A/N: Quite surprised I finally finished this chapter - but here it is. A big thank you to those who have reached out to offer words of encouragement, it helped motivate me to slowly begin writing again.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to y'all!
Disclaimer: I own nothing. Just happy to be here!
Chapter 31
August 19, 1997 (Unknown Location)
Lord Voldemort paced the small living quarters he was forced to hide in, his mind racing furiously. He snorted derisively at the thought that he – Lord Voldemort – had to hide from those far inferior to himself.
"None will join us, Nagini," Voldemort hissed in parseltongue, "The name Voldemort used to be spoken only by fools. Now, we are considered defeated. Us! Defeated! As if we could be killed! None have delved further into the Dark Arts than us! NONE!"
His tirade ended with him breathing heavily, a thin sheen of sweat atop his forehead.
"We killed their 'Head Auror' and his guard under their very noses. Still, they do not fear us! None will join our cause!"
Voldemort muttered incoherently for several minutes before cackling madly. Had Bellatrix Lestrange been alive and present, she would have swooned.
"Yes! An excellent plan, my pet! We shall remind this piteous nation why it fears the name Lord Voldemort! Our name! Then we shall find slaves coming in droves to serve our cause! Yes! Yes!"
Lord Voldemort apparated away, completely unaware that he had been alone in the room the entire time.
-GU-
August 20, 1997 (Tonks Family Residence – Midday)
"Is that Post Owl refusing your payment?" Tonks questioned with a raised eyebrow.
Daphne stared at the large stack of applications in her hands. "Um, I think so?"
The Owl turned its head around, refusing to acknowledge the two women. In response, Daphne added a few galleons to the tiny pile already atop the table. The owl, intrigued, turned its head, and gave a long-suffering blink before finally acquiescing with a single nod.
Both Daphne and Tonks breathed a sigh of relief and filled the Post Owl's money pouch with the galleons before affixing the stack of applications to its leg. It laboriously took off with a protesting squawk before gaining enough air to depart through a nearby window.
"Well, they're off, Blondie!" Tonks sang joyously. "How are you feeling?"
Daphne fidgeted. "Nervous," she admitted softly.
"You'll get the job," Tonks assured comfortingly. "Any plans for the day?"
"I'm going to look for a flat I think," Daphne replied as she made her way to her room.
"You know mum is fine with you staying with us, yeah?" Tonks asked as they entered Daphne's room. "She even named this room, 'Daphne's Room'. You're like an adopted daughter to her now."
Daphne flushed slightly and gave a sheepish smile. "I know, and I can't thank Andi enough for her support. I just-" she paused in thought for a moment. "I want to try this on my own."
"I get it," Tonks nodded understandingly. "Spread your wings and fly, Blondie."
"Y-Yeah," Daphne gave a half-smile.
"Well, I'm off to some mandatory staff meeting Minnie's calling," Tonks rolled her eyes dramatically. "Something about a potential new Transfiguration professor… I don't know why I need to be involved though."
"Well, you are a teacher," Daphne quipped.
Tonks groaned. "Don't remind me. Still, babysitting a bunch of rugrats is certainly better than chasing killing curse throwing Death Eaters or dealing with petty disputes all the time." Tonks hummed aloud, an idea coming to her. "Maybe I should take a page from Moody's book and teach 'constant vigilance' to my students this year."
"Tori will get a kick out of that," Daphne muttered.
Tonks blanched and shivered. "Forgot about Sasha. Maybe I'll forgo that thought." She shrugged and shot Daphne a lopsided grin. "Things to think about, I suppose. I'm off, Blondie. Have a good day! Don't do anything I wouldn't do."
Daphne snorted and giggled. "No worries there, Dora."
Tonks stuck her tongue out at Daphne. "You sound like mum."
Daphne waved goodbye a final time and looked around her room, half-packed as she readied herself to move out on her own. She really hoped it wouldn't be too much of a hassle to find a flat. A quick glance at her nightstand, and a medium-sized pouch that had been filled with galleons, brought a genuine smile to her face.
Minerva had been true to her word on celebrating with the staff of Hogwarts, and Daphne found herself receiving a significant sum of galleons to 'kickstart' her venture into adulthood. The fact that yesterday was her birthday played a part in the amount she had received, and Daphne found herself moved beyond words by the gesture.
I'll finish packing later, Daphne thought with a final look around the room. Might as well maximize my time today. I'm sure I'll find somewhere in Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade where I can stay.
Hopefully optimistic, Daphne grabbed her winter cloak and made her way to the floo, ready to start living, just like she promised Astoria.
-GU-
August 21, 1997 (Castle Peverell – Evening)
Harry shakily opened the last door to the last room they had yet to unlock. Months of arduous days navigating ancient, deadly traps had culminated in this moment: revealing the former Lord Peverell's study. Debates had raged between the portraits, Harry, and Khisanth regarding their lack of discovery of a library.
It had been Rowena who finally reminded everyone that magic was not openly practiced when Castle Peverell was inhabited, and therefore the library would have been heavily guarded and secreted, meaning it made sense that the Lord's study would have a secret entrance to the library.
