The Daily Prophet

Abraham Redwood Elected Interim Minister

Eldermoor — In a surprising turn of events during today's Wizengamot session, Abraham Redwood emerged victorious in the election to be the interim Minister of Magic. However, the day was overshadowed by the mysterious absence of Lord Henri Potter, one of the key contenders in the ministerial race.

Lord Potter's absence raised eyebrows as he was expected to participate in the session, but he was conspicuously missing from the proceedings. The Daily Prophet reached out to his estate for comments, but his retainers offered no explanation for his absence, leaving the wizarding community speculating about the reasons behind his no-show.

Abraham Redwood, known for his firebrand conservative views, has been vocal about his vision to return the British Isles to their traditional roots. "Our magical heritage is rooted in traditions that have stood the test of time," Redwood declared in a passionate speech during his campaign. "It is time to embrace our legacy and strengthen our community with the values that have defined us for centuries."

While some members of the wizarding community have welcomed Redwood's promises of a return to traditional values, muggle-born groups sponsored by Epcott have expressed deep concerns about the implications of his election. They view it as a dark day for progressive values in Britain, fearing that Redwood's policies might lead to increased discrimination and a rollback of hard-won rights for all magical folk.

In a bid to remain neutral amidst the ongoing conflict against Grindelwald, Redwood has vowed to enforce legal action against any signs of mercenary behavior. He staunchly advocates for peace within the magical world, despite the ever-escalating tensions outside its borders.

As the new interim Minister, Redwood faces the daunting challenge of addressing the failing economy that has plagued the British wizarding community. However, his specific policies and plans to tackle this pressing issue have yet to be revealed.

The appointment of Abraham Redwood as interim Minister of Magic signals a significant shift in the political landscape of the wizarding world. With Lord Potter's whereabouts still a mystery, the wizarding community awaits Redwood's first official address to gain insights into the direction he intends to steer the nation.

As the Daily Prophet continues to cover the unfolding events, we encourage our readers to stay informed and engage in open discussions about the path our magical society should take in these uncertain times.

Black Manor

In a dimly lit room filled with books and magical artifacts, Black and Greengrass stood by a bedside where Henri Potter lay, his injuries less severe but still unconscious since their last meeting.

"He will live," Black said.

"Grindelwald's tendrils have spread deep in Eldermoor if he has decided to attack us so recklessly," Greengrass said.

"We still don't know if it was him. Our spies have told us nothing about any of Grindelwald's factions named the "Union" Black said.

Greengrass opened his mouth to argue, but Black cut him off.

"Listen, my friend, we can debate this topic endlessly but right now, Potter is injured and requires our immediate help," Black said.

Greengrass, his brow furrowed with concern, finally broke the silence. "What's wrong with Potter? He should have awakened by now. This foul magic that Grindelwald used on him seems darker than anything we've encountered before."

Black sighed heavily; his eyes fixed on his cousin's still form. "I suspect whatever Henri told us before the attack, Grindelwald didn't want it getting out to more people. This last assassination attempt was probably a way to prevent further leaks."

"That would explain the latent traps set up there," Greengrass replied grimly. "When Potter mentioned Grindelwald's mutant abomination breeding program, it triggered some kind of magical backlash, causing him to fall into this coma."

"I wish we could just take him to Saint Mungo's and let the experts handle it," Black said, frustration creeping into his voice.

Greengrass shook his head. "It's better this way. If we went to healers, the news of Lord Potter's condition would spread like wildfire. Grindelwald would know who was behind the raid, and we can't afford that."

A harsh interruption came from Black, his eyes flashing with emotion. "Careful Greengrass, this is my cousin you are talking about."

Greengrass raised his hands in a diplomatic gesture. "I know, I know. Loss of family hurts. But we must face the grim reality. Both of us, as heads of our respective houses, are in perilous positions. Our elders and other matriarchs have never been fond of us, and at worst, they suspect us of treachery and duplicity to their traditional ideals. There is also Abraham Redwood sniffing out like a bloodhound."

Black nodded stiffly, acknowledging the truth in Greengrass's words. A polite pause followed as they exchanged somber glances.

"I just wish there was something we could do," Black said, his voice tinged with helplessness.

"For now," Greengrass suggested, "we must consult our respective family libraries for any arcane lore describing Henri's condition. There might be some hidden knowledge that could help."

Black nodded in agreement. "Meanwhile, I'll keep searching for that part we need. It's called…," he hesitated, trying to remember the name.

