A/N: Sorry for the delay, work kept me a little too busy over the last few weeks, I'll try to post a little more frequently moving forward
Walking into her solar, Augusta Longbottom prepared herself for a long day ahead. Her days were filled with cousin Harfang's daily updates on the Longbottom fields and his new list of issues which he would need her opinion on, Callidora's updates from her network of gossiping ladies, and more importantly, getting news on what the Traditional side is getting agitated over, getting reports on Neville's progress from his tutors, and maintaining the present relationships of House Longbottom and their allies.
She generally had her hands full most days. But today, as she sat down on her desk and began going over her letters, she found a pleasant change from her normal day. A new letter, with the Potter seal. Flipping it over, she observed that it was a new hand, so definitely not someone she knew.
Considering how badly House Potter had been revealed to have been handled, she's pleased that the much-needed changes haven't been delayed over long. Opening the letter, she read,
Dear Lady Longbottom,
My name is Harry Potter, and I am writing to formally introduce myself. I have recently begun my education pertaining to my lordship and have become aware of the deep and long-standing friendship between our families, and I would like to continue our alliance.
I have also recently found out that Heir Longbottom is my godbrother and I would like to meet with and get to know him. With the two of us becoming friends, we will be able to continue the friendship between our houses well into the future.
I would like to arrange for a meet-up between me and Neville, and if possible, the other children of the great alliance.
I would also like to understand the stance and the current standing of the alliance because all I have learnt about it has been from my grandparents' portraits who aren't very informed of the current happenings of the wizarding world. My current tutor Andromeda Tonks has been teaching me about the wizengamot and the politics of the wizarding world but she suggested asking about the great alliance from you because she has never been taught about the inner workings of it.
Sincerely,
Heir Harry Potter
Ancient and Noble House of Potter
Reading through the letter, she was pleasantly surprised to see young Harry taking part in the workings of his house, which already made it a much needed improvement in her opinion. Understanding the intent behind the letter, she realised that it lines up pretty well with introducing the younger generation, as most of them would be introduced to the alliance around this time.
Given that Heir Potter himself doesn't have anyone to introduce him to all the details of the alliance, having a gathering for the newer generation to introduce the Great Alliance would be for the best.
'Although' Augusta paused with a frown, thinking of the other name mentioned, trying to suppress her anger. 'It shouldn't matter. Andromeda Tonks is not her sister, and had broken off from her family long before. Perhaps, I should let young Neville know about it. It might colour his impression of young Harry though.'
Resolving to think about it, Augusta decides to take some more time to think on this topic. Meanwhile, she pulls out her quill, ready to write a response to Heir Potter, and to ink down correspondence to the other houses of the Great Alliance. After all, the relationships need to be maintained.
{POV End}
A few days later, the reply from the Longbottoms arrived
Dear Heir Potter,
I was very pleased to receive your letter and commend you for taking the initiative to introduce yourself and reach out to those who share your dedication to upholding our traditions and alliances. The Longbottom family holds the Potters in the highest regard, and it warms my heart to see that you are committed to continuing the deep and long-standing friendship between our families.
Indeed, Neville is your godbrother, and I am certain that the two of you will form a strong bond, much like the one between your parents. The idea of arranging a gathering with Neville and the other children of the Great Alliance is an excellent one. It is crucial that the next generation of our families understands the significance of our alliance and the principles upon which it was founded.
Regarding the Great Alliance, I would be delighted to introduce you to its philosophy and history. The alliance was established by our ancestors, including your grandparents, as a means to ensure the protection and prosperity of the Wizarding world through mutual support and cooperation. Although the times have changed, the core values of the Great Alliance have remained largely the same, progression through tradition.
I propose that we host this gathering at Longbottom Manor. It will provide an ideal setting for you and the other heirs to meet, get to know one another, and learn about the Great Alliance from those of us who have witnessed its evolution over the years. We can also discuss the current standing of the alliance and explore ways in which our families can support one another in these challenging times.
