Chapter Text
Foreword: Words of Warning for Harry Potter and Defeating Dark Lords, Inc.
Words of Warning/Long Author notes.
The story you are about to read is true. The names have been changed to protect the innocent. Wait. Wrong introduction.
The story you are about to read is created from the works of JKRowling, which I in no way own. Other than several hardback copies of all seven books, even more paperback copies, and several eBooks wandering around on various kindles.
This story will be AU. Full stop. I request no whinging about non-canon events or relationships. If you want to read about those, then please see the above-mentioned books. Full of canon, those are.
I suffer from dyslexia and dropped thread syndrome. In other words, this work isn't perfect. However, it is free. So, it's a great price for something that you know going in will have issues.
This story’s main relationships are Harry and his family. And his ladies.
This story will mention slash, but nothing blatant will be portrayed. One of the OC's is gay. One of the non-central canon characters is bisexual. If this bothers you, please don't read.
The main relationship will be Lunar Harmony. Harry, Hermione, and Luna. They start as CHILDREN, so their relationship will be age-appropriate. I don't write lemons, so no lemonade being offered. Just some hand-holding and chaste kisses to start. There might be mention of more later, but that part of the story is as yet unwritten. Again, nothing blatant.
Main canon character death is coming. It will be horrible, but there are some characters that remain safe. If the first name is Harry, Hermione, Luna, or Sirius, they are safe. They are the only people guaranteed to make it in this story.
And Hedwig. Harry, Luna, Hermione, Sirius, Hedwig, and all future pets are safe. I tried to reach out to reader bahnannah, but was blocked. I completely agree that killing Hedwig was just wrong in canon. She is a beloved figure in our household, and we even have a build-a-bear version kicking around.
If this bothers you, exit now. Please don't review how I killed your sweet little 'insert name here'. You have been warned.
Knives being poked into people, killing curses, and more are coming. I have rated this that a thirteen-year-old can handle the violence. If anyone objects, PM me, and I will raise the warning level.
The Malfoys are evil here. Full stop. I’m sorry if you are in love with Narcissa, Lucius, or Draco. They are just some of the bad guys in this fic.
Neville is shy, but I want him to be in this story. Neville/Susan/Hannah. Sure, it's been done, but this is what’s going to happen.
Daphne Greengrass and Tracey Davis will be mentioned. For a second. No plans for pairings between them and anyone else. Others might be plotting it. But Harry requested Hermione and Luna. He kinda wanted Tonks too, but Hermione put her foot down at sharing with one girl.
I personally think that Hermione was jealous of Tonks' hair.
Bill will be in a plural relationship as well. No whinging.
There are a couple of OCs including a perky blonde for Sirius Black because he requested one. He won't be in a plural relationship because his fiancé would take Padfoot to the vet if he tried.
There is a serial killer (or maybe two) that will be mentioned. Horrible violence will be shown upon occasion, but most will be done off-screen. If mention of torture or death bothers you, please keep yourself safe, and choose a different story.
This story's view is that Dumbledore is evil. Flat out. He is one of the Dark Lords to be Defeated . If you feel this is unfair, please, there are thousands and thousands of stories out there that are kind to Dumbledore.
Ginny is bashed, a lot, mostly for her view that Harry is hers, and the consequences of possession. I have tried to portray Ron as canon Ron, so he will act as Ron acts. Whether he decides to reform or not hasn’t been written yet.
Expect Dumbledore, Ron and Ginny bashing. If you don't want to read this, then please, choose a different story.
This story starts immediately after the end of year one. Where it will end is a mystery, even to the author.
If you have read this far, and accepted the above terms, and hit next, it is a binding magical contract that you will not whinge about plural relationships, mentions of slash, or whinge about Ginny not being with Harry.
If you see grammatical errors or dropped story threads, please send me a pm, and I will fix it. I gladly accept constructive criticism.
I do have help for this story, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz, but I might edit after she has reviewed, and introduce new and different mistakes. (B/N: Which I will then come back in and hoover up in my OCD manner [and then beat the Author with them stuffed in a pillow]! Luv ya, Vashon ! :-*)
A/N: My Beta, thinks, that, I, use, too, many, commas. No, clue, why. (B/N: Ha ha Grrr! ;-D)
This story is dedicated to Old Crow. He is a wonderful author. And an inspiration for some of the bits that follow.
VashonBeader
Updated: 12/15/2021
Chapter 1 Weasleys to the Rescue
**OO**
Thanks go to my Beta and often co-writer: LtsHrIt4ThBoyz, also thanks to Old-Crow for his editing comments. They are very appreciated.
**OO**
Until the new year, all dates occur within 1992, the summer after Harry’s first year and beginning of his second year.
Wednesday, June 24
About 9:00 PM, Smallest bedroom, Number 4, Privet Drive
A very groggy Harry Potter woke up, terribly thirsty. He'd been locked in since, getting thrashed bloody for daring to go to that freak school and doing so well. He'd been allowed out of his room to use the loo twice but hadn't been given so much as a crust of bread to eat since that small bit of soup the first night. The last time Harry used the toilet, Petunia had her frying pan ready when Harry tried cupping his hands to drink a bit of water after washing his hands. Since then, no trips out; no food, and certainly no water.
Harry had been very groggy and out of it for some time. He wasn't sure what day it was, but by Hedwig's appearance, he had been out of it for too long.
Harry's mind raced. He needed help. He found a scrap of paper to write a note, but the first person he thought of, the girl in the center of his world, was in France.
His good dreams and thoughts were centered on Hermione. Her wonderful hair, so full of life, and nearly sparking with electricity when she was excited about something. The way that she bit her lower lip in thought. Her warm hugs, the first Harry could remember. The way that she truly cared about Harry as a person, and not some icon. Or in the case of some people at school, a huge disappointment in muggle rags, not living up to their image of what Harry Potter should be.
