Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

All is fair in the game called love	By : Sasunarufan13 Category: Harry Potter > Slash - Male/Male > Harry/Draco Views: 29070 -:- Recommendations : 2 -:- Currently Reading : 8
Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter nor profit from it. J.K. Rowling owns everything.

Chapter List
- 3
- 4
- 5
Author's note: I know I said I would update this biweekly, but I figured, what the hell, I have time now, might as well update now. Well that and I feel like crap and working on my stories has always cheered me up a bit ^^;

Thanks to the following reviewers: Madamdragon (unfortunately Snape's examination of Harry won't happen in this chapter, but in chapter 7 ^^; I know seems late, but there are a few things they still have to do before they return); Goldpen; unneeded; emeraldisle; Morbid_and_Sexy; sharebear (still typos left? Damn *pouts*); DemeRain (hehe, patience ;) ); SoulMore

Hope you'll enjoy this chapter!

Chapter 4: The Ministry

"All right; Harry, take my arm please. We're going to apparate just outside the Ministry." Sirius said and hold out his arm for Harry to grab it.

"But, Sirius, you can't apparate to the Ministry! They'll catch you and send you back to Azkaban." Harry said panicking.

"No, they will not. When we're there, I'll turn to Padfoot and then we go to the Department of Magical Law Enforcement – …" Sirius' explanation was cut off by Lucius.

"Where I will demand a fair trial for your godfather. Once it's proven he's innocent, we'll go to Gringotts." Lucius finished the explanation.

Harry looked sceptical and worried. "But what if they won't give him a trial?"

"They will, Harry. It's a demand of me, a Malfoy. They will not dare to send him back to prison without given him a trial." Lucius reassured.

"They did it last time. They could do it again." Harry pointed out, his body tense.

"Don't you trust me on this, Harry?" Lucius asked, surprisingly gentle.

Harry stared at him. "That's not it. I believe you could do this, mister Malfoy, but I don't trust the Ministry."

"Please, call me Lucius. Do you trust the plan more if we get Dumbledore to the Ministry to testify?" Lucius asked. Although he hated the old man, Harry trusted him. Harry would probably relax now he knew the group could call Dumbledore to help Sirius.

But Harry's answer shocked everyone. "Whatever you do, don't call the Headmaster." His green eyes darkened.

"Why not? The Ministry will listen to Dumbledore and Dumbledore will help Sirius." Draco said confused.

"That bastard wouldn't do a thing to help Sirius. He would probably get him arrested." Harry snarled.

"Harry! Where's your respect and trust in Albus?" Remus asked shocked. He didn't understand the sudden change in Harry towards the Headmaster.

"He's lost those things months ago!" Harry growled and crossed his arms.

"How come?" Draco asked.

"I don't know about you, but I don't trust somebody who keeps secrets from me, who lies about me over my own fucking life, who puts me by people who hate me under the pretence of the protective bloodwards that don't even work and lets incompetent, possessed or dangerous people teach!" Harry ranted. His eyes glowed dangerously and nobody dared to interrupt him. "He claims he's wise and has people knowledge, but he doesn't notice it when one of his teachers is possessed by Voldemort, when one is a fake hero-wannabe or when one is a disguised Death Eater! He turns his back on one of his order members, when the people claims he's a murderer, instead of questioning the case. He didn't do a bloody thing to prevent the Ministry from putting Sirius in prison! He didn't help him two years ago, why would he help now? He didn't tell me that two of my parents' friends were still alive! He didn't tell me that I had a godfather! I had to hear it from Remus himself that he knew my parents! He puts me by people who like to see me dead and who don't give a shit about me, all because of the greater good! He didn't tell me some news of Voldemort last year, even if I was the one who let him know that asshole was back! He claims I'm adult enough, but treats me like a child. He doesn't give a shit about what happens to me! I have to destroy his room to get to know something about my own bloody life!" Finally his rant stopped and he breathed in deeply. He was still furious, but he knew he had to control himself if he didn't want to blow something up.

"Didn't know you had it in you, Potter." Snape suddenly said, almost admiring. "Who would've thought. Dumbledore's Golden Boy turns against him."

Harry blushed slightly.

"We didn't know you felt that way, cub. Why didn't you tell us sooner?" Remus asked concerned.

"Euhm, because I only began to feel that way, a couple of months ago?" Harry answered unsurely.

"And what was the cause for this sudden change?" Remus asked bewildered. How had he not noticed how Harry had felt all those months? His cub had hidden his true feelings for months and nobody had noticed it. With unease Remus realized that Harry had become too good at hiding his emotions. When had he become so good at hiding his feelings? How long had he been doing that? And why?

Harry didn't know how to answer. So far only Snape and Remus had said something – the others appeared to be shocked. The two Malfoys were staring at him with a blank face, but he knew they were surprised. They definitely hadn't expected this rant from the Golden Boy, that's for sure. Snape only stared at him with unreadable black eyes, but he was used to it.

The reactions of Remus and Sirius were what he feared for. He was afraid they would be furious with him. After all, they were in the Order. They probably thought everything Dumbledore did or said, was right. So far, Remus only had asked for an explanation in a calm voice, but Harry suspected that the calmness was only due to shock and that any moment now, Remus would start shouting.

His godfather hadn't said anything so far, but it was clear he was still in shock. Once the shock wore off, he would be angry, Harry was sure about that.

He didn't know what to say, how to explain his change. The only thing he was sure about now, was the fact that he was afraid to lose Sirius and Remus. He was afraid they would abandon him, that they would hate him. He loved them; they were the only real family he had left.

But then again, a little voice in the back of his head said, they never told you they consider you as family. And why would they? Since they know you, their lives have always been in danger. You're only trouble to them. It's your fault their lives are now in danger. The danger to them is bigger, because they know you. Why would somebody love a worthless freak like you? Isn't it obvious they don't want you? If they wanted you, why would they sent you back to the Dursleys every year?

