A/N: I am thrilled that I am able to create my own universe in the reality created by JKR. I own the ideas and characters and places which are unfamiliar. Anything you recognize belongs to the Creator.
Tom, the long-time fixture in the Cauldron looked up and saw a young man. He looked to be 11 or 12 years old, with dirty blond hair, cropped to medium length. The boy's face looked open, but with a strong jaw and a longish his most striking feature were his eyes. They were large, penetrating and a startling, emerald green. If you only looked at the eyes, he could be Harry Potter's brother. What are the odds? 'Course Harry's an only child. Looking away from his face, Tom saw a sturdy, muscular body, that seemed to promise great physical strength a few years in the future. "Mornin' lad, here for the last day of shopping before Hogwarts?"
The boy took in the barkeep's wrinkling, kindly features before speaking. "Yes sir, my name is Keith Krukmakare, and I have a reservation for a room."
"Oh yes, your folks were by last week. Nice folk. I was sorry to hear they couldn't be here today. Well, I've got you in a third floor room, but I have to warn you, there'll be a loud group two doors down."
"It's OK. Who are they?"
Tom winced then grinned. "Lad, normally I wouldn't say. But this secret won't keep, so no harm. It will be the seven Weasleys, the parents and the five still at Hogwarts. Also their friends Hermione Granger and Harry Potter."
Keith's eyes widened. "Well, I've heard Ginny Weasley is in my year, and who doesn't know of Harry Potter. I'll meet all of them at Hogwarts. You don't have to worry that I'll break down their door to meet them."
Tom chuckled and gave Keith his key "Didn't think I'd have to, lad.
"I'll go up and see the room, then I'll come down for breakfast." Keith went up to the room and looked at it. It would allow six to sit at the table, and there was a comfortable looking bed and a small desk. Opening the desk drawer, he emptied into it three dollhouse-sized trunks, shut the drawer and left, locking the door as he went. Returning to the pub area, he ordered a large breakfast of toast, scrambled eggs, bacon and pumpkin juice. "It is a bit after 6:00, will any of the shops be open yet?"
Tom smiled at the polite and well-spoken youngster. "Of course, this is the busiest day of the year. All the shops are open now, and Gringotts Bank never closes."Do you know how to go through the back into the Alley?"
"Yes sir, I've been told how. If I have a problem, I'll let you know. Hope to be back for lunch,"
-BFtF-
Going to the back of the pub, Keith tapped the 'magic brick' three times, gaining entry into Diagon Alley. Keith quickly walked to the bank. Once inside he approached a teller. "A good day to you, Master Goblin. May one hand be filled with gold, the other with the hearts of your enemies."
The teller gawked at the vision of this small wizard, who spoke with such courtesy. Recovering himself, he greeted the boy. "May your creditors and foes all flee at your approach! You are the most respectful wizard ever I have encountered. You are so young too! I see you will go far. How may I, the Bank and the Nation assist you?"
"You honor me far above my place. I have my vault key here, but I find I need more than simple access. Would you or a colleague have a moment to spare for the lowiest of Wizards?"
"Please let me see your key, Wizard..."
"Forgive my rudeness, Great One. I am named Keith Krukmakare."
"You have no need for apologies, Wizard Krukmakare. I see your account is rather considerable. You hold good fortune in your hands. Account Master Bloodaxe is available manages the accounts of a number of other important depositors. You can entrust him to manage your holdings well. Allow me to escort you to his office."
The goblin ushered Keith through the door into a well-appointed office. Behind the desk sat a rather tall, imposing goblin in an impeccably tailored suit. "Good Morning, Slitnose, This is the Wizard?"
Keith interjected. "I am that, indeed, Account Master. May your hands flow with gold, and your feet ever be awash in your foes' blood! If I may take a moment of your time, it will be for the benefit my folk and the Nation."
"Wizard Krukmakare! Were it to take my whole year, your business would be very much worth the time. Slitnose, let the Nation know his name, and honor him as a wizard worthy of our respect and full courtesy!"
With that, Slitnose bowed and left. "Keith, if I might be allowed the familiarity, may all those you love dream of your smiling face, and may your adversaries' nightmares be filled with your wrath!Please tell me how I and the Nation may help you?"
"First, yes, please be free with my name and allow me to call you Bloodaxe. To begin, I understand that you monitor investments for the House of Potter?"
Bloodaxe mentally raised an eyebrow, decided this Keith would continue to surprise, but maintained his impassive expression. "It honors me to be on a first name basis with you. I am indeed entrusted to manage investments for that Ancient and Noble House."
Nodding, Keith said, "Then please see to it that one half of my vault's value is invested today in accordance with your instructions for House Potter. Thereafter, on each anniversary, I wish the profits to be used thus: 45% reinvested, 45% added to my vault, and a 10% bonus to you, for your good management."
Keith could hear Bloodaxe's jaw drop. No way on Earth that he'll allow there not to be a profit! "Now, for my current needs. I need to keep both galleons and pounds. Since the non-magical world will not allow someone my age to use plastic, I think an endless wallet set for 2,500 Pounds and an endless money bag set for ₲2,000, both with the standard protections will answer."
"They shall be ready in five minutes. The galleons will be in precounted bags of ₲100 and ₲200 and will be refilled when empty."
"Very good. Thank you Bloodaxe, my friend,..."
"No wizard in my lifetime has ever named a goblin 'friend', not even King Ragnok himself!" Bloodaxe, despite his vow not to be surprised by this wizard, was far too shocked to keep a straight face.
"Then it is past time to begin a new tradition, is it not? Now kindly perform an Inheritance Test upon me." The enchanted parchment and a blade were produced. Slicing his finger, Keith allowed three drops of blood to strike the parchment. The test took little time to finish, with the only sound Bloodaxe's gasp of mingled disbelief and fear.
"What is this!?"
"The truth"
"How can it be?"
"Do you not accept the evidence of your own eyes and the Nation's own magic?"
"No, never has this magic failed. What is it then would you have me do?"
"Make 23 copies. If I may be allowed to use my wand, I have a shrunken folder for them that I will expand, and shrink back to fit my pocket." Permission was given and Keith expanded the folder.
