A/N: This is a mega chapter - or two chapters in one - as it almost eclipses 17k words and my average chapter length is 7.5k words. After several rewrites and self-doubts, I have it where I want it. As always, a huge thank you to those who support, comment, and reach out on discord.
Also, a big thank you to the well-wishers. My baby girl is healthy and in the 81st percentile for size currently at 3 lbs 4 oz in mama's belly. I get to meet her in person in late March, and eagerly anticipate that day.
...Which is also why I am pushing to finish this tale, because I want to see it done just as much as you readers do.
With that in mind, please note this chapter took a lot out of me and you probably won't see the next one for a bit.
Disclaimer: I own nothing. Just happy to be here!
Chapter 32
December 25, 1997 (Godric's Hollow – Late Night)
"It's going to be okay, son…" the voice of Sirius echoed in Harry's head as he stared groggily into the brightly burning fire illuminating the living room of the apartment he was currently sleeping in. He swirled the remnants of his hot chocolate as he amusedly realized he had no idea where exactly he was.
"You're going to marry Daphne one day and have that beautiful daughter you told me about…"
Harry downed the last of his hot chocolate, hissing as it slightly scalded his throat. Sighing, he leant back into his seat on the couch and shakily wiped the sweat beading on his brow with the back of his palm. The dreams had intensified since Khisanth departed back to…well, wherever she went.
"Come with me," Harry whispered automatically into the silence only punctuated by the crackling flames.
"You know I can't, pup," the voice inside his head replied. "Whether it's in this graveyard or on the school grounds of Hogwarts, I'm dead either way. Dumbledore won't vouch for me, and I'd be administered the dementor's kiss. Besides, I'd rather die fighting… Just like James did."
Harry growled and hurled his cup into the flames. It didn't shatter or do anything dramatic outside of catch aflame.
"I'll buy you the time you need… Promise me you'll live, Harry… Promise me I'll get to see you confess your love, get married, and have children…
Harry's hands started shaking and he clenched them into fists. "You're dead," he whispered brokenly. Harry swore he could feel the ghostly touch of Sirius right where his heart was.
"I'll always be with you, right here, kiddo."
A flicker of light caught one of his lordship rings, causing it to glint in the darkened room. Harry glanced down to see the Resurrection Stone taunting him as it remained set in the Peverell lordship ring. Never before had Harry so desperately wanted to use the ring than now, with the memory of Sirius haunting his nights of late.
"I love you, son…"
He knew the futility of using the second Hallow while in his current mental state. The second brother had been driven mad by such folly. He would not follow in his ancient relative's footsteps.
"Promise me, Harry…"
"I'm sorry, Sirius," Harry whispered as he willed himself to look away from the Hallow. The invisibility cloak comforted him with its cooling presence, and the Elder Wand thrummed against his wrist, begging to be unleashed.
It was a heavy burden, being the supposed Master of Death.
A gentle cooing caused a barely noticeable smile to flicker across Harry's darkened countenance. He looked down to regard one of his dearest and most loyal friends. Fawkes was staring up at him with his far-too intelligent gaze, knowingly analyzing Harry's mood and deepest thoughts.
"I miss him, Fawkes," Harry said softly, a quaver betraying the raw emotion he was barely holding back. "I feel as if I have utterly failed him."
Fawkes chirruped sorrowfully.
Harry stood with a sigh, briefly closing his eyes while he attempted to calm his mind. He felt a breeze graze his arm as Fawkes flapped his wings to gain enough altitude to land gently atop his shoulder. It was cool, reminding him of something that seemed a lifetime ago…
An autumn wind blew through Hogsmeade and Harry removed his jacket, cast a warming charm on it, and draped it over Daphne's shoulders. She pulled it closer with a dazzling smile, her sapphire blue eyes sparkling. Harry felt his heart clench painfully as he stared at her.
"I'm so thankful I met you that day in Diagon Alley," Harry told her. "Thank you for being my friend, Daphne. My life was very bleak until you entered it." He hesitated briefly before continuing. "I cherish every smile we secretly share. Every hidden touch in the hallways."