No, you're lying, Harry thought desperately. They love me. And they do want me! After all, they came to pick me up. If they didn't want me, they wouldn't be here now!

What if they only want you for the war?, the voice asked slyly.

That's not true! They don't only want me for the war!, Harry thought angrily.

If you say so. The voice went silent.

Harry didn't like these confusing feelings and did his best to control them. He pushed them back mentally until he didn't feel them anymore. That was a relief to him; he didn't have the time to think about them now. He had an answer to give.

While Harry was fighting an internal battle, Snape was watching him. He didn't want to admit it, but he was slightly worried about the boy. After watching the Muggles and probing into their minds, he had been forced to change his view about the boy. And he didn't like it one bit that he was proven wrong. He had never been wrong before.

He had once believed the boy was just like his father, arrogant and a bully. But now… Now he had to admit his hatred for James Potter had blinded him. He hadn't given the boy a chance.

He forced himself to really look at the boy. Potter was too small and too thin for his age, he saw. The clothes he wore were clearly second-hands – probably from his fat cousin – and looked like they could easily slid off the boy's body. His face was pale and he looked tired and tense.

Snape remembered the things he saw when he had looked into the Muggles' minds and was still shocked from what he had seen. The Muggles had let their nephew do chores till he was exhausted and barely conscious. They had refused him food if he had done something 'bad' – and Snape remembered that were the times when Potter had accidentally used his magic – basically they starved him. He was locked up in a cupboard for ten years and after that, he was locked up in a tiny room with locks on the door. The boy had been denied presents whereas his cousin had been overflowed with it. They hadn't once celebrated his birthday. Potter was beaten by his cousin and his friends when he wasn't quick enough to escape. The Muggles abused him verbally whenever they had the chance and sometimes even hit him.

All by all, it was a miracle the boy had survived and hadn't turned evil, Snape mused.

But what had most surprised him, was Potter's reaction when Albus was mentioned. Snape had clearly seen disgust in those green eyes and he briefly wondered how long it would take before this disgust turned into hatred.

Frankly speaking, after hearing Potter's rant, he couldn't deny that Potter was right. He had always known he couldn't trust the old manipulative fool and merely waited his time to finally be free from the old fool's meddling. That a fifteen-year-old boy had seen through the manipulative schemes of the Headmaster was amazing. That this boy was Potter, was beyond belief.

Maybe there's more to that boy than the eye can see, Snape mused. He had meant it when he said he was going to examine Potter. Now he knew the truth, he felt an unnatural urge to take care of this boy. It was irrational and he didn't understand it completely and that unnerved him, but a part of him thought it was because Potter looked so much like him. He knew the abuse Potter had suffered, because he had suffered it too.

He instinctively knew the boy hid things from others – especially his feelings – and he wanted to help the boy, so he wouldn't suffer alone. Like Snape had done.

Hm, if I'm going to help him, maybe I should start calling him by his first name, Snape thought, slightly amused.

His amusement disappeared when he noticed the sudden dull green eyes, completely empty from any emotions and he tensed.

He knew what happened. Potter – no, Harry was shutting himself down. Whatever he was feeling, he didn't like it and was detaching himself from his emotions. The easiness with how it happened told Snape that Harry had had many practice with it.

This wasn't good, he realized, I definitely need to talk with him.

"Lupin, I think you need to repeat the question. I don't think he heard it." Snape said in his smooth voice.

Remus threw a quick glance at him, but repeated his question. "Harry, what was the cause for this sudden change?"

The dark haired boy looked up. "Hm? Does it…"

"Matter? Yes, it matters, because this is an unexpected reaction from you and we want to know why your opinion about your hero changed." Snape answered and he looked stern.

Harry looked annoyed. "I never looked at him as a hero! And I changed my opinion because I had the time to think." He smiled wryly. "After all, I had enough time to think these last past weeks."

"Well, we're glad to know that you changed your opinion. It saves us a lot of effort to convince you the Headmaster can't be trusted. I was already dreading that particular conversation." Lucius finally spoke.

The other men nodded grimly – even Remus and Sirius!

Harry was confused. They agreed with him? They weren't angry at him? How was that possible? What had he missed?

"Wait, so you're not angry at me?" Harry asked uncertainly and unconsciously began to fidget with his sleeves.

Draco was confused. Why would Harry think the men were angry with him? He had just said what everyone in this group thought. He'd just said the truth. And why did he look so afraid when he looked at Sirius and Remus? Although he had to admit that one: he was impressed by Harry's rant – he hadn't known the boy could get so angry – and two: Harry looked absolutely cute while fidgeting.

"Angry? Why would we be angry, cub?" Remus asked surprised. Besides the fact he could never be angry at his cub, Harry had just said the truth. It saddened him that Harry had to come to these conclusions – one being that Albus could not be trusted – but he was glad he didn't need to convince Harry of the truth. That boy could be really stubborn if he wanted to.

"Because I just insulted the leader of the order and accused him of being a liar who likes to meddle and questioned his motives?" Harry's answer came out as a question.

"No, of course not! We're glad you already know the truth. We were just shocked because of your rant." Remus chuckled and his amber colored eyes warmed more. "It has to be said, you have inherited Lily's temper. Although I think yours is far more worse."

Harry blushed and lowered his eyes. "Yeah, sorry about that. I just needed an outlet, I guess."

"Understandable, but you don't have to apologize." Lucius said calmly.

The atmosphere in the group relaxed, though Snape continued to watch Harry.

"Have you really destroyed Dumbledore's office?" Draco asked suddenly.

Harry blushed again and scratched the back of his head. "Yeah, I was angry and he wouldn't let me go and I got frustrated, so…" He shrugged helplessly. "It seemed like a good idea at the time."

Draco laughed, "This is priceless! I wish I had seen that!"

Harry laughed too and Draco felt pride; he had made Harry laugh. He really should laugh more often: he had a beautiful laugh, Draco thought.

"But if you're not angry, then why hasn't Sirius said anything yet?" Harry asked nervously with a glance at Sirius.

