JKRowling owns Harry Potter and all the characters in that story.

FASA owns Earthdawn

When we left off, Harry was back in Great Britain and beginning the process of making change. He is laying the foundations for his family's future as well as preparing to travel to South America and break the Greengrass curse. Bill has stepped back from the dangerous lifestyle of a curse breaker and accepted that he is a husband and a father first. Things change when people get married and they change more when they start having children. Harry is planning to use him for reference and support while bringing Aina in to travel with him. Good times.

Harry also has rejected a settlement with various pureblood families that sided with Voldemort in the war. They maintain that the Black Family pressed them into supporting the Dark Lord and they are due compensation. Unfortunately, the Black family has more assets than Harry and Andromeda can comfortably manage and they are looking for ways to divest. Harry is forcing the pureblood families suing him to meet face to face to resolve their issues and discuss possible future alliances and the divestiture of assets.

The story continues as Harry attends the Greengrass Equinox party.

§ - Parseltongue will start and end with § and be in italics. §"Example of Parseltongue being spoken."§

Ϡ - French will start and end with Ϡ when translated.
Ϡ "Example of French being spoken." Ϡ

—CS—

Special thanks to my Beta Reader, the 'MoleOfWar' for the excellent feedback and diligent work in making the story better.

Chapter 30 – A Whale of a Time

Greengrass Manor

September 22, 2001

Afternoon

Harry was fidgeting in a sitting area. The Greengrass Equinox party was set to start in approximately two hours and he was mildly dreading it. He was now officially courting Daphne and etiquette required him to assume a more front and forward position and assist in receiving guests. It wasn't the 'receiving' that bothered him, it was the guest list he'd gotten a chance to look at. Sometimes he thought Ginny had the right idea. Screw it all and go play Quidditch.

Ginny still hadn't written him back and he hadn't been able to meet her in person. If this is what a 'good' break up was like, he really wanted no part of a 'bad' break up. It wasn't like anything malicious had happened, but he kept waiting for her to turn into her mother and lambast him. Rationally, he knew she had broken up with him, but he had moved on faster than expected. Given the way his friends would stiffen up when Ginny's name was mentioned made it clear they were expecting an explosion as well.

A quiet voice pulled him out of his thoughts. "What's on your mind, Harry?"

Harry looked over at Daphne. She looked stunning in her evening dress… The dress was emerald green with silver trim. It was conservative in that it extended past her knees and almost to her neck, but also fitted and flattering. He caught a trace of her perfume as she approached… it was intoxicating. She was a vision of beauty and grace and he wanted her badly.

Harry made eye contact and realized she had caught him staring. "What was that?" He asked.

Daphne grinned, her eyes were smiling more than her mouth. "You looked like you were contemplating your own funeral procession. Until you noticed my dress." She looked amused…

Harry laughed a little, he was busted. What had he been thinking about? … Oh. Ginny. Nope, not touching that…

Harry decided to focus on the guest list. "I'm just wondering how some of the guests will react to my presence. It seems like half the attendees are suing me and after yesterday's decision to make them negotiate one on one… Tonight could be pretty rough."

Daphne pursed her lips. "First of all, it won't be anywhere near half that are suing you. Perhaps five or ten percent at most. Additionally, this isn't uncommon at all. In our society there are always conflicts and feuds between houses but it is never addressed socially." She moved in and straightened his tie. "No one will bring it up at the party. If they do, it will be viewed as a significant breach of etiquette. As for yesterday, I seriously doubt your solicitor has had time to contact any of the families named in the suit. We were at Gringotts until late in the afternoon and today is Saturday."

Harry could smell her perfume. It wasn't what she normally wore… This was slightly thicker. Roses and other flowers… a little vanilla and citrus. It sort of sparkled and made him think of ultra clean laundry that had been dried outside on a crisp spring day. It was enticing.

Harry looked at her brilliant blue eyes, she knew she was affecting him. "I like your perfume…" Lord he wanted her. She was obviously enjoying this.

"I'm glad to hear it." She finished on his tie. "You look very sharp, Harry. I wish I could just devour you here and now…" She flashed her brilliant smile and winked. The Ice Queen had vanished. They were now just staring at each other. Both had the same idea…

A familiar voice called out, "Stop trying to seduce your date, Potter."

Harry turned to face Draco. The young head of the Malfoy family was smirking and enjoying the awkwardness he'd caused. His date, Astoria Greengrass, looked amused and slightly embarrassed. Well, at least their parents weren't there. Despite his best efforts, Harry broke into a grin and chuckled. Yeah, he'd been busted.

Harry took in the couple. In many ways, they were the inverse of how he and Daphne looked. Draco was icy with platinum blonde hair, fair skin, and pale eyes. Astoria had similar features as her sister, but she was warm where Daphne was not. She had hazel eyes, brown hair, and a black dress. Astoria was warm where Daphne was icy cool.

Harry remembered his manners. "Astoria, you look lovely." He then turned to Draco, "The Greengrass sisters make us look like the luckiest guys in Britain."

Daphne wrapped her arm around Harry's and greeted the pair. "You both look amazing. Tonight will be so much fun."

Draco smiled, then looked at Harry's neck in a strange way. "What's wrong with your collar? I saw it when you turned around."

Daphne looked up. "It's kind of… not touching…" She reached up to fix it. "Why won't it sit flat?"

Harry groaned, "That's my shield. It blends in, but adds about an eighth of an inch all around." Seeing the confused looks, he added, "You know, in case someone decides to poison me on the dance floor."

The mood suddenly became supremely uncomfortable.

Harry shrugged. "Seriously, it happens. Draco, I can make you one too if you'd like." Harry could tell no one knew what to say.

Draco faltered a bit, then said, "I'm good. I really don't think you need that tonight." Harry noted a strange look on his face. Sympathy?

Harry ran his hand through his hair. "I know it may seem unusual, but one of my teachers insisted… Seriously, no one has ever noticed it before… It even feels natural."

Daphne gave his arm a squeeze. "Which teacher…? I really don't think you are at risk, Harry."

Here we go… "Madame Pompadour killed dozens of Wizards with a prick on the back of the neck. There are tons of poisons that take days to show up. By the time you know you've been poisoned… Then there's the dermal poisons on the back of the hand. I have a charm for those. My ring picks them up as well. She got a lot of Wizards with that trick, too."

