Chapter 3: On bonds and reactions
On the same evening, Severus used the latitude of summer vacation to dine with the Malfoys without ceremonies — to pour his heart out and to minimize the interaction with Lockhart. After all, it would be foolish to lose the bet with Minerva before the school year even started, and by lunchtime, the new DADA professor had already seemed more annoying than entertaining.
Constance had left for France, and the three adults were able to retire to the library to talk without any issues. However, Severus' news did not make much of an impression on the Malfoys at first.
"I'd wager this idiot couldn't teach anyone to use a spoon let alone to defend oneself from anything. I have no idea what to do with the children."
"Do not worry about the boys," Lucius shrugged. "They have mustered the core DADA spells for this year by the beginning of August. Theory will come with time."
"What a relief," Severus scowled. "Now I can exclude as many as two students out of four dozen whose education is my priority."
"Is it really that bad?" Narcissa asked. "This Lockhart fellow seems to be quite popular if the number of his pictures in Witch Weekly is any indication. Did he really have such low grades at school?"
"Do you remember nothing of him?" Severus was surprised. "Ah, right, you two had already graduated when he enrolled in Hogwarts. Well, I cannot say that he had low grades. They were above average, I suppose. That does not mean a thing, though. He would be no teacher, even if he truly wanted to be one and not just to gain new listeners to impress. He is so self-centred and crass at the same time that in comparison to him Quirrell might be considered a pedagogical genius."
"I still fail to see why you should be doing anything about it," Lucius remarked. "Ultimately, these are Dumbledore's problems, not yours. Most Slytherins get decent schooling at home and will cope with him somehow. If you have got talented half-bloods who need help in your care, you can organize additional classes for them."
Severus narrowed his eyes unkindly.
"When exactly would I do that? At night? I have my hands already full with basic Potions, not to mention advanced Potions for senior students, and with looking after our young adventurers the rest of the time. As it is, I usually start dreaming about a time-turner by November…"
"Would you like me to get you one?" Lucius asked innocently.
"I can manage," Severus replied dryly. "Let's save it as a last resort."
"Even if Lockhart is as bad as you fear, the children will at least be able to read textbooks," Narcissa interjected.
Severus smirked. He already managed to vent some of his frustration, and sarcasm was getting upper hand over aggravation.
"Oh! Talking of textbooks. Here, please, have a look."
He produced a piece of parchment from his robe pocket and handed it to Narcissa. Lucius started reading over her shoulder. His eyebrows rose.
"What is this?" he asked. "Was a literary fiction course finally added to Hogwarts syllabus?"
"This," Severus said impishly, "is the list of recommended 'reading' for DADA."
Narcissa and Lucius looked at each other.
"I think now I can better understand your anxiety," Lucius sighed. "This is but a jaw-dropping joke. If you had any hopes I could use my influence in the Board of Governors in order to demand the Ministry's intervention, though…"
Severus waved the idea away.
"Merlin forbid! Unlike Lockhart, I do not want to draw the attention of the public, let alone of the Ministry, to Hogwarts. Albus definitely does not want it either. And I suspect it will not benefit us at all, don't you think?"
"Not at all," Lucius nodded. "That is precisely why I propose we deal with problems as they appear, not in advance. Let the whole thing run its course. If the parents will be terribly displeased, we shall discuss the matter during the next Board's meeting. Let's say after Samhain. Meanwhile, you can deal with your affairs. And please try not to actually kill anyone."
"It might be useful to make a list of worthwhile textbooks and guides. You could just post it up in the Slytherin common room," Narcissa said. "Other Houses can make use of the suggestions too if they wish so."
"That is actually a good idea," Severus agreed. "I am afraid neither Albus nor Minerva will sanction its official release, though. Otherwise, it would be too obvious what we all think about this specimen. And publicly undermining the Headmaster's own hired staff is not good. Unofficially, though, we are free to do as we please. No one can forbid recommending extracurricular literature to students, after all." He frowned a little, remembering something. "You know, Luc, Albus refused me in no uncertain terms when I offered to temporarily pass the Potions to Slughorn and take up the DADA myself. He forbade me to even think about it. He even said 'please'. And when Albus says 'please' in such a tone it is basically an order."
"I told you the same thing," Lucius shook his head. "The rumours about this position being cursed were not for nothing. And if even Dumbledore refused your request, it must be true. Stay out of it, Severus. I can say 'please' too, and with some force if needed. Do we have a deal?"
"Alright," Severus sighed. "I will stay out of it."
"Is it really your dream to teach DADA?" Narcissa asked. "Why didn't you change schools in this case? I could understand your hesitation before, right after the war, but later you could have easily found a teaching position in a small private school. We would have provided you with stellar recommendations at least."