At the mention of his name, Sirius' head shot up and he looked at Harry with glittering eyes that made Harry gulp.

"Where the fuck did you learn such language? Lily would have an heart-attack if she had heard you!" Sirius yelled.

Harry stared at him dumbfounded. "Euhm…"

Sirius crossed his arms and tapped his foot. "Well? I'm waiting."

Harry looked helplessly around, searching for help. He found none. Draco was laughing; Lucius was smiling; Remus was trying to hide his amusement, but was soon laughing too and amusement was shining in Snape's dark eyes which surprised and freaked Harry out at the same time.

"Euhm, I – I learned if from you?" Harry answered uncertainly. He hadn't lied: his godfather had quite a vocabulary when he was annoyed or angry.

Whatever he was expecting, clearly this answer wasn't it. Sirius blinked surprised and unfolded his arms. "Heh? From me?" He asked.

Harry nodded, not knowing what he had to say.

"But how? When…?" Sirius was definitely at a loss with his words.

"Your vocabulary is, as always, utterly astounding." Snape drawled sarcastically.

"Greasy git. Do me a favor and go wash your hair. With the amount of oil in your hair, you can drive a motor." Sirius retorted back, but the insult lacked of heat and he looked distracted.

"At least I'm useful. That's not something that can be said from everyone." Snape sneered, not in the least taken back by the insult.

"O, shut your mouth, Snivellus. Harry, when did you heard me swear?" Sirius asked confused.

Harry blinked and rolled his eyes. Did Sirius really ask that question?

"When you met Pettigrew again, when you heard of the Tournament, when you heard what Voldemort did to come back, when I was attacked by Dementors, when you received instructions from Dumbledore and the worst swears must have been when we were at the Ministry, a few weeks ago. So you see, my mother will be more mad at you, than at me." He smirked triumphantly.

"And let us not forget your speech in Dumbledore's office, just an hour ago." Remus said helpfully.

Sirius grinned sheepishly. "Hm, I do seem to swear a lot, don't I? But," he pointed his finger at Harry, "that doesn't mean you have to use those words."

"But they're so much more effective when I'm angry." Harry complained.

"Let's make a rule: if you're in a dangerous, life-threatening situation, then you may use those words. Otherwise not." Sirius suggested and he ranked a hand through his hair.

Harry answered amused, "Theoretically speaking is my life daily in danger. Does that rule still apply?"

"The boy is good." Lucius muttered to Snape and Snape snorted silently.

"Let me reprhase this rule: when you're around Voldemort and if you're surrounded by Death Eaters – hopefully that will not happen much – and you get hurt or frustrated. Do we have a deal?" Sirius asked smiling.

"We have a deal." His godson nodded.

Lucius clapped his hands together. "Excellent! Now that is arranged, we can make our way to the Ministry."

"Wait! One other thing. Harry, where did you learn about the bloodwards?" Sirius asked carefully.

Harry rolled his eyes. "I can read. I'll explain the rest when we're at Grimmauld place, okay?"

Sirius and Remus nodded reluctantly. Sirius held out his arm and Harry grabbed it firmly, not knowing what to expect. One second later, Harry felt as if his body was squeezed through a tiny hole and then the awful feeling stopped and they stood before a telephone box.

Harry felt like his intestines were left behind at Privet Drive – not a pleasant feeling.

Sirius held his arm till he was steady. "Are you okay, kiddo? I know this isn't a pleasant experience."

Harry shook his head slowly. "I'm fine. I'd rather like to go on a broom instead, though. At least on a broom, I haven't got the feeling I left some body parts behind."

"You get used to it." Draco said amused.

"Gee, thanks, that's a relief." Harry replied sarcastically.

Sirius ruffled his hair. "Don't be so sarcastic, Harry. That's Snivellus' job."

Snape glared. "If you don't watch out, Black, it might be possible that your food will taste strange tonight."

"O, please, be a little more creative with your threats, Snivellus. You've threaten me with that before."

"Maybe, but that doesn't mean I wouldn't do it." Snape answered in a deathly smooth voice.

Just then, both Harry and Remus heard someone approaching in the street next to where they stood.

"Sirius, change immediately into Padfoot!" Harry whispered urgently.

Sirius broke the fight with Snape off and looked confused. "What? Why?"

"Sirius, do it! Now!" Remus too whispered urgently.

Sirius looked bewildered, but turned into his dog form, a few seconds before the person came into view.

It was a man, a few years older than Lucius. There were streaks of grey in his hair and he had bushy eyebrows; yellowish eyes looked at the group behind a pair of wire-rimmed glasses. Harry noticed he walked with a slight limp.

He nodded at Lucius and studied the other men, before his gaze fell on Harry.

"Good afternoon, Mister Scrimgeour." Lucius smiled politely.

Scrimgeour?, Harry thought. Now from where do I know this name?

Scrimgeour nodded. "Mister Malfoy, gentlemen, good afternoon." He still stared at Harry. "I don't think we've met before."

"Harry, this is Rufus Scrimgeour, the new Minister of Magic. Mister Scrimgeour, this is, of course, Harry Potter." Lucius introduced them.

Ah, so that's why I recognized him, Harry thought. The picture of Scrimgeour had been all over the front page of the Daily Profit, announcing him as the new Minister. Fudge had to retire because of his faults in his carrier; not the mention the huge mistake of not letting the public know Voldemort was back.

Harry shook Scrimgeour's hand – it felt coarse. "It's nice to meet you, sir."

"It's nice to finally meet you too, mister Potter." Scrimgeour said and his gaze fell on Harry's scar.

Harry felt uncomfortable and stroked down the hair on his forehead. He didn't like it when people stared at him.

He was startled when he felt something cold and wet stroking his hand. He looked down and saw Padfoot pushing his nose in his hand. Unconsciously he smiled and petted Padfoot's head.

Scrimgeour followed his eyes to the dog and raised an eyebrow. "And who might this dog be?"

