A/N: Hey guys, your response to the eagerly awaited Wizengamot chapter was absolutely incredible: I couldn't have asked for more! Seriously guy, thank you so much! You definitely inspired to get up and write more, that's for sure. As it is, I'm back, and it's not been a year so I consider than a success ha. This chapter went a bit off track if I'm honest so it had to be cut in half but it's still over 10k so I hope you enjoy it!

Warning: Slash, language and mentions of violence.

Disclaimer: If you haven't realized I'm not JK after this many chapters then there is nothing I can do to help you :D – this plot is mine, though.

Parseltongue

Chapter 55:

The moment Harry was free and clear and safely in the Gryffindor rooms, he took a moment to breathe through his nose and allow all the tension to seep from his body. Despite the fact that he had just had to fight his way through a hoard of rabid reporters and photographers, he couldn't be happier. Merlin that had felt good. Since the summer it had felt like one mad rush to get everything up together, to put the right pieces in place to get them to their desired results and finally it had all come together. The session could truly not have gone better for them and Harry felt the burning success of their actions deep in his very soul; it was almost overwhelming. On top of that, he had briefly met with Rita and gave her a few quotes and previously prepared statements from him, Ron and Hermione. The notorious reporter looked as if all her dreams had come true in that very moment and Harry was happy to leave her with hints of more to come.

Of course, that didn't take away from all the other things they had to do, but the success of getting Lucius in place was a large step in the right direction. The removal of Dumbledore's last call to power would be soon, and Harry couldn't wait to see the old fool's face when he realised just how far he had fallen. They had to be careful with their movements now, but with Dumbledore out of the castle his access to them was severely limited so him knowing they were no longer under control wasn't an issue. Better yet, Swift had discovered that Hogsmead was also covered by Hogwarts' extensive wards to some degree, which meant that it was safe enough for him to visit the village as long as he was vigilant. Once he felt a bit more settled, Harry felt a grin come to his face as he got to be the one who told the Dark Lord exactly what had happened, and he knew Tom was going out of his mind waiting for knowledge of what happened in the session because he could feel the man's frustration and impatience. He toyed with making the man wait a bit longer but disregarded that almost instantly because he couldn't wait to brag about their accomplishments, so he used his shadows to travel to their rooms and Tom was on him in an instant.

"What happened? Tell me everything!" He demanded. Harry smirked at his eagerness even as he mockingly brought his hand to his chest as if wounded.

"Can I not even change first?"

The look Tom shot him could have melted cauldrons, and then his flicked his wrist vanishing the voluptuous Wizengamot robe.

"There."

Harry snickered and walked over to where Tom was stood and the elder man wasted no time wrapping his arms around Harry's waist and pulling him flush against him.

"What if I had wanted a bath to relax?"

"I will gladly see to it that you have the most relaxing bath of your life if you start talking now!"

"If that's the case I guess I can tell you." Harry allowed, only to receive a deeply unimpressed look from Tom.

"You really are the worst." Tom informed him and Harry grinned.

"I usually tell you that."

"It's catching."

Harry laughed as he let himself be pulled over to the sofa and on to Tom's lap so he was straddling the man's legs, he ran his hands through Tom's perfectly styled hair messing it up as he tilted the man's head back to kiss him.

"Do not distract me." Tom said pulling away and Harry pouted.

"I wasn't, it was a nicer greeting that you gave me."

The Dark Lord rolled his eyes.

"You are distracting alone, you know this. So tell me how it went and you can be as distracting as you like."

"Oh I don't think that will be necessary," here Harry shot him a smirk as he shifted getting comfortable, "I think you'll be so exceptionally pleased there won't be time for distraction."

"Is that so?"

"It really is." Harry confirmed, "after all, I did just basically secure us the ministry."

Tom blinked at him, raising an eyebrow incredulously.

"And how, exactly, did you basically secure us the ministry?"

"Well, having dear Lucius as the new interim Minister for Magic will do that." Harry told him as if he was talking about the weather. The Dark Lord's eyes widened slightly in surprise even as a smirk started to grow on his face.

"You managed to get Lucius in as Interim?" He repeated in slight disbelief and Harry flashed him a smug grin.

"Yep, and into the candidate race. Dumbledore hates it." Harry sniffed imperiously. "You're welcome."

Tom stared at Harry with bright eyes before surging up and kissing him deeply, only breaking apart when the need for air became too much. He trailed little kisses down over Harry's jaw and down his neck, biting down slightly getting a pleased moan from his teen.

"You are amazing." Tom informed him, kissing him again and leaving Harry breathless.

"I like to think so." The teen agreed, even as his face flushed.

"I imagine you gave Lucius a surprise when nominating him." Tom said with an amused smirk, and Harry laughed.

"Even more so as it was Paws that stood to do so."

A surprised laugh escaped Tom before he could stop it and he shook his head.

"You had the Lady McKinnon do it?"

"What better than a supposed first-gen to vote for the notorious blood purist Lucius Malfoy?" Harry asked innocently and Tom chuckled.

"You really had a plan for this session, didn't you?"

"We had at least three plans depending on what way the magic flowed." Harry confirmed. "And those plans had back-ups just in case."

"The reaction to your entrance?" Tom questioned and Harry shot him a sly smirk.

"Remember the Greengrass ball?"

"How could I forget?" Tom scoffed.

"Yeah, well I seem to be particularly good at making the upper class forgo their precious control."

"Oh?"

"Oh yes," Harry grinned, and purposely made pointed eye contact. "Would you like to take a look?"

Without another word, the Dark Lord slipped into Harry's mind and was immediately immersed in the memory of the Wizengamot session as Harry entered. Watching Dumbledore's reaction to Harry's presence and his call for the Slytherin House Proxy gave him a soul deep satisfaction, and he received endless amusement at watching nearly the entire Wizengamot lose their collective minds at the power his teen held so easily in his hands.

He felt Harry nudge the memory along so he could see Lucius get voted in, the dissatisfaction from the Light and Dumbledore's disbelief was particularly warming for him to witness. Finally, Harry's small confrontation with Dumbledore at the end of the session pleased him greatly; the old fool retreating to lick his metaphorical wounds after his plans shattered before his eyes. Tom withdrew from Harry's mind and immediately pressed a heated kiss to his lips, drawing a low moan from his teen as he ran his hands over Harry's hips and down over his thighs. There was something so unbelievably arousing watching Harry play his games and win against Dumbledore.