And now, Harry felt as if he was dying. The despair Harry felt in not seeing Hermione again spurred him to try to escape. His mental fog cleared the more he focused on his friends.
Harry had overheard Vernon earlier. The horrible man had been talking about the poison slipped into the small bit of food Harry had been fed. Logically, Harry should be dead but wasn't. At least not yet.
Harry knew with a certainty that Vernon's death threat wasn't his usual vitriol. Dursley meant it this time. Harry didn't know why the two new shotguns refused to hold cartridges, or why the poison hadn't worked. Harry clearly felt it. His magic had saved him again.
The Potter boy only knew that Vernon was furious about the letter he had received with Harry's grades, and notification that Harry might need counseling after Professor Quirrell's death.
Harry could have sworn that letter was firmly in his trunk. It had been handed to Harry, not owl posted. How did Vernon get it? Harry had got a trunk that was magically locked and protected from harm. A muggle like Vernon would not be able to steal any books or destroy the precious wand stored there.
Someone magical had been in the house! It was the only explanation.
"As if the boy hadn't killed that professor. Dumbledore doesn't come right out and say it, but look, Petunia!"
All A's. Harry groaned. In his attempt to be 'normal' and not outdo Dudley, he only hurt himself. Vernon had been ranting for days.
Harry couldn't remember the last real meal that he had, nor when Hedwig had last eaten.
The small, soft bark from his beloved owl stirred Harry's magic.
If he didn't do something soon, Hedwig would die!
And so would he.
Harry concentrated on opening the cage. He pictured the lock coming open, a sort of wandless ' alohomora '.
He didn't envision the bottom of the cage dropping out. His seeker reflexes allowed him to catch it before it fell and made noise.
Of course, with as loud as the telly was, Harry was sure that he could hold a party up here, and the residents of Number 4 wouldn't know.
The bars on the window were far enough apart that the owl could fit through. Before she left, though, Hedwig landed on her boy’s shoulder and rubbed her head against his in gratitude, while Harry started a letter.
“Get some water and food, and come right back, girl,” Harry commanded softly. “I'll get the letter ready.” The scarily smart bird gave a quick nod and a very quiet ‘chirrup’ and flew through the bars on the window.
Hermione was in France, but Harry thought of her first. Nearest was Mrs. Figg, and she just had to be a witch, what with all of those cats. But just in case, how could Harry explain the owl post?
The answer came to him. The Weasley family had sent him Christmas presents and had been sending him letters all year. Mr. Weasley was clearly fascinated with the muggle world, and Harry considered the man someone he could trust. The Weasley parents were kind and good people.
Better yet, he was a magical policeman. More like a detective than a street bobby but still.
While Harry's faithful friend did a quick hunt, Harry wrote a short but sincere note with trembling fingers and begged for help.
The snowy’s quick return with half a mouse still being chewed was a huge relief to the child. After another nuzzle of the child’s sadly dirty hair, the brilliant owl presented her leg for the letter.
“Hed, take it easy, girl. Get some more water and something to eat along the way to the Weasleys.” Harry said, swallowing in fear that he might never see his wonderful familiar again if help didn’t arrive soon. Or the girl with the soft brown eyes that he was beginning to think held his heart.
The owl barked softly, approving the plan. Another drink of water from Number 5's birdbath, and a plump rat from behind the bins at the corner store, and Hedwig was feeling much, much better.
She took several breaks and hunted on the wing, but it was just past midnight when she arrived at her destination.
**OO**
Thursday, June 25
Just past midnight, The Burrow
Fred Weasley was an inventor and a would-be enchanter. His mother, however, had this annoying habit of stealing everyone's wands when they came home from school.
Upon their return, playing sleight of hand with the newest invention, Fred was able to maintain his own wand that he dutifully shared with his twin.
It was only fair, as George's wand was somewhere in gaol.
An owl pecking on their window at this late (or early) hour was unusual. Reading the note, Fred woke his twin quietly.
“Harrykin's in trouble! With a capital T!”
Sneaking down the back stairs, grabbing a sleepy but still dressed Ron on the way, they made it to Dad's pride and joy.
A flying car.
The Paterfamilias of the Weasley family had just been saying how it needed testing, now it was done. What better way to do so?
**OO**
Thursday, June 25
Breakfast, The Burrow
Molly Weasley was wasted in home management. Oh, not that she didn't do a good job as wife, mother, and finance director. She did.
But her detective skills were excellent. She noticed that the car had been moved, and came to certain painful assumptions.
Having Harry Potter appear at breakfast just confirmed her suspicions.
Arthur, always a little behind in the morning, especially after a late-night raid, was trying and failing to ignore his spouse.
He just wanted to have a few cups of tea before dealing with whatever.
Looking over his brood, he noticed that almost all the seats were full, but his daughter was missing. Also, one had hair that was clearly black and not red. That was odd, it meant…
“Well, hello. Who might you be?” Arthur asked kindly.
“Harry. Harry Potter, sir. Fred, George, and Ron rescued me last night. I wanted to let you finish eating before talking with you about filing a police complaint, sir.”
Harry was doing what George had suggested, since he hadn't eaten much – sipping tea and trying to slowly eat his porridge that had been thinned down with thick cream. The home-grown honey gave it just the right amount of sweetness, but he skipped adding apples.
Harry could never eat them on an empty stomach. He had tried in the past, and they gave him horrible stomach cramps.
The twins had fed Harry water and some snacks in the car, but the porridge was heaven.
“What's this then?” Arthur asked.
Harry figured that having Fred and George there was better than trying to get Mr. Weasley alone. Harry explained about Vernon trying to poison him, the letter, and the resultant consequences of said letter. It was hard and embarrassing, but Harry stuttered out a report.
