Disclaimer: I am borrowing from the creative mind of J.K. Rowling.
Warning: This story is rated as T for a reason. There is a scene of child abuse in this chapter.
Thank you to my beta Trucklesinthetree. If you have not read Remembering Me and the sequel Remembering Me: Into the Serpent's Lair, you should check it out. It is listed as a favorite on my profile page and in my community, Melverne's Picks. I am looking for stories to add to the community, if you have a suggestion PM me.
Chapter 4: Connect the dots
Arabella stood in front of the closet door with her hand resting on the knob. She shook her head at the display of accidental magic from Harry's tantrum. I could use an unlocking spell but I think Harry needs some time alone. Besides, I want to see the doctor's report.
After reaching her decision, Mrs Figg cast a warming charm on the floor of the closet to keep Harry from getting too cold. When she turned around Dr Henderson gave a low appreciative whistle as he picked himself up off the floor.
He dusted off his rear and started to gather his gear.
"Well it looks like we're finished," he said in an amused tone and smiled at Arabella to take the sting out of his words.
"I'm so sorry doctor."
"Don't be. This was a very important step. Now we know where Harry stands and it gives us an idea of how to help him." He looked tentatively at the closed door before continuing. "Let's discuss this in another room."
"We can talk in the kitchen. I would like to see your report," Arabella said.
"Of course, we have much to discuss."
Once they were seated at the table Augusta leaned over to Neville. "Why don't you go play in the other room Neville," she said, reaching into her handbag and pulling out a canvas sack that was even larger than the purse. "Here is your bag of toys."
Neville whispered, "Where's the other boy you said I could play with Gran?"
Augusta had felt the wave of magic whilst sitting at the table and had also heard the doors slam shut. When Arabella and Dr Henderson had returned to the kitchen without Harry she had assumed the worst. "I don't think Harry is ready to play right now Neville. We can see how he is feeling in a little while."
He rolled his eyes at the dreaded 'in a little while' comment but slid off the chair onto the floor and took the proffered bag. "How long is a..." he began to ask before Augusta leaned in closer and whispered sternly in his ear, "When I come to get you and not a minute before."
"Yes Ma'am," Neville smartly complied. He slung the bag over his shoulder and retreated from the room in defeat.
Arabella smiled down fondly at Neville as he shuffled by.
"He reminds me of Frank at that age."
With a sad smile Augusta replied, "Yes he does."
While the women reminisced, Dr Henderson made two copies of his report. He cleared his throat before handing them each a copy. "I am obligated to file this with St Mungos who will collaborate with the Department of Magical Law Enforcement to resolve Harry's welfare issues. I also have the same duty to notify the Muggle Child Services Department. I would recommend securing a solicitor who specializes in child advocacy for both court systems."
They looked through the list of abuses Harry had suffered in his short life. Arabella wondered how she could have missed such injuries. She was no stranger to violence and the symptoms should have been easily recognized or very difficult to conceal. Her hand trembled as she bought it up to cover her mouth. The color had drained from her face.
The list is so long. How could I have missed this? Most of the injuries were sustained in the last two years.
"Arabella, it's alright," Augusta soothed. She put a calming hand on Arabella's arm, waiting for her friend to get control of herself. "Don't dwell on the past. It is what we are doing now that will help Harry."
"To give you some time I can postpone the delivery of my report until the end of the day. The process for child services is far from expedient especially for Muggles. Since today is Thursday, it is highly unlikely that anyone will look at it before Monday afternoon. Then it will be forty-eight hours or possibly longer for anyone to do anything about it. Once again, the sooner you acquire the services of a solicitor the better,' Dr Henderson emphasized. Now, let's review the medical analysis and what it means."
Gran said I would have somebody to play with, Neville pouted. The canvas sack bounced against the back of his calves as he moped into the living room. He swung the bag around and let it drop to the floor with a bang, instantly cringing at the sound it made and looking hesitantly back towards the kitchen to see if his Gran was going to scold him.
"There isn't anything fun in here," Neville muttered to himself digging through the toys half-heartedly. "Maybe I can go outside."
Neville stood up to go ask when he noticed a white cat playing in a bedroom. The longhaired Kneazle was hunkered down next to the closet door with her butt high in the air. The tail swished back and forth while the cat peered beneath the door. Suddenly the cat scooted across the floor, batting its arms wildly under the door, chasing something on the other side.
