Chapter Eleven: Lady Muriel
For all that she passed herself off as a cranky and dodgy old woman, Muriel Prewett is still a shrewd and intelligent woman; with her mind still as sharp as it had been when she had been a young woman.
Unusual in that time of history, Muriel's parents have groomed her as a sort of advisor to her older brother, the heir to the Prewett Lordship, having realised at an early age that she possessed the sort of cunning and shrewd intelligence that is needed to survive in the sea of politics.
Not that Christopher Prewett, Muriel's older brother isn't intelligent. He is. But he doesn't possess the ruthlessness and cunning that Muriel had. Lots of the cutthroat dealings and plans that Christopher had pushed through the Wizengamot at that time had mostly been Muriel's work.
Hadrian Potter, Muriel's betrothed and also a childhood friend to her and Christopher had always found this part of Muriel amusing, much to the disbelief of both their older brothers. It is almost a marvel that Muriel was actually sorted into Ravenclaw instead of Slytherin during her Hogwarts' years.
Muriel had grieved deeply when Hadrian Potter was killed during a skirmish during the Grindelwald war—just a few months before their wedding, and had stayed single since, refusing to open her heart to anyone else but the deceased Hadrian Potter, much to Christopher's dismay who had wished to see his sister find new love in someone else.
Likewise, Muriel had still stayed in constant contact with the remaining members of the Potter family, with Charlus Potter still treating her as his sister-in-law, even though Muriel had never officially wedded his brother. Charlus and Dorea's son, James Potter too had treated Muriel as his aunt. Muriel was overjoyed when James had later married the muggleborn, Lily Evans, and later on, expecting a son whom he wanted to name after his late uncle to honour him.
When Christopher and his wife have passed away even when their three children were still in Hogwarts, Muriel had then taken on the mantle as the matriarch of House Prewett, merely waiting for the day when Fabian comes of age to take on the Prewett Lordship.
Muriel had grieved deeply when the Prewett twins too were killed during the First Wizarding War, and had cussed out Albus Dumbledore for even involving her twin nephews in his fight. Her sole remaining niece too grieved for the loss of her brothers and threw herself entirely into raising her children; though Muriel was uneasy over the years at how Molly had been treating her twins especially—Fredrick and George who were named after Molly's own older twin brothers, and were as mischievous as their namesakes.
Percival had sought refuge at Prewett Manor more than once over the years. As did William and Charles. And while none of the boys wanted to say anything bad about their mother, Muriel was shrewd enough to read between the lines. Not to mention that she knew her niece, and knew that Christopher and his wife did spoil their daughter—with Molly being a surprise to them both after Elizabeth Prewett had thought that she wouldn't be able to have any more children after a hard pregnancy with Fabian and Gideon.
Magical twins after all takes a lot of the mother's resources, and Elizabeth Prewett isn't the most powerful witch.
Muriel had tried with Molly, especially after Christopher and Elizabeth have passed away when Fabian and Gideon were in their Fifth Year, and Molly had been in her Third Year. She had tried teaching Molly what she needs to know as a pureblooded daughter of House Prewett and to make a good match, but Molly had refuted all of Muriel's teachings, and to add insult to injury, showed no respect for the Olde Religion, no matter how much her own twin brothers have tried speaking to her. This attitude, Muriel knew, had enraged several of Molly's peers. If not for Fabian and Gideon's own popularity amongst their peers, and that it is Fabian who is the Heir Apparent, without a doubt, House Prewett would likely be embroiled in some kind of feud before the Prewett children have even graduated.
Muriel is honestly surprised when Arthur Weasley had approached her nervously during his Sixth Year to get her permission to court Molly, knowing how her niece is.
The Weasley family had all but lost both their influence and whatever funds that they once have, thanks to a centuries long feud between the Weasley and Malfoy families. And Muriel knew her brother well enough to know that Christopher wouldn't be impressed with Arthur's prospects, or lack thereof for his only daughter.
But Arthur had been nothing but sincere in his dealings with Muriel, and the woman had respected the young man for that, and knew that he truly loved her niece, and thus, had given her blessing. And ironically, it was Arthur that Muriel is closer to than her own niece—with the man sending her letters and photographs and news about their seven children over the years.
When Muriel had heard that Arthur is struggling to put together the funds to see his children through Hogwarts, Muriel had stepped up to it—paying for all seven years' worth of tuition and supplies for his children so that none of them have to go through Hogwarts with second hand stuff and hand-me-down robes.
Whatever excuse that Arthur had used to pacify Molly, Muriel has no idea; as knowing her niece, Molly would never have accepted any 'handouts' that her 'hated aunt' had given them; even if her children have to undergo humiliation and peer bullying from the second-hand stuff that they otherwise would have to use. Not to mention with the stain on the Weasley name.
Thus, Muriel was very surprised when Minerva had contacted her, asking her to come down to Hogwarts, stating that Arthur had put her name down as an emergency contact if both Weasley parents aren't available. And that Charles had specifically asked for her presence.
That had sent warning bells ringing through Muriel's head, and she had quickly Apparated to the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade before hurrying to Hogwarts faster than an old woman of her age should even be capable of.
And the entire time that the half-giant was leading her into the school and to Minerva's office, Muriel's mind was in a whirl.
What is going on? Did something happen to William or even Charles? Why would the school then be calling for her, and not for Molly or even Arthur? Even if Arthur is working and probably couldn't get away, Molly is a stay-at-home mother, and could come to the school at any time. Though with two children still too young to stay at home without supervision, Muriel supposed that might be why she was called.
Young William and Charles were both in Minerva's office when Muriel was shown in, though William looked thunderous, whereas Charles looked rather guilty. Pomona too was present in the office, along with a young girl with bright purple hair that Muriel recognised a moment later as Andromeda Tonks' daughter. Minerva was seated behind her desk, surveying both Weasley boys with a grave expression.