Just like he had in primary. And just like then, they got the same results.
Neither parent believed Harry, and Molly started berating the twins. They honestly believed that the twins had got Harry to lie in order to cover up taking the car for a 'joyride'.
This had happened before, the few times in his life that Harry had reported his relatives' horrible actions. This time Harry had to speak up, because if Dumbledore sent him back, Harry felt he would surely die!
Harry stared intently into Mr. Weasley's eyes, begging him to see him. Begging him to believe.
A mist of wizarding notice-me-nots and other enchantments didn't quite break, but parted. The Weasleys could all see him as Harry really was.
Molly really looked at the boy and paled. Now that Arthur was waking up, he saw too. The rags. The pale, far-too-skinny child. The boy looked on the brink of death.
“Molly, get a healer over here immediately from the department. Use the secret code. Keep eating, Harry, there's a good lad.”
Arthur took out a pad, and started questioning the twins and Ron about the night before, but leaving Harry to eat breakfast.
Ginny came down just then, still half asleep, and started to dish up cereal as well. She eep'd when she saw her hero, her knight, her future husband sitting in strange clothes eating thin gruel.
She looked down at herself. Well, at least in this dream, she was wearing pyjamas.
Harry looked up and greeted her with a soft hello. She tried to say or do something, but just made a mess.
Fortunately, her mother came in just then with a familiar wizard.
“Hi, Healer Marius!” The Weasley boys all intoned.
“Who's been flying? Broken leg, arm? What's on the menu today?”
Arthur pointed to Harry, and asked Percy if his bedroom could be used. At Percy's nod, the adults, and Harry, all went upstairs.
Marius Greengrass was someone very unique. A healer who was a marked Death Eater.
Marius Greengrass had been misled by the Dark Lord, and his Greengrass Head of House, both of whom had promised wealth and women and power by taking the mark and joining the Death Eaters.
Nothing was delivered but death and suffering; wholesale.
Marius had gone abroad long before Harry was born. Leaving just a small note of apology to his family, Marius reinvented himself. The former Slytherin worked his way through a Healing apprenticeship and eventual mastery.
Now no one, not even the Dark Lord, could tell him to kill again. It went against Marius' Healer's oaths.
The diagnostic quill was still going after ten minutes, and the healer was more than a little angry.
“Please tell me that these monsters will pay! Promise me!” Marius demanded.
Marius had a few not-distant-enough relatives that would be happy to pull a few Death Eater party tricks on these muggles. They wouldn't care if it was about Harry Potter. No wizarding child, not even a muggleborn, deserved this.
“I'm going to handle this myself, but I wanted your diagnosis first. I'm going to get Alastor Moody here for the initial interrogation. I can wait until you are done,” Arthur informed the incensed man.
Marius Greengrass had been hired by the DMLE five years previously, just after Bill had moved out. The healer was more than happy to come over and take care of any bumps or bruises the family suffered in exchange for one of Molly's meals. And she always sent extra home with the bachelor. Marius had a flat on Diagon Alley, so was close to work, and generally ate at the Leaky Cauldron.
Marius and Arthur worked well together, and trusted one another. Now, they were going to have to trust a man with close ties to the Headmaster, and hoped he would help and not interfere.
“No. Please floo him. I want to be able to answer any questions he has. Mr. Weasley, whoever is the boy's magical guardian, should be in Azkaban for this.”
Arthur sighed. “I checked about becoming the boy's legal guardian earlier this year. It's Sirius Black according to the goblins. I wasn't allowed access to the Ministry records. He can't be responsible for this mess.”
“Well, that's a surprise. I knew about Narcissa and Bellatrix, of course, but never saw Sirius at any of those gatherings. Oh, his brother Regulus was there when I was. We were friends in school.” Marius closed his eyes on bad memories.
As Arthur headed to the floo, he found Molly there, trying to reach Dumbledore.
“Molly-wobbles, I know that you are angry, but contacting Albus right now might put everything I want to do at risk. I can help Marius get Harry away from his muggle guardians. Legally. Then we can work on getting Harry the best magical one.”
“But Arthur! I was there, feeding that boy, and saw nothing wrong at first. Then, all of a sudden, I saw him! That poor boy! Someone powerful enchanted him. It has to be Dumbledore! I'm going to give him a piece of my mind! But you are right. Better to wait until you are done.” Molly was not calm yet but returned to the kitchen clearly unhappy with the situation.
Arthur made a few calls, and before long, the scariest auror in the department came into the room.
“Arthur, Greengrass. Fill me in.” Mad-Eye Moody commanded.
**OO**
Later that morning
Diagon Alley, Gringotts meeting room
Blanche Rosier and Esmeralda Hillcrest, both born into the Greengrass family, met their nephew Marius Greengrass for a few minutes alone, and then with several goblins. They also spoke briefly with a brown-coated auror. Wasn’t that the Scottish uniform?
Blanche Rosier had aged extremely well. An older version of her niece, Cedrella, the woman had short blonde hair, and a knowing smile. Her husband had been an auror, and lost his life fighting Death Eaters. Killed by members of his own family.
Both she and her sister Esme were from a cadet branch of House Greengrass. Both had married for love. They were young yet. Blanche was just 63, and Esme 58.
Esme Hillcrest's husband had been killed during a Death Eater attack at his work in a potions shop. They lost the business, the shop, and many assets because her husband refused to make illegal potions for members of the family that had joined the Dark Lord.
Esme had dark hair and sparkling violet eyes. Both she and her sister were shorter than average, she was slightly taller at 5 foot 4 inches, and her sister Blanche was two inches shorter.
Both had the highest esteem for Harry Potter and were appalled to hear about what happened to him. They jumped at the chance to provide a good home for Harry.