The door creaked on ancient hinges, feeling as if it would crumble from age. Harry knew the latent magic thrumming throughout Castle Peverell would not allow it. He blinked several times when he found a relatively pedestrian study with a small bed seemingly thrust into a corner, with surprisingly pristine sheets.
An anti-dust enchantment, Harry thought in amusement. Magic never ceases to amaze me.
A couple of bookshelves, sparsely populated, lined an adjacent wall and, directly ahead, was what Harry assumed was the former Lord Peverell's desk. He approached it reverently, his hand brushing the ornate chair. There was a flash of light and suddenly the study began to shimmer, almost as if an illusion was dispelling.
Bookshelves, filled to the brim with ancient texts, began to appear, as well as an open portal in the wall with a stairway leading down. Above it was a sign indicating the library lay below. Harry glanced over at Khisanth in shock.
"Problem, Whelpling?" Khisanth asked in amusement as her eyes perused the ancient texts.
"Usually, I would need to update the wardstone to allow for visitors," Harry said in confusion. "I would have thought the room would have thrust you out."
Khisanth snorted, a small plume of smoke escaping her dainty nose. "Oh, it attempted to remove me. I simply refused it."
Harry blinked.
"There is no doubt, however, that you are indeed a Peverell by blood. The blood wards of this room recognized one of their own and activated upon your entry."
Harry cocked his head to the side. "But nothing happened when I entered?"
Khisanth rolled her eyes and shook her head, almost as if admonishing his stupidity. "This place has been uninhabited for centuries, Whelpling. It needed a moment to – what do you humans say? – warm up."
"Ah," Harry nodded. "Well, we're here."
"And, as per our agreement, you will copy anything I desire for my personal library."
"That you just started," Harry pointed at her.
"That I just started," Khisanth echoed with a frown, reluctant to admit that she hadonly recently decided tostart a library of her own.
Wait for it… Harry thought dryly.
"Hurry up, Whelpling, lest I eat you for dallying."
There it is, Harry chuckled internally.
-GU-
August 25, 1997 (Diagon Alley – Leaky Cauldron – Midday)
Daphne looked around her small room with a soft smile. The owner of the Leaky Cauldron, Tom, had given her a fantastic rate for the next sixty days. Daphne admitted she was surprised to find him sympathetic to her situation but wasn't going to look a gift horse in the mouth.
Instead, she unpacked and went through her things, paying particular attention to a box Astoria had dropped off with their mum. It was stuff from Daphne's childhood that they thought she might like. Daphne had been reluctant to open it, but with no replies to her numerous applications, and nothing really to do except wait, she decided now was a good time to investigate.
A quick wave of her wand and the box opened to reveal some old outfits that her mum wore that Daphne had always liked. Her eyes watered to see them bequeathed to her. Daphne hadn't really paid much attention to how she had grown since that horrible Halloween in 1995.
She approached a full-length mirror and looked at herself, surprised to see she looked more and more like her mother every day.
That's not a bad thing, Daphne told herself. Mum is gorgeous. I would be doing quite well for myself if I looked half as good as her. There are differences, however, like my eyes are a bit bluer, and my hair…
Daphne trailed off, her mind connecting that the reflection in the mirror looked almost identicalto the reflection in the Mirror of Erised that Harry-
No! Daphne thought firmly. I'm not going to think about that! I'm not going to cry on the first day I move out and start my life!
She hurriedly turned from the mirror and rifled through the box where she found a large binder. Curious, Daphne opened it to find her old collection of chocolate frog cards. The various famous witches and wizards all waved back at her with joyful smiles as she flipped through the pages.
Daphne sniffled, memories flashing through her mind. Memories of Cyrus Greengrass chastening her for wanting to collect something as silly and trivial as chocolate frog cards. She was certain he had destroyed her collection shortly after taking them.
Why didn't he? Daphne wondered.
Further investigation revealed a note at the back of the binder, handwritten by Aria Greengrass, stating that she had smuggled the binder away when Cyrus went to destroy it. Daphne sighed and closed the binder, hugging it to her chest.
"I'll have to thank mother when I write her," Daphne muttered to herself.
She smiled softly and continued unpacking, her mind imagining the next time she would see her friends and family. Astoria had sworn she would write as soon as the Hogsmeade weekends were published, so Daphne could visit and tell her all about her new career as an auror.
Minerva promised to schedule tea once the hurdles of the term beginning had cleared. Tonks was going to be busy with the new DADA curriculum, and Andromeda had returned to St. Mungos full time.
Her mother was working for the Longbottoms, caring for their greenhouses and magical plants. Daphne could never thank Neville enough for being a true Gryffindor and telling his grandmother to hire Aria Greengrass. She had never even spoken to the boy, and he actively avoided her during school.
The fact that Neville even helped my family is proof of how decent of a person he is. Tracey won the lottery with him, Daphne thought, fondly remembering her former best friend who had all but abandoned her after that terrible night.
Daphne didn't blame Tracey, especially when it came out that Cyrus had altered her memory during a sleepover at Greengrass Manor. It had been tough, losing her best friend because of her father, but Daphne had endured.
He took practically everything else from me, Daphne thought bitterly. Why not my best friend as well?
Daphne shook her head to clear her mind, dispersing the negative thoughts. Her stomach rumbled and she sighed, determining that an early dinner would be in order. She exited her room and locked the door with her key before slipping it back into an interior pocket of her robes.
