AN1: Thanks to all of you who reviewed my story and to Miette who managed to fit betaing this chapter into her crazy busy schedule :)
AN2: It's been four years since I first posted the Prologue of Severus' choices and I never expected I would still be writing it today. This is the last chapter of the third Arc and we have about one quarter of the story left (at least 15 chapters + 3 epilogues) when it was only supposed to be 10 chapters long, without Goblins and only a shadow of Dhaal...
I want to wholeheartedly thank you who have followed, favourited and reviewed this story all along these four years because as much as I enjoy writing it, I never would have gone to such depth and details without your comments and appreciation, without you sometimes reminding me of plot-lines I had forgotten or giving me ideas for new ones.
I also want to thank my wonderful beta Miette once more because without her, we would still be lost somewhere in China.
AN3:Do not expect regular updates until June for two reasons. One, real life promises to keep Miette and I very busy until then so we probably won't be able to work together on the story as much as we would like to. Two, I want to get the end of the story right so I prefer to be almost done roughly writing the entire Arc before polishing the first chapters (I am currently working on chapter 46). I know it is frustrating but I promise the story will be better for it.
AN-2021/03/01: Huge thanks to dstone12 for correcting the mistakes left by Miette and I :)
Dear Brother,
I write today to tell you the most wonderful and unexpected news. Narcissa is pregnant.
It was unexpected. Severus felt his stomach clench. What if Lucius did not need him anymore when he came back? Though the Malfoy House counted multiple members who all ran a branch of the House's business, Lucius devoted many hours to overseeing their results and approving or rejecting decisions. With the addition of his support to Lord Voldemort and the subsequent group meeting, not forgetting his brother had to spend time with Narcissa and attend the occasional party, Lucius' schedule was already busy. With the addition of an heir... where would Severus fit?
We were both surprised as sadly, Purebloods usually need several years before succeeding in giving birth – unless you're a Weasley but as you know, they do not count. As Augustus told me, this is perhaps not the best timing to bring a child into our world, but every child is a precious gift to be celebrated.
The birth is scheduled for the end of August, meaning the Naming ceremony should take place no later than October. You must be there so hurry up with your Apprenticeship, I know you can.
He felt stupid at the relief reading this proof Lucius still needed him brought him.
Reading the lines once more, in case relief had hidden some relevant information, Severus realised Lucius was not aware Severus was allowed to come back to form new important Bonds. Severus needed to ask Drunek what was the allowed period to form that Bond, if it would be compatible with Lucius' schedule.
But did he really want to come back only to leave a few hours later? He had been so sure the next time he came back would be to remain. He was not sure he would be strong enough. October. Nine months to complete his project. With luck and hard work, Severus would have finished his Apprenticeship by then. It matched perfectly with the clan's political schedule.
Severus might even convince Lucius to push it back to November. Naming ceremonies were important and not to be rushed, although they had to take place during the child's first year, to ensure his bonding to his Godfather and Godmother. He wondered if Muggleborns were aware of its importance. Evan had been shocked to learn Severus had no Godparents. No one to be his magical caregiver in the event his parents died. There were no orphanages in the wizarding world because through various Bonds and alliances, there always was someone to take on this responsibility.
Severus was pretty sure he had not had a Naming.
Because of the current tensions in England, to avoid any undue stress and risk the pregnancy, Narcissa will settle in Dryhtenhold in a few months. I will share my time between Malfoy Manor and Dryhtenhold, but you know your letters will find me no matter where I am.
Dryhtenhold was the French Malfoy Manor. From Lucius tales, the Malfoy often went there for vacations or when one of its members needed peace. It would be perfect for Narcissa, especially because French Healers were renowned all over the world for their competency.
Between running the Malfoy House and business, preparing our group for the elections and Narcissa's pregnancy, my days are full and I anticipate the next months are going to be exciting but exhausting. I selfishly wish you were here, even if I know how important your Apprenticeship is for you and for us. We all await your return with impatience.
Love,
Your brother Lucius.
Less than one year before they saw each other if everything went according to plan. Less than one year to spend with Drunek, Frekka and the kids. How unfair. Severus swore to himself he would reunite them all together one day. He would have his entire family with him if only for a day.
Shaking himself from his maudlin thoughts, Severus put Lucius' letter aside and reached for Evan's.
Hey Severus!
How is the Apprenticeship going? Not ready to come back yet? You need to hurry up, we need you here before the elections! They will happen in little more than one year now, and you are our symbol of what non-Pureblood could achieve with proper following of our traditions and support from a Mentor.
He figured he was. It was not an enjoyable thought, to be used like this. But Lord Voldemort had warned him of his expectations. And he agreed with it. But he would refuse any parading before crowds or newspapers. Assuming he passed his end-of-Apprenticeship project.
From the rumour mill, you are already quite badass, if you'll pardon my expression. I understand you had an encounter with the horrible Potter twins—why have I not heard about their humiliation yet?!—and they are now persuaded you performed some dark forbidden ritual to gain insane power. Of course, they did not officially accuse you of anything, Jonathan heard of it through one of his university fellows who witnessed Evans shouting at Potter—she does excel at this one thing—and now everyone is impatient to see you back (Jonathan and I more than anyone of course!). It does not help that weird things have been happening around them since your encounter, and they seemed to think you've cursed them. The rumour mill is torn between ghost haunting, dark spell from the Death Eaters (as if we would bother with them, they are not even among the Aurors assigned to our case) or curses from a jealous ex now that he is marrying Evans.
