JKRowling owns Harry Potter and all the characters in that story. She is a pure genius.
FASA owns Earthdawn
ϡ - To prevent confusion, conversations in French will start and end with ϡ. Reminder: Harry learned French from his mother's incarnation as she wanted him to attend Beauxbatons. Not everyone speaks French, and there will be a few folks that struggle without translation charms. At some point I'll go back and update the other chapters. But it will be a while.
§ - Parseltongue will start and end with § and be in italics.
Recap: To save Bill Weasley, Harry travelled to the realm of the dead and arrived in time to convince him to return to the land of the living before making his final journey. He managed to save his closest friend, but the incarnations of his parents are gone forever. Returning to the 'here and now' Harry received word that his godson was in danger. With the aid of an old friend, he was able to save Teddy and end the rein of the Dark Lord of France. So, the French Dark Lord has been defeated. Harry has a new Familiar, but he lost his last connection to his parents. This is where we pick up.
Special thanks to this story's Beta reader, the MoleOfWar for your excellent feedback.
—Casting Shadows—
Chapter 26: Transitions
Harry's Mindscape
Harry awoke in a grassy open space, closely surrounded by trees. The air was crisp and cool, but also clean and fresh. There was a subtle hint of roses and oaks layered under a scent of fir and snow. Rising up, Harry looked about. The forest was dense and full of life. The sky was blue, with a few clouds rolling across it. Everything was too sharp to be real. Too vivid. There was a sense of 'oneness' that was omnipresent. Slowly, Harry realized he was inside his own mind.
Harry saw movement near a small opening to and walked toward it. Inside the dense trees and on the trail, he saw the source of the movement. Standing there was a gorgeous woman with forest green skin and dark reddish brown hair. No, not dark brown, it was the shade of dried blood. She was also covered in small thorns from head to toe. Her lips were a deep crimson and her eyes were the exact same shade of emerald green that Harry's eyes were. She was completely naked, but somehow it didn't seem odd.
Harry approached her, "Hello Rose. It's been a while."
She smiled beautifully. Harry caught a glimpse of her razor sharp teeth. "Hello Harry. Has it been a while? It's hard to tell. You look older."
She had a hypnotic way of speaking, but Harry knew there were no lies or falsehoods between them. She was an ancient plant spirit that helped him forge and strengthen his connection to Oakheart. She was beautiful and deadly. Harry knew the Fey were real and 'Rose' was as distinctly 'Unseelie' as Oakheart was 'Seelie'. Without Rose, Oakheart could not exist. And the reverse was also true. Yin and Yang. Harry was the link between them. They both come together within his pattern. The same pattern they had helped rebuild.
Harry considered what his mother had taught him. Unseelie wasn't evil, it was simply Wyld. Pure nature in all its unpredictability. Chaos personified. Ever moving and changing. Life and death, pain and passion. Growth and adaptability. In contrast, Oakheart was stability and strength. A constant presence of form and function, reliability and steadfastness. Order and rhythm in a chaotic world. Oakheart brought calmness and tranquillity.
Rose's presence meant change and growth. It also meant Pain. She was here for a reason, but that reason would very likely not be one that he would enjoy. They stood looking into each other's eyes for long moment. They were exactly the same height.
"Take my hand, Harry." As Harry reached out and took her hand, he knew the thorns would cause him pain. But that was to be expected, they were his thorns as much as hers. This was the way of the Wyld.
Together, they walked on a path he instinctively knew. How long they walked, he couldn't say. It was sometime between a moment and a month. Not a word was spoken between them, but they knew each other so well, it wasn't at all awkward. Inhaling deeply, Harry could feel and taste his own magic. His lungs burned a bit with the chill, but rejoiced in the purity.
Eventually, Harry found himself in front of his Parent's home. It was dark and cold. There was no doubt it had been abandoned and was empty. His parents incarnations had stayed in the Duat* so that he may return. Their sacrifice was the price he had to pay for passage back into the land of the living. Reflecting on the Greek mythology his mother had preferred, Charon required a coin for each life when crossing the Styx. Apparently, Osiris had a similar price for leaving the Duat. That and… something else.
Rose turned to Harry and softly said, "Go on, Harry. Say goodbye." She was so full of empathy. Rose understood pain and loss in ways Oakheart never would. Pain was a part of her realm.
With a quick squeeze, Harry walked into the house. Every room was a memory. He remembered his mum and the games they would play. "Wheel of Runes" and "Name that Potion". The many birthdays he had in his dreamscape when the Dursley's had refused to acknowledge him. The happiness and support she always gave.
Later, his father took up 'residence' and they were much closer to being a family. His dreams were so rich in love and he looked forward to falling asleep. The duelling training and the prank stories. The ancient magic he had learned as well as the brilliance both parents imparted to him on magical techniques and forgotten languages. For years he learned in his sleep, and became the best wizard he could possibly be.
When the world turned against him, this was his safe place. His parents incarnations supported him when he was alone and persecuted. They gave him hope for a better life without the pain of the Horcrux or the betrayals it brought. Some betrayals, he still couldn't forgive. But in this house, everyone was on his side. This is the place he never thought he would be alone in.
Harry went down to the vault under the stairs. It was a place of protection when the house above was corrupted by the Horcrux. He sat in his cold hair and looked about. As he scanned the many books and objects, they slowly faded away. Instinctively, Harry knew they were relocating to his own private home nestled between four oak trees.
Sadly, he realized, there was no longer anything for him here. The pain and loss was crushing. He made the choice to go into the Duat, and his family paid the price. Given the situation, he knew he'd do it again.
"ϡ Harry? Don't be sad.ϡ"
Looking up, he saw Catherine standing at the doorway into the vault. She was so normal looking. Brown hair, tousled about. Sparkling eyes and a dress that went out of style at least a hundred years ago. She looked more solid than normal, but of course she would.
