'So you're really not appearing on the radio tonight?' asked Suresh during lunch.

'I'm really not. I've been overexposed, and it'll get worse with the Light magic announcement on Sunday.'

'You're just building up demand,' said Darren. 'Which is very clever of you—well done!'

'I'm not trying to build up demand! People need a bloody break, and so do I.'

'It's classic Vampire John Lennon,' said Janet. 'Keep quiet for a week or so, and then come out with something completely baffling and unexpected.'

'Like Double Fantasy?' asked Ryan, but only Gary laughed. 'It was an album he made with Yoko,' said Ryan. 'Her songs were a bit avant garde.'

'Have you lined up a new Yoko?' asked Gary. 'Although I doubt anyone would ever describe Lydia that way.'

'I have a date tomorrow night, but you won't read about it in the Prophet.'

'I see,' said Janet approvingly. 'You're inviting her to come play "Let's shock the portraits."'

'The portraits are mostly in guest rooms,' said Harry. 'So it's everyone else who shocks the portraits these days, not me.'

'You're not joking,' said Suresh. 'When I was there on your birthday, Zenobia Black scolded us for depravity and complained that you'd turned Grimmauld Place into a veritable molly-house.'

'A molly-house? Is that an old-timey reference to gay people?' asked Gary.

'Apparently. But we told her that homosexuals no longer hide, and that it's more or less out in the open, which she couldn't believe at first. We were still clothed, so we opened the door and dragged in a few passers-by to confirm it, and old Zenobia was gobsmacked. And then she got a bit emotional and asked if there was still a portrait of Genevieve Black in the house—I think they were married to brothers—and she left and didn't return.'

'Snitchbottom, do you reckon they've shacked up somewhere?' asked Janet. 'There might be some hot sapphic love happening in one of your spare bedrooms.'

'Then I'd hate to interrupt them,' said Harry. 'Particularly if they've been apart this whole time.'

He flew on the Silver Arrow that afternoon, and since it was sunny he experimented more boldly with Light magic. But he was unable to reproduce the teleportation incident, and Bruce proposed trying the Firebolt again after the Harpies match. 'Once you've gone public, we can test it out and contact Randolph Spudmore. He's notoriously tight-lipped, but I'm certain he'll make an exception for you.'

'Don't be so sure,' said Harry. 'I insulted them by accepting a free Firebolt Ultra last year and then all but endorsing the Silver Arrow.'

'Yes, but all will be forgiven if you start flying a Firebolt again.'

Gemma won the practice match, which didn't bother Harry, whose mind was already on his upcoming meetings with the Malfoys and Rita Skeeter. Rita had replied overnight via jackdaw and proposed a private interview at the Leaky Cauldron.And to ensure a maximally strange evening, Harry had decided to dine at Pratt's between the two meetings.

He chose his robes carefully, knowing Rita would bring a photographer. White robes would be a bit much, he decided, so he wore light grey and a windflower boutonnière, symbolising love and sincerity. Just looking at the flower caused his hands to glow, and he required a moment to collect himself before Apparating to Malfoy Manor.

Nitta greeted him at the door and led him to the drawing room. This time Draco didn't keep him waiting—he and Narcissa both stood as soon as Harry appeared. 'I won't keep you in suspense,' said Harry as soon as they were seated. 'I spoke to the Cannons legal team yesterday, and they told me I have two options, both of which involve the Wizengamot. The first is to ask the DMLE to recommend a shorter sentence and then bring it before the Wizengamot for approval.'

'They'll never do it,' said Narcissa. 'Not with Merrick Bode in charge.'

'I know. The second option, interestingly enough, is only available to me because I'm head of House Black and can invoke lordly privilege, but it's complicated. Malfoy, I can bring the question of your release to the Wizengamot next Wednesday, but I'd have to personally guarantee you wouldn't break the law before your original release date.'

Draco and Narcissa looked at each other uncertainly. 'What does that mean exactly?' asked Narcissa.

'It means that if Draco commits and is convicted of a crime before next July, I would be punished along with him. The only exceptions are minor infractions or crimes committed at Malfoy Manor.'

Narcissa sighed heavily, and Draco's shoulders slumped. 'So why did you even come here?' he grumbled. 'Was it to see the look on my face just now? I hope you enjoyed it.'

'No, I came to propose a solution that could free you next week. Are you interested or shall I just leave?'

'You mean you'll do it?' said Narcissa.

'Yes, but I have certain requirements, which you mightn't agree to.'

'Fine, but make it quick,' said Draco. 'We all know how this will turn out.'

Harry ignored him and said, 'I'm willing to risk my freedom under the following conditions. One: You sign a binding magical contract stating that if Draco commits a crime resulting in my being punished, all the Malfoy assets would be transferred to me, or to my designated recipients.'

'Absolutely not!' cried Draco. 'This is obviously a trick! All you'd have to do is tell Shacklebolt to frame me for something minor, spend six months in Azkaban, and then walk off with the entire Malfoy fortune! Wasn't House Black enough for you?'

'That's not my intention at all. For one thing, they'd eat me alive in Azkaban, unless I were kept in solitary confinement, which I don't fancy. Secondly, I don't even want Malfoy Manor, and I have more than enough gold already. I'll bring a goblin if you like and state under Veritaserum that this isn't a trick.'

Draco relaxed slightly. 'All right, I'll consider it. What's your second condition?'

'It involves your wand,' began Harry.

'The wand you ruined?'

'How exactly did I ruin it? It was working fine on Sunday.'

'Yes, because I didn't try any Dark magic in front of you, for fear of the Light Lord smiting me with his mighty bolt of self-righteousness, But I tried Dark magic afterwards, and the wand was useless. I'll need a new one.'

'Right, that's my second requirement. No new wand until next July.'

'That's perfect!' said Narcissa.

'Mother! Whose side are you on?'

'Yours, of course. But you have to admit it's a good solution. With your current wand there's no risk you'll get into trouble.'

'What makes you think I'd get into trouble?' said Draco.

Narcissa looked at him meaningfully. 'In the current Light climate, certain behaviour is less tolerated than at other times.'

Harry didn't want to think about what Narcissa might be referring to, and he was beginning to regret offering to help at all. But what's the difference? he thought. Either way, he'll have to wait until July before tormenting Muggles, and if he's released early he'll have less pent-up hostility.

After a silence, Draco said, 'Fine, I'll keep using my useless wand until the end of my original sentence. Mother, how do you feel about the binding magical contract?'

'I hate it. But he'd be a fool not to require it. Harry, are you actually willing to take Veritaserum to confirm this isn't a trick?'

'Yes, but I'll require a goblin witness to ensure I'm given the antidote promptly.'

'Of course. We can do that at Gringotts—until the end of Draco's sentence, I'm the trustee for the family assets, so he won't need to sign the contract. But I'll ask our solicitor to review it.'

'Naturally. And how do we enforce the wand agreement?'

'I'll give you my word,' said Draco.

