Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Celestials

Lord Time

Lady Magic

Lady Fate

Lord Life

Lord Death

Main Characters 

Harry Potter - Needs no explanation. His life sucks. But it’s about to get better. Well, eventually. Also, really wants to get to know the handsome, silent Slytherin. AS FRIENDS! Honest! That’s going to happen sooner than you think Harry! Narrator: it’s already happened.

Theo Nott - Handsome, silent Slytherin in Harry’s year. Draco’s Best Friend/Brother, Luna’s Godbrother and whether Harry wants to admit it or not, Harry’s crush. Certified genius. Fluent in several languages. Runes prodigy. Hates his Father, Tiberius. For reasons. Massive amounts of childhood trauma. Will deal with it later. Maybe. He’s kind of busy. Also, Hermione’s academic rival. In her mind anyway. She hates him. He hasn’t noticed. He’s kind of busy.

Draco Malfoy - Bigoted bully in his youth. Not so much now. Needs explanation but it may be a while before you get it.

Luna Lovegood - The most perfect cinnamon roll to ever exist in fiction. I will not be taking questions at this time.

Neville Longbottom - Almost as precious as Luna. Harry should have chosen him as his BFF. We’ll fix that.

Sirius Black - Former bully and mentally unstable Godfather of one Harry Potter. Vows to do better, and will, once Poppy is finished healing him. Also, spent time in broom closets with just about every guy and girl at Hogwarts except for the one he really wanted. See below.

Amelia Bones - My queen. Hufflepuff and proud of it. Pulled out of time just before Voldemort kills her. Loves law and order and her niece Susan. Loves Sirius Black… but not that way. Or so she claims. Planning on arresting anyone who has ever wronged Harry Potter. We’re going to need a bigger prison. Seriously considering killing Minister Fudge once they return.

Augusta Longbottom - Potential queen. Though she’s going to need to sort her shit out before being crowned. Girls got trauma and has been taking it out on Neville. That ends now. Was in the same Hogwarts year as Minerva McG and several others in the chamber. 

Arcturus Black - 97 years old and feeling a bit bitter about that. Pulled out of his self-imposed exile by Lady Magic. A tad resentful about that. People are annoying. Ready to take an AK for Harry before the first chapter is finished. Even more ready to cast one. Still, he’s a Black. They’re more subtle than that, Sirius aside. Secretly plotting with Andromeda to destroy anyone who has even thought about harming Harry.

Kingsley Shacklebolt - With the greatest respect to the delightful George Harris, my Kingsley fancast is Idris Elba. Because, OMG. Former Slytherin. BFFs with Gawain Robards. Discretely drooling over Allegra Zabini. Hopes no one has noticed. Narrator: They have but they’re too polite to say anything, yet. 

Allegra Zabini - Born in England but fully embraced the Country of her first husband, Blaise’s father, who died in a tragic accident when Blaise was 2. Contrary to popular belief did not murder all five of her husbands. She only murdered one of them. And only because he hit Blaise. Nobody hurts her son. Is not even remotely looking for husband number six although, accidenti that Kingsley is figo!

Gawain Robards - Former Slytherin. As Welsh as one can get. Looks a lot like Michael Sheen. Not sure how that happened. Madly in love with Narcissa since Hogwarts. Knew Theo’s Grandparents well. One of the Aurors assigned to investigate Theo’s mum’s murder. Knew in his gut that Tiberius did it, couldn’t prove it. Couldn’t convince anyone to investigate further. Has never forgotten the look on small Theo’s face as he apparated out of Nott Castle.

Narcissa Malfoy - In love with Gawain since Hogwarts. Forced to marry Lucius when Andromeda ran off with Ted. Not even remotely angry about it though because, Draco. Well, still angry but not at Andromeda. Loves her son more than life itself. Loves Theo slightly more. BFFs with Lillian Nott, nee Selwyn at Hogwarts. Knows who killed her and knows who helped cover it up. Can’t do anything about it…yet. Wanted half a dozen children, may actually get her wish. Hoping Gawain will help her out with that once they rid the world of Lucius.

Remus Lupin - Hates himself more than he loves Harry. Hates himself more than he loves Tonks. Seems to have completely forgotten about Teddy. Weird. Will not enjoy these books. May get Dobby to teach him about self-punishment. Will Lady Magic be able to snap him out of it? Let’s hope so. He’s a good man, he just needs convincing of that.

Cyrus Greengrass - Daphne and Astoria’s Dad. Bit of a non-entity right now but will be important later. Neutral during both wars but funded Voldie during the second to protect his family. 

Saul Croaker - Former Ravenclaw. Looks exactly like Tom Hiddleston. Weird coincidence right? Head of the DOM. Genius. Madly in love with Elladora Travers nee Avery though that would likely be news to her as he never actually told her.

Elladora Travers nee Avery - Granddaughter of one of the original followers of Voldie. Father was just as bad and sold her off to Sebastian Travers. Has twins in the same year as Harry. Oliver, a Ravenclaw and Arabella, a Slytherin.

Molly Weasley - screeches incoherently. 

Arthur Weasley - Slowly coming to realize that while hiding in his shed may be good for his sanity it is not good for his children.

Andromeda Tonks - Still a Black, regardless of what the tapestry says. Internally seething, externally politely disdainful. Listing all the ways to murder people in her head.

Ted Tonks - Knows exactly what Andromeda is thinking. Both aroused and terrified. Fully prepared to help bury the bodies.

Ingram Burke - Father of Astoria’s boyfriend Ignatius, a Ravenclaw in Luna’s year. Not a DE but supportive of Riddle’s original goals, before he went insane and started killing people.

Severus Snape - Is about to realize just how wrong he’s been. Is not happy about it. Angst ahead. Draco’s Godfather and may as well be Theo’s. 

Richard Granger - Furious and confused.

Jean Granger - See above

Nymphadora Tonks - Hasn’t realized that she’ll be 18 and still at Hogwarts when they return. And that Remus will be…shit. 31. Seriously? Perhaps I should rethink this. But, Teddy! Shit! 

Alastor Moody - I’m too old for this shit. Dude, you’re only 43. Well, I feel old. 

Albus Dumbledore - The bad guy. No question. Well, he has questions. Several. Feeling really attacked right now. Boggart is obviously Amelia Bones.

Minerva McGonagall - Has made some really bad choices. No biscuits for you! Still kind of awesome though. I may give you a biscuit later. After you beg Harry for forgiveness.

Filius Flitwick - Made of all things awesome. Still, mistakes were made. It was your job to protect Luna!

Pamona Sprout - Has adopted Neville in her head. 

Poppy Pomfrey - Is so done! People can explain what happened to them from a hospital bed Albus! 

Rubeus Hagrid - Cannot keep a secret to save his life. Doesn’t think things through. Way too trusting. Loves Harry more than Norbert…a. 

Susan Bones - Future Queen. Takes no shit. Not even from snotty blonde princes. Knows Draco is smitten. She is too but who’s got time for that shit? Besides, we’re going to be 11 again. 

Daphne Greengrass - Ice Princess in public. Marshmallow in private. Had a thing for Neville since the Yule Ball. Loves Astoria more than anything.

Blaise Zabini - You all wish you were this cool. Finds Luna absolutely delightful. Wants to marry her immediately. A little terrified to tell Theo. 

Aleksander Nott - Theo’s half-brother. 9 years old. Raised in secret by Tiberius and Dimitri (see below). Only speaks Russian and Norweigan. Luckily Theo speaks both.

Matteus Dolohov - 7 years old. Born May 2, 1991, so literally the day they’re returning to. Son of Dimitri Dolohov, Antonin’s younger brother. Only speaks Russian. 

Mikael Dolohov - See above

Dean Thomas - Who’s his dad? Well find out. His uncle is in the chamber, though unaware of the relationship.

Arabella Travers - Elladora’s daughter 

Astoria Greengrass - Ravenclaw in Luna’s year. Luna’s only friend in her House.

Ignatius Burke - Astoria’s boyfriend 

Oliver Travers - Elladora’s son

Padma Patil - Hopes to be in Gryffindor with her sister this time around.

Parvati Patil - Hopes to be in Ravenclaw with…wait! We need to get our stories straight before going back!

Fred Weasley - Genius. Wishes people would notice.

George Weasley - Genius. Wishes people would notice.

Bill Weasley - Just starting to realize that his wife is going to be 14 when they return. And living in France. Merde!

Fleur Delacour - Has already figured that out. Bill may be a genius but so is she.

Gabrielle Delacour - Just realized she’s going to be 5 when they return. Is furious!

Charlie Weasley - Imagine Dragons

Percy Weasley - A pretty awesome guy once he pulls the broom out of his ass.

Oliver Wood - Really good with brooms.

Ron Weasley - Get back to me when you grow up. You have potential but OMG you also have issues.

Ginny Weasley - Wanted to marry The Boy Who Lived when she was 11. At almost 17? Honestly, she just wants to play quidditch. 

Lee Jordan - Second best Quidditch commentator of all time. 

Cassius Warrington - Not all Slytherins are evil! Some of us are just trying to survive.

Pansy Parkinson - Has been through some serious shit. About to have her face rubbed into it. Redeemable? She wouldn’t be in the chamber if she wasn’t. 

Ernie MacMillan - Pompous prat but he’ll be better the second time around. He swears!

Hannah Abbott - Lovely but boring. Unless you mess with her best friend Susan. She will fuck you up if you even try. But she’ll say sorry afterwards.

Lavender Brown - Deserves way better than Won Won. And that’s saying something considering she’s the one who came up with Won Won.

Justin Finch Fletchly - Is better than Won Won.

Hermione Granger - You are not the smartest person in the room Hermione. Nor do you have to be. You’re amazing…when you’re not nagging people, forcing them to do things they don’t want to do, physically assaulting people, kidnapping reporters and keeping them in a jar, breaking into banks, wiping your parent’s memories…you know what? It’s possible you’re a sociopath. We’re going to need a mind healer in the chamber.

Filomena Goldfinch - Mind Healer. About to be very overworked.

Secondary Characters

Garrick Ollivander - So done. People really need lessons in wand care.

Edgar Bones - Mostly just wants to hide in his potions lab.

Xenophilius Lovegood - Adorable but absent. Mind and body. Younger brother of Lucius. Doesn’t actually remember why he was disowned. Loves his daughter but lost himself after Pandora died. And the war made it worse. Doesn’t even remember he has a daughter unless she’s standing right in front of him. Luna deserves better. Narcissa is going to make sure Luna gets it.

Kenzington Shacklebolt - Kingsley’s Dad. Went to Hogwarts with Augusta and McG. 

Atticus Waffling - Thinks Werewolves are hot. Well, one of them.

Celeste Greengrass - Daphne and Astoria’s Mum. 

Deval Patil - Parvati and Padma’s Dad. Is a walking encyclopedia of Wizengamot history. Writes legislation in his sleep.

Anala Patil - Parvati and Padma’s Mum.

Muriel Prewett - Is going to make Molly regret she was born. Thinks the twins are mad geniuses. Doesn’t think Molly deserves them.

Amos Diggory - Kind of an ass. Not yet willing to admit it. 

Evelyn Diggory - Never been willing to tell Amos he’s an ass. Will find her voice in the chamber.

Ava Burke - Ingram’s Wife.

Gaspard Delacour - Fleur’s Dad. See below.

Appoline Delacour, nee Bernard - Fleur’s Mum. Choosing silence for now but prepared to let loose in book four.

Madeline Bernard - Appoline’s younger sister, Fleur and Gabrielle’s aunt. 

Oscar MacMillan - Ernie’s Dad. One of Dumbles’ biggest supporters…until now.

Esmerelda MacMillan - Ernie’s Mum.

Newt Scamander - Does he need explanation?

Rolf Scamander - Newt’s Son, not Grandson. In my story at least.

John Dawlish - Auror. Can’t wait to start arresting people.

Malika Jones - American. Still not sure why she’s in the chamber.

Zabree Jones - Malika’s Daughter. Not sure why she’s in the chamber but that Oliver guy is cute. No not that one, dude’s obsessed with Quidditch and also gay. The other one.

Jeremiah Savage - Auror. Suddenly very interested in hearing all about America.

John Abbott - Hannah’s Dad.

Jane Abbott - Hannah’s Mum.

Jeremy Brown - Lavender’s Dad.

Rose Brown - Lavender’s Mum.

Aurora Sinistra - Mildly interested in what’s happening in the chamber. Wishes there was an Astronomy Tower in the chamber.

Septima Vector - Is mostly bored. Just wants to do maths. And watch the stars with Aurora.

Talbot Winger - Ignore Sirius, Talbot is Minerva’s favourite student.

Bathsheda Babbling - Theo’s favourite teacher. Wants to adopt him. Narcissa won’t let her. Will settle for taking him on as a Mastery Student. As a first year.

Hestia Jones - Auror. Member of the OotP. Has regrets. Thinks Emmaline is hot.

Emmaline Vance - Auror. Member of the OotP. Has regrets.Thinks Hestia is hot. And too young.

Broderick Bode - Unspeakable. Murdered via plant. Bit disappointed.

Florean Fortesque - History and ice cream. Weird combination but it works.

Aberforth Dumbledore - President of the We Hate Albus Dumbledore Club. Is about to have several new members.

Rufus Scrimgeor - Perhaps being Minister is a bad idea.

Arthur Proudfoot - Auror. About done with that.

Robert Avery - Future Marauder. Or wishes he was.

Margaret Avery - Thinks her Brother needs to adjust his life goals.

Thomas Rowle - Robert’s BFF. Same life goals.

Theresa Rowle - Margaret’s BFF. Agrees with Margaret re: Robert’s life goals.

Flora Carrow - It’s not their fault they were raised by monsters.

Hestia Carrow - See above.

Alexander Yaxley - Dead Mum, Death Eater Father. Needs a new family. Will get one.

Angus McNair - See above

Theseus Scamander - Newt’s Grandson. Rolf’s Son. 

Ian Abbott - Hannah’s older Brother.

Marcus Flint - Should have been a Hufflepuff. Forced to act like a Slytherin.

Jason Brown - Lavender’s older Brother.

Cedric Diggory - Even straight guys think he’s hot. And nice.

Patrick Parkinson - Pansy’s older Brother. 

In the chamber but hidden, for now

Augustus Rookwood

Barty Crouch Jr.

Chapter Text

Sunday May 10, 1998

Harry woke, cozy and happy. He and Theo had been talking, and kissing, for a couple of hours when they heard a muffled scream. Theo jumped up with an apology and raced down the hall to his Brothers’ bedroom. Harry followed and by the time he caught up Theo was already curled around Aleksander and the twins. Draco showed up while Harry was debating with himself about crawling in with them. Draco saw Harry and shrugged, “Good, you’ve got it handled.” and walked out. It was Harry’s turn to shrug before climbing in on the other side of the bed. He tentatively put his arm around, well, he wasn’t actually sure since he still couldn’t tell the twins apart. Matteus grabbed Harry’s arm and pulled him closer. Harry looked over at Theo to find him staring. “Is this OK, Theo?” Theo smiled, “It’s very OK.”

Theo softly told the boys a story in Norwegian and even though Harry couldn’t understand a word of it he fell asleep to the soothing sound of Theo’s voice.

When morning came Harry watched Theo sleep for awhile before getting up and heading back to his own room for a shower. He found Padfoot sound asleep on his bed and couldn’t help but laugh. Padfoot transformed into Sirius and he frowned. “Walk of shame, Pup?”

Harry panicked but Sirius laughed. “I’m kidding! None of you seem to like sleeping alone. I don’t blame you, I hate it. Regulus and I used to sleep together when we were kids. And sometimes when the nightmares got bad I crawled in with your Dad. Cissa told me that Draco and Theo used to sleep together all the time. 

Having said that, is there anything you’d like to share?”

Harry blushed and stammered. “IthinkTheoandIaredating.”

“You wanna try that again, Pup?”

“I think Theo and I are dating. There was some kissing and a lot of talking but I’m not sure if we actually covered the part about labels. Or if we’re telling people. I mean, obviously I’m telling you and I assume Theo will tell Draco and Luna but beyond that I don’t know.”

“You really like him, huh? You’re nervous.”

“I like him a lot! But I’m also worried about how people are going to react. Not just about me dating a Slytherin but a guy. You’re OK with that right?”

“Of course. Love is love.”

“I didn’t say anything about love!”

“It’s just an expression, Pup. It just means it doesn't matter who you're with, what gender they are, as long as you're both happy with the relationship.

Now let’s make sure I’m clear here. When you say people you mean Ron and Hermione, right?”

Harry hung his head, “Yeah.”

“You know it’s not their choice, right? If they have a problem with you liking guys or the guy you like it’s their problem. Not yours.”

“I know that in my head. The rest of me is worried.”

“What’s really going on with the three of you? Did something happen?”

Harry sighed. “Yeah.” He gave Sirius a brief summary of the year on the run. “I get it. The locket really fucked with all 3 of us. I don’t blame him, really. But it also brought up all the old shit I’d thought I’d let go of. You know what I mean?”

“The tournament.”

“Yeah, and some other shit but mostly that. And now, listening to these stupid books. I know what’s coming and I keep getting angry in advance and I don’t know what to do about it. Hermione seems like she’s willing to work things out but Ron isn’t. And I think knowing I’m with Theo is going to freak Ron out. He’s not going to react well and I’m freaking out about it.”

Sirius hesitated. “Harry, Hadrian? Not sure what you’ve decided on. Pup, I, shit. OK. Here’s the thing. If you’re afraid to tell your best friend something? They’re not your best friend.”

“That’s…that’s actually kind of profound Siri. I love Ron, I really do. But yeah. I don’t think he’s my best friend. I don’t think Hermione is either. I think Luna is. And I think Neville could be. I’m not saying I want to give up on Ron and Hermione but I don’t want to limit myself anymore, you know what I mean? It was always just the 3 of us. Sometimes Ginny. It was a little…isolating? I don’t think it was very healthy.

It’s weird but I feel like I’ve learned what friendship is supposed to be like this week. I never had friends before Ron and Hermione so I never really knew. I figured our friendship was normal? I don’t think it was. I mean, who knew that Draco Malfoy was a better friend than Ron? Draco would never talk to Theo or Blaise, or even Neville, the way Ron talks to me and Hermione. Theo never bosses Draco or Blaise around like Hermione does me. They tease and stuff but it’s…like, fun? It’s never mean. And the way they immediately notice if something is wrong with one of them? I want that. Best friends should be like that right? And that turn thing is brilliant! 

Anyway. I know I need to talk it out with Ron and Hermione but I really don’t want to. Sorry for going off like that.”

“You never have to apologize for talking things through with me, Pup. That’s what I’m here for. I’m your Godfather. Or Dogfather if that’s what you need.”

“Are you going to be my Dad, Siri? When we go back I mean?”

“I want to be. Is that what you want?”

“Yes. Please. Can I call you Dad? Or is that weird?”

“You can call me whatever you want, Hadrian.”

“I think I want to use Hadrian.”

Sirius laughed. “We can be Pads and Hads!”

Harry burst into laughter! “I love that!”

“We should probably get down there for breakfast.” Sirius said, getting up. Go have your shower and I’ll let them know you’re on the way.” He paused before going out the door. “I love you Hadrian.”

“I love you too Sirius.”

After breakfast Harry pulled Theo aside while the others entered the chamber.

“Hi.”

“Hi? You OK?”

“Yeah, just nervous.”

‘Of me?”

“No, just this conversation. So I told Sirius that I thought you and I were dating. Is that OK?”

“Yeah. I told Draco, though I haven’t had a chance to tell Luna yet. Not that I’ll need to, she’ll just know.”

Harry laughed and then sobered. “Are we telling other people? And if so what are we telling them? Are we…dating? Are you…shit. I’m not any better at this than you are. Are you my boyfriend?”

Theo grinned and said “I hope so!”

“I love your dimples. Shit! Did I just say that out loud?”

Theo snorted and simply said, “Come along boyfriend. Let’s go make some heads explode. A Gryffindor Hero and a Slytherin son of a Death Eater! Dating! How scandalous! Blaise is going to be delighted.” He stopped. “Oh. I just got it. Is that actually going to be a problem? Is that why you’re being weird? Fuck. You’re worried about Weasley. We can keep it a secret if you want. I…I don’t mind.”

“No! I mean, I don’t want to. I’m just…dreading his reaction, yeah.”

“OK. So for today at least, it’s a secret. No, don’t argue. It really is OK. We have one day off before we get back to the books. Take it. Enjoy it to the fullest. Save the shit for tomorrow. Yeah?”

“Yeah. OK. One day. That’s good actually. We can tell the family first. Then our friends. Yeah. OK. Let’s get out there.”

There was no one in the main chamber when they arrived so they headed for the door which was now labeled, Recreational Chamber. As soon as they entered Susan squealed, “They’re here! Let’s get this party started! Gather ‘round everyone!” Once again, Sirius headed her way and she snapped “Not you! You go and flirt with my Auntie! This is kids and teens only!” Amelia blushed and Sirius laughed and pulled her towards a garden bench.

“Hufflepuffs are not subtle, are they.” Theo mused to Harry as they headed to the growing circle of classmates. Theo looked around for his Brothers and the other kids but they were in a little circle of their own. Aleksander looked nervous but determined. Theo had managed to teach the 3 boys a little English and while Sander still wouldn’t speak he could follow along pretty well. Narcissa was close at hand so Theo relaxed and gave Susan his full attention.

“So! This is exciting! I’ve been reliably informed that it’s Zabree’s birthday today! The elves will be providing a birthday lunch! With cake! And Forge Weasley are going to spend the morning making a surprise for later! 

Now, we didn’t get to our second round of questions yesterday but I’ve decided to change things up a wee bit. Rather than volunteering information everyone is going to pick a name out of a hat and they’ll get to ask their pick one question! Now, I’m not mean so the questions will be fun and playful, nothing mean, or really personal. And if someone doesn’t want to answer that’s OK! It’s not Truth or Dare, it’s just a fun way to keep getting to know each other.” She held up a hat and instructed everyone to come and pick a name.

As she dipped her hand in she chanted “pleaseletmegetDracoorTheoplease.” She pulled her hand out and shouted in her excitement. “OH SWEET MERLIN I GOT DRACO! HA!”

Draco just snorted. “You’re going to be disappointed. It’s not that interesting a story.”

“It is to me! And because it was my idea I’m going first! Draco, why does Theo call you Ducky?”

From a few feet away Narcissa giggled. “If he refuses to tell you, I will! Though it will embarrass Theo more than Draco.”

“I’m not embarrassed. Neither of us are. We were adorable. Go ahead Ducky!” Theo said with a laugh.

“It’s not like I actually remember any of this. I was a bloody infant! But fine. The story, according to my Mum and Auntie Lillian,” he cast a questioning look at Theo who just nodded at him to continue. “Theo was there when I was born. Once Mum was holding me, Auntie Lillian picked Theo up and brought him over to meet me. She introduced me and Theo said his first word.”

Susan awe’d as did many of the girls. “That’s adorable! Your first word was Draco?”

“Nope, his first word, at not even 9 months by the way, was Drake. He couldn’t quite get the O out. And that’s all he’d call me for the next couple of months.”

Narcissa interrupted. “That’s pretty much all he’d say at all. He would say Mum and book and Drake. He wouldn’t even try other words though it was clear he knew them.”

“So his Mum used to take him down to the sea pretty much every morning. One day some ducks swam by and his Mum pointed them out and she told him that male ducks were called Drakes. When they came over to ours later that day he took one look at me and said, Ducky!”

“And he’s called Draco that ever since!” Narcissa added.

“I told you it wasn’t very interesting.” Draco said with a laugh.

“It was adorable and so worth the wait! Can I call you Ducky now?”

“Absolutely not. Not even Luna’s allowed to call me that. Just Theo.” Susan pouted but moved on.

They went around the circle asking fun and silly questions. When the time came for Lavender to ask Harry something she was stumped. “We’re sort of learning everything about you in these books and, gods, I feel kind of horrid about it. And I love gossip! So is it OK if I ask you what name you’ve decided to use?”

Harry was relieved, he’d been dreading this. “I keep changing my mind but I think I’d like to use the name my Mum chose for me. So Hadrian. And thank you Lavender.”