Severus looked at her in surprise. Leaving Hogwarts? Somehow this idea never occurred to him.
"No, thanks," he said decisively. "Why would I? I am content there."
Lucius laughed.
"DADA has nothing to do with anything, Cissy. Severus is simply allergic to fools. As well as to pompous morons and pesky meddlers."
"Allergic is too mild a word," Severus grumbled. "If the position is cursed, however, it makes sense for Albus to choose such fine specimens of idiot for it, time after time."
"Well, at least there is a new one each year," Narcissa said philosophically. "It is an entertainment in and of itself."
The idea that close contacts with Lockhart cannot last more than ten months gave Severus peace of mind. It would not be really that long, he could tough it out. And the bet with Minerva was a good way to lift his mood.
"Meanwhile we have more entertainment on the way," Lucius spoke again. "Hear my news."
He described the strange information relayed by Llyr Lloyd as well as his recommendations.
"Curious advice," Severus said pensively. "And I think a good one. Do you plan to follow it?"
"I definitely do."
"Hmm. So, what harmless, yet restricted item are you going to plant here for them to find?"
Lucius shrugged.
"That is the question I wanted to ask you both. Cissy, have you got anything along those lines?"
"Of course," she replied very sombrely. "I've got a ring that allows reading male thoughts, and a magic mirror that allows one to see anyone in the world wherever they are and whatever they do. You, for example."
Lucius stared at her, not quite believing his ears.
"Do you?" he asked at last.
Silence filled the room for a moment, and then Narcissa laughed.
"Of course not! Why would I need such nonsensical things? I am not even sure they can be created. The mirror, I mean, let alone the ring. I had no heart to disappoint you so I had to make something up on the go."
"It would be great if you could make up something that could be actually created," Lucius grumbled.
"Are you suggesting we create several artefacts and hide them around the house?" Narcissa asked enthusiastically.
Lucius shrugged.
"We certainly can't buy them at Borgin & Burkes."
"Not for the world," Severus interrupted. "Albus will eat me alive after that. Let's deal with it ourselves."
"The funnier it is the better," Lucius concluded. "I've owed Shacklebolt for a long time for that wondrous complaint about the illegal dragon trafficking. Let's let the man have some fun too."
X X X
Cousin Constance left for France the second day after that incident with Dobby and the mysterious black notebook, and it became impossible to return anything to the library. Either Lucius or Narcissa were constantly there and were obviously searching for something: books, Transfiguration magazines, Charms manuscripts were spread everywhere, parchments with notes and citations littering the table. Harry and Draco were burning with curiosity, but when they tried to ask their parents about it, Lucius said only, "You are better off not knowing right now. If everything works out I will tell you later." The boys had to accept that answer for now, and the black notebook stayed tucked into the Muggle book, almost forgotten. Admittedly, there was a lot to do in the Malfoy manor especially right before the new school year.
Harry was writing to Neville Longbottom, the only one of their friends who stayed with his grandmother the whole summer and did not travel at all, when owls brought in the mail. There were the Hogwarts letters with the list of required books and a reply letter from Hermione. Here is what she wrote.
Hello Harry! (Draco, are you poking your nose again into someone else's letters over their shoulder? Shame on you! All right, I'm joking. Hello to you, too!)
I absolutely knew that we chose the wrong time to go mountain hiking. It turns out you have relatives in the non-Wizarding world! Imagine I could have met you in London, visit a museum… Maybe we'll get another chance, won't we?
We are back from Wales now, and I'm studying as much as I can. I can't use magic, of course, but theory is important too, don't you agree? You must be studying at home, too. I envy you terribly. Can you ask Mr. Malfoy if I can have a special permit to use magic, too?
We'll be in London in a week to buy books and other things. Can we maybe meet in Diagon Alley?
Please write to me as soon as you know your plans.
Hermione
"The only thing we needed to crown this bizarre summer is Granger," Draco grumbled who was indeed shamelessly reading the letter over Harry's shoulder.
Harry laughed.
"Come on, you've spent half of summer at home doing as you please. I'll go and ask dad if we have plans to visit Diagon Alley."
"Are you seriously considering meeting up with her?" Draco made a face.
Harry stared at him in puzzlement.
"What got your knickers in a twist? Why shouldn't we meet with her?"
"I don't know. Of course, if you insist…"
"No, but…"
"What are you talking about?" Lucius asked, peeking into Harry's room.
"Granger wants to meet us at Diagon Alley," Draco grumbled.
"And you do not want to go, I gather?" Lucius asked and approached Harry's table. He absentmindedly offered his father Hermione's letter.
