Harry Potter's Secret Weapon
**OO**
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.
New Pureblood Graftees - NPGs - formerly muggleborn or half-blood magical people that are getting a new lease on life after being drafted into a new family. A cleansing and renewal of the gene pool.
The Sacred Twenty Eight is soon going to have all of their seats in the 'Mot filled for the first time since the Grindelwald war…
**OO**
Chapter 24 Where Angels Fear to Tread
Sunday, July 31st, Blackmoor Hall
The morning pool party was earlier than most teens wanted to be out of bed. But the best window for the goblins was the afternoon; 2:00 to 6:00 for the competitions that would be followed by the barbeque.
All of Harry's goblin friends were coming. Dharma Briokz had tried to decline at first, but Harry reassured him that most of the guests would not be participating in the axe and other competitions. Besides, Harry needed an impartial judge that knew the rules and who would be fair. None of the prizes were from the Pranking Parlor, no, Harry didn't want to upset anyone.
Every single one was purchased from one of the NPGs shops, or in the case of Fortescue, from an established business. Penny had already brewed the antidote to the goblin toxin in a larger batch than normal; just in case any other guests, besides BloodRage, decided to try the (to goblins) poisonous strawberry ice cream.
Strawberries were such a delightful fruit! They should have their own festival. How odd was it that goblins could eat basilisk steak just fine but be itching like crazy after seeing a strawberry.
Friends who accepted the invitations to dinner, knowing that goblins would be there would become permanent friends of Harry's.
Daphne was willing to come, and was allowed to attend the pool party and riding but her parents had declined the dinner invitation. She thought it was because of the phoenix tears that Steward Lupin ordered. And she'd be right.
It wasn't prejudice: he didn't want his daughter near basilisk parts!
Adrian Pucey was also invited. He was again wearing the Slytherin suit that he again thanked Jam for.
Harry wondered about that, but said nothing. If his house-elves bought stuff for his friends, Remus could chide them about 'watching the budget' or such. Bleh!
Daphne came without Tracey. Harry was trying to patch things up between the girls, but Bulstrode, also there, told him not to bother. That they were all getting along fine, and she was the one missing out. She'd figure it out, and start coming, or be left out. Her choice. All Harry could do was invite, not beg. It wasn't his fault.
Harry asked Miss Bulstrode to call him by his first name, and she was now Millie to everyone there. She was on the edge of the pool talking with Luna in quiet tones. Luna had gotten in too late for last night's party. She'd come with Cedric and the twins, and was looking forward to surprising Harry at the dagger throwing competition.
Clarice came down, and seemed to be looking for someone.
"Has Remus been by?" she asked Tonks, reclining on a lounge chair.
"Not yet. Kingsley's around. Why don't you call him on the mirror."
"I tried! I'm worried. He…I'm worried he made a mistake. Or thinks he has. Oh dear!"
Tonks was lounging and had Terry Boot on one side and Kevin Entwhistle on the other. Justin couldn't come, but Susan and Hannah were there. Cedric and Roger were back, and everyone was having a nice time.
Then Sirius and Remus popped into view both smiling and chatting.
Whatever Remus had gone for had to be a short trip; he was back! And Moony smiled at her. Her heart started beating again.
He hadn't run away or changed his mind! He was here! He was here!
Clarice left, and Tonks returned to her magazine, trying to ignore the teens on either side of her.
The boys wouldn't have need for drowning draughts – they hadn't budged from her sides!
Maybe Kingsley should come here and 'check on things'." Or not.
She didn't want to NEED drowning draughts.
Aunt Calladora had left that morning to go stay with Augusta once her home was thoroughly checked by curse-breakers. Dumbledore hadn't been by in some time, but it was best to double-check. They planned on a quiet family 'late tea' later tonight. Harry didn't hold it against her that she would rather skip the pool/axe throwing and noise of the game competition. He was just grateful she had come the previous night!
Besides, if she was around, he doubted that Hermione and Luna would enter the belching competition.
The Gryffindor chasers challenged three wizards (Harry, Cedric and Roger) to volleyball, but Harry suggested witches vs wizards, with everyone rotating in so everyone could play.
The pool area was crowded, but the group was friendly and there was no snubbing or snide remarks or bullying of any kind.
Harry had never had a birthday party before, but to him, this was perfect. It was a very nice party.
He never noticed that the only Weasleys who came were Fred and George. He never once thought of or missed Ron.
**OO**
The holding cell guards, some actual members of House Black security, looked forward to sharing tonight's menu and already had the worms and snake steak ready. It was just transfigured and under stasis, but once lifted, the worms would squirm and the meat would look…a bit green.
Hehehe.
And if the prisoner didn't eat what was provided? Well, he could go hungry.
Oh, and the cell now looked very different. It was smaller; the loo would come and go. The mattress; thin, lumpy, and too short AND without pillow. It sported only a thin blanket and was also on the floor. The high ceilings were gone, and the undersides of dusty stairs were in their place. Periodically, heavy-set people were heard clumping on the stairs, sending dust and spiders on top of the occupant.
The smell of ammonia and other muggle disinfectants was strong; coming from the shelf above his head, but too high for him to reach to do anything about. He had tried several different methods of getting rid of them to no avail.
When he tried to complain, an eerie voice, sounding much like Petunia Dursely, would call him a Freak and tell him to shut it.
**OO**
Juliette had tossed and turned all night. She was not in a position of power, especially in Britain. And the girls' behavior! If it was her daughters who had been attacked, how would she want the parents to act?
A beater's bat to the head could have been fatal! And her daughter had been part of a plot to hurt Harry Potter's betrothed. Not that that relationship mattered exactly. That Sofia would scheme to hurt anyone was just appalling. Her husband was right, and they talked on their magic mirrors.
They, as a couple, made up quickly, and as a parenting team. As long as Sofia was apologetic and promised the same oath about hurting Hermione as she had about hurting Harry, she could come.
The child had begged to return to the birthday party. In the cold morning light, Sofia was actually ashamed, not of her actions, but that she had been so sorely deceived by Ginny Weasley. That witch had promised! And had failed, and Sofia was punished for that failure. Well. She had not tried to hurt anyone, and would take the oath. She'd already missed out on several dinners and dancing opportunities. She'd simper, and apologize, and the best way for Harry to accept her apology would be to dance with her later tonight. And maybe ride with her during the day!
They were willing to give her one chance, but if she acted out, she'd be sent home with her nanny. She had heard that before!
Mary Smith had been with them for five years when Sofia was born, and became her nanny until Sofia left for Beauxbatons. Then, she was only partially responsible for the girl. If she had been there, the attack on Hermione Granger would not have happened.