I wonder if Tom will do custom orders, Daphne thought as she made her way downstairs.
-GU-
August 27, 1997 (Leaky Cauldron – Early Morning)
Daphne gasped and shot up from her bed, fumbling for her wand. Sweat matted her hair to her forehead and she breathed heavily, realizing her whole body was shaking uncontrollably. She shivered as she cast a quick Lumos to ensure she was alone.
Another nightmare, Daphne thought shakily. I had hoped I wouldn't get them anymore… but I should have known being alone would bring them back.
She drew the comforter around her shoulders and huddled beneath its warmth, despite her body being soaked with sweat, she still felt cold. Her head throbbed painfully from the dream of Cyrus forcibly ripping memories from her mind, uncaring of the agony he was causing his eldest daughter.
A gurgling sob escaped Daphne, and she clamped a hand over her mouth to contain an outbreak. Staggering to her feet, she stumbled around in the dark until she found the doorframe to the bathroom where she flipped the light switch and fell to her knees, vomiting heavily into the toilet.
Gasping for air, shivering, and thoroughly spent, Daphne weakly turned on the shower and forced herself to stand and strip so she could clean the sweat from her body. As the warm water cascaded down her head and back, she closed her eyes and focused on her basic Occlumency teachings from Andromeda to slowly rebuild her mental barriers so she could sleep later.
I can do this, Daphne told herself. I won't be a prisoner in my own mind.
"It's going to be okay, Daphne," Daphne whispered to herself, echoing her baby sister's words that had become almost a mantra to her. The words were carried away by the sound of running water, but the half-smile they brought to Daphne's face did not follow them.
-GU-
August 27, 1997 (Leaky Cauldron – Midday)
Daphne fidgeted nervously as she sat on the edge of the bed, chewing her bottom lip as she stared at the non-existent pile of mail on the small table that occupied her room.
"The Owl Post delivered just a moment ago, I'm sure of it," Daphne whispered. "I even double-checked with Tom…"
So why don't I have any responses to my applications? Daphne wondered internally. It's been a reasonable amount of time for at least one department to review and respond, even if it's a rejection or statement that there are no openings currently.
Daphne hoped there wasn't anything wrong. She had triple checked her applications, so she was confident that it wasn't an error on her part. She had also confirmed that every application had a signed copy of her NEWT results. Minerva had been insistent upon signing every copy personally with a blood quill, so no one could deny the validity of the results.
Daphne couldn't thank the woman enough for her continual love and support.
"I'm sure it's just taking them time to respond," Daphne told herself, not really believing it. "But I'm going to go crazy sitting here thinking about it. I need to focus my attention on other things."
She looked around and her eyes focused on the three-ring binder containing all of her research from the Trial files.
Maybe I should start thinking about where Harry could have gone, Daphne thought. I do need to find him one day and apologize, after all.
-GU-
August 28, 1997 (Peverell Castle – Noon)
Harry stood next to a conjured desk in the middle of the Peverell study. The portraits of Salazar, Rowena and Arcturus floated nearby, observing intently. Khisanth sat undisturbed on a small bed, reading an ancient tome. Had Harry been paying attention, however, he would have noticed her focus diverted to the spectacle.
"Ladies and, erm… Gentlemen," Harry cleared his throat. "We are gathered here to conduct a very important experiment that came to me just before initial negotiations with Khisanth."
The dragon-lady snorted.
"Yes, yes, can the bird do math-" Salazar gestured for the test to proceed.
"Don't be rude, Sal!" Rowena scolded before offering Harry an understanding, and encouraging, smile. "Carry on, dear."
"Thank you, Mama Claw," Harry sniffed and held his nose up in mock distaste. "As I was saying-" he enunciated at Salazar.
"Oh, sweet Merlin," Arcturus rolled his eyes.
Fawkes squawked proudly, currently perched atop the desk, a pencil and paper nearby.
"We're going to see if Fawkes here, smart as he is…"
Fawkes preened haughtily.
"…Can do basic math, as I suspected after our conversation."
"Fascinating," Rowena giggled excitedly and clapped her hands before composing herself. It took several seconds before she said, quite professionally, "Do continue."
"You're up, Fawkes," Harry poked the phoenix who cooed and bent over the paper, his right claw currently over the pencil.
Fawkes stared for a good minute before turning to look back at Harry curiously.
"Can you read it?" Harry asked.
Fawkes whipped his right claw back, hurling the pencil off the desk dramatically.
"I think that means no," Arcturus chuckled.
"Birds reading," Salazar trailed off derisively.
"Basilisks talking," Harry countered.
"Maybe if you ask him-?" Rowena prompted.
Harry hummed and rubbed his chin. "Good idea, Mama Claw." He retrieved the pencil and set it back on the desk. Fawkes, for the time being, pointedly ignored it. "Okay, buddy," Harry stroked the phoenix's plumage, "I'll read the questions and you, um, chirp the number of times that you think the answer is, yeah?"
Fawkes bobbed his head.
"How about something easy," Harry grinned. "What's one plus one?"
"Two."