I understand that your tutor, Andromeda Tonks, has been guiding you in your education. While I am aware that Andromeda's sister was involved in the tragic events that led to the incapacitation of my son and his wife, I want to assure you that I hold no ill will toward Andromeda. She was a friend to your parents, and by extension, to my son and his wife as well. Her decision to distance herself from her family's dark affiliations speaks volumes about her character, and I am confident that she is providing you with excellent guidance.
Please let me know a time that would be convenient for you, and I will make the necessary arrangements for the gathering. I look forward to meeting you in person and discussing how we can continue to uphold the legacy of our families.
Warm regards,
Augusta Longbottom
Lady Regent of the Ancient and Noble House of Longbottom
Later that evening, Harry sat with Andromeda in the cosy drawing room of their home.
"Andromeda, I'm a bit nervous about the gathering," Harry admitted, fiddling with the edge of his robe.
Andromeda smiled gently. "It's perfectly normal to feel that way, Harry. These families are your allies, and they are just as eager to meet you as you are to meet them."
"But what if I say something wrong? Or do something wrong?" Harry asked, his brow furrowing in concern.
"That's what we're here to work on," Andromeda said reassuringly. "First, let's go over how to address them. When you meet Lord and Lady Greengrass, you should address them as 'Lord Greengrass' and 'Lady Greengrass', for Daphne Greengrass you should use 'Heiress Greengrass'. For the Longbottoms, it's 'Lady Longbottom' and 'Heir Longbottom' for Neville. For the Bones family, 'Madam Bones' will suffice, and for Susan, you can call her Heiress Bones. After the introductions you can choose to have them simply call you Harry in informal settings, and reciprocate with their first name if you are given permission. Remember to always use the formal form of address on any important occasion "
Harry nodded, trying to absorb the information. "And what should I talk about?"
"Start with polite greetings and express your gratitude for meeting them. Show genuine interest in them by asking about their family and their work. Remember, these families have been through a lot, just like you. Finding common ground will help you connect with them," Andromeda advised.
Harry took a deep breath. "Okay, I think I can do that."
Andromeda smiled proudly. "I know you can, Harry. And remember, these meetings are about building alliances. These families will be your friends and supporters. Treat them with respect and kindness, and they'll do the same."
The day of the gathering arrived, and Harry, dressed in his best robes, stood at the entrance of Longbottom Manor. Andromeda's words echoed in his mind as he prepared himself for the important day ahead.
"Remember, Harry, you're not alone in this. We're all in this together," Andromeda said, giving him a reassuring pat on the back.
With a deep breath, Harry stepped inside, ready to meet his allies and forge the bonds that would help shape his future.
As they entered the grand foyer of Longbottom Manor, they were greeted by a tall woman wearing a scary looking stuffed vulture hat and next to her stood a chubby boy with a slightly nervous smile.
"Welcome, Heir Potter, Mrs Tonks" Lady Longbottom said with a warm smile. "We are delighted to have you here."
"Thank you for hosting us, Lady Longbottom," Harry replied respectfully.
He looked at Neville Longbottom, who gave him a friendly bow and said "Heir Longbottom, it is a pleasure to meet you."
"Heir Potter, it's nice to meet you too" Neville said, approaching him.
"Please call me Harry, I'm not still very used to this Heir thing" Harry said, looking slightly uncomfortable with all the formality
"Just call me Neville," he said with a grin. "Come on, let me introduce you to everyone."
Neville led Harry to the drawing room where the Greengrasses and Bones were gathered. Lord and Lady Greengrass stood with their daughter, Daphne, and Madam Bones with her niece, Susan.
"Lord Greengrass, Lady Greengrass, Madam Bones," Harry greeted each of them, his voice steady despite his nerves.
"Heir Potter, it's a pleasure to finally meet you," Lord Greengrass said, shaking his hand firmly.
