Disclaimer: See Chapter 1
A/N: My readers are AWESOME! The next chapter in this saga and the final story arc: Camelot.
I apologize for such a long break. I have been battling some serious health issues the last few months and writing has been low on my priority or I was just too tired for my muse to work. I am getting better now and working on finishing this story before I do anything else. After this, there will be 3 to 4 chapters left… then Fin!
-oOo-
Chapter 55-oOo-
This time on the House of Potter-Greengrass: Camelot!
-oOo-
September 14, 1998London, England
The goblins that met him in the lobby were different today. The last few times he had had to deal with any besides his account manager or the lobby tellers, he had seen some hate him, some look at him as though neutral, and yet others that were near giddy by goblin standards. He knew that had much to do with the sword he had at his side. He was marked by their maker, and apparently there were a myriad of feelings about Hephaestus.
Today, he didn't see one snarl or nasty look come his way. He actually received a slight bow from three different goblins as he was led into the bowels of the bank to see Ragnar. Harry returned them with a nod and slight dip of his shoulders. Again, the guards didn't ask him to hand in his weapons when he stood before the Vipertooth scale doors.
When they opened, the room was more active. Two new desks had been added to the room, making four goblins working on books and parchment work. Two guards stood behind Ragnar while two others were just inside the door. Harry knew Ragnar was not one to parse words, but he did a quarter bow anyways, given the way most goblins were acting today.
Ragnar waived for him to take a seat and waited until another goblin poured them both tea. Harry rose an eyebrow at the goblin that had had an antagonistic relationship with him at the best of times. Ragnar took his tea and sipped it.
Harry did the same, unsure what this was all about but knew the goblins would not do anything to hurt him after being invited here. After a moment, Ragnar pushed a parchment to him. "For your help in locating Rogsnorg," Ragnar said.
Harry looked curiously at the goblin before taking the paper. He quickly read it, then his eyes widened. "I wasn't aware I was entitled to anything," Harry said as evenly as he could. His half-percent share was eighty thousand galleons.
"That is just the first payment. As part of the archaeological team, you are entitled to that as the lead investigator. We still have years to go to explore everything, but the upper vaults were relatively untouched," Ragnar told him.
Harry swallowed. He was using his Occlumency to keep a straight face. "I take it your Curse Breaking is going well then?"
"Better than hoped but not as well as wished," Ragnar said cryptically. Harry interpreted that as they hadn't found an Arkenstone yet but found other important stuff.
Ragnar then motioned his head to a goblin that had been standing off to the side holding a tray with a cloth over it. The goblin came over and put the tray on the table. "It would appear that some of our treasures are beyond our means to use."
Ragnar took the cloth off the tray. Harry's eyes widened to see two celestial bronze daggers. They were a pair, about five inches long, thin with the runes on the blades that were shining an iridescent blue. They had leather scabbards with a bronze cap.
Harry looked up to Ragnar. "I appreciate the honour you have given me in this, but why present these daggers?" Harry asked.
Ragnar scowled. "It would appear you are the representative of Hephaestus. The last wizard to be so was your ancestor. We cannot touch or use such artefacts without your leave."
Harry's brow rose up his brow. When he had told Croaker it was three worlds he was trying to save, he doubted the man thought about the beings and creatures that also called their world home and viewed it differently than wizards.
"And if I was to give you my leave?" Harry asked.
He felt that every eye in the room was watching them at the moment. He was sure Ragnar had kept his guards and chief accountants here to witness this. Harry wasn't sure how dangerous a game he was playing, but whatever it was, Ragnar needed him.
Ragnar eyed him. "The Gringotts clans would be open to negotiation on such grants."
Harry counted to ten in his head. "Negotiations that might include Camelot and what we originally discussed?"
Ragnar nodded after a moment.
Harry thought about it for a few. After a moment, he said, "I have three conditions."
"And they are?" Ragnar enquired.
"First, I want to know every celestial bronze tool or weapon you find. I won't stop you, but I want to know what you find," Harry told him.
Ragnar gave a reluctant nod after a moment.
"Second, Camelot is mine. I will hold our deal to give you an Arkenstone if there are any. I will make a magical oath if you want," Harry offered.
Ragnar's beady black eyes looked back at him in a hard way. "I will require that oath."
Harry nodded. "Third, I want Lord William Weasley or another licenced ward weaver to oversee my apprentice test next month and then certify my journeyman over the next three years to achieve my mastery. The master must be available here in England."
Ragnar sat back. "That is not the standard path to certify Rune Masters. You must serve your apprenticeship and then your journey man. Journeymen must go field work. The next apprentice test is at Yule."
Harry shook his head. "I have an apprentice work that is ready for review, and you will set up a test next month. I have field work here that can be submitted."
At this, Ragnar's beady eyes showed his greed. "You do know that the certifying Master will have to go to your site?"
Harry nodded. "I do." He didn't need to tell Ragnar that his site would be for rune weaving, not that it would be at Camelot or Mosedale. He figured that Ragnar thought he could use this to steal some of Harry's secrets.
Ragnar scrupulously regarded him for a few moments. "I have learned you are as shrewd a negotiator as we are. I know there is a trick in here somewhere. Should you go back on the intent of our conversation, I will name you enemy of the clan."
Harry gave a cheeky grin. "Just as I am sure there are things you are trying to pull over on me. Should I fear your duplicity, I am sure I can find a different clan to bank with."
If a goblin could pale, he was sure Ragnar was doing as such. Harry knew he didn't have many options where the Gringotts clans were the lead bankers across much of Europe, but there were other options, but not ones Harry particularly cared for at the moment. "We shall hold our word, wizard," Ragnar said in a dangerous voice.
"I shall as well. I have not dealt with you with bad or misleading intentions before, even if we didn't understand each other's intentions at times, and I will never do so if you keep to our bargains, Chief Executive Ragnar" Harry told Ragnar.
