Disclaimer: Its JKR's not mine.
Chapter 3: Results and Veela Bonds
Main Lobby, Gringotts, London
Having finished their business, Dumbledore and Jean Delacour awaited the return of the children, each being buried in their own thoughts that circled around the young, disheveled Harry potter.
For Jean Delacour, the matter was a bit more personal. After all, his little angel's heart was at stake. He knew that, unfortunately, after the long, emotional talk with his wife and youngest daughter earlier that morning, there was no way to break the bond that had been formed between his Gabby and young Mr. Potter.
'Wait a minute. Didn't the goblin refer to him as Lord Potter? What was that all about? It was unlikely, but not unheard of, that an underage wizard would be the Head of House.' Getting back on subject, Jean remembered that there was a way to break the bond, but he could not put Gabrielle through that. According to Apolline, if they attempted to break the bond, it would cause his little angel unbearable pain from losing her soul mate. If worse came to worst, it could kill her, but it would at the very least strip her of her magic, and possibly her sanity. Grimacing at the thought, Jean decided to do his best to remain civil to the boy. After all, no father would want the alternative for his daughter, and this couldn't be Lord Potter's fault, could it?
Sighing to himself, Jean Delacour tried to keep his doubts to himself. He would definitely have to find the underlying cause of this. He had to get to know this child. After all, the child was famous and the Heir of at least one of the Ancient and Most Noble families of Britain. Harry Potter held great potential, both financially and politically. Even more, Jean could feel the power that was restrained within the young wizard. But how could he be sure that Harry would treat his Gabby right? For centuries, wizards had enslaved veela for their beauty and charms. Corruption was rampant in Britain, and it was certainly no secret that it was the last place you wanted to be if you were a part human. For Harry's sake and Gabby's, Jean hoped that he was an honorable young man. Smiling, Jean noted, with a growing fondness for the boy, the way Harry treated the goblins. Harry treated them with far more respect than many wizards did these days. Harry spoke to them as if they were his equals, far from the superior way that many powerful wizards deemed to treat the guardians of their gold and family treasures.
Albus Dumbledore was confused. After the scene earlier, where Monsieur Delacour's daughter had launched herself on Harry, and Monsieur Delacour had allowed her to go off with him to a meeting with the goblin director Ragnok, of all creatures, the old headmaster was stunned. The French head auror seemed oddly at ease with his youngest daughter's actions and even seemed a bit unsurprised. This confused Albus to no end. Who in their right mind would react that way after their daughter aged several years in the span of less than thirty seconds? Yet, while carefully gauging the Frenchman's facial expressions and his reactions, Albus determined that somehow, the French auror had expected it.
'My old age must really be getting to me.' Dumbledore thought to himself as he stared speechless at the French ambassador when he admitted as much, save for the fact that he hadn't expected it to be so soon. Dumbledore frowned. The waters of young Harry's life seemed to only grow murkier. Albus needed some answers, soon.
Worried as he was, Albus also did not miss the reactions between the goblins and Harry. The goblin that had taken the two children to the meeting had called Harry, Lord Potter. That was impossible. Harry was underage, and Albus himself had made sure that James' and Lily's will would not be read until Harry's seventeenth birthday. Harry simply was not ready to take the responsibilities that came with being a Head of House. Harry deserved at least a few more years to grow up and have a normal childhood.
"Eet 'as been a while since zey left us, Dumbledore," Monsieur Delacour said, breaking the silence between the two men.
"Indeed it has, Jean. Perhaps you would like to join me for a drink? We can await them at the leaky cauldron and Hagrid will bring them to us when they return."
"Zat would be acceptable, Dumbledore. Eet would also give me a chance to contact my wife, Apolline. She understands much more of what my leetle Gabrielle is going through zan I do. Eet will benefit zem both to listen to what she has to say," Jean replied.
"Fantastic, I will instruct Hagrid to purchase Harry's school supplies for him, and he can return for his robes and wand tomorrow," Dumbledore said excitedly. This would give him the perfect chance to speak with young Harry, and also find out what was going on between the young wizard and Miss Gabrielle Delacour.
"Then let us go, Dumbledore. I could use a drink. Eet will help the headache that ees bound to come een a short while, after zey return to us," Jean said as the two wizards quickly exited the bank.
"Yes, I daresay that I too am looking forward to that conversation," Dumbledore replied softly, chuckling as he went to find Hagrid. 'Your headache has only just begun, old friend. Things are happening much too fast, and I must regain control of this situation, for Harry's own good.'
Director's Office, Gringotts, London
Sitting down behind his desk, Ragnok motioned for a goblin outside the office to close the door. The moment the door closed, Ragnok waved his hand and the walls and doors of the office glowed blue, sealing it effectively.
Ragnok's actions were making both Harry and Gabrielle curious and they watched Ragnok intently. The looks on their faces made it loud and clear. They were all ears, and they wanted to know exactly what was going on.
"First off," Ragnok began, "Do either of you have any questions?"
Harry and Gabrielle glanced at each other, coming to a silent agreement, before Harry nodded and asked, "Ragnok, what did you mean exactly when you said there was a problem with the first ritual?"
"Ah yes, I thought you might ask about that. Before I can begin to explain it to you, I have a question of my own. Have you ever had any problems controlling your magic? I am speaking of physical magic, such as charms and transfiguration, which require the use of a wand or another magical focus?" Ragnok watched both Harry and Gabrielle closely for any reaction to the question. However, neither one showed any. Instead, they looked more confused.
"Ragnok, we are both eleven, and we don't even own wands yet. I am sorry that I can't answer your question either way," replied Harry.
"No matter, Harry." Ragnok said, trying to figure out an easy way to break the news to Harry. 'Well, if I am blunt, at least the child will understand.' "Harry, during the ritual, your magic was forced to purge any outside or impure influences on you. During this process, the residue of powerful dark magic was found. What astounded us is, it was determined that the cause of this was that a fragment of the soul of another wizard that, torn and battered, had once been bound to you. Do you know anything of this?"
Harry sighed. He'd been found out. He had wanted to keep that a secret for as long as possible. It was a good thing that Ragnok had sealed the office, because what he was about to say, he did not want to get out and be made public knowledge. People might think that he would turn dark because of it. "When Voldemort tried to kill me as a baby, he unknowingly made me a horcrux. It anchored him to this life, and he now lives as a shade."
