The Binding of Fates

by The Dark Lord Nedved

Harry goes willingly to face Voldemort in the Forbidden Forest. When Death shows Harry the tragic outcome of failing to completely destroy the Horcruxes he has to do it all over again. At the same time as Harry's decision to re-enter the Living, Time and Magic throw another resurrected hero in the mix, the slain Lord Commander of the Night's Watch. COMPLETE

38. Chapter 38: The Lord Of the Light

THE BINDING OF FATES

CHAPTER 38

THE LORD OF THE LIGHT

author's note: If you are reading this on Tablet/PC, the image on the left (book art) is Valerian. Phones need to access Tablet/Pc mode if you don't see it.

---

The flight from the Clapham Commons to the base at Hogsmeade took one and a half hours. Alexandria made Harry lay down across the seats for the entire journey. She ordered him to hold two Newtons's cradles in each hand so that she could monitor his magical injury.

Her diagnostic charm glared deep orange, deep red, then yellow.

"I think your magic is crippled? Is that the word?" Alexandria said. "Your magical vitals are out of sync." She pointed at the two cradles in his hand. One of the swing sets was clicking at a slow rate, the other one clicked three times as fast.

"The healers tried, but I still feel a bit under," Harry said. He cast lumos with his Troll on Holly. It shone true, nice and bright. He didn't know how losing his Lion patronus would affect his other spells.

"Approaching landing zone. Strap in for descent," Valerian said through the P.A. system. "Bundle up. It's snowing."

"Okay," Alexandria responded through her communication badge. Valerian landed behind the barn. Harry was the first one out, wand drawn. When the drifting snow landed on his dueling gear it melted into steam.

Valerian offered a shivering Alexandria her arm. "I'll take you inside. I'll be right back." They disappeared. Harry stood by the helicopter looking around. The packed snow was receding from his boots, turning the hard ground below his feet into a grassy puddle.

What in the world?

Valerian reappeared and grabbed his arm. They were instantly transported into the great room. "I must clean up from this blood," she said. "Give me about ten minutes."

"No problem," Harry said. He and Alexandria sat down at the long dining table. Alexandria was feeling cold so she lit the fire with a well-practiced ignition spell. The flames burst into being, almost double in size. Alexandria gasped in shock.

"Merde!"

"Whoa!" Harry said. Harry got up from his seat and approached the chimney. The fire intensified as he drew close.

"It's reacting to you?" Alexandria said.

"It appears so-" Harry stuck out his hand and the fire dramatically leaned towards him. He jumped back instinctively.

Well, that's new.

Alexandria studied Harry, the flames, then Harry again.

"Please be cautious. I wish to see maman then I will return. Don't do anything I would not do," Alexandria said cautiously.

"Right," Harry nodded. When she left he experimented with his hand, waving it, stretching towards the fire, stepping away. The fire danced with him, shrinking, getting larger, pulling and pushing as he moved.

All right! I can manipulate fire!

He came closer and the logs violently combusted, the flames almost searing off his face. Harry scampered away.

Damn. And I thought I would be invulnerable like Jon. No such luck.

Harry retreated to the doorway and the flames returned to normal. Proximity, eh?

By the time everyone had changed into their Hogwarts uniforms Harry had figured it out. The phoenix tears in his blood were causing the flames to dance. Hopefully it wouldn't be too much of an issue.

"Let's go," Harry said. The three made their way to the back door. Alexandria mounted her broom, holding the clothes bag full of Goblin weapons. Valerian climbed aboard behind Harry and the three of them took off over the Forbidden Forest. The night was frightfully cold. Valerian pressed herself against Harry's back.

"You are deliciously warm!" she shouted over the wind. Alexandria almost dropped her package as she looked across, shocked.

"Um- yeah. Trying to figure that one out myself," Harry said. "And I can hear you, no need to shout."

"Sorry," Valerian said. She put her chin on his shoulder. "Mmmm. I don't even need the Skrewt potion." She had a point. He wasn't feeling the cold either.

"Neither do I," Harry replied. Strange, fire could still burn him, but at least he didn't feel cold. They landed at the workshop tower and Harry used his keys to get in. Master Ollivander was going through their log books.

"Ah. You made it safely. And how are you feeling?" the old wizard said.

"Better, but not one hundred percent. What's the situation?" said Harry.

"Apart from Drinkwater's visit down into the tunnel, all is well. Did you retrieve your snake?"

"No. I'll do that now." Harry stepped out the tower. He flew over on the broom towards the Whomping willow.

Hello? he hissed into the tunnel below the tree.

How are you.

Injured. But alive. And yourself?

Hungry. The hunt has been poor since the cold came.

I'll get you some eggs. Has the great snake awakened?

No. But I do sense a witch trying to use our tongue.

What! Who?

I am not sure. It is the opposite of how we speak.

Opposite?

My human, you are a two legged creature who speaks my language. She a two legged creature adopting a snake head. Very very disturbing.

A partial transformation? Harry remembered Viktor Krum's shark head transformation for the Second Task. This witch was trying to find a way to speak parseltongue. It had to be Bagshot.

Yes, My human.

Has she succeeded in speaking our tongue?

Not yet. But a few of my fellow serpents have been captured for her experiments.

I'm sorry.

Do not be. More game for me to hunt.

This snake was literally a cold blooded beast.

Come. Let me get something for you to eat.

You are far too hot for me to climb upon your arm. Use a branch and I shall climb on it.

Harry found a branch. Serpensortia came out of his tunnel and coiled along it. Harry was quite alarmed that the snake had grown twice his original size. By the time Harry returned Jon was in the workshop. Harry deposited the snake in the large crate used to transport dragon parts.

"Harry, the ghost in the bathroom said that the Auror could not get into the chamber itself," Jon said. He noticed that Harry was using the broom instead of his flight ability. He decided not to comment on it. "I have asked her to discreetly spy on both Bagshot and Drinkwater."

"I suspect that Drinkwater believes he is going to solve this case soon," Ollivander said. "I am of a mind to tell him there is a monstrous basilisk down there."

"Don't. The first thing he would do is the rooster trick. That would be a disaster. The school would have to be shut down," Harry said with a grim expression.

"Temporarily?" Valerian said. "Until the monster is killed?"

"Monsters. The crow of a rooster would infest the coop with toads to hatch even more basilisks."

"Ty che, blyad?" Valerian said with a snarl. Harry couldn't understand what she said, but he thought he got the gist.

"If the parents found out there was a monster in the school, and I think they will if we tell him, it could be a big issue," Harry said. "I do not want to give Malfoy an empty castle so that he can access the Chamber without anyone here to stop him. He can't control it. I think it's better we get rid of it within a contained setting."

"But we aren't one hundred percent sure we can get rid of it without..." Ollivander shook his head sadly. "Without losing anyone. It's too much of a risk."

Alexandria nodded at the wise Sage.

"I killed it before," Harry said, finally giving in.

There was a stunned silence. Jon stared at him.

"They know you are from the 'past'," Harry said to Jon. His eyes twinkled. Jon immediately played along, not missing a beat. "A knight from a past age."

"What!" Ollivander said. He turned to Jon, confusion on his face. "I thought, well, you said.."

Harry felt sorry for the old man. His search for his daughter was put to rest with Jon coming back into his life. Now he had turned that on its head.

"Grandfather, I am the Risen, the Sword of the Light, sworn into service of the Lion. Gemma was my mother, and Regulus was my father, still. The heritage still remains, you are my grandfather, except, this is my second journey through life."

"What, well, how..?" Ollivander frowned, not understanding. Valerian nodded as if this was a truth that should have been declared a long time ago.

"It's my second journey as well," Harry interjected.

Now it was Valerian's turn to frown.

"I killed the basilisk before with the Sword of Gryffindor, with the help of Fawkes. Incredibly lucky circumstances that cannot be predictably ..um.. redone. Voldemort is trying to come back to life. He split his soul using very dark magic to create his Horcruxes. That's why Lockhart, well, Voldemort as Lockhart's petrified body broke into Gringotts."

"What?" Ollivander said. "Split his soul?"

"In his search for eternal life, he has found a way to cheat death." Harry nodded.

"Sounds like a worthy foe," Valerian said. "The Dark Lord should be hard to kill, not so?"

"Val, please, this is serious," Harry sighed.

"You are his nemesis?" Valerian asked.

"Yes," Harry replied.

"Then we have the advantage, knowledge of what is going to happen would benefit us, correct?"

"Yes."

"Then the battle is halfway won. We have a strategy-"

"No," Harry said, cutting her off. "It's not so simple. Things have changed. Lockhart was never in possession of a Horcrux. It was Ginny Weasley. The Basilisk was released shortly before Christmas, but nobody knew what was causing students to be petrified. The school was under siege."

"So," Alexandria said hesitantly. "What happened?"

"I... thought I did what was necessary, but..." Harry shook his head. "It wasn't. I have come back to fix it. The Horcrux is dark magic, so dark, Horace Slughorn wiped his own memory to hide the clues to its existence. Dangerous mind altering magic to hide dangerous soul altering magic."