For a moment, Muriel thought that Charles must be up to some mischief in school, but scrapped the idea when she studied the looks on both boys' faces.
"Well, why am I called here?" Muriel asked, even as Minerva conjured a comfortable looking chair for Muriel which she sank into with a grateful sigh. "What have you both done this time, William? Charles?"
"The boys didn't do anything, Lady Prewett." Pomona was quick to interject, much to Muriel's confusion. Why was she called down then? "Boys? Do you want to tell your great-aunt what you've told myself and Minerva? Or shall I do it?" She asked the Weasley boys gently.
William fidgeted on his feet, giving his younger brother worried glances before looking towards his head of house. "Professor?"
Minerva sighed, nodding. "Lady Muriel, have you heard about the news involving the Weasley family of later?" she asked. "And that Lord Black was close to pressing charges against Molly Weasley?"
Muriel looked as if she wanted to groan. What did her niece do this time? "What did Molly do now?"
The little girl standing by Pomona's side spoke up this time, looking apologetic. "She sent a Howler to my little cousin," she said, almost blushing when all eyes in the room fell on her. "My little cousin who is only four years old at the moment, and just recently rescued from an abusive household. Hadrian is traumatised."
Muriel almost blanched but kept her facial expressions neutral. She knows that this little girl is Andromeda Tonks' daughter, so that makes her the niece of Sirius Black. And considering that she knows that James Potter is kind of a distant cousin to Sirius Black, as his mother was Arcturus Black's youngest sister—this also makes James' son a kind of cousin to the Black family as well. The entire scandal about Hadrian Potter and even Sirius Black have made the front pages of the Daily Prophet for days, and Muriel had kept newspaper clippings of those, and even the report about Dumbledore being deported from Bulgaria. So that means that Molly is foolish enough to send a Howler to Hadrian Potter himself?!
"What does Lord Black have to say about it, Miss Tonks?" Muriel asked, attention focused on the little girl. From what Minerva said, Sirius was close to pressing charges. That means for now, either he decided not to worsen things, or Andromeda Tonks might have talked him out of it—considering how bad a position that Albus Dumbledore had put Britain in. If things blew up, chances are that the Black family and even Hadrian Potter, might never be able to return to their home country.
Nymphadora Tonks looked at Pomona for support, with the Herbology professor smiling and nodding at her encouragingly. "He's not pressing charges. Mum talked him out of it," she answered hesitantly. "But when I told Charlie about it, he… Well…" She looked towards Charles.
Muriel sighed, her quick mind quickly putting two and two together. "Charles… Talk to me," she said, turning her attention towards the two Weasleys. "What did your mother do to you? Did she lay a finger on you? Hit you?"
"N-No, nothing like that. The most she ever did was scream at us whenever we're home. Saying that I'm just wasting my time, wanting to become a Dragonzoologist, and that Bill should stop dreaming about becoming a curse breaker." Charlie murmured, with Muriel frowning. She could quite easily picture those scenes. "And Percy's letters to us recently isn't reassuring us that the twins are any safer at home."
"From what Percy told us, Aunt Muriel," Bill took over from his younger brother next, a thunderous expression on his face, "is that Mum had been berating and scolding the twins every chance she got. I know the twins are mischievous, but she's been blaming them even for things not their fault! Like the other day when Percy accidentally dropped a plate that he's been cleaning. Mum refuses to believe that it's Percy who dropped it accidentally, and instead blamed it on the twins even though they were actually over at the Diggory's, and not at home. Anything that Ron and Ginny did too are automatically blamed on them. It's come to such a point that Percy had been spending as much time away from the house with the twins as much as he could."
Muriel frowned. This level of treatment won't be enough to call in Wizarding Child Services on her niece. But Muriel could do something, as she's the matriarch of House Prewett—at least until either Charles or Percy comes of age. Though privately, Muriel thinks that Percival might be a better fit as the Heir, as he seems to genuinely have an interest in politics whereas all Charles is thinking of are magical beasts and dragons. Nothing wrong with that, and Muriel is proud of her grand nephew for wanting to work with magical creatures. But it seems like Charles would not want to take on the mantle of Heir Prewett if that is the case.
"All right." Muriel said at last, with both Weasley boys staring at her hopefully. "Minerva, I would like to take both my grand nephews out of Hogwarts for a few days at least to deal with some family matters. I will bring them back on Monday."
"Of course, Lady Muriel." Minerva nodded solemnly. "We will however need to inform Albus about it."
Muriel's eye twitched at the mention of Albus Dumbledore.
She is close friends with Bathilda Bagshot—with both of them having ran in the same social circles, though Bathilda is several years older than her. And Muriel is definitely old enough to remember that the Dumbledore family doesn't just have two sons, but also a younger daughter. There were lots of rumours going around after Arianna's funeral when both Albus and Aberforth have a falling out.
Muriel too had met Bathilda's sweet nephew a few times when he had come over to visit his aunt and to help her out around the house during his holidays from Drumstrang. Such a sweet boy. So innocent and trusting, and so delicate looking too.
In those days, it isn't polite to enquire about one's secondary gender, but with one look at Gellert Grindelwald, Muriel knew immediately that he's an omega. Which only makes it more amazing that Gellert actually graduated early from Drumstrang, and with full honours too.
Hence, when Bathilda admitted to her in tears that Albus Dumbledore had sexually assaulted her poor nephew, Muriel is probably the only one who believed her about it. Though if Muriel had been a betting person, she would bet that Aberforth knew about it too. The assault on Gellert might even be related to how Arianna Dumbledore died.
The war that had half of the wizarding world in fear after that happened not long later. And Muriel could only come up with a few guesses why Gellert started one. She knew from Bathilda that Gellert actually had a bonded mate whom he had met in Drumstrang, and they were going to get married in a few years.