'A blood oath,' said Narcissa. 'Draco, don't look at me like that. A blood oath will prevent you from using any other wand until July. It's an ideal protection.'

Draco shrugged. 'Shall I take it now, Potter, or can I wait until after the Wizengamot hearing? Speaking of which, how do you expect to handle the Wizengamot? They humiliated you last time.'

'As of yesterday I'm officially a member of Pratt's,' said Harry. 'I'm going there next.'

'You were invited to join Pratt's?' said Draco. 'At our age?'

'Yes, I assume they think it's the best way to control me.'

Narcissa chuckled. 'They don't know you're a Light wizard. You're clever to join now, while they'll still have you.'

'Potter's not clever,' said Draco.

'Then he's doing a good impression of it,' said Narcissa. 'Harry, I'll make sure the Dark families vote with you, but you have to at least be civil to them between now and then.'

'Understood. As for the blood oath, that needs to happen before the Wizengamot vote. And I confess I know little about them, so I'll ask for Andromeda's presence as well.'

Draco was silent while Harry and Narcissa worked out potential dates and times for the blood oath, and Narcissa agreed to tell Andromeda. When they finished, Draco asked, 'Potter, why are you doing this? You have nothing to gain, unless you're lying and it's actually a trick.'

'I'm not lying, and I'm doing it to get you out of the bloody house. When was the last time you went flying?'

'More than a year ago. I'm permitted outside as long as I stay on the Manor grounds, but I can't ride a broom.'

'I suspected as much. Flying every day has done me a world of good. Until I joined the Cannons, I'd barely flown since sixth year.'

'I thought Firebolt gave you a free broomstick after the war,' said Draco.

'They did, and I couldn't stand it. Although I tried it again recently, and I may be warming up to it.'

'Really? How does it compare with the Silver Arrow?'

'The short answer is that the Firebolt has slightly better acceleration and the Silver Arrow is much smoother. But I can bring them over next week, assuming the Wizengamot votes in your favour.'

Draco looked as if he were unsure whether to roll his eyes or extract a promise from Harry to come over immediately after the vote. 'Yes, I'd appreciate that. And thanks for rejecting Silver Arrow's offer, because I'd refuse on general principle to fly on a broomstick named after you.'

'At least you can avoid my florist and root against the Cannons.'

'Believe me, I already do. But don't let me keep you. Now that you're a Pratt's member I'm surprised you even turned up for practice this morning.'

'Very funny,' said Harry, rising from his chair. 'Narcissa, I'll write to you as soon as the contract is ready.'

'Yes, of course. By the way, you won't mention this on the radio tonight, will you?' she asked, accompanying Harry to the fireplace.

'No, I won't be on the radio tonight, although I'll probably turn up next Tuesday to answer questions about Light magic.'

'You won't be on the radio?' said Draco. 'Why not?'

'I thought everyone deserved a break. Are you disappointed?'

'Well, it's a part of my schedule, and I have friends coming over.'

'You can listen to Lee and George at least,' said Harry.

'Yes, I suppose we'll have to. But you should really take other people's plans into account.'

After polite goodbyes with Narcissa, Harry Flooed directly to Pratt's for his first visit as an official member. The reception hall was no longer decorated in Gryffindor colours but was instead tastefully painted in grey and white, to match the rest of the club. 'Good evening, Mr Potter,' said the wizard at the reception desk. 'Welcome to Pratt's, and please sign the register.'

Harry looked for familiar names and was disappointed to see that Zacharias Smith had arrived minutes earlier. I hope that's not a bad omen, he thought. Although maybe he's in France by now, and I won't run into him.

He felt oddly nervous entering the dining room, and he was reminded of primary school, when his classmates had avoided sitting with him for fear of attracting abuse from Dudley's gang. But he hadn't walked five feet before wizards from several different tables waved him over. Not recognising anyone, Harry selected a table of older wizards, hoping some of them might be Wizengamot members.

'Potter, welcome!' said one of the wizards. 'We haven't met, but I'm Silas Yawton, from the membership committee.'

'Yes, of course,' said Harry, recalling the name from his invitation letter. 'It's nice to meet you.'

Yawton introduced him to the other wizards: Reginald Baxter and Xanthus Fawley, whose name Harry recognised from the lords' letter to the Prophet. 'I can't tell you how pleased we were you accepted our offer of membership,' continued Yawton. 'And I can't even recall the last time we had to wait that long for a decision.'

'I didn't want to make it lightly,' said Harry. 'I'm frequently accused of Gryffindor impulsiveness, with good reason.'

'Every house has its vices,' said Fawley. 'I was in Ravenclaw, and we're notoriously cold-blooded. Fortunately I married a Gryffindor, and she's impetuous enough for the both of us.'

They chatted about Hogwarts for a while, interrupted only by an elf who took their order for dinner. As on Thursday, Harry was astonished by the convivial atmosphere, even though he was by no means certain his companions hadn't collaborated with the Death Eaters during the war. He also suspected they were all pure-bloods, which prompted him to ask about club demographics.

'Yawton, do you have any idea what percentage of members are half-bloods and Muggle-born?'

'Let me think,' replied Yawton. 'I believe half-bloods make up about a quarter of the club. Mostly wizards like yourself, with a long family history on one side. Although obviously you're a special case, as the head of two houses.'

'There's no such thing as House Potter,' said Harry.

'There is now,' said Fawley. 'You're the sole bearer of the name, which means every Potter from now on will be your descendant. And something tells me you won't have trouble fathering children,' he added with a wink.

'Fawley's right,' said Baxter. 'Potter is an old name, and you're the closest thing left to a Peverell. Just commission a ring and pick up a Wizengamot seat the next time one's for sale, and voilà—House Potter.'

'One ring is plenty,' said Harry. 'And I don't need two seats on the Wizengamot.'

'You don't, but your sons will,' said Baxter. 'How do you suppose they'll feel, with one of them inheriting House Black, and the other remaining strictly middle class?'

'If I raise them correctly they won't mind at all. I'm certainly not ashamed to be middle class.'

'No offence, Potter, but everyone knows about your upbringing,' said Fawley. 'Your sons, on the other hand, will be raised within wizarding society with plenty of gold. Although you could stand to increase that as well, between the Blacks' profligacy and your grandfather bankrolling Dumbledore.'

'My grandfather?'

'Monty Potter,' said Fawley. 'Didn't Dumbledore ever tell you about him?'

'Fleamont Potter? No, I don't know anything other than his name and that he died of Dragon Pox.'

The other wizards chuckled. 'Oh right, his given name was Fleamont,' said Baxter. 'Apparently he arrived at Hogwarts with an arsenal of hexes in case anyone tried calling him that.'

'Monty came of age with a full vault of his own,' continued Fawley, 'and I'm certain he visited the Boudoir on his seventeenth birthday. But he never joined—I suspect Dumbledore had his hooks in him already.'

