I'm sure no one expected me to return. I'm sure you all though I had abandoned this story. Some of you probably thought I was dead. Nope, still alive.

I'll keep it short, simple, and sweet: Simplicity is alive. I am working on it. I will update it. That is all.

Daphne sat down quietly next to Hermione in the library, watching the brunette girl work feverishly on what looked like a charms paper. A second glance at the parchment confirmed her first guess. She shook her head in exasperation, that assignment wasn't due for another week. It was just like Hermione to be working on something that had just been assigned. Gently nudging her friend, she whispered "Did you get a note from Harry as well?"

Rather than answer, and distract herself from her writing, Hermione simply slid a small piece of parchment in front of Daphne. Looking, she could see it was identical to the note she had found in her pocket. 7 short words, 'Library. Our table. Big news. 1 O'clock,' had her extremely curious. She was sure that Hermione was using her paper to distract herself from worrying about what Harry had to tell them. Quickly using tempus to check the time, she found that they had a few minutes before Harry would be here. Since she figured that she wouldn't have time to get any meaningful work done, she resolved to amusing herself by messing with Hermione. She conjured a small pile of tiny beads. As stealthily as she could, she began placing them in her hair with very weak sticking charms.

She managed to get through most of her pile of beads before Harry showed up. Shooting her a mild glare before shaking his head, he sat down across from his two best friends. Smirking ever so slightly, he said "Hermione, I love what you've done with your hair." The girl looked up from her paper, startled by the sudden appearance of her friend, and ran her hand through her hair. When her hand passed over the beads, she turned to look at Daphne. Fixing the Slytherin with a stern look, she waved her wand whispering finite, causing the beads to all fall from her hair onto the floor. In response, Daphne merely grinned. Huffing, Hermione looked to Harry, and asked "Well Harry, care to explain why I have to be here putting up with this ridiculous Slytherin you seem to have attached yourself to?"

Looking over at the blonde next to his best friend, harry grinned before saying "I think she's the one who attached herself to me, but that's unimportant." Ignoring the balled-up piece of parchment that hit him in the chest, he pulled out the letter he had received earlier in the day. Passing it across the table so his companions could read it, he thought excitedly about how by the end of the day Sirius would be free. Once Daphne had finished, she passed the letter to Hermione, and grinned at Harry.

"This is great Harry. I'm really glad for you." Daphne said, as Hermione vigorously read and reread the letter. "But I have a question before Hermione starts the inquisition. Wizengamot trials start at 3:00, why are you leaving at 2?"

Leaning back in his chair, Harry shrugged. "I haven't the faintest. It's possible that this Auror Shacklebolt is just really keen on being punctual. Or maybe someone wants to talk to me? I'm really not sure what the process here is."

Hermione slid the letter back across the table to him, and said with a small smirk, "Don't worry Harry, with your record of finding, causing, or being the focus of trouble, I'm sure you'll become very familiar with the legal system quickly." Harry just maturely stuck out his tongue at her.

"Anyway, I'm gonna be gone for a few hours at least, I think. I wanted to let you know before I disappeared. I also had a thought. I'm not positive, but if you wanted to come, I think you could. It might be a better use of your Friday afternoon than doing homework that's due in March, or secretly plotting the downfall of Gryffindor." Hermione immediately went to object, due to the fact that both she and Daphne had potions during that time, but she was stopped by Daphne.

"Honestly Hermione, lighten up. They don't actually give out a perfect attendance award at graduation. Plus, you missed like, months of classes during Second year. So, what's one more? I, for one, am in. And I'll have you know Potter, I'm capable of plotting your downfall as I pretend to be arm candy in the Wizengamot. Should be fun."

Harry turned to Daphne, winked, then looked back to Hermione, only to give her the most convincing puppy eyes he could muster. Rolling her eyes at the display, Hermione huffed, then shook her head. "Oh fine. I'm already sitting next to a 'slimy snake,' what's one or two or twenty more broken rules?" Harry just smiled brilliantly at her, and folded up the letter and slipped it back into his bag.

Chuckling at her friend and academic rival, Daphne lightheartedly pushed her shoulder, and asked "so what do we do till two?"