Everyone blinked and turned to face Khisanth, who had looked up from her book and appeared very proud at her answer. Seeing the two male portraits snickering, the female portrait glowering, and the Whelpling looking on in bemusement caused her to narrow her eyes.
"What?" Khisanth demanded.
Harry scratched the back of his neck nervously. "Uh, I was asking him," he pointed at Fawkes who squawked indignantly.
"…And?"
"Um… He was supposed to answer," Harry attempted to explain.
"Well, then he should have been faster," Khisanth countered, clearly affronted.
Harry and Fawkes exchanged glances. "Aren't you supposed to be reading and copying stuff for your library?"
"I am reading and copying!" Khisanth replied petulantly.
"Uh huh," Harry hid his smirk until his back was to the dragon-lady who he knew could roast him should she become irked or feel mocked. "Okay, let's try this again," he said with a gesture at Fawkes.
Fawkes straightened and puffed his chest out.
"Two plus two."
Fawkes squawked four times.
Salazar's jaw dropped in shock and Arcturus roared with laughter at the dumfounded expression of one of the Founders of Hogwarts.
Rowena clapped gleefully. "Oh! More! More!"
Fawkes pecked the desk several times before looking up at Harry expectantly. Harry swore he noted a mischievous gleam in the beady eyes of the bird who was proving to be farmore intelligent than originally thought.
"Two times three?" Harry asked more than stated.
Fawkes squawked six times.
"Sweet Merlin," Salazar breathed.
"This is INCREDIBLE!" Rowena shouted, ecstatic. "See if he can do division! No- subtraction! No- algebra! Yes, see if he can do algebra!"
"Ah, yes, the muggle derivative of Arithmancy," Arcturus sneered.
"You do realize algebra came before Arithmancy?" Salazar grunted, clearly disgruntled at having to reveal such a fact.
Arcturus balked.
Several questions later, the group had confirmed – much to their amazement – that Fawkes was capable of subtraction, addition, multiplication, and division, but only so long as it was simple. Thus began a rather lengthy (because Khisanth kept interjecting) explanation of algebra which no one really believed Fawkes followed.
"And the final question," Harry began grandly, unbothered by Fawkes pecking the desk several times. "1x+2 = 5… Solve for x."
Fawkes thought for several minutes, periodically pecking the desk. Right when Harry was about to call the experiment off, Fawkes squawked three times, correctly solving x."
Even Khisanth appeared impressed.
Fawkes preened through the uproar and, satisfied he had proven himself, flashed away in fire to go play with Sparky in America.
"Does anyone else feel woefully humbled?" Salazar questioned.
Harry chuckled and shook his head. "I am finding more and more how little new revelations seem to bother me."
"Well, your life has been one giant cauldron constantly boiling over, my Heir," Salazar admitted.
Harry heard Rowena gushing to Arcturus about the success of the test, but it was muted by his focus on the paper atop the desk. The more Harry studied it, the more he realized something peculiar about it. Five minutes later, Harry roared with laughter, bent over, and slapped his knees.
Tears of mirth fell down his cheeks as he shook his head and did his best to compose himself. Even Khisanth looked quizzically at the uncharacteristically joyful 'Whelpling'.
"I daresay Fawkes pranked us all," Harry finally explained, gesturing at the paper.
Every question on the paper had small holes beneath them, the number of holes the correct answer for all five questions. Fawkes, it appeared, could read just fine.
He simply couldn't write.
-GU-
August 28, 1997 (Hogwarts – Evening)
Sasha often slept while 'The Tori' was in class. The droning of the larger, yummier – Sasha was sure they were yummy, despite having never actually eaten a large human, or a small human, for that matter – humans often lulled her to sleep. As did 'The Tori's' periodic, soothing, petting. Sasha preferred to call this activity worship, as it fit her Queenly persona.
What no one, not even Harry, knew was that Sasha, during these times of slumber, was able to occasionally see through her Master's eyes. Therefore, she was quite appalled to have witnessed 'The Fawkes' preening and garnering as much undeserved attention as he was.
What even was math anyway? Why was it so important? Sasha had to know the answer!
Thankfully, the discussion of 'The Elder Master' had revealed a word Sasha was acutely aware of, as it was one of 'The Tori's' classes: Arithmancy.
Sasha purred as she felt the worship begin anew atop her snout. Her tongue flicked out automatically, giving 'The Tori' well-earned praise and eliciting a giggle from the girl she had been assigned to guard.
Yes, Sasha would learn this Arithmancy. Then Master would praise her and finally allow her to devour 'The Fawkes' who she knew was simply delicious! How she knew this was unimportant. She knew.
"I will continue to refine my flying and killing skills," Sasha muttered to herself, the sound coming out as a gentle hiss which caused Astoria to shiver and giggle again.
The fact that Astoria was the one flying – not Sasha – and the only 'killing' she did was against bludgers during quidditch matches was irrelevant.
"And I will learn this Arithmancy! And then The Fawkes will fall to my power! And Master will praise me and cuddle m-"
"Hush!" Astoria scolded, swatting Sasha atop the snout playfully before going back to her dinner and chatting with her friends animatedly, completely oblivious to their incredulous stares at Astoria's brazenness to swat a basilisk in such a way.
