JKRowling owns Harry Potter and all the characters in that story.
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. Frankly, 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.
Harry wakes up and goes into the French Ministry to give his statement to the French Aurors. He is still adjusting to the idea of Fawkes, but the phoenix is a very independent familiar. His Runespoor has gone shopping with Daphne and Tracey. Harry met up with Ron and the two have gone to visit Hermione and check on Bill. This is where we pick up.
Special thanks to this story's Beta reader, the 'MoleOfWar' for your excellent feedback.
—Casting Shadows 27—
"We'll always have Paris"
~ Rick Blaine, Casablanca 1942
.
Delacour Manor
Friday, August 17, 2001
After Harry's Interview with the French DMLE
Harry and Ron were sitting with Hermione. Ron was beside her on a rather ornate love seat and Harry was in a very comfortable wingback. Bill was still magically exhausted and Fleur went to try and wake him up. Gabrielle was out with friends. Hermione seemed tired and more than a little depressed. Ron was gently rubbing her back while she sipped a glass of wine.
Harry wasn't sure what to say, "So… how are you doing Hermione? Is there anything Ron or I could do to help?" He hated seeing her like this.
Hermione gave a small smile. "No, Harry. I just need a little time." After a moment, she added, "I just can't believe how easily I was controlled. I remember trying to resist, but not having a… I don't know. It's like trying to grab water. I couldn't find a 'purchase' to resist from."
Harry knew this was killing her, "Listen Hermione, you did resist! I could see you resisting and that's what clued me in. Honestly, you're the biggest hero… if it wasn't for you… who knows how many casualties there'd be…?" Harry was jumbling the sentence a bit, but he wanted her to know how important she was. So many people write her off as just a brainy girl… but she is his best friend.
Ron pulled her into a side hug as she teared up. "Oi, none of that! You heard Harry, and we both know how strong you are." She snuggled in close.
"I don't feel very strong Ron… I just feel so… small. And the French Aurors really put me through the wringer…" Ron knew they had been thorough in their questioning and he had warned Harry not to overreact. Hermione had nearly killed the President and there were protocols to follow. He was worried Harry might have one of his famous explosions. But looking over at his friend, he didn't see 'angry Harry', just a guy who was worried about a friend. Damn, when did they all grow up?
Harry stood up, "Say, why don't I go and start a pot of tea." Harry could tell his friends were comforting each other and he was beginning to feel like a fifth wheel. He went into the kitchen to give them a bit of privacy. He also could tell Fleur wanted to talk to him and he hoped she'd come by.
Walking into the kitchen, he sat down in a chair and relaxed. The next year promised to be tumultuous, but wasn't that the norm for him? He had a whole bunch of parties to attend… Let's see.
Gabby's birthday was in a couple of weeks. He needed to really go all out for her. He also needed to help her plan an independent study program. Would Beauxbatons let him visit and teach her a bit? Madame Maxime seemed to like him.
Hermione's birthday was two weeks later… He had a special gift idea for her. An all-expense paid trip for two to Morocco. Hermione could go to see Casablanca for real. Until Bill told him it was actually a place, Harry just assumed it was something made up for the movies.
The Greengrass family had their Equinox party on September 22nd. He'd have to up his 'dance and mingle' game a bit. Maybe he could take a few tips and lessons from Andromeda or even Jeanne Antoinette Poisson*.
Then Samhain, but he always skipped that. Harry never had good luck on October 31. He was beginning to make other plans, but not with anyone else. Worst case, he'd research Astoria's condition by summoning a few of her ancestors… but that may be premature. If he had time, he'd make a quick trip to Peru to check out a few Inca sites and the security of his hotel. Maybe Professor McGonagall could set him up with a contact from Castelobruxo. Best to avoid the rainy season, but it's hard to avoid a season when you have no idea of its dates. Yeah, he needed a guide. What was the curse-breakers name he go on so well with the summer before his third year…? Julia Scott**. She might be worth a call.
