Chapter 40 Did Someone Order a Veela?
**OO**
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.
The rough draft for this chapter was started back in October - long before I had ever heard of anything going on in the world.
My message is Peace be with Us All. Blessings to all.
**OO**
Monday, November 9
Rose Amphitheater, Main Level, Hedwig's Keep
Ron had done what he'd been told to do. Show up to the school meeting, get his supplies and books, and not raise a ruckus.
Seamus Finnegan was one of the few half-and-halfs that did not come to the Keep for school. His family actually lived in Ireland. The Irish Ministry of Magic there took a dim view of terrorists, and the few Death Eater attacks in the past on Irish soil had been quickly put down with extreme prejudice. None of the 'we have to stun them, so they can be redeemed' nonsense.
Since his father was an actual muggle, and had been tagged at the train station (something that made his Irish witch wife more than ready to cast a few hexes), they believed the letter sent out to parents about the danger at Hogwarts.
Seamus was invited to join them at the Keep, but it was too close to problems in his mother's mind, so Seamus stayed home. No one believed that the issues would last long.
Dean, his mother, and his family had been rescued. They now lived in a very nice flat, his step-father was offered his choice of several different jobs, and was currently in training to learn about managing an ice skating rink. His parents decided to take over a job that others were refusing. And they had arranged for a couple of staff permanently, and had bartered for part-time assistance by magicals interested in trading spells for skating time. The rink itself could be managed without magic. And ice skating was something that they had done as a family a few times.
Dean had come to the Rose Amphitheater for lessons and supplies. Seeing a classmate, he sat next to Weasley. But when Ron started to complain about Harry Potter being "King of the Castle"; said with such jealous rancor, Dean shouted at him to be quiet and moved away.
Dean raised the ruckus, not Ron!
The teacher finished her lecture: "Please turn in the self-assessment in the box on the table next to the Food Court by 5 PM. It will be plainly labeled. These are just to get a sense of where you are now, so please don't worry about your marks. Everyone will get an 'O' for completing it.
"Now then. These are meal vouchers. All students will get one per day. I will leave them on this table. All you need to do is put your name and date on it and give it to the restaurant of your choice. For most places, it is one of the meal choices, for others, it is one main and two sides. The elves provide free beverages, but right now it is tea, coffee, or water. The pumpkins should be ripe soon, and we'll have that for juice. Please take only one per person."
After that, the students were dismissed for lunch. Dean went to confront the redhead.
"What's wrong with you, Weasley? You were Harry's friend all last year. So, he got a new family. Apparently a wealthy one. I, for one, happen to know what it's like wearing rags to school that don't fit and not having enough to eat. You've always had enough. Don't deny it! Harry isn't acting arrogant about it at all. He's being grateful!"
Dean was furious. "My dad disappeared when I was a baby. I think he was killed by Death Eaters because of the timing. My mum didn't know he was a wizard. Go to work one day, and don't come home. After a few years, he's declared dead, but it's an ache that took time for my mum to heal from.
"Now I have a new father, and we get attacked! Black robes, scary masks. And you know what? It wasn't Harry Potter that saved us. But he paid for this castle, he pays the salaries of the rescue team. He gave my family a flat for free for a year, his people offered jobs to my parents, and the girls are going to start regular school just like us.
"In what way is any of that bad? You call him 'King of the Castle'. Well, in my mind, he's acting like the kings of old: Taking care of his people. Making sure they have a place to sleep, food to eat. Providing for the knights, so they can fight evil."
Dean glared at the ungrateful boy.
"Harry could have taken that money and bought solid gold cauldrons! Bought minions like Malfoy used to. Flaunted his wealth and taunted others. He hasn't!
"Potter could have left when the basilisk attacked, and then what? How many people know how to kill one? Are you a Lockhart, claiming it was really you that killed it?
"You owe him! He saved us all. Stay away from me and especially my sisters." Dean demanded.
"Potter stole my family from me. And you know what? I think that he's the one responsible for Ginny's death, too." Ron declared.
"You're sick, Weasley! Just stay away from me and mine." Dean stormed off, slowing down only to take a meal ticket. He would save it to share with his family later. Right now, he was just grateful to be alive.
The teacher had told them to take one each. Of course, there were extras; not everyone came that could have. And many of the adults just starting school had jobs and homes and felt that they meant free meals for the children only. Which wasn't the case, but that would be made clear later.
Ron looked around the empty room. No Percy or Penny. He then swept all but one into his pocket.
He left much happier; Dean's words swiftly dissipated with the thought of all the food that his action had just acquired for him.
And he never once considered it a real theft.
**OO**
Monday, November 9
Nambia Health Centre
Alice Longbottom tried very hard to stay away from the tugging. That was the path of pain, pain, pain. But it was relentless this time!
How long had she floated safely in her bubble, she didn't know. She only knew that someone was pulling on her now.
She had no strength left to fight, but her Gryffindor spirit never flagged.
She tried to make one last stand, but fell. Deep, deep, deep.
But the tugging wouldn't stop!
She struggled to stay hidden and it worked.
For now.
**OO**
Monday, November 9
Hedwig's Keep
Andromeda Tonks was very happy as head of the Cherished Children's Center. With Ted working at the Keep as one of the healers, it was a good fit for them.
Tonks and Marius planned on volunteering there often. The two of them were trying to talk Bill into taking a job in the new Gringotts bank.
Due to the age of the victims targeted, there were more new adults than children being rescued. The HRS had rescued mostly families or single adults, more than single children. At least so Creevy Dairy farm was up and running. Several displaced non-magical workers with magical children found a job with Mr Creevy.
"I'm going to make specialty cheeses and have a milk delivery system. It will just deliver milk to the flats here in the Keep and the village!"
Harry (through Katrina) had given the man cases and cases of empty sherry bottles that had been reshaped and resized by the elves to be more like milk bottles. A few recently displaced muggleborns were helping to charm them to be keyed to a flat.
When they were empty, they would be cleaned, returned, and refilled.
The people who were displaced in attacks by Death Eaters were quickly recruited. Anyone who wanted a job found work.
More than a few older muggleborns applied for small business loans to get set up in their own business. Florean Fortescue had been found out as a muggleborn and managed to escape before being tossed through the veil. The Rescue Squad elves had packed up everything and moved his ice cream shop into Hedwig's Keep.
Katrina and Enrique tried to leave Harry alone about management issues unless it was going to cost a lot of money.
The Keep was hopping, but people were filled with hope.
**OO**
Monday, November 9
Lunch, Food Court
As a few uniformed members of the Hogsmeade Rescue Squad came into the Food Court area for lunch, diners stood up and applauded them. More than one rushed to pay for their meal. The group was honored amongst many living there.
Oliver Wood beamed proudly at his older brother, who was there and had been accepted on the Squad. The remnants of those who played quidditch sat together to discuss indoor sports options. Katie, Angelina and Alicia all wanted to keep up their skills after all. As did Oliver, of course.
