Everything is J.K. Rowlings. I only claim the plot. Everything else is hers, all the characters and the magic, all of it. Please let me know what you think though, I encourage feedback of all kinds, just be nice about it!
Ok, again this isn't incredibly thrilling, mostly meetings and things like that and reiterations but I thought it was necessary to show that Harry was still interacting with Nadrig and Kingsley since they haven't shown up in a while. Also, I know it isn't exactly canon that Mulciber had a son, and it's not mentioned anywhere but I felt like it was a reasonable assumption. We have a Mulciber in Riddle's time and Harry's parents time, and so I figured one for Harry's time would make sense. And if the son was older than Harry and the gang then that explained not being mentioned in books. So, I hope that will satisfy some of you.
Chapter Twenty-Six
"Nadrig, hello," Harry greeted after being requested to enter the office. It hadn't changed much, it was still incredibly small and cramped but there seemed to be even more paper stacked on the desk edges and more papers peeking out from the new filing cabinet that didn't help the space matters.
"Mister Potter, hello, yes, please take a seat," Nadrig greeted, gesturing to the solitary chair still opposite the desk. Harry gave another polite nod as he sank into the chair. Nadrig had a quill in her hand and was still scribbling down something and so Harry let her work. He had been by a handful of times over the summer and knew that this was just some goblin show of power to make their clients wait even if just for a few minutes. And knowing how lowly Nadrig was thought of by her colleagues, Harry didn't mind obliging her this power play.
Finally, Nadrig looked up and Harry gave a polite smile. "Thank you for having me."
"Of course, anything for my best client." Harry felt it would be detrimental to comment that he was really her only client, so he said nothing on the matter and just gave a polite nod. "And I do apologize for having to reschedule," Nadrig responded.
"It was no problem. Now, there are a few things that I'd like to discuss with you today. The first would be Curse Breakers and then about some construction that will need to be done."
Nadrig gave a short nod as she grabbed another piece of parchment and a binder filled to the brim with parchment. She glanced up after a moment. "Well? Are you going to tell me what it is that needs Curse Breakers or not?"
Blinking and flushing slightly, Harry nodded and cleared his throat. "Yes, right. Well, I'm going to need a team of Curse Breakers for Lestrange Manor and Mulciber Manor. I visited them the other day and I was able to deflect the worse of the wards but both properties need to be fully flushed out and cleared of any and all traces of Dark Magic. Children will be a fixture at both properties and I want no lingering hints of curses or anything."
Nadrig gave a nod and wrote them down. "Here are the top Curse Breakers that Gringotts employees. For both properties, for the extensive measures that you are requesting, I would suggest a team of fifteen to twenty." Harry glanced down at the list of names. There was only one that he recognized and he didn't bother looking past that.
"Bill Weasley. I'll have him as the head of the team and I'll trust his judgment in picking the rest of the team members," he announced handing the paperback.
"It will be done," Nadrig said copying down his request on one of the many pieces of paper on her desk. "Once the team is compiled you will need to bring the teams to each location. Expect a finalized list by the middle of next week."
Harry nodded and took out some of his own parchment and wrote that down as a reminder. "When do you think it will all be done?"
"That depends on the extent of what needs to be done. I'd wager, given my knowledge of those two families, that it will be about a month before the homes will be acceptable for any living creature."
Harry gave another nod and wrote that down. He glanced at another piece of parchment that he had written out before arriving that contained all of the topic points for Nadrig, so he didn't leave and forget to get something done. "Alright, so after the Curse Breakers are finished with those properties I'd like them to take a look at these two buildings on Knockturn Alley to make sure there aren't any lingering curses or something before the shops start up."
Nadrig gave a nod. "That can be arranged. Discuss it with Mister Weasley. Now, about the Knockturn Alley properties, the deeds for them are here. And I'll need you to sign them off and make a note of which vaults you will be withdrawing from for the purchase." The goblin said bringing forth two identical pieces of parchment minus the addresses listed.
Harry glanced at his parchment again to verify which vaults Draco and Blaise had requested before signing his name with a flourish that had taken many hours of drilling from Narcissa and Andromeda to accomplish with ease. As they were his vaults and as their owner, it was his responsibility to handle the financial affairs of their shops. Harry didn't like it but he knew it had to happen.
"Alright, now next, I will also like to commission some construction workers to renovate both of the properties. There will be schematics for what is required but it will be mainly combining rooms, changing a rooms purpose, landscaping, things like that."
"Gringotts supplies an exceptional team of builders for you to hire, once the Curse Breakers are done you can meet with our Head Architect and discuss your desires for the locations. May I inquire as to what the properties will be turned into?"
She said it so neutrally and almost bored, but Harry noticed how interested Nadrig really was. It was the closests she could come to showing an interest in the affairs of wizards outside of the bank as her pride would allow. However, Harry allowed the curiosity and was curious as to an outsiders opinion.
"Lestrange Manor will become an orphanage for all magical children and that includes magical beings, such as werewolves and Veelas, even squibs, will be allowed to live at this orphanage."
"That is quite the endeavor," Nadrig commented. "It will be the first of its kind to be sure and you might get more than your typical magical beings seeking asylum there."