Harry was fascinated, which clearly pleased his dinner companions. Baxter said, 'He made a fortune in potions, but most of it went towards the wars. He turned his house in Yorkshire into a veritable dormitory during Grindelwald's War, and during the First Wizarding War he housed and funded the Order of the Phoenix. And then your father did the same after his parents died—Dumbledore had won him over completely.'

'Are you implying Dumbledore deliberately cultivated them?' asked Harry.

'Gods yes!' said Fawley. 'Why else do you think your father was named Head Boy when he wasn't even a Prefect? I was on the Board of Governors back then, and several parents filed a complaint. But the Board wasn't going to challenge Dumbledore over something so trivial.'

'Is that why my grandparents' house was destroyed, because it housed the Order of the Phoenix?'

'Yes. Dumbledore had warded it thoroughly, or so he thought, but the Death Eaters were able to conceal a Dark artefact within the food delivery,' explained Baxter. 'They didn't succeed in killing anyone, because everyone was outside for some reason, but apparently two house-elves were lost.'

Harry noticed that Baxter had referred to house-elves as property rather than as people, but he knew this wasn't the time to make a stink. 'Was that before or after my grandparents died?'

'After. And then your parents moved to Godric's Hollow, and you know the rest.'

Harry nodded. 'Thank you, and forgive me for pressing you for details. I never heard any of this before today.'

'It's our pleasure,' said Yawton. 'Pratt's may not retain records about members—although your father and grandfather never joined—but you'll find a wealth of what might be called "living archives."'

Fawley and Baxter chuckled. 'Thank you for not calling us relics, Yawton,' said Fawley. 'And Potter, I'm sure people here will be delighted to tell you about your forbears. You've had shockingly little exposure to wizarding traditions, and we'll be only too happy to remedy that.'

I'm certain you will be, if that gets me under control, thought Harry. He wondered whether they'd urge him to visit the Boudoir after dinner.

'Will we see more of you at the Wizengamot?' asked Fawley.

'Not normally, because it interferes with Quidditch practice, but on certain occasions, yes.' He was about to raise the subject of Draco's early release, but Baxter interrupted him.

'Of course, Quidditch comes first. Not even the most traditional wizard would argue with that. But you say you'll make exceptions?'

'Yes, next Wednesday. I've just been to visit Narcissa and Draco Malfoy, and I agreed to advocate for Draco's early release.'

All three wizards looked shocked. 'Don't tell me you're invoking lordly privilege!' said Fawley.

'I am, and I'm aware of the risk. But we're taking precautions, and I'm convinced justice has already been served. In my opinion, Draco should go free.'

Yawton narrowed his eyes. 'Is this so he and Narcissa won't make a fuss when you change your name?'

'They'd look foolish if they tried,' said Baxter. 'There's no question he's Head of House. Potter, when are you making the switch, and what name are you using?'

'You sound like Ludo Bagman,' said Harry, and the three wizards laughed.

'Well spotted,' said Yawton. 'Baxter's an inveterate wagerer. Small stakes, but he's hooked on the thrill.'

'I made five Galleons on your last match,' Baxter told Harry. 'I only wish I'd taken odds when you joined the league—they were offering a thousand to one that you'd win ten in a row.'

'Owen and Gemma won two of those matches, so they wouldn't have paid you,' said Harry. 'And furthermore, I suspect the Cannons' streak will end this Saturday in Holyhead.'

'The boy's right,' said Fawley. 'He'll never survive the Harpyheads. But back to Malfoy ... you know you'll need a two-thirds vote, right?'

'Yes. Do you think I'll have trouble getting it? Narcissa is planning to rally the Dark families.'

'No, I don't suppose you will,' said Fawley. 'But behave yourself this time.'

'I'll wear the hat, but I won't wear traditional robes.'

'Of course not. You won that battle,' said Baxter. 'But sit with the lords and treat them with respect. The Wizengamot's all they have left, you know.'

'I beg to differ!' cried Fawley.

'Let it go, 1707,' said Baxter. 'Potter, you made a handful of enemies with that letter and won dozens of allies. You should have been here when it was published; every one of us who'd been forced to kowtow to lords all our lives had a huge laugh at their expense.'

'And Fawley made it worse by signing that letter,' said Yawton. 'Did you owe Wynter a favour or something?'

'Yes, a large one. But between signing the letter and voting against Potter last month, I'm finally clear of it. And believe me, I'll never make that mistake again.'

'Does that mean I'll have your support next week regarding Malfoy?' asked Harry.

'You will. What about you, Baxter?'

'Yes, but don't tell Narcissa, because I'll enjoy having her cultivate me.'

'What are you implying?' exclaimed Harry.

'Not what you're thinking, young man,' said Baxter with a chuckle. 'At my age, it's pleasant just to spend time with a beautiful young woman like Narcissa Malfoy, particularly when she turns on the charm. How do you think she won over Abraxas?'

'Lucius's father?' asked Harry, puzzled.

'Of course. Lucius was mad for her—the Blacks were good-looking after all—but they were terribly unstable, and Abraxas wasn't at all keen on the match. Although Narcissa turned out better than her sisters.'

'That's only half-true,' said Harry. 'Andromeda turned out just fine. Her only crime was marrying a Muggle-born, which obviously I don't object to.'

'My apologies, you're right,' said Baxter. 'Times are changing.'

'Potter, you asked earlier how many Muggle-borns belong to Pratt's,' said Yawton, 'and the answer is "none." Are you proposing we remedy that?'

'What do you think? Of course I am.'

'All right, then suggest someone. Bear in mind that, out of sensitivity, we don't invite wizards who can't afford the dues.'

Harry thought for a moment. 'My classmate, Justin Finch-Fletchley. He's from the Muggle upper class, and I suspect his father belongs to the non-magical equivalent of Pratt's.'

'And he's nineteen, correct? You were an exception,' said Yawton. 'Furthermore, what career has he chosen?'

'I don't know. But he was clever and hard-working, so I'm sure it'll be respectable.'

'Ask us in five years. Who else?'

'Phil Routledge. He's the league's leading Seeker.'

'Other than you,' said Fawley. 'But we don't normally invite Quidditch players until after they retire, since there's no knowing how they'll manage the rest of their career. Again, you were an exception.'

Harry was silent for a moment, unable to think of anyone else. But then inspiration struck. 'You should ask Horace Slughorn for recommendations. He's exceptionally good at identifying talent.'

'Potter, you can ask him,' said Yawton. 'I can't go within ten yards of Horace Slughorn without him embarrassing himself by asking for discounted membership.'

'And that's out of the question?'

'Of course it is. We're not running a charity.'

Their meals had arrived by then, and Harry was impressed by how good the food was. But he disappointed his companions by turning down wine. 'Not a drinker?' asked Baxter.

'Only occasionally, and not tonight.'

'Yes, it's a radio night and you only drink Veritaserum. I suppose you'll be leaving soon for tonight's broadcast.'

'No, I won't be on the radio tonight. Next week, perhaps.'