Severus could not help but laugh at Evan's description of Potter and Potter-bis' misadventures. Whoever was playing with them deserved his respect, as long as it did not spread to their entourage.*
Speaking of Jonathan, I think he's finally getting over his Father's death. We went out several times since the beginning of the year—I am not neglecting my Apprenticeship, stop looking at me like this—and he even seemed interested in some of the girls we met. I am glad to finally have one of my best friends back, only one left.
Do not forget to write me back!
Evan
Severus smiled as he finished Evan's letter. Jonathan's last letters had held a lighter tone but Severus was relieved to have the confirmation of his friend's improving mood. He was also glad for Evan's impatience over his return. His Apprenticeship would have been far less pleasant without his friends' letters and reassurances they would be present when he went back to the wizarding world. Silently thanking Slytherin for his rules for the thousandth time since his first year, Severus took up his next letter.
Dear Sev,
Thank you so much for not hurting James when you crossed paths in January.
He has grown-up so much yet he can still be so stupid sometimes! I blame Sirius of course, but sadly I have to admit you bring the worst out of them.
And they used to bring out the worst of him. He felt lighter now he knew he could take them. Of course, he had to remain cautious as their abilities should increase as they advanced in their Auror training.
I think they are jealous of your genius—I cannot wait for you to demonstrate all you learnt during your Apprenticeship, I am so curious about which masteries you will earn besides potion!
I am sad you were not able to attend the wedding but let's be honest, it probably was for the best. Petunia and Mary were my witnesses, I am so happy Petunia and I are close now. Thank you for your gift, the perfume really is exquisite and you remembered how much I love the scent of lilies of the valley. James loves it too but I did not tell it was from you. Yet.
Severus laughed. More and more, he felt like his first friend was back. She was not his best friend anymore, but she was closer than an acquaintance. Being away from Hogwarts had done her good.
I know you feel I rushed into the wedding, and while I am certain of my feelings for James as well as his love for me, I admit I would have waited one more year if not for one thing. I am pregnant. You may have already guessed, I certainly heard many rumours for James marrying a poor Muggleborn so quickly after Hogwarts. Between love potions, deliberate pregnancy and even the use of Imperio, I can tell you many envious girls and their mothers did not spare me.
Severus winced at the thought. Lily had snatched what many mothers considered a prize, she was bound to be a target for the harpies. But she was tough, she only needed to avoid the daily prophet readers mail sheet for some weeks.
The baby is expected at the beginning of August.
Lucius' heir and Potter's would be born the same month then.
I am both scared and excited. I am surprising myself with how much I already love him. James laughs at me every time but I am certain the baby will be a boy.
Mother had insisted witches' instincts were always right when it concerned their children. He wondered if Narcissa was experiencing the same feelings as Lily.
My cursus schedule will be adjusted to my pregnancy but as I told you before, I have no intention to stop my studies before I earn my lawyer license.
Good.
However, I am being more careful now that I am pregnant. I followed Mr. Hearley on a Death Eater case for Muggle torture. The suspect was sentenced to two months in Azkaban and we both received threatening letters. You know I will not get intimidated, but I must say I am more convinced than ever of their ill-intents.
Lily had stopped trying to straight out convince Severus of Lord Voldemort's deviousness, but she now was putting indirect criticisms of the Death Eaters or of Lord Voldemort and his supporters in her letters. Severus admitted he did not like the thought of the group threatening her and resolved to ask Jonathan about it.
I hope you are well, I will await your letter with impatience (once more, do not hesitate to write longer letters!)
Love
Lily.
The Death Eaters were another reason Severus was anxious to go back to his friends. He could not help but feel their group was forgetting their primary goals and losing themselves in ineffective tactics to win next year's elections. Sighing to himself, he took his last letter.
Dear Grandson,
I hope my letter finds you well. I am really intrigued by your end-of-year Apprenticeship project as my clan has not been able to tell me anything about it. I understand it could play an important part in Goblin politics, and I can already say I am really proud of you.
Severus felt warmed all over at his grandfather's words. More and more, he felt he was slowly building a relationship with the man.
I feel your Apprenticeship will have taught you more than mastery skills. A feel for politics is as important as abilities.
On the wizard side, I am wondering if a curse had been cast on us old people. Several of my friends have died in the last months, of either accidental or natural causes. They all were Lord Voldemort's supporters, although they disapproved of the latest Death Eaters extreme public actions.
Was his Grandfather implying these deaths had been murders?
It is also true for several of Dumbledore's eldest supporters. Most were influential in their own sphere. I cannot help but feel someone is trying to rig the game and influence the next elections, though I cannot guess at their endgame yet.
Why would someone target only old people? They were far from being the only one who had political power. He needed the names of the deceased to better understand the situation. But he agreed with his grandfather, it was worrisome.
You must of course focus on your project and not trouble yourself with political considerations for now. I know your friends are excited now that it looks like you will be among us before the end of the year.
However, I hope you will consider meeting me when you are back.
Translation: we will need to talk before you see anyone else. Severus hoped the man did not expect him to include Lucius in anyone else.
The next lines were from a different handwriting and he could not help but smile.
Your Grandfather and I have every confidence in your abilities to pass your end-of-Apprenticeship Trials with ease. We hope to have you for dinner when you are back.
Was he ready for this?
Love always,
Madeline and Augustus Prince.
Lost in his thoughts, Severus looked up in surprise at the sudden knock on his room door.