Harry smirked and looked at Hermione "gossip about who's going to the ball with who?" he said questioningly. "That's what you girls would do right? Like I have heard a rumor that Hermione has a date, but is being very tight lipped about who it is." When she looked at him sharply, he smirked. "I heard that Neville asked you, but you said you already had a date. Of course, as of today, Neville is going with Ginny, who was extraordinarily put out when I asked Daphne. Ginny, coincidently, was asked during breakfast by Michael Conner, who also asked out Susan Bones, Hannah Abbot, Cho Chang, Fleur Delacour, Katie Bell, and just about any other girl with enough common sense to know not to go with him. I know Cho is going with Cedric, and Susan told me she would have preferred to go with me, but is going with a Durmstrang lad, name was Alexi or something like that. As far as I know, Hannah is planning on going home, and Katie got asked by Roger Davis, who I believe is the probable choice for Head Boy next year. And though I'm only saying this to brag about my intelligence gathering skills, and to waste time, I can't confirm it but I'm fairly certain that Delacour is going with Krum. Though, giving the silly smirk that just flashed on your face Hermione, I'm actually more certain that I know who is going with you. So, do tell, how did you get the 'Bulgarian bon bon' to ask you?"

Hermione sat with her jaw hanging open, while Daphne merely had a shocked look on her face. Harry quirked an eyebrow at the lack of answers he was getting. Recovering from her stupor first, Daphne smiled and said "I'm am honestly impressed, Harry. How long have you been hiding your Slytherin side?"

Smirking, Harry said "Since my sorting. But Hermione still hasn't answered my question."

"Harry," Hermione started, "Did you gather all that information, and go on that long rant just to get me to relax enough to give away who I was going to the ball with?" Harry nodded. "I'm both impressed and concerned with the levels of cunning you're employing. I'm definitely starting to regret letting Daphne hang out with you."

It was Daphne's turn to quirk an eyebrow at Hermione. "letting me hang out with him? Since when have I needed your permission?"

Hermione looked at her coyly. "Oh please. If I really didn't want you and Harry hanging out, I would have told him I heard you and Malfoy cackling and snogging after he asked you to the ball. Then I would have sent you a bunch of letters from anonymous Harry Potter fangirls threating you with disembowelment and other punishments. I also might have sent Harry a letter posing as your father and tell him that if he got near you, he'd kill him. Maybe as a last resort, I'd brew a low-level love potion keyed to Malfoy and give it to you. Or if that didn't work, I'd kill you, hid your body in the forbidden forest to be eaten by the creatures that dwell there, and spread the rumor that you had run off with a muggle you met over the summer." When she finished, she looked up to see both Daphne and Harry staring at her in disbelief. "What?" she asked, "I said if I didn't want you near Harry. You're fine."

"Hermione," Harry began slowly, "please remind me never, ever, to upset you in the slightest, ever again. Forever. Also, I know that he's a right arse, but please don't kill Ron when he insults you next. I wouldn't want to have to lie to the Aurors for you."

Daphne just nodded in agreement, and said "Well thanks for not killing me I guess. And definitely thanks for not potioning me to Malfoy." Hermione grinned and nodded in acknowledgment.

They sat in silence for a moment, then Harry slapped his hands against his thighs and said "Well as fun and slightly terrifying as this has been, it's time for us to head down to the entrance hall and meet with Auror Shacklebolt. Come on."

Both ladies shared a grin, and stood to leave the library.

-0-

It was a brisk afternoon as Kingsley Shacklebolt made his way up the path to Hogwarts. He wished he could have taken the floo in, but was instructed to avoid interacting with Dumbledore. Knowing that the outcome of the trail was a cause of great stress to the old man, he was glad to obey. When he had been here a few days ago to tell Harry Potter about appearing as a witness, Dumbledore had nearly accosted him in the great hall. At first, he was merely inquisitive about what Kingsley was doing there, but when he heard that Potter had been summoned as a witness, he became quite agitated, and stormed off.

He shook his head at the thought, remembering his boss's reaction when he reported the headmasters state. The grin that plastered her face before she dismissed him was terrifying. She hadn't told him everything, but it was obvious that the trail of Sirius Black was more than just about righting a 13-year-old wrong. Noticing that he had reached the front doors, he was surprised to see Harry Potter, along with two girls who seemed about his age, standing in the entrance hall waiting for him.

"Good afternoon Mr. Potter." He greeted, "I see you have a good sense of punctuality, better than most your age I'd wager." Kingsley had expected to be waiting right till two for the young man to arrive, not that it would have been surprising for a 14-year-old to wait till the last minute. Maybe it had something to do with his companions who were here for- well, he wasn't sure why, maybe to see their friend off?

