Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

If This Is How You Treat Your Heroes...	By : SpeedyTomato Category: Harry Potter > Slash - Male/Male > Harry/Lucius Views: 96985 -:- Recommendations : 12 -:- Currently Reading : 15
Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter and make no form of profit off this story

Chapter List
- 13
- 14
- 15
Chapter 14

Beta'd by the most wonderful, amazing and stupendous Tenchi. Woman, you are the best and love you for all you do for me!

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Pacing outside the door to the French Minister's office, Sirius was nervous. He didn't know why, really, just that he was. He supposed that had to do with the fact that for the first time since being tossed into prison without a trial, he was on the precipice of real freedom. It was doubtful he would be able to return to Britain anytime soon, but he would be free to do what he wanted in France. That was something he hadn't been able to even imagine for a long time now. It felt good, no doubt there, but it made him jittery to even ponder.

“Don't worry, Sirius. Minister Jacques is really nice,” Harry told his godfather softly as he watched him pace.

“He is,” Narcissa confirmed with a nod and smile. “He's not like Fudge at all.” She was the only one with them, aside from their solicitor, something that had her slightly uptight, of course. However, the Ministry had made it easy. They were here before official office hours so no one was around. Not only that, they had the waiting room locked down so no one could just walk in and see who was there. This pleased her as it would ensure she wasn't exposed as one of the people that had helped Harry.

Sighing, Sirius nodded to both of them. “It's not that. More like general nerves, nothing more.”

“Everything is fine, Lord Black,” Solicitor Suttworth told him calmly. “The paperwork is already in his hands. He just needs to meet with both you and Mr. Lupin, nothing more. He's publicly said he'll grant you asylum. It's just a formality, all there is to it.”

“I know,” Sirius told him with a shrug. As he was about to continue, the door opened and Jean-Pierre, with a smile, motioned for them all to come in. Stiffening up, Sirius put a hand on Harry's shoulder and walked in, making sure Remus was close by, heart hammering in his chest as he did.

Seeing the five people come in, Minister Jacques stood and smiled at all them, “Good morning!” Waving them towards the settee, he said, “Take a seat and we'll get down to business.” Watching all of them sit on the sofa with Harry next to his godfather, he was pleased when the coffee and pastries appeared. Conjuring chairs for himself and his assistant, he seated himself then looked at those facing him. “I've already looked over the paperwork and signed it. Before we make it official, I had a couple questions. Nothing intrusive, I assure you, just so I'm clear on what is needed, nothing more.” Seeing Lord Black nod, apparently apprehensive, he said, “Are you asking for citizenship as well, like your godson has? The same with your vaults being transferred?”

“I am,” Sirius told him with a firm nod. “I don't see where I can go back to Britain anytime soon with what is hanging over my head. At least while the current government is in place. And the vaults—let's say better safe than sorry there.”

“I thought as much,” Minister Jacques said with a smile and a nod. Summoning a couple forms from his desk, he passed them over to Sirius and explained, “I just need your signature on those and we're done. All there is to it.”

Taking them, Sirius read them over quickly to make sure there was nothing in there that he didn't like then signed them before passing them back, heart hammering in his chest as he did.

Taking them and tapping them with his wand, Jacques said, “Welcome to France, Lord Black! You are in no danger here of going back to prison!”

Grinning at that, Sirius nodded then took the papers that appeared in front of him.

Smiling, the Minister looked at Remus then explained, “As you've applied to be Harry's tutor, I have your workers permit all ready. I've also included a French insurance card. All you need do is present it each month to the apothecary of your choice and your Wolf's Bane potion is free. Unlike most workers permits, yours has no mandatory renewal date. If you also choose to apply for French citizenship, we will be happy to have you!”

Nodding, smiling himself, Remus said, “Thank you, sir. That is an offer I will consider seriously.”

Leaning back in his chair, the minister looked around then said, “I do have a reporter here who would like a short interview. It's the same one that interviewed Harry. He can assure you that nothing slanderous will take place. Nor would I allow such a thing to happen. I would also like to have a picture taken with the two of you, if I may, both for publication and my private pleasure. Are there any objections?”

Having been prepared for this, Sirius shook his head, “None from me. I would just ask that I get a copy of the picture for myself and have one taken of me and Harry. And, if he can, one of me, Harry and Remus. I don't have any of us together and would like a couple.”

“I will ensure that,” Minister Jacques said, smiling.

“Just—well, expect some foul language on certain topics,” Sirius laughed, leaning back, feeling better knowing there was now no chance of going back to prison. No, he wasn’t all that thrilled about doing an interview, but could understand why and would work with it.

Chuckling, smiling at the man as he stood, Jacques said, “Completely understandable and nothing untold will be said. Now, I'll go get the man and we'll get started.” Nodding to everyone, he swept out to retrieve the reporter.