Before anyone could answer, Harry replied, "His name is Snuffles. It's my dog, sir."

"Really? What an odd name." Scrimgeour mused.

Harry shrugged his shoulders. "He likes to snuffle around. That's why I named his Snuffles. He's a very curious dog." From the corner of his eye, he could see Remus suppressing a smile.

"The Ministry wasn't aware you had a dog, Mister Potter." Scrimgeour now raised both his eyebrows.

"Yes, well, I didn't see why I should let everybody know I have a dog. I like my privacy." Harry smiled strained. He didn't like the way the Minister was looking at Padfoot.

"Of course, everybody likes his privacy. I'm curious, though. Do you keep this dog for a special reason? Like protection maybe?" Scrimgeour asked nonchalant.

"No, I just like dogs. However, I must say, Snuffles is good at protecting me. He has a vicious bite, you see. I don't envy the person who angers my dog." Harry smirked viciously.

"I can understand why;" Scrimgeour eyed the dog's height and the sharp white teeth when Snuffles bared his teeth. "From what I heard and see now, you apparently like the company of dangerous things, Mister Potter."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Harry asked sharply.

Scrimgeour smiled. "Oh, there are many examples, Potter. Such as your many adventures at school and in the summer, your dog and if I'm not mistaken you once have defended a werewolf who had no right to be a teacher."

Remus flinched.

"Excuse me? That person had every right to be a teacher! So what if he had a little problem? Nobody was ever in danger! In fact, he was the best Defense against the Dark Arts teacher we've ever had!" Harry hissed. "If it wasn't for him, I would be dead because the Ministry found it necessary to station a hundred Dementors at Hogwarts! Since he's gone, we've never had a decent teacher again. I'm sure you remember Umbridge, minister?" He sneered. "Not exactly the brightest teacher. I mean, what idiot would call a pack of angry centaurs filthy half-bloods?"

"Harry…" Lucius said in a warning voice.

Scrimgeour held his hand up. "No, Mister Malfoy, let him. So you think you would make better decisions than the Ministry, Potter?"

Harry sighed impatiently. "I've never said that. I merely said that the Ministry has made some big mistakes that could have cost people's lives."

"But you don't deny that you apparently seek danger." Scrimgeour smiled.

"That's a matter of opinion, sir. Some things that are considered danger, I classify that as safe." Harry answered grimly.

"You're a very interesting boy, Potter. Well, sadly, I have to go. I have some people to meet. Have a good day, gentlemen." Scrimgeour nodded, walked further and disappeared round a corner.

"Arrogant git." Harry mumbled with a dark look in his eyes.

"Harry…" Remus sighed, but was secretly pleased that Harry had defended him. It was ridiculous that a teenager had to defend an adult, he knew that, but he couldn't help the warm feeling spreading through his body that let him know he was cared for.

"What? It's true! You've heard him: only people without problems are worthy of a job. I'm sick of that! Who cares if you're not completely human, as long as you're no danger to other people?" Harry crossed his arms.

"Harry, lycanthropy isn't exactly a little problem." Remus smiled sadly.

"To me it is. I've known you for almost four years, Remus, I think I would know by now if you're really dangerous. You've just got a – a little problem." Harry said, waving his hand impatiently.

"I nearly ripped you to pieces in your third year, Harry." Remus replied softly, still haunted by that memory. He had nearly killed his best friend's son, because he was so stupid to put him in danger.

Harry snorted. "And they say I've a guilt complex. Gee, wonder where I got that from." He mumbled under his breath. Then he said louder, "Nearly. But your didn't. It wasn't your fault, Remus."

"But…" Remus started.

"Don't you dare to finish that sentence, Remus Lupin! After all those years, I know perfectly well who's a danger to me or other people and you're not on the list. If you continue to be so pessimistic, I will make sure you regret that pessimism." Harry threatened.

"And how are you going to do that?" Remus asked amused. "You should know not to threaten a Marauder, cub."

Harry smiled wolfishly. "Moony, Moony, you should know better than to underestimate the son and godson of the Marauders." The gleam in his eyes wasn't angelic to say at least.

Marauders, what is that?, Draco thought and made a mental note to ask Harry about that later.

Remus gulped and felt slightly afraid. Harry had the same gleam in his eyes like James had had whenever he came up with something truly devilish. "Euhm, what do you mean?"

The wolfish grin made place for a sweet angelic smile, complete with innocent wide eyes. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Harry." Remus began to panic.

"Remus." Harry grinned.

"I'm doomed, aren't I?" Remus groaned.

"That's a matter of opinion." Harry replied smiling.

"You have always a way to make you popular by the Ministry, don't you Harry?" Draco grinned.

"Absolutely. I always want to be popular by the Ministry. Who knows, maybe it could help me when I get in trouble. God knows, I get in trouble easily." Harry replied dryly. "That reminds me: has Dumbledore found a new candidate for DADA, professor Snape?"

Snape looked for a moment surprised, but then looked indifferent. "As far as I know, no. Why?" He looked suspicious. "What are you planning, Potter?"

"Why do you think I'm planning something, sir?" Harry asked innocently. "That said, how could I possibly planning something that includes the DADA post? Don't you trust me?"

"Well…"

"Never mind," Harry said hastily. "I don't want to know."

"Anyway, we must go on. We have someone to free." Lucius said smiling.

Padfoot barked and wagged his tail.

"Yes, Snuffles gets impatient." Harry smiled.

"Snuffles?" Draco asked curiously.

"Weird story. I tell you later." Harry answered.

Draco nodded and again made a mental note to remember Harry to tell this story.

Harry looked at the telephone box that would transport them into the Ministry. "How are we going to the Ministry? That cell is too small to fit us all."

"We enlarge it, of course." Lucius answered calmly.

"Of course." Harry mumbled.

Lucius took out his wand, tapped on the telephone box and mumbled, "Dilatate."

They all stepped into the enlarged cell and a woman's voice said, "Welcome to the Ministry of Magic. Please state your name and business."

