Chapter 16
Sirius had to be led into the house and he kept glancing at the note every few seconds, checking that it was in fact real. They all sat around the kitchen table but it was left to Remus to enlighten the company as Sirius was caught up in memories of the past.
"Regulus was Sirius's younger brother, he was a Slytherin the year below us at Hogwarts. I know Sirius won't mind if I say his parents were not nice people but he always looked out for his brother. The Black parents were big believers in pure blood supremacy and put extreme pressure on Sirius to become a death eater, so much so that he ran away and lived with James at Harry's grandparents. He begged Regulus to accompany him but he replied that he would be fine; he had always been his parent's favourite son especially after Sirius was sorted into Gryffindor."
Sirius was staring at the note and his tears were flowing freely again.
"When we got back to Hogwarts that September Regulus had changed, he was hanging about with known Voldemort supporters and wouldn't speak with us. His parents had made Regulus their heir and the noble and ancient house of Black was a big prize for Voldemort. Regulus became a death eater at sixteen but was dead by eighteen, supposedly his murder was ordered by Voldemort himself and now we know the reason why."
Sirius was still staring at the note as he spoke, "I shouldn't have left him there, I knew what those manipulative bastards were like, he should have came to the Potter's with me. That psychopath has taken two brothers from me now but at least I have the satisfaction of knowing they both went down fighting the evil bastard." He looked straight at Harry, "if I ever lose like that please don't mourn me, I would be joining my brothers and going out the way I wanted to."
Harry was having none of it, "Listen Sirius, at the moment you're released into my care until we can come up with a trial date. I'm bloody sure you're not going anywhere, as this is the only family we've got and our kids are going to need someone to corrupt them when they're older. I mean two dentists, a professor and parents who never got into trouble, what chance have they got if you're not around."
The fact that the straight-laced dentists both carried guns they weren't afraid to use and the respectable professor had just spent the morning fighting zombies, not to mention robbing a grave, told everyone he was joking. Claiming that he and Hermione never got into trouble was taking the joke just too far.
Hermione spoke softly to the hurting Sirius, "we need to find that locket or all our plans turn to dust, once it's destroyed Voldemort only has the snake left and it can be killed the same as any other creature. When it's time to take him and the rat down we promise you can be there to let the bastard know just who's responsible for his downfall but it can't happen without the locket."
"Regulus would have taken it to the ancestral Black family home but since I left mother must have blasted my name off the family tree tapestry because I can't remember where it is, only the current head of the family could tell me."
"Who is that?" Hermione asked.
Sirius was deep in thought for a few moments as the possible candidates played through his mind, "it might actually be me, mother would have to complete the paperwork to totally disinherit me and with Regulus there she might not have bothered. After he was murdered I don't think she would have been capable of carrying it out." He took a deep breath, "I, Sirius Orion Black, being the rightful heir of the ancient and noble house of Black claim my rightful inheritance and head of house."
Everyone watched as the Black family ring appeared on the finger of Sirius Black but only Remus had a comment, "Oh great! Now I have two bloody lords to deal with."
"Do you remember where it is?" Hermione asked.
The grimace on his face told everyone he did but wasn't exactly happy about it, "Twelve Grimmauld Place in central London, I think I would rather go back to the cave and face the inferi again than go there though."
Emma butted in, "I don't want to add to your problems Hermione but your father and I couldn't face sitting here waiting on a phone call again, we want to come with you."
Sirius tried to dissuade them, "I have no idea what we'll find when we reach the house, my brother's murder pushed my mother over the edge and she was quite mad by the time she died. Our house elf's only ambition was to have his head shrunk and mounted on the wall beside his predecessors, Remus was being very kind when he described them as not nice." Sirius was struggling to try and put it into a context that everyone could understand, "had I came home with Lily as my wife we would probably both been murdered in our sleep, my favourite cousin was blasted off the tapestry for marrying a muggle born but she wasn't the Black heir. Her two sisters were held up as paragons of pureblood elitism, Narcissa Malfoy and Bellatrix Lestrange!"
Dan put his hand on the new Lord Black's shoulder, "it's you we like Sirius, not your family. This just proves what an upstanding gentleman you are to maintain the beliefs you do with that upbringing, I can only think of one other person that shares those qualities and I don't think it's a coincidence that you're his godfather."
With that Dan and Emma left to put on their top of the range dragon hide armour that Remus had purchased for the eight of them, the morning crew were already wearing theirs under their clothes.
Both teens glanced at Remus who nodded in reply; he would be on protective detail while Harry and Hermione helped Sirius search his ancestral home.
It was a thoughtful Hermione who spoke to Sirius, trying to highlight the positive side of this latest development, "you can now bring your cousin back into the family and being Lord Black will surely not hurt when you go to trial. If we can get this locket today then it allows all our plans to continue, if not then I don't know what we'll do as it's imperative Riddle doesn't discover what we're doing."
Emma's lunch just never received the attention it deserved as the six prepared to travel to Grimmauld Place.
-oOoOo-
Amelia Bones was staring at the confessions on her desk and felt as if only a red hot shower could wash away some of the dirt she had accumulated from reading the Weasley documents. Albus Dumbledore wanted Harry infatuated with Ginny Weasley but the girl was going to break up with him on command when the manipulative old bastard had set up a confrontation with Voldemort. How could anyone treat people like that, far less children who were supposed to be in their care?
Molly had her own plan though, she wanted the Potter fortune and fame, if this meant her underage daughter was going to have to become pregnant it didn't seem to bother the 'good mother' Weasley. Hermione was seen as a bossy mudblood who was in the way while Ginny's feelings weren't even considered. Amelia was sure the young girl would have went along with them up until they had to break up, that wouldn't have happened voluntary on Ginny's part.
The revelations were sickening and for the moment her hands were tied, without a minister of magic or chief Mugwump Amelia would just have to keep them in the cells for now. The election for minister was on Thursday and with Harry's public declaration in her favour no other candidate had as yet put himself or herself forward. If that were still the case after six pm on Tuesday the election would become a swearing in ceremony with the ministry able to move forward once more.