"Very well, Scion Potter-Greengrass. I think our business is done today," the goblin said.
Harry nodded and got up. Ragnar held up a hand. "These are part of your payment. I will have a listing of the other objects we have found sent to you in the next couple of days."
Harry looked surprised for a moment. The gift of the two daggers was almost priceless. Either they had found more celestial bronze than he had thought, or they were regarding him as someone of senior rank at the bank. Harry gave a half bow to the goblin. "I thank you for your generosity and will endeavour to keep our relations pleasant."
Ragnar just waived him away.
Harry took the two blades and put them into his pocket. He would have to investigate them later.
-oOo-
September 16, 1998Laverstock, England
Harry was a little nervous to have Daphne here, but he needed her. After a month of analysing the crystal ward stones, he was certain that they all needed to be here. He wasn't certain how this would go. The runes were so intricate that he couldn't be certain that they would activate any defences. That made him incredibly nervous about Daphne and their unborn child.
He was on alert for any changes to the magic or lands as they walked down to the city. Neville was just as nervous since Tracey had refused to let him go without her. Sirius and Remus rounded out their group. Harry wanted to risk as few people as he could.
The walls of the city towered over them as they approached the gatehouse. The gatehouse was an imposing structure with two passages, each arched, perhaps twelve feet high and ten wide. By the looks of it, Harry wondered if one was an in and the other an out gate?
"My skin is tingling with the magic here," Tracey said into the quiet group.
Daphne moved a little closer to him. "Are you sure this is safe?" she asked him.
"I wouldn't have brought you if I didn't think so," he said.
"What do we do, pup?" Sirius questioned.
Harry looked at the glowing runes in the doors. He unsheathed his sword, then nodded to Neville and Daphne, who each took out one of the celestial bronze knives the goblins had given him. He figured this would be the safest way. He had spent the last few days when they had free time going over what they needed to do.
Harry didn't want to destroy the protections here, so he was going to use the blood traces to them to satisfy the agreement that Merlin wanted. There was probably another way, but this would be the quickest and least dangerous with how the wards were built.
"I'll go first," Harry told them. "Then Daphne and finally Neville. To answer you, Sirius, we are going to use our blood to prove our inheritance and let the city know we all agree on this."
Sirius nodded.
Harry studied the runes to determine where the identification area was, then cut his palm. He reached out to the aged wood. When his bloody palm touched the runes, they flared. He felt a shock run through his body. A second later they heard a bolt open on the other side of the door.
"That was a bit dramatic," Sirius said in a flat tone.
"What did you expect? The doors to fly open and a parade to welcome us?" Remus asked in a quiet tone.
"Something more," Sirius told him. "Fireworks. A trap. Something."
Daphne cut her palm and put it over the same spot. After another bright flare, another bolt could be heard.
"Neville?" Harry said, ignoring Sirius and Remus.
"Just be careful," Tracey told him.
Neville gave her hand a squeeze before walking up and doing the same as him and Daphne. The runes glowed brighter but there was no click this time. The runes stayed bright. They all looked at each other, unsure what had gone wrong. Remus, Sirius and him were on alert for something. A trap? Another rune set? Something.
After a moment, the bright runes in the centre of the doors started to spread. It was like a Christmas light show as runes lit up all around them. Harry stepped back, his wand coming up. Neville scrambled away from the door.
"What's going on?" Daphne asked.
Harry didn't know. Had he misread the runes and Merlin's notes? "I don't know."
Runes all over the walls started to light up. They watched in wonder and trepidation as millions of runes could be seen in the wall. His sword sung in his hands as the power of the city started to become known.
"Do we run?" Remus questioned.
Harry was about to agree when a roar echoed in the valley. Harry's eyes widened as he turned. Even from a half mile away he could see the sun glinting off golden scales as a sinewy form snaked over the side of the villa closest to them.
"Oh, bloody hell. I told you I saw it move," Sirius told them.
"Can we apparate?" Neville asked as he shielded Tracey.
Daphne had her wand out. "Harry, there is another," she said, looking to the west. Harry looked to see a black dragon throwing a gout of fire into the air from the roof of that villa. Each Villa had one. There was the Golden Asian Dragon, the Hebridean Black, a North African Shriek, a Turkish Fire Drake and a Gaulish Rendering.
"I don't think we can," Harry told them. "One of the wards was supposed to be an anti-travel ward. I'm pretty sure we just set it off."
"Bloody fuck," Sirius cursed.
It was obvious that the dragons were making their way to them. "So, do we need to fight them then?" Neville asked.
"I won't let Daphne get hurt," he replied.
"I can take care of myself," she said, though not sounding as confident. The Golden Asian dragon was moving towards them now. The Hebridean Black had taken to the sky.
The backed towards the gate house. If they could have something at their back, then they couldn't be snuck up on. "Would Merlin want to kill us if we were allowed to get this far?" Remus questioned.
"He didn't want anyone but the worthy to get in," Harry told him.
"You tell us this now?" Sirius questioned.
"I never kept that hidden," Harry snarked back.
The Golden Asian dragon charged down the hill. They all put up shields and raised weapons. The dragon suddenly stopped about seventy feet before them. It wasn't making a sound and looked more to be regarding them than threatening them.
Tracey screamed when the Hebridean Black dove and landed not far from them. It blew a jet of black fire into the air. The shriek landed next. It was a large dragon with green scales, muscular and with a head of horns and spikes. It roared, causing Daphne to flinch and Tracey scream again. It sounded like a shrieking banshee, just not as deadly. He shifted to stand more before Daphne.
Behind them something large landed on the gatehouse. Stone cracked under the weight. Harry looked up to see the Gaulish Rendering dragon. It was another extinct dragon that was about the size of the Hebridean Black, but with scales that shifted colour like a chameleon.