Finally it was time for Neville to ask Daphne a question. He scrapped the one he’d thought of and impulsively decided to take a risk. He gathered up his Gryffindor courage and asked, “Who was your first kiss?” He instantly panicked and quickly added, “You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to! I shouldn’t have asked that!”

Daphne giggled and then startled. She’d never giggled in public before. “I don’t mind answering. I haven’t had one yet.” 

Pansy smirked and said, “You almost had one. Tell that story!”

Daphne looked confused for a moment but when Blaise burst into laughter she remembered. “Oh Merlin!” Draco, Theo, and Astoria were all laughing by now and Theo said, “Go ahead Daphs. It was funny. Though I still have no idea why!”

Daphne giggled again and said, “Neither do I! OK, here goes. It was Pans’ 12th birthday and we were all at her place. Patrick, sorry Pats, I’m about to embarrass you! We caught Pats kissing…someone, I won’t say who. We all squealed and ran away of course. Once we were on the other side of the garden and had stopped laughing, Blaise here, decided that since none of us had kissed anyone that we should try it. Typical Blaise. Anyway, Blaise was going to kiss Pans, Draco was going to kiss Story, and Theo was going to kiss me. Since we’re the eldest we were to go first. Theo walked over and leaned in but before he could kiss me we locked eyes and we both burst into laughter. We couldn’t stop! And then this lot joined in. We must have sat there on the grass for 15 minutes before we could stop. Finally Blaise ordered us to try again so we did. Only we started laughing again. I still don’t know what was so funny but we were in hysterics. We never tried again, thankfully! Anyway, that was my first, and only, almost kiss.”

Everyone was laughing and Susan told them they should try again immediately but Daphne looked at Neville and blushed. “I don’t think so.”

By this point everyone was getting hungry so they headed to see if Zabree’s birthday lunch was ready. Flopsy, the Bones family Elf, saw Susan coming and squeaked in excitement. “Missy Suz! I’s was just about to call you! Missy Zabree’s special lunch is ready!”

The adults had wandered over as well and they all sat around the tables and had a lovely lunch. Zabree’s cake was magnificent and she was near tears, she was so grateful.

After lunch everyone broke into small groups to wander the garden or find a quiet spot to chat.

Theo smiled at Harry and told him he was going to explore the library. Harry wanted to go with him but didn’t want the questions that would bring so he decided to spend some time flying. He invited Ron and Dean to join him and a few others joined in as well.

-----

Theo had only been in the library for about 15 minutes when Hermione came in. She looked around, spotted him, and headed immediately for him and sat down. Theo blinked and then stared.

“So. I’ve been wanting to talk to you about several things.

First of all, you got through two entire chapters of The Hobbit without missing a word. I would know because I’ve read that book 100 times and I know it off by heart. Did you memorize it on purpose or do you have an eidetic memory? And if so, why didn’t you do better in school because I beat you in every class except Runes, and occasionally Arithmancy.

Secondly, how many languages do you speak and why on earth would you know Russian? That seems like an odd language to choose to learn. Was your Mother Russian by chance?

Thirdly, why are you of all people, one of Lady Magic’s supposed Chosen. Harry I get but why you? And Malfoy? Seriously?

Fourth, how do you know so much about Muggle stuff? You’re Sacred 28! You’ve probably never even been to the Muggle World. You hate Muggles!”

Theo just stared at her for several moments. “Hello Granger, won’t you sit down?”

Hermione had the grace to blush and apologize. “Sorry. I just saw you and I’ve been wanting to ask you all that so I did. Are you going to answer?”

“I wasn’t planning on it. As you might have noticed I’m in a library. There are books. I’m reading. If I felt like chatting, or more to the point being interrogated, I’d be outside in the garden.”

“But I want answers.”

“And I want peace and quiet. Word of advice, Granger? Next time, try asking your questions politely. Better yet, next time ask if someone is willing to have a conversation before you start rattling off personal questions without even taking a breath. Also, no means no. Hadrian might let you get away with that but I won’t.”

She huffed. “Well, I’ll certainly be speaking to Harry about this. I don’t know why he’s spending so much time with you but I don’t like it.” She stormed off leaving Theo alone with his book. He sighed. Well that could have gone better. Hadri is going to be annoyed with me. I’m annoyed with me, he thought with another sigh.

-----

Back in the garden Neville was having a rather tense conversation with Augusta. 

“I’ve been wanting to apologize, Neville. Even before hearing that…well, your Hogwarts letter should have been a joyous occasion and I…I bungled it. I’m sorry. I’ve not been a very good Gran, have I?”

“Truth?” Neville asked. She nodded and he continued. “Sometimes you have. Other times, not so much. It’s been better since I’ve gotten older. And to be fair to you I don’t think I was an easy child to raise. I was too shy and awkward.”

“Because I made you that way, I think.”

“I don’t know. It doesn’t really matter now though, does it.”

“Of course it matters, Neville! You’re going to be a child again. I want to do a better job raising you this time.”

“Except, I won’t be a child. I’ll be an adult in a child’s body. I’ll be making my own choices and while I might live with you when I’m not at school I won’t exactly need raising, so to speak.”

She stared at him for a moment before sighing. “I suppose not.”

“I’d still like a Gran though. Can you just, be my Gran?”

“I think I can do that. I’ll certainly try.” She reached over, not quite sure what she wanted to do, certainly not hug him. Augusta didn’t hug. But she wanted to do something. Seeing her struggle a bit Neville reached over and took her hand. She smiled and thought, yes, that will do nicely.

Just then Death himself appeared. “It’s nice to see the two of you together. Do you mind if I join you? I have something I’d like to discuss.”

Augusta paled dramatically. “Are you going to take Frank and Alice?”

Death paused before speaking and tears started forming in Neville’s eyes. Death held up a hand. “Just wait. I’m not taking them. Not unless you want me to. But it is them I’d like to discuss.

They’ve been at your, hospital, I think you call it, since the attack?” Neville and Augusta nodded.

“They’ve never been examined by the Goblins?” Neville’s eyes lit up, “Do you…”

Death cut him off. “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. I would like the Goblins to examine them. I will not make you any promises. From what I understand the chances of seeing any improvement are very slim. Still, I’d like to at least attempt it. We can bring them here. The 1991 versions of them. However. If the Goblins fail to heal them, and they certainly make no promises either, I would like you to consider what to do next.

You could leave them as they are, as they have been since the attack. Or, I could take them.”

Neville and Augusta looked stunned. “Do we have to decide right now?” Neville asked.

“Of course not. We have all the time in the world. Talk it over. I certainly encourage you to let us bring them here and allow the Goblins a chance as soon as possible.  But the decision of what to do if they cannot be healed can absolutely wait until you return if need be though I’d prefer to know before you return.”

Neville looked at Augusta and said firmly. “I want them brought here right away.”

Augusta hesitated. “Now, Neville, don’t get your hopes up.”

He stood. “I will. I’m not going into this expecting failure. But if it does fail at least I’ll know we tried. I can live with failure but I can’t live without trying.”

Augusta nodded. “Alright.” She turned to Death. “Is it, do you think, will the Goblins allow us to see them?”

“Yes, but not until after they’ve examined them.”

Neville and Augusta nodded and Death disappeared.

Neville looked at Augusta and was surprised to see hope in her eyes. He stood and said, “I need to talk to Luna, will you be alright?”

“Of course, dear. I’ll be fine. You go.” So Neville went.

Kenzington, seeing Augusta alone, and looking a bit shellshocked, went to join her.

“You alright, Gus?” he asked as he sat down.

“I’m not sure. But I’m not sure I want to talk about it just yet. Still, it’s been quite some time since we’ve chatted and I do feel as though I need a distraction. You’ve always been good for that. Is there anything you’d like to talk about?”

“There is actually. Apparently, my son Keaton, may he rest with Mother Magic, met and married a Muggle woman named Lorraine. And had a child, a son. He died when the boy was still a baby. And because none of us knew he’d married she was never informed of his death. She thought he’d just abandoned her and the boy. She ended up divorcing him, there’s a Muggle law that allows a spouse to divorce in absentia, they call it. She went on to marry and have 2 children. Imagine her shock when her first son started performing magic!”

“Merlin and Morgana! Do you know who it is? Your Grandson! It was a terrible loss you suffered but to discover a Grandson! You must be thrilled.”

“I know who it is. He’s here in the Chamber. It’s your Neville’s friend Dean.”

“Goodness! Kenzington, that’s marvelous! Neville speaks very highly of him.”

“He seems to be a gem, that’s for sure. Kingsley is ready to adopt him.”

The two friends chatted the afternoon away, both of them feeling a new hope for the future.

—--

Neville didn’t find Luna but he did find Daphne sitting on a bench with Mr. Fluffypaws.

“I see you have custody of Mr. Fluffypaws today.”

Daphne giggled. “I had to argue with Story for ages but yes, I finally won.”

“May I sit?”

“Of course.”

As he sat next to her he said, “I hope I didn’t cause you any embarrassment this morning. As soon as the question came out I wished I could take it back.”

“Of course not. It’s odd. I feel safe here. I don’t have to pretend. I feel like I can be myself. Usually I can only do that in private with Story, Theo, Blaise, and Draco. And sometimes with Pans.”

“I’m still figuring out who I am, I think, but it feels easier here.”

Daphne smiled and said, “Can I ask you a question?”

“Of course!”

“Who was your first kiss?”

“I haven’t had one yet either.”

Daphne took a deep breath. “Would you like one? With me I mean?

“Do you promise not to laugh?”

“I do.”

And she didn’t. They spent a few minutes blushing and talking before Neville remembered why he’d been wandering around. “Shit! I forgot! I was looking for Luna, do you know where she is? I have to talk to her about something. I should tell you too. I mean, if you want to hear it.”

“Of course I want to hear it if you want to tell me. I think Luna went off with Blaise, shall we look for them?”

Neville nodded and they set off. When they found the pair they almost wished they hadn’t.

“Theo’s going to kill you when I tell him just where your hands were, Blaise Zabini.”

Blaise jumped and Luna giggled. “You wouldn’t, Daphs! Tell me you wouldn’t!” Blaise pleaded.

Luna just smiled. “He already knows what we get up to. He just likes giving you a hard time.”

“I don’t think he knows we get up to that!” He turned back to Daphs. “You’re blushing. And, wait. Nev’s blushing too! Hazzah! You finally told each other how you feel! This is excellent! Was there kissing? Tell Blaise all!” 

“Yes. Yes it is. I’m not telling. Certainly not you!” Daphne said coyly. “Now, Neville was looking for Luna, he’s got something important to tell her. Try and be serious, Blaise, or go away.”

Blaise settled down and Neville told them about his conversation with Death. When he’d finished he looked at Luna, “Anything?”

She looked sadly at him. “Nothing. But if I do get anything I’ll tell you. Still, this is wonderful Neville.”

He looked over at Daphne and hesitantly took her hand. “It is.” 

They all sat and talked for the rest of the afternoon.

-----

When it was time for dinner Harry reluctantly came back down to the ground. He’d been flying most of the afternoon and was feeling exhausted but exhilarated. And starving. He looked around for Theo and was pleased to see him chatting with Neville and Daphne. He didn’t see Sirius and noticed that Amelia was missing too. He smirked and wondered if Sirius would be doing a walk of shame soon. He sat down beside Draco and Susan and started eating. Every day is better than the last, he thought. But then Molly spoke.

“So I assume we’re starting the next book tomorrow? We’ve wasted 2 days gadding about and we’d best get back to it.

I’ve been thinking. I think these books are a little too scary for the children. I don’t think they should be listening to them. Plus, they really should be doing lessons. They’ll be ahead of their class when they start school and won’t that be nice for them. I think a few of us should take turns skipping the readings and focusing on the children. I’ll take a turn of course, who else would like to volunteer?”

Everyone stopped and stared at her in amazement. To everyone’s further amazement it was Harry who responded first.

“No.”

Molly looked puzzled. “No what, Harry dear?”

“No, they aren’t skipping the reading. No, they aren’t taking lessons.”

“But Harry, dear…”

“He said no, Mrs. Weasley.” Theo said firmly. “And I’m saying it too.”

“You’re barely out of childhood yourself, Harry. And same with you Mr. Nott. Neither of you have the knowledge or experience to be deciding this sort of thing. I do. And I say they’re not listening to these books. That’s final. And since we can’t leave them to their own devices, that’s just asking for trouble, they’ll take lessons.”

Harry spoke with an eerie calm. “Who the hell do you think you are?”

Everyone gasped. 

Ron jumped up and started yelling, “Who the hell do you think you are, talking to my Mum like that? You think you’re so important! The Boy Who Lived, The Chosen One, fancy Lordships, and this Magic’s Chosen nonsense. Hanging out with Nott and Malfoy instead of me and Hermione! Mum’s done so much for you and this is how you repay her? She knows more about raising kids than you could ever hope to!”

“Are you done with your tantrum? Good, now shut up.” He turned back to Molly. “That’s twice I’ve heard that since we got here, once from you and now once from Ron. This is how I repay you? I thought you were being kind. I didn’t realize you’d require payment for it. You might have told me that upfront. But regardless. Those kids are our responsibility. Not yours. You’re not in charge here, Mrs. Weasley. We are. And the kids are not taking lessons. It’s a ridiculous suggestion. And they are listening to the books. And that’s final.”

And with that quiet but firm statement, he walked away. Sirius got up to follow him and raised an eyebrow at Theo. Theo hesitated but got up, gathered up the children, and followed Sirius.

Arcturus and the rest of the Blacks remained behind, all of them looking furious but controlled. Arcturus stood. “Molly, how old is Robert and Thomas?”

She sniffed and said “I don’t know.”

“They are 12. Just. And how old will they be when we return?”

Molly said nothing.

“5, Molly. 5 years old. And out of all of the children, they’re the eldest. The twins were born May 2, 1991. The day we return. What exactly would be the point of teaching them anything? They will not retain any of that knowledge. None of them will. Even Robert and Thomas will have trouble remembering their time here.

Theodore is teaching his Brothers English, of course, but only to make their time in this chamber easier for them.

So, not only is your idea ridiculous and easily dismissed. It was not your place to suggest it. Certainly not your place to ORDER IT.” His voice rose slightly, against his will. He took a deep breath.

“You are here in this chamber for the same reason we all are. To help the Chosen fix the problems in our world. You are not here to control people’s words and actions. Certainly not Hadrian’s. You are not in charge. The Chosen are.”

As he started to walk away he landed a parting shot, as only a Black could.

“And Molly? Perhaps before you start criticizing other people’s parenting you could perhaps improve your own. Your youngest son is a rude, sullen, jealous, and cruel boy with an explosive temper and the emotional maturity of a blueberry scone.”

All the Blacks got up and followed Arcturus out. Most of the remaining group gave Molly a disgusted look as they too left. 

The Weasley’s were the only ones left in the garden.

Ron started to rant but Arthur cut him off. “Be quiet Ronald! I’m absolutely shocked by your behaviour. And Molly! I don’t even know what to say to you. I am appalled. What’s gotten into you? It’s like you’re a different person.”

“She seems perfectly normal to us.” Fred said. “This is what she’s always been like.”

“To us.” George added. “Wait for the next book, Dad. I have a feeling you’re going to get to know Mum a lot better.”

The twins got up and left. 

Molly screeched. “Where do you two think you’re going?”

“We’re going to go and find Zabree and apologize for our Mother. You’ve ruined her birthday surprise.”

_____

Back in the Chosen’s suites the entire extended family was gathered in the sitting room. The children had been tucked into bed with the exception of Aleksander who would not let go of Theo.

“I need to prepare you for my second year but I honestly don’t have the energy right now. Can I do it over breakfast?”

They all nodded. “Whatever you need, Pup.”

“I need to go to bed.” He glanced over at Theo who had been completely silent since he’d arrived. He tried to raise an eyebrow in question but he was shite at it and Theo snorted. “Was that an attempt to subtly ask me for my approval?”

“Yes?”

“Yes.”

“OK.”

He looked at everyone for a moment before taking a deep breath. “Theo and I are dating. Well, not dating really since we can’t actually go anywhere but we’re together. And I know it might be weird because we’re going to be 11 when we return but we don’t care and we’re together.”

Draco couldn’t help himself and started laughing. ‘That was adorable! And also, that’s wonderful! I’m so pleased!”

“You’re OK with this?”

“Of course I am, why wouldn’t I be?”

“I…don’t know.”

“I’m delighted, Hadrian.”

“We all are, darling.” said Narcissa. “It’s wonderful.”

Harry looked at Arcturus. “Grandfather?” 

“You’ve chosen well, Hadrian. As have you, Theodore. I’m very pleased. Now, you’d best get that youngling to bed. He’s half asleep already. I bet he’d like company tonight, perhaps the two of you could sleep with the boys?”

Sirius heroically suppressed a laugh. “That sounds like a wonderful idea. Good night, Hads! I love you.”

“I love you too, Pads. Good night everyone.” and he walked out.

Theo, carrying Aleksander, turned as he got to the door and looked Arcturus dead in the eye. “You’re as subtle as a Hufflepuff. 

I’ll see you all in the morning.”

Chapter Text

Monday May 11, 1998

For the second day in a row Harry woke up cozy and warm and wrapped around Theo’s little Brothers. Only this time he was holding Theo’s hand as well. He smiled in contentment before remembering that they were going to start book two today. His mood instantly plummeted. Second Year. A right shitshow. Ginny nearly died. He nearly died! Hermione petrified. The whole school afraid of him. Bloody Colin. Dobby. Oh Merlin! The car! The diary. Riddle. The horcrux. Harry shot up in bed, waking Theo and the boys.

“What’s wrong?” Theo asked in alarm. 

“I…I forgot to tell you something! You, Luna, and Neville actually. It’s kind of important. Maybe Draco told you but I totally forgot!” He glanced nervously at the boys for a moment and Theo took the hint. He left the room and returned a few minutes later with Narcissa. 

“Cissa’s going to get the boys ready for the day. We’re going to dogpile Drake. We’ll grab Nev and LuLu on the way, assuming they’re not in with Drake already.”

Once the five of them were assembled in Draco’s bedroom, with tea and coffee because, dragons, Harry started.

“OK so first, don’t panic. There’s a solution and it will be dealt with as soon as we go back.” Draco seemed to realize what this was about and took Theo’s hand in preparation.

“Just say it, Hadrian.” he said, not unkindly.

Harry looked at Theo and said, “I’m a horcrux.” and waited for the explosion.

Theo however, was as calm as usual. “Yeah, I assumed.”

“Wait. What?” Harry and Draco said together. 

“How do you even know what they are?” Harry asked.

“I read. And hide in secret passages.”

“Ok, we don’t have time for this conversation right now.” Harry said with a shake of his head. “So, you’re OK?”

“Obviously I’m not OK but you prefaced your revelation with, don’t panic there’s a solution, so I’m not panicking. I’m assuming that solution involves the Goblins?” Harry nodded. 

Theo thought for a moment and swore. “And the rest of the pieces just fell into place. Fucking Dumbledore.”

As they walked down to breakfast Harry noticed Draco was starting to look a bit anxious. “You OK Draco?”

“No. This book is going to be bad. For me, I mean. Well, obviously for you too, but you’re not the one who was hurling slurs at people and basically saying you wished they were dead. I’m just dreading the reactions. From Mum especially. She’ll be expecting some, um, fuck. This is going to be bad.”

“I’ve got your back.” Harry said and then stopped dead. “I can’t believe I just said that. I mean, I absolutely meant it but, huh. I wonder when that happened.”                                 

Theo and Neville laughed and Nev said, “That’s how it happened with me!” 

Once they’d eaten they all headed into the main chamber. Lady Magic was there, starting intently at Albus, who was still locked in his cell. When she saw that Harry and the others had arrived she smiled widely. 

“Good morning My Chosen. I was just considering whether to let Albus out of his cage. I really don’t want to but my Brother disagrees.” She sent a pointed look at Albus, “I’m talking, of course, about my Brother Life. My other Brother thinks you belong in a more…permanant cage. So to speak.”

Harry snorted and said “I get the urge to keep him locked up but his power is in his voice, the way he manipulates his words to sound kind and like he’s sorry. A permanent silencing spell would be more effective, I think.”

“Well, I think if the vigilant Mr. Moody will promise to stay vigilant we can let him out then. But understand this, Albus. You are on borrowed time.”

She released him and went to sit down in the Chosen’s area and waved her hand. The second book appeared on the table next to Filius. 

“Before we begin I would like to talk about a couple of things.

As I have said already, with the exception of Albus, who is here only to learn what his hubris has wrought, every single person in this room, no matter what they’ve done or said in the past, is here for a reason. Each one of you has the potential to be a vital support to my Chosen. 

Having said that, I will also say that some of you are…disappointing me. Greatly. Take care that my disappointment does not turn to anger. I will not hesitate to remove you from this chamber. You will not be merged with your past selves. You will not retain your memories of the last seven years.

Our Chosen Children are in charge. Do not question them. They answer to us. And only us. 

Many of you have been chosen as potential advisors to our Children. Particularly because they will appear as children when you return and will need adults to publicly act on their behalf. They will listen to your suggestions, they will also listen to your objections,  but ultimately the final decisions will be theirs.

One final thing. As you listen to this book I want you to keep in mind that not everything is as it seems. Not every person is as they seem. Sometimes there is more to the story. And some of those stories won’t be told for a while. Understood? Good.”  

Lady Magic rose, crossed over to Draco and kissed him on the forehead, and vanished.

After a couple of minutes of stunned silence Harry nudged Theo into action.

“OK then. Professor Flitwick? How many chapters? Filius checked, “18 chapters, Mr. Nott.”

“Theo. For the love of Merlin, please, everyone, call me Theo. 

So that’s 6 chapters a day leaving 2 days for discussions and plans and 2 days off. Perfect.

I’m changing this up a bit. Since nobody seems capable of controlling themselves we’re going to read the assigned chapters and then open the floor to questions and comments. Please, for the love of all things sacred, please use your parchments to jot down your questions and comments during the reading. And when the time comes to discuss please at least attempt to control yourselves. Professor Flitwick? If you will?”

Filius cast the charm and the book began.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Chapter One - The Worst Birthday

———-

They got through the first six chapters with minimal interruptions, easily dealt with by Moody.

When the book stopped most of the chamber looked as though they were trying to decide who to yell at first, Albus or Molly.

Theo took a deep breath and stood up. “Alright. Lots to discuss here. Maybe we should break for lunch before we get into it?”

Everyone rushed through their meals, eager to get to the yelling.

“Who wants to go first?” Theo asked with trepidation.

Over a dozen hands shot up but Poppy’s was first. “Poppy? Go ahead.”

“I realize that this won’t happen in the future but I feel as though it needs to be addressed. Molly.  Harry was starving. And I don’t mean he was extra hungry. He’d been starved for weeks. He was suffering from malnourishment. If he’d even attempted to eat all that he’d have brought it all back up. He needed light, easily digestible foods, in small portions.”

“But he’s a growing boy! He needs food! Besides, he ate it and he was fine!” Molly defended. “Weren’t you, Harry!?”

Harry blushed a bit and said, “I slipped most of it onto Ron’s plate.”

“Well why didn’t you say so?” Molly asked.

Sirius laughed a bit bitterly. “Have you even been listening to these books, Molly? Hadrian never tells people what he needs or wants. Or at least he never used to. He’s getting better at that.”

Harry nodded, “I’m working on it.”

“Well, I’m sorry.” Molly said indignantly “How was I to know he was being starved?”

Fred scowled. “If you’d listened to us you’d have known. We tried to tell you about the bars on the window and the cat flap and that they were starving him but you didn’t stop screeching at us long enough to hear it.”

“And there it is. Bars on the windows and a cat flap for the meager amount of food they’d allow him. 

I don’t know who I’m angrier at right now. The fucking Dursleys for abusing him, Albus for putting him there in the first place and never once checking on him, or you Molly. Your children told you and you were either too busy ranting to listen or just ignored it. You saw the rags he was wearing, you saw how dangerously thin he was. He literally told you his Aunt and Uncle wouldn’t mind if he got lost in the Floo network. Did none of that register?”