"What is this Horcrux?" Ollivander asked.

"I have one here," Harry said. He took out his Onyx Gloves from his robes pocket, put them on and took out the matching Onyx box from the ringbox Penelope gave him. "It's his Diary. Do not touch it." Harry opened the box and showed it to them. "This is cursed. The physical aspect holds a piece of Tom Riddle's soul. We destroyed the book, but unfortunately, enough of the soul was absorbed by Ginny. We destroyed them all actually, but Voldemort still came back years into the future."

"I have never even dreamt such a dark art was possible," Ollivander pulled at his faint beard thoughtfully. His eyes did not twinkle.

"Voldemort was the real deal. He wanted everything, control, power, eternal life, and to wipe out non magicals. A megalomaniac who did not even hesitate to kill his own followers," Harry said. "He killed his own father, and his grandparents."

"Mon dieu!"

"The Darkest of the fucking dark," Jon said. "Killing one's own blood."

Harry closed the box. "I fought with him last night. He came back, but I fucked him up, hard. I ... didn't think I would have made it- if he attacked first. I used a fire purification spell," he showed them his hands. "It took a lot out of me. The horcrux needs to be activated into a living person, and that person must be destroyed- and the soul fragment in it. Basilisk Venom works. The Killing Spell works. Purification by Flames works. Destroying Voldemort's real body works."

Ollivander had to sit down. He crossed his legs and closed his eyes, rubbing his temples with his fingers.

"Jon. You were a knight?"

"Yes. I commanded a militia of warriors at a castle fort: the Night's Watch."

"Makes sense. The Immortal Knight," Ollivander smiled at Jon. "And the Wizard of the Light. You two hid in plain sight."

"Basically, yeah," Harry nodded.

"Your jokes were clues that I thought had some sort of merit, but the reality is far more fantastic than my theories."

"I meant no disrespect, Master Ollivander." Jon bowed his head.

"Hm. Well, yes. You two were uncannily skilled." He pointed at their apprentice notebooks. "I have read your logs. Remus' project and Tonks' project were truly works of art. You two are more than ready to begin plans for your own all-purpose wands. I will retrieve the feathers from my shop. Then I will mail you when I return to base," Ollivander said.

"You're sure you want to go back there?" Harry said.

"Diagon alley might be dangerous," Valerian added.

"I have decades of experience in avoiding conflict. I have secret ways in and out of the shop, and a way to hide and safeguard the arsenal of weapons on the shelves," Ollivander said with a wide smile.

"You are well prepared, grandfather," Jon said.

"I must admit I have a few tricks up my sleeve. Have no fear, I will be back later on in the day at the clan base. I will also help with Remus' recovery. For now, I believe that once Harry and Jon can monitor what Drinkwater and Bagshot are doing, and prevent them from entering the chamber, we have some time."

"Enough time needed to craft weapons and armor to face the beast?" Jon said.

"Hopefully. Alexandria, Valerian, get some rest. Then you shall meet me at base this afternoon when I return. We will make plans with Monsieur Valmont with regards to the smooth operation at the crash site. And, I would want to sneak out the corpse of the female, if that would be fine with you, Valerian."

"It is a natural death case- first come, first serve," Valerian said. "Exporting the carcass whole may prevent all this added headache with the ICOP authorities."

"I might be able to levitate it out the cave," Harry said.

"Our priority is to get the specific quantities Sanguini requested for him to begin," Ollivander said. "Once we have the armor, we can decide how we are to face the beast."

"Yeah. And we have various other parts too- elfen batwing, Diablo parts... threstral parts," said Harry.

"Ooh..." Valerian rubbed her hands together in glee. "This gear is going to be awesome!"

Harry could not help but notice how her smile lit up her face. If it weren't for the blood stains in her hair, she could have been a poster girl.

"A master craftsman at work is a sight to behold. A Vampire master craftsman... can you imagine the technique? The artistry? It will be a priceless work of art!"

Ollivander clenched his fist in front of him, the epitome of victory.

The youngsters all looked at him warily. Ollivander began to mumble under his breath. After a few seconds he returned to the present. He cleared his throat.

"Jon, keep in touch with Myrtle- she is spying on the Auror and Bathilda, yes? Harry, you as well. Make sure the snake keeps you updated. If that Basilisk awakens, you must swear to alert Albus. Make sure this school is evacuated. This is a direct order, there is no compromise."

"Yes, Master Ollivander," they said in unison.

Ollivander nodded. "For now, we play the waiting game. Walk in the light, Crows."

---

The second week of the term was a tense affair. Dumbledore was back and forth every other day on Wizengamot business. Auror Drinkwater had also been recalled. The Goblins sent a War Council delegation of two, an obvious snub towards the Ministry's attempt to quell the tensions with a peaceful resolution. In the meanwhile hundreds of heavily armed Goblins surrounded Gringrotts.

Diagon Alley was swarming with angry wizards. The most prominent chants by the mini-mobs were We Want Our Gold and Goblins be Robbins! Ministry agents were maintaining a DO NOT CROSS barricade charm forty feet away from the steel plated Goblin warriors. Most of these anarchists were recently graduated apprentices who couldn't find jobs or wizards and witches hoping to gain a monetary advantage from the situation.

They usually left before lunch.

Most shopkeepers were in the process of boarding up their shops and applying defensive enchantments. Vince Greyback owled Garrick Ollivander stating that the Ministry strongly requested all registered Hunter and Hit Wizard Clans to congregate in London and environs. The Arthur Knights 'Gloryhounds' Hit Wizard Guild and other Hunter clans were settling into inns and other establishments around the capital, hastily recalled from missions.

The Crows were also on edge. Alexandria was working on proximity charms to detect visitors to Myrtle's bathroom which must also be undetectable. Jon, Harry and Valerian rotated graveyard shifts under Harry's invisibility cloak each night until Alexandria figured it out. These were the times Harry needed Tonks and her Auror knowledge. As term began he hardly saw Valerian, other than at mealtimes. His thoughts sometimes drifted between the both of them. Valerian had befriended her year four classmates Katie and Alicia, of all people, but otherwise spent most of her spare time in the library.

That Friday night Harry woke up at four to take over Valerian's guard shift on the fourth floor. When he arrived at the southern steps leading to the bathroom, he noticed that the torches were lit.

Valerian was sitting on a stool totally covered by Harry's invisibility cloak near to Myrtle's bathroom. She was tracking Harry's movement from the dormitories using the Marauder's map. She peered down the hallway. The lit torches on the walls flared brighter as Harry walked towards her. The effect was quite impressive.

"Hello, Dragonslayer," Valerian said as she removed the cloak. "All is quiet."

"Hey Val," Harry said sleepily. "After these past few nights, I think it would be until Drinkwater comes back."

Valerian was literally burning the midnight oil. She put down a clipboard holding a sheet of parchment on her stool. She gave him his cloak and the map. "Yes. But until Alexandria's magic is ready, this is best." She picked up her Defense textbooks, quill and clipboard, and was about to leave.

"Hold on," Harry called out. "What are you working on?"

"What 'Defence Against the Dark Arts means to me' essay," she said. She smoothed her hair unnecessarily, then touched the feather to her nose, thinking. "At first I thought this would be easy. But now, after writing it, I have a strong feeling I am missing the true gist.. the true answer to this question."

"You got that topic too?" Harry asked.

"From what Alexandria has told me, the entire school got the same topic."

Harry thought that if it weren't for Bagshot's attempt to figure out the Chamber of Secrets, she might be the best Defense teacher to ever come to this school. Getting the entire school to think of this topic and put it into words may have two effects: weeding out those who might delve into the Dark, and finding those who were firm in their commitment to the Light.

"Um. I wrote about shields, blocking spells, magical cures, and eliminating bad wizards," Valerian said, a bit embarrassed. "It sounds totally non magical, like a tactical drill. I.. think I need some help."

"Let me see," Harry said. She offered him the clipboard with parchment. Harry read it. From what she had here, basically she was describing how to brutally eradicate an enemy combatant from the face of the planet. Her 'Crushing the corpse with a building' was a cool idea, though. "Ah.." Harry smiled.

"Ah? Ah what?" Valerian said, perplexed. "Ahvada Kedahv-"

"No! Don't say that. Come on," Harry laughed. "What Bagshot wants is for us to figure out that Defence against the dark arts starts from inside," Harry touched his chest. "Brotherhood, tolerance, and standing up for what is right and all that good stuff. A philosophy, a walk of life."

"Oh... like your creed.. Walk In the Light. Speaking of which..." Valerian pointed at the two closest torches. They were burning extra bright, slanting at an angle towards Harry. "Are you doing that?"

"Yeah, but not on purpose. Something to do with my magic."

"Your blood is settling, but it is still ... active. Something is going on within you. Something related to the phoenix tears?"

"Yes," Harry said, suddenly self conscious. The way she talked, it felt like she was curious? Wanting to know more about him? Or was he just being overly egotistical? "If I could describe it, it feels like my magic is moulting like a phoenix. My winged patronus said another will take its place, but who knows when that would be?"

"Rebirth flame?" Valerian said. "You think your magic is a phoenix?"