OK, back to the mundane world, Dudley had a birthday on November 15… Maybe they could hang out a bit. He kind of missed the big guy. Hanging out and smoking cigars… Jogging to and from the gym… They had some good times. Until the Dursley's had to move to Boston. Maybe he could take Big-D to a boxing match. Vernon too! Yeah... that might be fun.
Neville's housewarming party was sometime around Dudley's Birthday… could he skip it? Ernie would probably be there as well as Susan and Hannah. Yuck. Is he the only person that really disliked the Hufflepuff gossip trio? Maybe Daphne could go and run interference.
November would end with Bill's Birthday… Harry would have to give that some thought. Perhaps one of those nice briefcases in the French shopping area. What was the name of the shop he leased space to? Ah, 'Dans le Sac' and it was very nice. He could really trick it out. Nice fittings and Peruvian Vipertooth construction. Maybe the Weasley crest. Fleur might help.
December seventh was the planned date for the Black Holiday party. Kreacher and Andromeda were really getting into this. Kreacher had really adjusted well to Harry in the last few years. He just seemed so excited about an expansion of the House of Black. He never really took to Ginny.
Then the holidays begin. The Malfoy's have their Yule Ball on December 21th, Christmas Eve would be with Andromeda, Teddy, Cat, and the girls. Maybe Fawkes, too. He'd go to visit the Dursley's for Christmas, then spend Boxing Day with the Weasleys. Hopefully it won't be too awkward with Ginny.
Speaking of Ginny, she had a game tomorrow and then Harry had his final ceremony with the Aina. Where would Aina fit into his life? He should invite her over for the holidays… She didn't seem to have a significant other. When the hell did life get so damn complicated? Harry remembered passing his time with games of Snap and Chess. Responsibilities suck.
Then, a very familiar and welcome presence entered the room. Fleur caught his eye as she entered the kitchen.
ϡ "Harry, I'm sorry, but Bill is too tired to get up. He'll be fine tomorrow, but he's still sleeping." ϡ Fleur Delacour walked up to him as he stood up from his chair. She took him into a hug and started crying. Harry just stroked her back. He seemed to be around a lot of people who cried lately. He was getting better at calming them down. Pregnant women are said to be more emotional, but Harry was smart enough not to say that.
ϡ "Thank you, Harry! You saved my husband. You saved my family." She stepped back and dried her eyes. Reaching up she placed her warm hand against Harry's cheek. "Thank you!" ϡ
ϡ "You guys are like family to me, too Fleur. I can't imagine not having all of you with me." Bracing for a potentially angry Veela, he added, "You know… I didn't so much 'bring him back' as lead him back. I think what tipped the scales was the fact that… I told him you were pregnant. I'm sorry, Fleur, but I need to pull out all stops. I almost didn't get to him in time." ϡ
Fleur opened and closed her mouth a few times. Sort of like a fish. She was obviously trying to figure out what to say next.
Ϡ "Harry, when did you tell him? One minute you were kneeling over him, the next he was breathing again…" ϡ
Ϡ "Well, it seemed like a lot longer… where we were. I hope I didn't ruin your surprise." Ϡ
Ϡ "That's not important, Harry. Well, it is, but not compared to losing the two of you. The surprise I mean, not the baby… The baby is a very big deal." She gave Harry an odd look. "Someday I want to know the full story. Not that 'near miss garbage you're spouting. It was not a near miss and the curse was not poorly cast." Ϡ
Ϡ "OK. Do you mind if we do it when Bill's awake? I get tired just thinking about it." Ϡ
Ϡ "Yes, you look tired." Ϡ Fleur the led Harry over to the kitchen table.
Fleur then summoned and asked a house elf to make tea. Harry asked for a second set for Ron and Hermione.
Ϡ "Alright Harry, what's on your mind?" ϡ
Harry then went through everything he had on his calendar, admitting that he probably had even more. He finally confessed to not really wanting to see Ginny right now. He felt pressured to act like everything was fine, but he wanted to move on. Fleur was a good listener.