Now that the negotiations were over, Juliette and Sofia were returning to the Black family home with Sofia's nanny.
Sofia wouldn't be given another chance to spoil anything.
With a gift basket purchased with her own pocket money, Sofia smoothed down her riding frock. Promising both her mother and herself to be friendly and apologize to Hermione, the trio of them took a portkey back.
First up for the afternoon activities was riding. Both, horses on the ground, which Juliette adored, and flying, which Sofia and her papa adored.
This was going to be a memorable day!
**OO**
After the pool party, Harry had come in to change while the guests used the cabana or dowager houses turned loos. Poor Hermione! She wasn't ever going to feel safe near one now!
Except for the attempt on Hermione, this had been a wonderful weekend! What were the people behind the attack thinking? Winding up Ginny Weasley like that? And Sofia was supposedly checked, but look at Sirius. It might be something more.
Harry didn't realize that she was just as privileged as Draco Malfoy, just as stuck-up, and just as entitled. She and Dudley would get along fine - and they were willing to hurt others to get what they wanted.
Juliette heard about Ginny Weasley, and also took Sofia for a 'cleanse' in an early morning ritual. It was more for show, as both of them knew.
Sofia had apologized, and so hopefully all of the drama was behind them.
**OO**
Wearing the utmost in upper-class riding clothes, Harry escorted Hermione outside. Her surprise was awaiting.
A new horse, with a side saddle; both horse and saddle sized for her. Who knew that this sort of thing was needed?
The bay mare was eight years old, docile, and had a sweet face. And no wings!
"Harry! It's your birthday! You're supposed to be the one receiving gifts!" Hermione declared.
"I am. The gift of seeing you happy and surprised and excited. Besides, your birthday is in September. I don't think Lavender and Parvati would welcome a new roommate." Harry stated, indicating the horse.
"Now, shall we go for a gentle walk around the pasture?" Harry asked.
Guests, who hadn't spent the night or been invited to for the pool fun, would be arriving soon, but he wanted their first gentle walk to be just them.
A riding instructor was also engaged for both this party and future flying lessons. But for today she was just helping guide the children. Serena Hooch loved flying horses (and riding non magical ones) as much as her sister enjoyed flying on brooms. She was a good instructor for both.
Harry helped Hermione mount and get settled, and then it was time for just them.
**OO**
Karr saddled the flying beasts. They were all gentle and used to children. The plan was to go in pairs. An experienced rider next to a child, or just take the child as a double depending on the age.
After getting a picture, they would circle around the property, then land and switch riders.
Sofia had joined the group, a much more somber girl than had been seen previously. She had been told that there was no chance for her to fly with Harry as it was an adult and child pair. She wanted to throw a tantrum over it, but didn't. That was not the method she would choose to catch his attention. Look at those babies! Flying low, and staying over the pasture! She'd show Harry HER flying skills!
No one was volunteering to fly with the girl, so Healer Marius took pity. He had heard that she had gone through a cleansing ritual and assumed that she had been coerced in her behavior along with Miss Weasley, the previous night.
Healer Marius knew Darlene well, and assessed her younger sister. The girl was chatty but had only one subject: Harry Potter. Well, many girls her age seemed to fantasize about dating the Boy-Who-Lived, but she was family! The boy raised seeing nothing wrong with blood cousins marrying was disturbed by this girl's attention to what was essentially her sister's son.
The nanny, coming back and forth, running errands for the girl so she wouldn't lose her place in line, seemed completely at her wit's end to get the child to change subjects!
Sofia had the family's dark hair and vibrant blue eyes, but wore her hair long, and was in a fashionable dress of fancy lace and frills. Was this suitable for riding? The instructor asked if she had a simpler gown, but the answer was no. Tempted to conjure and switch, the woman left off. Maybe the goblins needed a deeper cleanse.
Madam Serena, as they were calling her, had just given her a few pointers that she eschewed.
The photographer was poised to take Sofia's picture once she was astride. Marius of course allowed the girl to go first; he didn't realize he was making a mistake.
"I assure you Madame, that I 'ave 'ad many riding lessons growing up, and am quite familiar with these animals. I 'ave no need of the safety 'arness. My father never makes me wear it."
Brattish Sofia. Her father ALWAYS made her wear the safety harness. Only a foolish person would fly without it; even adults. The nanny motioned to the woman in charge.
Madam Hooch was not putting up with this. She used her wand to make the safety straps lighter than a feather and invisible, but the safety harness was on the girl!
Marius smiled behind Sofia's back. He clearly saw and approved the instructor's methods. He was being helped by Karr who pointed out salient points of the saddle, helped with the safety gear, and handed him both helmet and goggles.
"I am going to look so dashing. I wonder if Harry would allow me to borrow these later. Wait! I left my white silk sash that I was going to use as a scarf."
Karr snapped his fingers. Whether it was to conjure a temporary one, or summon the real one, Marius didn't care. The scarf was soon around his neck, the hat donned and the goggles in place. He walked up for his picture that a professional was taking for the group.
During his preparations, Madam Serena was not having as pleasant a time as Karr was.
The little miss had another demand, "Please adjust the saddle to me."
Thinking that the girl, unlike most of the pureblooded children here, was following the restrictions for underage magic, the woman did so, making the side saddle a more comfortable fit. Sofia had her picture taken, and she was off.
Marius called out, "Wait! Wait for me!"
He hadn't had a chance to do this much growing up, and looked forward to it since getting the invitation. Now he was scrambling to try and catch up.
Marius lifted off, but Sofia soon outpaced the less experienced adult rider, who, after casting a sonorous charm, tried again and again to call her back. He could feel that they had exited the Black wards and were now over Malfoy land. He felt the warm welcome that all healers, added to family wards, felt.
Why hadn't they expelled Sofia? Was she blood family?
Suddenly there was another Abraxan above Sofia in the distance. Marius could hear though; likely the magic of his helmet.
"YOU! YOU, THIEF! That's MY mare! MINE! Come Nightwing! To me! Fly to me!"
Draco swooped down, and before anyone could act, as Marius was too far away, Draco had jerked the reins out of the rider's hands.
The mare, hearing the voice that was familiar to her, obeyed.
Draco was headed home with HIS horse, and finally noticed that there was a stowaway.
"Who are you? Get down!" Draco demanded.
Marius called, "Draco! Stop! She's just a little girl! Why are you taking the horse! STOP!"
Draco smirked, ignoring the healer. At this height? She'd bounce.
A silent spell hit her midriff, and Sofia fell towards the pasture. Her safety harness stopped her fall with a painful jerk of the hidden dragonhide straps, and she was now dangling dangerously under the horse's middle. At least she wasn't getting kicked in the head with their running motion, but the angle was sharply down.
