Disclaimer: I own nothing. Thank you J.K. Rowling for creating this magical world for us to play in.

a/n: First of, I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and hope everyone has had a Happy Holiday. I have been working very hard on editing three separate chapters for my three different stories. In fact, I have even been bringing my laptop to work with me so that I can work on them while on lunch. I hope you all enjoy.

Chapter 32
"Normal speech"
thoughts
'mental conversations'

Bill's Flat-

It lifted Bill's spirits to see his little sister so happy. Getting her away from the Burrow was the best thing he could have done for her, even if it was only for a short time. In reality, getting her away from their mum was what was best for her. Looking over at the clock to check the time, he said, "They will be here any minute Ginny! You better hurry if you want to see dad!"

Ginny came flying into the living room just as the Floo came to life, running right into her father. Arthur had just enough time to raise his arms to catch her. "Easy does it my little firefly. Good morning to you too. I see you had a wonderful evening. It warms your old man's heart to see you so happy. I missed your shining face at the breakfast table this morning."

Ginny pulled back and replied, "I was only gone for one-night dad. It's not as if I moved out or anything."

"That would be…" Fred said as he stepped out of the Floo.

Then was quickly followed by George who said, "Too much to…"

"Hope for!" both of them finished.

Ginny extracted herself from her father's arms and made her way over to the twins. Punching both of them in the arm as she said, "Oi! Say something like that again and I'll hit you with a hex so hard that the bats will stick around for a week!"

The twins flinched at the threat knowing that she could pull it off. Thankfully they were saved by Bill who said, "Got everything you two need? We can head right to Gringotts." He pulled Ginny and his father aside and said, "I've called in a few favors and managed to get you an appointment with a few of the Goblin healers."

Arthur frowned slightly and asked, "But how can we afford all of this?"

"Don't worry about a thing. Lord Potter has offered to help as well." Bill quickly replied.

Arthur's frown deepened at this and he shook his head. With a heavy sigh, he said, "Ginny, why don't you get everything you need and make sure Fred and George aren't getting into trouble." He gently patted her shoulder and slowly pushed her towards the twins. Waiting for her to be out of earshot he said, "What does he want in return? Your mum has been causing some very serious problems for him. You know how I feel about charity. I'm sure we could work something out to pay for it ourselves."

Bill took a moment to reply, gathering his thoughts. "Dad, let him do this. He views Ginny as a sister and I will try to schedule a meeting with him. We can meet at Gringotts, neutral territory so that he can speak with you about your concerns."

Arthur still had a crease to his brow when he asked, "What are you hiding from me William?"

Bill just shook his head as he put a hand on his father's shoulder to stop him from asking anything else. "You know that I can't tell you about anything I learn while walking the Halls of Gringotts. Not only is all of it completely confidential, and I am also bound by several oaths."

"If this will affect this family, I have a right to know. As a Weasley, the family should always come first." Arthur replied as he tried to keep his annoyance out of his tone. It was as if his family was falling apart in front of his very eyes and it was breaking his heart. He was getting fed up with the way his family was acting and was just about at his wit's end.

"My family is coming first dad, that is why I am doing this. You know that if I broke any of the oaths I took, not only would I not be able to help, but then I wouldn't be standing here right now." Bill said as his face darkened slightly. "What I need is for you to trust me. You have raised me to be an honorable man. Head to the office for now. I'll reach out to Lord Potter and will try to set up a meeting for today. I will also send a message to Madam Bones so she knows when and why you need to leave so as not to cause you any other problems at the office."

Arthur sagged his shoulders a little more as he felt the burden he was carrying getting heavier while his worry for his family was becoming greater. All he could do was nod his head, unable to speak at the moment. It seemed his family was falling apart in front of his very eyes and he wasn't able to protect them. Granted he was still clearly upset, but kept his tone firm and even as he replied, "Then I'll be waiting for your owl." He quickly said goodbye to Ginny and then the twins. He purposely left them for last warning them to be their best behavior or else there would be hell to pay. Seeing the seriousness clearly written all over his normally calm and composed face, the twins stood a little straighter and gave him a solemn and swift nod.