And if Albus Dumbledore did sexually assault Gellert, chances are he might have driven Gellert over the edge, and he had lashed out in the only way he knew how.
Muriel held her tongue even as they Flooed to Albus' office using the fireplace in Minerva's office. Whereas Pomona had taken Andromeda's daughter with her, and had left the office—probably to return her to her common room, no doubt.
Minerva had gone into the short explanation to Albus why the Weasley boys wouldn't be in school for a few days. And seeing the look on Dumbledore's face, Muriel could already predict the next words coming out of his mouth, and she wasn't mistaken.
"I'm sure that it's all just a misunderstanding." Dumbledore soothed. "Molly loves her children. And you know how children loves to exaggerate. Would you break up a family just because Lord Black is nursing a grudge—"
"I'll pick my next words very carefully, Albus Dumbledore." Muriel interrupted, narrowing her eyes at the man who paled. "You are very close to having a blood feud declared on you by House Prewett. And as much as you like to think that you have a great deal of authority, you are not part of the Old Blood houses."
The words 'butt out' couldn't be heard any clearer, much to the amusement of the Weasley boys and even Minerva who had never seen anyone put Dumbledore in his place like that.
Dumbledore went red and white in his face; though no one knew if it's from anger or embarrassment.
"You boys know how to use the Floo, I'm presuming?" Minerva asked, holding out a pot filled with Floo powder to the two amused Weasley brothers. Both boys nodded, taking a pinch of the powder. "Now off you go. And I expect you two back by dinner on Monday."
"Yes ma'am." Bill muttered. "Come on, Charlie. The Burrow!"
Arthur Weasley was actually expecting a visit from Aunt Muriel sooner or later, especially after Andromeda Tonks had made a visit to him in regards to the Howler that his wife had sent to a four-year-old child not their own.
And not to mention a child recently rescued from an abusive household, furthermore!
What he was not expecting is for his two eldest to come stumbling out of the Floo before Aunt Muriel, and then listening to what his two eldest, and then Percy revealed what had actually been going on in his house, and how his wife had been treating the five oldest, especially the twins.
"I normally don't interfere in how you run your household, Molly, but I draw a firm line at abuse!" Aunt Muriel was very clearly displeased, if the way her nostrils flared, and her eyes flashed are of any indication. She might be old now. But Aunt Muriel is in no way a pushover. "The level of abuse probably won't be enough to draw in Wizarding Child Services, but I can interfere."
"I didn't abuse them!" Molly seemed to be gearing herself up for a rant. "They're my children. I'll discipline them as I see fit! The twins especially are out of control! They're pranksters now. But what if they grow up to be criminals, or woe betide, Slytherins—"
"There's nothing wrong with being a Slytherin!" Bill cut in, furious. "My best friend is a Slytherin, for Merlin's sake!"
Percy winced, immediately herding the wide-eyed twins with him to the back of the sitting room. He already had an inkling what is going to happen in a matter of moments. Charlie wisely followed his brothers, already bracing himself for the blowout between his mother and his older brother.
It's been an ongoing argument ever since Bill had gone off to Hogwarts and had befriended Michael Fawley—probably one of the last surviving members of that infamous family, and is also the current heir, even though he is from the branch family and not the main. From what Charlie knew, the main family of the Fawleys have more or less died out by now due to the family's cutthroat practices in deciding the current heir by seeing which is the most powerful. The wizarding war not long ago didn't help any matters in that regard. In fact, as far as Charlie knew, only Michael and an old aunt are all that are left of the once enormous Fawley family. And even their once huge fortune is dwindled down to almost nothing. Michael probably had enough fortune left to see him through school, and if he is very careful, he can probably live on it for a little after that, but he definitely needs to get a job upon graduation.
Charlie still remembered the blowout when Molly had found out that Bill had befriended Michael on the train to Hogwarts, and they were best friends by the time the train had pulled in at Hogsmeade Station.
It's more than likely the reason why Bill never came home for Christmas that year too.
"You're still in contact with that boy?!" Molly exploded, going red-faced, and turning on her eldest. "I told you to stop! He's a Slytherin! Only Dark Wizards go in that house—"
Bang!
The room silenced immediately the moment that Muriel slammed her walking stick hard against the floor. The Prewett matriarch had a thunderous look on her face when she heard Molly's prejudiced views about Slytherin House.
Heck, the entire family had been hearing about Molly's rants about Slytherins—no doubt influenced by the headmaster. And while the five oldest Weasley brothers have their own minds and never paid any attention to their mother's rants—seeing as Cedric's mother was actually a Slytherin, as is Pandora Lovegood, and both women have always been kind to them; Ron and Ginny seemed to be slowly copying their mother's prejudice against Slytherin House.
"I've heard enough." Muriel thundered. "Like William said, there is nothing wrong with Slytherin House! I myself have friends from Slytherin during my time in school, and they have some of the greatest minds and have even helped to shape the wizarding world!"
Molly snorted in disbelief. "Nothing good comes from that house. And Professor Dumbledore is right in saying that the Black family are all evil. The Boy-Who-Lived should be ashamed of himself for running from his responsibilities, especially after what Albus did for him—"
"Are you even listening to yourself, Molly Elizabeth Prewett?" Muriel thundered, almost horrified to hear the bigoted spiel coming out of her beloved niece. "The Black family set aside, the Boy-Who-Lived is only four at the moment! And what Dumbledore has done for him?! Have you even been paying attention at all? If Sirius Black hadn't taken him away, the child would probably be dead by now or worse!"
"My mother is a Black, Molly." Arthur is almost as red as his hair with the insult to his mother's maiden family, and even the Black cousins whom he knew growing up. "How dare you insult my mother?!"
Molly paled, whether it is due to Arthur's temper or what he'd said, no one had any idea.
"And have you forgotten that Andromeda Tonks too is a Black?" Muriel added. "Can you really afford to have that woman as your enemy, Molly? Can you really afford to have the Blacks declare a blood feud against you? Against the Weasleys?"