As if reading his thoughts, Harry smiled and answered his unspoken question. "Good afternoon Auror Shacklebolt. I'd probably be a little less punctual if not for the good influence of a few friends." Gesturing at the girls on either side of him, he continued "I was hoping I could bring these two fine ladies with me to the trail." Before the older man could answer he added "Hermione was with me on the night we met Sirius, and could be another witness if you need. And Daphne…is my girlfriend and moral support." Because he was so focused on the aurors reaction, he completely missed the looks he got from both girls.

Shacklebolt just nodded, saying "That's fine Mr. Potter. We do have a few stops before the actual trial, hence why we're going early. So as long as your friends are alright with waiting around a bit, then I see no problems." Seeing that both girls nodded to him, he said "Well then, if there's nothing else, I see no reason we can't get this show on the road a little earlier." If you three will just follow me, we can head to the ministry." Hermione picked up the bag she had set down while they waited and the group followed the dark-skinned Auror out the door.

As they walked down the path towards the front gates, Hermione moved to the front alongside Auror Shacklebolt, and began quietly asking questions about wizarding court proceedings, while Daphne walked next to Harry. Sharply elbowing him in the ribs, she glared at him. "Your girlfriend now, am I Potter?"

To his credit, last year, before meeting Sirius, Harry probably would have crumbled on the spot, and apologized for what he said. But thankfully, his Godfather had started to instill confidence and charm into him, and he was able to hold his ground. "Why, Ms. Greengrass, I would have thought you'd be delighted to hear me say that, after you asked so passionately in front of the Slytherin common room a few nights ago."

Her face flushed, and she stuttered out "T-that was just a kiss, I wasn't- it's not like I was- I didn't ask you- not that." Looking at his grinning face, she swatted at his shoulder. "Stop laughing at me Potter! It's not funny."

"Oh, come on Daph, it's a little funny. But if you say that that wasn't you asking, fine. I'll do it." And he swiftly leaned in and kissed her. It wasn't long, but it wasn't chaste. If Daphne had to describe it, she would say it was the perfect length.

When Harry finally pulled away, he had a sly grin plastered on his face. Daphne had a smile on her face as she said "Ok Potter. Fine. I guess you'll have to privilege of dating me. Don't disappoint me. And if you call me 'Daph' in front of anyone else, I'll eviscerate you on the spot."

Harry just grinned wider, and nodded his agreement. Just then, he noticed they had reached the front gates of Hogwarts. When they were on the other side of the wrought iron, Kingsley stopped and pulled out a length of rope. "I guess it's a good thing I brought a portkey, side-along apparating the three of you would probably knock me out, and I would probably have to take you one at a time. Anyway, I'm assuming you all know how portkeys work?" when the teens nodded, he said "Well then, grab hold. Activate." And they disappeared in a swirl of blue.

-0-

Albus Dumbledore sat in his office at the ministry, afforded him by his position as Chief warlock of the Wizengamot. He had been here since early morning, petitioning his fellow Wizengamot members to cancel the trial, or at least sway their votes. However, there was so much mystery around Sirius Black that no one had made up their minds yet. It was very frustrating.

What would frustrate the old wizard more, is that because he wasn't in his office at the school, he missed his collection of gadgets signaling that Harry had left Hogwarts. He would only discover this when the boy walked into the courtroom.

Regardless, his attention was currently focused on his meet with the minister in a few moments. Fudge had sent word that he would be down in the chief warlocks office before the trail to talk about something. Dumbledore had no clue what that fool wanted, but it was a good opportunity to try and get the trial stopped. He heard a knock on the door, and after letting them know to come in, welcomed the minister.

Fudge seemed a little impatient. "Dumbledore, what is the meaning of this?" he demanded as soon as he sat. "How come Sirius Black is getting a trial, and I'm only just now hearing of it?" he crossed his arms, almost like a pouting child. Which, if Dumbledore was being honest, was a good description of the Minister. He wanted everything his way, and when something wasn't perfect for him, he threw a fit until someone else fixed his problems.

Mentally shaking his head at the weak politician in front of him, he raised his hands in a calming manner. "I assure you, Cornelius, I only learned of this a few days ago. And since then, I've been trying to stop this nonsense. So far, I have found that most of the members of the Wizengamot are far too curious about this to get them to just cancel the trial. It appears that we just have to convince people that Sirius Black still deserves the Kiss."