Dumbledore's office-

Albus was sitting at his desk putting the final touches on his bill for the Wizengamot. Ever since Harry Potter came into his inheritance, all of his plans have completely derailed. He popped another laced lemon drop into his mouth as he felt his blood pressure began to rise at the mere thought of not only losing control of the boy but, also the loss of all that money. At least he had Binn's salary coming in, which he thankfully was able to redirect it to an account that wasn't controlled by those wretched Goblins.

His thoughts were interrupted as he was informed that Minerva was waiting to speak with him. Seeing the Deputy Headmistress striding into his office he said, "Good Morning Minerva, is there something I can help you with on this fine summer morning?"

"I am just on my way to my first home visit and wanted to find out who you've hired to replace Remus Lupin. I am slowly making my way through the financial report and want to make sure my numbers are correct before the annual budget meeting with the Board of Governors." Minerva said as she made sure her shields were not only fully functioning but was also re-enforcing them with each breath she took.

Albus tried to amp up his grandfatherly charm and twinkle as he attempted to lace his reply with a strong compulsion. "The list is self-updating since it is tied to the castle itself." He motioned for her to take a seat, but saw she wouldn't budge. "Tell me Minerva, any word as to where Mr. Potter is located? We must find him and bring him back to safety."

Minerva did her best not to snort as she replied, "Nothing as of yet, but I will keep my eyes and ears open. What about Severus?"

Albus leaned back in his chair and said, "It is paramount we find young Harry, he is in terrible danger. As for Severus, he is on the trail of some type of rare potion ingredient and won't be back for a few more weeks." Albus concealed his anger over his Potion mater and spy's sudden departure rather well.

Minerva checked her watch before saying, "If anything changes Albus, just leave me a note. I must be going if I do not wish to be late for my first visit of the day." As she stood, she silently cast her strongest shield and re-enforced her mind for the umpteenth time during their little chat.

Albus once again tried to force as much compulsion into his words as he dared. "While you are out and about in Diagon Ally, please keep your eyes peeled for Mister Potter or even Miss Granger. If nothing else, I'm sure she must know where he is." Minerva didn't bother to give him a reply, and instead gave a short nod and wished him good day.

Longbottom Manor-

Emma was finally able to see past her own feelings as she analyzed the entire situation at hand. As she came towards the end, she was able to conclude that Harry did the right thing and knew that it was because of him, her daughter was finally healthy. Deciding that there was no time like the present, she made her way towards Hermione and Harry's rooms. She paused briefly to take a deep breath before knocking. "Enter" called a feminine voice.

Emma slowly made her way into the room to find Hermione propped against several large pillows, surrounded by sheets of parchment, Harry in a chair closest to the head of the bed, and Susan sitting next to him with her own folders. "I hope I'm not disturbing you?" She softly asked, unsure if the hormones were making her feelings of regret so heavy.

Hermione looked up and gave her a smile as she replied, "Not at all. We have just been going over the financial reports for the school. Do you need something?"

Emma slowly made her way over to the bottom of the bed and sat at the only spot that was parchment free… the bottom of Hermione's feet. Seeing that both Susan and Harry looked as if they wanted to leave so she said, "Please stay. What I have to say, you both should hear as well. I'm sorry for what I said and did to you, Harry. There is no excuse for what I did and hope that one day we can look past this. I also want to thank you for taking such great care of my daughter. I know you had to make a split-second decision and because of that, my daughter is here and finally healthy."

Harry got up from his chair when he saw that Emma was struggling to keep her emotions under control. The second she finished speaking, Harry wrapped her up in his arms with a tight hug. The only other thing he did was he went over to give Hermione a hug and soft kiss. Pulling back, he said, "I need to finish getting ready for my meeting at Gringotts." Seeing Hermione perk up instantly he added, "I'm sorry love, but you heard what Poppy said. You aren't supposed to tax yourself. Besides, this is the perfect opportunity to not only catch up with your mum, but you can also put the final touches on the Balls." Hermione tried to pout, but Harry chuckled and gave her another kiss before heading to the bathroom.

"Since Harry brought up the celebrations, Cissa and I were talking and have decided to return to our home in Surrey," Emma said as she watched Hermione's face closely. Seeing it fall slightly, Emma continued, "We… I hope you would come with us. It is your home as much as ours, and before you ask, everyone is invited to come with us."