"What do you mean typical magical beings ?"
"You mentioned werewolves and Veelas, these are both fairly common. However, if you open doors for all magical beings, then please expect all magical beings. Because while other magical being communities are incredibly close knit, there will be the rare few individuals that seek refuge. Goblins, for instance, will never turn aside a child of our own, of course. But what of vampires? They typically keep to themselves and it's unusual to find one excluded, however, what if a vampire child does end up on the doorstep? Freshly turned and dispensed of by its mortal parents no longer wishing for a monster?"
"They will be accepted," Harry said without thinking. "I mean, it's not my orphanage but from what I understand, Tracey and Greg are wanting to accept any child." Harry couldn't help but think of himself, dropped on his Aunt and Uncles doorstep and treated as a monster or a freak throughout his childhood. It wasn't right. He hoped this situation never occured but he would mention the possibility to the others so they can plan for it. He wasn't sure how to care for a vampire child but he would do all he could to make sure they were cared for.
Nadrig said nothing, merely stared at him as he started to get lost in his own memories. "Mulciber Manor?" she finally asked, bringing him back to focus.
"Oh, that will become a school. It will start accepting children at the age of seven and onward. It will also accept all magical beings and will include muggleborns as well. So even after the children turn eleven, those who don't get accepted to Hogwarts will still receive an education in the magical world like squibs and werewolves. There will be a potions lab and greenhouses and teachers to teach all the way up to seventeen."
"All magical beings again you say?"
Harry nodded again and hoped that Daphne, Tracey, and Greg wouldn't be upset about him speaking for them. "Currently we are working on lining up some teachers. If you have any suggestions they will be appreciated," he offered, knowing it was the polite thing and it would only help to further relations between them.
Harry expected an easy dismissal but Nadrig seemed to actually be thinking about it. "I might be able to provide you with someone. I will need to speak to the elders. However, with a guarantee that our children will also be able to attend, as included in the magical beings category, then we will happily also provide a teacher."
Harry gaped and barely managed to reign in his shock at the offer and revert back to a calm facade that Narcissa and Andromeda had been drilling into him. "Why?" he finally asked.
"Mister Potter, goblins enjoy a good investment, especially one with the greatest rewards and the smallest amount of risk. This school will provide many rewards. For instance, our young goblins will be exposed to additional schooling, which is always beneficial for a growing mind. They will be exposed to how wizards think, which will benefit us in future workings with wizards if we can better understand how they interact, especially at young ages. Also, by interacting with the youth of your kind, it is the best influencer for better relations in the future as those of your young grow. And by instilling one of our own as a teacher it will be better to ensure that proper education on goblins is taught."
There were a few moments of silence as Harry processed this information. Personally, he felt completely fine with the arrangement but of course, it was Daphne's school so he would run it by her. "I'll run it by Daphne, who will be running the school. However, I can't see her not liking the idea."
"I will speak to the elders." Was all Nadrig said in response. Harry gave a numb nod and glanced back at his list trying to focus back on the rest of the tasks at hand. "Right, um...next up...the accounts. So, in regards to the accounts that are going to be used for the different businesses. I want them to have full control of the accounts without having to always go through me. I want them to have an account book of the vaults and I want a monthly rundown of the account's spending."
"For them to also have control of the vaults they, and you will have to sign some documents signing over partial control to them. Once that happens then they will also receive an accounts ledger for their own usage. I can send you a monthly ledger of those accounts or you could just have a self-updating one."
"I'll take the self-updating one. I know I have the huge book but that gets too difficult to constantly flip through. So I would like the specific vaults in use. The ones that we aren't using I can just keep using the big book. So I'll need Potter, Black, Peverell, Lestrange, Mulciber, Carrow, and Avery. I'll need two more once the last two decide on a business. I will see about getting them all here within the next two weeks or so to sign the documents." Harry wrote the reminder to make another visit here with the Slytherins within the next couple of weeks and inwardly sighed. Another thing on the calendar it seemed.
"Was there anything else Mister Potter?"
"Yes, and this is a sensitive matter. Are you aware of the new group currently known as the Red Masks?"
"We goblins strive to remain aware of everything that is happening."
"Right, so you know that I have been attacked twice now, as well as my cousin and those who were with me. The Aurors are refusing to release details about their investigation."
"Mister Potter, while I am sorry for the attacks on your person and your friends, this seems like
another incompetency on the part of your law enforcement. Nothing that I could assist you with."
"Well, I was wondering if Gringotts had its own form of an investigator that I could hire to look into these attacks privately."
It took all of Harry's willpower to not shift under the intense gaze of the goblin opposite him as the minutes ticked on. "Interesting. Yes, Mister Potter, Gringotts does employee a few investigators that you can hire for your own uses."
"Thank you. If you could contact me when one is available, I'd like to meet with them." Nadrig merely inclined her head at the request. "How are you Nadrig? Are things getting better?" Harry asked tentatively before the goblin turned back to her work.
"Things are adequate, Mister Potter," Nadrig replied stiffly before promptly turning back to her work and Harry knew that he was dismissed. Standing he gave a nod of farewell that went unnoticed and walked to the door. "Thank you for your concern." The words were a quiet addition that Harry almost missed, but he turned slightly at the door and gave another nod in acceptance before leaving the small office.
