Title: Harry Potter and the Rise of the Dark Legacy
Author: enchanted nightingale
Beta Reader: pussycatadamah
Pairs: Harry/Lucius (eventually), Ron/Hermione, Neville/Ginny, Remus/Tonks
Disclaimer: The characters belong to J.K. Rowling. I merely use them in my plot for fun.
Chapter 2
4th Greenhouse:
Lucius pulled his cloak more securely around him as he made his way to where the Greenhouses were located. It had been years since the last time he had to take this path. Even as one of the governors of the school board he only kept inside the castle walls, or if the occasion called for it, the grounds caretaker's hut. As a student he had been excellent in the subject of Herbology as it went hand in hand with Potions, his second favourite lesson after Defence Against the Dark Arts. Had anyone told him in the beginning of the year that he would be in Hogwarts, teaching for the most annoying wizard in existence, in his book, he would have had them hauled up in Saint Mungo's in one of the wards for the incurable cases. But the impossible had happened and all thanks to Harry Potter.
Lucius exhaled loudly. That damned boy, not yet a man, was causing him more trouble than anyone he had ever met. Because of him he had to take up Dumbledore's offer to teach in the school, even though he hated inadequacy and the people who exhibited the trait, meaning the majority of the school's population, both students and teachers. He had also had to turn sides even if the majority of the public and Lord Voldemort himself did not know it just yet. Come to think of it, he would have to tell his son about it soon. Lucius could not afford distractions or a rift inside his family.
He was glad for one small thing. Dumbledore had sent Snape to settle everything with him instead of someone else from his precious Order. And it had been quite the shock to the aristocrat who had thought he knew the man. But apparently Severus Snape had fooled them all. And he had to be the one to tell Lucius of the mess he got himself into.
'And what a fine job he did,' Lucius realized.
He had never suspected Snape to be a traitor. But the Potions Master was simply too good at what he did. He had told him it was not in his power to escape the union with the young Elf and after that, any pain suffered by his partner would make him unhappy as it would be his job to make sure his soul mate was happy. Then he had moved on to more logical means of persuasion that included the welfare of his only heir and the state of his vast fortune. The spy had gone to great lengths explaining why Harry Potter had bigger chances surviving the war than Voldemort had. And Lucius knew that. He had seen the madness in the Dark Lord's eyes. He no longer was a leader that inspired respect. He was a hideous monster striving to kill a child and failing at every turn. In many ways he had become worse than Dumbledore and his group. There were no longer ideals just blood thirst. And ever since his brief visit to Azkaban, he was less inclined to follow the Dark Lord blindly.
His new position in the school was Dumbledore's idea of protection. Lucius knew the seat was jinxed, but it still provided greater safety than he would have had he decided to stay at Malfoy Manor. The protection extended to include his son, as well as Narcissa, who while she knew of her husband's change of faith, she had remained neutral like the last time the war happened. Lucius did not begrudge her. This way she had far better chances of staying alive.
"Hey," called a voice from behind him.
"Potter."
The teen smiled as he approached the blond wizard. "Why do you keep using my surname?" Harry asked.
"This whole situation is highly inappropriate," Lucius muttered.
"We aren't doing anything," Harry smiled at him.
"Why are we sneaking around then?" Lucius demanded.
"'We', huh?" Harry smirked, now standing directly in front of Lucius.
Malfoy cursed at his wording.
"Doesn't matter, you're here," Harry told him.
Lucius never knew what hit him when the young man moved forward for a kiss or what compelled him to initiate the next.
It was a while later when the two of them stopped kissing and caressing each other, taking turns being pressed up against the cold glass of the green house. Lucius woke up from the stupor he had held, as if suddenly realizing who he had spent a good hour and a half snogging with; like some teenager with raging hormones. His eyes widened from the realization and he pushed a smirking Harry away from him.
"You enjoyed this Lucius," the Elf said with delight.
The blond rubbed his eyes, trying to block the view of the flushed teen in case he decided to continue being stupid.
"Don't," he gritted out.
Harry frowned. "Why are you so damn stubborn?"
"I have to go, classes tomorrow," Lucius muttered.
"You could find a better excuse, you were a Slytherin," Harry snorted.
Lucius glared at him before realizing his mistake. Harry Potter was still flushed from the heavy kissing he had been involved with minutes ago. He had caught his breath, but his lips and tinted cheeks gave him away. His hair was even more mussed and Lucius recalled their silky feeling when at one point he had seized the teen to deepen the kiss.
He mentally berated his mind for straying to topics that he should forget the soonest possible.
"This was a mistake," Lucius repeated.
It sounded fake even to him. The smile Harry gave him confirmed it.
He was kissed again and felt desire coil deep in his belly, his blood flowing faster and his skin warmer.
Harry released him, smiling when unconsciously Lucius tightened the grip he had at some point gained on his shoulders, before releasing him like he had been burned.
"I better go," Harry murmured. "Snape won't appreciate it if I fall asleep in his class."
Lucius watched him slip out and disappear before leaning against the glass and closing his eyes.
He had once again given into insanity whose name was Harry Potter and once again felt no guilt for it, which only served to frustrate him even more.
Teacher's Common Room:
Snape was reading his copy of 'Potions Today' and enjoying his tea when a rather dishevelled Lucius Malfoy walked in. To tell the truth, the blond was far from dishevelled, but to Severus Snape's trained eye, there were differences. The man looked a bit winded, his cheeks flushed, his hair straight and neat. His clothes, though fresh and without any lines, were the same he wore the day before, and that was enough to make the man suspicious.
"Good morning Lucius," he greeted.
The blond grunted and repeated the greeting. Snape waited until Malfoy made himself a cup of tea before speaking again.
"Tough night yesterday?" he sneered.
A pair of deathly, stormy-grey eyes focused on him. A lesser man would have caved, but not Severus Snape.
"If you know what's good for you don't go on with this conversation.
The door opened again and professor Flitwick entered with professor Sprout, engaged in a heated conversation. Both ex-Slytherin's paused.
"…and then he said: 'You certainly look like it!'" Sprout finished.
The short wizard cackled with laughter.
"It's this new joke with the hag, the Veela and the barman," Flitwick informed the other two men.
"Funny," said Snape, completely straight faced.