By the time this was all done, the wallet and moneybag had appeared on Bloodaxe's desk. Keith replaced the folder in his cloak and stowed the money carriers. Looking at the Goblin, he smiled and began to discuss his last piece of business. "Bloodaxe, I wish to establish a non-profit organization, 'The New Blood Project'. I wish you take one quarter of my holdings to start the Project's vault. Invest and manage this vault according to your previous instructions for my personal vault."
Pausing a moment, he saw, as he expected, that Bloodaxe understood and awaited further instructions. Writing on a piece of parchment, he slid it over to his manager. "These persons will be here today to exchange pounds for galleons, along with their parents. The tellers need to be notified to be on the alert for people like this and ask for names. When the right people appear, please have them brought to you. You are to have a vault containing ₲500 ready with a key. Explain that they are the beneficiaries of the New Blood Project and give them the details of the new account.
In the near future you will get a list of names. You will please repeat this for each name. You will need to replicate the information you give today in written form. You may use money from the Project to print attractive brochures. Start with a thousand."
Bloodaxe stirred. "This is a worthy endeavor and it pleases me to manage such. It will take a week to fully register the Project with the Ministry and the incorporation papers will be sent to you. You may expect statements for both accounts sent each month,"
Keith nodded, grinned and stood. "It is a pleasure to work with you. Bloodaxe, may your customers deliver gold to you and your enemies their lives."
"Finally, Bloodaxe, I fear I've one piece of terribly distressing business. It is the upmost importance. It may well be that we will have to consult your superiors, perhaps even Ragnok. The situation is this…."
After Keith spoke his piece, Bloodaxe blanched, spoke into an imtercom, the escorted Keith to the office of Ragnok. There they had an intense, difficult discussion. Thankfully, Bloodaxe already had evidence to verify his claim. Finally, his concern was verified. Action then was planned, and arrangements were made.
Ragnok bowed his head. "Thank you Keith Kurkmakre. May your loved ones rejoice and your foes lament at the completion of your goals." With that, he was ushered out of the bank.
-BFtF-
Robes and uniforms, then a trunk, potion supplies, books and back to the Cauldron for more breakfast. Entering the store, he was happy to see it empty. "Getting your Hogwarts things, dear?", Madam Malkin inquired.
"Yes I am. My list says that I need three set of work robes, one hat, one lined cloak and clasp, one pair of dragon hide gloves, protective goggles. Can I get all that here?"
"Yes, indeed you can, and everything will have your name in them too." she replied. "Let measure you now, you can come back after 2:00 for your final fitting."
"Thank you, Madame Malkin."
After 10 minutes for measurement and paying ₲10 for the clothing, Keith reemerged onto the Alley, hood back up. He checked the time, it was 7:00. Heading to Theodore's Tremendous Trunks, he entered. A tall, stocky wizard met him and offered a hand.
"Good Morning, young sir! My name is Theodore Nott and I am the proprietor. I take it you need a trunk for Hogwarts? Over here are our standard models. They will give you many years of service. In fact, many trunks we sell become the trucks our customers send their children off with when it is their time to attend Hogwarts!"
"Thank you, Mr. Nott. My Guardians, though, require me to purchase a nontraditional trunk, but I was told it is in your standard stock. As Nott led him towards the back of the store,Keith pondered, Can't say I'm happy to patronize a DeathEater, but it is true, this family is the ultimate of British trunk makers, so the galleons are well spent. Both of us will walk away happy. Reaching the back, Nott showed the aisles of trunks that were of even better workmanship than the standards."What were the specifications you were given for your trunk?"
"I was told to buy a 10 level trunk, with two levels for my clothing. A third level for my class supplies and equipment. The fourth level as a full office. The fifth will be for my broom, when that is allowed, and Quidditch supplies, should I need them. The sixth and seventh shall be empty for future needs. The eighth shall be set up as a martial arts room, for both Magical and non-Magical methods. The ninth shall be a complete, one station potions lab, with room for advanced charms work and the tenth, a full library, with a study and work space.
The trunk of course needs to be expandable in the inside, external wards, allowing only me or those I designate into the trunk and the wards must be adjustable for each level. Needless to say, the Shrinking and Featherlight charms must tie into the wards."
"Hmm... Anywhere else this would be a custom order. However, you are at the Triple T and we have exactly what you need in stock. Here you are, the Power 10 model!" After paying the ₲85 price, waiting a half an hour for the modifications, spending a few more minutes with Nott, setting the wards and shrinking the trunk, he pocketed his trunk and left for Flourish and Blotts.
-BFtF-
Keith entered the bookstore and quickly went about selecting the books he needed, including the entire series of books by Gilderoy Lockhart, some of the funniest reading going. Not so fortunately, he was grabbed by the man himself and positioned in front of a photographer for publicity photos
"Welcome lad!", said the author in painfully fulsome tones. "I'm Gilderoy Lockhart, Order of Merlin, Third Class, Honorary Member of the Dark Forces Defense League and five-time winner of Witch Weekly's Most Charming Smile Award. When you take my class at Hogwarts this year, you will face the most fearsome and dreadful creatures in Our World. But fear not, lad, with me as your mentor, you will learn to combat them, even as I have! Smile for the camera!"
Keith decided he could mix his business with some fun. "Oh Professor, I am so glad to have you as my teacher!" Keith said, bouncing up and down in 'excitement'. "Will we start by learning to cast a Patronus in our first lesson?"
Lockhart stare at the boy, slightly shocked. "Um, why would you want to..."
"But there are Dementors out there, aren't there? What if one attacked me? I'd need to protect myself!" Pausing briefly, Keith went on. "And what about Basilisks?"
"B-b-basilisks...", murmured Lockhart, now looking slightly green.
Sure! You know the legend of the Chamber of Secrets. I'll bet anything the monster that Salazar Slytherin put in there is a Basilisk! It just makes sense!" as Keith jumped up and down in excitement, "I know, after you teach us how to kill one, we can find a way into the Chamber and finish it off! It would be a nice field trip after all, and maybe you could write a book about it!"