Ϡ "Harry Potter. As of right now, you are on Holiday. For the rest of the day, you will do nothing. Tomorrow, you will do whatever you want. That does not include going to Britain to watch a Quidditch match your ex-fiancé is playing in." She then moved in close and made eye contact. "You do not owe her anything! Spend time with your friends and family, but not your old lover. You have… better things to do." Ϡ
Ϡ "Right. I can do that. Do you think Bill will be annoyed?" ϡ
Ϡ "Why would he be? He's not going. The man can't get out of bed. If you are in need of an excuse, just claim magical exhaustion and the need to stay in France for legal reasons. Something like that. Don't let that little redhead push you around, Harry. Guilt only works if you let it." Ϡ
Harry realized how true this was. He'd still take Teddy out and introduce his son to Quidditch, but not to a match Ginny was playing in. Maybe in a few months he'd be ready for a 'Harpies' match, but not now. He needed to focus on Teddy and Catherine.
Ϡ "Thanks, Fleur. I needed to hear that." Ϡ
Ϡ "Anytime, Harry. I'm always here when you need a sympathetic ear." With a sly grin, she added, "One that isn't under a head of red hair." ϡ
—Casting Shadows 27—
Place Cachée
Magical Paris
Shopping District
Daphne and Tracey had enjoyed a very intense shopping excursion. Half way through, they met up with Padma and invited her to join in their day out. The three were frequently given unusual looks due to the Runespoor, but they had money to spend and the Runespoor seemed to get along great with the girls, especially Daphne. Interestingly enough, Padma shared a few thoughts on the differences in the Near Astral plan around Europe and how it differs from the Australian outback***. Hecate seemed to be very engrossed and managed to communicate non-verbally when she agreed or disagreed. It was obvious to Tracey and Daphne they had done this before.
Daphne took the runespoor into the dressing rooms with her and Selene helped her pick out a new wardrobe. Once Padma realized what was happening, she demanded equal time. Tracey was now realizing the Runespoor understood English and was hoping she hadn't said anything inappropriate that would get back to Harry. She definitely said a few things about Harry's cute little 'rear end'. She may have been a little more explicit in her talk. She liked making Daphne blush.
After a few hours, the girls decided to go back to the local bar Tracey and Padma liked. Daphne looked forward to getting off her feet. Attractive shoes were wonderful, but after a few hours… not so much.
—Casting Shadows 27—
Tristesse et Désespoir
(The Gloom and Doom)
Paris, France
French Ministry Hangout
The man working the front saw the three attractive ladies and the Runespoor approach and did a double take. He'd never seen a Runespoor before, but he knew their reputation. He asked the ladies to wait and he went to get the manager. This happened a few times out in the Place Cachée – the wizarding district in Paris.
Soon a well-dressed man in his fifties approached the group. Ϡ "Hello ladies. I'm afraid I can't allow dangerous creatures into my place of business. It's nothing personal, but I have to protect my other patrons." Ϡ
Daphne could also see that Hecate was not happy about being referred to as a 'creature'. Fortunately, the others didn't speak French well enough to understand they had been insulted. Hecate was the most level headed of the bunch.
The famed 'Ice Queen' of Slytherin rose to the challenge. Ϡ First of all, she's not a 'creature', she is a sentient being and deserving of the same respect that the rest of us are due." Daphne noted that Hecate was nodding. "As for dangerous… well, yes. She is quite dangerous. But when you're Harry Potter's traveling companion, you have to be able to defend yourself." Ϡ
Daphne intentionally avoided the word 'familiar'. For some reason, the girls didn't like that. The man in front of them immediately transformed when he hear Harry's name. Harry had somehow become a near national hero here.