"I take it you approve?" Harry said when he came up for air, tilting his head back allowing Tom more access to his neck.

"You were incredible, and you know it." Tom murmured, "You owned that entire Chamber and not a single person will forget your appearance."

"You already have my agreement that I belong to you, you can lay off the charm." Harry grumbled, as his cheeks flushed red.

"I speak the truth." Tom stated, brushing over the heated flesh with a pleased smirk, "It is not my fault you exude perfection, my gorgeous Snake."

"Merlin stop." Harry whined, hiding his face away in Tom's neck. "You're doing it on purpose."

"I do so enjoy making you blush, and I seem to have a gift for it."

"It's because you've got notoriously high standards and you keep saying these things!" Harry exclaimed, pouting at Tom's amused expression.

"There is a reason why I've chosen to make you mine, darling."

"Oh fuck you, Tom." Harry hissed, both hands coming up to cover his flaming face and Tom laughed at him. "Moving on now!"

"Very well," Tom allowed, moving Harry's hands away and pressing butterfly kisses to the colour remaining on his cheeks. "I know, I'm the worst."

"At least you know." Harry sighed, but he was smiling.

"Have you sorted your piece for the paper?" Tom questioned and Harry smirked.

"Let's just say Rita has plans with what she's seen and what we've given her."

"No doubt you will feature throughout the week as well as the special edition tonight." Tom mused, "Your being accepted will be front page news with the power you hold, your friends arrival and movement then add in Lucius' ascension, the speculation and the reports will stretch far and wide."

"There are a few other things we have planned and I hope that certain actions throughout this week will see to it that Dumbledore will soon be losing his last vestige of power."

"Now you're just teasing me."

"I'm sure you'll survive, after all, I have to dress myself up real nice when we make our entrance at dinner tonight as my picture is bound to be splashed across the front page of the paper."

"And I will kill anyone who looks at you." Tom agreed and Harry raised an eyebrow.

"Everyone is going to be looking at me, its going to be a shock."

"As long as their thoughts are completely clean then they have nothing to worry about," Tom said simply.

"You need to keep your cover so you won't be getting curse happy despite how much you want to." Harry informed him and Tom's eyes narrowed.

"You are mine, Harry. No one else should even be speculating about you."

"Exactly, I am yours. Remember who I'm coming back to."

"Hm, yes, to me and no one else."

"You are entirely too possessive," Harry told him and Tom raised a shoulder unconcerned.

"You are too good for me not to be possessive," He said and Harry smiled at that.

"I love you did you know?" Harry said rhetorically; Tom kissed him in reply. "Now, I was promised a bath."

"Ah, yes." Tom agreed, "Shall we?"

Harry got himself up and went to move towards the bathroom but Tom snagged his hand and stopped him.

"My bath?"

"I said I'd get you the best bath of your entire life." Tom pointed out, wrapping his arms around Harry's waist and pulling him close. "Deep breath."

"What-?"

Tom apparated them to the seventh floor, outside the Room of Requirement, and Harry immediately pushed himself away to hunch over breathing deeply.

"Apparating is bad enough, but side-apparating truly sucks." He complained and Tom rolled his eyes as he paced three times in front of the blank wall.

"And yet you somehow shadow travel without complaint."

"Yeah, but that feels like jumping through a waterfall; brief but pleasant."

"There is nothing pleasant about your shadows."

Harry gasped in offence, but Tom didn't let him talk again as he pushed him through the door revealing a huge, stunning bathroom that seemed to overlook the entirety of Hogwarts grounds. The pool-like bath reminded Harry of the prefects bathroom somewhat only this one was a large oval with what looked like an indented sitting area one end opposite a tower of taps.

"Oh," Harry murmured softly, looking around with wide eyes, taking in the beautiful mosaic tiling.

"I grew rather fond of the prefects bathroom when I was in school, however, I did not appreciate my solitude being interrupted." Tom told him, starting the taps with a wave of his hand.

"I can't believe I never thought of this." Harry shook his head self-depreciating.

"Well, I am a genius."

"Hush you."

Harry easily stripped down, grinning to himself when he felt Tom's eyes glue to his body, and gently lowered himself into the steaming water. He sunk down dunking his head underneath the water before coming back up for air and pushing his hair back out of his face, he heard a low groan come from Tom and flashed the man a smirk.

"See something you like?" Harry wondered, his tone innocent even as his expression wasn't.

"How could I not?" Tom pointed out, eyes dark as he followed the trails of water running down Harry's bare chest.

"Then why are you all the way over there?" Harry questioned, "Won't you join me?"

The speed in which Tom removed his clothes both impressed and amused Harry, and he smirked at the Dark Lord as he walked backward away from where Tom entered the large bathtub. Tom drew Harry closer to him, tilting his head back and kissing him fiercely, tongue mapping out every corner of his teen's mouth pleased the moan that escaped him. Harry gasped gripping the man's shoulders when Tom easily lifted him up and he wrapped his legs around the older man as the water splashed around them, head falling back as kisses and bites were scattered down his neck, groaning as he felt Tom bite down hard where his neck met his collar. Harry tugged on Tom's hair, pulling him back so he could kiss him again, this time battling for dominance and then grinning when Tom relented. He felt the older man walk backwards without breaking their kiss until he reached the sitting area and sunk down, Tom's hands slid up from the back of his thighs to rest on his ass squeezing. Harry bit down on Tom's lip in retaliation making him hiss.

"You're acting awfully patient." Harry murmured, nipping at Tom's jaw. "You want me, so why are you playing around?"

"Retaliation," Tom answered, teeth grazing over his previous bite marks and trailing down on to Harry's chest. He smirked at Harry's sharp, indrawn breath when he covered his nipple with his mouth, tongue laving over the teased flesh before lightly biting down and running his teeth over the bud. He moved on to the other repeating his actions as he brought one hand around to grasp the base of Harry's cock, dragging his hand up and down the hardened length slowly and causing Harry to cry out.

"Stop teasing me." Harry ordered, his voice hitching slightly. "Or I'll start doing the same."

"You do the same to me daily, darling." Tom pointed out, releasing his nipple to attack his neck once again.

