Disclaimer: I do not own any characters, objects, or anything else that comes from J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.
Warning: This story will contain scenes of violence, bad language, and maybe other themes
that some audiences may find unsuitable. You have been advised.
When You Have Nothing Left to Lose
Chapter 12:
The Shadow Wolf- 'No, Harry Potter,' the man reminded himself, had always held a penchant for trouble over his years at Hogwarts but had seemed to grow out of it as the time after passed. Some of it may have been Ginerva forcing him into docility, but Harry had hoped he had also left it behind. Even the Revolution, as he had started calling it, did not feel so much like trouble but doing what was right.
Now, returning to 1995, Harry once more greeted trouble in the halls of Hogwarts. Stunned underneath him by his own spell was the girl who would grow into the woman he'd love, Daphne Greengrass.
Quickly, Harry cast privacy charms around the room and locked the door. Even if he knew she wasn't out to get him from what they discussed in their future encounters, he needed to know what she had been up to, more namely, if she had seen him. To answer those questions, he would have to wake her, which as of this moment, Harry could say for sure he was not looking forward to.
He went ahead and transfigured his robes to completely plain black, removing the school markings, then changed a nearby chair into a mask for himself that resembled closely the one he would wear in the future. This mask, however, clearly was made of wood and not coated in the normal silver of Death Eaters. Best not to give too much, but he was deserving of some comforts.
The mask of the Shadow Wolf was a symbol to Harry. He had already hid his identity once behind it. To redon it, even if not as splendid, felt like he was taking back some of his past.
'Or would it be future? Fucking time travel.' Harry deliberated before regaining his focus. He applied a newer charm on the outside of the mask so he may see out of it without his eyes being revealed as well as a sticky charm on the inside. He exhaled before placing the mask on his face. Once it was on, he applied one last charm on himself to modify his voice.
The Shadow Wolf turned to Daphne. He pointed his wand at her and silently bound the woman he would come to love.
'I never realized just how gorgeous she was back then. At least I get a chance to appreciate it now.' Harry thought to himself before his face fell, hidden behind the wood. 'She's going to be so pissed.'
Finally, the Shadow Wolf woke her up, and, slowly, she stirred. He could tell she was conscious longer than she was trying to let on and imagined she was trying to ascertain all she could first.
"Good. You're awake. Don't worry. You have no reason to fear me. I am just going to need you to answer some questions I have for you." The Shadow Wolf spoke softly.
"Let me go right this instant, or I swear you will live to regret it." She demanded icily.
Harry debated for a moment before using one of his wands from the future. He had switched it with the one on his hip to help prevent any identification. He released her from her bind.
"Will you talk willingly?" He asked, his wand still out and at the ready as she got up.
The young lady sighed as if letting off steam and smoothed her clothes before looking up at him. "We shall see." He noticed she had stealthily removed her wand.
Harry was thankful things were going so well. He gambled by letting her up but figured this would get him answers more easily. "What are you doing up and about after curfew?"
Daphne pursed her lips barely. She tried to give off as little as she could. Information was power.
"Why would you like to know?"
The Shadow Wolf tilted his head, analyzing her and her question. "It is very peculiar to be up and about at this time of the night. Punishments can be harsh for those who are caught past curfew. Makes one wonder what is worth the risk."
"I could say the same of you. What is your business to know?" Daphne remained concise.
"The shadows are my friends. I like to make sure they are clear of threats."
"How am I to know if you are not a threat to me, if I do not know who you are?"
"You will not. How am I responsible for being prepared when breaking curfew while you were not?" The Shadow Wolf turned back on her, halting her momentum.
Harry swore he saw the tiniest hint of anger on her face for a moment but continued after a few moments. "I have demonstrated an act of goodwill by releasing you. That should tell you something."
Daphne paused and narrowed her eyes. "You were the one to stun me first. This was an act of unprovoked aggression on your part."
"True, but when not all shadows in the dark are friendly, it is better to have control. If you had reacted… violently… the commotion would likely have stirred more attention than either of us I imagine desired." The Shadow Wolf leaned back against the wall, his wand still at his side, but he seemed relaxed.
"Do you not see me as a threat?" Daphne motioned at him with her wand.
He chuckled softly. "I am confident in my own abilities." His wand was still at his side, but she noticed he was barely holding it, plenty of space between his hand and the piece of wood.
Barely seconds apart, two spells erupted inside the room. The ceiling was marked with the stunning spell Daphne had initially sent.
Now, she stared at her wand in the Shadow Wolf's gloved hand, the evidence of his own spell.
She needed only a moment to collect herself. "I see the reason for your confidence. Since this is only our first meeting I will grant you one answer."
He only had to think for a moment. "Is that to imply you are open to repeat encounters?"