Harry was then brought into the room, and allowed to meet the middle-aged witches. Both of whom had raised children. All their children were either grown or out of the home…
Or resting peacefully in the family cemetery, having been killed by Death Eaters.
“Please call me Auntie Blanche. We are very glad that you are joining our family, Harry.” Madam Rosier lovingly stated.
“And please call me Auntie Esme,” Madam Hillcrest requested.
“Thank you. I'm very happy to meet you both.” Harry shyly said.
The door opened, and three suit-wearing goblins joined the meeting. Two guards went to either side of the door. They were wearing armor and carrying scary-looking axes that looked well-used.
Marius introduced everyone including Dharma Briokz, the Potter family lawyer who happened to be a goblin, the Black family account manager, Goldrub, and the Potter account manager, Spurnik.
“I've not met a goblin with two names before.” Blanche Rosier stated.
“Dharma is a title. I am a solicitor, barrister, lawyer. All those, and contract negotiator for the Nation. I represent the Potter family. My name is Briokz.”
Esme also noted that his left hand was deformed. Not a weapons injury. She winced, thinking of how this being would be ill-treated by his family.
“Oh! I'm pleased to meet you.” Blanche added.
“Hi, Marius. Thanks for those potions. I feel loads better.” Harry informed.
“That's good to know, Harry. As we talked about this morning, I am legally removing you from your muggle aunt's custody. She and your uncle have been arrested. Your cousin is with an unpleasant woman named Marge. Your relatives are why some wizards attack muggles. Honestly, they make some Death Eaters look nice.”
Harry nodded unhappily. “So, Mr. Weasley said. And he really likes muggles.”
The wizarding world really had few orphans without close magical relatives. Part of the DMLE Healer's responsibilities included sorting out children in these rare sorts of situations, and calling on the Director if needed.
While the Greengrass sisters weren't the closest blood relations to Harry Potter, no one wanted to see him placed with Narcissa Malfoy. They were of a distant relation.
“Yes, well. We require some place to house you. Now, Arthur has offered that you stay with him, but the truth is, they don't have enough bathrooms per person as it is for me to legally place you there,” Marius explained.
The expanded pig shed was not the proper place for the heir of an Ancient and Noble family! But Marius didn't say that aloud.
“We have a nice little place in Hogsmeade, but we've been looking for a shop that has quarters. You know, so we can start our own business,” Auntie Esme informed the group. “We thought we'd see if the goblins had something available, so we could have a bigger place.”
Harry smiled at that. He hadn't yet visited the town but had read about it in Hogwarts: A History , a book that Marius brought him the second time he came earlier, bringing the potions Harry needed to start healing.
Dharma Briokz cleared his throat. “Well, if Mr. Potter is getting new guardians, then perhaps I can help.”
He explained about the Hogsmeade shop that Lily Potter had purchased, hoping to make a go of selling potions and potion ingredients. A shop that had been locked down and empty for too long. The Potter manager grumbled about lost income.
“Four bedrooms, each with magically expanded ensuite. A very nice kitchen.” The goblin continued.
“I really like to cook too. I can do a nice Beef Wellington for a Sunday meal, or eggs Benedict for breakfast. Anything you like! I bet there's a ton of magical food to learn how to cook. I won't be a bother; I will work hard. You'll see!” Harry added, clearly eager to please his new aunties. The potions were affecting his shyness and making him babble a bit.
Esme looked at Blanche in horror. “Harry, we can afford a house-elf. You need to focus on getting better. We'll all do some chores together, because that's what family does. Oh, you won't have learned household spells.”
“Auror Moody gave me three books to read, and Common Household Spells was the first one he told me to memorize. He says he wants me to practice with them to learn to control my power. He must have rental property or something.”
“Or something,” Marius murmured. He remembered seeing some of the survivors that Mad-eye had brought in. And was very glad he had not stayed a Death Eater long, or he would also be in the family cemetery.
One didn't need the green killing curse to end someone. Permanently.
“I'll need oaths from everyone here that they will do nothing to harm the Potter heir, that they will do everything in their power that they can to help him. From this day forward.” The goblin lawyer demanded.
The adults all did so, even the goblins.
“Now that that is out of the way, we can get down to business. Mr. Potter, you have not responded to any correspondence with Gringotts. Before you leave, we're going to have you checked for an owl-ward. Healer Greengrass found something interesting in your scar…”
“What's this, Marius?” Blanche demanded.
“A Horcrux, Auntie. If we had another, not in his head, I know of at least three rituals to remove it.”
The Potter account manager started to swear in his native tongue.
Harry thought it terrifying and unconsciously went to sit between his new aunties. Their magic, serene and warm, was soothing to the incipient mage.
“That blasted Dumbledore! He left the Potter heir with that kind of parasite with worthless muggles! What if whoever it is, and I have a guess, somehow took over the boy?” Spurnik furiously asked.
“I think that is why the headmaster bound so much of Harry's magic. Oh, the lad passed First year, but his grades are terrible. Not your fault! Mr. Potter! We talked about this. We are going to remove a band at a time, and let you get used to that level of power. Right?” Marius reminded Harry.
“Yes sir. I know. Which is why I get a written exemption from the under-age magic rule, and I’m being encouraged to do common household spells,” Harry shared.
You know, Harry, when Marius was a boy, he loved to fly. So, we would bribe him with a new broom each year if he got a certain number of Outstandings.”
Harry's eyes glowed. “I love flying. And my best friend loves to study. I really want to do well in school. I promise.”
The ladies looked at each other and added notes to their list.
The Black account manager cleared his throat. “Mr. Potter is not wearing his heir rings. They would protect him. And his accounts.”
Dharma Briokz glared at his fellow goblin. “Someone is taking funds?”