"That's hardly my fault!" Harry exclaimed, whimpering when Tom hit a particularly sensitive spot on his neck. "I cannot help existing."

"Hm, I suppose not." Tom allowed, his hand continued its ministrations while the other slid down to tease at Harry's hole. He claimed Harry's lips in a hot kiss as he slid a finger inside, swallowing down the moan that escaped the teen at the intrusion. Harry's head dropped back with a drawn out curse as Tom added a second finger opening him up and continued to slowly work his cock, he gripped the older man's shoulders and his nails dug in almost viciously as he moaned loudly when Tom found that spot that had him seeing stars. Tom knew his body well because he relentlessly hit that spot over and over and the duel simulation soon had Harry a gasping, moaning mess, he barely noticed a third finger enter pulling Tom into a filthy kiss filled with tongue and teeth.

Beautiful. Mine

The use of Parseltongue washed over Harry and his breathing hitched, looking into darkened crimson eyes he could see want, pleasure and possessiveness waring with something much deeper and it made him shudder.

Yours He agreed. Now claim me

Tom had apparently reached the end of his own patience because he didn't need telling twice, removing his fingers and easily standing and lifting Harry to set him on the edge of the tub ignoring the slashing waters before sinking into to waiting heat, muffling his groan of pleasure by biting down on Harry's shoulder. He slowly pulled out and thrust in sharply teasing wordless cries from Harry before his own need became overwhelming, setting a face pace and relishing in every sound escaping his younger lover.

"Fuck, fuck, - TOM!" Harry gasped, eyes dropping closed as Tom hit his prostate dead on, pulling the older man down closer to him as Tom angled each thrust to hit the same spot. Harry already felt the stirrings of release building in his lower stomach, Tom's teasing already having him halfway there before hand and he knew he wasn't going to be lasting much longer; his pleas for faster, harder, more, were answered eagerly until he was almost keening.

Tom shoved one hand between the two of them, grasping at Harry's throbbing cock stroking its length to match each thrust making the teen cry out loudly.

"I'm s-so close!"

"Yess, let me hear you, my Harry." Tom hissed, quickening his pace making his younger lover's nails dug into his back. Come for me

Harry felt his orgasm wash over him like a tidal wave, Tom's name escaping him in a shout as his muscles clamped down on the man making his curse. Tom watched him avidly, the flare of magic and expression of bliss urging closer to his own release as he chased it, managing barely a dozen more thrusts before it became too much and he came hard' his own cry of pleasure unable to be stifled. For a moment afterwards the only sound was the lapping water and their heavy breathing before Tom shifted and pulled out making Harry hiss slightly at the movement due to his sensitive body. Tom waved his hand to clean up the mess before scooping Harry up and gently lowering him back down into the warm water, this time sitting him across his lap sideways. He pressed a slow, languid kiss to reddened lips, holding Harry's pliant body close to his as he softly washed his lover over with a conjured washcloth. Warm green eyes blinked up at him and Tom couldn't help the slight smile that curled on to his lips as the dazed look faded and Harry gave him that smile that was reserved only for him.

"You do know how to make me feel good, don't you, Tom?" Harry inquired, and the Dark Lord smirked.

"Of course." He agreed, "Besides, I promised you a particularly good bath."

"Hm, that is true." Harry allowed, then he grinned, "and I have had a particularly trying morning. I needed to prepare for later."

Tom scoffed at him.

"Do not act like you will not enjoy every second of your secondary reveal."

"Well…"

Tom rolled his eyes and stood, making Harry yelp in surprise as he lifted him bridal style and stepped out of the bath. The teen's arms immediately wrapped around Tom's neck as he clung to the man, shooting deeply unimpressed looks when Tom threw him an amused smirk.

"While that will never not be incredibly hot, warn me next time!" Harry exclaimed and Tom laughed.

"Where is the fun in that?"

"You're a right prick sometimes."

"Thank you."

"Ugh!"

Tom waved a hand over them both drying them off in an instant before he vanished the water from the bath.

"Do you intend to walk back?" Harry queried, as Tom walked towards the door without letting him go.

"No one will ever see you like this other than me." Tom stated flatly.

"Yeah yeah, possessive much." Harry grumbled under his breath. "Then what are you doing?"

"You cannot apparate directly from this room when the door is shut."

"Huh, you learn something new every day." Harry mused, and then he shot the older man a scowl. "You are not making me side apparate again."

"Honestly, it truly isn't so bad." Tom sighed, reaching for the door. Harry was having none of that however, and before the man could so much as touch the handle his shadows swarmed up around them and they were back in their rooms right next to their bed. Tom's balance wavered slightly, and he dropped down on to the bed, glowering at Harry as he did so.

"That was revolting."

"And yet you didn't drop me." Harry said, pleased.

"Next time I'll throw you." Tom deadpanned and Harry laughed, pressing a kiss to his cheek and getting up to get dressed. He slipped on one of Tom's shirts to go with his dragon hide trousers that clung to his legs so well, he ran a hand through his hair and turned to watch Tom dress. He moved over and took over doing up Tom's shirt buttons, running his hands over his chest once he was done and leaning up to kiss him while Tom's hands slid down over his hips to rest on his ass. Harry lightly pushed Tom away from him, smirking at the man's put out expression.

"We have things to plan and talk about. You may continue later." Harry told him and Tom's eyes narrowed.

"I feel now would be more prudent, besides later I may be busy."

"Oh please, we both know that you're not going to let me out of your sight after I've come back from the Great Hall." Harry pointed out, "Now I need food."

"If you insist."

Harry rolled his eyes at the older man's exasperation, following him into the main room and calling for Winky. The little elf was only too eager to bring them something to eat, and Harry happily curled up next to Tom on the sofa to stuff his face; he hadn't eaten since the previous day and was absolutely starving.

"I know you will want to meet with your Elite tomorrow after everything has happened and I need a full meeting with mine so we can begin the plans for Lucius' campaign." Harry said between mouthfuls, "So I took the liberty of setting up the beginnings of plans for a full mixed meeting at Malfoy Manor."

"Oh?"

"Well I figured I'd need to confirm it with you, and Lucius offered his Manor so everyone could be there as it's easier to get everyone out of the castle then to have everyone in the Gryffindor rooms."