No one was silly enough to recommend flying over to use the Hogwarts quidditch field. Nor did anyone really feel safe flying right now at all.
Parvati and Padma Patil came in and sat at a long empty table. Their mother brought out a huge tray of food for not just them, but for their friends that were gathering there.
Dean Thomas was waved over to join the girls, as was Lavender Brown. Several other Hogwarts students saw the open invitation, and happily grabbed up plates and helped themselves to the familiar family style serving, even if it was a new kind of food to them.
Ron Weasley came in just as Parvati had removed her wand from her bag in order to dig through it for the Divination text she wanted to discuss with Lavender.
Not paying attention to his surroundings, and still angry with his confrontation with Dean, Ron carelessly tossed his old book bag down. Ron was too busy glaring at Dean, and the bag was full of Hogwarts books. It landed right on top of the beautiful girl's wand.
'SNAP'
That sound, egregious to all of wizardkind, was heard by the students gathered there.
"Ronald!" Lavender gasped. "How could you?! That was Parvati's wand! You destroyed it!"
The young Indian witch was already in tears, disbelieving that such a thing had occurred. Dean went to get an adult, feeling guilty for what happened, since Ron had been glaring at him.
"Well, that's no place to leave a wand. Besides, a bit of Spell-O'-Tape and it will be fine." Ron countered dismissively.
"NOOO! It won't!" Padma declared. "And I don't see you apologizing or offering to buy her a new one, Mr Weasley. You are no longer welcome to share our food. We do not eat with people who treat us this way. Begone!"
Smita Patil, summoned by Dean, came running over just in time to see Ron Weasley flip the tray containing several serving plates that were still partially full, up and over; onto her daughters. And Parvati's best friend, Lavender.
Before the mother could say anything, the boy stormed off.
At just that moment, an off-duty goblin guard, still in armor, came into the Food Court area. He saw distressed females, and went over to investigate.
"Gringotts hasn't had a famine in a long time, but wasting food is something that we do not condone. Who did this?" The goblin demanded.
Parvati was still far too distressed about her wand to speak, but Lavender was always ready to share news. And this time, it was big!
"Ronald Weasley. He broke her wand, blamed her for it, and when we objected to his behavior, he dumped this wonderful feast all over us."
Indeed, all three girls were wearing the remnants of lunch.
"I will report this to the aurors. Will you be alright here, ma'am?" The goblin asked, speaking to Mrs Patil.
"Please, I'm Smita, no formality needed. And yes, I will clean this mess up."
"Actually, if you could please leave things as they are for just a minute. I want justice for you. Too long have your people and mine been denigrated by English purebloods. I won't stand for it here, ever. And neither should you."
The goblin went to get someone he knew would listen.
**OO**
Monday, November 9
Marius' Quarters, Hedwig's Keep
Two of the trio had work in the morning, so they had portkeyed back to the Keep after the Paris holiday with virtuous plans of sleeping, alone, in their individual rooms.
By 2:00 AM, all three were back with Marius in his flat.
Something in the back of his brain said that there was something off with this, but Bill didn't care. He could have a nice lie in, in the morning.
**OO**
Monday, November 9
Afternoon studies, Food Court
The trio of Harry, Hermione, and Luna had done, as several other students had: Grabbed an empty side room and sat at a table to enjoy a leisurely lunch and then do the assessment right away. A privacy charm kept all the various noises away from the diligent students, but unfortunately, this meant they missed the floor show.
Luna just couldn't help it. After doing the self-assessment, she started looking through the muggle astronomy book.
"Look at these pictures! They don't move, but they are so amazing! Such glossy paper. Harry, thank you. This must have been very expensive."
Luna kissed him sweetly in thanks.
Hermione took hers out and noted the price on the back cover. She scoffed. "Let's see. Luna! This book cost less than five galleons! It wasn't expensive."
Harry gave her a pointed look. "Hermione, even if it is over something important, please always talk to Luna with respect. I would feel angry if you talked to me like that. And when I was growing up? I would have found this book very expensive. It's a matter of perspective."
Harry kissed her to remove any sting from the rebuke. He wanted to kiss her all the time lately!
Hermione nodded. "I didn't mean anything, Luna, truly. I was more annoyed that we have had to buy expensive rubbish in the past, and wonderful books that are affordable didn't make the list. I wasn't annoyed with anyone here. But I still apologize for my tone."
"Apology accepted, Hermione," Luna said, and kissed her cheek.
Harry smiled and finished his own assessment.
"I'll take it, Harry. You wouldn't want it to get crumpled." Luna offered.
Hermione was only halfway through. Only her innate honesty kept her from looking up answers, and she put all the books back into her bag to thwart temptation on her part.
Looking at his watch, he saw that the alarm was about to go off.
"Time to go talk to the Mind Healer," Harry whispered, kissing Hermione again, and giving Luna a sweet smooch as he passed, despite Luna's pointed, narrowed-eyed look.
Harry escaped to Sirius' suite. Once there, he used the excuse of needing to go to Dragon Isle (which he had already done and timed it back), added a few coins, a couple of meal vouchers for the Keep, and a promise to reschedule soon. He had Earnest pop them over to the healer's office with regrets.
The last thing Harry wanted to do was talk about his feelings.
Harry then pulled out his notes on the communications mirrors, took out the chess sets he had out from the trunk and went to work.
Spurnik and Esme were supposed to be back tonight. He wanted to have part of it working by then.
**OO**
Monday, November 9
Ollivander's Wand Shoppe, Hedwig's Keep
As soon as Dean had finished his assessment, he took his work permission slip and headed for Ollivander's Wand Shoppe.
"Ah, Mr Thomas, I was not expecting…"
The man stopped. For one of the few times in his life, Garrick Ollivander was rendered speechless.
"You, my boy. You. You are special. I would like you to work with me. I did not fully See you in my shop in Diagon Alley, and for that, I not only apologize. I am ashamed."
Dean's eyes went wide. "Me? I'm nothing special, sir. I like to draw and I like to be warm. I loved your shop the very first time I visited. I came here to apply for a job."
"That you shall have, my boy. And more. I have so much to teach…"
The bell rang. Despite the sign requesting one customer at a time, Parvati had not seen Dean through her tears that just refused to stop.
"Oh! Sorry!" She quickly sniffled and, embarrassed, wiped her eyes on her sleeve. "I didn't see you there. I'll come…"
"STOP!"
What had happened to him? Was this part of Dumbledore's interference? The wands he'd made in the last forty years were inferior, and had limited cores. The people who had applied for work with him were inferior and had limited cores.
"You, my dear, are special. As is this young man. I know that you came to replace a wand. But I do not want to just fit you with an inferior wand. I want to offer you both a superior path.
"I want you two to become my apprentices in the craft. Your gift of sight, Miss Patil. Your gift of runes, your artistry, Mr Thomas. Together, we will create wands that haven't been seen in centuries."