Although he had been expecting as much, Ragnok's eyes still widened and he looked at the young Lord Potter thoughtfully before answering. "I expected as much, although I am quite surprised that you already knew about it. It appears that somehow the soul fragment from the wizard christening himself as Lord Voldemort is no longer bound to you. If it were, the magical backlash caused by the ritual purging your magic clean would have killed you. I am most curious though, as to how you were able to dislodge it from yourself. That is very powerful magic, and soul magic isn't widely used because it is so widely mysterious and unpredictable. The fact that you are alive after such a feat would make you even more famous than you are now. Even though it is extremely uncommon for a horcrux to be attached to another, whole and living soul, it is not unheard of. However, to this day, it is believed, to the very few that know of such vile magic, that the only way to destroy such a horcrux, would be to kill the one who had been made its vessel. Anyways, back to the explanation. What did occur was that there was still residual dark magic, which was strangling and binding your magical core. On that note, you already appeared to have a fusion of two powerful magical cores, both having your magical signature. One of these was your normal one, while the other appeared to be fully matured, having well toned magical channels overlying your normal ones throughout your body."
Harry sat thoughtfully, at first not noticing the pause in Ragnok's speech. "Does that mean I have two magical cores?"
"No, Harry," Ragnok replied. For a moment, the old goblin sat thinking to himself, choosing his next words carefully. "During the purging process, your cores had a massive chain reaction as the residual magic and binds were released. In this process, your magic began steadily increasing and decreasing in waves that quickly gained in strength began finally, a massive magical backlash occurred as your cores imploded on each other. Normally, no wizard or witch would be able to withstand the force of his or her magical core imploding on itself. Usually, when this happens, the witch or wizard either dies, or loses their magic altogether."
Harry's hands gripped his chair tightly and he frowned. "But I didn't lose my magic. I can still feel it flowing through me, when I stepped out of the aquarium I could feel it revitalizing me," Harry said, growing more confused by the minute.
"That is true, Harry. As they imploded, your cores simultaneously healed you and fused into an even larger, immature core, with surprisingly advanced magical channels running throughout your body. I fear the pain is not over for you yet, as the process will be incomplete until you go to sleep tonight. As your body falls into unconsciousness, your mind and your magic will flare, causing your body to grow, and shape to suit the power running through your veins. This is necessary to keep you from dying from all the excess magic. Your magic will also cleanse your body during the process, erasing any harmful effects of abuse or malnourishment. I daresay that when you awake tomorrow morning, you will no longer look or feel the same as you do now."
Harry didn't know how he should feel. He understood everything Ragnok was telling him, and told him so. But he didn't know whether to dread the long night that he was bound to have, or be elated that he had retained his full powers that had fully matured during his time in between. By now, Harry was well accustomed to pain, but it still wasn't pleasurable. "Can we continue, Ragnok? I thank you for the information. You have given me a lot to think over later," Harry murmured.
Ragnok shifted in his seat and took one of the pieces of parchment. "Of course, Lord Potter," he replied as he handed the parchment to Harry. "I can understand your need to think it over further. Now, the parchment I have handed you contains information on which houses you are the heir of. Before you begin, I would like to answer a question before it is asked, because the House of Drakul is scarcely known, and has been that way for the last eighteen hundred years or so. They were the ancestors of modern vampires, before they were cursed. Since the dormant blood of the Drakuls has finally shown itself, after all this time, in you, I believe that the vampire's curse does not apply to you. The ancient blood in you appears to be pure. This means that you will basically have all their strengths, purified and multiplied to what they were before they were cursed, and you will have none of their weaknesses. Sunlight will not be able to harm you, you will not thirst for blood, and you will eventually be able to take the form of one of the great drakes of old. I do not know what the effects will be on your appearance, however."
Harry and Gabrielle each held a corner of the parchment, and Harry heard Gabrielle gasp as they read it together.
Harry James Potter
Age: 11
Status: Pureblood, Unknown Primary Status (?)
Heir of House Drakul
Heir of House Peverell
Heir of House Potter
Heir of House Black
Heir of House Gryffindor
Heir of House Hufflepuff
Heir of House Ravenclaw
Magical Heir of House Slytherin
Last of the True Sorcerers
Magical Heir of House Emrys
While they were reading, a stack of parchments and a box appeared on the table in front of them. Before Gabrielle could take the box to open it, Ragnok shook his head. "Harry, in this box are the all the family rings that will go on your fingers before you leave here. You can choose for them to remain separate, or they will, of their own accord, bind themselves to the ring you already wear. Naturally, there will be powerful protections on each one and you alone will be able to see any of them, unless you choose to show them of your own free will. Normally, since the House of Emrys ring, which is already on your finger, is the most ancient and powerful one, it will be the one that is normally seen until you decide to show one of the others. Would you like to put them on now?"
Immediately, Harry nodded and reached for the box. Putting them on, one by one, they each resized themselves to fit his finger and disappeared, leaving only the Emrys ring there.
"We have also taken the liberty of gathering the financial information on all of your accounts, and with your permission we will combine all the vaults so that when you go in your main vault, you can access each of the others from it. This will also disable the front doors to all of your other vaults, seeing as there will be a door for each one leading from the main vault," Ragnok explained almost giddily. This young wizard sitting before him was easily the richest wizard in the country, possibly the world. Ragnok smiled widely, showing several rows of sharp teeth, as he thought of the profits that Gringotts would make by working with him. He'd be an elder in no time at all, and all he had to do was keep their newest customer!
"Go ahead and connect them. It will make it easier for me to visit my vaults, without having to take the cart everywhere," Harry answered.
Ragnok nodded in reply, making Harry and Gabrielle both wince at the sight of the grinning goblin. "Very well. As the Director of Gringotts, I will personally manage your finances for the Emrys vault. It has always been the duty of the Director and I will uphold my duty to the best of my abilities. However, with all of my other responsibilities, I must ask that you appoint another to manage all of your other accounts. Whichever goblin you choose, it will be that goblin's only job. That job alone will be quite a handful and, if I may, I would strongly suggest that you choose before we go over your finances so that your account manager can be here with us while we do."
Without a second thought, Harry already knew the goblin he wanted. The goblin in question was very efficient, and had a very keen eye on how to turn a profit. "I would like Griphook to be my account manager."
To say he was surprised would be a major understatement. "Are you sure, Harry? Your attitude towards goblins and other creatures that most witches and wizards normally consider below them is very refreshing, let me assure you. But Griphook is only a cart goblin."
Harry merely looked up and smiled. "I am sure. Griphook has a lot of potential, and I can always change my mind later."
"That is true," Ragnok nodded affirmatively. Knocking a specific pattern on the desk in front of him, Ragnok deactivated the wards on the office and called for the goblins to bring Griphook to him.
Before long, the office door opened, allowing a slightly confused looking Griphook entry. Bowing respectfully to Ragnok, he said, "You asked to see me, Director? How may I be of service?"