It could not be dinner yet.
"Come in."
He felt himself flush as Drunek entered and a quick Tempus confirmed he was late for their session.
"I am sorry Master," said Severus, getting up from his bed quickly and grabbing his notes. "I did not realise—"
"Shh Daoack, there is no need to panic," said Drunek with a smile. "I am more worried about what caused you to forget about me for the first time in more than three years," he added gently.
Severus shrugged.
"Nothing in particular. I was reading my mail and I just… lost track of the time," he finished lamely.
"Ah. You're missing your Bonded. It is to be expected." His Master's voice was gentle and sympathetic. "Goblin Apprenticeship can be hard on non-Goblin. The distance we impose is a test for you and them. Some have been so immersed in what they were learning they forgot the outside world. Others came back to find their families had moved on without them. You have not been forgotten judging from the letters you receive."
Severus nodded.
"I know. I just… miss them."
Drunek put his hand on his shoulder, gently moving him toward the door.
"Better get on with your project if you want to go back as soon as possible. Today, you're supposed to tell me of your progress."
"Yes Master," agreed Severus, brightening as he focused on his project. He waited to reach their lesson room before launching into his report, Drunek listening attentively.
"Last time we talked, I had decided to use both a potion and a wall-bridge for my project. The Potion was to help the body adjust to the Khorlo variation during the month and hopefully cancel the pain of the transformation. I also hoped it would lessen the twisted feeling from Svādhiṣṭhāna. The wall-bridge was to allow the Werewolf to keep his mind while in wolf form, as I think it should also impact the twisting of Svādhiṣṭhāna but more importantly, it must be the key to handling the amount of Magic coming from it the half-month when it is wide open. I think the fact it is barely cracked the other half of the month unbalances Werewolves too, and the adequate balance between a wall and a bridge as well as the potion must be the key for them not to be inconvenienced by the moon phases," explained Severus. "The wall-bridge part is delicate as Wall-maker and Bridge-maker are specific trades I cannot hope to learn in a few months. I asked among the Kyirong pack and most of the Werewolves who passed the Shiren had possessed a wand made by Maverick or one of his old Apprentices. With your agreement as well as the Wises', I contacted Maverick to know if he would be interested in the project, also I remained vague at first," said Severus.
He was still awed that the man had been willing to come and meet him, and swear a silencing Oath to hear about Severus' project only because, in his own words, "I remember the day I made your wand, boy, and you both showed promise". Dhaal had been intrigued, even more when the Wandmaker had noticed him even when he had been in invisible mode.
"Can not fool old dogs like me, lad," had smirked Maverick. His compliment on Dhaal's look had soothed his Familiar's ruffled feathers, especially when the Wand-maker had promised to tell Dhaal how to be completely invisible. Maverick had also confided to Severus that someone passing the Ritual with one of his wands was the best compliment that one could make to any Wand-maker.
"As you must know, once I explained my project to Maverick, he was over the moon at the idea of creating something never done before. I got the feeling he did not know of Khorlos per se but still used it in his Wand-making," continued Severus.
To Severus' relief, the Wises had given him the exceptional authorisation to tell Maverick of Khorlos and assured him it did not mean he had failed his infiltration Trial.
"In fact, I think Maverick is both a Bridge-maker and a Wall-maker but did not know it. Hoardrock, Wirkrund and I ironed out the contract and since then, he has settled down in Kyirong until we succeed. He is fascinated by the Khorlos concept and my theories on how they affect Werewolves. He also, I quote, feels I am on the right path."
"This is nice work Daoack," said Drunek with a smile. "However, how will you use runes in your project if Maverick is the one to make the wall-bridge?"
"This is where it gets really exciting, Master," answered Severus, eyes sparkling in anticipation. "Maverick only knows Wizard runes. As such he is really limited, seeing the complexity of what we want to achieve. We are working together to determine the right runes combination to make a wall-bridge. I also suggested he used moonstone in the core of the wall-bridge, as it is notoriously linked to the moon phases, and I almost broke him."
Severus was telling the truth. Maverick had frozen long enough for him to worry before telling him he was a genius then dashing to his workshop.
"Of course, only Lupin and Yasha can be tested as Sthir passed the Shiren. Maverick thinks he will have prototypes ready in a month, if I manage to brew the potion with one week left to check they are in harmony, whatever 'harmony' means. He promised he would show me," added Severus with a wry smile.
"Alright. You seem to have the wall-bridge phase well in hand. What about the potion?" asked Drunek.
Severus smiled. He was so glad to be brewing again. Nothing was more soothing.
"You know from Abraxas that I am deemed a natural at potion making. I wondered how the abilities I have developed during my Apprenticeship would affect my brewing, if the fact I could Sense Air and Earth would unbalance me."
"And?" prodded Drunek, curiosity showing on his face.
"I realised I had been Sensing all along when I was brewing. I had already deduced it from my NEWTs experience. But I was also attuning the Potion to myself by adding more or less air and earth Magic to the Potion. I was unsure at first," explained Severus. "So I asked one of Kyirong's Wizard to be present during one of my brewing sessions. I realised I could choose to either attune my potion to him or to myself. The differences were minimal, but they could be far more important with Werewolves. It could explain why several common potions do not work as well on Werewolves as they do on Wizards. It could explain why complex potions often do not work as intended on Werewolves," explained Severus. "I chose to test my hypothesis on a sleeping draught. It is not complex but does not usually last as long on Werewolves. I brewed it on my own, then in the presence of each of my Testers. The quantity of ingredients was different between the draught meant for me and those for the Werewolves. More interesting, I put different amounts of Magic into the draught depending on the Werewolf I was attuning it to. I tested the Potions on the Werewolves. Their own individualised draughts were the ones that worked the best on each of them, putting them to sleep as long as the common recipe would put a Wizard to sleep. Lupin's and Yasha worked as well on each other but not for Sthir. Sthir's put them to sleep for longer than the common draught but less than their own draught."