"You are correct of course." Tom agreed, "Yes, I do believe it shall be for the best to have such a meeting; I'm intrigued to see what exactly you have planned for Lucius' campaign."

"We've had the bare bones of the campaign for a while, Dumbledore's interference notwithstanding, and have been filling it in since the summer when we set our sights on planning for the Wizengamot." Harry admitted, "The main reason I want to meet with yours is so we can fully incorporate your plans for the wizarding world into everything. Also, with the amount of people you have infiltrated into the ministry, now would be the time where their information will be crucial."

"That is understandable. We have no such guarantee that Lucius will be voted in by the public when it comes to the election so these three months will be vital in pushing as many of my Death Eaters into position." Tom said thoughtfully.

"Exactly. With the decline in our population, we need to solidify the Ministry preferably with a bloodless coup. Once you have enough people on the inside, it will be easier to root out Dumbledore's people and secure the government if for some unmagical reason Lucius doesn't get in."

"Scrimgeor will meet a vicious end should that happen anyway."

"Oh that I have no doubt, but we'd still have to wait a couple of months else we cause revolt." Harry agreed, "We cannot afford an all out war that will interfere with the mass population."

"No, I'd like to keep it to Dumbledore. With the way things are going, it's going to be the old fool that drags it to open warfare."

"If things go to plan, we'll have enough people in place and enough power in the Wizengamot that Dumbledore and his ilk will be declared enemies of the state with no way of getting back into power." Harry shrugged, "It's the 'if' I worry about."

"The next three months are going to be supremely busy," Tom said, and then he smirked, "and then we only have to worry about rebuilding almost an entire government."

"Yeah, thanks for that." Harry groaned. "Lets not even take into account the fact that we'll need to prepare in case outside governments decide our rebuilding is the perfect time to initiate a hostile take-over."

"I must speak with Theodore on our standing with outside nations and which ones we need to consider." Tom declared, "He's got many contacts in the ICW."

"Good thing I invited him tomorrow then." Harry said and grinned at Tom's raised eyebrow. "Better him than his son."

"Ah yes, I will need to speak with Nott very soon. His actions will need to be addressed."

"Yes, and I need to speak to mine to see when Luna can go digging. I know it was put off during the holidays as we barely have time off as it is, so I don't know what the new plan is." Harry shrugged, he got up to put his plate in the kitchen and make tea.

"If you can arrange it I'd like to have that information before I issue Nott his punishments." Tom stated, "His reasoning will help establish how much I get to curse him."

"I cannot wait."

Harry tilted his head when he felt the buzz in the back of his head that came with Ron or Hermione contacting him.

Harry, we need to meet to plan the rest of the day. Hermione's voice reminded him and Harry blinked, pinching the bridge of his nose.

Right, I'll meet you in my rooms in ten minutes?

Good.

Harry shook his head coming back to himself as he handed Tom his tea.

"I have to meet my friends so we can plan our actions for the rest of the day." Harry said, summoning his socks and boots.

"Go, I have to draw up plans for tomorrow. Return to me before you go to the Great Hall."

"Sir yes sir," Harry gave him a mock salute and grinned at his unimpressed glower, leaning down to kiss his cheek before shadowing away. Luna and Blaise were already in his rooms and he flashed them a smile as he dropped down into his chair and kicked up his feet.

"What a morning."

"Ron's already filled me in." Blaise said with a smirk, "Can I be the first to say well done."

"Thanks!"

"What a Circe damned morning!" Ron exclaimed as he bounded into the room and Harry couldn't help but laugh at his enthusiasm. Hermione and Neville followed him in and Harry shook his head at their grinning expressions even as he matched them.

"I know we're having a meeting tomorrow which is why Draco and the twins are not here. They're still monitoring the all the Order associated buildings." Hermione told him, sitting down. "We're trying to reduce our time-turner use as we're going to be run ragged over the next couple of months."

"That's understandable," Harry agreed, "It was why we decided that Draco should hold off on entering the Wizengamot with us."

"Yeah, that way we have Rosier and Prince as secret weapons when it comes to pushing through laws." Ron said, flopping down next to Blaise.

"It should give us an edge once Dumbledore is fully removed from power." Neville pointed out, "We've already managed to get an almost majority control when it comes to the 'mot, once we finally add Rosier and Prince, it should push us over so we can win no contest."

"And should you end up pushing your father out, we'd also get Zabini too." Harry directed this at Blaise, who nodded.

"It may just come to that when we start pushing laws through. Mother would like to see me take up the Lordship, it gives Grandfather a more direct line into England."

"Which could be a good thing, depending on if we're stable enough to hold our own and not be subjected to a hostile takeover." Hermione observed.

"Yes, the British/Italian relationship has fallen into disrepair since the Fudge Administration came into power." Blaise acknowledged, "But I highly doubt Italy would be the country we'd need to worry about."

"It's not Italy that I'm hugely concerned about, it's their allies that I'm worried about." Ron explained, "Fudge has allowed many of our own alligences to fall fallow, and some of our international relationships to go completely sour – which isn't really surprising given Crouch Sr was in charge and the whole shit show that was the Tri-wizard Tournament – if the wrong country gets wind of the unrest it would only take a little nudge for us to be in an international war. Especially if that country has better allies than us, something that really isn't that difficult."

"So it's crucial for us to stabilise our government as soon as possible." Hermione stated.

"Another thing I wanted to discuss was Nott." Harry put in, "I know investigations were put off due to the holidays and the aftermath of the Malfoy ball, but Tom is going to have him in for punishment soon and wants the information and I would really like to know how I pissed him off."

"That's fair." Ron nodded.

"I've spoken to Draco, who has had words with Theodore Jr, and his father is currently confined to the main Nott Estate, where the current Nott Lord has recently returned to." Luna told him, "We figured you would be able to get us an opening to get in so I can read him."

"Tomorrow would be perfect. I can have Tom explain to Theodore Sr what's to happen and he should grant you access and hopefully arrange to have a conversation with his wayward son so you can hide and read." Harry suggested, "As he's confined to the Estate, perhaps he can fill Nott in on the current happenings and orders issued from the Dark Lord."

"That would work out nicely." Ron hummed, nodding thoughtfully. "And it's better than trying to break through the wards."