Molly just crossed her arms over her chest. Sirius shook his head in disgust and turned to Ron and the twins. “Thank you, for rescuing Harry. Thank you for realizing he needed rescuing. I owe you.”

George shook his head. “He’s our Brother. We don’t need thanks, or repayment. We love him.” Fred nodded and shot a dirty look at Molly. 

Theo smiled at the twins before looking at Amelia. “Madame Bones?”

“It’s Amelia, Theo. And way too many things.

First of all, that idiot Mafalda Hopkirk is very, very fired. I remember you mentioned a previous warning at your sham of a hearing before your 5th year, Hadrian, and that it was an Elf. I should have followed up on that and I didn’t. You never should have received that letter in the first place. 

The entire system needs to change. We do not punish children for accidental magic, not that that happened in this case but still. And accusing you of performing magic in front of Muggles? Ridiculous! You live with them! They obviously know about magic!”

She finished her rant and found Cyrus Greengrass in the crowd. “Cyrus, we need to totally rework that legislation.” He nodded and replied, “We’ll start working on it this week.”

Theo added “We need to change the law about using underage magic altogether. It’s bollocks.”

Molly huffed, “You just want to be able to use magic outside of school.”

“That’s just it. I do. Constantly. Anyone living behind family wards can perform any magic they like without any repercussions. Even without the wards, if there are enough adult Wixen performing magic in the area, like in Diagon for example, underage Wixen can perform magic without getting in trouble with the Ministry.”

“That’s not fair to Muggleborns!” Hermione interrupted.

“Which was going to be my point, Granger, if you’d given me 30 more seconds to get to it.”

Hermione let out a huff but remained silent.

“Muggleborns, or I suppose Squib born…I don’t like that term either. Magical children living in the Muggle world should be able to perform magic at home like the rest of us. Now, I realize there would have to be some restrictions in place but I’m sure we could come up with something that would work.”

Justin raised his hand and Theo smiled at him and nodded. 

“I have a tutor in the summer. I use the Floo at the platform to go to his place, since we obviously don’t have a connection at home. I go at least twice a week and practice there. I’ve never received a letter so how does it work exactly? It’s obviously not on our wands because if it was I’d be getting letters all summer and Hadrian wouldn’t have received one at all since Dobby performed the magic. And if, say, Theo popped over to my house and put up wards could I do magic at my house? When we go back I mean. It does seem a bit ridiculous that the law only applies to Muggle raised.”

Hermione couldn’t help herself and interrupted again. “They’d have to be pretty complicated wards. Nott obviously couldn’t do them, but maybe someone could.” At this several people burst into laughter, including Bathsheda. Hermione looked baffled at that but continued. “I want wards on my house. It’s not fair that I can’t do magic in the summer.”

Theo just sighed “What have I wrought? Look, we can discuss how the trace works and how to adjust the law later. Let’s get back to the books. Amelia? Did you have anything else to discuss?”

She smiled and Sirius shuddered and whispered to Harry. “That was not a good smile. Someone’s in trouble.” Harry snorted.

“Arthur Weasley. Where to begin. Oh I know!

A LOOPHOLE IN THE LAW THAT YOU YOURSELF WROTE? I’m sending my Aurors to your home as soon as we get back and if they find that car and it’s already been charmed I will instruct them to arrest you.”

“Amelia…” Arthur started.

“I’M NOT FINISHED!

How long did it take for you to return to your car and find it missing? At least 15 minutes according to the text. How did you not notice that your 12 year old son and Harry Potter had not come through the barrier immediately behind you?

Why on earth would you even enter the Platform before ensuring that all of your children AND HARRY POTTER had entered first? What is wrong with you!?!”

She swung her head around to confront Minerva “And you! Was there an investigation done to find out why the Platform barrier was closed? I heard about the boys flying the car to Hogwarts, of course, but I never heard about the barrier being blocked until today.”

Minerva sniffed. “I did Floo to the barrier the following morning to check it, just in case, and it was fine. I thought…well I thought they were making it up.”

Amelia sighed. “Yes, well, you thought wrong.”

She swung her head again, this time to face Severus. “If I get confirmation that you’ve been using Legilimency on children I am going to hex your bollocks off. And that goes for you too, Albus.” she added with a glare at Albus.

She smiled at Kingsley, “Kings, I know you have something you’d like to address.”

“I do.” Kingsley replied. “And this one is for Arthur and Molly as well. You didn’t even explain how to use the Floo properly! Why didn’t one of you go through with him?

And where were you when that idiot Lockhart was physically accosting Hadrian in the middle of Flourish and Blotts?

And speaking of… Hagrid, I’m thankful you were there to find Hadrian but please try to remember how big and strong you are. I know you’d never hurt anyone on purpose but you need to be mindful. You could have really hurt him.”

Hagrid nodded. “I forget to be gentle sometimes. I’ll do better! Sorry Harry.”

“It’s OK Hagrid! I was so relieved to see you!” Harry said with a smile.

Molly stood up and waved her hands in the air wildly. “I’m getting sick and tired of all of you ganging up on my family. WE DID THE BEST WE COULD! I’D LIKE TO SEE ANY OF YOU MANAGE SEVEN CHILDREN!” She stormed off towards her suite yelling “COME ALONG ARTHUR!”

For once, Arthur didn’t obey his wife. 

After several moments of awkward silence Richard spoke up. “May I say something?”

Theo nodded his head and said “Of course, Mr. Granger.”

“It’s Doctor Granger!” sniped Hermione.

“My apologies, Sir, I didn’t realize.”

“It’s perfectly fine, Theo, you couldn’t have known. And it’s Richard.” Theo nodded “Thank you, you honour me.”

Richard smiled at Theo before giving a stern look at Hermione before speaking. “I’d like to ask the Professors to please stop rewarding my Daughter for her very poor behaviour in class. Giving her points for speaking out of turn, rewarding her for writing her own questions and answers on exams? Regularly submitting 36 inches of parchment when the assignment was for 12? And Ron’s right. Her writing is small. Honestly. If Hermione attends Hogwarts this time, and that’s a big if, I need that to change.”

Parvati spoke up for the first time. “Allowing her to do extra credit when other students are turned down!” Padma blushed at this but bravely backed up her sister. “I’ve asked for the opportunity to do extra credit work several times but was told it was against Hogwarts policy.”

“Draco asked too and even Severus turned him down.” added Blaise. Several of the students in the chamber nodded in agreement and Blaise continued. “Was Granger the only one in our year permitted to do extra credit?”

Minerva looked a little sheepish. “I believe she was.”

“So she wasn’t the top of the class, was she?” asked Lavender a little smugly. “Good to know.”

“Like I said, I need that to change, assuming my Daughter attends Hogwarts.”

“Dad!”

“Don’t!”

Minerva stepped in before a fight could start. “I apologize, Dr. Granger. Hermione is just such a bright child and so eager to learn I didn’t think it would do any harm to make an exception. I was clearly mistaken.”

“There’s a solution to that though.” Theo said. “Muggle schools have, what’s it called, Granger? Advanced Placement? For gifted children, right? Or they can just skip entire grades?”

Hermione had a stubborn frown on her face, still angry at her father for chastising her in public, so Richard stepped in. “That’s right. Hermione skipped two grades in Primary School. Which, in retrospect, may have been a mistake. And Advanced Placement, yes. Though it’s an American practice I believe. Students can start taking University courses while still in Secondary School. Those credits would be applied to their University degree.”

Snape looked interested at this. “So it would be similar to me allowing Theodore to start his Mastery immediately following his OWLs. It didn’t affect his Hogwarts grades but allowed him to complete a Mastery before he actually finished Hogwarts. I planned on letting Draco start his Mastery in 7th year but, well. That didn’t happen, for obvious reasons.”

“Wait! Theodore Nott! You were working on two Masteries in 6th year?” asked Bathsheda in shock. “I thought you were only doing Runes! You were doing Potions as well? I don't know whether to be extra proud of you or annoyed you didn't tell me!

“Merciful Odin. Can we get back to Granger?” Theo said in exasperation. “Better yet, can we get back to discussing the book?”

“Oh sure, throw me under the bus.” Harry snarked. Theo laughed. “Sorry, Hadri. I like being the centre of attention even less than you do.”

“Speaking of. Mr. Potter, I…I owe you an apology. Several in fact. But since we’re on the subject, I was told” he turned and glared at Albus “well, it’s no excuse really. I thought you enjoyed the attention. The fame. It’s clear you don’t. And looking back there were obvious signs that I either missed or ignored. And not just about this. I’m sorry.”

Harry gaped at him for a moment before stammering “It’s OK Professor.”

“Call me Severus.” Harry’s mouth fell open in shock and Theo reached over and nudged his chin up with a laugh.

Hermione had found her voice “ARE YOU TELLING ME NOTT WAS TAKING TWO MASTERIES BEFORE HE’D EVEN TAKEN HIS NEWTS? HOW IS THAT EVEN POSSIBLE? HE’S NOT EVEN TOP OF THE CLASS!”

Neville spoke up at this, “Perhaps we should save this discussion for the next Hogwarts meeting? Because this really needs to be addressed. We’re, all of us, going to be so far ahead of our classmates it’s a bit ridiculous. We’ll need to come up with a plan but now’s not really the time. And for the record, Hermione? I started working on my Herbology Mastery with Professor Sprout in 7th year. It got put off because, well, because of, well, everything else going on but I’d started.”

Hermione opened her mouth to argue but Richard cut her off. “Enough, Hermione.”

Lady Magic appeared and sighed. “Well, I continue to be disappointed in some of you.

You all clearly still have a lot to discuss but it’s going to have to wait. Yelling at each other isn’t going to solve everything and it’s going to drive my Theo completely mad.

I have something else for you to discuss. I’m going to bring in someone new. He’s actually been here all along but it’s time he joined the group. Now, I will not have any of you attacking him. He’s here because I want him to be. He has a great deal to contribute and I will not allow any of you to shame him. He’s ashamed enough of himself already.” She waved her hand and Augustus Rookwood appeared.

Every Auror in the chamber tensed but Saul and Broderick jumped up in excitement.

“This is excellent, My Lady! He’s the perfect man for the job.”

Everyone looked at Saul in confusion. “What job? Asked Gawain.

Saul looked puzzled. “Did I not mention?”

“No, Saul, I don’t believe you did.”

“Oh. I want to prove that Muggleborns are descended from Squibs. I know that the Gringotts tests will prove it but I want to prove it, prove it. If you know what I mean. I want to test all the Muggleborns and the Grangers, and I suppose I’ll need to test the half-bloods and purebloods as well just to be thorough. I want to compare their DNA and…”

Gawain started laughing. “We get the picture. And it’s a fantastic idea.”

“And Rookwood will be invaluable!”

“I don’t doubt that but, and I’m sorry My Lady, I trust you completely but I’d like to hear from Rookwood himself before I even consider trusting him anywhere near Saul, or anyone else for that matter. Not that I don’t trust your judgement, My Lady, I do, unreservedly.”

“What was it you called him, Theo? Brave Sir Gawain? Yes, that was it. Fitting.”

Gawain raised an eyebrow at Theo and smiled when Theo blushed. “I’m a Knight of the Round Table, am I? I suppose that fits since I’ve vowed to serve and protect Lord Pendragon and Lord Emrys.” 

“Wait! Lord Pendragon? Lord Emrys? I thought those were myths! Harry? Do you have those titles too? How?” Ron shouted in shock.

“Not now Ronald. Augustus, dear? Come and join me.” said Lady Magic gently. Augustus stepped up hesitantly and began.

“Gawain. Your protective nature is still strong, I see. I’m glad. 

I won’t defend myself but I will offer a bit of an explanation if I may.

I never took the Mark during the first war. I did, however, spy for the Dark Lord, or Riddle I guess we’re calling him. I wish I’d known that then. I may not have been quite so afraid of him. Or in so much awe of him.

When Karkaroff was arrested I was one of the names he traded for immunity. I wasn’t given a trial. They didn’t even check to see if I had the Mark. I didn’t raise much of a protest because I was guilty of working for him.

When the mass break-out happened I wasn’t given a choice. They just took me with them. I was forced to take the Mark then. Well, I could have chosen death I suppose.

I won’t apologize for choosing to live but I will apologize for the pain and suffering I caused. I’d like the opportunity to make amends.

If I could help Saul and Bode prove that Muggleborns are descended from Squibs, I can’t tell you what that would mean to me. Not that any of you would believe me.”

“And once we return? Amelia asked “What are you expecting?”

“Nothing. I expect nothing. Lady Magic and I haven’t discussed it but I assumed I’d remain in Azkaban. And I’m OK with that. That’s not accurate. I’m not OK with it but I accept it.

I’m not asking to join you, as one of you. I’m asking to be allowed to help Saul and Bode prove their theory. Gawain, you can post one of your Aurors in their lab if you feel the need. I obviously have no objection. But you of all people know that even if I were inclined to violence Saul would be my last target. I would never harm him.”

Gawain sighed and looked at Amelia. “It’s your call, Boss.”

“If Lady Magic wants him to help then he helps. If you want to post a guard to protect Saul and Bode I won’t stop you but, Gawain, you know you don’t need to. Augustus would’ve taken an AK for Saul in school. We all would have. I very much doubt that’s changed.”

Theo rose at this and said, “So, welcome Mr. Rookwood. 

It’s just about time for supper. You can continue to argue if you like but I think we’re officially finished for the day. Unless anyone else has something that can’t wait?

Blaise raised his hand and Theo raised an eyebrow. “Seriously?”

“I just have one quick question.” Theo sighed but nodded.

“I’m wondering, Mr. Weasley, why didn’t you just shrink everyone’s trunks rather than expanding the boot and trying to fit them all in?”

Arthur blushed. “Do you know, Mr. Zabini, I never thought of that. It would certainly make things easier at the Platform too, wouldn’t it?”

“Salazar save me.” Theo said. “I’m done. Good night everyone.” And without another word to anyone he turned and walked into the Chosen’s Suites.

Blaise laughed and walked over to flop down beside Draco and Harry. He threw up a silencing spell before looking at Draco in concern. “He’s going to lock himself up in his room isn’t he. He’s people’d out. After the year he’s had I’m actually surprised he’s lasted this long.”

“He’s talked more in the last year than he did in the previous nine years combined.”

“True. So, can I come for dinner?”

Before Draco could respond Harry did. “You absolutely can. In fact, I was thinking of inviting you and Daphne. We kind of need to talk to you two about something.”

“You mean about you and Theo hooking up?” Blaise asked.

“Did Luna tell you?” Harry asked with a laugh.

“No! Of course not. Luna’s a closed book when it comes to her friends and family. I’ve got eyes don’t I? It was obvious.”

Draco laughed. “He’s gifted, our Blaise is. He can spot this stuff before it even happens. But he’s a closed book too. He’d never spill unless given the OK.”

“It’s not a secret, really. We planned to tell everyone today but…I really don’t want to tell Ron and Hermione. I was already dreading it but after today, I. Fuck. Hermione seriously hates Theo! She used to complain about him beating her in Runes and Arithmancy. It made her so mad. And now? It’s going to get worse! I can’t deal with that.”

Ron was walking towards them so Blaise dropped the silencing spell. 

“Harry? Can I talk to you for a minute?” Ron asked.

“Talk, yes. Yell, no.”

“Just talk.”

“Then yes.”

Draco nodded politely at Ron and got up. “I’m going to check on Theo. I’ll see you later.” Harry nodded and Draco headed for the Suite. Blaise sighed and said, “I suppose the polite thing to do would be to give you two some privacy.”

Harry snorted. “Go away, Blaise. We’ll do dinner tomorrow, maybe. Tell Daphne.”

“Will do.” He nodded at Ron and wandered off.

Harry mentally braced himself and looked at Ron. “So, what’s up?”

“You were jealous of me?”

Harry was a little startled. “Well, yeah. You had everything I wanted. A home, parents who loved you. Siblings. I mean, your Mum was a little terrifying but it was obvious she loved you.”

“I’m beginning to wonder if she did, if I’m being honest. I didn’t notice back then. I didn’t know any better I guess. But, Merlin, this is hard to say. I don’t think she loves us the right way. Does that make sense? Like, she only loves us when we act like she wants us to. 

And, shit. I think I might be like that too. I think I do that to you. And Hermione. Like, I was lying in bed the other day and trying to remember 2nd year and it’s kind of a blur. But I kept thinking of stuff I said over the years and, Godric, I was kind of awful. Especially 4th year. And, well, this past year.

And even yesterday. I totally lost my temper with you, twice! And I was fuming most of the day. You’re not acting like yourself and I don’t like it. But, that’s kind of stupid isn’t it. Everyone changes as they get older. I guess I keep expecting you to be like 1st year Harry but that’s not who you are anymore. You’re not even Harry! Am I supposed to call you Hadrian now? It’s kind of…fancy purebloody, I think. Anyway, are we OK?”

“Not yet. I have some things to say first. And then I need you to really think it over and decide whether you still want to be my friend. 

I’m not the same. None of us are. This past year changed everything. Changed me. Had Lady Magic not intervened Voldie would have killed me. And I would have let him. I don’t really want to talk about that right now so don’t ask. My point is, I’m not Dumbledore’s trained dog anymore. My eyes are open. I’m still figuring out who I am but I know who I’m not. I’m not going to allow anyone to even attempt to control me, ever again. Not your Mum, not Hermione, and not you. 

You were kind of awful at times. Other times you were the best friend anyone could have asked for. I’d like to get back to that but…Ok shit, this is hard. Things have to change. It’s never going to be just the 3 of us again. I’m not going to put up with you and Hermione bickering and putting me in the middle.” 

Ron started to protest but Harry cut him off. “Nope. I’m not finished. I’m being kind of harsh but this shit has been festering so I’m getting it out. I’m not putting up with your jealousy or your temper. If we disagree on something we need to talk it through like adults, not storm off like a child having a tantrum, or in my case, ignore it and hope it goes away. I’m going to have other friends. I’m not going to limit myself. I will very likely end up in Slytherin but even if I don’t I’m going to have Slytherin friends. Including Draco Malfoy. He’ll be more than a friend actually. He’ll be my cousin. Sirius is going to blood adopt me and he and Narcissa are already pretty close and bound to get even closer. He’ll be my family. And I won’t let you talk shit about him. I know the two of you will probably have to have it out at some point, I get that. I just mean, I won’t put up with it once we go back. You’ll either have to accept that Draco and the other Slytherins are going to be a big part of my life…or you won’t be in my life.

I really, really hope you decide to be OK with it. I don’t want to lose you. You’re so important to me, Ron. But I can’t keep living on other people’s terms.”

Ron was a bit red in the face but he was controlling himself admirably. Harry was impressed. And he fired his final shot hoping Ron would keep it together. He stood and looked Ron in the eye.

“Also? I’m dating Theo. I’m pretty sure I’m going to marry him when I grow up…again.”

And with that Harry walked back to his Suite.

—--

Ron sat there, dumbfounded, for several minutes before heading back to the Weasley Suite. He didn’t know how to process the last 15 minutes but knew he’d have to if he wanted to be a proper friend. And he did. He just wasn’t sure how to do it. 

When he walked in his Dad was waiting for him.

“Oh good, I thought I might have to go and find you. Let me just call the others.” He was back in a few minutes with everyone but Molly, and Bill, who was with Fleur.

“Your Mum isn’t joining us. I’ll speak to her later. 

So today was…not very good for our family. At first I was quite angry at the way people were talking about us and to us. But, I’ve been thinking it over and I think we’ve, your Mum and I, done you all a disservice.” He paused for the expected protests but when none came he continued. “Well. That answers that. We have done you all a disservice. I’m sorry.

I don’t know how I’m going to manage it but I’m going to try to convince your Mum to see the Mind Healer. And, of course, I’m going to go too. 

I’m not going to order you, and I don’t think I could at this point, you’re all adults. But I’d like all of you to see her as well. Especially you Ronald and Ginny. This school year was especially difficult for you both. You must have some, um, unresolved feelings about it.

And I think perhaps, we should see her as a family. Fred and George, you seem particularly angry with your Mother, and honestly, I think you have reason to be. 

Anyway, I just wanted to tell you all that I love you very much and I’m very sorry. Very sorry indeed.”

He left them all sitting there staring at each other in shock. 

-----

When Harry arrived in the Chosen’s Suites he immediately looked for Theo but he wasn’t there. He looked questioningly at Draco but he just shook his head.

“He does this. Locks himself away. I’m sorry.”

“It’s not your fault. It’s…I feel like locking myself away to be honest. I was just hoping to, you know, lock myself away with Theo. I told Ron.”

Draco winced. “And how did that go?”

“I have no idea. I didn’t actually stick around for the response.”

Sirius laughed. “I’m not sure I blame you.”

“There wasn’t any yelling when I walked away so I’m hoping he thinks about it and accepts it. There was a whole speech and stuff. I told him that if he wanted to stay my friend there’d have to be some changes and stuff. It was a thing. I hope it worked. I really don’t want to lose him.”

Draco looked apologetic. “I’ve been putting it off, mostly because I didn’t think he’d be receptive but, do you think he’d let me apologize?”

“All you can do is try. If he doesn’t accept it it’s on him. It wasn’t all one-sided. I mean, you usually started it but he gave as good as he got. You both need to apologize but I’m not getting involved. You two need to work this out between you. I did tell him that too, by the way. I told him you were going to be in my life and he’d have to accept it or walk away.”

“I’ll try tomorrow then. Salazar give me strength.”

Harry laughed. “I’m going to go knock on Theo’s door and see what happens. Good night everyone.”

He wandered up the stairs and hesitated. A thought struck him and he smiled. He cast his Patronus and whispered a message for Prongs to deliver.

Less than 30 seconds later the door cracked open and Harry walked in.

“Hey. I know you’re probably sick of people and want to be alone but I was hoping you’d make an exception. We don’t have to talk or anything. I’ll be quiet…after this I mean.”

Theo didn’t move but he whispered. “I can be alone with you here.”

Harry smiled and crawled under the covers and curled up beside his boyfriend. He was asleep within seconds.

Chapter Text

Tuesday May 12, 1998

Harry woke curled up against Theo. It was his first time sharing a bed with Theo without the boys in between them. I could get used to this, he thought with a soft smile on his face.

He watched Theo sleep for a while before getting up to head back to his room to get ready for the day.

Theo was silent and withdrawn through breakfast and Harry was getting concerned. He decided to let it go for the morning and headed for the main chamber.

Theo didn’t take his usual spot to start the proceedings but headed straight for the sofa and pulled Draco down beside him. Sander and the twins scrambled up beside them.

Harry looked at Neville in question but he just shook his head so Harry took the lead.

“Morning. Let’s get to it. Nobody interrupt during the reading. You can all yell at each other after. Professor Flitwick?”

Harry was a little hesitant to join Theo on the couch but one of the twins made the choice for him. “Hadri! колени!” Matteus whispered. Then he scrunched up his nose while he thought and said, “No. English. Lap!”. Theo smiled and hugged his little Brother and when Harry sat down the boy curled up on his lap.

Chapter Six - Mudbloods and Murmurs

Surprisingly they got through the six chapters without interruption though there were a few very tense moments. Harry could see several people practically quivering in anticipation. And a lot of people were glaring at Draco.

Harry stood when the book ended and took a deep breath. “Before I open it up to everyone I want to make a few apologies.

Nev, I’m so sorry. I meant to apologize yesterday too. I was a shitty friend. You’re one of my favourite people and I’m sorry it took me so many years to get to know you. And you’re so powerful! You were just using the wrong wand. It was still loyal to your Dad. It wouldn’t have worked for anyone.”

Garrick nodded his agreement.

Hagrid blushed and apologized too. “I shouldn’ta talked about you like that neither, Neville.”

“You shouldn’t be talking about any students, Mr. Hagrid. No Malfoy’s worth listening to? Bad blood? You spoke like that during the chapter Flourish and Blotts as well. I realize that my Nephew said some terrible things but you’re the adult. You should not be speaking that way about a child and especially not to other children! 

And no wonder they all hate each other. Lucius said terrible things about the Weasley family, not only in front of his child but in public! And if he were here I’d be yelling at him. But you, Arthur, are just as guilty. Children take their cues from their parents.  They arrived at Hogwarts already despising each other. Set a better example!”