"Well of course he does, I'm the one who gave the kiss on sight order on Black. I'm the Minister of Magic. I don't know what Bones was thinking when she ordered this onto the docket, but I'll definitely be having a chat with her after the trial."

That was news to Dumbledore. So, it had been Madame Bones who had started this fiasco. That was surprising, given her staunch support of the light and her bulldoggish pursuit of justice. She should have seen the kiss on sight order, and immediately accepted that as the final word on Black. Her motivation was suspect, unless she had somehow come into contact with Black, and had been convinced to give him a trial. If that was the case, then she couldn't be moved to call off the trial. Not even the strongest of compulsion charms could move her on matters of the law.

Noting that the minister was still sitting across from him, Dumbledore asked "Is there anything else I can do for you minister? I've got to prepare for the trial, and I'm sure you do as well." Privately, he knew the minister was just as ineffective in the Wizengamot as he was in public, but it was important to let the man feel useful. Otherwise, he would just be a useless figurehead, and then all the work that had gone into getting him elected would be wasted. He was a very easily manipulated puppet.

Shaking his head, the minster stood to leave. "No Dumbledore, that's all. I'll see you in the chambers."

Relieved that the bothersome minister had left, Dumbledore returned to his planning. He needed the members of the Wizengamot to see Sirius Black as dangerous and insane. If he was allowed to go free, and more importantly, influence Harry, the results could be disastrous. He was glad that so far, Harry hadn't tried to owl Sirius. The more he talked with Sirius, the more independent he would become. Resolving to make sure Sirius Black never had contact with Harry, he set to work.

-0-

At the same time, Harry was being walked through the Auror department, having been transported directly into the Auror staging area to avoid the crowds and roadblocks in the atrium. As they walked, Harry looked around at the men and women working, all with the same tired, bored look. The whole room let off a very depressing vibe. He couldn't imagine working here, not if this is what he would look like in 10 years.

"Excuse me Auror Shacklebolt?" asked Daphne, "Why are we in the Magical Law Enforcement office? I thought the trial was taking place in courtroom 10."

"Oh, my boss just wanted to make sure Mr. Potter was prepared to testify, and enquire if he could add anything to Mr. Black's case files before the trial commences. For expediency purposes." The tall man replied. "And please, everybody calls me Shack. I'll insist you do the same."

Cocking her head to the side slightly, Daphne nodded her agreement. They quickly arrived at a large office located in the back of the room, just through a hallway divided by a large desk, behind which sat a young witch with maroon red hair. Stopping at the desk, Shack rumbled "Mr. Potter and company to see the director. Where's Alice?"

Looking up from the paperwork in front of her, the woman's gaze quickly flited from the tall man, to Harry, and then to his companions. "Alice is on holiday Shack. There was a notice about it last week."

Shrugging, Shack said "Must have missed it. Why are you filling in? Surely there was some intern who could be doing this instead of you." Turning to the assembled students next to him, he added "This is Auror Tonks. She was my most recent partner, and trainee, and you'd usually find her hard at work, not stuck rowing the secretary boat."

"To answer that question, Auror Shacklebolt, she is on modified assignment until the conclusion of today's trial." Everyone turned to see a sharply dressed witch standing in the doorway to the office. "I'll see Mr. Potter now."

"Director," Shack said quickly, "Mr. Potter brought a few people with him. I didn't know if you wanted to see them too."

She paused for a moment, the nodded. "I'll see them as well." Turning, she strode into her office. With gestures from both of the remaining adults, the trio followed her. When they entered the office, Harry could only describe it as utilitarian. The office was neat, organized, and the only sign that a human occupied it was a single photo frame on the desk. The women sat behind the desk, saying "Shut the door, please," and indicating they could sit. Seeing only two chairs, Harry opted to stand while both ladies sat.

"Mr. Potter," Started the women, "My name is Amelia Bones. I am the head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, and the Director of the Auror forces within. I have asked you here today to-why are you still standing?"

Harry was unprepared for the sudden change of pace, and he found himself sounding rather blasé, despite his nervousness. "There were only two chairs, ma'am" he said.

Director Bones paused for a second, then said "Forgive me, it didn't even occur to me that you all are still underage." Taking a pencil from the cup on her desk, she tossed it on the ground, next to Daphne, and with a wave of her wand transfigured it into a replica of the chairs beside it. Taking note of the shocked faces all around, she smiled "I may not be as good as professor McGonagall, but I did get an O on my transfiguration NEWT. Please, sit Mr. Potter."