"W-well, I don't think I have any of this in my course outlines-" Lockhart began stuttering.
Keith continued on, imploringly. "Well, but what about the Unforgivable Curses? Surely there are a few DeathEaters around still. What if one tried to kill me? I'll need to know how to protect myself!"
"DeathEaters ", gasped Lockhart, looking definitely green now.
"For that matter, what about Dragons? I've read they still attack us and non-magicals too. And then when we get into our Second and Third and Fourth years, we can really get into the dangerous stuff!"
For some reason, Lockhart needed sit down for a moment and rest. That gave Keith (howling with laughter on the inside) the chance to get the rest of his school books, while some of the other people in the store gave him odd looks.
After finding the course books, he went to the mind magic section, finding a few books on Occlumency. Looking them over, he chose the two most likely titles and took all the copies.
After another few minutes and he found two deluxe editions of Hogwarts, a History. Bound in soft leather, gold-edged pages, two silk ribbon markers. They were just what he wanted.
Finally, after getting stationery supplies, he paid, shrunk the bags, got out his trunk, put the bags in the trunk, shrunk the trunk and left.
Leaving Flourish and Blotts, he stopped at Bloodstone's Jewelry Shoppe, made 16 selections, paid for them, stowed them in his trunk and again was off. Stopping at the Apothecary, he bought a first-year starter's set.
So by 8:00, he sat at an outdoor cafe, and sipped a coffee. He had ordered some pastries, and placed a weak Notice-Me-Not charm on himself and the table. He had pondered about a second breakfast at the Cauldron, but decided the people he wanted to catch were too important to take the chance of missing. After going through his mental list, he was glad to find that almost all the stops he had to make were done He would have to return for his robes, but not till mid-afternoon. If he played his cards right, he might even have time for a catnap before the evening's 'festivities'.
-BFtF-
Keith saw a brown-haired girl with two rather nervous parents dragging a trunk towards the front door of Gringotts. He swiftly walked up to the family, hearing the father muttering, "They don't even put wheels on these damned things." Before speaking, he placed a Notice-Me-Not charm around himself and the others.
"Maybe they think suffering is good for the character, or something," Keith chuckled. "I rather prefer to find an alternative. May I help you?" The father looked at the lad askance, then nodded.
Keith took out his trunk and tapping it twice, it resumed its original size and weight.
"That trunk is enormous!", the girl who poccessed brown, bushy .
"Yes", Keith replied. "And it cost a lot, but it is the one my guardians wanted me to buy. Yours can be like this, with the right charms." He pointed his wand down at the trunk, made a clock-wise circle and flicked the wand up, saying "Antigaravitas". He lifted one side of the trunk with one finger. He then said, "That is the featherweight charm." He then pointed his wand again at the trunk, drew it in a left-right line, flicked it down and said "Reducio." The trunk returned to the size it was when he took it out of his pocket. "That's the shrinking charm."
Here is how you bring it back to normal" He again drew his wand left to right, but flicked it up, saying 'Engorgio'. That is the enlargement charm" Pointing the wand down at the trunk once more, he made the same circle and before, flicking the wand down this time, saying "'Gravitas'. That is the weight charm. Now would you try it with your trunk?"
The brown-haired girl followed his directions and shrunk, lightened her trunk, reversed the process, then reapplied the charms, putting the trunk in her pocket.
"One warning, the charms can also be reversed using Finite Incantatem, but don't say that with it in your pocket. It would hurt a lot." Keith's exaggerated earnestness caused the other three to erupt in laughter.
"I just bet it would!" chuckled the girl. "If you don't mind my prying, why do you need such a large trunk?"
Keith stood still for a moment. The family were startled when they saw this polite, confident boy look as though he were about to cry. "First thing, I've not given you my name, forgive my rudeness. I am Keith Krukmakare and in truth, my trunk is none too big, for it holds my entire life." Keith held up his hand, forestalling the family's exclamations of surprise and shock.
"When I arrived here today, my guardians told me I was on my own now. It is not that I was unloved by them, far from it, but all my life, I've been trained to fulfill my purpose in life. It's also why sometimes I talk as if I older than I appear. I didn't have a choice, I had to grow up fast. Please don't ask me to tell you more. I won't really be able to explain". He shrugged. "It is what it is. But I miss them and miss being part of a family already."
The girl and her parents shared a look. Belying their usual reliance on rationality, all three felt oddly drawn to Keith, in a way that felt strange, but strangely right. The three looked at each other, seemingly coming to a decision without needing discussion. "Keith", the brown-haired girl said. "We didn't introduce ourselves either. My name is Hermione Granger, this is my father, Emerson, and this is my mother, Danielle. First, you have made a friend today, if you will have my as your friend. Second, family is very important to us. We want you in our family, if only in our hearts and not by law. You would have me as your sister, besides as a friend, and a mum and dad."
Keith gulped. "I should like that very much" he said eomotionally. He was instantly engulfed in a hug that would do bears proud, and a heartfelt kiss on the cheek. She no sooner released him, when he got the same treatment from Danielle and then from Emerson. Keith gave them all a huge, joyful smile. "Thank you, I am glad to be a Granger. You better get your money, before all the good stuff is taken." None of them felt or saw the light blue glow that appeared when they hugged Keith.
They exchanged a final hug and separated, the Grangers entering the bank, Keith returning to his seat, asking that his coffee be warmed up and that he be given another pastry.
-BFtF-
The Grangers walked into Gringotts and waited at the back of the shortest line. A few minutes later, they were speaking to the teller. "Good Morning. We would like to exchange pounds for galleons."
"Indeed. May I have your names?"
"We are the Grangers. "Is there a problem?" Emerson asked worriedly. This did not happen last year.
"Problem? Not at all! This is, in fact a joyful day for you. Would you kindly follow me? I am taking you to Account Master Bloodaxe, who will explain everything." The Goblin led the family to an opulent office. The teller addressed the Goblin behind the desk, saying, "Account Master Bloodaxe, may I present the Granger family."