Parvati looked at Dean, and whispered quietly. "Is he always like this?"
"Pretty much. But I don't think he's wrong. I'm game to try. How about you? Your parents have a restaurant."
"I have no ambition for cooking, or in my case, being a sous-chef for the rest of my life. I don't mind potions, but honestly? I'd rather work with my hands on crafting doll-houses, like I have done for a few years."
Garrick held out his hand, and she shyly placed hers in it. Then he held out a hand to Dean.
Magic swirled around them and they all felt it. The hand of Destiny was upon them.
"Let's get you taken care of, Miss Patil. Let's try to find a wand for you. Something adequate for school, and you, Mr Thomas; I want you to feel what we are doing."
Bemused but unafraid, the two former Gryffindors stepped into a whole new world.
**OO**
Monday, November 9
Justice Center
After investigating the circumstances of the wand breakage, and questioning a few witnesses, Kam McNealy determined that, while the boy had indeed broken the young witch's wand, he had not done it with malice aforethought, so that was not a crime.
An accident he should have apologized for and offered to make right, but an accident.
Tossing leftover food came close to assault, since the lad had not purchased it, but the Patil family had declined to press charges.
Ramrao Patil had endured too many bad experiences with white English privileged wizards who would somehow take offense and try to level fines or worse at his family.
That sort of situation is what had lost his father their family fortune. Ramrao had worked too hard to get where they were now. He was not going to risk it over a seven galleon wand and a bit of lunch.
It did impress the family that several goblins stopped by and ordered take-away from Pasha's, leaving large tips. And the one that helped at first sent a house-elf to summon the food to a bucket to feed to the pigs.
While he and his family were vegetarian, he did see the values on display. By the goblins, at least.
Ramrao did however instruct his family to avoid the Weasleys. It was clear from this demonstration that their father had no honor.
How very wrong he was, but it was Mr Patil's view at that moment.
**OO**
Monday, November 9
Chapel, Hedwig's Keep
Before everyone arrived, Spurnik and Esme introduced their new children to Harry.
Esme was holding one child, while Spurnik held the other. Spurnik spoke as any proud parent, "These younglings are fraternal twins. This strong, handsome young goblin is Kort," Who raised a tiny hand and waved before grabbing Spurnik's thumb, "And Esme is holding our beautiful new daughter, Thels." Thels also shyly waved a hand and then hid her face in Esme's shoulder.
Livy was in the background. She had been asked to help with the twins, and was grateful for the assignment. Spurnik had had a talk with her, and Livy had seen the daggers that would have ended her young life. She was grateful to this couple, and glad to help with the younglings regardless of being goblins, humans, or a blend.
Livy watched as her Master greeted the children.
"Hi. I'm Harry, your new brother. In a little while, I'm going to introduce you to Hermione and Luna. It's complicated, but I have two mates." Harry had talked about this with Sirius beforehand. And Esme.
"Did you brother die?" Thels asked. Harry turned to Spurnik, with a raised eyebrow in query.
"A little known custom. If one brother is killed, the other can take the family in as his own."
Esme spoke up. "Our children's birth father was killed in an attack, but just recently lost their birth mother. She died of a broken heart. But since I cannot have children, and you're getting too big to cuddle easily, Harry (wink), these two are going to fill our nest with more joy." Smiling down at Thels who, at that moment, had chosen to take the end of Esme's shawl and pull it over her own head; in imitation of Esme. Turning to smile shyly up at Esme, in delight at her accomplishment, one could see that Thels was starved for approval.
Esme nodded at the child, kissed her, and rubbed noses with her. Thels laid her 'shawl covered' head against Esme's breast and sighed with contentment.
Harry now knew the 'official' story that the children would be told again and again.
Harry knew that the goblin mother was still alive, but her father had ordered her obliviated. She thought that her husband and children were honorably dead, and she was moved to a new Gringotts in South America. Far from gossip, where she could have a chance at a new start. Goblin custom was to have one mate, but she had not taken a goblin mate. Now she could.
The grandparents had been offered a chance to visit, but had not decided. They thought it best not to say anything now.
Thels and Kort had been kept in the crèche, so were used to being with other children their age. They would be heading to the TripleC soon to let them play there for a bit before the ceremony. Watched over by Livy, of course. They'd be staying there during the dinner after the ceremony.
"You are very welcome here, little ones." Harry said, gently touching them both, letting them feel his magic in the way of the goblins of Cairo.
They looked up at him, not in fear or doubt, as Harry worried. But in hope.
Their mother had been sad all their lives, and while it was sad that she had died, they could accept this change. Their parents were switched, with the father being the goblin, and their mother human. Kort had a firm grip of Spurnik's thumb and wasn't letting go.
Harry made sure that Colin had plenty of film for the ceremony.
He surely wished he had a way of sharing the pictures with everyone. This was going to be epic!
**OO**
Monday, November 9
Wedding Blessing and Welcome Home Dinner, Hedwig's Keep
Father Brown did a nice service for the blessing ceremony in the small chapel at Hedwig's Keep.
Cygnus and Cordelia attended, as did Marius and Tonks. Bill was on duty, at least that was his excuse. Esme hadn't made many friends yet in Hogsmeade. Well, other than Spurnik.
Several of his friends from Gringotts Hogsmeade attended, Dharma Briokz was a very welcomed guest.
The goblin twins were becoming overwrought with all the new people. After being introduced to Hermione and Luna, they were going to return to the TripleC. Andi Tonks carried Thels while Harry took Kort. Hermione and Luna went with them. Livy soothed the twins, but the children already liked and trusted Mrs Tonks.
Harry wanted to read them a story, but knew that people were waiting for them.
During the reception, Lavender's father shook Harry's hand in thanks for keeping his family safe. The squad didn't have time to rescue everyone's homes, but the elves had at least packed it before it was destroyed by Death Eaters.
"You saved all our lives, dear boy. Bless you. Bless you."
Harry had learned to just say thank you when people did that. Had he provided the gold? Technically yes, but he had stolen it fair and square from the safe house that he had inherited from Peter Pettigrew. It was only justice to use Death Eater funds to help the victims.
Harry didn't want the blood money. In fact, he tried to give the minister a small gratuity, but he refused it, saying that the Head of House Greengrass had done the honors.
As predicted, Blanche did not come. She sent a box of broken jewelry bits and several old moldering tapestries as a wedding gift.
Cordelia was going to take offense for her, but Spurnik was the one who shook his head.
"No, my Esmeralda has a way of spinning straw into gold. This is a welcome gift."
Esme nodded in agreement.
Cordelia had got Esme the raw materials for many home projects. It was a common gift in goblin culture, from the bride's family, and thanks were given. She also gave her some traditional baby toys for the twins.
It was Harry's turn, and he was beaming.