Neville watched on as the cat romped up and down the floor playfully for several minutes then walked away. After a minute, she charged back, sliding across the wood floor and smacking into the door with a thud before lounging on her side next to the door and setting her eyes onto Neville. Her fluffy tail twitched into the air then slapped the floor. Eventually she got up, stuck a paw under the door and managed to wriggle it open.
"Hi Snowy," Harry said, reaching out to stroke the Kneazle that he had spent the last few minutes playing with from beneath the crack under the door. He had been running his fingers along the bottom of the door, teasing her. Snowy had reached under the door, gently batting at Harry's hand while carefully keeping her claws retracted.
Snowy rubbed herself up against Harry's bare legs, then stood upon his thigh with her fore paws and sniffed at Harry's face. The whiskers tickled his cheeks. "Your nose is cold!" He laughed.
Hearing someone talk to the cat from the closet, Neville went into the bedroom to investigate.
Maybe its that boy, Harry. I hope he wants to play. Neville thought excitedly.
Snowy's ears perked forward and she turned her head to watch as the closet door was opened further.
Harry scooted back further into the closet a moment later, causing Snowy to leap away from him. He crossed his legs and hugged them to his chest, trying to disappear behind the clothes hanging in the closet. The pit of Harry's stomach sunk and he felt ill with fear.
"Are you Harry?" Neville asked hopefully from the closet door. He looked at the partially hidden boy and waited for a second. When the boy in the closet didn't reply immediately he followed up with, "I'm Neville Longbottom of the ancient and noble house of Longbottom."
That's a funny way of saying your name. Harry thought to himself and grinned lopsidedly.
"Hi," he said a little nervously from behind the clothes.
"What're you in here for?" Neville asked in a friendly manner looking down at Harry between the clothes.
"I got mad at the doctor and somethin' freaky happened," Harry replied.
"Oh. Did Bella make you go in here because you were bad?"
"Who's that?"
"The lady who lives here. She's friends with my Gran."
"No," Harry said shaking his head, "Mrs Figg is nice. She wouldn't put me away or hit me."
Neville stepped into the closet with Harry and sat down Indian style across from him. "My Gran makes me sit in the corner, if I'm bad. What'd you do besides getting mad?"
"I dunno, but the doctor got pushed down an' I didn't even touch him. I think somethin' slammed the doors but it wasn't me," Harry implored the other boy to believe him. "Freaky stuff like that happens around me sometimes."
"That's just accidental magic. I do that too, like when I fell out of the tree and bounced. Gran was really mad at me for climbing so high. She said it was a good thing that my magic was smarter than me and kept me from getting hurt. I still climb trees though, when she isn't looking," Neville said, smiling bravely as he puffed his chest out.
Harry smiled weekly in return and hung his head a little when he answered, "My Aunt and Uncle put me away in the cupboard when I'm bad. Sometimes they lock me up for a really long time. If I'm quiet when I'm in there they, won't hit me. Most of the time they won't anyway."
"Really?" Neville asked skeptically. He was much too polite to call Harry a liar, but some of the older kids, like the Weasley twins, that visited the Longbottom estate would tell Neville scary stories. Gran said it was to get him worked up over nothing and it was just pretend. Being locked in a cupboard and getting hit by your relatives sounded like one of those stories.
Harry could tell Neville didn't quite believe him and said in a quiet, shaky voice, "I have scars from it."
Neville pushed the door open wider to let in more light. "Alright then, let's see them," he dared.
"I skinned my knee, but that was from my dumb cousin pushin' me down," Harry pointed to his bunged up knee.
Neville was not impressed. "That's nothing. I get those all the time just playing around. I have one on my elbow see?" He replied, showing a scabby elbow.
Hesitantly Harry spun around onto his knees and sat on his heels. With his back to Neville he said, "These are mostly from a belt."
Leaning in closer Neville could see inch wide strap marks on Harry's back and across his bare bottom. Some were still livid red welts, while others had diminished to white puckered scar tissue. He gulped audibly and asked in a dry voice, "Does it hurt much?"
"Sometimes it isn't too bad. It stops hurtin' after awhile."
"That one looks bad." Neville said touching a long red welt. Harry cringed and arched his back away from Neville's touch. "Sorry," Neville said quickly, pulling his hand back. "Why don't you tell on them?"
"I did once," Harry said flatly. He turned back around and sat down Indian style facing Neville again.
"My Uncle... Uncle Vernon hurt me so bad that I missed school for a few days. When I went back the teacher asked if I was better, I said no and told her 'bout it. She said they shouldn't be doin' that and took me to the principal. They wouldn't let me go home until my Aunt and Uncle came to get me."