"Ah, yes, basilisk scales," Greengrass supplied.

"Yes, that's the one," Black said. "I've been trying legal, and underworld means, but it's proving difficult. The legal world cites the war as the reason for the shortage, and the underworld is monitored by Grindelwald's spies. Regardless of whatever bribe I offer, I keep getting stonewalled."

Greengrass nodded gravely as Black continued, "My elder brother, the former Lord Black, didn't share many of his unsavory contacts with me either. He preferred keeping his cards closed. We're essentially flying blind, not knowing who in the Underworld could be Grindelwald's informant."

Another grim silence followed only interrupted by the sporadic bouts of harsh breaths that Henri Potter struggled for.

"Has his son been informed?" Greengrass asked.

Black nodded and said, "He knows he is gravely injured but not why. It will be irrelevant in the long term. Charlus is a smart boy who knows his father's loathing of Grindelwald. He will figure out what happened."

Another uncomfortable silence engulfed the room.

"For whatever it's worth, all is not lost. I do have some good news." Greengrass said.

Black raised an eyebrow in response.

Greengrass's voice carried a hint of optimism as he continued, 've received a message from the French underground, and they're making good use of the gold and materials we provided."

Greengrass leaned in, his expression serious yet determined. "Since our last meeting, I've been in touch with the Resistance's ambassador, Juliette. The French underground has launched several guerilla attacks all over the place, aiming to disrupt Grindelwald's supply lines."

"Tell me more," Black urged.

"The guerilla attacks have been strategic and effective," Greengrass explained. "They've set fire to greenhouses, causing severe damage to Grindelwald's sources of magical ingredients. They've also booby-trapped manors belonging to French elites, leading Grindelwald's Black Hand forces to waste time disabling the traps. Many of his elite troops have fallen victim to these cunning tactics."

"That's quite impressive," Black remarked, his admiration evident. "News of the struggle at Stalingrad must have reached them."

Greengrass nodded, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "Exactly. While Juliette acknowledges that their guerilla attacks may seem like mere pinpricks against Grindelwald's overwhelming force, any effort right now will make it harder for him to swallow Stalingrad whole."

"It's a war of attrition," Black mused, "and every delay we can cause may give us an advantage."

"Yes, precisely," Greengrass agreed. "We should support the French underground and any other resistance movements we can find. Together, ECLIPSE can create a network of defiance against Grindelwald's rule."

Hogwarts

Dumbledore's Office

"Emotions are a fundamental part of any alchemical training," Dumbledore said. "Mages who fail to heed their importance do so at great risk to themselves.

Harry listened as maintained a focus on the arcane table in front of him. The top side of the table was divided into four parts with their containers. Each contains an object and its emotion.

"It is not humans or other sentient beings that are capable of emotions," Dumbledore said as he paced around the room. "Objects too contain residuals of their creator's emotions. If a blade is forged with a dark purpose in mind, it will carry its master's malevolence. A potion made to heal by a wise healer will carry its creator's benevolent intent."

Harry followed the man's earlier intentions as he operated the newly revealed "Pensieve". His task was to craft a new spell based on Dumbledore's instructions.

"As such, understanding the interconnectivity of magic and emotion is one of the most fundamental principles of Alchemy. Aside from creating new spells, it also aids us in metallurgy and other creative pursuits." Dumbledore said.

Harry closed his eyes and focused on the table in front of him. Through his mind's eye, he reached into the base of the table's silver lining and followed along. The Pensieve bubbled as he channeled his emotions along the lines.

"To successfully craft anything of value through alchemic traditions, it is imperative to learn the true name of things."

Sneaking outside of the cupboard at night to sneak food.

Hiding from Dudley. Hiding from the Muggles. Hiding from Muggle tanks and planes.

Harry felt fury emerge from his recollections as the silver linings turned red, he quickly delved deeper into himself. Fury was not what he wanted to work with at the moment. He needed more subtlety here.

Sneaking out with Ron at late night. His instincts kicked while evading the Basilisk.

Harry felt his fury residing and felt something else replace it. His heartbeat fastened as the new emotion took control of him. Yes, he might be able to do something about it.

A hooded figure approached him, a skeletal hand, a rotting breath. – a soul eater.

Dementors.

Harry thought as panic gripped him and tremors began to wrack his limbs. This was fear.

He noticed Dumbledore looking at him with concern and debating an intervention.

No! He will not fail again!

Harry focused harder on Dementor and its visage. With the emotions he evoked in him, Harry demanded its name itself and the revelation materialized.