Properly chastened, Sasha grumbled internally and settled back down atop 'The Tori's' shoulders. She closed her eyes and went over tomorrow's schedule before a hiss of pleasure escaped her.
Tomorrow 'The Tori' had Arithmancy.
And Sasha would make sure to give it the attention it deserved.
-GU-
August 30, 1997 (Leaky Cauldron – Morning)
Daphne sat at breakfast in the Leaky Cauldron staring numbly at the Daily Prophet. The typical tripe Rita Skeeter wrote, lambasting her, was front page today. Daphne had yet to fail to keep an article that mentioned her, but today she felt far too ill to even thinkabout keeping this article.
For the reason why she had still not received a response from anyof her applications was now revealed in bold, black print, with a moving picture of the most recent victim of Voldemort.
Amelia Bones, Minister of Magic, had been ambushed in her home on August 27th by Voldemort, and later died of her wounds in St. Mungo's.
Trembling, Daphne picked up the paper and automatically folded it before pocketing it. Despite her reticence, it seemed the motion was ingrained into her daily routine at this point. The glowers of the patrons of the Cauldron were acutely felt, and Daphne beat a hasty retreat to her room.
Amelia promised me I would have a job as an Auror, Daphne thought miserably. Now she's gone, and Wizarding Britain will ultimately blame me.
She grabbed a pillow and pulled it over her head, screaming in outrage at the injustice of it all, while simultaneously mourning for the kind woman who had not only offered her a career, but also provided the opportunity for her to learn the truth about what happened to her and Harry.
-GU-
September 1, 1997 (Leaky Cauldron – Noon)
Daphne resisted the temptation to tear the letter in her hands to shreds before burning every inch of it with an Incendio. A formal response to her application to the DMLE had finally been provided.
She was denied.
Daphne read it again, despite knowing the words by heart. Her vision blurred from her angry tears.
Dear Miss Greengrass,
After careful consideration, the Department of Magical Law Enforcement has respectfully declined your application to join the Auror Academy.
Wishing you success in your future endeavors,
Sr. Auror John Dawlish
Temporary Head of DMLE
Daphne shook her head bitterly and ground her teeth.
"No!" she said thickly. "I refuse to accept this!"
She stormed into her small bathroom and took a few minutes to compose herself and clean up her appearance. Once satisfied, she ensured she was in her most professional clothing before marching downstairs to the public floo. She ignored the stares and took a pinch of powder before declaring her destination.
"Ministry of Magic!"
Daphne stepped out of the floo to find the atrium packed with people who seemed to be going in all directions. She did her best to surreptitiously make her way to the guard, who begrudgingly checked her wand, before moving to one of the elevators.
Of course, calling out her number was promptly ignored by the person closest to the buttons, as upon recognizing her he developed a case of selective deafness. Rolling her eyes, Daphne squeezed her arm through the crowd and managed to press the fifth-floor button, where the DMLE was. At least, if the registry she had consulted was to be believed.
Daphne was eager and relieved to exit the elevator once it docked on the fifth floor, as the dark looks of many who recognized her had rapidly devolved into scowls at her continued presence. She exhaled slowly and smoothed her robes before approaching the receptionist's desk.
"Name?" a witch questioned in a monotone voice.
"Daphne Greengrass," Daphne said confidently.
The witch looked up in surprise, then sneered before schooling her features. "How can the DMLE help you, Miss Greengrass?"
"I've come to speak to Senior Auror John Dawlish regarding my recent application," Daphne informed.
The receptionist looked down at a paper before grimacing. "Senior Auror Dawlish is available for ten more minutes." She stood with obvious reluctance, "Please follow me."
"Thank you," Daphne breathed a gentle sigh of relief and moved to follow, finding herself led to an office on the back wall. The receptionist knocked three times then opened the door, beckoning Daphne to enter. She did and the door was swiftly shut behind her.
Daphne flinched and turned her head to see a middle-aged wizard with short, black hair, dark eyes with rings beneath them, and a mountain of paperwork atop his desk.
"Miss Greengrass, I presume?" the man questioned in a raspy, fatigued voice.
"Y-Yes," Daphne mentally kicked herself for stammering.
"How can I help you?" Dawlish asked as he rubbed his eyes wearily.
"It's about my application-" Daphne began.
"Was our letter unclear?" Dawlish cut in with an irritable tone.
"N-No," Daphne replied. "I just wanted to understand why I was rejected. Surely, my NEWT results spoke for themselves?"
Dawlish sighed heavily. "They did indeed, Miss Greengrass."
Daphne felt her ire rising. "Then why-"
"It is felt your presence at the Ministry would be bad for morale," Dawlish interrupted harshly.
"But I was promised-"
"By the former, now deceased, Minister, yes," Dawlish waved off her protestation before she could even finish, almost as if he were predicting her responses. "The interim Minister is not bound by those promises."
Daphne felt as if she had been hit in the gut by a bludger and inhaled sharply.
"I believe our discussion concluded," Dawlish returned to his paperwork. "Please see yourself out, Miss Greengrass."
Daphne nodded tersely and turned toward the closed door, only to freeze with her hand on the handle. She looked over her shoulder as something Dawlish said clicked in her mind.