"ϡ Hello, Catherine. ϡ" Such a formal name for such a rambunctious girl. Thinking a moment, he asked, "ϡ You seem more like a 'Cat' than a 'Catherine' ϡ."
Catherine lit up at that comment. "ϡ The children I cared for used to call me 'Cat'. It was nice. ϡ"
She slowly approached him, "ϡ Harry, don't be sad. You're never alone. You have so many people that love you. You save Victoire's papa. You are a hero. ϡ"
"ϡ I know, Cat. But I lost my parents. ϡ" Harry looked about and realized the room was now empty.
"ϡ Non, Harry. You lost enchanted memories of your parents. But you will always have normal memories of them. Of your time together. Your parents loved you and sacrificed so you could be loved by others. Like me. ϡ"
Harry looked at the young girl. Once more he tried to guess her age. Nine or ten at the most. Or possibly a hundred and fifty. It's all relative. Both Oakheart and Elianar Messias had said it was his magic that had invited her into his life. They said she was his spirit daughter. She had kept him from passing out in his battle at the Lavoisier manor. Her presence had guided him back from the Duat. She was a part of his life and he was the better for it.
Harry held her hand and told her, "ϡ You know, I'm glad you're here. I'm glad you're with me now. ϡ"
Catherine looked up at him and smiled. "ϡ Me too. ϡ"
Slowly, the scene began to fade away.
—Casting Shadows—
Malfoy Château
Nernier, France
Friday, August 17
Morning
Harry slowly opened his eyes. He was in a guest room of some sort. Where… Slowly it came back to him. He had put an end to the Monsieur Dark Lord Wannabe and had to deal with the aftershocks. First, it had taken him a few minutes to calm Teddy down, Fawkes help tremendously. Fawkes! Yes… He had formed a connection of sorts with the phoenix. In truth, he never expected to see the bird again.
Once Teddy was calm, he had slowly taken down the wards set up by John Franklin, Master curse-breaker and aspiring Dark Lord. They were the basic 'four point' portable ward stones, very similar to the ones Harry placed in that little apartment in Paris he had briefly stayed in. Harry couldn't just turn them off or shatter them because 'Monsieur Dark Lord' had tied them into the house ley line connection. He did a good job, too. It took about an hour to safely remove them. By then, French Aurors had arrived and the questions began.
Harry stuck to the basics. He described his role in the battle at Beauxbatons. He stressed that the Muggle-born witches and wizards were innocent of any wrongdoing and should be treated as such. When he asked about Hermione, Director Berger himself assured him his friend was safe and being examined for long term effects of the ritual that had possessed her. Harry was asked about the use of excessive force and he just shrugged saying, "You follow a Dark lord, you get what you get."
Harry went on to describe how he had identified the collaborators by their use of defensive spells. Apparently a few others had made the same connection, so no one was surprised. When pressed, Director Berger informed Harry that the President and the Beauxbaton young ladies were all safe. There were a number of injuries, and a few fatalities, but it could have been much worse. Apparently, his early warning had made a difference. The interview steered clear of the killing curse for some reason. Likely it was on orders from the DMA or the DoM.
Harry went on to describe the urgent message to come to the Malfoy Château. The surprise bonding to a new familiar, and the final defeat of the Dark Lord. Andromeda and Narcissa filled in a few gaps while Draco described the battle that took place before Harry got there. Director Berger asked Harry to come in and give an official statement the next day. He even made a point of thanking Harry for his timely assistance.
All in all, it was well past midnight when the interviews wrapped up. Harry went up to a guest room to change out of his ripped up and blood stained clothes. Pipsey had been diligent enough to bring over fresh clothes. He set up a privacy ward and laid down on the bed for a moment… he must have fallen asleep. The privacy ward was still up, and it was now morning. He must have slept through the night. Sitting up, Harry realized he needed to use the loo rather urgently. A hot shower would be nice too. He dropped the privacy ward and walked to his door.
He'd have to check on Teddy and… Oops. Harry realized he let down his guard and tripped a silent alarm on his door. That was an 'Andromeda special'. With a chuckle, Harry realized she probably perfected it while trying to keep track of Tonks. Well, now everyone would know he was awake.
As he walked to the restroom, he realized he was pretty stiff. The fall of the stage had scraped him up pretty good. His shoulder was sore too. Must be from where he impacted the Dark Lord. Nothing a quick 'Episkey' couldn't take care of. Going into the rest room he realized he had left his wand on the bedside table. Deciding not to summon it, he just took care of his personal business and climbed into the shower. A hot shower and an Earl Grey would work wonders.
The hot water burned against his cuts and scrapes, but it was good to feel them. To feel pain means you're still alive. After the numbness of being in the Duat, it was good to feel anything again. As Harry reflected on the trip to the underworld, it was hazy and hard to recall the details. He knew the incarnations of his parents were gone. That hurt. Harry forced himself not to think about it. He'd deal with the loss when he got back to London. Yes, he was refusing to deal with it, but this wasn't the right venue for that. It was simply too big. He'd reach out to Dr. Gaines***** when the holiday ends. Teddy could use her help as well.
He also knew his connection to Catherine – 'Cat' was stronger than ever. It had, in fact, help guide him back from the deep umbra. Was he on the river Styx? With Elianar Messias? Maybe it was the astral representation of the Nile. Bill really is fixated on Egypt. Harry recalled pyramids, Obelisks, and Egyptian Deities. He had a vague recollection of some corrupt soul trying to get on board the boat… He didn't think it made it. That would have been awful. Well, overall it was a success. He found Bill and brought him back, but paid a steep price.
Once back in the living world, Harry had barely recovered when he received word Teddy had been taken. He couldn't believe his inept stupidity. He'd been so fixated on his own issues and problems, he had failed to ensure the safety of his family. He should have run a diagnostic on the Malfoy Château before he let Teddy visit. He had spent so much time moping around and fretting over his tragic love life that he missed something as basic as the wards on a house. How Ironic, given his own natural skills around warding and curse-breaking. No, not ironic. It was shameful. Half-seriously, he realized that he had let Mad-Eye Moody down. Then with true guilt, he realized he'd let Remus and Tonks down as well.