Daphne jolted slightly, surprised, but composed herself. "Yes. I think that would be agreeable. I believe we both understand neither of us should be ready to give up any further information in only our first encounter."
"I find that an intelligent perspective. Shall we reconvene in two nights, same time and place?"
The young woman nodded. "Until then." She turned towards the door.
"Before you go." The Shadow Wolf interrupted and pointed his wand clearly at the door, his motion smooth but at a moderate place. A green spell flew out the tip and impacted its target.
An audible but soft click indicated that its lock status had changed. She stared at him, willing to wait.
"I just wanted to unlock the door for you. I'd be no gentleman to impede a lady's exit."
Daphne felt like whoever this person was they were smiling at her. She could not say for sure with the mask but his manner and tone seemed to indicate so. No mask was perfect, not even the one she wore despite it not hiding her identity.
She nodded and turned her back on the man before moving to the door.
"Goodnight, Miss Greengrass."
She left without another word. Once the door returned to its frame, He removed his invisibility cloak and donned it, disappearing from view. He then waited for a few minutes and took his own leave.
The next two days consisted of Dumbledore announcing Michael Corner's disappearance as well as multiple auror search parties combing the grounds. Harry kept quiet and to himself as much as he could without raising suspicion, though he did what was required of him and nothing more. His free time was devoted to "the project" as Hermione and he had started to call it.
He felt his knowledge of time travel growing. With the combination of the rare books Heemione was able to acquire and the books Harry studied in the restricted section, he was feeling more and more confident that he could fix everything and get back to the future.
He was tempted to try to influence events with this knowledge, though. Was he be able to save some of those who would die? People like Tonks or her husband, Remus? What about Fred? Could he save Sirius? So much death and so much pain, but did he have a right to change it?
Even if he wanted to, Harry knew the answer. Change one thing, and he risks everything. No, the best move would be to get back and prevent the time travel from even occurring, circumventing a paradox. He would go and sabotage the gate however needed before anyone was sent through.
This was the only way he could ensure Daphne's safety and the safety of the future. He had to erase this timeline.
What was it about trouble that attracted itself to Harry Potter so much?
The man turned boy couldn't entirely blame fate, however, for his misfortunes. He was meeting with his future love for really no reason besides his own curiosity. He may have cursed himself for trying to see her again and risking the future further, but Harry felt that if his plan succeeded, all would be undone and the future would remain unaffected.
Listening to his heart more than his head, he sat at the back of the classroom under a disillusionment charm with the same black robes and mask on as the other night. Fifteen minutes before their meeting was scheduled, Daphne warily entered the room. Silently she made her way to the back and disillusioned herself as well.
A smile graced the Shadow Wolf's lips. Apparently some of the tactics she shared with him had long been tools on her belt. He slowly moved his wand until it pointed at his throat. A moment later he placed a charm on his voice.
"Trying to catch someone off guard, Miss Greengrass?" A dismembered voice echoed in the room.
She remained still and silent.
"I saw you come in and hide yourself. Don't try to fool me."
Finally, Daphne emerged from her disillusionment, her wand in hand. "Where are you?"
"Here." The Shadow Wolf appeared just within two feet of her to the right, his wand out as well.
Daphne pursed her lips. "Good evening."
"Good evening. Shall we make proper introductions?" He said as he put his wand away.
The blonde waited, looking at him expectantly. The mask stared back. Minutes passed by. Finally, she spoke.
"Heiress Daphne Greengrass." She nodded her head in a short bow.
The Shadow Wolf remained motionless. "You can call me Shadow for now. Suits me well enough."
"Not even going to give me a clue as to who you really are?" Daphne raised a brow.
"I find the mystery… invigorating, don't you? Besides, I doubt you need one. You are a remarkable woman." Harry spoke, giving a small bow.
A trace of a red hinted her cheeks not for a moment, but Harry, knowing the woman better than she could ever imagine, felt his heart bolster. He agreed to meet her again because she was the one he had grown to love more than he had loved any another. He felt aware in it, not drowned or suffocated much like his first marriage had been. That did not mean, however, it didn't cloud his judgment. At least he could acknowledge it.
'Must be the young hormones.' Harry tried to excuse his own feelings.
"Flattery will only get one so far… Shadow." Daphne woke him from his musings.
"How far does mine travel with you then?" She could swear he was grinning behind his mask.
"What purpose do you have being out past curfew?" She ignored him.
"Well tonight I am meeting with you." He countered.
"And when you are not? What was your business the other night?" Daphne asked.
"My business was my own. You'd be amazed at all you can learn at night." Again, the young woman felt like he was smiling at her.
"Like what?"
"Oh you know… You can learn a young heiress is out past curfew and willing to meet a complete stranger alone… despite them stunning her." Harry couldn't help but wink behind his mask, unseen.