"Like a phoenix. I don't know. I am hoping it passes soon."

Valerian reached out and touched his face. "You are warm to the touch," she said softly. "The only thing I can help you with is what I 'see' in your blood. The Basilisk venom is being burned by the phoenix tears, that is I what I see. There is a battle, and the Basilisk's taint is apparently losing. Give me your hand."

Harry did so. Valerian unwrapped the clean bandages on his right hand. "Look. Where the cut is not healing properly. You can see it."

Harry peered at his wounds. At the deepest point of the partially healed cut was a tiny glow, a spot of light resembling a single grain of glitter.

"Shit, what is that?" Harry said softly.

"The phoenix tears are purifying your blood. You may be right. Your magic is repairing itself like a phoenix reborn from the flames."

"Hmm, sounds good. By next week our phoenix wands would be ready. I can't wait!" Harry pounded one hand into the other in excitement. "Ow."

"Poor baby," Valerian said, taking his hand. She kissed it. "Better?"

Harry just looked at her teasing smile. "Y-yeah.." Her eyes were gleaming in the firelight. Harry felt magic run from that kiss into his spine. "Thanks..."

Valerian nodded, suddenly awkward. "I'll leave you to it, then." She turned and left. "Night, Harry," she waved as she walked down the corridor.

Harry watched her leave, then sat down on the stool. With a sigh he opened the map.

---

That Saturday evening Draco Malfoy had a smug look on his face during dinner, boasting that things were going to change.

"Don't worry about it," he said. He tossed the Daily Prophet aside. The Slytherins were hanging on to his every word. "Father is on a lot of influential boards. His contacts within Leprauchaun's Pot, the Wizard-Only Bank, and some business partners from the continent will be inviting some of the more respected families together to open a wizard's bank in England."

"Finally!" Pansy said.

"But what about the gold already in Gringotts?" Blaise asked.

"What about it?" Draco said, basking in attention.

"Come on," Andrew Bole said. "You know what he means."

"We take it back," Draco said arrogantly. "They're trying to negotiate with those.. those animals. This Ministry is pathetic if you ask me. Total disgrace."

"Take it back? By force?" Blaise said.

"No, we tickle them into submission," Draco shot a grin towards Harry. Draco knew he was listening to every word. The Slytherins laughed at the Gryffindor table.

"Feeling for a swim, gobby?" Harry raised his eyebrow. "It is a bit cold these nights." Draco's haughty expression disappeared.

"Talk big all you want. You'll see soon enough," Draco countered, then addressed his housemates. "As I was saying, it's about time we did something about those creatures. They are so... short and disgusting. Makes my skin crawl when I have to order them to bring me a few hundred galleons for shopping." Some of the Slytherin girls tittered at that. "Potter won't know about that, am I right? Your family is worth what, a measly couple thousand?"

"I don't know. Could be more. I've heard that your family lost a lot in France the other day. Almost two hundred thousand worth in properties and liquid assets."

"How... how did you know that?" Draco said. Harry smiled like an angel.

"My accounts, coincidentally, raised by around that same amount recently. What an amazing turn of luck!"

If Draco could have breathed fire like his namesake, he would have. His face was trembling with rage.

"Your hair hasn't been as shiny as it used to be these days, wot- no more hair potion?" said Harry. "Trouble in paradise?"

Draco immediately reached for his hair to the general amusement of the dinner hall. Harry dismissed the conversation by immediately turning his back to Draco and speaking to the person opposite him. It was Hermione. Her head was down, but she was smirking.

"Finished your transfiguration essay?" he said.

"Since Wednesday," she replied. She glanced up at him. "You've been quiet."

"Hm a bit," Harry said. Uh oh.

"And tense." Hermione searched his eyes.

Harry shrugged. Ever since he met Hermione he knew she was always perceptive. He was tense. Professor Bagshot was conducting experiments to mimic parseltongue. Hermione leaned across the table and used both of her hands to tunnel her mouth. "Is it because of me?" she whispered.

"No, not at all! I've been concentrating on my next wand project." He softened his explanation with a small smile.

Hermione did not buy that one bit. She glanced across to the fourth year girls: Valerian, Katie and Alicia. "Okay." She began pushing food across the table. Luckily, Ron joined in at that moment to distract her.

"Hermione, you mind if you help me..?" Ron said, taking out his half written roll of parchment. "I can't get the colour to change, and the books don't say anything about how it's done.. you just.. wave and bang. It's red, blue, whatnot."

Hermione brightened. "No problem. We can go whenever you're ready."

"Great. Thanks," Ron said. He glanced across at Harry. Ron was still a bit miffed about Hermione kissing him. Harry nodded in a friendly manner and returned to eating.

Jon slipped into Hermione's vacated seat. "The hide has finally arrived at the clan base. Ollivander has sent this as well: Sanguini's sketched preliminary designs." He opened up his backpack. There was a box wrapped in brown paper in it.

"Not here. At the workshop. Round up everyone," Harry said, wiping his mouth.

"At once," Jon said. Within ten minutes Valerian, Harry, Jon and Alexandria were assembled in the workshop. "Progress, everyone! Take a look." Jon opened up the box, excited like a child at Christmas.

Sanguini sent four scrolls tied in ribbons. They all accepted their respective scrolls. On it were very detailed diagrams, front plane and side angle views of prototype Onyx Armour. Jon's, Alexandria's, and Valerian's diagrams were freakishly accurate representations of them.

Jon's Onyx armour was a skin tight suit, with a contoured muscle design and an Onyx tasset covering the groin and hip area. The head was left unprotected, with a cowl that could be drawn over his hair. The gauntlets were 'finger cut-out' versions of their current curse-breaker gloves. "Excellent," Jon said. "He knew that direct contact with our wands is important. The palm and fingers were left uncovered... he thinks ahead."

A face-mask accessory, a cross between the Onyx dragon's face and the piercing glare of a wolf was drawn at the side. A weapons belt and a sword sheath with accompanying strap were drawn as separate items at the bottom of the parchment. Jon looked far, far off into the distance. "I can see it now."

'The Dragon Knight' was Sanguini's annotation at the corner.

Alexandria's ensemble was a simple design of a heavy cloak over a neck-high jumpsuit style tunic. The design was functional, pinched at the waist and flared a bit at the hips. It was not skin tight, in fact, there seemed to be an overlapping design that could be unbuttoned down the front. When she saw the side profile, she realized the tunic top was a jacket that could be opened, with numerous pouches for medicinal items. The cloak billowed around her feet.

Alexandria immediately thought that the getup resembled a dark witch. Then she noticed the universal healer's symbol on an Onyx satchel drawn at the bottom of the parchment. Now the get up made sense.

"He added a medical purse. How thoughtful..." Alexandria said. For a fricken Vampire.

'Life, where once was only Death' was written underneath.

Alexandria looked over at Jon's scroll. "That suits you. It has a wolf quality to it. Like a superhero, non?"

"Superhero?" Jon said. "You mean an Immortal hero." He smiled at her.

"Whatever," Alexandria rolled her eyes.

Valerian was shaking her head. "No. Not going to happen." Her design was frightfully skimpy. It consisted of a cape with stiff shoulder pieces, a revealing bustier connected to buckles at the shoulder pieces, an onyx bikini bottom with a low slung weapons belt, vambraces, gauntlets and thigh-high greaves. Her belly button was exposed, as was her cleavage, shoulders, and upper thighs. "Why would he do this?" Valerian said. "A cape? Wait-"

There were more drawings on the back side. They were armor accessories. A Dragonhide chest plate, haute-piece, shield pauldron, chain link skirt, and a helmet with two feathers over each ear were sketched in fastastic detail. The final drawing was of the under-armor and outer armour put together. It looked very medieval. And a bit clunky.

'Reinforced with Dragon Skull Bone' was the annotation.

Jon looked at hers. "Excellent foresight- he is truly a master smith. This customization. Yes," Jon took her parchment out her hands. Harry came over to peep. "I think he took into consideration your pilot chamber is a snug fit." Jon pointed at the skimpy bustier, "This is the base." Jon flipped the parchment- "Optional protection."

Valerian was liking this design more and more. "Maybe..." she bit her lip, smiling, thinking it over. "I will save my judgement for later."

"Guys," Harry said. He was confused. "Mine isn't shaded in, like yours. It appears to be... white?"

The four of them looked at Harry's design. The design was identical to Jon's with the exception that he had a short cape and a balaclava instead of a helmet. He did not have any weapons belt. Instead, he had a broad bandolier with wands slotted in. The drawing was artistically shaded to represent that it was light-colored.

"Look, something is on the back as well," Alexandria noticed. Harry separated the outer decorative parchment from the canvas drawing parchment.

It was a drawing of the Grim Reaper with scythe. The drawing's feet hung loosely, as if it were hovering. Harry gulped.

'The Master of Death' was the title of Harry's project. Harry stared hard at the drawings.

"It'll do."