"You are here by Lord Potter's request, not mine. However, your fortunes run freely today, as he has requested that you become his account manager for all his accounts, save the one of Emrys, which I will look after myself. Do you accept this position?"
Griphook looked faint, with his eyes bugging out of his head and tottering as if he was going to collapse. Apparently, this was not one of the things he had ever expected to hear, at least not there and then.
As Griphook turned towards Harry, he saw a look of fierce glee and determination, backed by quite a bit of greed in his eyes. Smiling to himself, Harry could already tell that he wasn't going to regret this. Goblins are notorious for their cunning and greed, they would literally cut down their own mothers down for gold and unless Harry was greatly mistaken, the more profits Griphook made for Harry, the wealthier he would be in turn.
"It would be an honor to accept these new responsibilities, Lord Potter. It is not widely known, but I have managed the Black vault for several years, and since it is now yours I will be able to continue my duties," Griphook said excitedly.
"Call me Harry, please. I really can't stand my fame and titles," Harry replied, a little unnerved at Griphook's reaction. It wasn't easy to excite a goblin, and in Harry's opinion, they were a bit more frightening when they were.
"Of course, Lor- Harry," Griphook responded, bowing deeply to Harry before seating himself at beside Harry and taking a copy of the financial records.
Looking over the paperwork, Harry soon realized why the goblins, especially Griphook had reacted the way they did. Harry was rich. Filthy, stinking, rich. Harry was quite sure that he could build several mansions out of the galleons themselves. Obviously, the interest on several of his vaults had built up a fortune over the years.
House Drakul
Vault number 230. High security.
Vault contains 78,349,293 galleons.
Vault also contains several ancient scrolls on warding and blood magic, along with many priceless artifacts and heirlooms.
Properties and Other Assets
Castle Drakul and several smaller properties in Romania
Ollivander's 15%
Madam Malkin's 24%
Marriage contract to the House of Black for the first daughter born.
Overall value of House Drakul stands at 97,534,164 galleons.
House Peverell
Vault number 412. High security
Vault contains 4,436,213 galleons.
Vault also contains a vast supply of potions texts and materials, along with many priceless artifacts and heirlooms.
Properties and Other Assets
Peverell Manor
Godric's Hollow 24%
Ollivander's 18%
Slug & Jiggers Apothecary 52%
Carrows Finest Cauldrons 78%
Marriage contract to the House of Li for the first daughter born.
Marriage contract to the House of Spinnet for the first daughter born.
Overall value of the House of Peverell stands at 11,362,653 galleons.
House Potter
Vault number 651. Trust fund vault 1241 closed and added to main. High security.
Vault contains 782,654,314 galleons.
Vault contains a large library containing many ancient books and scrolls on various subjects, many of them the only copies in existence. Vault also contains a vast amount of priceless gems, portraits, ward stones, and other priceless artifacts and heirlooms.
Properties and Other Assets
Potter Mansion and several other properties scattered throughout Scotland, Ireland, and the UK.
Godric's Hollow 26%
Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour 29%
Dell 56%
Flourish & Blotts 40%
Gambol & Japes 25%
Zonko's 25%
Quality Quidditch Supplies 75%
Grunnings Drills 93%
Marriage contract for a Miss Ginevra Molly Weasley to Mr. Harry Potter signed and dated by the fathers of both children on October 9, 1981.
Double marriage contract for a Miss Padma Patil and a Miss Parvati Patil to Mr. Harry Potter, signed and dated by the mothers of both children on October 3, 1981.
Overall value of the House of Potter stands at 1,305,825,687 galleons.
House Black
Vault number 711. High security.
Vault contains 621,521,982 galleons.
Vault also contains a large library on the dark arts, blood magic, and necromancy, many believed to be the only copies in existence. Vault also contains many dark objects, precious gems, and other priceless artifacts and heirlooms.
Properties and Other Assets
Black Manor and several smaller houses scattered in the UK and along the Japanese and Puerto Rican islands.
#12 Grimmauld Place
Borgin & Burkes 97%
Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour 36%
Slug & Jiggers Apothecary 17%
Flourish & Blotts 54%
Gambol & Japes 25%
Zonko's 25%
Eeylops Owl Emporium 38%
The Shrieking Shack 100%
Marriage contract to the House of Abbot for the first daughter born.
Double marriage contract for a Miss Daphne Greengrass and a Miss Astoria Greengrass, to the next son born to the House of Black, signed and dated by the Heads of both Houses on July 23, 1982.
Overall value for the House of Black stands at 1,163,583,967 galleons.
House Gryffindor
Vault number 7. Maximum security.
Vault contains 3,167,835,298 galleons.
Vault also contains many precious gems and a large armory full of various armors and weapons. Vault also contains ancient tomes of long forgotten magic, all of which are the last in existence, along with many other priceless artifacts and heirlooms.
Properties and Other Assets
Gryffindor Castle
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry 25%
Ollivander's 65%
Marriage contract to the House of Bones for the first daughter born.
Overall value for the House of Gryffindor stands at 4,918,437,275 galleons.
House Hufflepuff
Vault number 11. Maximum security.
Vault contains 2,316,756,354 galleons.
Vault also contains several other priceless artifacts and heirlooms.
Properties and Other Assets
Hufflepuff Mansion
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry 25%
Marriage contract to the House of Bell for the first daughter born.
Overall value for the House of Hufflepuff stands at 3,525,473,905 galleons.
House Ravenclaw
Vault number 9. Maximum security.
Vault contains 2,864,972,768 galleons.
Vault also contains several other priceless artifacts and heirlooms.
Properties and Other Assets
Ravenclaw Manor
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry 25%
Marriage contract to the House of Lovegood for the first daughter born.
Overall value for the House of Ravenclaw stands at 4,167,834,753 galleons.
House Slytherin
Vault number 13. Maximum security.
Vault contains 6,397,732,964 galleons.
Vault also contains several other priceless artifacts and heirlooms.
Properties and Other Assets
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry 25%
Marriage contract to the House of Davis for the first daughter born.
Overall value for the House of Slytherin stands at 7,358,710,019 galleons.
House of the Sorcerers
Vault number 512. High security.
Vault contains 340,257,093 galleons.
Vault also contains several other priceless artifacts and heirlooms.
Properties and Other Assets
Sorcerer's Tower
Overall for the House of Sorcerers stands at 870,273,918 galleons.
House Emrys
Vault 1. Top secret. Triple Maximum security. Evacuation necessary to access vault.
Vault contains 23,753,294,847 galleons.
Vault contains several ancient, mythical artifacts, tomes, scrolls, and other objects, each believed to be the only copies to ever be created.
Vault also contains several other priceless artifacts and heirlooms.