Arthur hung his head in shame but Molly sniffed and raised hers higher. 

“Can we apologize now?” Ernie asked hesitantly. Justin, Susan, and Hannah nodded in agreement.

“We were awful, Hadrian! We’re so sorry.” Said Hannah. 

Harry stammered a bit and replied, “It’s OK.”

Susan walked over to him and said, “It’s not OK. And we were even worse in 4th year. We were awful and I’m so sorry.”

“It really is OK. I really appreciate the apology though. I forgive you all. Let’s just put it behind us.” The Hufflepuffs all nodded and sat down. “Anyone else want to apologize for anything?” Harry asked.

Draco stood and bowed to both Ron and Hermione.

“I was an awful bully to both of you and I’m truly sorry. For everything I did, for everything I said. Especially to you, Granger.”

Ron looked over at Harry and took a deep breath. “I’m not ready to forgive you, you really were awful, but I guess I’m willing to give you another chance. Just one, mind. If you screw it up, that’s it.”

Draco looked a little stunned but managed a weak, “Thank you, Weasley.”

Hermione huffed in disgust. “Well, I’m certainly not going to forgive you. Even if I were willing to forgive you for the awful things you said, which I’m not, you just stood there while I was being tortured by your insane Aunt!” 

Narcissa gasped and walked over and put her arm around Draco, who’d gone white as a ghost.

Lady Magic appeared next to Draco before Narcissa could speak. She took Draco’s hand and led him back to Theo, who was looking shell shocked.

Lady Magic sat down on the arm of the sofa and gently asked, “Are you not going to share your reasons for any of it, dear one?”

“No. My reasons are irrelevant. They were my words and actions. I’m responsible for them.”