He needed to tighten up. Balance his immediate safety with a broader approach, like he and Hermione had once done. Scan and learn about any area he was going to be spending time in. Keeping your guard up doesn't just mean checking your food in between bites.
Harry stepped out of the shower and looked in the steamed up mirror. He was still in very good condition, despite only training intermittently for three weeks. He was a bit pinkish, he knew it had been a scalding hot shower. Still, it felt good. Instinctively he knew Fawkes had enjoyed it too. Brilliant. Another person monitoring him. Well, at least Fawkes wouldn't lecture him.
As he dried off, he realized he could see a lot of ribs. It was great to be lean and cut, but he needed to put on a little weight, he looked more lean than cut right now. Really, who loses weight on holiday? All this combat and stress had not helped him have a typical vacation. His metabolism must have been in overdrive. Pretty scrapped and bruised up as well. He looked kind of like he had been dragged through a rock quarry. Still, all things considered, he got off very easy. He grabbed a bottle of mouthwash and poured a bit into his mouth. After swishing it around for a minute or so, he spit it out and felt infinitely cleaner. Time to face the world.
Opening the door, he was suddenly face to face with Daphne and Padma. After the initial shock he realized he was only wearing a towel. He also realized they were looking him up and down. For a moment he was proud. He had a good physique and he knew it. Most Wizards idea of a workout was swishing a wand repeatedly. Pride quickly turned to embarrassment when he saw the looks they were giving him. Padma winced, Daphne just put her hand in front of her mouth. He looked like shite.
"Daphne, Padma." Pausing a moment, he added, "Trust me, I've looked worse."
Padma recovered first. "Well, you look far better than the last time I saw you after a battle." She took out her wand and began silently healing the many scrapes and bruises. It felt a little weird considering he was only wearing a towel. Of course, he was pretty banged up and Padma was a trusted friend. At some point, he'd have to discuss boundaries a little.
Harry suddenly realized how good at this she was. He vaguely remembered her doing something like this after his last big battle. First aid and advanced healing charms was an area Harry could stand to improve on. He knew a number of really good rituals for healing. He also knew a few quick charms, but this was nice. He could feel the stiffness subsiding a bit. The healed skin itched slightly, but he ignored it.
This was definitely something he needed to learn. Other than Episkey, his healing charms were more 'quick healing' in combat and tended to only stop the bleeding and set the bones. Sometimes they left scars. His rituals were crazy powerful, but they took time to plan and perform. Padma had a tool kit full of charms that fit in between Harry's current offerings. Andromeda likely did too. He needed to learn to heal normal, non-life-threatening injuries more effectively.
"I didn't know you studied healing, Padma. You're pretty good at it."
Padma smirked at him, "I learned healing techniques beyond the basics after I became your official DoM contact person." Looking at Daphne, she added, "You should learn a few advanced healing charms if you're serious about this walking catastrophe."
"Oi!" Harry couldn't help but laugh.
Daphne smiled, saying, "I'll take that under advisement. When you're done with 'bandage boy', send him down for breakfast." She walked away smiling.
After about thirty seconds, Padma put away her wand. "I got the worst of it. Mostly superficial scrapes." After a brief moment, she gave him a wink quietly saying, "Congratulations Harry. And I don't just mean the Dark Lord. Rumour has it you're melting the Ice Queen."
Harry didn't know what to say, so he smiled and shrugged. "She's pretty cool. I'm taking things slow. You know, after the whole Ginny thing." Harry noted that she looked a bit relieved. Too he and Padma hadn't been friends in Hogwarts.
Padma shifted back to her Unspeakable persona, "We need to talk about how you brought Bill back from the dead, Harry. There's been a lot of fallout. You don't even want to know what the press is saying."
With a groan, Harry shook his head, "Right, new Dark Lord on the rise. Potter's finally gone bad…"
"You always go there. It's really not becoming. Do yourself a favour and don't do it around Daphne, I like her." Pausing a moment she sheepishly added, "I guess you do have good reason to think that. But no, Harry. That kind of slander we could deal with. Between saving so many lives here in France, that Witch Weekly article making you out to be a maligned saint, the bonding with a Phoenix, and bringing your friend back from the dead… Well, you're getting overwhelmingly positive attention. I need to stress the word Overwhelming. I think I forgot to mention the Dark Lord you defeated. The press has named him 'Le Dévoreur'. The Devourer. Better than the 'Muggleborn-Dark-Lord', I suppose."
Harry groaned, "Oh, good grief. His name was John Franklin. Why do they sensationalize everything? Honestly, I really just wanted a quiet holiday. Let's worry about it after breakfast. I need to check on Teddy and Hermione. And Bill." With a chuckle, he added, "Given what passes for one of my Holidays, you could make an argument that I really am a maligned saint."
Padma scoffed and answered with her own brand of sarcasm, "They're all fine, oh Master of Death. Poor miss-understood martyr of the ages. It's you we need to worry about. Go change. You must be hungry, you haven't eaten in a day." Seeing Harry's surprise, she added, "Its Friday morning. You slept through Thursday."
As Harry walked away, Padma questioned for the hundredth time, did she make the right decision when she joined the Unspeakable ranks? It meant giving up on having a family of her own. Now that she knew Harry, she knew what she gave up. It just never dawned on her that she'd ever feel so close to anyone. She enjoyed healing him far more than she should have. He was really… healthy. Easy on the eyes. Well, what's done is done. Unspeakable agents have no families of their own and the vows are for life. Harry could be a close friend and that was all. On the plus side, she was exposed to the most amazing rituals and magical theory. She loved her job and it was for life. No sense crying over spilt milk.
