Chapter 28 - The Great Escape?
Harry, Hermione, Susan, Daphne, and Bloodtooth were waiting on Minerva to escort the twelve members of the Board of Governors into the conference room they've become so familiar with recently. Harry had even joked with Bloodtooth about having it become his own small territory inside the bank.
Rita was watching the meeting from the adjoining room as she had been instructed earlier. They figured that the Boards reactions would be more truthful if they didn't know a member of the press was watching. She was curious as to why they had decided to have the meeting at the bank, until her bosses had explained that this would ensure that the Board couldn't dispute the claims of them actually being the rightful heirs, without insulting the Goblin Nation that is.
Everyone's attention snapped to the entrance as two goblin guards opened the door to allow Minerva to enter with the Board in tow.
"Ah, Head Mistress McGonagall, right on time as always," Harry greeted. "If you and our guests would please take your seats we will proceed immediately."
"Of course, Lord Potter Black," Minerva smiled at her godson as she took her seat directly in front of him with the twelve board members filing into either side of her as she noticed the looks on their faces regarding her new title.
"Now, I assume you're all wondering why you're here?" Harry started.
However, before he could say anything further an older, balding, angry looking gentleman stood and said, "I for one would like to know exactly, why you feel you have the authority to call this meeting in the first place. Not to mention, why we're having it here Potter?"
You could hear the distaste in his voice as he asked the last with a sneer worthy of a Malfoy as he looked toward Bloodtooth with obvious disdain.
"It's Lord Potter Black, and you are?" questioned Harry calmly. He knew he was just winding the man up but he really didn't care for his attitude towards his friends.
"Gawain Lambard III and I've been a member of this board since before your father was born boy."
"Well, Mister Lambard, you may have been a board member that long but you are no longer," Harry stated firmly before adding, "and it's Lord Potter Black to you sir."
"You can't remove me from this board. You don't have the authority," Lambard snarled.
"I can assure you, I do. Now, listen carefully all of you, for I will say this only once. I am Lord Harry James Potter Black, a descendant and heir of Godric Gryffindor and heir of Slytherin by right of conquest. Therefore, I do have the authority to disband this entire board and I shall."
"You can not disband the Board of Governors, Lord Potter Black without all four heirs and since you have only claimed to be heir of two, your word has no effect on me or this board."
"Ah, let me introduce my wives then," Harry said as he stood and motioned for Hermione, Daphne and Susan to stand as well.
"This is the Lady Hermione Potter, Magical Heiress of Rowena Ravenclaw," Harry said as he took Hermione's hand and raised it to place a light kiss to her knuckles.
"This is the Lady Susan Bones Potter Black, Magical Heiress of Helga Hufflepuff," he said before repeating his actions from a moment before with Hermione.
"And this is the Lady Daphne Black, whom is bonded to the heirs before you," he said before repeating his gesture a third time.
"Now, gentlemen and ladies, as you can see the four heirs are present and therefore, your services are no longer needed, nor wanted," Harry told them after he had resumed his seat after the murmuring had quieted down.
It would seem that this Mister Lambard was the designated spokesmen for the group as he said, "You expect us to believe this without proof? If the heirs had returned, we would have heard about it before now."
"Ah, but they have proof. The tests were performed by myself at the beginning of this summer at the request of Lord Potter Black and his Ladies. That was their first magical blood testing and so they have just learned of this as well. Now, if you wish to claim that the Goblin Nation's word is not proof enough then I'm sure we can arrange you an audience with the High King himself," sneered Bloodtooth. He did not like this wizard and hoped he was foolish enough to challenge his claim.
However, the man was not that big of an idiot as he said, "Your word is proof enough Senior Goblin. Forgive the implication otherwise, this is just a shock."
"Yes, I see that," said Bloodtooth, "however, you should remember your station from here on out and address the Lord and his Ladies accordingly, as they are important friends of the Goblin Nation."
Lambard had a sickly color change come across him at hearing those last words. No matter what he or the others came up with to challenge this claim, they knew it was useless after that declaration. Not only had the goblin confirmed the claims, he'd also just basically put the full force of the Goblin Nation behind Potter with his words. He had to think quickly to save face and possibly his neck.
"Again, my humblest apologies Senior Goblin, Lord Potter Black and Ladies. Of course, we will have no qualms disbanding the board since the Founders Heirs have returned. We will relinquish any control, properties, or items we have regarding the school and offer our congratulations on your ascensions."
"Thank you Mister Lambard, however, before you go we wanted to give each of you a notice, as former board members, of the ongoing audits being conducted for us by the Goblin Nation. After all, we need to become familiar with our heritage. Good Day, gentlemen, ladies," Harry said as an obvious dismal.
He and the others watched the looks of horror spread across some of the members' faces when he mentioned the audit. Now, as they practically fled the room he knew he had done the right thing in looking into the schools finances.
Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge looked up from the various papers on his desk at the abrupt sound of heavy wrapping on his door. He had left instructions not to be disturbed this morning and so with a heavy sigh he replied, "Enter."
Entering his door was the last person he felt like dealing with this morning, Amelia Bones, Director of the DMLE. He had hoped to have this prisoner transfer handled without her interference. Especially, since he was planning on using the positive press to help bolster his standing as Minister of Magic.
"Please take a seat Amelia," Fudge said as he motioned to one of the rather uncomfortable chairs directly in front of his desk.
"No thank you Cornelius," Amelia tersely answered. "I have only stopped into ask, what in the name of Merlin are you thinking, sending three mid-level Aurors out to escort someone as powerful as Albus Dumbledore into custody. Don't you think that a team of my top Aurors would've been better suited instead?"
"Amelia, I personally hand picked this team and have faith in their ability to see this transfer through. Albus has been detained by goblins for Merlin's sake, so a short trip from the bank should be an uneventful task."
"You underestimate him, Cornelius," Amelia replied. "He is one of the most powerful and influential wizards of our time, not to mention the goblins you so snidely refer to have very special ways of detaining him that we do not. I fear this will not go our way and request that you allow me and a special team go and assist in this matter."
"You may not aid, nor may you send a team. However, I will be departing shortly to personally oversee the transfer and will allow you to accompany me so that you may see that your worries are unnecessary and tiresome quite frankly."