---

During the month of January, Hogsmeade's little specialty shops were full of customers. The Hogwarts Express was working harder than ever, making four trips in three days, non stop. Due to the increase in traffic, Master Ollivander moved his finished wands to the small sub branch in Hogmseade, which was manned by his house elf Smiley. Smiley was aptly named, because he never smiled. The little shop was basically a pick up point for customers up north. The grouchy house elf accepted the receipts, went into the back room, returned, and gave customers their goods. Not even a hello, or a thank you.

Diagon Alley was a ghost town. The negotiations between the ministry and the goblins had come to a standstill, where the Goblins demanded that the culprits be handed over, and nothing less would suffice. The Ministry kept to their story that Aurors were sent in to apprehend the culprit, and all of them died in battle. The Goblins did not believe that the battle ended in a stalemate.

The Daily Prophet was spinning rumours and speculation of foreign Bankers taking over, and wild stories of The Crown once again being invaded by Scandanavians.

"The Crows sent their warrior princess 'Valkryie' to protect the hospital. A true swordmage! May Magic Bless this Country!" was a quote by the chief of security Hank Armstrong, semi-retired MLE employee now stationed at St. Mungo's. "To my fellow wizards and witches, fight for what is right!"

The next day, disgruntled and hungry citizens protested outside the Ministry of Magic, holding signs with "Goblins Be Robbins!" "Fight For What Is Right!" and "We Want Our Gold!"

Beatrice Bethselzder, the British Warmage assigned to France for the past few months, cut out this latest article from the Daily Prophet. She pinned it on the large board taking up the majority of the wall to her immediate right. It was full of clipped articles, from the French, Russian, British and even the Spanish dailies.

She frowned. They were on the brink of something, she just didn't know what.

"Tonks, come in here," she called out her open doorway. They worked in an office building based in Paris on the very top floor. The non magical building was barely occupied on the higher levels. Levels one to four were the main traffic areas.

"Coming!" Tonks got up from her office lower down and walked through Bethselzder's door.

"You know anything about this? It mentions your old Clan."

Tonks read the cut out clipping. "Sounds like her. She was my latest recruit before I left."

"So. You've been here what, almost four weeks?" the older woman asked.

"Yeah..?" Tonks said.

"What do you think about this mess?"

"The Ministry is in trouble. Fighting inside the tunnels would incur many, many losses. We may not even win."

"You're still thinking like a soldier. Now, think like a Warmage. What do you think about this mess?" Bethselzder repeated. Tonks quickly scanned the large board of clippings and arrows pointing to different figures. Auror Bentacour, Madame Maxime and Bartemus Crouch Senior had many connecting arrows affiliated with numerous articles.

"No matter the winner, the battle would cripple us. Make us vulnerable for outside influences to infiltrate."

"Correct. Did you finish the report on the wealthiest bankers in Europe for me?" Beatrice asked.

"Yes. And Lucius Malfoy has been in contact with nearly half of them."

"Figures. And why hasn't Fudge, Dumbledore and Scrimegour made any public statements as yet?"

"Their comments would go down in history at this point, maybe? Not the best time to make rash decisions?" Tonks said.

"Correct. Speaking of rash decisions, did Bentacour meet his Russian contact last weekend in Poland?"

"It seems they blew him off. I tracked him that whole weekend. He went to a pub to party... I thought they would have rendezvous there. I kept a close eye on him whole night. Nothing."

Beatrice rolled her eyes. "Nymphadora, please tell me you went with a date. Please."

Tonks frowned. "No, I didn't."

"You've been made, then." Beatrice sighed. "At least you changed your face, right?"

"Of course.. but why would you say I've been made?" Tonks said.

"Put yourself in your target's shoes. You are running a high risk operation meeting with foreign agents. And let's say, you are to meet this person in a nightclub. A pretty woman, witch, whatever- comes into the club, without a date, or without a group of friends. His awareness triggers. See where this is going?"

"He cancels the meeting, innocent of any wrong doing. Right. I'm sorry," Tonks said.

"You'll get better," Beatrice said, returning to her reports. "Follow up on the bankers' profiles for me. I want all their British connections on my desk at the end of the week."

---

Penelope burst in the door to the workshop. Harry continued the tedious sanding process on the Snakewood stem and handle for his Phoenix core wand. This wood was renowned in South America for its hardness. His project was delayed a couple weeks after discussion with Master Ollivander. The Wand sage deduced that Holly would be too soft for the new Phoenix feather, which would technically be more potent because it was freely given.

So here he was, painstakingly using the foot pedals to rapidly spin the heavy sanding belt, clamps holding the raw material to smooth the rough edges off his new wand. It was calming in a sense, but time consuming.

"Hey!" Penelope said. "Did you see this?" she gave him a copy of the French Daily Le Scribe de Reveur. Harry glanced at the text.

"I can't read French," he said.

"So sorry!" Penelope tapped her wand on the paper.

FRENCH ELITE TO OPEN WIZARDS-ONLY BANK IN DIAGON ALLEY.

"Hm. Okay... so what is the significance of this?"

"Harry," Penelope said, disappointed. "Don't you see? The French are trying to take over! And what gold are they actually going to put in the vaults?" She sat down next to him so that she could read an excerpt.

'With negotiations grinding to a standstill, the British are experiencing a crippling season of economic strife. Food, goods, and most likely salaries would not be forthcoming at the end of this month. The long standing Wizard Families are coming together to find alternate solutions. The British Ministry has remained tight lipped on this situation.'

Penelope looked at Harry critically. "You must do something."

"Me?"

"Yes. You are the Chosen One."

Harry and Penelope stared at each other. Harry nodded, then returned to his sanding. He could do something. Something to probably end this stalemate. "Ok. I will."

"What?"

"I will give them my memory of the battle. Hopefully the Goblins would accept that and negotiations could continue," Harry shrugged.

"Knew you had it in you," Penelope hugged him and planted a wet kiss on his cheek. Harry didn't even stop his methodical sanding. Penelope rested her chin on his shoulder and her chest pressed against his arm. "Oooh! You're so warm. Aren't you fed up of chicken and potatoes every night?"

Harry must admit that the elf food was getting very monotonous. "Yeah." He angled the wand material along the sanding belt and his tricep rubbed against her breasts. "Oy, you're in my way." Harry shrugged her off a bit.

"Sorry," she let him go and sat primly next to him, hands on her lap. "Is that a wand you're building? Who is it for?"

"Me."

"That must be awesome. Making your own wand..." She trailed off suggestively. She smiled at him, her eye twinkle in full force. Harry sighed. With their connection that twinkle was way too powerful. He could feel her practically begging him to make a wand for her and offering any sort of favour as payment.

I'll do anything.

Stop it.

I mean it. I'll do ANYthing.

Stop it, Penelope.

I know you like it when I talk dirty to you.

In the quiet corner of his mind Harry sorta did like it. But she wasn't to know that.

I do not.

That's SUCH a lie.

Instead of a wand I'll make a switch, so I can beat you with it.

As soon as Harry sent it, he knew he made a mistake.

Oh Really?

An image of Penelope bent over a teacher's table with her skirt hitched around her waist while Harry gave her strokes ran through both of their minds. She moaned with each swing of the switch. A rush of pleasurable fantasy surged in between them. It was so intense Harry lost control of the rough wand stem and the sanding belt snatched it out of his hands, clattering it to the ground.

I told you not to do that!

I didn't! That was unintentional! Swear!

Harry turned towards her. Both of them were breathing hard, cheeks flushed.

"You're a freak, aren't you?" Harry said softly.

"I don't know. You know something? I thought myself the opposite. It could be all the mind altering stuff, but when I'm with you... I like it. I feel alive," Penelope said. She was breathing gently now, composing herself. "No wonder those crazy Death eaters did this. It's exhilarating to feel your emotions. And your power! How do you just sit there calmly knowing what you could do with your magic? I'd kill to have the knowledge and ability you do!"

Harry thought a second. His magic was still very wonky. Simple school work exploded in his face with too much magic or fizzled out lamely at the most inopportune times. At least his Lumos and Winguardium lleviosa was fine. But that was about it. "Do you know what's wrong with my magic?" he asked softly. "Do you feel it?"

"Um..." she closed her eyes and gently put both hands to his cheeks. She remained still for almost ten seconds. "It needs a proper psychological and emotional balance- Something is blocking it. Oh Harry," she said softly. "I'm sorry I teased you- I didn't know!"

"What is it?" Harry asked, watching her closed eyes and troubled expression.

"You're lonely. You're missing someone. Unrequited love, or a crush? You haven't moved on. That is the issue right now, isn't it?"

Harry felt very vulnerable with her proclamations. "And? So what?" he said defensively. "Can you fix this?"

"I think so... I'm more mature about these things than you are. I can take it away from you, take a bit of the heartache."

"That doesn't sound fair to you at all!" Harry said.

"I can handle it. Since I heard about Michael's suicide, I felt so... free. And happy! I could kiss you right now for what you've done for all of us!"

And so she did. A deep, take everything kind of kiss. Harry pulled back.

"Don't do that again," Harry said in a low tone. He watched her twisted smirk. He felt his magic doing something wonderful. She did it- he was healed. Before his very eyes the two deep cuts that were taking so long to heal on his hands finally sealed. Within seconds all that was left was a faint scar. "Whoa, so easy?"