"Excellent, Toothbreaker! You may leave now and tell the others on the floor that they no longer need to ask for names." The Account Master bade them to sit and took a minute to size up the three humans before him.
" Recently, one of my clients established and endowed a non-profit organization entitled The New Blood Project. The client, who wishes to remain anonymous, gave me your name, declaring you to be the first beneficiary of the Project. There will be many others, rest assured, but I have not received that information as of yet. To begin, this is a key to a Gringotts vault in your name, Miss Granger. It has a beginning balance of ₲500."
Bloodaxe smiled inwardly as the Grangers gasped and came close to fainting. Once she regained her composure, Miss Granger looked at Bloodaxe with shock on her face.
"But-but Master Bloodaxe, that is enough to-to..."
"Pay for supplies for the rest of your Hogwarts education and leave a balance, if you are frugal." Bloodaxe noted. He looked at the Granger father. "Mr. Granger, how many Pounds do you seek to exchange?"
"£1,000, Master Bloodaxe. We thought it would be enough her supplies, a few extras and enough left over in case she needs money during the school term" Emerson had regained his wits, just in time. He noticed that Bloodaxe looked as if he was in digestive distress, but considering his jovial mode throughout, he suspected this was a Goblin smile or grin.
His suspicions were confirmed when Bloodaxe said, "One of the benefits from a Gringotts vault is that the there is a reduced exchange rate of £3 to a Galleon. If you exchange, you will receive 333 ₲, 5 € and 3 ₭ in return."
"Account Master Bloodaxe," said Danielle Granger, speaking for the first time, "For us, Christmas Day and our Birthdays seem to have come all together today. We will indeed exchange and deposit our £1,000 and use them today with Hermione's vault key. I hesitate to ask, but are there other benefits to a Gringotts account?"
"I see that Miss Granger's brains come from both sides of her family! Mrs. Granger, there are indeed, but none we need concern ourselves with today. Later next month, Miss Granger will receive a full information packet, once we've finished printing it. It will be sent out in two or three weeks. I can arrange a copy to be sent to you directly too. Receiving the elder Grangers' address, Bloodaxe escorted them back into the Alley.
-BFtF-
At about noon, Keith saw the two deep strawberry blond heads of hair for which he'd waited. Rising, he swiftly cut off the two he hoped to speak with. "Pardon me, are you Madam Bones, head of the DMLE?" While the girl with her looked at him with wide eyes, Madam Bones narrowed her eyes fractionally and gave a slight nod.
"Madame Bones, Miss Bones, I have been waiting over at the table yonder hoping to spot you. If you would, please come over and sit with me for a moment. I don't want to have this conversation in the middle of the street."
Madam Bones stared down incredulously at this obviously first year wizard. "Why ought my niece and I wish to speak to you anywhere?"
Keith gazed intently into her eyes. "I suspect that Harry Potter's safety might be a matter for mutual concern."
Now both pairs of eyes widened. The older witch's wand appeared as if out of thin air, pointing at the youngster. "Very well. Let us go over to the table, without any sudden movements."
Keith led the way back to his table, pulling out the chairs to seat Miss Bones, then Madam Bones. Returning to his seat, he asked if they would like refreshments. After being thanked but told no, he sipped hurriedly at his coffee.
"First, Miss Bones, may I have your name? I don't want to talk about you like you aren't there."
"I'm Susan. Thank you for your courtesy. A lot of my auntie's friends show less respect than do you."
"You are very welcome, Susan. Before I go farther, Madam Bones, you must keep your wand on me. It is your obligation to kill me should you feel threatened in any manner, either for yourself or for your niece. For what is worth, I forgive you any action you might take."
Glaring at the young man, Madam Bones noted, "Child, there are other things besides killing..."
Interrupting, Keith spoke intently."No, there are not. I've been prepared very well by my guardians. Legilimency will not work and my defenses will actually harm the Legilimens. I could drink veritaserum by the liter without any effect. The Imperius and Cruciatus curses slide right off me. Threats on a third party won't sway me. No torture or 'truth serums' as applied by non-Magical governments will affect me either. So all you have left is death."
Both aunt and niece looked at him, shocked. "My name is Keith Krukmakare. I mean no harm to either of you, quite the reverse. When we get somewhere where it is private, I will swear a binding oath to that effect. Furthermore, I trust you both with my life, my secrets, as far as I can divulge them. Please do not protest, I am told my judgment of character is excellent.
This morning, less than two hours ago, I heard someone, something speaking. The language I heard was English, whoever it was, was sentient, but did not sound human to me, for some reason. I did not see the speaker, to the best of my knowledge. I heard this: 'Harry Potter has come to go to Hogwarts, despite Dobby's warnings. But Harry Potter still will try. Dobby must save Harry Potter. Dobby will stop Harry Potter.' "
Crickets. Both witches stared at him, with horrified eyes. Have I chosen wrongly? Are they not up to the Task? If they aren't, then my plans are shattered. Their help is almost indispensable to me. "Hello, Krukmakare to the Bones family? Can't do this alone. I need your help."
The elder witch shock her head and rejoined the conversation. "Mr. Krukmakare, pardon me. Even with my experience, this news is terrible on so many levels, it took me a moment to work through it. Susan, are you all right?"
The younger witch shook her head, a tear flowing down her cheek. "I know what was said about what Harry went through last year. I hoped it was exaggerated..."
"Susan, if anything, it was downplayed.", interjected Keith. "But you now know why I sought you. If I hadn't found you soon, I would have sent you an owl. I was almost certain that you would came here today to buy supplies for Susan."
"Could you please meet me at 5:30 or 6:00 pm at the Cauldron? I will escort you to my rooms, which has a table. We will dine, take counsel and then seek Harry, who will be two doors down from us, according to Tom."
A moment's silence, before Madam Bones said, "6:00. We agree."
"Very good, farewell until then." With that, the three left.
-BFtF-
After he saw that the Bones family were heading to Flourish and Blotts,he headed to the offices of The Daily Prophet. Upon entering, he asked for Rita Skeeter's office. When he was brought to her office, Keith found a woman in her 40s, with curly blond hair, a bit overblown. He came in, and shook her hand.