Sofia was screaming her head off.
Marius was pale white. What was he going to do?
Draco swore, and hadn't he learned several languages worth of swears this summer. He'd planned on knocking her off. Safety harness? Really? That was for babies, he certainly wasn't wearing one.
"Look, these are MY horses! You're riding one of MY horses. Thank you for returning it. But she needs to go home. I assume she's one of the new neighbors?"
"Draco! These horses weren't stolen. They were purchased from your father while you were gone. I was here. I know…" Marius cast a silent compulsion at Draco for him to return home immediately. He couldn't let him get near enough to Sofia to recognize her. The Malfoy family in France would know the French royals. This was a disaster! With the wards up, no one had even thought of this possibility!
Draco had just been through extensive training and would not risk his magic over attacking a healer. Probably because he wanted the horse that the interloping girl was allowed inside the wards. He had to address the healer.
"I'm keeping my horse and I won't be accused of kidnapping. Take her home." Draco shouted. He felt an urgent need to return home.
But instead of landing, Draco cut the saddle cinch and Sofia fell.
Marius tried to reach her, and was able to cast some arresto momentum spells, but the child landed going far too fast on the sun-baked soil.
If Draco had severed the saddle of a magical child, she would have bounced and been fine.
But Sofia wasn't. And she didn't. And she wasn't fine.
**OO**
Madame Hooch was no longer on the wards at Hamptworth Lodge, She had overheard Narcissa going on about how sad Draco was going to be when he found out that his prize mare was missing. She didn't say, but implied it was stolen.
Flashback
Since the riding and flying instructor was in the know of just WHO had purchased these animals, she waited for a break when Narcissa wasn't surrounded by sycophants.
The tea for fundraising was a must to attend. So many people to impress the importance of riding and the impact on comportment for young ladies in their teens. And how these intractable teens would suddenly turn sweet and helpful when given the bribe of riding lessons, or the threat of having them taken away.
It was all in the presentation.
"Lady Malfoy, I want to reassure you that the fine Abraxan mares that your family has bred have been sold to a good family."
"WHAT? You know who bought them? I was told it was a foreigner. From far away!"
"My apologies for upsetting you. Will I be seeing young Master Draco? Such a natural talent needs to be nurtured."
"He is pursuing other…lessons this summer. Perhaps next year."
The woman bowed, but wasn't surprised at the notice that she was no longer welcome to visit House Malfoy.
And she had best keep her gossip to herself if she didn't want a negative reference.
End Flashback
**OO**
Draco was gone, summoning Marius' mount the minute he was on the ground next to the injured girl.
"I'll let you take care of her. Best to just let her die. She must be another useless stupid squib." Draco shouted before riding away with the two mounts nickering after him.
Marius jumped into action, casting spells to try and save this girl's life even as his thoughts were racing much faster than they had been, a moment ago, when still mounted.
Marius didn't blame the beasts. They had been bred and raised here. He blamed the Marked child.
He would discover that actions had consequences. This was murder if the girl didn't live.
After a couple of minutes to get her stabilized, Marius called for Dobby, hoping that he would still be on the wards. Or recognized as a familiar elf.
"Master Healer Marius calling for Dobby in…oh no! We needs to be getting to Mungos place."
"No, they won't take her, Dobby. I need you to pop Sofia –carefully!- to Darlene. She'll have an emergency portkey to Saint Martín's. They'll treat her there. I'm so sorry! I tried…"
Marius was feeling very guilty. He was the responsible adult! He should have kept up to her. Just outside the wards, he could hear people starting to shout.
Oh yes, this was going to be a mess, and Lucius would expect him to testify on Draco's behalf! The boy had a Dark Mark! With Lucius being the Dark Lord's right hand?
If he didn't do it willingly, he was worried what the consequences of HIS actions would be.
**OO**
Neville drew himself up. "Harry, you go with our godmother to Paris, and watch over her. I will say goodbye to our guests and explain the situation."
"Will you join us there later?" Harry asked.
"If you stay past tomorrow, I can try and get permission to join you. Enid's party is later tonight anyway, and I have to at least pretend to be there. Don't worry, the twins helped."
"Thanks Nev. I'm really sorry, I should have…"
"It's not your fault! But the next time I see Malfoy, I'm going to be tempted to duel him. Hurting a little girl? How low can you get?"
Harry could only nod. This wasn't the games and barbeque they were planning on. At least the goblins would all understand.
Daphne managed to reach Harry before he left and gave him a goodbye hug and Adrian shook his hand.
"Please give Neville a hand with the guests, Adrian. And feel free to invite your friends over for the pool and such. I'm sorry about this; I looked forward to being with you both today. I have no idea when we'll get back, but you owe me a rematch in foosball. You're good!" Harry shook his hand again, and rushed to where the family was meeting to take the portkey to Paris.
Sirius was staying back to press charges and deal with the political mess involved. He would join them later at the hospital.
**OO**
Darlene looked up as the healers at the hospital left the room. She was supposed to be at home right now, getting ready for the axe, dart, archery, dagger, and crossbow competitions with their goblin friends. One that the family was putting on hold with Sofia's injury.
The goblins completely understood, and accepted that this event was only being delayed not canceled. Hopefully, the following weekend would see their skills on display.
BloodRage reminded Harry that birthday celebrations were a great time to have that celebration feast for killing the basilisk and boasting of further conquests in battle. But no kissing stories.
And it was common to hold birthday celebrations on a different day due to work or holidays or school. So delaying for a time was perfectly normal with goblins, especially since the female had been so badly hurt.
Most of the guests thought that she had fallen, and a quick visit to Saint Mungos would be all that was needed. Harry didn't know, but the adults had shared that the girl was gravely injured, and it was a time for family to gather.
Just in case.
Harry didn't tease that BloodRage just wanted more free snake steaks, making the warrior very concerned for his young friend.
He came with Sofia's family, going to Paris. The hospital there accepted wounded squibs, goblins, and even the occasional magic-knowing muggle. Most days, Saint Mungos didn't accept anyone but magical humans. Unless certain people were on duty, they had to go to Paris Gringotts hospital, and that wasn't free.
Harry was not going to pretend that everything was alright, with Draco trying to murder a family member after stealing their Abraxans!
Moody showed up with Percy and Penny.
"I don't understand," Penny wondered, "Why didn't you just go to London? Surely Sofia wouldn't be attacked! Darlene's a healer."
"They don't treat the non-magique there." François shared unhappily. This was not the way he wanted to tell the family. He knew that he had to eventually. It was just…they hoped that they would get to know Sofia for herself, establish a relationship. Oh, and they had. Just not the positive, warm one that he had hoped for.