Another hint of red crossed her cheeks for a moment. Many would think they'd imagined it if they had not spent so long with her… like Harry had.
"What was your business the other night?" He asked before she had a chance to change the topic.
Daphne halted in thought for a moment."I will tell you, if and only if you show me your face. I want to know who holds my secrets."
It was now the Shadow Wolf's turn to think. He tilted his head, analyzing her and the situation.
"That kind of information is not given lightly. Do I have your word you shall not reveal my identity as long as I hide yours?"
"I can give you a magickal vow if that eases your concerns." She replied.
Harry's heart pounded in his chest. "You propose an alliance?"
"I do."
"Why? I'm not sure what we can present each other with to ensure a continually beneficial arrangement." His mind raced. Only Daphne could do this to him. 'Damn hormones.'
The corner of her lip turned up just barely. "You are obviously a strong and cunning duelist. I would appreciate your tutelage."
"In exchange for?" Harry tried taking back control of the situation.
"Name your price." Daphne crossed her arms.
"Milady, money is of no importance to me. If you wish to exchange something you imagine of similar value then I will consider your request." Again the Shadow Wolf smiled behind his mask, feeling more confident again.
"Do you know what the Greengrasses are known for?"
He shook his head. "Apologies, but I do not."
"Runes. Enchantments. Most modern wards are derived from our knowledge, although we do have our share of family secrets…" Harry could tell she held pride in her lineage, but his thoughts were more focused on the possibilities in the project. Runes would help eliminate some of the spellwork he needed.
"What do you propose in relation to that knowledge? I hardly imagine you'd be willing to give up family secrets just for help in dueling."
"You obviously are an important wizard, who can teach more than just dueling. We may be able to help each other in our respective goals. I cannot specify what we know, but I am sure my family has something that can be of unique use to you. Just tell me what you may need." She motioned her hands to her sides.
"I do have a topic in mind… are you able to confirm its existence?" Harry brought his hand to his chin.
"I am, but I only can if you reveal your identity… after we exchange vows to hide our secrets for one another of course." Daphne leaned back against a desk.
The Shadow Wolf sighed and it sounded as if steam was escaping his nose. He remained silent in thought for a minute.
"Very well. Do you mind if I start so you have an idea on how to follow?"
"Of course, be my guest." Daphne motioned towards him with her hand.
"I vow, upon my life and very magick, to guard the secrets that I may learn of the one across from me. Whatever is in confidence shall not escape it." Harry raised his wand and pointed it straight up. "So mote it be." A light flashed from the tip.
Daphne nodded then took up her own wand. "I, Daphne Greengrass, vow upon my life and very magick, to guard the secrets that I may learn of the one across from me. Whatever is in confidence shall not escape it. So mote it be." Her wand flashed similarly to Harry's.
"Thank you." The Shadow Wolf nodded. "I appreciate your discretion."
"You are welcome. Now, are you ready?" Daphne returned his nod.
"I am. Here." Harry removed the mask.
"What is the meaning of this? Are you trying to deceive me?"
He had removed his mask but his face was obstructed in a swirling illusion that made his features indistinguishable.
Harry laughed. "I assure you I'm only having a little fun. When you have seen as much pain and death as I have, laughter goes a long way, but I shall not hold you in suspense any longer, milady." With a thought, the illusion dispersed.
Daphne at his prank had pursed her lips tightly in annoyance, but even her stone cold stoicism could not hold to the reveal of his face. Her mouth ajar, she couldn't help but stare.
"Potter? Wait… you mean you…? I've never heard you spike like this before. How are you so…" Daphne was at a loss for words.
"Eloquent? Strong? Clever? I'll spare you the details, but let's just say there is a side of me that Hogwarts will only come to see in the future. For now, it is best kept hidden to ensure my own safety."
Daphne could now see Harry's common smirk that had been hidden behind his mask.
"I believe that we both can understand that, which is why I have agreed to our partnership." Harry let the mask return into a desk before leaning against it.
The young witch finally collected herself and nodded. "You are correct. What topic can I help you with?"
Harry's grin turned into a grateful smile. "This will most likely sound crazy, and even as esteemed as the house of Greengrass is, I doubt they possess any knowledge of it, but… time travel."
Again Daphne was surprised at the man opposite hyer. To learn the Gryffindor Golden Boy could act so much like a Slytherin was a shock, but this? She couldn't help but gulp a bit.
The Shadow Wolf's eyes narrowed at the action. "You do, don't you?"
"What do you want to do with time? A simple time turner can accomplish most needed tasks."
"Yes, but it can only go in one direction." He raised a brow.
"The future then? What do you hope to accomplish? Displacing yourself in time is foolhardy business and more often than not ends with severe consequences." Daphne crossed her arms over her chest, and Harry could not help but stare for a moment.