Astoria asked, "Who told you this, Harry? No one ever proved Madam Pompadour was an assassin… She was a patron of the arts…"

Harry realized it was about to get awkward. "I summoned her and she trained me for a year." A year and a day actually. "Madame Pompadour, also known as Jeanne Antoinette Poisson, was a lot of fun. She taught me a great deal about how to spot dangerous situations at parties. I also summoned Lucrezia Borgia, but she was just plain crazy. Good with poisons though. Do you know most detection charms don't detect combinations that exceed two ingredients?"

Draco cut the awkward silence. "Harry Potter, the life of the party." With a smirk he added, "Well, Daphne, let me be the first to offer my congratulations on being Harry's first living date!"

"Oi! I don't date my teachers… Wait. You're joking."

Draco continued. "Are you wearing armour under your dress robes?" He was clearly making a joke.

Harry looked away for a moment. "Nothing bulky…" He did have a very thin curse repelling under shirt. It was nothing major or noticeable. It'd turn a knife's edge as well, but not a thrust. Suddenly everything got awkward again.

"Seriously?" Harry was starting to get a little irritated. "Do you guys have any idea how many times someone has tried to kill me? They always do it when I'm relaxed and having fun. Remember the Goblet of Fire? Chamber of Secrets? Beauxbatons Gardens? Hell, I can come up with a dozen times I relaxed and paid the price for it. Walk a mile in my shoes…" Harry wondered how they would have reacted if he had brought his pistols and a dirk.

Daphne remembered how injured he had been after the Beauxbatons gardens. She also remembered the way he had looked seven years ago when his name came out of the Goblet… Her house had enjoyed it. The year he suffered constant curses… Time had made it easy to forget so much of the pain he suffered that year.

Daphne knew he needed her now. "Layers or not, you look amazing." Seeing Harry calm, she added, "So, Madame Pompadour? Who else have you summoned?"

Harry rubbed his chin. What the hell… "I've summoned a lot of trainers. Vinda Rosier was a disappointment. She was a dangerous witch, but she died years before anyone knew. Lycoris Black replaced and impersonated her."

Draco did a double take. "Lycoris Black? Now there's a dangerous witch if ever there was one. She was one of the reasons so few families would cross the Blacks. She's also one of the primary reasons Metamorphmaguses are so mistrusted. Did you summon her?"

Harry shook his head, "Tried to, but she's either resting in peace or… well, her name may actually be different. That makes it very difficult to summon someone." He then amended it with, "Unless they want to be summoned. Which she clearly doesn't." He had summoned so many trainers over the years…

Daphne didn't like the dark turn this conversation had taken. "We have over an hour before any real activities begin. Harry, tell us a few of Madame Pompadour's stories."

The next hour was spent with Harry sharing what he had learned about the court of King Louis XV. The intrigue and the danger as well as the extravagant parties and the romantic liaisons. Soon his anxiety was gone and Harry simply settled in and relaxed with his friends. At one point he sensed Catherine in the astral plane, listening closely. She had heard much of this before, but she still loved it. It was nice having her nearby.

Soon Michael Greengrass joined them with his date, Aimee Rosier from France. She was the older sister of one of the girls Harry had rescued in Paris and she couldn't have been nicer. Apparently, the French Rosiers were very different than the British Rosier family. Something about an argument over land and inheritance. She was fun and vivacious and Michael seemed quite taken with her.

—Casting Shadows—

Greengrass Estate

Later that Evening

Harry stood beside Daphne as the arriving guests were greeted and welcomed into the home. Daphne's parents were the primary hosts along with her older brother, but she and Astoria were expected to assume hostess duties as well. Over the last two years, Harry had been to numerous Balls and events. Andromeda had always made sure he was ready and understood how to behave as a well-mannered guest, but this was different.

As Daphne's date, he was expected to back up Michael Greengrass and make sure the guests were all welcomed and entertained. Daphne, Draco, and Astoria seemed to manage effortlessly while he struggled. Andromeda was throwing a Black family Holiday Ball in December, so this was good practice. In truth, he didn't really give a damn if people were well fed and happy. They accepted the invitation and if they didn't enjoy themselves, that's their problem.

Harry was one hundred percent certain Daphne wouldn't agree with that sentiment. So, he smiled and shook hands. Cringing at the idea of having his back exposed to so many people. He remembered how vulnerable he felt when his thorns were removed in his sixth year – this was very similar.

Andromeda and Narcissa arrived together and checked up on both Draco and Harry. They made small talk with Daphne and Astoria while pointing out prominent Wizengamot members. The guests continued to trickle in and Harry realized most attendees were eager to meet him. A few seemed nervous around him and a very small number openly avoided him.

Daphne took his arm and directed him toward her brother and Aimee who were speaking to another couple. The scene looked terse and Harry vaguely recognized the other couple, but he couldn't place them.

Daphne whispered, "That's Joseph and Wilhelmina Selwyn. They're distant cousins and they tend to escort one another to events when neither is in a relationship. Joseph is the Selwyn heir and Wilhelmina was once Michael's fiancé." Harry noted her tension. Likely it had been a less than amicable separation.

Harry leaned toward her. "She looks familiar… Why did they break up?"

"Michael was pressured into the betrothal agreement by the Selwyn family. Until recently, the Greengrass family was an ally and a vassal of the Selwyn's and we once had very close ties. Michael loathed her and used her incarceration to get out of the betrothal."

Harry checked her arm, but it was bare. "Not a Death Eater… Why was she incarcerated?"

Daphne smiled softly and shook her head. "No, she once attacked a student at Hogwarts. The heir of an Ancient and Most Noble family…" She raised her eyebrows as if she was expecting him to react… Then it hit him.

"She's one of those three Slytherin students that attacked me in my fourth year! I thought she had been arrested…"

Daphne nodded. "Arrested and sent to minimum security for five years. Out in two for good behaviour, but she's now considered 'damaged goods' from her incarceration and resents Michael for moving on."

Harry briefly made eye contact with the woman. If looks could kill, he would be dead and buried. Yeah, and he was criticized for wearing a transparent neck shield. Michael was looking conflicted and Aimee looked ready to kill. Fortunately, Jeanne had instructed him on how to diffuse this specific kind of problem. Jilted lovers were nothing out of the ordinary in the French Aristocracy.