Molly paled. "T-They wouldn't dare…"
Muriel let out a bark of scornful laughter. "Wouldn't dare?" she echoed incredulously. "Why do you think that? Because Dumbledore is protecting you? How much protection can he even give you? Just how much power do you think that the Blacks and the Potters hold in the wizarding world in general? If you think the feud that the Malfoys have with the Weasleys are bad, you haven't seen anything yet. If the Blacks or the Potters declare a feud against you, there will be nowhere you can run. And to top it off, you sent a Howler to the Heir Apparent of the Houses of Potter and Black, you foolish girl!" Muriel ranted, furious with her thoughtless niece. "Just one of the two houses alone is enough to ruin you! Black and Potter are amongst the founding families of the wizarding world! Their members stood alongside King Arthur and Merlin during the days of Avalon and helped to create the wizarding world as we know it! Bulgaria probably jumped at the opportunity to have both houses move to their country! Any country in the world would have! Lord Sirius Black probably has more power in his pinkie than Albus Dumbledore could even dream of having!"
Molly paled at the implications, but quickly latched onto what Muriel had said about Harry Potter being the heir to both of those powerful houses.
"That means Ginny will be Lady Potter and Lady Black…" Her eyes gleamed.
"What?" Arthur was shocked.
"If you think that Sirius Black will let any of your children near his son after what you've done, you got another thing coming." Muriel could only shake her head with dismay at her niece's delusions. "House Prewett has an alliance with House Potter, Molly. I will not let your actions ruin years of work and our good relations with them. I will cast you out of the House if I have to, so don't test me on this." Muriel warned her niece who paled at the mere thought of losing her family magic and name.
House Prewett originally sought an alliance with House Potter through the marriage of Muriel Prewett and Hadrian Potter. But despite that they never officially wed, that alliance still stood, and Charlus and even James both still see Muriel as part of their family, despite the fact that Muriel had never officially married Hadrian. Hence why Muriel was so pleased to know that James wanted to honour the uncle that he had never met by naming his son after his father's brother.
"But back to our original topic." Muriel's eyes flickered towards where the Weasley boys were standing, and was almost amused to see Percival's eyes almost shining with all the knowledge about the Ancient Houses that Muriel had just revealed. What most boys would find boring, Percival seemed to almost devour it. "You will not force your prejudiced views on the children. You will stop trying to force your children to take a career you think is best for them, and not what they want to do. And most importantly, you will stop blaming Fredrick and George for everything and punish them even when all they are doing is breathe." Muriel's eyes flashed fire.
Of all the things that Molly had been doing, her behaviour towards the twins that reminds her so much of Fabian and Gideon are what angered her the most.
"And if I hear even one word of you lapsing back into your old behaviours, Molly Elizabeth, I will file for full custody and take the boys from you. And let me remind you that House Prewett has more influence than the Weasley name, so you will lose if you try to fight me on it." Muriel warned, and Molly paled. "And Arthur?" Arthur flinched at the sound of his name. "I realise you work most of the day, so you can't always be there to monitor your wife and children, but you should at least be aware of what is going on in your own house. At least listen to your children next time instead of brushing it off as their imaginations." Arthur winced guiltily at Muriel's reprimand. "Also, expect me to drop by periodically for visits from now on to check on the boys. And if the boys want to visit me at Prewett Manor, they are welcome to, and you are not to stop them." Muriel turned a glare at Molly who looks as if she wants to argue. "Fredrick and George. Even Percival, William and Charles. I expect a letter from each of you at least once a fortnight, and regular visits." She smiled a warm, rare smile at the boys who blinked. "And if you boys are still keen on it, you are welcome to come over anytime, and we can resume your lessons about the Ancient Houses and the Olde Religion—something that every witch and wizard should know."
"They don't need that!" Molly almost shrieked, horrified to hear that her aunt wants to teach her children 'Dark Magic'. "It is banned for a reason!"
"You mean your precious Dumbledore banned those lessons from Hogwarts because it doesn't fit his narrow-minded world views." Muriel scoffed. "Britain and Hogwarts are at the bottom of the totem pole for a reason, and the reason is named Albus Dumbledore. Try to fight me on this, Molly, and you'll soon learn why even your father doesn't go against me when it comes to politics." She warned.
Molly's nostrils flared. She knew from experience since her childhood that her aunt doesn't say what she doesn't mean. She will cast Molly out of the Prewett line if she does something that Muriel doesn't like.
"Fine. Fine!" Molly huffed, almost throwing her hands up in the air. "Do what you want! When the boys wind up penniless and out on the streets due to taking a 'job' doomed to failure, and when the twins wind up in Azkaban or as criminals, all I will say is 'I told you so'!" She railed. "Now, I'm taking Ron and Ginny out for a walk. Arthur, you can settle your own dinner yourself, seeing as I can't be respected even in my own home! And see to the dinners for the boys as well."
With a huff, Molly stomped upstairs, slamming doors as she went. Several moments later, a loud Apparition crack echoed around the house, and then, all was silent once more.
Arthur let out a long sigh, suddenly feeling very tired. "Do you have to rile her up this much, Lady Muriel?" he asked, almost tired.
"Yes, I do, or she will never learn what she did wrong." Muriel said sternly. "Now, if you don't mind, I would like to have Percival, Fredrick and George stay with me for a few weeks. It'll let Molly cool down and give you some peace of mind. And I would also like Charles and William to stay with me for awhile when Hogwarts let out for the summer. I would also like it if you will give the children the option to stay here at the Burrow or with me. You are head of the house, Arthur, and you need to act like it, and stop letting Molly or even Albus Dumbledore dictate your actions. Also, Arthur, if I am you, I will pen an apology letter to Lord Black for Molly's actions. Blood feuds have been started for less. And no parent would stand by as their child is bullied or threatened." She added.