Properties and Other Assets
Stonehenge
The Isle of Avalon
Gringotts 55%
Overall value for the House of Emrys stands at 29,348,981,718 galleons.
The summary and overall total value of Lord Harry Potter, including all of his gold, properties, and other assets comes out to 52,768,018,059 galleons.
Gabrielle and Harry both sat stunned for several minutes. Neither one of them had expected anything like this. Harry already knew that he was wealthy, but this was beyond belief. To top it off, he owned Hogwarts! Harry looked into Gabrielle's eyes, pleading for understanding, as they both thought the same thing. Harry had no choice but to fulfill the marriage contracts since they were magically binding. This made Harry furious.
Ragnok was thoroughly enjoying himself. The young Lord Potter and his companion both looked as if they were about to shit bricks. Ragnok was worried though. Lord Potter would be required to fulfill several marriage contracts. Although multiple marriages weren't unheard of in pureblood society, the last coven had been over four hundred years previous. "I'll assume that you had no idea of how wealthy you are before this?"
Harry shook his head in reply. "I knew I was wealthy, but this is incredible. I wouldn't be able to spend all this money in ten lifetimes."
"That is quite understandable, Harry. Griphook, what do you think about the accounts."
Griphook looked over at Ragnok with a smile full of teeth and eyes that showed, quite clearly, how much he thought that he would profit from managing Harry's accounts. "I believe that we goblins will profit greatly from working with Harry. Not only are his finances formidable, but the political influence that he is bound to have from the wizengamot seats that he inherited would be a great help to goblins and other magical creatures whose rights are suppressed by wizards. Frankly, Harry could spend tens of millions of galleons a day, and still never run out of gold. The interest alone that is made from the accounts would make sure of that. The fact that he also owns a majority in Gringotts, which was entrusted to us by his ancestor, would also make that assured, seeing as he makes a percentage of all of Gringotts' business, except for what we profit by managing his own personal accounts."
"Tell me; is there any way to back out of these contracts?" Harry asked Ragnok, earning himself a dazzling smile from an appreciative Gabrielle.
Looking confused, Ragnok replied, "Why would you want to do that? You would have much to gain from joining with these families."
"I don't particularly enjoy the idea of marriage contracts and arranged marriages. I understand that this may be acceptable in the wizarding community, but I firmly believe that everyone has the right to choose to marry for love. I don't plan on being forced into it, and I don't like it. I will however, accept it if, and only if, I have no other options. That is, unless Gabrielle says no, then I will take whatever consequences are due for breaking the contracts myself. I refuse to force myself on any of these girls. Each and every one of us should have the right to choose."
Ragnok looked highly pleased at Harry's reply. Glancing around, Harry noted that Griphook also seemed pleased.
Beside Harry, Gabrielle had sat quietly through most of the meeting, carefully contemplating everything that was being said. She might be young, but veela matured faster than normal witches, and fortunately, the veela blood was powerfully dominant in her. Gabrielle understood magical bonds well, being a veela she had to.
Gabriele knew that the bond between her and her soul mate would help her to be more comfortable with what now appeared inevitable, but that didn't mean she had to agree with it. She hadn't had much of a choice when the bond had formed between her and Harry, quite the contrary, but she was very content for the time being. However, she couldn't be sure of her feelings about other women being with Harry, especially so soon after she had finally found him.
Squeezing Harry's hand softly, Gabrielle gathered her courage for what she was about to say. She had always been very outgoing, but this was different. This was for life. "Harry," she said quietly, causing him to look directly into her gorgeous eyes.
'She may only be eleven, but I could lose myself in those eyes. I guess this strange attraction to her is something I will get used to in time. But it does feel right in a way.' Harry thought to himself, while gazing at her.
"I know you don't like this. I can feel it from you. Personally, I don't understand my feelings on it either, but this is something that we are going to have to deal with. This bond we have, it's forever. Haven't you noticed that I don't have the slightest bit of French accent? We will talk about the bond later, but know this. I may not have had much choice in it, but I don't regret it. While you were looking over your financial records, I perused the documents for the marriage contracts. You can't break them, even if you wanted to. Your magic would pull you to them and them to you. It's part of the compulsion magic. It helps to ensure that the marriages last and that the contracts are fulfilled. The longer you take to fulfill these contracts, the worse it will be on everyone. Even though each contract specifically states that you must be at least seventeen, it would still be hard for you to keep yourself apart from them, and vise versa. If there isn't at least casual contact with each one on a steady basis, everyone involved, including myself, would lose their magic."
"Why would you lose your magic?" Harry asked, frowning at the very thought. Here was a young witch, willing to be bound to him forever and love him, and this is the risk she had to take. Harry wouldn't allow it. He had been hurt all his life, and he vowed then and there that he would never hurt Gabrielle. He would always protect his Gabby and put her life before his own. Always. 'Wait, my Gabby? Where did that come from?' Harry couldn't deny it though, this angel beside him was his, and he loved it.
"I am bonded to you, Harry. It is a powerful bond, and I cannot explain fully to you. I do know that we can draw off of each other's magic, and that by being bonded, both of our magic increases. Even though we both have our own, unique abilities, our powers feed into a collective, that each witch or wizard in the bond can draw from when they have need if it. This is only a small percentage of our magic, of course, but with your power, and each witch's increased powers, it will be a formidable force to fall back on when in danger. Later, we will speak to my maman, and she will be able to help us both to understand it more," she replied quietly, hoping that Harry wouldn't be mad at her.
Harry was a little disappointed at this, but he smiled reassuringly at Gabby to show her that he wasn't upset at her in the least. Harry also noted that he and Gabby tended to be very empathic with each other. They didn't know each other that well, but they were already able to discern each other's moods and emotions, in order to keep the other happy.
"Well said, Miss Delacour. Now, would you like to see the results of the second ritual? As I stated earlier, it will bring to light any special abilities that you may have, including the bloodline that the ability is derived from."
"Yes. Thank you, Ragnok," Harry replied, taking the parchment from the goblin and scanning it over, along with Gabby.
Harry James Potter
Multiple Animagus-Potter
Metamorphmagus-Peverell
Enhanced Speed, Strength, and Senses-Drakul
Enhanced Healing and Regeneration-Drakul
Shadow Magus-Sorcerers
Aura Reading-Gryffindor
Mage Sight-Ravenclaw
Parseltongue-Slytherin
Druidic Elven and Elemental Magus-Emrys
Beast Master-Emrys
"What is a shadow mage? And what is the House of Sorcerers?" Harry asked, looking up at Ragnok with a dark look upon his face.