No, they didn't like her for herself, not for her lack of magic. Was that a victory?
The British had such a harsh view of squibs.
Harry was shocked, "Wait! You said that she attended Beauxbatons? Was that? I mean…"
Darlene turned to Harry and faced him, "My father did not lie to you, Harry. She does attend Beauxbatons. Sofia has a bit of magic. Too little to go to Hogwarts, or use a wand. One day she could have a magical career; she could paint, or make potions, grow plants, or raise magical animals. She has enough magic to work in the magical world. So many people have been cast out of Britain, so many people lost to the muggle world.
"Where do you think muggleborn students come from? Look at Hermione's parents. Both strong squibs. With the aid of strengthening potions and activities, Dan might be able to wield one of your great-grandfather's wands."
Harry was touched that Darlene was including him in the family; her father asked Harry to call him grandfather. And the Duke of Orléans, when they met in his shop, asked the same. 'Without the great, if you please. I'm too young to be a great-grandfather.'
"Oh! Grandpapa wanted to see you today! He has a special…"
Darlene turned away. All of her plans for Harry's birthday were in ruins. And most of it was due to this child!
"Grandfather? Great-grandfather?" Shacklebolt asked with his deep voice.
Dan Granger showed up, closing his coat.
For just a moment, Harry thought he saw the handle of a pistol. Not Dan's normal hand-to-hand weapon, so it couldn't be that. Harry's view was quickly obscured by the vibrant hair of his girlfriend as they hugged.
Before introductions could be made, Dan answered Kingsley's question.
"I do believe she means the Duke of Orléans. A great House with deep history. Your grandfather, Darlene, fought in the resistance, leading a small band of magicals, marked for death, due to their 'undesirability'.
"Isn't it wonderful to be surrounded by such brilliant researchers to ask genealogy questions of?" Dan finished with a smile.
Darlene blushed, "My father was one of those young men. He fought against Grindelwald's forces and saved many lives, including his commander, my grandfather."
"Ah, so that explains how he could marry the youngest daughter of the family. But it doesn't explain where the Duke was when you were married a month ago." Emma pointed out.
"We didn't plan on having a big wedding, just eloping and having a nice reception at my uncle's estate later. My grandfather would have insisted on three days of marriage festivities like my mother had. That my grandmother kept planning for me years before. Before we lost her. Dinners, breakfasts, parties. Ugh! Eight white matching pegasi pulling a white carriage, white roses, little girls tossing petals, need I go on?!
"A waste of resources better spent to help…well, I didn't want that. And Grandfather would have been miserable in the garden with the pests running out of control."
Darlene wasn't talking about the midges either.
"He loves his granddaughter Sofia, but he and Maman clash terribly over how she is raising her. Grandpapa and I feel that she is more than a bit spoiled. Pampered. I think that others might share my point of view now.
"Remember, Harry? The students walking by my father's shop? They were talking badly about Sofia. Not because of her lack of magic, but her lack of manners.
"I am sorry she was hurt, but so much of the trials this weekend could have been prevented." Darlene finished.
**OO**
Cherry Hill
Neville claimed that he had had a brilliant time. He had returned to Cherry Hill. Enid's birthday party for him was being held this evening and was going to be a repeat of every other boring party that he had ever had.
Not one of his friends had been invited: Not Harry, Hermione or even Fleur.
He planned on taking the 'Neville' dummy the twins made and putting it in a chair. It appeared to be sleeping. That way, he could sneak out to the greenhouse with none the wiser. With the exception of his gran, who quickly figured it out and, after a glance around at the drunken louts invited by Enid, approved and only wished she could also slip away.
He personally thought that he didn't snore like that in the least! Not knowing that the twins had used Harry's memories of him in the dorms. While not nearly as bad as Ron, Harry was a light sleeper.
The snores were convincing enough for the relatives that knew him.
**OO**
Blackmoor Hall
While Darlene attended to her injured sister, a very angry Lord Black met with Amelia Bones in his office.
Fortunately, for him, she was onsite and had seen much of the action through omnioculars. Her heart had been in her throat as the girl was unseated. The horse, as it was trained to do, had started to descend. But she had been flying far higher and faster than the healer with her. She could see that he risked his life in trying to save her. More than once, with that young ponce holding a wand! And other than a small caduceus, Marius Greengrass had nothing else that identified him as a healer!
He was lucky to be alive.
And Draco Malfoy…acted…poorly, but she couldn't prosecute him for attempted murder. The fall wasn't from that high. Less than thirty feet! It would hurt, and obviously had, but the girl was likely fine.
She attended Beauxbatons. Imagine if she had been one of the muggles like Dan Granger! He could have been killed by a fall from that height.
"Sirius, I understand your anger. The Malfoy boy was lied to though. He helped raise these animals. It's why he got so badly scratched last year. He treated them as you would an Abraxan. Stupid stunt with a hippogriff. But what could I charge him with?
"Theft at a minimum!" Sirius shouted.
"Owls have been sent demanding for the return of the animals unharmed immediately. Today. And they will face huge fines for hurting your guest. There was no cause for that. Do make sure to get what would have been the cost at Saint Mungos for her treatment. So that they can at least reimburse that."
Sirius suddenly received a patronus, a magnificent maned lion came running into the room, "I am arrived, and demand entry. I am Guierre, Duke of Orléans. I understand that the head of your magical police is here. I want to talk with her now! My granddaughter is in hospital, and I would know why."
"Sirius! You didn't tell me!" Amelia stood, pale.
"Didn't tell you what? You couldn't come to the wedding, well, with two hours notice, not everyone could. I was sad…but I don't understand."
"Darlene is of the House of Orléans?" Amelia whispered.
"Yes, ma'am. But I thought you knew... Wait. You don't remember her, do you?" Sirius walked over to the ward book, added the man's name and sent Livy to escort him there. "We'll take care of that another day. Just for your information, you did know her, back before Halloween of 1981. You've been…bespelled. I'll explain what I know later."
This was more than Amelia could handle. She was pale, "The Malfoy's had a maiden of royal blood on their property. Within their control! Several of us are convinced that Narcissa or Lucius or both were behind the kidnapping attempts on Miss Granger.
"It's a miracle that Miss Fenwich escaped from the Malfoy lands. She needs a guard wherever she is. I need to see her grandfather."
"You need to see me about what, Madame Bones?" Duke Orléans demanded.
Lord Black bowed and Amelia curtseyed. "Your Grace." Was intoned in perfect unison as though practiced.
"Your Grace? This is Amelia Bones, head of the DMLE in London. Madam Bones, Guierre, Duke of Orléans."
Another round of nods and curtseys, but they were abbreviated. Everyone knew the situation was fraught.