"Very well, Cornelius. Have it your way, I will step back and let you handle this. You just remember this discussion as I will definitely be including it in my official reports regarding this whole matter," Amelia said before she left his office to wait for this fiasco to unfold.
Aurors Robards, Dawlish, and Williamson had just flooed into the Leaky Cauldron. They'd been hand picked for an assignment the day before by Minister Fudge and had been assured that it would be a quick prisoner exchange. Fudge explained that he would join and oversee the transfer with a small press contingency. They were instructed to proceed as normal and would be awarded accordingly, once the transfer was over.
"Let's get this over with," Robards said as he headed toward the entrance to Diagon Alley.
"I don't think it should be too tough. A simple in and out according to Fudge. I believe it's some sort of cooked up publicity stunt of his anyway," Williamson said as he passed through the archway behind the others.
"Well, we'll see. So shut your traps and get a move on. It's almost time," Dawlish drawled out as he passed the other two as they headed toward the bank.
They passed down the street easily and stopped at the base of the steps that lead into Gringotts where two armored guards stood next to the doors.
"We're here to take possession of a prisoner that's being released to the Minister of Magic," Dawlish sneered at the guards.
"We know why you are here wizard. You are early and will just have to wait since the prisoner is still being readied for transfer," snarled one of the guards.
Dawlish glared at the guards but knew better than to taunt them. He turned to his companions and motioned for them to stay in position. He scanned the area and saw a few people on the street conducting their business but other than that it was calm and clear. He did, however, notice that Fudge was a few yards away with a reporter and a photographer from the Daily Prophet.
A few moments passed before Dawlish and the others saw the doors begin to open. They were surprised to see that filing from the doors were two lines of armored goblins, four in front of each line. Directly behind them stood two goblins pulling what appeared to be glowing chains connected to a belt securely tightened around the waist of Albus Dumbledore. Two goblins followed immediately behind Dumbledore carrying two chains that extended from the back of his belt and were followed by four more armored goblins.
Dawlish, Robards, and Williamson shared a glance at one another that showed the clear shock on each of their faces. They had not been informed it was Albus-too-many-names-and titles-Dumbledore, supposedly the most powerful wizard alive, they were to transport. Turning their attention back to the entourage before them they immediately began to feel totally unprepared for such a task and was wondering if Fudge had a brain in his head at all.
As the goblin entourage stopped, Bloodtooth stepped from behind them and headed to address the Aurors. He said, "We are here to hand over the possession of the prisoner, Albus Dumbledore, to you, the representatives of the Minister of Magic. Are you the team that was sent forth by your Minister?"
"We are," Dawlish said as he and the others stepped forward.
"Very well, we will be releasing him into your custody. Once we remove our bindings, he is yours and all responsibility will fall upon your Minister at this time," Bloodtooth informed them before he turned around to face the goblins gathered. He began to speak in their native tongue, relaying his orders.
The three Aurors watched as the goblin barked out his orders. They watched the armored guards step aside, turn in perfect sequence, and begin to march back up the steps. The four goblins holding the chains stepped closer to the prisoner, drew out keys and released the binding belt and stepped back. They nodded to Bloodtooth before they followed the others back up the steps.
Albus Dumbledore seemed to be regaining his faculties rather quickly. He had seemed mentally unaware and unstable on his feet while he was being restrained by the goblins. Now, though he seemed to be rousing to his surroundings.
Upon noticing this Dawlish immediately stepped forward and said, "Albus Dumbledore, we are here to reprimand you into the custody of Minister Fudge."
Dumbledore looked up to see the three Aurors stepping his way, as he noticed a flash from besides them he decided to get this show on the road so to speak. "Ah, yes, well I hate to disappoint you fine gentleman, but I have pressing matters to attend."
He took a step forwards and the Aurors wasted no time in bringing their wands to bear on him. Three stunner spells shot forth and headed his way. He immediately raised his hand and a large silvery shield appeared before him, which rebounded the spells upon their casters.
As the Aurors dropped stunned to the ground, Albus stepped forward and looked toward where the flash had came from, only to see a flabbergasted Cornelius Fudge alongside the press representatives.
"Ah, Cornelius, I must thank you for arranging my release. I couldn't have done it without your insistence that I be removed from the inescapable, heavily warded bank. Now, if you will excuse me I have to find and kill Harry Potter before he can stop the Dark Lord from achieving the Greater Good for the wizarding world. Good Day."
With that he apparated away with barely a sound, amidst the flurry of flashes.
Harry was seated between his wives as he was stared at by his very formidable Godmother.
"Just what in Merlin's name possessed you to say that?" McGonagall asked harshly in her Scottish brogue as she paced back and forth in front of him.
Everyone had gathered in the living room, upon Harry's return, to hear the details of the escape. They were told how Harry had taken the goblins equivalent of polyjuice potion and dressed in the clothes provided by Minerva from Albus's possessions (that remained stored in the dungeons of the school), how they shackled him and led him out, how Bloodtooth had used goblin magic to conjure the shield so it would appear that Albus had wandlessly conjured it, and how Fudge and the press watched helplessly as he escaped after his little speech.
By this time Amelia had arrived and had filled them in on the happenings at the Ministry after Fudge returned. He had locked himself away in his office and refused to see anyone including herself. She sent a team out to revive the downed Aurors and question them about the incident. They knew it wouldn't lead to anything but she had to follow protocol to ensure no one suspected anything was amiss. The only thing that hadn't gone to plan was Harry's little impromptu speech as he fled.
"Well, I was thinking that not only could we take a shot at Fudge with this but we could use it to keep everyone questioning the things Dumbledore has done, especially in the Wizengamot. Not to mention, him saying I was a threat to the Dark Lord would also, hopefully, help implant that idea in the public and start gathering us a little more support," Harry replied evenly. He felt rather relaxed from his position surrounded by his attentive wives. They needed the physical contact to reassure themselves that he returned unharmed and well, even though the bond allowed them to know this before he returned. It seemed that after this short separation, they still felt like they needed the contact to reaffirm what they already knew.