“Until this morning, I thought that Draco Malfoy was the heir to the Black Family, and was only waiting until he was of age to claim the ring. Narcissa Malfoy was denied access to the House account due to the patriarchal inheritance upon Arcturus Black's death. But there has been movement on the heir account from them. Movement approved from a higher manager than me.” Goldrub informed.
“She's a Death Eater!” Marius spat. “One who has shed innocent blood!”
“And she has a suspended sentence, due to irregularities in the prosecution,” Blanche added.
“What does that mean, Auntie Blanche?” Harry asked.
“Gold was spent. Likely Malfoy gold. Evidence was lost or compromised; wand reports erased. That sort of thing.”
“Oh. So, Draco's parents…” Harry tried to figure out how to ask.
“Are very nasty. Don't worry. We'll give you a list of people to be wary of. But we'll make sure that our new home is well protected before you move in.
“Does that mean that I get to stay with the Weasley's for a while?” Harry asked, hopefully.
“We don't want to break any promises, sweetheart. Let's see how bad a shape this Hogsmeade house is in first. You can always sleep on the couch of our flat for a night or two.” Auntie Blanche recommended.
“Or you can stay with me. I have a ton of holiday time. We could visit the zoo!” Marius offered.
“I like the zoo. I talked to a huge snake there last year. Though, it wound up getting me a week in the cupboard without food,” Harry finished sadly, to the adults’ further agitation!
“You can talk to snakes?” The Black manager was excited, and writing notes.
Esme, the former Slytherin, also looked pleased, as did Marius.
“There are a lot of healing spells in parseltongue. I wonder if you could translate some of those texts to English?” the healer mused.
Auntie Blanche spoke out. “Harry dear, while you have done nothing wrong, snake language is deeply divisive in this country. Because the Dark Lord could speak to snakes, parselmouths have earned an unfair reputation for being dark. This ability is something you might be able to help Marius with. But Dumbledore needs to be kept unaware. You know Albus would use it to get you away from us.”
All of this was said softly, with her arm around Harry's shoulders.
Esme worried about his dark expression. “You know, sister dear, that Junior Quidditch signups are still happening through the end of the month.”
“Harry, you will need a decent broom. Perhaps if you can learn some of the spells that Auror Moody wanted you to learn, you could earn a new broom.”
Harry had a perfectly good broom. But if he got another, he and Ron could fly together. That would be brilliant!
Harry perked up. “Junior Quidditch? I never heard of that!” Harry exclaimed excitedly!
“Well, I think that the fresh air would do him good. Maybe his friends could join in as well.” Marius suggested. The healer really did love the Weasley boys, such good people.
Harry beamed. “Where do they play?”
“At the Hogwarts Quidditch pitch. I thought that Madam Hooch would have had pamphlets and recruiting flyers posted in all the houses.” Auntie Blanche informed.
Marius coughed. “She is a Slytherin alumnus. And I have seen a certain bias in her refereeing.”
“You mean she excludes Gryffindor? On purpose?” Harry asked, shocked.
“It wouldn't surprise me at all. Likely using the excuse that ‘it's too expensive for those not of a noble house’,” Marius suggested.
Harry turned to his new aunties. “I know we haven't talked about my vault and rules and stuff. Hagrid only allowed me to take a little bit extra out of the vault, so I wouldn't waste any gold. But would it be alright if I paid for the fees for Fred, George, and Ron? I mean, they rescued me last night! I could have died!”
“I think that is a very nice reward for helping a friend. And yes, we'll talk about this later. We will need an accounting of all properties, and withdrawals from Harry's accounts,” Auntie Blanche requested of the goblins.
She looked at the Potter account manager. “While I don't want Harry going without, I don't feel unlimited access to funds is wise for a child, either. I'd like a recommendation for a reasonable allotment that allows some small treats.”
“I get an allowance ?” Harry asked excitedly? “Only Dudley used to get an allowance, and even more if he demanded it. Or passed a class instead of failing”
Spurnik nodded and jotted a note.
“Harry, do you have your vault key? For the Potter heir vault,” Auntie Blanche asked.
“No, Hagrid kept it. I thought he'd be meeting me sometime over the summer to get next year's books and such. Wait. What do you mean Heir vault?”
Spurnik and Goldrub shared looks with Alastor Moody and the two ladies. Harry hung his head, feeling stupid again. Bare minutes into meeting them, and now they knew he was worthless!
The goblins all hissed. “Mister Hagrid is Dumbledore's lapdog in this action. The Headmaster distances himself from any accusation of theft. We'll recall the key, and issue your guardians a new one. Mr. Potter, you have my assurance, that in an emergency, you would have had access to funds. You understand we are trying to protect and conserve your legacy.” Spurnik added.
Harry wasn't sure what all of that meant, other than they didn't want him buying 24-karat gold cauldrons or something. He was happy that he was included in the discussion at all.
Spurnik looked towards Auntie Esme “You will teach the boy about what it means to be Heir Potter?”
Esme nodded, but it was the bolder Blanche who spoke up. “Of course, we will! And teach the boy proper manners. And about what clothes to wear at what occasion.” She gave a scathing look not at Harry but at his clothes. But Harry thought it was aimed at him!
Harry was wearing his best black pants that had been new at the beginning of the year and his best shirt and Gryffindor tie. They were both well-worn and very small for him now. Harry hung his head in shame for both the rags and his lack of manners.
Esme patted Harry’s hand. “That is not your fault, my lad. But the fault of the adults who were supposed to be caring for you! We’ll get you a few things when we’re done here.”
Blanche smiled at him as well. “And you are very polite, Harry. We were talking about things you need to know to function in society. I know that you will do fine.”
Both ladies smiled at him, and those smiles reassured Harry to his toes that it was going to be alright.