Hermione gave her mum a tired smile and replied, "We would love too." She sat blinking for a second before yawning and saying, "When do we leave?"

Emma took the book out of her daughter's hands and forced her to lay back. "We will leave later today. Why don't you take a nap and I can wake you in a few hours."

"That sounds like a wonderful plan Emma," Harry said from the bathroom door as he adjusted his house robes that were made from the finest Acrumantula silk. He swiftly went to her side and kissed her forehead as he pulled the blankets up. "You need to rest sweetheart. I'll be back as soon as I can. I am supposed to meet with Bill and Mr. Weasley to talk about the upcoming term. I also think Bill was able to get Ginny in with a mind healer. I hope you don't mind, but I plan on paying for everything."

Hermione smiled at her husband's wonderful heart and replied, "I am fine with whatever you decide love."

Thinking the situation was getting all too serious, Susan gagged and said, "Enough you two. I would like to keep the rest of my meal down. You need to get going, Harry. Emma and I will look after Mione while you are gone." Harry just shook his head at Susan's antics and said a quick farewell before starting towards the main parlor. Augusta added him to the wards so that he didn't have to go in and out the front door. Despite the Headmaster no longer having a phoenix, she had additional wards put up to prevent unwanted visitors, including house elves. After a final adjustment of his robes, Harry called for Fawkes and was whisked away.

Gringotts-

Harry flashed with Fawkes to the office that was hidden just behind the Director's main room and waited for the guards to meet him. Much to his surprise, it was the Director who opened the door and greeted him. He gave the director a flourishing bow and said, "Greeting Director. May the bones of your enemies be crushed under your boots and your vaults overflow from their defeat."

"Greetings your Royal Highness, you honor me with your presence," Ragnok replied with a deep bow. Both stood and look the other in the eye before snorting in amusement. "Now that we have that out of the way, how is your Queen?"

"She woke yesterday evening and was resting when I left. I have thanked every God and Goddess I could when I found out that she was fully healed. Would you like for me to pass along a message?" Replied Harry. "She was looking through the financial report with Lady Hufflepuff."

"Just let her know that Gringotts is pleased to hear that she is well, and if she or Lady Hufflepuff for that matter have any questions, they may owl me at any time," Ragnok said as he motioned Harry to follow him. "I have put Protector Weasley in our small conference room along with Mr. Weasley. It is my understanding that the daughter is being examined by our healers and the Twins are currently putting together a report for you."

"Thank you for allowing this meeting to take place here. Also, make sure you take the cost of the healers from the Potter Vaults and send me the bill, no matter what Mr. Weasley says. Since I will be the one paying for it, I would also like a report of their findings." Harry said as they walked towards the conference room.

Ragnok nodded in agreement. Normally that report would remain confidential, however since Harry was the one paying for it and because of who he was, Ragnok would allow it. He bowed his head and replied, "Of course my Liege." Reaching the doors he asked, "Am I to stay for this meeting or should I send for someone?"

"I think it will be better if you stayed. After all, you are one of my advisors and my account manager." Harry replied while he adjusted his robes and made sure the Potter ring was visible. With a nod of his head, the guards opened the doors. Bill instantly stood and when they were close enough, gave a deep formal bow and motioned for his shocked father to do the same.

Once everyone was seated, Bill said, "Thank you for agreeing to this meeting Lord Potter and for your generosity. My sister is being examined as we speak." He looked to Ragnok next and said, "Thank you Director, for not only allowing this meeting to take place but, also for allowing me to attend."

Seeing that Mr. Weasley was still a little lost, Harry said, "Perhaps we should get back down to business." Taking the folder from the Director, he continued, "We are here to discuss your children's future while at Hogwarts. I have a few contracts to help. All they say is that Ginny, Fred, George, and Ron will do their best and stay out of trouble. They also must pass all of their classes with at least an acceptable. However, I reserve the right to withdraw my support should any of your children decide to cause any problems for not only my house but, of my betrothal and allies."

Arthur pulled the folder forward and began to look through it. He sighed deeply and asked, "Why are you so willing to help this family after all the trouble we have caused?"

Harry leaned back in his chair and replied, "Even if it was set up, most of your family has been there for me. I don't think a child should be punished for their parent's actions. I will always help those who needed it. But, I will not be taken advantage of."