The Duke approached Sirius, holding out his hand, saying, "Thank you for seeing me, Lord Black."
"Sir, I wish that we were meeting under better circumstances. I know that we planned to do so in just another week or so. I'm sorry you're here because of this. And for any of it that is my fault, I most sincerely apologize!"
The Duke looked at Sirius before turning to Director Bones, "Please tell me what we can do to these people! If they were on French soil they would already be either in prison or no longer breathing! I sent letters and waited for Britain to act on the attack in the courtroom. There was sufficient proof. Twice in one month! Twice my family has been in peril because of these Malfoys. I have already sent him a personal letter. I want to know what you can do!"
Amelia slumped to the couch. "I should just resign right now, and head to France. Do you know what it is like trying to defend the right? The order of law with these, these…miscreants! Sitting in judgment over their OWN des ordures. Never meting out true justice. Overly harsh to those who are deemed 'less than' or a threat to their power. Muggleborns, those of so-called 'creature heritage'.
"Draco Malfoy, a boy of just fourteen was told BY HIS MOTHER that the beasts were stolen. This has been confirmed.
"She told me that she was too 'embarrassed' to tell him the truth, and the beasts will be returned as soon as Draco has left the home, later this evening. She doesn't want to upset her widdle baby. I warned her that there would be serious consequences if they did not return in perfect health.
"I have no leverage to make them be returned sooner as Fudge is blocking me from 'being unfriendly or making enemies of friends.' Bah! It's a power play! To show the 'new neighbors' their place in society."
"Draco does not know that he is insulting Lord Black?" the duke demanded. His English was perfect.
Sirius took responsibility for that, "No. That was on me, Your Grace. I had hoped to bring Narcissa and Draco back into the family. Them knowing that we were here made me feel…uneasy. Narcissa and I got on much better than Bella and I did. Before she married Lucius of course.
"Draco has been gone most of the summer. The Malfoys have been gone. We are going to France soon, I will not stay here all month. Not when I feel that Harry or his friends will be attacked."
"Your wards here are strong, could you not raise the war wards?" Orléans asked.
"We could. But if an innocent…no, not unless they do manage to raise the Dark Lord. We have already served the Malfoy witch with the Intent to Sever. She will lose her home and her magic over her previous actions, not counting today. This action warrants it all on its own! And I will initiate a blood feud if needed. These animals cannot be allowed to continue to act this way! I will summon Narcissa to me, and if she refuses to cooperate, she is done!"
The Duke nodded, assessing Sirius. They had not met much in the past.
"I didn't like James very well, truth be told. And you even less. I thought that my best friend spoiled his only son. Ha! Look at how I raised Juliette. How blind I was back then. But then you were hurt fighting Death Eaters and my precious granddaughter fell for your charms.
"My wife was still alive back then, and we prepared for Darlene's eventual heartbreak. And it never happened.
"I had you followed."
Sirius was shocked. He had always felt watched, when he first left Hogwarts; much of his family was trying to pressure him into joining. What began as gentle asking and bribes turned slowly towards more and more vicious attacks. When had he begun to date Darlene in there? He had noticed that he'd changed after meeting her. There was no reason to go on the prowl, no reason to drink to bear his stupid family. But the Duke was talking.
"You didn't cheat on her. You stopped drinking so much. You gave up most of your inanities, and became a better person.
"And then that horrible Halloween happened, and I not only lost my last link to my friend, Charlus Potter, I thought I was going to lose my precious Darleeng. Her heart was then broken, but it wasn't your fault. You were thrown into that torture chamber the English call a prison.
"And that is when I found out how little MY friendship meant to Dumbledore as he stopped taking my floo calls and letters. He managed to get MY seat in the ICW revoked. He is our enemy far more than the Malfoys. This is just a bit of muscle flexing as you say. To show that I have… my family has no power here."
Surprising the other two, the duke threw up a seemingly unnecessary privacy charm and continued, "I don't know if Lord Malfoy knows our family history. My wife was of House Beauharnais. Do you not understand what that means? A Descendant of Empress Josephine herself! The most royal of blood! Darlene's patronus, her animagus form is a golden eagle - a symbol of that House. It was my wife's form as well.
"But they must know that if their Dark Lord is resurrected with French royal blood that France will not allow him to rule. Period. The thought that those miserable people had Sofia in their grasp chills me to the bone. They didn't know, or she would have been gone, with only one non-combatant healer there to try and prevent something. No."
"Marius did cast at Draco. I saw him. I asked. It was a compulsion to get home. He understood the situation and was trying to force them apart. He likely saved her life."
The Duke nodded. "I will consult with François for an appropriate gift in gratitude. It was not his fault that Sofia fell. That is all on Malfoy, child or not!
"I approve of your plans, let me show you mine, by my actions while Dumbledore is 'indisposed'."
"You got your ICW seat back." Sirius guessed.
"Not yet, but I finally got the hearing scheduled. They are going to give me a trial by my own request. Garrick is coming. In this way, I hope to get my seat back." The Duke confirmed. "Apparently the story of me selling 'defective' wands to aurors in Britain was being bandied about. They go through so many of them, apparently. However, those were not of my making.
"Dumbledore used his power to suspend me for 'a time' while the investigation was supposed to be conducted. Month after month, nothing was done. The inquiry has been tabled for years.
"I went back to making my custom wands, and talking to Garrick. He and I have such different methods. His wands work for a variety of people, and he relies on easily obtained and very inexpensive ingredients. With his labor, he actually makes money on a seven galleon wand! Mine take many hours to craft carefully and cost hundreds of nostros! Many times greater, but with unique cores and woods. Matching the signature and power of the wielder. They last a lifetime if well cared for. It was not me selling 'defective' wands. That proof was delivered, with Garrick's blessing. He doesn't consider his wands defective. But they have a bad habit of burning out in battle.
"Something that Dumbledore is perfectly happy with.
"Garrick Ollivander tells aurors to pay the extra for a custom wand. But the ongoing seven to ten galleons versus an annual salary all at once? You can see why they economize.
"For my part, I am happy to battle evil in the political arena. Dumbledore will not like someone there who remembers Charlus Potter. Or his actions."
Amelia looked confused, but would ask Sirius what he meant, and she curtseyed, "I look forward to seeing you in the next session, Your Grace."
"Please don't quit your post, Madam Bones. You could be part of a wave of honesty that could sweep the detritus away from your Ministry. The war is coming soon, you must feel that. We will win."
Amelia nodded, "House Bones has plans for more than a hundred private security officers joining the House soon. They have been hired and are in training. So does House Black. Amazing what a bit of basilisk bone and organs can buy. If only we had a wandmaker that we could turn to. Didn't Harry save out some of those basilisk bits?"