“If you like, you can begin some estate management courses in the summer. You will be encouraged to come up with some investment ideas.” Goldrub informed. “I am honored to be one of the instructors at the summer school at Hogwarts.”
“I already have one plan, sir. Fred and George Weasley. Their pranks are better than Zonko's. They sell stuff in the common room to get gold to invent more. They are brilliant. But I'll write down other ideas as they come.”
The goblins all beamed at the boy. It was good that he was already going to be looking for such opportunities.
Harry thanked Dharma Briokz for all his help and said he was looking forward to learning more about estate management and investment, which made all the goblins very happy.
Then, it was time to remove the first binding, and consult with a curse-breaker about Harry's scar and see about the owl-ward.
**OO**
Because it was a ritual, they needed strong wizards (or witches) who knew how to deal with dark magic to supervise. Alastor Moody, acting as bodyguard, who had witnessed everything so far in the bank, asked to be the chanter. Marius also asked to participate, ready and willing to help an orphaned boy in need.
Fred, George, Molly, and Arthur were recruited for the anchors, having an existing bond with the boy.
Harry had no idea that it built stronger bonds with the Weasleys or forged new bonds with Marius Greengrass and Alastor Moody. After the ritual, Harry was just exhausted.
Moody frowned. The owl-ward was still in place. With the talent and magical binds on the boy, this was going to take time.
Both he and Marius had noticed the remnants of other bindings that had been broken, including a talent binding. Was that the parseltongue? Seeing a big snake could have snapped it alright.
Moody shuddered. More than anything, the former Slytherin detested and feared snakes; big ones.
While Harry was recovering, the aunties showed Harry some color schemes for the new home and asked him to choose his preferred pattern for dishes and such, from a magical catalog.
Before departing the alley, the ladies took Harry to get a few basic clothes. Marius warned Harry would grow, so they didn't buy a lot. But it was all new, the highest quality, and it all fit.
The aunties were not going to put up with undersized or oversized rags on the boy!
It was decided to have Harry in a place where he was comfortable while getting the parchment sorted on the guardianship. And then arrange several visits to help them bond.
Marius asked the aunties to wait outside for a moment. The goblins took their cue and said farewells.
“Harry. I am authorized by the Department of Magical Law Enforcement to remove you from your muggle guardians. I have done so, and others are seeing to their arrest. There will be a trial. Regardless of the results of that trial, you will not be going back there. Before I place you with anyone, I want your approval. Do you want to live with Madam Rosier and Madam Hillcrest?”
“Yes, Healer Marius. I want to live with them. Their magic. It's nice.”
“They are good people. And I would also like to be a part of your new family, not just because they are my aunties.” Marius added.
I'd like that. A lot.” Harry smiled.
Marius and Harry left the meeting room to rejoin the ladies.
Harry really did like the sisters and was surprised that they both hugged him in farewell. As did Marius. They even said they were looking forward to being with him!
Marius asked his Aunties about informing a girl that Harry thought sounded like Cinderella. Was that a magical name? They both agreed that having a good family magical lawyer, who was also on their side, was a smart plan.
Harry had always been sensitive to truth and lies, something in the magic. They truly wanted to be a family for him, Marius included. What may have started out as concern for an abandoned child was turning into a true family.
Harry was warmed with the thought of it and envisioned the new colors of the living room, Hermione and him sitting on a love seat together, reading a book. The aunties knitting or doing whatever it was they did.
No loud telly, no shouting, no angry or harsh words.
Harry wondered if what he was thinking about was love, and knew the picture of family wouldn't be complete without Hermione.
After that, Harry returned to the Burrow for what was supposed to be a few days. Harry had been encouraged to eat several light snacks during the day, and did, as well as having a decent helping of Irish stew for dinner.
**OO**
Thursday, June 25
1:00 PM, Diagon Alley
"Miss Greengrass, I got your message about meeting you at this time if I was interested in House Black matters. Specifically, inheritance."
Cedrella Greengrass, lawyer and barrister, was very aware of just how lethal the witch that just entered her office was. But for Sirius? She would be willing to do anything to help her beloved, even face this viper.
"Be welcome, guest. I have your favorite coffee, and a small assortment of pastries from Pierre's."
The tray included Croissants au Chocolat and a selection of other petit specialities from the magical bakery from Paris' magical district. A bakery that happened to be a short distance from the Black townhouse. Narcissa was a favored patroness.
“I accept your hospitality." Narcissa agreed.
An expensive coffee and pastry were well worth the insurance of not being killed by this dangerous witch. Especially since, unlike her Master, the Dark Lord, Narcissa Malfoy followed the old ways.”
The ladies sipped dark, bitter coffee while nibbling foreign delights, and spoke only of little things for a while. Then it was time to get down to business.
“As you know, Sirius Black was sent to Azkaban by Dumbledore with no trial. No trial means that he can still claim his legal inheritance, and set whoever he wants as Heir. If, however, the man was convicted for life…”
“…he loses all such claims to the House, and the Heir would be decided by blood. Very clever. You were Slytherin, just a few years behind me in school. I was sorry to hear about Algernon Abbot. It was a love match. So, I heard. Disappearance is worse than death, waiting for a loved one to return. You must truly love him.” The woman purred, probing for weakness.
Madam Malfoy had known about Sirius being thrown in prison without a trial! Cedrella filed that away, while clamping down her personal feelings.
Algernon Abbot was Sirius Black's undercover name. One that worked well, as the real Algernon had joined the Death Eaters and mysteriously disappeared a few months later after a fight with Auror Moody.
“I won't bleed in front of you, Madam Malfoy,” Cedrella said a bit sharply. Losing Sirius, to miss him every day. The cottage they had bought together in Stirling was in stasis. Cedrella couldn't stand to live in it without him.