"Yeah," Penelope shrugged.

"Penelope, are you okay?"

"I don't feel any different." She touched his lip lightly with her index finger. He didn't flinch away. He wouldn't let this girl intimidate him.

She was his servant, dammit.

"It's a two way street, M'lord. You help me and I'll help you. That's how it works. I just removed the obstacle, I don't really care about whoever it was." Penelope did feel a faint sinking feeling in her stomach, but being close to Harry countered the negative feeling.

"If you say so. Well, thanks," Harry rubbed the hair behind his neck in a nervous gesture. Harry stood up, then shot off to the ceiling, touched the roof and landed smoothly. "Fuck yes!"

Penelope was amazed. "You never said you could fly!"

Oh my god Oh my god Oh my god Oh my god Harry I'll wait for you. I promise! Penelope girl, you scored big time. No wonder Sarah was concerned. I linked up with bloody Superman!

"I can still hear you," Harry said with a grin.

"Oh. Sorry," she bit her lip. "Didn't mean to. So... "

"So..?"

"That spanking business still on?"

PENELOPE!

She flinched, touching her temple. "Okay okay! Guess not."

---

"I persuaded Albus to lend me his pensieve. So, what do you have to show us that could help the goblin situation?" Ollivander said as he entered the workshop a few nights later. He greeted Harry and the gang and put the heavy bowl gently on the stained picnic bench. Miracle raised his head in greeting to the wand sage, then lay back down on the rug assigned to him in front of the forge fire.

"The fight. If the goblins could somehow see it.. maybe they would realize that the intruder was destroyed. I think it would be best if Jon saw it too," said Harry. The Crows were a vehicle to get the components and weapons needed to fight the horcuxes, but destroying them was Jon and Harry's responsibility. "My phoenix wand is finished... but I prefer if someone with a bit more experience, do the pulling." He pointed his newly made Phoenix feather wand to his temple. "Can you do it, Master Ollivander?"

"Ah, a memory extraction... it is a technique used solely by those who have trained their mind in the arts of Occlumency and Leglimency." Ollivander looked at Harry for a fraction of a second. "Foolish me. Of course you know this rare and vastly difficult skill."

"Of course," Harry said.

"You are ready?" Ollivander asked.

"Yes. I have it ready at the forefront of my mind."

Ollivander drew his wand and put it to Harry's temple. Harry closed his eyes as he felt the memory being duplicated, then pulled out. The spell felt like a mild straining of a muscle, except from inside his skull. The sensation faded after a couple seconds. Master Ollivander swirled the memory inside the bowl.

"It's pretty graphic, and gruesome." Everyone stared at him with blank expressions. "Right. With that being said...Lets jump in!" The five of them dipped their faces close to the bowl and were immediately sucked in. Everyone except Jon, who was standing upside down on the ceiling, floated above the abyss. The battle with Lockhart, the Aurors' gruesome deaths, and Voldemort's resurrection played in a gray, dreamlike vision. Then Harry's ritual happened. The entire grayscale dream burst into full colour, a black and white movie turned into a modern day film.

Phoenix magic, fire, blood, corpses re-animating were all now displayed in their full glory. Everything vanished and they were warped out of the pensieve. All of them, except Harry, were thrown on the workshop floor.

Harry looked around in the foggy netherworld, realizing that his mates were no longer with him. He pulled out of the memory.

The four of them were picking up themselves from the floor.

"What was that?" Ollivander said. "We were kicked out physically!"

"Yeah," Harry shrugged. Only he, being the Master of Death, was allowed to see the train station it seems. Magic and wizardry was a strange, strange thing.

Jon placed a firm hand on his shoulder. "Unbelievable. Truly a majestic display of skill, and power. My confidence has soared tenfold after what I have witnessed. We shall be victorious, Harry of House Hallow."

Alexandria had the complete opposite opinion. Harry rushed in there unprepared and dealt with the situation like a seasoned professional. Against the basilisk, he was putting every inch of caution and planning they could muster. What could be worse than a Voldemort who could possess corpses and bring them back to life? Her first inclination was that she wanted out of this Basilisk business.

Valerian fixed her skirt so that it was straight again. "The Slayer of the Dark Lord. The Slayer of the Dragon. If there is anyone who could slay the Basilisk, it would be three for three. Like Jon, my confidence in you has been reinforced." She approached, watching him. "You are healed, nyea?"

"Yes."

"That is good," Valerian said, confused. She watched him directly in his eyes, but said nothing further. "The venom has been defeated. Your blood is now at rest."

Harry had a suspicion that he was once again susceptible to venom and poisons. He would ask Alexandria to experiment at another time. "So. What do you think, sir?"

"I think you are a very brave, and very powerful wizard." He sat down and studied his young charges. "With regards to the Goblin nation, the only thing they might be appeased about is the fact that the intruder has been killed. I do not know if they would forgive the audacity of wizards breaking into the bank with this alone."

"That place is doomed. One way or the other, no wizard will want to bank with them anymore," Alexandria said. "Either they surrender their gold, or they go to war with the Ministry."

"Capture the basilisk and unleash it in the bank?" Jon said offhandedly.

"Fuck," Harry stared at him. That was brutal.

"Flawless victory," Jon shrugged. "Once we kill it afterwards, of course."

If I was a Dark Wizard, that might have been a fine idea, in fact.

Valerian was watching Jon with a grin on her face. Master Ollivander and Alexandria were shaking their heads incredulously.

"Your idea needs work, but the philosophy is good. The goblins' methods are simple, agreements are to be honored, and breaking them results in violence. A show of force. Hmm." Harry was pulling at his chin.

"What are you thinking, Harry!" Alexandria sounded alarmingly like Hermione with that tone.

"I can do it. A weapon to hammer them into submission," Harry said. "Without killing the whole nation, of course." He grinned.

"A challenge?" Jon said enthusiastically.

"Yeah," Harry nodded, the idea sinking in. "A fucking challenge. Pardon my language, sir." Jon and Harry connected.

"Oh, not at all," Ollivander said.

"Can I be your second?" Valerian asked. "I've read about magical duels and challenges, I want in."

"You mean third. Harry and Jon are incredible," Alexandria stated softly. "You won't have much to do."

Everyone looked at her. She seemed hesitant about these wild notions.

"I'm sorry, everyone. That... fight, was a lot to take in. I'm not like you three. I was a privileged child. My biggest problem was hardly seeing my father as he was always busy on business. Until my birthday, that is. That was when my mother and I were sucked into all this ugliness. All this talk about war and battles..." Alexandria sat down in the workstation chair. She folded her arms and blew away the hair that fell across her face. "You talk of revolution and genocide. Challenging the Goblins as if it were yesterday's weather."

Like a Dark Wizard.

"What I had in mind would be a show of force, not really a slaughter. They should be fine afterwards," Harry explained.

"Dammit," Valerian said, throwing her hands up in disgust.

Jon and Valerian laughed.

"Let's hear it," Ollivander said. Harry told them of his idea.

---

In the first week of February Beatrice Bethselzder stepped inside of her office. The Owl service had delivered yesterday's Daily Prophet, like clockwork. She flipped it open as she sat down.

In an attempt to prevent all out War

A London S-Ranked Clan Challenges the Goblin Nation to Honourable Battle!

Crows Vs Goblins!

To the Victor goes the Spoils!

"Tonks!" Beatrice exclaimed. Her cup of coffee spilled over a pile of documents as she put it down. She cleaned the mess quickly with some quick spell work. "Get your ass in here!"

"Coming!" she said, running into the office. "I just read it. Yesterday's paper!"

"I've been recalled a few weeks ago when this all started, but I convinced Scrimegour that our work was critical if we are to be prepared for foreigners opening a bank in England." She opened the paper to page two and read through it quickly. "Well. I guess this is it then. I was going to let you continue your work tracking Auror Bentacour and Paige Jallet, but this article here has definitely raised my curiosity. I wonder who this clan is? Hmm?" She raised an eyebrow at her protege.

Beatrice opened up a large notebook from her shelf. "Knockturn Alley's Hunter Guild. Right." She touched her finger to her tongue as she flicked through the pages. "B-Class, A-Class, A-class, ah.. here we are. There are three in S-class: The Reavers. The Hunters' Circle. That is the all star one, I think. Oh.. and look at this. What a lovely surprise: The Crow's Vambrace. It seems this 'Roderick Hallow' fellow has come out to play."

Beatrice tapped her wand on the blank photograph in the middle of entire collage of articles and pictures of various persons of interest on the board. The photograph revealed itself to be a wizard in glowing white robes. Most of the arrows were linked back to him, a spider sitting in its web. "I feel this challenge has something to do with this guy. It has to be. I must meet him."

Beatrice smiled at Tonks. The veteran witch hardly smiled.

"I told you I'm not part of that group anymore," Tonks said. Harry was under investigation at the highest levels of the British intelligence? By her boss, to be exact?

"I know, dear. Nevertheless, I insist. We leave immediately."