Harry sat in the chair, noting that it certainly felt real, and waited for whatever she had to say. After a moments silence, she leaned back in her chair. "So, Mr. Potter, as I was saying, I asked you here today to make sure the incident report pertaining to the night in your third year was accurate. I'm already convinced of your Godfather's innocence, so this is merely to plug any holes in the story that anyone may try to use against us. There isn't an official record of what happened after you and your godfather disappeared with Mr. Lupin. Can you tell me what happened?"

After sharing a quick glance at Hermione, where they briefly communicated in the way only they could, he began his story. "After Sirius attacked Mooney to save us, I chased them down the hill towards the forest. Sirius got hurt, and I narrowly avoided being attacked. Something, I don't know what, got its attention. Sirius had dragged himself to this small lake, and collapsed on the shore. I got there as the horde of dementors descended upon him. I ran to him, and chased away the dementors."

"And how," Director Bones interrupted, "Did you do that?"

"Well, I cast my Patronus at them ma'am." Amelia was dumbfounded.

"Are you claiming you can cast the Patronus charm? And form a shield with it?" She asked incredulously.

Hermione chose then to speak up. "Not only that, he can form a corporeal Patronus as well. It takes the shape of a large Stag. I-I've seen him cast it."

Amelia slowly turned to the young woman. "And you are?"

"Uh, Hermione Granger ma'am." Was the short reply. She then turned to the other woman, sitting next to Harry. She raised her eyebrow in silent question, and was rewarded with "Daphne Greengrass."

"Hmm, now that's Funny. David Greengrass's oldest daughter in my office with Harry Potter and a muggleborn witch." Noticing Harry's gaze sharpen, she added "Oh, blood status means little to me, I'm just amused. Harry Potter and muggles are two big issues the neutral Wizengamot party tends to avoid. That party is headed by-"

"David Greengrass, I know." Interjected Harry. "Sorry for interrupting. You might find that a large portion of the neutral votes will start swinging my way. A few light and dark votes as well. Not to mention the votes of my friends' and allies and their families. I'm just getting started with all this politics nonsense, but so far, I think I've done alright. Like I said, I've collected quite a few votes, and have even more supporters. In fact, the real reason I'm here is because you were wondering why you received an alliance request from House Potter. Yes, that was genuine. Our families have worked together in the past, and if his journal is anything to go by, James Potter thought you would make Director by the end of your 5th year on the force. As to how I was able to make that request, it's very simple. I am the sole remaining Potter. Per our house by-laws, I become the Head of House when I turn 14. I've been busy since then. I've gained a lot of support. But having the House of Bones, as well as the Head of the DMLE, by my side would be a huge deal. I need this department on my side for when, and I say when, Voldemort returns. If you don't believe me, we can talk after the trail. I'll give you proof."

"No Mr. Potter, that's not necessary." Reaching into her desk and withdrawing a piece of paper, she said "That's all I needed to know. So long as House Potter calls, Bones shall answer." With quick, surgical movements she signed the alliance contract. The parchment briefly flashed, confirming the alliance. "There. Now that that's done, Mr.-no, Lord Potter, I am curious why your friends are accompanying you today."

"Please Director, I must insist, if we are truly allies, that you call me Harry."

"Then you must call me Amelia." She replied.

"Very well Amelia, Hermione is her in case you needed another witness to testify today, but also because she is my best friend, and I can't imagine not having her by my side for something like this." Turning away from his brunette friend, "Daphne is here to be my, what was it you called it, uh, Arm candy. We are currently dating. If you must, call her my emotional and moral support during this trying time." Harry said while smirking at Daphne.

"Yes, well, I'm sure she's doing a fantastic job at that. Basically Harry, today is going to be quick and painless. We'll open the session; the Trial is the first thing on the docket. The very last item on the agenda is activating the Black, and I guess Potter, Wizengamot seats. So, you and Sirius should have an hour or so to catch up after the trial. You haven't spoken to him in a few days. I'm sure you have much to discuss."

Harry nodded his thanks, and grinned slyly. "Hermione will have my hide if I'm not thinking ahead about my future. Could you tell me about the requirements to become an Auror?" he asked.