“My apologies, my dear. I was contracted. Lucius and I do well together, despite not choosing each other.” Narcissa offered. The message 'I'm married and you aren't' was loud and clear.
Well, if she was going to show her claws. “I am so sorry about the unpleasantness with the goblins. If I had contacted you earlier, this might have been avoided.”
Narcissa had been denied further funds from House Black vaults until her son produced the Heir Ring. Something that she was loath to admit was locked in Sirius Black's vault. And was still considered active until the goblins had proof of a conviction.
Lucius was going to be furious. Narcissa's husband had secretly fought Arcturus Black's attempts to get his grandson and heir out of Azkaban. Now, Narcissa's grandfather's death put everything she wanted at risk instead of confirming what she thought to be true.
What if Draco wasn't Sirius Black's named heir? Harry Potter was the wretched blood-traitor's godson, after all.
Narcissa paled and her eyes sparked. Good. One point for Cedrella.
“I should point out that Sirius Black dying in prison does you no good, but in fact great harm. Your House Black stipend would be stopped, and you would likely lose your marriage just as soon as Harry Potter became Head of House. For some reason, it would seem that Mr. Potter has taken a disliking to your son. He could take steps to remove you from the House.”
“You are saying that Harry Potter is named Heir?”
“I am.”
Narcissa looked ready to kill, and Cedrella stood to end the interview.
“Potter knows nothing about anything! He didn't know how to even greet his cousin properly!” Narcissa was one step from raving. “He wouldn't know how to get the ring or how to act. He's a complete imbecile!”
“I heard rumors of this as well from my niece. More ignorance than lack of manners, so she thinks. She says he wears rags and is uncouth. Who is to blame? The child or his guardian? A guardian stuck in prison without a way of guiding his godson. Or the man who placed said true guardian in gaol, named himself magical guardian, and did nothing.”
Narcissa stood, and paced the room. That should be worth three points, Cedrella thought.
“What do you want? What do you get out of this?” Narcissa demanded, nostrils nearly flaring.
“For one thing, I get to see the man who put the heir of a noble house in prison without a trial embarrassed. Maybe even lose the Chief Warlock job.”
That got her attention! And calmed the dangerous witch. Yes, she even gave that horrid little smile, the one she used just before people died.
“Continue,” Narcissa commanded.
“A pureblood scion should never be treated that way. Dumbledore shows more respect to muggleborn than that. Second, I get two fees. One upfront for preparing the paperwork, and then acting as your cousin's barrister. The first fee you pay, the second will be paid from the Black vaults. Win or lose, the wizard deserves a trial.”
The third would be to see Harry Potter removed from Dumbledore's clutches and put into a decent home, one that included Sirius Black, but Cedrella Greengrass was keeping that to herself.
“And you think Sirius Black will be found guilty?”
“Madam Malfoy, if the Ministry shows their proof, I am very certain of the outcome. They still have his wand.” Cedrella pointed out.
“Aren't you worried about your reputation?” The Malfoy woman sneered.
“Not at all. I get to be seen as a warrior of justice, no matter the outcome. It's a win/win situation for me.”
Narcissa sat back down, her face that of someone sucking lemons. She picked up another croissant and nibbled at it daintily, giving herself time to think.
“This will take months to put into place. You don't know these people,” Madam Malfoy warned.
“Oh yes, but if the wheels of justice move slowly, then let's get them at least started. If you want things to change for House Black, that is.” Cedrella purred.
“You'll get your retainer. Draw up the papers. I will petition the Wizengamot on behalf of my wayward cousin.”
“I hear that Grimmauld Place is in an awful mess. Your Aunt Walburga had a devoted elf that clearly loved you. Poor creature. Perhaps you could get him to start working on cleaning it up for you. Win or lose, I'm sure that Sirius would want you to have something for your efforts.”
“I have too many elves, one of which my husband lets Draco use for target practice. I'll send that worthless Dobby over to help clean.”
Dobby had disappeared twice recently, and was clearly unstable; this would be the perfect task for him. If that house-elf got out of line, Kreacher would torture and kill him, and have something enjoyable to do for a change.
“Kreacher is old and needs help. It would be nice to have a residence so near Diagon and shopping. A place to entertain friends. Thank you for the suggestion.”
Cedrella knew Sirius Black hated that house. If freed, Sirius and she would move into the cottage they bought together. Giving her Grimmauld Place was a cheap price for Narcissa's cooperation.
Narcissa started to head to the door. “I hear good things about you, Miss Greengrass. Have you thought about what happens should you win?”
Cedrella looked down a moment to hide the hope that she knew loomed large in her eyes.
With the lawyer's occlumency going full bore, she dared look up. Speaking softly, the barrister answered. “Well then. I'll expect a huge bonus, and you, Madam Malfoy, will be in your cousin's debt for getting him out of gaol.”
Narcissa pursed her lips. “Then it appears that I too am in a win/win situation. Sirius wouldn't dare stop my stipend if he was freed. And he would feel grateful. Thank you, Miss Greengrass. Expect my prompt payment.”
The Malfoy matron headed to the bank, and Cedrella sighed in relief. The invisible goblin guard was paid and dismissed.
Cedrella patted one of a pair of old picnic baskets that James and Sirius made for when Sirius was undercover. It was about to be used for the first time in years.
**OO**
Thursday, June 25
About 9:30 PM, Ron's room, the Burrow
Harry was reading the Household Charms book, and following the animated picture for the wand movements. Ron came in, washed, and ready for bed.
“Poor Hermes, Percy's owl. Every day, sometimes twice a day, he's having to carry messages to Penny.”
“Penny is really nice. Hermione really likes her.” Harry said, smiling at the thought of seeing his best friend soon.
“Yeah. Hey, your eyes got real bright there. Thinking about Hermione?”