This time, Harry was not thwarted by Blanche. The emeralds chosen for the weapons were ones that were large and well-matched. The goblin artisan had used them well. The matching daggers belonged in a museum, but were accepted in the goblin way.
"Son! This is a princely gift! Thank you!" Spurnik knew that Goldrub was going to be doubly jealous now.
Harry also had a bag of wooden blocks in various shapes. Dudley had never played with his, but Harry loved them. Until they were taken away from him, that was.
"I know that you are not without means, Spurnik, so this is more ceremonial than anything. We have set up small trust vaults for the twins." Cygnus declared.
In the past, some weddings had taken place closer to children's births. And sometimes after. The vaults were a symbol that the Head of House was blessing the fruits of the union. Cordelia beamed in approval, as did Cygnus.
Grabthar's Grub had proven so popular that Harry had a surprise made for the kitchen owner. A rough-hewn looking cave with goblin lamps and lighting. The alcoves filled with the half-round tables of a typical goblin eatery.
Harry had pre-ordered a feast to be served here, but hadn't seen what it looked like before. The group went into a side room with a long table suitable for the large family. Spurnik's parents even came!
James didn't know what to think about this meal in a goblin restaurant. At least he didn't have to eat anything! Lily soaked up the cultural references on offer, and made notes in a never ending notebook. Harry just beamed at his parents, of course, wishing they were here as more than paintings.
Since Sirius was 'officially' in mourning, he had not come. The truth was that he was sleeping in his wife's loving arms, on the island. He'd had a lot of long days lately, and needed more than naps and pepper-up to catch up.
The bride was looking radiantly happy, and that made Harry very happy. Hers and Spurnik's suite was ready, and it was just across the hall from Sirius' suite. Harry had been sleeping in Sirius' suite mostly, but now had more options for spending the evening with others.
Auntie Esme took Harry aside for a moment.
"Harry, I should apologize to you. When I accepted Spurnik's proposal, I didn't check my calendar. Dark Lords being defeated right and left, a basilisk slain? You were one very busy young man. But even before that, you touched my mother's heart in a way that I'd never known before. I love you, my dear son. I love you."
Harry pulled her in for a hug, holding back tears himself. After all this time, he had finally found love, a home. Acceptance. Not for something done as a baby. Unconditional love.
"I love you too, Mum. I love you too." Harry assured.
"I know that you've been staying in Sirius' suite. But you'll have a room in ours anytime you want."
While Livy put the twins down in their new beds, Spurnik came over and shared a few words with Harry as well. Basically laying down some ground rules for their home.
Spurnik clearly saw that Harry had been having improper thoughts about Hermione and wanted to make sure that nothing happened before they were of age. Harry liked it. Spurnik was acting as a parent. Not that Sirius couldn't, he just hadn't been, consistently. Not yet. He'd been more the fun uncle.
After everything was breaking up, and people heading back to their homes, Harry hugged Hermione goodnight, but Luna wanted a word.
Luna tried to ask Harry sternly about his appointment, but Harry said it was not for talking about in public.
She hmmm'd and promised to bring this up again later. It was like she knew he had done a runner away from the mind-healer! He was never going there. Period!
And Luna really had no say in the matter.
This time, Harry did get a chance to read to Kort and Thels, though they were asleep long before the end of the story.
**OO**
Tuesday, November 10
Dragon Isle, Acromantula Caves
The goblins had installed the new gate in front of the large underground feeding chamber. It was time to test it.
The plan was to feed the giant spiders weekly here, having the gate shut so that the silk could be harvested safely.
Today's run would just be feeding and making sure that the gates held. All of the goblin 'testers' had emergency portkeys, weapons, and loved this sense of danger.
As the live food stock was delivered, the spiders skittered in. As the counter reached a hundred the gates clanged shut.
Any spiders caught out were about to be slaughtered for potion ingredients. Fortunately, Aragog had made it in.
The gates held, the test was a complete success, and only one goblin had been nicked before killing the beast.
Now, there were only a hundred of the monsters left, a manageable number. And they had a process for harvesting silk as well.
Profits to be made, and the adoptive son of Spurnik was sharing with the clan as was right and honorable.
No one had told Harry or Hagrid about the details of the operation - only that they were making a safe way to gather silk. Hagrid would never have approved.
**OO**
Wednesday, November 11
Breakfast, Private Dining Room
The group of friends had another informal DDL Inc. meeting during breakfast. Fred and George were keeping their noses clean during the meeting because they had a prank planned for later. Besides, they were planning Percy's birthday party. His Seventeenth birthday party. Of course, Family Weasley would be invited.
Last night had been Penny's first transformation and was with the pack in Nottinghamshire. The pack was living in Wales, but taking no chances of eating the beef cattle, chickens, and other domestic animals, or ruining the flourishing gardens.
Harry was disappointed that the blood-transfusion treatment had not worked. But at least Katrina's assistant in charge of blood donations now had several dozen volunteer donors. With more joining every day. People whose very lives had been saved were more than willing to help.
Percy's actual birthday was the following Monday, but Harry wanted to have the party Saturday afternoon. The Thomas family thought they would have the skating rink ready to test then. With goblin help, that was.
Plans made, the to-do list sent to helpful assistants, and a request for more gunpowder for the twins, the group left to get to school.
As they left, the twins giggled a bit about the planned prank for a certain unfavorite brother that was going to happen later.
Word about Ron's actions had got out. Yes, it was an accident, but the stinker hadn't even apologized. The Headmistress was going to have a word with his parents. This was sensitive, because seven galleons to some was pocket money.
To others, it was all they had.
But this was also about nipping a potential problem in the bud now before it bloomed from a teething tentacula to one that was ripping and shredding everything in sight.
**OO**
Neville was a happy student. They had spent part of the morning in the greenhouses. Mistress Harper took the time to teach them important gathering rules for potion ingredients. As the students were going to be in charge of this, she emphasized the importance of listening.
Fred and George had also gained a lot of wisdom and insight into making better potions.
Hagrid joined them, of course. To the delight of Harry, Luna, Hermione, and the twins. This left no dragon keeper at the island, but the dragons had been unattended for centuries. They didn't need constant supervision.
Ron grimaced and did a little wave when the half-giant called out his name,
Then the class picked up their meal vouchers, a different color each day, with Ron hanging back and being last again after everyone had left.
They had to read through the school rules and sign them as the assignment for the first hour after lunch. Hermione sat down and read them part by part to an anxious Rubeus Hagrid. He'd have to follow these if he wanted to continue coming to all the classes, which he did.
Remus Lupin was also absent due to the full moon, so Abigail Abbott was monitoring the class in his stead. The other adults like Moira White were also helping anyone with questions.
Everyone read but ignored the line that said Scottish law for muggles makes exceptions for swats.
Only the muggleborn had heard of this, and none thought that they would ever see it. Swatting a student happened in other places. Not here. Especially with so many adults in the crowd! No, there were too many 'responsible' people around for that to happen.