Harry had wrapped his arms around his chest by that point and was hugging himself while rocking back and forth. Tears glistened on his eyelashes.
Neville waited patiently for Harry to finish. He could see how upset Harry was getting and thought about calling for his Gran.
"Hey Harry, you don't have to tell me anymore… if you don't want to I mean." Not knowing what else to do Neville reached out and patted Harry's good knee sympathetically.
The kind gesture motivated Harry to hastily wipe his eyes and continue.
"When they finally came there was a funny old man with a really long white beard with 'em. I was sent out in the hall to wait but nothin' happened. The teacher and principal never said anythin' about it again. My Aunt and Uncle were sorta nice for a while, 'til I got in trouble for gettin' on top of the school. Uncle Vernon got mad... really really mad when I told the principal it was 'cause Dudley and his friends were goin' to beat me up an I was just tryin' to get away. He waited for the weekend then let me 'ave it good." Harry shivered remembering the awful beating Uncle Vernon had given him and how hungry he was after going an entire weekend without anything to eat.
I think Dr Henderson and Mrs Figg might know now. Maybe they will...
Harry forced himself to stop thinking about it. The teacher had said they shouldn't be treating him like that. They had even met with his relatives but nothing had changed. Living with the Dursleys had taught Harry not to get his hopes up and just to accept what happened.
Neville's eyes were wide after Harry's story. His childish faith in his Gran to fix anything shined through a moment later, however, and he said confidently, "My Gran will make them stop."
"I dunno, Uncle Vernon is really big and mean. He might get mad," Harry answered softly, shaking his head.
There was a sick, burning feeling rising in Harry's stomach now, like he always got when he did something bad and was waiting for Uncle Vernon to punish him. He didn't want to tell anyone again. After being called to the school his Aunt and Uncle had treated him differently… very coldly. There were days when nobody said anything to him at all, like he wasn't there. Which was worse, in a way, than being hollered at all the time and getting hit.
"Let's go and tell her."
"Please don't!" Harry begged Neville.
Now Neville felt doubtful. He thought his Gran would want to know about this. She had said over and over to him, 'You can tell me anything. I promise to listen to you. You might still get punished, but I will be fair about it.'
"I dunno," Neville replied, subconsciously mimicking the improper way Harry talked. "I think the teacher was right even though she didn't do anything about it. You shouldn't let anyone hit you. Maybe you just need to tell the right person, like my gran. I know she would do something about it."
"Maybe I will," Harry replied noncommittally. Despite his previous experience, Harry suddenly found hope creeping around in the back of his mind.
"Alright. We can tell her later. Do you want to go play?"
Harry smiled broadly. "Yeah, whatcha wanna do?"
The boys stood up and walked out of the closet. Harry walked over to the bed to put his nightshirt back on.
"What are all of those red dots on you?" Neville asked. He had seen them in the closet too but had been too busy looking at the welts on Harry's back to ask about them.
"These?" Harry asked and pointed to a few of the pox marks. "I have the pox."
"What's that?"
"Somethin' I don't think you want. Mrs Figg is takin' care of me so Dudley doesn't get it. I had to take a fever potion cause of it." Harry said the word 'potion' foully and made a face.
Neville crinkled his nose at the mention of taking a potion. "Do you have any games or toys to play with?" He asked looking for something new to do.
"No," Harry said gloomily. Mrs Figg had given him a few toys in the past, but Dudley always took them. The only toys he had now were a few of Dudley's broken ones that he rescued from the garbage bin and they were carefully hidden under the lowest step in his cupboard.
"You don't have anything to play with at all?" Neville asked with clear disbelief.
Feeling slightly put upon about not having anything to play with Harry thought about what the doctor had said to him earlier and said, "We could play connect the dots."
oOo
"Being malnourished can present several problems. Harry already wears glasses and is very small for his age. There were some dry spots on his skin. I didn't notice any hair loss though," Dr Henderson stated.
"There was quite a bit left in the tub after his bath and I combed out a handful of loose hair. I thought it was because he was so poorly kept though," Arabella added.
"No, it is another symptom of malnutrition."
"Would you like some tea?" Arabella offered. "I could use some myself."
"Yes please."
Arabella stood and fixed the tea herself instead of by magic. She was a little overwhelmed by the doctor's report and despite Augusta's reassurances she was feeling guilty about failing Harry. Bustling about the kitchen she composed herself while Dr Henderson and Augusta talked amongst themselves. By the time some milk, honey and sugar had been set out she was feeling moderately better.
"Thank you, Mrs Figg."
"You're welcome," she replied sitting back down and fixing her own tea. "Now, where were we?"