FAAS.

The name for fear in the dragon language.

He now had his quarry; a vortex of energy had materialized on the table in front of him. He gritted his teeth as his mind and body rebelled against him.

He ignored it because his soul was stronger. With a final grunt of exertion, Harry followed the patterns around the alchemy table once again and channeled the energy into the bracelet.

With a mighty fanning sound, the energy was absorbed into the bracelet.

"Ah! Masterfully done, Master Petrov!" Dumbledore exclaimed and examined the bracelet. "A most curious contraption. Care to display its purpose, Harry?"

Harry obliged and placed the bracelet around his wrist. In an instant, his form faded away into nothingness.

"Invisibility. A bit lacking on the edges but still powerful work for a novice." Dumbledore said. "If you don't mind me asking, what inspired the bracelet's creation?"

"Faas" Harry said.

"Ah, fear." Dumbledore paused. "A powerful impression for your first channeling, Harry."

Harry frowned in response.

"You seem upset? This is an impressive feat, Harry! Most novices collapse during their first channeling." Dumbledore said.

"It's not that, Professor. It is the word, Faas. It concerns me." Harry said.

"Fear concerns you, Harry?" Dumbledore asked.

"Very. It is incredibly tiring to live under it." Harry sighed and rubbed his eyes. "It's like all there is to it in my life."

"While it may seem concerning, Harry, Fear when approached with respect and tempered by knowledge, can guide us toward the path of triumph and personal growth. It is a force that teaches us to understand our limitations and empowers us to rise above them." Dumbledore said.

"With due respect, Professor, there is a great difference between fearing a bad grade on the midterm and fearing if you will wake up alive the next day," Harry said. "Besides, what could possibly even begin to intimidate you?"

He paused for a minute. "Now that I think about it, anything that can give you a pause is something far beyond my scope – I don't think I want to know further."

Dumbledore let out a hearty laugh at his apprentice's comments.

"If only you knew dear Harry, if only you knew," Dumbledore said. "I can assure you, a great many things concern me, but this isn't about me. This is about you."

"I won't press on you to know further details about what trouble you unless you wish to share them yourself. From what you have told me, a nomadic family of poacher outlaws is no place for a decent childhood." Dumbledore said.

"But do allow me a moment of elderly experience," Dumbledore said. "There are many layers to fear. While it can undoubtedly leave us feeling hopeless or indecisive, it also imparts valuable lessons that extend beyond the realm of creatures. Fear has the power to shape our perceptions, helping us understand the potential consequences of our actions and urging us to exercise caution when necessary."

"That is confusing." Harry admitted.

"Confusing but imperative for your spiritual ascendancy while on the road to Alchemy." Dumbledore replied. "Allow me to take a brief page from your history to use as a reference."

"Certainly Professor" Harry said.

"Consider the fear of deadly creatures," Dumbledore said, "such as acromantulas and trolls, it is indeed a well-warranted fear considering their formidable abilities that can lead to grave harm, even death. In this particular case, fear serves as a sensible response that prevents us from engaging these creatures recklessly or attacking them head-on."

He leaned forward, his eyes conveying a deep understanding. "Instead, we learn to respect their power and develop strategies to mitigate their strengths. A cunning poacher creates traps and mechanisms that take advantage of their weaknesses, formulate potions to bolster our defenses, and craft spells specifically designed to counter these dangerous beasts. All these precautions and their subsequent success lie in the fact that we initially feared the beasts and understood the need to approach them with caution."

Dumbledore's tone became firm yet measured. "By acknowledging and respecting the power of fear, we gain the wisdom to prepare ourselves adequately, to be mindful of the dangers we face, and to take appropriate measures to ensure our safety."

He took a moment to allow his words to settle before continuing. "Yet, Harry, we must remember that while fear can be a powerful ally in navigating dangerous situations, it should not consume us entirely. It is crucial to strike a balance, to harness fear's lessons without succumbing to its paralyzing grip. By doing so, we retain our agency and courage, using fear as a tool to overcome obstacles and achieve great feats."

"So, I should just study what I fear most?" Harry asked.

An image of a rotten skull beneath a tattered hood emerged flashing in his eyes. In another moment he saw Morrigan Riddle peacefully scribbling on a scroll while sitting beneath an oak tree. Not a hint of Voldemort on her.

"Familiarity can aid in this endeavor, but I often find that to be grossly lacking," Dumbledore said. "A simple chat with loved ones can do wonders for alleviating stress and anxiety."