"It's not that," now, Draco was embarrassed. "It's still three weeks till the end of the vacation, and I hoped to spend it without her boring lectures. It's enough that I have to tolerate her the whole school year."
"Correct me if I am wrong, but this is the same girl who went after the philosopher's stone with you, did she not?" Lucius said curiously.
"Yeah," Harry replied. "And she's not a bore. Well, not as much as Draco implies. She's just terribly nervous about getting good grades at school."
"Which is understandable, considering the fact she's a Muggleborn," Lucius nodded. "She is probably ambitious, is she not? And talented?"
"Well… yes," Draco admitted.
"In other words, she is not unlike someone we both know, but has no privileges." Lucius smirked a little, and Draco blushed. "Don't be upset, I am simply teasing you. However, if you consider the reasons for her to be so touchy about her achievements and learn from it, it will do everyone a lot of good. I do not think she aggravates you on purpose."
He returned to Harry's letter.
"I think you should meet with your friend," he continued. "You can write to her and set up the time and date. Gringotts will probably be the most convenient place for meeting them, but The Leaky Cauldron will also do. The permit she mentions is not a simple thing, though, because she lives among Muggles. It is possible something can be arranged with the help of Hogwarts staff. We can discuss the details when we meet in person."
The boys stared at their father: Harry was simply amazed, Draco looked rather intrigued.
"Sorry, Dad, but I have hard time believing that you plan to help her because she's a talented Muggleborn witch, and you have too much free time on your hands," Draco said at last.
"I have very little free time," Lucius nodded. "Yes, I have very good reasons for doing it, but some of them you do not have to know, and the ones that are advantageous for you so you should figure out yourselves. She is your friend, after all."
He turned to the door when Harry suddenly remembered something.
"Hey, dad. Why did you come here in the first place? Did you want something?"
"Strangely enough, to arrange a visit to Diagon Alley. Did you get the book lists?"
"Yeah." Harry side-eyed his copy. "There're a lot of books by some Lockhart fellow."
"Who is he, anyway?" Draco asked. "The titles look like something Archer would read when he has nothing to do at the stables."
Lucius smiled enigmatically.
"Better ask Severus about it."
Then he left.
The boys looked at each other. Harry stared at the list.
"Judging by the way he said it, asking Severus about these books is a bad idea."
X X X
Harry arranged to meet the Grangers in the Gringotts hall around 11 a.m. Lucius and Narcissa Apparated with the boys as well as Pansy, who got her parents' permission to come along. They got to the Diagon Alley a little early, and so had a chance to wander around a bit, chatting, window-shopping and sometimes greeting acquaintances.
"Do you need to go to the bank, Pansy?" Narcissa asked.
The girl shook her head.
"No, thank you. Mom gave me enough money. And if a need comes, I can leave a note of hand. I am far from fourteen, of course, but we are well-known in this part of town," she said a little too proudly.
"No notes," Lucius intervened. "If you will not have enough money for something, I will take care of it. Within reasonable limit, of course."
"What a pity," Pansy sighed dramatically. "Diamonds and race brooms will have to wait, then." She turned serious and added politely, "Thank you, but I don't think it will be needed. I have enough to buy the books and supplies, pet food and treats for Milady, an ice-cream and maybe some trinkets."
"Good," Narcissa nodded. "That means we will only have to help the Grangers exchange the Muggle money and can spare ourselves the trip to the vaults."
Unlike Pansy, Harry did not sigh, even though he liked travelling to the vaults. With some luck, one could see a real dragon on the way. They were already close to the bank entrance, though, and saw a crowd, so Harry had to stop daydreaming and concentrate on pushing through without stepping on toes or losing the sight of his party.
They saw the Grangers almost at once. Hermione was fidgeting impatiently, trying to see familiar faces. A man and a woman close by were discreetly looking around. It seemed like Gringotts looked weird to them. I wonder what Muggle banks look like, Harry thought. Are they completely different or not? They don't have goblins, that's for sure. Hermione in turn noticed the Malfoys and waved enthusiastically, almost jumping in excitement.
Mrs. Granger had the same curly dark hair as Hermione and a pretty smile; Mr. Granger was efficient and energetic.
"Mr. Malfoy, I presume?" he asked, holding out his hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you. I can't express how grateful we are for your offer of help. Hermione explained a lot to us, but truth be told, half of what she said or what we've read in those books is very hard to believe. Seeing everything is a completely different matter."
Mutual introductions followed. It turned out Mr. and Mrs. Granger were actually Sebastian and Violet (upon hearing that Harry noticed that Lucius and Narcissa looked at each other as if exchanging an inside joke, but it was completely impossible to ask for details at that moment). Pansy and Hermione hugged (well, Hermione hugged Pansy who took it for granted — to Draco's utter amazement).