"This is fascinating Daoack," exclaimed Drunek, eyes shining with interest.
"I agree Master, I don't understand why nobody else has explored this before," wondered Severus.
"It is complex and requires knowledge and Mastery of both Khorlos and Potions, as well as creativity and desire to explore Magic possibilities," answered Drunek. "But I am sure you did not stop here in your experiments."
Severus nodded.
"With the help of my testers and Fu-Hsi, I determined several herbs which Werewolves are attracted to. They vary with the phases of the moon and seem to influence Svādhiṣṭhāna. If I manage to increase their properties through a potion, they could be the key to help their body adapt to the transformation. It will mean the potion will have to be taken everyday, the recipe evolving with the moon," added Severus with a grimace.
Drunek tilted his head thoughtfully.
"I know such complexity can seem discouraging, but you know that it's easier to improve a Potion recipe once you have its basis."
Severus nodded, knowing his Master was right.
"I am amazed by your work in such a short time Daoack," continued Drunek. "If I am not mistaken, you think you will have a potion ready for Maverick in time, right?"
His Master knew him well after all this time.
"I do," confirmed Severus. "I think I have identified all the ingredients I will need, now it's a matter of quantity, order of addition, … If I focus on it, I should be ready in three weeks."
Indeed, Severus spent the next weeks between labs in Kyirong and Uusi. He first experimented with variations in Uusi then went to Kyirong to test the combinations in presence of his werewolf testers. He thought he would need three or four different potions, one for the new moon, one for the growing moon, one for the full moon and one for the waning moon. He hoped to be able to use the same for the growing and waning ones. He began with thirty-two cauldrons, sixteen for Lupin and sixteen for Yasha. Two weeks later, only twelve remained.
The difficulty was that Severus could not always test his potions against his Sensing of the Werewolves as they evolved with the moon phase, rendering his study even more complicated. He loved the challenge and for the first time in many years, he really felt like he was pushing himself to his limits when brewing. It was exhilarating even if he had earned more washing chores from Frekka for being late to dinner in two weeks than in all his Apprenticeship years.
"Almost time to leave Daoack."
Severus looked up at his Master. Already? He did not remember eating lunch. Looking around, Severus spied a half-eaten sandwich on the desk he used to write his notes and comments about his experiments. He had really been absorbed. No wonder Dhaal had given up on remaining with Severus when he brewed, even though his Familiar liked playing with the potions' fumes.
Drunek's eyes were sparkling with mirth and Severus had to make an effort not to stick his tongue out at him.
"Time to wrap things up for today. Especially if you want to take care of your hair."
Severus frowned at his Master's remark. True, his constant brewing the past weeks had not been kind to his hair. His braid was limp and his skull felt greasy. But washing them properly today only meant they would get greasy again after tomorrow brewing.
As he opened his mouth to tell Drunek his hair would remain as it was, Severus stopped himself. Drunek was not a frivolous Goblin. Contrary to Regel, he did not spend time grooming himself everyday. However, his Master knew the importance of sometimes playing the part to impress. Severus had been invited to have dinner with Kyirong pack tonight, as a thank for the discoveries he had already shared with them and to give them an update on Maverick's and his continuing progress. He sighed to himself and nodded to Drunek.
Honestly, why had no-one invented a way to protect hair from potion residue? It was truly time wasting and onerous if you wanted to clean-up properly after each brewing. Severus scowled thinking of some of his peers, even at Hogwarts, who used a repellent spell. Imbeciles. No matter what some would have you believe, potions were magic, very delicate magic depending on precarious interactions between various ingredients and the brewer's magic. Any interference from magic could ruin the potion or affect the brewer's Sense for his potion. As he walked to his room to wash-up, Severus wondered what kind of hair protection could work. A kind of helmet? Too uncomfortable. A plastic cap like muggle cooks or bakers? Ridiculous and scratchy. A gel which would capture the residue and would only need to be brushed up afterwards? Hmm. The idea had merit, and could be expanded for more professions than potioneers. It could also be sold to people who wished to brew at home. He would need to work on this quickly. He could not waste time washing his hair everyday for the rest of the year. And it would come in handy when back in the Wizarding world. But it could not be his first patent, too many would laugh remembering greasy Snivellus.
Severus went to the shower, using the time to mentally prepare what he would report to the Pack. Maverick and he were confident they would have three potion-wall-bridge combinations ready for testing by the new moon. The Pack had agreed to give Severus more testers than Lupin and Yasha last time he had provided them with a progress report, and Severus would now have three for each potion-wall-bridge combination. Of course, they had needed to attune the Potion and wall-bridge to each Werewolf. The testers would need to drink the potion from the new moon to the full moon, and they would only know if it worked then, although Severus should have an idea of possible success by monitoring the testers' Khorlos. The testers would be under Healers watch and careful monitoring by their peers. The creation of wall-bridges had been tricky as Maverick had had to work with already existing wands. The hardest had been Lupin's as his wand was from Ollivanders, thus not custom made.