But they were wrong.
The next assignment needed their charms book. Fred paled as this was very poor timing after having just gone over the rules. Pranks were prohibited.
Fred had pranked Ron's book to transform into a spider. Okay, so Harry and Dean thought it was hysterical, as did others, but it was 'wrong to disrupt the learning environment'.
The teacher glared at all the laughing students and hit a rune on her desk. Oh, no! It couldn't be!
Interrupting Judge McGinty's afternoon golf game? Oh, no.
Harry started praying for mercy on Fred's soul. Luna chanted. Hermione crossed herself.
The mismatched man came in wielding a golf club. He had Fred march up to the front of the room. Mr McGrumpypants gave him a chance to deny the charges. Fred couldn't.
So, the Judge sentenced him to three swats and hauled Fred to the side room.
**OO**
A swirl of magic, and Fred knew that whatever happened next wouldn't be heard by anyone. The boy shook in nervousness.
"When I hit this book on the table, I want you to scream bloody murder. Do ye understand?"
"Yes, sir! Aye!" Fred was confused, relieved, and turned into a bobblehead.
The judge released the privacy charm.
Three loud whaps, three horrible screams later, and a red-eyed teary Fred left the room.
Essence of onion applied close to but not in the eyes. Every prankster's friend when caught. It simulated real remorse when one wanted to howl in laughter.
The judge eyed the crowd, who were all trying to look perfectly innocent. Even Hagrid sat up straight in his modified chair.
"Did anyone else help him with this prank? Come forward and get yer three whaps, or it will be five if I find out later."
Denials and shaking heads. Even the adults!
"Don't ye be disturbing me golf game again, or else I might get testy!"
The nine-iron in his hand scared them. Oh, no! Had he hit Fred with that weapon?
The students promised to be little angels. Even Ron looked a little cowed. Fred was allowed to leave to go visit the infirmary. Judge McGinty was waiting for him down the hall.
"Are they terrified yet?"
Fred nodded and bowed. "Are you perchance a Marauder, sir?"
"Nay, but I heard of them. Not bad, not bad at all. Keep yer ideas and pranks for the enemy, lad. Ye have a keen mind."
"I will. Thank you, sir."
George, who had helped a little with the spider prank, was most solicitous of his twin for the rest of the day. He cushioned Fred's chair, got him his lunch and dinner, and was generally very kind.
Fred almost felt bad about pranking George. Almost.
He certainly did not feel bad about misleading the rest of the sympathetic students.
Colin even gave him a Chocolate Frog!
The teacher had no more discipline problems. At all.
Well, except one.
Ron.
He didn't stay humble for long.
**OO**
Thursday, November 12
Justice Center, SDMLE
Amelia Bones was now up to speed on basic Scottish auror procedures; she knew about so much more than fingerprints now! At least the forensics teams and lab staff did the actual work.
It took years to get certified in that!
Angus was training her to take over as Director; he hadn't wanted the job, but did the work because it needed to be done.
None of the senior aurors wanted the thankless position. Amelia, who was not getting her pension that she had worked hard for, was really the only contender for the office. The plan was to have her in charge by the New Year.
In regard to the pension, Amelia had filed an appeal with the goblins. Dharma Briokz was assigned to her case.
Amelia was going through files like a madwoman. The sudden attacks, and restarting of the blood war had caught them on the hop at first, and things had been hectic in their office. So much so that the triage of cases meant some things had got pushed aside.
One very thin file she had discovered in the clean-up of the Director's overflowing desk was a report from Healer Marius Greengrass. The memory vial was logged in properly, but the file had been overlooked in the rush of attacks following the events of Halloween.
And there were a lot of files to go through.
At least Harry Potter had taken care of all the Acromantulas. Harry even let the watch commander keep the 250 galleons that the new headmaster of Hogwarts paid for the removal. The man had coughed up the extra money himself just for the relief of the monsters being gone. And he had honored the pledge to allow them to collect all the webbing that was left behind. Even when the profit from the 'silk' was divided amongst all the members, it netted each of them a tidy sum.
Amelia sent her assistant to go retrieve the memories of Ron Weasley appearing to try to potion Harry Potter while she read through the report.
The secretary returned with the memory, tea, and scones. The latter had been sent up by the Potter elves. They were always doing nice things like that.
"Constance, you didn't need to follow me here, but I am ever so grateful you did."
"Pish posh. I'm glad to. My namesake Constance Pinkerton lives and works here. She's like family to me. I've traded my small and cozy flat in Diagon for a three-bedroom place in the Keep that I will own in ten years at half the price I was paying for rent. My children have room to visit when they wish. And I never have to cook again if I don't feel like it. The only thing we're missing in the keep is a good chip shop. The Leaky is not known for its quality, healthiness, or price. I'm quite content. Thank you."
Constance was one of those gentle souls who wouldn't gossip or say unkind things about others. If asked about the Dark Lord, she'd likely say. "Well, I can't say I know him well, but he seems to be a hard worker!"
She had quit the exact moment that Edmund Parkinson had plonked his large behind in the Head's chair and demanded tea, cakes, and scorned her looks aloud.
Gossip said that he said rather unpleasant things and asked her to take polyjuice in future to prevent his stomach upset. Prat.
Amelia pulled her meandering thoughts to this case.
A runner brought in the evidence; one of the muggle parents, but he could read, didn't have an attitude working for a witch, and was a hard worker. He had been helping her get the files organized.
Amelia watched the memory and swore.
"Constance. Send a note to Auror Tonks, for her to report to me."
After the attack on the Tonks' home –and the English aurors' refusal to come help– Auror Trainee Tonks had quit the EDMLE.
Minister Stewart had invited both Bones and Tonks to immigrate to Scotland and offered them jobs. At quite the pay raise for both.
Amelia used her tea to toast her picture of Alastor Moody on her desk. "We lost you that day, but we'll never forget you, my friend."
The picture saluted her, as it always did when she toasted him. She had taken her picture of Alain home. She didn't want to explain about her lost love to her new co-workers. They wouldn't understand. They had bonded, and she missed him sorely every day.
Even seeing the French name Alain on the dossier of a mind-healer coming to follow up on the ICW investigation of Dumbledore's influence had caused her heart to jump. But the Delacour name was known, and he would be a normal wizard. Not her dead and buried love of long ago.
Tonks came running in.
Amelia explained the complaint. Marius Greengrass witnessed what appeared to be the accidental potioning of several people. Line theft seemed to be the crime.
"I'd like your opinion of this memory, especially since it involves you. Let's keep this information to a small circle."
Despite the training, the two witches were running on the 'English' buddy system of keeping the problems of family off the docket.
Tonks nodded. The witches watched Ron Weasley pull a reluctant Harry Potter over by his sister. Watched him give the chocolates to Harry.
Tonks looked down. "Aye, ma'am. I knew about this. I didn't exactly forget, but with everything happening… I meant to follow up; I guess I got caught up in other things. No excuse, ma'am."