'Why ever not?' asked Fawley. 'Everyone will be terribly disappointed.'

'Even you?' said Harry, astonished.

'Certainly. At seven o'clock, we all head into the library to listen together, and that's only because radios aren't permitted in the lounge. I daresay they even listen at the Boudoir, although probably not upstairs,' he added with a chuckle.

'What do you think of the broadcasts?' asked Harry nervously.

'You certainly have a lot of cheek,' said Baxter. 'Sending your Patronus to Malfoy Manor ... that's probably why you're advocating for Draco's early release, just to keep him from cursing you once he's free.'

Harry ignored the comment. 'The Veritaserum was a stroke of genius,' said Yawton. 'Although you're fortunate we'd already offered you membership, because we'd never normally invite someone who would expose us like that. We're an exceptionally private club.'

'So I shouldn't send you my Patronus next week?' joked Harry, and the wizards laughed.

'Indeed no,' said Baxter. 'But tell me, what did they have to censor? It'll never leave these walls, and of course no one will care if it's about buggery. Hogwarts, you know.'

Harry couldn't believe what he was hearing, but he managed to keep a straight face. 'It wasn't about "buggery," but it was a private detail from my trip to France. You'll probably have more fun speculating about it than hearing what it was.'

'Speaking of France, will you be visiting the Boudoir tonight?' asked Fawley. 'And is that why you won't be on the radio?'

'No, I'm not going to France. I have plenty of domestic options.'

'I'm certain you do,' said Fawley. 'But are they discreet?'

'What does it matter? Between Lydia and the Sorceress article my reputation is a smoking ruin. And frankly, the only way it could get worse would be if I announced to the world that I'd fallen in love with a fille de joie.'

All three wizards guffawed. 'Potter, you're a breath of fresh air,' said Baxter. 'I don't know how you earned a reputation for being thick, because you're remarkably clever.'

'It's all Hermione's influence. She's the only reason I have a decent vocabulary.'

'Nonsense!' said Yawton. 'You attended the best wizarding school in the world.'

'And had six different Defence professors, several of whom tried to kill me. And a ghost for a History professor, and Snape, who kept me alive but certainly didn't teach me anything.'

'Yes, I'll admit you had an unusual Hogwarts experience. And you're right that Binns was useless,' said Yawton. 'But your overall magical education was superb.'

'No it wasn't,' said Harry. 'I discover gaps in my knowledge of magical culture all the time.'

'Dumbledore,' said Baxter with contempt. 'He always undervalued wizarding traditions. He claimed it was more important for wizards to learn about Muggles. But I maintain that Muggle-borns need to learn about our culture.'

'Both are valuable,' said Harry. 'I've recently engaged a tutor to learn more about culture, and the best of Muggle art and literature is tremendous.'

'The best of it, perhaps,' said Baxter. 'But so much of it is abysmal. It's hardly worth the effort to find the bit that's worthwhile.'

'Yes it is worth the effort,' said Harry. 'Please don't tell me you went to Paris without visiting Notre Dame.'

'I've seen it, and you're right,' said Fawley. 'Baxter is a bit extreme in that regard, to his own detriment.'

'Cultural output isn't automatically better because it's magical,' continued Harry. 'Compare wizarding plays with Muggle theatre.'

There was a collective groan. 'Even I won't argue with you there, Potter,' said Baxter. 'I saw a play last month about the treaty negotiations after one of the goblin wars. At least the negotiations were done in person, unlike that ghastly play about the DOM, but they were entirely in Gobbledegook. Even worse, it was a musical.' After a silence, he added, 'The goblin language is rather guttural. Those of us seated in the front row required frequent Drying Charms.'

Harry told them about the Oscar Wilde play he'd attended, and his companions seemed interested. 'But what would I even wear?' asked Fawley. 'Not robes, certainly.'

'I wore a Muggle jacket and tie, but any shirt and trousers will do. I can't understand why wizards have so much trouble blending in with Muggles. Just pop your head outside the Leaky Cauldron for two minutes and you'll work it out. Or ask any wizarding tailor.'

'Quite so,' said Yawton. 'And Potter, I'll reveal that your new wardrobe was a major factor in your early invitation to join Pratt's.'

'Really?' said Harry dryly. 'I thought I was invited because it's your best chance to control me.'

His companions burst out laughing again. 'Well spotted!' said Baxter. 'You're absolutely right. Between making Fawley and his fellow lords look like fools and what you did to the Travers girl, nobody wants you as an enemy. If only the Dark Lord had figured that out sooner.'

'Er, maybe before killing my parents and scores of other people?'

'Yes, of course,' said Baxter. 'I was only speaking figuratively.'

The ensuing awkward silence gave way to a normal silence as they ate. 'This meal is superb,' said Harry. 'It's as good as some of what I ate in France.'

'Yes, at Pratt's we know what wizards like,' said Yawton. 'Are you certain you won't visit the Boudoir this evening? You needn't go upstairs right away, if you're still digesting.'

'No, I have another engagement,' said Harry, and the wizards chuckled knowingly.

'Will we read about it in the Prophet?' asked Fawley.

'Almost certainly, but probably not until Sunday.'

'Fascinating! I look forward to it.'

'Potter, what are you doing here?' came a voice, and Harry turned to see Zacharias Smith.

'He's just become a member,' said Yawton. 'And you are?'

'Zacharias Smith. My father is Junius Smith.'

'Of course, you're Potter's year. I recommend staying on his good side, since he's our youngest full member in nearly a century.'

Harry was impressed by how well Zacharias concealed his irritation. 'Then you won't mind if I borrow him,' said Zacharias. 'You seem to have finished eating, and Potter and I could stand to renew our friendship.'

'Of course, we've monopolised him long enough,' said Yawton. 'Potter, it's been a pleasure talking to you. I'm delighted we had the good sense to offer you membership, and that you accepted it.'

After politely excusing himself, Harry joined Zacharias at an empty table. 'I must say, I never expected to see you here,' said Zacharias. 'I considered you too much of an iconoclast.'

'What's an iconoclast?'

'It's someone who rejects tradition. You can see why I made the assumption.'

'I suppose I do. But no, I've been persuaded that joining Pratt's is my best hope for influencing wizarding politics, and so here I am.'

'And the Boudoir had nothing to do with it?'

'Frankly, it was an argument against joining, but I was able to overlook it.'

'You must be joking!'

'No, I'm not. I don't need the temptation, and I have options right here in England.'

'I imagine you do, between that vow of yours and not having parents who expect you to marry a pure-blood,' said Zacharias. 'I've been courting a girl who's driving me perfectly mad. I had to go to the Boudoir just now to blow off steam.'

You weren't there long, thought Harry. 'She's a determined virgin, I gather?'

'Yes, but I'm convinced she's worth the wait. Her family's Dark, but she doesn't seem inclined in that direction, and of course my family's neutral.'

Harry nodded, recalling how Zacharias had knocked over first-years to escape from Hogwarts prior to the Battle. 'What's her name? Do I know her?'