Lastly, the smaller Fire Drake landed next to the Golden Asian dragon. It's red scales and lack of forearms stuck out.
Once all the dragons were there, they didn't do anything. Harry looked at them apprehensively. He felt as though they were being weighed and measured. He prayed they were not found lacking. He hadn't wanted to take Daphne, not while she was pregnant, but they needed to get in.
After a moment, Sirius leaned in towards him. "So, what now, pup?"
He gave his godfather a 'bloody hell if I know' look. When the dragons still hadn't attacked them, Harry shared a look with everyone before stepping forward. Daphne grabbed his jacket. "Harry, what are you doing?" she sharply questioned.
Harry took another step forward. Daphne let go of his shirt. "Ah, hello? Are you guardians of Camelot?"
The Hebridean Black dragon snorted. The whelp asks if we are guardians? Is that an insult?
Do we kill them now? the Fire Drake questioned.
They smell of the blood, the golden dragon said.
Harry's eyes bulged. "Please tell me you heard them speaking?" Harry asked the others.
He missed the looks they gave him. "Looks like you are the only one hearing voices, pup."
"Brilliant," he said. The was unexpected. Pulling on his magic like he did to speak parseltongue, he rumbled, Great dragons. I meant no insult. Please don't kill us. I will defend my family if you do attack us.
Merlin had written some about dealing with dragons. They respected strength. Most liked to be flattered.
It sounded like a rolling rockslide as the Shriek chuckled. Brave, this one. Should we test his medal? They invoke the blood, and we were tasked with ensuring only those brave enough to challenge us could enter.
Mycilie, you know we were tasked with protecting the city and judging if those of the blood are worthy, the Golden Asian dragon said.
What better way to judge than if they end up in my maw? the Gaulish Rendering said from over their heads.
"Harry, what are they saying?" Daphne whispered.
He waved her off for a moment.
If I need to challenge you, I will, Harry told them, pulling up his magic. As he did, he took in a sharp breath. The magic from around him pulled up with his own. He had only meant flare his aura for them. Instead, it was like the land was eager to have him there.
The dragons all shuffled at the sudden power in him.
"Merlin," Sirius muttered.
The Golden Asian Dragon put its head to the side. You are a child of Merlin. The land has judged you and find you worthy.
How about the others? I'm hungry, the Fire Drake said, shuffling a little closer.
Harry rose his sword. Over my dead body.
Challenge accepted, the Shriek said. It shrieked at them and its clause bit into the ground as it moved to attack.
Harry moved, his wand coming up. He had meant to throw a dirt ball into its face. Instead, the ground exploded as the magic of the lands channelled through him. A rock the size of the dragon's head impacted it. The dragon reared up and fell over, shaking the ground. His magic flared in anger. Everyone except Daphne stepped back from the magic that was bleeding off him. We do not come here to kill you, you bloody lizard. You say you judge us. We need to get inside Camelot. Judge us. I am Harry Potter-Greengrass, blood of Merlin and demand entrance to the city.
The Shriek rolled over, its head shaking and a small amount of blood dripping from its nose. It shrieked at them again and moved to go after him.
Enough, the golden dragon snapped its jaws towards the Shriek. It stopped then snorted, obviously not pleased. You are the blood of Merlin, young one. You have already been judged. It turned its head to Daphne. Who is your mate?
Harry turned to Daphne. "Come here. They want to see you and judge you."
Daphne looked to the dragons and then him before moving to take his outstretched hand. This is Daphne Potter-Greengrass, my wife and blood of Morgana Le Fey.
The golden dragon stretched, its neck coming closer, then it took a few steps more. Harry could smell fish on its breath. It sniffed her as the others stood ready to fight or flee behind them and the dragons looked restless. You have both killed a wilder dragon.
We did. It was trying to kill us. We only met the challenge, Harry said.
"I don't like not knowing what you are saying," she said out of the side of her mouth.
"The dragon was talking about that Horntail fourth year," he replied.
"Oh, is he upset?" she questioned.
The golden dragon chuckled. You have nothing to be concerned about. I hear the truth and see it in your head. You were challenged and you won. Wilder dragons are not part of us anymore. I am afraid most of our kin are wild now.
There seemed to be a rumble of approval and the Shrieker didn't look as upset. Harry was concerned that he didn't feel anything. Shouldn't he know if something had been hitting against his occlumency shields or rummaging in his head?
The golden dragon lowered its head to look straight into Daphne's eyes. She didn't flinch. After a moment, she gasped. He looked to her. Her eyes were wide.
You have chosen a good mate, blood of Merlin. The blood of Le Fey is acceptable. She may pass, the dragon rumbled deep in its throat.
When it turned its head to Neville, they heard the first sound of discontent from the large sinewy dragon. I can smell the blood of Pendragon on this one. What does he have to say for himself?
Harry looked to Neville. He hadn't noticed that Neville's eyes were wide. His mouth was open. "Neville, I think you should come here," Harry told his cousin.
"Bloody hell, Harry, I understand them," Neville said.
Harry looked dumbly at Neville for a moment. He had the blood of Merlin and Pendragon. The golden dragon stepped past Harry. Tracey squeaked, pulling herself in close to Neville. The golden dragon huffed in Nevilles face. Harry had to give him credit that the large, muscular boy didn't flinch.
You understand us, blood of Pendragon? the dragon asked.
"Bloody hell," Sirius murmured when Neville gave a small bow and grunted and growled. I understand… great dragon. I am Neville Longbottom, blood of Pendragon and blood of Merlin. May I ask your name?
The dragon lowered its head to look into Neville's eyes. Names are of special importance, Neville Longbottom. You have not earned mine yet. This is your mate?
This is Tracey Longbottom, my wife, Neville said. "It's all alright, Trace," Neville told her as he moved to present her.