Grinning at the smack Hermione delivered on his arm, Amelie opened her mouth to reply, but was stopped by a paper airplane flying through a small hole Harry hadn't seen till now. She quickly unfolded and read the document, before crumpling it up. "That'll have to wait for another time Harry. The minister somehow found out you were here early. He's ordered me to have you sent up to his office to meet with him. I'm sorry, but it would be better for everyone if you just sit with him for a few minutes, nod along to his advice, and thank him for his time."

Harry snorted softly. Glancing at Daphne, who was biting her fingernails, he gave her a nudge. "Huh?" she asked, startled by the sudden action.

"You were chewing your nails. You only do that when you're thinking about something big. Are thinking about playing our minister card ahead of schedule?" he asked softly.

She nodded slowly. "It could definitely work. With a little last-minute tweaking, we could even swing it our way for the time being. Take advantage of the situation, and make it worth his time."

Clearing her throat, Amelia smirked and said "While you three plot the downfall of the ministry, I'll have Auror Tonks escort you up to the Minister's office. Even that is a better use of her time than sitting at that desk doodling."

As they stood, Harry asked "Why is she in trouble? And what does it have to do with the trial?"

"Oh, She's not in any trouble. Not any more than she normally gets into anyway. No, she got 'grounded' for a political favor to fudge to get him to agree to hold Sirius in our holding cells at the ministry. I'll let her explain on the way up." Walking over to the door, which she pushed open, Amelia quickly filled Tonks in on the situation. Turning back to the trio she said "Well it was a pleasure to meet you Harry, and you as well Ms. Granger and Ms. Greengrass. I'll see you down in the courtroom." She walked back to her desk and sat down. Giving a shooing motion with her hand, she said "Go, no sense in keeping him waiting."

With a nod Tonks said "Alright kidos, let's go see the Minister. Anything to get me out of here." She herded the teens over towards the golden lift that sat across the hallway from them. "We can use the private lift for this little adventure. It's a real treat, because this one doesn't smell like something is burning. Hope on!"

With a shrug, Harry stepped into the lift, and the witches followed. As the doors closed, Harry cleared his throat, and said "So, Auror Tonks, Am-Director Bones said to ask you about your modified assignment. Do you mind telling us about it?"

Chuckling slightly as she pushed a button labeled with a big M, she nodded, saying "Sure thing. Its real simple." The lift started going up rather quickly. "Before she married my dad, mum was a member of the Black family. And she was cousins with Sirius. So that makes us first cousins once removed or something like that. And to the old families, things like that matter. So, to ease Fudge out of his political hidey -hole, I got assigned to playing desk duty all day. Make sure the department was 100% objective in the matter. Whatever. It's just a waste of my time and talents. Anyway, it's super cool to meet you Harry. I mean, I've already met you, I-when you were a baby, I got to-like, babysit you with Sirius one night. So, I already kinda know you. Anyway, I'm Tonks, and we're cousins, kinda."

"Oh, well, it's nice to meet you Tonks." Harry said, "It's always neat to reconnect with people from the past." The conversation slipped into silence, and the only noise was the whir of the wheels on the lift. After only a few moments, the lift began to slow, and Harry closed his eyes, briefly enjoying the feel of lessened gravity, almost as if he was on his broom, not on his way to see the Minister. But sure enough, the feeling disappeared, and the doors opened to show Minister fudge standing by his secretary at the door to his office.

Quickly saying something unintelligible to his assistant, he smiled widely and waved the group down, shouting "Harry, my boy, so good to see you again. Thank you, Auror...?"

"Tonks, Minister."

"Yes, thank you Auror Honks for bringing Mr. Potter up here. Come Harry, let us settle in my office. Much better than standing out here. Your friends can wait outside." Fudge turned to head into his office, but was stopped by harry clearing his throat.

"With all due respect minister, I would prefer my best friend and girlfriend accompany me. I defer to them when matters of great importance are upon us. And for a meeting with you sir, I would be foolish not to bring both along." Harry said, all the while bowing his ever so slightly, just enough to get Fudge feeling like he was running the show.

"Well, uh, when you put it that way," The minister sighed, "I suppose we could all benefit from additional views. Especially if this young woman here is David Greengrass's daughter. I do believe I recognize you from last winter's Ministry ball, my dear. Yes, always good to have multiple voices. Do come in."