"Ms Skeeter, this is a pleasure. I've rarely seen anyone inflict blunt trauma with words with such style."
Rita scanned the face of this lad. "Thank you..?"
"Keith Krukmakare. I think we can come to a mutually beneficial business relationship. I have a memory to show you, from this morning, which will be of interest to you."
Keith placed his memory with Lockhart into the Pensieve, and awaited her return. Rita literally bounced out of the Pensieve.
"This is worth a headline Wednesday!"
"Or perhaps Thursday, Ms Skeeter."
"Oh, is here more?"
"I would certainly hope so. Let me put my cards on the table, Rita. I've read a fair amount of his books and why they aren't listed as fiction is beyond me. Personally, I fear I'll finish the year knowing less about the subject than I do now! I think a good investigative reporter can make all sorts of noise, of the right kind. So do you think you want the story?"
Rita now had a suspicious look in her eyes. "This is far too good to be true. What is your game, Krukmakare and what do you get from this?"
Keith skewered Skeeter with his gaze. "I hoped you would ask this question. I need to say first that you'll likely never know the full story, and that ignorance in this case is truly in your best interest. There are people, very near and dear to me, whose lives will be damaged permanently without my help. You can help me protect them. So what will it be, Rita? Work with me, or not".
"Krukmakare, I won't lie. I don't buy everything you've said. But, even if one percent is true, this is too big an opportunity to pass up. So yes, I will work with you."
"Thank you. I believe in your talents. I believe you can be a tremendous ally. Now to the specifics. I will keep you informed about doings at Hogwarts and, as long as your stories are factual, and unembellished, I'll be happy."
" However, you must clear any story regarding Harry Potter, or his friends with me. I'll let you know if and when the story can run. I'll make sure you are not mislead by anyone. You might even end up as his insider, IF you play your cards right. No guarantees, but it may happen. Do we have a deal?"
Rita looked as if a lifetime of Christmases had come early. "We have a deal. How do we keep in touch?"
"You can owl me for the time being. We'll use the name 'Veronica'. Set up a box here under that name and that will work for now."
Rita smiled broadly and offered him her hand. "Sounds good, partner. Soon then."
Keith shook her hand, then made his way back into Diagon Ally, feeling slightly unclean.Well, she's better off to me as an ally than as an enemy. The seeming eternity with Rita lasted only about 25 minutes.
Entering Malkin's, Keith found that the robes were ready and needed no adjustment. Within ten minutes Keith was back at the Leaky Cauldron. After having a leisurely lunch, he had a quiet word with Tom, Then he went up to his room, shortly after 1:30, to get ready for his evening engagements.
-BFtF-
He re-expanded his trunk. He returned the 'doll furniture' to his pockets, then opened his trunk to the bottom level. Once inside the empty library, he removed one of the shrunken trunks, expanded it, then waved his wand. Immediately, books flew out of the trunks and shelved themselves. After five minutes, the trunk was emptied and Keith made another gesture that activated the Library's indexing functions. On the desk he left a piece of parchment and a series of shrunken boxes taken from the open trunk, which he shrunk and lightened, placing them in his other pocket.
Leaving the library, he shut that level of the trunk and opened the next level. He removed another trunk, canceled the charms and opened it, removing yet another shrunken trunk. Re-expanding that trunk, a wave of his wand lined the potions station's shelves with standard to mastery level potions ingredients, all in stasis. From a bag he brought with him, he placed the jewelry he'd bought on the Enchanter's table. He shrunk the trunks he expanded and put them in his pocket.
Moving along to the next level, the martial arts training room, he expanded the two trunks again. Waving his wand, he added a dozen practice dummies to those Nott had supplied. Another flick and a number of swords, shields, battle axes, spears and more obscure weapons lined the walls. He shrank the trunks.
Entering the Seventh level, Keith removed and arranged 'doll furniture' from the third trunk, cast Finite Incantatem and the furniture expanded, becoming a comfortable bedroom. There were two oddly old fashioned mechanical alarm clocks. Pocketing one, he reduced and lightened the trunk, put it in the same pocket as the first and left for the fifth level.
In the fifth level, Keith restored the Nimbus 2001, and Quidditch supplies his guardians bought him, along with other sporting equipment he doubted had much been seen in the Wizarding world from the third trunk and stored them.
Skipping the fourth level, Keith opened the third level and packed the school supplies he had bought that day. Then opening the second level, he packed all the hangable clothing in the armoire, Finally, he opened the top compartment and restoring the last of his trunks, he incanted Packio and the clothing flew from the last trunk into the compartment. He closed the big trunk and ensured the warding was active. Placing the other trunks he had used into his last trunk, reducing that and pocketing it, he checked his watch. It was 3:30.
He went down to the pub, making sure he doubly locked the room, . On entering the common room, he ordered a butterbeer and a light snack. Within 15 minutes, he was back into his room.
Securing the door again, Keith opened and entered the ninth level, closing the door. A few minutes later, he climbed out of the trunk and entered the fourth level, closing the trunk. After another few minutes, he reemerged. After he put a sheet of parchment, a quill and an ink pot on the bedside table, he checked his watch and wound and set the alarm clock.
Opening the seventh level, he entered and closed the trunk. Once inside the cozy bedroom, he wound and set the time and the alarm. Removing his cloak, shoes, pants and shirt, he snuggled under the sheet and murmured a couple of spells, enveloping him in darkness.
Too soon, it seemed to him, the alarm sounded. He lit the room, made the bed and collected his clothing, leaving the trunk. His used clothing he placed into the hamper provided, then went into the bath and took a quick shower. Once dried, Keith opened the top compartment, selected clothing and dressed. He then invoked the trunk's warding, Checking his watch, he saw he was spot on time, it was 5:45. Leaving, he went into the pub and sat, waiting for his guests.
-BFtF-
At 5:55, he spotted the two Bones witches entering the pub. They had sensibly worn cloaks with the hoods up. Keith rose and said, "I see two lovely witches out for a night's amusement. Might I entice you both to my room for an evening's entertainment?"