The other dragons were watching intently as the Golden Asian Dragon measured Neville and Tracey. You do not yearn for the sword like your relative?, the dragon asked, moving its head to indicate Harry.
Neville met the dragon's gaze. I only yearn to till the earth, take care of my plants and be with my wife.
The dragon snorted. I see the truth in your head, Neville Longbottom. Blood of Pendragon. Blood of Merlin. We once fought besides you and your knights. Merlin protected us while Morgana tended us when needed and never looked down on any being. I do not see the corruption in you that had Merlin shutter the gates of Camelot and build this refuge for us. Do you seek the throne?
Neville cast a quick glance to Harry. When Neville met the dragon's gaze again, the maw was now just inches from his chest. Tracey was shaking.
I do not seek the throne or any power. I will sit on the Wizengamot someday and serve my family and country, but I do not want the power, Neville replied.
The dragon touched his snout to Neville. Neville was pushed back a foot or two but came up to stand defiantly. I won't be pushed around though.
The golden dragon snorted in amusement. You will do, Neville Longbottom.
Behind them a bolt could be heard sliding. The runes on the walls started to fade.
We are not going to eat them today?' the fire drake asked disappointedly.
We are to remain the sentinels. Magic has accepted these three as the blood of the Three. As agreed, when the King first held the sword of the Lady of the Lake, forged in the citadel of Avalon, we honour and protect those of the true blood and those they protect. As long as they remain true to the oaths and do not seek power, but wield and accept it to govern and protect, we shall stand by them. But know this, wizards, should you violate the oaths or seek power that is not yours, we shall stop you, the golden dragon said.
Neville nodded.
Where are the oaths so that we do not violate them? Harry asked.
In the room that all knights and Kings swear their fealty to the lands and its people. Now, we hunt or rest,the golden dragon said. It pulled its head back from Neville and turned. The other dragons grumbled but pulled back. The five dragons turned their backs to them and made off in different directions.
When they were far enough away, Sirius let out a sigh, then sat on the cobblestones. "Bloody fuck, pups."
Daphne swayed a little. Harry moved to catch her. "Daph?"
She let out a long breath. "I'm alright, though no more stress like that today."
"No, no more stress. Are you sure you're alright?" he asked concerned as much for her as the little one inside her.
"I'm not going to break, Harry. The baby is fine," she told him. He didn't miss her shaking a little. This wasn't the first time they had faced down a dragon together…
"Are you two alright?" Remus questioned. Harry turned to see Neville holding Tracey in a hug, her face buried him his chest. Sirius rubbed his face before getting up.
"Yeah. We're fine, but I think Daphne should get back," Harry said.
She grabbed his hand. "Camelot was sealed so only the blood of the three descendants could open it. I'm staying in case you need me."
He looked to Neville. "Neville, you good to try going in?"
"You're sure that aren't any other traps or guardians?" Neville asked.
"No, but that's what adventure is about," he said with a cheeky grin.
"You know what, I'm finding a different godfather for Quinn," Sirius said while looking at Harry as though he had a hole in his head.
"Oh, come on, you and my father got up to worse than this," Harry said back.
"He's got you there, Padfoot," Remus agreed.
Sirius gave his friend a nasty glare. "Whose side are you on?"
"The one that causes the most trouble," Remus retorted.
Daphne chuckled at them. "It's like watching the court jesters."
"OI!" both men said turning to her.
"Pregnant woman here," she told them and they both looked less angry.
"I'll give you that. All those pregnancy hormone thingies," Sirius said.
"You know about hormones?" Remus questioned.
"My wife is a muggle. She had me read all those books," Sirius replied.
"You read?" Harry asked surprised. He grabbed Daphne to pull her before him as Sirius raised a finger.
"Heart of a lion," Daphne deadpanned.
"Just supporting my wife," he said.
Sirius laughed. "I think she has the right of it."
"James used to use Lily too," Remus said.
"And how did that turn out?" Neville questioned.
"It didn't. She used to hex him. I think he liked it," Sirius said, sounding conspiratorial at the end.
"Right, are we going in or not?" Daphne questioned.
They all looked to the doors. They had cracked opened. After a few shared looks, and Neville coaxing Tracey to not wrap herself around him, they opened the gates. Sirius and Remus took up the lead until Harry held his hand out.
"Pup, this is an age before beauty moment," Sirius told him.
"Sirius, Neville, Daphne and I are the heirs. I think we should step through first, then I think we'll be alright," Harry told him.
After a moment, Sirius nodded his head, knowing that Harry wouldn't risk Daphne anymore today. With a deep breath, Daphne's hands in his and Neville at his side, they pushed the heavy gates open. They could see a broad paved street before them with brick and stone houses lining the road that led straight towards the old roman style castle in the centre of the city.
Holding Daphne's hand, they moved down the main street. It had the feel of a once thriving city. Now the blackened windows, closed stalls and shops gave it an eerie feeling. Tracey tried to look into a window.
"There is still stuff in there," she said.
"We can take a look later. We need to make it to the Mage Quarters," Harry told them.
"What about the palace? Didn't you say I would have to go there?" Neville asked.
Harry stopped and looked around the group. He felt slightly indecisive at the moment. He knew what his goal was here, but Neville was right. He was the line that were the rulers here. Do they retake the seat of his ancestors or do they go the Pelanstone first.
Remus gave him a look of understanding. "I don't remember your journals or scrolls warning of any significant warding once you made it through the main gates. All the warding around the mage quarters and the palace should be related to your blood."
He looked to Daphne. He really wanted her to leave but he had to make it to the Pelanstone. "Do we split up?" Harry proposed.
"I think it safer for us to stay together," Sirius told them. "Harry, you are the largest source of Cursebreaking and knowledge of this place. Remus has read everything you gave us, but has anyone else?"