Madam Bones nodded. "We are honoured to be here today."
Harry smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. "Thank you all for coming. It means a lot to me."
After all the members of the Great Alliance have gathered, Augusta rises from her seat and gains their attention. "Everyone, gather around, please. I know all of the children are eager to go out and play games with each other, and the adults want to discuss their own business. But before that, I believe it is time to introduce all of the children present to the Alliance to which their parents are a part, and why it's important. Please, follow me."
Leading her guests to a large, ornately carved table, Augusta gestures for everyone to take their places. The adults gather on one side, with the children seated on the other. With Augusta at the centre, she begins to speak.
"As you all know, we are here today not just as individual families, but as part of something greater—the Great Alliance. This alliance was formed many generations ago, by families who understood the importance of unity, strength, and mutual support in the face of adversity, they came together to ensure that our world would continue to thrive, no matter what challenges we faced.
"Let me begin by introducing the Houses present here today. The Ancient and Noble House of Potter, represented by young Heir Harry Potter, has long been known for its commitment to justice, bravery, and loyalty. The Potters were among the founding members of the Great Alliance, and their contributions have been invaluable in shaping the alliance's philosophy of progression through tradition.
"The Ancient and Noble House of Longbottom, represented by my grandson, Heir Neville Longbottom, has always been a pillar of strength and resilience. The Longbottoms joined the alliance because we believe in the importance of standing together, supporting one another, and ensuring that our traditions are passed down to the next generation.
"The Ancient and Noble House of Greengrass, represented by Heir Daphne Greengrass, has a long history of wisdom and diplomacy. The Greengrasses joined the Great Alliance to contribute their knowledge and experience in guiding the wizarding world through times of change while preserving the traditions that make our world unique.
"And finally, the Ancient and Noble House of Bones, represented by Heir Susan Bones, is known for its dedication to law, order, and the protection of the innocent. The Bones family has always stood for fairness and equality, and their commitment to these principles has been a cornerstone of the Great Alliance.
These are the only major families still with us, the war and its repercussions have reduced the strength and political might of the alliance. House Mckinnon, one of the founding members was entirely wiped out in the last war by Voldemort and his death eaters, their death rocked the alliance badly as it was the first open move against anybody in our coalition, attacks followed on all of us with our houses down to almost the last few people. Houses like Macmillan and Smith were members a few years ago but over the years they've drifted to Albus Dumbledore's side.
The Great Alliance, it was formed during the days of the Statute, when the wizards decided to separate completely from the non-magical world. There were many who didn't want it to pass, who had various vested interests who vehemently opposed such a change, said that there was no need for it, called it cowardly, they were even willing to wage a war to that effect.
The Great Alliance was formed in response to that, advocating our own viewpoint as well as protecting others from those willing to descend into violence. The Alliance believed in the values of the Wizarding families and believed that the perceived lack of magic in the non-magical world had meant that they didn't value magic, and it's effects, considering it hearsay and mummery. Although magic was an undeniable fact for the wizards and witches, and denying magic would be offensive to most, they chose not to blame those who couldn't perceive magic as we believed that everyone is entitled to their own beliefs.
The Great Alliance decided that the separation would neatly resolve these issues, separating those with the belief in magic and those who didn't. This way, with no interference from either sides, both the ideologies can stand up and bear the test of times themselves. Over time, the families of the Great Alliance dwindled, either falling in numbers, debt or choosing to go their own way.
"The goals of the Great Alliance are simple yet profound: to ensure the continued prosperity of the wizarding world by embracing progress without losing sight of our history and traditions. We believe that by working together, we can create a world where everyone—pure-blood, half-blood, and Muggle-born alike—can thrive. This is why the alliance was formed, and it is why it continues to be relevant today."