"Harry, please allow me to begin with the House of Emrys. It is a crucial point to the story of the true sorcerers of old. Not much is known of the origins of Myrrdhin Emrys, also known as Merlin. Merlin was the founder of the House of Emrys and wielded vast powers over nature. Merlin was not often found among wizards though, he was a Druid, and preferred to spend his time attuned with nature. It was said that he could speak with and control all manner of creatures, and in time, he taught the High Elves, whom were the ancestors of the cursed house elves before they were enslaved. He also taught the goblins. He taught both races powerful magic, but each race was taught a different form. All goblins are taught about the origins of our magic at a young age, so we know who to be thankful to if we ever met one of his descendents. Until today, there were none. During a long period of absence, witches and wizards began to desire more power. They sought to wield the powers of the elements like Merlin. In time, the land began to become ravished by war, and it was unacceptable. Many witches and wizards joined together and built an immense tower, and formed the guild of sorcerers. These sorcerers were the only ones that managed to wield nature's powers, but the powers themselves were too vast. They often failed in controlling the elemental powers that were unleashed, and in time, Merlin decided to put a stop to it. Nobody really remembers what happened the day that Merlin arrived at the tower, but afterwards, the sorcerers became as shadows. The land all around the tower was scorched and barren, and the tower itself had collapsed, to be rebuilt by Merlin shortly after."
Harry remembered the story of that day. Merlin had told him how he had gathered a great army of creatures, led by the Great Eagles of the Northern mountains, the Mighty Dragons of the Western ranges, the Ancient Serpents of the Southern Seas, and the High Elves of the Eastern forests. The four great creature Lords, leading their armies from the four corners of the earth were led by Merlin. During the dispersal of power, when Merlin had chosen to bring magic to the mortals, Merlin had given each Lord of the creatures one of the essences of magic, each contained within a small crystal globe. Borne within each globe was the complete power over each one. Merlin gave Earth to Lord Myrandir of the high elves, Fire to Lord Bahamut of the dragons, Wind to Lord Theros of the Eagles, and Water to Lord Leviathan of the serpents. Merlin himself wielded the last, most terrible force of them all. Merlin had said that it was one of the most beautiful, yet terrible forces in the universe. On their arrival, the sorcerers were struck powerless. The elements that they sought to control turned on them as lightning and raging wildfires swept through the battlefield, and struck the high battlements with such fury and power, that they were reduced to dust wherever they were struck. Many of the sorcerers tried to flee when massive earthquakes shook the tower's foundations and massive jagged stones rose up and turned the tower's wall to rubble. Unfortunately for them, they were swept into the air and slammed against just about anything, as fiery whirlwinds swept through the tower destroying and burning everything in their paths. The battle lasted all of an hour.
"Are you there, Harry?" Gabrielle had her hand on Harry's shoulder and looking at him worriedly. "You spaced out there for a few minutes.
Harry hadn't noticed that Ragnok had stopped talking and the look on Gabby's face was heartbreaking. "Yea, I'm fine. I was just reminiscing about a story that I heard. I'm sorry if I upset you Gabby."
Gabrielle was shocked to say the least. She never let anyone outside her family call her Gabby; she hated the name. But somehow, when Harry said it, it sounded right and comforting and she loved it. "It's ok, Harry."
"Are we ready to continue the story then?" Ragnok asked. As the both nodded, Ragnok continued. "After the battle, all the remaining sorcerers were gathered up and cursed. Merlin cursed them to live in the shadows forever as shadow magi and said that one day, their curse would consume them. He also stripped them of their other powers. Although they could still move within any shadows of the world, and become as shadows themselves, they could no longer control the elements, and their most precious gift, the power to become one with the magic around them, drawing off external ambient magic to aid them was also stripped. That power is what set sorcerers apart from normal witches and wizards. Like them, sorcerers also had magical cores, but the difference was that sorcerers could see and feel the magic around them, and they could use it. Using this power, their magical cores turned from streams to oceans, basically without end and never tiring. Before he left them, Merlin gave them a final judgment, that one day his own true heir would wield all of their lost power, as well as the powers they sought to control, and bring balance back to the world. The last anyone knows of the shadow magi is that they began devouring the souls of creatures and wizards. The constant devouring of souls and necromancy brought them so close to the gates of the veil and the spirit world that their own souls were consumed. Since then, they were forced to feed on the pure feelings and desires of others in order to survive. They became the race of dementors."
"What do you mean they could become shadows?" Harry asked, frowning in confusion. Harry wanted to know everything he could about his powers and how he could learn to control them.
"I don't know much, though I do know that they could use the shadows to travel long distances, and that they could make their bodies one with the shadows, being completely invisible and undetectable. In shadow form, no physical attack could harm them and they were able to perceive the souls within creatures and wizards. Nobody really understands it, but the claws they had in shadow form were able to rip the soul out near instantly."
"Understood. Well, I really do appreciate you taking your time to see me Ragnok, but as I have several other things to do today, we must be going," Harry said, while standing and taking Gabrielle's hand as she got up beside him.
"If I may, there is one more matter that I must bring to your attention, Harry," Ragnok said curtly, peering over at the two children and thinking to himself. 'They will truly be a powerful couple one of these days. If he truly is the child of prophecy, then perhaps it is time for the goblin nation to take a stand in the war that is coming. Foolish humans. They believe that the self-proclaimed Dark Lord is truly gone, yet we goblins know better. Tom Riddle still lives, somehow. He truly was a powerful necromancer before his downfall. But this child, the potential in him is astounding, even without the added powers of his veela mate.'
Loosening his grip on the golden door handle, Harry turned. "What is it?"
"Though you have signed the necessary paperwork to have your family rings and take control of your vaults, there is still the matter of the marriage contracts. Also, your parents' will was never fully carried out. Also, seeing as your godfather, Lord Sirius Black, was never actually convicted, his will remains legal. Though he is not dead, the stipulations that he set for his will to be carried out were that if anything happened to him, whether Azkaban, insanity, or death, this will would be carried out unless another was created afterwards. Both of these wills will be read in two weeks time. Though you are not required to be there, because you have already signed and receive your shares, I would strongly advise that you show up. It could be…enlightening," Ragnok replied, having the same evil grin on his face that Griphook now had, as he had momentarily ceased peering over the numerous documents.
"Thank you, Ragnok. We will consider the contracts and get back to you on that matter later. Rest assured that I will be there. There are a few people that I would love to see get what's coming to them," Harry replied, showing a mischievous grin of his own. Remembering goblin formality, Harry bowed respectfully and said, "May your gold flow freely, and your enemies bleed rivers."
Griphook stared speechless at Harry as Ragnok replied, "And to you, Lord Potter. May your fortunes never run dry, and the fates forever guide your wand."