Harry looked to Daphne. The only other one that was as familiar with all this as him and Remus was Hermione, and with her ready to deliver any day now there was no way she was coming close to here. Her hand squeezed his. "We have stayed together so far."
He nodded and led them towards the northeast. It took them ten minutes to find the outer wall of the mage quarters. There was a gatehouse that was similar to the main gates. Looking at the runes he realized that Merlin hadn't written anything about this.
Letting go of Daphne's hand he took out his wand and his sword. The ancient Greek runes inscribed on the blade were glowing a bright white. He hadn't seen them do that before. Usually, it was a blue glow when around other celestial bronze or the Arcenstone in Croaker's office. Casting detection spells, he soon had runes, ancient Greek and even some hieroglyphs lighting up on the doors and walls.
Remus whistled. "Merlin, pup, that looks more complicated than the main ward crystals."
He had a sinking feeling as he looked at it. He was so close and now so far from his goal. "I've never seen anything like it," Daphne said.
Tracey took a step forward, her head cocked to the side. "Trace?" Neville asked.
"It's not that complicated," she told them.
Harry raised a brow to look at her. "There are at least three languages on that door alone. I don't even know all the hieroglyphs," he told her. "They aren't Egyptian."
Tracey looked at him oddly. "Egyptian Hieroglyphs? I thought they were mostly constellations."
Harry blinked at her a little owlishly. He looked back at the symbols. Daphne sniggered. "Told you that Astronomy was important."
"Hush you," he told his wife. Sirius chuckled. "Tracey, how do you see constellations?"
She moved a little closer. "Here, this is the Mesopotamian lion. It was part of their pantheon. Of course, the star on its foot is now gone, but the rest is still there. And over here, I recognize this as a Celtic symbol. I think it was Bridget."
"Huh," Harry said stupidly. He really had hated Astronomy.
"Ok, so they are mostly constellations. This is ancient Greek," Remus said. "What does it all mean?"
Tracey put a hand on her chin as she looked at everything. She really was a genius when it came to Astronomy and was one of the best in their year for arithmancy. "It's like points of a compass," she said walking along the wall. "It keeps repeating. This one is always in the Southern sky around mid-summer. This one is in the western section around the start of spring. It does the same here, but with different constellations."
"And are these in the northern and eastern sky for winter and spring?" Daphne asked.
"Rough enough," Tracey said.
"It's a year chart," Harry said. "But why?"
"I don't know the ancient Greek as well as you. Do you know what it says?" Remus asked.
"We just spent months working out the mystery of those ward stones. Are we going to have to wait months again?" Sirius asked.
"We haven't fully figured out those ward stones yet," Harry stated as he looked at the script. "Walk in the path of the… no direction," he said as he tried to read. "Walk in the direction of the dominant symbol. Those of blood will be allowed. All other… beware? Avoid danger? I don't really know this last phrase," Harry said to himself.
"Tracey, what is the dominant constellation this time of year?" Daphne asked.
Tracey looked around. "I don't know what you mean by dominant. Half of these are visible right now," she said.
"It is closer to the beginning of fall," Remus said.
Tracey seemed to think about that for the moment. "Oh, so the constellations align with the season. It is still technically summer, so wouldn't the constellations that are most prominent now be the dominant one?"
"Well, you said some of them are only visible at some points. What one is highest in the sky right now?" Harry asked.
Tracey looked around. "There are so many," she said.
"Just take your time. Walk the wall if you need. We can come back if we need," Remus told her.
"You can do this, Trace," Neville said to her.
Tracey bit her lip and looked around. After a few minutes she walked a good fifty feet from the gate house. "These are the ones that are more visible right now," she told them.
Daphne looked at them. "Which is highest in the sky right now?"
Tracey scrunched her brow. "I don't know. They make star charts and tables for that. It might also depend on the time of day. I mean the stars do move as the planet moves so that could change."
Harry frowned. "If you had to guess, which one might be higher right now?"
Tracey frowned. "It's the middle of the day. I would need a night room to see that," she told him. "Some of these would be below the horizon until later today."
"Which ones are above the horizon?" Remus questioned.
Tracey looked and then walked to look at four of the star maps. She looked very uncertain. "I think these two," she said.
Harry walked over to them. "No clue which one?"
"No. I need my charts," she told him.
"Harry, you aren't thinking what I think you are thinking?" Daphne challenged him.
"I'm not as reckless as that anymore," he told her.
Daphne snorted. "Have you met my husband?"
Sirius laughed. "She got you there, pup."
"And you are just as reckless," Remus snarked.
Harry was studying the symbols. The ancient Greek didn't change. It kept repeating through the centre of the star maps. As he looked, he had the distinct feeling that this would be the same key at the gates. Knowing he would pay for this later, he didn't hesitate to suddenly grab the blade of his sword, cut the palm of his wand hand and then jam it against the wall of the summer constellation to his left.
"Harry!" Daphne yelled.
There was a pulse of magic as everyone flinched or reacted to his sudden mad move.
When the magic dissipated the constellations and writing was disappearing. There was an audible screech of a lock opening from the gates. "Well, that worked. Oi!" he complained as his head jerked forward. The sound of Daphne smacking the back of his head reverberated in his skull.
"I just told you not to do anything mental. Did you even know that would work?" she said hotly.
He looked a little sheepish as he turned to her. "Ah, I had a strong feeling."
"Bloody, fecking Gryffindor idiot," she scolded.
Sirius was grinning like a loon behind him. Harry gave him a glare before turning his attention back to Daphne. "The writing said that blood could enter. It was the same thing we had to do to get into Camelot. Merlin wanted to make sure that only his descendants could get in. The warning was only for those not of his blood."
"So, you just assumed you would be safe if you got the wrong one?" she asked in a now cold tone as her arms crossed her chest.
"Well, I didn't think it would work and then I would just try the other one," he told her.