Amelia knew the Institute had an open weekend for parents so she was going to schedule a trial for Sirius early the following week but she would have to speak to Harry about the Weasleys. Their testimony would be devastating against Dumbledore but delaying the old goat's trial would give his lawyers an opportunity to claim the Weasleys were delusional, after six months or so in Azkaban even a mediocre lawyer could make that stick.
If it were inconvenient to arrest Dumbledore at the moment they would have to think of something to do with the Weasleys that didn't involve being neighbours with a bunch of dementors.
-oOoOo-
Hermione thought the exterior of number twelve Grimmauld Place was in poor condition but that paled in comparison to the interior, it was like every bad horror movie she had ever seen and was anticipating Vincent Price's laughter come rolling out of the darkness to pour down the cobwebbed staircase. What she wasn't anticipating was the screeching portrait that started spewing vile abuse at them only pausing in its tirade when Sirius spoke.
"Hello Mother."
She looked over the six of them and made it blatantly obvious that she didn't approve of what she saw, "I thought there was some hope for you when I heard you'd helped the dark lord and murdered all those muggles, now you're here with the half-blood Potter brat, a couple of muggles, a girl who's got to be their mudblood daughter and that bloody werewolf. You have been a disappointment to me all my life so nothing new there, take your pack of mongrels and get out of my house!"
It was plain to everyone why Sirius had not wanted to come within miles of this place; Harry was starting to wonder if he didn't have the easier childhood.
Sirius stood his ground, "I am lord Black now mother and this is my house though I may just tear it down and destroy every trace of it."
Even as a portrait the hatred Mrs Black managed to generate in her expressions and voice was impressive, "Kreacher, Deal with these intruders any way you want."
A small filthy figure with long nails and sharp teeth exploded from the shadows with Hermione seemingly as its target before the boom of Dan's pistol reverberated around the hall. The creature was hurtled backwards and slammed against the wall, slowly sliding down but leaving the back of its head behind. Kreacher was dead before he hit the wall never mind the floor.
Dan Granger had been nervous and couldn't explain why; he figured this group of people could handle just about anything. His peripheral vision had caught some movement and a glint of gold off the wand light provided by Remus and Sirius, Dan unholstered his pistol. He was holding it upwards in the ready position that Remus had drilled into them while ignoring the portrait, trying instead to locate what was moving. Dan was an observant man and when he spied the creature he noticed the long nails that were almost claws, the sharp teeth, how filthy it was and even the gold locket around its neck but it was the unmistakable madness shining from its large eyes that held his attention. Before he had a chance to say anything the thing launched itself at his daughter with the applied intent of doing as much damage as possible, Dan just let his training take over and protected the people he loved.
"Dad!" a reproachful Hermione couldn't take her eyes of the now dead house elf, "you didn't have to kill him, Harry and I would have dealt with it."
Dan's voice was as steady as his hand, "I don't think so love, Sirius what's that your mother's portrait is wearing round her neck?" One look and they all saw the locket that none of them had noticed before, "I saw that creature sneaking around and two things immediately struck me, the madness in its eyes and the same locket round its neck."
Remus immediately placed a hand on Harry and Hermione's shoulders, "I think we have a serious problem here so let's all just take a step back and have a think about this before diving in and getting someone injured or worse."
Sirius was studying the portrait while trying to match facts to events in his head as the teens cast a powerful silencing charm around them. Sirius had come to a conclusion and the more he thought about it the more he was sure he was right, "she must have started wearing the locket after Regulus's death, the dark bastard wouldn't want to return as an old woman but would try to influence her to do his bidding and that's what drove her mad. When she died Kreacher took over the locket and Voldemort wouldn't posses a house elf either so he was driven insane as well. That's why this place is such a dump and the little shit looked ready to tear Hermione's throat out, good shooting Dan."
Remus nodded agreement, "we have a bigger problem though, that locket has been drawing on magical energy for years and I suspect it will react as soon as a suitable host comes anywhere near it. We need to be very careful here and have a plan to deal with this."
Harry and Hermione were deep in thought before the young witch spoke, "we see two different ways to solve this problem, have an unsuitable host do it or find a way to keep his soul in the locket until we can stab it."
"If you think he wouldn't want a non magical person then I'll do it!" Emma gave Dan a strange look, "what? You would rather one of those two did it? I'd prefer it to be me rather than standing watching one of our kids put themselves in danger."
Hermione could feel the surge of emotion that passed through Harry as her father said 'our kids' so she kissed her dad's cheek with a heartfelt "thanks dad!"
Dobby popped beside them, "Dobby also volunteers, the evil one thinks elves are vermin and I would like the chance to prove him wrong."
"Let's just take a moment here," said Harry, "we need a plan and while I appreciate the offers we need to make sure that his soul is going to stay in that locket before anyone approaches it. He might not want to inhabit a muggle or elf but if it's that or die I think we all know what he would choose. No one is going near that until we're sure because if his soul possesses someone they would need to be killed."
This had the effect of a bucket of ice water down your back, any thoughts of just pushing ahead were banished now they understood the consequences of a mistake.
"Harry if Quirrell couldn't touch you because of the protection from Lily would your patronus have the same effect on his soul piece?"
Hermione could see where Remus was going with this idea and thought it might work, "a patronus in general might hurt him so why don't the four of us cast it at the locket while Dobby stabs it. Sorry dad but Dobby can move faster, sense if he's in danger and perform magic to protect himself, he's the logical choice."
Dobby puffed up his chest in pride at not only being able to help Harry Potter but to strike a blow against the evil one as well. He would normally have been bouncing around with excitement but knew he needed to concentrate to do this very dangerous job. "Are you sure Dobby?" Harry asked and he could only nod his head in confirmation, he was ready.
"After all those years in Azkaban my patronus doesn't work anymore so I'll stand back with Dan and Emma in case you need covering fire."
Hermione was grateful to Sirius for taking care of her parents while not making it too obvious. Harry gave Dobby the dragon hide gloves and his little friend withdrew a basilisk fang from the box as a silver stag, otter and wolf surrounded the dead Kreacher.