Taking Gabrielle's hand, the couple walked back down the hall towards the main lobby. Finally, it began to sink in that he would have to deal with not only Dumbledore; Harry wasn't stupid enough to believe that the old man would miss this chance to drill him, but also Gabrielle's father. The French auror looked to be an imposing man, even though he had an air of kindness around him. Still, Harry wasn't at all looking forward to the talk that he knew he would get from the man.
Walking hand in hand with Harry, Gabrielle was happier than she had ever been, but she was also nervous. She could feel the tension building in Harry as they neared the lobby, and squeezed his hand firmly and offered him what she hoped was a reassuring smile. She knew her papa. He loved both his little girls, her older sister Fleur and herself, but he had also accepted years ago what they were. Even before they were born, Fleur and Gabrielle's mother had explained to their father that if her veela blood won out, she would give birth to daughters, who would in turn, have veela blood, and be susceptible to the prejudiced laws that applied to part humans. Gabrielle's mother, Apolline, also explained to him of veela bonds, in order to prepare him for the possibilities.
"Hey Harry! Over 'ere!"
"Huh?" Harry and Gabrielle looked over and saw Hagrid waving at them from the middle of the main lobby.
"Hagrid, have you seen Dumbledore? He was supposed to be waiting for Gabrielle and me. Her father is with him and we need to meet back up with them," Harry called back to Hagrid, as he and Gabrielle strolled over to the half giant.
"Aye. Dumbledore and Monsieur Delacour are waitin' fer ye both at the Leaky Cauldron. An' don' worry Harry, I've got yer school supplies for yeh. I'll bring yeh back tomorrow ter get yer robes and wand. Right now, I've got ter take yeh two ter Dumbledore," Hagrid answered, peering down curiously at the two.
"That's ok, Hagrid. Tomorrow I have to get a few other things in Diagon Alley and I'm sure Gabrielle and I can manage. I can get gold from my vault first thing in the morning."
"Are yeh sure, Harry? I don't mind," Hagrid asked. He really liked Harry, and he had been good friends with his parents. Hagrid didn't want him to be afraid of him.
Smiling at Hagrid, Gabrielle said, "He's sure, Hagrid. He promised to take me shopping."
Harry gulped while laughter danced in Hagrid's eyes. "Yer gonna regret that, Harry. Women are dead scary when they're shopping. Mark my words, yer gonna wish ye had a room full of featherweight charms by the time yer done. Probably an extra bag or two of gold too." Hagrid roared with laughter as Harry glared at him.
Gabrielle on the other hand, looked indignant. "Hey! I'm not that bad. All I want is my wand, a new trunk, a cauldron, and some new dress robes," she said, causing Harry's eyes to widen at her. "I wouldn't say no to some new books and a broom either," she said sweetly, batting her eyelashes at Harry.
Harry smelled certain doom. What was worse, Hagrid smelled it too, and he thought it was funny as hell. Hagrid was leaning against the open door to the leaky cauldron trying to catch his breath from seeing the look of dread in Harry's eyes.
"Give it up, Harry," Jean said, having caught Gabrielle's comment. Jean smirked at his daughter. "My little angel has been taught well by her mother and older sister. Be sure that you'll regret that offer young man, although I should be thanking you for it."
This earned Jean a glare from both Gabrielle and Apolline as they all sat down around the table. Harry looked around as he sat down and spotted Quirrell. 'You're going to regret it this time Quirrell. You pathetic bastard, sharing your soul with Voldemort.' Quirrell seemed to be as jumpy as usual. Overall, it was very dark and shabby. A few old women were sitting in a corner, drinking tiny glasses of sherry. One of them was smoking a long pipe and a little man in a top hat was talking to the old barman, who was quite bald and looked like a gummy walnut.
Unfortunately, for Harry, this was also the moment that a few of the others in the room recognized him. Harry soon found himself shaking hands with nearly everyone in the pub.
"Welcome back, Mr. Potter"
"It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Mr. Potter.
One witch was so delighted to meet him that she came back more than once to shake his hand.
"Welcome back sir. Dedalus Diggle's the name," the little man in the top at said excitedly, while shaking his hand.
Acting surprised, Harry said, "Hey I remember you! You bowed to me once in the grocery store. My aunt was so scared she pissed herself and left the store. She wasn't used to anyone knowing me and knew what that meant. She refused to go shopping there for two months!"
Tears of laughter were streaming down Harry's face at the memory as the others at the table stared at him.
"You hear that folks? He remembers me!" the little man squeaked, top hat now lying crooked on his head.
Harry's scar prickled as Quirrell approached him. Harry didn't know whether they were all blind, or just didn't care when he glared at him coldly. If Harry hadn't been paying close attention to Quirrell's reaction to him, he would have missed the dark look that crossed the older wizard's face.
Dumbledore smiled and patted Harry on the shoulder before introducing Quirrell. "Harry, this is Professor Quirrell. He will be your defense against the dark arts instructor.
"N-Nice to m-m-meet you P-Potter," Quirrell said, reaching out to shake Harry's hand.
Harry was barely able to restrain himself from cursing Quirrell on the spot. He had to stop Quirrell before he got to the sorcerer's stone, but he had all school year for that. There was a time and place for everything, and for now, he had to let the bastard walk away free.
Gabrielle wasn't the only one who saw the look in Harry's eyes. Dumbledore was startled by the look of intense hatred in Harry's eyes before he quickly hid it. He had seen that look before. Harry wanted to kill the man, but as far as Dumbledore knew, they had never met before and judging by Quirrell's reaction, or lack thereof, they hadn't. Nothing made sense, and unless Albus seriously missed his guess, this child was not Harry Potter. But how could that be? Albus Dumbledore prided himself on being an extremely learned wizard and he knew full well what the scar on Harry's forehead could really mean. After all, Dumbledore had tried every spell that he knew in order to conceal it, but there was simply no way. 'No, it has to be Harry. The dark aura around his scar is unmistakable. No spell or potion could recreate or mimic that. Wait! It's gone! What happened to you today Harry? I know I could still sense the residue of Voldemort's magic on you this morning. What are you Harry?' Bowing his head, the old wizard vowed to keep a closer eye on Harry. There had been too many surprises already.
Gabrielle glanced at Harry and tensed. For some reason, Harry hated this man. Gabrielle could see the muscles tightening in his neck, and his free hand underneath the table was clenched so hard that it was quickly turning white. Gabrielle didn't know what to think. Professor Quirrell didn't appear to be much of a problem. He was actually trembling from head to toe as he reached his hand out to shake Harry's. Honestly, Gabrielle didn't know how the man could teach the DADA when he jumped at every new sound and appeared to be scared of his own shadow. There was something even stranger though. There was an eerie smell around his turban. Seeing Harry shake Quirrell's hand, she dismissed her suspicions.