Severus expected the testers to experience a painless transformation and keep their own mind. If it worked, he would then try to brew the potions without the presence of the Werewolves to see if it had an impact on the results of the potions.
Helhest, it had to work.
It did, and the Werewolves threw the biggest party Severus had ever seen. As relieved as he was, he felt it was quite too soon to celebrate as his work was far from done. Maverick and Severus quizzed the testers to understand which combination had worked the best then spent hours making adjustments to get even better results. Over the next months, they tried out variations of potion-wall-bridge combinations. Their tester population had been extended to fifty pack members, all from different initial Packs to account for geographic variation as much as possible.
Severus felt like his days were an unending stream of brewing, except for his morning Taichichuan practice Drunek forbade him to skip—with reason, Severus honestly admitted—and the few after-diner games Dhaal and the kids managed to drag him into.
By the end of June, Severus and Maverick were confident they had one working combination for all Werewolves, which still had to be attuned to each Werewolf specifically. The process still required simplification if they hoped to make it available in sufficient numbers, but it already was a huge accomplishment, as Severus' Grandfather wrote to him.
Dear Grandson,
I am so proud of you. I finally discovered the subject of your end-of-Apprenticeship project today. Your choice should have been obvious to me, yet the task was so complex I admit I never considered you might take it on. My Clan told me today that you had succeeded in creating a way to let Werewolves transform painlessly on full moon days while leaving them in control of their mind and actions. It is truly admirable, you clearly exceeded expectations and succeeded where many others failed, even spurred by Lord Voldemort's promise of reward.
Severus felt his heart warm at his Grandfather's words. He knew he had accomplished much but he had not had the time to take the full measure of it. He knew his project was a true break-through but it still seemed far from being complete.
I understand the process must be refined if you hope to make it available to all Werewolves, but all you accomplish from now on is only a bonus. Of course, I will not tell anyone else of it until your process is ready for public distribution and duly approved by wizard authorities which can take some time. I think you will be back before it happens.
On another note, know that Lucius' heir was born two months before term. I met with Lucius, Narcissa and little Draco today, and I assure you both mother and son are in perfect health, although they are kept under watch by the French healers to make sure they remain so. I am certain Lucius will have written to you about it, but I confirm they are all well.
We are waiting for your return with great impatience. Enjoy fully your last months among Goblins.
Love
Augustus.
Severus felt himself grow alarmed despite his Grandfather's words. Lucius' son born in June, two full months before term? He frantically reached for his brother's letter.
Dear Brother,
My son, Draco, is born this morning, two months early. Both Narcissa and he are under Healers surveillance. They assure me they are in perfect health if really tired for Narcissa and quite tiny for Draco. I expected it as the pregnancy has been difficult for Narcissa. I did not tell you because there was no need for you to worry over something out of our control.
Narcissa and Draco will remain in Dryhtenhold for the next months, to give them time to grow stronger away from England's tensions and troubles.
Alright. Severus could breathe. They really were well.
Augustus and Madeline helped us a lot during the pregnancy, and she is currently remaining in France with Narcissa. As much as I trust the Healers and my House Elves, I am relieved by her presence. Narcissa's family is too busy with the movement to bother to come and see her, and I prefer it that way. I do not want crazy people anywhere near my son and wife in their fragile state, but I know Narcissa is disappointed. At least, Regulus promised to visit her as soon as he graduates.
I must say I miss you and Father keenly.
The Naming ceremony is scheduled for October if Draco and Narcissa improve according to the Healers predictions. You will be there.
Take care of yourself,
Love
Lucius.
Severus was confident he would make it, but he threw himself in the testing with renewed vigour.
By the end of August, he had obtained even better results than expected.
Some of the Pack members had insisted on trying out the Potion without any wall-bridge. Their transformation on the first full moon day had been as painless as with the Wall-bridge use; however, they had remained stuck in their wolf form the entire duration of the full moon. They had clearly been in control of their mind and spent those days peacefully. It truly confirmed to Severus the Potion helped smooth the evolution of Svādhiṣṭhāna.
Of course, then they had to try using only the Wall-bridge, with varying degrees of success. Some of the Werewolves only experienced less pain during the transformation while others instead kept their mind during their transformation without being stuck in wolf form during the three days of the full moon.
Another surprising result—although it should not have been in hindsight—was that when the Wall-bridge and the Potion were fully attuned to a Werewolf, they allowed them to transform at will as if they were a Full Werewolf. However, like for Vampire and Faes, Wall-bridges were showing signs of wear, especially for the teenage testers.
The entire process was still complex. Severus thought they were on the brink of demonstrating that one set of Runes could be devised for use with a wall-bridge that could work for all Werewolves and did not need to be adjusted to each as they had done up until then. Of course, Maverick still had to make the wall-bridge for a specific Werewolf, as he did for any wand, but it would be far easier and faster if he did not need Severus for the rune part. As the Wandmaker had told him, if the Runes were an unchanging set, it would only be an ingredient which had to be added to the wand.
Severus was trying to do the same for the Potion, thus eliminating the obligation of attuning it to each individual Werewolf. Helichrysum italicum, also known as Immortelle, was one of the main ingredients in it—and certainly not Wolfsbane which was poisonous to the Werewolves. Also, from his observations, he had strong suspicions that if it were tended by Werewolves, using it in the potion would be enough. They were testing that too, but the need to wait a month each time to obtain results was frustrating.