The duke chuckled. "Ah, I see you have plans for me, my lady. Well, I am happy to get you and your team good wands. Look at Sirius' there. Darlene commissioned that as a wedding gift for him. Thirteen years delayed, but he has it now. And I have already started on Harry's. You should get yours next."
"When did you see Harry long enough to make him a custom wand? We didn't stay but a moment when we were sharing Darlene's good news." Sirius asked.
"François brought him by the day they were shopping. A bonding moment. His wand has proved to be a challenge. Such a powerful mage; I haven't felt such power since his grandfather. Of course, sealing Grindelwald away in the same dimension with his demons seemed to have drained him, and he was never the same after. A terrible price for our safety. But he saved France, and by extension, Britain as well."
"But Dumbledore…"
The Duke gave her a sharp look, "You need to visit me in France someday. I will not risk the evidence, bringing it here. Too many times have copies of it been demanded in the ICW only for it to disappear. No. Charlus Potter is not honored here in England as he should be. And I am very suspicious of my friend's death."
Amelia turned the discussion back to the matter at hand. She promised to send an auror escort to make sure that the stolen horses were safely returned, but that was not either man's focus.
Politely curtseying to the Duke –again– and giving Sirius one last pointed look, Amelia took her leave.
Sirius looked at the man. He had the family dark hair and sparkling blue eyes. He appeared to be about sixty if he were a muggle. Clearly he was twice that, which would make him age mates with Charlus Potter.
"We should repair to France. You are welcome to stay with me." Guierre invited.
The duke currently lived in a very nice townhome in the Rue Magique area, near his shop. Walking distance to work each day. He only went to the family estate when absolutely necessary. It was still too painful after his wife's passing. Otherwise, his eldest son managed the family's forest of magical trees and wand core ingredients. With much hired help.
Olivander collected from the ground and public places. Not so him; he had staff to maintain the trees to strict standards. Watch over the flocks and herd beasts. Did that affect the cost? Most certainly. But it maintained the Orléans quality!
Sirius declined politely, "Darlene has told me that we would be welcomed there, and will certainly visit. But when in Paris, I would prefer to keep Harry under Black wards. And we have family there."
"Ah, the enchanting Calladora Black. We danced at the ball together. When I danced at my first ball, she was a leader of French society. She hasn't aged a day since then, what's it been sixty, seventy years later? We must see if she has a secret potion she takes."
Sirius laid out his plan for dealing with Sofia's injury right this minute with Narcissa, which in turn would deal very effectively with Draco, once and for all. He might feel that he was the better pick for Heir of the House. Never!
Sirius asked the Duke to attend the meeting with him, which he gladly did.
**OO**
Hamptworth Lodge
Lucius returned home from Borgin and Burkes. That poor man! Just because Burke had been convicted, even though he was released from prison 'on compassionate grounds' he still couldn't regain his ring!
The man didn't remember having an affair in Sweden, but then, when he had gone there he did more than a bit of drinking. It didn't matter! The ring was claimed, the family vault claimed.
At least he had the shop and the shabby quarters above them.
The international post bird coming at him was an eagle of some sort. Unfamiliar. It landed nearby but gave him a look of such menace that he called for Nobby. Let the predator dine on House-elf rather than him if it must.
Nobby popped away for only a moment, bringing a handful of offal from a recent slaughter and laid it down nearby.
The bird released its post and enjoyed the treat. It turned to stare at Lucius. Pecking forcefully with its sharp beak at the offering all the while its eyes were saying, 'this is you, this is you, this is you.'
Nobby conjured a silver platter, but forgot the parchment knife in admiration of the raptor. As it finished its treat, Nobby was knocked to the ground by his Master, but before the elf was hit again, the bird launched itself towards Malfoy. Sharp claws extended, and the man apparated away, taking his letter with him.
**OO**
Once in English, once in French, the promise was clear. The threat was clear.
'Twice this month you tried to take what is mine from me. I still blame you for my wife's death. Step one foot in France and you will face Justice. Step one foot in any country with extradition to France, and you will face Justice.'
The seal was in place of a name. No need. Everyone knew that the wandmaker was a powerful fighter. He had stood up to Grindelwald. A Duke of his lineage working? It wasn't right!
The child hurt had been his granddaughter? Oh dear. When Narcissa found out, she would be livid at Draco for not capturing her.
For his part, he was happier that she had escaped. Granger had muggle parents. No threat there. But Orléans? He would have led an army and two stones wouldn't have been left together.
They would use the ruse of returning the horses later to pack and evacuate. He did not want to be here when the man came for revenge.
And the Greengrass healer better watch himself. Trying to bring the Dark Lord such a gift? He could lose his magic!
**OO**
"Thanks be." Nobby said to the eagle. "There is something special about you."
The silver eagle appeared to be older, a very unique color, and had intelligence in its eyes. Nobby felt it asking for help.
And then he felt something wonderful happen, and he smiled hugely. The elf would forget to tell someone what he had noticed as he was very, very distracted.
**OO**
London Gringotts Meeting Room
Sage was against the wall; not disillusioned, but looking a part of the warrior decorations. Her husband was behind Sirius and the Duke of Orléans.
The Malfoy witch didn't curtsey to either man. She had rushed Draco out of the house and had sent a note to her husband to not return. She was worried about an attack on the manor.
The horses were now in transit with trusted aurors who would return them to House Black with a quickly written letter of apology.
What more did Sirius want?
Sirius stood and faced the woman as she came into the room. He didn't offer tea or even greetings; he was furious, and his righteously angry magic pulsed in the room.
Deep, strong, darker than Severus' Egyptian roast coffee.
"Narcissa. A daughter of the House of Orléans was injured today. Draco cut the saddle she was on, and she fell on a rock in the sun-baked field. She is being attended to by healers as we speak in a place not controlled by Death Eaters. We do not yet know if she will live or not. You have one chance here. And you know what it is.
"A son of House Malfoy, one who has claimed adulthood without pledging himself to the House of Black has injured a guest of House Black; one under the Protection of the House. You tried to force Hermione Granger, a bride of the House, –A CHILD–, into a forced contract for your paramour. That is completely disgusting!
"You know what your choices are now. Sever your ties forever with the dark one, and come home. Or forever be cast out of House Black.
"You will have your dowry reclaimed, the marriage contract held as reneged; have all claims of succor and comfort lost forever. But worse. All properties ceded to you in the marriage contract will be reclaimed. And the very, very worst. You will have your Family magic revoked. For Nymphadora, that would mean that she would lose her metamorphmagus magic. I don't know what this will mean for you. Are you about to lose your ability to control a wand? Moldy isn't worth it! Tom Riddle was never a friend to House Black, and you not only broke your marriage vows with the wizard before his first death, you sacrificed your honor! CHOOSE!"