"Auror Dawlish," she called softly, causing the man to look up in agitation.
"Yes?" he ground out.
"I noticed you mentioned my presence at the Ministry is unwelcome," Daphne said stiffly, her voice thick with emotion. "Would it be unwise for me to anticipate receiving a favorable response to any of my applications, no matter how obscure the department?"
A look of sympathy crossed Dawlish's expression and he set his quill down and rubbed his face again. He took a deep breath, exhaled, and leaned back in his seat, his eyes expressing his pity and helplessness at the situation.
"If I may be frank, Miss Greengrass?" Dawlish questioned and paused, waiting for her to nod before continuing. "Any department, especially ours, would be overjoyed to have you as a member of it. Unfortunately, as we are all public servants, public opinion matters greatly. Due to your unfortunate situation, I feel it would be best for you to assume that all your applications for Ministry positions will be rejected."
Daphne opened her mouth but couldn't find her voice. Her eyes watered despite her determination not to cry.
"I appreciate your candor, Senior Auror Dawlish," Daphne managed to croak out softly. "Good day to you, and I hope you find some modicum of relief in the current storm you find yourself in."
"Thank you, Miss Greengrass," Dawlish stood and bowed slightly at the waist. "I wish you all the best, truly."
Daphne turned and exited, softly closing the door behind her. Her mind hardly registered the journey back to the Leaky Cauldron. The stares of outrage and whispers as she passed were ignored as everything was hazy. She knew she wore a dazed expression all the way up until she made it to her room that she currently called home.
Numbly, she approached her bed and slunk onto it, placing her wand on her nightstand as she shakily climbed under the covers, pulling them over her head.
She was thankful no one could hear her sobs.
-GU-
September 5, 1997 (Leaky Cauldron – Morning)
Dear Daffy,
I am SO upset that the Ministry has decided to simply not hire you because you are you. It's outrageous! When I finished using every swear word I knew (and I know more than I probably should) even Sasha was upset. I'm pretty confident Sasha will outright kill Rita Skeeter if we ever come across her. I mean I did authorize her to do it and all, but I think it's almost become a guarantee it will happen now…
Speaking of Sasha, she has developed a rather unhealthy interest in Arithmancy…
…I'm totally serious, Daffy! Stop laughing! (I know you're laughing)
I swear Professor Vector nearly fainted when Sasha slithered up to her desk, grabbed a piece of chalk in her snout, and proceeded to unsuccessfully write the answer to a basic problem.
It almost seemed like she KNEW the answer! Can you believe it? I mean, it does kind of add up though… Hah! Pun! Get it? Add up! Hah! We know she can talk, right? Well, at least she can talk to Harry… and that creepy old Salazar guy with the long beard and the monkey face…
I'm getting off-track here. The point is that Sasha is trying to do Arithmancy and hissing constantly like she's plotting something. I have no clue what changed, but it's weirding me out and I've taken to swatting her with a rolled-up Daily Prophet when she gets too talkative.
People think I'm crazy, but we both know that's always been the case.
Enough about Sasha. How are you? That's a stupid question, I'm sure. I know you're hurting.
I love you, Daffy. It's going to be okay. You're going to find a job.
…And you can always come back home, you know? Mum would love to house you and see you…
Or you can go live with Andi? You won't be a burden since she is working at St. Mungo's again. Plus, you're like an adopted daughter as far as the Tonks family is concerned.
Have you tried asking Headmistress McGonagall if you can teach at Hogwarts? That would be awesome! Professor Greengrass!
…Wait… No, scratch that. You would give me detention all the time just because I annoyed you.
You know what? I'm okay with that. Ask McGonagall for a job!
Oh! Before I forget – Hogsmeade weekends are going to be more frequent moving forward! McGonagall is making lots of positive changes (if you ask me), and so the first Hogsmeade weekend is the first weekend of October.
I expect to see you there so I can hug you and you can tell me all about the new job that I just know you're going to get.
Don't forget that I love you with all of my being, Daffy.
Your Baby Sister,
Tori
Daphne brushed her hair as she sat on her bed, the recently read letter from Astoria nearby. She smiled and wiped a few stray happy tears as she finished brushing, before standing and making her way to her table to pen a return letter.
Dear Tori,
Your letter made me laugh and cry happy tears. Thank you for that, baby sister. I needed it more than I realized.
I won't lie to you. I'm not doing well. I'm unhappy, frustrated, and borderline despairing at my harsh reality.
Despite having the best NEWT scores since Dumbledore himself, it seems the Ministry is determined to prevent me from finding employment within their ranks. This has left me little choice but to apply in person within Diagon Alley. I've been going door to door and have had no luck thus far.
Oh, the shops are more than happy to take my money. They just don't want to employ me. It's the same general responses:
Get out of here, harlot.
How dare you cause Harry Potter to abandon us.
Your presence would be bad for business.
I'm sorry, I know it's unfair, but supporting you would not be wise at this time. (Very rare response, but I did get it from Fortescue's, along with a free ice cream of my choice, which was really sweet – Hah! Pun of my own!)
Despite that, I have such a wonderful support network that I'm managing to keep going. Mum has sent letters of encouragement my way daily, which has been wonderfully uplifting. Andi and Tonks both sent me a letter nearly demanding I move back in to their family home.