"I brought you a souvenir from the seaside," Pansy remarked. "It's nothing, but I hope you like it."
"Oh, I brought you something too!" Hermione replied. "Snowdonia is no French Riviera, of course…"
The girls started whispering.
Draco sighed.
"Can you help us with that, Lucius?" Mr. Granger nodded at the desk behind which a lot of goblins sat. There was a long line to it. "Last year Professor McGonagall, who came over to fill us in, took care of all this fuss, saying that it was faster that way. It was probably true, but I would have preferred to make out tails and heads of this business myself. The professor is a very energetic woman, but it is rather difficult to argue with her."
Harry imagined an attempt to argue with McGonagall and shivered despite himself. Judging by expressions on Draco's and Pansy's faces, they were ill at ease, too. Even Hermione made a face.
Lucius nodded.
"Yes, professor McGonagall is known for her resoluteness," he remarked. "As for the lines, we do not have to deal with them today. My family has a resident assistant so everything gets done faster."
He motioned to one of the goblin junior clerks running around. The young goblin stopped, listened to their request to exchange money and offered to follow him to the VIP clients' stall.
"If you will allow me to give you a piece of advice," Lucius said to Hermione's father. "Come back here in a less busy time. August is always a rush here. Everything quiets down after the school year starts. Then you will be able to discuss deposit terms, exchange rates, buy some Galleons for emergency, etc."
"Thank you," Mr. Granger replied. "As far as I understand, though, I need… erm… Wizard's assistance of sorts, don't I?"
"It can be arranged," Lucius replied. "Just keep that in mind."
"You are very kind," Mrs. Granger also smiled. "Thank you."
While Lucius and Mr. Granger settled the affairs with the help of the Malfoys' solicitor (a short, fat and rather spiteful goblin by the name of Ragnok), Narcissa was quietly talking to Mrs. Granger. Draco, Pansy and Hermione were hotly debating the summer essay on Potions. Bored, Harry was gazing around idly and thus noticed Mr. and Mrs. Weasley enter the bank along with Percy, the twins, Ronald and Ginny. They were probably heading to the vaults because they joined a queue for the trolleys and waited.
This was the first time Harry saw Mr. Weasley since their conversation at the Ministry several years ago; now, among his family, the man made a more favourable impression. His robes looked just as shabby as before, but for the first time Harry thought that it must be difficult to support such a large family if all one had was the Ministry salary. Mrs. Weasley fussed and hurried her children like a hen with a clutch of chickens. The twins were apparently teasing everyone, judging by Mrs. Weasley's vexation and Percival's pursed mouth. Mr. Weasley finally leaned forward and said something to the twins, and they calmed down at last, still making Very Serious faces. At that exact moment, Ronald looked at Harry, grimaced a little, but nodded in lieu of greeting. The gesture caught attention of the twins, and soon enough the whole Weasley family was staring at him. Harry saw Mr. Weasley's eyebrows disappear in his hair line when the man realized who accompanied the Malfoys to Gringotts today. Mr. Weasley even made a step their way as if intending to come closer and talk, but Mrs. Weasley caught his sleeve and said something to him with a stern face. The expression on her husband's face turned to guilt, and he stopped. Meanwhile Mrs. Weasley waved at Harry, firmly took her husband by the arm and dragged all of them towards a trolley that had just been vacated. Little Ginny was walking last. She turned around, looked straight at Harry, blushed and looked away.
"Hey, did you fall asleep or something?" Draco asked impatiently. "We are done here. Let's move it, we want ice-cream."
Harry snapped out of it and followed everyone to the bank's exit.
X X X
Nearly an hour later they were approaching Flourish and Blotts where a small crowd gathered, mostly there were middle-aged witches. The customers were impatiently peering through windows, while a dishevelled wizard was urging them not to rush and wait in line.
"I wonder what is happening here," Violet said.
"I think we got lucky and are about to meet our children's new professor," Narcissa replied. "Do you see that?" She nodded at a sign in the shop window with words 'GILDEROY LOCKHART will be signing the copies of his autobiography Magical Me today from 12.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m.'.
"Is he a celebrity?" Violet asked, surprised.
"At least, he considers himself to be one," Lucius said and addressed the harassed wizard at the door. "If you please?"
After several desperate attempts, the man managed to persuade the crowd to vacate the doorway. When the party entered, it became clear what the commotion was about. The enormous winding queue of people who wanted to have their books signed took almost all the space inside, and the ones outside wanted in to have their chance, too.