He had taken the time to speak with Vilde of the similarities he had observed between Werewolves and Vampires. She had hinted her Family would be interested in working with him as he might be able to improve something they were already using. His curiosity was definitely piqued.
One more month passed without him noticing, and in the blink of an eye, he was on the eve of his final Trials.
"How are you feeling?" asked Drunek quietly.
They were sitting outside their home, enjoying the late evening coldness. It was peaceful, a welcome pause after so many months of hard work and endless rush. Yet, Severus felt unsettled. Tomorrow, he would know if he had passed his final project. He thought he had, seeing the successes from working with Kyirong Pack. But the Wises had to approve his Trial for each field of his Apprenticeship.
No matter their decision, he would be going back to the wizarding world in two days. Going back home. Yet, home was also with Drunek and Frekka. He knew Dhaal worried too, even if he tried not to show it to Severus. His Familiar had spent most of the last weeks with Soraa and Felsen, when he was not disappearing Merlin knew where.
"Conflicted," he answered honestly.
Drunek hummed softly.
"Only a fool would not be."
"Or a Taichichuan Master,"said Severus with a smirk.
"Only for the outsiders' eyes," winked Drunek.
Severus laughed softly.
"I cannot imagine Master Richtigk conflicted."
"He certainly was when he began teaching you," answered Drunek, suddenly serious. "He doubted Wirkrund's gamble was worth it."
"You put a lot of trust in me," agreed Severus.
"We never regretted it. Even after Lord Malfoy's death," stated Drunek, looking Severus right in the eyes."Which brings me to something I wanted to discuss with you."
Severus looked at his Master with curiosity.
"After all these years, Frekka and I consider you like family. You are like the human son we never had," said Drunek with a smile.
"You are my Goblin family," answered Severus, voice hoarse with emotion.
"We wanted to adopt you formally. However, when we asked Wirkrund for his authorisation, he explained it was not feasible. Mainly because of the Oath the House of Prince has over you, as well as the Bonds you possess with Wizards our clan is wary of."
Severus frowned. Was he talking of Lucius? Or Evan?
"He proposed an alternative to us. You could become Kiveä's blood brother. The only true difference with that versus an adoption is that Clan Röykkiö would not be obligated to come to your aid if you were in trouble. Of course, the reverse is true," said Drunek wryly.
Hmm. Wirkrund could not take the responsibility to Bond Clan Röykkiö to Severus so closely and definitely. While Severus had belonged to the Clan during his Apprenticeship, he knew that once it was over, a different contract would be drawn up to establish a relationship of either trusted partners or Allies between him and the Clan. Unless there was no contract at all, but given the blood brother proposal, it was doubtful. It still showed a wariness over the changes happening in the wizarding world.
"You know I would be honoured to become Kiveä's blood brother, if he agrees," finally answered Severus.
"He does," said Drunek happily. "We will bond you tomorrow morning before your Trials. You know you are welcome to remain with us as long as you desire to. Or to leave and come back whenever you wish to," added Drunek.
"I would love to Drunek," answered Severus, sincerely touched. "However, I have another family I long to see again after so many years apart. And you know the wizarding world is changing. I probably won't be back for some time, until the changes have settled. It won't prevent me from using my Stone to contact you, if I get to keep it."
"You will, as part of your blood brother bond," explained Drunek. "I am really happy to have you in the family Severus."
"So am I," echoed Severus. "So am I."
He did not sleep much that night, and the anxiety leaking through his Bond with Dhaal did not help him calm his mind. His Bonding to Kiveä was an informal affair which only lasted a few minutes. Then, he spent the morning fretting until Kiveä and Soraa rolled him into an impromptu Taichichuan teaching session. He barely ate lunch then it was time to present himself before the Wises.
Once more, Severus fidgeted in front of the Trial rooms.
"Daoack, Thạo of Shields and Crossings. The Wises are waiting for you."
Severus was not surprised to see Hoardrock. It was fitting to end with the Goblin everything had begun with. He followed the Goblin to the centre of the room and was relieved not to spy any testing areas. There was only the stage, and the Wises behind. They were ten this time, and Severus realised two of them had been present during his Trials in Bǎo. Wise Kasai also was present. Wirkrund sat in the centre, solemn. All wore unreadable faces.
"Wise Masters of Balance and Self, may I present you Daoack, Thạo of Shields and Crossings," said Hoardrock, bowing slightly in front of the Wises.
"Thank you Hoardrock, Master of Shields and Self. Welcome Daoack, Thạo of Shields and Crossings. May today become the stepping stone of your future path," said Wirkrund.
Severus bowed deeply.
"Thank you, Masters of Bonds and Beyond. May your light show me where to anchor my path."
"Thạo Daoack. Today is your final Trial, the one which marks the end of your Apprenticeship. It will decide which Masteries and rank you will be awarded. The only way to gain another rank after today will be to begin a new Apprenticeship with a different Clan."
No, he was not signing for another Goblin Apprenticeship for a long time, no matter what.
"In light of your recent success with your project in creating a potion allowing Werewolves to retain conscious control of their actions during the full moon, and then exceeded all expectations by creating a combination of a potion and wall-bridge which allow them to transform at will like a Full Werewolf, you have passed your Potion and Runes Trials. Your unusual use of moonstone and Immortelle in your project allows you to pass your Herbology Trial," stated Wirkrund clearly.
Those had been obvious. He was more worried about the Defence and Infiltration ones.