Arthur flinched. "Y-Yes ma'am," he murmured, before his eyes went towards his children who were all huddled in a corner. "Boys, go and pack your bags for a short stay with your Great Aunt Muriel. And behave yourselves when you're over there."
"Okay Dad!" The twins were ecstatic even as they raced upstairs, with Percy close at their heels, barking at them to not run.
"Thank you for this, Great Aunt Muriel." Charlie was quiet even as he retook his position by Bill's side. "I didn't think you will believe me, or I would have approached you sooner."
"Well, we have your mother to thank for this as well." Muriel sighed. "Where did Christopher go wrong with that girl, I wonder? Anyway Arthur, I got something to speak with you as well. What did Molly meant when she said that Ginevra will be Lady Potter and Black? Is there an illegal marriage contract out that I wasn't aware of?"
XXXXXX
Sirius Black was in a very good mood when he left the Business Registry office in the Bulgarian Ministry of Magic, with his patents and permits for the products that he had made (the communication mirrors), finally having been approved and had gone through.
At the moment, he is still a little preoccupied with actually running his House and tending to the mess that is their accounts. But maybe once things calm down a little, he can look into establishing a business that sells those products that he likes.
Back during his Hogwarts days, he had excelled in Enchanting and wanted to become an Enchanter—he had always been particularly good at Charms and making new stuff. The Marauders' Map was actually Sirius' idea. And much of the spell work was his and James' work. Remus was the one to imbue the protective charms into it so that it only reveals itself when one speaks the correct password whereas Peter was the one to explore every nook and cranny of Hogwarts so that they can add it into the map.
Remus, Sirius knew, is more than happy being a historian at the Ministry's archives. Despite how he looks, Remus is a bookworm at heart and would like nothing more than to be surrounded by books. So Sirius either has to find someone he can trust to run a business that he will create in a few years, or he will have to only take owl orders so he can work on his products in his free time.
His Bambi too is slowly recovering and getting over his trauma at the hands of his so-called relatives, being particularly attached to Viktor Krum and vice versa. Sirius had an idea why those two seemed to gravitate towards each other, but for now, he'll hold his tongue.
Draco too, while he is very attached to Hadrian and looks at him as a little brother, tends to find solace in Viviane Krum who could always make him smile, much to Marko and Anastasia's amusement. Narcissa as well seemed to be slowly getting over her trauma at the hands of Lucius, and is slowly finding her footing in Bulgaria, already helping to establish connections.
Hadrian and Draco too are getting better to the point that Sirius is considering sending both children to the magical primary school that Viktor is attending once they're old enough.
On one hand, it helps them to make some new friends—friends that Sirius is sure would also be attending Drumstrang with them. And on the other, it might help to bring them out of their shells as well.
"Ah. Lord Black! I was hoping to catch you sometime soon."
A booming voice caught Sirius' attention, and his eye twitched with dislike when he caught sight of the large and imposing man approaching him. Sirius immediately tucked away the permits that he had just attained into his dragonhide folder, closing it with a snap, even as the man approached him. Though Sirius didn't miss how beady black eyes went towards the dragonhide folder in his hands greedily.
The lords and heirs from the Ancient Houses tend to use dragonhide folders or even briefcases for their House holdings and even business dealings, as dragonhide folders and briefcases only allows the user that is blood bonded to it to remove the contents. Any other who tried would solely regret trying. Needless to say that Gringotts charge quite a pretty penny for those, but the security is top notch, so Sirius sees it as a worthy investment.
And if all else fails, dragonhide folders and briefcases also works as a handy shield in a pinch.
Marko had introduced him to quite a few of the other Lords who were all quite eager to welcome Sirius and the House of Black amongst their fold. Privately however, Sirius prefers the Bulgarian lords than the ones of the British variety.
For one, the Bulgarian lords all genuinely wanted to make things better for their people, and are constantly seeking progress. No criminal can be sentenced without a full and fair trial, as is part of their laws, which is more than what Sirius could say for Britain. Not to say that all Bulgarian lords are that way, however.
There are quite a few who still seems stuck in the Victorian age and still thinks that omegas shouldn't even have the right to be able to work or get an education, and should just live as broodmares.
Lord Radoslav Kovarev is unfortunately one of those lords that think that way, and is constantly putting blocks in the path of Marko and his allies, from what Sirius knew. The man is also a bigot, and thinks that being an alpha means that everyone should bow down to him and his heir.
Sirius had the unfortunate luck to meet said heir once. The kid might only be Viktor's age, but Sirius found it hard to like the kid, as he's almost a carbon copy of the father. Just as bigoted and arrogant.
"…Lord Kovarev." Sirius put on his 'pureblood mask', even as the man approached. "May I help you with anything?"
"I heard that your heir's fifth birthday is coming up?" Radoslav went straight to the chase. "And he's an omega?" Sirius could hear the distaste in his voice with the word 'omega', and he narrowed his eyes.
"What of it?" The warning is obvious in Sirius' voice, and Radoslav backtracked immediately, obviously knowing it to be bad if he riled Sirius up enough. The Black family's reputation is there for a reason.
"Nothing. Nothing." Radoslav's smile is fake, and Sirius could already hear warning bells ringing in his head. He had a feeling what is going to come out of Radoslav's mouth next—Marko had warned him as much when he had first taken his place amongst Bulgarian's Wizengamot. "It's just that my heir is an alpha, and only a few years older than yours. I would like to propose a betrothal between them both. Joining both our families together, so to speak. My family has both influence and money, as does yours. It will be beneficial for both of us, don't you think?"
Sirius' first instinct is to turn and walk away, but he controlled his temper and instincts, taking care not to reveal his true feelings.
"I…appreciate the offer, Lord Kovarev." Sirius said with a fake smile, recalling the countless lessons his grandfather had drummed into him during his Heir studies—'never reveal your hand or your true feelings'. "But I'm afraid that won't be possible for my Hadrian."