—Casting Shadows—
Daphne walked down stairs. She had returned to France when she heard about the battle and Teddy being threatened. She was vested in this family and couldn't stand the idea of being away. Michael assured her he was fine and encouraged her to return. It was amazing how she had only been a part of this group for a few weeks, but felt so entrenched. Andromeda was like an amazing Aunt and Teddy was such a sweet boy. Harry was… complicated.
He had been in her nightmares for so many years. No, never the villain, but he was always frightening. Now he just haunted her day dreams. He was so… noble and kind. But also powerful and influential. The fact that he needed her so much was refreshing and she wanted to be there for him. With him. Her mum had told her about Harry's talk with her father. 'Take things slow' she said. 'Don't give away your heart, make him work for it.' But Daphne knew her parents were supportive of a potential relationship. Even her brother liked Harry. He never mentioned the work they did during the war… ***
Yes, she was invested. Ginny had burned her bridge and Harry had grown so much in a few short weeks. Daphne suspected Lady Black had a hand in it. Harry really needed to grow onto his status and Ginny had been holding him back. He'd never go back to her. Hermione was a good friend, but nothing more. Padma had an easy rapport with him, but she was an Unspeakable. No threat there. Well, Daphne realized that wasn't completely true. Padma had threaten to cause her immense pain if she hurt her friend.
Despite the 'big sister' threats, Padma was pretty cool and Daphne looked forward to getting to know her better. They had Arithmancy and Ancient Runes together at Hogwarts. She was always smart and passionate about magic, a perfect Unspeakable.
If things worked out. IF... These witches would part of her new circle of friends. Considering how her current circle would merge with Harry's, it was actually pretty good. Draco and Astoria were an easy fit. Neville and Ron would work, But Ron was a hot head and frequently a boorish, bigoted… Gryffindor. Still, Tracey got along with him. Based on Tracey's feedback, Ron also seemed much better since graduating. Bill and Fleur were both brilliant. This could work. She may have to consider Astoria's friends as well. They were basically nice, but some of the families… Well, that's a thought for another day.
—Casting Shadows—
Harry came down and joined the family and friends for a nice breakfast. Bill was recovering at Delacour manor and he had apparently also slept through Thursday. Ron and Hermione were with him. Good, that meant Ron wouldn't be sniping at the Malfoys. It was a pretty quiet breakfast with everyone still numb over the last 48 hours. Harry had the distinct impression Fawkes was watching him eat each bite. Especially the bacon.
Once finished, Teddy went to play with 'the girls' and 'Cat'. Harry switched from tea to coffee and just took in the whole scene. Draco and Astoria were discussing plans with Andromeda and Narcissa to come back to London and study under Andromeda. Draco discussed moving into Grimmauld Place and walking to St. Mungo's. Daphne was in an intense discussion with Padma about some fashion magazine. In the corner of his eye, Harry saw Selene looking wistfully back at the table while Artemis and Hecate played with Teddy. Poor Selene loved listening to fashion and style discussions.
Andromeda looked like she was still a bit shaken up. Nearly losing Teddy had frightened her. Moving back to Grimmauld Place would be good for her. Harry caught her eye and gave a reassuring smile.
Suddenly a Gringotts owl flew in and dropped a letter off for Harry. Odd. Usually these came via Banishing box. Ah, a gift box. Must have perishables. Given that he was nowhere near my Banishing Box, the local branch must have taken extra steps. Harry checked the box for curses, then opened it.
It was full of fruits he didn't immediately recognise. On top was a letter from the manager of El Hotel Del Salto**** in Columbia, South America. The letter was a welcoming introduction from the manager to the primary owner of the establishment. Apparently, he could always count on at least one room as the Owners suite was always available to the primary owner – him. There were also a few other VIP rooms Harry could book for friends, provided none of the partial owners were using them.
Andromeda picked up one of the fruits. "Mangos. They smell delicious, Harry. What brought this on?"
Harry picked up a mango and smelled it. Nice. "I asked Gringotts if I had any Potter properties in South America. You know, for the Peru trip. As it turns out, I have primary ownership of some sort of Hotel in Columbia. Based on the letter and the fruit, it's probably nicer than most places I stay on the road, but my expectations are pretty low." Considering it a moment he added, "It might a good place for a few of the ladies to stay. Maybe. Could be a dump with good fruit baskets! Ha!"
Astoria and Daphne both winced at the idea of staying in a third world countries Hotel. Draco was trying not to laugh. Narcissa did not appreciate Harry's humour regarding the lodging of two 'pureblood princesses'. Andromeda was reading the letter now.
"Harry, you are the majority owner of 'El Hotel Del Salto'. Perhaps we should all stay there while you go about your business in the mountains of Peru." Harry noted that she seemed rather eager.
"I like that plan, Lady Black." Daphne said. Astoria readily agreed. Too readily.
Harry rubbed his chin and looked at Draco smirking away. "Yeah. Let me guess, you know the Hotel and it has four star accommodations? Maybe a spa?"
Andromeda raised one eyebrow, "Harry, my son, this hotel just screams Mother's day. Birthday. Christmas… And it's not a four star hotel, it's a five star destination." Even she couldn't keep a straight face.
"Well, supposedly, the master suite has two bedrooms. Maybe a pull out sofa." Doing the math he added, "We could get six in there, maybe eight if we bring a folding bed or two."
Andromeda laughed, "No, Harry. I think a smaller contingent would be more appropriate." Harry noted she exchanged a look with Narcissa.
Harry just laughed. "Sounds good. Hey, Draco, if you and Astoria need a place for a honeymoon, let me know."
Draco exchanged a look with Astoria. "Do you mean that, Harry?"
"Absolutely!" Considering a moment he added, "You know, Bill and I have to scout the area before the main expedition. When we have our dates firmed, maybe you guys can hang out there and get to know the site. Always good to have a tactical knowledge of the area."