“I disagree. And I will not allow people to vilify you.” A very small book of only a few pages appeared before Filius. Draco froze and shook his head but Lady Magic just took his hand again and nodded at Filius. He cast the spell and the book started.

~~~~~~

Draco’s story

August 31, 1991

A young boy with white blonde, slicked-back hair was sitting on his bed excitedly scribbling in a journal.

Draco: Merlin Teddy! Are you there? I can barely contain myself! Less than 24 hours and we’ll be at Hogwarts! I’m so excited!

Theo: Really? I’d never have guessed. You’ve only mentioned it 62 times in the last two days.

Draco: Have you seriously been counting?

Theo: It’s not as though I count on purpose. Shit enters my brain without my consent and it doesn’t leave. Even when I want it to.

Draco: The trials of an almost 12 year old genius with an eidetic memory. 

Theo: Let’s not get carried away. So, have you been summoned yet?

Draco: Not yet.

Theo: No matter what he says, just agree. Nod and say, “yes, Father”.

Draco: I already got this speech from Mum. I know. Did you get a summons?

Theo: No, thank Odin. I’m not sure he’s even here actually. I hope he’s not.

Draco: Shit. Here’s the summons. I’ll be back.

Draco made his way to his Father’s Study with great trepidation. He took a deep breath before schooling his features and knocked.

His Father kept him waiting for exactly 60 seconds but finally barked out “Enter.”

Draco entered and walked over to stand in front of Lucius’ desk.

“Good evening Draco.

You leave for Hogwarts tomorrow. Your Mother will accompany you to the Platform. I have more pressing matters to attend to. I do have some final instructions however.

I expect you to come first in your class, Draco. Malfoys do not come second. Your tutors are constantly telling me that Theodore is much smarter than you so you will have to work twice as hard. Though how he manages to beat your scores in every subject when he doesn’t speak a word is beyond my comprehension.

You will stay close to Vincent and Gregory. They are your Vassals and you will treat them as such. But they will also report to me weekly. They will report on your performance in classes, your test results, and how diligently you work on your assignments. They will also report on your behaviour outside of classes. I will not tolerate any of your nonsense. Malfoys do not associate with Blood Traitors and Half-Bloods. You will act as though you are the most important person at Hogwarts. Because you are. 

Draco raised his hand tentatively and Lucius frowned. “You have a question about my instructions? I thought they were quite clear. How disappointing. Ask.”

“I…I wond…”

“Malfoys do not stutter.”

“I wished to inquire as to how you wanted me to deal with any of the Half-Bloods in Slytherin. Uncle Severus told me that while there are not many there are a few.”

“I suppose that is a fair question. I am pleased with your foresight.

In public you will treat them as any other Slytherin. Severus expects a united front, and considering how Dumbledore runs that school it is needed. However, in the privacy of Slytherin House you will treat them as dirt under your feet, as that is what they are.

Now, as to Theodore specifically. I have never approved of your…friendship. I allowed your childish attachment in the past but you are 11 now. It’s time to grow up. Malfoys do not have friends. They have allies. The Notts are, unfortunately, slightly higher on the political hierarchy than we are, which makes them necessary allies. However, I would prefer that you distance yourself from Theodore, socially. Tiberius is most disappointed in Theodore. He’s too much like his Grandfather. More interested in knowledge than power. Ridiculous boy. With power and gold you do not need knowledge. Do not alienate him, he may be useful, but cultivate other, more suitable, allies. 

The Greengrass chit, for example. Cyrus is infuriatingly neutral but politically powerful and influential. We do not want him as an enemy. Get to know his daughter. Perhaps she could be swayed. Poor man, two useless daughters and not one son. 

The Parkinson’s are hoping for a betrothal between you and that pug-faced bitch of a daughter of theirs. She’s not remotely good enough for a Malfoy but Patrick would make a good Vassal so do not alienate either of them. 

Finally, the Zabini boy. Countess Zabini is dangerous. And infuriatingly neutral. The Shafiqs always have been. I know you’ve become somewhat friendly with the boy over the years. He is to take the Shafiq seat when he comes of age. Attempt to sway him to our side.

As for the older Slytherin students, you know which families are worth associating with and which ones aren’t. I trust you to treat them accordingly.

You will be attending school with several Blood Traitors. The Longbottom boy for example. Though how he got into Hogwarts is beyond me. I’ve heard he’s no better than a Squib. He is beneath you. Treat him as such. The Bones child. Her Aunt is the head of the DMLE. A terrifying woman, to be honest. The girl is to be avoided. She will never be an ally but you do not want her as an enemy. 

I believe there will be a Weasel in your year. There are so many of them it’s difficult to keep track. Hard to believe they can even afford Hogwarts. Honestly, a litter that large and not enough gold to feed and clothe them. I expect Dumbledore helps them out. That’s certainly one way to keep them loyal. Regardless, remember the Blood Feud. They are to be scorned at every opportunity. 

I understand there will be a few Mudbloods in your year. You will treat them as the disgusting abominations that they are. If I had my way they’d be exterminated, the filth. Use every opportunity to teach them their place.

As to Harry Potter. You will attempt to befriend him. From what I hear he’s been living with Muggles! Muggles! We do not know anything about him. He’s a Half-Blood, of course, and normally I would expect you to shun him. But, he is going to be powerful, socially and politically. Particularly if that disgusting Blood Traitor cousin of your Mother named him Heir Black. I was hoping you would be the Heir but alas, you disappointed me there. Potter could be swayed to our side if you get to him before anyone else does. I have little faith in your ability, I expect Dumbledore has already poisoned him against our side, but do your best.

Now, I will be keeping track of every success and failure. Let me show you.” He pulled out a sheet of parchment with two columns, Success and Failure. “Isn’t this a fun idea? I am going to keep a tally and when you return at Yule you had better hope that your successes outnumber your failures.

You will receive a reward for every success and a strike of my cane for each failure.

Make me proud, Draco. You’re dismissed.”

December 23, 1991

Draco: Teddy? Are you there?

Theo: Thank fuck! I was so worried! Are you OK? How bad was it? 

Draco: I’m fine. I. It was worse than I expected. But Sev fixed me up. Fucking Granger. If it weren’t for her it wouldn’t have been so bad. Why does the one person who beats me in every class have to be a fucking Mudblood!

Theo: Do not use that word. Not with me. I understand that you need to be Lucius Malfoy’s Son in public but my Ducky doesn’t use such vile language.

Draco: Fuck, I’m sorry! It slips out. I don’t mean it. You know I don’t! I hate her but not because of her blood.

Theo: I know. 

Draco: Thanks for making sure I came out ahead of you, Teddy. I feel awful about it but I appreciate it.

Theo: It’s fine. It’s not like I care about coming in first. I’m more concerned with the two of us surviving until 17. 

Draco: They won’t actually kill us. We’re their only heirs. They have to preserve their precious Lines. They just enjoy making us wish we were dead. And you have it way worse than I do. And speaking of, have you seen him yet? Are you OK?

Theo: I’m fine. He’s in Norway for Yule. He won’t be back until the New Year. 

Draco: Can you come and stay then?

Theo: No. He’s ordered me to remain in the castle. I’m not even allowed to go down to the beach. Plus, there’s no point in pissing Lucy off further. I’m fine here in my library. The elves have been ordered to ignore me unless I try to sneak out but Merry and Pippin snuck in and will keep me company and make sure I get enough to eat. The other elves will snitch on me, they’re too afraid of Far not to, but they won’t on Merry and Pippin. And I have a new language to learn so I’d probably ignore you anyway.

Draco: Merlin, Theodore! What is it this time?

Theo: Professor Babbling inherited a small, but very impressive, library from an Uncle who passed recently. She found an ancient potions text, at least she thinks that’s what it is. It’s written in a combination of Etruscan and Phoenician, with smatterings of Greek and Latin. Which is weird and fascinating. She only recognized a few words and she asked me to attempt to translate it. I’ve never studied Etruscan! I’m almost giddy.

Draco: Let’s not get carried away. 

Theo: That’s my line.

Draco: OK. Well don’t get too wrapped up in your swotty project that you forget about me.

Theo: Have I ever?

Draco: Yes! Several times!

Theo: Sorry. I’ll try to do better. I love you more than ancient languages. I’ll set alarms so as not to neglect you too badly. And when I ignore the alarms Merry and Pippin will step in.

Draco: Prat! I love you too, Teddy! I’ll talk to you later. Don’t neglect Luna either!

Theo: I won’t.

——-

The book stopped and nobody spoke. They didn’t even know what to say.

Finally Hermione spoke up. “You were beaten because I scored higher marks than you?”

Draco just stared at the ground. One hand clutching Lady Magic’s and the other Theo’s.

Narcissa spoke softly. “Every year, Miss Granger. After every term.

And I won’t allow Draco to take the blame for his, admittedly, terrible words and actions. I instructed him to behave like a mini Lucius.”

“So did I.” added Theo. “He took it a little further than I might have liked but he was only doing what he had to do to keep himself and his Mother safe.”

“Are you expecting me to believe you never believed all that blood purity crap? I don’t believe that for a second.” she glared at Draco as she spoke.

“I’m not expecting you to believe anything.” Draco whispered before getting up and walking into the Chosen’s Suites.

Theo passed Matteus to Neville and followed Draco without a word.

Lady Magic frowned at Hermione for a moment before speaking. “Why don’t you all take a break for an hour or so. Once you return I would like to correct your astonishingly inaccurate assumptions about Salazar Slytherin.”

——-

Once everyone had eaten and returned to their seats Lady Magic asked Narcissa to fetch Theo and Draco, saying “They’ll want to hear this.”

Once Narcissa returned with her boys and they’d all settled in Lady Magic began.

“The notion that Salazar was a blood purist is absolute nonsense. I don’t even know how that rumour started.

Hermione, when was Hogwarts founded?”

“Late 10th Century.” Hermione answered promptly.

“And when did the widespread witch hunts start?”

“Early 15th Century.” Hermione said.

“There was no such thing as Pureblood supremacy in Salazar’s day. Salazar’s Mother was a Muggle, his Father, a Wizard. There was also no such thing as a Muggleborn. Or Squibs for that matter. Remember back on your first day here I spoke about how the separation of Wixen and Non-Magicals weakened Magic?

In Salazar’s day Wixen and Non-Magicals lived in the same communities. Salazar wanted that to change. There was some unrest at the time. Nothing widespread but there were a few incidents. He was concerned. Mostly for the children. He wanted complete separation between the Wixen and Muggle worlds. He was wrong, of course, though like I said that first day, I understood his concerns.

There was never a falling out between Salazar and the other founders. They did somewhat disagree about what to teach the children. Both Salazar and Rowena believed that all Magic should be taught and Godric and Helga thought that only Light Magic was appropriate for children to learn. And in case I haven’t been clear, I’m on Salazar and Rowena’s side on that. How can children learn to defend themselves from Dark Magic if they’re never taught about it?

Salazar did eventually leave the school to travel and, unfortunately, died before he could return, but the four of them considered each other family.

As to the Chamber of Secrets. It was his secret study and he did have a…let’s call it a pet for now. I won’t spoil the book. It was Salazar’s familiar. Salazar left him there when he left the school. Unfortunately he did not leave instructions for the others as to how to enter the chamber or how to care for his familiar. 

Also, just for your information all four founders had hidden chambers in the school. It was actually a game for them, to find each other’s chambers. Rowena’s was, of course, the Room of Requirement. Helga’s was, what is now, the kitchen, though she also had a secret garden. Godric’s study hasn’t been discovered yet so I’m not going to say.

Now I’d like to take a few moments to discuss Harry’s gift of Parseltongue. This is another area where the current Dark vs Light labels have created a problem. The ability to talk to snakes is not dark. It is a gift. 

And Albus, Riddle did not “transfer” that gift to Harry. That’s utterly preposterous. A ridiculous conclusion to draw. You know very well that Family Magic is a gift that can only be passed through the bloodline. Had Harry had an Inheritance Test done, as he should have, he’d have known he received the gift through his Father’s and his Mother’s lines. He’d never have feared it and would have understood that the voice he was hearing was a snake’s voice. Once again all your secrets and lies and manipulations did was cause more problems. 

Perhaps dear Deval could talk to you all about this some time. Parselmouths are quite common in India. I believe Deval, that you have one or two in your extended family?”

“I do. It is a prized gift. I do not possess it but I have two Uncles that do.” replied Deval.

“I’m a little shocked that literally no one guessed it was a snake, either time the Chamber was opened. I mean, it’s rather obvious.” Theo mused.

“It was all there. Only Harry could hear it, spiders fleeing, petrification, Slytherin’s Chamber. It had to be a snake. The roosters being killed.

Newt spoke up at that, “It’s obviously a Basilisk.” 

Theo nodded. “Why petrification though and not death. It killed Myrtle, right? Oh. No one looked at it directly!”

“Young Colin looked at it through the camera. Justin through Sir Nicholas.” Newt added.

“And Mrs. Norris saw the reflection in the water.” He looked over to the teachers. “How on earth did it take until the end of the year to figure it out?”

Newt shook his head. “I knew the moment Hagrid mentioned the roosters.” Theo nodded in agreement. "That's what clinched it for me too."

Hermione huffed. “I did figure it out! I’m so sorry that I didn’t do it fast enough to suit you!”

“Merlin, Granger, I’m not blaming you. You were a second year! It wasn’t your responsibility. I’m blaming them.” He waved his hand in the general direction of the Hogwarts teachers. “I’m not surprised that you were the one to figure it out, Granger. I’m angry that you were the one that had to.” 

“We’re kind of jumping to the end here. Spoilers!” said Harry. 

Lady Magic laughed. “You’re quite right, dear. I should let you get back to your discussion.

Before I leave, however, I want to make this clear. You will, none of you, badger Draco or Narcissa. You may ask questions, if they permit it, but they will be asked politely and with no hint of censure.” And with that final warning she disappeared.

Jane Abbott walked over to Narcissa and sat down beside her. “May I ask?”

“You want to know why I didn’t take Draco and run?”

“Well, yes. I’m not judging! I have no idea what I might do in your situation.”

“My Marriage Contract. It was very thorough. I was bound by Magic. Had I left Lucius I would have lost my magic. I would have risked that for Draco but…”

“It would have put him in more danger.” Sirius finished for her. He paused, “and you couldn’t run with Draco without also taking Theo. Even if you’d gotten away with taking Draco you’d never have gotten away with taking Theo. And you would never have left him behind.” 

Narcissa shook her head. “Never. Not that Draco would have come willingly without Theo.”

“This is my fault. I should have been more involved. I washed my hands of Cygnus and Walburga years before that. I failed you Narcissa. And you Sirius. I’m so sorry. But perhaps this is a conversation best had in private.”

Susan spoke up then. “Can I ask, Draco? And you don’t have to answer! It’s OK if you don’t. Did you ever believe the Pureblood nonsense? And it’s OK if you did! You were a child. It’s completely normal for children to automatically believe their parents! I won’t blame you! I swear. And no one else will either. Or they’ll answer to me!”

“Honestly? I think part of me did. I loved Lucius when I was little. I did believe everything he said. On one level at least. And Mum, she didn’t really say anything about it. And don’t any of you blame her for that! Contradicting Lucius was dangerous. 

But I also had Theo and Aunt Lillian telling me the exact opposite of what Lucius said. And as much as I loved Lucius I loved them more. And I believed them more. But Lucius’ words stuck in my head. Even when I knew they were wrong sometimes they’d slip out. 

When I started Hogwarts both Mum and Theo told me to act like Lucius Malfoy’s son in public. And I did. As Theo said earlier, I may have, I did, take it too far. And I’m sorry for that. I should never have used that word. Out of everything that’s what shames me the most.”

“It’s like a cult.” Harry said. “We learned a bit about cults in school. What’s the word? Indoc…something.”

“Indoctrination.” Hermione supplied.

“Yeah, that’s it. Draco was indoctrinated from birth. All of the kids of Death Eaters were I guess. How can we blame them for it?”

Neville nodded. “We shouldn’t blame them. Theo? Did you ever believe any of it?”

“No, unlike Draco, I never loved my Father. I hated him. I was more likely to automatically take the opposite position of everything he said. But also, nothing he said made any logical sense. He’d tell me that Muggles were stupid, lived in hovels, could barely form words, nonsense like that. Then he’d turn around 5 seconds later and say that they were stealing our magic and giving it to their children. Both of those things couldn’t be true so I decided that neither of those things were true.”

“How old were you? When you realized it was nonsense.” asked Hannah.

“Does it matter? Let’s just say I was young and leave it at that.

Also, Mum used to take me out into the Muggle world. And I used to play with the Muggle children in the village near my Grandparent’s cottage. They were just like me, only without magic. My Grandparents never believed in blood supremecy either. Well, my Grandfather resented Muggleborns a little. Not because they were Muggleborns but because of the way our traditions were being replaced with theirs. He felt very strongly about preserving our way of life. He didn’t want to exclude Muggleborns, he wanted to teach them. It was he who put the idea of a Primary school in my head.”

“Wasn’t it your Grandfather who wrote that stupid book about the Sacred 28?” asked Hermione testily.

“No, that was his younger Brother. Cantankerous. Honestly! Who names their child Cantankerous?”

“You’re just asking for it!” snarked Draco.

“Exactly! Just for the record though, he started out by writing a history of the oldest families. His friends convinced him to change the focus. And it was all bollocks. He knew it was bollocks even as he wrote it. There’s no such thing as the Sacred 28.”

“And how do you know that, Mr. Nott.” asked Albus.

“I read his journals. Can we interrogate someone else now? Let’s talk about Draco paying more attention to Hadrian than the snitch! I almost wish I’d been there. I’d have enjoyed teasing you about that.” 

Everyone laughed at that and Draco gave Theo a mock glare before saying “Or we could talk about the former Headmaster using Legilimency on students!” 

And just like that Amelia focused. “Yes, Albus, let’s talk about that. Because that’s twice it’s been hinted at. Did you use Legilimency on students? Actually don’t bother answering. I already know the answer. You did! If I wasn’t already planning on throwing you in Azkaban I’d do it for that alone.

Also, why not buy the mandrakes or the ready made potion? Better yet, why were Colin and Justin not sent to St. Mungos immediately? Were their parents informed? And most importantly why in the name of all four Founders was the DMLE not informed?”

Albus merely smiled. “It all worked out in the end, Amelia. The students were cured and the monster was dealt with. You’ll hear all about it I’m sure.”

“I really want to hex you, Albus, but I’ll let it go. For now. It’s nearly time for supper. Shall we all go and freshen up and perhaps relax for a little while before we eat?”

They all agreed and dispersed. 

_____

Harry and the others decided to join the main group for dinner. It was a lively evening and Harry mostly enjoyed himself.

He didn’t enjoy having Sirius scold him for snooping in Filch’s office or throwing the firecracker into Goyle’s cauldron. Or Snape’s glare. 

But hearing McGonagall yell at Wood was entertaining. As was Sirius yelling at McGonagall in response.

And it was nice to see Sirius thanking the twins for their support again. Harry thought the twins really were better friends than Ron and Hermione though he felt guilty for thinking it.

But the big shock of the evening came from Theo.

“You don’t like quidditch?” Harry almost shouted.

“Um. No?” Theo replied.

“But! How? Why? Oh my gods!”

“Is this a dealbreaker, Hadri?”

“No! Merlin, no! I’m just surprised. I thought Hermione was the only one who hated Quiddich.”

“I don’t hate it. I’m…ambivalent I suppose. I’ve even played occasionally. At Blaise’s place. Mostly I’d just rather read.”

“He’s not a bad chaser actually. But it’s not easy to pull him out of a library and get him up on a broom.” Blaise said. “And it’s even more difficult to get him to attend a game. I think the only game he went to at school was the one Luna played commentator.”

“Now that was entertaining!” Theo said with a laugh. “You should do that professionally, LuLu!”

Bathsheda jumped into the conversation. “Let’s talk about your Masteries! I’m so proud of you Theodore.”

“Theo! People only call me Theodore when they’re annoyed with me. Or when they want to annoy me.”

“OK, Theo. Potions and Runes! At the same time! However did you manage it?”

Theo looked over at Draco, “Is there any way to answer that without sounding like an asshole?”

“No.”

“It really wasn’t that difficult. I mean, Sev started tutoring me and Drake at, what, 5? And even before that he let us watch him brew. I was always more interested in the theory while Drake was fascinated by the actual process. He loves brewing. He does it for fun. And he’s gifted. It’s all intuitive. But yeah, I’ve been studying Potions since I was 5.”

“Theodore,” Severus smirked at Theo as he deliberately used his full name, “and Draco probably could have taken their OWLs before even starting Hogwarts.”

“And Theo probably could have taken his Runes NEWT before Hogwarts.” Draco added.

“It’s in my blood. I’m a Nott.” he shrugged. “It’s our thing. I think I learned to write Elder Futhark before English. My Grandfather started teaching me as soon as I could hold a pencil.

I can’t believe we have to sit through first year Potions again!”

“This is going to be a problem. Like Mr. Longbottom said yesterday, you’re all going to be so far ahead of your classmates. We’re going to have to come up with a solution.” Minerva said.

As supper wound down most people remained in the main chamber talking about the books and coming up with different ideas of how to improve the Wizarding World. Susan ran to get the package of suggestions she and her fellow Hufflepuffs had come up with and Pomona promised to present it at the next Hogwarts meeting.

Richard and Jean, however, had ordered Hermione to follow them back to their suite. They were not pleased.

—--

As soon as Hermione found her seat Richard pounced.

“I don’t even know where to start! I thought the first book was bad but Hermione, this is beyond anything I could have imagined.

Stealing?

Drugging children?

Pressuring your friends to not only break the rules but the law?

Mocking Ron’s fears?

Mocking Harry’s feelings?

Your behaviour in class?

Not to mention the way you’ve been speaking to people right here in this chamber! Including a bloody god!

And let’s not forget that you set your teacher ON FIRE!

You’re rude, dismissive, callous, bossy, interfering, and a bully! Not to mention a criminal! You have no respect for people’s feelings. You have no respect for people’s boundaries. It’s as if you think you’re the only person capable of deciding what’s right or wrong in any given situation! As if you think you’re the only one smart enough! 

And you don’t even seem even remotely apologetic or regretful! 

Hermione, I am terrified of you. I love you but I’m terrified. I don’t even want to be around you right now.”

He turned and walked away without another word. Jean rose and looked down at her daughter.

“You mentioned possibly seeing the Mind Healer? I’m insisting on it.” Jean turned and followed her husband. 

Hermione sat on the sofa for hours. Not sure if she wanted to cry or hex someone.

—--

Before heading back to the Chosen’s Suites Theo had asked Filomena for a private chat. Once they were settled in her office Theo began. “I wanted to speak with you about Aleksander and the twins.

“You’re wondering if there’s any point in them talking with me?”

“Yes. I mean, first off, while they’re picking English up fairly quickly they’re definitely not fluent. I’d have to be in here with them to translate. Unless you speak Russian and/or Norwegian?”

“I do not. But that wouldn’t be a problem. It’s probably best that you are with them. They’re very young and, well, they’ve got some trust issues don’t they. Understandably.”

“How much has Lady Magic told you?”

“She’s given me a very basic outline. Only about the children. The children are the main reason I agreed to come here. She’s told me nothing about the rest of you.”

“OK. I am wondering if there’s any point. If we were returning to the exact point in the timeline that we left I would absolutely encourage them to speak with you. But, Matteus and Mikael will literally be born the day we arrive. They won’t remember anything from their time in the chamber, let alone their previous timeline. In fact I’d bet that Lady Magic will ensure that.”

“We haven’t discussed it but I would agree with your assessment.”

“Sander will be two when we return. It’s possible he will retain some memories. Though I imagine they’d be vague. More like feelings than actual memories. And perhaps only in dreams.”

“Harry, for example, does remember flashes of the night his parents died.” Filomena mused.

“Yes. Traumatic experiences tend to make very strong memories. I’m torn here. I want him to remember the chamber but I don’t want him to remember his first timeline.

And I’m torn about him talking to you too. If we were only going to be here for another week or two I’d not hesitate. I’d say there’s no point and be done with it. But we could be here for several weeks if not months. If a few sessions with you will ease his suffering then I want that for him.”

“Have you discussed this with him?”

“Not yet. I wanted to gather as much information as possible before talking to him. That way he can make an informed decision.”

“You’re leaving it up to him then?”

“Yes. I’m going to encourage him, assuming you think it wise, but I’m not going to force him. He’s been forced enough in his life.”

“You’re a good man, Theodore Nott.”

“Theo!”

Filomena laughed. “Theo. I’d like to give this some thought if that’s OK. I’m a little torn myself. I’m honestly not sure which way to go.”

“Alright. Let me know when you decide.”

“I will. Now, are you going to make an appointment to come and talk to me?”

“Not right this second, but yes. I know I need to. Drake and I have actually talked about this in the past. We both need it. But Sander comes first.”

“Fair enough. Good night, Theo.”

Theo smiled and headed back to the Chosen’s Suite for the night. 

Chapter Text

Wednesday May 13, 1998

Harry and company rushed through breakfast, all eager to finish the second book. It appeared that everyone else was as well, as the main chamber was full. 

Harry was relieved to see that Theo was back to normal and willing to take the lead.

“Good morning, let’s jump right in, shall we? Reminder, save your reactions until we’ve finished the book. Professor, if you would?”

The reading went well for the first two chapters but when Harry and Ron walked into the Forbidden Forest all hell broke loose with Sirius leading the charge.

“ALBUS YOU ABSOLUTE FUCK! ONCE AGAIN YOU’RE PASSING THE RESPONSIBILITY TO HARRY.

AND NOW HAGRID IS DOING IT TOO! WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU BOTH THINKING? HE’S 12!”

Amelia was fuming as well. “This is totally unacceptable, Albus. Protecting the school is your responsibility, not Harry’s.”

Harry sighed and looked over at Severus. “Professor? Could we maybe get some calming draughts for everyone? It’s going to get much worse.”

Severus grimaced and nodded before leaving the chamber. Once he returned and started passing out the potions Theo nodded at Filius to continue.

When the book ended everyone sat in complete silence for several minutes. Not a single one of them knew where to start.

Finally Theo spoke. “Fuck you’re brave, Weasley. I mean, obviously Hadri is too but, you walked right into that forest to seek out your biggest fear. And you followed him into the Chamber of Secrets knowing exactly what was waiting for you.”

Ron blushed and hung his head, “I wasn’t brave! I was terrified.”

“Courage is not the absence of fear, Weasley. It’s doing what needs to be done despite your fear. You stepped up when Harry needed you to and you stuck with him.”

“Well said, Mr. Nott.” Dumbledore began.

“Oh, fuck right off. If you’d done your job they wouldn’t have had to.” Theo glared at Albus before turning to glare at Hagrid. “And that goes for you too. I’m sorry Mr. Hagrid, but you’re responsible for this too. You literally sent them into the Forbidden Forest to seek out an Acromantula! You knew there was an entire colony of them! They were 12! And, sorry, but how did you not realize it was a Basilisk? The clues were all there. Mr. Hagrid, you know everything there is to know about creatures! And you were there the first time around. You must have realized what it was, or at the very least, suspected.”

Hagrid hung his head and softly said, “I figured it were a snake the first time around. Knew it was this time. Didn’t start to put together what sort until ma roosters started getting killed.”

“And did you inform Dumbledore when you figured it out?”

Hagrid hesitated before taking a deep breath. “Yes.”

“When?”

“Right after poor Mrs. Norris were petrified.”

“Holy fuck.”

Amelia stood and walked over to stand next to Theo. “Albus? You knew what was threatening the school before the first student was attacked and you did nothing?”

“Hagrid suspected, as did I. We had no proof. What was I supposed to do?”

“You were supposed to protect the students!” Amelia nearly shouted. “You should have called in the DMLE.”

Amos stood up next. “Or me. Or have you forgotten the DRCMC?

“You could have contacted the DOM.” Saul said.

“You could have contacted me.” Newt added.

“How come you never asked Myrtle?” Robert asked.

The entire room turned to stare at the young boy. “What?” he said, “Harry and Ron thought of it. Why didn’t any of the grown-ups?”

“Out of the mouth of babes.” Theo quoted quietly. 

“Let’s continue. How did that diary even get into Hogwarts? The wards should have prevented it.

Then again, the wards didn’t prevent a professor literally possessed by Riddle into the school. They didn’t stop a troll from entering the school. A Death Eater Animagus. A, supposed, mass murderer. A polyjuiced Death Eater masquerading as a Professor. 

Tell me, what exactly do the wards do?”

“Spoilers, Theo!” Harry laughed before sobering. “There’s really no point to this. I mean, we need to know about it so we can prevent anything even remotely similar in the future…past…whatever, again but grilling Dumbledore is pointless.”

“Right. And we already know the answer. Clearly the former Headmaster didn’t want anyone interfering. He didn’t want help. Or, more to the point, he didn’t want anyone helping Harry. It’s a pattern, don’t you see? Dumbledore is setting little traps and tests for Harry.”

“Buy why?” Asked Ingram. “Why does it seem like Dumbledore wants Hadrian to face the Dar…Riddle? And what did he mean, Riddle put a bit of himself in Hadrian?”

Theo looked over at Harry and raised an eyebrow in inquiry. Harry nodded.

“Because…” Theo started.

Albus jumped up “Don’t Mr. Nott! I forbid it! You will not speak of it!”