"Now, all we need to do is storm the emergency Wizengamot session that will be called and call for a vote of no confidence after announcing our voting block, right?" Harry asked to try and shift the attention away from his little speech and back to Fudge.
"Exactly, Augusta is filing the formal request as we speak and then the members should be notified later tonight," Amelia answered. "I will send a patronus messenger to Minerva and let her know when the session will be held. I imagine the Daily Prophet will have front page coverage of the escape in the morning so it should add fuel to the fire for us as well."
"Since there's nothing more to be done today, I'd like to retire with my lovelies and relax before we take on the government tomorrow. Minerva, you're welcome to join us in the morning for breakfast. Amelia thank you for your help, and you're more than welcome to join us as well," Harry said as he untangled from his wives and stood.
"Thanks for the offer, but I believe I'll be too busy to attend. Susan, take care and you three as well," Amelia replied as the quad stood ready to head off to the third floor.
"I'll see you four in the morning then," said Minerva from her spot across from the Grangers and Amelia.
After the quad left Dan asked, "Now, I don't know about anyone else but I sure could use a nice stiff drink."
"That sounds excellent to me as well," replied Minerva with a chuckle. "Sometimes I think he just tries to see if he can get me to drink."
"Well, we're in agreement on that as well," said Emma as she took the drink that had appeared in front of her, no doubt Winky's doing.
"You know," Amelia said after she took a drink from her own glass, "he did have a point. By Albus stating that he was a plausible threat to Voldemort, more people will want to align themselves with him. The statement about him going after Harry will also allow me a lot of leverage when it comes to their security as well. Not to mention having it seem that Dumbledore holds the same beliefs as Voldemort. That alone will give us a way to go back and review all the laws that has been passed since his tenure began."
***Warning: You may skip this section and not miss anything besides some lemony goodness.***
"Is it me or do you both feel compelled to maintain as much contact with Harry as possible?" questioned Hermione after the three had undressed and were sitting on the bed waiting for Harry to join them after his shower.
"I know what you mean," began Daphne as she slipped closer to Hermione and wrapped her arms around Hermione's stomach, so that Hermione was nestled between her legs with her breast pressed into her lover's back. "I know he was only away from us for about 12 hours but the pull I feel for him is only lessened when I'm touching him."
"This maybe another aspect of the bond that we have to deal with," Susan said as she ran her hands up and down Hermione's long creamy legs enticing soft moans from the recipient. "Prolonged physical absence may cause us to crave the missing spouse. Let's face it, we've not been separated for more than an hour at the most since we completed our bonds."
"You do have a point," sighed Hermione as she let her head roll back onto Daphne's shoulder. Susan's soft soothing hands and Daphne's breath on her neck was causing her to long her for wives at the moment. "However, I hope we don't have an opportunity to test that theory by any prolonged separations."
"Agreed," Daphne murmured before she used her position to start nipping at Hermione's exposed neck. She placed soft kisses along her long slender neck until she reached her pulse point where she began sucking a little harder.
Hermione moaned and raised her arms up and over her head to pull Daphne into her neck more as she ran one hand through Daphne's hair as the other held her tightly in place. This gave Daphne the perfect opportunity to pull her hands flat across Hermione's stomach and up the sides of rib cage until she reached the curve of Hermione's breast. Daphne then cupped each breast and kneaded them lightly before taking the perk nipples between her fingers and rolling them slightly.
Susan sat with her legs folded under as she slowly ran her hands up and down Hermione's thighs as she watched Daphne fondle those beautiful breast. She sat up a little more and braced herself with her hands on those luscious thighs, so she could dip her head to Hermione's chest where she ran her tongue around the nipple Daphne had just presented her with before she sucked it into the warmth of her mouth.
Daphne captured Hermione's lips and began a deeply passionate kiss as she continued to knead Hermione's breast as Susan switched back and forth between nipples. Susan glanced up with lust filled eyes and watched as the pairs' tongues fought for dominance. Slowly, releasing the nipple she was currently latched onto with a soft popping sound, she joined the two's kiss and drew them into a heated three-way tongue battle.
Hermione tensed a little as she felt Susan shift so that she was sitting astride her right thigh. She felt Susan's slickness grinding against her as she felt Susan run a finger up through her dripping slit. Slowly sliding two fingers through Hermione's swollen lips Susan circled Hermione's clit a few times before sliding her fingers back to Hermione's opening and pushing into her tight velvety wetness.
"Unh...Susan," Hermione moaned as she thrust her hips forward onto Susan's questing fingers.
"Yea, 'Mione," Susan asked as she pumped her finger's slowly in and out.
"I want you to lick me love," Hermione breathed out as she lay back and pulled Daphne around before guiding Daphne to kneel above her. "While I show Daphne here, just what your marvelous tongue is doing to me."
Susan was more than happy to oblige as she kept her fingers sliding into her lover. She ran her tongue slowly up Hermione's slit before sucking her clit into her mouth, giving it a little nip with her teeth as she tugged back on it before devouring it again.
Harry had felt the spike of desire roll over him through the bond as he turned the water on in the shower. After a few minutes of standing under the warm stream, he was rock hard. He knew they would be well on their way to their first orgasms before he even joined them. So he finished up his shower trying to avoid touching his throbbing member as much as possible.
That thought was abandoned as soon as he stepped through the bathroom door and saw the position his wives were in before him. He watched quietly from the foot of the bed and slowly stroked his cock for a few minutes as Daphne gyrated above Hermione as her tongue slid in and around Daphne's cunt, while Susan worshiped Hermione with her bum swaying back and forth above her knees giving him a unobstructed view of her dripping sex and pink puckered ring.
Harry crawled onto the bed and positioned himself behind Susan. He gripped her hips and slid his cock between her legs so that his head slid along her wet hot slit. After a few passes that thoroughly lubed his aching member, he pushed his tip into her tight opening. He slowly pushed forward until he was buried to the hilt. He started withdrawing at the same pace and was ready to set a slow and steady rhythm.
It seemed Susan had other ideas. As soon as his tip was barely inside her opening, she slammed her hips back and impaled herself on his rigid cock causing his balls to bounce into her clit. Taking the cue, Harry gave a grunt and set the pace that his wife apparently wanted.