Harry whispered, "Let's end this…" and led Daphne toward the two couples. Daphne seemed reluctant, but she went along.

Harry stepped forward. "Heir Selwyn … so good to see you again. It's been what, five years since we met. I believe you were taking your NEWTs." He then turned to the Slytherin beside Joseph. "I feel certain we've met, but when and where escapes me…" He wanted to see what she would say.

The Selwyn Heir scowled. "This is a private conversation, Potter." Michael was about to retort, but Harry beat him to it.

"That's Lord Slytherin, Heir Selwyn. Although Lord Potter or Lord Black are acceptable as well." Harry stood his ground expecting the pair to leave, but they did not. It was a rather uncomfortable few moments. He'd give them credit for courage. Or maybe it was just stubbornness.

Michael spoke up, "Lord Slytherin," Both of the Selwyn's sneered at the title, "allow me to present Heir Joseph Selwyn and Miss Wilhelmina Selwyn."

Harry gave a small nod. "Pleasure." But it clearly wasn't. "So, I do recall meeting Miss Selwyn before. It's been a while."

Wilhelmina hissed back, "Not long enough!" Her hatred was palpable. Her attack on Harry had cost her so much… Her betrothal, her freedom, her social standing, and now he was an obstacle in the way of her family's wealth recovery.

Daphne interrupted, "Michael, could I speak with you privately for a moment?" Turning to Harry, "Harry, would you mind getting refreshment for Aimee?" She then turned to Joseph and Wilhelmina, "Joseph and Wilhelmina, so good to see you again." Daphne then escorted her brother away.

As Harry led Aimee away, he asked, "Are all the Equinox parties like this?"

She huffed, "Zat woman is a bitch. But we won't let her ruin ze evening. In matters of ze 'eart, zere are winners and zere are losers." She smiled brilliantly at Harry. "Daphne is most attracted to you. My younger sister is quite envious."

Harry shrugged with a grin. "She was very brave. Your sister, that is. Not Wilhelmina. Daphne is brave too. We fought together at Hogwarts in the final battle… I should take her to Beauxbatons and tour the gardens. Gorgeous."

Aimee grinned, "I assume you are referring to ze Beauxbatons Gardens. Or is it Daphne and my little sister you think are gorgeous?"

Harry couldn't suppress a grin. "All of the above." They had reached the punch bowl and Harry prepared her a cup. He even checked it silently for potions or poisons. Clear.

Aimee asked, "Have you seen ze garden in back?" Harry shook his head, "I'll show you zen. Let us get as far away from zose people as possible."

As they walked out the back door, Harry noted Daphne was calming Michael down. Draco and Astoria were nowhere to be seen, and the Selwyn's were talking animatedly with a Wizengamot member. Apparently, they could be charming when the moment called for it.

Aimee tugged on his arm. "You seem distracted… What is on your mind?"

Harry considered the evening so far. "I frequently struggle with Wizarding culture. I miss being in the field and exploring lost sites and ancient civilizations. The markets of Cairo, the deserts of the Sudan. The jungles of India…" Harry took a deep breath. "In Wizarding society, the rules of engagement are so convoluted. I really wanted to just crush those two…"

Aimee laughed. "But you did, 'Arry. Zey were so critical of Michael and his choices… Allowing his sister to be 'corrupted' by a Half Blood… Zen you showed up and zey were too afraid to openly speak. You shamed zem. Trust me, zey will be among the first to leave." After a brief pause, she asked, "Do you really miss the travel and adventures?"

Harry weighed his answer carefully. "I miss the freedom. The peace and the quiet. The stars are so much brighter away from the cities and the air is crisp and clean. But without a family to come back to, travel kind of loses its sparkle. It isn't travel anymore, it's just… I don't know… wandering, I suppose."

Aimee took his arm. "And who does 'Arry Potter most look forward to coming home to?"

Harry took a moment and realized how full his life was. "I have a godson, a spirit daughter and two familiars… Daphne and Andromeda… Bill and Fleur… Two wonderful house elves. No, three now. Three house elves. I have a lot to come back to. I guess it's all about perspective."

"Zat is a very good answer. No wonder Daphne is so enamoured wiz you." She then looked around at the patio. "I'm afraid it 'as gotten too dark to enjoy ze garden. But ze fresh air 'as been nice. Come now, introduce me to your friends." She led him back into the Manor.

Harry slowly realized as they walked through the attendees how few friends he actually had. Sure, he knew most of the faces, but they were just faces… Most of his friends wouldn't be at a 'Pureblood' Ball. Finding someone to introduce to Aimee became a quest to prevent embarrassment. Then he saw Cedric Diggory standing to the side. Alone.

Cedric had never been over the top cruel to him during the Tri-Wizard tournament years… well, not compared to the rest of the school. After fourth year, he had worked with Hermione to train up the Defence Association. He was now on some kind of fast track in the ministry. Maybe he'd be acceptable.

Harry led Aimee and approached Cedric. As he moved closer, Harry suddenly realized Cedric was over six feet tall. Harry was maybe three inches shorter… Of course… Prat. Cedric was also just as good looking as he was in school, too. Double prat. Well, a least he was alone.

"Hello Ced… um…Heir Diggory."

Harry wasn't sure if he was an 'Heir' or not. His confusion must have shown as Cedric smiled politely and Harry realized he had screwed up the introduction. The Diggory family was influential in the ministry, but they didn't have a hereditary seat on the Wizengamot. No, he was not an 'Heir'. Damn this was hard. In France it was easy, everyone was a stranger. There also were no aristocratic titles to worry with.

Harry shook it off, "Allow me to introduce Aimee Rosier from France. She's here with Michael." Harry corrected himself, "She's with Heir Greengrass." Damn, he knew how to do this… Recover! "You'll have to forgive me, my social skills are a bit rusty. I've been… in the field too long."

Cedric gave a polite nod, "That's alright, Harry. I read the paper." He flashed Harry a brilliant white smile, then turned to Aimee. "Bonjour mademoiselle Rosier, c'est un plaisir de vous rencontrer." In a smooth and fluid gesture, he took her hand and kissed it.