“Sit down and shut up. I will speak of it.” Theo replied sternly.

“It’s all going to come out in the books anyway. All of it.” Harry added. “No more secrets. No more cryptic clues or half truths. No more lies. I forbid it.” He glared at Albus and turned to face the room. 

“The diary was a horcrux. Riddle created five of them before that Halloween night. And on that night he accidentally created another one. In me. I’m a horcrux. In order for Riddle to die, I have to die. Or at least so I thought, or, that’s what Dumbledore made me think. He was wrong.”

“I was not wrong, Harry my boy. Voldemort cannot die until every horcrux is destroyed. Including the one inside you. And there’s only one way to do that. I am sorry but that is the reality we face.” Albus said sadly.

“Except that’s not true.” Bill spoke up with barely contained rage. “It’s true that the horcruxes must be destroyed before Riddle can die but killing Harry isn’t the solution.”

“I beg your pardon, Bill, but it is.”

“No, it isn’t. The Goblins can remove it. And then destroy it. They can also use the one in Harry to track the other ones.

Lady Magic is right. Your hubris is astonishing. Let’s be clear here. Had you taken Harry to the Goblins that first night they would have found the horcrux, removed it from baby Harry, used it to track down the others, and destroy them all. All those deaths. Harry’s abuse. Sirius in Azkaban. Seventeen years of pain and suffering throughout the Wizarding World. None of it needed to happen. You made it happen. All because you’re so far up your own ass that you couldn’t even conceive of the idea that someone other than you might have been able to come up with a better option. You disgust me, Albus.”

Albus had gone white. He lowered himself slowly to his chair. “The Goblins?” he whispered. “Can…remove…without harming the vessel?”

“Yes. They’ve done it often. They were quite…popular in Egypt a few centuries ago. We’ve come across several.”

“Just for the record,” Saul added, “The DOM knows about them too. And how to remove and destroy them. You could have come to me.”

Albus looked devastated. He got up slowly and, without a word to anyone, walked out of the chamber.

After a few moments of stunned silence Cyrus asked. “I’m sorry, but what exactly is a horcrux? I don’t think I’ve ever heard the term.”

Theo looked at Harry and Bill in turn. “Go ahead.” Harry said. “You probably know more about them than I do.” Bill looked shocked at that but nodded at Theo to explain.

“I don’t want to go into detail. It’s absolutely vile Soul Magic. I won’t say how it’s done but basically a person can split their soul and place the detached piece into an object, or horcrux. As long as that horcux exists that person exists. In essence, they become immortal. Their bodies can be destroyed, which is what happened that Halloween night, but they can be brought back over and over again with the right ritual. That’s how Riddle came back after the Triwizard Tournament.”

“How do you even know all that?” Hermione demanded.

“He reads. And hides in secret passages.” Harry said slyly before bursting into laughter. 

Draco snorted. Neville and Luna laughed out loud. Theo raised an eyebrow at all of them. “Are we all quite finished?”

“Seriously though, Theo, how on earth do you know that? I assumed Harry had filled you in but he said you know more than he does?” Bill asked.

Theo sighed. “OK, brief history of Tom Riddle. He was born in 1926 and attended Hogwarts with Abraxas Malfoy, that’s Drake’s Grandfather for those of you who may not know. Also in attendance Corvus Lestrange, the lovely Elladora’s Grandfather Avery, and a few others you may have heard of.”

“My parents.” Sirius added.

Theo nodded. “And my Father. Riddle, Abraxas, and Tiberius were…well, not friends exactly. Allies? Yeah, allies. When Riddle created his first horcrux he told Abraxas and Tiberius. 

Tiberius, whilst evil to the core, was not stupid and not insane. At least not then. He was, apparently, horrified. But Abraxas, well, he made Lucy look like a bloody genius. And he was batshit crazy. He wanted to make one too. Riddle wouldn’t tell him how so he started researching himself. And he made the mistake of putting all of his research into a series of journals. And Lucy, idiot that he is, kept them in the main Malfoy library. I found them and, well, obviously, I read them.”

“How old were you?” asked Saul.

Theo shrugged.

“Weren’t those books warded?” Gawain asked.

Theo shrugged again.

“Theodore.” Narcissa raised an eyebrow and Theo caved instantly.

“Blast. I was 9. Nearly 10. And Lucy was rubbish at wards. If he’d wanted to keep those books away from me he’d have had Cissa ward them. Cissa’s were at least challenging.”

Narcissa just sighed. But Draco laughed and said “And this is what happens when you let a 9 year old genius loose in the second biggest private library in the Wixen world with absolutely no supervision.”

Theo glared at him, “Anyway…a few days before I left for Hogwarts Tiberius and Abraxas were reminiscing about the good old days and talking about bringing Riddle back and how wonderful it would be. I suppose it was all fresh in my mind back in first year.”

“And how did you figure out I was a horcrux?” Harry asked.

“Clutching your scar whenever Quirrell was near you was kind of a giveaway. I noticed Bill caught that too. You could almost see the thought jump into his head. A ten year old scar causing you pain like that? And only in the presence of one person? Plus there were the rumours over the years. Your dreams, the one where Mr. Weasley was attacked by Nagini. You saw the attack through the snake’s eyes. Your friends aren’t nearly as discrete as they would like to believe. There was obviously some sort of connection between you and Riddle. 

Not to mention Lucy absolutely lost his shit over that diary. I’m not entirely sure if Lucius knew what it was, he didn’t mention the word horcrux, but I think he did. He was terrified that Riddle would find out it was him who lost it. Lucius did know there were plans in place to bring Riddle back but I’m not sure he knew how they were going to do it. Anyway, lots of little clues over the years. I put them together and you being a horcrux was the most logical conclusion. 

The first chapter of the first book pretty much confirmed it for me. Not that it was a pleasant conclusion, mind, it was a horrifying one. Interestingly, there are no books in the Nott library about horcruxes. Not a single reference in a single book. I assume that was deliberate.”

Harry was dumbfounded. “Holy shit.”

Draco snorted. “And now you know why I’m glad Theo and I don’t share a brain.”

Harry let out a puff of laughter. “Yeah. So, Theo, secret passages eh?”

Theo shrugged. “What’s not to like? Quiet, hidden, blissful solitude. And information that cannot be gleaned any other way.

What I don’t get is why Riddle was trying so hard to kill you. He must have known. I mean maybe not at first. But as insane he was, he was also highly intelligent. The diary alone is a brilliant piece of magic. Vile, yes, but brilliant. He must have figured out you were a horcrux at some point. I would have thought keeping you alive would have been a priority.”

“He didn’t know. He never figured it out.” Severus said. “At least, I don’t think he did. I didn’t find out until a couple of years ago.”

“So, let me get this straight. None of this had to happen? If Professor Dumbledore had only gone to the Goblins the last 7 years could have been avoided?” Hermione asked quietly. “We wouldn’t have had to go after the Philosopher’s Stone? The whole Chamber of Secrets nightmare? Oh my god. This entire year on the run?”

“Yep.” Harry said simply. “We could have just been normal students getting ready to take our NEWTS and graduate. I’d have been raised by Sirius. I’d never even have met the Dursleys.”

“There wouldn’t have been any need.” Theo said.

“But what about the blood wards?” Hermione asked.

“That’s not why Dumbledore placed Harry there. I mean, that may have been part of the reason but it wasn’t the main one. Same reason he made sure Sirius couldn’t raise Harry.”

“Why then?” Harry asked.

“He wanted you raised in misery. A happy, secure child with a competent and loving guardian would never willingly walk to their death. You were groomed your entire life. Taught that you didn’t matter. That everyone else came first. That you were responsible for cleaning up everyone’s messes.”

Harry frowned. “I suppose that’s true. And I fell for it.”

“Don’t do that. You were a child. An abused child who latched on to an adult in authority who made you think he cared. You were manipulated by a master.”

“Well there’s no point speculating, I guess. Things happened. They mostly sucked. But we have a chance to change things now. Let’s focus on that.

Or I suppose let’s focus on the book. Anyone else have anything to talk about?”

Richard spoke up. “I do. I have to say I’m disgusted with the lot of you. The Professors I mean. You all claim to be so progressive. So Muggle friendly. And yet you all seem to have nothing but contempt for us. Why were we never informed of Hermione’s petrification? Why were none of the parents informed? It’s appalling. We send our children off to your school for 10 months of the year. We expect you to keep them safe. We pay you good money to do so! And yet. You dismiss their concerns, you brush them off when they come to you and then you punish them when they take matters into their own hands! And the punishments are ridiculous! A 4 hour detention? You shout at them, you manhandle them. And you put them in danger. Constantly. And then you don’t even give us the courtesy of informing us when our children are attacked.”

“Now really,” Minerva started.

“Don’t even start, Minerva.” Sirius cut her off. “Harry had just saved the school and prevented the return of Voldemort and you were making snide comments about breaking the rules?

Ron’s wand was broken the entire school year and not one of you noticed? They came to you with their concerns over the Stone and you did dismiss them. How many times were they injured and didn’t even get sent to see Poppy? Harry had been bitten by a fucking basilisk and you didn’t even have Poppy check him over? Just made another snide remark as you walked out the door.

Shall we review the first two books and count how many times you raised your voice? You grabbed Draco by the ear and pulled him in the last book. That’s assault. On a child. You should be ashamed of yourself. Gods, you were one of my heroes. You and Dumbledore. I was so blind. But my eyes are open now.”

Minerva looked stricken. “You’re right, Sirius. I get defensive, I know, but you’re right. As are you Dr. Granger. I’m sorry. And things are going to change. We’ve been discussing things at length during our meetings and things are going to change.”

Amos raised his hand hesitatingly. “May I ask? How many acromantulas are there in that forest?”

Harry looked over at Ron, “Hundreds? I don’t know.”

“Yeah, we were too busy running for our lives to count but hundreds sounds about right.” Ron replied with a shudder. “And, sorry Mr. Diggory, but I just realized something and I have to get it out before I forget. You’re saying Dumbledore knew about the horcruxes way back then?”

Harry nodded. “Yeah, he knew when I was a baby.”

“You think he knew how to destroy them? Like, you think he knew basilisk venom could?”

“Oh.” Harry said. “For fucks sake! I could have gone down to the Chamber of Secrets and grabbed some before we went on the run.

Anyway, why are you asking Mr. Diggory?”

“I’m just wondering if they can be relocated somewhere. Somewhere that’s not anywhere near a school, for example.”

Newt looked intrigued at this. “A sanctuary! Charlie Weasley and I have been discussing just the thing. For dragons, primarily, but really we could expand on that.”

“I have some land I could donate.” Theo said. “Or at least, assuming we deal with my Father I do. It’s not technically in the UK but it’s close enough.”

Charlie’s eyes lit up. “Enough land for a dragon sanctuary?”

“Um, yes? We’ll talk later. Anyone else have anything urgent to discuss? It’s nearly time for supper.”

“I have something quick, if that’s OK.” Kingsley said. “For Arthur. The diary. Do you not have wards at the Burrow? How did you miss something like that? And Theo’s right. I don’t understand how the Hogwarts wards didn’t pick it up.”

“Not just that one, Kings. There’s another one at Hogwarts. We didn’t find it until the day of the battle.” Harry said.

“There’s a horcrux at Hogwarts right now?” Severus asked in shock.

“Yep. Rowena Ravenclaw’s diadem. It’s in the Room of Requirement. It’s been there for decades.”

“Merlin!” Kingsley exclaimed. “Seriously though Arthur. Do you not have wards set up at the Burrow?”

Arthur shook his head. “Back then? Perimeter wards, yes. Muggle repelling. But nothing that would have alerted me to something like that. Bill added to the wards after You Know Who returned but I’m not actually sure what he added.”

“I’m not sure my wards would have caught a Horcrux. I was focused on protection wards.”

“Can we talk about the car?” Neville asked. “Because I swear that thing is sentient.” 

Amelia ground her teeth. “Yes, Arthur, let’s talk about the car. What exactly did you do to it?”

“Nothing that would do that!”

“It’s not really that surprising.” Saul said. “There’s so much ambient magic in the forest I’d be more shocked if it hadn’t developed a little sentience. It’s like the ancient manors. They’re sentient, in a way. Hogwarts too."

Several people in the chamber nodded in agreement.

“I wonder if the car would have come to anyone’s rescue or if it recognized Ron as…family.” Dean mused.

“That’s a good question!” said Saul.

“Yeah, let’s never test that theory. Also, let’s eat.” laughed Ron.

Harry and the others decided to join the main group for dinner again. The conversation was surprisingly casual and relaxed throughout the chamber and Harry was a little shocked at how everyone seemed to be getting along. He saw Cyrus having an animated discussion with Hagrid, Narcissa chatting with Jean, with the twins sitting in between them. Remus was talking to…wait, what? Remus was having a seemingly pleasant conversation with Snape? Harry goggled at that and caught Sirius’ attention and laughed when Sirius’ jaw dropped. 

Harry’s attention was caught by Ernie questioning Hermione. “Can I ask? What made you sign up for every class, Granger? I mean, why on earth would you take Muggle Studies?”

“A few reasons I guess. First of all I couldn’t decide what to take. But also, I didn’t know what classes I might need later on. For a career I mean. They really should have a career day of some sort. How can 12 year olds know what subjects to take if nobody tells them why they should take them”

“What’s a career day?” Padma asked.

“Schools bring in people from a wide range of professions to talk to the students about their jobs. What they do, what university programs they need. There might be summer internships available that you can apply for, different things like that. Usually once a year or so there are Career fairs where anyone can attend and learn about different careers.”

“That’s a brilliant idea, Granger.” Theo said. “We’ll add that to the list.” Hermione smiled, a bit smug but still genuine.  

Emmaline looked to Augusta and said, “Not that it really matters now, since it’s not going to happen but, did Lucius Malfoy threaten the Board to get Dumbledore fired, Madam Longbottom?”

“Yes and no. He did threaten us but many of us were willing anyway. The school was under serious threat and nothing was being done about it. We wanted the students sent home. We wanted to call in the DMLE. We wanted action.”

“But the Board controls Hogwarts, not the Headmaster, Augusta. Why not just go over Albus’ head?” Kenzington asked.

“We didn’t have the votes. Dumbledore had just enough loyalists on the Board to ensure every vote went his way. So yes, Lucius threatened them. It still wasn’t unanimous, if you can believe that.”

Amelia started grinding her teeth again and Moody laughed. “Our dear Madam Bones desperately needs to arrest someone.”

“I do! And I honestly don’t know where to start! Albus, obviously. But, Fudge! Lockhart! That man needs to be in Azkaban! Not only for the fraud but he was obliviating people! That is so very illegal! The only people with the authority to perform that spell are the Obliviators. And it’s only to be used if the Statute has been broken.”

“It’s one of the worst things you can do to a person. Wiping their memories.” Theo said. “It’s a violation. It’s almost on par with the Imperius.”

Harry, Ron, and Hermione froze. The Grangers turned to glare at their daughter and Hermione burst into tears, jumped up, and ran out of the room. 

Everyone turned to Harry and Ron. “Care to explain?” Remus asked.

“Why do I have to explain?” Harry whined. “Hermione wiped her parent’s memories of anything to do with the Wizarding World, including her, and sent them off to Australia. To keep them safe! It’s not like she did it for a lark.”

“She had to!” Ron exclaimed hotly. “She couldn’t risk the Death Eaters going after them.”

“And they would have. I mean, they did. They went there to kill them but the house was empty.” Draco said. “The Da…Riddle was furious.”

“The problem is, Ron, that she didn’t even talk to us about it. She just went ahead and did it.” Richard said. “There’s no excuse for that as far as I’m concerned. I’m grateful she saved us, obviously, but her methods were unacceptable.”

“My question is, what was your bloody Order doing? Shouldn’t they have been protecting Granger’s parents?” Theo asked.

Harry huffed. “They were too busy protecting the bloody Dursleys.”

“I’m sorry. What?” Sirius said.

“Yeah, it was a thing. I’m sure you’ll hear the details in the books. It was bad. But yeah, they protected the Dursleys but didn’t even seem to consider that Hermione’s parents were in danger too.”

“I don’t recall the Dursleys even being mentioned as targets. They may have been, it’s not like I was privy to everything.” Draco added. “But the Grangers were definitely targets.”

Remus looked ashamed. “I don’t think we even considered them.” He turned to Richard and Jean. “I’m so sorry. Dumbledore was dead, we were a bit adrift. Not that that’s a good excuse. But his standing orders were to protect Harry and the Dursleys. We were so focused on Harry we didn’t really think of anyone else.”

“That much is evident.” Richard said. 

“You were all so used to following Dumbledore’s orders that you forgot how to think for yourselves. No one ever questioned him, did they?” Gawain said. “He convinced everyone that he was the only one capable of making decisions and nobody ever questioned him.”

“I did.” Sirius said.

“Which is why he didn’t want you around Harry.” said Dora.

“Gods.” Harry sighed. “She’s right.

I’m exhausted. Can we be done for the night? I know we have to talk about this more but first of all I think Hermione needs to be here for the discussion and second I think we all need to process. It’s…a lot.”

They all nodded their agreement and everyone started heading back to their suites for the night. Harry and Ron looked at each other for a moment before nodding.

“We’re going to go talk to Hermione. You guys head to the suite. Don’t wait up. This might take awhile. I’ll probably crash in her room.”

Sirius pulled Harry into a hug. “You’re a good friend, Hads. I love you.”

Harry hugged Sirius tight, “I love you too, Pads.” He turned to hug Remus too. “Don’t shoulder all the blame for this. Mistakes were made by everyone. It’s not all on you.” Remus nodded but it was clear to Harry that he didn’t believe it.

Harry asked Aleksander and the twins for hugs and to his surprise they all agreed. 

Everyone started heading to the suite but Ron called out for Theo to stay. Theo raised an eyebrow in question.

“Did you mean it?” Ron asked.

“I’m going to need some specificity.” Theo said.

“That I was brave.”

“Oh. Yes. I don’t say things I don’t mean, Weasley.”

“Oh. Well, thanks. I…I think I needed to hear that. And…shit. Call me Ron.”

Theo beamed at him. “Thank you!”

“I’m not saying be my best friend or anything! I’m still not sure I like you. And I’m not sure how I feel about Harry dating you. I don’t think I like it but I also realize, finally, that I don’t actually get a say.”

“May I ask you a question?”

“Sure.”

“Is it because I’m a guy? Because I’m a Slytherin? The son of a Death Eater? Or because I’m not your sister?” 

Ron and Harry both stared at Theo in shock for a moment before Ron stammered out, “It’s not the first one! That doesn’t bother me in the least. I think I knew Harry was Bi before he did. 

I…I don’t think it’s because your Dad was a Death Eater. I mean, that might be part of it but I don’t think it’s the main part. You’re not your Dad. I get that. Also finally.” Harry snorted softly.

“I don’t trust Slytherins. Or at least, I never did before. I’m starting to realize how stupid that is but it’s still there in my head.” Ron continued.

“Fuck. I think it might be because of Gin.”

“You had it in your head that you’d marry Granger and Harry would marry your sister and the four of you would live happily ever after?” Theo said.

“I…fuck. Yes. I did. But hearing you say it out loud like that makes it sound stupid.”

“Not stupid. A little childish maybe. But that’s understandable since you were probably still a child when you started thinking about it.”

“You know it’s never going to happen, Ron. Right? I mean, even removing Theo from the situation, I don’t love Gin that way. And she doesn’t love me that way. We tried. It just didn’t work. She’s like a sister to me. I love her but not that way.”

“Yeah I know. But I think part of me was still hoping for it.” Ron said sadly. “I’ll get over it.” He turned back to Theo. “And I’ll try harder with you. You really do seem like a good guy. A little terrifying, to be honest, but a good guy.”

“I’m not terrifying! Am I?”

“I mean, not to me.” Harry laughed. 

“Considering how many times you’ve faced danger that’s not saying much but I’ll take it. Now kiss me good night and go and comfort your friend.”

“Yes Sir!” 

“Sweet, merciful Odin. Never call me that again.”

Harry laughed even harder and kissed Theo goodnight.

Once Theo walked away Harry and Ron looked at each other and sighed. “This is not going to be easy.” Ron said.

“No, it isn’t. Mostly because I agree with Theo. It’s a horrible thing to do to someone. Taking their memories. I get why she did it. Or, why she felt like she had to do something but, gods, I don’t agree with it.”

“Yeah. I don’t either. Still, we can’t leave her alone tonight. She needs us.”

Harry nodded and headed for Hermione’s suite.

Chapter Text

Thursday May 14, 1998

When Harry woke he was cold, uncomfortable, and confused. He reached for his glasses and tumbled right off the edge of the bed. “What the fuck?”

Ron leaned over, as confused as Harry, and grunted out, “Why are you on the floor, mate?”

“Ah. Now I remember. Hermione? Are you awake?”

“Unfortunately.”

“How are you feeling?”

“Terrible. But better I think. We should probably get out there. It’s nearly 9 and I need tea.”

“Do you want to talk first?” Harry asked. “They can wait if you do. It’s not like there’s a book waiting for us. We won’t start the next one until Monday.”

“No. I just want to get out there.”

Harry nodded and they all headed out.

Theo was already there, chatting quietly with Lady Magic and Filomena. Harry was suddenly very nervous but walked over to join them.

“Good morning.” he said as he sat down beside Theo. “Where is everyone?”

“They’ll be out shortly. I wanted a quick chat with Filomena and Lady Magic about the kids.”

As Harry nodded his understanding the rest of the family entered the main chamber. Harry got up to grab a cup of tea and as soon as he sat down again Lady Magic stood to address the group.

“Good morning everyone. Just a couple quick things before I let you get to it.

First of all it is Appoline’s birthday today! Joyeux Anniversaire ma chérie! The elves are preparing a lovely dinner in your honour.

Also, we missed a couple of birthdays! Rolf’s was on the 9th. I’m so sorry Rolf dear! The elves are planning a treat for you as well.

Now where’s young Margaret?”

Elladora nudged Margaret gently. “It’s Ok, darling.”

Margaret stood and curtsied. “I’m here, my Lady.”

Lady Magic walked over and crouched down in front of the young girl. “Ten years old. That’s a big birthday and we missed it. I’m so sorry sweet girl. But we have a lovely party planned for you this weekend. How does that sound?”

Margaret smiled sweetly and whispered, “That sounds very nice, my Lady. Thank you.”

Lady Magic gently stroked Margaret’s hair and returned to the Chosen’s area.

“Now, before you get to your planning Filomena has some things to talk about. As I said the day I introduced her, it is not mandatory to meet with her but it is strongly encouraged.” She smiled at Filomena and said, “The floor is yours, Dear.” And with that she vanished.

“Good morning everyone. I wanted to give you all some information so that if you decide to meet with me you come prepared. It may take awhile but I thought it would save time in the long run. This way I only have to go through it once rather than go through it at each individual session. But also, for those of you who may not feel ready for healing I wanted to provide the information that may help you identify issues and possibly self-correct. It’s OK if you’re not ready. In fact if you’re not ready I may not be able to help. Mind Healing is only as effective as your willingness to heal. So, to begin.” She waved her wand and a small stack of parchment appeared before every person in the room.

We’re here, mainly, to discuss childhood trauma and how that trauma can affect us as adults. 

So, a brief overview. There are 8 main categories of childhood trauma.

1. Physical Abuse

Non-accidental physical harm inflicted on a child.

2. Sexual Abuse

Any sexual interaction, exploitation, or non-consensual exposure involving a child and an adult or older individual. 

3. Emotional Abuse

Psychological maltreatment, including chronic criticism, belittling, threats, humiliation, or withholding love and emotional support. 

4. Physical Neglect

The ongoing failure to provide for a child's basic physical necessities, such as adequate food, clothing, shelter, hygiene, or necessary medical care. 

5. Emotional Neglect

The failure to meet a child's emotional and social needs, such as ignoring their feelings, failing to provide comfort, or lacking mental health support. 

6. Dysfunctional Household Environments

Growing up in an unstable home defined by severe stressors, such as domestic violence, parental substance abuse, severe mental illness, or having a family member incarcerated. 

7. Traumatic Events and Disasters

Sudden, terrifying events that strike without warning. This includes natural disasters, serious accidents, or life-threatening illnesses. 

8. Loss, Separation, or Abandonment

The sudden or violent loss of a caregiver due to divorce, abandonment, or sudden death.

Now, the trauma can also be categorized in three ways. There is;

1. Acute trauma - results from a single incident
2. Chronic trauma - is repeated and prolonged 
3. Complex trauma - is exposure to multiple traumatic events

Now, sometimes the effects of childhood trauma are immediately evident. But sometimes the effects don’t show up until adulthood.

Those effects manifest in 3 main ways.

Emotional and Psychological

• Anxiety and Depression: Persistent, unexplained feelings of worry, fear, sadness, or worthlessness.
• Emotional Dysregulation: Intense mood swings, sudden anger, or an inability to self-soothe when triggered.
• Insecure Attachment: Deep-rooted fear of abandonment, trouble trusting others, or a tendency to be overly "people-pleasing"
• Dissociation: Feeling emotionally numb, disconnected from reality, or "checking out" during moments of high stress.
• Toxic Shame: A harsh inner critic that continuously drives feelings of not being good enough. 

Physical and Biological 

• Hypervigilance: An overactive nervous system that is constantly anticipating danger, making it difficult to relax.
• Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, chronic fatigue, night terrors, or persistent nightmares.
• Somatic Symptoms: Unexplained physical pain like gastrointestinal issues, chronic headaches, or high blood pressure linked to long-term stress. 

Behavioral

• Self-Sabotage: Engaging in self-destructive habits or avoiding success/intimacy out of fear.
• Substance Use: Relying on potions or alcohol as a way to numb emotional pain or regulate an overactive nervous system.
• Poor Boundaries: An inability to say no, leading to codependency or putting others' needs before your own.
• Control Issues: Overcompensating for the helplessness experienced in childhood by needing to control environments and outcomes. 

Childhood trauma can also manifest in serious physiological disorders. PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Trauma Induced Mutism are two examples. Treatable, yes, but the longer they go untreated the more difficult they are to treat.

I’ve included some literature on some of the more severe disorders for you all to read at your convenience. 

Now, I’ve also included a questionnaire for you all. I would like each and every one of you, whether you’re willing to meet with me or not, to take the time to fill out the questionnaire. It may help you decide how to proceed, with or without help from me. There is also literature included with some tips on how to help you self-correct. What I would like you all to do, whether you’re meeting with me or not, is to go through the literature and, self-diagnose, so to speak. I’d like you to check off the different traumas you believe you’ve experienced and the behaviours you believe might be caused by those traumas. 

Finally, if you have any questions about anything I’ve talked about please do not hesitate to come to me. Not for a session, just for clarification.

And if you are ready to talk to me just sign your name on the parchment on my door. The parchment is charmed. No one, other than me, will see your name. 

I thank you for your attention.”

Theo stood up “Thank you. We appreciate your willingness to help.” Filomena nodded and returned to her seat as Theo turned to the crowd.

“So, once again, we’ll be available for planning sessions for the remainder of the day. I know the Hogwarts staff are anxious to continue our previous discussions. And, Susan? If you could join us? It hit me last night that you should have been included all along.”

“Why me? I mean, yes of course I’ll join you if you think I can be of help, but why me?”

“Are you not Lady Hufflepuff?” 

“Oh. Right!”

Theo snorted and looked over to Draco. “I imagine the Hogwarts meeting will take up most of the day so perhaps we should plan to meet with the DMLE and the Wizengamot and whoever else requires our attention tomorrow?”

“I expect you’re right. Why don’t you lot head to the office and I’ll join you shortly.”

—--

Once everyone had gathered around the massive table Harry did a head count.

“Holy crap. There’s 33 of us!”

Theo huffed a quiet laugh. “This might get loud.

Alight, so we’ve got a lot to cover. The second book revealed a lot of…issues that need to be addressed. Who would like to start?”

“I would!” Poppy said and Theo nodded at her to begin.

“Minerva, I apologize in advance but since Albus isn’t here you’re going to get the brunt of it. And don’t get your back up before I’ve even begun! I am livid! And Severus this all goes for you too! I am disgusted with you both.

First of all, they crashed that car into the Whomping Willow! Harry probably had a concussion! They were dehydrated! Hungry! Had sunburn! Did you even ask them if they were alright before you started yelling? No you did not! Now, eventually you did suggest the Hospital Wing for Mr. Weasley, Minerva, but you should have insisted both boys be checked out. 

And after the ordeal Mr. Potter faced in that Chamber? Merlin save me, Minerva! He’d been bitten by a Basilisk! A Basilisk! He should have been sent to me immediately! Both boys should have been! 

And Ginevra Weasley was exposed to soul magic! She’d been possessed by You Know…damn it, by Voldemort! She was traumatised. And I wasn’t even told! Molly informed me Ginevra had been enchanted. Had I known what actually happened I would have recommended she be taken to St. Mungos immediately. I am not trained in soul magic damage!

And the petrifications! I wanted the students sent to St. Mungos! They were far better equipped to deal with it.

Their physical wellbeing was ignored countless times over the years. And I’m sure there will be a dozen or more instances I’m not even aware of revealed in these books.” She turned to Harry, “I want the authority to override the Head. If I feel a student needs healing beyond my capabilities I want the authority to either bring in someone more qualified or send them to someone who is.”

“That seems more than reasonable.” Theo said. “And having Andromeda on staff will certainly mitigate some of the issues. Perhaps Andromeda could select one or two trusted Healers from St. Mungos to be available to call during emergencies, if she isn’t available. That way we could vet them ahead of time and wouldn’t be bringing an unknown into the school? And it would be up to Poppy to determine what constitutes an emergency.”