Astoria laughed. "Hmmm. Like how 'tactical' the spa is? And of course the restaurant is known for their sharp knives and forks. Or maybe how warm the pool is." They were all laughing away.
Padma caught his eye, "Your hotel is one of the premier sites in the Magical World, Harry. Muggles believe it to be abandoned and haunted. In truth, it is beautiful and quite the destination. The Tequendama Falls are gorgeous and the entire area rests on three ley lines. As an elementalist, you really should visit the falls. Muggles believe it to be polluted, but it is actually crystal clear and stunning."
Harry smiled and laughed along with them, but only to be polite. Everyone has such short memories. He had no intention of repeating his mistake of not checking out the Malfoy Château before letting his family visit. You let your guard down for even a moment… Harry made a point to check the hotel out intensely. Both physically and on the Astral plane. Before he would send anyone there, he wanted to know the hotel and the surrounding area like the back of his hand. You really can't be too safe.
"OK. Well, I'll check it out."
"So, I have to contact the French ministry to arrange a time to give my statement. I think I'll check on Bill and Hermione after that. I'll have to talk to Aina about pushing the mentorship ritual back a day."
Andromeda smiled, "Your ritual has already been moved. She came by yesterday and we agreed Sunday would be better."
One less thing to deal with, "Nice. Thanks. Well, Padma, am I correct in guessing you're supposed to deliver me to the French Ministry for a de-briefing?"
Padma nodded, "Of course, Harry. I arranged for them to expect you in an hour. That gives me time to bring you up to speed, and your lawyer to meet you there."
Harry paused a moment and nodded. "Thanks…" He hadn't thought about the lawyer.
Padma smiled and nodded. "You're welcome. Why don't we go into the study and I'll fill you in."
Harry looked over at Draco and Narcissa, "Do you guys mind? We can use another room of you'd prefer."
Draco politely shook his head. "The study is fine. We've already set it up."
"Thanks. I need to see about upgrading your wards before we leave France. If you'd like, we can see about adding a few extra ward stones. I've done a few similar houses and we can really put together a unique design here. Gringotts standard as the foundation, plus a few untraceable extras." Narcissa seemed very eager. Harry then stood up and asked, "Does anyone else want to join us in the study?"
Andromeda shook her head. "No Harry. We already know what's happened in the last forty-eight hours. And Agent Patil apparently needs to cover material we're not authorized for."
Ouch. Padma will be getting the cold shoulder for a while. No doubt it was some kind of compromise… they knew Harry would share with Andromeda. Now the DoM can say they tried… Whatever.
Settling onto a set of chairs, but away from the desk, Harry noted his Runespoor familiar had joined them. Good. Artemis and Hecate would catch anything he missed.
Padma sat down and gathered her thoughts. "OK, well, let me fill you in on the high points and any important details. If you have any questions, ask away."
"Before we get started, was anyone killed?"
"There were nine fatalities. Two Muggleborn wizards, one Auror, and six civilian attendees." Seeing the effect that had on Harry, she added, "Had you not alerted the Aurors, it would have been far worse. Hermione was in a position to kill the French President and a few of the other officials as well. We both know she has the skill and raw power to do it with surprise on her side. So, what tipped your hand?"
"Hermione. But, more specifically, I guess what made me notice her was that she didn't applaud. Even when I talked about improving our society. She's always been my best supporter. Then, I looked closer and noticed she looked disconnected. She kept doing that 'twisty thing' she does with her wand when she's getting ready for a fight. You know, loosening up the wrist. One of the few useful things Lockhart ever really showed us. But she did it over and over..." Harry realized how odd that was. "I think she may have been fighting whatever ritual was controlling her. Or maybe she was just somehow trying to warn me. Her eyes were cloudy, and she just looked poised to attack. A quick glance told me there were others as well."
"That sounds like Hermione. You know, of all the victims of the blood control, she was the only one that actually was able to shield herself. It was noted and questions have been asked. She was questioned most intensely. It didn't help that her primary target was the President."
"I gave her a shielding bracelet. No doubt they already inspected it."
Padma nodded, "Likely. Be prepared to answer why you switched to more lethal tactics after the stage collapsed. Fortunately, you didn't kill anyone, but you'll be asked about it."
"It was pretty obvious who was in control and who was being controlled. I held back a bit so we could capture and question a few." Harry ran his fingers through his hair. "It always amazes me how quickly it all goes down. That whole battle was maybe two minutes."
"No kidding. Saul said the same thing."
Officially, Saul and I have stated that the Killing Curse that struck Bill was not cast effectively. We're sticking to that despite reports to the contrary. Saul and I were the closest to you, so it's hard to refute. Privately, we know the truth. Harry, how did you do it?"
"It's pretty hazy now. I basically tried to resuscitate him, but only managed to place a… trace on his spirit. I followed him into the land of the dead and convinced him to return. I vaguely recall it was almost too late. I almost didn't make it back either." Thinking a moment, he added, "A half a second longer, and the trace would not have been attached to his spirit. Had I been slower to catch him, he would have been beyond return. Split seconds. I got lucky Padma, no other way to say it."
Padma listened carefully. "Is it something you could replicate?"
"Maybe… but why would you replicate something that was 90% likely to kill you."
"I get your point." Changing the focus, she advised, "When you give your statement, tell them the spell had been poorly cast and Bill was only stunned. Otherwise, you will either be harassed by everyone who's ever lost a loved one or you'll be considered a necromancer. Maybe not today or tomorrow, but we all know how fickle our society is."
"Right. I do have a question, though. Why did they all just stop fighting? You know, the controlled witches and wizards."
"Ron led a team to the Auvergne Region and interrupted the ritual. They also reclaimed the blood taken and used in the ceremony. All the ritual casters were apprehended and they even captured the witch who fled the battle. The one who cast the Killing curse at Bill."
"Yes!" Harry had really thought she had escaped. "Ron came through. Good for him."