Four sets of books recommended by Severus were quickly assembled, and they stepped into the line to the counter than was slightly smaller than the one to Lockhart's signing table.
"Are you going to?.." Violet asked Narcissa, nodding at the crowd of autograph chasers.
"Only if you want to," Narcissa replied. "I do not see much point in wasting time this way. If the boys want to have their books signed by this gentleman they can ask him for this favour at school."
Violet laughed.
"I did not think of it this way. Hermione, dear, while we wait here, you can take your time in the shop. Maybe you will find something interesting."
That was Hermione's sole desire, of course. She grabbed both boys by the elbows and steered them toward the History of Magic and Magical Culture section. Draco rolled his eyes at that, and Harry just smiled, but it did not even occur to either of them to object. Pansy followed the trio with the air of majestic dignity.
"Hermione has always been like that," Sebastian noted, not even trying to hide his pride. "Sometimes I think she would feed on knowledge if she could."
"She did not have any friends before," Violet added with a hint of worry. "You know, Narcissa, I am so grateful for your boys. Hermione told us in her letters how they protected her and introduced her to their friends. It was such a great help because she did not know anyone in your… in this world, and it will do her a lot of good. And Pansy is so sweet, always sending such detailed letters. She even wrote to us in Wales all the way from the French Riviera."
Lucius and Narcissa exchanged a glance: Lucius smirked a little, Narcissa smiled. Did the Parkinsons even know about this correspondence?
"Indeed, Pansy is a nice, considerate and well-mannered girl," Narcissa agreed. "She lacks a little in the love of knowledge, so I can assure you, this friendship can be beneficial for both of them. Not to mention that on occasion girls need someone to talk about things that do not concern sports and books."
"Oh yes!" Violet nodded knowingly.
Almost identical expressions of ironic doubt appeared on Lucius' and Sebastian's faces, and all four of them laughed.
X X X
Hermione started browsing the shelves in the History of Magic section, excitedly discussing her finds with Pansy. Draco, whose arm was taken by Pansy as soon as Hermione let him go, was forced to participate. Harry, who was overall not very interested in history, decided to visit the Magical Zoology section instead.
"I'll be right back, ok?" he said.
Turning twice around the book stacks, he stumbled into the Weasley twins who were examining a fat well-worn book and arguing. Both looked annoyed. Glancing at the book cover, Harry made out the words How to Blow Up Anything: the How to Guide for Magical Fireworks Lovers.
"Hi!" he said.
The twins jumped in unison as if Harry caught them doing something illegal.
"Oh! Hello Harry!" both of them replied.
"What are you doing here?"
"Well, nothing really," one of the twins sighed gloomily. "Freddy found something that could be useful, but…"
"We can't afford it," Fred finished the sentence ruefully. "Even if it's used."
Harry felt uneasy. He had pocket money, and he always knew he could ask for more if the need arose. He glanced at the price of the book in question — well, he could probably afford it without going completely broke.
"Maybe…" he said hesitantly.
"Don't even think about it," George cut him short. "We can't just take your money."
Fred sighed sadly, but nodded.
Harry thought for a moment.
"What about… What if this is a service payment?"
"What service?" Fred frowned.
"We-ell…" Harry was frantically trying to think of something. "When you are going to Hogsmeade you'll bring sweets from Honeydukes Sweetshop for me and my friends. We're not allowed to come there yet."
The twins looked at each other.
"Harry, you could have always asked about that for free."
"Yes, but..." Then a new idea occurred to him. "Wait. Let's try this one. I'm offering you a deal. I'll give you the sum you need on the following conditions. First, you will buy us sweets in Honeydukes Sweetshop, second, you will share the results of your experiments if they are successful. So, this is not a present, but an investment."
"Brilliant!" Fred was delighted.
"Oh, wait, I have another condition," Harry added.
"What is it?" George asked.
"You won't be blowing anything up during Professor Snape's classes."
"That's redundant, we're not that mad," Fred snorted.
"Who knows. Well, do we have a deal?"
"Yes, we do!"
They shook hands, and Harry handed over the required Sickles.
"Fred! George! Where are you?" Mrs. Weasley was calling out. "It's almost our turn!"
Both twins winced.
"Mom has gone crazy about this Lockhart fellow. It's like she's in love, or something," Fred grumbled.
"Stop talking nonsense," George made a face. "She's just bored."
They went back to the counter. It turned out Lucius, Narcissa and the Grangers had already paid for their purchases, and the Weasleys were about to pay: there was only one customer in front of them. As soon as Harry saw them, he became worried. He really did not like the way his father and Arthur Weasley were eyeing each other. He remembered the accusations from the Weasleys and knew they were not exactly unfounded; he also remembered the disdain Lucius felt towards this man even if he did not understand the reasons for it. That was not important right now, and what mattered was avoiding a scene in front of Hermione's parents, by any means necessary. If Weasley decided to insult Lucius the latter would return the favour, and that would be a nightmare… So, what could Harry do?