Reaching out and giving Sirius' hand a pat, Narcissa said, “And the worst is over! Just say what you want. There is no need to hold back. Let it go. Then, when we're done, we'll go get something to eat and do some exploring!”

Looking at Narcissa, Sirius smiled at her and nodded, “Yeah, I think I will. It's been a long time coming, so it's time I let some people have it!” Oh yes, there were a few that were going to be on the receiving end of this and he was going to love it!

Looking up and down the hall to make sure that no one was paying attention, the woman that was Polyjuiced was pleased to see that everyone was busy. Mornings were always a busy time and as it was right after breakfast, it was time for potions to be passed. Perfect. As of yet, Augusta hadn't shown up and, if her schedule held true, she wouldn't for another hour, something she hoped would happen.

Making sure her uniform didn't look out of place and that she wasn't drawing any attention to herself, she slipped into Neville's room. Looking at the bed, she saw him lying there curled up, eyes shut. From what she understood, this is how he had been since he had come in. Hopefully, what she had would help him.

Putting up a ward over the door to keep people away and from seeing in, she walked over and sat down in the chair by the bed. From what she understood he wasn't responding, but could hear you. Leaning in close, she said, “Good morning, Neville. I have something here for you.” Stopping, as though waiting for him to respond though she knew he wouldn't, she pulled out the letter and a box of chocolates. Putting the letter in the young man's hand, she sat the chocolates by him on the bed. Keeping her voice down, she said, “A very good friend of yours sent you that. He can't come, but wanted you to know he's thinking about you and understands what you're going through. He also made sure to pick out some of the best chocolates in France to send you.” Stopping, seeing no response, though having expected that, she reached out and rubbed his head gently then whispered, “Harry understands, Neville, better than anyone else. Just read the letter. You can write him back if you want, he just won't be able to answer.” Putting a hand over his, she gave it a squeeze then said, gently, “I'm going to leave now. He just wanted to make sure you got the letter.” Giving his hand another squeeze, she stood then ended the ward before walking out. That had gone well and she didn't want to tempt fate by staying too long.

Lying there, Neville had heard what was said but didn't open his eyes. Right now, he couldn't deal with anything or anyone, his mind was only able to focus on that memory they had un-Obliviated. In fact, mostly he just wanted to die rather than face the realism of what happened to him. However, when he heard Harry's name, he was curious. Though everyone was careful about what was said around him now, he heard enough to know what was going on, not to mention what was said in that paper the night they took him out of the castle.

Turning over to where his back was to the door, he opened his eyes for the first time since they brought him to the hospital. Looking at the letter, he flipped it over. The handwriting sure looked like Harry's. Sighing, not sure what to do, he just stared at his name.

After thinking it over, he opened the letter with trembling hands and began to read.

Neville,

I'm sorry about what you're going through. I know right now you probably hate me for putting you through this, but I had to. When that greasy bastard said he had done it to you too, I had to do something to help you. That's the only reason I did what I did. If it had been just me, I'm not sure what I would have done. You're my friend, Neville, a good one, so I had to get you out of that mess. With me not around, I figured he would focus on you. I couldn't let that happen. Well, you know me and saving my friends.

I understand better than anyone else what you're going through right now. It's miserable, no doubt there. Remember this though; that hat put you in Gryffindor for a reason. It saw something in you most never do, aside from those of us that know you well. You stood up to me, Ron and Hermione. That took courage. So, you have it in you. I know that. This just takes some of that courage, nothing more. You're strong, I know that, too. So do you. You can get through it. I have faith in you. Keep that in mind if you don’t remember anything else. I don't put my faith in people easily. That's something you know as well.

Right now, well, I can't come talk to you. I'm sure you understand why. If you need someone to talk to about what's going on, just write me. I'll get it. I can't answer right now, but I'll read it. Just let it go and tell me if it helps. I understand better than anyone else right now how rotten this is and what you're going through. We'll get through it, though. We will! And, in the end, we'll be fine. It's just going to be tough getting there is all.

None of this is fun, I know that. I'm dealing with it on my end too, as I'm sure you know. So, I understand. Just think about it this way; by getting through it, you aren't letting that greasy bastard win. He's tormented us long enough, don't you think? It's time he got his. By us getting through this then going on with our lives, we win and he doesn't. Everything else—well, that's just a bonus, don't you think? Whatever you decide to do is right for you, Neville. And I've got your back, even if I can’t be there in person. Remember that. We'll get through it together.

Your Fellow Lion

P.S. I sent some chocolates. You'll love them! They put anything Honeydukes makes to shame!

Rereading the letter, Neville felt his eyes burn. No, Harry hadn't signed it, but he knew it was from him. The handwriting alone was enough to tell him that, not to mention what was said, especially the part about standing up to the three of them. Only Harry would know about that part as he was one of the four of them there not mentioned by name.