Padma smiled. She knew how many times Ron had let Harry down. It was good to see the scales coming more into alignment. "Tracy Davis and Dominique Aris from the DMA were there assisting. The three of them shut the ritual down. Hard."
Harry thought for a moment, "How did they know where to go?"
"Agent Aris had noted an unusual magical pulse in the area. It seemed 'off' to her, so the three of them skipped the ceremony and performed reconnaissance in the area."
Harry nodded and smiled. "Good for them. Maybe the DMA isn't completely inept."
Padma laughed a bit at that, "Wow. High praise." She knew how many blunders the DMA had made. But in their defence, this is all new territory for them. And no one would say Harry Potter is easy to direct.
Padma shifted her questions. "And the Phoenix?"
"That's Fawkes. He's out and about somewhere. We bonded years ago."
Padma gave a gentle warning, "You should expect requests of tail feathers and tears. Be ready."
"Well, that's his choice. I wouldn't ask him to give up tears any more than I'd ask Selene to donate venom. It's personal and not something done lightly."
Selene looked over, "§Thank you, Harry§."
Harry smiled back. "§You're welcome gorgeous§." The other girls were very quiet, listening intently.
"So, the Phoenix brought you here, where you tackled the Dark Lord and drove a knife into his head."
"Well, it was actually a dirk, but, yeah. I ended the conflict decisively." Harry couldn't help but think of Dumbledore and how his portrait had admitted to regretting not doing just that when he had the chance, back in the 1970's.
Artemis spoke for the first time, "§I wish I could have seen you go for the kill, Harry. Why, oh, why did we decide to stay at our house and hunt? Do you know how long it's been since we saw any action§?"
Harry Laughed, "§What I do is normally pretty boring. You should see some action in South America, though§."
Hecate added, "§I want to see the design of the Inca cities. I've read quite a bit about them. The way they cut and interlocked their stone blocks… Brilliant§."
Selene literally rolled her head around, "§Please let it end! We don't need to listen the intellectual analysis every ten feet§!"
Artemis seemed to be quietly enjoying the show.
Harry was too tired and he knew where this was heading. "§Please girls, let's just get through today§."
Harry looked back at Padma, "Any other questions, Padma?"
Padma seemed satisfied. "No. Make sure you stick to this story and you'll be fine. The DoM and the DMA have agreed to share knowledge around your ability to bring Bill back. Count on a follow up interview for that. But for now, stick to the story. 'Improperly cast' killing curse. Oh, and don't start without your attorney, either."
"Thanks, Padma."
"Let's go. And I'm taking the girls.
As Harry walked out of the study, he looked over at Daphne, "Daphne, would you like to come, too?"
She smiled broadly, "I'd love to."
Harry suddenly considered the survivors of the battle. "Mum, do you think we could help the victims of the attack? The Magical world doesn't have health insurance and I don't want anyone to be ruined or refuse treatment for financial reasons. Maybe we can help the families of the deceased as well…"
Andromeda became very interested. "That's the way a Head of an Ancient and Noble House thinks." She was proud and she didn't try to hide it. "I've already made inquiries. You did the same after the Battle of Hogwarts."
Harry did a quick double take, "I did? I don't remember doing anything like that." That whole period had been a blur. Had he? He didn't even know he had much money…
Andromeda clarified, "I made donations in your name. Others soon followed 'your' example. One of the reasons you are so well received in Great Britain is the way you helped so many others after the… last battle."
Harry knew how hard that period had been for Andromeda. The loss of her husband and daughter. She still had the composure to do the right thing.
"Thank you, mum."
Harry kissed Teddy goodbye, and then donned a tie and a light sport coat. Daphne cast a charm and placed the Potter and Black crests on it in an alternating and geometric pattern. He stepped outside and cast a temporary ward. It would last about six or seven hours, but he would know if the house was under attack.
And they were off.
—Casting Shadows—
French Ministry of Magic
Apparition Point
Harry, Padma and Daphne apparated to the front of the French ministry and proceeded to walk up the stairs to the majestic entrance. So different than the British and MACUSA ministries. France tended to embrace an ornate and baroque design in all their government buildings. Even Beauxbatons was more like a palace than a school.
Before entering, Padma turned to Harry and said, "You are now officially 'delivered'. My job is done. I'll see you soon Harry. Daphne, let's catch up soon. I'm meeting Saul for a quick de-briefing with the DMA." And she went back to the apparition point and departed.
Harry placed a subtle charm on 'the girls' to make them appear to the common observer as a normal 'mono-headed' snake. Full attention would show the reality of her nature, but casual observers would just see a snake familiar. Not common, but hardly rare. Once complete, Harry and Daphne proceeded to the French Ministry.
Mr. Brun met them just inside the main entrance. He was just as intense as Harry remembered. For the hundredth time, Harry wondered about his lawyers. Who were they and why were they so feared?
Harry approached and held out his hand, "Mr. Brun, I hope we haven't disrupted any of your plans. I know this was sudden."
The man smiled, but the smile didn't reach his eyes. "Nonsense, Lord Black. You are our most prestigious customer." He shook Harry's hand politely. "Miss Greengrass, it's nice to see you again."
Daphne smiled, "Thank you, Mr. Brun. You as well." She smiled her patented Ice Queen smile. Beautiful, but without warmth. Mr. Brun seemed impressed.
"I've taken the liberty of choosing a conference room, ensuring it was free of clairvoyance charms, and providing a list of approved questions. I moved your meeting back so we could review the questions in advance."
Harry was a little off balance, but he tried not to let it show. The man was well ahead of him.
Daphne was faster to react, "Thank you, Mr. Brun. That is very helpful. You are a credit to your firm."
Mr. Brun led them to the front desk where they signed in. Harry noted the receptionist seemed a bit star struck. As Mr. Brun led them through the Ministry to the arranged conference room, Harry noted he cast a few detection charms. One was completely new to him. This man was as paranoid as he was! He then sat Harry down with his back to the wall and proceeded to cover the approved questions. Padma's advice had been spot on, and apparently the killing curse 'resurrection' was not an approved question.