While I'm tempted to, I can't give up on my attempt to be self-sufficient yet. I have enough money to get me through October, and then I'll have to swallow what little pride I have left.
I did ask Minerva for a job, but she said I'm too young to be seriously considered by the board, despite my academics. I still need three to five years before I would feasibly be accepted in a teaching position. The best I could hope for is to intern, but that doesn't pay.
My current plan is to keep applying in Diagon Alley at every shop. If that fails, I'll try Knockturn Alley. If that fails, I'll try Hogsmeade.
I might even try for a loan at Gringotts to start my own business once I finish applying in Diagon Alley. Who knows, maybe if I run it under a pseudonym, I could be successful?
I will surely keep you posted, and I intend to see you the first weekend of October. We'll make a day of it.
By the way, your report on Sasha's antics was quite amusing – I did laugh – and I find it entertaining to think she is attempting to do basic math. Morgana only knows why she is interested in the subject, but if I had to take a guess, I would say it has something to do with Fawkes.
How are you doing, Tori? How is quidditch? Go Gryffindor! How are your grades? You better not be slacking off!
I hope you are surrounded by friends, having fun, and enjoying your time.
I also cannot wait to see and hug you.
I love you with all my heart, Tori.
Your Sister,
Daffy
Daphne sat back and flexed her hand several times as she reviewed her letter. Satisfied, she rolled it up and grabbed her cloak before heading out of her room, determined to continue applying for jobs.
But she would first stop off at the Owl Post to make sure her baby sister got her letter.
-GU-
September 19, 1997 (Gringotts Bank – Diagon Alley – Mid-Morning)
Daphne hesitated briefly before approaching the counter where the goblin teller's quill was diligently scratching away on a piece of parchment.
"How can Gringotts assist you today, Miss-?"
"Greengrass. Daphne Greengrass."
The goblin's scratching ceased as he looked up and regarded Daphne critically.
"I see. How can we assist you, Miss Greengrass?"
"I would like to inquire about a business loan," Daphne said, keeping the quaver of trepidation from her voice.
"Please have a seat, and one of our Loan Officers will come collect you."
Daphne gave a single nod and obeyed, seating herself and smoothing her long black skirt. Her hands trembled, betraying her nerves. It had been a long two weeks continuing her trek of applications through Diagon Alley, and then Knockturn Alley.
Her attempts had yet to bear fruit, and Daphne had exhausted all options in the area, meaning she had to move on to Hogsmeade next. Based on her luck thus far, however, she didn't have much hope.
Therefore, she decided it was time to see if she could start a shop on her own. During her application spree she had found plenty of empty real estate she could procure should she have the funds.
"Miss Greengrass?" a goblin questioned, having approached without Daphne realizing.
She started and turned. "Yes?"
"I am Nagnot," he introduced himself with a bow. "If you will accompany me to my office, we can discuss your request."
Daphne nodded and hurriedly stood. She felt a tangle of emotion surge within her as they passed Agnok's office, but she shrugged it off and entered Nagnot's office, her eyes widening as she realized he was the Deputy Manager of the Diagon Alley Gringotts branch.
She numbly took the indicated seat at his desk, already assuming her request was going to be denied. Nagnok seated himself and folded his clawed hands atop his desk.
"Miss Greengrass," he began, "I regret to inform you that Gringotts cannot issue you a loan."
"Of course," Daphne said bitterly, futilely rubbing her eyes.
"While it may pain you to hear this, you are considered high risk, and a rather bad bet in Britain," Nagnok continued, unconcerned with her show of emotion. "I want you to know that we treat all our clients with as much impartiality as possible and did our due diligence regarding your request. Unfortunately, due to the current climate of Wizarding Britain, it would be folly to support an upstart business by yourself."
"Even under a pseudonym?" Daphne asked weakly.
"Even under a pseudonym," Nagnot nodded solemnly, his eyes betraying a hint of sympathy for the poor witch.
"Well-" Daphne choked back a sob that threatened to escape. "I apologize for wasting your time," she made to stand.
"Please sit, Miss Greengrass," Nagnot said softly. "Our business is not yet concluded. While Gringotts cannot provide you a business loan, we are prepared, based on your credentials, to offer you employment."
Daphne's eyes widened comically, and she plopped back into her seat. A few tears trailed unchecked down her cheeks, but Daphne was too thunderstruck to notice.
"Really?" she asked, daring to hope.
"Yes, but I would have you know the particulars before you accept."
"O-Of course," Daphne stammered and wiped her eyes with the sleeve of her blouse. "Th-Thank you so much. You have no idea how much even the offer means to me."
-GU-
October 4, 1997 (Hogsmeade – Early Morning)
Daphne exited the floo to The Three Broomsticks and promptly found herself engulfed in a hug that almost knocked her off her feet and back into the floo.
"DAFFY!" Astoria cried joyfully.
"Hi, Tori!" Daphne embraced her sister warmly, feeling a wet sensation on her cheek. "Hello to you too, Sasha."
The basilisk hissed pleasantly and Daphne, after several moments, eventually detached from Astoria who unashamedly wiped her eyes and beamed up at her older sister.