Narcissa's cheeks were red, it would be death to choose to go against the Dark Lord, but a part of her mind went not from the metaphysical that they had been discussing, but basic needs. She hadn't packed anything when she left! They had been staying most of the summer in other places. Her trunk was…somewhere. She had a money belt, likely that would be reclaimed next, unless he allowed her the standard month's wage.
"But my clothes! My jewelry, I didn't pack, I didn't expect…this!"
"I warned you. I warned you, and you worry about a few jewels? There is a little girl that was hurt! There was another child that YOU tried to kidnap that you should have been protecting with your life! Not a word of sorrow or remorse. You made your choice."
Sirius threw a small bag on the table, "With conservation, this will last months. Your husband would spend more than that on one meal. Do not return to Hamptworth Lodge. I will have your personal belongings, that of your spouse and son sent to you. Once cleansed of its Dark filth, it will become the new center of civility and culture in time. But only after your master is finally dead. Do not call any elves; they are mine. Do not call upon your vaults or lands; they are mine.
"Last chance to change your mind." Lord Black had the Intent to Sever. There were several caveats; the time could be waived for something like this. Draco's unthinking action not only lost the chance of pureblood maiden royal sacrifice, but was going to take everything! Ruin her magic!
Narcissa used a hidden pin to force tears to her eyes, "Sirius! I can't! He's too powerful!"
"Narcissa Druella Malfoy, you are Severed, now and forever from House Black FOR CAUSE!
"Your crocodile tears are noted; Narcissa, once of House Black, I cast you out for cause. You have betrayed the family, betrayed the Lord of the House. You have turned your back and given aid and comfort to the enemy while ignoring the needs of the innocents. I cast you out for all time. Be gone from this place!"
Narcissa leapt to scratch at Sirius' face with a ring, and Sage acted. The witch's hand was on the ground; the broken poisoned ring, smoking on the stone floor.
The former Black witch screamed in horror as she looked between her perfectly manicured hand on the stone floor and the stump of her arm.
"I don't think that would have been good for my health." Sirius opined, pointing at the ruined ring.
Narcissa hadn't picked up the bag of coins; Sage threw it at the witch's head.
"Find healing elsewhere; take your hand with you. We will not treat you here. Another hostile move and we'll have to see if your healers can reattach your head."
The axe blade had done a very good job, and the wound was not bleeding at all.
If she had known of the attack, she was cut right where Hermione had broken Ginny's wrist in an odd twist of fate.
The goblins weren't barbarians! They called for the aurors, and turned over the poison ring and memories of the attack, not expecting a positive result. The aurors put an emergency portkey on the lady.
No one expected her to be arrested, but the evidence did make it to lockup and was not lost.
Several of them thought that the loss of the hand was punishment enough for the crime.
**OO**
Sirius called all serving House-elves of House Malfoy. He gave the guards notice just in case they had another Kreacher.
Sage looked hopeful.
Nobby and his mother, Serena, popped to the bank. Nobby was fine, but Serena was shaking in fear.
The Duke helped out his grandson-in-law.
"Hello, little ones. How are you? You do know that Lord Black doesn't serve roasted house-elf but once a year."
"Sir!" Padfoot gasped.
Serena looked up at the jest with a half smile. "You is being Master Magus Harry Potter's dogfather?"
"I am. And he would want me to ask if you want to work with us as free elves, accepting payment."
Nobby and Serena both nodded. Not surprising after serving Death Eaters, and accepted the same salaries as the rest of the free elves. Sirius sent them to Winky and Remus to sign employment contracts.
Sirius took his leave; the Duke was returning to Paris. Lord Black wanted to give his staff some instructions before heading there himself.
And he wanted to change. This was the second family member, another cousin, that tried to kill him.
Was Andromeda next? He knew it would be her cooking; she was terrible and needed to take lessons from Harry!
Giving instructions to the elves to pack only clothes - no jewels, no accessories (he would not arm Narcissa with anything else), he would at least clothe his cousin.
He would have spent the family fortune on her if she would have turned away from her path. But she would not, could not change.
A part of his heart was grieving for that, even as family magic was guiding him to do his duty. No wonder Arcturus had retreated from everyone; he was so fond of Bellatrix and Narcissa. He couldn't do what had to be done!
**OO**
Lucius was flung from his study into the country lane in front of his house. That wasn't good. He suddenly couldn't remember anything about Malfoy Manor. Of course, the locals insisted on calling it…Hemp…Hamp…something.
Without warning he suddenly remembered a small stream, a small rundown shack, and an outhouse of dubious quality.
This was the updated Malfoy home before joining the Blacks? Three trunks appeared before him with a pop. One he recognized as his own. His entire wardrobe appeared to be in there! But where was his spare wand, his dagger, that poisoned ring?
At least he had his cane with his main wand.
He tried calling for all of his elves, and finally got the feeling he was needed at the hospital.
Whatever happened was bad. Very, very bad. What was he going to tell the Dark Lord? Lucius thought to himself that he should have been more careful. He really shouldn't have tried to kill a healer.
**OO**
Blackmoor Hall
Sirius called for Karr. "The stolen Abraxans are supposed to be returned later today. It's complicated, but all of the horses from next door are going to be under your care. You'll have help.
"I am going to France to be with the family. Don't let a Malfoy step one foot onto the grounds. Narcissa tried to kill me a little while ago. I don't like this situation one bit. Will you be alright?"
Karr started to suggest, "The mare, Nightwing, knows me. I could just retrieve her."
"No need. Offer tea and such to the aurors that arrive, but no human is to come through the gates."
"You want ME to make tea?"
"Yep, I don't want them lingering. Feel free to experiment." The smile on Lord Black's face had Karr chuckling evilly.
**OO**
Just before leaving for Paris, Sirius summoned Remus, Clarice, Penny and Percy into his office.
"Percy? We'll talk about the transition to your full time post as Steward and Remus to part time another day. For now, I want BOTH of you to be active co-head Stewards. It's happened in the past."
Sirius pulled out another Steward's ring to prove it. Percy felt the pinch, a drop of blood, and the test of his mettle. But he stood stock still until it was over. The wards were…welcoming. Happy.
"We'll go over the details but I want you to take over as Steward of House Potter too."
There on the desk was another ring. Another test. This was different, and Percy heard the roar of a lion in approval in the distance. No one else heard it.
Lord Black took a breath, not realizing that he'd been holding one.
"We have reclaimed the Malfoy lands. Get Karr up there to take care of the horses later. I want to make sure that they are alright. Clarice, this is your chance. We've all worked hard getting the NPGs going. Design the village of your dreams here. Get Flint to advertise the 'pureblood city of the future' when you're ready. You were raised in Hogsmeade. Shops, flats, the manor itself a rental for society balls and parties.