He looked towards the shrieking shack and saw a very familiar large black dog watching them both. A part of Harry wanted to hex his Godfather, but another part of him drew courage from his distant presence. Knowing he was going to get the mickey taken out of him later, Harry pressed on.
"You're a beautiful person, Daph," Harry said softly, the wind carrying his voice to Daphne's ears. "And the most beautiful witch in all of Hogwarts."
He turned to find Daphne staring at him with a blazing intensity in her eyes. The wind caught her hair and blew several strands across her face, which she absently tucked behind her ear with an eager smile. He leaned down as she stood on her tiptoes and, this time, nothing interrupted as their lips met.
Fireworks erupted in Harry's body and his mind shut down as he focused on the sensation of Daphne's lips. They were soft, pliable, and molded perfectly with his. She tasted like strawberries, and Harry inhaled through his nose, taking in the smell of her shampoo as his hands settled on her waist.
He felt her arms snake around his neck as their kiss deepened. Harry was positive his blood actually sang. He wanted more. Instinctively, his tongue darted forward and caressed her bottom lip. That lip she so often chewed when thinking or when she was nervous. A habit of hers that he loved. He felt her lips slightly part, and her tongue met his as he pulled her closer to him. She let out a hum of pleasure which was overshadowed by a sudden, shocking, bark from the large black dog.
The barking manifested itself outside of Harry's consciousness in the form of Fawkes squawking loudly. Harry gasped, recoiled as if struck, and stumbled backwards into his couch. The back of his knees collided with the couch and he fell heavily onto the soft cushion, causing the couch to scrape loudly against the wood floors.
Fawkes squawked again, incensed at the sudden, jerky motion, and flapped his wings in agitation. Harry was breathing as if he had run a marathon, his chest heaving and sweat pouring off his body as he shook uncontrollably. Fawkes began to sing softly, and the sound brought a small semblance of peace to Harry as he struggled to steady his breathing.
He almost had himself under control when his restraints buckled, and Harry sobbed heavily into his hands. He wept for Sirius, the father he knew far too briefly, whom – like his mother and actual father – had made the ultimate sacrifice so he could live on.
He wept for the loneliness that had, over time, slowly begun to loom over him like a dark cloud. Portraits, House-Elves, Phoenixes, and even Dragons, were not able to provide that Human contact Harry so desperately craved. He thoroughly regretted not maintaining contact with Andromeda, Ted, and Dora.
The temptation to pen a letter and have Fawkes deliver it then and there was unbearable. He looked down, only to find the Resurrection Stone had somehow made its way into his palm. He stared at it blankly until his mind began to swim with memories long thought buried…
"Daph," he whispered. "It's okay. I…" he grimaced. "I don't like what happened with you and Nott, or how you wanted to hurt me, but I can look past it. Just tell me what I must do to court you."
Harry's eyes widened when Daphne surged forward and crushed her lips against his, kissing him desperately. As before, he felt as if his very blood sang at the contact and he pulled her tight against him, his hands clutching her possessively. Their tongues dueled as their kiss deepened and they fought for dominance. Harry felt all the anxiety and hurt he'd been stockpiling begin to ebb until, finally, the need for air forced them apart.
Harry took in great gulps of air, fully intent on continuing as Daphne mirrored him, her eyes glazed with desire. She smiled at him brightly, and he felt his heart ache at her vibrant expression. He moved in to continue but she held a hand up, halting him.
"Win," she gasped out. "Win the Triwizard Tournament, Harry." She kissed him passionately once more, but much shorter this time. "Then I'm yours," she promised.
Harry stared at her, mouth agape, confusion etched on his features. He opened his mouth to voice that confusion when she silenced him with another heated kiss which carried on for several minutes. When Daphne finally pulled away, Harry's entire body felt on fire and his brain had turned to soup. Suddenly, she extracted herself from his grasp and stood.
Harry took her offered hand and got back to his feet, happy when she gave him a gentle, much tamer kiss. He gazed deeply into her sapphire blue eyes and said his next words with impassioned severity.
"I will."
It would be so easy to levitate the stone…turn it three times… Harry desperately wanted to speak with Sirius; maybe even his parents too. All he had to do was use the Stone…
"Fawkes…" Harry croaked out, completely defeated.