She huffed and then held out her hand. Harry hadn't realized he was still bleeding. Her wand came out and healed the cut. "Are you going to do anything else today to risk us getting eaten or killed?"
"Uhm, not planning to," he said.
Neville shook his head and Tracey chuckled. "It was you that said yes," she reminded her friend.
"And I am rethinking that," Daphne shot back.
"Do you get a sense that it is like when Lily used to get upset with James?" Sirius said in a loud whisper to Sirius.
"Yeah, well, James used to do some pretty stupid things as well," Remus replied.
Daphne huffed. "Are we going in or not?"
"Yeah," he said. With how active his sword was, he didn't put it away. They approached the now open doors and walked into a large courtyard. At one time there must have been lawns, trees and gardens. Now everything was overgrown and strangled. A wide cobbled path let to the only three buildings in the quarter. Each was a large round building with a front façade that looked like an old roman temple.
"I thought you said Merlin was a druid?" Daphne said.
"And then he adopted the Roman methods of spell crafting," Harry said.
"So now what?" Sirius asked.
"The central building," Harry told them.
They made their way towards the larger of the three buildings. "They remind me of the Parthenon in Rome," Remus said.
"Maybe Merlin visited there," Harry said. "He did live for over three hundred years."
Remus nodded.
As they got closer, Harry could feel the hair on his skin start to crawl. They all stopped a good fifteen feet before the nearest pillar. "Merlin, can you feel that magic?" Neville asked.
"It's like nothing I have ever felt," Daphne said.
"I don't like it," Tracey said as she rubbed her arms.
"What is in there?" Sirius questioned. He looked uncomfortable himself.
"It's not wards," Remus said. He sniffed the air as though he could smell the magic.
"No, it's not wards," Harry said. He looked at the building and then at the rest of the group. "Listen, I have a feeling that I should be the only one to go in."
"Over my dead body," Daphne told him.
"Daphne, I'm not sure, but that is what might happen," Remus told her gently.
Harry gave her a soft look. "I think only the blood of Merlin can approach. That means Neville, myself, Dani or Terry, and there is no way I am letting that little mischief maker in there."
Daphne didn't look sold on the idea but gave a small smile at the mention of Terry. "She's the one that set you on this path."
"I know. I'll just go in and look. I promise," he told her.
"Are you sure this is safe, pup?" Sirius asked.
"I don't think that Merlin was out to kill anyone. He just wanted the secrets protected against those not worthy," Harry said.
"You better be worthy," Daphne told him. She moved close and went on her tip toes to kiss his lips. "You better come back, or I am going to come in after you."
"I need you to protect that little one in you," he said.
Daphne gave him a hurt look that he would use their child against her. "I mean it. I will come after you."
Harry nodded. "Give me an hour or two, just in case."
"One hour," Remus told him.
Harry nodded again before turning towards the building. He took a steadying breath before taking a few hesitant steps closer. He could feel the increase in magic. His skin literally felt like it was crawling. The sword shown brighter. "Merlin, please say I am worthy," he muttered as he walked between the pillars and into the entrance.
The shadows under the eve were too deep at first as he had just walked in from the bright sun. It took a moment for his eyes to adjust. When they did, he could see that there was a central passage through the entrance. A dozen doors lined the passage on either side before it opened into a bright light. Looking around, he didn't think there was any traps or anything, but he still moved cautiously toward the light. His sword grew brighter so that it was like a lantern by the time he made it down the hallway.
This was where the magic was coming from. It was almost overwhelming as he stood in the doorway. Looking around, it took him a moment to realize what he was looking at.
The room was large and circular, maybe a hundred and fifty feet across. It easily went four stories up. The floor was made of marble and at the centre was the largest crystal he had ever seen. It was easily two stories tall and twenty feet wide. Thousands of facets were covered in runes. Around it was an array of twelve smaller crystals that were the size of him.
Looking at it he wasn't sure what he was looking at. The magic was nothing of what he was used too. It felt more like a containment field…
A sinking feeling started to come over him.
He looked around to see if he could get a confirmation of his suspicions. After a moment, he did find something that intrigued him. There was a bronze sphere, about the size of a Muggle softball, on a pedestal before the central crystal. He instinctively knew it was the Pelanstone. He also instinctively knew that it was linked to the array in this room.
He knew he said he would just look around, but he felt compelled to touch the Pelanstone. He felt the pressure on his occlumency shields. He also felt that it if had been anyone else they would not feel this compulsion.
Looking around the chamber, he tried to figure out if there were any wards or traps, but the magic from the crystals overwhelmed everything else except the pull on him to go to the bronze orb. He looked back. He couldn't leave Daphne and his unborn child, but he needed to get to the orb. He couldn't let the goblins or Croaker get it.
Finally making the decision, the type that Daphne hated his Gryffindor tendencies for.
Stepping into the room, the power of the crystals seemed to lessen. It was like his magic was tuning with them. It sent a surge of power through him. He could see the script covering every facet. The interesting thing, now that he was closer, was that the crystals were not cut or polished like the outer ward stones establishing the mists. These were rougher. Wilder. The facets were more natural, with some looking to have been made where it was needed. The sheer size of them is what got Harry. There was no way that they were natural.
As the resonance of the magic settled in him, the compulsion to go to the Pelanstone grew. It was now hammering on his mental shields. He fought it, but still approached. When he was close enough to touch the orb, he stopped. This was the prize he had come for. The one that would allow him to become the best rune master since his ancestor. Looking at the work on the outer ward stones and here, there was no doubt that Merlin must have been the best rune crafter in history.
Looking at the orb, it was a duller celestial bronze than his sword or knife. As though it was starting to tarnish. He had never seen celestial bronze look that way and wondered how old or what would make that happen? There were raised veins that looked like a braided rope sunk into the surface. Between the braided ropes were ancient Greek letters. There was one facet for each of the letters. He wondered if you have to use each facet for each rune. Either way, he could feel the power from the bronze sphere. He had the sense there was a crystal contained inside the sphere.