"Fortunately malnutrition is treatable," Dr Henderson continued, looking at Arabella meaningfully. "Who ever takes care of Harry should focus on a balanced diet and making sure he gets plenty of rest. Supplemental vitamins in his diet will be necessary along with regular physical examinations until his body recovers from the damage that has been done."
The doctor drank some tea while watching Arabella closely. There was a look of determination that he admired on her face. "We need to schedule a time for you at my office at St Mungos and I would like to see Harry biweekly until I am satisfied with his progress. Perhaps later we can run some tests on his scar."
"Did you take a measurement of Harry's magical core?" Augusta asked suddenly.
"Yes I did. That reminds me," Dr Henderson replied, reaching into his medicine bag on the floor beside him. "Give Harry these to play with." He set four tops on the table and a Muggle slinky.
"Wizard tops?" Mrs Figg asked.
"They are an excellent way to exercise magical strength. It takes control and builds endurance to keep them spinning. The other toy is a slinky from the Muggle world. It is a coiled spring that walks down stairs due to the force of gravity. This one has been enchanted to be powered by magic." Dr Henderson waved his hand over the slinky setting it in motion.
"Harry is very strong, magically. The toys will help use up his excess magic and reduce the occurrences of accidental magic. Neville can show him how to use them. I gave him some last year."
"Thank you, Dr Henderson. Harry will enjoy the toys. After this morning's display I will certainly appreciate them," Arabella nodded.
"Augusta," Dr Henderson continued, turning his attention across the table, "if you are serious about Neville catching Dragon Pox from Harry make sure they use the same drinking cup. Encourage them to share these with each other too," he said, setting a box of sugar quills on the table with the toys. "Having Neville sleep in one of Harry's used night shirts would be another great way to make sure Neville is exposed to the virus. Feel free to floo or owl me with any questions. I will send over some chewable vitamins for Harry."
The doctor stood with his bag. The women stood with him and escorted him to the floo.
After securing the floo Arabella noticed a look of concern on Augusta's face and asked, "Is something wrong?"
"Yes. Neville is too quiet," she replied.
Augusta and Arabella walked into the living room. Neville's toy bag was on the floor next to the couch but there was no sign of the boy. From another room, however, they could hear the faint twitter of children playing and laughing. Snowy sauntered out of the spare bedroom with as much dignity as she could muster with a black hand print on her white fur.
Arabella and Augusta shared a silent look before moving towards the sound of faint laughter and opening the door to look in.
"I beat you."
"Did not."
"There's another."
Harry laughed. "There's nuthin' there you cheater."
What had started as drawing a line from one pox mark to another had escalated to a race. Harry was sitting on his heels in the middle of the floor with black lines running all over him from the knees on up. An ink well sat between the two boys within easy reach. There were black drops and strings of ink on the floor leading from the inkpot to Harry. Both of the boys' hands were almost completely black.
"Neville!"
The boy jumped at his Gran's angry tone and leaped to his feet, knocking the ink well over. He clasped his hands guiltily behind his back and stared at the stern woman's feet.
Harry quickly stood up next to his friend. He looked uncertainly from Neville to Augusta.
Arabella covered her mouth to keep from laughing out loud. Her eyes danced merrily at the sight of the two boys.
"Look at this mess. Ten minutes, Neville, I left you alone for ten minutes!"
A rich and boisterous laugh erupted from Arabella. Augusta turned on Arabella with a look of disapproval which made the other woman just laugh harder. Between sharp barks of laughter Arabella wheezed, "I'm sorry."
"You are encouraging them," Augusta said sharply, however, the corner of her mouth twitched as she fought off a smile of her own.
The boys watched with mixed emotions. They were confused by Arabella's good humor and afraid of being in trouble.
"Please, Madam Longbottom, don't be mad at Neville. We were just playin' connect the dots. It was my idea," Harry defended his only friend.
Augusta looked at the terrified boy. Harry was visibly shaking but he had found enough courage to stand up for Neville.
The poor boy has been through enough with those monsters that are raising him.
"His hands have just as much ink on them as yours, Harry. Although it looks like you were more on the receiving end than he was. It sounds like the two of you were having fun but you can't make a mess like this," she said gesturing at the floor.
Harry nodded his head very seriously and asked, "Where do you keep the rags and cleaner Mrs Figg? I'll clean it up."
"Just this once I will take care of it for you two. Consider this your warning. Next time I will not be as lenient," Augusta answered for Arabella who was just now reining in her amusement.