"Yeah, let's not do that to our new ally and the Dark Lord's original Elite member." Neville advised.

"First ever Death Eater actually." Harry announced.

"Really? Well, who would have thought?" Hermione responded.

"So, baring on any complications with the Dark Lord, that's secured for tomorrow?" Blaise confirmed and the group nodded in agreement.

"Good. Now let us focus on things a bit closer to home." Luna suggested, focusing their attentions back on the reason for meeting. "Due to the happenings in the session, there will be a special release paper this evening instead of tomorrow morning. This works out well for us, as it doesn't allow anyone to act against us before the paper is released."

"First of all, one of us has to alert Moony to the meeting tomorrow and to fill him in on the happenings." Hermione began, "And then, of course, Harry, you get to deal with Ginny."

"Thank the fucking Lady." Harry cheered, "I cannot wait to tell her it was all bullshit."

"I think that should be covered by the three of you; her face when she realises she's been played by the so called Golden Trio is going to be brilliant." Neville commented, "Besides, she betrayed all of you."

"Might as well; I'm already expecting a Hel of a howler from my dearest mother tomorrow." Ron shrugged.

"Oh that's going to be something." Hermione said darkly, "I vote we send one back."

"That is something I'm on board with." Harry agreed rapidly and they shared a malicious grin.

"When it comes down to it, I suggest we all enter together after the paper. We'll have Draco, Luna and Blaise there to let us know when the best time would be so it'll have the most impact." Neville remarked.

"And give the fact that it's Sunday we can dress up real nice to really fly it home." Harry added.

"I think we have an evening plan then." Hermione spoke with a resolute nod, "Then, we'll have to play it by ear for reactions."

"Yeah, I can't say how the fellow students are going to respond given they like to switch their opinions of you at the drop of a hat." Ron snorted and shook his head, "We've seen it multiple times after all."

"Ugh, please don't remind me."

"Also, I think there is something much more important that we're all forgetting." Luna cut in, "You four lions need to speak with the head of your Pride."

"McGonagall!" The four resident Gryffindors exclaimed.

"You believe she's been spelled?" Harry asked of Luna, who nodded.

"It cannot be a coincidence that someone who went to give your mother her letter, therefore meeting your despicable aunt, would suddenly agree that she was a perfectly acceptable caretaker for a magical child."

"Not only that, but nothing in her personality says mindless follower, yet it appears that Dumbledore could do no wrong." Blaise added.

"Then we have to speak with her before dinner and therefore the paper." Ron stated.

"Getting McGonagall to agree to a scan is going to be nigh on impossible." Harry pointed out, "Not only that, but I haven't actually learned how to get rid of those spells without shattering them."

"No, but I know how." Luna said.

"Maybe if you could show her your medical reports?" Blaise offered and both Ron and Hermione frowned.

"We don't actually have full, up-to-date, ones." Hermione fretted, and Harry smirked.

"But I know where we can get one from a fully certified healer."

"Of course, Lady Malfoy." Ron remembered.

"If we're going to do this then we need to go and get them done now so we have time to come back and speak with McGonagall. We're going to be pushing it as it is as the paper will arrive around 5 and its 2:45 now." Hermione declared.

"Is there anything else we need to be concerned over for today?" Harry asked the group as a whole and got negatives in response. "Good, Blaise, can you pass on everything to Draco and the twins and let them know that they need to be in these rooms tomorrow after breakfast? Either live the school day and turn back or come straight here and turn back later, it's up to them, but the meeting will happen first thing as it could last Merlin knows how long."

"I'll pass it on."

"Ray, will you meet us outside the Head office when we get back?"

"Of course, Harry."

"Ron, Hermione, Nev, let's go. It'll be an unannounced visit, but I owe Cissa anyway." Harry said, rising to his feet. They said goodbye to Blaise and Luna and Harry shadowed them to the entrance hall of Malfoy Manor. Luckily, the elves of the house were very used to Harry's style of travel and one popped in immediately after he had arrived with his friends.

"What is Mimsy bes doing for Lords and Ladies?" The little elf inquired.

"We'd like to see the Lady of the house please." Harry said and the elf nodded, flapping her huge ears.

"Mimsy bes checking now." She popped away and they barely had to wait a minute before she was back and beckoning them further into the Manor.

"Mistress Cissa is being in the upper lounge."

"Thank you, Mimsy. I know the way." Harry told the elf, who nodded and popped away returning to her duties. Harry led his three friends up through the manor having grown very familiar with it over the Yule holidays, knocking on the door frame to announce their arrival once they reached the lounge where Narcissa was sat reading.

"Harry!" The Lady exclaimed. "Are you well?"

"Yes, Cissa, you worry too much." Harry said with a grin, kissing the Lady's cheek.

"With you I believe it's justified." She decided and Ron snorted.

"Ain't that the truth."

"Thanks for that, Ron."

"How can I help you all on this fine day?" She questioned, "Lucius is already at the office, he's rather fearful to discover the true depths of Fudge's incompetence."

"I don't blame him. The man is a useless waste of skin." Hermione grumbled, causing the rest of them to chuckle.

"Thankfully, nothing to be concerned over." Harry consoled, "We merely realised that we don't have full physical and magical medical reports certified by a healer, and as we're speaking with McGonagall this afternoon, who Luna believes has her own compulsions and spells, we need solid proof."

"Ah, I see," Narcissa nodded, "That won't be too difficult. You've had a physical done, however I shall do another one that includes all magic cast on your person so it can be reviewed chronologically."

"Thank you, Cissa. And I do apologise for the sudden visit."

"Nonsense; this is a necessary step in securing the school for us. Besides, healer stamps do not declare which healer has cast it only that it's certified so you won't have to deal with any suspicion in case Dumbledore has interfered somehow; House Malfoy is not looked favourably by the old fool."

"Thank you, Lady Malfoy." Neville said gratefully.

"I've told you all to call me Cissa multiple times at the Sanctuary, unless you want me to call you by your titles." She chided them with a smile.

"No thank you." Ron denied with a grin of his own. "The balls and the Wizengamot was enough, thank you."

"I assume you will be having Luna there to remove the spells from Professor McGonagall?" Cissa inquired, waving her wand over Harry who had stepped forward to have his review first.