Still thinking like an English auror, Amelia commanded. "I want you to be in charge of this. Marius Greengrass left the dark one's service to be a healer. He was very young when he was recruited. He acknowledged the mistake. And I don't think his good name should be the subject of gossip."
"Yes, ma'am. But honestly? The three of us getting married should be sufficient. While the local aurors may talk amongst themselves, it doesn't get out in the gen pop. General population. Sorry."
"No, the aurors here have verbal shorthand for many things. We might be catching up in terms of learning better procedures, but it's head and shoulder above the political infighting going on all the time back in London. Speaking of which." Amelia hit a rune on the desk. "Constance? Can you please come here?"
"Arthur Weasley's office is just down a few doors. Can you send him a note to please stop in? I won't have him blindsided by this investigation." Amelia requested.
Auror Tonks was working it through. "Ma'am? I never questioned Bill Weasley. I was going to, but then we were attacked."
"You may need to make another trip to Egypt. Oh, no! What a disaster! Egypt! If only there was someone you knew down there that you could stay with." Amelia gently mocked, putting the back of her hand on her forehead.
Tonks stuck her tongue out at her boss as Arthur came in. He stopped and kissed Tonks cheek and gave her a warm hug. "Actually, Bill is here for a few more days." Tonks added.
"Dora! When Molly isn't brewing, she's knitting up a storm. I rather think she's hoping for a girl, since it's pink booties." Arthur said, putting on a show of good cheer with red-rimmed eyes. The family had been given a goblin potion that did help them feel that the death of their daughter happened long ago. And they worked. Mostly. But Arthur was still feeling guilty.
"Dad Weasley! I'm not preggers! The wedding isn't until Yule!" Tonks whinged. Then she blushed.
She, Marius, and Bill had rather forgotten the charms that last time.
Not wanting to spoil the happy mood, Amelia let them chat a moment and served tea.
Tonks grew serious and reached for Arthur's hand. "Dad Weasley. We have some new evidence. I don't want to show it to you now, but I need to investigate your youngest son.
Assistant Director Bones took over. "I am so sorry if this brings up painful memories of your daughter. I know that your son William blames himself for her death. We have the ICW coming to oversee this investigation, as several of us feel that this was caused directly by Dumbledore. Unfortunately, it appears that it also involved Ronald. It was thought that by doing this quietly, we could save the family embarrassment."
Tonks added, "No one will notice a thing if I am visiting Bill, either here or in Egypt. But we'd like to get this done now."
Arthur looked panicked. "You've heard that Ron's not responding well to mental health treatment. But he's not dangerous!"
"I heard that he skipped the first appointment and sat and did nothing for the second. We are about to get a second opinion on him. It's not that directly, but related to it." Tonks overshared.
Amelia shared that a specialist was being sent on a separate investigation. This would only aid them here.
Amelia wasn't there as a pretty decoration after all. "Arthur, we need to question Ronald; it appears that he might have been involved in trying to potion Harry Potter. We need to know what part, if any, Ronald played. I know he's a child, and can't be sent to prison. But he could face severe penalties if he knowingly tried to commit line theft."
Arthur jumped to his feet. In the past, that was a very serious crime. A crime that Dumbledore had got Ginny out from under before.
"You don't think Molly had anything to do with this?" The man asked in a tiny voice.
"She will need to be questioned. Along with Ronald. Can you please escort your family here? When you are ready."
"I need to stop by and let Perkins know." The Weasley pater stated.
"They fired him too, did they?" Tonks shook her head.
"The whole staff. Minister Stewart gladly took us all in. They are hunting muggleborns in England. Thaddeus Nott is throwing them through the veil left and right, the evil man. At least we have the Hogsmeade Rescue Squad. They have helped so many already." Arthur replied.
"Tell you what, Arthur. I know that you can keep a secret. If Molly is cleared, we'll read you into a new program here at the Keep. We could use your expertise, after all." Amelia offered.
"I'll be back shortly," Arthur promised.
**OO**
Friday, November 13
Gringotts, London
Dharma Briokz had an appointment with the goblin in charge of the Ministry of Magic Accounts. There was no reason for Amelia to have been fired, and she was over the minimum years of service to qualify for her pension.
The English had no legal rights in this case at all.
The goblin in charge scowled at the situation, but not at the lawyer himself. Briokz was just about to leave, when a very angry and rude wizard barged in.
"They wouldn't allow me to see you without an appointment, like you were something important. Here is a demand for fines to be put into the Minister's Discretionary Fund vault. The trial for the Black witch was perfectly legal. We demand payment. Make it happen."
The goblin behind the desk, Screetlezz, his youngling name, was clearly marked on the door and on his desk.
No adult goblin who had gone through the trials would endanger themselves or their clan by sharing their earned moniker with anyone publicly. Such sharing was done only with family and close friends.
Very rarely were such names shared with wizardkind at all.
"Dharma? Would you please look over this hu-mon's ever so politely worded request?
Briokz had thrown his axe, pegging the wizard to the open door by his hooded cloak, before anyone could blink, and then he sat down to review said document.
The less said about the interesting adjectives given to the wizards who thought fining a witch they had killed for the crime of defending muggles, which was certainly NOT against any law in any country, the better.
"This petition, if you want to call it that, is so full of holes that one could use it for fishing." The lawyer stated in their native tongue. "You do know what the legal penalties are, under the statutes. And it is the one who signed, not the Ministry, who is fined. You will not be charged with theft."
"The fine for 100,000 galleons? Are you sure about this, wizard? You have one chance to back away from this situation."
"Ha! You're just trying to salvage your lousy reputation."
"It is not mine that you should be worried about. Good day, wizard. I will inform the Ministry that you were here, and what your demands were."
The man removed his cloak and tried to remove the axe from the door in order to retrieve it. Unable to match the strength of he who had thrown said weapon, the goblins watched the wizard's weak struggles with undisguised amusement.
"You could help me here!" The wizard demanded.
"I could. But you have not asked me to do so. And nothing, nothing in Gringotts is ever free, hu-mon."
Giving up, the man turned, and left his cloak hanging there, forgetting about the expensive and irreplaceable enchanted cloak clasp that was his great-grandfather's.
"Nice cloak. Too bad about the small bit of axe damage." The Ministry account manager stated.
"I know someone who can fix this for me for a small fee. According to the law, this is now mine." Dharma Briokz stated.
Both goblins rubbed their hands at the upcoming fines. It wouldn't be the Minister receiving money, but rather giving it. And double the amount claimed. The sad part, was dealing with the Parkinson account manager, but that was on Dharma Briokz platter, not Screetlezz'
"I have no desire for anything that hu-mon ever touched. You are welcome to it without argument from me. Speaking of which. I would like an invitation to your Trials when you have them."
"Thank you. I will be honored to have you there. And you'd be welcome at the celebration afterwards." The lawyer confidently offered.