"You don't have to, I clean the house all the time. I do a really good job too," Harry said with pride.
"I know you do." That certainly explains a six year old boy's ability to poor milk and clean the dishes. As neat as you were I wouldn't doubt that there were dire consequences, if you made a mess. Arabella thought to herself.
"You were very helpful today, but you're still sick. Remember what happened this morning? Why don't you and Neville take a bath instead while Augusta cleans this up," Arabella finished, smirking a little as she said it.
Unless Augusta has learned a few cleaning charms since Hogwarts, this should be entertaining. When we roomed together she wouldn't swish a wand to pick up anything. She has been doted on by house elves her whole life. It still amazes me how we became such good friends.
"Come on you two and don't touch anything." Arabella lead them to the bathroom and ran the water for them.
"Not too hot please," Harry blurted out, "make it like yesterday. Can we have bubbles?"
She smiled at the black haired little boy who was now leaning into her side attentively watching her prepare the bath. Ink was rubbing off on the tub and her dress but she didn't scold him. She knew a cleaning charm for inanimate objects that would take care of it.
I would use the charm on them too but it would irritate Harry's skin and possibly spread the pox marks or cause scarring. He has too many scars as it is.
Arabella helped both boys in. "Make sure you try to get as much of the ink off as you can before you play. Call me when you're finished Harry, so I can put more salve on you."
She held up Neville's ink stained clothes passing her wand over them.
"Scourgify." After folding the freshly cleaned clothes up neatly and setting them on the counter she put out two towels for the boys.
Mr Paws jumped up on the counter and laid down on Neville's clothing, cautiously watching the boys just in case they splashed around to much.
Augusta was sitting on the couch when Arabella came out of the bathroom. A house elf was handing her a cup of tea.
"Did the ink come up, Augusta?" Arabella asked innocently, cleansing her dress and hands. She sat down in the chair adjacent to the couch once she'd finished.
"Yes it did," Augusta replied a bit stiffly.
"What charm did you use? Ink can be stubborn to get out sometimes," she replied feigning interest.
"Did your vast experience as an Auror along with your common sense desert you? A house elf is standing right here. He cleaned it up."
"Oh, of course. I just had the impression from what you said to the boys that you were going to take care of it," Arabella teased.
"And I did." Augusta realized her friend was working her up, cleared her throat and took a sip of tea. "I know what you are doing," she said primly.
Arabella chuckled, "I'm sorry. I couldn't help myself. It's just so nice to enjoy your company again," she said sincerely.
The women smiled at each other. They had jabbed and spared verbally all through school. Augusta usually thrashed Arabella verbally but would get trounced magically once Arabella had had enough. Neither one asked for mercy or forgiveness. As soon as the stormy mood passed they were the best of friends again.
Augusta gave a charming lady like laugh. "Did you see them? What ever made them think of doing that?"
"Ha! Your family doctor can take the credit for that. He made the suggestion that Harry could play connect the dots with himself." Seeing the confused look on Augusta's face Arabella explained further, "It's a Muggle game in coloring books for children. They draw a line from one dot to another."
Nodding her understanding Augusta finished, "So they drew lines from one pox mark to the next on Harry."
"This memory is definitely going into a pensieve for him."
Augusta gasped. "You wouldn't."
"Oh come now, everyone has a childhood picture or pensieved memory that you wish was never taken. Someday his wife might like to know what Harry was like as a child. Plus it will give me good blackmail material." They laughed together at that.
A quiet mood settled over the room as they thought about the task ahead of them. Eventually Augusta breached the more serious topic.
"We need to get started on securing Harry."
"Do you know a good solicitor, Augusta? That seems to be our starting point," Arabella said.
"We will need a highly qualified individual or team of solicitors. I can ask the Longbottom financial consultant at Gringotts for a recommendation. The goblins aren't allowed to act as any kind of legal council in the wizard courts but they know who has the highest success rate. It is in their best interest to track this information."
"That's a start. When should I reach out to Amelia Bones?' Arabella questioned. "I might need to visit her in person to get through the red tape but that has a problem of its own. There are many eyes and ears at the ministry. My visit would surely be noted."
"Let's deal with the solicitor first. It may not even be necessary to approach her; the fewer who know about what we are doing the better. Since I am visiting Gringotts, I can get Harry some clothes. I just need his measurements," Augusta offered.
"Just…don't get anything too fancy," Arabella reluctantly agreed.
"I will try to be reasonable, but do not expect me to visit the used apparel or budget shops," Augusta said evenly. "He is the last of the Potters and should look respectable."