Radoslav frowned immediately, obviously not expecting a rejection from Sirius. "Why? Is your heir betrothed already?" He sounded genuinely perplexed.
"Something along those lines." Sirius dodged the question, not giving out a proper answer. "Now if you don't mind, I have another appointment to attend. So, excuse me."
XXXXXX
"Lady Longbottom! Welcome to Bulgaria! How is the trip? Not too bad, I hope?"
Sirius was at the main hall as soon as he could when he heard from one of the house elves that Augusta Longbottom and Neville Longbottom have both arrived at Grim Manor – the name designated to their house in Bulgaria.
Augusta Longbottom gave Sirius a rare smile, with her five-year-old grandson clutching at her hand, staring all around him with wide eyes.
"Lord Black. Thank you for the invite to Heir Potter's birthday party, and to make it a joint party with my Neville." Augusta looked down at her grandson, with a flicker of a smile crossing her features. "I hope we aren't too late?"
"Sirius, please." Sirius waved off the formalities. "You're Frank's mother, after all. We visited Longbottom Manor often enough as children."
"Indeed." Augusta gave a small smile, recalling the days when Frank had often invited James and Sirius over to play Quidditch, even though he was about two years ahead of them. It is no surprise to Augusta when Frank and Alice have named Lily and James their only child's godparents, with Lily and James doing the same for their son in return.
Augusta was one of those who had fought against the decision to leave Heir Potter who-knows-where after the wizarding war, and she was properly horrified when it was revealed that Sirius didn't even have a trial, and was really innocent the entire time. Though none of it matches up to her reaction when she realised what had actually happened to Hadrian Potter, and exactly where he was raised.
Augusta was one of those voting to have Dumbledore removed as the Chief Warlock. At the moment, she is gathering allies to hopefully restrict Dumbledore's power in Hogwarts as headmaster as well. Andromeda Tonks, Augusta knew, is also gathering evidence about that fateful night when James and Lily have died, and had been preparing to press charges against all those involved with Hadrian Potter's 'kidnapping'.
"Neville, introduce yourself." Augusta nudged her grandson gently. Neville is such a gentle soul; he might look like her son, but he has more of his mother's mannerisms. Each time Augusta looked at Neville, she can't help but be reminded of what she'd lost, and how much Neville had lost. Today is the first time when she had actually taken Neville out of the safety of Longbottom Manor. And that is only because Sirius had reassured her that there are extremely powerful wards around Grim Manor, and Bulgaria's security is top notch.
Neville looked like a deer caught in the headlights, as he looked at his grandmother with wide, terrified eyes before turning towards Sirius. "H-Hello, Lord Black. I-I'm Neville Longbottom. Nice to meet you." The boy squeaked. In his small hands is a brightly wrapped gift. "I-I have a gift for my godbrother." He sounded unsure.
"Do you now?" Sirius smiled reassuringly at the timid boy. He reminds Sirius so much of Hadrian, but he knew for a fact that Neville isn't an omega like Hadrian. Frank and Alice had him tested by Marlene before she'd passed away. Surprisingly, Neville is an alpha, but no one will guess that the boy is one at the moment with how he acted. Though he could also be a very gentle alpha; those types aren't rare. "My Hadrian had been looking forward to meeting you." Neville smiled unsurely. "Why don't you join the other children? They're having a few games before we cut the cake and open presents."
"Go on, Neville." Augusta said, nudging Neville towards the direction of the sitting room where she could already hear sounds of children's laughter, and even voices. "Go and make some friends."
"O-Okay."
"You got yourself a nice place here." Augusta said, keeping a sharp eye on her grandson even as a house elf popped in to take Augusta's cloak and bag before popping away again, with Sirius leading her to the sitting room that had already been done up in decorations. A pile of presents was already seated on the floor in a corner, and the adults that were invited to the party were mingling and chatting with each other. To Augusta's surprise, Amelia Bones was present too, alongside the Tonks family. And even a woman whom Augusta vaguely recognised as Liese Pearce who was speaking to Remus Lupin. Amongst the group of children was also Susan Bones, and even Nymphadora Tonks. "Powerful wards too."
"The goblins helped." Sirius said. "Now, why don't I introduce you to some of the friends I made here? I invited Healer Milan too—he helped my Bambi a lot when we first moved here. I think he'll be interested to hear about Frank and Alice. Maybe he can help."
Augusta's smile was tight. "I hope so. Lead the way, Sirius."
XXXXXX
Sirius had to take a breather in the kitchen for a bit after mingling with his guests and making sure that his Bambi had the best birthday that he ever could. Hadrian's first birthday doesn't count, as he was then too little to even remember. Hadrian was all smiles, though he had stuck by Viktor's side, even as he played with his new friends—Susan Bones and even Neville Longbottom.
Sirius and even all the adults were pleased to see the children getting along like a house on fire even as they played games together. One wouldn't know that they only knew each other for a few hours. You would think that they've been friends all their lives. Dora is likely the oldest child there, but she had joined in the games as well, and had taken an instant liking to Hadrian, calling him 'adorable'.
Much to Sirius' surprise, Marko too was in the kitchen, refilling his glass of Butterbeer. With it being a children's party, Sirius didn't want to include alcoholic drinks, though that is normally the norm when it comes to a kid's birthday party. Sirius wants this day to be all about his Bambi, and not about the adults and whatever connections that they can make like how it had been for him when he was growing up.
"Hey Marko, getting a refill?" Sirius asked, even as he held his empty glass out to Lina who refilled the glass for him.
"Sirius." Marko smiled at Sirius. "Yes. Thank you for inviting us. It seems like the kids are having quite the time of their lives."
Sirius smiled and nodded; he had noticed it too.