"I don't think I have anyone that close to me," Harry said.

"Then perhaps it is time you branched out a bit my dear. You have been in Hogwarts for months now." Dumbledore said.

Astronomy Tower

"I can't believe I got told by that barmy old coot to have more friends." Harry thought as he stalked the evening corridors.

The whole Martin affair had left him with bad taste. The memory of what he had planted amongst his possessions nudged at Harry. He had told Riddle about his suspicion. If she took it further, then it was beyond Harry's knowledge.

Regardless, he will soon check up on Martin. People like him shouldn't be left to their own devices for long.

The evening sky shined bluely over him and ruffled his hair. The Scottish air was beginning to develop its chill as winter approached. He groaned as he thought about his midterms approaching.

If the Weasleys were here he would be receiving boatloads of Christmas gifts, Harry mused.

Those were good times.

At times he felt as if he was back with the Dursleys again. The same feeling of dread for what tomorrow would bring. Will he be alive? Dead? Exposed and thrown out?

Thoughts, thoughts, thoughts – a legion of intrusive thoughts gnawed at him every day.

Fear has the power to shape our perceptions, helping us understand the potential consequences of our actions and urging us to exercise caution when necessary.

A cluttering sound drew his attention.

"Oh, I didn't know anyone was here." A girl said. Her robes bore decorative markings of the Ravenclaw house.

"I-I don't know where I was…." Harry stuttered. "To be honest, this is one of those days."

The girl giggled. "I can relate. I have sometimes had those myself. Especially if midterms are approaching." The girl said.

Harry grimaced, "You are worried too, huh?"

"Any sane person would be worried. That is exacerbated by being in Ravenclaw. You can't even begin to imagine the atmosphere in the Ravenclaw tower." She spoke.

"Oh?" Harry asked.

"A bunch of first years played exploding chest too loud and a 5th year prefect high-strung on tea and anti-sleep potions yelled at them for five minutes straight till Professor Brightstar stunned him." She breathlessly said in one go. "It was so awful."

Harry struggled to contain himself from laughing out loud at the bizarre scene.

"Don't you dare laugh, " The girl said with indignation. "Those poor cute little first years were inconsolable. We had to take them to kitchens for hot cocoa to calm them."

"I – uh- apologize." Harry stammered out. "Wait! How do you know my name?"

"Well, rumors are you are Dumbledore's apprentice. It is hard not to know such a man. Besides, there are not a whole lot of blondes in Hogwarts." She said.

"Uh right," Harry said. I am still not completely used to these new powers.

"I'm afraid I don't quite know who you are." Harry sheepishly said.

"No worries. We can't expect the high and mighty to know such lowly peasants as us." She said and did a mock curtsy. "If you must know my lord, my name is Rook. Helena Rook from House Ravenclaw."

Harry nodded.

"How rude!" Helena exclaimed and Harry stared at her. "For a house renowned for manners and traditions, you sure don't honor them. You should introduce yourself in turn, no?"

"But you already know who I am!" Harry said.

"Well yes! But not formally! How low has courteous Slytherin fallen!" Helena said in faux outrage.

Harry rolled his eyes but followed. "Petrov. Harry Petrov. Slytherin."

"A pleasure to meet you, Helena," Harry said.

"Likewise." She said.

"So, Helena, that's a lot of stuff levitating behind you. What is all this about?" Harry asked.

"Oh, everyone is on a study binge in Ravenclaw these days and I wanted to get away from it all. So, I decided to get my astronomy kit out here and work on my side projects." Helena said.

"Wait, what?" Harry asked and Helena raised her eyebrows in confusion.

"You decided to get away from the hectic studying environment by studying someplace else?" Harry incredulously said.

"Umm….yeah?" She said while nodding enthusiastically.

"T-that's amazing," Harry said. "If you don't mind telling, what exactly are you working on?"

"I don't mind at all!" She spoke. "Too many bounces keep their research secret to the point nobody could collaborate from different industries. In Britain, multi-disciplinary research has been tossed into the sewer!"

"Besides, Dumbledore trusts you enough to be his apprentice. I think it's a safe bet you got a good working nogging up in there somewhere," she said while gently knocking on his forehead.

"Uh huh," Harry said while nervously stepping back from the manic pixie. "So uh, you still haven't told me what you are working on."

"Oh right," Helena said as she stepped back. "An astronomer in China has recently identified a star cluster beyond our solar system. He has nicknamed it "Alpha Centauri"."