"Yes, we figured sneaking you into the castle wasn't the best of plans." Hermione replied and the blonde Lady gave a tinkling laugh.

"No, I do not imagine it would be." She agreed, "I shall send a Declaration of Intent stating that Luna is training under a healer and is perfectly able to cast such spells as she may be concerned that someone untrained is removing such dangerous spells."

"You really do think of everything." Harry admired.

"The joys of motherhood, my dear, it prepares you for everything."

"So how am I looking?"

"Thankfully, there is only one current active spell on you and that is a mail ward that seems to be self-cast."

"Yes, it was one of the spells that Dumbledore didn't look too deeply into whenever he recast on me because it didn't look like I was getting the bulk of the letters sent to me. It's been going to Gringotts for years now."

"Good, though I am hugely concerned about the sheer number of spells you have had cast on you, Harry. You can clearly see when you broke through each time."

"Thankfully, he won't have the opportunity because I cast a protective Parsel spell to make them fail, which means that that spell doesn't come up on a healing review."

"Very curious, but I have often found the whenever My Lord used to cast in Parsel I would not be able to counter or heal." Narcissa commented, tapping the disgustingly long sheet of parchment with her wand before rolling it up and handing it to Harry.

"Ronald, you are next."

"This should be interesting." The red head muttered stepping forward and letting the woman wave her wand over his body.

"Hm, again, only a mail ward that is still active." Narcissa reassured and Ron sighed in relief.

"I was concerned I may have been spelled with something minor over the holidays but Harry's protection spell held up."

"Thankfully, the mail ward can be removed off of all of us now that Dumbledore is out." Hermione said, moving forward to have her test and getting the same results as the other two.

"Speak for yourself, I'm keeping mine at Gringotts given who I am."

"That's probably wise." Neville agreed.

"You're right, you'd get buried in fan mail." Hermione conceded, accepting her scroll from Narcissa and swapping places with Neville.

"I shouldn't have a ward like that on me as I didn't really receive mail due to my darling Grandmother so I should be fine." Neville said, "I don't think I'll need one either."

"I doubt you will. All letters coming to you you'll more than likely need to read." Ron commented.

"All done." Narcissa declared cheerfully, "Neville, you were correct, you are completely clear of spells. Although, this has given me a deeper appreciation for your removal of the former Dowager Lady."

"Yeah, she was a real piece of work."

"Thank you for this, Cissa. I don't know what we'd do without you." Harry told her honestly and she smiled.

"It is no trouble, Harry. I'd rather you come to me than not have a reliable healer." Narcissa stated, "Now, this is the Declaration to be passed on to Luna; see to it that she receives it right away."

"We'll make sure of it." Harry promised. "We're sorry to drop in and run so quickly but we have an hour and forty-five minutes until the paper arrives and we need to speak with McGonagall before that."

"I shall see you all tomorrow where we can have a longer conversation." Cissa brushed off. "Be safe and send my love to Draco."

"Thanks, we will."

They said goodbye to the Lady Malfoy and Harry shadowed them back to his rooms. Ron, Hermione and Harry all pulled up their glamours before the four of them headed out making their way quickly to the head office where McGonagall now resided.

"Uh, does anyone know the password?" Harry asked once they reached the gargoyle that guarded the Headmistresses office where Luna was waiting for them.

"Yes; Animagus." Hermione said, and the gargoyle jumped out of the way revealing the spiral staircase. "The Professor posted it on the notice boards."

"I'd say that was brave but I don't know a single student that would dare mess with McGonagall." Harry said with a slight grin.

"Right!"

Hermione knocked on the door and the four of them took a deep breath as McGonagall called for them to enter. Harry walked in first, followed by Neville, Ron and Hermione gaining a raised eyebrow from the notoriously stern Professor.

"Good afternoon Mr Potter, Mr Longbottom, Mr Weasley, Miss Granger, Miss Lovegood, I have to admit I am surprised." McGonagall began, "I was under the impression you were no longer on speaking terms."

"Good afternoon, Professor," Harry returned, taking a seat when indicated, "Yeah, that wasn't through personal choice, and is part of the reason we're here."

"I fear this is going to be a long conversation." She sighed and the five of them nodded. "Very well; have a biscuit."

Harry couldn't help but grin when she offered the same tartan tin filled with ginger snaps that she had offered last year when dealing with Umbridge.

"First: Portraits of the Castle, I, Harry James, demand your silence as Lord Head of the Ancient and Imperial House of Gryffindor, so mote be it."

The magic of the castle instantly flared even as the portraits exclaimed their surprise as they were bound to silence by his declaration; it was something Harry had read about when Ron and Rabastan were breaking down the wards of the castle and was severely thankful for it now. Many of the past Headmasters and Headmistresses had outside portraits and he would not put it past the old fool to have access to them so he could keep an eye on the school that way.

"Mr Potter!" McGonagall gasped, "You are the Lord Gryffindor?"

"Yes, Professor, and it is imperative that what we speak about does not get out until we're ready for it."

"I don't know what exactly is so important you need to talk about, Mr Potter, but you should have more trust in the portraits of the previous Heads of this school."

"Given that each and every one of these portraits have bore witness and some have even been complicit in harm and manipulations against my person and that of Ron, Hermione and Neville by the previous Headmaster I'd have to say my actions are more than justifiable." Harry rebuffed, looking at the woman seriously. McGonagall's expression shifted into a myriad of different things before she settled on pursed lips.

"While Headmaster Dumbledore's actions regarding the use of Blood Quills are reprehensible, I hardly believe that justifies claiming harm and manipulations."

"But that's not the only thing he had done to us, Professor." Hermione cut in, "And, because of what we know and what he has done to us, we believe that he may have harmed you without your knowledge."

"And what exactly do you believe has been done to you to justify such accusations? I have been friends with Albus Dumbledore for decades."

"Yet you were surprised about the quills?"

"Well yes, I would have never believed he capable of allowing that to happen." McGonagall admitted.

"Then why are you so sceptical when we suggest he has done other things?"

"People make errors, Mr Longbottom. That is different to deciding to do something maliciously like you are suggesting."

"Then let me ask you something, Professor." Harry began, "was it not you who took my mother's letter to her when she was selected for Hogwarts?"

"Yes, not that I understand why that is important."