The girls were whispering amongst themselves about Mr. Brun being a cold fish and rather paranoid. Selene cracked a few jokes at Mr. Brun's expense that had her sisters laughing. When a Runespoor laughs, it sounds rather sinister. Harry couldn't help but chuckle as well, Selene was so much fun.
When Daphne and Mr. Brun looked concerned, Harry addressed the distraction.
"Sorry. My girls are… enjoying themselves a bit much." Switching tone, Harry said, "§Keep it down, we're here on business. Artemis, tell me if you sense any duplicity. Hecate, look for any disjointed or hidden information. Selene, keep your jokes to yourself. §"
Selene adopted an injured look. Harry had seen it before. She was exceptional at it. "§Harry, I was just trying to make observations of my own… the way he's acting. And the way he walks and shifts about…§"
Harry looked sternly at Selene, "§I think we all know Mr. Brun does not have a pinecone in that orifice. Now, please-please-please refrain from your… shenanigans. §" Pausing briefly, he added, "§ we can enjoy your 'observations' later§." Yeah, she was funny as hell. Harry eventually wanted to hear her feedback, but in a place where he could laugh and smirk without it being rude.
Selene and her sisters snickered a bit, then grew serious.
Mr. Brun seemed slightly annoyed, "Now, back to the questions…"
Soon enough, Director Berger and two members of his staff joined them. The men seemed to be very cordial and polite. Harry didn't sense any falsehood or deceit, but you never know. Settling in, Harry handed over his written statement, then braced for the interview. Interview was a polite way of saying 'voluntary interrogation'.
Two hours later, Harry and Daphne were preparing to leave. All the questions had been answered. Some more than once. Hermione's innocence was stressed and Mr. Brun had to step in four times to prevent questions that had no bearing on the 'interview'. Director Berger had been civil, but it was obvious he felt slighted by the list of questions he was required to stay within. Mr. Brun had developed the list to ensure the interview didn't result in some past crime being investigated. While Director Berger may have had no intention of opening up 'old wounds', Harry's past was too convoluted to allow an open forum for questions. Harry's Runespoor listened to the entire interview, but ultimately deemed it boring. The only time the sisters seemed to perk up was when Harry described killing the Dark Lord.
Director Berger asked one last question. "ϡ Mr. Potter, you don't have to answer this, but I hope you will. When you killed the Dark Lord, did you consider any other options? Non-Lethal? ϡ" seeing Harry's lawyer straighten up, he hastily added, "ϡ Yes Mr. Brun, Mr. Potter operated well within his rights, but I'm curious. ϡ"
"ϡ Director, First of all, I acted on instinct to stop a man holding a knife over my child. ϡ"
This was a question that skirted the 'approved' list and Harry knew he was supposed to just say he reacted on instinct, but he just couldn't let it sit.
"ϡ Honestly, you should be very happy the man is gone. Let me ask you this, did you check the body for portkeys? By your expression, I will assume you did. I won't ask if you found any, because I'm 100% sure you did. Had he escaped, I'd be right back here in a year or so and I promise you it would not be a three week trip. Those guys can only be stopped with lethal force. This time, we got lucky. First, I was able to deal with the majority of the followers at the Lavoisier manor. That was a huge break as it was pivotal in breaking the growing movement. Then, we stopped the assault on Beauxbaton's with minimal loss. Finally, I took the aspiring Dark Lord by surprise and ended the threat decisively. We finally have a bit of peace, let's not start questioning methods now. ϡ"
Director Berger took a deep breath and simply responded with, "ϡ Oui, Monsieur Potter. This could have been far worse, and Magical France owes you a great debt. It does look like the enemy has been… eliminated. ϡ"
Harry's response was pure and from the heart, "ϡ And our children can sleep safe, Director. Never forget that. I still think about little Constance Lavoisier… ϡ"
Director Berger didn't take that as a challenge. "ϡ Agreed. Thank you for coming in Mr. Potter. I sincerely hope your next visit to France is more… tranquil. ϡ"
Harry actually laughed at that, "ϡ You and me both, Director. ϡ"
The group exchanged pleasantries and went their separate ways. Mr. Brun told Harry he had performed adequately and bid them Adieux. Harry, Daphne, and the girls slowly made their way out. Harry was trying hard not to draw attention to himself, but he had attracted a few stares. He knew a few charms that would help him blend in, but the French Ministry was not the right place for that.
As they were leaving, a familiar pair of faces approached. Tracy Davis and Ronald Weasley were not allowed in the interview to ensure there was no conflict of interest or rumours of impropriety. Still, they knew about the interview and wanted to be on site.
Ron lit up when he saw them. Calling out in English, "Harry! Nice work mate! I knew you'd take the tosser down. Good to see you up and around." Ron was loud and proud and full of… something. He started to come close enough for a man-hug, but the girls interposed themselves. Thankfully, Artemis didn't hiss. His girls knew just when to run interference. Except with Ginny. That was awful.
Harry smiled politely, "Hey, Ron. I hear you did pretty well yourself. You too, Davis." He meant it, too. He just meant it a few decibels less than Ron.
Ron's immense enthusiasm frequently overwhelmed Harry. Especially in public settings. Years ago, when he was thirteen, Harry would have been just as loud and proud. But he hadn't felt quite the same way since their fourth year. Still, they had made amends and their friendship was solid. Originally, Harry made the effort for Ginny and Bill. Over the years, it grew easier to go along with the friendship. Especially after what Ron had gone through at Hogwarts in his seventh year***. But they'd never be best mates again. That was a spot reserved for… no one? Well, maybe Bill, but he's closer than a mate… Depressing.