The manager did a quick doubletake, saying, Ϡ "This is Harry Potter's familiar?" Ϡ
He cleared his throat, Ϡ "Please accept my most sincere apologies. I meant no disrespect to you or your companions. Perhaps a round of drinks, on the house?" Ϡ
Padma continued, Ϡ "That would be most appreciated, monsieur. I would also request a rabbit for the girls." Seeing him hesitate, she added, "They sell them in the Place Cachée, in the Animalerie." Ϡ
The man took on a squeamish look and hesitantly nodded. Ϡ "Oui. Right this way." Ϡ
To his credit, the manager held the chair out for the Runespoor, whispering out another apology. Artemis was interposing herself between Selene and the man… likely scared for his safety. The other patrons were watching closely. Padma knew that gossip tends to travel quickly and, in a few minutes, they would all know this was Harry's familiar.
Daphne shook her head and switched back to English. "Well, that was rude. I thought you guys said this was a nice place." Selene was nodding intensely. Daphne couldn't help but notice her fangs were extended. Thank god Artemis was there.
Padma shrugged and looked over at the Runespoor. "Sorry about that girls, but you really are the most dangerous ladies here. Beautiful and deadly, it's only natural for men to be nervous." That seemed to amuse them.
Daphne watched the ease Padma had in relating to Harry's Runespoor. They seemed to like Daphne too, but she had a ways to go before they were as relaxed around her as they were with Padma. She was beginning to pick up on their physical cues, but Padma just seemed to know them. Daphne understood that they were friends…
Tracey was still amazed that the Runespoor actually understood English. Suddenly, she considered her lack of filter in today's conversations. She looked over at the Runespoor and said, "Hey, I know I made a few comments about Harry's rear end… and a few other crass comments... I need to know that you girls won't repeat it." Selene seemed amused.
Padma laughed. "Tracey, they're girls. This is girl time. And for the record… I saw Harry wearing only a towel and he was impressive." All the girls at the table began laughing. "So, Daphne… you and Harry? Spill it."
Selene looked smug. It was, after all, her Wizard they were all admiring. Hecate and Artemis were just as proud, but they hid it better. They all were now looking at Daphne.
Daphne remained in control. "We're taking things slowly. Getting to know each other. He just ended a very long relationship with Ginny Weasley…" Selene hissed and all three witches paused and took notice. So did a few other patrons sitting nearby.
Padma reached out and stroked Selene's neck. "Shhhh. That bitchy-witch is gone now. It's all good. You out lasted her."
Tracey had to ask, "What the hell, she doesn't like Weasley?"
Padma scrunched up her face, "Lord no! Ginny would take her magazines without even asking. She bent the pages and… well, let's just say there was a lack of respect." Selene was still for a moment, then nodded. Artemis and Hecate nodded as well. Harry must have had to referee them every time Weasley came around.
Selene was leaning into Padma's hand. Daphne knew exactly what this was - trust. Daphne was taking notes. Selene was obviously Harry's emotional gatekeeper. What had Ginny been thinking? Harry loved all the 'girls', but he was extremely protective of Selene. She was the one that was always rolling around in his hair. She was the one that seemed to enjoy teasing him.
Daphne knew she needed to say something. "You ladies are beautiful. That's what you get when you hang around with Gryffindor witches. They have no appreciation for real beauty." She then added, "And I don't even want to go shopping with anyone else anymore."
Padma smiled, "Amen to that. Harry's been holding out on me."
Tracey was watching with rapt attention. So, the familiar was the way into Harry's circle. Padma knew it and now Daphne did too. They both seemed to enjoy the serpent, but Harry was the real prize. The sword of the DoM and the suitor for the Ice Queen. Lord Black, Lord Potter and Lord Slytherin. Three titles and a three headed snake. Kind of fitting really.
Tracey had to ask, "So, what's the deal with the Phoenix?"
Daphne raised her eyebrows and tilted her head. "Near as we can tell, it bonded with Harry years ago and just now got around to paying a visit." Daphne pulled an olive from her vodka martini and ate it. "It comes and goes… whenever it wants." It definitely seemed to be far more independent than the Runespoor.
Tracey kicked back and sipped her wine, noting that Padma had ordered a nice bottle. 'So, Daff, you have a date with Potter again tonight, care to share?" She waggled her eye brows.