After reading it yet again, tears coming finally, Neville sat up. Picking up the box of chocolates, he opened it and took one. Looking it over, he then popped it into his mouth. Grinning a little though there were still some tears, he nodded. Harry was right; they were delicious!

Clutching the letter tightly, holding onto the box of chocolates, he let the tears come. Sobbing softly, head down, he thought it over, wondering what to do.

Regina was about to go check on Mr. Longbottom when she was startled to see the signal go off from his room, the one summoning his medi-witch. So far he hadn't responded to anyone at all. She knew his grandmother hadn't come in, so it had to be him.

Standing, she bustled to his room to see what was going on. Poking her head in, smiling, she was pleased to see him sitting up. He was clutching onto a letter of some kind and holding what looked like a box of very expensive chocolates to his chest. From the look on his face, he had been crying. That, more than anything, was a good sign. Stepping into the room, she asked, gently, “Is there something I can get for you, Neville?”

Looking at her, Neville nodded, “My Mind Healer—can I talk to her, please?”

“Of course! Give me a couple minutes to get a hold of her. While I do that, do you think you can eat some breakfast?” She asked.

“Yeah, I think so,” Neville told her, nodding.

“I'll summon Healer Smythe then bring you your tray,” she told him. Seeing him nod, she bustled out, pleased that he had finally come around.

Striding down the hall to her grandson's room, Augusta was startled to see Molly Weasley in the hall. Molly had promised to come in to sit with Neville while she attended to something with her solicitor. She hadn't thought it would take long, but she wanted someone there with him during visiting hours at all times. Walking up to the redhead, she asked, glancing at the closed door, “What's going on? Has something happened?” That had her anxious. She hoped that he hadn't attempted suicide again.

Smiling, Molly told her softly, “It's nothing to worry about. He's in there talking to Madam Bones and Rufus Scrimgeour with his Mind Healer present. He—well, he gave them the memory.”

Eyes wide, Augusta, clutched onto her purse then asked, tone hopeful, “He came around?” She was sure that's what Molly meant, but wanted confirmation.

“He did,” Molly said with a smile, swiping at a tear that was threatening.

“Oh, thank Merlin,” Augusta said, slumping in relief. “What happened, do you know? Did he just—I don't know, decide it was time or was it something else?”

Smiling bigger, Molly whispered, looking around to make sure no one was close, “Harry wrote him a letter. He's still clutching onto it. That's what he said made him decide to help.”

Sniffling slightly, pulling out a large hankie and wiping her nose, Augusta said, tone slightly gruff from emotions, “Remind me to thank Mr. Potter at some point in the future.”

Molly was about to say something, putting a reassuring hand on Augusta's arm, when the door opened. Looking at it, she saw Rufus and Amelia step out.

Pleased to see Augusta, Amelia motioned for Rufus to go on then stepped over to the two women. Lowering her voice, she said, “I need you to sign consent forms for us to use the memory.”

“He gave it willingly?” Augusta asked. She was sure he had and was pleased he did, but wanted confirmation.

“He did,” Amelia told her, lifting her chin and smiling. “Only the one, mind you. He won't let anyone try to break the rest of the Oblivations, but he's agreed to give us the memory. It's all we need since he signed the forms authenticating it.”

“Good,” Augusta said, nodding. “You can now do something about that—creature?”

“Oh yes,” Amelia said smoothly, face taking on a determined look. “One was all we needed! The rest—well, we'll work with it. If I can get something through the Wizengamot to use Mr. Potter's, there are going to be many charges leveled in that direction.”

“Where do I sign?” Augusta asked, wanting to get that over with so she could visit with her grandson.

“Just follow me and I'll show you what needs to be done.” Amelia told her. Looking at Molly, she said, “You too, Molly. I need the signature of a witness as well.”

Nodding, Molly said nothing though was pleased. Thankfully, some good, somewhere, was finally going to come out of this mess!

Sipping his coffee, Vernon was grumbling about an article in the paper while waiting for his breakfast. Today was a day off for him so he didn't have to go into the office. As it wasn't often he got a day off during the week, he was pleased with that. It meant he didn't have much to do so he thought he and Petunia could go tend to some things. With Dudley in school and the boy off learning that codswallop they taught him, it would be relaxing.