The ever-loyal phoenix cocked his head to the side, his claws gently squeezing Harry in acknowledgement.
"I want to see them."
Fawkes solemnly bobbed his head once, and the two vanished in a flash of phoenix fire.
-GU-
A flash of orange light illuminated the small graveyard behind the church in Godric's Hollow. The sky gently showered the area with snow, but there was no breeze. The ground crunched beneath Harry's boots as he shifted his weight, Fawkes still perched atop his shoulder patiently.
This was the first time he had ever come to visit his parents. As he fingered the Resurrection Stone still in his palm, Fawkes began to sing gently, the sound saturating the silence.
Harry had traveled the world, visited random, awe-inspiring places, and spoken with more muggles than he could count or remember. He even still spoke with Yen on occasion when he went and got a pedicure. Thinking of Yen made Harry think of Fleur, causing him to sigh heavily.
Fleur was doing well and was getting very serious with the curse breaker she'd met while working for Gringotts. Harry was happy for her, but he missed her terribly. They now only exchanged letters on occasion, so contact with the Veela was minimal.
Harry paused and felt his breath catch in his chest as he read the faded inscription on the tombstone. A wave of emotion crashed over Harry, causing his knees to buckle. Numbly, he slunk to the snowy ground, uncaring of the cold seeping through his clothing.
Fawkes cooed gently, his song coming to a sudden halt. An icy breeze coursed through the graveyard, ruffling Harry's cloak. He sighed, the Resurrection Stone in his hand now forgotten as he slid it back over his finger.
"Hey, mum. Hey, dad," he greeted in a whisper. "Sorry it took me so long to come see you…"
-GU-
December 25, 1997 (America – Missouri – Branson Magical District – Late Night)
Daphne sat on her couch, in the living room of her small apartment. A magical fire, coupled with a thick, fuzzy blanket, and a nice cup of hot chocolate kept her warm. Daphne breathed gently on her drink to bring it to a drinking temperature as she stared out the window, watching the gentle snowfall.
Her apartment was relatively empty, as Daphne was very frugal, despite her nicely paying job, which she had to return to in the morning. At least she had a short week, with New Year's around the corner.
Christmas had been spent in Britain with her family at the Tonks residence. Something Daphne was immensely grateful for, as she still wasn't comfortable entertaining the notion of returning to Greengrass Manor. Those important to her had been there for a big Christmas, and Daphne felt loved and appreciated.
Daphne's life, with a simple location change, had taken a turn for the better. Her family had been happy to report that the Daily Prophet was at a bit of a loss once sightings of Daphne had ceased for over thirty days. Gringotts had been airtight regarding her employment, and so the Daily Prophet found themselves in quite the quandary.
As Daphne was out of sight, she began to be out of mind in Wizarding Britain.
Astoria had expressed that maybe Daphne could consider returning home in the near future, but Daphne had been reluctant to tell her baby sister that she no longer considered Britain home. The melancholy that she felt, despite the joyous occasion of celebrating Christmas with her family and friends, was noted by Andromeda who had approached Daphne privately before she left for Gringotts.
It hadn't taken long for Andromeda to root out the truth of Daphne's feelings, nor to point out that Daphne was lonely. The older woman did withhold her suggestion that Daphne needed to move on from Harry, but the implication was there, and Daphne departed the home with hugs and farewells shortly after receiving the not-so-subtle message.
Now she sat alone in her pajamas, sipping a hot chocolate while the fire crackled and spit, despite not burning anything due to its magical nature. Daphne felt the beginnings of fatigue settling in, and would soon go to bed, but she felt she needed to clear mind and organize her thoughts beforehand. If she didn't, then her mental shields would be weakened.
And the nightmares always came when her shields were weak.
Daphne hated that part of herself. The part that still feared a dead man who had tortured and altered her memories. Those nights he visited her dreams she rarely went back to sleep.
She loved her job, and she found she was very good at it. Something that was yielding high praise from management. Her reputation was a clean slate in America. No one knew her name, her history, her past, and – most importantly – no one seemed to care to find out those things.
But while her working days were filled with challenges and fulfillment, her nights were spent alone. Daphne didn't have friends in Gringotts and found it difficult to try and make new ones. She knew it stemmed from her experiences at Hogwarts and the British Ministry but couldn't muster the courage to try to form lasting relationships.