---

The challenge was scheduled for February the fourteenth, Valentine's day. While the entire school was excited about its traditional jaunt into Hogsmeade that day, the Crows were busy gearing up in their new armour before dawn.

Sirius Black was with Jon and Harry in the boys' room, while Eleanor Potage was in her daughter's room. Valerian dressed alone.

"So. When can I join?" Sirius said without preamble. Jon had presented him his newly customized Cerberus Whisker core on Holly as soon as they arrived. Sirius immediately asked Jon to be his Valentine. Jon agreed. The resulting explanation of what Valentine's day was and Jon's ignorance had Sirius crying with laughter. "At least you two look the part!"

"Now that you have your wand, as soon as Greyback opens up again you can sign up," said Jon.

"Excellent. It gets boring here," Sirius said.

"We have to kill a Basilisk soon. After that, you can join."

"Great," Sirius said, not sure if Jon was joking or not.

Harry had to admit hiring the Vampire smith was worth the trouble. Their amour had a look of S.W.A.T. tactical outfits with the added rippling effect inherent to the Onyx hide. Jon's was jet black, while Harry's was made with the chameleon-styled underbelly scales. If he stepped into the shadow, the outfit darkened colour to match, but if he stepped into the light, the scales paled and blended in the rays of the Sun. It was a very interesting effect.

Harry's ensemble came with a half mask balaclava of the underbelly scales, while the top half was made of the transparent eyelid material, allowing him to see. Jon's mask was intimidating. Jon took it off and was rummaging through the onyx trunk his armour was shipped in. The only things in it were various buckles for weapon belts, and a sheath. Jon drew his claymore and sheathed it. To his surprise, the sheath adjusted its shape to compensate the magical weapon.

"That man is brilliant," Jon grinned as he belted it to his waist. "However, I never liked a full helmet, hinders peripheral vision..." he kept digging in his trunk. There were no more pieces. "Ah, damn it. I would have to commission Sanguini to make me a similar mask to yours."

"Take mine. Since you two would be on the ground anyway," Harry offered.

"You're sure?"

"Yup. It's fine." Harry gave it to him and took up his Dueling mask from WWG. "This would do. I like this mask anyway. Let's go check on the others."

Fully geared, the three of them made their way towards Valerian's room. Harry knocked. "We're ready. You ok?"

"Yes, Dragonslayer. One moment."

Valerian stepped out of her bedroom. Harry's jaw dropped. Sirius made the sign of the cross numerous times. Jon kept his eyes on hers. "Ah," he said lamely.

The bustier fit her like a second skin. Her chest, defined abs and obliques were perfect. The winged headpiece reminded Harry of her helicopter's pilot gear. In fact, he believed that was what inspired the piece in the first place.

"Check this out!" She touched the side of the headpiece and her entire face was covered with the transparent Onyx eyelid, offering total protection. Her voice was muffled as she continued. "Unfortunately, the skirt can only be attached to the chest plate," she turned her hip this way and that. The bottom piece covered her firm buttocks, with a hint of tease at the top of the back of her legs. "I do not like the chest plate. It is designed to face a singular, large foe, like a dragon or giant snake. Against many enemies it will only slow me down. I will put on my over robe over this. I would be fine."

"Do not let Ellie see you leaving the house like that, Miss Lady!" Sirius said. He was biting the back of his knuckles.

"The faceplate also feels ... strange. Like scuba ge-" Valerian raised her eyebrow at Harry. "Harry?"

Harry's eyes roamed over her strong body. She was literally a warrior goddess. "Um.. uh...hmm? Yes, Valerian Steel?"

"Last name too?" she chuckled. "You have something to say, Harry?" she asked in a warning tone.

"No..." Oh my goodness. What I wouldn't do..

"Hm. For you, and you," Valerian gave Harry and Jon a goblin forged sword and sheath. Sirius held out his hand expectantly. Valerian looked up at the tall man, and grinned. She went back into the room and brought one for him as well. "And for you, Sirius."

"You have my undying gratitude, Val," Sirius said. He immediately strapped it around his waist. "Always wanted one of these."

Harry still held the weapon in his hand, frozen. He couldn't take his eyes off of her.

Was it a spell? What was happening to him?

Jon finished strapping the weapon across his back and snapped his fingers in front of Harry's eyes. "Mrs. Potage has no say in what Lady Valerian wears. It will be fine. I predict an easy victory. Did you and Dean figure out tethering the autopilot for Black Angel One?"

"Yes. It should work for the short distance we need it for. I tested it last night before you two arrived," Valerian said.

"Good. Breakfast, then we leave. I will fetch Alexandria."

Sirius, Harry and Valerian went downstairs to the kitchen. Master Ollivander was toasting bread for everyone in the coal oven. His Onyx gear was a simple free flowing robe with hood. "Ah. Oh, Miss Valerian..." Ollivander said. "That is interesting... I did think that Sanguini was a pervert."

Valerian nodded once, but said nothing more. Jon and Alexandria came down next. Alexandria was fully covered. The only parts remotely close fitting were the sleeves and the lower legs. The jacket styled tunic was bulky around her torso and hips. She had a duplicate of the balaclava Harry gave to Jon. Her eyes grew wide and her jaw dropped at Valerian's outfit.

"Bonne!" said Alexandria. She walked around Valerian, casting a critical eye. "Es canon!"

"Canon, oui. Bonne a baiser, non?" Valerian sighed. Alexandria hid a laugh behind her hand. "Sanguini will answer, have no fear."

"That vampire really is a sick son of a bitch. Damn. I feel like an Eskimo in comparison."

"Want to trade?" Valerian raised an eyebrow.

Alexandria actually thought about it for a moment. "I'll try it on for a laugh later. But not now."

"You four sound so confident," Sirius noted. "Mister Ollivander? You okay with this?"

"They cannot be killed, Sirius. Immortal. And now with this armour, nigh invincible. You'll see. Are you coming?" Ollivander said. Sirius didn't hesitate when he heard the invitation.

"Damn right I'm coming. I have to try out the triple cast on this wand!" Sirius clapped Jon on his shoulder. "Cerberus core eh? Absolutely brilliant."

Shortly after dawn the Crows, with Sirius, climbed aboard Black Angel One.

"Testing comm channels: all crew please confirm mission roster," Valerian's voice came through the comm channels.

"CV Roderick Hallow."

"CV Mr. Grey."

"CV Medic."

"Wait I don't have a badge," Sirius said, forlorn.

"I have a spare," Alexandria said, handing over Tonks' previous badge. "Tap your wand on it and open the channel with 'CV'. Close with 'CV out'.

"Um... this is CV Freebird?" Sirius said. Nothing happened. Harry laughed. Master Ollivander shook his head.

"It will only activate with 'Red Dora'. Please stand by, Black Angel One. I have to ask Eleanor to re-charm this badge. Come, Black." Master Ollivander and Sirius apparated back into the house. Within a couple minutes Sirius and Ollivander were back.

"Okay. Ahem," Sirius said. "Let's try this again. CV; this is Black Fang, at your service."

"Roger that Black Fang, we hear you loud and clear," came Valerian's voice through the pa system. Sirius put his palm down low for a low five. Jon didn't know what it meant. Harry saved Jon the embarrassment by leaning over and connecting with gusto. Jon caught on and reciprocated. Jon then closed his fist for a bounce. Sirius hammered it down, up, then flicked two fingers out like a gun. Jon frowned, and did the same. Sirius swiped his fingers against his, bounced with the meat of his palm sideways, then finished with a rapid fire flurry of various hand strikes, which Jon responded to automatically, almost in tandem.

Sirius and Jon grinned.

A "Blacks Only" handshake was born. Harry was green with envy.

"CV Mr. Black," Jon said, laughing. "CV Ghost," Jon said, putting his arm badge close to the wolf. Ghost barked once. "CV Miracle," Jon said. The dragon chirped sweetly like a songbird.

"Roger that, Crows. All personnel confirmed. Engines are warm and we are ready for take off. Please strap in, our journey will be approximately one and a half hours directly overhead Diagon Alley. We will be going in hot. CV Valkryie, out."

---

"The Crows Vambrace are our fastest earners, and the owners of the vault that was targeted. They know, or someone who knows them, broke into our tunnels," King IronFinder said to his generals and the rank and file. "This challenge is our chance to capture and extract the information from these wizards. Knowing the cowards, the Ministry top brass would be watching on. This is our time to strike. We can avenge our slain brother Steelsinger and his men tenfold!"

Hundreds of armored goblins clanged their weapons against metallic shields in response.

"As soon as our spies target their leaders our ancient magic will be used to create a force field encompassing all magical travel for miles around. We shall have them at our mercy! Victory will be ours!"

"Skull Cup! Skull Cup!" Came the chant from the warriors.

The Skull Cup was handed to Ironfinder; a human skull wedged unto a chalice, overflowing with blood.

"Skull Cup! Skull Cup!"

"I, IronFinder, your King, will drink from the skull of our most gloried enemy, Merlin of Camelot. My death if we fail, but eternal glory when we are victorious!" With a grand gesture, he raised the cup high, put it to his lips and drained it in one.