Giggles from Susan. "You know that sounds incredibly corny."
"Of course, Susan,but later on, humor might be hard to find. So, I wanted a laugh now. Will you two come up with me?"
"Of course, Mr. Krukmakare, Please lead the way". Director Bones' tone was mixed, both amusement and wariness in her voice.
Keith took them by the back way to his floor. He peeked into the corridor. "It's clear for now". Leading them to the room, they entered without incident. Once they entered, Madam Bones placed silencing and privacy charms.
"May I take your cloaks?" Keith said, as he took the cloaks and hung them on a rack. Returning, he seated them at the table, pulled his chair close to the wall, sitting the chair. Raising both hands in the air, he commented, "We'll now complete the business at the cafe. Madam Bones, please draw and aim your wand at me. Are you ready to fulfill your obligation by killing me at any sign of things being amiss?"
"Yes.", she replied.
"Do you wish to see my face while I make my oaths, or would you prefer that I face away from you? Both options have their pluses and minuses."
After considering for a moment, Director Bones gave him his instructions. "I want to be able to look you in the eye, Mr. Krukmakare. Kindly face me".
"May I take my wand so I might swear my oath?" he spoke in a quiet, but clear voice,
Receiving a nod, he produced his wand, holding to the ceiling. "I, Keith Krukmakare, swear upon my life and magic and soul that I intend to do no harm to Susan Amelia Bones, neither by action nor by inaction. My whole purpose is to protect Susan, physically, emotionally and in all other ways. I will never fail to do this, even at the cost of my life. My oath shall last my entire life, or until such time as Susan Amelia Bones releases me from my obligation. As I have said it, so mote it be!" And at that, a blinding light filled the room. Next, he addressed the older witch.
" I, Keith Krukmakare, swear upon my life and magic and soul that I intend to do no harm to Amelia Susan Bones, neither by action nor by inaction. When I am in her presence, my purpose is to protect Amelia, physically, emotionally and in all other ways. I will never fail to do this, even at the cost of my life. My oath shall last my entire life, or until Amelia Susan Bones releases me from my obligation. As I have said it, so mote it be!" Another blinding light illumined the room.
"Keith, may I call you that?" Keith nodded. "After your oaths, I hardly feel a formal address suits, when we are by ourselves, so please call me Amelia. Your oaths are different than those I have heard or made. Can you explain it to us?"
"Certainly I can, Amelia. Susan, may I use you first name too, when it's just us?" After Susan nodded, Keith went on. I made my oaths on my magic, really not so important to me, on my life, much more important to me and on my soul, the most important to me. If I fail, not only will I die, but I will go to Hell and never will I see you or have fellowship with you again." The witches stared at him and Keith couldn't tell if they were impressed or horrified or just thought he was crazy.
"My oaths are in different forms, since I won't be near you, Amelia, but I will be near to Susan. Also my gut told me that I should make Susan's oath in that way. Finally, there may come a time when either of you will wish me to be no longer bound, so you will have the choice. Please, though, don't release me right away. I feel in my heart you both will need me."
"I think we can accept this for now. But what do you need now from us?" murmured Susan. A glance at Amelia showed she agreed with her niece.
"I wish that you would swear that nothing said here tonight will be repeated, except with my permission and in my presence." Both witches made their oaths. "Now, I took the liberty of asking Tom to send up your favorite meals, they should here in a minute. Please feel free to use my bathroom to freshen up."
-BFtF-
A minute later, there was a knock at the door and the waiters came in with three large meals. For a space, the three ate in silence. In twenty or thirty minutes they finished and had the plates removed. Amelia then renewed the privacy charms. Keith bought out the parchment quill and ink-pot, incanted "Geminio" and each had copies of the parchment quill and ink.
After reading the parchment, Amelia began. "Keith, this is an impressive bit of analysis. I think there should be one person to act as secretary, so we may have a complete analysis and proposed plan of action. Would you do that?" Keith nodded and Amelia continued. "I spoke to some of my staff and we think it was a House Elf you heard."
"Do we know whose elf it is?", asked Keith.
"No Keith. Elves are very much bound to their places and families. We can't even be sure if 'Dobby" is a real name."
Keith grumbled, "So, we've got to go to other plans already. We simply can't contact 'Dobby's' master and have him shut off at the source. Plan 1 shot down already."
Amelia replied. "I hadn't thought he was in much danger until I read your thoughts. I agree this 'Dobby' seems to think he must protect Harry from returning to school. He seems to feel that he has Harry's safety at heart. My gut feeling is he might make Harry uncomfortable or embarrassed, but unharmed at least at the start. Although your idea that 'Dobby' might hold him somewhere, or put him in a coma, or mentally incapacitate him frightens me."
Susan spoke. "If this is true, how can we protect him? He's in as much danger inside Hogwarts as he is here."
He smiled reassuringly at Susan. "This is the ₲64,000 question. Madam Bones, may we have your thoughts?"
"My first thought is that we need traces on him and be ready to move at a second's notice. It is hardly an ideal solution, but I can think of nothing better right now."
"My thoughts are along the same lines. Susan?"
"This sounds good to me too. Auntie, can you cast a DMLE level trace, without alerting the Ministry?"
Amelia considered. "Yes, but that will take a few days to set up. For now, I can place a very powerful personal trace. I think that the three of us should be alerted, if he is taken."
"Is there a way to get to him quickly, should he be taken?" Keith's worry was clear in his voice.
Amelia was quick to reassure both Keith and Susan. "We use Portkeys, DMLE Portkeys. They will take us anywhere Harry is taken, even into Hogwarts, or the Ministry."
"That sounds OK, Amelia". Keith's voice was thoughtful. "Once we catch up, I suppose it then is a matter of improvise, adapt and overcome. Clearly, we can't leave anyone behind."
"Right you are there, Keith", Amelia emphatically agreed. The three of us will have Portkeys and you will have to follow my lead. A second tap of the Portkey brings us to the gates of Hogwarts"
Keith thought a bit. "A good idea, Amelia, but I think we should include Mr. Weasley and Hermione Granger in on this as well. I think we need someone in Gryffindor and I think Mr. Weasley would be motivated. He's also a Ministry wizard and we might need the experience and the firepower."
