were cunning and Ambition. The last was Helga she had no problem taking anyone, even though she had the desired trait of herself which was loyalty."
"Father says that at the start of the year all first years are sorted by the sorting hat at the opening feast. According to mother, on the traits that you show the most of having will be the house that you are sorted in. personally I am hoping for Slytherin's house, however, Samuel wants to be in a different house. Father was Slytherin but mother was a Claw. So which house do you and Rose think you will be sorted into?"
Harry was about to answer when Mindy popped in. "Dinner is ready, please come to the table." Daphne thanked the elf and then led the way to the dining room dragging a much disgruntled Astoria from her play.
A/N: At the little sneak peek to what the future holds. The next Chapter will be the discussion between Minerva and Dumbledore.