"What if one of my children causes you problems? There is no way to pull back the funding for that year." Arthur asked, only worried about his youngest son. He knew his other children would be ok, and may actually shine from this opportunity.

"Ah, you speaking about Ron. I will pay for the year, but if he causes any problems then I will not only withdraw my support for the next year but, also expect the Weasley Family to pay me every Knut I've spent." Replied Harry. "Since the Weasley Family is a Vassal to House Potter, that shouldn't be a problem."

Arthur paled slightly at the mention of being a Vassal. "I don't know what to say. This is a very generous offer, and I know I would be a fool to pass this up. The only worry I have is with Ronald. Thanks to um… Molly's recent activities, our vaults have been stripped and my next few months salary are going directly towards those fines. I fear that I will not be able to pay what is due."

Harry tapped his knuckle against his lips as he thought about everything. "I understand your worry. This is what I will do, in regards to your youngest, this year's tuition as well as the materials needed will be a gift from the Potter Family seeing how Ron has been one of my close friends since the first train ride. Hopefully, this will help lift some of the burdens and is the least I can do for your family. All that is left is for you to sign the contracts."

Arthur quickly signed the contracts before checking the time. "Lord Potter, I can't thank you enough for your help with all of this. All I have ever wanted was for my children to be happy and to give them the opportunity to do whatever makes them happy. You have helped us immensely and the House of Weasley will always be within your debt. Is there anything else we need to discuss? I must be getting back to the office."

Harry handed the contracts over to Ragnok before standing and shaking Arthur's hand. "I believe that is all for now. If you run into any trouble with Madam Bones, explain that you had a meeting with me and that it ran a little over and that it was completely my fault."

Arthur gave them a deep bow before following his son. However, as soon as the door opened, a messenger came running into speak with Ragnok and Harry. "What is the problem now?" growled Ragnok.

"Pardon the interruption Director, I would have knocked, but the door was already open when I got here. There has been an explosion within Diagon Alley. Someone has destroyed a solicitor's office."

Harry felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand when he heard this. Making sure to keep his voice stead he demanded, "Whose office? Were there any injuries?"

The Goblin was caught off guard by a wizard speaking to him in such a manor, but only for a moment. He knew exactly who he was speaking with when he replied, "It was the office of a Muggleborn Wizard named Theodore Tonks."

Harry started racing towards the door and was met by a legion of guards. Knowing they were his personal guards, he turned to Ragnok and said, "Send word to Lady Black and Lady Dagworth as to what has happened. I know Madam Bones and Assistant Tonks will already be there."

"I will see to it personally. Please feel free to use my office as a rallying point." Ragnok said with a bow before watching the young King storm out of the conference room. Merlin himself would not be able to save the person crazy enough to attack anyone who was under the protection of House Potter. After Harry and his guard left, he turned his attention to the stack of files and scrolls. He was already going through all of Lord Potter's accounts and was starting with Dumbledore's. The old goat had an inconceivable amount of gold coming in and the Director was determined to snuff out the manipulative man's deepest and darkest secrets. The thought of destroying the "Leader of Light" brought a predatory gleam and a bone-chilling grin on the Director's face. If he pulled this off, he would go down in history as the Nation's greatest Leader- the one who brought down the wizarding world to their knees.

Diagon Alley-

The Goblin warriors formed a ring with Harry in the center. Exiting the bank, they saw a thick cloud of smoke floating around, and groups of shoppers running to and fro in panic. Walking down the steps, men and women quickly cleared a path as Harry and his guard navigated swiftly through the crowded streets with ease. The closer they got to Ted's office, the thicker the smoke clung to them. He was quickly met by a line of Aurors who were managing the perimeter. "I need to speak with Madam Bones and Assistant Tonks."

"Go home boy, you have no business here." Sneered one of the Aurors.

"You have just earned desk duty Auror. It's Lord Potter to you, and if you value your career then you will inform the Director that I am here and need to speak with her seeing as to this was my solicitor's office." Harry said as he pushed a small amount of magic behind his words.

The Auror paled slightly but was not about to let this twerp through. Unfortunately for him, Tonks was walking up from behind and heard everything. "Stand down, and let Lord Potter as well as his guard through. You will be lucky to be behind a desk after the Director is through with you." Tonks waited to be clear of prying ears before asking, "What are you doing here Lord Potter?"