A mind filled with the new information that he had gained in that meeting, Harry steeled himself to enter the Ministry and visit with Kingsley. Luckily he had permission to the man's personal office, so Harry was able to bypass a headache that was the lobby.
However, he would need to deal with the headache of Diagon Alley. Adjusting his robes as he walked the corridor leading from Nadrig's office to the Gringotts lobby, he took a few deep breaths in preparation and fingered his wand that was strapped to his forearm. He felt oddly lonely as he walked, he didn't even have Patronus trotting beside him. It had been decided that the goblins probably wouldn't be happy with a dog in their pristine building and the Ministry wouldn't take kindly either. Harry didn't particularly care about how the Ministry felt but he didn't want to offend the goblins, especially since he had destroyed the building only a couple of months ago.
So, Harry was by himself. His nerves were racing and he could feel his heart starting to pound harder the closer he walked to the people. It had been bad when he arrived at Gringotts that morning but there had been almost no people, now it was starting to get busy with the last minute shoppers before school. It didn't usually hit him this hard, dealing with unknown people but dealing with him completely on his own was sparking his adrenaline.
He felt his mouth going dry and he struggled to swallow as he pulled his hood higher over his head and moved as swiftly out of the bank before someone noticed him. Diagon Alley was brimming with people, there was almost no space to walk. People crowded into him, knocking into him, his hood covering his face and his wand subconsciously slipping into his hand. Harry clenched his fists and felt his palms growing sweaty, taking many deep breaths, he all but sprinted through the crowds. His heart was pounding and the crowds were closing in. He couldn't breathe, by the time he reached the Leaky Cauldron he was gasping for breath. His robes felt too tight and constricting, he needed to leave and he needed to leave now. The edges of his vision were turning black.
Stumbling towards the fireplace in the equally crowded Leaky Cauldron. Harry grabbed a sweaty fistful of floo powder, took a couple deep breaths and tossed the powder into the fireplace calling out the Ministry of Magic, Ministers' Office.
"Harry!" The deep, familiar voice was the first thing Harry noticed when he arrived at his next destination.
"Kingsley, hi," he said with a slight cough. Apparently, he'd left his mouth open slightly while flooing and got some ash in his throat. His hands were still shaking and he forced himself to take deep breaths to calm himself down. "Thank you for meeting with me," he continued reaching out his hand to grip his older friends after he had brushed off the soot.
"Don't mention it. I'm glad that we were able to meet up. Again I apologize for having to reschedule," Kingsley said, gesturing for Harry to take a seat across from his imposing desk.
"No, no, it actually worked out better that you did," Harry said congenially as he took the offered seat.
"Splendid," Kingsley beamed taking his own seat. "Now, before we begin, tell me, Harry, how are you?"
Harry shifted and clasped his hands on his lap to keep in control of them. "I'm fine," he replied trying to sound at ease and casual. "Really, I mean sure it's been a crazy summer and the past year will always be hard to overcome. But I'm fine."
Kingsley watched him silently and Harry met his eye defiantly. His eyes didn't waver and Kingsley must have accepted whatever he saw because after a sigh the older man gave a nod and broke eye contact to look at the papers on the imposing desk in front of him. "So, speaking of this summer. Tell me how that has been going."
"Well, it's going really well," Harry insisted. "All but two, well three including Astoria, have already thought up a business and are already working on them."
"Really?" Kingsley asked, his eyebrows raised seemingly impressed. "Tell me about them," he ordered, grabbing some parchment and a quill as if to take notes. Harry allowed himself to relax a little. He would happily talk about the achievements of those under him. He was actually pretty proud about what was being accomplished.
"Alright, I'll start with Blaise and Draco, they both have shops in Knockturn Alley now," Harry began. "Blaise is going to run a store that will implement muggle technologies with magic."
"How?"
"I don't know how he's doing it but he's already been able to replicate a cellphone and it's been tested and works. He and my cousin are collaborating more to work on other muggle technologies too. I think a TV and a gaming system might be next on the list."
"Impressive. And when will this shop be open?"
"Not sure. I just signed the deeds this morning, some Curse Breakers need to go check it all out and then Blaise can start setting up shop and all and then create more things. I'm hoping that with the help of my cousin that the inventions will come more frequently. But hopefully early next year for a Grand Opening."
"You keep mentioning your cousin, isn't he a muggle?"
"Yup. But after the attack by the Red Masks, Dudley has been living in the manor with us and recuperating. He seems to be getting on with everyone. And like I said, he's been helping Blaise with ideas and explanations on the technologies and his presence even spurred Draco into having some ideas for his shop and so Draco has been working a bit with Dudley too."
Kingsley stared at Harry for many moments. "You are telling me that Malfoy and Zabini are both willingingly working with a muggle? And not only that but all of that lot are actually living with one?"
"Yes," Harry declared proudly. "Including Narcissa Malfoy who is also living with us."
"I think I'll need to witness this to believe it. Sorry, Harry."
Harry inclined his head. He supposed if someone had told him last year that his rival Slytherins would be contentedly living with a muggle, and not just any muggle but his cousin, Harry wouldn't have believed it either. "Well, you are welcome to visit, sir."