A certain appearance and behavior will be expected of him. The sooner he becomes accustomed to the change in his circumstances the better. Augusta thought to herself.
"He needs Muggle clothing too. Full kit all the way around," Arabella said standing up to get Harry's sizes and check on the boys.
Augusta returned to the Longbottom estate to use her floo to travel to the roof top of Harrods, one of the largest Muggle department stores in the world. Located in the upscale neighborhood of Knightsbridge London near Hyde Park. Only the lower floors were accessible to Muggles. On the roof was a collective of small specialty shops and restaurants which catered to the elite members of the wizarding world. There was even a branch office of Gringotts Bank. The shops were magically concealed from Muggles and protected by anti apparation wards, just like Diagon Alley to protect shop owners from snatch and vanish artists. Although it was on the roof, the climate was controlled for the shoppers.
Harrods can be reached only by floo. The floo was not open to the general populace of the Wizarding World. A substantial fee was paid in order to be connected to Harrods' network with a monthly renewal to maintain the privilege. Anyone else who wished to make a purchase had to do so by owl. The great gray owls used for delivery roused excitement whenever they were seen carrying packages.
The central floo for Harrods was located in an aesthetically pleasing park. The top floor was climate controlled and charmed to deflect rain during business hours. A three dimensional map of the stores hovered near the massive chimneys. There were numerous benches for shoppers among plenty of shade trees. A network of paths flowed out to the shopping areas. Lampposts and the statues, which would occasionally change poses or move somewhere else entirely, peppered the trails.
Augusta walked into Twilfit & Tatting's clothing shop. A small chime rang pleasantly when the door opened, alerting the snooty clerk on duty. She looked down her nose appraising Augusta.
"Can I help you?"
"I need a professional. You can summon Mr Twilfit for Lady Longbottom," Augusta said haughtily, turning away from the clerk.
"Yes my Lady," she replied humbly recognizing the surname. She immediately tapped a concealed silver bell behind the counter and mere moments later the pop of an apparation was heard as the shop proprietor, Mr Twilfit appeared. As the shop owner he was able to apparate directly into his store.
"Madam Longbottom. It is a pleasure to see you again," the tailor twittered excitedly.
Augusta turned to face the short effeminate man. He was smartly dressed and had a charm about him. He cast a critical eye over Augusta appraising her appearance for a moment until he seemed satisfied.
Timothy had given Augusta a makeover when she had been an active member of the Wizengamot. She continued to periodically check in with the man to maintain a current air of sophistication. Magical folk tended to have long lives but frequently dressed in attire from previous decades. Augusta had no desire to be the 'old crone in the buzzard hat' everyone talked about.
"The ball gown for the Christmas Holiday was very elegant. I received many compliments on your fine work. The name of Timothy Twilfit was on the tip of everyone's tongue by the end of the evening," Augusta noted smoothly.
"It was an honor. Is there anything else I can help you with?" His eagerness to help was apparent. After her holiday party there were a dozen orders for an original dress design.
"I need formal robes befitting the heir of a noble house," Augusta requested, letting the shop owner assume the clothes were for Neville.
"A complete line of casual and play clothes, as well. Enough clothes for a week including a variety of undergarments and a spring jacket. We may be traveling through Muggle communities as well so a like amount of Muggle clothing to blend in would be necessary, plus a few things that a Muggle commoner would be likely to wear. Do you have a colleague whom can help with that? I would be most appreciative."
Judging from Harry's appearance yesterday anything will be an improvement. Arabella said he has never had anything but charity clothes and hand-me-downs, so I doubt if he has ever been asked so much as what color he likes. They can go shopping together later and pick out a few things to round out his wardrobe. It will make a good special treat for Harry.
"Of course Madam. When would you like the order to arrive?"
"Tomorrow morning would be fine," she said handing him Harry's measurements.
Mr Twilfit accepted the slip of paper and bowed to Augusta. "Thank you Madam. I will dress the young man handsomely. Should Mr Tatting budget time for a personal fitting tomorrow?"
"Yes please. Would nine be an acceptable hour?"
Excellent. Harry is positively too thin, Augusta thought. Even with the right measurements the clothes will not look right. Mr Tatting will make the new wardrobe look astonishing. Unfortunately the boy is so timid right now he may not like being fitted. Hopefully Arabella will be able to soothe Harry long enough for the tailor to work his magic. She is going to be angry about the custom order but it serves her right for teasing me earlier. Augusta smiled to herself about the petty revenge.