"I was at Gringotts when everything happened and I had to come. What about your dad? Is he safe?" Harry asked, clearly concerned for the entire Tonks family. All Dora could do was shake her head and try to prevent her tears from falling. Seeing that she was trying to hide her face by turning to walk away, he grabbed her arm and brought her in for a bear hug. This was too much, and Dora's strength finally began to crumble as her legs gave out.

Amelia came up to them and was relieved that her assistant was finally processing everything. She looked towards the line of Aurors and saw Narcissa and Remus holding Andromeda up, and a large Grim standing in front of them. Slowly walking towards them she heard one of the Aurors arguing with Remus about letting them in. Before things could escalate any farther she demanded, "Let the pass. Later today we will be having a long discussion regarding your conduct." The veteran Auror jumped to the side the moment he heard the Director's voice. She stopped in front Harry and Dora, waiting for the small group to come closer. Keeping one eye on the dog and the other on the healer she said, "Mrs. Tonks…" Amelia had to pause in an effort to clear the lump in her throat before continuing, "Andy, you shouldn't have to see this. I am so sorry. Did Ted ever mention any unsavory clients hanging around or threats?" Andy just shook her head, still in complete and utter shock. Amelia didn't want to push her luck but asked, "Do you know what he was working on?"

Harry quickly replied, "He was working on several things for me. I can give you a complete list in private and would prefer not to air it in the open." He helped Dora to her feet and walked her towards her Mum and whatever Remus was to her at the moment. Making sure Dora was safely ensconced between Remus and Andy, he turned back to Amelia and pulled her off to the side. "If you want that list now, the Director of Gringotts has offered his office as a rallying point. Do you need anything else from me or Dora? If not, I think I should take them home. We will eventually be heading back to the Manor in Surrey for now and then eventually to one of the other manors." Harry didn't know who was listening at the moment and did not want to say which Manor they would be heading to aloud.

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw the Grim lift his leg and casually piss on the former Auror. Trying to keep the twitch of her lips under control Amelia said, "Why don't you just leave the list with the Director. We both know that I will have no problem speaking with him. It would be for the best if you took Assistant Tonks with you. If I had known who was actually involved, I would have never allowed her to come along."

Harry was nodding his head in agreement and let out a snort. "Do you really think you could have stopped the metamorph? Tell me, have you been able to gather any evidence?"

Amelia gave a loud sigh and shook her head. "Normally I am unable to discuss an ongoing investigation, but there is nothing to discuss. No evidence has been left behind and there are no witnesses. If there are any, then someone has obliviated them, while the other may be too afraid to come forward."

Amelia and Harry continued to survey the area and saw a lime green boulder coming towards them. Harry looked at Amelia with a lifted brow and asked, "Why is Fudge here? This could get interesting."

Amelia snorted and watched as he came closer. Harry's guard began to encircle them and made Fudge stop short. "What is the meaning of this? What are these Goblins doing outside of Gringotts?"

Harry stepped forward and cleared his throat, drawing the Minister's glare. "They are my personal guard at the moment. The last few times I have been in Diagon Alley have ended in an attack on myself, and the Director of Gringotts refused to let me leave without his personal guard."

Fudge nervously cleared his throat and replied, "Yes… well, we wouldn't want anything to happen to the Boy-Who-Lived. Madam Bones, you need to wrap up this investigation. There are more serious problems you and your office must see too."

Amelia was foaming at the mouth, but it was Harry who stepped forward and said, "Minister Fudge, I would ask you to address me by my title, Lord Potter. To call me anything else would be an insult to the Most Ancient and Noble House of Potter. The wizarding world were the ones to dub me the Boy-Who-Lived. The fact of the matter is, my parents were brutally murdered by a bigot. As for this investigation, it is vital I know who attacked my solicitor who was working on several things that would have rocked the Wizarding world to its core. Tell me Minister, are you trying to block the investigation into the death of an ally of House Potter? Solicitor Tonks was under my house's protection and I see this as a personal attack on me and mine."