Dobby actually felt giddy with the amount of positive emotion being generated by the silver forms as he knelt beside the filthy creature, he could sense the sprit desperately trying to escape from the locket but the patroni were doing their work. Dobby placed the tip of the fang against the locket and a green mist escaped only for a stag and otter to pounce on it while the wolf circled in case it was needed. The whole event was over in seconds but the sound of the screams would stay with them all a lot longer.
Harry and Hermione hugged one delighted elf, "Dobby you were brilliant, if ever you need anything it's yours, and we all owe you big time my friend!"
Everyone was congratulating Dobby when a voice they had forgotten about spoke, "Sirius, is that you? What has happened to the house? I remember your brother being murdered on the orders of that dark bastard but can't remember anything else. I see your choice of friends is still the same but after what happened to Regulus I'm beginning to think you were right, can you ever forgive an old woman who wronged both her sons?"
The rest of them strategically withdrew leaving the tearful Sirius to try and make peace with his mother; all had noticed her portrait no longer contained the locket.
Dobby spoke quietly, "Harry Potter sir, we have elves at the Institute who would love the chance to clean this house as there's not a lot of work to do at the moment, do you think the lord Black would permit us?"
Harry looked to Remus for some guidance.
"I think that would be fine Dobby but just do general cleaning and wipe out all infestations without touching any items you think are dark, could you start in the library please to give us somewhere to sit."
"Library?" asked Emma and Hermione in perfect synchronisation causing the rest to chuckle as Dobby popped away to begin working on the Black ancestral home.
Sirius eventually found them all seated in the library sipping tea while reading an eclectic collection of books. "What's going on, one minute I was standing in a shithole then I turned round to see dirt actually disappearing right before my eyes, I know Dobby's good but he can't be that good."
The little elf appeared, "we have a team of elves cleaning your home and any items we thought were dark have been placed in a room on the third floor. Do you have any specific instructions lord Black?"
"Dobby anything you can do to brighten the place up would be great by me, also change any Slytherin paraphernalia to Gryffindor as even the bloody door handles are snakes. I don't know about accessing the Black account at Gringotts yet so do what you can."
Harry interrupted, "anything you need just take it out of the Potter account Dobby."
The ecstatic little elf popped away to continue working.
"What happened with your mother?" Remus asked his friend.
"It would seem when the locket was destroyed her painting reverted back to her last update before she started wearing that cursed thing, her memory stops just after Regulus was murdered and this self didn't know about Voldemort and Harry or me ending up in Azkaban. We had a lot of catching up to do but I see you made yourselves comfortable."
It was a happy Emma Granger who gushed, "Remus asked Dobby to have this room cleaned first and your library is fantastic though one of the books tried to bite me."
"Some of the books in here will be very dark, we'll have to dispose of them and didn't you know the library in Potter manor is about half again as big as this."
Both women immediately rounded on Harry as if he'd been holding out on them, "What? Hermione Jean you know I've never set foot in the place so how the hell would I know about the library." Hermione came over and gave him a kiss that curled his toes.
Only Dan's coughing finally split the pair but nothing could wipe the smile from Harry's face, "I take it we will be visiting Potter manor soon then?" he asked which earned him a similar kiss from Emma and finally convinced Remus to get off his arse and at least speak to Pomona.
-oOoOo-
Sirius was sitting at dinner in the Institute a few days later contemplating not only recent events but also the people around the table. Amelia Bones had stood unopposed as minister of magic and would be sworn in tomorrow, he had received notification his trial would be next Tuesday as it would be one of the first official responsibilities the new minister was pushing through. Harry, Hermione and Remus had all received notices to attend as witnesses and Sirius was in no way worried, use of pensive memories and Veritaserum would show his innocence.
Discovering the truth about his brother and being able to speak to his mother's pre-madness portrait had a profound effect on his life. Sirius had assumed that resuming being Harry's godfather and helping the teenager grow into an outstanding wizard was going to be his full time job for the next few years at least, the realisation that role had already been most ably filled by the wonderful witch he was about to marry had left the marauder without a purpose in life. His mother had convinced him that he had a lot to offer not only the wizarding world but also any witch he chose to marry; this led directly to his current occupation of studying the people around him.
Poppy Pomfrey he had known since his Hogwarts years, between Quidditch injuries and marauder scrapes he wouldn't be too far behind Harry in visiting their favourite healer. She was absolutely glowing as her new role of being a mother appeared to be everything she had hopped for, Ginny was a great kid who had been raised by bad parents and was now blossoming under Poppy's care and guidance.
Ginny was forming closer links with the four other teens and knew about the horcruxes being destroyed, her description of Ron's betrothed had them all in stitches of laughter. Both mother and daughter seemed to be benefiting greatly from their new relationship and Sirius was very happy for them.
His eyes drifted to the strangest 'relationship' he had ever seen, Augusta Longbottom and Xenophilius Lovegood. Their relationship was based purely on the care of their charges and both were delighted at the positive changes Luna and Neville were having on each other.
Remus had described the former Neville and Luna to Sirius but agreed wholeheartedly this in no way matched the young couple before them now, both their guardians had been heard muttering 'betrothal' and only the fact that the couple were doing so well had held them back as they didn't want to jinx anything. You only had to watch Neville and Luna for any length of time to see this was a serious relationship, they just completed each other.
His eyes skipped over Minerva and Filius, he didn't even know if there was a relationship there it was just the way the little professor followed his former head of house about that didn't seem natural and totally creeped him out.
When Sirius looked at the Grangers he was beginning to understand what his mother's portrait had been trying to tell him, if Sirius Black could swap places with anyone it would be Dan Granger. He had a beautiful wife and the couple appeared to be on a continual honeymoon they were so attentive to each other. They not only had careers but built up a business together as well as raise their daughter who had captured his godson's heart and soul. Dan's slip of calling them 'our kids' had escaped no ones attention and the way he had dealt with Kreacher had impressed the hell out of Sirius.
He was delighted Hermione had gotten the chance with Harry to meet his parents, Sirius knew there would have been instant friendship between James, Lily and the Grangers as they were the same type of people. They had accepted Remus as a werewolf; accepted Sirius Black was innocent yet at the first sign of a threat to their family both exploded into action to protect there loved ones.