Price was not discussed, if you were expecting to see tags in a place like Twilfit & Tattings you couldn't afford it. Most clientele did not leave the owner, a renowned designer, with a shopping list for a new wardrobe.
Upon leaving Twilfit and Tattings, Augusta walked to the Harrods' Wizarding Bank, a branch of Gringotts. A pair of fully armored goblins stood on guard. The jagged edge of their pikes sparkled in the sun. They blocked the stairs, waiting for a formal announcement before granting access.
"Augusta Longbottom head of the ancient and noble family of Longbottom requests an audience with Master Orelink."
The senior sentinel stepped forward drawing a curved silver dagger and handed it to Augusta hilt first.
The point of the dagger pierced the tip of Augusta's thumb and a single drop of blood fell upon the bottom step of the bank. A series of runes flared to life lighting each step all the way to the top. A deep gong rang and the massive stone doors opened. Intricate runes were chiseled into the doors which were held in place by their size and weight. Yet with a push of the hand they would pivot in place to allow entry.
After the goblin wars the magical population only thought of the goblins in terms of their capacity to fight and for their greed as bankers. Actually, the goblins were a burrowing race like the dwarves. Searching out the precious metals and gemstones in the ground. Their talent as stonemasons and metal smiths rivaled the dwarves: although, this profession was infrequently pursued by their kind now. The few who practiced this trade were extremely expensive to hire and very rarely contracted out to wizards.
Kneeling before Augusta the goblin held out his hand to receive the dagger. He wiped the weapon before sheathing it. The goblin returned to his post allowing Augusta to pass.
Another goblin waited at the top of the stairs. When Augusta reached the top he bowed to her, "Lady Longbottom."
Augusta nodded in return.
"Please follow me." The goblin said before leading her to the branch manager's office.
The wizened old goblin peered thoughtfully at the head of the house of Longbottom. Augusta was a highly intelligent witch but was not too proud to defer to those with greater talent. A few years into her marriage as a Longbottom she took upon the responsibility of the family fortune and did quite well. Augusta researched and interviewed the goblin investors extensively for over a year. Not long after that she convinced her husband that someone else could do better with their holdings. There was a bitter fight over prejudices but in the end Master Orelink became the financial analyst for the fifth largest Gringott account. It was a decision that had been mutually beneficial. The Longbottom fortune grew to become the fourth largest Gringotts account and Master Orelink was rapidly promoted.
Augusta took a seat across from her advisor and waited for the door to be closed. Greetings were not exchanged nor had she been invited to sit. They considered each other equals and were as close to friends as a witch and goblin could be.
The door closed and privacy charms sealed the room. At the risk of offending the goblin before her, Augusta brandished her own wand and cast her own privacy charms.
"Master Orelink, I come seeking advice. I need some recommendations for solicitors. "
"That is something which I may be able to help with. Is there a particular aspect of law you need to focus on?" He maintained a neutral expression but was surprised by the request and her need for additional security.
"Child advocacy to start with. I need a representative for Muggle and Wizard law," she answered, wondering how much she should divulge.
Master Orelink kept his poker face but he was wondering what Augusta was up to. "Is there any other branch you would like to have researched?"
"Yes, financial law. I believe the heir to an ancient house has been the victim of fraudulent and dishonest acts regarding their holdings and the interpretation of the will."
Now the goblin was intrigued. An ancient house was most likely a lucrative Gringotts account or had the potential to become one. They had exchanged information and favors before. Orelink wondered if he could ask for more information.
The two sat considering each other for a time.
"Is this heir a Gringotts customer?" The goblin asked cautiously.
"I do not know. Can you verify this for me?"
Orelink hesitated. It was a matter of trust. Did he trust this witch enough to risk Gringotts losing an incredible amount of gold.
"I can verify if the heir's assets are managed by Gringotts. There is a possibility that I could secure the will and who attended its execution. I am willing to help my client how ever I can."
The offer had been made. Master Orelink was risking a substantial amount of liability to Gringotts, if the client pursued legal action against the bank it would be a public scandal at the very least. With an ancient and noble house involved it could cost them a substantial amount of gold in penalties and a very wealthy client as well. A negative outcome would cost the goblin his position.
"I will be in an advising capacity to the heir. He is a minor but will need a trustworthy financial consultant, a respected goblin such as yourself," Augusta said smoothly, her eyes fixed steadily to Orelink's before she handed him the next bit of information. "The heir is Harry James Potter of the ancient and noble house of Potter."
