A/N: Thank you for all of the wonderful support! I really appreciate it. I would also like some reviews on how you like the story so far. Am I making things interesting enough? Constructive criticism, please... not destructive. :)
Rising Storms
A Harry Potter and Percy Jackson crossover
Chapter 45:
Harry
During the first week of August, Harry and his father followed Ms. Thompson as they all walked through the ministry to the courtroom that they would have the hearing for the underage magic use. "So, what will happen?"
Ms. Thompson glanced at him briefly. "During a hearing, they are supposed to only ask what had happened to cause the magic use. Then you would answer the question to the best of your ability. Then they would come to a decision. This? I don't know."
James put a hand on Harry's shoulder. "I'll be right here with you. And, Ms. Thompson will be a witness for the hearing."
Harry nodded. They made their way into the room, and Harry saw the Minister sitting surrounded by people in robes.
"The entire Wizengamot?" James asked. He was shocked, eyes wide as he looked around. This was more like a trial!
The Minister looked over at them. "Ah! Lord Potter, you got the notice about the time change?" He looked like he expected the group to have missed the trial.
"Actually, yes," James said, looking around at the others. "Although why we need a full Wizengamot for a simple case of underage magic, I do not know." The robed people looked a little embarrassed.
Fudge was flustered.
In the austere confines of Courtroom Ten at the Ministry of Magic, Harry Potter stood before the Wizengamot, his heart pounding with nervous anticipation. To his left, his father James sat, his expression a mix of concern and determination. Across from him, Minister Fudge and Dolores Umbridge, with her saccharine smile, watched with keen interest.
Ms. Thompson, from the child welfare office, took her place as a witness, her presence a reminder of the gravity of the situation.
"Mr. Potter," Minister Fudge began, his voice stern. "Can you please explain to the Wizengamot why you felt it necessary to use the Patronus charm outside of Hogwarts grounds?"
Harry took a deep breath, steeling himself for the scrutiny. "Minister Fudge, members of the Wizengamot, I acted out of necessity to defend myself and others from the dementors. They posed a serious threat, and I had no choice but to use the Patronus charm to protect myself and those around me."
Umbridge's sickly sweet voice cut through the air like a knife. "Oh, Mr. Potter, such a fanciful tale. Are we to believe that you, a mere schoolboy, had the skill and knowledge to cast such a powerful spell in the face of danger? And you expect us to believe that dementors came to your house? They are all safely at Azkaban."
Harry met her gaze with steely resolve. "Madam Umbridge, I assure you, the threat of the dementors was very real. I had been taught the Patronus charm by Professor Lupin during my third year at Hogwarts, and I acted with the knowledge and experience I had gained."
The members of the Wizengamot exchanged skeptical glances, their disbelief evident. Except for one.
Amelia Bones-Weasley, a member of the Wizengamot known for her fair and just demeanor, spoke up. "Minister Fudge, I find Mr. Potter's testimony to be compelling. The use of the Patronus charm is a serious matter, but given the circumstances described, it seems justified."
Fudge frowned, clearly displeased by Amelia's dissent. "Be that as it may, Madam Bones-Weasley, we cannot ignore the fact that Mr. Potter violated magical law and school regulations."
James Potter stood, his voice ringing out in the courtroom. "With all due respect, Minister Fudge, my son acted bravely in the face of danger. He should be commended, not punished."
Umbridge's smile turned venomous. "Oh, Mr. Potter, always so quick to defend your son. But let us not forget the role Hogwarts and its headmaster played in this affair. Perhaps they should be held accountable as well."
Harry exchanged a wary glance with his father, knowing all too well the mistrust they both harbored towards Dumbledore.
As the proceedings continued, Harry couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled over him. The outcome of the trial remained uncertain, but one thing was clear: his faith in Dumbledore and the Ministry had been shaken to its core. And with Umbridge's insidious presence looming over the courtroom, Harry knew that he would have to be cautious around her.
As the proceedings in Courtroom Ten continued, a hush fell over the assembled members of the Wizengamot as Albus Dumbledore entered the chamber. His presence commanded attention, and all eyes turned to him expectantly.
"Minister Fudge, esteemed members of the Wizengamot," Dumbledore began, his voice resonating with authority. "I believe I can shed some light on the matter at hand."
Minister Fudge nodded in acknowledgment, though his expression remained guarded. "Proceed, Professor Dumbledore."
Dumbledore turned his gaze to Harry, his eyes twinkling with a mixture of warmth and concern. "Mr. Potter, it is clear that your actions were motivated by a desire to protect yourself and others from harm. However, the use of the Patronus charm outside of school grounds is a serious matter, and we must ensure that justice is served."
Harry met Dumbledore's gaze with a sense of disbelief, cautious at the headmaster's intervention. What was he thinking, wanting to punish Harry but seem like he's being generous? "Thank you, Professor Dumbledore. I understand the gravity of the situation, but I stand by my actions. As a participant in the Triwizard Tournament, I am considered an adult in the eyes of wizarding law. I did not break the law."