They quickly waved good bye to Tonks, and Harry shot her a wink and a mischievous grin, before they filed into the large, gaudy office. Instead of the large desk which occupied most of one walls space, Fudge headed over to one of two overstuffed armchairs. Gesturing to the other chair, and the couch that looked equally overstuffed, he plopped down in his chosen spot. "Please, Sit. Make yourselves comfortable. My assistant will be here any moment." Just then there was a knock at the door. "Ah, there she is now. Come in my dear."

The woman they had seen earlier came in carrying a tray which had a teapot, several teacups, sugar, cream, and a few small biscuits. She daintily set the tray on the table, and began to walk out of the office. Before she was out the door, fudge looked back and said "Abby, clear my schedule till my meeting with Harry here is done." She nodded, and shut the doors behind her.

Turning back to the teens, who had all settled on the large couch with Harry in the middle, Fudge offered them all tea, of whom only Daphne partook. The minister removed his wand from his coat, and with a quick 'accio´ had a bottle of brandy in hand. Pouring himself a large serving, he then topped it off with tea. "You're a tad young, but I suppose if you wanted, Harry, I could slip you a splash or two." He said, motioning towards the liquor.

Smiling, Harry shook his head. "That's quite alright Minister. Thank you for the offer though. I appreciate your graciousness." Shifting forward to snag a biscuit, he said "What brings me into your office today Sir?"

"Well my boy, when I heard you were already here, I figure it was a great opportunity for us to chat before the trial. Just wanted to let you know we'll have this Sirius Black matter dealt with swiftly. Hopefully we don't even need to have the trial, and we can just get him kissed on the spot. Don't worry, you won't have to be anywhere near that man. In fact, you could stay here until after the meeting. That would be for the best I think." The minister took a sip of his brandy, and sat back, obviously confident that Harry would agree.

The grin on Harry's face soon crushed that idea. "Actually, Minister Fudge, I had a different idea. How about you listen to what I have to say, and then we'll discuss Sirius's trial. I have no interest in your platitudes and hollow promises. Sirius Black is an innocent man. Peter Pettigrew is alive. You buried your head in the sand last year, and today is your one chance to fix your mistake. Not only will the trial commence, but after Sirius Black is declared innocent, you are going to publicly apologize to him. Now, before you say anything, let me tell you why. As of a few days ago, I purchased the 67th percent share of the Daily Prophet. I now have executive power over the company. And as of a scant few minutes ago, I got the last of the old Great Alliance back in the fold. House Potter once again sits with Longbottom, Bones, Abbot, and Boot. And we've been joined by Greengrass, Davis, Zambini, and Black. And though they no longer sit upon the Wizengamot, know that Weasley is behind us as well. I don't mean to scare you, but I control the paper, and my block controls 13 votes now, and will soon be 19, and maybe more. So, Minister, tell me, how do you plan to start your apology to my godfather?"

The shocked look on Fudge's face would have sent Harry into giggles if he wasn't determined to remain in control of the situation. The man moved his mouth for almost a minute without a sound before finally sputtering "This can't be true. It's Impossible!" getting up from his seat, he glared imperiously down at Harry. "You are lying! More attention seeking and irreverent behavior. I have half a mind to-"

"Excuse me Minister," Daphne said quietly but firmly. "He's not lying. The Neutrals have joined House Potter's alliance. And I've seen the letter. Harry owns 67% of the Prophet."

This seemed to deflate the man somewhat. "But, how?"

Harry took another biscuit. "Well, I had to sell a lot of my shares in other businesses. I lost over half of my stake in Zonko's, plus lots of little favors offered here and there. I must say, politicking isn't as boring as it seemed. And all the work was worth it. I have the ear of the people now. I think it's fair to say that we could all benefit from a mutual agreement. Don't you agree, Minister?"

"Are you threatening me? You may think you can just claim to own the paper, but I assure you, threatening the Minister of Magic has real consequences."

"Hold on Minister." Harry held up his hands in a calming gesture. "I don't threaten. In fact, it's the opposite. The ministry benefits from the support of the paper, and vice versa. As much as I dislike their place in the world, these private meetings offer powerful men the opportunity to speak their minds. And I shall speak mine. Rather than butt heads and throw mud and insults, the paper, and by extension the people, would rather work with our government. Think about it." He leaned back, trying to look as relaxed as possible, rather that jumping up and bludgeoning the man. "Your actions receiving the support they merit. Your office receiving the respect it deserves." His voice softened and he silkily purred his last words. "You with all the power a man of your stature and conviction should have."