“And all parents should be informed immediately if there’s a serious injury or illness.” Ted interjected. “Muggle or Magical. Dr. Granger is right. The way we just completely dismiss Muggle parents is wrong.”

Everyone nodded in agreement and Poppy was pleased.

“OK, next?” Theo asked.

“Minerva, if you ever lay a hand on a student again I will ruin you. And Severus? If you ever again speak to a student the way you’ve spoken to Hadrian, Neville, and the rest, they will never find your body.” Arcturus threatened. 

Remus cringed in sympathy and changed the subject. “I’d like to discuss detentions and punishments in general. I know we discussed this already and came up with some ideas but detentions at Hogwarts are bullshit. There’s no rhyme or reason. It almost seems as though punishments are decided on a whim. A detention lasting more than 4 hours? Merlin.

Dumbledore threatened them with expulsion and you gave them one detention?

And, just as an aside, you didn’t even give them the password? What is wrong with you?

There should be a standard punishment for rule breaking. Say, for example, out after curfew? Automatic detention and, I’m just throwing this out there, 10 points. Fighting in the hallways? Two detentions and 20 points. Obviously we’ll have to come up with something appropriate for each violation.

But that should eliminate the disparity we’ve seen in these books and during our own time at Hogwarts. I hate to say it but it’s never been fair. Gryffindors are never punished as harshly as the other houses.

It will also eliminate punishments given based on how angry you are rather than what rules have been broken.”

“I like that.” Harry said. “That’s an excellent suggestion. Remus, could you maybe come up with a list of the rules and what you think is a reasonable punishment for breaking them?”

Remus smiled and nodded.

“Can we circle back to Poppy and the Hospital Wing for a moment?” Severus asked hesitantly. Theo nodded and Severus continued.

“I could be wrong but I don’t think the other Heads of House do this. Stop me if I’m wrong. I do mandatory health screenings for all of my Snakes at the start of each year. I do a standard diagnostic, or if needed, a more in depth one. I heal anything that needs healing and administer any necessary potions.”

“Why do you not send them to me if they need healing, Severus? I know you have some training in healing but that’s what I’m there for.” Poppy asked.

“Most of my students refuse, Poppy. They don’t want it known that they need healing for one thing. And they certainly wouldn’t want it to get back to their parents. I do it discreetly. Not that you wouldn’t if asked! But you’d feel duty bound to report your more concerning findings and that would be dangerous for some of my Snakes.”

“I’ll be honest, I’ve never even considered that.” Minerva said. “I should have.”

“Sirius would agree with that.” Harry said. “So, you’re saying if I’d let the Hat put me in Slytherin you’d have found out what the Dursleys did to me?”

“Yes, Mr. Potter. And it may have changed, well, a lot of things. I hope it would have.” Severus said.

“I have done that for a few individual students over the years.” put in Pomona. “There have been a few where it was glaringly obvious they were being abused. I did end up bringing a few of them to Poppy for proper healing. And I believe those cases were reported.”

Poppy nodded.

“Part of the problem,” Theo said, “is that in a few families child abuse is legal.”

“WHAT?” Poppy yelled.

“What do you mean?” asked Harry.

“Literally that. It depends on the individual Family Charters. If a Family Charter states that discipline of the heirs is not subject to the current law of the land but at the discretion of the Lord of the House then the abuse is legal.”

“How is that possible?” Arthur asked. “If something is illegal it’s illegal. And child abuse is illegal!”

“Unfortunately that’s not how it works. Family Charters are the law in certain families. The Wizengamot and the Ministry are bound by the law that was agreed upon during the formation of the Ministry.

“Explain!” demanded Harry.

“Oh dear.” sighed Theo. “I think we may need a lecture on how the Wizengamot and the Ministry work. Chamber wide I mean. It’s probably too long to get into right now but, short version. The Ministry replaced the Wizard’s Council which had been, for all intents and purposes, the Government of the Wixen world. Part of the agreement was that the Original 13 Families from the Wizard’s Council would retain the right to follow their Family Charter over the law if there was ever any conflict between the two. Your family is part of the Original 13 by the way, Hadri. So for the purpose of this discussion, if a Family Charter from an Original 13 Family implicitly states that child abuse is acceptable then it is. Regardless of the actual laws.”

“Well that has to change!” Hary said.

“In truth Mr. Potter, I’m not sure if that’s possible.” Deval said.

“Not without the agreement of every Original 13 Family.” Neville added. “Though now that I think about it, assuming Draco is the Lestrange Heir, I think all 13 Families are actually here in the chamber. Not to mention the Founder’s Heirs. Damn. Lady Magic knows what she’s doing. Theo’s right. We need to make sure everyone here understands how the Wizengamot and the Ministry works. For now let’s move on. Gran? You had something to say, I think?”

Augusta nodded. “How did not a single teacher not notice that Ronald’s wand was broken? For the entire year?”

Not one of them had a response. Minerva looked ashamed. “There’s no excuse for it.” she said. 

“There most certainly isn’t!” snapped Augusta. “And I realize I’m the last person who should be criticizing this as I completely ignored the fact that Neville deserved his own wand. But perhaps that’s made me more mindful about the subject.”

“I have a question, if I may.” said Rolf. “Why on earth do you even have a killer tree at Hogwarts? That tree should not be there. And obviously you cannot remove it now but it should at least be warded to keep children away from it.”

“It was planted for me.” Remus admitted. “To conceal the entrance to the Shrieking Shack. That’s where I transformed every month while I was at Hogwarts.”

“Merlin. There were no secure rooms in the castle they could have used? Surely there were other options than a Whomping Willow.” Rolf scoffed.

“Warding the Willow. We’ll add that to the list.” Draco said.

“We need to add Howlers to the list as well.” Madeline said. “They should not be allowed. Not only are they disruptive but they’ve very triggering. And nobody needs to hear Molly Weasley shrieking at her children. They also lead to bullying, which is already a huge issue at Hogwarts.” she added with a slight glare at Draco. Draco gulped and added it to the list.

“Bullying is a problem,” Kingsley added. “But so is security in general. You claim that magic in the corridors is against the rules but it happens constantly. Children fight. There’s no stopping that. But verbal fighting is one thing, actual duels in the corridors is another thing altogether. We talked about the portraits reporting bullying and fighting and that’s a good first step but I think we need more than portraits. I’m tempted to post actual Aurors at Hogwarts but that may be taking it too far.”

“What about the Elves?” asked Theo. “There are hundreds at Hogwarts. We don’t actually need that many but as Hogwarts has always been a sanctuary for homeless and abused Elves that’s where they end up. They can monitor the corridors without being seen and report things when needed.

Having said that, I don’t think placing Aurors at Hogwarts is a horrible idea. Well, not Aurors, too connected to the Ministry. But someone in charge of security. I mean, Filch fancied himself in that position. Why not hire someone to actually do the job properly?”

“I’m not sure Hogwarts can even afford the additions to the staff that have already been proposed, Mr. Nott.” Minerva said.

“Bollocks. My guess is that Dumbledore didn’t want anything to change and used a lack of funds to make sure nothing would. The yearly donations from my family alone would more than pay every teacher’s yearly salary. And my family isn’t the only one who donates regularly. We’ll ask the Goblins to do an audit of the Hogwarts vaults. And if it turns out that I’m wrong I’ll cover the costs of the extra salaries personally.”

Arcturus, Neville, and Draco nodded in agreement. 

Kingsley brought them back to the original topic. “Back to security for a moment. It’s not just bullying we need to deal with. Especially when it concerns Hadrian. That Colin kid is a literal stalker. He’s obsessed with Hadrian. And there were several other instances of shockingly inappropriate behaviour. The Valentine’s Day nonsense for example.” 

“I felt so bad for him in a way but I also wanted to hex him every time I saw him coming with that damn camera.” Harry said. 

“You could have come to me, Mr. Potter.” said Minerva.

Harry attempted to raise one eyebrow and Draco laughed. “Well that needs work, Hadrian.”

Harry laughed but then frowned at Minerva. “You dismissed my big concerns. Why would I come to you with the little ones?”

Minerva closed her eyes and sighed. “I am so very sorry, Mr. Potter. I failed you so badly. I failed all of my lions.”

“Just promise me you’ll do better in the future. Past. I hate time travel. Also, call me Hadrian. At least while we’re here. I really hate the last names thing.”

“I promise you, Hadrian. I will do better. Though I won’t be your Head of House or your Professor when we return. Still, I promise to be more attentive to all of the students.”

“OK.” Harry said. “It’s almost time for lunch, right? Maybe we should take a break? Or is there anything we can cross off the list quickly?”

“I’m thinking break.” Neville said. “Though can we have lunch in here? I don’t feel like moving.”

Harry nodded and called for Kreature. The Professors and Board members decided to join the main chamber for lunch.

As soon as the door closed behind the last Professor Susan exclaimed, “Merlin! Is it always like this?”

“Like what?” Draco asked.

“Theo said bollocks! Not just in front of McGonagall but to her face! You guys are basically just telling her how it’s going to be and she’s just going along with it! They all are!”

“I hear you have a package of suggestions too.” Neville said.

“Yes! We Hufflepuffs put together a list of things we’d like to see. I figured we’d maybe be lucky enough to get one or two of them approved but after this I’m liking our odds on all of them! I’m so excited!” She beamed at Draco and he blushed. Theo and Harry caught it and tried to suppress their laughter. Draco glared at them as soon as Susan turned her attention to Luna. “Prats!”

“You’ve been awfully quiet, LuLu. Have you nothing that needs addressing?” Theo asked.

“Not yet. I have things in my head but they’re not ready to come out yet.”

“Fair enough lillesøster.”

When the Professors returned they jumped right back into it. Celeste started them off.

“Professors should not be giving students gifts!” she started. “And I’m not sure they should be socializing with the students either. On a personal level I mean. Though considering how many staff members will have children in the school that might be difficult to enforce.”

“I hate to say it, especially since my daughters will be students, but I agree. Mr. Hagrid, I am not trying to single you out in any way. I understand you weren’t a Professor when you bonded with Hadrian. But we’re their Professors, not their friends. We need to stay professional. And I’m not sure we should be making exceptions for family members either. Perhaps on weekends only? And only in private?”

Allegra nodded. “I agree, though I hate admitting that. Keeping away from my Blaise and his friends will be very difficult. But I expect it would create resentment in the other students. We don’t want even the appearance of favouritism.”

“I’ve actually been thinking of ways to involve the parents more.” Theo said. “We could have maybe one weekend a month or so when we open the school to parents to come and visit.”

“I love that idea!” Susan said. “It would help the young kids especially. So many firsties get homesick. Being able to see their parents every month would help tremendously.”

“What about the Muggle parents? Or Squib parents I guess. Would they be included?” Kingsley asked.

“Of course. That actually ties in with another idea I had. Every… we really need a new word, every Muggle or Squib parent should be assigned a Wixen sponsor, or partner, is probably a better word. Sponsor sounds a bit condescending. Anyway we team up every Non Magical parent with a Wixen one. The Wixen parent would help out with shopping for supplies, transportation, post, etc. I mean, they can't very well keep an Owl as a pet in the Muggle World. And in theory they could also act as Magical Guardian to the Muggleborns…who aren’t actually Muggleborn. Damn it! We really need new terminology for everything.”

“That all sounds incredible but how would we even organize something like that?” Elladora asked.

“We put my Mother on it. That woman can organize anything.” Draco replied.

“Truer words were never spoken.” Allegra laughed. “Perhaps we should invite the Grangers to join us. Not today but perhaps our next meeting? They would be able to give us a lot of insight into the difficulties Non Magical parents face.”

“That’s an excellent idea.” Neville said.

“Speaking of the Grangers.” Esmeralda said. “I’d like to discuss the issue raised the other day about Miss Granger being allowed to do extra credit, monopolize the class, submit ridiculously long essays and being rewarded for it. It’s not right.”

“Nor is allowing children to use Time Turners.” Arthur added.

“Agreed.” Esmeralda said. “And does anyone have any ideas about how we deal with the young adults here in the chamber? It does seem ridiculous that they’re going to have to sit through first year classes again. There must be something we can do. They’re going to be bored to tears.”

“Theo was bored the first time around.” Draco added. “I mean, seriously, did you learn a single thing at school, Theo? From classes I mean?”

“This isn’t about me. It’s about all of us.” Theo said.

“Still, Mr. Nott, I’d like to hear the answer.” Minerva said gently.

“Not really.”

“And you earned two Masteries? In 6th year?” Minerva continued.

“Yes. Neville and Draco would have done one in 7th were it not for, well, everything. It’s not that big a deal. I just like to learn. As does Granger. So let’s get back to the point. We’re all going to be years ahead of our peers. What can we do to keep us all from dying of boredom without letting our classmates know how insanely ahead of them we all are?”

“We all secretly work on one Mastery a year while pretending to be normal but exceptionally clever students.” Susan suggested. “Or, it usually takes more than one year to do a Mastery anyway. So, by the time we all graduate we can all have at least one of them finished. Theo could graduate with a Mastery in every subject! Assuming some of you are willing to officially sponsor us when it comes time to submit them.”

“That’s one option.” Neville said. “I like it. To be honest I’m happy to sit through first year Potions with a proper teacher. Sorry, Professor Snape.”

“No Mr. Longbottom, I’m sorry.” Severus said.

“At least we’ll have some new classes. That’s kind of exciting.” Harry said. “Most of us won’t be bored during those.”

“That’s true!” Susan agreed. She looked over at Pomona questioningly.

“Does anyone else have anything to discuss? Because my Badgers have put together a list of suggestions that I’m quite excited to hear.”

No one else had anything to discuss so Susan took the floor. She winked at Draco and said, “ Take notes, Dragon Boy.” Draco blushed again and briefly wished his hair was longer so he could hide behind it. The rest of the room tried to hide their smiles.

“OK! So first!

The Duelling Club. Obviously it was a disaster because, Lockhart. But it’s still a brilliant idea for a club. We just need a proper teacher.

And we came up with a few other ideas for clubs.” She rattled them off and Draco diligently wrote them on the board.

1. Duelling 
2. Herbology 
3. Art
4. Music
5. Sports
6. Games
7. Potions

There’s probably a ton more options but those were the ones we thought would be the most fun. And don’t think I didn’t notice you adding a Potions Club to the list Draco Malfoy.” Draco smirked.

“Second! We’re too segregated. We do everything with our own House. And, honestly, it’s a big reason why we’re so divided. We don’t know each other.

Obviously living in our House is necessary. I’d never suggest changing that. And I can see why eating together is a good thing, as long as we’re still free to join our friends in the other Houses occasionally as we always have been.

But why do we have to take classes as a House? Why can’t the classes be mixed up randomly? It’s not like it would take any extra work. 

And finally, we would like to suggest mixed Common Rooms. Open to everyone all day, every day. Though if I’m being honest we’d settle for weekends.

We suggest 3 of them. One for years 1-2, one for years 3-4, one for years 5-6 and one for the 7th years.

We also thought of Study Rooms with the same setup. Like, for group study that would be too loud for the Library.”

“Yes to all of that.” Harry said enthusiastically. “I love every suggestion!”

“I don’t…dislike your ideas Miss Bones but…even with the extra staff I don’t think there’s enough of us to go around.” Minerva said.

“So hang a portrait in every common and study room. They can alert a Professor, or someone in Security if we end up hiring someone. Clubs will likely need a Professor or a Mastery Student, I suppose. Or again, one or two Elves. But as far as the Common Rooms go it’s no different than a bunch of us hanging out in an empty classroom to study together or just hang out, which we’ve been doing for years with no issues. They’d just be authorized. And finally open to Slytherins.” Neville said.

“I suppose that’s a fair point, Mr. Longbottom. Very well. I agree to all of it. Though I suppose my agreement isn’t really necessary is it. I keep acting as though I’m in charge but I’m not. You are.”

“We still value your input, Professor. And we’d like you to remain at Hogwarts as Headmistress. If you hate an idea we’re going to take that into consideration.” Neville said. “Does anyone have anything to add? It’s getting late. We should probably wrap up for the day.”

Everyone agreed and headed back to the main chamber.

Harry and Susan dragged Theo and Draco over to the family sofas with Neville and Luna following behind them, stopping only to grab Daphne and Blaise. The eight of them chatted about the new ideas for Hogwarts until it was time for supper.

The Elves had outdone themselves in honour of Appoline and Rolf’s birthdays. And there were two magnificent birthday cakes as well.

While they all ate Harry filled in the rest of the group. Hermione in particular was very enthusiastic about the proposed changes until Harry mentioned the Elves possible involvement.

“Oh sure. Let’s create even more work for the unpaid workers.” she ranted.

“Oh here we go.” Dean sighed. 

To everyone’s shock several Elves popped into the room.

“We is not slaves Missy Granger. We is family.”

“Flopsy!!” Susan squealed and ran over to hug her beloved Elf.

Harry started counting. He got to 40 before giving up. Every Elf looked happy, healthy, and well cared for. Even Kreature was wearing a clean and tidy new toga-like garment. He looked healthier than Harry had ever seen him. Merry and Pippin had jumped up on Theo and Draco’s laps.

Flopsy introduced every Elf to the group one by one. “We loves our families. We is not slaves. We is treated very well.” she said sternly.

“It is true that some Elves are being treated very badly. But that does not mean theys wish to be free.” Merry said. “They wish to be safe but not free. Even Dobby does not wish to be free. He wished to be free of his Malfoy Master. Very mean he was. Like his Father. Very bad men. But Dobby still loves Mistress Cissa and Little Master Dragon.”

Dobby nodded enthusiastically. “Dobby wishes to bond with Mister Harry Potter, he does! Dobby will stay with Mistress Cissa though. If yous can be getting rid of the mean Master and Mister Harry Potter does not want Dobby.”

“Of course I want you Dobby! You’re my friend! But I don’t want to own you!” Harry said.

“It’s not ownership, Hadri. I mean, some people act as though it is. Some people do treat their Elves like slaves. And Granger, you’re absolutely right to champion for Elves’ rights. But, and forgive me for being blunt here, you went about it all wrong back in fourth year. And I’m guessing from Dean’s reaction you never figured that out, though I could be wrong.”

“I. I realize I got some things wrong. But I still want them to have more rights! And they should be paid!”

“Whys would we be needing gold? Wes have everything wes need.” Pippin asked. “And wes only to ask for anything we don’t have and wants. Little Master Bear gives us gold. Wes only ever use it to buy him and Little Master Dragon presents.”

Theo and Draco shook their heads. “You’re supposed to spend that on frivolous things that catch your fancy. Not on me and Drake.” Theo said.

“Little Miss will come with Merry and Pippin.” Pippin ordered. “Wes will teach you.”

Hermione looked a little uncertain and Theo laughed. “Lesson the first, Granger. They’re in charge. Always. And I’ll make you a deal. Once you’ve learned everything you need to know, according to the Elves themselves, I will help you create a piece of legislation aimed at protecting Elves from abuse and mistreatment which will be presented to the Wizengamot upon our return. Once everyone has officially taken up their seats and assigned proxies, obviously. We have the votes already, just from the people in this chamber. Deal?”

Hermione looked at Harry who nodded. “If you don’t trust him, trust me.”

“OK.” Pippin hopped off Theo’s lap and walked over to Hermione. “Come with Pippin, Miss.” He took her hand and started to lead her away. “And don’t be worrying Miss. Wes be teaching you proper. And if Little Master Bear makes a law that Miss doesn’t like Merry and me will makes him drink decaf coffee for a week, wes will.”

Hermione burst into giggles and followed Pippin and the rest of the Elves through the door. The last thing she heard before the door closed behind her was Theo laughing.

Once Theo stopped laughing he swore. “Fuck. I keep meaning to ask Dobby how he managed to literally free himself. Because Hadri tricking Lucy to give Dobby clothes shouldn’t have worked.”

“Unless Dobby was technically free already. We’ll have to ask him to explain because you’re right. It shouldn’t have worked.” Draco mused.

”We’ll ask him tomorrow. I’m knackered. Let’s head home. Come along Hadri! It’s bedtime!”

Chapter Text

Friday May 15, 1998

Arthur was very concerned about Molly. She’d barely said a word since the revelations about the horcruxes and how badly Albus had messed things up. He decided to bring her a cup of tea in bed and try to cheer her up.

“Good morning, Mollywobbles. How did you sleep? I’ve a lovely cup of tea for you.”

“What’s good about it? Everything has gone wrong, Arthur! My children hate me. Harry has ended his relationship with Ginny and taken up with that Nott boy! I’m horrified! Ronald and Hermione don’t seem to be moving their relationship along. I’ve been dreaming of the four of them getting together for years! It was going to be so perfect! Of course, after hearing about some of the things that Hermione has pushed my poor Ronald into I don’t know that I want him to marry her anyway. She’s very bossy and controlling isn’t she? Little know-it-all. Thinks she knows best.

And now we learn that Albus has been…well, he’s made some mistakes, of course, but it seems like everyone is painting him as the villain. He’s made some mistakes but he was just trying to keep everyone safe from You Know Who. And now they’re planning on removing him as Headmaster and Chief Warlock? And that Amelia Bones keeps saying she’s going to arrest Albus! Arrest him! 

And my children hate me! I’ve only ever wanted what’s best for them and they’re so angry! I don’t understand. And that Harry Potter! After everything we’ve done for him! He’s abandoned us and taken up with the Blacks! The Blacks! He’s cozying up to Narcissa Malfoy of all people! And her horrid bully of a son! The way he’s treated my poor Ronald over the years! He should be in Azkaban! 

And I don’t like how those Grangers are looking at us! Like they’re so much better than us! Just because they have money I’d bet. 

And everyone else too! They’re all giving me looks. They all think I’m a bad Mother! I’d like to see them try and raise 7 children! And the twins! I’d like to see them try and raise Fred and George! More trouble than they’re worth! I’ve done my best but apparently that’s just not good enough for all those high and mighty people! I want to go home, Arthur. I don’t like it here.”

Arthur realized he was still holding Molly’s tea which had gone stone cold. He set it down on a table and sat down on the bed.

“Now Molly. I love you but I think you’re overreacting to all of this. And perhaps underreacting in some ways. And obviously we cannot leave. Not until Lady Magic sends us back.

Your children don’t hate you, they love you. They may be a little annoyed about some things that have happened but they don’t hate you. 

Now I don’t like hearing you say that about Harry. He doesn’t owe us anything, Molly. And Sirius is his Godfather. And from what I hear he’s planning to blood adopt Harry when they get back. The Blacks are his family, Molly, not us. And he’s been a very good friend to Ronald and the twins.

As for Ginny, I don’t think Ginny wants to marry Harry anymore. I think that was a childhood fantasy to be honest.

Now, as for Albus we may need to agree to disagree on that. He’s done some very bad things and I think he needs to answer for them. I don’t know if I think he deserves Azkaban but I know he doesn’t deserve to be the Headmaster of Hogwarts.

Now, let’s dry your tears and head out for breakfast, shall we? I’m sure there’s a busy day ahead of us.”

Molly sniffed but agreed and got out of bed to get dressed. Arthur breathed a sigh of relief but couldn’t help but worry about how the day would go.

The Grangers and a few others were already eating breakfast when Molly and Arthur entered the chamber. He looked around for his children and they were all huddled together at a table in the corner. Hermione and Fleur were with them.

Molly spotted them and headed over. “Good morning, children. Where’s Harry? Is he not joining us this morning? Too busy for us now, isn’t he? Well that’s just fine. We’ll still be here when he comes to his senses. Sirius has never been a good influence on Harry and never has that been more clear.”

“Molly Weasley, you’re a right bitch, aren’t you?” Molly whipped her head around and found herself face to face with Rose, Jane, Esmerelda, and Evelyn.

“How dare you speak to me that way, Evelyn Diggory!”

“I’ll speak as I like! The way to speak to and about your children is shameful!”

“Not to mention the way you speak to Harry!” Jane added. “It’s appalling! 

“Your daughter was more worried about how you’d react than she was about being possessed by You Know Who! Your son was afraid to tell you his wand was broken for an entire year? Your children threaten each other with you! Does none of that register with you?” Ava spoke calmly but sternly.

“And this is on you as well Arthur. Andromeda was right. Our children parrot us. When they hear the two of you speaking ill of people they go on and repeat it later. It’s not right to talk about people like that in front of your children.” Rose added.

“And maybe stop being so bloody condescending to the Muggles you claim to champion.” Jean sniffed. “If you want to learn about the Muggle world so badly, go to the Muggle world and buy some bloody books. We were not put on this earth to educate you.” Jean put in.

At this point several others jumped in, all sick and tired of Molly’s behaviour, in the books and in the chamber.

“If you’re so embarrassed about not having enough money, maybe stop talking about it in front of anyone who will listen! It’s embarrassing for your children.”

“If you’re so worried about money, get a bloody job! All of your children are at Hogwarts or out on their own.”

Harry and company entered the chamber to a full on screaming match between Molly and a couple of dozen others. He looked for Ron and saw him sitting with his siblings and Hermione. All of them looked beyond embarrassed.

Theo let out a shrill whistle and everyone stopped yelling immediately.

“Well. Good morning everyone.” Harry said. “This is…well. I’m not sure what this is.”

“A shitshow?” Theo offered.

“That works. Right, well, it ends now. We have work to do. Everyone find your seats. We’re having a group lecture this morning.”

Ron stood and hesitated for a moment before taking a deep breath and marching over to Filomena’s door and signing his name on the parchment.

The twins shared a look and followed Ron’s lead. Ginny and Percy followed.

Bill and Fleur shrugged and joined them. Charlie snorted and said, “I’m the normal one in the family but OK.” and walked over to sign up as well.

Richard and Jean looked at Hermione and sent her a tentative smile. She smiled back and nodded and they all went and signed their names too.

Finally Arthur looked at Molly. 

“Mollywobbles?” Without a word Molly stormed back to the Weasley suite. Arthur hung his head for a moment before walking over and signing his name.

Harry smiled and thought that maybe things would start to get better for his friends now that they were willing to get some help.

“Right. Theo? You wanted to say something before we started?”

“Yes. Thanks, Hadri.

So there’s been something I’ve been planning for years now. I was hoping to get it started once the war was over, assuming I survived, but obviously everything has changed now. Since I don’t want to wait another 7 years I’m hoping some of you will be willing to help me.

I want to open a primary school. For every Magical child. It’s ridiculous that children raised in the Muggle world arrive at Hogwarts knowing almost nothing about the world they were born into. And, a lot of Magical children arrive at Hogwarts barely literate. I want to change that. But I’m going to be eleven again. I can’t do it on my own. 

I’ve done a lot of planning already, I wish I had my planning journal, it would save some time.”

A navy blue journal appeared on the table beside him.

“Well, that’s efficient. Thank you, My Lady.

What I’m hoping for are some volunteers to not only help me finalize my plans but hopefully come up with some things I may have missed. I’m also going to be looking for people who might be willing to step in and run the school once it’s ready. You know, since I'll be sitting through 1st year Potions again.

There’s not a huge hurry on this. We’re going to be here for awhile yet. But I would like to get started sooner rather than later.”

A dark green journal appeared on the table next to him and Theo laughed.

“I was going to save this for later but as My Lady wishes.

I also have plans for a University so if anyone is interested in helping me out there I’d appreciate it.

Now, it’s come to our attention that a lot of people in the chamber aren’t aware of a lot of things they really should be. The way our government works, for example. You cannot hope to change something you do not understand and considering that’s ultimately why we’re here we need to fix that.

Luckily we have someone in the chamber that knows our history better than everyone else combined and he’s agreed to give us a lesson.”

Several groans were heard throughout the chamber.

“It’s Mr. Fortesque, people, not Binns.” That got a laugh from the crowd.

“After Mr. Fortesque finishes we’re going to ask Lord Greengrass and Lord Patil to give us an overview of how the Wizengamot works and how we’re going to be able to change things. Mr. Fortesque? If you please?”

“Thank you, Theo.

I apologize in advance for explaining things you already know but the Chosen have asked for a short lecture and, since I love talking about our history I was thrilled for the opportunity. And hopefully I’ll be able to share a few things that even Theo doesn’t know.”

Theo sent him a mock glare and blushed. “I don’t know everything!”

Florean grinned at him and continued. “Before the Ministry of Magic there was the Wizard’s Council. And before that there were the Royal Houses. 

For the most part families and communities governed themselves. There was no central government. And of course there was no separation between the Wixen and Muggle world.

Our history is, well, to be completely honest, not very well documented before the time of Arthur Pendragon and the other Royal Houses. Around the year 500.

You all know the names; Pendragon, Emrys, Lefay, Ambrosius. 