Amelia looked at Keith wonderingly. "Keith, why not Ron Weasley? He and Harry are best friends, I hear."
With a wide grin, the lad looked to Susan. "Susan, who is more likely to keep this important a secret, and be useful in a fight, Ron or Hermione?"
Susan giggled. "There's no competition. It would be Hermione, hands down! Both according to you fought alongside Harry last year, but Ron is too impulsive, he might panic, he'd be sure to say or do something wrong before he'd know it was wrong. Hermione is an old, careful soul in most things. She is in fact a lot like you, Keith."
He smiled broadly. "You've given me an enormous compliment. Thank you Susan."
"Amelia, what are your thoughts regarding Mr. Weasley?"
"Keith, Arthur Weasley is looked down upon by some for his interest in non-magicals and his defense of their rights. But he is a stalwart man, he fought in the last war and he'll be on Harry's side unreservedly. We must have a Weasley adult on board, and I have the same reservations about Molly as you have about Ron."
"Then it sounds as if we've a plan. Agreed?" Both concurred. "Good, well it is 7:45. Then we have our meeting at 8:00 and can get to bed at a reasonable hour. "Then there is one piece of business to finish up." Keith opened level 2 of his trunk. "Amelia, how good are Susan's mental shields?"
Susan turned red and Amelia smiled. "Her shields against passive Legilimency are fine, but she needs work on active Legilimency."
"OK, those can be improved" Keith gave her a necklace. "But for now, Susan, would you put this on and not take it off until we get your shields up to par? This is enchanted and will keep you safe from all mental attacks. Susan put the necklace - which then vanished from view - on and thanked him.
Turning his attention back to Amelia, he quarried, "I'm sure I've no need to ask, but yours?"
"Very strong, I train regularly with the head of the Department of Mysteries and get Es every time. I know what you said, but may I test your defenses?" Keith nodded. Amelia made no headway at all on his shields.
"They're impenetrable, but why I was not harmed?" "I could not knowingly break my vow, Amelia. T'would be an abrupt end to our time here if I were a corpse. So I dialed down to about 10% of my regular level." He and Susan caught Amelia when she staggered drunkenly a step or two.
Amelia looked at him. Keith asked, "OK now?"
Amelia shakily replied. "Yes, but are you really that powerful?"
"Indeed I am, I'd never lie to you or Susan. Everyone in whom we confide needs good shields."
Amelia gave Keith a hard look. "You are full of surprises, with your own defenses and these enchanted necklaces. Someday, I will look forward to having a long chat with you and unraveling these mysteries that seem to float about you."
Keith laughed at her statement. "That talk will have to come later than sooner. For now, all I can offer is that I'm a riddle wrapped in a mystery, wrapped in an enigma".
"But for now, back to business. Please look at these books and give me your opinions."
Amelia glanced at the titles. "These are both good books, but there are titles at DMLE that are as good."
Keith asked, "Can you get a dozen copies of each of those books to me? I'll give people their choice of book or books to study. I may need your help in teaching this, I need to get started soon, the real issues have to be addressed by mid-October at the latest."
Amelia nodded reassuringly. "I can do that, Keith."
-BFtF-
"OK, Showtime! Susan, please go two doors further down on our side and invite in our guests. Using your aunt's name would be best."
The door opened and Harry, Hermione and Arthur Weasley came in. Both Amelia and Keith rose to their feet.
Arthur said, "Good evening, Director, what's seems to be the matter? I know Susan, of course, but who..."
"Keith!" shouted Hermione in astonishment and a bit of fear.
"A moment, Miss Granger, and things will become clear", said Madam Bones. "First I need to ward this room."
After the Privacy and Security charms came up, Keith spoke. "Hello, Mr. Weasley, hello, Harry, I am glad to meet you. I'm Keith Krukmakare and I start Hogwarts tomorrow in my first year. I met Hermione and her parents this morning. Hermione, some things came up this afternoon, which is why I'm seeing you tonight and not tomorrow as I expected.
"Madam Bones, Mr. Weasley, please draw your wands and aim them at me. Should either of you feel any concern, you are obligated to kill me. For what it is worth, I forgive you both of any actions you may take tonight." Keith then sat in the chair by the fire, facing the others, hands in the air.
"Now I will take hold of my wand, on Madam Bones' command." "Keith, you may do so now." Keith complied. Then he made the same oaths to Harry and Hermione that he had to Susan and to Mr. Weasley the same he made to Amelia.
"I have sworn the same oaths to the Director and to Miss Bones. I now must request an oath in return, saying that nothing that goes on here may be spoken to a third party without my consent and presence. Both the Director and her niece have sworn this oath." The others complied immediately.
"Now we can begin. Harry, have you told anyone about 'Dobby'?"
Harry paled. "How do you know..."
"How I know is not germane, Harry, just that I do know. Would you please tell us all now?"
With no other option, Harry told of his encounter earlier in the summer at Privet Drive. All were horrified.
"Harry, why didn't you tell us sooner? We could have had a plan by now!" Madam Bones cut Hermione off.
"Miss Granger, we do have a plan in mind. However, Keith has important additional information. Keith, if you please?"
Keith reproduce a copy of his notes in front of each of them. "Please read these notes and then we can talk."
Project 'Dobby':
Catalyst: Keith Krukmakare testimony: "The language was English, whoever it was, was sentient, but did not sound human, for some reason. I did not see the speaker, to the best of my knowledge. 'Harry Potter has come to go to Hogwarts, despite Dobby's warnings. But Harry Potter still will try. Dobby must save Harry Potter. Dobby will stop Harry Potter.' "
Analysis: As submitted by Director Bones, 'Dobby' is most likely a House Elf. We believe that Harry's safety is paramount to 'Dobby', but not necessarily the quality of his life. If Harry is imprisoned, or too physically injured to go to school or is mentally or magically incapacitation, 'Dobby' will feel he has succeeded.