"Yes, I might just. Now, you mentioned Malfoy got ideas for his shop as well. What will his be?"
"An apothecary, also on Knockturn Alley. However, it won't just be a regular apothecary. Draco will be doing additional things as well. So while also selling potion ingredients and ready-made potions, Draco is looking to also help supply St. Mungo's with some potions as well. Also, he is working on bettering the current Wolfsbane potion and upon the Grand Opening, he will be able to provide free Wolfsbane Potion for at least fifty werewolves each month for I think seven years or so," Harry explained, scratching the back of his neck as he tried to remember exactly the numbers that Draco had spouted off at him the other day. "And then, in addition to all of that, he is working on making some basic potions muggle friendly. This was spurred on by Dudley's appearance. I think Draco wants to market it towards muggleborn and half blood family members and squibs."
"Incredible," Kingsley breathed, his quill poised above the parchment completely forgotten. "And how are these endeavors coming along?"
"I think they are going well. I know the muggle friendly Pain Reliever is working because Dudley tested it after the attack. But I don't know about the Wolfsbane or any of the others."
Kingsley gave a nod but his mind seemed to be incredibly distant and working over unknown calculations, at least that's how it seemed to Harry who quietly observed the faded look of the man's dark eyes as they gazed over his shoulder.
"Am I to assume this is a similar timeline of opening as the other store?"
"Yes sir," Harry agreed.
"Incredible," he whispered again before giving himself a shake and focusing back on Harry. "Now, what of the other stores?"
"Well, the other businesses aren't actually stores. Daphne is creating a school using the Mulciber property. It will be a school for pre-Hogwarts students. I believe the age is currently set for acceptance at seven and will include all children, such as muggleborn, squibs, werewolves, purebloods and possibly even goblins." Kingsley was openly gaping at him and Harry felt slightly smug at the expression but pressed on. "The school will also continue educating children who were not accepted to Hogwarts up until they become of age, so squibs and werewolves will still be educated in the magical world and not have to fear being shunned and excluded despite not going to Hogwarts."
"That is quite the endeavor. Why start at seven?"
"I think Daphne's reasoning was that that is the age most children express accidental magic and that if children are able to integrate and interact before being Sorted into different Houses it might help the rivalries once they reach Hogwarts. And it will give muggleborns an equal footing to other magical children because they will be introduced and included far sooner."
"Brilliant idea. However, including goblins and werewolves and even squibs will not be looked at fondly. Many parents might not want to send their children there knowing those others will be attending."
"Yes, it is something we are hoping to change. Maybe after the school picks up in coming years, parents will loosen in those values. But for now, we'll take it in steps. We also hope that with this school and it's inclusion, we can start to influence unjust and outdated laws that cause such restrictions against other magical beings."
Kingsley grinned at that. "I was hoping you would mention changing those laws. If anyone can do it, I fully believe you can. Do you have Hermione helping you on writing these laws? I would advise suggesting changes at the first Wizengamot meeting in a few weeks if you really want to make an impression and shake things up."
Harry tried not to wince at the comment about Hermione, it just made him remember how different she still was from before. She was opening up now and talking and laughing occasionally but she just seemed so lost and uncertain that it broke his heart every time. He was trying to persuade her to help him with the laws hoping it would reignite whatever was lost but she would just shrug and say 'maybe'. "I'm not sure if I'll have anything substantial to provide by the first meeting, unfortunately," he finally said instead.
"Well, I'll happily look at the laws before you present them if you want. Help you find any loopholes that others might notice and exploit."
"Thank you, Kingsley, that would be very much appreciated. Because these laws will also influence the next business as well." Kingsley accepted the segue with a flourish of his hand and jotted some more notes down before Harry continued. "Tracey and Greg are creating the first ever Magical Orphanage. This will again accept all magical beings, just like the school. They are renovating the Lestrange property to create this. They are quite excited about it actually."
"It is quite the undertaking. And it pains me to say it but at this current time, the Ministry already has about thirty children who would be sent to this orphanage. Of course, that number is only from known magical families and sadly the number is growing almost weekly with new children discovered living on the streets after their homes and families were destroyed. The orphaned werewolf and muggleborn and squib populations are unknown. What are the expected completion dates for the school and the orphanage?" Harry swallowed hard at the number of children and felt his chest constrict.
"Uncertain. I'm hiring a team of Curse Breakers to fully purge both properties before building can even commence and the goblins suggest that could take at least a month, given the histories of both properties. And then there will be a lot of renovating that hopefully will only take until Christmas. And then the decorating and the hiring and furnishing could take another couple of months…." Harry trailed off as he tried to do a quick estimation. "They haven't said when it would open but I expect they should both be ready by late Spring. But with this knowledge, I might be able to convince the builders to focus more on the orphanage to get it running first."
Kingsley seemed to accept this, though his face was drawn and sad. "It would be appreciated if it was the priority, these children will need a place to live that isn't bouncing between families or scavenging on the streets." Kingsley gave another sigh before moving forward again. "What subjects will the school be teaching? Will it start with Hogwarts subjects?"