The Grangers and Potters would have got along famously as their values and beliefs were very similar. It was with a smile he imagined Lily and Emma sitting chatting about their prospective grandchildren as James and Dan sat sipping malt whiskey and spoke about sports while secretly listening in to the more important conversation their better halves were having.
His heart filled with love when he watched the two most important people in the world to him sit joking with Ginny, if Neville and Luna completed each other then Harry and Hermione were each other. Sirius may have been letting the fact that he owed these two his life, freedom and sanity but he didn't think so, he never thought he would see two people more suited to each other than James and Lily Potter but he was wrong. These two were so compatible it was hard to tell where one person ended and the other began.
Sirius was just going to have to do a Moony, he needed to get up off his arse and go for it. He wondered how his friend was fairing on his first date with Pomona Sprout.
He was terrified of getting back into the dating scene and wished there was an easier way to meet a girl, little did he know that a conversation his godson had with the head of the Institute earlier today would change his life forever.
-oOoOo-
Ron Weasley was reading again the three letters that had ended his life; the first was from Bill granting permission for his betrothal to Millie, and the Bulstrodes had wasted no time as he was already wearing the ring. The second came from the twins explaining that the mudbloods parents had somehow put their mother in St Mungo's and that her father had found out what they were up to. The twins actually admitted to being scared shitless and the muggle had swore he was going to kill Ron. The third letter bore the seal of the ministry and ordered his presence at the trial of Sirius Black.
If Hermione's father didn't kill him he would have to endure being dragged around Diagon Alley on the arm of his betrothed since 'they were going to be in London anyway' as Millie put it, he wasn't sure what was worse. The thought of being out in public with Millie filled him with dread, this would be announcing to the world that he, Ronald Bilius Weasley was betrothed an barring a miracle would be marrying Millicent Bulstrode.
In the chaos of the last few days of term their relationship had passed unnoticed but that wouldn't last for long, the teasing that he had endured for being poor was nothing compared to what Millie suffered. The 'troll in a dress' comments were some of the less hurtful ones though having experience of both, and both in girls toilets Ron would definitely have to say that the troll smelled worse than his girlfriend.
The idea of returning there as the only Weasley, only Gryffindor in his year and Millie's betrothed was not a pleasant one but at least it was weeks away yet, the trial was in six days.
His temper started to flare at the thought of his lot compared to what the half-blood Potter got, but before he could work himself up to a proper funk a pair of hands covered his eyes from behind.
"Hello lover bet you were just thinking about me!"
Ron prayed to every deity he'd ever heard of that the voice and hands belonged to Millie, that was bad enough but her mother had been giving him funny looks and he would drown himself in his own bath water before letting anything happen there. Maybe Hermione's dad was his best option; at least it would be quick as his other best choice was to be married to Millie and a member of the Bulstrode family for the rest of his life.
-oOoOo-
Remus was driving the little MG sports car back to the Institute with a very lovely Pomona in the passenger seat, robes can make a witch look beautiful and elegant but he was sure you needed muggle clothes to make them appear sexy. The skirt and top his date wore were nothing special but combined with the witch inside they had almost taken his breath away. He had taken her dancing and they had a great night with all nerves disappearing after their first dance together, neither was under any illusions that the night was going to end in anything more than a kiss but both were hoping for more dates in the future.
Thanks to last year teaching and now his job working for Harry, Remus was well dressed and hadn't needed to look at a price list all night, safe in the knowledge he could afford anything his date wanted. Dan had recommended the Ferrari but that was a bit too ostentatious for his tastes, the little British made MG was understated elegance and exactly the impression he wanted to make.
Pomona had never been inside a car before today and as they made their way along the winding cliff top road with the radio playing she leaned into Remus and kissed his cheek. "I've had a wonderful time and hope we can do this again," she said and couldn't fail to notice the smile on her dates face.
Remus was unable to take his eyes of the road at the moment but quickly replied, "I was just trying to figure out the best way to ask you when you beat me to it, and I definitely want to see more of you Pemona."
Pomona's throaty laugh sent his blood racing, "let's just take it a bit at a time for now," she answered.
He was definitely up for that.
-oOoOo-
Dumbledore had been working really hard though it couldn't quite be called school business, he was researching every charm, spell or enchantment he could cast on the goblet that would bond an unbreakable magical contract with the names it would choose.
He realised that he had to find staff for Hogwarts but the master manipulator's plans were well formed; Septima Vector already agreed to take on the head of Hufflepuff role though steadfastly refused to become deputy and deal with all his paperwork. This left him still needing five professors so he planned on having Horace return as potions and Slytherin head.
Arthur Weasley could easily be convinced to give up that ridiculous job at the ministry to teach charms and Head Gryffindor house, the old wizard was chuckling with laughter with the thought that Molly could easily teach potions and head Slytherin but he would ask her to do transfiguration instead. That only left Herbology and their annual defence post vacancy to fill and if necessary he would get some outgoing students to return, he could pay them less as well.
He'd tried floo calling the Burrow a couple of times but as yet no reply, if he hadn't heard anything by the weekend he would just have to go over there. Albus certainly wouldn't be eating or drinking anything though, he knew the real Molly Weasley.
Chapter 17
The two marauders were making there way from the beach towards Potter Institute after their morning training, the prospective pupils and parents would be arriving this afternoon and they had decided to curtail working with the dummies for the visit so had a longer session this morning. The kids were now flying and the Grangers just loved to watch so it was just the two of them climbing the stairs though if Moony didn't stop grinning like the cat that got the cream he may find himself flying without the aid of a broom. He'd been out on another date with Pomona last night and hadn't stopped smiling all morning leading Sirius to threaten throwing him off the cliff.
On reaching the Institute Remus changed their route to pass the terrace so he could give Pomona a morning kiss, Sirius was about to make a smart comment until he spotted the vision that was beside his best mate's girlfriend. She looked late twenties / early thirties, shoulder length blond hair and was stunningly beautiful, had he been in his Padfoot form his tongue would have been hanging out with a puddle of drool forming on the ground below his chin. As it was he just stood there like a total prat, starring at the girl with his mouth open until an elbow from Remus made contact with his ribs.