"Lucius Malfoy, Draco Malfoy, Severus Snape, Remus Lupin and Harry Potter. We've come for a trial." Lucius answered.

Harry had the uneasy feeling of a double déjà-vu and he wondered why there had been always a negative cause for a visit to the Ministry.

"Thank you. Visitors, please take the badges and attach it to the front of your robes." The woman said coolly.

There was a click and a rattle and Harry picked up the silver badge. 'Harry Potter, Trial' was written on the badge.

The woman spoke again. "Visitors to the Ministry, you are required to submit to a search and present your wand for registration at the security desk, which is located at the far end of the Atrium."

The floor shuddered and then they were sinking slowly into the ground.

Harry looked at his badge. "I'm going to begin a collection with these badges. This is the third one already."

Remus looked puzzled. "The third one? You have one from your hearing and now, where did you get the third one?"

Harry put the badge in his pocket. "A few weeks ago. Then it stated 'Rescue Mission'."

"You haven't had exactly good experiences with the Ministry, have you Harry?" Lucius mused.

"Nope, not really." Harry replied shortly.

Lucius wanted to say something, but at that moment, they stopped moving and as expected, the woman's voice said, "The Ministry of Magic wishes you a pleasant day." The door sprang open and they all stepped out of it. They joined the crowd and walked past the fountain, which was repaired again after the incident in June. Some of the people stared at the group and whispered. Harry, who was beginning to feel uncomfortable, held onto Padfoot's neck.

They walked past Eric, the security wizard and into the lift. Snape pushed a button and the lift began to move, while a woman's voice was calling the names of the different departments.

When the voice called: "Department of Magical Law Enforcement.", the group stepped out of the lift.

"First, we will speak to Madam Bones. She will be prepared to listen to us." Lucius said and the group followed him down the hall.

They stopped before a door with the name 'Amelia Bones' written on it.

"Ready?" Lucius asked and when they nodded, he knocked on the door.

Draco, who stood next to Harry, saw that Harry went pale and decided to calm his new friend.

"Hey, calm down. Everything will be all right, you'll see. There's no way that your godfather will be sent to prison again. Father won't let them." He whispered in Harry's ear.

Harry shivered a bit when he felt the hot breath in his ear and smiled gratefully. "Thanks."

"No problem." Draco smiled back.

The door went open and Madam Bones stood in the opening.

"Mister Malfoy, good afternoon. What can I do for…" She broke the sentence off when she saw Harry. She frowned her eyebrows and said, "Mister Potter, please don't tell me you've gotten another hearing."

Harry answered scandalized, while the other men chuckled, "Of course not! I haven't broken any rules this summer."

Madam Bones sighed relieved. "Oh, good. I thought for a moment… Well, that doesn't matter. Come in and tell me the reason for your visit."

The door closed behind the group and Madam Bones conjured enough seats for them to sit. Harry sat between Remus and Draco. Next to Draco sat Lucius and next to him Snape. Padfoot sat before Harry. Madam Bones sat behind her desk.

"Good, who's going to tell me the reason of your visit?" Madam Bones asked.

"I will." Lucius replied. "A week ago, I was looking at some old cases, when I found the one of Sirius Black. It didn't escape my notice that he hadn't had a real trial and I wondered if we could remedy that."

"But he has already been found guilty. There was enough evidence to accuse him of the Potter's betrayal and Pettigrew's murder and those thirteen Muggles." Madam Bones said with a frown. "Besides he's still on the run. How would you give him a trial? And then there's the fact that all the witnesses are dead. I'm sorry, but I can't help you."

"You have witnesses. I know people who can prove Black innocent." Lucius said calmly.

"Who then?" She asked curiously.

Before Lucius could reply, Harry answered, "Remus Lupin, Albus Dumbledore, Peter Pettigrew, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, the Malfoys and I. Those are the most important ones."

Bones looked at him. "Peter Pettigrew is dead, Mister Potter. Surely you know that. And why would you defend mister Black?"

"Pettigrew isn't dead. I saw him with my own eyes third and in my fourth year. He's the Death Eater who has helped Voldemort getting resurrected again. I have memories – and a scar – to prove this. And as for your question: I don't like it when my family is accused of something that they would never do. I know from experience how awful and frustrating that is." Harry answered stiffly. "I want to be able to spend time with my family without the worry that they could be arrested any moment for a crime they didn't commit."

Madam Bones looked puzzled. "What do you mean, Pettigrew isn't dead? Hang on, family? Mister Black isn't family of yours, Mister Potter."

Padfoot growled and Harry answered, "Pettigrew is alive, Madam Bones. And Sirius is most certainly my family, along with Remus Lupin. He was a friend of my parents and he's my godfather. Those facts are enough to make him family." He dared her with his eyes to object and ignored the stares of the other men in the room when he made that confession.

Madam Bones sighed and rubbed her temples. "So, according to you, Pettigrew is still alive and Black is innocent. How do you explain the accusation then? Albus himself confessed that Black was the Secretkeeper of the Potters."

"We can explain the misunderstanding when Sirius is given a trial." Harry said stubbornly. "You are going to give him a fair trial where he can defend himself, aren't you?" His green eyes narrowed dangerously.

That boy is something else, Lucius mused silently. Yes, he's a very interesting boy.

"Well, it's unusual, but I think it's fair, considered the fact that he hadn't had any and if you have evidence, then I will give him one. But, he's on the run. How are you going to solve that?" Bones asked.

Harry smiled shark – like. "That's not a problem, Madam Bones. I know where Sirius is. But before I'll tell you, you have to give me your word that Sirius will get a fair trial and that he won't be immediately send to Azkaban."

"Very well, I'll give you my word, mister Potter." She said calmly.

Harry looked at Remus and when he nodded, he bowed to the dog before him and said softly, "Time to turn back, Padfoot."

Immediately, the dog disappeared and Sirius appeared again.

Madam Bones looked baffled and her mouth hung open.