Harry considered how easy it would be to knock out a few of those white teeth. Yes, it was a simple 'it's a pleasure to meet you', but it was said in French. Harry felt irritation not just because Cedric was so smooth, but he properly addressed her in French and Harry hadn't thought to do that.

Aimee replied in English, "Zank you very much, Mr. Diggory. It is very nice to make your acquaintance as well. Please, call me Aimee. Do you work with 'Arry?" Harry always enjoyed hearing the French pronounce his name. When they drop the 'H', it sounded amazing. Fleur use to do that, until her English improved. In his mind, it wasn't really an improvement.

Cedric shook his head and smiled. "I'm afraid not. My excitement is limited to the ICW bureaucracy. I serve as the undersecretary to Britain's ambassador. Harry saves the day and I make sure no flying carpets come to our shores. And please, call me Cedric." Too smooth. Polished. Why did Cedric have to be such a nice guy?

Harry felt like he had to say something. "Flying carpets get a bad rap. In a lot of ways they're less of a risk than brooms. To the Statute of Secrecy, that is. I mean, I guess you could fall off one, but that's true for brooms as well."

Aimee asked, "Amazing, 'ave you ever been on one 'Arry?"

"Lots of times. The cheap ones are awful and a definite threat to the Statute, but good ones actually have a disillusionment charm woven into the thread. Makes it blend in with the sky. Don't get me wrong, I still love a fast broom, but there are some places where a magic carpet makes more sense."

Cedric adopted the demeanour of the polite diplomat. "You obviously have more experience with them than I do, but I'd love to discuss further with you some time." Harry realized that was a polite way of ending the discussion. No debates at a party…

Harry embarrassedly mumbled, "Sure. Sometime. I don't really feel all that strongly either way to be honest. I struggle for conversation topics that don't involve combat, violence, and ancient magic." Why in the hell did he just say that? Stop talking… "What else are you up to Cedric?"

Harry then saw Cho approach. Oh Merlin no. He had assumed she wasn't here… To top it off, she looked pregnant. Harry remembered how she used to get all weepy when he'd ignore her, how much worse would it be pregnant? Try as he might, Harry couldn't think of a way out of this.

Cedric put his arm around Cho protectively. Lovingly. "Aimee, this is my wife Cho. Cho, this is Michael's date, Aimee Rosier." He cautiously added, "And of course you know Harry…"

Cho smiled kindly, but her eyes looked wet. A small tear ran down her face. "Sorry, it's the hormones." But Harry knew it was probably just as much him. That article about his life must have stirred things up again.

Harry chewed his lip a moment. He realized he really had no choice. He held out his hand until she took it, then he kissed her knuckles. Hopefully her knuckles weren't poisoned, his ring was on his other hand.

He then awkwardly said, "Congratulations on the baby. You'll make a great mother. Cedric too. As a father, not a mother." Then, in a moment of horror, he wondered if she had just gotten really fat. "I heard someone say you were expecting… You don't look it though."

Harry realized how pathetic his recovery was. Why didn't he just keep his mouth shut? Cedric was staring at him like his had caught swallowed a bug. Dead silence.

Aimee rescued him, "You look so beautiful, Cho. May I call you Cho? You are positively glowing as only an expecting mother can. So, 'ow far along are you? And please, call me Aimee."

Cho sniffled, then smiled and placed her hand on her belly. "I'm almost eight months along. We're very excited, but I'll be glad when this trimester is over." She glanced amusedly at Harry. "I'm as big as a whale."

Aimee shook her head, "Nonsense, you are stunning. I want to hear all about it… 'Arry, Cedric, if you'll excuse us." The two ladies then walked off.

Harry ran his hand through his hair. "Well, good thing I'm so smoooooth."

Cedric laughed out loud, then ended his mirth shaking his head. "Ohhhhh boy. Did you just think she had gained weight? All in one spot?" He gestured toward his stomach and started laughing again. "What did you think she meant when she referenced her hormones?"

Harry groaned. "I wasn't sure. Let's just let it go." Desperate to change the subject, Harry said, "I did want to ask you about something. I'm planning to go back to Hogwarts next year and it'd be good to have some alumni mentoring. The Houses are all fighting and there's a ton of animosity. You were kind of the 'hero' of Hufflepuff and it'd be good to get you involved. You know, to help the kids."

He had been kicking the idea around for a while now… Get a few graduates to help diffuse the fighting and division at Hogwarts. He probably should have cleared it with McGonagall before approaching anyone, but he had to say something. Something that didn't involve Cho.

Cedric looked intent for a moment, then said, "That sounds like a great idea, count me in. I had heard you planned to teach for a year… Are you really going to lead Slytherin House?"

"Yep." Harry shrugged. "Gryffindor threw me out if you recall, and apparently I really am the Heir of Slytherin. Through my supposedly Muggle-born mother. It's strange saying that after the whole Chamber of Secrets mess."

"Strange doesn't begin to cover it." Cedric appraised him a moment then asked, "Did you actually do any of that… stuff?"

Harry looked at him briefly. "I didn't open the chamber and attack students, if that's what you mean. I absolutely did kill the Basilisk and I rescued the possessed student that had been controlled. By a shade of Voldemort." Harry got a guilty pleasure watching Cedric flinch at the use of Voldemort's name. "The only year that I didn't fight Voldemort or his minionswas my third year… that was Dementors. Between you and me, I'd take Voldemort over the Dementors any day."

Cedric gazed off in thought. "A Basilisk… I heard about it. The whole school did when you sold the… remains." He was quiet then said, "We all know you had it pretty rough. I'm sorry you had to go it alone. We all are." Harry noted Cedric was smart enough not to mention Cho.

Harry hated apologies, but this one didn't seem so bad. "I had friends who stood by me." He decided to throw Cedric a bone, "You stood by me in the end. You saved Colin…" There, now no one could say he'd been a poor host.

Cedric seemed to appreciate it. Prat. But, Cedric had protected Colin…

Harry couldn't suppress a grin at Colin's name. "That Colin… It's like he can't avoid trouble. And he never backs down from a fight."

Cedric smirked. "I could say the same about you. Have you seen him lately? I hope he's well."