Augusta pauses, letting her words sink in before continuing. "I want all of you children to keep what we've discussed in mind. You are the future of this alliance, and it is up to you to carry forward the values and principles that your ancestors held dear. You will all swear an oath upon joining the alliance once you've turned eleven and can carry a wand, but that is something for you to worry about later. Now, off you go, play around and get to know each other, and I hope you enjoy your time here."
With that, the children are excused, and they eagerly head outside to explore the vast grounds of Longbottom Manor. The adults remain at the table, ready to discuss matters of importance, knowing that the future of the Great Alliance is in good hands.
Harry found himself seated between Neville and Daphne Greengrass,
As they began to talk, conversations flowed easily. Harry listened attentively, contributing when he could, and following Andromeda's advice to show genuine interest in his companions.
"Harry, have you started on your tutoring of Herbology?" Neville asked, eager to engage him in a topic he was passionate about.
"A bit," Harry replied. "I admit to it not being the subject that I've spent a lot of time on and even then the only time I've spent on the grounds outside the house since moving to Potter Hall has been on the quidditch pitch, learning how to fly a broom. It is one of my favourite things about the wizarding world"
Neville looked a little green at that "I don't like the idea of being on a broom and somehow losing control"
Daphne chimed in "If you are uncomfortable on a broom, you should try a flying carpet, my family rented one when we were on vacation in Asia, we even had picnics up in the air, it was very comfortable and stable"
Harry's eyes grew wide "Flying carpets? Like in Aladdin?"
At Daphne's puzzled look, he continued "It is a muggle children's story, where the main character has a friendly magic carpet on which he can fly"
"Oh, that explains things" Daphne nodded and said "Anyways, I asked my father if he could buy one for me for home, he said flying carpets are banned in Britain because of some old law that was passed through the wizengamot, when I asked him why, he said that the conservatives had banned it when whispers of muggle tales started spreading about magic carpets and they did not want there to be any association with anything mentioned in the muggle world"
Harry paused, considering his answer. "I think we can help overturn laws like that in the future which are made purely with the intention of suppressing a particular group of people. There's been so much damage after the last war and the different factions seem to be at each other's throats, it's going to take all of us working together to make things right."
Seeing that things were turning slightly grim, Susan quickly suggested a game of exploding snap much to the relief of Neville, who did not feel comfortable with the conversation getting this serious.
The afternoon passed quickly after that. The children played outside while the adults discussed more serious matters. Eventually, it was time for Harry and Andromeda to leave. As they were ready to call the children inside, Madame Bones quickly pulled Andromeda aside "Mrs Tonks, can I please request a meeting with Ted, I'd like to see the evidence that he has gathered till now which can be used in Sirius Black's trial, I'd like to ensure it is airtight so that the dark faction does not have any loopholes they can use to deny justice being served."
Andromeda nodded and replied. "I'll make sure he gets your message. Thank you, Madame Bones for your help with the the case"
After the children came inside and bid each other goodbye, "Thank you for having us," Harry said sincerely as he shook hands with each family member.
Augusta smiled warmly. "You're always welcome here, Harry."
The day after the gathering, Ted had another important task at hand, he was going to meet with the companies which were using Harry's name to create different products. Standing in a corridor waiting to be led to the conference room in Gringotts, Ted Tonks shuffled through his notes, going through them one last time while on the way to the meeting.
Looking deeper into the issue, he realised he had underestimated the old man's intentions behind giving the companies permission, he'd initially thought Dumbledore had just neglected the issue and had not paid much thought to it, now he could understand the game Dumbledore was playing.
It would seem all innocent on the surface, with Dumbledore playing an old man out of touch with the business world laying down simple requests without any monetary value, but which would shape the perception which the Wizarding World had about Harry.
Looking over the meeting notes and agreement between Dumbledore and Obscurus Books, showed him how the old man made them give Harry a greater role in the Dark Lord's defeat than his mother, portraying him as this young hero who would battle monsters and save maidens, he knew that no child could accomplish anything remotely close to what was being written and Harry would either crumble under the pressure of meeting those expectations or the children who grew up on those stories would be disappointed when they meet Harry and he could not live up to how those stories described him.