"Are you here for the poker night?" Flitwick asked. "Pomona said she would come. Albus has made a tradition of this midnight gatherings."
"How are you gentlemen?" Sprout asked them.
"Fine," Snape replied. "I'll be staying for a while, but I'm not certain about our Defence professor. Lucius here had a rough night," the Potions Master smiled maliciously.
Malfoy glared him. The other two professors were immediately concerned. Ever since Dumbledore informed them of his change in loyalties, the entire stuff had warmed up to him. Though they were still wary of him, they were not as skittish. Flitwick did not squeak whenever Malfoy entered a room, McGonagall did not glare him as often; Sprout did not pale at the mere sight of him. The only drawback was that Trelawney had been more forward and kept predicting his death, which had become irksome after the second time.
"Did you eat too much?" the short wizard spoke up. "I often have trouble sleeping when eating too much at night. Have you tried green tea with a touch of Fairy Lemon?"
"Nonsense," Sprout interrupted. "Nothing works better for a stomach ache than a drop of Akaleia nectar mixed with milk."
Lucius gritted his teeth. This was getting ridiculous. "Excuse me but I have classes to attend," he told them and tactically fled the room.
He missed the amused face of Severus Snape and his attempts to keep a straight face. Had he seen it, he would have not appreciated.
A week later...
Slytherin Common Room:
Draco sat in front of the fire, his Charms textbook open and forgotten on his lap, as he stared into the flames. He was trying to find what was going on between his father and his godfather. For the past two days his father avoided sitting next to Snape during meals in the Great Hall. What was even more confusing was the fact that Snape seemed amused at something and even had trouble withholding his laughter, which made his father squirm.
His musings were cut short when Pansy Parkinson sat right next to him on the arm of his chair.
"What?" he demanded. If she had come to flirt he would not hesitate to hex her.
"Um, I…"
Draco hearing her troubled talking actually paid attention. She seemed quite shaken.
"What's wrong Pans?" he asked her.
Her lips formed a small smile. "I haven't heard you call me that since we were five," she told him.
"Ah, well, just get over with it," he said.
"My mother sent me a letter. I'm to go home and attend the festivities."
Draco paled. It was a subtle change but noticeable. The blond knew that among the Slytherin purebloods it actually meant 'During the Yule Holidays you are joining the ranks of the Death Eaters'.
"We have to tell my father," Draco muttered. "Are there others?"
"Daphne and Milly," Pansy said softly.
"Greengrass and Bullstrode?"
"Yes. And two more girls from seventh year."
"I'll see what I can do," Draco promised her.
Pansy nodded and stood.
"I'll see you tonight. Don't forget that Potter will be teaching us defence," Draco called out.
"That sentence is so wrong," she mused.
"Tell me about it," Draco muttered.
Great Hall, DA Session
The Slytherin's were gathered in the Great Hall an hour after dinner. The majority had forgone the complete wardrobe of the school, deciding to not wear the move restricting robes. They stood at the now modified room, inspecting the mirrors, the chests and the cushions. Some of them kept pointing at the dark detectors and others, like Draco, were impressed by the list of books in the room. They also held footnotes, in which it mentioned that most of them came from Potter's personal collection.
"All here?" Harry called out. He entered and shut the door behind him, immediately ceasing all noise.
Most of the Slytherin's Draco had mentioned were there and a few more, making a total of eight students with Millicent Bullstrode and Daphne Greengrass.
"Potter," Draco said.
"It's just you?" the Gryffindor asked.
"Yes," the blonde replied for his housemates.
"Good then we'll start. I want to know what you know from the ones I ask you, where you have difficulties or questions, alright?"
Many nods answered him.
"Alright, now, do you all know the 'Expelliarmus' Spell?" Harry asked.
Only Draco, Zabini, Nott and Bullstrode attested to having no problem performing the spell. Then only Crabbe and Goyle were ignorant of the shielding spells, most of them had trouble duelling and none of them could perform a 'Patronus' spell.
Harry followed the lesson plan Hermione had made, starting with a revision of the basics.
"You're saying the spell wrong," Harry told Parkinson at one point. You have to draw the 'e' not the 'l' and slacken your wrist more, like this," he reached out and gently corrected her wand grasp. He pointed it at Goyle, her partner.
"Expelliarmus!" he yelled and Goyle's wand flew to his hand while the bulky boy was launched of his feet and knocked backwards and onto the cushions. Pansy was excited that her wand could be so powerful.
"Potter, I'm impressed," Malfoy said. And he truly was. That spell was spectacular and quite powerful. Even his spell could not knock someone off his feet.
"Thanks," Harry replied. Then he turned his attention back to Pansy. "Want to give it another try?"
After the lesson, Draco stayed behind to talk with the green eyed teen.
"You are good Potter," he said.
The other teen was startled.
"Er, thanks Malfoy," Harry replied. "You were not bad either. Next time the lesson will be less boring."
"Hopefully, though I never expected Crabbe and Goyle to master that spell."
"Neville managed," Harry replied with a shrug.
"Then anything is possible," Draco sneered.
Harry rolled his eyes but dropped it. In a way the Slytherin was telling the truth.
"What else did you want?" Harry asked Draco.
"Your help."
Harry blinked.
Draco decided to be blunt and to the point. "Some of my friends are expected to receive the Dark Mark."
Harry nodded in complete understanding. "And they don't want to."
"Exactly. I told my father and Snape, consequently Dumbledore, but I'd like you to know."
"I can't do much to help," Harry told him.
"You could kill You-Know-Who," Draco replied. "I'll help, whatever way I can."
Harry smiled. Draco may not know the prophecy and for someone who was as proud as the blond for his pure blood, he knew the offer was genuine. For once he acted maturely and answered sincerely. "I know."
After a thought Harry extended his hand towards the blond. "Friends?"
Draco stared the offering hand and slowly smiled at the memory it brought forth. He grasped it and they shook hands firmly, careful not to ruin it with aggressiveness.
"We're getting there," Malfoy told him.
Riddle Manor:
Voldemort had been in a foul mood ever since his right hand man and major source of income. Most of his followers had felt it in their bones. Even Bellatrix was not finding it funny anymore.
"McNair!" he called out.
A figure stepped out of a much smaller Inner Circle and nearly crawled to where the Dark Lord sat.
"My L-lord," he stuttered as he kissed those black robes, grovelling at the monster's feet.