The four of them continued long in to the night as they satiated their need for Harry and each other.
***Warnings End***
Albus Dumbledore Escapes Under Minister's Nose
By Zamira Gulch
Yes, dear readers, you saw that correctly.
I was summoned to the Ministry, along with my photographer, to accompany our Minister of Magic to witness, what I was told to be the transfer of a high priority prisoner.
We arrived in front of Gringotts and witnessed three, yes three, mid-level Aurors standing before the steps waiting to take possession of one Albus Dumbledore.
Now, as you all have read recently, the former leader of the light, has been detained by the Goblin Nation on many charges of wrong doings against Lord Potter Black, amongst various other serious charges. What you may not be aware of is that our Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge, has been petitioning to have Dumbledore released into his custody relentlessly since his incarceration.
I have since learned that the three Aurors, Dawlish, Robards, and Williamson, were hand picked by the Minister and that he refusedto allow the Head of the DMLE, Amelia Bones, to put together a special ops team to handle the transfer.
Now, we can look at this from three view points.
One, being the Minister felt that Dumbledore was not regarded as a serious threat. Two, he thoroughly believed his team would be sufficient enough to handle this monumental task and gain him some positive press to boot. Or third, and most disturbing, is that he supported the escape and helped ensure it's success with an undermanned retrieval team.
After being released (from what I have learned to be an entourage of no less than twenty armored goblins who escorted a magically suppressed Dumbledore) to the three Aurors, Dumbledore conjured a wandless shield that reflected the Aurors own stunner spells, essentially incapacitating themselves.
He then had this to say before he apparated away,
"Ah, Cornelius, I must thank you for arranging my release. I couldn't have done it without your insistence that I be removed from the inescapable, heavily warded bank. Now, if you will excuse me I have to find and kill Harry Potter before he can stop the Dark Lord from achieving the Greater Good for the wizarding world. Good Day."
So my dear readers, I ask you now to consider whether these are the actions of a man that you want leading our world. Is Minister Fudge the best person to protect us from the dangers we face from not only He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named but now Albus Dumbledore as well, who's threatening to kill the very person he claims maybe able to stop the Dark Lord?
"That's about all it say's the next parts are just background information and then of course the pictures themselves. Here have a look," Daphne said after she finished reading the article to her spouses.
They instructed Dobby bring them a copy of the Daily Prophet as soon as it was rolled off the presses. The little guy took this quite serious since he actually popped into the printing room and snatched the first one that rolled off the line.
"Well, at least your parting words had the effect you were looking for, love," Susan said.
"Yes, that's good but can we please all go back to sleep? I'm glad Dobby takes his job so seriously but it is 3:30 in the morning for Merlin's sake. We just drifted off an hour or so ago, and we do have to storm the Wizengamot sometime today," Hermione grumbled from her position between Daphne and Harry.
"Yes, dear," chuckled Harry softly as he felt Susan tighten her hold around his chest from her spot snuggled up behind him.
Chapter Twenty-nine - The Wizengamot
"Danyella, where are you?" called Nathaniel Greengrass as he walked back into their bedchambers. He'd risen as usual, an hour or so before her, to go downstairs and have his coffee and read The Prophet before she would've joined him for breakfast. When she didn't show up at her normal time, he went in search of her.
He paused as he saw her sitting on the edge of their bed holding a letter with a smile on her face. "It's good news I take it?" he asked as he stepped forward to sit next to her.
"Oh, Nate, I'm sorry. I guess I was lost in my mind for a moment and didn't hear you come in," she responded as she felt his arm wrap around her waist as he sat beside her.
"I was curious what was keeping you," he said as he nodded toward the letter in her hands. "I assume, from your smile, that it's from Narcissa?"
"Yes, it is," she said, "and you won't believe the news she sent."
"Well, let's hear it then. If it can make you this happy, then I'm sure it means you'll be seeing her soon?" Nate replied.
"You mean WE will be seeing her soon. Nate, I've told you that I won't do anything to hurt you. I meant it. I love you and if she can't accept that then nothing will happen between us," Danyella responded. "I know you said that it was my happiness that worried you, but we've built a loving family together and whether or not we can fit one more will depend on how we connect to one another."
"I love you too. Now, let's hear this news," he said with a smile that matched hers. He knew that she meant what she said and for her sake he hoped things would go smoothly between him and Narcissa.
Oh, he knew that he could be attracted to her, after all, she was as lovely a woman as Danyella, but he hoped that he could find a connection with her that would allow his wife to have everything she desired. They'd discussed their situation extensively the past week, and had came to the conclusion that they would see how well things went between himself and Narcissa before they decided where this would go. Danyella had brought up the idea of maybe bringing Narcissa in as a second wife. That was legal after all, but he wasn't sure how he felt about it.
"Cissa says that she was offered the position of Transfiguration Professor at Hogwarts, and that she accepted. She will be moving into the castle a week or two before the start of term. She says that she's not sure whether she will receive the normal accommodations or not, however, since Draco will be in need of special protection this year from his former House and those with families that support the Dark Lord. She also expressed an interest in coming for a visit before she has to depart for the school, so that she can formally meet you and our daughters as Narcissa Black, and not the Malfoy trophy wife she was forced to be."
"Why don't you send her an invitation for dinner tomorrow night and then you can share your good news as well. Make it a sort of surprise for her, Professor Greengrass," Nate said with a sly smile before giving her a kiss on the cheek. "Don't forget that we have to head to the Granger's this morning to discuss a few things before we head to the Wizengamot."
"I remembered, I was actually getting our formal robes out when the owl tapped on the window," she replied. "I assumed you would want to announce our alliance at the same time as the others do."
"Of course," Nate replied, "we will all need to show a united front today, so that we are taken seriously by those old fools that only see power in names, titles, and stations."
"Well, they will certainly have a lot to see today," Danyella said as she headed to her desk to send her reply off so that they could get ready to head over to see the others.
"Right this way Head Mistress," Winky said as she led Minerva into the downstairs study at the Granger's home and indicated a spot in front of a table that held tea and biscuits. "The Master and Mistresses will be joining you soon."