We hypothesize that 'Dobby' will want to do as little harm to Harry as possible. The clear choke point is Gate 9 3/4 at Kings Cross. Deny that to Harry and he doesn't go to Hogwarts, at least temporarily. We posit that owing to the differences in Elven and Human magic, that 'Dobby' will be confident that we will be without any preparations in place, so the advantage lies with him. Therefore, we conclude 'Dobby' will only be ready to prevent Harry access to the Hogwarts Express.
Given the above as a working hypothesis, we propose to attach a strong trace to Harry. The trace will be linked to Portkeys held by the Director, Mr. Arthur Weasley, Keith Krukmakare, Susan Bones and Hermione Granger. The Portkeys are activated by a single tap of a wand. If all goes as planned, one of us will grab Harry and all will tap their Portkeys again, bringing us to the gates of Hogwarts. If there are any problem, the children will continue to try to get away, but will obey any orders from Mr. Weasley of Director Bones. This is the reactive phase of our plan.
The proactive phase of our plan calls for us to meet tomorrow at 9:00. We exit on the non-Magical side and take a taxi to King's Cross. At about 9:30 or a bit later, Harry tries to go through to Platform 9 3/4. If he fails, Director Bones will call out "Zebra". We immediately gather around her, holding on. She will activate her Portkey to bring us to the gates of Hogwarts.
If our analysis is correct, 'Dobby' will have no backup plan, so we should get in before he can act again. Once on the castle grounds, our options for keeping Harry safe will increase and buy us enough time to ensure his safety until we can sort out 'Dobby' for good.
Director DMLE Amelia Bones, Miss Susan Bones, Mr. Keith Krukmakare (Secretary)
After giving everyone ample time to read and consider their analysis and plan for action, Amelia looked around at the others, particularly the three newcomers. "Thoughts, anyone?"
Hermione responded, musingly. "Your reasoning is brilliant. I wish I could find something off about the plans so I could contribute. Could we meet tomorrow at 8:30? That would give us time if any of us have a brainstorm."
Amelia smiled at the young witch's earnestness. "I think that is a good idea, Hermione. Make it so".
Susan piped up with the question she'd been wanting to ask Keith since she'd first entered his rooms. Keith, I just have to ask you whyever would you need such a gigantic trunk?"
Susan's query left silence in its wake. The adults were too shocked at the artlessness of the question to rebuke her. Harry just looked confused. But Keith and Hermione both looked as if they both were about to cry. Keith patted Hermione's shoulder, shook himself and addressed the others.
"I started today never expecting to tell this to anyone and now I feel I have to tell you four as well. Hermione and her family have heard this, now you. First, Finite Incantatum! I've released you from your oaths. I simply ask you not to speak of this to anyone else." He got their affirmations.
"When I met the Grangers this morning, they oddly enough asked the same question you did, Susan, why my trunk's is so large. This was my answer: In truth, my trunk is none too big, it holds my entire life." Keith held up his hand, forestalling the others' exclamations of surprise and shock. "When I arrived here today, my guardians told me I was on my own now. It is not that I was unloved, far from it, but all my life, I've been trained to fulfill my purpose in life. It's also why sometimes I talk as if I older than I appear. I didn't have a choice, I had to grow up fast. Please don't ask me to tell you more. I won't really be able to explain. It is what it is. But I miss them and missed being part of a family already.
The Grangers then 'adopted' me. In my heart, I now have a sister, a mum and a dad. In theirs, they have a brother and son. I will never give this answer again. I really don't need to."
The silence, thick enough to be sliceable, went on for a minute or two. Susan looked at her Aunt, received a nod and finally broke the silence. "Keith, will you be my younger brother?", She asked, grinning widely.
"That would make me very happy, Susan." And with that the two hugged and kissed each other's cheek.
"Krukmakare, a handshake won't do it for greeting my kid brother!" Harry exclaimed, giving Keith a big hug.
"Good by me, Harry, just don't expect me to shop for gifts for the Dursleys!" Both boys shuddered and then grinned.
Amelia's Auror's ears pricked at that but she decided this day had been too much to go into now. It could wait. "You don't expect my niece's brother doesn't have an Auntie too, do you?"
"Not at all, Auntie Amelia!" And Amelia hugged and kissed Keith, then Harry, then Hermione. In the happy confusion, blue glows were missed.
While getting hugged and kissed, Harry had a revelation. He'd only the shakiest idea of what love was, certainly he'd no firsthand experience of the emotion. But now, he thought that just maybe the feelings he'd felt in observing the others and felt himself just now were the feelings others called 'love'. He would have to think about it and maybe talk to the others, too.
Keith then turned towards Arthur Weasley. "Mr. Weasley, I know you would make the same offer, but we can't now. Your family is large, nine of you, right? I'd need to meet and know them all enough to trust them as family. Maybe one day, just not now."
Arthur looked sad, but nodded . "You are wise, Keith. I can leave it like that". Advancing, he shook Keith hand.
"Well Director, we need to get back. We'll see you all here at 8:30." And with that, Arthur, Harry and Hermione left for their suite.
After they left, Keith asked the Bones family to stay a minute.
"Amelia, Susan thank you from the bottom of my heart. Without your help, none of this would be possible." He hugged each witch and kissed their cheeks, murmuring, "Thank you", over and over again. "Shall we meet here at 7:30 for breakfast? I am sorry to make you both go hither and yon like this."
Amelia laughed. "The Ministry keep rooms and suites here for times like these. Susan and I are in a suite, so it is no bother at all. We'll come by at 7:30." And they left. After they left, he dressed for bed, set his alarm clock for 6:00, then fell asleep, dreaming of Harry, Hermione, the Grangers and the Bones.
A/N: As always, a tip of the keyboard for my Betas., MioneJeanPotter, Osoyo 702 and Featheredschist. They've earned the kudos if I've earned any and none of the brickbats.
Story recommendation: Recursion, by erbkaiser. (ID: 11022402) Sometimes the important lessons require repetition to learn.
Once more, Thanks to all you who read my efforts. Visitors, hits, reviews, follows, favorites, C2s are my only payment. Believe me, they make me feel rich!
Words 10,034
Posted 05/23/15