"It's a pleasure to meet you too, Professor," Harry replied after slamming his mental barriers up to full strength, shaking Quirrell's hand quickly before letting it go.
"I'll b-be looking forward t-to s-s-seeing you in my c-classes, Mr. P-Potter. I r-really must be g-going now. I have s-several things I n-need to do in D-Diagon Alley. I need some new books on vampires and such." Looking terrified at the very thought, Quirrell stuttered out as he quickly pulled his hand back to his chest and squeaked before running out the door.
The group watched a retreating Quirrell before they turned to look at Harry and Gabrielle, making both of their cheeks turn bright red.
"Well, eet seems like we 'ave much to discuss," Apolline said, drawing the attention of the rest.
Harry watched as the mid-aged witch cast several secrecy and anti-spying charms all around their table. He could definitely tell where Gabrielle got her looks from. Harry had been fourteen before he died, and he knew a beautiful witch when he saw one. Apolline Delacour was tall, beautiful, and blonde. Like her daughters, she got her looks from her veela heritage.
Dumbledore frowned as the French witch cast her charms around the table. Even though he recognized all the spells she was using, he raised his eyebrows at a few of them. Why would she go to such lengths to protect their privacy? What could she possibly know that he didn't? He had watched Harry closely all of his life, and the knowledge of several types of veela bonds was fairly common knowledge.
Harry gulped, realizing that Apolline knew his secret, or at least expected it. How could he have been so stupid? Of course, she had to know something, even Monsieur Delacour didn't seem all that surprised when Gabrielle attached herself to Harry, saying that he was, quite literally, the man of her dreams. Harry had hoped to keep his past a secret, at least for a while longer, but if Gabrielle had dreams of her future memories and told them to her parents, then it shouldn't have been that hard to figure it out on their own.
Sitting back down, Apolline fixed Harry with an apprehensive look. "You are Mr. Potter, eez that correct?"
Nodding, Harry replied, "Please call me Harry."
"Az you wish," she affirmed. "Then please call me Apolline, after all, you shall be my son-een-law one day."
This comment made both Dumbledore's and Hagrid's eyes pop out of their heads, although the rest of the group seemed unaffected by the remark. How could that be? Dumbledore shook his head. This was impossible. Dumbledore himself had already acted in Harry's best interests as his magical guardian weeks ago, and signed an unbreakable marriage contract between Harry and a young muggleborn witch that would be going to Hogwarts for her first year also. The young Miss Granger was a brilliant child, and being with Harry might easily bring her out of her shell. He seemed friendly enough, and friends weren't something that she had in abundance. This bond between Harry and Gabrielle was troublesome though. Albus knew full well that most veela bonds were based on love or another powerful emotion and could not be broken.
Breaking from his thoughts, Dumbledore watched Apolline attentively as she fixed Harry with a stare and asked, "How old are you 'Arry?"
"I just turned eleven today," Harry answered. Harry hoped that if Apolline knew the truth, she could understand his situation and forgive his deception. He would only state the truth if she proved that she already knew.
"How old are you really, 'Arry?"
Dumbledore raised his eyebrows. Where was the Delacour matriarch, and daughter of the veela matriarch, going with this line of questioning? Puzzled, Dumbledore watched Harry's face for any kind of reaction, but the boy stared back blankly at Apolline.
"I'm eleven physically, although I am twenty-one magically. How did you know?" Harry asked her, mainly to confirm his suspicions, even though he was pretty sure he already knew what the answer to his question would be.
Everyone else's jaws dropped as they stared dumbfounded at Harry. Only Gabrielle and her mother seemed unaffected by the revelation.
"Gabrielle 'as been having dreams lately, and calling out your name. When her papa and I asked her about them, she told us of many things that have not yet happened. Many of these things, she could not have known, such as the specifics of the triwizard tournament that we are currently here to plan with Dumbledore. Eet is still top secret, and isn't planned on taking place for anozzer three years. In ze veela history, there are a few veela zat once bonded, had many memories of things that were not theirs. What eet doesn't explain, ees how Gabrielle could 'ave memories of ze future. Eet started to make sense to me when she told me of her memory of you saving her life from ze mermen. She az never been to Hogwarts, yet her description of ze school fits exactly what Jean haz told me of eet. When you saved her life that day and she acknowledged it, a veela life bond was formed. She owes you a life debt and eet is said that ze bond carries over death eetself. I believe zat zis is ze reason for her memories. However, everything she has told me ends at one night. What happened ze night of ze third task?"
He'd been found out. This was not the way or the time that he had wanted to reveal it, especially to Dumbledore, and according to the look that the headmaster was giving him, a long explanation was expected. Seeing the looks in their faces, he said simply, "I died."
Seeing stunned expressions all around the table, Harry sighed and told them everything that had happened in his fourth year.
"So, Voldemort returned, Harry?" Dumbledore asked gently in his grandfather voice, causing everyone at the table except Harry to wince at the name. "Ahh, I am glad that you are not afraid of the name, Harry. After all…"
"Fear of the name only increases fear of the thing itself," Harry finished for him. Dumbledore beamed brightly at him. "Yes, he returned. Wormtail used my blood to resurrect him. We will discuss this later, headmaster. For now, I wish to continue my conversation with Apolline."
Dumbledore paled at the name, but nodded. Harry had neglected to mention Wormtail's name as the one who resurrected the Dark Lord when telling his story. If this boy truly had knowledge of the future, then what else was going to happen that Harry hadn't told them yet?
"How does that explain Gabrielle's dream though? She doesn't owe me a life debt. None of it has happened yet?" Harry calmly asked Apolline.
"Gabrielle's feelings for you transformed ze bond. A veela's powers come from their emotions. When she chose you, the bond transformed. Has she called you her Très Spécial et Chérir Une and told you what that means?"
Harry nodded at first before carefully answering, "I heard her call me that to Monsieur Delacour before he allowed her to go to a meeting with me, although I haven't any clue what it means. It doesn't seem to be a bad thing, though. It allowed her to come with me, and I enjoyed her company."
Jean looked at Harry carefully before speaking. "Please call me Jean, Mr. Potter."
Not missing a beat Harry replied, "Then call me Harry, please. You are Gabrielle's family, so no formalities."
Apolline smiled. "Well, Harry. To answer your unspoken question, très spécial et chérir une is a phrase used to describe a veela's bondmate. Whatever happened zat caused ze bond to form between you both set een motion powerful magic. You became her soul mate, and her magic is making her ze perfect mate for you. Do not doubt for a second that eet eez what she wanted; we can all plainly see zat she ees happy with you and eet would be disastrous to try to force you both apart. Ze soul bond forges a powerful connection between ze veela and her mate. As proved by ze both of you, zis bond overcomes death eetself, and has brought her soul back with yours. You should consider eet a blessing. You will both be very happy togezzer."