'Unlikely—I believe she was educated privately. Her name's Waite. Vanessa Waite. Gorgeous figure ... it's maddening not getting my hands on her.'

Harry had to bite his lip to keep from laughing as he recalled his birthday threesome. 'How long have you been seeing each other?'

'Several weeks now. She finally kissed me on Saturday, and it's clear she has potential, if I can just train her up.'

'I wish you luck,' said Harry. 'Obviously I'm not in the matrimonial market, but I can certainly understand the wish to settle down.'

'I find that hard to believe. I doubt your wife would approve of your pulling witches from the stands at a Quidditch match.'

'I didn't go through with it. I told my secretary to owl them my apologies, and to say it was nothing personal.'

'You made your secretary do that? What else does she handle?'

'All my correspondence through the team. Although I reply personally to children.'

'Ensuring a lifetime of loyalty,' said Zacharias. 'I'll give you credit—you're far more Slytherin than I ever realised. Were you always like this, or was it only when you became Harry Black?'

'I haven't changed my name,' said Harry calmly.

'You will. You're just waiting for a lull in your press coverage. But silly me, I shouldn't antagonise you, otherwise you mightn't recommend me for Pratt's membership next year.'

'I assume you'd like to become a member?'

'Of course I would. And obviously you did, if you joined.'

'It was a hard decision, actually. But yes, I can see the advantages, particularly where the Wizengamot is concerned.' Harry decided to get to the point and asked, 'Is your father a member?'

'Yes, but he votes independently and not with a faction.'

'Right ... I'm actually bringing something to the floor next week, and I'm curious how an independent might feel about it.'

'Not another motion against Rita Skeeter? I'd have thought you'd learnt your lesson.'

'No, I'm recommending early release for Draco Malfoy.'

Zacharias's eyes shot open. 'Is he blackmailing you?'

'What would he possibly have on me?' asked Harry. 'I haven't any secrets left, except for information about Voldemort, which wouldn't get me into trouble. No, I'm doing this because house arrest isn't helping him, and it's better for everyone if he's released.'

'And you're trying to make peace with him, particularly after the Patronus incident.'

'Wouldn't you agree it's beneficial for wizarding society if Malfoy and I learn to get along?'

Zacharias rolled his eyes. 'That's a remarkably grandiose statement even for you. But I can't argue with it.'

'Do you have any sense of how your father would vote on the motion? Or should I talk to him directly?'

'I can't speak for my father, but I don't see why he'd object. If you and the Dark faction can agree on it, surely a neutral wizard like my father would.'

'I'm glad to hear it. Have you been in touch with Malfoy this past year?'

'No, we never ran in the same circles. He scorned Hufflepuffs, you know.' Zacharias summoned an elf and asked Harry whether he wanted anything. 'One last drink before your broadcast, perhaps?'

'Actually, I'm not doing a broadcast tonight.'

'That's a relief,' said Zacharias. 'Do you have a scheduling conflict, or did you realise you're overexposed?'

'The latter. But I'll probably be back next week.'

'Yes, you mustn't disappoint your fans. Will it be to announce your name change?'

'No, nothing like that.'

'Well, I salute you for out-Lockharting Lockhart. And congratulations on being invited to join Pratt's. Perhaps we'll learn to tolerate each other by the time I turn twenty-one.'

'I hope we do,' said Harry, rising. As he left the dining room he noticed a tea trolley loaded with sweets, and he momentarily regretted his promise to Kreacher to eat pudding later at home. But no, I've already cheated on Lydia at Pratt's, he thought. I mustn't cheat on Kreacher as well.

He went to the library to pass the time quietly before his meeting with Rita, but he was unsuccessful. 'Shouldn't you be at Weasley's by now?' asked multiple wizards.

'No, I won't be on the programme tonight.'

Most of the wizards expressed disappointment, but several seemed to appreciate the unanticipated free time, and Harry saw them hasten towards the Boudoir. He knew that Pratt's emphasised privacy, but he was glad he'd never be observed entering that corridor again. I'm all about upending expectations, he mused. And what could be more surprising than a known sex addict avoiding a brothel?

He travelled by Floo to the Leaky Cauldron and followed Rita's instruction to ask for 'Mr Berenger's room.' The proprietor told him the room number, and Harry went upstairs and knocked on the door.

'Yes, who is it?' said a male voice.

'I'm looking for Mr Berenger,' said Harry, and moments later the door opened. Two men Harry didn't recognise were in the room, but one of them spoke with Rita's voice and said, 'Close the door, dearie.'

As soon as Harry closed the door, Rita touched her wand to her cufflink, and her appearance changed to match her voice. The other man did the same, and he became the photographer who had accompanied Rita to the Wizengamot the previous month. 'I can't tell you how tempted we were to disguise ourselves as a pair of buxom blondes, and to arrive only minutes before you did,' said Rita. 'But in the spirit of our agreement I chose something more discreet.'

'Cheers,' said Harry. 'Lately I've been saying my reputation can't get any worse, but I'm afraid you might take that as a challenge.'

'Believe me, dearie, it could get a thousand times worse, but neither of us wants that. And really, there's no need when we're getting on so well! You've turned into an absolute delight, and I wouldn't dream of crossing you.'

The photographer pulled a camera and tripod from bags that were previously shrunk and began setting them up. 'I'd like to take some photographs, if that's all right,' he said.

'Yes, that's fine,' said Harry. 'Do you just want a portrait, or are you hoping for something more interesting?'

Rita looked at Harry appraisingly. 'What are you proposing? I thought you couldn't control it.'

'I can't always prevent it, but I can easily make it happen.'

The photographer, who had begun setting up lights, chuckled and said, 'Maybe I needn't have brought these.'

'No,' said Rita. 'I'd like to show the transition from normal to glowing. I've never witnessed it myself, but I've heard it's rather provocative.'

'That's what I'm told as well,' said Harry. 'Where do you want to photograph me?'

The photographer directed him to a chair, and Rita sat opposite him, out of view of the camera. 'We'll just start talking, to get comfortable. And please, have some water if you like—I'm certain you won't trust me to provide it, but you can conjure yourself a glass.'

He did so and they began talking. 'Rita, how did you learn about Light magic?' he asked. He noticed her Quick-Quotes Quill was transcribing their conversation on a long parchment, but unlike previous occasions it was recording his words verbatim.

'I came across it while researching Dumbledore. He was hailed as the Leader of the Light, and old Bathilda Bagshot said he'd studied Light magic at one point. But it was a dead end—he dabbled with it in the early forties, thinking it might help him against Grindelwald, but he gave it up after a few weeks and never bothered with it again.'

'I'm not surprised,' said Harry, doing his best to ignore the camera snaps. 'I've heard it's hard for extremely powerful wizards to master, since it doesn't rely on magical strength.'

'Are you saying you're not an extremely powerful wizard?'