"Did you find where Malfoy isss?" Voldemort hissed.
A small shudder came from the executioner. "No, my Lord."
"Crucio"
Voldemort repeated the spell a couple more times on McNair and another, lesser Death Eater before dismissing them all. Nagini slithered by his side, her body coiling around the stone-made seat.
Massster…/ the snake hissed.
/I want you to go to Hogwarts and spy on the boy
YesssMasster…/
He watched her go with exasperation. How could it be that a mere snake had proven to be more reliable than his followers? Then again he expected nothing less from the cream of the Slytherin House.
Hogsmeade
Ginny smiled at the sight of her brother with Hermione. Currently he was blushing and trying not to stutter as she kissed his cheek, dangerously close to his lips.
"About time those two got together," Luna commented.
Neville, who had an arm across Ginny's waist, nodded in agreement. He had been there to witness how jealous Ron got over Krum or every other boy that approached the smart girl, taking his frustration out on anyone. He briefly admired Harry for putting up with the worst of those rants.
"So, are we ever going inside the 'Three Broomsticks'?" Ginny asked the group. "I'm turning into an icicle over here."
Luna and Neville smiled and nodded.
"Too bad Harry had to miss this," Neville muttered.
The girls pouted. It was not as much fun when half the group was missing. And while they could do with a few hours away from Ron and Hermione's fluffiness, they really wanted Harry's company. The teenager spent hours with Dumbledore testing his new abilities, strengthening his attacks. They understood it was all necessary but they certainly did not like it.
"I miss him," Ginny said as they sat in a quiet corner, their Butterbeers in front of them.
"Me too," Luna said. Her usual odd comments not following her declaration.
"Why the long faces?" Seamus asked as he came into view. His face had grown redder due to the sudden change of temperatures, giving his cheeks more colour than that of the Weasley's hair.
"Nothing," Neville answered for the girls.
"Ron and Hermione told me that they will come in half an hour or so," Seamus informed the group as he too took a seat at the booth.
"Good. I know we wanted them together, but they are beginning to creep me out a bit," Ginny muttered and the others laughed.
Harry's Rooms:
Harry was still in bed and stared at the ceiling. It was barely the end of September and he was wishing for Christmas.
His friends were less overbearing than he had expected but all the pressure from the DA club was tiring him out. Add to that all the homework they were given and the strain of maintaining his glamour and the training sessions with Dumbledore and you were left with a very tired Elf.
Almost. Because whenever he saw Lucius Malfoy it was like all his energy was replenished. And that confused him most of all. The library had little to nothing on Elves and their mates as it was considered taboo to talk to outsiders about it and the teen was lost. He felt compelled to jump the blond whenever he was within ten feet of him and all those mixed signals coming from Malfoy senior were making him all the more confused.
"Agh! What the hell is happening to me?" he yelled to the stillness of the room.
Naturally no one answered.
"I wish Sirius was here," he mumbled as he buried his face in his soft pillow. Sirius would know perhaps about his Elfish genes and would help him out. As it was he still did not know which one of his parents was a Dark Elf. He had seen the Potter family tree. The only magical creature they interacted relatively recently with was a female werewolf some twenty generations back. Dumbledore himself had said that there were no chances the blood had survived. And his mother was Muggleborn. There was certainly nothing of the beauty of the Elves in his aunt or her parents.
Luna had suggested a potion that would reveal the originality of the blood but it took time to brew and it was difficult to find the ingredients. Sure Dumbledore had Snape start on it but it would take time, long after Christmas, and the suspense was killing him.
"Why couldn't this year be normal? Just one normal year is all I ask for," he mumbled.
He still got no answer until a thought struck him. With amazing speed he stood up, forgetting all about wallowing in his misery, and went to his desk. He carefully selected a clean sheet of parchment and began writing. When he was done he transfigured one of his usual red ribbons into a silk silvery one and tied the roll carefully before going in search of Hedwig, all the thinking what a fool he was for not thinking it sooner.
Great Hall
It was the middle of October when things started getting worse outside the walls of the castle. Lord Voldemort made his first move by attacking and killing a Muggle family at the borders of the wizarding district in London. That incident was the talk of the school for days. Many Muggle-born students whose parents stayed near that area were almost frantic with worry. Owls were exchanged almost daily now since most were afraid for their families.
Harry had learned from Hermione that some of the students had formed a committee to ask the Headmaster if they could fire call their parents on the weekends since letters were not nearly enough. Everyone was worried and the need to have contact was obvious. He had seen Ron and Ginny receive owls from both parents and their older brothers. Even Charlie had sent a few lines. Hermione was in a similar state, though it was her asking all the questions. She had told them that her parents did not read the 'Daily Prophet' and she was not about to have them start now.
"They will need the green light from the Ministry and I doubt Fudge will do or say anything. He might have seen Voldemort returned but he does nothing drastic," Hermione had told him, bringing his mind back to the matter at hand. "We are lucky he allowed the Dragons to guard our gates. There are very little alternatives these days."
Using Dragons was discussed back in their third year since Azkaban escapees would hardly have the strength to fight them and now with the threat of the Dark Lord and the Death Eaters they were the best choice they had. It had not taken much for Dumbledore to convince the board of directors of the school, even less when Lucius Malfoy sided with the Headmaster for what was possibly the first time in the history of the school.
Now the students and mostly the resident half giant were on pins and needles while expecting their arrival.
"Charlie said that they are sending back Norbert," Ron told them that morning at breakfast.
The trio was rather excited at that information.
"Who is Norbert?" Neville asked.
Harry eyed the boy guiltily. "Remember during our first year the detention at the forest and all those points McGonagall deducted?"
Neville nodded. How could he forget? It was still a record for the school. Not counting the time he had lost the passwords when Black had escaped from Azkaban prison. Even the twins, not to mention the Marauders, had ever come close to having so many points deducted.
Most of the Gryffindor's and some of the passing students turned to listen into their conversation.
"Yes, Malfoy said you had a dragon in the castle," the clumsy boy remembered. He frowned at the three. "You told me he lied."
"We are so sorry," Hermione almost whimpered.
"You're sorry? I was bitten," Ron muttered with a huff.
"There was a dragon in the castle," Harry told Neville, not noticing the incredulous looks he received. "A species from Norway. His name was Norbert and we sent him to Ron's brother in Romania. He will be among the ones guarding the gates."