Daphne had been expecting this, "He is now 'officially' courting me. He approached father and everything. I have to admit, I'm looking forward to it. But, like I said earlier, we're taking things slow." She looked directly at Tracey and asked, "Did you know he is the primary owner of the Hotel Del Salto?"
Tracey did a double take, now that was impressive. Maybe she could get a stay in…
Tracey recovered and smirked, "Nice. Honeymoon planned out and everything." Daphne realized she walked right into this.
Soon enough, the food arrived with a second round of drinks. It was exactly what they had ordered with the addition of one live rabbit. The girls just relaxed and enjoyed themselves. After a parseltongue argument amongst themselves, Artemis ate the rabbit. Yes, they may be in the headlines tomorrow, but who really cares? Time to relax and have a little fun.
—Casting Shadows 27—
The Seine River
Venetian Motorboat
~ 9PM
Harry had picked Daphne up as planned at 6:30. She was running a bit late and they apparated off on their date at 6:50. It was a short walk to a luxury tour boat that Harry had booked just for the two of them. Champagne and dinner were served while they gently cruised along the Seine for a beautiful three hour dinner and tour. There was a little confusion when Harry asked if she would rather be someone named Mary-Anne or Ginger. When she didn't understand the reference, he explained it was a Muggle thing. Something about a three hour tour and a deserted island. Daphne smiled and pretended to be amused. At seven thirty, the tour began.
The city was gorgeous and the sun was starting to set. Their main course was now complete and dessert would be served soon. They had managed to finish off a brilliant bottle of Champagne and were on their last glass each. The night just seemed magical. A tray of chocolate covered strawberries was soon served and it paired perfectly with the Champagne.
Daphne looked over at her date. She recalled being nervous around him two weeks ago. Then the nightmares she once had. Now he was officially 'courting' her as they slowly got to know one another. For a powerful wizard, he was pretty humble. He really knocked a home run with this private dinner tour.
"Tonight is lovely, Harry. You really outdid yourself." Daphne said it and she meant it. The sun sets pretty late in Paris during the summer, making this a perfect way to say goodbye to the city of lights.
Harry smiled. "Thanks, Daphne. I have to admit, this has exceeded my expectations. The view is amazing." He wasn't talking about the city.
They stood up and walked together to the edge of the boat. Daphne leaned against Harry and he put his arm around her.
"I'm glad we're taking things slow, but let's not go so slow we miss out on a cruise in the most romantic city on earth…"
Looking up at him, she smiled ever so slightly.
Harry leaned over and gently kissed her as the sun was setting. As he slid his hand to her lower back he realized how attracted to her he was. No, he was absolutely not wasting tonight. He knew he'd be taking things slow, but this was definitely not a moment for a handshake. She tasted just like strawberries and chocolate.
In the end, Harry paid the staff extra and the tour lasted another two hours. They enjoyed Paris through a gorgeous sunset and a brilliant full moon. This may not have been a proper holiday, but this one magical night was worth every minute.
On his first midnight in Paris, he spent it hiding in the shadows in an alley. Armed and ready for any trouble that would come his way. Now, as his trip was wrapping up, he was throwing caution to the wind and just enjoying the magic of the moment.
Vive la France!
—Casting Shadows 27—
International Portkey Departure Site
Paris, France
Saturday, August 18, 2001
10:00 AM
The next day, Harry sent his apologies, but bowed out of the Quidditch match. He cited the same reason as Bill – magical exhaustion. In his case, it wasn't really true, but he wanted a quiet day. One that didn't involve his ex-fiancé. Ron would be disappointed, but Harry just didn't want to go. Hermione met up with her mother and the two went on a wine tasting tour. She was still a little fragile, but she'd be alright. The afternoon with Ron had done wonders.