Master Orelink's eyes shined with conquest. Ragnok the manager of Gringotts itself was the executer of the Potter will. Rumor had it that Albus Dumbledore was the sole attendee. The Potter family fortune was presently the third largest account, at one time it had been the second. Orelink assumed Ragnok had become lazy with his portfolios since attaining the position of manager. If the Potter account had been his, it would still be the second largest account.
It was now possible for a hostile takeover. If he acquired the largest accounts at Gringotts and (or) proved Ragnok acted dishonestly Orelink could become the Gringotts manager. It was unfortunate that the assets of the Black family were inaccessible because the current heirs were criminals locked away in Azkaban. When they passed away the holdings would be added to the Malfoy treasury - another Ragnok account.
He set his long dark fingers together beneath his chin and gave a sharp toothed grin. "The manager of Gringotts was the executor of the Potter will. It is rumored that Albus Dumbledore attended. I will confirm the attendees and acquire a copy of the will. If you file a suit with the Wizengamot, I will personally freeze all of the Potter assets."
Augusta smiled maliciously in return. Someone has their hand in the proverbial cookie jar and Master Orelink was bringing a hatchet.
"Your attention to the matter is most welcome Master Orelink," she said evenly.
Fifteen minutes later Augusta left the bank with a list of potential solicitors. She briefly reviewed the names for one she recognized. There were a few names that sounded familiar but only one did she know - Prewett. It was the maiden name of Molly Weasley and quite likely a relative of some kind.
Making use of the Harrods floo she immediately traveled to the Leaky Caldron. Once she was on the streets of Diagon Alley she made her way to the office of Prewett and Prewett. It was a humble office. Augusta had expected more since they were so high on the list for successful cases.
A witch with three children was leaving the office as she approached. The woman looked quite happy as she waved the children on. It must have been a favorable outcome. Once the route was clear Augusta entered.
A red headed man in a muggle suit leaned casually against the wall speaking to a woman in business robes who was seated behind a desk. Their conversation stopped when Augusta entered.
"Can we help you?" the woman asked.
"I am searching for a solicitor that specializes in family law. If you have the time, I would like to ask you a few questions."
The man stepped away from the wall looked at the woman briefly and shrugged. "Sure, fire away."
Augusta looked at the man and was beginning to have some doubts. What a strange thing to say.
"What he meant is... please feel free to ask your questions. We will do our best to answer."
"I understand that you offer services to both the Muggle and wizard court system?"
"I'm your man for the Muggle laws," the red headed man nodded, "To head off any potential problems I am a squib. I attended school in the Muggle world and completed a degree in law. After a few years I narrowed my expertise to family law."
Having seen her haughty attitude and critical eye surveying the office he added, "Family law is not the most lucrative field but it is morally rewarding. Do you have any further questions?" If she were prejudiced like many of the wizarding folk, his blunt honesty would chase her off.
Augusta, however, was not put off by his announcement. If anything she was impressed by his willingness to confront her.
"Your wife is a witch and handles the court issues for the Wizengamot?" Augusta continued.
"Correct on both accounts," Mrs Prewett replied.
"Have either of you faced a team or firm of lawyers before? Your success rate is high but is that from a lack of qualified competition? I won't pretend to know anything about your profession but I have a very serious task and need an exceptional representative," Augusta said importantly.
Mrs Prewett stood up and walked around to Augusta. "I am Diana Prewett-Proctus daughter of David Proctus of the Proctus law firm. The law firm will be mine some day but I refused to work there until I have established my self as an accomplished solicitor. We have been in business for fifteen years and neither of us have lost a single case no matter who we faced in the court room. My family is quite wealthy and we do a great deal of pro bono work. This have given us much more experience than many lawyers. You will not find better solicitors than my husband and I in family law."
Augusta looked no further. She nodded her head and said, "I wish to retain your services. What will be the fee to have you work exclusively for me?"
Two hours later she left knowing that the right decision had been made. Prewett and Prewett were indeed professionals. While the man seemed self confident and even a little egotistical, these were not bad qualities to have in a solicitor. His strange habits and Muggle education would be a great advantage to have while dealing with the Dursleys.
Diana on the other hand appeared to be an impressively competent woman. As a witch she was used to working hard for respect in the court room. The fact that she would one day inherit the Proctus law firm was a tremendous boon. The prestigious firm would not be likely to face them in a courtroom for fear of the future owner's wrath. This took out one of their top competitors for securing Harry's guardianship. They even worked with inheritance law and the interpretation of wills.
It will be interesting to see the Potter's will. Master Orelink said he should be able to procure it shortly. Then we will know who the players are for sure. Augusta thought to herself with a gleam of anticipation in her eye.
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