"About time you admitted the truth," Malfoy said from behind them. He gave them a triumphant smirk and ignored the hostile looks from some of the older lions. Neville paled a bit at the sight of the blond. Ginny patted her boyfriend on the shoulder comfortingly.
Harry turned and saw the Slytherin was alone as he approached them. The Elf gave him a small smile.
"We couldn't admit that then," he told the Slytherin. "No matter how you strived for it."
"But it's illegal," Neville uttered.
"Never mind that," Draco told him as he pushed Ron aside and claimed his seat next to Harry. He received hostile glares, especially from the redhead, but Harry said nothing to this. He just waited for the next question. Hermione, too, ignored her boyfriend and focused on Malfoy.
"What I want to know is how on earth Hagrid got the egg," Draco told Harry. "I have searched for it and they are mighty rare, illegal and not to mention expensive!"
"Voldemort gave it to him." Harry rolled his eyes when some people gasped at the Dark Lord's name. "He was living parasitically on Quirell's head and guided his actions," Harry offered. "That turban was to cover him up."
From the Head table the story carried to the professors. Many stared at the Headmaster and the half-giant. Snape and McGonagall were livid.
"Now you two, there's no need to worry," Dumbledore told them.
"But a dragon Albus?" McGonagall demanded.
"I always said Potter was dangerous but this is over the top," Snape said. "He ought to have been expelled. Not to mention prosecuted."
"As long as he had 'is teddy bear Norbert was a good boy," Hagrid told them.
As usual he ignored the point and went straight to bemoaning the loss of his favourite pet. His comment was met with incredulous stares. Flitwick for instance carefully muttered a spell to pour alcohol in his earl grey tea and then did the same for the deputy headmistress.
"Teddy bear?" Snape spluttered. The Headmaster's eyes just twinkled in that way of his, leaving Snape wondering for the sanity of his colleagues.
Lucius took it all in a stride though he felt troubled. How did Potter always get into these kind of situations? And how in Salazar's name did his own son got dragged into this particular one? Honestly now, a dragon?
"Children will be children," Dumbledore said to those on the table. "But even you Severus had to admit that the boy has nerve and a slyness to comment."
"I'd swear Potter is in the wrong House," Hooch commented. "He's like a Slytherin, always in trouble but never getting caught."
Snape's lips twitched but this time as if he was fighting a smile.
"Like a Slytherin indeed," Lucius whispered. He lifted his head and wished he had not when his gaze was met with a pair of emerald eyes.
It was a few days later and during lunch that Harry saw a beautiful black owl flying towards him, followed by Hedwig. The contrast was amazing and many heads turned. While the two birds landed in front of Harry, his owl offered her leg first. He opened the parchment carefully and beamed.
"Harry? Who is it from?" Hermione asked.
Ron went for the second letter but the other owl bit him quite hard, making him cry out and clutch his hand.
But Harry ignored all that, focusing on the letter.
Dear Harry,
It was nice receiving your letter. The plans for the wedding are going along fine and Gabrielle sends you a kiss.
I placed a charm on the letter in case you are wondering. My written English is not that good yet.
Now, about what you asked in your letter, I took liberty to contact my grandmother, who is a full blooded Veela. She was the one to contact the Elfin community and there is already a tutor instructed to guide you.
Another Owl will follow the lovely owl you sent the letter with.
That letter is for you and Dumbledore. He will understand.
I hope you are well my fair friend.
Best regards,
Fleur Amaryllis Delacour
"So? What does it say?" Hermione pressed on.
"It's from Fleur," Harry told her, his voice dropping. "About me and her special childhood friends."
Even Ron was quick to catch the meaning of what Harry was implying. He dropped his fork and leaned closer.
"When did you write her? And what for?" Ron asked his friend.
"About my…condition. The books could only tell me very little on what I wanted to know on my abilities, physique and the rest," Harry replied. "Sure, Dumbledore is trying to help, but he has his limits on this particular subject."
The other two nodded.
"And the other owl?" Hermione asked.
"Not yet," Harry responded. He took the second letter, thanked the bird and offered her bacon from his place, then told her to rest a bit at the Owlery before going on a journey. The owl hooted happily, bobbed her head in a bow and flew off. Then he gave the same treat to Hedwig and sent her off to rest.
"I need to show this to Dumbledore," Harry muttered.
Ron and Hermione glanced at the head table.
"Don't you have to see him tonight?" Hermione asked.
"I can't wait until then," Harry told her. "I want to give this to him."
Before they knew it the envelope was engulfed in deep blue flames. They drew back in shock and the students around them stared, commotion spreading. In all of it very few noticed the same flame appear in front of the Headmaster, including Harry and most of the staff members.
Dumbledore locked eyes with Harry and nodded, placing the letter in his robes before calling the Hall into Order.
The rest of the breakfast was rather uneventful.
Charms:
Ron swore when he failed the wordless Summoning Spell, making Neville even more disheartened in his abilities to achieve it.
Hermione had a look of intense concentration as the feather levitated and moved half way before floating back down on the wooden surface.
"This is difficult," she muttered as she chewed on her lip worriedly and tried again.
Harry for once sat staring at the feather, seeing it move back and forth with ease. Neville caught sight of it and pointed it out to Ron. The red haired boy was not very surprised.
"Harry did it!" Neville said excitedly.
"Yes, well, he became an expert on non verbal spells over the hols," Ron replied as he focused back on his feather.
Flitwick caught sight of him and smiled. "Ten points to Gryffindor for performing the spell and another five for mastering it completely!"
Hermione heard it and tried yet again, earning another ten points for the House before focusing on a bored looking Harry.
"What's the matter? You are playing with the feather a long time now."
Harry shrugged. "I'm waiting to hear from Dumbledore."
"What did happen in breakfast?" Neville asked. "I think the letter went up in flames."
"It did," Ron replied.
"Muffliato," Harry muttered, creating a buzz so no one could listen into their conversation.
"Nice one," Neville commented.
"So?" Hermione urged.
"I wrote to Fleur, asking her help to contact Elves in France. Her Grandmother did it and she sent me a letter. Enclosed was one letter for Dumbledore. That fire…You know how phoenixes travel with fire?"