"We'll think of something," one of the twins whispered into his ear. For the umpteenth time Harry was glad he had such allies.
It turned out nothing had to be done, though. A short man with a huge camera stepped on Ronald's foot while fussing around in the crowd surrounding the Lockhart's table. Upon seeing who stood in his way, the short man snapped at Ronald for being in the way. Lockhart, hearing the commotion, stopped signing the books and looked in their direction.
His eyes met Harry's, and something unexpected happened.
Lockhart jumped to his feet and exclaimed, "This can't be! Isn't it Harry Potter?"
The crowd of fans swayed, whispered, and then parted. Lockhart approached Harry, still exclaiming, "Harry Potter! What a pleasure! Mr. Potter, you came to this shop today with a purpose, did you not?"
Out of the corner of his eye Harry saw his father stepping forward with a clear intention to intervene and subtly waved him away. Lucius stopped.
Meanwhile Lockhart made it to Harry and tried to take his hand, but Harry swiftly maneuvered out of his reach, giving him a formal bow, fit for a Ministry function. Lockhart was forced to do the same.
"Good day, I am glad to meet you, Professor Lockhart," Harry said in his 'sophisticated voice'. "I hope I do not disclose any secrets in addressing you like this, sir, do I?"
Lockhart seemed stunned for a moment, but then he smiled widely, showing off his snow-white teeth.
"Of course not, Mr. Potter! Indeed, I have the right to that title, for very soon as the professor of Defence against the Dark Arts, I will be bringing the light of knowledge to young minds that unfortunately lacked it until recently!"
Harry heard muffled noises behind his back. At least one of the twins was barely holding in laughter, and Draco was snickering too. It took an effort not to look back: Harry was not sure he would be able to keep a straight face if he actually saw them laugh.
Mind you, Lockhart was not at all flustered. Seeing that Harry would not be dragged anywhere, Lockhart simply draped his arm around Harry's shoulders, puffed out his chest and used his other hand to call over the short man with the camera.
"Hey, come here! Smile, Mr. Potter, we will make the front page! Admit it, it have been a long time since you graced your admirers with a new picture — and with a celebrity like me!"
"I can swear, Professor Lockhart," Harry replied with all the politeness he could muster, smiling composedly into the camera. "I have never been photographed in the company of such an unrivalled media star. I don't think anyone has got as many admirers as you do."
That comment made Lockhart beam with pleasure. Now there was actual gurgling, accompanied by giggling, behind Harry's back. It seemed like the girls could not contain their mirth too. Harry would have given anything to join them, but he had to keep a straight face. It would be a disaster if the front page of The Prophet featured the picture of Harry Potter outright laughing at the new Hogwarts professor. Neither his father nor Severus would forgive him for such an outrageous stunt.
Finally the short man took the last picture, covering half of the store in nasty smoke. Harry bowed a little to Lockhart and, deciding that the performance was over, wanted to walk away, but it was not to be. The man waved his hand and announced that in honour of such a special occasion he would gift Harry all his books signed. The crowd applauded.
The twins were snickering even louder, and Harry was now seriously worried that the reputation of Lockhart's pet student would hang over him for the rest of the school year. Another question was what he should do with another set of blasted books. Then an idea came to him. Faking a delighted smile, Harry grabbed Lockhart's sleeve and said, "I am very grateful, Professor, but can I ask you for a small favour?"
Lockhart froze before reaching the table with his books and stared quizzically at Harry.
"You see, a sister of my friends enters Hogwarts this year. I am sure she will be ecstatic if you gift her the books meant for me. She has been dreaming about your autograph for years!"
Lockhart's stony face clearly said he was not happy with the idea, but the man was cornered: the crowd applauded, expecting a romantic scene.
The twins, putting two and two together, pushed Ginny forward, and Harry gallantly introduced her to Lockhart. The man already got the hold of himself and made a long speech on his popularity among the new generation of magical Britain and the amount of knowledge he was about to bring them. Several minutes passed before he stopped prattling and signed the books.
"Th-thank you!" Ginny squeaked, taking a bundle of books signed, To a shy young admirer from the best DADA professor.
The fat man with the camera was clicking his photoflash again.
"Well, Harry, now you must marry her," one of the twins whispered loudly and laughed.
"Close your stupid mouth, George!" Ginny flared and tried to hit him with a Lockhart book over the head. It looked like her shyness quickly disappeared when she was interacting with her brothers.