He looked at Remus in panic, not having heard a word that had been spoken and it now looked as if he'd been asked a question that he had no clue how to answer.
Remus took pity on his friend but still couldn't resist having a pop at him, "sorry ladies but we had a very hard training session this morning and Sirius here isn't getting any younger, this is Amber, Pomona's niece and the Institute's new professor of astronomy and astrology. We were wondering if you could accompany her into Naples to see what the Italians have in the way of telescopes as we're all going to be busy getting ready for this afternoon."
Sirius thought he'd never heard a more apt name for someone as Amber currently had the sun at her back and an almost golden aurora surrounding her, when she started speaking he couldn't help but think even her voice was beautiful.
"If it's too much trouble then I could go next week with Pomona, I just thought it would be a good idea to have something to show the parents."
With his brain finally beginning to function Sirius at last began to speak, "it's no trouble at all to accompany a beautiful young lady shopping, and Remus you know I'll get you back for that age gag. Since I don't actually work here but am in my godson's custody until my trial on Tuesday I would be delighted to help you any way I can. Please excuse me while I take a much needed shower and change into something more suitable, I'll see you shortly."
He almost ran to his room and was showered, changed and heading out his room door when a wand appeared less than six inches from his nose.
Holding that wand was the pissed Pomona Sprout that had faced down Dumbledore and Sirius wondered if Remus knew what he was letting himself in for.
"I want a word with you Lord Black," the voice itself would have pinned him to the door but the wand made sure he stayed there, "Amber has just spent a couple of months trying to get over the arsehole who ditched her in favour of a witch, my niece is a squib and doesn't need another bloody wizard leading her on. If you hurt her there will be a big black dog that's going to be neutered, do we understand each other?"
Sirius was about to be flippant when he decided this woman needed to know the truth, "Pomona, Dan Granger and I are about the same age yet when I look at what he's done with his life I'm ashamed, granted I lost twelve years in Azkaban but even before that I wasn't going anywhere. I have been doing a lot of thinking lately and what I really want out of life is to settle down with the right woman and start a family, you'll notice I said woman because witch, squib or muggle makes no difference as long as we love each other. I've only just met Amber and all I am looking for is a nice lunch with a beautiful woman who hopefully doesn't find me too much of a bore. I am not interested in casual relationships and would never hurt her, Moony and Harry would probably kill me before you got the chance."
Pomona put her wand away as she apologised, "I'm sorry Sirius but you did have quite the reputation with the ladies and Amber means a lot to me."
He just smiled, "that was the old me, the one who put revenge before my duty as a godparent, I'm trying to change and have some pretty good role models around me now. I promise you I will be a perfect gentleman around Amber, you have nothing to worry about."
She kissed his cheek, "thanks for understanding," and left him standing there thinking Moony had picked himself a keeper.
-oOoOo-
Harry was standing on the beach with his arm round Hermione thinking that today couldn't have went much better.
As the parents and children started arriving Brutus and Cindy were revelling in their roles as head elves of the Institute and had everything running like clockwork, Dobby was more interested in serving Harry and Hermione though helped out whenever needed. The guests were led to their rooms and then a buffet on the terrace as everyone admired the view while enjoying the excellent food. This was one of the few areas where Harry thought Hogwarts had them beat, the terrace ran the full length of the building, could comfortably seat two hundred and had temperature control and insect repellent charms but it wasn't the great hall though no one else seemed to mind.
After some very short welcome speeches they were split into groups and given guided tours of the institute, Pomona had set up a classroom outdoors as the vast majority of planting would be directly into the ground. A greenhouse would be needed to house the more dangerous plants encountered for NEWT's but that was two years away yet, her explanation of the European system where the students grew plants, harvested them for potions and then studied the medicinal effects with Madam Pomfrey was a lot easier for the muggle parents to understand than turning a match into a needle or making a feather float.
Poppy was a big hit after she healed John Grady, a new first year who had fallen of his bike the previous day, watching his bruises disappear in front of their eyes brought home the benefits of magic to everyone and having a healer in campus was a big bonus.
The stars of the day though were Hermione and Harry who gave flying lessons on the beach; young Natalie MacDonald was born to fly and was soon zooming along the waves screaming in sheer delight unfortunately though not everyone was the same. Denis Creevey wasn't afraid of heights or flying, he just couldn't contain his enthusiasm and wasn't able to sit still on the broom far less control it. This provided a good teaching point though as when he fell off into the sea Harry flew over and levitated the laughing boy onto the beach, it sure beat ending up in the infirmary with a broken wrist like Neville's first attempt at Hogwarts.
Dinner that night had been organised by Dan and Dobby to finish the day off in style, they were all on the beach with barbecues being tended by elves wearing chef's hats that had Dean's design on them. There was a mixture of muggle and magical with everything from cheeseburgers to dragon steaks available and bottles of coke sharing the same ice buckets as butterbeer. Festive lighting had been erected along the cliffs and beach with tables, chairs or beach mats provided for everyone's comfort.
Amber Sprout had set up some telescopes on a platform for anyone who wanted to do some stargazing; Sirius was an almost constant visitor though seemed to do far more Amber gazing than actual viewing of the night sky. Pomona had approached Harry and Hermione with a view to her niece teaching here, she was an honours graduate from a Muggle University who wanted to get away from the British magical world. Both had been impressed with her so far and were a lot more comfortable with the Institute offering astrology as opposed to divination.
Hermione kissed Harry before speaking, "there are times when I wish it was just Luna, Nev and us but I'm sure we made the right decision with the Institute. We both remember just how terrifying our first day in the magical world was but these kids are all looking forward to coming here and their parents already know more about our world than mine did in all the years we attended Hogwarts."
It was Harry's turn to kiss Hermione, "as usual my wonderful wife to be is correct but are you sure about the OWL's love, and I know how much they meant to you."
"You mean a lot more love. If we just sit the NEWT's then we can have a three week honeymoon instead of two, no contest as far as I'm concerned. The only reason for sitting them is to add to your emancipation and our marriage, we'll be fully qualified as well meaning we're legally adults in every possible way available to us."