Minerva had just finished preparing her tea when she heard, "Morning, sorry to keep you waiting."
It was Harry that had spoken as he and his wives entered the study, followed by Dan and Emma. She let them all get settled while exchanging greetings and settling in with their cups before she spoke.
"I received news this morning from Amelia. It seems that Augusta was successful in calling for an emergency Wizengamot session. It's scheduled for 2 this afternoon, will be seen before the full court, and will be open to the public."
"We didn't see an announcement in the papers this morning, so I can't imagine many will show up to the public gallery," Hermione remarked as the others just nodded their agreement.
"That's because there wasn't time to get it to the papers, however, the announcement will be made by a method that hasn't been used since the first war against Voldemort. It's a special type of spell that allows the Ministry to make emergency announcements over the floo network. Everyone within hearing range of a floo opening will hear the information. Hopefully, that will be enough to spread the news and gain interest in the meeting," Minerva informed them. "Good morning, Lord Greengrass, Lady Greengrass, join us."
Minerva motioned them forward. She noticed their arrival right after Hermione asked her question since she was facing the entrance to the study.
"Please Professor, call us Nathaniel and Danyella in settings such as these, when there's no need for formality," replied Nathaniel.
"Of course, but I must insist you call me Minerva then," she replied with a smile. "Now, as you heard things are set for the session at 2 this afternoon, is there anything you would like to add."
"We were wondering whether there was a plan in place to announce the seats held by the new Lord and his Ladies," replied Danyella.
"We wanted to ask for suggestions actually, Mother," responded Daphne. "You and father have the most experience here dealing with the members of the Wizengamot."
Harry, Susan, and Hermione nodded their agreement to Daphne's statement before Harry added, "We only know that we want to announce our positions, titles, and alliances before the vote of no confidence is called for against Fudge. We think that it will be better to get that out of the way instead of interrupting the process to explain why we are entitled to our seats."
"We agree with that as well," Nathaniel said, "since a united front will be needed to make any kind of impact on some of the older members. So here's what I was thinking..."
They discussed their plan as they waited on the others to join them for the trip to the Ministry.
"Wormtail, tell Dawlish I demand his presence," uttered Lord Voldemort from his throne.
He'd called his available inner circle this morning after hearing some disturbing news from one of his followers within the Wizengamot. He couldn't allow that old meddlesome Longbottom witch to get that puppet ousted as Minister without delaying his plans. Fudge was easily manipulated and misled allowing for the right scenario for his takeover to occur. He had instructed his follower inside the Wizengamot to nominate another sympathizer to his cause even though they weren't necessarily a member of his organization. He hoped at least to keep that bothersome Bones bitch out of the position. He wasn't able to stop her rise to Department Head during his absence but he knew that it would be difficult to overthrow the Ministry with her as Minister.
"Right away my Lord," Wormtail whimpered as he headed out the door quickly wishing to escape his Lord's presence.
A few moments later Auror Dawlish stepped inside the room and immediately stopped, lowered to one knee, bowed before his Lord and said, "You called my Lord, what might I do for you?"
"Rise Dawlish and come closer," Voldemort said. "I have a special assignment for you. A very important assignment, one that will reward you handsomely if you succeed, however, shall you fail me let's just say Bella will have someone to keep her company."
Voldemort had Wormtail forcing potions down Bellatrix's throat to keep her alive so that he may continue her torture for his amusement after which he'd have her fed healing potions so that he could start all over again the next day. He knew he would release her one day but not until he tired of his current pass-time.
"Of course my Lord, I only exist to serve you," Dawlish replied from his new position kneeling before the snake like man he called Master.
"I need you to use your position as an Auror to try and delay this travesty of a meeting this afternoon at the Ministry. I need you to stop Madam Longbottom before she calls for a vote against Fudge, anyway possible. I want her stopped from making that meeting anyway you can. Do you understand?"
"Yes, my Lord, I will see it done," Dawlish replied.
"Good, now take your leave and prepare yourself," Voldemort said with a dismissive wave of his hand.
Dawlish left Riddle Manor with a plan in mind. He knew his only chance was to ambush Madam Longbottom on the way to the court room. There were many alcoves off that hall that could provide a suitable hiding spot. He knew that hall was the only weakness he could exploit. The Atrium was too busy and the entrance to the court room would be crowded as well. He hoped that if he sat in wait long enough, she would pass him alone or with one or two others at the most. He could not risk more than that since he had to remain unseen to continue to be of use to his master. He knew that if he failed however, he would be of no use to anyone anymore.
Amelia Bones was waiting in front of the public floo entrances for her niece's party to arrive. She had personally connected the Granger's home to the ministry's floos. The connection should sever as soon as the last person arrived so that no one could use the connection against them or trace Harry's whereabouts. She looked up in time to see Lord and Lady Greengrass step out the floo followed by Harry. As she stepped forward to greet them she saw Hermione, Susan, Daphne, Neville Longbottom, Luna Lovegood, Augusta Longbottom, and finally Minerva exit the floos as well before she saw the flash that indicated the connection had severed.
"Glad you all made it. I hope you didn't have any difficulty with the floo connection on your end," asked Amelia as she stepped forward to give Susan a hug before proceeding to Harry, Daphne, and Hermione.
"None at all Auntie," Susan answered after the hugs.
"Well, since I'm here we can by-pass the security desk and I will escort everyone down to the waiting area I have set-up for your use before the session begins. We have about 45 minutes until we need to be seated so just follow me," Amelia told them as she herded them through the crowds and past the security check points.
After they cleared the Atrium crowd, they crammed into one of the lifts that took them down to the ninth floor. As they exited the lift Harry had a memory flash of being escorted down here by Mr. Weasley for his hearing on underage magic. It seemed as creepy this time as it had then with the exception of the noise the adults were making as they chatted amongst themselves.
What's the matter Harry? asked Hermione.
Just remembering the last time I was in this hall. I guess it put me on edge, this hall just seems to scream creepy to me for some reason. Harry responded.
Last time you were going to be on trail for some trumped-up charge that Fudge was using to persecute you, this time we will make him accountable for his actions, Daphne added.