Unfortunately, it was time for Andromeda to return and Daphne wanted to get back to her brother as well. Harry, Andromeda, Teddy and Daphne had a nice breakfast in Paris, then arrived at the departure site. It was nice and relaxing. Harry promised to take Teddy to a Puddlemere game in a couple of weeks and the boy seemed interested. He really wanted to spend time with his son. Unfortunately, Harry had a little more to do in France before he could depart.
Harry still had his final mentor ceremony the next day and he wanted to set the Malfoy Château up with a decent ward scheme before returning to London and that would take a about a week. Less if Bill helped. They needed new ward stones and would use a fairly basic but very reliable design. He also needed to meet with Aina and planned a night of fun with Catherine. Low stress and all casual. Maybe he would hang out in the five senses gardens and really take in Yvoire. Like he would on a normal Holiday…
The group made their way to the international Portkey site and Harry said goodbye to all. Andromeda and Teddy got a big hug each and Daphne got a soft kiss. And they were off, leaving Harry to relax and unwind alone for the day. He'd meet up with Aina tonight, but for now… calm and quiet. The holiday may have started out tiresome, but it was sure ending on a nice note. If not for last night, Harry probably would never see Paris as a romantic destination. But after the sunset and midnight on the Seine with Daphne, he knew Paris would always be a place he remembered very fondly.
—Casting Shadows 27—
Potter House
Yvoire, France
Sunday, August 19, 2001
4PM
The guests began arriving and it was clear they were anxious. The idea of being in the presence of Oak Heart again was stirring so many of their emotions. Harry and Aina welcomed each guest personally. Harry invited them to explore his property and help themselves to the food that had been prepared. He'd know if anyone tried anything, so there was no harm. Aina stood beside him the entire time.
The visitors walked about his property, around his house and into his back yard. There was no hiding what they most wanted to see, it was his tree. It had grown tremendously in such a short period of time. It now looked almost fully grown, but it only gave acorns to Harry. He could feel it with only a very small amount of concentration. It was so tightly integrated with his own magic, he knew how excited Oak Heart was for this ceremony. He could also sense Fawkes nearby. The phoenix was soaking in the depth of emotions Harry was experiencing. The bird was positively thrilled. His other familiar, the girls, were likewise nearby, happily watching.
As Harry approached the tree, he sensed it had begun weaving the ley lines around the property in a new pattern. A very primal pattern. Shifting his perception, he sensed a new line forming organically. That would be three minor lines. Were they all minor? One of the lines seemed to have gained strength. It was no longer a 'minor' ley line.
That's not possible… Ley lines don't just form. They don't increase in power within such a short period of time. His guests seemed to be watching him. Harry walked up and placed his hand on the tree. "We're home, Grandfather Oak Heart." He then noticed Catherine stepping out from behind the tree. She was smiling in that way she did. Like she was ready to burst into laughter. He so badly wished he could hold her…
His guests gathered around and touched the tree. In a way, this was his family. His extremely extended family. They were all the children of Oak Heart and he knew he had no right to keep them away. Everyone here was so happy, so at peace. In the presence of Oak Heart, there were open tears and heartfelt words. Oak Heart was, at long last, re-united with his long lost children. His majestic presence could be felt everywhere on the property. So clean and pure. With a hint of an alpine forest. A faint scent of fir. A little bit of Harry.
The Children of Caynreth, his extended family, gathered around and pledged their support. They sang of the past and talked of the future. They spoke of the family and of being reunited and made whole. They discussed extended families, spouses and children, even grandchildren and great grandchildren. There were many limbs to this tree, and the roots spread deeply. Many of the guests were musicians. They played their music softly and sang gently in their joy. Of reunification and redemption.
As the evening wound down, Aina called the gathering to order. The attendees gathered around and each person spoke in support of their newest member. They pledged the loyalty and support to the family. Then, Harry was led to a spot in front of the tree. Aina began to sing in 'Sperethiel', a language that had long been forgotten outside of this group of mages. The words of the song encompassed the mentor ritual. It sang of the past and the future, of love and of loss. The song told a tale of the ancient family and their trials through the ages. It held significance. But it was also fun and, at times, it was quite funny.