Daphne was hugging Tracy, So Harry reached over Selene's head and shook Ron's hand. Harry was painfully aware that many people were looking at him. Whispering. Ron had effectively blown their cover by calling out his name. In English.
Harry made a point to ask, "So, how're Bill and Hermione? I'm planning to head over now that I've given my statement."
"They're fine mate! Well, Bill's sleeping, but basically alright. Magically exhausted. Hermione's… alright. She could use a friendly face, though. The French Aurors really grilled her. Apparently, she came pretty close to punching the Ministry President's ticket. Weird that they call him the President instead of the Minister. Whatever."
Daphne caught his attention. "Harry, Tracy and I need to catch up. Can we meet up at six?"
Harry nodded, "Sure, that'd be great."
Hecate spoke up, "§Harry, We need girl time…§"
Understanding they didn't really like Ron, Harry knew what they were asking. "Daphne, do you mind if the girls go with you?" Tracy seemed a little surprised, but Daphne didn't.
Daphne gave a cute little shrug. "They're welcome to join us. I could use a little advice, you know. The new witch weekly fashion issue came out and I think my autumn apparel is ready for an update."
The girls were by her side so fast it was almost scary. Harry almost laughed at the way they acted, they really wanted to go shopping. Hecate wasn't really into it, but Selene was and Artemis was curious. Likely she wanted to hear from Tracy about the 'bust'. Everyone assumes they don't understand English. At least until they're around them a bit. They do struggle a bit with French, but Hecate has it down. As the ladies left, it was just Harry and Ron.
"So, mate… Are you going to Ginny's game?" Seeing the uncertainty on Harry's face, Ron misinterpreted. "The whole family will be there. You should come, Harry."
"Honestly, Ron, with everything that's happened I completely forgot. I think I can go… I have a commitment though. Let me get back to you. It'd be nice to take teddy to a game. Hey, enough of that. Let's go see Hermione and Bill."
—Casting Shadows—
World Building: Gringotts
Why do Wizards and Witches use Gringotts? Goblins are nasty little bastards who would feel zero remorse killing Wizards or Witches. They have very little loyalty outside of their own clans and tend to enjoy harassing non-goblins. Why not just have a bank run by Wizards and Witches from the Ministry?
The answer is simple - No one trusts the Ministry with their money. Goblins have a series of treaties that ensures their own survival and autonomy. In return, they are oath-bound through magic to watch and protect the vaults in their care. This means, a corrupt bastard like Minister Fudge can't get his hands on the vaults belonging to families he is opposed to. Like the Black Family Vaults. Once you descend ten feet below street level, you are in the Goblin Kingdom and the Ministry has no influence.
The many old families know this and keep their most valuable objects well out of the Ministry's hands. By agreement, House-Elves can withdraw objects, but Gold/Currency must be managed through Goblin intermediaries – for a fee. Legal documents are also stored this way to prevent the accidental 'miss-filing' at the Ministry. What this means is, every time currency changes hands, the Goblin Nation gets a small percentage.
What this means – Families that wish to have contracts with punitive clauses tend to anchor the contracts 'magically' to ensure all parties honour the agreements. This way, a family bound by a magical contract cannot simply bribe a few officials to get out of the obligation. The Ministry cannot over-rule a magical contract, But they can destroy the original if have it. So the magical community will store said contracts within Gringotts to ensure they stay intact.
The Ministry can still exert influence above street level. They can assign high fees to activate a seat in the Wizengamot, They can re-allocate seats by Proxy where an heir has not been designated or has not claimed a seat. For Example, the Black Family votes/seats were overseen by the Malfoy family before Sirius returned and claimed them. The Ministry can also refuse to research Wizengamot seats that have gone dormant, in essence refusing to find distant cousins, etc. But the Ministry cannot re-assign the content of the vaults. That would require an inheritance test. However, should one of those 'distant cousins' happen to walk into Gringotts and ask for an inheritance test, the Ministry would be forced to recognise the holder.
So, why do business with Gringotts? Because they may be a bunch of unpleasant and cutthroat bastards, but they're a neutral third party and your assets are guaranteed to be protected. The Ministry is only as honest as the people running it.
Note that this works both ways. The Ministry cannot just raid a death eaters vault. They can threaten to throw the Death Eater in Azkaban if he or she doesn't make reparations, but they can't really force a withdrawal from Gringotts vaults. In most cases after the second war, the Ministry sentenced the Death Eaters and could only seize Family Assets above street level for reparations. It hurt, but it did not break the old families. This is how many old Pureblood families that supported Voldemort still have money. Most families paid 'something' in reparations instead of risking the loss of their properties or an extended stay in Azkaban, but the Family Vaults and their content are still their own. Considering that so few are willing to deal with them now, they are having to live off their vaults and whatever they had saved. Unless they can find new means of generating a profit, they are looking at a gradual decline into future insolvency. This was where the Greengrass family was before they aligned with Harry.
—Casting Shadows—
Notes:
I'm in the final few chapters of the Paris portion of Casting Shadows – I'd estimate five more chapters or so. Then, off to South America to break the Greengrass curse. Here's a question for you readers: Would you prefer me to just continue with this story and take it to Peru, or start a new story as a sequel - Casting Shadows 2? There are merits to both and I'd love to get your feedback as readers on this.
*The Duat is the Egyptian land of the dead.
**Dr. Gaines is Harry's psychotherapist in the Dance of Death. Chapter 22.
***To be covered in a future chapter of a Dance with Death. We'll get there eventually, be patient.
****El Hotel Del Salto was a Luxury Hotel in Columbia that was built in 1928 and closed in the early 1990's after the Bogota River became polluted with industrial waste. It is reputed to be quite haunted. In my story, it was purchased in the early 1980's by a magical equity group that Albus Dumbledore was a part of and he invested heavily in the Potter name. Search the internet and look at the images. Imagine how it must have looked, then imagine how it would look with magical maintenance and expansion. Stunning. This will be one of the main base locations in Harry's next adventure.