Exactly, Fudge will wish he hadn't gotten on your bad side when we're done today. Hopefully, the things we do today will start a chain reaction inside the Ministry, Susan added as they exited the stairwell and continued on toward the waiting room that was right off the court room itself.
All of a sudden they heard Neville cry out "No!" behind them. They whirled around in time to see Neville leap in front of his Gran, who was walking right in front of him and Luna. They watched in what seemed like slow motion, to Harry at least, as a purple flash from an unknown spell hit Neville square in the chest right before he crumpled to the floor in agonizing pain, if the sounds of his screaming was anything to go by that is.
Things got hectic quickly at this point. Luna, Augusta, and Minerva were at Neville's side trying to see what they could do for him. Harry and the others had their wands drawn as they stood guard around the downed young man as they watched for the source of the attack to expose itself.
"Please, help him Minerva," cried out Augusta over Neville's wailing as she held a struggling Luna to her side to stop her from trying to reach her grandson.
"There's only one thing I can do until we're sure what hit him," Minerva responded as she drew her wand up and down Neville's twitching form as he continued to scream out in pain before he suddenly fell silent as Minerva lowered her wand.
Dawlish had hid in an alcove and waited on the perfect opportunity to attack Madam Longbottom, when he heard a group moving toward him. As they passed he knew this was his prey since he had just seen his boss walk by followed by a few others and then Potter himself with his whores in tow.
As his target drew near, he raised his wand and grasped his emergency Auror issued portkey. He just hoped and prayed that no-one was in the bunker since that would lead to him having to explain why he apparated outside the Ministry at the exact time that Madam Longbottom was attacked or having to dispose of any witnesses that could give him away. The Aurors were issued these portkeys in case the Ministry was invaded or locked down to prevent any type of magical entry or exit, since they would break through any wards and deposit them in a safe bunker where they could regroup and respond to whatever threat had caused them to evacuate.
Dawlish knew he would get only one shot with this many others around and so he took aim as Augusta neared him. He silently cast his curse while activating his portkey simultaneously. He didn't see the curse hit as he portkeyed away but he did hear someone scream 'No' as he was whisked away. He hoped he hit his mark or his Lord would surely not be pleased.
"Augusta," Minerva said, "I have to get him to Poppy, I believe that was a version of the same curse that hit Hermione. If it's what I think, we have very little time to stop the effects before the stasis spell I placed on him wears off."
"Take him Minerva, hurry please, I will be right behind you," responded Augusta.
"NO, you can't go, that's what they want. Don't you see, Neville jumped in front of you. That curse was meant for you," Luna said as she faced Madam Longbottom as they watched Minerva take off with Neville back towards the lifts that would take her back to the Atrium where she could transport them both to Hogwarts. "Someone was trying to stop you from attending this session. Don't let Neville's sacrifice be for nothing. I'll go with him and send word when I know something."
Augusta just stared after the little blonde that was sprinting down the hallway after her grandson.
"She's right, Madam Longbottom," Harry said as he stepped up and placed his hand on her shoulder. "Neville is strong and Poppy will have him fixed up in no time. We need you here, now, more than ever. This attack just shows us that someone really wants to stop the call for a vote against Fudge. I wouldn't be surprised if Voldemort himself ordered the attack on you, just to keep Fudge in office until he can try and take over the Ministry."
"I agree with Harry, Augusta," Amelia said as she faced her after she'd searched to make sure that whoever cast that curse was nowhere around, "that this was an attempt to stop you from entering that session, no matter who ordered it they shouldn't get what they want."
"Of course, you're both right," Augusta replied with a deep sigh. "I can't let them succeed, not after this. Let's get in the waiting room and regroup before we have to be in the court. After all, Neville's a Longbottom, and he will pull through this, I know he will."
They all hoped that Augusta was right as they entered the waiting room.
The gallery that surrounded the court was quite full. The floo announcement must have worked well since there were very few empty seats as the group entered and began taking seats themselves.
Minerva had returned right before they stepped into the court and told them that Poppy had removed the stasis spell on Neville and started his treatment with good indications that he would be alright. This definitely helped Augusta focus on the task at hand.
They noticed that Madam Longbottom was at the podium with Amelia on her right hand side. Minister Fudge was nowhere to be seen but his toad faced Senior Undersecretary Dolores Umbridge was seated in his spot on the left hand side of the podium, looking rather ragged after her recent stay in the Forbidden Forrest.
"Please, take your appointed seats everyone, this court is about to be called into session," Amelia addressed the crowd.
This was the cue for Harry and his wives, dressed in their formal robes, to stand from the gallery and head to their House seats amongst the other Wizengamot members. As they stood and approached the member seating they heard a very familiar and expected voice.
"Hem, Hem," Umbridge started, "where exactly do you four think you are going?"
"Why to our seats of course Madam Umbridge," calmly replied Harry as they stopped in front of the podium as planned. "Madam Bones called for everyone to go to their appointed seats did she not?"
"I hardly see what that has to do with any of you," Dolores sneered.
"I can hardly see why a bunch of underage children, including a muggleborn, would think they have a place within this body," added Mister Edgar Parkinson, Pansy's father.
"I thought that was obvious," Harry calmly replied again. "I'm headed to the seat reserved for me, as well as these young Ladies are."
"That's ridiculous, everyone knows that's not possible. Now, I insist that you return to your seat with the commoners where you belong," Umbridge said in her sickeningly sweet childish voice.
"Lord Potter, if I may," Amelia said setting the stage. "I believe Madam Umbridge is referring to the law pertaining to being under the age of seventeen and holding your families house seat." Ignoring Parkinson's remark for the moment.
"Exactly," stated Umbridge.
"That still doesn't explain why these other children are standing before us, surely they don't have family seats, underage or not," retorted Mister Parkinson.
"You are correct in the fact that I can not sit the seat for House Potter until I am seventeen. Until then I have elected to have a proxy take that seat so there is no issue there," Harry responded.
"Then why do you still insist on wasting our time by trying to claim a seat you are not able to sit," questioned Umbridge.
"Because I am allowed to claim the seats of Gryffindor and Slytherin," replied Harry. "As an heir of a Founder, I am allowed to claim that seat after my 14th birthday. You surely know the laws that govern this great body, Madam Umbridge."