“I wouldn't know. But I do know I miss her. She's been a good friend. I would have been killed this year without her. Or worse, failed all my classes. I have to do a lot better next year, or I'll lose flying privileges.” Harry smirked at his own joke and rubbed his chest. It physically ached to miss her so much.
“Your new guardians are going to be that strict? My mum doesn't care, as long as we pass. Fred or George got a Troll once on something. That wasn't pleasant.”
Harry chuckled, and reached over to pick up a piece of cheese and cracker. Ron had been given a snack plate too, much larger than Harry's actually, but Harry's was sized to the Healer's recommendations. Harry's plate was still half full, while Ron's was crumbs and memories.
A freckled hand wandered too close and got lightly zapped for his efforts.
“You got yours, you ate it. I am savoring mine.” Harry said, sipping warm milk.
“Yeah, yeah. I guess I should slow down a bit.” Ron admitted. “What are you reading there?”
“If I learn all the spells on this list, my new aunties will buy me a new broom! Then we can…”
“What!? What do you need a new broom for? You already have a Nimbus! Sure, the 2001's are coming out but still. Must be nice to have everything first hand, and not have to put up with rubbish.”
Ron was pointedly looking at Harry's new pyjamas. The group had done a bit of shopping after the bank meeting, and Harry had new clothes for the first time that weren't school robes.
Harry just looked at his friend. He hadn't meant to say anything about the new broom, stupid potions, but keep it as a surprise if Ron was allowed to go to Junior Quidditch. Which hadn't been decided on yet.
Harry just kept his head down and tried to concentrate on practicing.
“So, are you going to ask Hermione out? I mean, you'll live in Hogsmeade. There's Zonko's, and Honeydukes. And the Three Broomsticks. Everyone can afford a butterbeer now and then, at that place.”
Harry stopped what he was doing to concentrate on what Ron was saying, then picked up one of the snacks. Harry paused just before putting the next cheese cracker into his mouth.
“I can go on dates with Hermione,” Harry said aloud. “That's brilliant Ron!”
Harry pictured it. He and Hermione, walking down the narrow lanes of the village. His new family made it sound very picturesque. They were going to be living on the side nearer to Hogwarts, so it was just a hop, skip, and a jump to school.
Harry would ask if he could bring Hermione home for visits on one of the weekends. Then they could…
“Yep, and then when you're done with her, it will be my turn to use her as a practice girlfriend, and then Neville can. He actually seems to really like her, you know? Weird. But who do you really want to ask out, you know, later, when you're ready for a pretty girl?” Ron stopped talking, as the lights flickered dangerously.
“Ron, you can feel however you want to feel about Hermione. But I really like her. Not as a pretend or practice girlfriend, but as a real one. And before you start on how there are prettier or whatever girls out there, just stop. Let's agree to disagree about this.”
“But Harry! You could have any bird out there! Hermione can be a bit of a nightmare, really. She's so bossy and all. There are so many better girls!” Ron reasoned.
“Everyone has different tastes, Ron. I like Hermione.”
Well, yeah. I mean, we need her for homework and stuff. I get that. I want to be her friend too. But Harry, I mean Ginny really likes you. A lot. She's loads prettier. You could date her!”
“Ron! How could she like me? We've never talked. Unless spilling the peas, putting her elbow in the butter, or dropping that plate of biscuits was some sort of sign language that I don't understand.”
“She's just shy around you yet. Ginny's normally one of the loudest of us. You'll get over Hermione. You need a better girl, mate. Maybe you just need a bit of the right potion.”
Harry stared at his friend. It was one thing to laugh about love potions. But Ron looked deadly serious.
Ron's bed started shaking violently, despite Harry's efforts to remain calm.
“I like Hermione, and I'm allowed to like Hermione, Ron. I'm going to take my snack back to the kitchen.” Harry informed him, and left the room, with all of his books, the snack, and the cup of warm milk.
Harry did the breathing exercises Marius showed him and opened up the book on occlumency to clear his mind.
Get over Hermione? The thoughts of Hermione after his head cleared of the poison were what saved him! He had got away because of how he felt about her. He used her name as a soothing mantra, saying it slowly. Savoring the syllables. Hermione. Hermione. Hermione.
Then Harry's anger flared again.
Right kind of potion! Harry knew that Marius had to work tonight, but wrote a quick note. Harry couldn't stay here! Ron was jealous of everything! His new clothes, trying to earn a new broom – a broom Harry had planned on sharing with Ron!
Harry set the snack down in the living room on the little table and scooted the enchanted knitting needles and yarn over a bit, as he had seen George do.
Hedwig came to the window, and set off with the note. She'd spend the night there with the Healer.
Laying out on the couch, the knitting clicking steadily over his feet, Harry pulled the folded Afghan blanket over him. Harry snuggled into the warmth of the family room and tried to think of anything but the last few minutes of conversation with his former best friend.
Harry would floo Marius in the morning if the Healer didn't come there directly. He could feel his anger bubbling, and his new power begging to be unleashed. The love-sick young boy’s heart ached, missing Hermione and feeling like he had lost something important that he could never get back in just a few minutes of thoughtless words.
**OO**
A/N: Thank you for reading.
A/N: Story Recommendations: I t's Not Just A Stick: A Wand Crafter's Story by Kgfinkel
Posted on FFN & AO3 Harry Potter was introduced to 'magic' and magic wands earlier than canon by his primary school teacher Miss Honeybloom. It was also during that class, he was introduced to and became lifelong friends with a certain Miss Hermione Granger. Armed with a burgeoning knowledge of wandcrafting, an inquisitive best friend, and a supportive aunt and uncle; magic awaits!
This work was originally publish on fanfiction.net and had a different beta for the first several chapters. This is slightly updated from that work.
16 December 2021