"Right," Harry said. "And that is important because….?"

"Because it is, silly," Helen said. "Research and knowledge shouldn't always be about monetary gain, you know."

"Yes, but it doesn't hurt having it monetized?" Harry said. "Researchers have to eat, no?"

Helena sighed, "I suppose you are right." She straightened and pointed her wand at the boxes behind her. With a swish of her wand, the telescope pieces started adjusting themselves automatically in neat order.

Harry mentally whistled in awe at the display of wordless magic.

"I must confess, I do have an ulterior motive behind it." She said.

"Ah hah!" Harry exclaimed.

"Don't Ah hah me young man. You sound like a yawning troll." She replied while waving an accusatory finger at his face. "Were you not the one who just pointed out that researchers have to eat too? Or is it only Slytherins who have to eat?"

"Well yes, I did say that," Harry said. "I just wanted to, for once in my life, hear from a Ravenclaw that I am right about something."

"Oh, ho ho" Helena sounded off. "A Slytherin espousing virtues of humility, what has the world come to? Now are you here to harass me or can I continue my research in peace?"

"By all means, Helena," Harry said standing aside as Helena marched to calibrate her instruments. "So Alpha Centauri?"

"Oh yes, where were we again?"

"You were talking about a Chinese astronomer," Harry said.

Helena leaned in, her eyes sparkling. Reminiscent of another curly-haired witch Harry knew.

"You see, the Chinese astronomer Jianguo discovered a rare metal after a recent encounter with goblins. It's fascinating! This metal has magical vibrations that strongly react to enchantments, amplifying any charm placed upon it. But here's the tricky part – it can also backfire on charms, making it highly dangerous for military use. The armor made from this metal was so powerful that it disrupted unit cohesion, rendering it unsuitable for battles."

Harry was completely engrossed, nodding as Helena spoke. "So Jianguo enchanted it with strong magnifying charms for his astronomy research, and that's how he stumbled onto the Alpha Centauri star system."

"Ok….." Harry said.

Helena's expression softened as she continued, "Sadly, Jianguo has gone missing, and experts fear that he refused Grindelwald's offer to join his forces. The dark lord doesn't take kindly to such refusals. Astronomy has always been my passion, and I intend to continue Jianguo's research."

Harry nodded in understanding, and Helena playfully warned him, "Now brace yourself, Harry, and please, no laughing."

"You have my word, Helena," Harry said, too engrossed in the conversation.

"I once maximally enchanted my telescope to the zenith I and swear on Rowena herself, I saw multiple planets in orbit in the Alpha Centauri system, specifically in the Proxima Centauri star cluster. But my telescope couldn't handle the stress and exploded, injuring me."

"That sounds incredibly dangerous!"

"It was," Helena admitted with a grin. "The charms instructor, Merrythought, and the astronomy professor, Nigel, were furious with me, and I ended up in detention for a whole month. But after that, I swore to continue my search for the planet."

Harry hesitated for a moment before confessing, "I'm still not entirely following the significance of the planet discovery."

Taking a deep breath, Helena made her big revelation, "I believe, Harry, that I might have stumbled onto a habitable, Earth-like planet in the Alpha Centauri system."

Harry paused for a moment, making sure he had heard her correctly.

"But how can you make such an assessment with merely a glance?" Harry said.

"That's the thing, I can't – at least not yet. That's why I'm researching tirelessly to gather more information and solidify my theory," Helena explained earnestly.

"You're right," Harry mused.

"The wizarding world hasn't had much to do with planetary studies. It's surprising to hear how much you know about the muggle world and their endeavors." Helena said.

"After the London Blitz, many of us in the magical community became increasingly wary of the muggle world and its industrial advancements," Helena said with a tinge of sadness in her voice. "Naturally, I believe our people should recognize our failings and do our part in keeping up or exceeding the muggle world."

Harry nodded in agreement. "So, how do you plan to complete your research?"

"It's my dream to open a massive-scale astronomy center, equipped with its large telescope, just like the Yerkes Observatory in the muggle world. With the right resources and support, I can continue my research and, who knows, perhaps one day, we'll uncover the secrets of Alpha Centauri?"

"This all sounds rather amazing, Helena. I am glad we got a chance to talk about this." Harry said.

"Likewise, Harry. It is nice to vent to someone and find a supportive ear." Helena said. "Even in Ravenclaw, they dismiss my theories as too farfetched. They say all my theories are too farfetched. It will take another century or more for us to mount any mission beyond Earth."