"I'll get there." Harry assured, "and was it not you who watched the Dursleys for the day before Dumbledore left me there?"

"Yes, the worst sort of muggles." McGonagall answered, an expression of distaste crossing her features.

"So you knew exactly what sort of person Petunia was?" Harry clarified.

"Of course,"

"And you would say that you care about your students, and were particularly fond of my mother and therefore me?" He continued and McGonagall nodded.

"Well yes, I suppose I would agree with that."

"Then why would you agree to leave me there?" Harry wondered, raising an eyebrow.

"I didn't want to at first but Albus assured me-,"

You never thought to check, despite having a bad feeling of leaving me there?"

"I-, Albus said-,"

"And when I arrived smaller and thinner than every other student despite neither of my parents being so delicate?"

McGonagall frowned and looked as if she was wracking her brains for something before her lips set in a severe line.

"That doesn't seem like me at all,"

"No, it doesn't. You are notoriously thorough in your approach to things."

"Albus assured me he checked on you regularly."

"I had never even heard of Dumbledore until Hagrid mentioned him when he picked me up to give me my letter and take me shopping."

"Hagrid!" She exclaimed, "Albus told me he had done it himself."

"I bet you can't remember what he told you about that trip."

"I-," McGonagall's face went grim. "No, no I can't."

"This is why we believe he may have harmed you, professor." Hermione cut in delicately, "Because he's done a great deal more to us that you can possibly imagine and you, who was supposed to be closest to him, seem utterly oblivious."

"It was either you knew all about it and helped with his schemes or were a victim, too."

"And with how you reacted with the reveal of the Blood Quills…" Ron trailed off leaving her to fill in the blanks.

"What has he done?"

One by one the four Gryffindors handed over their medical reports to the Headmistress and watched her read through them, going paler and paler until she was ashy as she finished reading.

"Albus did this, you are certain?" She whispered, despair leaking into her tone.

"Unfortunately, yes."

"But why?" She exclaimed, "What could he possible gain from committing such horrendous acts?"

"Honestly, we are not yet sure." Harry admitted, "at first we thought it was all in the name of getting rid of Voldemort, however, we have discovered recently that his actions and manipulations go further back than we have been alive."

"The only thing we're certain of is that he is after power and control." Neville added, "Harry found out that the prophecy that was responsible for the attacks on our parents was fake."

"No!" She gasped, "James and Lily? Alice and Frank?"

"With them gone and us spelled and under control, Dumbledore get's all the power of our bloodlines." Harry pointed out.

"We -," Ron indicated himself and Hermione when he spoke, "were used to control Harry. Molly has lost her mind or maybe she was always this power hungry and greedy, but she's working with Dumbledore to make sure Ginny marries and has Harry's kid before he dies tragically leaving his worldly possessions to her; Molly gets the money and Dumbledore gets the political capital."

"My dearest Grandmother was also working with Dumbledore, too." Neville said in disgust, "She somehow blames me for my father's state so she sees it as some twisted form of punishment, which sets all of my future political capital in Dumbledore's hands as well."

"We believe he had done something to you because it should be utterly impossible for him to do half of the things he had to us without your knowledge; you were the Deputy Headmistress."

"I don't want to believe this." She murmured, eyeing their tests with disbelief. "I don't want any of this to be true, but I know the seal of a healer, and I'd like to believe you wouldn't come here without due cause."

"It's also why I am here." Luna piped in, speaking for the first time since they entered the office.

"Miss Lovegood?"

Harry handed over the Declaration from Narcissa and McGonagall read it over, looking at Luna in surprise as the Ravenclaw girl was always thought to have her head in the clouds to the mass population.

"A healer in training?"

"Yes, I've been granted leave to perform and, if necessary, remove any spells on your person. I've also got a purging potion from Potions Master Snape for any left in your system." Luna explained.

"Why not Poppy?"

"Given my medical history and how often I've been in the hospital wing, Madam Pomphrey HAS to have been spelled or obliviated in the least. With her healers' oath, there would be no way she could be actually working WITH Dumbledore." Harry said, "All active healers and medical staff have to take an oath to do no harm."

"I see. Very well, Miss Lovegood, I trust you are to do this now."

"Yes, Professor."

The four Gryffindors moved back out of the way for Luna to run her tests as McGonagall stepped forward from behind her desk. The blonde grimaced as soon as the results came in before her eyebrows shot up in surprise.

"Well, it's as we suspected, but things started much earlier than we thought." Luna told them all, handing over the results to the Professor. McGonagall looked them over and her whole body wavered, Hermione quickly summoned a chair just as the woman's legs went out.

"Oh Merlin; this started in the 60s."

"If I remove everything now, it'll give you some time to lie down before dinner." Luna said to the shell-shocked Professor."

"Do it! I need to know what I'm missing." McGonagall started, her voice coming out stronger as her eyes flashed with rage. Hermione transfigured a chair into a bed and the Headmistress led down, accepting what was given for her to bite down on then nodding to the Ravenclaw when she was ready. Luna began a long chant, the tip of her wand glowing white as she ran it over McGonagall's body. The Professor's entire body seemed to tense up before she released a muffled scream as Luna's chant reached its crescendo before slumping down unconscious once the spell had come to an end.

"Merlin only knows what Dumbledore's plans were back then." Harry said, looking at McGonagall's results.

"Molly was in school back then." Ron pointed out.

"My father started in 68." Neville added.

"McGonagall probably started to notice Dumbledore's grooming of the students and his blatant hatred of all things Slytherin." Hermione said reasonably. "After all, Slughorn should have been the Deputy due to seniority."

"I'm sure we're about to find out some of it." Luna reasoned, motioning to McGonagall who had begun to stir.

"Professor, are you alright?" Hermione asked, concerned. The Headmistress' eyes flickered before blinking open and accepting Hermione's hand to help her sit up. She seemed to pause for a moment gathering her bearings then her expression twisted and she exploded with vicious Gaelic.

"Not good then?" Harry wondered lightly.

"Oh that loathsome man!"

"It'll take a few days for any obliviated memories to settle." Luna told the Professor once she had calmed down, "It may help you to write down the memories so you can sort through them. Also, if you have any occlumency shields, you may wish to renew them."

"Thank you, Miss Lovegood."