"Your successful handling of two wizard Auror trainees without causing them any harm nor breaking the Sanctuary's rules, without being witnessed by anyone except for your goblin watcher and without revealing your specific goblin knowledge validates your Defence and Infiltration Trials," continued Wirkrund, eyes sparkling as he had to know Severus was totally dumbstruck.
"You are thus awarded the rank of Master of Shields and Crossings. You will also be added to the short list of Masters able to Sense Khorlos, so the goblin nation may be able to call for you in time of need."
Severus lifted an inquiring eyebrow at this and Wirkrund smiled knowingly.
"The conditions will of course be determined in the Contract we will establish between the goblin nation and you," added the Wise.
Severus shook his head.
"Please forgive my interruption Wise Wirkrund," said Severus respectfully. "If I am to sign any contract, it will be with Clan Röykkiö."
While he trusted Clan Röykkiö and the Clan trusted him, as proved by his blood bond with Kiveä, he would not give the Korkein the same power over him.
"Any negotiation will take place after your Trials, Master Daoack. We'll move to Gringotts for this part."
Severus nodded, certain he had not imagined the satisfaction in Wirkrund's eyes.
"Finally, you will be proud to know your potion and wall-bridge combination are now being studied for wizard patent. You will need to find a name for commercialisation. Per your Apprenticeship contract, we are negotiating financial terms and costs, as well as which Potioneers and Wall-bridge Makers will be brought into your project. Your continued involvement will also be included into the negotiations," concluded Wirkrund with a smile.
And negotiate they did. All the Wises came to Gringotts but this time Hoardrock was the one who led the dance. In the end, they agreed on three different contracts.
The first formalized the ending of Severus Apprenticeship as well as any of his obligations to Clan Röykkiö and vice versa.
The second one was a Restraining Contract, Severus accepting to never reveal goblin particular knowledge without first checking with Clan Röykkiö Wises.
The third one established Severus as an Ally of Clan Röykkiö and set the boundaries for their current business arrangements, all centred around Severus project for now. This contract could be amended each time Severus and the Clan wished to conduct new business together. It also gave Severus free use of the Room of Crossings.
"Thank you Master Daoack," said Hoardrock as all Contracts now were signed and replicated for all concerned parties. "If you would just give me back your copies of the Restraining Contract one moment."
Severus did, wondering if the Goblin had realised they had forgotten one condition. It seemed pretty tight to him—too much to his liking but he admitted the knowledge he now possessed was to be handled delicately.
He barely prevented his jaw from dropping as Hoardrock ripped up all the Restraining Contract copies.
"Please accept this proof of your Alliance with Clan Röykkiö and the trust the entire Goblin Nation has in you," said Hoardrock seriously. "We sincerely hope that in a few years, you will consider dealing with Clans other than your own."
"Thank you Master Hoardrock," answered Severus, feeling humbled but quite aware the Goblins were making a political gamble. "I will not abuse your trust."
"We are certain you won't," grinned back the Goblin.
Severus did not miss the implied or else in his tone.
"Now Daoack," said Wirkrund, shedding all formality. "I believe Frekka has enrolled many to organise a feast worthy of your accomplishments. We do not want to make her wait."
"No Master Wirkrund," answered Severus meekly, still unable to process everything that had happened.
Each of the Wises came to congratulate him before they all went to the feast. The main road of Uusi had been decorated with paper lanterns reminding Severus of Bǎo monthly celebrations. They had added flower garlands and he could hear music coming from the main square. When they reached the square, he was surprised at how crowded it was. The band was playing music in the centre, food stands were settled all around the square and Goblins were either dancing or talking in between.
Suddenly, the entire square went silent and Severus found himself under a spotlight.
"I present you, Master Daoack of Shields and Crossings, Ally to Clan Röykkiö and Blood Brother to Kiveä son of Drunek from Clan Röykkiö!"
Wirkrund's voice was loud, but the crowd's clamour following his announcement was deafening. Severus struggled not to blush and show his awkwardness. Goblins then honed in on him to congratulate him, and he lost himself in their pride and happiness.
He only managed to escape two hours later, pleading the need for food to escape dancing invitations. He found a quiet corner just outside the square, and heaved a sigh of relief. Such events were joyous but so tiring. He did not know how Lucius could attend party after party and still enjoy himself.
"Last chance for questions, Master Daoack of Shields and Crossings," teased Drunek, eyes sparkling with mirth as he silently appeared beside Severus.
Severus smiled sheepishly.
"I feel like I'm dreaming. I have still so much to learn from you Master. How can I be a Master?"
Drunek patted his shoulder gently.
"You could spend one century learning with us and you would still have much to learn Daoack. Such is the way of things. We can only strive to learn and discover what fascinates or intrigues us. You deserve your Master title as much as any other Master. Recognition will come with time."
Severus nodded ruefully.
"I understand what you are saying but I still feel like a student, Master."
Drunek laughed.
"We all are students until we die Daoack."
"Even Master Wirkrund?" asked Severus, eyebrows raised in disbelief.
"Especially Master Wirkrund," answered Drunek with a smile. "Master Richtigk would tell you he rediscovers Taichichuan delights everyday."
They remained silent for a bit, Severus pondering his Master's words, Drunek watching him with sparkling eyes.
"You said I could ask questions?" finally said Severus.
"Yes Daoack," smiled Drunek."This is what I said."
"Why did you decide to give me the course on Nexus, Nodes and Horcruxes?"
Drunek nodded, becoming serious.