Ugh, I walked right into that, thought Harry. But what's the harm, now that I have Light magic? 'I have no reason to believe I'm exceptionally powerful, outside the realm of Light magic. I didn't defeat Voldemort using raw strength, after all.'

'But people have cited your Patronus as evidence you're a powerful wizard.'

'True, but that's Light magic, which depends on the power of the positive emotion rather than magical strength.'

'So you've been a Light wizard all along?'

'No, I only began experiencing accidental Light magic last month, in Paris.' He told her what had happened at the Sainte Chapelle, and how his companions had been required to Confund a Muggle to preserve secrecy. 'Could you run a colour photograph of the Sainte Chapelle?' he asked. 'It was built entirely without magic, and I'd love for people to visit.'

'Yes, I'm sure we can find one. Do you think you can start glowing now? You seemed to relax while talking about Paris.'

'I'd be delighted to,' said Harry, closing his eyes. He took a deep breath and allowed feelings of love to arise in his body. Not yet glowing, he opened his eyes and looked affectionately at both Rita and the photographer. Thanks to her I no longer have secrets, he thought fondly. Celia and a dozen others are no longer being abused.

For a moment only his hands glowed, but then the Light magic ripped through him and he knew he was unusually bright. 'Oh my!' exclaimed Rita. 'This belongs in Sorceress!'

'This is better than Sorceress,' said Harry, sighing with pleasure. 'Everyone should experience this, right now. That's the main reason I'm going public, so people realise it's possible.'

'Darling, I hate to disappoint you, especially when you look so happy, but you're a bit of a special case. Just because you can do it, that doesn't mean the rest of us can.'

'Oh, bugger that,' he exhaled. 'This has nothing to do with how I survived the Killing Curse, except that my mother's sacrifice might have predisposed me towards the Light Arts. But Davina can tell you about that.'

The photographer took a series of photographs as Harry was glowing, and at one point Harry looked straight at the camera and set the intention to express love primarily through his eyes. I want to look like Mum did when she was looking at me, he thought.

As he gazed at the camera, he was overwhelmed with love for everyone he imagined would see his photograph. I wish Muggles could see it, he thought. After all, they can experience this too.

'Is there anything you'd like to share while you're in this state?' asked Rita.

'Just that I love you. Yes, you've printed lies about me, and you Polyjuiced your way into my party and caused Helena to break up with me several weeks early. But it's all perfect. And then what you did with the Dursleys ... you were absolutely right when you said you did me a favour. I haven't any secrets left, and it's incredibly freeing. I could never have taken Veritaserum on the radio if you hadn't knocked all my walls down first. So thank you, from the bottom of my heart.'

Rita looked taken aback. 'I can't say I've ever had an interview like this one. And nobody has ever thanked me for printing what I call "enhancements." Someone else might think you were daft for talking this way, only you're clearly happier than you've ever been, and by all measures you're on top the wizarding world. It'll be my pleasure to write about this accurately.'

'No enhancements required?'

'What could I possibly add?'

'I'm sure you could make it tawdry,' he said.

'Yes, about that ... Would you care to comment on the claim that Light magic affects the libido?'

He smiled and said, 'It's a good excuse, isn't it?'

Rita laughed out loud. 'Oh darling, never change! But seriously, do you know if it's played a role in your recent behaviour?'

'I couldn't even say, because everything's connected. Ginny and I shagged like bunnies, but then she dumped me and I left the Ministry and joined the Cannons. And I couldn't even pinpoint when the Light magic really started,' said Harry, still glowing brightly.

'Yes, why did Ginny break up with you?'

'Nice try, Skeeter. I'm glowing, not drunk. And honestly, it's not that interesting—she mostly said we'd grown apart. But returning to your question about whether Light magic is affecting my behaviour ... People say I'm promiscuous, and I probably am, but it's because I simply love women. That's why Helena made me take that vow—leave her name out of this, by the way. It's because I fall madly in love with whoever I'm with, at least while we're together.'

'Even the witch from Sorceress?'

'No, we had nothing in common—that's why we shagged all night. Please don't mention that either. It's why I daren't go to brothels, because I'll just fall in love with the prostitute. And yeah, it has to be the Light magic, because I wasn't this way before. But it's absolutely brilliant.'

'I have to say, I'm a little worried someone might take advantage of you,' said Rita.

'Yes, Tuttle told me not to let anyone take me to Gringotts when I'm like this. And I'm grateful for my vow against proposing marriage until I'm twenty-one, since I'll surely have this under control by then. But I hope I never lose my capacity for love, because it's pure heaven.'

'Is there anything else you want to say while you're in this state?'

'Yes, and it borders on being classified, but it's worth sharing. Light magic is infinitely more gratifying than Dark magic. I successfully cast Dark magic twice during the war, and the second time in particular was very satisfying. But it doesn't even compare with this—not even close. I know that Dark Arts practitioners will scoff and say my experiences don't count, because I never mastered the Dark Arts, which is true.' Harry paused before revealing what he knew he had to share. 'But the same link that gave me the ability to defeat Voldemort, and allowed me to speak to snakes and all the rest ... it gave me direct insight into his experience while practising Dark magic. He enjoyed it tremendously, and so did I, by extension, even though it was abhorrent. But that pleasure was a faint shadow of what even immature Light magic is like.'

Harry's glow had finally dimmed, and he mentally reviewed what he'd just said. 'You could argue that my experience of Voldemort's pleasure while torturing was undermined by my personal revulsion towards what he was doing, and you may be right. But Light magic is impossibly satisfying, and it doesn't require hurting anyone. And yes, I know that emotions like love and compassion are more difficult to harness than anger and hatred. But it's unquestionably worth the effort.'

'I must say, you're rather convincing,' said Rita. 'Do you consider it your mission now to promote the Light Arts?'

'One of them. That's the funny thing about being alive when I always assumed I'd be dead by now—there's no reason not to do something. Why not fly for the Cannons? Why not open my house up to hundreds of strangers? Why not chat up a Muggle and go home with her? So yeah, why not make it a mission to promote the Light Arts, or advocate for werewolves, or anything else I believe in? If I change my mind I can just stop doing it.'

'But you'll be criticised,' she said.

'Do you know what it's like to be a league Seeker? I'm taunted six days a week, sometimes viciously. And before that, people were trying to kill me—for years—and they called me a liar or an attention-seeker. I can't say I enjoy being criticised, but it's hardly the end of the world.'

'I notice you haven't even mentioned using this in combat. Do you ever see that happening?'

'Personally I hope never to engage in combat again. Obviously that's what I'm known for, but I never chose it—it was forced on me by prophecy. That said, it's a relief to know I'll be safe should anyone choose to attack me with Dark magic. And the only reason I'm announcing this publicly is because I'm impervious to Legilimency and other mind arts, which are apparently the best way to fight a Light wizard.'

'That's a bold claim,' said Rita. 'Aren't you worried you'll attract Dark wizards who want to prove you wrong?'