Hermione nodded while Neville and Ron looked lost.
"I'll explain later, go on Harry," Hermione urged.
"I think I sent him the letter that way. I mean I saw him receive it and place it in his robes…" Harry told them.
"Wow," Neville breathed.
"Mate that's…" Ron was at a loss.
"Good decision Harry," Hermione approved.
Harry nodded his thanks and turned when he saw the door open. He saw a second year Hufflepuff timidly poke her head inside the room.
"Um, Professor," she called out. "The Headmaster asked for Harry Potter. Ah, yes! The note!" She produced the thin paper.
"Very well. Off you go Mr. Potter," Professor Flitwick said.
Harry stood, made a subtle motion to his friends and then he was out of the door.
"Thanks," he told the younger girl who blushed at his smile.
He did not linger but started running towards the tower. In record time he was standing in front of the grotesque Gargoyle.
"Chocolate frosting," Harry said with a small smile.
The statue parted and using his speed arrived at the top long before the stairs stopped spinning.
Dumbledore was already waiting for him.
"Professor," Harry said.
"Take a seat my boy," the Headmaster said.
Harry sat in front of him, choosing the chair that had view of the window.
"This letter came in the most unusual way, Harry. Am I to assume that you had no idea how you did it?"
"Ah, yes, professor."
Dumbledore bestowed him with a smile. "I thought as much."
Harry ducked his head.
"I'm not berating you my boy," Dumbledore said. "I want to help you, I really do. This letter here is most extraordinary my boy. It is from Ailill Frideswide the Sage."
"Ah, who?" Harry wondered.
Dumbledore smiled at him. "He is the one the Council of Elves being sent to tutor you."
Harry's eyes widened. "What? Already?"
The Headmaster gave him a wide grin. He was as excited as the teen since it would be an unusual experience, even for him. "Yes my boy. It seems that Ms Delacour's ancestor had many important friends. Also the fact that Dark Elves are so rare was also a strong motive for them. Combined with the fact that your parents had no elfin characteristics and you are a once in a life time opportunity for them."
"When is my tutor he coming?" Harry asked excitedly.
"He will be here sometime in the next week," Dumbledore supplied.
"He's staying at Hogwarts?"
"Yes, Harry. He is here for you alone. Also it is safer for him here. Voldemort would do anything to capture an Elf and we must not have that."
Harry nodded. "What will the students know?"
"He will probably wear a glamour like yours. We could not afford his presence to be known yet. I could pass him as a teacher or a scholar, do not worry over that."
"Okay," Harry said. He felt much calmer now and his excitement grew. He was finally getting somewhere, and more importantly, he would have someone like him to talk to.
"Since you are here and the class hasn't got much longer, would you like some tea?" Dumbledore asked, successfully guessing that the teen was in no state to attend any lessons that evening.
"I'd love some," Harry replied sincerely.
Later that night, Gryffindor Dormitory:
Hermione was perched on Ron's bed, her feet crossed under her. Ron was sitting next to her, his knees up against his chest. Neville was sprawled on the floor. All three of them were in the boys' rooms with Harry.
The Elf was on his bed and telling them what took place at the Headmaster's office. To him it was odd that the trio had become a foursome, but it was not that bad. Neville had come a long way and Harry trusted him. Also he was Ginny's boyfriend, probably a keeper if he believed Hermione's words, and he really wanted to hear another opinion other than that of his two best friends.
"An Elf? In Hogwarts?" Hermione mused. "How exciting!" She was practically bouncing on her seat.
Harry smiled. He had been equally excited at the news, although for his friend the event was more on the academically challenging side of things, if she managed to have a meeting with the Elf.
'And probably question him for hours,' Harry thought wryly.
"I wonder what kind of Elf it is," Ron commented.
"I've only seen a house elf once," Neville told them.
"Hey! What about me?" Harry demanded.
"You're Harry," Neville replied.
"Great, now I'm a 'Harry', an entirely new species," the dark haired boy grumbled.
The other snickered at his expense, making him scowl at her.
Dungeons:
Severus Snape went over the recipe for the potion once again.
Lucius observed him carefully, slowly sipping wine from his glass.
"What is that book that you are reading Severus?" he asked.
"Dumbledore," Snape replied. "He wants to know how the brat is a Dark Elf."
"Ah, a Lineage Potion then."
"Correct. This is one of the three books Ms Granger deduced that would be of help."
"Was she correct?" Lucius inquired.
His answer was the sour expression on the Potion Master's face.
"Half the ingredients are borderline dark," Snape muttered. "We will need a few drops of his blood, but there are a few other ingredients like phoenix tears, Acromantula venom and the fang of a Basilisk that are hard to get."
Lucius frowned. "Why those ingredients?"
"This is specifically for Elves and the darker ingredients tend to be more accurate," Snape replied. "Had it been a wizard, the spider and snake venom would not be a problem as it would need beetle eyes or something similar."
Lucius nodded although he did not really understand the reasoning.
'That is probably why Severus is a potions expert and not I,' he thought wryly.
"And why are you here my friend?" Snape asked. "Don't you have a boy to…woo?"
Lucius scowled. "Drop it."
"That poor boy trailing after you…" Snape went on.
Lucius snorted humourlessly. "Boy my hat. Harry Potter is the devil incarnate," he snapped.
"I've been saying so for years, but why are you so worked up Lucius?"
The blond shifted in his seat.
Snape abandoned the book and turned to his best friend since childhood, giving him a calculating look.
"Oh, my…" he said with glee.
"Severus…"
"It seems that all my teasing was not for nothing," Snape told him.
"Yes it was."
"Stop scowling. You'll get wrinkles and I'm not making the potion to vanish them."
"I'm only thirty five! I don't need your damn potions."
"I'm two years younger," Snape told him.
Lucius glared him before realizing this was getting him nowhere at all. If anything it would give Snape even more ammunitions against him and he would use them to embarrass Lucius further. And right now, the last thing Lucius wanted was to think of Harry Potter.
"This is childish," the blond decided.
"Agreed. Now tell me how did Mister Potter manage to sway you?"
Lucius almost groaned. 'I guess it can't be helped then,' he thought. That was the problem when dealing with a Slytherin as driven as Severus was.
"I don't kiss and tell Severus." He almost winced at his slip.
The Potions professor had a sardonic smile on his face. "Meaning you kissed."