Just as he set the paper aside to take the plate his wife handed him, about to go on a tirade about a strike he had been reading about, he was startled by one of those ruddy owls soaring in. Snarling when the dratted thing dropped the letter right in the middle of his eggs, he snatched it up. Assuming it was from the boy's school, that he was in trouble or something, he was about to open it when another owl soared in and dropped another on the table. Shaking his head, wondering what was going on, he looked at Petunia, who appeared to be just as stunned as he was by the turn of events. However, any questions he was about to ask were halted by another owl. This time, the creature dropped a red letter. Eyes wide when it rose off the table, he began to sputter when it all but exploded, shouting at both of them about mistreating the boy who lived, whoever that was. Then, all at once, it was like a reenactment of the freak getting his Hogwarts letter with them under assault by a mass of owls dropping letters, some of them that exploded and shouting at them.

Little did the two know that the Seer had run the section of the interview dealing with how the Dursley's had treated Harry while growing up, so they needed to worry more about the DMLE and charges than being bombarded by owls.

Looking at the stack of correspondence on the kitchen table, Albus let out a sigh. This was so odd for him, being back at the small house in Godric's Hollow. It was his old family home, somewhere he didn't come to often since he stayed at the school year round. Now, though, he was here. The lone house elf that he had was tending to things, of course, it was just different than what he was used to was all. He would adjust.

Shaking his head, sipping at his tea, he wondered where to start. Already he had read some of the letters and didn't like what was there. Tonks and Kingsley had both resigned from the Order. If what he read was right, they didn't have much of a choice since it was that or their jobs. He couldn't fault them there, of course, but was worried where he would get some of the information he needed now. They had been invaluable in that area. Minerva, too, had resigned. That he expected. The board had been very unhappy the day before and he knew they were going to make her choose. She, of course, made the one he knew she would. Bill Weasley was going back to Egypt. From what Molly wrote he had been caught trying to trace Harry's vaults. It was either that or be fired. That he understood. Again, it was something that hurt them, what with the loss of information, but they would manage.

There was another troublesome issue that he was hearing about as well. It seemed that the Fidelius on Grimmauld Place had been canceled and no one could get in. He wasn't sure what that meant, actually, and would have to check it out later. Sirius, he knew, was really angry over what happened with Harry, but he didn't think the man would do something like this. After all, they were fighting for a good cause, he had understood that and wanted to help. Shaking his head, he sighed and added checking out that particular issue as something he needed to do this morning.

Leaning back in his chair, he was about to press on to read everything else when the floo went off. Casting a spell to determine who it was, he frowned when he saw Alastor's name there. Getting up, he stuck his head in the fireplace and waited.

“Albus, there is something you need to know. Longbottom gave up the memory. The DMLE has it along with the release from Augusta. I'd give it no more than two days before they haul Snape in,” the ex-Auror gruffed.

Not liking that, though figuring it was coming, Albus told him, “I'll handle it from here, Alastor. Thank you for the warning.”

Nodding, Moody then pushed a small box through the green flames, holding it with a pair of fireplace tongs. “Took me some serious wiggling, but those are Potter's memories. They are a copy, of course, as the originals are locked up somewhere, but it'll give you an idea of what might be coming or what he mentioned.”

Relieved, Albus took the box, setting it aside. “Thank you, Alastor. That will be a big help. I have some things to check out this morning, but I'm probably going to call a meeting for tonight. There are many things we have to look out for and work with.”

“Just let me know and I'll be there,” the ex-Auror told him with a nod.

“We're going to have to do some shifting around as we've lost some people. I might need you more than normal to see what you can find,” Albus told him.

“Whatever you need, you know that,” Moody told him firmly.

“Thank you,” Albus told him with a nod, relieved. “Is there anything else?”

“Just some rumblings I'm picking up on. I keep hearing that Madam Bones is calling a special session of the Wizengamot in a couple days to push through a couple things to allow her to use those memories without getting authentication. I'm not sure if it's real or not, but I keep hearing it. Let me nose around and see what I can find out.”

Not liking the sound of that, Albus nodded, “Keep me posted.” When he saw Alastor nod, he said his goodbyes then cut the connection. Sighing, he shook his head. Glancing down at the box with the memories, he decided he was going view those this morning before anything else. That would give him a better feel for just what he was working with. However, there was one thing he needed to do first.

Grabbing some powder, he tossed it into the fireplace and called out for Spinners End. When Severus answered, he told him, “Neville Longbottom has given up the memory.” Then he filled the man in on what he had just heard. “I would suggest that you do everything to protect yourself if you won't take my offer of help.”

Sneering, not liking what he was hearing, Severus snapped, “I'll handle it. I have somewhere I can hole up until it blows over, never fear.”

“Severus, I would feel better if you let me put you somewhere safe.” Albus told him softly.

“No, I can handle myself,” Severus shot back with a glare then cut the call.

Shaking his head, though having expected that, Albus sighed and rose. There was too much to do right now for him to try to talk the man into something. It was best to let him handle it himself. Grabbing the box of memories, he went to find his Pensieve and see what was there to better plan what he had to do.

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If This Is How You Treat Your Heroes...