"So after the trial it's cram for the exams in Potter manor library, sit the NEWT's then get married?"
Hermione had a dreamy look on her face, "I'll be Mrs Potter, oh Harry this is a dream come true." The resulting snog was broken when a clearing of Adrian Greengrass's throat was louder than the giggles coming from his two daughters.
"Lord Potter, I'm sorry to interrupt but I wanted to congratulate you on the fabulous achievement your Institute is, I am delighted that both my daughters will be attending but could you answer a question for me please?" Harry nodded for the man to continue, " Mathew Boot is spreading rumours as to why his son was not welcome here, could I hear your version please?"
Harry took a moment to get Hermione's help with is reply, "when Daphne stood up with the others that morning she was making a statement that she supported me rather than the current system, that meant a lot to me and was directly responsible for the Institute being born. All those students put their faith in me and I promise to do my best to live up to it, by the same token those who remained seated chose the current system and are welcome to it."
Adrian was nodding indicating he understood Harry's point of view.
"We currently can't take any students older than us as the Institute is still growing, but younger students like Astoria didn't know me and most wouldn't have the maturity to stand and make a declaration in the great hall in front of the whole school. For the students who have shared classes with me for three years they had the knowledge and maturity to make their choice, if two Slytherins can publicly support Harry Potter then there is no excuse for anyone else choosing not to. Terry Boot made his and his father had no argument other than he wanted the best school for his son so thought he would try intimidation - big mistake."
Hermione added to the argument, "Ravenclaw house decided en mass not to support Harry and I, we think the incident where we publicly called them on their bullying of the girl we think of as a sister had something to do with it. Apart from Luna only Padma chose to follow us and now the so-called 'smartest house' are realising they have made a big mistake, we have had enquiries from almost everyone of our year group but they have all been given the same answer – that year group is full. Luna and Ginny have spent the summer here and are studying hard to skip a year which will take it to full capacity."
Harry smiled knowingly, "my information is that apart from the Ravenclaws only two other students from our year have confirmed they will be returning to Hogwarts and, as yet no new staff have been appointed. We understand why they're panicking but it's not our fault that Hogwarts standards are slipping, they should be looking nearer to home for answers to why that is."
It was a thoughtful Adrian Greengrass who continued, "if you have that information then you must know about the children of death eaters being taken care off," Harry said nothing but the fence sitter had heard and seen enough to make up his mind. "Lord Potter I have been impressed with your achievements but they pale in comparison with the dedication to your ideas and commitment to those who have faith in you. Daphne is a good judge of character and the way she has been treated while attending your Institute has been first class. My family and I have faith in you therefore I would like to publicly align the house of Greengrass with the house of Potter."
Harry immediately held out his hand, "it would be an honour sir," and both shook hands as a light flashed through them signifying their magical agreement.
Daphne was shocked at how quickly her father had decided the fate of their house, she totally agreed with him but thought he would sit a while longer to see how the land lay. Even her years in Slytherin though couldn't contain the question she was desperate to ask, "what did happen to Draco, Pansy and the rest of them?"
"Oh don't worry, they're being well taken care of and continuing their education abroad," Harry's smile gave nothing away.
-oOoOo-
Draco Malfoy was lying in a bunk bed in severe pain and cursing Harry Potter when the miracle occurred, he realised that it wasn't Potter's fault as a smile crossed his face when he remembered the reason he was suffering.
Stepping off the express had led to a whirlwind of new adventures as he was taken shopping for everything he would need. Draco then spent the night in a hotel where he made the most important discovery of his life; he watched his first music video on TV. The pureblood Draco Malfoy was hooked on scantily clad females 'booty shakin' to rhythms he'd never heard before, as hobbies go this seemed pretty harmless compared to being an apprentice death eater.
At the camp Chuck and Bob had decided that they needed to take the 'pasty Brit' under their wing and show him how they do things in the good old US of A. Draco didn't understand half of what they were talking about but since their knowledge of Britain consisted of it being an island on the other side of the Atlantic his ignorance was usually just put down to him being English.
Draco's hormones were in overdrive as every female in the camp wore shorts and something called a 'belly top', which confused the hell out the pureblood as it's sole purpose seemed to consist of exposing female midriffs so you could see the jewellery pierced into the girls bellybutton.
Chuck and Bob then decided they would broaden his horizons which directly led to his condition, sneaking out last night to meet three girls Draco made some startling discoveries, his cologne drew every mosquito in a two mile radius, he couldn't hold his beer worth shit, hangovers must surely be worse than the cruciatis curse and snogging a muggle girl was way better than kissing Pansy Parkinson.
When his hangover had worn off sufficiently to allow his higher brain functions to once again perform their duties these revelations would change the pureblood for ever, after all something that good simply couldn't be wrong.
America was the land of opportunities and since he would be spending at least the next four years here Draco intended to seize as many as possible, his pureblood father had ruined the Malfoy name in Britain by perusing outdated beliefs and worshiping some half blood psychopath leaving him parentless and penniless so there was nothing to go back to.
Draco thought of the opportunity that was going to await him tonight again and suddenly came up with a brilliant plan, he would cut down on his drinking, give the extra beer to Trish which should bring him even more opportunities and best of all, Potter was paying for everything. Draco may be beginning to form his own opinions and beliefs but he was still a Slytherin.
-oOoOo-
Albus still couldn't get an answer from the Weasleys and when he tried to floo there he ended up at the public floo fireplace in Diagon Alley, deciding to investigate the mystery he apparated to the Burrow. The old wizard was actually shocked to find the house totally destroyed and the magical tent in the garden unoccupied, he knew he'd hardly been out of his office in weeks but didn't think he could be so behind that something like this could escape his attention. After finding no clues he apparated to the ministry in his search for answers.
As he marched through the ministry atrium he was astonished to find himself being stopped at the security checkpoint by a disgruntled guard.
"Name?"
"My dear man you must know who I am!"
"Don't see an identification badge so I'll ask again before calling security, Name?"
"Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, Order of Merlin, First Class." He realised that was the only thing he hadn't lost yet and the muttering guard seemed to have other ideas.