Harry thought over her words for a minute and looked at Gabrielle, seeing the hope and love in her eyes. "If I didn't already know that Gabby was happy, I would find a way to break the bond. I don't mind it at all. I look forward to getting to know her, but she should still have the right to choose who she wants to be with, without magical interference."
Gabrielle smiled at her nickname. Sure, her sister Fleur had called her Gabby several times, but it was different coming from her chérir une. The term of endearment warmed her in new ways, and she loved it.
"Harry," Jean interrupted. "I know zat what I am about to say ees probably ze last thing you expected to hear. Eet ees certainly not what I expected to ever hear myself say, especially not this early een ze scheme of things. However, you 'ave changed my mind for me. I seet here, and I have been watching you two. You and my angel, Gabrielle. You seem at ease wizz one anozzer, and happy. Zat ees all zat a father could hope for, for his daughter. And I already know zat you are able to provide for her. Still, the one question remained to me. Would you treat her az a witch, or veela? Would she be her own person wizz you? Would you see her as something to take advantage of, or a blessing, a person to love and care for, the way she deserves? You have answered these questions for me, simply by your last statement. I now know in my heart zat I can entrust my youngest daughter to you, and I freely give my blessing, hoping zat as time passes; you and I may be able to get to know each ozzer, as a father and son should. You do plan on marrying my daughter eventually, don't you?"
Harry answered without hesitation, "Of course I do, but only if she will have me. We are still young, and we have several years before we have to worry about that. Who knows what will happen in the time until then? As for Gabby, you may not see it, but she is both a witch and a veela. True, her veela blood may influence her on things, but would you want it any other way? If the veela in her chooses to do something that a normal witch would not do, would you love her any less for it? Or try to change her decision? I wouldn't. The veela nature is a part of her, and always will be. It is a beautiful side of her that any reasonable person would learn to accept."
"Your words are very refreshing, and certainly ease the burden on both of our hearts, 'Arry. Anyways, you cannot break ze bond. Eet would be very harmful to my daughter if you attempted eet. I admire your views towards her, though. Most people would seemply see her beauty and use her. Wizards have treated veela like zo for centuries. I was going to ask you of your views, but you 'ave answered my questions for me. Now, 'opefully I can persuade Professor Dumbledore to allow her to attend Hogwarts wizz you?" Apolline said while looking over at Dumbledore, who nodded his approval.
"I will speak with the board of governors immediately, Madame Delacour. I daresay that Harry can buy her supplies for her tomorrow when they go to Diagon Alley together. I agree with you that it would be best for the both of them that they remain together."
"Thank you, Professor Dumbledore. Now, perhaps we should allow ze children to get some rest while we discuss ze arrangements?" she said, looking over at a tired Gabrielle. Harry hadn't noticed, but her head was leaning on his shoulder and her eyes had a steady droop to them.
"That would be wise. Harry, I can see that you are not at all tired, but there are things that we must discuss away from you both. It would be a good idea for you to help Miss Delacour to bed. There are a great deal of things that I wish to discuss with you, but now is not the time. I will speak with you at the train station as you requested in the letter you sent to me last night," Dumbledore replied.
Turning around, Harry stopped for a moment and said, "Headmaster, I have not sent you any letters that I can recall. Not since I came back." Harry then continued helping Gabrielle up the stairs and they disappeared into Harry's room leaving Dumbledore more confused than ever. 'If Harry didn't send that letter, then who did? Dumbledore highly doubted that Harry was lying to him. He was, after all, I well accomplished legilimens and he did not detect any signs of deceit from Harry. Something was up. Dumbledore decided that he would keep his plans to meet with Harry at the King's Cross station. Perhaps he would find some more clues then.
Gabrielle was happy. It had been a very eventful day, but in the end, she had her chérir une. She smiled and cuddled closer, feeling Harry's heartbeat under her head. True, at first she had been worried. She had feared that he would reject her, or just use her for her body, like most wizards would do. As the day went on, Gabrielle learned that she had nothing of the sort to fear. Harry seemed to genuinely want to get to know her, and she felt safe when she was with him. Even better, her maman and papa were sending her to Hogwarts! She soon drifted off to sleep, dreaming of the wonderful year that she had ahead of her.
Harry was lying back in bed thinking about everything that had happened. He hadn't expected Gabby to come into his life the way she had. He actually hadn't planned most of what had happened that day, especially having to reveal his past, or future, whatever you want to call it. This time around, he would make sure he got all the answers from Dumbledore. He wouldn't actively go against Dumbledore. Even though Dumbledore always had his best interests at heart, Harry had grown tired of the old coot's manipulations. If he wanted Harry's help this time around, he had dammed well better give him all the relevant information. He would have to go tomorrow to get his wand and some robes, and he would take Gabby with him and buy her the things she needed also. Harry was trapped at the moment. He was on his back and Gabrielle was turned on her side with her head on his chest and one of her legs draped across his. Harry smiled as he felt Gabby cuddle and snuggle in closer to him and sigh into his chest. Before long, her breathing became steady and Harry followed soon after, but not before wondering why the hell the adults trusted them so explicitly.
Author's Notes:
For those of you who have questions on who will be in the coven.
Gabrielle Delacour
Hermione Granger
Ginevra Molly Weasley
Tracey Davis
Padma Patil
Parvati Patil
Daphne Greengrass
Astoria Greengrass
Hannah Abbot
Susan Bones
Luna Lovegood
Nymphadora Black (Tonks) Refer to will reading in later chapter.
Su Li
Katie Bell
Alicia Spinnet
North-Wind-Eagles
South-Water-Serpents
East-Earth-High Elves
West-Fire-Dragons
Center-?-?... Take a guess. I'm pretty sure many of you can guess the power, but is anyone pure enough to guess the creature that wields that terrifying power? For the first person to guess correctly and post it in the reviews, I will answer one question about what I plan on doing in this story. AKA Major Spoiler. The question must be specific.
For the sake of this fanfiction, Ginny and Luna will be 1 year younger than Harry and Astoria will be 2 years younger. Tonks will be the normal 6 years older and all the others will be in the same year. I have had multiple requests to bring Fleur in also, and I will think about it. Bear in mind that if I do, it will be during the fourth year. If anyone else has any suggestions, I'd be glad to listen to them. Again, thank you all for your reviews, at this point; it's the only thing keeping me motivated. I get bored pretty easily, and I always did hate writing, although I just couldn't resist this once. Just to see how it goes.