Sirius grinned. "Hello Amelia. Good to see you again."

"Sirius Black! How in the world… Where did you… You're absolutely unbelievable!" She cried out.

"Thank you! I hear that a lot." Sirius said grinning.

Harry rolled his eyes and stood up. "Madam Bones? Can you manage to give him a trial now? It's rather urgent."

"Yes, yes, of course. I'll let everyone know where they must go to. Who will be the witnesses for the defense?" Bones asked while she scribbled something on various papers. With a quick spell, she sent them flying out the door.

"Remus and I." Harry answered. He looked at Remus. "If that's okay with you, of course."

"I don't have a problem with that." Remus smiled.

Sirius closed them both in his arms and hugged them. "My best friend and my godson are going to defend me. I'm touched." He sniffled.

"Sirius, please let me and Harry go. You're suffocating us." Remus said in a strained voice.

"Oh, all right."

Both Remus and Harry sighed in relief and rubbed over their ribs.

"Don't you have to inform Albus too? He could be an enormous help too." Madam Bones suggested.

"No. he doesn't have to be here. I mean, at the moment he's very busy and besides he doesn't know the whole story. He wasn't there when we saw Pettigrew, so he doesn't have the most important memories." Harry explained with a blank face.

"Well, if you're sure you're ready, follow me then." Madam Bones led the way to the room where the trial would be held. Already, there were many wizards and witches present, who held their breaths for a moment when they saw Sirius and then began to chat.

Harry rolled his eyes when he heard some of the comments.

"Oh, dear lord, it is Sirius Black!"

"Oh my, even now he looks handsome."

"Sweet Merlin, did you hear this? Harry Potter will defend Sirius Black! Does this mean that Black is truly innocent?"

"Well, there's a big chance he is. I mean, Harry Potter wouldn't defend someone who's truly guilty."

"O yes, you're right!"

Harry smirked and tapped Sirius' shoulder. "They already think you are innocent because I'm going to defend you."

Sirius grinned. "Seriously?"

Harry nodded. "Yes, I think this is one of the perks of having a famous godson. Who knew my fame would get someone out of prison?" He grinned.

"Don't get cocky, you brat." Sirius laughed and ruffled through the unruly hair.

"Hey! Stop that!" Harry complained and tried to flatten his hair back. "I'll still have to defend you and I like to look presentable."

"You could never look presentable with that hair of yours." Draco teased.

"Why, thank you, Draco. I feel so much better now." Harry said dryly.

"It's nothing." Draco grinned.

"All right, everyone, but Potter, Lupin and Black, go to the seats on the right. You can wait there and watch the trial. You three, follow me." Madam Bones led the three men to the middle of the room. "You, Mister Black, go sit in the chair. Mister Potter and Mister Lupin, you go and sit on the bench on your left. When you are called, you will go to the chair in the front to answer the questions. Understood?" She asked sternly.

Remus nodded and Harry mumbled, "Yes, ma'am." They went to sit on the bench. Remus looked nervous while Harry looked calm.

"Calm down, Remus, it wouldn't do any good to Sirius if you start hyperventilating." Harry said chuckling.

"How could you be so calm? If it doesn't work, Sirius will be send to Azkaban again and he won't survive it for a second time!" Remus replied sharply.

"Again, calm down. He won't go to Azkaban. We know the truth and soon the others too. Besides," here Harry grinned cheekily, "they won't dare to question me, the famous Harry Potter."

Remus shook his head, but smiled. "You cheeky brat. Don't you have any shame?"

"That disappeared when I began to spend time with Sirius." Harry replied dryly.

Remus opened his mouth, thought about something, and shut it again. "Yes, Sirius has that effect."

Harry wanted to answer, but he was interrupted by Madam Bones' voice who declared the case open. A man with blond hair walked to Sirius and dropped a few drops of a clear liquid into his mouth. Harry realized that this liquid was probably Veritaserum, but just to be safe he had his wand in hand – reach.

Madam Bones began with the questioning.

"What's your name?"

"Sirius Orion Black."

"How old are you?"

"Thirty – seven."

A man nodded – apparently the Veritaserum worked.

"Good, were you the Secretkeeper of the Potters?" Bones continued.

"No, I wasn't. James and I decided that I was the most obvious choice and we thought Voldemort would go after me, so I switched roles with Peter Pettigrew." Sirius answered with the blank face everyone got when subjected to Veritaserum.

"Tell us what happened on October thirty – one of 1981."

"I went to check on Pettigrew, because I had a bad feeling. When I arrived at the house, Pettigrew wasn't there. There weren't any signs of a struggle, I panicked and flew on my motorcycle to the house of the Potters. I arrived there, and saw the house in ruins and I – I saw James and Lily on the floor, dead. When I didn't saw Harry, I feared the worst, but then I heard crying and I saw Harry laying in his crib. I picked him up and wanted to take him to Remus."

"Why to Remus? You're his godfather, why didn't you take care of him?" A man asked.

"I wanted to take care of him – I still do – but I wanted to take care of Pettigrew first, so I wanted to leave Harry with Remus. I knew Remus would take good care of Harry."

"So, you wanted to kill Pettigrew."

"Yes."

"Did you kill him?"

"No."

"What happened when you had cornered Pettigrew?"

"I wanted to hurt him, to kill him because it's his fault James and Lily died, but then I thought that killing him wasn't sufficient enough. I realized sending him to Azkaban would be torture enough, so I wanted to overpower him. But before I could do something, he shouted loudly that I had killed James and Lily, chopped his finger off, blasted up the street and turned into a rat and fled into the sewers."

"Wait, into a rat? How could he have turned into a rat?" Madam Bones asked bewildered.

Harry groaned – this wouldn't go over well.

"He's an Animagus. His form's a rat."

"When did he became an Animagus?"

"In school."

"Why isn't he registered?"

"How should I know?"

"Hm. Anyway, back to that night. What happened after you heard Harry Potter crying?" Madam Bones asked.