'By the end of the war I could withstand Voldemort. I've recently been tested by several first-rate Legilimens, and they couldn't make a dent. I know this sounds arrogant, but really, don't bother. You'd be risking your own life, and it's not worth it.'

'Are you concerned you might hurt someone by accident?'

'From what I understand, Light magic is only harmful if someone uses Dark magic against me. And the most likely outcome is that I'd snap their wands or otherwise incapacitate them. But I've been glowing for weeks around people with a range of feelings towards me, and I haven't hurt anyone. So I'm not at all concerned about accidentally causing harm.'

'Do you wish you'd had this available to you during the war?'

'If it could have saved lives, absolutely. But Light magic alone wouldn't have been enough to defeat Voldemort. Numerous things needed to happen, which is also why I never could have defeated him alone.'

'Are Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger experiencing Light magic as well?'

'That's not for me to answer,' said Harry. 'But I'm certain they'd both be capable of it.'

She nodded. 'What about your Glowpox episode several weeks ago? Will you now confirm that was a deliberate lie?'

'Yes, and I'm genuinely sorry about that. But I hadn't yet found a teacher and wasn't prepared to go public, so the team had to cover up what happened.'

'Do you see Light magic affecting your ability to play league Quidditch?'

'I don't think it'll affect my performance, or at least I hope it won't. I'm not convinced I'll beat the Harpies on Saturday, since Allie Hobbs is a tough opponent and we'll be playing in Holyhead, but otherwise I've won several matches since this started. Probably the biggest change is that I've largely given up taunting.'

'But I'm told Seeker taunting is central to league Quidditch,' said Rita.

'It is, and you've given my rivals plenty of material,' said Harry without anger. 'But I like to think my flying and spotting are good enough to win matches, and that I needn't be cruel or self-aggrandising in the process.'

'Actually, I'm glad you brought that up. You've been accused of having a shockingly large ego.'

'Technically, you were the one who started that rumour, but I'll admit there's some truth to it. I've received a good deal of hero-worship, and I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy it.'

'Yes, particularly after Dumbledore kept you down for so many years. Although he flattered your ego as well, by giving you so much personal attention.'

'Yes, but to some extent it was inevitable because of the prophecy.'

'Would you be willing to reveal that prophecy?' asked Rita.

'No. I've already said all I plan to on that subject.'

'Are you sure? For example, did it refer to Light magic?'

Harry paused, recalling 'The power the Dark Lord knows not.' He took a sip of water and said, 'The prophecy was extremely vague, as you can imagine. Dumbledore never identified a reference to Light magic, and he never taught me about it beyond describing the power of my mother's sacrifice.'

'Was that Light magic?'

'You'd have to ask Davina, but my guess is that it was. A book I read on Light magic, written long before I was born, theorised that someone could survive the Killing Curse just as I did the first time.' He told her what Jacobus Filch had described, and how it perfectly matched Voldemort's first attempt on his life.

'Do you know whether your mother experienced accidental Light magic?'

'No. I honestly know very little about my parents, and most of their friends are dead. Which suggests my mother wasn't a Light witch, otherwise she might have protected them better.'

'Do you expect the Ministry to ask you to help train Aurors in Light magic?'

'I'm not qualified to train anyone, since what I'm experiencing is largely accidental. It would be like asking a six-year-old to teach people how to Summon biscuits from a high shelf. But I don't know if it's easy to learn Light magic if your primary goal is combat. That's probably why Dumbledore didn't succeed at it.'

'Could you say more about that?'

'Yes, it's very hard to engage in combat without getting angry or wanting to hurt someone, or even wanting to defend yourself. My greatest successes in battle have been when I wanted to protect people, even at the cost of my own life, and I think that's the only motivation that would work for using the Light Arts in combat. But again, you should ask Davina.'

'On a different subject, has this affected your ability to serve as head of House Black?'

Harry frowned. 'No, not at all. Why would it?'

'The Blacks were known for Dark magic, but here you are practising its opposite. Honestly, I'm surprised the family magic didn't reject you.'

'It accepted me even though I'm not a pure-blood, so I don't see why this would be any different.'

'Would you be willing to reveal the Black family ring, just to prove it hasn't rejected you?'

'Yes, but only if you don't take a photograph. The thing is ghastly.'

Rita nodded, and the photographer stepped away from his camera. Harry revealed the ring and Rita cackled with delight. 'Oh, darling, not even you could make that thing fashionable. Speaking of which, do you know whether your new style of dress is related to Light magic?'

'That would be be ironic, being compelled by Light magic to wear Death Eater robes,' said Harry.

'Dearie, they're called Harry Potter robes now. Do try to keep up.'

'I don't need to keep up,' he retorted, and Rita laughed when he turned red. 'And now you've seen my obnoxious Seeker persona. It still flares up occasionally, even though I've stopped encouraging it.'

'How disappointing. Frankly I was hoping to encourage it when I wrote that article about your party. We'd had more than enough of Downtrodden Harry, and I wanted to show the world Harry Triumphant.'

'Please don't print that phrase, or I'll never hear the end of it.'

'It's either that or I'm trotting out "The Light Lord" again,' replied Rita. 'That was my idea, you know. But you still haven't answered my question about your wardrobe.'

'I can't say for certain, but I don't think it's related to the Light magic. The fact is I'd never worn clothes that were properly tailored until I got my Cannons robes, and I was astonished by the difference.'

'Yes, but that doesn't necessarily result in immediately buying dozens of sets of robes and becoming a fashion icon.'

'I didn't buy all those robes right away,' said Harry. 'And the tailors are giving me a huge discount now, in spite of what you printed about my supposed net worth.'

'Admit it, that was fun! And you got the truth out eventually.' Harry scowled, and she said, 'I was at that party and people were already speculating about your assets. This way it's all out in the open.'

'Yes, and now everyone calls me "Harry Toffer."'

'Oh right, your name! That was positively careless of me not to ask you about it earlier. Clearly I'm under your thrall.'

'I don't have a thrall.'

'Yes you do, darling. You've always had one—when I first met you during the Triwizard Tournament, I'd never encountered a young boy with so much charisma.'

'You clearly never saw any Pensieve memories of Tom Riddle.'

'Are you comparing yourself to You-Know-Who?'

'No, you're the one who said I have charisma, not me.'

'But surely people have remarked on it,' said Rita.

'They have done, but I think it's because I've always been famous. And that was only because of my mother's sacrifice.'

'But now it's more than that,' said Rita.

'Well, yes. I'm a league Seeker now, and I've done more than just survive the Killing Curse as a baby.'

'Darling, only you could make surviving the Killing Curse sound insignificant. But yes, you're famous for all sorts of things now. And on top of that, I've heard Light magic can make a person extremely charismatic.'

'Can it? Then that's another reason to watch my behaviour, since I don't want to manipulate anyone.'

'Interesting. How then do you hope to prevent the next war? That's your stated ambition, right?'

'It is, to the extent that one person can make a difference. But I don't see why manipulation is necessary.'