Harry reflected on Aina and observed that his new mentor was both witty and kind. She had the most beautiful voice he had ever heard. Soon, he was prompted to sing his few verses and was relieved when no one laughed. When the song was done, the gathering cheered and clapped. He was now officially a part of the family.
Harry embraced Aina and quietly apologized to her for having to listen to his painful singing. She just smiled and said it was from the heart. Catherine stayed near him the entire time. As a spirit tied to his magic, she was welcome. He wished Teddy could have been here as well. And Andromeda, his adopted mum. But this was only for the core family. Some rules were not to be broken.
Harry relaxed and mingled with his guests. He thought of Bill and Fleur. He thought of Victoire and her unborn sibling as well. Thinking about Bill and Fleur brought his mind around to his new apprentice, Gabrielle. He knew Gabby would love this and so would… Daphne. Heart-breaking, brilliant and beautiful Daphne. As he reflected, Harry realized that Ginny was no longer the centre of his life. She was his first love and would hopefully remain a friend. But his heart was, ever so slowly, moving on.
A few short weeks ago, Harry thought his life had been irrevocably shattered into thousands of pieces. He was certain that he had lost everything that mattered and would forever be alone and forgotten. Now, he was blessed with more love and family than he could have ever hoped for. Life is at times like a powerful river, churning and surging. Other times, it's a calm and gentle stream, warm and comforting. It ripples and flows in mysterious ways.
Harry Potter, the Master of Death. The Keeper of the Books of Harrow and the Champion of the Light Bearers… had found where he belonged.
He was happy.
—Casting Shadows 27—
The Paris Catacombs
Later That Same Night
Well After Midnight
A dark figure moved silently through the catacombs. It was silent as a ghost and darker than the night. It meandered about, searching for very specific objects. Over the course of three hours, it covered a great deal of space. Finally, it looked at what had been collected and decided it was done. With a whisper, the figure was gone. It's mysterious purpose complete.
To be continued.
—Casting Shadows 27—
* Jeanne Antoinette Poisson, also known as Madame de Pompadour. Harry has references her lessons before. With the Resurrection Stone, he has summoned a few tutors that are no longer living, but whose knowledge was renowned.
** Julia Scott was an apprentice/novice curse-breaker Harry met in the Dance of Death, chapter 8.
*** The Near Astral Plane reflects the material plane. The Hall of Ma'at was in the Deep Astral area – where the 'wild things' are… Not a place you can easily get in or out of.
What a ride this has been! After 27 chapters, Harry's Holiday in France is finally over. He started out unlucky in love, but found a few new doors had opened. He began making that tough transition into adulthood and has to deal with all the new responsibilities that come with it. He came to love France, but the character is ready to take a break from it for a while. So, back to Britain and South America. I will not create another story for the second part, I'll just add new chapters to this one.
In the short term, there will be a pause on this story while I finalize the currently rough outline for the adventure in South America. I'll also try to clean up a few of the early chapters where there are grammatical errors and misspellings to correct (apparently most people hate the use of the word thru). Once I have the first few chapters of the South American segment written, I'll begin posting them once more at a pace of approximately a chapter every two weeks. One week to write and one week to edit. The Time buffer from the pre-written work will help me through the dry periods and keep those of you following the story from getting too frustrated. I'll hopefully wrap up the Prequel story as well - that story has taken far longer than originally planned.
A special thanks to all of you who have left feedback and thoughts over the course of the story. I have tried to respond to each of you as long as you have an account. For those of you who are leaving 'Guest' reviews, I can't send a PM to thank you, but I absolutely appreciate the feedback. As of my writing this chapter, I have broken the 1000 followers mark and that is very reaffirming. I'm writing for the creative release, but it is nice to know I have so many of you who enjoy the story.
When the story picks back up, there will be a short time jump and Harry will be firmly back in Britain and planning for his trip to South America. It will start out slow and pick up speed as the next part of the story gains momentum. It will start faster than the 'Paris' portion as there will be no breakup to deal with.