"Skull Cup! Skull Cup!"

"Kill!" Ironfinder said, slamming the cup down on the cup bearer's tray. The serving goblin fell backwards with a clanging of armour off the royal dais and rolled down the steps.

"KILL!" came the response from his army.

"Kill!" Ironfinder said.

"KILL!" came the chant.

"So be it. To swords!" King Ironfinder brandished his Smithing Hammer above his head. The army scampered like rats up the many tunnels towards the street level.

---

"Approaching hot zone," Valerian said a little over an hour later. "Yes, the Goblins are amassed around the bank."

"Sirius, apparate to the top of the cafe," Master Ollivander said. "Keep an eye out for us."

"On it," Sirius said. "CV Valkryie, let me out."

"Copy."

The safety system was overridden from her cockpit controls and the cabin door opened smoothly. "Seek and destroy, Crows," Sirius said with a salute. He jumped out and skydived into Diagon alley. With an acute timing, he apparated unto the rooftop of the cafe, crouching low behind the chimney. He took a sip of Skrewt potion. "Well, I'm here," he said. After a minute of silence, he remembered the sequence. "CV Black Angel One, I'm here."

"Roger, CV Black Fang," came Valerian's muffled voice. "Descending to rapid deployment. Crows, time to go to work." Valerian aggressively dove the helicopter low over the sprawling city of London. She came to a hover a couple stories high over Diagon Alley. "All crew, we are a go!" She engaged switches for auto hover, opened the crew hatch and the cockpit and climbed out. She maneuvered along the strategically placed handhelds and pulled herself into the cabin.

The Crows all stared at the rows and rows of goblin warriors lining the steps and pavement surrounding the bank. The main doors were opened and they could see crowded movement inside the banking hall. The numbers seemed endless.

"I will catch all of you. Follow me," Harry jumped out the cabin, followed by Jon, Valerian, Ollivander and Alexandria. Ghost whined, but he eventually followed suit. Miracle screeched as he dove like a missile towards Jon.

Harry landed first and with a simple twirl of his wand, all of his comrades slowed perfectly to a smooth landing.

Alexandria immediately took a rearguard position with her back to the wall, crouching low behind a shield charm. The helicopter rose, and flew over the wall and landed in the muggle park behind Jon's place.

"Black Angel One has landed," Valerian said. Jon and Harry nodded. "Your turn, Dragon Whisperer."

"Parley!" Jon shouted.

"It is custom," said a goblin with an ornate helmet. A warrior ran forward to special helmet and offered him a small white flag. Jon took out a white cloth and wrapped it around a covered Diablo Lance. He offered his weapons to Valerian who slung them casually over her shoulder. With a muttered curse she realized that she forgot to put on the robes over her skimpy armor.

Jon raised the white flag high as he walked the fifty paces towards the middle of Diagon Alley. The Goblin spokesperson jogged forward to meet him. Jon had to swallow a laugh at the sight. THe goblin reminded him of Tyrion Lannister in full plate.

"I am the Immortal Knight," he said when they were close enough. "Would you hear terms?"

"I am Hornblower," the goblin responded. "You will hear ours, then I will hear yours."

Jon bowed, putting the butt of the spear down and to his right, the white flag blowing in the chill Valentine's Day air.

"The King of the Goblins say that the Ministry of magic shall lay down your arms. Cornelius Fudge, Albus Dumbledore and the entire Wizengamot must submit to capture, and decree the British isles under Goblin law. Do this, and no swords will be drawn."

Jon listened patiently. The goblin did not expect this level of composure.

"Did you hear our terms, human?"

"I do."

"And what do you say?"

"I say this: you have two ways this could go. The way of mutual negotiation, or the way of your utter humiliation and defeat."

"Let me hear your parley, then," Hornblower said.

"You are to re-open business as usual for thirty one days, beginning on the first of March. In this time, all transactions are legitimate, agreed upon, and mutually acceptable by both the Honourable Goblin Nation and the magical customers you conduct business with. As a deterrent to irrevocable business losses, wizards shall only be allowed to remove up to eighty percent of the gold invested into their vaults. In good faith, The Crow's Vambrace shall give you a magical memory of the crimes committed in your bank the night of the break in."

"Eighty! Only Fifty."

"Eighty. Eighty or you shall suffer the shame of humiliation that would befall you and your kind if you choose to challenge us on this bright, sunny day of the Valentine." Jon raised his hand dramatically to the sky. Hornblower raised his wrinkled face to the sky, confused. "Your names would go down as yet another failed rebellion," Jon said.

"Your names would go down as the first to fall, Crow."

"Do you refuse?"

The goblin shouldered his white flag smartly. "You seem experienced. The color of blood, or the color of peace would be your answer." The Goblin turned on his heel and ran back to the ranks. Jon trotted back towards Harry.

"They are discussing our terms," he said. He accepted his weapons from Valerian, and nodded confidently towards Alexandria, who was still crouched behind a shield.

"What are their terms?" Harry asked, folding his arms impatiently.

"They want to enslave Albus Dumbledore and the wizengamot, and to take over as a recognized government."

"Those fools don't learn eh?" said Harry. A twinge of magic leapt into his wand and Harry glimpsed a bit of flame above the cafe. Albus Dumbledore was here. "CV Black Fang, you good?"

Dumbledore had his wand at Sirius' neck. "Why hello, Albus. Fancy seeing you here."

"What are you doing here, Sirius Black?" Dumbledore asked politely.

"Looking out for the Clan. I joined up. First day actually. I'm a friendly."

"Oh is that so? Congratulations. Very well," Dumbledore said. "I am here, for you know, 'just in case'." Dumbledore wore casual teaching robes, well worn and muted in colour.

"Anyone else I know here?" Sirius asked.

"Moody is somewhere around," Dumbledore said vaguely. Sirius nodded. Before, he would have lost it at the mention of his name. He was the one who actually wrote the charges against him. Dawlish was the one who officially captured him. Now, he held no particular grudges. Even the man standing before him did not fight for his cause all those years ago.

"Quite the coincidence- three transfer students and Harry are not at school today, and here we are, with four young persons and one Sirius Black front and center in such a dangerous situation all the way in London. Oh and Miss Steel is quite recognizable in that outfit."

"Don't interfere," Sirius snarled, wand arm tensing.

"I will interfere when I see it fit to do so," Albus said. He popped a candy in his mouth, conjured a wooden chair and sat down. He crossed his legs and surveyed the scenario unfolding.

Harry and the others heard everything that they said on the roof. "CV out," he whispered. The communication was ended. "Come on, let's get this over with."

Beatrice and Tonks did well to keep their cool when Sirius Black apparated almost right on top of them. They were crouched down and disillusioned on the rooftop edge, wands trained on the goblins a little lower down the way. Tonks had Mageslayer ready and waiting. They were even more surprised when Fawkes appeared carrying Albus Dumbledore.

"Fuck," Beatrice said very quietly.

"Yep," Tonks replied. They returned their focus on the confrontation below.

---

After ten minutes of waiting, Hornblower raised a red flag. "Finally," Harry said. "Lets get to work. Stick to the plan- until something goes wrong. Improvise if needed. I'm going to give them terms of surrender, if they agree, we are not to go crazy with it, all right?" Harry said one more time.

"Understood," Valerian said.

"Understood," Jon said. "CV Crows! Protect your eyes," he reminded everyone through his badges. He nodded at Harry. "Strike, the Crows Vambrace!" Jon saluted. He drew his Diablo Claymore and held it at the ready.

Harry ran forward. "I wish to speak to your ruler!" he shouted. The entire army advanced, shields up, swords laid across their shoulders.

"Who calls for my presence?" came a powerful voice. Harry didn't know who it was coming from.

"Roderick Hallow!"

"You have agreed to our terms?"

"No, we have not."

"Then there is nothing to talk about."

"I do not wish annihilation. How about this, if we five can defeat your first wave of warriors without killing a single Goblin, would you accept defeat!?"

King Ironfinder laughed. "Clear! Let him see!" His army made a single open pathway to him. Ironfinder looked just like his fellow warriors, except he held a massive hammer instead of a sword and shield. "If such a disgrace happens, I will order my headsman to remove it from my body!" Ironfinder howled with laughter.

"Headsman! Show yourself!" Harry shouted. A goblin with a fanged mask and heavy chopping knife stepped in front of his King. "You should spend this time to make use of your sharpening stone."

"Kill him!" Ironfinder screamed, outraged. The short, metal army broke ranks and charged at Harry with a sprint.

Harry shot up into the sky, drew both his Troll on Holly and his Phoenix on Snakewood, and pointed both weapons at the hundreds of goblins swarming below. As predicted they all looked up at him. He cast his Lumos Sun Flare spell.

"Soler Maximus!"

Instead of the expected blinding spells, the phoenix bracer and his new wand activated. His entire body shone bright as the Sun. The goblins were immediately blinded. Swords were dropped, and the Goblins desperately took off their helmets to rub at their eyes. A clattering sound of weapons and helmets followed, like a row of dominoes falling one after the other. A deafening silence permeated after their weapons had been discarded.