Harry ignored the first comment. "We met up in Paris. Colin is an amazing photographer. At least as near as I can tell… He went through a small fortune learning his craft." Most of the money from his share of the Basilisk. "He took a photo journalism class at a muggle university after graduation. I'm not sure where or how he got in without muggle schooling." Harry made a mental note to ask him at some point.

"It's great you kept up with him, Harry. Magical photography is a difficult skill to learn. The few who teach it are extremely protective of their knowledge… I can see why it cost him so much. I've heard it's all in the development process."

Harry knew Colin had struggled early on. "I'm working to bring him to Hogwarts as a Photography teacher. The Black family donates to Hogwarts and an endowment for the arts would let others learn the trade."

Cedric raised his eyebrows and nodded, "That would be great, Harry. Really… Colin always stood by you. You were a good friend to him." Cedric then changed to subject and gestured across the room. "There's Susan and Ernie. About time those two got together."

Harry groaned. "They always gossiped about me."

Cedric tensed up. "You know Amycus and Alecto used them for Cruciatus practice in their seventh year. They claimed it was punishment for gossiping and rumour mongering." He quickly added, "But we know they wanted to punish Susan for her Aunt's resistance. I wasn't there, but I heard it was bad."

"Oh." Harry winced thinking about teenagers going through that. "Those two Death Eaters were pretty vile." He had really cut loose on them… He had no regrets. None at all.

Cedric turned politely to him. "I better go find my wife. It was nice catching up, Harry. Really… It's amazing how you've stayed… It's good to see you."

"You too Cedric. Tell Cho… I'm happy for her. For you both." Harry held out his hand and Cedric took it graciously, then went to find Cho.

Watching him go, Harry decided holding onto his animosity was a waste of his time. Cho was about to be a mom and she probably had her own issues. Cedric annoyed him, but it was partly because he was so polished. Envy was something that he didn't want. Who needs it?

Harry thought he saw a flash of Daphne's head heading to another room and decided to join her. If he was as tall as Ron, this would be easy… It took Harry a good five minutes to weave through the people. There were quite a few attendees from the ministry. He actually saw Percy, but avoided him. The two had never really gotten on before and now that he and Ginny weren't together, why bother? Bill and Fleur were in France… Arthur made a point of only going to the Ministry Yule Ball. What was Percy doing that warranted an invitation?

Harry stopped thinking about Percy and finally made it to where he thought he had seen Daphne. It took him a minute to realize he was now in 'Slytherin country'. Draco was there looking irritated… Also there were Zabini, Parkinson, Bulstrode, and others he didn't know. Daphne wasn't in the room, though. Astoria was also not there.

One young man approached him… He was about Harry's height and rather slender. Something about him looked vaguely familiar.

He seemed nice enough. "Hello, Lord Potter. You probably don't remember me, but I was the Slytherin Seeker in your first year. Terence Higgs." He seemed like an amicable enough guy.

Harry smiled and offered his hand. "I thought I recognized you. Wow… that was a long time ago." They shook hands. "So Terence, what are you up to now?"

"Ministry… I'm head of the Foreign Affairs and Sports Department. We're a subdivision of the International Magical Cooperation Department, with strong ties to the Department of Magical Games and Sports. And call me Terry."

Harry was a little surprised at the man's friendliness. "Only of you'll call me Harry. That's great. Your job sounds great, I still try to keep up with Quidditch." He felt like he had to share a bit more. "I'm a Curse-Breaker. Mostly. Lots of travel, interesting food, learning not to drink foreign water… pretty much just kicking around and seeing the world."

Terry grinned, "Riiiight. And d Dating gorgeous witches… stopping Stopping Dark Lords… Hunting treasure…"

Harry grinned. "It's a rough life." He liked this guy.

Terry laughed, "No doubt!"

Harry heard Pansy Parkinson snort derisively. Both he and Terry ignored her.

Zabini chimed in, "Hey Terry, tell us what you're working on now." By the way he phrased it, he already knew.

Terry was obviously eager to share. "Next year is the Quidditch World Cup, so my department's pretty busy. Bulgaria is hosting and they're favoured to win. But, it's not a sure thing. Egypt has a hot new Seeker and Brazil is looking pretty good, too. It'd be nice to see Krum win the cup. He's getting a bit long in the tooth and it's unlikely he'll see another World Cup."

Harry responded with, "Now I know who to come to for tickets!" He made a note to support Victor.

A nasty voice asked, "Aren't there any Gryffindor graduates you can make time with, Potter?" Obviously Pansy didn't want him around. Harry hadn't forgotten that she had wanted to offer him up before the final battle at Hogwarts. Looking over, Harry realized a few people seemed to agree, but most were embarrassed by her outburst.

Pansy leaned forward in her chair, a sneer on her face. "What's the matter, Frankenstein? Cat got your tongue?"

Harry wanted to punch her in the face. Arrogant bitch. But this was Daphne's family's party and no good would come of it.

Draco bailed him out. "Easy up Pansy, Harry is a direct descendant of Salazar Slytherin and he'll be head of Slytherin house next year." He added, "We all know how much Slytherin House needs support these days."

Pansy just glared, "Slytherin House wouldn't need support if…" She was smart enough not to continue. The small room got very quiet.

Harry stepped forward. Through clenched teeth, he hissed, "Say it…"

Pansy laughed maliciously. "Or what? You'll glare at me?" Her sneer was back now. "You know, my family didn't have any Death Eaters in it. We never profited during the occupation and we were never forced into any reparations. Oh, we had to pay up a bit here and there, for our anonymity… But so did most families. So did the Greengrasses. I imagine most of the people at this party either want to kiss your ass or shove a hot poker up it."

Zabini chuckled, "Pansy Parkinson… How I've missed your eloquent retorts." Harry noted Zabini actually did seem to look amused. He also had a gorgeous brunette on his arm. She had to be at least five foot ten… and wearing three inch heels put her over the six foot mark. They made a striking couple.

Zabini then stepped forward, "Lord Potter, congratulations appear to be in order. Nice work in France." With a suave gesture, he introduced his date. "Allow me to introduce Vivianna Bianchi."

Harry stepped forward, "It's nice to meet you, Miss Bianchi."

The beautiful woman smiled. She was sultry… "Buonasera Signor Potter. Non sei come quello che mi aspettavo. Pensavo saresti stato più alto. Sei comunque molto carino."* She held out her hand.