"Should have lost that as well, leaving the boy with those animals and never even checking on him," he stopped muttering and writing before looking back to the old wizard in front of him. "Reason for visit?"
"I don't see that's any of your business," Albus blustered.
The guard let out an audible sigh before sitting down his quill and going into 'procedures for idiots' mode, "let me explain the system to you, when a member of the public wants to enter the ministry they complete this form, receive a visitors badge and get directions to their destination. No form means no badge which means no entry, have you got that?"
Albus was desperate to dispute his status as a 'member of the public' but couldn't think of an argument so just nodded in agreement.
"Reason for visit?"
"To enquire about the location of some friends of mine."
"Didn't know you still had any." The guard muttered before asking, "what are their names and who do you want to see."
"The Weasleys and I think Madam Bones would be best suited to deal with my enquire."
Another mutter, "figures it would be them," before he delivered his bombshell, "Minister Bones is much to busy to deal with people who walk in here off the streets because they can't find someone, I'll get you an auror."
He was so taken aback by the fact that woman was now minister he didn't hear the guards first request, he glanced down and there was the guard's hand waiting on his wand. Albus hadn't let another's hand touch his wand for many years and he was loathe to let this jumped up janitor get his mitts on it but his choices were limited and he needed to find the Weasleys. Watching as his wand was weighed definitely qualified as a new experience before turning to find that black auror standing right in front of him.
"What can I do for you?" Shack asked in a voice totally void of any warmth or enthusiasm before reading the badge the old coot had been forced to wear. "If you're looking for the Weasleys then I'm sorry but that information is classified so I'll wish you good day and show you the way out."
This was how Albus Dumbledore, greatest wizard of the age came to find himself standing on the ministry steps, he had been politely escorted out the doors and his visitor badge had disappeared as soon as he left the building. As he was standing there contemplating his next move, the hostile stares of passers-by began to annoy him so he apperated to the Weasleys nearest neighbours hoping he'd have better luck at the Lovegoods.
-oOoOo-
Roy MacDonald was standing in the magical shopping area in Naples and the experience put the final seal on his decision, translation spells had been used before they left the Institute but it was the body language being displayed that spoke volumes to the muggle.
He was comparing this experience to the one they had in Britain where his family had been visited by a Hogwarts professor who informed them magic was real and Natalie is a witch, a few pointless tricks later (why would you want to turn a table into a pig?) and they were taken to Diagon Alley. There the family were given a provisional supplies list and instructed where to buy each item but it was the stares, sneers and even open hostility that greeted the MacDonalds everywhere they went that had unsettled Roy.
Natalie was an only child who had been a precious gift late in the couples life when they had almost given up on ever having children, and now both parents were agonising over a decision that would have a major effect on all their lives. It wasn't until they attended the meeting for the Potter Institute and Dan Granger spoke that the family realised they weren't alone, his words resonated deep into their souls as a third option they were so desperate for became available.
'There are parents sitting here today that are wrestling with the hardest decision of their lives, I know because three years ago my wife and I were in the exact same position. If at that time I had the information that I do now our daughter would never have set foot in the magical world and we would just have made a monumental mistake. You see my daughter is a witch, it's not an illness or condition to be cured, it's who she is!'
Both parents had practically made their minds up that Natalie would not be attending Hogwarts but those words had changed everything. After seeing the elation on his daughters face on that iconic moment when she flew on a broomstick for the first time it really drove the message home more than any words ever could, their daughter is a witch.
Standing observing this magical community that had welcomed them with open arms and went out of their way to make them feel comfortable was the final box ticked for the MacDonalds, Natalie would be a witch in a country where she was accepted irrespective of her linage and would not be going to a school that her parents couldn't even see.
They also decided pretty quickly that any money spent would be in Naples rather than Diagon Alley though Natalie was insisting she get a Harry Potter poster, which weren't on sale in Italy yet. That little Creevey boy had taken her picture with Harry and Hermione and the poor soul wouldn't get a moments peace until his daughter had the print. She was obviously crushing on Harry and from what Roy had seen of him so far Natalie couldn't have picked a better role model unless it was his girlfriend Hermione.
Adrian Greengrass had explained the incident that Emma Granger was involved in and the alternative outcome had she not been under Lord Potter's protection, he would gladly sign a tithe agreement tonight when he confirmed Natalie was going to be attending the Potter Institute.
-oOoOo-
Albus was not a happy bunny, he was quickly running out of options and this was a situation he had little experience of. The Lovegoods had proved fruitless, the Grangers must have been on holiday, Privet Drive now had a rather large crater where number four used to be and even the Longbottoms were out of the country. He was scratching his head while trying to figure out his next move when he decided to try the Clearwaters; Penelope had been Percy's girlfriend for over a year now and might have some information he could use.
Penelope answered the door clearly flustered and her face only got redder as Albus enquired about the Weasleys, when Percy popped his head round the door still buttoning his shirt the reason for his girlfriend's embarrassment was clear.
Dumbledore was delighted that the situation would keep both of them off balance and he finally might get some answers.
Penelope left to make some tea while Percy spun the tale of Weasley woe from Molly destroying the Burrow, Arthur swapping Ginny for a house and the attack by the muggles on a pureblood going unpunished. Albus now found himself in a bind as, no matter how much Percy thought otherwise, both his parents were in serious trouble and definitely wouldn't be available to teach at Hogwarts come September.
Penelope returned with the tea and Albus suddenly had the answer to his problems right in front of him, "Mr Weasley I was very impressed with your tenure as Head boy, so much so that I would like to offer you the post of transfiguration professor and head of Gryffindor house."
Both eighteen-year-olds just sat there with their mouths hanging open but Dumbledore wasn't finished, "Miss Clearwater I hold you in the same high regard so therefore would offer you the post of charms professor and head of Ravenclaw."
Albus knew he had them but decided to sweeten the deal since it wasn't costing him anything, in fact he would be saving a fair bit on salaries as he had no intention of paying them anywhere near their predecessors level. "The posts of course come with their own accommodation which can be adjoining rooms if you so desire."