The goblin nodded. "Hmm. I would hope that such an event will indeed take place. Some distant kin recently took up some of the empty posts that were presented with the opening of the branch in Hogsmeade. There are a couple of unmarried ladies among them. Win your Trials well, and social invitations will be showered upon you."
Taking the complement as it was, the lawyer left to see Kroct, the Parkinson Account Manager.
**OO**
"You walk so very proudly now in the caverns, yet you still go by your youngling title. What a shame you don't have what it takes to gain a proper Name." Kroct pronounced.
Removing a bright blue pendant wrought in the finest silver, Briokz was not in the least intimidated by this goblin nor his clan. Wastrels, and likely thieves, though nothing was ever proven.
"I see you are not so honored as to have visited the sacred dragons. Nearly everyone in Gringotts Hogsmeade is happy to display their proof that they have been there and seen the Eirwen with their own eyes."
It was a suggestion from Esme to include a pendant with the purchase price of attendance at feeding time. The goblins loved this souvenir of that special time. Briokz's pendant was actually a present from Esme, but he had seen the dragons, and knew that Kroct had not yet been.
It was a very bad sign that he refused to answer a few questions in order to go. A very bad sign.
"Some of us have honest work to do and can't just go traipsing off on adventures whenever we want to." Kroct claimed weakly in Briokz mind.
"I have a fine that needs to be paid today. Now. If you refuse, I will take proof of this, and my memories of the claim to Ragnok himself. Choose: Pay. Or face the consequences."
The haughty goblin sneered, but snatched up the demands from the Ministry.
"He can't do this! He can't! No! Two Hundred Thousand?! How will we have enough liquid assets to pay bills and have enough for the unexpected expenses?! Hu-mon fools!"
Kroct was angry, very angry.
"You arranged this somehow! You are constantly seen with that meddling hu-mon child, Harry Potter! You and he did this!"
"Careful, Kroct. Remember, I have not yet faced my Trials. Remember who my registered champion is."
"BloodRage!" Kroct spat.
"Indeed. Now, retract your words or face his weapons." Briokz stated firmly. He didn't get to his position by being a coward, and he wasn't backing down to this scum.
"How's that dragon you've been assigned to lately? Must be lonely without a mate. I do hope that the two of you are very happy." Kroct offered with a sincere sneer. That was not an apology.
"Or maybe I will challenge you myself as part of my upcoming Trials." Briokz yelled back. He wasn't putting up with this piece of future dragon excrement!
The goblin's face turned spoiled soup green, and demanded that the lawyer leave immediately. Briokz backed away, but knew that he would have the money very soon.
Or rather, the Black Family vaults would be blessed with a surprise with a hundred and ninety four thousand galleons, with Gringotts retaining their modest three percent collection fee.
Harry and Sirius were in for a nice surprise.
**OO**
Friday, November 13
1:00 PM, Justice Center, SDMLE
Molly Weasley was cleared of any wrongdoing in the case of line theft against Harry Potter, to the relief of all. The mind healer Aiden Lynch was in the other room, along with another healer sent by the ICW from St. Michelle's in France. Both were under oaths of secrecy and watching from the one-sided mirror.
The youngest Weasley son, however, was looking more and more guilty.
Molly was embarrassed about being questioned and had a perfect target to vent her spleen. "You knew! You knew that Ginny planned to potion the boy! Instead of going to Minerva, er, Professor McGonagall, you just went along with it because Harry would then lose his magic!"
"You used a love potion on Dad to make him marry you!" Ron pointed out.
"Ronald Weasley!" "Ron!" Both of his parents were angry now.
"I wanted to help my sister!" Ron tried next.
Arthur took over. "Your mother knew that I was shy and used a mild perfume potion. It's the opposite of a notice-me-not. It's a 'Notice Me!' sort of charm. If I wasn't interested at all, I would have gone on with my day. It helped me get over my shyness."
"And I never set up a friend to lose their magic!" Molly concluded.
"Well, he was never really my friend! I hate him! The Headmaster was the one getting me to play chess with him, hang out with him! To watch him! What a loser! Dressed in rags. And then we had to stay at Hogwarts for Christmas instead of coming home." Ron accused.
"We got that portkey as a gift…" Molly started very softly for her; ending in a sharp inhale of breath, staring wide-eyed at her husband.
"It seemed so urgent to check on Charlie." Arthur finished. The couple shared a look. Any evidence would be long gone.
Molly sobbed for a moment. Their last trip with Ginny! Such happy memories. But Arthur patted her arm, and she was brought back to the here and now.
Returning to speaking to their recalcitrant youngest son, Molly pointedly asked, "Are you saying that you and Harry Potter were never friends? But he wrote to me to thank me for my help getting onto the platform. At first, it was just me. Then Harry wrote your father and me weekly! He asked us questions about the wizarding world! We thought it was wonderful; he was so sweet!"
"And you made him a NICE jumper! And you sent him homemade treats, just like he was a son of the House! You treated him just like you do me!" Ron complained.
Arthur put his hand on his youngest son's shoulder. "We have never stopped loving you just because we chose to show kindness to an orphan child."
Ron shrugged his father's hand off his shoulder.
"Admit it! You love him more than me! The Headmaster knew that I had a greater destiny! That's why he chose ME to keep an eye on him! So that when Potter went dark, I could report it! Dumbledore was the only one to believe me! Well, losing his magic would keep us all safe! Everyone knows Potter's a murderer."
"Ronald! You don't believe that, do you?" Molly demanded, horrified.
How had they missed this?
The parents were waved to chairs and put in a silencing bubble while they asked Ron question after question under truth serum.
The French mind healer was swearing in the observation room.
"Come up for the chance to meet 'arry Potter! See the local quaint village and buy some famous tinned shortbread. Were bête-noires mentioned? Non!"
"Come now, some of our comrades break nightmares before breakfast." Healer Lynch stated.
'Pas moi!' was meant to be subvocal, but the healer followed his comrade back into the interrogation room.
A sulking Ron Weasley was staring at lukewarm plain tea and a scone: a leftover of the morning tea tray. He was listening to the radio under a privacy bubble and staring at the scone, willing it to change.
Ron wasn't really hungry; He'd had four lunches at four different tables. Cranberry raisin hadn't been anyone else's choice either. Ron was picking at it, more out of boredom than anything else. But he was being observed by an expert.
Why were English wizards so stubborn? Gamp's law allowed for transmutation, not conjuration. And the boy's wand was in the pocket of his robes. No one had thought to disarm the twelve-year-old. If he really wanted a different flavor, he could have it right then and there. This worried the mind healer as well.
"This is not a simple situation. If we were in France, and a child had been so abused, he would be taken away from his parents, had his magic bound, obliviated, and put with muggles. No 'ope of recovery. My government feels that this is kinder than killing incipient dark lords. Or ladies."