Minister Fudge's eyebrows shot up in surprise, while Umbridge's smile faltered for a moment before she regained her composure. The other members of the Wizengamot murmured amongst themselves, clearly taken aback by Harry's assertion of adulthood.
Ms. Thompson, the witness from the child welfare office, stepped forward to provide her testimony. She recounted her observations of Harry and James Potter's home life, emphasizing the strong bond between father and son and the nurturing environment they had created together. She mentioned her concern that if Harry was now an adult, why was someone wanting to take him away from his father. She also told the story about the dementors, providing memories of the event... which obviously showed the large figures.
Amelia Bones-Weasley nodded in agreement, her expression thoughtful. "Minister Fudge, it is clear that Heir Potter's actions were legal. We have no right to condemn him since Heir Potter didn't perform magic before muggles."
Fudge sighed heavily, realizing the weight of the decision before him. "Very well, Mr. Potter. Your assertion of adulthood will be duly noted in our investigation into this matter. However, rest assured that this incident will not be overlooked. We will find out how the dementors found you." He left his seat to speak with Dumbledore.
Harry nodded. As Dumbledore and Fudge continued their discussion, Harry couldn't help but wonder what the future held for him now that he had asserted his independence in the eyes of the wizarding world. How would Dumbledore react at Hogwarts, now that Harry was an adult? He turned to follow his dad out of the courtroom when he heard his name being mentioned by Dumbledore. He turned to look at the Headmaster, noticing that everyone else was watching the Headmaster and the Minister.
"What do you mean I can't gain custody?" Dumbledore asked harshly.
"Just that," Fudge replied, wiping his forehead of the sweat with a handkerchief. "The Potter boy is technically a legal adult, and you have no right to take custody of the Potter Heir."
"Now that Voldemort is back, I need to train Harry to defeat him." Dumbledore looked frustrated with Fudge. "While Harry is considered an adult in the eyes of wizarding law due to his participation in the Triwizard Tournament, he is still a young wizard in need of guidance and support. I have concerns about Harry's safety and well-being, especially considering the dangerous circumstances he has faced in recent years. James Potter, while well-meaning, may not be equipped to provide the level of protection and mentorship that Harry requires, especially given the ongoing threats to his life and the complexities of his magical upbringing. Harry would benefit from being under the care and supervision of Hogwarts staff, who have experience dealing with such matters and can offer him a stable and secure environment. I want to stress the importance of Harry's role in the fight against Voldemort and the need for him to be surrounded by allies and mentors who can help him fulfill his destiny as the Boy Who Lived. Hogwarts, as a hub of magical knowledge and protection, is the best place for Harry to receive the support and training he needs to confront the challenges ahead... for the greater good."
"He's monologuing," one person said.
"I thought only bad guys did that," Harry said in a whisper that carried.
Dumbledore and Fudge looked around at the room, Dumbledore looked embarrassed and upset that his conversation had been overheard. He glanced at Harry and James, before looking at Fudge again. "I'm sure you will do what is right." He smiled congenially and swept from the room.
The summer sun hung lazily in the sky as Harry and his fellow Slytherin fifth years strolled through Diagon Alley, their arms laden with newly purchased school supplies. Laughter and chatter filled the air as they made their way to Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the crowded street.
Entering the quaint parlor, they were greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly churned ice cream and the cheerful jingle of the bell above the door. Harry led the way to a cozy booth in the corner, where they settled in with sighs of contentment.
As they perused the menu, the conversation turned to their upcoming fifth year at Hogwarts, and the dreaded Defense Against the Dark Arts class that awaited them. Draco Malfoy wrinkled his nose in disdain as he glanced at the thick tome he had just purchased.
"I can't believe we have to suffer through a year of this dreadful textbook," he grumbled, pushing the book away with a look of disdain. "It's like reading a manual on how to learn baby spells without a practical portion."
Pansy Parkinson nodded in agreement, her expression equally unimpressed. "I can't believe that we won't be doing any practical work."
As they commiserated over their previous Defense Against the Dark Arts teachers, speculation turned to who their new instructor might be. Blaise Zabini raised an eyebrow thoughtfully as he decided on Butterbeer-flavored ice cream. "I heard rumors that Professor Snape might be taking over the position permanently," he said, swirling his spoon contemplatively.
Harry frowned. "I don't think Dumbledore would allow that."
Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of their ice cream sundaes, piled high with scoops of creamy goodness and topped with an array of colorful sprinkles and sauces. As they indulged in their sweet treats, the topic shifted to the recent trial that Harry had endured at the Ministry of Magic.
"Can you believe they actually considered taking custody of Harry away from his dad?" Millicent Bulstrode exclaimed, her eyes wide with disbelief. "It's like they don't even care about what's best for him."