'No! Bad Harry! Fucking hormones.' He chided himself mentally before returning to the topic at hand.
"I am aware of the risks, but I intend to send something forward far enough and to let it age as it travels. That should allow time to stay stable."
Daphne furrowed her brow. "What do you intend to send and how far into the future?"
"Fifteen years, and I don't see how that is relevant." Now, Harry crossed his arms.
"Potter, I have already sworn a magickal vow. If you want my help, you need to be completely honest. Any help I give will be reduced by a lie. I'm already handing over dangerous knowledge. I don't need it backfiring and hurting all of time just because you were shy."
Harry sighed and came to a decision. "Will you not question my motives if I do tell you?"
"Your reasons are your own. As long as you're not planning on killing everyone, which from the future may be a bit hard, I shouldn't have an issue."
"And if I wish to keep them to myself?"
"I refer to my earlier point. I can only effectively help you with the whole truth and nothing less." Daphne paused and raised a brow. "So, what is your answer?"
"Fine… as long as you swear you will help." Harry's eyes glowed for a moment. "If you are trying to deceive me, you can imagine there will not be a safe place to hide." Harry did not mean a word but had so little options left to him. The conversation had grown out of his control.
"You have already made that perfectly clear with your actions, Potter. As long as your cause is just enough, I will aid you with my family's knowledge in exchange for your power and learning it."
"I plan to send myself fifteen years into the future and let myself age in the process… I am not originally from this timeline… I am trying to be sent back to a point in time just before my departure to ensure it does not occur…" Harry rubbed the back of his neck, a long broken habit that was resurfacing with his other tendencies at this age.
Daphne stared at him, her expression motionless. "Why are you trying to stop it?"
Harry's brows rose in slight shock. "You believe me?"
She nodded. "I do. It's too ridiculous to be a lie. So… why are you trying to stop yourself?"
Harry sighed. 'Might as well keep telling the truth, but I can't give everything away.'
"I was merely the last one to leave, but it was accidental. The ones before me were sent to change the future. I need to get back to stop them from even trying."
"How do they plan to change things?" Daphne asked, and after Harry's silence continued. "These others sound dangerous if they are trying to change the future. I need to know. How do they plan to alter time?"
It was now Harry's time to gulp. "By eliminating me as well as a couple other targets. I'm not sure why they chose now, but if I can get back and stop them from ever leaving, I-"
"Shouldn't need to worry about them succeeding here. Even if they kill the others. Why have they not already targeted you?" She realized.
"I can only imagine they have not had the chance yet. They most likely want to survive the encounter with their own identities intact. They can't just kill me whenever they want." He shrugged.
"Was Michael Corner one of the targets?"
Harry pursed his lips. "You truly are clever. Now, can you help me?"
Daphne's eyes bore into him in silence for a moment. "Yes. I believe I can. Are you ready to hear what I want in exchange?"
He nodded. "Go ahead."
"Teach me all you know, including from the future. I'm sure it will be useful." She grinned. "Of course, I would need a magical vow from you on your honesty. I need to ensure not to explode."
He furrowed his brow, and Harry's eyes narrowed. "I would need to be able to exclude some things, some things that are better if you do not know without risking the future."
She scoffed. "Don't pretend you are interested in the safety of the future. We both know if you have your way you will not need to worry about any repercussions."
"Then why wish to learn my secrets at all? If this timeline is to be erased, won't the knowledge be of no importance?"
"Why would you not? It obviously is for personal reasons, but if this exchange is going to happen, Potter, you know my conditions." Daphne crossed her arms.
Harry crossed his arms subconsciously in response, so used to these kinds of conversations at times in the future.
'Or is it my past? Oh, fuck. Fucking bullshit.'
"Do you need an answer now?" He finally managed to ask.
"Yes." She said, purposefully trying to aggravate him.
He nodded slowly and started to look down before he swung his right hand around, his wand ejecting from his robes with a wandless spell in an instant. In not even a moment, he had gone from Harry back to the Shadow Wolf.
She stood still, staring at the manzanita and yew wand that hovered in front of her face.
"You better not betray my trust."
"I will not." Not even a wick of fear crossed Daphne's face.
The Shadow Wolf nodded and retracted his wand before he presented his hand.
"In that case, I agree to your proposal."
Now a smile touched her lips. "I am delighted to hear it. I see a very fortuitous relationship coming from this."
'Love, you don't even know the half of it, yet.'
AN: A little bit of change of pace for WYHNLL. Maybe I've been reading too many other stories but I felt like a change of pace was necessary. This Shadow Wolf has to operate differently. He is a soldier but now more of a spy. I appreciate any support shown for my stories as it helps me keep writing (don't worry no pat reon links here).
As always,
Occidere Prima Vel Occidi