Fudge shrunk back slightly as he realized he stuck his foot in it. He cleared his throat and said, "It seems I have been given false information Lord Potter." Seeing several flashes, Fudge began to panic and tried to save face and said, "This has all been a misunderstanding. If there is anything you need Lord Potter, know that the Ministry will help in any way possible."

Harry narrowed his eyes at the Minister, knowing exactly what his aim was. He cleared his throat and said, "Now that you mention it, there is something you can do for me Minister." He emphasized the term purposely to remind the man that he was an elected official. Harry pulled Fudge to the side, along with Amelia, which so happened to place them closer to the reporters. "Perhaps you could tell me why a Lord to a Most Ancient and Noble House was locked in Azkaban for twelve years without any trial once so ever? The same Lord who happens to not only been my God Father but, also went through the God Father."

Fudge was brought up short by this, and all the noise seemed to fade away. In fact, the only thing you heard was the quills scratching on the parchment. Cornelius cleared his throat in an effort to buy some time, but Amelia never gave him a chance and said, "You told me that you would look into it. As a matter of fact, you have blocked my every move to investigate this properly!"

Harry decided to lay it on thick and added, "It would appear that you need to reorganize your office and staff since this has been brought to light."

Fudge heard the threat loud and clear. "The only way for Sirius Black to have a trial would have to be in front of the entire Wizengamot since he is a Lord of a Most Ancient and Noble House."

Harry clapped his hands and said in a booming voice, "It's a good thing a meeting is set for a couple of days. I will make sure Lord Black will be there on one condition," Harry narrowed his eyes before continuing, "Call off the manhunt for him and rescind the kiss on sight order."

Fudge was grabbing at straws by this point and with a square of his shoulders said, "Lord Potter, do you mean to tell me that you are harboring a fugitive and have not informed the Ministry?"

Harry flared his magic as he took a step forward and replied, "No, I have been in contact with my God Father who never had a trial, therefore was sent to Azkaban as an innocent man. I informed Madam Bones of the truth, who in turn was blocked by you and your office at every turn."

Remus came up behind the group and cleared his throat to grab their attention. "We need to be getting back Lord Potter, there are several things that you still need to see too and I know Lady Dagworth will be wondering where you are."

Harry saw that Fudge looked relieved at the interruption, and decided to have a little fun since there were so many reporters around. He adjusted his robes and picked off an imaginary piece of lint as he said, "Thank you Remus. Would you be able to stop off to see the Director of Gringotts for that report? Lady Dagworth would like to have something to read while recovering, and to keep her sane while attending to last-minute details with Lady Black." Harry looked over and acted as if he tipped his hat to the reporters before continuing, "Will you call off the Dementors and manhunt for Lord Sirius Orion Black? It was Minister Bagnold and Barty Crouch who locked the Lord of a Most Ancient and Noble away with no trial after all. Hell, even the unstable Bellatrix Lestrange got a trial."

Always worried about how the people perceive him, Fudge saw that the boy had left him with a way out. Screw those who lined his pockets at the moment. Just because he said one thing, doesn't mean he had to follow through with it. He cleared the lump from his throat that had nervously formed and replied, "I will see to it personally. Make sure Lord Black is in front of the Wizengamot. If he is not, then I will have no choice but to reenact the orders. I will have my office look into how the previous administration was able to get this by." Always the politician, Cornelius drew himself up to his full height as the lies flowed freely.

Remus turned to hide his smirk, while Harry smiled as he replied, "Thank you Minister."

Amelia had a predatory gleam in her eye as she interrupted, "You are right about the investigation but, you seem to be mistaken as to who will be doing it. Since it is your office Minister, the only person with the clearance to lead this would be me. You are not allowed anywhere near this since it is a clear conflict of interest."

The smile on the Politician's face faltered when he realized that he just shot himself in the foot, and knew that he was now in knee deep with his benefactors. Trying to clear his throat he stuttered, "I expect a full report from the Auror handling the investigation. Isn't Shacklebolt your Head Auror or is it Proudfoot?" If he was lucky, he would be able to bride and then threaten whoever it was.

"Normally, I would ask my most trusted Auror to handle this case. However, since she will be unavailable for the foreseeable future, I will personally be heading this investigation myself." Amelia replied quickly, knowing exactly what Fudge was thinking. Seeing the pompous git turn as green as his hat Amelia thought, This is almost too easy.