Harry took her hand and noted that his ring remained inert – no poisons. He kissed the back of her hand and looked up at Zabini. "I'm afraid I don't speak Italian."

The suave Slytherin shrugged and said, "She wishes you a good evening and thinks you are… very nice."

Harry knew she had used the word 'Alto' at one point… Something about being 'tall'…

Pansy laughed. "She called you 'short', Frankenstein." For fun she added, "Imagine what she'd have said if she'd seen you in those rags you used to wear."

Draco lost his composure and lashed out, "Enough, Pansy! You are a guest here!" Draco seemed to have had enough of Pansy's nasty comments.

Most people were looking shocked and 'aghast' at Pansy. Zabini was now clearly embarrassed. Obviously, Pansy had called out his date… Harry couldn't give a damn.

Ignoring the cold looks, Pansy said, "I've never been a delicate little flower. I say what I mean and I stand by my words." She slurred slightly, clearly she'd been drinking. "You're just a Gryff in snakes clothing, Potter. You don't belong here."

Draco stepped forward. "Leave. Now." Harry wondered if Draco had been on the receiving end of Pansy's razor sharp tongue before he'd entered the room.

Pansy got up to leave, but paused long enough to sneer at Draco. "How the mighty have fallen." Then she left the room and, hopefully, the party.

It was quiet for a moment. Harry wondered what he was even doing here. Why was he pretending to be something he wasn't? Then again, he'd seen things no one in this room could imagine. Consorted with beings in the depths of the astral plane that had long since been forgotten… Maybe Pansy and her ilk were the poseurs. He was the real power here…

Terry Higgs let out a long whistle. "Well, that was unpleasant. Say, Harry… You didn't have anything to do with her pug-like nose did you? That might explain things…" He tapped his nose and, just like that, Terry had cut the tension. Harry noted that his Uncle could do that too. "And hey, if you need tickets, that's not a problem. Look me up next year."

Harry decided to wrap this up. "Thanks, I'd better go find Daphne now. Terry, it was nice meeting you again. Draco, Zabini… and the rest of you… enjoy the party." Technically, he should say something to Vivianna, even if she had probably mocked his height.

Harry thought about a commercial he had seen. "Ciao Bella." Hopefully he hadn't just ordered spaghetti.

With a little nod, he turned and left. There, now his social responsibilities had been satisfied. He subtly cast the 'anonymous' charm and worked his way through the crowd. He went back outside and found a quiet corner to sit and think.

Harry considered who was worse. Pansy, for being so crass and insulting or Blaise, who let his girlfriend insult him and tried to cover it up. Harry didn't speak Italian, so maybe she hadn't really insulted him… but why would Pansy lie in front of so many who could contradict her? If it hadn't been at least partially true, Blaise would have corrected her. Vivianna was gorgeous and arrogant, she probably said something she thought was amusing… But she really had no skin in the game. Her type were a dime a dozen.

Thinking back to Pansy, he wondered what was with the 'Frankenstein' comment. The real Victor Frankenstein had been a famous European Necromancer a few hundred years ago. Is that how they saw him? Sure he collaborated with the dead, but he never reanimated a corpse. Grimly, he reflected that no one had flinched. Not even Draco… They had almost certainly heard it before.

He felt Catherine's presence before she spoke.

Ϡ "Hello, Harry. That woman was tall like a giraffe." Ϡ Standing beside him was Catherine. He could always sense her. She must have realized he was having a 'bang up' time.

Ϡ "Hello, Cat. Yeah, she had crazy long legs and an ego to match." Ϡ

Ϡ "Are you going back inside? Daphne is looking for you." Ϡ Catherine seemed genuinely concerned.

Ϡ "Nope." Ϡ Harry then amended his comment. Ϡ "Well, I will eventually." Ϡ

Catherine waited a moment, then said, Ϡ "Don't sulk too long. That's what the nasty girl wanted. To make you feel like you don't belong. She didn't want you to enjoy the party. Au revoir." Ϡ Catherine then faded out of sight.

Harry knew she was right. He dropped the 'anonymous' charm he'd used to blend in and headed back inside. Time to be Lord Black…

The next few hours had Harry shaking hands and putting on a show. He and Daphne danced quite a bit as well. It was similar to his time in France at L'Savoureux, but there was much more riding on it. He was affirming his alliance with House Greengrass and solidifying his position on the Wizengamot. With his titles, he controlled a small voting block all on his own. Add in any alliances, and he was a force to be reckoned with.

Surprisingly, Lord Parkinson was hesitantly polite. He was a bit reserved, but not openly antagonistic the way Pansy had been. In fact, only Pansy and Joseph Selwyn had been outright rude to him. Well, Wilhelmina too, but that's to be expected. Harry even managed to meet a few Castelobruxo graduates. They discussed the best ways to get about in South America for his coming trip. One Wizard even gave him the name of a respected guide he could use.

He even managed to hold a civil conversation with Susan, Ernie, and Hannah. Susan was alright and Ernie seemed a lot more mature, but it wasn't easy being around Hannah when all he could think about was Bellatrix… He even heard that damn Nursery Rhyme in the back of his head…

'Phee…Phi…Phoe…Phum…

Seven Potato…Mooorrrre.

I smell the fear

of a Mud-Blood

Whoooore…'

Harry managed to block it off and ignore it until he made an excuse and left them to 'make the rounds'. That horrible vision inside Bellatrix's head always popped back up when he was around Hannah. ** Throw in the courtyard ambush and he just preferred to avoid her.

Once he reconnected with Daphne, they stayed side by side for the rest of the evening. Somehow, he just always thought parties were supposed to be fun. This felt more like work. But, Daphne and Astoria seemed to have fun. Draco too… He'd just have to do this for a little longer. The whole civilized shtick. Fortunately, in two weeks he'd be in South America. Camping and hiking and searching for lost and ancient sites.

—CS—

Much Later

After the Party

The guests had left and the Greengrass family was 'recovering' in one of the lounges. Harry, Draco, Andromeda, and Narcissa had been invited to stay as well. Apparently, the Selwyn's had felt slighted about not getting an invitation to stay late and they had left in a huff. The after party sessions seemed to be a normal activity among Pure-bloods. Each person there shared their observations around interactions and potential ramifications. Harry listened and realized just how much he had missed.