"Yes and no. It will incorporate muggle and magical basic educations from my understanding. And in terms of magical learning, it will only be the basics and theory, nothing to extreme. And for the muggle education, I think it will be like writing and math and things like that. Currently, teachers are still being sought out though."
"Who is being asked currently?"
"Molly Weasley, Andromeda Tonks, and Narcissa Malfoy are the ones that I know that Daphne will speak with. The thought was to ask the mothers of magical children since they are the ones who typically did the homeschooled education in the past. And then the goblins mentioned possibly offering a teacher of their own today when I met with them. So we shall see," Harry finished with a shrug.
"Everything seems to be going wonderfully, Harry. I'm really happy for you and I'm proud of what you are doing here." Harry swelled a bit at these words but tried not to show it. It felt nice hearing a praise for his endeavor instead of just criticism. "Might I offer a suggestion though?" Harry gave a nod, his head tilted curiously. "I would suggest holding a press conference. Not for you," Kingsley rushed forward, holding up a hand to stop Harry's immediate protests. "Though I recommend you being there as well. But for your Slytherins. Give them a press conference to help publicize these businesses. Allow them to answer and field the questions for their own endeavors. It will help spread the word about what is happening and allow them to make a public appearance since all of them have been practically sequestered away at the manor, aside from your birthday party no one has really seen them."
Harry considered the advise and had to agree. A press conference would definitely help clear the air and allow the Slytherins to defend themselves against the negative public opinion and also showcase their businesses to gain public favor. "It's a good idea, thank you. I'll run it by them and find out what they think. I'm not going to force them to speak after all."
"Of course not. But it would do a lot of good in the long run. If you decide to go through with it just contact me and I'll have my people help you set it up. Now, what of the other Slytherins? There were more weren't there?"
"Yes, Theo and Pansy are still unsure of their endeavors but I think Theo is coming close to deciding his. Their deadline is Christmas to decide though. And Astoria has until graduation to decide."
"Good, good. Now, the other residents? How are they coming along?"
"Everyone is good, I suppose. Luna and Astoria are the only ones leaving for school next week. And the rest of us are coping and coming closer I think. There isn't as much arguing as there was in the beginning though it does happen sometimes. It's not perfect yet, but it is getting there."
Kingsley smiled softly at this and gave a nod. "I'm happy for you. Now, let's talk a bit more about these laws before you head off again."
Harry gave a nod and the two entered a lengthy discussion that turned more into a rant on both their parts about the idiocy of the more archaic laws and what exactly they wanted to change with the new laws. Knowing exactly what they wanted to accomplish was an imperative step before they started tearing apart the old laws because some could just be adjusted instead of abolished.
Harry left by floo once more about an hour later with his head still spinning and luckily he had taken notes throughout the entire conversation between himself and Kingsley and with Nadrig as well or he feared he would have forgotten everything by the time he reached home.
Stepping out of the fireplace in the Floo Room, Harry noticed the lack of reception but didn't feel too bothered by it. As the group typically met the arrivals in the lobby not the floo room which didn't have near enough seating for everyone. Plus, it would give him a chance to sneak up to his rooms and change before fielding the questions on his day. Dinner was just an hour a way after all. As quietly as he could, he sneaked up to the third floor and luck must have been on his side because no one was in the halls. Sliding into his room he heaved a relieved sigh and then smiled faintly at the booming bark that greeted him as Patronus leaped off the couch and crashed into him, licking every inch of his face that could be reached.
"Hey boy, yes I'm back, no worries." Harry knelt on the floor not but two feet from his door and ran his fingers through the wolf-hybrids fur feeling calmed almost immediately at its softness. "It was a long day, Patronus. But I think a lot of good came out of it. These guys are going to help really change our world and it's going to be great to see. It really is." The dog gave a happy whine and licked his cheek, wagging its tail so hard that it almost knocked over a lamp.
Standing, Harry called for Zabkey and requested a glass of firewhiskey, which was promptly delivered. The entire day had been draining and he'd had a headache for hours. And then having had to deal with the crowd at Diagon Alley, his nerves had been frayed ever since. Slouching into his plush couch, Harry drained the glass three gulps and to placate the soft growls from Patronus at the act, he invited the dog to hop up and join him. Harry had noticed he could not have a glass in his hand and also be at the same level as his dog or the dog would knock the glass away.
Dinnertime arrived and Harry now relaxed from the drink and his dog, made his way down the stairs and found that he was the last to arrive. He gave a nod to everyone before taking his seat and watched as the others claimed their seats as well after he sat. He still hadn't gotten used to that custom but knew better than to mention it.
"How were your meetings, Harry?" Astoria asked after the food had been divided.
"They went well, really well, actually," Harry began. "And there are a few things that I'd like to go over with those of you starting a business. We can do it after dinner if you want."
"Oh why bother with that formality?" Pansy huffed. "Just go on and talk about it now, everyone is here and it will save the repetition of the news later."
"Well, maybe if you had a business idea then you could be included too," Harry shot back and enjoyed the glare he got in return.
"It's nothing bad, right?" Blaise clarified, bringing the conversation back to the topic.
"No, not really. Just something to consider and take into account."