And that's not the end of it. Everything seems benign and well meaning on the surface but put together they point to a deeper secret where the narrative being shaped is that of Harry Potter being a Saviour of the Wizarding World.
The goblin escort grunted and led Ted down a corridor lined with tapestries depicting goblins hunting various magical creatures. They reached a pair of grand double doors, and with a nod, the goblin stepped aside. Ted took a deep breath and pushed the doors open, stepping into a a wide cosy room with a large table in the middle and with drinks and refreshments. As the host, he was the first person there of course. Moving about, he ensured all the refreshments were ready and the tables set. With that, he set himself up and waited for the representatives of the different companies.
Soon, the representatives from the various companies arrived. First was Felix Whimsington, a tall, slim man with slicked-back hair and an impeccable suit, representing Whimsington's Wondrous Toys. Felix's reputation as a smooth-talker preceded him, and his smile was as polished as his appearance. He exchanged pleasantries with Ted before moving to the refreshments.
Next came Obscurus Books' representative, Alaric Scribner, an older man with a scholarly air, dressed in deep blue robes adorned with silver embroidery. His thinning hair and the half-moon spectacles perched on his nose gave him a dignified appearance. Alaric was known for his diplomacy and careful choice of words, traits that had served him well in the publishing industry.
The last to arrive was George Flint, a burly man with a no-nonsense demeanor, representing Magical Quills & Scrolls, a lesser-known company involved in stationary but still influential. George was blunt and to the point, his gruff voice and straightforward manner in stark contrast to the others.
With everyone gathered, Ted invited them to take their seats at the large table. He took the head seat, a calculated move to assert his position. Once they were settled, Ted waved his wand, setting a Self-Writing Quill to record the meeting. "As already discussed via correspondence, the Potter estate has reviewed the agreements made with your companies and finds that an amendment to the agreements needs to be added. It is my understanding that the agreements made have not been to the advantage of the Potter estate as a whole, and can be improved upon, which is what we're here to discuss. With that, I open the table for you."
Alaric Scribner was the first to speak, his voice smooth and diplomatic. "As the representative of Obscurus Books, I understand your concerns regarding the advantages of the agreement, or lack thereof. However, I must point out that the previous agreements were made in good faith with Albus Dumbledore, who was widely known as the guardian of Harry Potter. He has, to the best of his abilities, I'm sure, looked out for the interests of young Harry. My company has no issues supporting that. We believe we have fulfilled the letter and spirit of the agreement, so we don't see the need for an amendment as such, as I'm sure the rest of my colleagues here would agree."
Felix Whimsington, ever the salesman, quickly added, "To add on to what my colleague here pointed out, I would also say that the agreements signed have been left untouched by the Potter estate for years, and it is only recently that the status quo changed. It gives the impression that the Potters are not as financially stable as they seem. I know that that's not the case, but who can stop rumors such as that from spreading? People are free to make up their own minds after all."
George Thomson leaned forward, his bluntness cutting through the diplomatic talk. "Way I see it, there's a change in Potter estate management, and you want to shake things up. Since you called us all here, you must have some plan, so let's hear it and get it over with. Because from where I'm standing, I don't see much of a reason to change the current agreement."
Ted relaxed into his seat, giving an air of calm, unruffled by their words. Smiling slightly, he decided to start laying out his trap and said, "Well, since Mr. Thomson asked, I will lay down the situation as I see it. Firstly, as I'm sure you would know if you've been following the news, Albus Dumbledore has directly gone against the last will of Lord and Lady Potter and is under a lot of scrutiny for usurping Heir Potter's guardianship. As such, all of your agreements made with Dumbledore will be under a lot of scrutiny. And seeing as many of those agreements don't even have a monetary compensation for using Harry's name, it will be used against him for being an unfit guardian, and against you for predatory practice."