"Professor, we won't yet ask you what has been taken, we know it takes a while to settle but there are a few things we need to speak with you about before we leave you to rest." Harry said to her as they all retook their seats.

"Very well, Mr Potter. I'm sure it cannot get any more surprising."

"Don't say that yet." Ron said under his breath.

"As you've probably figured out, we broke Dumbledore's control and we've been putting things in place to counter his moves and bring him down." Harry told her.

"We figured you deserved a heads up for what's coming." Hermione continued, "The special edition of the Daily Prophet will be delivered tonight and no doubt it will be exceptionally revealing."

"We hope that you can keep an open mind, and now that you've been cleared of spells and will be of any lingering potions come tomorrow, be more understanding of the direction we're going." Ron said to her.

"What exactly have you been doing?"

"We entered the Wizengamot this morning, Professor." Neville answered, "and hopefully you'll be amenable to a longer, and more in-depth, discussion of recent happenings once things have settled down a bit."

"I see." She regarded them over her glasses critically. "Today I've been made aware that a lot of things are not what they seem, so I will give you the benefit of the doubt for now."

"Thank you, Professor." They chimed.

"We shall meet again Friday after dinner, and I expect a much lengthier explanation to what's gone on."

"Of course, Professor, so long as you understand our need for secrecy."

"That, Mr Potter, is just about the only thing I understand right about now." She sighed. "Good evening ladies, gentlemen."

The four of them rose and nodded to the Headmistress as they left the office, none of them spoke until they were half-way down the corridor and away from the portraits.

"We just have to wait and see how she deals with that, I guess." Ron said.

"Thankfully, she now knows the truth and we have a copy of the results in case of the worst." Luna waved a copy of the results, "I can put a seal on them as a trainee due to the declaration."

"Good, I don't think she'll be leaving the castle in the week so we should be okay." Harry said, "and on Friday I'll cast the Parsel spell that should block her from future manipulations."

"Wise idea, as she may have to meet with Dumbledore sooner rather than later if he believes her still loyal." Hermione mused.

"Well that would depend on how she feels about the whole thing. I can barely look at Dumbledore without wanting to take his face off, she's been his 'friend' longer than we've been alive and now she's found out he's basically murdered some of her favourites and been controlling her for years." Ron pointed out.

"Very true."

"Come on, we have about half an hour before the paper arrives and its Sunday; I want to make sure everyone knows we're different people." Neville decided, "As of tonight, Dumbledore's versions of us dies."

"Circe damn, I am behind that." Harry cheered, "I'll meet you guys at the top of the grand staircase in half an hour; I'm going to appease president possessive."

Ron snorted.

"I'm not even surprised."

"Yeah, and I'll sit back and watch Blaise mark his territory when this all comes out." Harry joked making Ron blush.

"Shut it you!"

"Notice he didn't deny it."

"He can't; it's a Slytherin thing I think." Hermione laughed. "You've just got the king snake himself making it a thousand times worse."

"Ain't that the truth." Harry agreed with a grin, and then he slapped Neville on the back. "We just gotta find someone for you now, Nev."

"I'm sure options will open once things come out in the open."

"Yeah, we just got to make sure they're not a Ginny."

"It's sad that that's a standard now." Hermione shook her head.

"Good Merlin, I'll get to ditch her today as well." Harry groaned in pleasure. "Really, I don't know how this day could get better."

"Dumbledore spontaneously has a heart attack and so do all of his sycophantic followers?" Luna suggested lightly making Harry choke on a laugh.

"That's a wish." He shook his head, "I'll see you in a bit."

"Bye, Harry."

Harry all but skipped down the corridor, slipping through shortcuts to get back to his rooms where he then shadowed straight to the rooms he shared with Tom.

"So that went about as well as you could expect given everything." Harry said in leu of an actual greeting, spotting Tom led out reading on his sofa.

"He had cast on her then?" Tom confirmed and Harry nodded.

"Yeah, since the 60s."

"He definitely has a greater plan than getting rid of me." Tom mused, "I was neither active nor near Dumbledore at that time."

"This is just more evidence to support that." Harry agreed, "But we're not dealing with that until Friday when things are settled and we can have a longer conversation."

"You'll make sure she cannot talk?"

"Of course, what do you take me for?" Harry scoffed.

"Good, now come here." Tom ordered, banishing his book. Harry raised an amused eyebrow at the order but walked over to where Tom was lounged, rolling his eyes when he was immediately pulled down to straddle the older man's legs as Tom's hands settled on his hips.

"Can I help you?"

"A reminder of who you belong to." Tom said, "as most of the hormonal masses will no doubt eye you with want and desire."

"Do you honestly believe I'll give anyone else a glance?" Harry deadpanned and Tom looked away.

"No, I know you won't."

"You cannot be feeling threatened by the attention." Harry exclaimed incredulously.

"To the eyes of the world, as soon as this paper is released, you'll be the most wanted individual in the country if not further." Tom snapped, the pressure on his hips increasing slightly. "Every eye is to be on you and every person with a pulse is going to want you; you cannot expect me to pleased with this."

"I cannot believe I'm the one that's about to say this, but you do realise that you are the Dark Lord." Harry reminded him, "Lord Voldemort, Lord Slytherin, only the most powerful wizard in known existence who commands a literal army. Even if, and we both know it's never going to happen, I did look elsewhere, where am I going to find anything better than you?"

"I just cannot stand the thought of everyone desiring what rightfully belongs to me." Tom hissed, the possessive glint in his eye all the more apparent. "Especially when no one knows you're taken."

"Buy me something nice enough and you can parade me around like a damn trophy if it makes you happy." Harry told him, shaking his head, "until that point, just remember that who I willingly belong to, who I'm going back to and who I'll be staying with."

"Hm, a trophy you say?" Tom repeated interested and Harry chuckled, rolling his eyes at the man.

"Besides, are you really going to give me up?"

"No. You are mine; I don't share."

"Then you needn't be concerned." Harry stated. "Now kiss me and be nice and I'll promise to leave early so you can watch me get rid of Ginny."

Well, there we have it folks! Harry/Tom galore and a talk with the Queen Lioness herself; what did you think? Like I said, I had to cut this chapter because some things in here just went off in directions I didn't plan and other things wouldn't fit in without breaking the flow so please let me know what you think – I love hearing from you!

Jess*