After looking around for a few more minutes, Harry finally decided to give into the compulsion and touch it. The second he did, his head shot back as a surge of magic rushed up his arm…
Harry blinked a few times. The magic of the room had fallen away. He didn't feel the resonance or hum. A small golden bird flitted by. It chirped happily in the midday sun as it flitted between patches of flowers and tall grass. A lone tree was dotted here and there around the rolling fields. Impossibly high mountains with jagged, snow-capped peaks rose behind him. Down the slope of the grassy hills was a small town. A quidditch pitch dominated the centre of the town. The castle of Potter Green was off to the right. A partial built town lay around the quidditch pitch. The forest in the distance swayed in a gentle breeze...
Harry was standing on the edge of his mind scape. It hadn't changed much over the years, being his ideal place, he would like to be and was guiding the town of Mosedale to emulate.
"The landscaping is rather spectacular. This is not the view I expected," a man said from besides him.
Harry jumped. As he did, he felt alarmed. Snakes started to hiss around them. Dozens of golden snitches swarmed and hovered within ten feet. A fox growled from the tall grass, soon joined by a few more. Harry looked in surprise as a golden dragon suddenly came out of the sky. He hadn't had one of them in here before.
The man chuckled. Harry got a good look at him. He was an elderly man with short white hair that stuck up everywhere, expressive green eyes, a scruffy beard, simple peasant clothes that wouldn't have been out of place fifteen hundred years ago and was leaning on a tall stave that had a crystal at the top. "Very impressive. Most create walls and defences. You use the environment. I can even feel storm clouds building. That is a technique I have not seen before."
Harry rose his wand, knowing it wouldn't do much in here but was comforting all the same. "Who are you?"
The man smiled. "I am unsure if I should be offended or not that you don't recognize your many times removed great-grandfather."
Harry blinked a few times again before his wand drifted down towards his side. "Merlin?"
"Is that what they call me now?"
Harry looked at the man confused. "Isn't that your name? Merlin Aurelius?"
"Myrddin Octavius Aurelius, at your service," the man said before giving a small bow.
Harry still felt a little confused. "You don't sound like you are fifteen hundred years old."
The man laughed. "This is more of a memory, if you want, and I found over the years that if I converse in more modern speech things go better."
Harry raised an eyebrow. "Who else have you talked with?"
"You are not the first of my blood to find this place and access the Room of Binding. Though, you are the first that has come not really seeking the power," Myrddin said.
Harry was confused. "I thought Camelot had been sealed since you put up the mists."
"It has, and it hasn't. I left clues. I never wanted for no one to find it. I just wanted a true heir that would want to protect the lands I loved so when I was alive and not use the power to rule over others," Myrddin informed him.
"And you think I am that person?" Harry asked.
Myrddin smiled wider. "I think you are the heir I have been searching for. None of the others ever united the lines of the old blood of Pendragon, Aurelius and Le Fay. Your aunt started it. You have completed it with your wife. The blood lines have finally mixed and the heirs to them have found a peace and comradery that had founded this city."
"Huh," Harry said. "I never set out to do all this."
"I know, and that is part of the reason I think you worthy. Now, I can our time is growing short for the day. My memories can only be accessed for limited time each day. I must tell you the importance of where you are and what you must do if you wish to claim the Pelanstone and this city," Myrddin stated.
"I'm listening," Harry said.
"As you know, I bound the wild magics of these lands… all of what you know call Europe, actually, to protect people and magic from each other. The room you stand in is the physical representation of that binding. It must be protected, cared for, and looked after. Should it fail, the old realms will collide again and not even the normal people will be able to stop it. Even with their innovative technologies I see in your head," Myrddin said.
"The goblins getting the Pelanstone will see this come about. In their greed they will want to riches they know to exist. The old gods will be able to roam the world again, not to mention creatures more terrible than you can imagine. Thus, it is imperative that you and only those you implicitly trust know of this."
"Next, the knowledge you seek on how to make the crystal ward stones is knowledge I can teach you, but it will be a long road. You must learn to know your own magic, the magic of the lands and the magic of the Pelanstone before you can do it. Are you willing to learn?" Myrddin enquired.
Harry nodded. "I am not afraid of a little work or to learn."
Myrddin chuckled. "No. I didn't think you were. My time is nigh for the day. When you are ready, find a safe place and join me again by channelling a little magic back into the Pelanstone. I will join you in this pleasant world you have."
Harry nodded again, just realizing now that all his defenders, besides the golden Asian dragon, had left. Myrddin turned to the new protector in his mind. "It has been too long, my friend. I am glad you found a new companion."
The dragon rumbled its approval, the ground shaking as he did. Harry could feel the power of the beast. It was almost stronger than his own. "Yes, my old friend. This whelp should prove quite amusing."
"I bet. Until we meet again…"
Harry was thrown out of his own mindscape. He stumbled back and fell on his bottom. He had to blink a few times to clear the vision of the fields from his mind's eye. "Bloody hell," he muttered. Looking at the Pelanstone, Harry thought he would leave it here for now. It was safe where it was. No one else could get into the city and he wasn't sure he had the right place to safeguard it yet. Once he understood the way the ward stones of the mists were constructed and got more training from Myrddin he would take it away. Until then, he would return as often as he could.
It was a little bit later that he walked out into the sun. It was lower in the sky. Daphne was sitting on an old stone bench. Sirius had been pacing while Tracey and Neville were looking around the overgrown lawns and gardens.
Daphne got up as soon as she noticed he was out. He held his arms open as she ran to him. "You were gone almost two hours," she said worriedly as he engulfed her in his arms.
"I'm alright, beauty. I have some things to tell you later. Let's go home," he told her.