"Of course I know the laws, you insolent little brat," snarled Umbridge. "What I don't understand is why you continue to waste our time with this nonsense you are spewing forth?"
"That's preposterous. There's noway you are the heir to the great Salazar Slytherin, you are just spouting more of your lies," yelled out Mister Parkinson over the growing noise of the courtroom.
"Ladies and gentlemen of the Wizengamot," Harry started firmly as he glanced amongst them, "I, Lord Harry James Potter Black, do hereby swear on my magic that I am the heir of the Most Noble and Most Ancient Houses of Potter, Black, Gryffindor, Slytherin and Peverell. I do hereby swear on my magic that the Lady Hermione Potter is the magical heir to the Most Noble and Most Ancient House of Ravenclaw, and that the Lady Susan Bones Potter Black is the magical heir to the Most Noble and Most Ancient House of Hufflepuff. So mote it be."
After he finished his oath, Harry raised his wand and cast the patronus charm sending Prongs prancing around the room before he rushed back into Harry and vanished amidst the surprised oohs and aahs his show had caused.
"As you can see," Harry stated, "I speak the truth about our heritages and if there are no further objections we wish to take our seats."
"This is totally unacceptable and I will not stand here and let you continue to tell lies," Umbridge started but was soon cutoff by a stern voice.
"Since I can see that you must be still recovering from your ordeal with the centaurs to miss the fact that Lord Potter Black just gave a magical oath that he proved true, I will let this blatant prejudice go this once, however you will be quiet Madam Umbridge or I will have you removed and that will be more than sufficient Lord Potter Black," Augusta responded. "However, that does not explain the presence of the Lady Black, since she is still under the required age correct?"
"Madam Longbottom," Daphne began, "I'm here only to announce the proxy for the Most Noble and Most Ancient House of Black as my husband and Lord has turned control of said house over to me."
This declaration caused almost as much noise as the last since it was unheard of for a Lord to relinquish control of his house to a woman, wife or not.
"Very well, you may proceed," Madam Longbottom responded.
"As the Lady Daphne Black, I do hereby name Andromeda Black Tonks as the proxy for the Most Noble and Most Ancient House of Black and give her the authority to vote in my stead until I am of legal age to claim said seat."
"Your proxy has been noted, Lady Black," replied Augusta, "and if she is present may she come forth and claim said seat."
Andromeda stepped from the gallery, where she had been seated beside her sister and nephew, and stopped in front of the podium beside Daphne and answered, "I, Andromeda Black Tonks, accept the honor of holding the proxy for the Most Noble and Most Ancient House of Black until the current Lady Black is of age to claim said seat."
Andromeda walked past a scowling Umbridge and a few very surprised members to take the Black seat. She had agreed to accept the proxy after Harry and Daphne both expressed their trust in her to help bring about the changes that where needed to bring their world into a future that would be proud to have the name Black associated with the light instead of entrenched in the dark.
Daphne waited until Andromeda was seated before she nodded toward Madam Longbottom and turned around to take the seat beside her mother in the gallery. Before she left however, she mentally said to her spouses, "So far so good, loves."
Umbridge continued to glare at Harry but kept her mouth shut for the moment. She knew she couldn't run the risk of being thrown out before she had the chance to help Cornelius.
While Mister Parkinson knew he had to remain to obey his Lord's orders of nominating someone besides the Longbottom bitch, he wasn't happy with the fact that the Potter brat was gaining such a position and apparently this wasn't over yet.
Augusta waited until Andromeda and Daphne were seated before she once again addressed Harry, Hermione, and Susan, "Lady Potter you may take your seat as the heir to the Most Noble and Most Ancient House of Ravenclaw, and you, Lady Bones Potter Black, may take your seat as the heir to the Most Noble and Most Ancient House of Hufflepuff. Now, Lord Potter Black, do you have proxies for the Potter and Peverell seats?"
"Yes, Madam Longbottom," Harry replied, "As Lord Harry James Potter Black, I do hereby name, my godmother, Head Mistress Minerva McGonagall as the proxy for the Most Noble and Most Ancient House of Potter and give her the authority to vote in my stead until I am of legal age to claim said seat, and I do hereby name Lady Danyella Greengrass as the proxy for the Most Noble and Most Ancient House of Peverell and give her the authority to vote in my stead until I am of legal age to claim said seat."
"Your proxies have been noted, Lord Potter Black," replied Augusta, "and if they are present may they come forth and claim their seats."
Minerva and Danyella made their way from the gallery, that was filled with whispered conversations concerning the revelations and the impact this would cause, to their seats.
When they were seated Augusta knew she had only one more prompt to ask before she was clear to start the meeting and so she spoke, "Lord Potter Black, do you have anything else to add before you claim the seats as heir to Gryffindor and Slytherin?"
"I do have one last thing, Madam Longbottom," said Harry, "as I would like to take this opportunity to announce the bonded alliances between the Most Noble and Most Ancient Houses of Potter, Black, Bones, Gryffindor, Slytherin, and Peverell to the Most Noble and Most Ancient House of Longbottom and to the Noble and Ancient Houses of Greengrass, McGonagall, Abbott, and Davies."
"Ladies and gentlemen of the public, I insist you quiet down so that we may proceed," Augusta firmly called out over the noise of the crowd now, not only from the public but also from the members seated around her. "And you, Lord Potter Black may take your seat."
She knew that this would cause an uproar and that was why she fully agreed to getting it out of the way before the session was called to order formally. The announcement of alliances and proxies didn't necessarily have to be made during an open session, it just had to be made before the full Wizengamot, which were present.
Madam Longbottom banged the gavel on the podium a few times and announced, "This emergency session of the Wizengamot is now in order and as per custom dictates in the absence of the former Chief Warlock, it is my duty as the Senior House Speaker to step up until he can be formally replaced. As the Senior House Speaker, I hereby call for a vote of no confidence against the Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge, in the light of resent events that he helped perpetrate."
"I second the motion," said Amelia Bones followed by many affirming remarks.
"Objection," cried out Madam Umbridge.
"I object and demand to know what events you are speaking of," called out Mister Parkinson.