Maybe once Hadrian is a little older, he can handle having more children at his party. But for now, Sirius wanted to keep it small to only those he knew and with one or two new people. Susan Bones and Neville Longbottom are both quiet children, and both the Bones and Longbottoms have been allies and friends of the Potters for generations. Hence why Sirius had no problems with reaching out to Amelia and Augusta to invite them for Hadrian's birthday, even suggesting it as a co-birthday party for Neville, since his and Hadrian's birthdays are so close together—just a mere day apart.
"So, I heard from Lyuben that Lord Kovarev cornered you in the Ministry the other day?" Marko asked carefully. "Did he say anything to you?"
"Let's just say that I found out first hand your description about him isn't an exaggeration in the least." Sirius grumbled. "He wanted to make a betrothal between my Bambi and his son. I only met that kid once, and I already know that he's not someone I wanted for my Bambi. That, and he seems to be a bigot. He doesn't seem to think much of omegas."
Marko sighed and nodded. "He's one of the more…uh…shall I say, old fashioned wizards?" he said tactfully. "There aren't that many of them in Bulgaria, but they still exist, and fortunately, they're in the minority. Unfortunately, Lord Kovarev does wield a lot of power and authority in Bulgaria, so he isn't someone that we want as our enemy. He likely wants to join his house together with yours."
"Along with everyone else but you." Sirius almost grumbled, much to Marko's amusement. "This is one of the few times when the Black and Potter reputation is working against me. There are only so many excuses I can think up of to deter them."
Sirius made a mental note to have an amulet crafted for Hadrian once he's a little older to ensure that no one can take advantage of him. Orion Black had the same thing crafted for him and Regulus and all the other Black children when they started attending Hogwarts.
And considering that Hadrian is an omega, it puts him in greater danger than when Sirius was in school, as it's entirely too easy to take advantage of a young omega. Most alphas, and even betas, can easily overpower an omega by using scent or even alpha pheromones. Not to mention magic.
Sex magic is a very powerful thing, especially amongst magicals. Sex can potentially increase a couple's magical power if they are magically compatible. It is why alpha and omega pairs that are bonded are much more magically powerful than most of their peers. And it's also part of the reason why the wizarding world are so open minded about sex—as to them, it is completely normal.
And it is also part of Olde Magic that having sex and claiming an unclaimed omega can increase one's magical power.
Most muggleborns however are highly uncomfortable about it, despite the fact that sex rituals and sex magic are part of their culture.
"Yes. I'm having the same problem with my Viktor too." Marko admitted. "You know he's an alpha, and also heir to two families—mine and the Schwarzers—Ana's maiden family unless Viviane inherits the Schwarzer heirship. I've been getting badgered for a betrothal for Viktor since he was about three. I've been holding off for as long as I could. But with Viktor now seven, almost eight—and already attending the magical primary school, any excuses that I can use are fast draining up."
Sirius recognised that look in Marko's eye. The older man had a plan that can help them both.
"What are you suggesting?" Sirius looked towards the entrance of the kitchen only to see that their guests are still mingling. Narcissa in particular is in her element, and probably already establishing connections for the House of Black with Amelia Bones and even Augusta Longbottom.
Marko let out a sigh. "…Draw up a betrothal contract between my Viktor and your Hadrian," he said promptly, causing Sirius to look at him with shock. "Don't look at me like that. It won't be ironclad, of course. I found love in Anastasia, and I want my children to find their own partners. We'll leave lots of open clauses so that the children can break it if they don't want it when they're old enough. But we don't tell them about it until they're old enough to understand. It will protect both of them from the other families."
Sirius chuckled and nodded his head. "Though honestly, with the way that Hadrian and Viktor kept gravitating towards each other, I doubt it will be something that we have to worry about," he smiled, and Marko grinned. "But we'll keep quiet about it. I want to see where this relationship goes once they're old enough."
XXXXXX
Rean had a wistful smile on his face from his corner as he watched the excited children playing some game that he can't identify. Sirius had invited him and Crow to Hadrian's birthday party, and both vampires have made sure to clear their schedules so that they can attend.
George will need some time to create the tool to find the remaining Horcruxes anyway. And last that Rean had heard from Jusis and Machias, they are reaching out to all their contacts. There are lots of preparations to do before they set out on their assignment.
"Something wrong, babe?" Crow approached Rean, wrapping an arm around his mate's slender waist, and pressing a gentle kiss against his hair.
Rean smiled up at his mate, leaning into Crow's strong embrace. "It's nothing. It's just… I watch the kids, and I just wish…" He trailed off slowly, one hand falling to his flat abdomen over his shirt.
Crow sighed, knowing what is upsetting Rean. No one had ever blamed Rean for it; least of all, Crow. All vampires knew that the longer-lived clans always had difficulty bearing children. Crow's own parents were married almost eight hundred years before Crow had came along, according to his grandfather.
"Oh Rean, it's not your fault." Crow tightened his arms around Rean. "When it happens, it happens. We just have to wait for the Goddess to grant us a gift. Besides, as far as vampire couples goes, we are considered still early in our bonding and marriage. My parents were married and bonded for nearly eight hundred years before they had me, I heard." Rean smiled with Crow's attempt to cheer him up. "Besides, I quite enjoy our life at the moment. We have our time together. I'll look forward to the day when the Goddess decides to grant us a child. But I'm in no hurry." Crow pressed a light kiss against Rean's forehead.
"Crow…" Both vampires blinked and looked down only to see an innocent looking Hadrian Potter tugging at the hem of Crow's shirt.
"What's up, bud?" Crow knelt down to the little omega's eye level, gently tweaking his nose, and making the child giggle. "Aren't you with your friends?"
"Come play with us?" Hadrian squeaked timidly, looking from one to the other with hopeful eyes.
Crow exchanged looks with Rean before he grinned, and easily lifted Hadrian into his arms. "Let's go and join your friends," he said cheerfully.