Some of them dropped to their knees, terrified.

The front row of Goblins inside the doors to Gringotts succumbed to the blinding Light. The reinforcements behind them shied away, retreating further into the banking hall.

"What is happening?" General Stoneshaper asked from behind the doors.

Screams and curses about the fearsome goblin demon Sightblinder began to resonate around him. He grabbed one of the afflicted and dragged him away from the doors.

"What has happened, Scumscrubber?"

"The Light, m'lord. I cannot see. We all cannot see!" The hardened goblin began to cry in his arms.

General Stoneshaper cursed. "Warriors! On me! Keep your head down! Trample those that cry like cowards. We are to retrieve IronFinder!"

With a roar the reinforcements charged forward.

---

Harry grabbed both Ironfinder and Headsman by the back of their armor. He flew over the sea of confused and screaming goblins and dropped them down unto a clear area along Diagon Alley. The both of them fell painfully hard on the cobblestones under the weight of their armour.

Valerian cursed in frustration. It was basically over. "All dressed up and nothing! Not one swing!"

"Told you," Alexandria said.

"Iron Finder," Harry said. "Your Vanguard is defeated. Headsman, will you honour your king's request?"

"Let him!" Ironfinder laughed. "He cannot even see!"

"Is that official decree?" Harry said.

"Sure!" Ironfinder said sarcastically. "Let him swing away!" He laughed.

"There was something I didn't tell you, Ironfinder," Harry crouched low so that he may speak in the King's ear. "I can grant sight unto the blind!" he whispered.

"You.. you tricked me!" Ironfinder swung his hammer wildly at his voice. Harry easily avoided it.

"Kneel, before I make you kneel," Harry said. "I will say this only once. Do it for whatever scrap of honor you wish to be written into the books."

"There is no honour in defeat. Only death." Ironfinder solemnly went to one knee. "Diagonally from the top to the shoulder, so that it crushes the vertebrae cleanly, Juggers."

"Yes, my king."

Harry poured a bit of alcohol into Jugger's mouth.

"For the King!" Harry was expecting it, but it was somewhat disappointing. Juggers swung at him. Harry avoided the heavy cleaver, drew his own goblin blade and stabbed him in the neck. That cleaver was way too cumbersome. Juggers slid off the point of the sword, shaking in the throes of death.

"That fool. Didn't he know that he became headsman because he doesn't have a fighting bone in that top heavy body of his?" Ironfinder laughed. "Do it an be done."

"I have my own executioners," Harry said. "I offered truce, you chose blood." He called over Valerian and Jon. Both grinned and sprinted towards him.

"So," Harry said, rubbing the back of his head. "Who wants to?"

Jon and Valerian watched each other, confused. "What, kill him?"

"Yeah."

Neither rose to the challenge.

"He is your captive," Jon said.

"Do it. My knee hurts," Ironfinder said impatiently.

"Hush you," Harry said.

Ironfinder laughed.

"You must give the order," Valerian said.

"How about rock paper scissors?" Harry offered.

"No," Jon said. "Enough. Stand back." With a smooth swing Ironfinder's head was removed from his body. "Your king is dead. You have lost."

There was a roar of dismay.

"Fight! Fight!" General Stoneshaper screamed as he lead the next wave. Harry Jon and Valerian watched the tide of goblins coming in, waves breaking over haphazardly as fighters tripped over blinded comrades who were running haphazardly in all directions.

"Don't!" Harry said at the leader.

"For the King!" came the battle cry. "To me!"

Jon and Valerian connected fists. "As the books say, they simply do not learn."

"Our armor is fire repellent. Plan C it is then," Harry said sadly. This was truly going to be a massacre. From only one death, which was the original plan, to all. He hated war. He hated this. But what must be done, must be done. If the British goblin bankers wanted extinction, the Crows would give it to them.

Jon drew both his Dragon heartstring on olive and his Phoenix Core, aiming them like guns akimbo at the onrushing metal horde. Miracle swooped down on his shoulder, wings spread aggressively.

"Valerian, you and I are to catch the runners. The blinded, not blinded, all of them." Harry ordered. "Jon, send them to hell."

"On your command, Lord Hallow."

Harry pointed to his back with his thumb. "On me," he ordered Valerian. Valerian hopped on his back, Harry grabbing her bare thighs in his hands. He jumped into the air. "Jon, begin."

"Enflamare!"

Two white hot streams of Dragonfire shot forth, massive flamethrowers encompassing the steel armor of the goblins. The blinded, those that could see, were all engulfed. The rows behind stopped the charge when they saw their vanguard being turned into ash. Jon kept up the flames as he advanced, Miracle joining in with valiant attempts of casting fire.

Harry and Valerian landed at the top step of the bank, behind their rear lines. When the army realized that going forwards was no longer an option, they turned and ran, but found Harry and Valerian waiting for them.

Harry drew his Diablo Claw wand. Death's Scythe expanded in his grip.

Valerian began cutting them down by the two's and threes. Harry swung once, and goblins were cleanly sliced by the handful. Harry gritted his teeth as he picked off the blinded ones first, so that Valerian could concentrate on those that could actually fight back and not get confused. Within ten minutes, almost five thousand goblins were dead. Diagon Alley was Blood and Ashes.

---

"Fuck this shit!" Harry snapped, covered in bloody ashes. Valerian, Jon and himself were walking back out of the bank. They had found the last group of warriors guarding the Vault of Records and the Vault of Keys, the most important administrative areas the Goblins used to conduct day to day business. That group didn't last long. Harry threw the Scythe at them in frustration and the blasted thing spun like a boomerang and killed all of them in one revolution. Valerian and Jon were also battle weary. "Fuck this to fucking motherfucking hell!"

"War," Jon said. "This is what they wanted."

"I gave them a way out," Harry lamented. "The fuckers don't learn! No matter what armour they craft, wizards are just better at killing things than anything else on this planet! When will they learn?"

"Well, they won't be learning anywhere in England, I suppose," Valerian said.

"Was that a fucking joke," Harry turned on her, incensed.

Valerian drew back with an apologetic bow of her head. "No, Lord Dragonslayer."

"It better fucking not be," Harry said, glaring at her.

"Apologies, Lord Dragonslayer!" Valerian put her gauntlet fist to her heart and immediately dropped to one knee.

"Stop with that knight shit. Jon! You have anything else to add?"

"No, Lord Hallow."

Harry glared at the both of them and sheathed his scythe. "Fuck Sanguini too."

Fucking 'master of death' bullshit. How did he know? Sanguini didn't know him. They never even fucking met. Well, this time around, that is.

Jon and Valerian walked quietly behind their extremely angry leader, talking very softly to one another.

"He isn't going to kill us, is he?" Valerian asked, genuinely concerned.

"No. He is strongly against the taking of life," Jon said. "If he was not..." Jon shrugged. "I would also be wary."

"He is as hard as they come," Valerian said.

"No. What makes him hard is that he does not wish to do the things that he must, but does it anyway. It is a never-ending internal struggle he must deal with."

They met Ollivander and Alexandria in the main banking hall, stepping over bodies. Alexandria offered Harry a towel and a bottle of water. Harry walked straight past the two of them. Master Ollivander frowned.

"There is a force shield around us, we can't disapparate or exit through the Leaky Cauldron," he said to Harry. Harry waved off, walking back into the ashy air of Diagon Alley. He spotted Sirius and Dumbledore lifting the hem of their robes, daintily picking their way through the battlefield.

Tonks and an older witch he didn't recognize materialized right in front of him. Harry didn't even flinch at the two wands on him.

"You are forever pointing that at me," Harry said softly.

"Hello, Roderick."

"Get it out of my face, Tonks. I mean it."

"No. We want to talk," Beatrice said. The two Warmages didn't move an inch. Harry scoffed and his eyes began to glow. Their wands combusted immediately. Harry walked between them as they dropped the burning weapons, forcing them to stumble as his shoulders rudely brushed aside theirs.

"Of all the times for me to not bring a spare," Beatrice Bethselzder said. "What are you waiting on? Go take him down."

Tonks looked at her boss incredulously. "He just fried my wand."

"Use the rifle."

"I don't have it on me," Tonks lied.

Beatrice studied her apprentice. She knew she was lying. That ringbox was always on her person. Maybe now wasn't the time for hostile negotiations.

"You have gotten better," Beatrice said. "Good. We'll deal with him later. I need to retrieve the key to the ledger and the vault of keys master key. We'll sort this out officially."

"We've just witnessed history, haven't we," Tonks said as she watched Harry walk off towards Jon's place.

"You could call it that. You've also caught yourself your first honest-to-god upcoming prospect of Dark Wizardry level five. Glad I'm about to retire in a couple years- he's going to be your problem, luv."

Tonks sighed. She would have to talk to him. "You go on ahead. Ask for Mr. Grey. Let me deal with Roderick Hallow."

"Good luck," Beatrice said.

---

Author's notes: Thank you for reading. Let me know what you like/ don't like! I'll be sure to get back to you through p.m or on the review board.

Until we meet again.

-TDLN