"That's preposterous. All of the agreements are valid, with no coercion. We're not fools to try coercing Dumbledore," Alaric Scribner said, his tone more agitated now. Seeing this, Ted raised his hands, a calm smile on his face. "While I understand you may not see it in that light, I have read through both the meeting notes and transcript as well as the Agreement."
Taking a sip of his drink, Ted continued, "The way I see it, from the written records, Dumbledore appears to be an old man concerned with the well-being of his charge and not being well-versed with business. He agreed to forgo monetary compensation, which should have been an obvious thing to insist on for any decent businessman." Looking at Felix, he curled his lips and said, "People are free to make up their own minds after all. All it takes is a sympathetic reporter talking about businesses taking advantage of Harry Potter, and it'll sell."
George Flint, noticing the interaction, said, "Enough of the games and back talk, I'm tired of it. The agreements were made with Dumbledore, and we have fulfilled our sides of the agreement with him. Speak clearly on what you're implying."
"Very well," Tonks replied. Laying down the papers for emphasis, he said, "The agreements made by Dumbledore have no monetary compensation in return for shaping a narrative around Heir Potter that Dumbledore wanted. Now that the narrative has been established, he has no use for you anymore."
"By forgoing monetary compensation, he gave your companies a boost which helped you create more jobs, while spreading the narrative in Magical Britain, and the Wizarding World in general, that Britain has dealt with its problems regarding blood purity, and it's on the rise now, attracting business and tourists to its shores. He exported the narrative outside along with the toys and stories giving Britain time to restart its economy."
"He has already extracted all that he needed from you. If you were smart, or at least good-willed about it, you would have ensured that there was at least some monetary compensation, but you got greedy, and now that Dumbledore is in hot water in the Wizengamot, let's just say he won't be the shield you think he is."
Alaric Scribner, ever the diplomat, said, "While I understand your reasoning, given that the agreement has been signed by Dumbledore, if we're found to have malicious intent towards the Potter Estate, so would he. At the end of the day, the agreement with Dumbledore binds us together, and regardless of how much trouble he's in, he's still Dumbledore. His position won't be shaken so easily."
Clapping his hands together, Ted leaned forward. Feeling the trap close around them, he grinned and said, "That's where I believe you're mistaken. Dumbledore can easily distance himself from the consequences of this agreement. Once he points out the boost in the economy his actions created, he'll quieten the objections. Once the economy of the country was up and running, he would say he expected you to come back in good faith for renegotiation."
"The Traditionalists will scoff and disparage his need for second chances, the Progressives will shake their heads, sharing his apparent disappointment and lay the blame on you, and the Neutrals will see where the wind is blowing, and arrange themselves against you."
Seeing the greedy reps having the blood drain from their faces as he laid out the situation, he smirked, satisfied. Stretching his arms out, Ted said, "So, as I see it, you have three options. You can refuse to amend the agreement and carry on as you are. Then, I will have to bring this matter to the courts, and from then, even in the best-case scenario where the public doesn't find out, you will still be ruled against by the Wizengamot. Second option, the public finds out, and the blame falls on the greedy companies taking advantage of an old man and an orphan."
"Or you go with the third option, which is to cooperate and agree to the amendments." With his piece said, he leaned back, satisfied. Looking at them discussing hurriedly, he knew he had them on the back foot. All that was left was getting down to the numbers, and with them on the back foot, he could easily push higher as long as he had the momentum.
Clapping his hands together, he started, "So let's discuss the details, shall we?"
Back at Potter Hall, Harry, Ted, and Andromeda sat together in the cosy drawing room, a sense of accomplishment in the air.
"We did it," Ted said, a satisfied smile on his face. "You're going to receive what's rightfully yours, Harry."
Harry felt a deep sense of gratitude. "Thank you, Ted. I couldn't have done it without you."