'Then let's replace the word "manipulate" with "influence,"' said Rita. 'Do you want to influence people?'

'If it saves lives and makes wizarding society more egalitarian, yes.'

'And wouldn't charisma be a powerful tool for making that happen?'

'It would be.'

'And what about personal gain?' asked Rita.

'I'm sorry?'

'Surely you'd like to get something for yourself in the process.'

'If you're asking how I intend to personally profit from living in a peaceful, egalitarian society, I don't really think in those terms. But I certainly want to keep playing Quidditch for a long time and then find a satisfying career afterwards. And after I'm twenty-one I'll very likely marry and start a family.'

'Don't you want to rebuild the Black fortune?'

'I'm told that's one of my responsibilities as Head of House, and I'd like for House Black to thrive long after I'm gone—as a Light family of course. But I don't have a desperate desire to amass gold for its own sake.'

'In other words, you don't want me to print that you're looking for investment opportunities, because you'll be flooded?'

Harry chuckled. 'I've already identified several opportunities, none of which involve importing French pastries into Britain.'

Rita took a moment to replace the parchment underneath her Quick-Quotes Quill. 'Would you like to inspect it for accuracy?' she asked, holding up the first parchment.

'I've had my eye on it the entire time,' said Harry. 'I should really thank my Optimancer for fixing my eyesight so thoroughly.'

'We should all thank him for ridding us of your eyeglasses—your eyes are undoubtedly your best feature. Otherwise you're the image of your father, who really married out of his league. Although he was certainly better-looking than Severus Snape.'

'If you're trying to trick me into talking about Snape, it's not going to work.'

'You can't blame a witch for trying,' said Rita breezily. 'We may be allies, but I'm still a journalist.'

'Yes, although you never asked me what Light magic feels like. You claimed that as a writer you were best qualified to put it into words.'

'You're absolutely right, dearie. All I can say in my defence is that I was distracted by visions of glowing young Seekers. Speaking of which, perhaps you should start glowing again, so you can describe it. All I learnt the first time around is that it's intensely pleasurable and you become positively stupid with love and gratitude.'

'That sums it up,' said Harry. 'The rest of it is too subtle for words, or perhaps inappropriate for publication anywhere but Sorceress.'

'Yes, about that ...' began Rita, and Harry laughed. 'Really, darling, you should have known I wasn't done asking about sex. My question is whether you've glowed with any of your partners. I know you've had several since you were in France, when all of this started.'

'I have had, but I won't answer out of respect for their privacy.'

'But shouldn't your partners be warned that Light magic is sexually transmissible?'

'Is it?' he asked. 'I'd describe it more as emotionally transmissible. Which probably explains why it didn't happen with the witch from Sorceress.'

'So they didn't omit that from the article?'

'No.'

'During your radio broadcast last week, did they have to censor anything about Light magic?'

'No, the bit they censored was unrelated.'

'But you were talking about the weekend you started glowing,' persisted Rita.

'True, and it probably played a role in why Eric and I kissed, although it was mainly alcohol and because we'd been dared to do it. Sophie and I snogged afterwards, and I started glowing and we had to rush back to her apartment.' Harry closed his eyes, remembering it, and Rita started laughing again.

'And to think you might have died before experiencing all this, and sharing it with the world. That would have been a terrible waste!'

Harry's expression turned serious, and the photographer took his picture again. 'It breaks my heart that people die without experiencing this. I'm not talking about sex, although obviously I'm a fan—I'm talking about this kind of love. It's more powerful than magic ... I reckon it's why Light wizards can defeat almost anyone. And it's what we were born to do. Every day we're alive is an opportunity to experience love and beauty.'

He slid the windflower from his lapel and looked at it, prompting another snap of the camera. 'There's beauty in every moment. There's perfection in every moment. My childhood was ghastly, as you well know, but during summers I at least had flowers.' He put the boutonnière back into place and said, 'It's absurd that wizards fight when we have everything we need to pursue happiness. It's hard to starve as a wizard, and you can live in a tent and use Warming Charms to stay alive. So why do we bother hurting each other, when it's infinitely more pleasant to cultivate love?'

There was actually a tear falling down Rita's cheek. 'Harry, that was beautiful. And I'm grateful you've wrapped it in a sexy little package so I can sell it to the masses. Because they're all going to want a piece when they read my article.'

'A piece of what exactly?' he asked nervously.

'A piece of you, of course. And Light magic. Although most people will have to settle for the latter.'

'Er, I'd rather you didn't turn the article into a sales pitch for a night with Harry Potter.'

'Darling, do you want to get people excited about the Light Arts or not? I thought you wanted to prevent the next war.'

'I do. And I understand that sex sells, but it doesn't have to be all about me.'

'There's a new saying at the Prophet: "Sex sells, Harry Potter sells, and Harry Potter having sex sells better than anything." Just ask the publishers of Sorceress.'

'What about overexposure?' he asked. 'Surely people are getting tired of me.'

'Oddly, they're not. If the Prophet published this often about anyone else, we'd get complaints. But the only complaints we get about you are of the Mothers Against Harry Potter variety, which are really just a demand for more.'

'Bloody Anglo-Saxons,' he scowled.

'Lovely Anglo-Saxons,' she said admiringly. 'They're so easy to pander to!'

Harry looked at his wristwatch. 'Are we done here?'

'Almost. When are you changing your name?'

He looked her in the eye. 'No comment.'

'So you're still working it out with the Malfoys. That's prudent of you.'

'I've been told I've become more Slytherin lately, which I realise is a strange combination with the Light magic.'

'It's a perfectly brilliant combination, and it's exactly what's needed. So much better than the fumbling, holier-than-thou wizards who normally refer to themselves as Light.' She plucked her quill from the parchment and cast a quick Drying Charm on the ink. 'Thank you, Harry. I'm sure you'll be delighted with the completed article. And personally I'd love it if you light up like a torch on Saturday, so keep that in mind.'

'My goal is to catch the Snitch. Everything else is secondary.'

Harry rose and shook hands with the photographer, and Rita air-kissed him extravagantly. 'I'll send you a draft by Friday, for your review. I definitely want to keep you happy!'

'Cheers, I look forward to it. And thanks again.'

He walked downstairs and deliberately interacted with the bar patrons, to dispel any rumours he was spending the night at the Leaky Cauldron. 'No, it was just a business meeting. But if anything interesting comes of it, you'll hear about it.'

'I'm glad that's all it was,' said an elderly witch. 'I reckon your bed at home is more comfortable than what they have upstairs.'

'I'm sure it is,' said Harry warmly, before leaving through the fireplace. Kreacher immediately ambushed him with a message in Harry's own handwriting that said, 'There are wizarding schools in Britain other than Hogwarts,' along with a large serving of pudding, which he enjoyed thoroughly.

Harry spent the rest of the evening replying to fan mail. What kind of letters will I receive after my Light magic becomes public? he wondered idly, before calling it a night.