Harry mumbled, "Why do I suddenly feel embarrassed?"

Remus chuckled quietly, but didn't say anything.

"I picked him up and wanted to fly with him to Remus, but Hagrid intercepted me. Dumbledore had ordered him to bring Harry to him. At first, I argued and said I was going to raise Harry, but Hagrid didn't listen. In the end, I gave Harry to him and lent him my motor, so he could safely transport Harry to Dumbledore."

"How did you escape Azkaban?"

Oh, bloody hell, Harry thought. How are we going to explain this?

"I turned into my dog form and escaped through the bars. Dementors can't feel animals very well, so they didn't noticed it when I turned into a dog." Sirius answered monotone.

"So, you too are an Animagus." Madam Bones said surprised.

"Yes."

"And you're not registered."

"No."

"Why not?"

Sirius shrugged. "Didn't have the time to do it. There was a war raging and when Voldemort wants to kill your best friends and their son, you forget the little things like registering yourself."

"Hmm. Good, Mister Black, we want your memories of October thirty – one 1981 and when you last saw Pettigrew." Bones nodded to a man, dressed in blue robes and the man walked to Sirius, grabbed his arm and led him to a chair in the right corner. There, they proceeded to collect the memories.

"We ask the first witness of defense, Remus Lupin." Madam Bones said.

Remus sighed, but after an encouraging nod from Harry, he stood up and walked to the chair. Instead of Veritaserum, he had to swear with his wand – hand on a book that he would tell the truth. After he had said that, the book went blue for a moment and then went back to normal.

"You are Remus John Lupin, correct?" Madam Bones began with her questions.

"Yes."

"How old are you?"

"Thirty – seven."

"Where did you meet Sirius Black?"

"In our first year on Hogwarts."

"You were friends with him, since then?"

"Yes, along with James Potter and Peter Pettigrew."

"Were you aware that he was an Animagus?"

Remus gulped, but nodded. "Yes, I was aware."

"Do you know why he and Pettigrew became Animagi?"

Remus sighed, but reluctantly answered, "Yes. Sirius, James and Pettigrew became Animagi, so they could help me."

"James Potter was also an Animagus?"

"Yes."

"Huh, very well. Why did they have to become Animagi in order to help you?"

"I'm a werewolf. They kept me company, so I wouldn't become crazy."

Madam Bones blinked and looked surprised. "Well, this is unexpected. Did Mister Black spoke the truth when he said that Pettigrew is still alive?" She continued her questions.

"Yes, I saw Pettigrew myself, two years ago."

"Very well. Mister Lupin, please follow Mister Greenriver to the other room and leave your memories in the Pensive."

Remus nodded and followed the appointed man to a room behind the desk where Madam Bones was sitting.

"We call the last defense, Harry Potter."

An excited murmur rose up behind Madam Bones and some wizards and witches (mostly witches) leaned forward to take a good look at him when he went to sit on the chair.

You would think they never saw a teenager before, Harry thought sarcastically. He recognized some people from his own hearing and had a difficult time to hide his disgust.

A year ago, they couldn't care less about what happened to me. To them I was an arrogant crazy boy and now they're all eager to see me, Harry thought disgusted and irritated.

Just like Remus, he had to swear he would tell the truth.

"You are Harry James Potter, correct?"

Harry nodded. "Yes."

"How old are you?"

Harry refrained from rolling his eyes. "Fifteen."

"What is your relationship with mister Black?"

"He's my godfather."

"When have you met him again?"

"Again?" Harry asked confused.

"After his stay in Azkaban." Madam Bones clarified.

"Oh. In my third year."

"Were you aware of the fact that he was accused of betrayal and murder?"

Harry's eyes darkened slightly. "Yes."

"Then why did you go after him?" A woman, dressed in dark green, asked confused.

Now Harry couldn't restrain himself and he rolled his eyes. "I didn't go after him. He dragged a friend of mine under a tree to the Shrieking Shack and I went to get my friend back."

"Did you believe Mister Black was a murderer?"

"Yes." Harry said without hesitating.

In the left corner Sirius, who was again sober because the Veritaserum had disappeared from his bloodstream, flinched. To hear his godson so bluntly say that he had believed Sirius was a murderer, was – well, it hurt.

"If you believe he's a murderer, then why are you acting as his defense?"

Harry's eyes flashed. "Because I know he's innocent. I don't believe he's a murderer now."

"How do you know that?"

"Because he told me the truth and I saw Pettigrew. He was the former pet rat of my friend. That's why Sirius wanted to go to Hogwarts."

"But Pettigrew escaped." Madam Bones said. "How?"

"It was the full moon and Remus turned into a werewolf. Sirius turned into his dog form to make sure he could direct Remus' attention to himself. Pettigrew saw his chance and ran away in his rat form. In my fourth year, I saw him back on a graveyard. He was the one who helped with the resurrection of Voldemort." Various wizards and witches gasped and flinched when they heard the name.

"Did you know that mister Lupin was a werewolf in your third year?" A woman in the back suddenly asked.

Is this relevant?, Harry thought, but answered, "Yes."

"Don't you have a problem with that?" The same woman asked again, slightly put out with Harry's answer.

"No, why should I?" Harry asked and tensed.

"Because he's a werewolf! He's a Dark and dangerous specie! Surely, you know that!" The woman asked shocked.

"That's bullshit! First of all, he's a human, not a specie! Second of all, he's not Dark! And last of all: he isn't dangerous! For the love of… Remus is as dangerous as I am, so if you're going to imply I'm dangerous…" Harry didn't finish that sentence, but it had its effect.

The woman paled and stuttered an apology.

Harry pressed his lips in a thin line. "Are there any more questions?"

Madam Bones shook her head. "No, the questions are over. You can leave your memories of your third and fourth year with Mister Greenriver. You can wait with Mister Lupin in that room, while we will further debate."

Harry nodded and stood up. He followed Mister Greenriver to the mentioned room and smiled encouragely at his godfather and Sirius smiled weakly back.