Harry sighed heavily, his spoon clinking against the sides of his bowl. "It was a nightmare," he admitted, his voice heavy with emotion. "But thanks to Ms. Thompson's testimony, they backed down in the end. Dumbledore added afterwards that he wanted to take me from my dad to 'train' me to defeat Voldemort."
Draco scowled, his silver spoon digging into his ice cream with more force than necessary. "It's ridiculous," he spat, his voice dripping with disdain. "As if Dumbledore knows what's best for anyone. He's just as bad as Fudge and his cronies."
Harry's jaw clenched at the thought. He couldn't believe that Dumbledore thought he could get away with this. Before the conversation could delve any further into the complexities of magical politics, the bell above the door jingled once more, heralding the arrival of their classmates from other houses. The ice cream parlor buzzed with lively chatter as friends reunited and laughter filled the air, momentarily banishing the shadows of uncertainty that lingered in the corners of their minds.
As they savored the last spoonfuls of their ice cream, Harry couldn't help but feel happy that he could hang out with his friends and his girlfriend, Daphne. She was cuddled up to his side, taking comfort from his presence. Despite the challenges and uncertainties that lay ahead, they were united in their determination to face whatever came their way with courage and resilience. And as they left the ice cream parlor, their spirits lifted and their bonds strengthened, ready to take on whatever the new school year had in store for them.
Harry saw his dad by the Leaky Cauldron, and he said goodbye to his friends and girlfriend. Then he hurried over to his dad. "Hi, dad. We're done with out shopping, and we even enjoyed some ice cream." Harry grinned up at James.
James was listening to Harry intensely. "Well, I'm glad you had fun with your friends. Did anyone try anything?"
Harry shook his head. "No one came up to us at all." He looked down at his bags. "I went ahead and got Peony's supplies at well."
"I'm sure she will appreciate that," James said, taking some of the bags from his son. "Come, let's get back. She's probably driving the elves crazy." Harry laughed.
The day after Harry's shopping trip found the Potter household in a state of subdued chaos. Peony Potter, usually full of energy and mischief, was confined to her bed with a stubborn fever that refused to break. Harry and James took turns tending to her, brewing potions and administering remedies in a desperate attempt to alleviate her suffering.
When nothing they did worked, James called for Severus Snape and Poppy. The three adults worked tirelessly to lower Peony's fever over the next few days. They narrowed it down to something that Peony ate, and when they were able to counteract the effects and get her fever down, Peony said that one of their house elves had given her a slice of pie that tasted good at first, but started having a weird aftertaste.
Minnie, the house elf in question, was apologetic, but said that a man had told her that it was a special pie to help 'young Potter' grow big and strong. Severus waved his wand over the rest of the pie, and cursed. "It was spiked with a love potion geared towards 'Ginny Potter'. I think that's why Miss Potter was so sick."
"But there was never a 'Ginny Potter'," James said.
"Exactly," Severus replied. Poppy shook her head. None of them could understand what Dumbledore was trying to do… because this could only be Dumbledore's actions.
As the last week of summer break drew to a close, Harry found himself sitting in the Potter family's cozy sitting room, relief flooding through him as he watched Peony Potter, now fully recovered from her illness, playfully chasing after their new pet kneazle.
With a sense of gratitude and relief washing over him, Harry decided to seek solace in the familiar company of the family portraits that adorned the walls of their home. Making his way to the hall of portraits, he stopped in front of the painting of his mother, Lily Potter, her gentle smile filling him with warmth.
"Mum," Harry began, his voice soft with emotion. "I've been thinking a lot about my metamorphmagus abilities lately. It's... it's a part of me that I'm still trying to understand."
Lily's eyes sparkled with understanding as she regarded her son. "Harry, my dear, your metamorphmagus abilities are a rare and precious gift. They are a reflection of your inner strength and resilience. Embrace them, cherish them, and they will serve you well."
Encouraged by his mother's words, Harry turned to the portrait of his grandparents, Charlus and Dorea Potter, their wise gazes fixed upon him with unwavering love and support.
"Granddad, Grandma," Harry said, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "I know that my metamorphmagus abilities are special, but sometimes I feel like I don't know how to control them. Do you have any advice for me?"
Charlus Potter nodded sagely, his expression thoughtful. "Harry, my boy, mastering your metamorphmagus abilities will take time and practice. But remember, true mastery comes from understanding and accepting yourself for who you are. Trust in your instincts, and let your inner magic guide you."
Dorea Potter smiled warmly, her eyes twinkling with pride. "And never forget, Harry, that you are not alone. We are always here for you, ready to offer guidance and support whenever you need it."
Harry felt a sense of peace wash over him as he absorbed his grandparents' words of wisdom. With renewed determination, he resolved to embrace his metamorphmagus abilities and continue on his journey of self-discovery. And as he returned to the bustling activity of the Potter household, his heart was filled with hope and also some wariness.