"Then Pansy is right, might as well speak it now," Tracey agreed. "It might be more beneficial with everyone's input on a decision."
Harry glanced at the other business owners and they all nodded and the others at the table just had eager curiosity on their faces. "Alright, first thing is that Kingsley suggested a press conference for those of you with a business idea. He thought it would be a good way to clear the air and help promote your businesses at the same time."
"I must say that I agree with our Minister," Narcissa commented while the Slytherins thought over the suggestion. "Any publicity could only help the businesses and being able to confront adversary head on, while incredibly Gryffindor in its approach, is what is needed in this current situation."
The rest of the table seemed to be agreeing with this line of thought. "Now, the only question is whether to hold individual press conferences or one big one," Harry continued.
"One big one," Draco said. "Just let it be a feeding frenzy for the reporters and have it all done at once. It will make the scrutiny more widespread and won't make the following articles so pointed for each person later." Harry was very certain the blonde man was mainly thinking of his own harsh scrutiny that he would face but said nothing.
"A united front could work for this as well," Daphne commented slowly. "I assume that you will also be in attendance?" She asked him and he gave a nod. "Then you would be able to help steer some of the more hate filled questions and make sure that each of us are able to say our piece. But it would be far less stressful to just deal with one day than have it drawn out over multiple days."
"And we can offer individual interviews closer to when our places open as compensation," Blaise added.
"Ok, sounds good to me. I'll message Kingsley and we will work on organizing that. Now, next up, the Curse Breakers. Nadrig suggested a team to deal with Mulciber and Lestrange and that should take a month or so. I'll hopefully be meeting with the team end of next week. Nadrig was also able to supply construction workers for the renovations. I'm going to ask the Curse Breakers to deal with the Knockturn Alley properties first since that shouldn't take very long and then Blaise and Draco can move right on ahead." Everyone at the table seemed to accept this and so Harry gave a small nod to himself. "So in a month, Daphne, Tracey and Greg, have construction plans thought up to go over with the lead architect."
"Were you able to ask about the Red Masks?" Neville questioned before Harry could continue. Harry glanced at his former roommate and saw how concerned and tense the man looked. Harry guessed that the threat looming over their heads was an incredibly prominent concern for the man, and it was something that seemed to be affecting all of the residents.
"Yes, Nadrig says that Gringotts has some private investigators that I can hire. I should also be meeting with them next week sometime." Neville gave a nod before taking a bite of his food. "Now, Tracey, Greg, and Daphne, I have something to run by each of you that Kingsley suggested and then a warning that Nadrig gave."
The three called upon young adults looked wary but gave nods of their heads.
"Alright, I spoke to Kingsley about your ideas and he is quite excited about them. However, when I mentioned the orphanage, he provided me with some numbers...He said that currently, the Ministry knows of about thirty orphaned children. This number only comes from children of known magical families. There are no statistics about the orphaned squibs, werewolves, or muggleborns. However, just with the thirty children alone, he suggested that maybe the renovation efforts focus more on the orphanage first. Get that up and running as soon as possible to house these children before focusing on the school."
There was silence for a few minutes as the table processed the information. "Where are the orphaned children living now?" Padma questioned quietly.
"Most are bounced from family to family or are living on the streets, near where their homes and families were killed and destroyed," Harry answered gravely.
"I approve of this suggestion," Daphne finally spoke. "The school can wait. The orphanage needs to be the builders top priority," she insisted. Her blue-grey eyes looked shattered and glassy and Harry just nodded, wishing he knew how to comfort her.
"Thank you, Daphne," Tracey replied quietly. "That many children…" she began before her voice cracked and she pushed her plate away. Dudley, who sat next to her, gently grabbed her hand in comfort.
"Nadrig also had a warning to give for both the school and the orphanage," Harry continued. The broken-hearted eyes of the table provided a heavy weight as he continued forward. "She cautioned that when you advertise a place for all magical beings, you must be prepared to accept all magical beings, even vampires if they seek the refuge." Tracey and Greg had matching thoughtful expressions as they debated this and Daphne seemed uneasy at the idea but didn't dismiss it outright.
"They will have a home," Greg finally spoke, his soft voice still an adjustment to hear coming from his large frame.
"Yes, we will find a way to care for them as well," Tracey agreed and Daphne just nodded.
"I'm glad. Now, Daphne, Nadrig had an offer regarding your school." The blonde at his side looked up at him, providing her full calculated attention. "She said that if your all magical beings offer really does stand than she might be able to talk with some of the elders about sending their young goblins as well. And if this occurs than a goblin teacher would also be provided."
Daphne's eyes widened and Astoria gasped. "They wish to educate their young at my school?" Daphne clarified.
"Yes, or at least, Nadrig suggested it but has to get it approved by the elders. She said that it would be a worthy investment that could not only benefit their young goblins in understanding the way wizards work for future business operations but could also help influence the future minds of our young to change the laws surrounding them."
"I would be honored to participate in helping them," Daphne finally said, a little breathless. Her eyes sparkling with the prospect. "Narcissa and Andromeda have each agreed to also be teachers as well," she added, nodding to the two women also at the table.
"Wonderful. And like I said, I'll be discussing it with Molly this Sunday. Now, that was really the main things that got discussed today. Oh, and at some point, I need to bring all of you to Gringotts to give you partial control over your chosen vaults."