Grey eyes glared the dark haired man. "I really hate you."
"Noted, now satisfy my curiosity, how many times did you kiss the Elf since summer?"
Lucius groaned and refilled his glass, knowing it would be a long night.
A few days later…
Great Hall, DA Session:
Harry observed the group's progress.
Hermione had been doing a great job with her team. She was a bit scary and eerily reminding him of McGonagall, but she worked wonders.
"One more time the Stunning and then the Reviving spell," she asked the group.
A chorus of 'Petrificus Totalus' and then 'Enervate' echoed in the hall.
Harry winced at those who had 'missed' the cushions. He remembered how sore he had been once.
"Good job everyone!" Hermione commented.
"Indeed," Harry added.
The crowd smiled and started thinning out, the Gryffindor's heading back to their dorms.
His friends stayed behind.
"Great job guys," Harry said to Hermione who blushed. Ron beamed at him and Ginny hugged a blushing Neville.
"When are you going to gather the advanced DA?" Ginny asked.
"I already have. That is why I asked you to remain. I found a few spells in the library and thought we could practice them. they are mostly healing spells, for bruises and cuts, but I thought it is never too early to learn," Harry replied.
"Healing spells?" Hermione perked up.
"Yes, Miss Granger," Poppy Pomfrey, the school nurse answered.
She entered the changed Great Hall, taking in the transformations with appreciation.
"You have quite the club here Mister Potter. Am I the first adult visiting?"
"Yes, Madame Pomfrey," he told her.
The rest of the original DA arrived shortly after.
Harry got everyone's attention and smiled at them.
"It's been a while, I know. Most of you have been helping in the new groups and for that I am grateful. However, you will not be rid of me that easily. We are to meet a few times each month, practicing new spells which will be then introduced to your regular meeting. I have a guest hear today. We all know her so please welcome Madame Pomfrey."
There was clapping and whistles. The nurse blushed a bit.
"She will be helping us learn minor healing spells. Offence and defence is good, but I would like for you to be able to save a life, whether it be a friend or family," Harry told them.
He saw the nods with satisfaction.
"You know the drill."
Each of them took a beanbag and sat, facing the school nurse. Harry got a seat for her and thus began their lesson.
At the end of the lesson they had all been given a list of spells to memorize and sent on their way. Now Harry, Ron and Hermione were sprawled on the cushions and staring at the enchanted ceiling.
"It was…different," Ron commented.
"Hm, so many spells to heal similar things. Healers have it tough. No wonder their NEWT levels have to be almost all above E," Hermione told them.
"Yeah, that was why I asked her help. The most we can heal is a broken bone and stop the blood flow, but it is better than nothing," Harry told them.
"It makes sense to hold on until the injured are treated by an able healer. Not to mention the spells are handy," Hermione commented.
"You would say that," Ron muttered.
Harry smiled as the pair went off in another of their famous fights. He sat there watching them with a content smile. It brought him peace to know that some things remained the same.
Hermione stopped mid rant and looked at Harry. She blushed when she realized that she had almost forgotten he was there.
"We are really unforgivable," she told him with a sheepish smile.
"Not really," Harry told her. "It reminds me of the previous years. Having you two bickering like eleven year olds is…amusing."
"Harry James Potter!" she screamed.
Harry laughed and never saw a dozen charmed cushions connecting with his head. He sure felt them though.
"Mione!" he yelled.
"Serves you right!" she huffed.
Ron laughed at him and soon Hermione and Harry joined.
The elf shook his head and leaned back.
"Seriously, we did well today, didn't we?" he asked his best friends.
"Yes mate," Ron told him.
Something flickered in Harry's appearance and soon the glamour wavered and failed.
"Nice ears," Ron teased and Harry touched the pointy ends.
The Elf groaned. "Don't tell me. The glamour failed."
His friends nodded.
"Damn. Dumbledore said that something like this might happen," Harry muttered.
"He did?" Hermione asked, sounding worried.
Her friend nodded. "Elf magic cancels wizarding magic since it is innately stronger and older. Add to that, that my glamour has to cover up not only my appearance but also my aura, which is too strong to cover up for too long, and you get the idea," Harry replied.
"Bummer," Ron muttered.
"Exactly," Harry said with a sigh. His long hair shifted, framing his face as he pouted. "And now I have to do the spell all over again."
"Poor thing," Hermione mocked as she reached over and patted his head.
Harry glared her and she withdrew her hand with a giggle, mouthing 'sorry' but not really meaning anything. Ron seemed to find it funny as well and Harry gave up trying to intimidate them. He decided he should just leave the pair alone and get some sleep for a change.
"I'm off. I better sleep early if I want to wake up early enough to put on the glamour."
He stood waiving back at the wishes for good rest his friends gave him. He was glad the corridors were empty. He ignored the few portraits that were still awake and upon seeing his appearance started a storm of gossip. He realized that the following morning would certainly be amusing with the rumours flying around.
'I'll cross that bridge when I absolutely have to. It will probably entertain Dumbledore,' the Elf mused.
He continued walking to his rooms, avoiding a pair of prefects and the Bloody Baron when he came across them.
He was nearing the Gryffindor tower when a scent assaulted his nostrils.
A sly smile slowly formed on his face.
He stopped where he stood and waited.
Soon enough a familiar figure appeared.
The DADA professor dressed in his dark grey under robes that were similar to a suit without the jacket walked the halls.
'Note to self,' Harry thought, 'Malfoy patrols the corridors every Thursday.'
The blond stopped short at the sight of the Elf. At first he thought that his eyes were playing tricks on him. He had not seen the boy without his glamour in a long while. Since summer actually. He had almost forgotten exactly how ethereal he looked with his pointy ears and long silky hair. Usually he had only his luminous emerald eyes to hint that the boy was not a mere wizard.
"It's tem minutes after curfew Mister Potter. Shouldn't you be in bed like a good little lion?" he asked.
The smile turned into a smirk any Slytherin would envy.
"It's been a while," Harry told him. "You keep avoiding me after classes."
Lucius stood his ground as the Elf started to move his way.
"It was inappropriate what happened in the greenhouse," he offered as an excuse but those green eyes were taunting him. Still, he could not just give in. there were a lot of things wrong with this scenario and as a Malfoy he had to take care of his family. He had no room for romantic illusions. Not anymore.