The door behind him closed. He was in a small room. It was just big enough for a table and four chairs and a small round table on which a Pensive stood.

"Do you know how a Pensive works?" Greenriver asked and his brown eyes glanced for a moment at Harry's scar.

"Yes." Harry nodded and took his wand. He brought up the memory of what happened at the end of his third year, held his wand on his temple and took out the memory and dropped it in the Pensive. The same happened with the memory at the end of his fourth year.

Greenriver nodded and took the Pensive in his hands. Without a look back, he exited the room and left the two men behind.

"Well, let's sit down while we have to wait." Harry suggested.

They sat down in silence.

Harry was just studying the room when Remus broke the silence.

"You know, you didn't have to defend me." He muttered, refusing to look at Harry.

"Why wouldn't I?" Harry asked surprised.

"Because it could get you in trouble!" Remus answered and crossed his arms. He still couldn't believe Harry stood up for him. In a courtroom. This was just unbelievable.

"So?" Harry's voice broke his musings.

Remus blinked. "So?"

"Yes, so? I don't care if I get in trouble. What can they possibly do? It's not like I attacked them while defending you." Harry scoffed.

"No, but not many people stand up for a werewolf. I think some would like to know why their 'Chosen One' is defending a werewolf." Remus smiled wryly.

Harry looked annoyed. "You're a human being, Remus, not just a werewolf. I don't care if they want to know why I was defending you. It's their problem if they don't understand my reason." He scowled and crossed his arms.

Curiosity got the better hand of Remus and he asked, "What was your reason?"

Harry looked surprised. "Because you're family, of course."

Remus opened his mouth, closed it, opened it again, closed it again and settled for blinking. He didn't know how to react and blushed, a little embarrassed. Trust Harry to say something so blunt, as if it was the most obvious fact.

Harry smiled sweetly at him and turned his head to the door when Greenriver appeared in the doorway.

"You may follow me." The man spoke with a neutral voice.

Harry and Remus stood up and followed Greenriver to the courtroom. He guided them to the bench where they had sat before.

"After watching the various memories, we have reached a decision." Madam Bones said.

Harry took a deep breath to calm down; this was it, now they would know if Sirius was finally a free man or if he still would be convicted. Next to him, he felt Remus tensing. After a moment of hesitating, he took Remus' hand and squeezed it gently. The older man looked at him startled, but smiled.

"All who think Sirius Black is guilty of betraying the Potters, raise your hand." Madam Bones said.

Only two raised their hands.

"All who think Sirius Black is guilty of murdering Peter Pettigrew, raise your hand."

Nobody raised his hand.

Harry's heart began to beat wildly. Could this mean that Sirius…

"All who think Sirius Black shouldn't be punished for being an unregistered Animagus because he was locked up innocent for twelve years, raise your hand."

Almost everyone raised their hands, including Madam Bones.

"All who think Sirius Black should be declared free from all charges, raise your hand."

One for one, their hands shot up in the air. Sirius was dumbfounded; did this mean that he was… free?

"That settles it. Sirius Black, by the power of this court, I declare you free from all charges!" Madam Bones smiled. Sirius cried out from joy. "And, we hereby give you all your possessions back, your Auror license and we give you the custody of Harry James Potter!"

"Hell yes!" Sirius shouted and he jumped up. The room went from silent to loud chatter. The wizards and witches began to chatter and they disappeared one for one through the two doors.

Madam Bones smiled and gave Sirius an official looking document.

"Please, Black, don't let me regret my decision of giving custody to you. Don't mess it up!" She warned him.

Sirius looked insulted. "Of course not! How in the world would I mess it up?"

"Don't get me started." She sighed.

"Hey!"

She clapped his shoulder. "Good luck, Black and don't let me see you on this courtside ever again."

He grinned, his eyes lighting up. "You won't."

She smiled and walked away.

Sirius had just tucked the document away in his pocket, when he had suddenly his arms full with his godson. For a moment he stood there surprised, but then he smiled and he hugged back.

"I couldn't hold him back anymore." The voice of Remus sounded.

Sirius looked up at him and smiled. "Apparently. Now, why don't you come and give me a hug too?"

Remus shook his head, but hugged Sirius after Harry had let go.

"What was that document that Madam Bones gave you?" Harry asked curiously.

"That was the custody papers, pup. I have officially the custody over you now." Sirius explained and let Remus go.

Bright green eyes were shining at him now. "You have? That's fantastic! Does this mean I can come and live with you now?" Harry asked excitedly.

"Of course, I wouldn't have it another way." Sirius replied and again he had Harry in his arms. "Besides, it's time we teach you more about the Marauders. James will have my head if he knows his son doesn't know how to trick somebody." The three men laughed.

"Isn't this cute? The wolf, the mutt and the mini-mutt, altogether. Dear God, I think I'm going to be sick." Snape sneered.

Harry looked up from the hug and saw Draco, Lucius and Snape standing next to him.

"Then it's a good thing you have potions with you, isn't it, sir?" Harry asked innocently.

"Why, you little…"

Lucius interrupted him hastily. "Well, now that Sirius is free, we can go on to Gringotts. We still have much to do. Come on." The six men left the room and continued to walk away. Outside the Ministry, they apparated again. This time Harry knew what to expect – not that this made it easier.

AN2: ... Hm, I had forgotten that Harry was quite OOC in the first couple of chapters ^^; I'm so sorry about the OOCness *sweatdrops* I swear it will be better later on! And I apologize if it seems rushed. It has been more than two years since I last read this chapter, so yeah ^^; *hangs head in shame*

So, aside from the OOCness, what did you think of it? I had forgotten how long this chapter was ^^; Hopefully it wasn't too boring *crosses fingers*

See you all next week!

Love and cuddles

Melissa

P.S. The updating schedule and other information about my stories is now available on my profile. If you have any questions about any of my stories, feel free to either give me your email address in a review or send one to melissa dot dejonge at yahoo dot com
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All is fair in the game called love