"There were two main reasons, aside from my desire not to have you stumble on this because of your curiosity and then hurt yourself because of your ignorance. The first one is a prediction from our seers."
"You believe in prophecies?" asked Severus dubiously.
Drunek laughed.
"Prophecies are tricky matters which must be handled with delicacy and subtlety. What we know is that each time a Prophecy is told, it is told at the same time, meaning in a span of a few years, to at least one representative of each species. However, their content is never the same, even contradictory most of the time. Some of us have studied Prophecies for a very long time before coming to this one consensus: prophecies are ways for Magic to protect itself. Does it mean Magic is a conscious entity? Does it mean it is prescient? I honestly do not know and let philosophers debate on this. What I know is that Magic cares more for its own survival than ours. When it feels threatened enough to hand out prophecies, it does not care about the number of deaths it may mean to us. It does not care it might annihilate species. Magic wants to survive. As such, it will give prophecies to those it deems the most suited to deal with the threat it identified, no matter the casualties, as long as it guarantees its own survival."
Severus frowned, trying to work out what Drunek was saying. Prophecies as a tool used by Magic to protect itself made more sense than beings capable of seeing the future for unknown reasons. But how did Magic determine who was a threat and who would deal with the threat?
"I know all Magic centred on predicting the future is headache-inducing. Let's just say we have specialists, seers, and that the Wises trust them enough to sometimes act because of what the specialists predict."
"And what did that Prophecy say?" asked Severus, trying to hide his incredulity at putting so much faith into something so irrational and subjective.
"As I told you, Prophecies are handled by our specialists. They are the only ones who know the content of a Prophecy except for the one who received said Prophecy. They propose various courses of actions to the Wises according to their understanding of it and the Wises chose between them. I only know we agreed to let you take on your Trials earlier than we usually would have."
It was frustrating, but did Severus really wish to learn about his potential future? Recalling Oedipus' story, he'd rather not. He did not even believe in Prophecies.
"Alright," accepted Severus. "What about the second reason?"
"It is a lot more concrete and serious to me. You know you are our youngest non-goblin Apprentice in history. When you were given the silver wristband giving you the possibility to take your Trials, you were not supposed to use it as soon as you did. In fact, the day you showed up at Gringotts with it, you should have been told to come back once you had finished your wizard Apprenticeship," explained Drunek. "However, Hoardrock is one of the few who know enough about Khorlos to detect people who possess at least one unstable Horcrux. He also is among those fewer ones who can detect if someone has been in contact with another being with one unstable Horcrux. It is one of the reasons he is posted at Gringotts entrance Hall. When you approached him, he immediately Sensed you had been in contact with someone with an unstable Horcrux."
Severus was stunned and horrified.
"You were given the opportunity of an Apprenticeship with us because the Goblin you met for your emancipation reckoned you could become a powerful ally of our nation. Hoardrock decided you would be better off with us than in contact with this individual until you had acquired enough knowledge to make informed decisions. I believe the fact you were his clan wizard ally's grandson carried weight in his choice."
The degree of planning was impressive. Severus had no doubt that if he had failed his Trials, the Goblins would have tried to use him to find out who was the mysterious person with an unstable Horcrux. While they might not have assassinated this person, Severus knew they would at least have kept tabs on him.
"Then, you were chosen by our clan. You must have noticed our clan is not in favour with the current Korkein. Wirkrund quickly realised you were an opportunity to improve our political strength and place ourselves in line for the next Korkein election. Teaching you about Horcruxes was relegated behind making you the best wizard Apprentice ever."
Severus had known he had been part of a political scheme to improve clan Röykkiö standing since his year in China. It would have stung if he had not been a Slytherin. It would have hurt if he had not known Drunek and his family' s love for him was real.
"When you came back from Lord Malfoy's son's wedding, I felt the wrongness of an unstable Horcrux on you. I felt it again, even more potent, on Lord Prince and yourself when you came back from Lord Malfoy's funeral. I do not know if Lord Prince is aware of it. I doubt he has learnt to Sense for Horcruxes. Clan Runsaus is not renown for their Magic mastery of Dark matters."
Severus nodded, mind reeling from this revelation. There were high chances he knew the person with the unstable Horcrux. Merlin, the chances he was a Defender was…
"Daoack," said Drunek seriously. "Today, you would Sense the wrongness of an unstable Horcrux immediately. The more Horcruxes one being possess, the more obvious to you it will be."
"I understand," said Severus slowly. "But have you not found out who this person is by now? Surely, he must have come to Gringotts at least once in the past years?"
Drunek sighed.
"Sadly, only a few of us can Sense the instability of Horcruxes. I told you before that Sensing mastery is not a common skill, even among Goblins. It is even harder to pinpoint its source in a crowded Gringotts. Hoardrock was able to sense you because you came close to him. And it may surprise you, but many Wizards seldom come to Gringotts. Most of our activities concerns businesses, heritage and official paperwork after all."
Severus nodded thoughtfully. He felt dread pool in his stomach. From the letters he had received, from what Drunek had told him, he had the feeling he knew who had been foolish enough to play with his Khorlos. It did not bode well for the future of the Defenders—he absolutely refused to call them Death Eaters.
Severus shook himself. He needed to assess the situation in person. Until then, there was nothing he could do. He addressed a brief prayer to Helhest, wishing this Defender had seen reason and reunited the Horcrux with his Khorlo while Severus was away. Tonight, he was going to enjoy his last moments with the Goblins he cherished.