Andromeda discussed potential allies amongst the Diggory and McMillians. The Diggory family was gaining influence in the ministry and Cedric had been talked about as a rising star. The McMillians had a Wizengamot seat and were close to the Bones and Abbots. Both of whom were somehow a part of the growing voting Block. The Prewett's were rather stand offish and there were concerns that they were in opposition to the Malfoys…

Percy's name came up as a Weasley representative. Bill had raised enough capital to buy back the Weasley Wizengamot seat, but he had a conflicting commitment with the Delacour family. Harry knew Arthur had renounced his position of Head of House in favour of Bill, citing a lack of political aspirations. Harry knew how much pride Arthur and Molly had, so it was likely they saw Bill's investment in the family as the perfect time to bow out. Percy was another rising star in the Ministry, but unlike Cedric, he had allied himself with the 'wrong type' early in his career and was still viewed with suspicion. This was probably Bill's way of helping his brother out.

The Rosier family was apparently split. One half having more progressive views and the other wanting to take a more conservative approach. They could go either way, but a great deal hinged on the settlement Harry would negotiate. The Selwyn family was expected to officially break off relations with the Greengrass family and Gareth seemed bothered by that. He was the only one. The Parkinson's were less hostile than expected. Pansy's father had apparently been livid over her behaviour and privately apologized to Cyrus. Worth noting – he never apologized to Harry.

And on and on… Harry lost interest after the first hour or so. He was ready to get some sleep. After a barely suppressed yawn, Daphne took his arm and let him out to the patio. It was a nice night with just a little chill in the air. Harry draped his dress cloak over Daphne's shoulders and wrapped his arm around her.

Daphne leaned into him. "Harry, I heard what happened with Pansy. I'm sorry you had to go through that. You probably only missed Astoria and me by a minute or two." After a moment, she added, "There will be a great deal of personal fallout from how she behaved. She embarrassed her father, Draco, Blaise and Terry."

Harry shrugged, "Typical Pansy."

Daphne looked down briefly, then quietly said, "Inexcusable as it was, I can't help but feel a little sorry for her."

Harry did a double take. "Are you kidding me?"

Daphne sadly shook her head. "No. It's all part of a self-destructive pattern. When Draco broke it off with her way back in our fifth year, she did not take it well. Seeing Draco and Astoria together tends to bring out the worst in her… add a little alcohol…" Daphne made an 'ugly face' and the message was clear. "Tomorrow will not be a day she'll enjoy waking up to. You had a front row seat to social suicide."

Harry took a breath and let it out slowly. "I know about painful break ups, but… well… Pansy is a bitch." It suddenly made sense why Astoria wasn't in the room. "I can see how envy and alcohol would bring out her worst traits. I haven't forgotten that she wanted to hand me over to Voldemort all those years ago."

Daphne flinched and agreed. "No one has forgotten. Trust me when I say she is still feeling the effects of that comment. The article in Witch Weekly only served to bring it all back." Daphne gave Harry a piercing look. "She will not be invited back here… Ever."

Harry nodded and decided to change the subject. "Apparently, people are referring to me as 'Frankenstein'. Can you believe it?"

Daphne smile in a way that was almost a smirk. Almost… "Yeah, well… Rumour has it you talk to the dead and… Some of your detractors use that as an argument against trusting you. Necromancers don't have a very good reputation."

Harry looked intently at her, "There's a difference between one who communes the dead and one who reanimates them." With a groan he added, "This is like when everyone found out I was a Parselmouth…"

Daphne sighed. "Harry, you occasionally refer to yourself as the 'Master of Death'… and that makes people uncomfortable. But your actions firmly show you to be good and trustworthy. The only people who use that against you are the people with an agenda. The very same people who wish to undo the good that has come to our society over the last few years. We'll have to address this soon." She gave him a vulnerable look. "I hope you enjoyed the rest of the party."

Harry decided to backtrack a bit. He summoned as sincere a smile as he could manage. "I had a great time." He reminded himself that the Slytherins at the party were her friends. "Terry Higgs seemed like a nice enough guy. Other than Pansy, the other Slytherins were alright. Blaise may or may not be a prat… his date seemed a bit full of herself."

Daphne chuckled. "Vivianna is Blaise's flavour of the month."

Harry realized there was one person who he didn't see. "You know, I kind of expected to see Tracey."

"Right. She met a Wizard in France and is spending the Equinox with his family. He's actually an Auror she met while working on your case... The French Dark Lord. I think he genuinely likes her." She smiled ever so slightly. "I'm happy for her, Harry. After the… scarring from Rowles curse, she's avoided dating."

Harry suddenly remembered Andromeda's request. "I think I'm supposed to make her an eye. I really need to get on that…"

Daphne gave a polite nod and a hum, but she seemed distracted. "Harry, about Terry… We… dated last year. We were pretty serious at one point, but he was focused on his career and my family needed me, so we took a break. Then I met you and officially ended things before you and I started dating." Harry tensed up and she took his hand in hers. "He's actually a really nice guy and I'm only telling you so you're not surprised."

"Right. Okay then. I will not be asking him for World Cup tickets." What was it Terry had said about dating gorgeous witches? Was it a dig of some sort? It seemed sincere…

Daphne went stretched up and kissed him. "Don't worry, Harry. I'm with you now. Terry… well, he's just a friend."

Harry gave her a smile and a kiss. "Alright. But I'll get my own World Cup tickets." He sure as hell wouldn't be getting them from Terry!

Daphne smiled back. "Or you could ask your Personal Image and Business Manager to get them…"

Harry took her in his arms. "Is that your title? I honestly don't remember…"

Daphne gave him a smouldering look. "I have a lot of titles."

And Harry pulled her in for a kiss. Next week, Daphne and Andromeda would be in Paris for Fashion Week. In two weeks he sets out for South America. They'd have to make the most of the time they had…

—CS—

At the Same Time

Inside Cyrus' Study

Cyrus poured two glasses of fire whisky and handed one to Gareth. Tonight had been a successful evening, despite a few unpleasant surprises. Having the Black family present made a huge impact and the ripples would be felt in the coming months. Lord Selwyn had made it clear the families would no longer be close… He would likely end their alliance officially in the next Wizengamot session. Or maybe he wouldn't… The family was having all sorts of woes these days.