Glancing at his companions, both who looked shocked and amazed at his display of cunning, he looked back to Fudge to find him licking his lips, and staring out of glazed over eyes. Shaking himself out of his stupor, he said "Well Harry, I see your point, and I couldn't agree more, the paper was in need of new management anyway. I'll uh, have my secretary write up the apology while we're at the trial. What do you need me to do?"

"I'm sorry Minister, you've lost me." Said a bewildered Harry.

"There I go again, forgetting that you're still young. I mean, what do you need me to do at the trial so that Black goes free?" The smile on the minister's face was likely supposed to look congenial. Privately, Harry thought it was more a mix of greedy and condescending. Chuckling at the man in front of him, and the shocked look on Hermione's face, Harry stared the man straight in the eye and slapped his hands to his knees.

Leaning forward, he continued to stare at the minister. "Nothing. Just sit back and watch." Snagging another biscuit, he leaned back into the comfortable couch. "Actually, I do have one thing. It's less of a request, and more of a bet. If you were a betting man, how much money would you place on an event like this?"

"Well, I don't do much gambling Harry. It's a bad vice."

"Nonetheless Minister, are you willing to stake a little wager? Between us men, of course." Beside Harry, Daphne rolled her eyes and sighed. She had definitely created a monster. The minister just shrugged.

"I guess it would depend on the stakes and subject of the bet, but I suppose it would be ok."

"Glad to hear it." Harry's face split into a wide, almost predatory grin. "I'll wager a favor from me against one from you, that Albus Dumbledore will not only object to today's trial, but, I guarantee, that he will attempt to persuade and, when that doesn't work, order me to leave."

"Well surely not. I'll happily participate in this little game. Though, I should warn you, I-" Whatever the minister was going to say was interrupted by his secretary poking her head in, and letting them know that the Wizengamot session started in 10 minutes.

Thanking the Minister for his time, Harry and his friends made their way out of his office as quickly as they could. Walking back to the elevator, Hermione whispered "Harry, what was that?" They got into the lift at the end of the hallway, and had the doors shut before Fudge was out of his office. "That was-It, well-What was that?"

Finally letting go of his straight face, Harry began roaring with laughter, and was joined by Daphne, who was at least a little restrained in her amusement. Finally getting his fits under control, motivated by Hermione's indignant glare, Harry managed to get out "Oh Hermione, you spent 95% of that meeting with your eyes wide and your jaw hanging."

Crossing her arms, and giving a resolute 'Hmph,' She looked at Daphne. "That was unbelievable. I can't believe either of them. I understand that Minister Fudge is a little, oh, ineffectual, but what did the two of you do in there? And don't play dumb, I heard you conspiring in Director Bones office."

Daphne grinned at Hermione. "I didn't plan that. Whatever we had planned for the minister, Harry obviously had a different idea. I'd be upset if I wasn't so damn impressed."

They both turned to the third occupant of the golden lift. Having gotten over his fit of the giggles, Harry stood leaning against the railing that ran the walls. "Don't look at me like that. You both knew I was hiding this side of me. Plus, I did almost none of the work myself. The credit goes to my Gringotts account manager, Knifehand, though I do believe he had his nephew Griphook helping to do a lot of the menial tasks. They tracked down the people who still had stock in the Prophet. I already had 55%. I just needed 12% more to have absolute majority. For better or worse, I have an iron grip on the paper. The rest was all Sirius and Remus. Padfoot took care all the house alliance business, with all its stuffy language and nonsensical traditions, while Moony was taking care of lots of little problems that required his attention to detail. We've managed to get Potter Manor back in shape, with a few upgrades to both security and recreational matters. He also, with the help of the Goblins, has put together a small group of individuals who are going to start fixings problems. It consists of the remaining Marauders, a healer, 2 goblin lawyers, though I'm told they are also warriors, an expert in wizarding law, and after today, hopefully a pair of Aurors, as well as the Head of the DMLE. Oh, and a grouchy old portrait."

Just as he finished, the doors to the lift opened, and the teens exited to find Auror Tonks sitting at the desk outside of Amelia's office. Giving her a nod, Harry looked back to find the girls staring at him in amazement. "Hey, don't worry. Everything is going as planned. I'm sorry about not telling you ahead of time, but I wasn't sure it would work. Thanks for having my back regardless." Turning back to the colorful young woman, he smiled and asked "Auror Tonks, could you see if Director Bones will lend you to me again? I'm ready to see my Godfather go free, and I sure could use some help finding the courtroom."