"You have to admit, it is a mighty undertaking," Harry said. "I wish there was some way I could help. But all this seems beyond me."

Helena glanced conspiratorially glanced at him.

"Actually, Harry, you might be able to do something given your advanced tutoring in alchemy."

"Oh?"

"Well, alchemy involves advanced knowledge of metallurgy and related constructs. Once you have sufficiently advanced, you could share them with me, no? Who knows it might help me with my telescope dreams." Helena said.

"You have an awful lot of faith in my abilities than I do. Regardless, if anything does come up, I will be happy to help in any way possible." Harry said.

Helena grinned. "I believe this is the start of a great partnership, Mr. Petrov."

"I guess so, Helena," Harry said.

"Well, I have taken enough of your time," Harry said as he got up.

"Take care, Harry!"

"You too, Helena."

If he was going to help Helena with any metalwork, he would have first had to test his inventions. And Harry knew just the right person for it.

Ready or not, Martin, here I come!

Hogwarts At Night

He had sneaked around enough to know when a man was invisible.

The bracelet was a marked improvement over his earlier spells. It worked faster, was much easier to operate, and was not entirely based on consciousness. It was still leagues behind the guaranteed safety and efficiency of his earlier cloak, but it would do for now.

Fortunately for him, Martin had today made a detour and wore a look of cold fury on his face.

Harry smirked Riddle had gone to work on him. Initially, all he wanted to do was get into her inner circle, till Martin had played his little game in the forest. Now he was in it for revenge.

Try "getting me out of the picture now" Martin. Harry thought.

Harry Petrov carefully observed the used classroom where Martin had entered. He had made a detour from his usual jaunts, which piqued Harry's curiosity.

As Harry moved to enter the classroom after Martin, he suddenly heard footsteps approaching from behind. Turning swiftly, he was surprised to see Charlus Potter walking towards him with a sense of urgency. Harry barely managed to dodge out of Charlus' path before they collided.

Harry sensed a burst of magic as they warded the room, making it impossible for him to enter undetected.

Harry rummaged through his brain, knowing that trying to dismantle the wards would take too long, and he might not succeed without being noticed.

It is imperative to learn the true name of things.

He glanced down at the wooden cylinder he carried; the communication device he had crafted to mimic Martin's own. So far, there had been no communication between Redwood and her cronies.

The channels were dead.

He had used the device with such frequency in conjunction with Martin, Harry had developed a mighty fine feel for it. Harry rolled the wooden device in his hands for a while while focusing on it.

Faelofir. The true name of the wooden contraption echoed in his mind.

Harry used the word and sent a pulse to Martin's original device. Martin's device recognized the connection and powered up.

"You are a long way from home, Potter" Harry could now hear Martin's smug voice.

Charlus replied stoically, "I am on urgent business here, so don't waste my time."

Martin sarcastically retorted, "Oh, I wouldn't dream of wasting the noble Potter heir's time."

"I've heard you have connections that can get people what they want, for a price," Charlus said.

"And where did you get this idea?" Martin said.

"I've been at Hogwarts long enough to know who's doing what," Charlus said. "Been a Prefect for a while too. Get to know what scumbag is doing what, where, and how."

"How inconvenient it must be for the great and noble Charlus Potter to ask for help from a scumbag like me," Martin mocked.

Ignoring the taunt, Charlus got to the point, "I need a pair of Basilisk scales."

This was enough to give Martin pause.

Martin whistled in amazement, "Do you even know what you're demanding? The sheer scope of what you're asking?"

"I'm willing to pay double the cost," Charlus stated, the sound of heavy bags and coins clinking indicating his readiness.

"That's enough to pay some of the Pureblood family's war debts." Martin chuckled.

Curious, Martin prodded, "Why do you want them?"

Charlus ignored the question and asked, "Can you secure the goods or not?"

Martin paused as if contemplating the request.

Martin replied, "Wait for my word by the weekend, but it'll cost you more than what you're showing right now. Have to run it by higher powers you see."

"Redwood" Charlus grumbled, and Martin chuckled.

"We all have our higher powers, Potter," Martin said.

Charlus gave a curt affirmative and stormed off, and Harry, hidden in the shadows, moved deeper into the darkness, to avoid the storm of Charlus's wrath.

Only one thought furiously rang throughout Harry's head.

Grandfather, with due respect, what the fuck are you getting into?

Author Notes: Don't Forget To Review. Lemme know your thoughts, criticism, suggestions, lore ideas, or speculation. I love to hear from you! =)