Percy Weasley had been convinced he would have to move abroad for employment, as the Weasley name was now a hindrance in the ministry, all that hard work and years of study for naught. His two older brothers were both successful in their chosen fields but he planed on outshining them both, now here was his opportunity and he would get to be with Penny as well.
The young couple just reached out their hands for each other before giving their unconditional answer, "YES!"
"Excellent," beamed the old wizard, "now if I could ask you both to start on Monday as there is a mountain of paperwork to get through and it will also give you a chance to work on your lesson plans. You will of course be paid from the date you arrive at the castle and the elves will have rooms ready for you."
It was actually pathetic to watch the way both thanked him as if he'd just done them the biggest favour in the world, instead of them helping Albus out the shit, people were so easily led. He was sure both would receive good NEWT's but wasn't worried about their qualifications, after all even breathing wasn't a requirement for being a Hogwarts professor.
He left a lot happier than he arrived and decided to pay Mr Woods a visit and conscript him into the defence professorship, he was aware that Oliver wanted a career in Quidittch so he might have to use some compulsion charms. After all if the curse held true it would only be for the one year and again Albus would save gold on his salary too.
-oOoOo-
Harry and Hermione were sitting discussing the arrangements for their honeymoon with their mum and dad, if that wasn't strange enough the invitation to accompany them floored Dan and Emma. It was Harry who explained, "we feel as if we've just found you and in my case that's true. Hermione and I used to think that as long as we were together then nothing else mattered, we now realise how naive that was. We want parents, children, aunts, uncles and friends."
Hermione continued, "before we came back the only experience we had was our friendship with Neville and Luna, now we have loving parents, a couple of honouree uncles who seem to have their eyes on adding some aunts and closer friendship with quite a few people. What we have with each other is magical but our relationships with those around us has grown beyond our wildest dreams."
"What we are trying to say is that while we might appear confident and assured, we're flying by the seat of our pants most of the time. When the locket turned out to be a fake we just panicked, after calming down we were able to access Voldemort's knowledge and discover who R.A.B. was but we still couldn't have got it without Sirius. We have only one plan and if that fails we don't know what else to do, he could disappear for years and then come after our children to get to me. He has to die by my hand but we refuse to put our lives on hold while waiting on that to happen." Harry had the beginning of tears in his eyes.
"Mum, dad we would really love for you to come with us, just to make sure we don't get into too much trouble. Harry always feels better knowing you've got his back covered."
Emma watched as their façade cracked before crumbling and leaving two insecure teenagers behind, the look of pleading in their eyes almost broke her heart. She had Harry enveloped in her arms before even realising she had moved, he was clinging to her as his tears flowed and Emma began to understand the pressure these two were under. Even allowing for their trip back in time Harry was just turning sixteen and had the weight of the world on his young shoulders, apart from Hermione, Nev and Luna seemed to be the only positive things in his whole previous life.
His admission of never having seen the sea until he came here had foretold of a much deeper problem and his revelations of his relative's treatment had confirmed this. She had to hope that the Dursleys never crossed her path or her ever present pistol would see some more action, Emma wasn't sure if she could restrict herself to a single bullet in the shoulder as this boy was now her son in everything but blood.
She could feel Dan mirroring her emotions as he hugged their daughter so she pulled back, kissed Harry on the forehead and said, "of course we'll go with you, now just what have we let ourselves in for?"
A folder appeared on the table as Hermione chuckled, "thanks Dobby"
It was a very contented Harry and Hermione who lay entwined in bed that night with their honeymoon itinerary agreed, now they had to go to Gringotts tomorrow after Sirius's trial and iron out all the details. They also intended opening accounts for all the children who had now joined them under a tithe agreement, for the agreement to be legal they were required to take the money from them but their was no law that said it couldn't be returned to the children. Opening Gringotts accounts and issuing debit cards linked to them would allow their parents to transfer money directly to their kids in Italy without paying exchange fees. Gringotts were taking the view that the short-term loss in fees would be recuperated by all the extra customers this would bring in.
The open weekend had been an astonishing success with every single prospective student signing-up to attend, Adrian had told of Emma's encounter and they all had taken advantage of the tithe agreement. The Potter Institute would have fifty-nine pupils come September and enough enquires to fill it twice over, Hogwarts was going to be missing over seventy pupils between them and Salem not counting anyone else who dropped out.
If anything they were even closer to Nev and Luna now while Poppy was turning out to be just what Ginny needed as the change in the girl was a lot more than cosmetic. Sirius and Remus were out on a double date, supposedly to take his mind off the trial tomorrow but both suspected ulterior motives and noticed that the two Sprout women seemingly were all in favour.
They weren't too worried about the outcome but they were all going in a show of support for Sirius, in full armour and loaded for bear. They weren't looking for trouble but it just seemed to keep finding them so they would be prepared for anything.
Counting their blessings as well as the number of days till their wedding the two teens fell asleep with smiles on their faces.
-oOoOo-
At the Bulstrode residence in England another two teens lay in bed though only one of them was awake, Millicent was perhaps the only person in Britain who was a louder snorer than her betrothed but that wasn't why he couldn't sleep. Tomorrow Ron was going to have to face up to his actions of what he was trying with Hermione and the fact that Millie was now his betrothed, he had absolutely no idea what to do.
Normally his mother would have dealt with the situation leaving him free to dream about food, Quidditch and girls in that order. He had images of everyone he had ever known in his entire life gathered in Diagon Alley to laugh and ridicule as Millie dragged him down the street, he still wasn't sure if getting killed by Mr Granger wasn't preferable.
It almost felt that it was him who was on trial tomorrow with the guilty verdict already in and it was only his punishment that had still to be decided, he was dreading what tomorrow was to bring and every time he closed his eyes visions of a fate worse than death haunted his dreams, Weasley twins with Millie as their mother.
-oOoOo-
Bertha Jorkins closed her eyes for the last time in an Albanian hovel as the creature that was Voldemort decided she had no more information to give and murdered the witch. Bertha had left on holiday the weekend before the Harry Potter story broke in the Quibbler so neither Voldemort nor Wormtail were aware of the changes taking place in Britain in the last few weeks. This didn't matter though as his plans were now made, Voldemort would be returning to Britain and this time Harry Potter was going to die.