"Fred, George, stop it right now!" demanded Mrs. Weasley, who finally managed to push her way through the crowd. "Dear professor Lockhart, you are so generous! We are so grateful!"
She tried to shake his hand, but apparently, after getting his picture with Harry the man completely lost any interest in them. He smiled dully, backed out of conversation with Mrs. Weasley and returned to his table and his admirers.
Mrs. Weasley was visibly upset, but turned to Harry with a warm smile.
"Hello, Harry. This was so wonderful of you! Thank you very much, my dear."
He smiled in return.
"Hello, Mrs. Weasley. Don't mention it. It was a pleasure."
Only now Harry had a chance to look around and see what the others were doing while he was forced to socialize with Lockhart.
Lucius was standing by the shop's door and was engrossed in the discussion with Mr. Granger, paying no attention to the Weasleys; Narcissa, Mrs. Granger and Draco were apparently waiting for everyone outside, as they were nowhere to be seen. Hermione and Pansy came closer to him the moment Lockhart retreated.
"It was so nice of you, Harry," Hermione said. Then she turned to Ginny and put out her hand. "Hello! I'm Hermione Granger, and this is my friend Pansy Parkinson."
"I am Ginevra," Ginny introduced herself, trying to balance her huge stack of books with one hand. "Lovely to meet you. I have six brothers, and sometimes it's fun, but sometimes…" She glared at one of the twins who was trying to put something into her pocket. "…it's not. Cut it out, Fred!"
He made a feigned puzzled expression, made a helpless gesture and stepped away.
Pansy smiled too, if a little haughtily, and remarked, "It will be a pleasure to meet you at Hogwarts. Fortunately, I do not have any brothers."
"Your loss!" George grinned.
Pansy looked down her nose at him, but it was obvious she was holding back a laugh.
"Hermione! It is time for us to go!" Mr. Granger called from the door.
They hurriedly said their goodbyes and went outside. Harry looked back from the door one more time: Mrs. Weasley was fussing near the counter, paying for all the purchases, Percival was helping her, while Ronald and the twins were examining Ginny's new books. Only Arthur Weasley, who towered over his family, was looking pensively over the departing party. He met Harry's eyes, suddenly smiled awkwardly and looked away.
X X X
Parting with the Grangers at the doors of Leaky Cauldron, Lucius and Narcissa stepped aside with the children and were ready to Apparate to the Malfoy manor when they were hailed from the pub doors.
"Aunt Cissy! Aunt Cissy!"
Narcissa froze: for a moment she thought this clear child's voice must belong to her niece, Andromeda's daughter. Then she realized that Dora should be much older — she must have graduated from Hogwarts by now — and the voice belonged to a child not older than twelve. Narcissa turned around: a blonde girl in silvery robes, stitched with fantastical birds and tropical flowers, was running to her from the Cauldron doors.
"Luna, stop! Wait!"
The girl's father exited the pub, running after his daughter. Narcissa recognized him first, and then connected the girl. It was Pandora's daughter whom Narcissa had last seen when she was seven or eight.
"Aunt Cissy!"
The girl slowed down, but did not stop or turn to her father. There was no time to think, and Narcissa greeted her.
"Hello, Luna."
"Hello, Aunt Cissy."
Luna's smile was luminous. Upon reaching them she stopped and stared at them with her very pale protuberant eyes. Lucius, Pansy and the boys waited with curiosity for the events to unfold. Draco and Harry had met Luna only once: that last time when Pandora and her daughter came to the Malfoy manor several years ago.
"I am very glad to see you, my dear," Narcissa said. "Do you remember the boys? This is Harry, and this is Draco."
Luna nodded.
"Of course I do. I don't ever forget anything. I remember everything, Aunt Cissy. I will be going to Hogwarts this year too."
"Congratulations," Narcissa smiled. "And this is Pansy Parkinson."
The girls eyed each other with interest, but Narcissa paid no attention to it: out of the corner of her eye she saw Xenophilius Lovegood approach them. He did not look pleased.
"Good afternoon, Mrs. Malfoy," he greeted her formally, barely nodding to Lucius. He paid little attention to the children, as well, looking for half a second longer at Harry's face, and then turned to his daughter, visibly displeased. "You should not run away like that, Luna. I told you to stop."
Luna did not bat an eye.
"I was not running away, I only wanted to greet Aunt Cissy. I'm not a little girl anymore, Daddy. I'm going to Hogwarts. Anyway, we're in London, in Diagon Alley. What can happen to us here? Don't you remember, I managed on my own in New York just fine?"
Xenophilius winced.