Rean laughed as he watched his mate join the group of excited children, playing a game of throwing a child into the air and catching them as they drop back down.
Sometimes, Crow can be as big a kid as the best of them.
Once more, Rean's hand fell against his flat abdomen even as his gaze fell on Viktor and Viviane. It is nice to know that his family's line is still going strong even when he decided to give up his heirship back then in order to marry and bond with Crow, and he regrets nothing.
But it'll be nice to have a child of his own someday.
XXXXXX
Augusta felt faint when she listened to Healer Milan after she had outlined the details of Frank and Alice's condition. Their condition isn't a secret, anyway. Almost everyone in Britain knows that they've suffered from the effects of being under the Cruciatus Curse too long, and were driven into insanity.
Alice at least, still seems to be mobile, and able to at least recognise Neville at times. But Frank doesn't seem able to move from his bed at all. And at this point, Augusta is fast losing hope at being able to have her son and daughter-in-law back with her.
But now a Bulgarian healer is telling her that there is a good chance that he might be able to heal her Frank and Alice?! That treatments treating victims of the Unforgivables were commonplace everywhere, and Healers and Mediwitches and wizards held yearly conferences to share their notes on healing practices, with the treatment for victims of the Unforgivables amongst them.
"S-Seventy percent?" Augusta could barely believe her ears. The lead Healer at Saint Mungo's was just telling her the other day that she should just accept the fact that Frank and Alice would never regain their sanity. But Healer Milan is telling her the exact opposite? Sure, there is only a seventy percent chance of success, but it's more than Augusta could ever hope for.
Milan nodded solemnly. "Most Healers doesn't hold Saint Mungo's in high esteem precisely because they don't do everything they could to heal their patients," he explained calmly. "Treatment for victims of the Unforgivables have been getting researched for decades. At this point, we have a well-established treatment plan for victims. As hard as it is to believe, victims of the Cruciatus Curse actually have a better chance of recovering than victims of the Imperius Curse."
Obviously, there is nothing to be done for victims of the Killing Curse.
"What does it involve?"
"A strict potions regime for at least the first six months, with Mind Healers delving into the victims' consciousness to reach them and to tell them what's going on." Milan explained. Seeing Augusta's puzzled expression, he explained, "Humans have a tendency to retreat into their own minds to protect themselves when their bodies are under severe pressure and torture. This is especially commonplace for victims of torture. The potions regime is to strengthen their muscles and bones whilst the Mind Healers reach into their consciousness to draw them back out to the surface over the period of months. The longest I ever saw a victim regain consciousness again, so to speak, is two years. But half the potions and spells involved that were used in the treatment itself are considered Blood Magic; hence why the treatment isn't available in Britain. Honestly by this point, the Healer community have stopped inviting British Healers to our yearly conferences for a reason; as most of them never used those new treatments for their patients anyway."
Augusta felt faint. There is a chance she can get her son and daughter-in-law back? Her Neville didn't have to grow up without his parents? There is a good chance she can get Frank and Alice healed?
"I-I will need to see to their transfer to Bulgaria then." Augusta said at last. She is all for returning to Britain right away to see to the transfer at once, but she resisted. Today is Neville's day, after all, and she doesn't want to ruin it. She doesn't often see Neville this happy, and she wants the child to indulge in this day, and remember it for as long as he could.
Milan nodded. "I will need time to contact some of my colleagues to help with the treatment plan as it is anyway," he responded. "But I believe that in at least a year or so, we should be able to have your son and daughter-in-law awake and talking."
Augusta felt faint. She can have Frank and Alice back with her in about a year? Neville might even be able to have both his parents with him at his next birthday. It can be Frank and Alice that would be taking Neville school shopping for his first wand. It can be Frank and Alice that would be seeing Neville off the Hogwarts Express.
"I-I'll pay however much I have to. Just…please heal them." Augusta almost pleaded.
Milan nodded solemnly. "I'll try my best," he promised. "And pardon my bluntness, but from what I heard about you, you don't really seem to care for your grandson. I mean, it's obvious that you love him. But you don't really show it until recently, I heard."
Augusta winced at the bluntness of the healer's words, but she appreciated that over those brownnosers constantly trying to get into her favour. Like that accursed brother of hers, for instance. That man is already trying to frighten Neville into performing magic. Hence why she had banned Algie from her house for eternity when she caught him almost drowning Neville in their pond.
"It's just…so hard." Augusta admitted, her gaze going towards Neville who is laughing at something that Viviane Krum is saying. "Neville looks so much like my Frank that I can't help but compare the both of them, and I kept expecting him to do and react to things the same way that Frank did. His looks are all Frank. But he's more like his mother. Like how Hadrian is more like Lily."
Milan nodded solemnly. It is hard to not get attached to Hadrian Potter, with how sweet the child is. His weekly mind healing sessions with the child could probably be reduced to once a month soon, with how well he is taking to the healing.
Unfortunately, Hadrian will likely always stay small and petite due to the abuse and malnourishment—even smaller than the average omega.
Even magic can't heal everything.
"You miss your son. And can't help but kept seeing him in your grandson." Milan said wisely, and Augusta nodded.
"I know it's not right." Augusta sighed. "And then… Muriel came by to talk to me not that long ago. It was then when I realised how wrong I am. And that if Frank and Alice are here, they would never have forgiven me for doing this to their son. I'll be lucky if they even let me see my grandson."
"Gran!" Little Neville came running up to Augusta as fast as his little legs could carry him just then, a bright smile on his cherubic face. "Look! Look!"
Augusta and Healer Milan both blinked and looked down at little Neville's chubby little hands where colourful bubbles were forming and floating into the air from the child's hands. A rare smile spread across Augusta's face at the first sign of seeing her grandson performing accidental magic.
"Neville! You're performing magic!" Despite her excitement, Augusta still kept her calm, and only knelt down to Neville's eye level. "You marvellous little boy!"