"Why? I liked the way you kissed me."
Lucius curse inwardly. How could Potter pout and be seductive and at the same time make him feel guilty for lying?
"You're delusional," Lucius told him.
"Your scent has gotten better," Harry told him.
He now stood only a breath away and the blond did not dare to move. The last time he had tried to leave his body betrayed him. So this time he stood his ground. After all, was not this the proper tactic to fend off a beast out to get you? Now if he could only find a way to deter the Boy-Who-Lived…
"Only animals would know," Lucius snapped.
Harry was a bit hurt but he masked it with a smile. He cocked his head to the sight, the curtain of black hair moving as he did so.
"Why do you deny me?"
"It is highly inappropriate for this conversation to continue. Go to bed or I'll dock points Mister Potter."
"Oh, well, then I guess I have to try again," Harry murmured.
Moving with the grace of his kind he moved up to the blond, wound his arms around his neck and tilted his head up for a kiss.
Lucius froze as those lips touched his. They were as soft and sweet as he remembered and instead of following the logical route, once again his mind went on vacation. He brought his arms around the lithe waist and soon the two of them were involved in a passionate kiss.
Harry felt his back connect with the hard stone castle walls but ignored it in favour of the attention he was given by his destined mate.
The blond was really tasty and passionate when he wanted to be. It was worth the trouble, Harry realized as they broke free panting for breath.
Lucius tried to pull away but Harry held tighter. He brought his mouth to his ear, nipping it gently.
"Why do you keep fighting me?" he asked.
"Potter…"
"My name is Harry."
"It's…inappropriate."
Lucius heard the soft, frustrated sigh that came from the teen as a nose nuzzled his neck with his nose, inhaling the scent of the blond to calm his heart. The affectionate expressions were getting to him, crumbling his defences.
But Harry decided to pull back for the moment.
"No matter," the Elf whispered. "Fight it all you want, but you will be mine."
Harry kissed Lucius again, hard and demanding, before backing down on his own.
"Sweet dreams Lucius," he murmured, leaving the panting blond alone in the corridor.
Next morning…
Great Hall:
Hermione kept giving Harry odd looks. Her friend had yawned a few times now. His glamour was intact this morning but that did not apply for his cheer. She thought he was almost moping, but over what she had no idea. She toyed with the idea that he had nightmares over Sirius' death, but they had all talked about it, through letters and all nighters at Grimmauld Place. Harry had given them the idea that the nightmares had stopped and he was through with putting the blame on himself. Still, she thought wryly, this was Harry; all sorts of things could go wrong.
"Rough night Harry?" she asked worriedly.
"You could say that," he replied cryptically.
"Nightmares?" Hermione prodded.
"Quite the opposite in fact," Harry murmured wistfully.
Hermione frowned but before she could prod him for a passable answer Luna sauntered over to them. The side Ron usually occupied was free as the red headed teen was at Quidditch practice. She sat down next to Harry.
"Good morning Luna! Something you want?" Hermione asked.
"The portraits on the second floor were oddly talkative this morning," she spoke.
Harry winced but Hermione was focused on the blond girl.
"They said that one of the proud Elves was walking the halls at night," the Ravenclaw informed them.
Two sets of eyes locked on Harry and the boy wanted to bang his head on the table.
"Don't say it. I know."
The Gryffindor girl threw a dirty look at Harry before turning to Luna for answers. "Who saw him?" Hermione asked.
"A portrait named Violet and the wizards playing poker," Luna replied.
"With some luck everyone will think they ate too many sherry chocolates and got drunk before Christmas," Harry muttered.
Hermione choked on her toast and Luna smiled serenely.
"Perhaps," the Ravenclaw replied as she stood.
Harry muttered a 'bye' under his breath, his eyes and ears waiting for the morning post.
Soon enough the owls fluttered in the Hall with their usual ruckus.
"Waiting for mail?" Hermione asked him.
"Not really," Harry replied.
From the corner of his eye he watched as a brown barn owl landed in front of Lucius. The blond looked back before reaching out for the letter she carried. He rewarded her with some bacon before she flew off. Harry watched and waited as Lucius read the letter. He saw those grey eyes widen and those pale cheeks darken slightly in what would pass as a blush if one looked carefully enough to spot it.
He was gratified to see the letter folded again and then disappear into the pockets of his black robes.
With a smile on his face, Harry turned to Hermione.
"Ready to go to Hagrid?"
The girl nodded and stood.
"I just hope he brings nothing dangerous this time," she grumbled.
Lucius thought little of the words Potter used before they parted and found himself surprised when the morning mail came. The owl was one of the school's that much he knew, so at least the boy had tact.
However the letter was anything but innocent.
The blond shivered as the verses came to mind.
It was from an old poem collection he knew to belong to an old wizard poet:
My heart beats for yours
My magic pulses with to beat of our love
My soul exists to join yours
For as long as our forests shall sing
'Yes,' Lucius realized. 'Those for verses make most of the bonding vows in the wizarding world.'
It was a commitment on the Gryffindor's part and as he had told him the previous night, the teen would come after him until he gave in.
The former Slytherin hid a smile that wanted to emerge on his face. It would not be good for his image and Severus, not to mention the old coot, would hold it over his head for a long time, and they already have enough material to torment him for the next twenty years. Though it would scare the students, especially the Hufflepuff's. That would be amusing to watch.
"Anything special in that letter?" Snape asked with obvious curiosity.
"Not really," he replied, already making plans to retreat if his long time friend starting asking dangerous questions.
It seemed that at least that morning luck was with him as Dumbledore called their attention to make a trifle announcement on how the Moon tower, a small tower near the Astronomy tower, was out of bounds because repairs were needed and the students should steer clear for their own safety.
As many, he had not even remembered hearing the name before but he shrugged. It was common knowledge that no one had ever explored completely the grounds of Hogwarts castle. And there were so many towers it was no wonder he had not heard of it before.
So thankful for the smokescreen, Lucius finished his tea and hurried to his first class for the day.
Care of Magical Creatures:
Harry and Hermione met Ron on the way to the edge of the forbidden forest. Ron immediately launched into a lengthy talk of how the Gryffindor Quidditch was doing and the tactics they had developed.
The Elf listened carefully, making comments and suggestions while Hermione tried to survive through her boredom.