Arthur Pendragon was, of course, a Muggle but contrary to popular belief Guinevere was a half-blood. Also, contrary to popular belief, they did in fact have a child. Though he was hidden away for his protection. And nearly 1500 years later that child’s descendant had a child named Lily Evens Potter. Strangely not one of the previous descendants has been able to claim the title. Until now. Hadrian is, according to his Inheritance Test, Lord Pendragon. I expect that there were conditions put on the inheritance that no one was able to meet until now.

Arthur’s half-sister, Morgan Le Fay was, obviously, a witch as well. Now she died childless and so technically has no heirs. However, as she was a beloved child of our Lady Fate, every few generations an heir is appointed by Magic. The title cannot be passed on. It can only be appointed by Lady Fate herself. As we have recently learned, the Lady Fate has blessed Luna Lovegood with the title of Lady Le Fay.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. The man who hid Arthur’s son was a relative of Guinevere’s named Ambrosius Aurelianus. The Muggle legends about King Arthur got this one wrong. He was not Arthur’s Uncle but Guinevere’s. He raised Arthur’s son as his own but also had children of his own. He wasn’t a King in his own right but he was of royal blood and his family was revered. He had sons who had sons but eventually those lines died out. His daughter, however, had children. And one of those children married into Longbottom House, leaving our Neville here, as Lord Ambrosius. Don’t ask me why the House uses the first name and not the last. There’s no written documentation on that.

And now we come to Theo. Or Lord Emrys. I knew your Grandmother, Theo. A lovely woman she was. And Merlin were she and Thaddeus in love. They used to come to Diagon once a month, just for my ice cream. I remember they brought you once or twice. You didn’t like ice cream even as a small child! Though it was quite clear you loved your Grandparents, and they you.”

Theo laughed, “I’m sorry! And yes, I loved them very much.”

“But while I have no doubt you know the entire history of Houses Nott, Selwyn, and MacDonald, I imagine you know nothing of your Grandmother’s family history.”

“No. She never spoke of her history. I mean, her own personal history yes, but not her family history.”

“She was descended from Myrddin Emrys, as you’ve recently learned. The man whose descendant would go on to sire the Merlin we’re all so familiar with.

Now, as we all know, Merlin died childless. However, our Merlin was not Lord Emrys. He was from a secondary line. The main line of the family descended from Myrddin Emrys’ eldest son and now it goes through Theo.”

“So he’s not descended from Merlin?” Hermione called out.

Florean frowned at her, “Manners, Miss Granger. And no. Theo is descended from Myrddin Emrys, which, if you knew your history, you would understand is even more impressive.

Just as an aside, Theo is also descended from King Cnut. The King of England, Norway, and Denmark and Ælfgifu of Northampton. Not to mention from Dòmhnall Mac Raghnuill, the founder of Clan MacDonald. And a Selwyn to boot.”

“Yes, thank you Mr. Fortesque.” Theo jumped in.

“Sorry Theo. I know you don’t enjoy the attention.

Fun fact for the Muggle raised. When Geoffrey of Monmouth wrote his epic tale of King Arthur and his knights he seemingly combined the legends of Neville’s ancestor and Theo’s to create his Merlin. There are actual historical facts in Geoffrey’s tale though they’ve been exaggerated and twisted a bit. It is a highly entertaining read all the same.

Now let’s move on. As you all know Hogwarts was founded around 990 by our beloved Four Founders; Godric Gryffindor, Salazar Slytherin, Rowena Ravenclaw, and Helga Hufflepuff. 

So those are the names to keep in mind as we continue to the main purpose of today’s lecture.

I won’t bore you all with the time between Arthur and the Viking invasion that resulted in Theo’s ancestor becoming King, though I’m endlessly fascinated by that time period. I’m going to skip all that and talk about the formation of the Wizard’s Council, which was the original official governing body of our world. 

The Wizard’s Council was founded in 1253. It was comprised of, well people refer to them as the 13 Original Families but that’s not even remotely accurate. They were, however, the most influential 13 families. Most of those families are right here in this very chamber.” Florean waved his wand and a small stack of parchment appeared in front of each person. “Now, this isn’t the original list of families, a couple of those lines died out and other families took their places. This is the list we’re using as these are the families that were members of the Wizard’s Council when the Ministry as we know it was founded.

1. Abbott
2. Avery
3. Black
4. Bones
5. Greengrass
6. Lestrange
7. Longbottom
8. MacMillan
9. MacDonald
10. Nott
11. Ollivander
12. Peverell
13. Potter

We haven’t discussed the Peverells, and I won’t as I don’t actually know that much about them. And what I do know should probably not be shared without permission.

Officially, the Royal Houses and the Founders had seats on the Wizard’s Council, even though it was assumed those lines were dead. So officially there were 21 families on the Council but only the 13 mattered.

Now, until the year 1503 those 13 families were the de facto government of the Wixen world in Britain. Each family controlled their own region. For example, Longbottoms ruled the Northwest, the MacDonalds ruled the Hebrides and the West Highlands and the Notts ruled the Northern Isles and the East Highlands. The Greengrasses ruled Ireland. And so on. Each region had their own laws and customs and it was up to the head of the ruling family to enforce those laws.

Eventually they realized that the population was growing too rapidly for them to continue. They decided to form a centralized body to deal with things. Hence the Wizengamot was officially formed in 1503. Obviously the 13 families were given seats. As were the Royal Houses and the Founders, though, again, there were no known heirs at that time. 

An additional 10 seats were granted to prominent families.

1. Burke
2. Crouch
3. Doge
4. Fawley
5. Gaunt
6. Gamp
7. McNair
8. Malfoy
9. Prince
10. Rosier

The 13 Families were still primarily in charge of their own regions but the newly formed Wizengamot took over creating and enforcing the laws that would govern Great Britain at large. So now we’re up to 23 active Families and 8 honourary seats. There should be a second parchment with the updated list in your pile. 

Then came the Witch Hunts. Which eventually brought about the formation of the International Confederation of Wizards, formed in 1689, the Statute of Secrecy, signed in 1692, and the Ministry of Magic, officially established in 1707.

And now we come to the main reason for this lecture. 

While the 23 Families and the Wixen community at large agreed that it was necessary to form a centralized government to deal with, not only the protection of the Wixen world but the many administrative issues that come with a rapidly growing population, there were several issues that they did not agree on. And there was another problem.

The Wizard’s Council were the actual signatories of the Statute. Unless they signed off on it the Statute would need to be renegotiated with the ICW. 

Also, while the Wixen population had grown tremendously, those 23 families still had a lot of influence and power. People looked to them for everything. And while they were all willing to pass some of their responsibilities off to a centralized government body they weren’t willing to give up everything. And who can blame them? They were basically the royalty of the Wixen world.

And now we come to it. Every one of those 23 families had their own Family Charters. Basically the rules that governed their own Houses as well as their Vassel Houses. The Crabbes were Vassels of the Malfoys, if memory serves.” Florean looked to Draco for confirmation and he nodded. “Still are, technically, though they were eventually granted their own seat. The Goyles too.”

Florean continued, “Eventually there came an agreement. The Wizengamot would remain in charge of creating the laws, and presiding over the trials of those who broke those laws. The Ministry would take over the administrative details and the enforcement of the laws. They would deal with enforcing the Statute, collecting taxes, providing services, etc. One of the first things our first Minister…Ulick Gamp was his name for those of you who don’t know. One of his first actions was to form the Department of Magical Law Enforcement.

And, this is the bit that matters, the 23 Families would not budge on the issue of their Family Charters. They would be, for all intents and purposes, above the law. Put simply, if there was a conflict between a Family Charter and the law the Family Charter would take precedence, at the discretion of the Lord of the House.

So, for example, if a law is created making the Old Ways of worship illegal, and a Family Charter states that the family must practice the Old Ways, the Ministry cannot prosecute if someone in that family breaks that particular law.

Or, if a Family Charter states that the Lord of the Family has the right to punish their children in any manner they choose, they cannot be prosecuted for child abuse, or even filicide. And the same rule applies to spousal abuse, or even the murder of a spouse. Or a member of a Vassal family.”

Everyone gasped in shock and Florean paused to let it sink in.

“And now you see the problem we face. Hadrian and the others wish to change things. But the very foundational laws of our government may not allow those changes.

It’s going to take a lot of political maneuvering, and some quick action by the DMLE, but I believe it can be done. I’m going to turn it over to Lords Greengrass and Patil now to explain how.”

Cyrus and Deval stepped up. “Thank you, Mr. Fortesque, I learned something new. Your knowledge of our history is impressive. I’m very pleased you’ll be the one teaching our children in the future.” Cyrus said. “Deval? Why don’t you start us off?”

“Thank you, Cyrus.” Deval waved his wand and a new stack of parchment appeared in front of everyone.

“As much as I would enjoy discussing the history of the Wizengamot and how it evolved I’m going to stick to its current iteration. Or what will be the current iteration the day we return. Your top parchment should show the Lord or Lady and the Heir of every seat, as it was in 1991. It will also show you how many votes each seat holds.

Something to note. There are 7 seats allocated to Ministry officials, including the Minister. Order of Merlin recipients have seats, as well. In 1991 there were 3, though Albus was the only one who used his seat. Arcturus Black and Newt Scamander never attended sessions and proxies are prohibited for non hereditary seats. We’re ignoring those for now. So in 1991 it stood thusly;

Royal Houses - 4 in total, 5 votes each

Emrys - Dormant

LeFay - Dormant 

Pendragon - Dormant 

Ambrosias - Dormant 

Founders - 4 in total, 4 votes each

Gryffindor - Dormant 

Hufflepuff - Dormant 

Ravenclaw - Dormant 

Slytherin - Dormant 

Original 13 - 13 in total, 3 votes each

Abbott - Lord John Abbott, Heir Ian Abbott

Avery - Lord Everett Avery, Heir Emmet Avery

Black - Dormant 

Bones - Heir Susan Bones, Proxy held by Regent Amelia Bones

Greengrass - Lord Cyrus Greengrass, Heir Daphne Greengrass 

Lestrange - Lord Corvus Lestrange, Heir Draco Malfoy, Proxy held by Lord Lucius Malfoy

Longbottom - Heir Neville Longbottom, Proxy held by Regent Augusta Longbottom 

MacMillan - Lord Oscar MacMillan, Heir Ernest MacMillan

MacDonald - Heir Theodore Nott, Proxy held by Lord Tiberius Nott

Nott - Lord Tiberius Nott, Heir Theodore Nott

Ollivander - Lord Garrick Ollivander, Heir Neville Longbottom, Proxy held by Augusta Longbottom 

Peverell - Dormant

Potter - Heir Harry Potter, Proxy held by Albus Dumbledore 

Incidentally, Lucius Malfoy attempted to gain the Proxy for the Black seat on several occasions but the Magic of the chamber wouldn’t allow it. I am astonished that the chamber allowed Albus to hold the Potter Proxy to be honest. After everything we’ve learned here it should never have been possible.

Secondary 10 Houses - 10 in total, 2 Votes each

Burke - Lord Ingram Burke, Heir Ignatius Burke

Crouch - Lord Bartemus Crouch, no Heir

Doge - Lord Elphias Doge, no Heir

Fawley - Lord Hector Fawley, Heir Astoria Greengrass, Proxy held by Cyrus Greengrass 

Gaunt - Dormant 

Gamp - Dead House, new house yet to be elevated 

McNair - Lord Walden McNair, Heir Angus McNair

Malfoy - Lord Lucius Malfoy, Heir Draco Malfoy

Prince - Dormant 

Rosier - Proxy held by Lucius Malfoy

Additional Houses added over time - 22 in total, 1 Vote each

Bulstrode - Lord Marcellus Bulstrode, no Heir

Brown - Lord Jeremy Brown, Heir Jason Brown

Carrow - Lord Amycus Carrow, Heir Flora Carrow 

Crabbe - Lord Vindus Crabbe, Heir Vincent Crabbe, Proxy held by Lucius Malfoy

Flint - Lord Flavius Flint, Heir Marcus Flint

Goyle - Lord Gregor Goyle, Heir Gregory Goyle, Proxy held by Lucius Malfoy

Marchbanks - Lady Griselda Marchbanks, no Heir

Montague - Lord Grisholm Montague, Heir Graham Montague

Ogden - Lord Robert Ogden, no Heir

Parkinson - Lord Perseus Parkinson, Heir Patrick Parkinson

Patil - Lord Deval Patil, Heir Padma Patil

Prewett - Heirs Fred and George Weasley, Proxy held by Albus Dumbledore 

Rowle - Lord Thorfinn Rowle, Heir Thomas Rowle 

Selwyn - Lord Spencer Selwyn, Heir Theodore Nott

Shacklebolt - Lord Kenzington Shacklebolt, Heir Kingsley Shacklebolt

Shafiq - Heir Blaise Zabini, Proxy held by Regent Allegra Zabini

Slughorn - Lord Horace Slughorn, no Heir, Proxy held by Albus Dumbledore 

Smith - Lord Stephan Smith, Heir Zacharius Smith

Travers - Lord Sebastian Travers, Heir Oliver Travers

Warrington - Lord Casper Warrington, Heir Cassius Warrington 

Weasley - Lord Arthur Weasley, Proxy held by Albus Dumbledore 

Yaxley - Lord Corbin Yaxley, Heir Alexander Yaxley

When a seat ends a new family is elevated. The chamber knows if a seat is truly dead and the chair disappears.

As long as a chair exists an heir exists somewhere which is why the founders still have seats. The Gamps, for example. Their chair disappeared, though a replacement has yet to be assigned.

So, to sum up, there are;

7 seats for the Ministry.

4 seats for the Royal Houses

4 seats for the Founders

13 seats for the Original 13

10 seats for the Secondary 10

22 seats for the remaining Houses

Plus 3, at that time, seats for OOM recipients. They’re not included in the official seat count as the numbers vary.

So, normally there are 60 available seats, but in 1991 there were technically only 59 due to the Gamp line.

Of those 59 seats only 40 have an active Lord, Lady, or Proxy.

Now, you’re probably wondering what the point of all this is. This is the point.

Contrary to popular belief there are no official factions for Dark, Light, and Neutral. But there are unofficial voting blocks with a de facto leader.

Light leaning families obviously follow Dumbledore’s lead on most things.

Dark leaning families tend to follow Lucius. Most of them are actual Death Eaters or Voldemort supporters. Not all! But most.

Neutral families tend to follow Lord Greengrass here.

Votes: 

Dark - 32

Light - 23

Neutral - 16

Now, you might be wondering how the Light ever manages to get anything passed. Keep in mind that Dumbledore has the support of 5 of those Ministry seats, bringing the Light’s vote number up to 28. Amelia and Saul usually lean Neutral…when Saul bothers to show up at all.” He sent a mild glare towards Saul who merely laughed.

That brings the Light’s vote total up to 28. 

Most of the Neutral Houses tend to vote for the Light for the sole purpose of defeating Lucius’ more extreme proposals. They also tend to vote against Dumbledore’s more extreme proposals. They, well we really, as Cyrus and I are both Neutral, basically act as spoilers to stop both sides from accomplishing anything extreme. Unfortunately, we’re usually thwarted when we propose legislation that would benefit both sides of the political spectrum. 

Oh, I just realized I forgot to mention something. The Chief Warlock position is determined by the number of votes held. If there is a tie it’s done by vote.

Albus and Lucius each hold 7 votes. Most of us voted for Albus only to keep Lucius out of that chair.

The Wizengamot has been mostly useless for decades as both the Light and Dark have gone to the extremes. The Neutral block has been trying to keep things together for decades, sometimes with help from the Light and sometimes from help from the Dark.”

Cyrus took over at this point. “Now, let’s see what things will look like if all goes to plan. I may need some help on a few of these so let’s go through them one by one.”

After about half an hour or so they’d completed their new list.

“So here we have it.” Cyrus said. “There will probably be a few changes once all is said and done but this is as good as it gets for right now.

Royal Houses - 4 in total, 5 votes each

Emrys - Lord Theodore Nott, Proxy held by Lord Sirius Black

LeFay - Lady Luna Lovegood, Proxy held by Lady Narcissa Malfoy

Pendragon - Lord Hadrian Potter, Proxy held by Lord Sirius Black

Ambrosias - Lord Neville Longbottom, Proxy held by Regent Augusta Longbottom 

Founders - 4 in total, 4 votes each

Gryffindor - Lord Neville Longbottom, Proxy held by Regent Augusta Longtime 

Hufflepuff - Lady Susan Bones, Proxy held by Regent Amelia Bones

Ravenclaw - Lady Luna Lovegood, Proxy held by Lady Narcissa Malfoy

Slytherin - Lord Hadrian Potter, Proxy held by Lord Sirius Black

Original 13 - 13 in total, 3 votes each

Abbott - Lord John Abbott, Heir Ian Abbott

Avery - Heir Robert Avery, Proxy held by Lady Elladora Travers

Black - Lord Sirius Black, Heir Hadrian Potter

Bones - Heir Susan Bones, Proxy held by Regent Amelia Bones

Greengrass - Lord Cyrus Greengrass, Heir Daphne Greengrass 

Lestrange - Heir Draco Malfoy, Proxy held by Lady Narcissa Malfoy

Longbottom - Heir Neville Longbottom, Proxy held by Regent Augusta Longbottom 

MacMillan - Lord Oscar MacMillan, Heir Ernest MacMillan

MacDonald - Heir Theodore Nott, Proxy held by Lady Narcissa Malfoy

Nott - Heir Theodore Nott, Proxy held by Lady Narcissa Malfoy

Ollivander - Lord Garrick Ollivander, Heir Neville Longbottom, Proxy held by Augusta Longbottom 

Peverell - Lord Hadrian Potter, Proxy held by Lord Sirius Black

Potter - Heir Harry Potter, Proxy held by Lord Sirius Black

Secondary 10 Houses - 10 in total, 2 Votes each

Burke - Lord Ingram Burke, Heir Ignatius Burke

Crouch - Dormant

Doge - Lord Elphias Doge, no Heir

Fawley - Lord Hector Fawley, Heir Astoria Greengrass, Proxy held by Cyrus Greengrass 

Gaunt - Heir Hadrian Potter, Proxy held by Lord Sirius Black

Gamp - Dead House, new house yet to be elevated 

McNair - Heir Angus McNair, Proxy held by Oscar MacMillan

Malfoy - Heir Draco Malfoy, Proxy held by Lady Narcissa Malfoy

Prince - Lord Severus Snape

Rosier - Heir Luna Lovegood, Proxy held by Lady Narcissa Malfoy

Additional Houses - 22 in total, 1 Vote each

Bulstrode - unknown at the moment 

Brown - Lord Jeremy Brown, Heir Jason Brown

Carrow - Heir Flora Carrow, Proxy held by Lord Severus Snape 

Crabbe - Heir Vincent Crabbe, Proxy held by…unknown at this time

Flint - Heir Marcus Flint, Proxy held by Lord John Abbott

Goyle - Heir Gregory Goyle, Proxy held by…unknown at this time

Marchbanks - Lady Griselda Marchbanks, no Heir

Montague - Lord Grisholm Montague, Heir Graham Montague

Ogden - Lord Robert Ogden, no Heir

Parkinson - Heir Patrick Parkinson, Proxy held by Lord Severus Snape

Patil - Lord Deval Patil, Heir Padma Patil

Prewett - Heirs Fred and George Weasley, Proxy held by William Weasley 

Rowle - Heir Thomas Rowle, Proxy held by Ingram Burke

Selwyn - Lord Spencer Selwyn, Heir Theodore Nott

Shacklebolt - Lord Kenzington Shacklebolt, Heir Kingsley Shacklebolt

Shafiq - Heir Blaise Zabini, Proxy held by Regent Allegra Zabini

Slughorn - Lord Horace Slughorn, no Heir

Smith - Lord Stephan Smith, Heir Zacharius Smith

Travers - Heir Oliver Travers, Proxy held by Lady Elladora Travers

Warrington - Heir Cassius Warrington, Proxy held by Lord Severus Snape

Weasley - Lord Arthur Weasley, Heir William Weasley, Proxy held by Heir William Weasley 

Yaxley - Heir Alexander Yaxley, Proxy held by Lord Oscar MacMillan”

Theo burst into laughter. “Sirius Black; from Azkaban to Chief Warlock in a matter of days! Heads are going to explode!”

“Oh for the love of Merlin’s pants. This can’t be happening! I don’t even want the Black Lordship!” Sirius whined.

“Man up, Sirius. Just think about how annoyed your Mother would be.” Arcturus said slyly.

“There is that, I suppose.

Plus, think about how much we’ll be able to accomplish! We’ll have…anyone done the count yet?”

“103 votes, possibly more depending on what happens with the Gamp seat. And what happens with Crabbe and Goyle. It will depend on who gets guardianship. Their Mothers are basically shells at this point but who knows what will happen if we can get rid of Crabbe and Goyle Sr. Let’s say at least 103 votes. Apparently it’s not going to take any political maneuvering at all.” Theo said.

“We’ll be able to pass literally anything!” Draco said. “Granger will be happy. Protections for House Elves is a done deal.”

Hermione grinned at Draco before realizing who she was grinning at and then immediately frowned. Draco smirked playfully and Harry laughed.

“So, we should probably break for lunch. We’ve been at this for quite awhile. And I have to say I enjoyed this way more than I thought I would. It was interesting.” Harry said. Everyone agreed and wandered over to see what the Elves had prepared for them.

Over lunch Harry asked Amelia if there was anything pressing to go over regarding the DMLE.

“I don’t think so. There are a few things but nothing pressing. I think they can wait until next week.”

“What about the Wizengamot? Do we need to meet this afternoon?”

“Actually,” Theo replied, “I’d like to spend some time with Granger, if she’s willing.”

“With me? Why?” Hermione asked.

“House Elf legislation?”

“Oh! Really? You were serious about that?”

“Um, yes.”

“OK then! I’d love to! Thank you, Nott.”

“Whenever you’re ready then.”

“I’m ready now!”

“You really need to learn how to stop and smell the roses, Granger. You’ve not even touched your tea.”

“I can bring it with me! I just want to get started.”

“Alright, follow me.”

The two of them headed to Theo’s office. Harry and Ron took one look at each other and laughed. 

“Man, Theo can figure out how to connect with anyone when he sets his mind to it, can’t he? She was cursing his name yesterday, and pretty much every day before that. For the last 7 years.” Ron said with a laugh.

“It’s not manipulative, Weasley, if that’s what you mean. He’s genuine.” Draco said.

“I know. I mean, I can tell. I didn’t mean it like that.”

“OK, sorry. I can be a little protective when it comes to Theo.”

“A little?” Daphne scoffed before she said. “Theo’s really changed this year hasn’t he. I mean, he’s talking. To people who aren’t us! He’s engaging rather than hiding. He’s made new friends! It’s nice. I never thought it would happen.”

Blaise nodded. “As weird as it sounds, this past year has been really good for him. I mean, it was awful, obviously. Horrifying. Terrifying. But for Theo? It was good for him.”

“It forced him out of his comfort zone.” Luna said. “He spent most of his life hiding. Avoiding people. Staying silent. He couldn’t do any of that this year.”

“And to think I almost convinced him to hide out in France for the year.” Draco said. “If it hadn’t been his turn I would have.”

“You guys haven’t really talked much about your underground hospital wing. I mean, Nev mentioned that’s how he got to know Theo and Draco but I haven’t heard any details.” Harry said.

“Your what now?” Andromeda asked.

“It was Theo’s idea.” Nev began. “He knew with the Death Eaters in charge of the school that things were going to get bad. And he also knew that most students would be either too afraid to go to Madam Pomfrey or would be prevented from doing so.”

“He asked me to connect with Neville about creating a secret hospital. Neville was skeptical at first, and I understood that, but I managed to talk him into meeting with Theo.” Luna added.

“I don’t know why but I trusted him immediately. And when he brought me to the room he’d set up I was floored. It was fully equipped and ready to go. Again, I don’t know why but I jumped on board. Me and Luna directed injured students to Theo and he’d heal them. After a couple of weeks it was obvious that we’d need more help. He brought in Daphne and Blaise, Astoria and Ignatius, and I brought in Hannah and Susan. What I didn’t realize, and how stupid was I, that it was Draco doing all the brewing. Obviously Theo wasn’t doing it, he never left the hospital. Not once!”

“It was the least I could do. Plus, Theo. Like I was going to refuse him.” Draco said.

“Anyway, it got bad. Theo had to move us around a lot, maintain the wards, do most of the healing, teach us a ton of spells. I mean, we all helped but the bulk of it was all him. Eventually it was too much. He ended up collapsing from sheer exhaustion. He wasn’t sleeping, barely eating. I swear he survived on coffee and pure stubborness. But yeah, by Yule he needed a hospital bed of his own. And that’s when Draco stepped in.”

“Draco’s got a gift for healing. He's even better at healing than Theo. We set up a potions lab right there in the hospital and Draco supervised while we brewed. We learned a ton too! Anyway Theo slept for about 24 hours and jumped right back into it. But with Draco there Theo relaxed a bit and things were better.” Astoria chimed in.

“After Yule things got worse though, in the Castle I mean. The injuries were piling up and we couldn’t keep up. So we recruited a few more people. Oliver and Arabella, Padma and Parvati, Lavender, Ernie, Justin. Huh! I just realized. We’re all in the chamber. Everyone from the hospital!” Susan said. “Anyway, it’s honestly all kind of a blur after Yule. We were trying to attend classes but eventually we just stopped. Theo started…” she paused and looked at her Aunt. “You can’t arrest any of us, right? Since it won’t have happened once we go back?”

“Susan. I’m not going to arrest teenagers for doing what they had to do to protect themselves, and others, during a war.” Amelia said.

“OK.” She looked at Draco, “You think I should get that in writing?”

“I think we’re safe.”

“OK. So Theo and Draco started going out in the middle of the night and snatching first years. Theo’s really good at disillusionment spells! He created a dormitory of sorts attached to the hospital and stashed the kids in there. That’s how we all know Robert and Thomas so well. By Easter there wasn’t a single first year attending classes. The Carrows had no idea where they were. And boy did they search. They were furious!”

“Severus? Did you know about this?” Minerva asked. “Because I had no idea! Obviously I knew some students were missing but I knew nothing about a secret hospital!”

“I…I didn’t know, exactly. But I knew Theo. I knew he was involved in the disappearances . He wasn’t actually registered as a student that year but I knew he wouldn’t be far since Draco was still there.”

Neville continued the tale, “Anyway, after Luna got snatched at the start of Easter break Theo went a bit mad. And Draco had been called home so there was no one to, well, let’s be honest, Theo doesn’t function well without Draco. He wasn’t sleeping or eating. He was brewing and healing, casting protean charms on coins to distribute to the students so they’d know where to find us. Moving the hospital to different locations, and don’t even ask me how he did that!” 

“I expect Hogwarts herself helped out there.” Filius said.

“Probably. Anyway he was obsessed with the wards. And a good thing too as we weren’t discovered. He settled a bit once Draco came back but he was still mostly unhinged. He started making emergency portkeys. He wanted every student to have one. Once he heard from Luna he settled right down and was back to normal. Normal for Theo anyway.”

“He was able to make a portkey? Goodness! Those are very advanced. I knew he was brilliant but my goodness!” Filius squeaked.

“He might actually be smarter than Saul.” Augustus said to Broderick.

“He might be smarter than Barty.” Gawain added.

Draco shrugged. “It’s Theo. I’m not being hyperbolic when I call him a genius. He hates it when people talk about how smart he is though so try not to make a huge deal of it. He’s so much more than his incredible mind.

Anyway, yeah. It was a year. And as awful as it was, it was kind of good for Theo. He talked more in the last year than he did in the previous 10. And he made new friends. I love that for him. And I made new friends. I love that for me. Can we change the subject now? Theo won’t be pleased that we’re talking about him like this. He’ll give me the eyebrow for not stopping it. I hate the eyebrow.”

——-

Albus was sitting in his chamber staring into the fire, as he had been since he’d walked out of the main chamber 2 days before. He’d barely eaten and had slept even less. When Lady Magic appeared before him he barely noticed.

“Albus? Are you ready to talk?”

“No. I don’t think there’s anything to say.”

“I think there is. To Harry especially. Will you not give him the apology he so richly deserves?”

“He won’t want to hear it.”

“Still making decisions for him I see.”

And with that she vanished and Albus turned back to the fire.

——-

Molly was sitting by the fire as well, though she wasn’t staring at it. She was staring at her husband in astonishment.

“What do you mean they’re right?! Arthur, how can you say that?”

“Quite easily, I imagine.” Lady Magic said. Molly jumped up from the chair with a gasp. “Goodness gracious! You about gave me a heart attack!

Are you here to yell at me as well?”

“Watch your tone, Molly Weasley. I am not one of your children, not that you should be speaking to them that way either. I am a god. You will speak to me with respect or I will see to it that you lose the ability to speak at all. Now, sit down and be quiet.

I have had quite enough. Deep down I know you have a good heart and only want what’s best for everyone you love.

However, you need to get it through your head that not only do you not know what is best, it is not your place to decide what is best. 

The only person you have the right to make decisions for is yourself. Learn that lesson Molly Weasley or I will remove you from this chamber.”

Lady Magic disappeared and Molly burst into tears. And Arthur had absolutely no idea how to proceed.

“Molly, dear. I love you very much but Lady Magic is right. Your need to control everything is tearing our family apart. Not to mention angering everyone around you. I can’t keep letting that happen. I am putting my foot down. You need to speak to the Mind Healer. You need some help. And that’s nothing to be ashamed of so don’t you think that for one moment. 

I was reading the materials Filomena provided. The children aren’t the only ones who have suffered trauma, Dear. We all have, I think. Asking for help isn’t shameful. I think refusing help when it’s offered is.

Now, you get some rest. Would you like a spot of tea before bed?”

Molly shook her head. Arthur was pleased to note that, for once, his wife looked thoughtful rather than defiant. 

——-

Late that night, after everyone else had fallen asleep, Theo and Harry were cuddled up under the covers and chatting about everything that they’d learned and the plans that were coming together.

Theo sighed. “This is my favourite thing.”

“What is?” Harry asked.

“This. Lying in the dark, cuddled up under the covers, with you. Talking about everything. And nothing. Just, being. Together. It’s like I’m surrounded by you. All my senses overwhelmed by you. I love it. It’s my favourite thing.”

Harry kissed him thoroughly in response. “Fuck me,” Theo said, “I really do love the kissing part too.”

Harry laughed “But you won’t fuck me?”

“Oi! It’s not as if I don’t want to! I just think it would be unwise, considering.”

“I know. We’re going to be 11. I get it. I just don’t like it.”

“I’ve never done this before. I mean, we’re moving pretty fast as it is. Aren’t we?”

“I suppose we are. We’ve only been in the chamber for two weeks! We’ve only been together for one. I guess we are moving kind of fast.”

“You’re still in war mode. Thinking every day might be your last. I get that. I’ve been there. It’s made you want to hurry things along. You had to. You had a mission to compete. You were constantly racing towards things, dangerous things. My only mission was keeping myself hidden long enough to survive. And to be honest I didn’t think I’d succeed. I suppose it’s made me move slower. Like, I wanted to make sure I spent what little time I had clinging to what mattered. Like you.”

“I think you’re right. Also, that was kind of mushy.”

“Sorry.”

“No! I liked it. Who knew the handsome, silent, stone-faced Slytherin was secretly a marshmallow?”

Theo snorted. “Literally everyone who knows me?”