"Everything alright, pup?" Sirius asked as he came over.
"Yeah. Better than alright. I'm going to lock the gates to this sanctum when we leave," he told them.
"What did you find in there?" Remus enquired.
"Secretes even bigger than I expected," Harry said cryptically.
Neville came over with a few plants in conjured pots. "Harry! Can you believe this? Iridescent night caps. Westfold wisteria. Bulberring pritpulls… I can only find references to these in old books. They are all extinct, as far as I know," he said enthusiastically. Tracey had a few pots as well.
Harry smiled at his cousin. "I think we will find more secrets and stuff thought forgotten."
Daphne finally let her hold of him go and stepped back. "Can we go home now? The little miss is hungry," she said as her hand rubbed her stomach.
"Sure, luv," he said to her.
-oOo-
September 28, 1998London, England
Hermione was tired. It had been a long twenty hours since Blaise had taken her to St Mungo's. Twenty hours of pain and cursing her dark skin boy for putting her in this position. Now, though, it seemed worth it.
She was holding a small girl with brown skin in her hands as she suckled at her tit. The girl had her eyes closed, but Hermione already knew she had the most beautiful brown eyes, slightly frizzy short hair and a smile that could melt butter. In short, Hermione was already forgetting the pains of bringing her daughter into the world and had fallen in love with her.
Blaise sat in the chair next to her. His head was back, mouth open and a slight snore coming from his mouth.
"I see dad had a rough night," Andi said as she stepped into the room.
Hermione gave a small smile to him. "I think I did a number on him."
"Usually, it's the women complaining about that. How are you?" The brown hair woman took out her wand as she asked.
"Tired," Hermione said honestly.
"Sore? Any excess bleeding? I see your daughter is taking to breastfeeding well."
"A little sore. It's been a while since I had a pain potion. I don't think I've had too much bleeding," Hermione said back.
"Good. The scan says you are recovering well. You can probably go home in the morning. And what about this little miss?" Andi asked leaning over some to look at the girl.
"Little miss Juliette is doing well," Hermione said with a satisfied smile to look at her daughter.
"Ah, so you named her. What would you like me to put down on the birth certificate and our records?"
"Juliette Phoenicia Thatcher-Granger," Hermione said.
"A beautiful name for a beautiful little girl. She looks like she will have a mix between yours and Blaise's hair," Andi commented.
Hermione frowned. "I had hoped she wouldn't. My mane is hard enough to control at times."
Andi chuckled. "I don't think it bad."
"Not anymore, but I have to use some potions on it.
A knock came at the door. "Whose there?" Hermoine called out.
The door cracked open. "The godfather of a little one?" a hopeful voice enquired.
"Just give me a second, Harry," Hermione said. She took Juliette off her nipple. The girl had been slowing down. After shifting the little bundle to her shoulder, with Andi's help as she got used to handling her daughter, she made sure her breast was covered and called out, "You can come in now."
She was burping Juliette when Harry stuck his head in. He had a huge smile on his face. "Is it a boy or a girl?"
"A girl," Hermione said as the door opened more.
Harry snapped his fingers. "I guess I lose that one."
"Yes. You owe me a massage now," Daphne said following him in.
"Hope you don't mind, but I brought a few stragglers along," Harry said.
"How many?" Hermione asked dubiously, not wanting a lot of people yet.
"Where is my grandchild?" her mum asked coming into the room with her father following. Blaise had started to move. He gave out a large snort then started. "Wha…" he said rather unintelligently.
"MUM!" Hermione called out happily. Juliette burped on her shoulder.
Her mum rushed over to the side of the bed as Daphne and Harry stepped to the side. "How are you? Oh, look at her, Hermione. She has your nose. Oh, how beautiful."
Hermione beamed with pride. Blaise rubbed his eyes. "Hello, Jane."
Her father chuckled. "Usually, it's the woman that falls asleep after giving birth."
"Yeah, well, I've been up since early yesterday. How are you and Juliette?" Blaise asked her.
"I feel fine," Hermione answered her mum and husband.
"Juliette? I love it," her mum said. "What is her full name?"
"Juliette Phoenicia Thatcher-Granger," Hermione repeated for all the newcomers. "I think she's burped now. Do you want to hold her?"
"Do I want to hold my granddaughter?" her mum asked incredulously.
Hermione handed the small bundle to her. Her mum picked it up, immediately bringing the small girl to her face to rub noses before holding her back to get a better look.
"You did a wonderful job, princess," her father said as he moved next to her mum.
Hermione smiled and leaned back in bed. She was starting to feel the fatigue. Blaise reached over and took her hand. "Take a nap. I have Juliette and the others."
"I just need to lean back for a few," she told him.
Harry and Daphne had come over now to look at Juliette as the proud grandmother showed off her granddaughter. After a few, Harry stepped over to the bed. "You look great," Harry said.
She snorted in mirth. "I look like shite," she said. Her filter had taken a bashing and then been shredded last night.
Blaise chuckled. "You still look wonderful to me."
"Oh, hush you," Hermione said to Blaise and felt her cheeks heat just a little as he lifted her hand and kissed the back of it.
Harry took her other hand and she squeezed it. "When you are ready for Daphne and I to take the godparent oaths let me know."
"In a few days," Blaise said. "We should get back to Thatcher manor and get settled first."
"Just let us know," Harry told them.
She squeezed his hand again. "Thank you, Harry. I really can't thank you and Daphne enough."
Harry leaned over and kissed her forehead. "It's what family does," he assured her.
"Well, I'm glad Juliette will have a big family," Hermione said before yawning.
"Take a nap," Blaise told her.
"Maybe just a little," Hermione said. She let her body rest into the pillows and was soon out to the world.
-oOo-
Next time on the House of Potter-Greengrass: Goblins, Croaker and Aunt Alice