"Maybe you managed," he grumbled. "But I didn't. I've spent three hours looking for you in the tunnels of Muggle metropolitan."
"But I left you a message that I would be at the museum!" Luna laughed.
Her father only sighed.
"Excuse us for the interruption, Mrs. Malfoy…"
"No worries, Xenophilius," Narcissa said quickly. "I am very, very glad to see Luna. I hope she and the boys will have a lot of mutual friends at Hogwarts."
Xenophilius frowned and looked doubtfully at Draco, then at Harry.
"Ginny Weasley is a first-year too," Harry remarked. "So we surely will."
Luna's father raised his eyebrows.
"You… keep in touch with Arthur Weasley's family, Mr. Potter?" he asked, still addressing only Harry.
Narcissa noted that her husband's fingers turned white on his cane, but fortunately, Lucius did not say a word.
"I'm acquainted with all Mr. Weasley's sons who are studying at Hogwarts now, and I'm friends with some of them," Harry replied, narrowing his eyes a little. "I'm also acquainted with Mrs. Weasley and Ginny. What about it?"
Xenophilius shook his head, but Narcissa noticed that his shoulders became slightly less tense, and a crease on his forehead almost disappeared.
"Just curious," he replied. "Maybe I had been worrying about things that were not worth it."
"Daddy often worries about things that are not worth it," Luna remarked. "I'm terribly glad I met you. I've missed you, Aunt Cissy."
"Lucius," Narcissa turned to her husband. "Can you return home with the boys? Pansy and I will stay for a little while. No more than ten minutes."
"Of course."
Thank Merlin, Lucius always understood what she wanted. He nodded formally to Xenophilius, took the boys by their hands — they barely had a chance to wave at Luna — and the three of them disappeared.
Narcissa turned to Pansy.
"Dearest, I am so sorry for being impolite, but Mr. Lovegood and I have some things to discuss. Can you entertain Luna for a while?"
Pansy took Luna's arm and stepped aside, asking the younger girl some questions. In turn, Luna showed no surprise and eagerly participated in the conversation. Narcissa turned to Xenophilius.
"I understand that this is not the best moment, but… can we talk?"
He frowned.
"I think you have already arranged everything without asking my opinion. Well, let's have it your way. What did you want to ask me?"
"I wanted to ask about…" Narcissa looked sideways at the girls. "About Pandora."
"Ah." A deep crease appeared on his forehead again. "I'm listening."
"First of all, let me express my condolences," Narcissa said quietly. "It is a terrible loss."
For the first time Xenophilius looked straight at her. His dark eyes were very tired.
"I assume it was what you wrote to me about," he remarked, the corner of his mouth twitching. "I was probably wrong not answering you as was expected. I hope you will forgive me my impoliteness, all things considered. Thank you for your condolences. Anything else?"
Narcissa looked sideways at Luna who was attentively listening to Pansy's stories, and said something she did not plan to.
"Can I help? Maybe I can do something for Luna."
Xenophilius looked at his daughter, who was engrossed in the conversation with her new acquaintance, and his face finally softened.
"You already did," he said quietly. "She… is very lonely. A widower, crushed by his loss, is not the best company for a little girl."
"Do not say that," Narcissa shook her head. "She loves you very much and always did. There is no doubt about it."
"She still needs company. She…" Xenophilius looked down. Narcissa saw him clench his fists, and then relax. "She changed a lot since she saw… Pandora's death."
Narcissa silently gasped.
"She saw?.."
Xenophilius nodded.
"Yes. Now is not the place or time to discuss it."
"Of course."
"If your offer of help is not an empty courtesy, I might take advantage of it and write to you."
"Please do. In turn, I hope that even if you do not wish to visit us at the Malfoy manor," Narcissa chose her words carefully, "you still will allow me to invite Luna for a visit."
Xenophilius stared at her perceptively despite his slight strabismus.
"Is that a condition?"
"No," Narcissa replied very evenly, refusing to feel either annoyed or guilty about anything. "It is an invitation."
"In that case, thank you. I will think about it. And I will write to you."
"Wonderful."
Without spending any more time on courtesy, Xenophilius turned to Luna and Pansy.
"Luna! I am very sorry to interrupt, but we need to go, and Mrs. Malfoy and Ms. Parkinson need to return home. I think you will meet soon."
The girls hastily said their goodbyes, and the Lovegoods left in the direction of Ollivander's workshop. Narcissa and Pansy followed them with their eyes.
"She's interesting," Pansy mused. "Was her mother a Ravenclaw? Did you know her?"
"Yes. Pandora was my friend," Narcissa replied. "Luna looks much like her. Please give me your hand, Pansy. We are a bit late."