By this point in time, everyone had finished with their meals and were excusing themselves. Harry felt incredibly weary after the excursions of the day hit him again and he debated going straight to bed until he caught the glance of Daphne and her questioning head tilt towards her room and he gave a nod. An offer to drink wine and talk with Daphne never failed to boost his spirits. There weren't designated nights for these talks but Friday nights were typically common for them. Going back to his rooms, he changed into something comfortable before calling on Zabkey to bring wine to Daphne's room.
With Patronus at his heels, he strode over to the blonde's room and knocked. A couple of seconds later it was opened and Daphne greeted him with a small smile. "Hello, Harry, and Patronus," she added at the affronted bark from the dog at the exclusion. She opened the door further and wizard and dog stepped in. Zabkey had already delivered the wine and the two glasses were already poured and sitting on the table. Circe, Daphne's cat, was curled up on one of the chair cushions and gave a meow in greeting. Harry was glad that Circe and Patronus seemed to get along well. And both animals really seemed to have no issues with each other and had even curled up to sleep together a few times.
Daphne claimed her side of the couch and Harry claimed his and they both relaxed into the cushions. "So, how was it really today?" Daphne asked, taking a sip of wine and turning to face him properly on the couch.
Harry sighed and shifted as well to face her. "Long. Incredibly long and I'm glad I took those notes like you suggested or I'd have forgotten everything. But the businesses were accepted by both Nadrig and Kingsley and they both seem to approve, so that's good."
"Yes, it is. It's good to have strong support when starting endeavors like this. And having Gringotts and the Minister in our corner will only help the public opinion."
"Are you really OK, with your school taking second priority?"
"Of course," she cried out, her eyes wide in her earnestness. Her expression unguarded and full of expression. It was these instances that made Harry really love their private chats. Daphne hardly ever let her true feelings show so poignantly unless they were alone. "I'm not so selfish as to demand my school get built first. The orphanage is the priority. Merlin, all those children. And that's only the ones that the Ministry cares to track," her voice wavered as the sadness claimed her once again. Emboldened by the wine from dinner and now, Harry reached out a hand to touch the shoulder closest to him, trying to comfort her in this way. Daphne seemed to appreciate the gesture because she didn't shoo his hand away at least. "No, a home for those children is far more important than just providing a school."
"And Nadrig's warning about the vampires?"
Daphne shuddered a little at this reminder and Harry shifted his hand on her shoulder so it was in a better position. "I agree with Tracey and Greg, I will do my best to care for them and provide them an education. I just don't know how," she sighed, resting her head on the back of the couch causing her hair to fully engulf Harry's hand and his fingertips to brush against her neck. "Not much is known about vampires. I mean werewolves have the Wolfsbane potion and outside of the full moon they aren't much different from regular wizards. But vampires? It's not like they can shut it off. It's a constant affliction." Daphne sighed and took another drink of wine. For once Harry wasn't craving the wine in his hand, he was far too focused on the feel of her silky hair draped over his hand and the softness of her neck against his finger tips. "But I won't turn them aside. I just wish there was more research about how to handle them properly to prevent accidents. Oh well, something to address in time. What did Kingsley have to say about the laws you want changed?"
"He was in full agreement. He offered to look over the drafts to help find loopholes that others might exploit. He did suggest having some ready by the first Wizengamot meeting but I don't think that will be a reality. He also asked if Hermione was helping me and Merlin...I wished I could have said she was taking full charge of it," he admitted softly.
"She is getting better," Daphne offered quietly, turning her head to fully look at him.
"I know. I just...I feel so guilty. Being my friend wasn't exactly a walk in the park and I feel like if I wasn't then she would have had more time to be a witch, more time to fully embrace it and enjoy it. Merlins' balls, she had about two months of non bollocksed education before we became friends and everything changed."
"Harry," Daphne said sternly. "You have no right to blame yourself. You aren't that important," she quipped, causing him to snort. "There is nothing you could have done that would have stopped Hermione from trying to help you. And if not for you than that troll would have killed her and then she definitely wouldn't have been able to enjoy her new magical life. Yes, her introduction to the magical world was very unorthodox but I doubt she would trade it for anything. Believe me, so stop blaming yourself. She is healing, just as we all are. Let her heal at her own pace."
Harry sighed but agreed. It was hard to disagree when the words made logical sense and Daphne's eyes were piercing his very soul making him incapable of looking away, making him want to agree with anything she said just to keep her looking at him. "But enough of that. Now, tell me about yesterday. When we were at Mulciber Manor, the elves knew you. What was that about?"
Daphne sighed sadly and looked down at her wine glass. Leaving Harry feeling empty at the loss, but his hand was still on her shoulder and he was comforted by that. "Before the war, I was betrothed to Mulcibers' son." Her words were soft and her expression pained.
Harry stiffened at the news. "Oh….um…" Feeling incredibly foolish for reasons he didn't know, Harry awkwardly started to take his hand back.