"Objections noted," Madam Longbottom said, "and I am referring to the escape of Albus Dumbledore and Minister Fudge's inaction to try and defend this government and it's people from the so-called Dark Lord Voldemort."
"The goblins were clearly at fault for the escape of Albus Dumbledore," sneered Dolores Umbridge, "and their was nothing to defend from before the Dark Lord resurfaced with Potter and Dumbledore."
"Madam Umbridge," Amelia said, "I have filed my official report that shows that Minister Fudge resisted assistance of a highly qualified Auror team of 15 of our best operatives to send in his hand picked team of 3 Aurors that have nowhere near the qualifications of the special ops team I'm referring to. As far as the goblins being at fault, that's absolutely absurd. I've spoken to many eye witnesses and seen the photos that showed at least 20 armed goblin warriors and that Dumbledore was being held in a magical suppression harness. I can hardly see how it was their fault when they held him so successfully until he was removed from their custody on the orders of Minister Fudge. As for the claim that he has taken no action to defend our people, well, his record speaks for itself. I have evidence that he was told of the return of Voldemort after the completion of the Tri-wizard Tournament and refused to listen to reason. That was over a year ago. We could have been training and recruiting new Aurors to join our force and had the community on alert. In that time, all Minister Fudge accomplished was a smear campaign aimed at a fourteen year old boy, who had done nothing but tell the truth and survive yet another encounter against the monster Fudge refused to acknowledge had returned. As to him resurfacing with Lord Potter Black and Dumbledore, if it wasn't for the actions of Lord Potter Black and his friends that night, Voldemort would have gained an unknown weapon that he was trying to retrieve from within the Department of Mysteries."
"Now that your issues have been addressed Madam Umbridge and Mister Parkinson, I call for a vote of no confidence against Minister Fudge," Madam Longbottom began. "For those of you that were recently appointed your seats, you will notice a small square stone appear in front of you momentarily that has two holes marked 'for' or 'against', simply place the tip of your wand into the corresponding whole that represents your choice. Choose 'for' if you believe that Minister Fudge should be removed as Minister and replaced or choose 'against' if you believe he should remain in office. The stones will tally the votes and appear overhead once every vote is cast."
A few minutes passed in which you could hear whispered voices from the public gallery but nothing to loud to be disruptive, and then the arena fell silent as a blue light began flashing above the front of the speakers podium. After the flashing stopped the tally appeared in red, stating that there was 85% for removing Fudge and 15% against. The noise broke out again and had Madam Longbottom calling for order once more.
Once order was resumed Madam Longbottom asked, "Is there any nominations at this time for the new Minister of Magic?"
Mister Parkinson rose as instructed by his Lord and stated, "I nominate Rufus Scrimgeour, Senior Auror in his department."
"I second the nomination," said Mister Macnair.
"Rufus Scrimgeour is recognized as a nominee. Is there anyone else?" asked Madam Longbottom.
Lord Greengrass rose and stated, "I nominate Amelia Bones, Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. We need someone who will stand firm against the terrorist Voldemort and not show favoritism to those with enough gold to throw around, and her record speaks for itself."
"I second the nomination," said Mister Abbott.
"Amelia Bones is recognized as a nominee. Is there anyone else?" asked Madam Longbottom again.
After a few minutes had passed and there were no other nominations, Madam Longbottom stated, "You may now cast your vote for the candidate you feel will best serve as the new Minister of Magic."
Once again the stone squares appeared with the name of each candidate above the corresponding hole. The voting took a lot longer this time and so Harry was starting to get a little nervous.
I hope we have enough sway to pull this off, he thought to his wives.
Don't worry Harry, we got this, the alliance's votes alone makeup over half the votes, the way the system works. The older and more powerful the house, the more votes you get, responded Daphne.
That's totally unfair but I'm not complaining since it will help us change things quicker, added Hermione.
Look the flash is starting, Susan said to bring their attention back to the podium.
Just like before the arena fell silent and gazed at the flashing blue light before them. This time when it stopped it read 65% - Amelia Bones and 35% - Rufus Scrimgeour, both in red. As soon as the decision appeared the arena erupted in applause. It was clear the way the public gallery wanted the vote to go since it was by far the loudest cheering.
Harry looked around and noticed that their was several faces that seemed outraged over the results. He did take notice to two individuals that carried very different looks. Madam Umbridge had a cold calculating look that was directed right toward Amelia while, Mister Parkinson's expression surprised Harry. If he had to describe his expression in one word he would have used terrified. For some reason or another this set of bells in Harry's mind and he would stick it away for further examination, right now he had more important things to see to, like Neville for instance. He had been worried about his friend and wanted to get out of here as quickly as possible to check on him. He was pulled back to the podium by the voice of Madam Longbottom once more.
"By vote of the Wizengamot, I hear by name Madam Amelia Bones as the new Minister of Magic," declared Madam Longbottom while stepping down from the podium and gesturing for Amelia to step up. "Minister Bones if you please."
Amelia stepped up the podium amidst a round of applause and motioned for quiet a moment later before speaking for the first time as Minister.
"Ladies and gentleman of the Wizengamot, I offer my word that I will take the threat of Voldemort seriously and will do my best to see our community brought through these troubled times. As my first act as Minister, I hear by name Kingsley Shacklebolt as my successor as the Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement and remove Madam Umbridge from her position as Undersecretary and formally charge her with the crime of using an illegal blood quill against school children during her time at Hogwarts. I also repeal any and all educational decrees that where drafted during her time at the school. Let it be known that the prejudices that were allowed to prosper under the previous Minister will not be allowed to continue under the new one."
Tonks and Kingsley had been briefed by Amelia before the meeting and giving orders that were to be followed if she was named as the new Minister. They were to watch Madam Umbridge and once Amelia charged her, they were to immediately stun and bound her to prevent her escape or prevent any harm she might unleash on the unsuspecting populace in the area. They gladly followed the orders and were now floating a stunned and bound Umbridge out to a holding cell as they heard the applause ring out at the end of the Minister's speech.
The bonded watched with glee as the toad faced Umbitch was floated out the arena amidst the applause before Madam Longbottom stepped back to the podium and called to close the Wizengamot session.