"Tonight, I want you, Remus, to go see Marius' healer friend, and learn all you can about this situation from the other side. Please stay safe. Floo there and back, or I could make you a portkey." Sirius looked into his friend's eyes. Worried for him.
The joke shop's orders were high right now, and room and board was included with the Deputy job. But what if it failed? Would they leave? Sirius didn't want to lose his friend.
Clarice patted Padfoot's arm, "We won't leave. Not without a lot of planning, I promise. You can't know what it's like. Well, perhaps ye do. We wish the little girl all the best. Marius was beside himself. He feels that it's all his fault!"
"Anyone else with her would have been blocked by the wards to the Malfoy home. That evil family would have had her in their grasp, injured, dying on their lands. How long do you think that she would have lived without his help?" Sirius pointed out.
That thought took them all back, as the security detail had been thinking that they had messed up.
Even Tomas, responsible for little Gabrielle, had felt it!
"I will convey your concerns to our family. Please. Feel free to rearrange rooms as you please, Remus. I see the rings. I know. We'll be back in time for the nuptials. Percy, I don't care anymore about anyone's reputation. Feel free to move to the property. Safety is more important, and I want another wand here if you are willing. Moody is heading to Hogwarts in two weeks. I don't want you at Grimmauld alone. I doubt that Narcissa has access, but I want to warn Moody just in case. Oh, and please contact Goldrub and schedule a full ward upgrade for Blackmoor and Hamptworth Lodge. And a thorough go through of that property like we did at Grimmauld Place.
"I'm happy to pay for Bill to come. He's welcome to one of the Dowager houses if any are empty or stay in the family or servant quarters as you wish.
"And if someone wants their Death Eater spouse on the grounds there at the former Malfoy lands? No longer! Percy, Remus can't do that. If you can't, I'll hire someone just for that unpleasant work of moving them aside. Maybe Hagrid needs a part time summer job, and he'll set them up in tents in the forbidden forest!"
"Adopting dangerous creatures!" Percy smiled.
Clarice frowned, as it felt too close to mocking him to her ear, but everyone here besides Percy truly liked the man. And Percy had had more than one run-in with Hagrid: Snape liked to delegate his detentions to everyone else. Hagrid, unthinkingly, would put those students in lethal danger.
What was safe for Hagrid wasn't safe for most seventh years, much less wee firsties!
Penny gave Sirius a hug, and they all shared handshakes at least, before Sirius took his portkey to the Parisian hospital.
Remus went to confer with Karr, while Percy polished his wand. Harry had said it more than once.
What a mess!
**OO**
Sunday, July 31st, 5:00 PM, Blackmoor Hall
The letter, clearly written before Narcissa was summoned to the bank, was the typical pureblood mess. Flowery prose saying nothing, implying an apology while indicating that they had done nothing wrong. They were terrible neighbors for not even saying hello yet, and then let their dog bark too much and leave messes in the front garden.
Or the moral equivalent.
The letter was now out of date, but certainly showed Narcissa's point of view at the time. Doubtless it had changed since.
'The Malfoy family does not wish to be called thieves or worse. We are going through such difficult times, and for our own family to make those times worse rather than aid their bloodkin is reprehensible. What else could they expect from someone who had escaped Azkaban.'
"Sirius loves you too, Narcissa. Ouch." Remus reread the letter. There was nothing here to act upon. And certainly no apology for Sofia being hurt. Clarice had contacted Gringotts. Bill would be by 'as soon as could be arranged.'
Since the goblin gaming day had been interrupted, Remus thought it should be sooner rather than later!
The horses were returned with the typical contingent of expected aurors, all of them marked as was discovered at the World Cup. No action was taken against them other than to watch them. For now. Remus didn't know about the muggle trackers that they had on them.
Karr offered them the hospitality of the house; his brilliant invention: Anise, peppermint, tapioca slurry – with a slice of cucumber for garnish.
For some reason, they all had other things to do, and declined the elf's 'tea'.
More proof in their minds that free elves went insane.
Karr, with Adrian Pucey and several other older boys from the estate groomed and soothed the upset horses. It was decided to bring all of the equines here rather than leave them alone at the former Malfoy barn until that place had been thoroughly vetted by curse-breakers. Not to mention, fumigated!
Nobby and Serena were made welcome. Nobby was very good with the horses, and they both were made welcome by the other elves.
Nightwing at first had kept nickering, magically enhanced, hearing her dam in the next pasture over. Adrian's silencing spell had been overcome. That had decided then on the family reunion sooner rather than later. The enlarged pasture had all of the horses grooming one another's necks and exchanging nose kisses. It was incredibly heart-warming to watch.
Nobby and Dobby and Serena had a similar family reunion, all of them happy to be reunited.
Clarice's inner wolf had wanted to hand Malfoy his lungs just for the distress it had caused their winged friends! Hearing that Sage had severed the Malfoy matron's hand had her baking specialty sweets just for her and sending it on as a present from a grateful 'fan'.
Cockroach cluster biscuits! Yum! Was that a bit of conde lumbra? Oh, yes. Clarice was already a trusted coworker. Now she was considered a friend. And the tin! The artwork was so very…interesting.
The Pranking Parlor had been gifted several pallets worth of dented tins. Clarice had forgotten about them. They had been in storage. Her reparo charms were overpowered, and would ruin the artwork of the tin, so she stopped using the gift that her mother gave her. The tins that her grandmother had asked to be banished for being dented.
Now, the twins were going to be using official MacMillan Bakery tins making a joke of her Highland themes. Now, it was a man being chased by a bear instead of a man and large dog walking; instead of a farmer's wife feeding chickens was instead a scene of a dragon handler feeding a hungry nesting mother, eyes red and angry. Instead of a rosy-cheeked milk maid entering the milking barn, it had a nightmare hag lighting the barn on fire.
The goblin appreciated the humor and laughed and laughed, slapping away her mate's hand until he pouted. She then shared a bite of conde lumbra shortbread. It might be a prank item for the shop, but the goblins would pay top galleon for that treat.
Clever witch!
**OO**
A/N: Recommended Story: your story recommendation here!
A/N: Inspected by Number 13 by clell65619
Https colon / www dot fanfiction dot net/s/10485934/1/Inspected-By-No-13
A/N This was recommended by a guest but we cannot find it: if the guest could please verify:
Bringing About the Wonder by fairywm. A complete AU after the end of PoA.
Anyone know?
ƺ parseltongue
₲ galleons
₰ sickles
ķ knuts
Ɠ Goblin language