"He's dead," Daphne cut him off, reaching her free hand up to gently touch the arm he was drawing away. Her fingertips brushed his forearm and stilled his withdrawal. She seemed to be satisfied that he wasn't retreating anymore because she then dropped her hand back to holding the wine glass and shifted. Harry couldn't help but notice that her shift in movement brought her slightly closer because his hand was able to rest on the back of her neck now instead of her shoulder.
"Oh...I'm sorry...for your loss…." he mumbled, though he couldn't help feel slightly elated and knew his words were empty in the needed emotion.
"Don't be. I'm glad he's dead."
"I didn't know Mulciber had a son."
"He was a Seventh Year when we were First Years, so I don't doubt that you would remember him from school. We'd been betrothed since before I could walk. It was a tradition from years past to betroth children at a young age but recently parents typically wait to see if the children can even tolerate each other. Did you know Draco and Astoria were almost betrothed?" she asked casually.
"No, I didn't, but don't change the subject."
Daphne sighed and stared at the top flower vase on the fireplace mantel; it was full of daffodils. "Marcus was his name, Marcus Mulciber," she commented her pretty face twisting into one of disgust. "As betroths, we were required to spend holidays together and summers together, to become better acquainted before our marriage which would have taken place the summer after my graduation." Harry took a sip of his wine and tried not to think about the fact that if the war never happened, Daphne would have been married by now. "He was a vile, angry man. He didn't approve of those who thought differently of him and made his anger in the face of disagreement well known." Her face was pinched now and Harry could tell she was lost in pained memories as her eyes remained on the daffodils on the mantel. "His expectation of a wife was to be seen and not heard, to be the epitome of perfect pureblood heiress and to provide him children, whether I desired him or not." There was silence for a few minutes as Harry tried to contain the anger he felt towards the man who was now dead and Daphne was still lost in memories. Subconsciously to help calm himself down, Harry's fingers began idly playing with the silky strands on Daphne's neck, closest to his fingers.
"Did he ever hurt you?" Harry finally asked.
"Sometimes it was needed to get his message across," she replied simply. Harry gripped his wine glass harder. "But he is dead now and again, I have you to thank for that." Daphne pulled her gaze from the flowers and turned to look at him again, causing her cheek to rest on his wrist. "A happy future was not in the cards fate dealt me. I knew this before I even went to Hogwarts. So I blocked off my emotions. It would be harder to care if I was happy or not if I couldn't actually feel anything. I suppose that is how my Ice Queen nickname came around. But it was a mask that helped me through the horrors of last year so I suppose I could thank Mulciber for that."
"You will never have to deal with that ever again," Harry promised even though it was probably unnecessary now. He felt it had to be said.
Daphne smiled faintly, her gaze making him unable to move. She was beautiful, she truly was, Harry thought as he gazed at her. And it angered him to think that she was almost forced into such a miserable life. He was drawn to her, he thought absently, feeling himself lean closer. He saw her eyelids flutter close momentarily as he drew closer and heard her draw in a breath. He didn't really know what he wanted to do but he wanted to prove that everything would be better. He would make sure of it.
"Of course, as our owner, you are in charge of any future marriages," she said suddenly her eyes flashing open again. Her cheeks pink and she swallowed thickly after this comment. Harry blinked and leaned back a little, trying to get a grasp on his thoughts and what had just happened or didn't happen. Daphne stood abruptly, the few strands of hair that had wrapped around his fingers slid easily through them. Daphne stood with her back to him as she placed the wine down and scooped up her tiny kitten. "Even if it isn't betrothals, you still have to give your approval before any of us can marry. I should advise you to expect Draco to come to you about Astoria once he gets his head out of his arse of course." Her voice sound shaky to him, not as poised as it typically was and he felt concerned. He hadn't wanted to scare her.
"Um...sure…" Harry replied. He felt like he was floundering and he wished she would turn to face him. Because just like every time she mentioned him being the owner, he felt like a bucket of cold water was thrown on him. Shaking him to his senses. The contrast of the warmth and peace and desire he had just felt contrasting with the harsh reality and cold emptiness he currently felt was always disorienting. "I can go...if...if you want," he offered, wishing that she would say no and join him again on the couch. He couldn't name it but he wanted her near him.
"That might be for the best," she said quietly, her head bowed closer to where she was clutching her kitten to her chest.
Feeling empty, Harry gave a nod even though she couldn't see it, and stood. "Come on, Patronus," he said, voice empty of any emotion. Daphne turned now and he saw her face still looking flushed, her eyes almost pleading but for what he didn't know, and her bottom lip between her teeth. "I'm sorry about anything I said or did," he said, walking towards the door but unable to look away.
"No, Harry, I'm sorry," she whispered, and looked for a moment like she wanted to reach out to him. But instead, she gripped Circe tighter and gave him a shaky smile to see him out.
As Harry entered his room, he sighed, collapsing on the bed. This feeling had only really occurred twice before since their night chats started. Most of the time they simply talked and swapped stories, though the stories were censored on both their parts and very vague, or they talked of the future, or her school. It was relaxing and felt nice. This was the first night he had actually touched her and the first night they had sat so close.
Groaning, Harry got ready for the few hours he would attempt for sleep before meeting Draco and Tracey, collapsing under the covers trying to identify why he felt so empty and lost once Daphne had moved away.