"I can't wait for you to tell me everything about your new job! You've been so secretive!" Astoria exclaimed, uncaring and unaware of the dark looks Daphne was garnering from most of the patrons of the Three Broomsticks.
Those were lessened when Madam Rosmerta greeted Daphne warmly with an embrace, before leading the two sisters upstairs to a private room reserved for them. Inside, Daphne was greeted by her mother, who heavily embraced her and fussed over her appearance, worrying she wasn't eating enough.
"Been keeping up with your training, Blondie?" Tonks grinned as she embraced her best friend.
"The last two weeks I have," Daphne smiled sheepishly. "I was a bit preoccupied with finding a job before then."
"And we look forward to hearing all about it," Minerva said after greeting Daphne with a gentle embrace. "It's good to see you, dear. I cannot tell you how relieved I am that you've found employment. I also have cleared my schedule enough to commit to tea twice a month moving forward."
"That sounds lovely, Minerva," Daphne admitted breathily as Andromeda pulled her into a warm hug.
"You are always welcome in our home, Daphne," Andromeda whispered in her ear. "Do not ever doubt that."
Daphne's eyes watered and she swallowed. "I know, Andi," she said thickly. "It means the world to me to know that I have your support."
"Always, dear," Andromeda promised. "It is good to see you again, Daphne."
"She's only been gone for a month, everyone," Astoria teased.
"Says the runt who nearly tackled her back through the floo," Tonks retorted.
Astoria scoffed but kept her peace, allowing everyone to sit at the table while Madam Rosmerta brought drinks and food. After they'd taken some time to load their plates, Tonks finally broke.
"Okay, Blondie, you've kept us in suspense long enough through your letters! Spill! You got a loan and started your own business, didn't you?"
"I was denied a business loan, actually," Daphne said around a mouthful of eggs.
"Well crap!" Tonks groaned, fishing around in her pocket and passing a galleon to Astoria.
"Dora!" Andromeda scolded. "You bet on Daphne's employment?"
"Oh please, mum," Tonks rolled her eyes. "As if you didn't bet with Minnie."
Andromeda pinkened slightly but composed herself, raising her nose in the air haughtily. "What I do with my friend is none of your business."
"I'll have to note betting with your students in your evaluation," Minerva sighed dramatically.
"You wouldn't!" Tonks gasped, affronted. "I survived two years as DADA Professor, Minnie! Two!"
Minerva stared her down until Tonks grumbled and held out her hand to Astoria, demanding the galleon back. Astoria looked at the hand and snorted.
"Yeah, right. I won that bet fair and square. Daphne got a job in Knockturn Alley, didn't you, Daphne?"
"Um, no," Daphne shook her head. "No one in Diagon or Knockturn Alley would hire me."
Astoria hung her head and passed the galleon across the table to McGonagall, who smirked as Tonks gasped in outrage.
"Headmistress! How could you?"
"Oh shush, Dora," Andromeda snickered.
"Daphne, I assume you got a job with Gringotts?" Minerva asked as she sipped her tea.
"Yes," Daphne smiled.
"In Britain?" Andromeda queried.
Daphne flinched.
Minerva sighed and slid the galleon over to Andromeda who accepted it with a wink.
"Hypocrite," Tonks stuck her tongue out at her mother.
"I love you too, daughter of mine," Andromeda said as she patted Tonks on the shoulder.
"You're leaving Britain?" Aria asked sadly.
"Yes, mum," Daphne nodded solemnly.
"Wh-What?" Astoria stammered, her voice cracking as her eyes watered. "You're leaving?"
"I'm sorry, Tori," Daphne said with a grimace. "Gringotts would only offer me a position abroad. I doubt I'd have much luck finding a job in Hogsmeade, based on my experience with previous applications. You all know the Ministry simply will not hire me because I'm, well, me."
"We'll work around wherever you go, to make sure we see you," Aria said firmly. "I promise you will still see Daphne, Astoria."
Astoria nodded and wiped her eyes, clearly upset.
"So what's the job?" Tonks prompted.
"I'll be heading to America to serve the Gringotts branch there as a Curse Breaker and part-time Enchantress," Daphne revealed. "The pay is fantastic, and I'll be sending the majority of it back home, so you don't have to work anymore, mum."
"We'll talk about that later, dear," Aria replied.
"I also get the standard Gringotts benefits, which anyone who has worked there will tell you they take care of their own. I'll be housing in the nearest magical district and will have a dual-citizenship which means I can come to Britain as I please through the Gringotts employee-only floo."
Astoria perked up at that.
"Which means I'll of course be here for our regularly scheduled tea visits, Minerva, as well as each of the Hogsmeade weekends you want me, Tori. I'll even try and come see your quidditch games if my schedule allows it."
Daphne was nearly blasted out of her chair as Astoria threw herself at her, sobbing happily. "I'm so excited for you, Daffy! But I'm also quite cross that you made me think I wouldn't see you again. You idiot!"
"I love you too, Tori," Daphne giggled as she tried to detach her sister.
Despite all of her recent struggles, Daphne finally found a small modicum of joy in her life, knowing that she had solid, unbiased employment and both family and friends who loved her dearly.
"When do you leave?" Aria asked.
"I start Monday," Daphne said with a smile.