Cyrus turned to his brother. "Gareth, what have you been able to find out?"

Gareth opened his briefcase and extracted a rather thick file. "It appears Alphonso Barboza journeyed to the new world in the fifteen hundreds and returned with plundered gold and an impressive artefact." Gareth handed a photocopy of a rune covered metallic rod to Cyrus. "It's made from solid Orichalcum. Do you recognize it?"

Cyrus nodded. "This is the rod used to pay the 'Bride Price' for a certain Selwyn daughter. The marriage marked the beginning of the Greengrass Family."

Gareth sipped his drink. "Correct. The pair settled in England and adopted the name 'Greengrass' to blend in with the current ruling families. They had three healthy sons and one daughter. The daughter wasted away before she reached the age of thirteen. For years, every daughter born to the name Greengrass would suffer the same fate… Then the curse began to weaken and skip a generation or two."

Cyrus studied the picture of the rod. The family had other photographs of it, but this confirmed Harry Potter's divination. Alphonso Barboza had stolen a priceless artefact from the Incan Empire long ago and his family had been cursed in retaliation.

Gareth took another sip of whiskey. "It's doubtful Potter can break the curse without the rod, and the Selwyn's aren't likely to cooperate."

Cyrus wondered, "Is it possible they no longer own the rod? Could it have been gifted or sold at some point?"

Gareth stared at his drink, then looked up. "Anything is possible, but it's highly unlikely. Solid Orichalcum… no. It's just too valuable to go unnoticed."

Cyrus groaned. "Well, the Potter family's Orichalcum was stolen… and reclaimed. Perhaps 'You-Know-Who' absconded with it."

Gareth simply shrugged. Neither of the men actually thought the Selwyn's would voluntarily even admit to owning such a potent artefact. Loyal followers they may have been, but that was a family heirloom. And everyone knew the Dark Lord hadn't been especially sane at the end. They were far more likely to have hidden it away.

Gareth collected the photo. "I've tracked down a few of Alphonso's personal belongings. It may help Potter in the 'Summoning' he has planned. But realistically, I don't know what the spirit of Alphonso can tells us. Our ancestor built our families fortune with the stolen wealth of an extinct Andean civilization. Unfortunately, he turned over the most valuable part of the plunder to the Selwyn Family."

Cyrus finished Gareth's thought, "A family we have now cut ties with."

—CS—

Selwyn Manor

The Next Day

Joseph Selwyn sat in his study brooding. He was still angry over the way his family had been treated by the Greengrasses. After nearly five hundred years, their alliance was to be cast aside in favour of Harry Potter and the Black Family. And to make matters worse, they choose to do it when the Selwyn family needs them most.

The Dark Lord had drained their coffers and forced them to sell off many of their assets… But it was more of an investment… When the ministry fell, the Selwyn family was repaid with the wealth and assets of dissenting families. Then, Harry Potter stepped in and somehow managed to kill the Dark Lord. In the following months, the family had been forced to make painful reparations. Within three years' time, they would have to begin divesting of the few assets they still held just to maintain their standing.

Their two recovery plans involved absorbing much of the Greengrass assets and a handsome settlement with the Black Family. The Greengrasses were refusing to cede a large portion of their wealth and the Black family would likely refuse them as well. His father was desperate for a settlement, but desperation was no way to achieve one's goals. The Selwyn family would only survive by being ruthless and pooling their resources with other families in a similar position.

A dossier had arrived this morning with a very interesting bit of information. Apparently, Harry Potter will be going on a walk-about through South America in two weeks. He had the upstart's itinerary. Where Potter would be and when… How Travers had gotten hold of this was a point of concern, but so far it had matched the Ministry's record of Potters Portkey reservations. This opened up options.

Potter would be vulnerable and away from his power base. Just as importantly, Potter's family would be too far away for him to protect. Ruthlessness would see them through these lean times and soon the Selwyn family would be back on top. It was high time someone stepped in and finished what the Dark Lord started and cleanse Britain of the Potter family once and for all.

—CS—

Vienna Austria

Mr. Brun stepped into a muggle limousine and relaxed into the exquisite upholstery. The Iopos Law firm had embraced the non-magical world where it made sense and luxury was one of those areas. As the vehicle pulled away, the car phone rang. Mr. Brun lifted the device and held it to his ear.

He answered with a professional "Alexander Brun, Guten Tag."

He knew exactly who was on the other line. "Hello, Alexander. This is Felder. Is it done?"

Mr. Brun answered quietly, "It's done. Travers now has Lord Black's itinerary and is likely making plans as we speak."

The voice on the other end then said, "Excellent. Keep me posted." Then there was silence.

When Mr. Brun loosened his tie, he relaxed and tried to be just Alexander Brun. One of Durmstrang's brightest and most promising graduates. He leaned back into the plush calfskin seat and gazed out the window. He always loved seeing Vienna in the autumn. He tried not to think about the coming month, but it was futile. It was time, once more, for Harry Potter to prove himself.

Alexander had a soft spot for Potter and he struggled with setting him up, but orders were orders. If only the young man had listened to him… He would have been virtually untouchable… Leonard Felder always bet on Potter, but Alexander was less certain. This was going to be quite a task. Well, the Denairastas family has always tempered their most promising children in fire and blood.

Hopefully young Mr. Potter could handle the heat.

—CS—

Notes:

*Vivianna Said: "Good evening Mr. Potter. You are not what I expected. I thought you would have been taller. You are, however, very cute." (Google translator)

**From 'Harry Potter and the Dance of Death' chapter 40.

This will be the Last Chapter of Casting Shadows until I finish 'Harry Potter and the Dance of Death'. I have four more chapters in the prequel, then I'll be done and Casting Shadows will pick up with Harry in South America.

Casting Shadows will be broken out into three stories:

Paris – now complete

Inca (current)

Hogwarts – (Future) Harry realizes how challenging a teaching position can be.

At some point I'll pick it up about 100 years in the future where Harry will deal with a very deadly and very personal threat.

In the meantime, check out Harry Potter and the Dance of Death along with my Christmas one shot – Unrepentant – A Black Family Christmas Story.