"Finally!" she exclaimed under her breath when the hut came into view and then the groundskeeper and professor.
"Hagrid looks unusually happy today," Ron observed. "Do you think it will be dangerous?"
"I'm almost positive," Hermione replied.
"I just hope I don't get another talking buddy. The snakes and the Sphinx were more than enough," Harry muttered.
His friends snickered.
"It was not funny! She would make fun of things and kept talking to me all the time…It was driving me crazy!" Harry hissed.
"Poor little Harry," Ron teased and earned a smack on the head from his green eyed friend.
"Here you are!" Hagrid greeted them. "You came early but that's fine. I have a surprise for you today."
The three friends felt cold sweat starting to form on their skin.
"What is it?" Hermione asked with dread.
"It's a surprise," Hagrid told them as he winked at them.
Harry gulped. As long as it was nothing scary or dangerous or could hold a conversation with him it was fine, but knowing Hagrid and his own luck, the chances he would walk out of this class unscathed were slim. So he hung his head and waited for the lesson to start. Soon red and green robes were seen approaching the edge of the forest, the students growing nervous as they neared.
After Hagrid saw that everyone was indeed present, he smiled at them and Harry swore that several students took a step back. For the first time, he completely sympathized with them.
"Seeing you're all here, I have a surprise for you today," he told the students.
"A Sphinx again?" a student asked.
"Or perhaps a Siren?" one of the Slytherin's said.
"Please don't be a Siren," Hermione muttered next to Harry.
"Of course not!" the half giant exclaimed. "Sirens are dangerous! No, what I have today is a dragon!"
"I'll take the Siren," Malfoy said readily, but Hagrid did not hear him.
"I agree with the ferret," Ron whimpered.
"Is it Norbert?" Hermione asked the professor.
He beamed at her and nodded. "Charlie Weasley just brought him over. Along with three more dragons! They have not woken yet but they will give us a lecture on them; fine dragon tamers they are the lot of them."
"I hope the spell doesn't wear off," Hermione whispered.
"So does everyone else," Ron muttered.
"It takes at least ten stunning curses to faze a dragon," Harry told them and the people near him gulped and slowed down the pace.
"I really don't need any more reasons to run screaming to the castle," Ron hissed at him.
"I just hope Charlie is as good as you say Ron," Hermione warned.
Great Hall, Lunch:
It turned out that the lesson was less scary than they imagined. They were merely shown the dragons, listened to a few words about each of them and watched Hagrid coo over the dangerous creatures. At lunch the students of both houses were excited and relaxed. Harry especially was grateful that nothing happened around him.
Charlie was part of the permanent Hogwarts staff but that day sat at the Gryffindor table with his family and their friends.
"Mum is glad I'm back in the country and I'm happy I can still work with dragons. It works for everyone really," Charlie told them. "Even Bill transferred to Gringotts here."
"It's because of Voldemort, right?" Harry stated.
The name gained a shiver but the older Weasley nodded all the same.
"Mother is worried about us. She already lost family during the first period. She wants us to be united. Dumbledore asked for the dragons as guards and specifically requested I was one of the team, so here I am!"
"So what exactly will you be doing?" Hermione asked him.
Charlie took a bit off his plate and turned to her as he swallowed.
"Well, I am in charge of feeding and cleaning the dragons. A simple 'Scourgify' doesn't work on them you know. And there have to be at least ten capable dragon tamers to subdue a dragon. At least it is not the mating season and this time the females are too young to have eggs, so we are better off than we were during the Triwizard tournament."
"Why not have male dragons then?" Ron asked.
"Wouldn't work. Over two males there's trouble. They become enemies and fight all the time for dominance. That is why only Norbert is among them," Charlie replied.
"Makes sense," Hermione responded.
"Also, I have to take turns guarding with the dragons. They are trained, yes, but it would do no good if a reporter was mauled by one of them or any other wizard. They might be within or out of the anti-apparition wards, but they need humans to guide them," Charlie continued.
"Makes sense," Harry told him.
Charlie nodded. "So, Harry, what was that I heard from the old crowd about you and a set of pointy ears?"
Harry groaned. "How much do you know?" he asked carefully. He really had no idea whether this Weasley knew about Lucius or not.
"I know that when they came to get you this summer you had a new look. Fleur is still excited whenever your name pops up," Charlie told him.
Harry almost cheered that at least Charlie was in the dark about his mate.
"Her kind often mates with the pointy eared ones," Hermione offered for Harry. "She clung to him up until we came back to school."
"Yeah, Ron was drooling all day," Ginny added.
"Hey!" Ron was indignant.
"You don't convince anyone brother dearest," Ginny teased.
They all laughed when Ron grumbled and savagely stabbed his chicken leg.
"So Harry, what's all this about a defence club that I heard?" Charlie changed the topic to avoid irritating his younger brother further. He knew how Ron's temper got the best of him.
After that the group set out telling him about the DA and its history.
Three days later, during a Charms lesson, the last class for the day, a note was delivered to Harry by a younger Gryffindor.
"What is it?" Ron asked not bothering to lower his voice.
There was after all so much noise in the class room from all those birds they had learned to conjure flying around that he and Hermione had to struggle to listen what Harry told them in reply.
"It's from Dumbledore," Harry told them with a smile. "Ailill Frideswide has arrived in Hogwarts!"
Hermione's eyes widened. "Wait isn't that the-"
Harry nodded.
"And he's here?" Ron asked.
Another nod from Harry.
"That is great!" Hermione exclaimed.
Her voice was so loud it carried over the noise. Even the tiny professor heard her and gave her a disappointed look. She apologized profusely, but they had no other chance to talk until after the class as they headed to the great Hall for dinner.
As soon as they sat they noticed another chair next to Dumbledore.
The new comer was listening to the old wizard carefully, his face holding no expression. His skin was pale but the way a Veela's skin tone was, white and subtly luminous. He had long, braided red hair and frozen blue eyes. He wore wizard robes made of silk in white and red colours. He appeared to be younger than Charlie Weasley, who was caught in a conversation with McGonagall, elegant and wise. He had captured everyone's attention, especially that of females.
As he turned, he looked straight at Harry.
The Dark Elf shivered.
"It's him," he told his friends as he held the gaze.
End of Chapter 2