"But we didn't do this!" Molly pleaded.
"The entire island is dealing with this matter. Compulsion charms. Horrid things for adults! But for children? You had your youngest son, and then an only daughter afterwards? And the right age? Oh, Madame Weasley, this is not your fault! You were likely groomed for this role, as were the two youngest children. I need to interview the girl now."
He hadn't been told, and the file notes had not been updated.
Molly burst into tears and Arthur looked grim.
"My daughter was being treated by the best curse-breakers and healers that were available with experience with dark magic. They had tried several known cures, and tried an experimental one. My daughter did not survive it."
"Oh! Zut alors! I did not know. How unkind of me! I beg your pardon, Madame, and Monsieur Weasley. Well. May I get permission to see their notes? Was she questioned here? Perhaps the memory from an auror?"
Alain Delacour was brought in not because he was a rare male veela, nor for his wealth. But because he was very, very good at cases like this.
He used his charisma to help others.
"I know that her file was kept secret since she was a minor. Let me ask if the Director can have it sent down." Healer Flynn suggested.
It was the most troublesome case!
**OO**
Friday, November 13
1:15 PM, Justice Center, SDMLE
"Mrs Figg, I have this! Thank you, please go type up the minutes for Minister Stewart and me." Amelia Bones' voice could be heard. "I need to meet…"
Amelia stopped, Bill Weasley behind her, nearly walking into her.
The love of her life. The man that Amelia Bones had mourned for more than eighteen years was standing before her, looking as handsome as ever. The sturdy walls around her heart crumbled faster than the walls of Jericho at the trumpet sound. All of her stoicism, all of her iron self-control, all of her icy demeanor shattered in an instant.
She turned from Deputy Director of the SDMLE to a young woman in love in a heartbeat.
"Alain? Alain Goutières? You're alive?!" The file of printed papers, carefully arranged, went flying into the air, as the auror stumbled forwards; nearly collapsing in shock as she reached him! She had to touch him, to know the truth of what her eyes were telling her!
She grabbed him and held on for dear life, nearly wild with shock, relief, and anguish; the tears coursing down her cheeks.
The two embraced for a long moment and all Amelia could utter was a heartbreaking, "Alain… Alain… Alain!" Tonks, with tears shimmering in her eyes, shared a loving look with Bill. Ron looked up and scoffed.
"Amelia! Mon Amelia, mon amour! You, you love me? But, … the letter?!"
"What letter, my darling? I don't understand."
"You said you hated me. Told me to go away and die!" Alain forlornly declared.
"What?! Never my love!" Her tears were testament to her former grief and overwhelming joy. "How could I have done that to you? You were my life, you were my world! And then I was notified of your death! We had a memorial here for you. After that, I focused on fighting the war. I lost my brother, too, soon after. Had I not had the care of Susan, my brother's orphaned baby…" The words were left unfinished, but the intent was clear.
"My, love; someone has interfered with our arrangement, and I firmly intend to find out whom! And why!" Amelia said fiercely! They kissed. It was a gentle reassurance that each one was really there.
Amelia turned to everyone in the room; someone –she suspected Tonks– had been kind enough to throw up a silencing charm to help preserve some semblance of privacy. At least of their spoken words…
Breaking the silencing spell, and wiping her eyes, she implored, "I can't just put this miracle aside and do my duties. Everyone, we need a few minutes."
Amelia pulled the mind healer to the next room and pulled the blinds on the window.
**OO**
For several minutes, the veela wizard and his mate simply kissed and whispered sweet nothings to one another. When the outer robes started to come off, Amelia stopped them.
"Soon! Soon! I need you as you need me!"
The nibbling at the base of her neck stopped. His eyes full of passion, love, and longing came closer. Then they were kissing again.
"Perhaps we could retire to my flat for a time, my love." Amelia breathlessly offered and pulled him towards the door.
Stopping her headlong rush and gently rubbing his hands up and down her arms, he looked at her with eyes filled with love. Smiling, he said gently, "We have people waiting for us. Let's concentrate for a moment on the work. I'm not leaving you. I'm staying right here." Alain soothed.
"Right. Right."
"My Amelia!"
"Mon chéri, Alain!"
A few more kisses for fortification, and then she was ready to focus on work. Pulling on her Head Auror persona with difficulty, she asked, "Alain, are you here to question Ron Weasley?"
"Yes. And his sister. But my notes are out of date, it seems. She died in treatment. So sad. Unless you have that kind of seer?"
"Perhaps. But how are you here without me knowing? I see all the visitor logs."
"My dossier was sent. Oh, the name change. I was adopted into my sister's family officially and became a Delacour as my sister will likely only have girls. And I will likely only sire boys. But my mate has not been available to me. Whether politics or prank, I don't care. I have you back now."
"Where are you living? There are flats available here while you work, but I can't just let you leave right now. I have been looking forward to being with you in Avalon. Oh, my darling! If I had had one hint, I would have searched for you." Amelia said sincerely. Sounding like a young Gussie in her mind when she met the love of her life.
"I live in a wing of my sister's home. It's most impressive. But it is you I love, not the trappings of wealth." He stepped closer and gently stroked her short hair. He continued his thought.
"I've been asked by the ICW to oversee several cases in Scotland. Their membership has been tied to the English Ministry of Magic for almost a century. Professor McGonagall requested aid. She's smart. She felt that Ginny Weasley had been targeted by powerful players and was in over 'er 'ead before she ever reached school. Now, I am too late to 'elp 'er."
"I'm so grateful for your coming here and trying to help. I don't know what to do about Ron. He is too young and damaged to prosecute. His sister was homicidal; this boy might be dangerous. Please, Alain. I can't lose you now!"
"I promise to be careful. In fact, I won't even be in the same room with him when I am treating him."
"That sounds fine. I'm going to go let Susan know about you; my niece… My entire family right now is just her and me."
"Et moi, mon amour."
"Et toi. Je t'aime."
"Moi aussi."
Their kiss was far too short, but promised more to come.
"His brother is a curse-breaker? Bon. Let's get the boy cleansed. And all his belongings for a start." Alain said in French.
"Mais oui, mon amour. Guilliam c'est ici." Amelia jotted notes. The Justice Center had dedicated messenger elves who loved to pop all over the Keep. They could get the room reserved and prepped.
"Let's go take care of business so that we can take our time with our pleasure," Alain suggested.
Amelia wholeheartedly agreed. Ritual room reserved, brief William on what was going on, and get everything taken care of. She wanted the work day over right now!
**OO**
A/N: Kind reader Veronica McClure Story Recommendations: The "Venom Peddler" where Harry takes charge with the Parseltongue. LightningFury13 wrote.
A/N: I haven't read it yet. So many great stories out there, so little time.
A/N: Why would a certain Dark Lord (initials of Dumbledore) interfere with Amelia's love life? His 'grand plan' has yet to be revealed... (b/n: Heh, heh, heh! ;-D)