Oh, she tried. But it never seemed to work out, and Daphne found her lackluster effort to pursue new relationships would cause them to fizzle out before they could truly ground themselves. And yet, despite her reticence, she craved companionship.
Or maybe it was that she craved a certain raven-haired, green-eyed wizard who was…somewhere.
Daphne blinked as her eyes watered. Thinking of Harry generally led to tears, and she didn't want to cry. Not after having such a wonderful day. She looked around her home, sighing mentally at the fact that despite its current warmth it still felt empty and impersonable.
I can't seem to bring myself to search for him, Daphne thought as she took a sip of her hot chocolate. It was good. I think I just want to forget. Maybe Andi is right – I need to move on. I've suffered enough. I finally have a good job that I truly enjoy. It challenges and pushes me, and those I work with are cordial enough and management is very pleased with my performance. Do I really want to risk my good fortune by attempting to find someone who hates me?
She sighed as she finished her drink and set it atop a small side table before pulling the blanket over her shoulders as she stared into the fire. Fatigue began to settle in as Daphne yawned and stretched out on the couch, deciding to just rest her eyes for a moment.
Andi is right, though, Daphne thought forlornly. I am lonely.
-GU-
December 25, 1997 (Godric's Hollow – Just Before Midnight)
Harry felt the wards flare as he stepped over the threshold of the ruins of what was once his home. The home where Voldemort murdered his parents and attempted to do the same to him. The air shimmered as personal effects previously hidden began to reveal themselves.
Sure, the Ministry touted that they had removed all personal effects of the Potters after deciding to turn the house into a national monument. Harry, however, was not surprised to find wards keyed to his blood that concealed possessions not found during the cleanup.
He swallowed heavily, and Fawkes cooed softly while still perched atop his shoulders. Harry lost track of how long he spent slowly memorizing every inch of the home. He opened every drawer, every door, and every cupboard. It was in the pantry that he hesitated, finding a small basket filled with assorted candies and a note.
With shaking hands, he pulled the note, reading the scrawling, scratchy cursive that created a surge of emotion in his chest, blurring his eyes and forcing him to collapse in a nearby lounging chair.
Lils,
Wanted to start the Pup's candy stash early. I know- I know! He can't have this stuff for… Well, I don't remember how long. You know I don't really pay attention to those things.
Still can't believe you two made me the Godfather. I mean, what were you thinking? Are you serious?
…Nope. I'M Sirius! Hah! That never gets old! I can't wait to do that to Harry!
Anyway, I was thinking of MY Godson and bought all this candy… So save it for him!
AND DON'T EAT ANY OF IT!
It's NOT for you!
(See you guys at the super-secret Halloween party that only like, four of us can attend)
Love,
Sirius (Padfoot)
Harry reverently pocketed the note and held the basket of candy. He sifted through the basket, eventually pulling out an old chocolate frog which he absently unwrapped. It appeared fresh, and tasted fresh, and Harry ate it with relish, tears streaming down his cheeks.
Merlin, how he missed his Godfather.
He could feel the Resurrection Stone calling to him, begging to be used. His parents were only slightly older than he was now. They would still be young, and their connection to the realm of the living would be strong so long as he was here, where they perished. It would be so easy to use the stone to call them, to meet them.
Do I still look like dad, I wonder? Harry asked himself.
Resisting the temptation of the Hallow, Harry pulled the card out from the chocolate frog box and stared at it blankly as more memories rushed through his head. He closed his eyes as he again heard Sirius as if he were in the room.
"Promise me you'll live, Harry. Promise me I'll get to see you confess your love, get married, and have children."
With watery eyes, he looked up at Fawkes who chirped and nuzzled his cheek.
"Let's go back, buddy," Harry said in a voice thick with emotion as he pocketed the card in his hand. "And then I want to go away. Far, far away."
As Fawkes nodded once and whisked Harry away in a flash of phoenix fire, Harry was acutely aware that he no longer had a place to call home.
Something that bothered him far more than he cared to admit.
-GU-
6 Months Later
July 4, 1998 (America – Missouri – Gringotts – Mid-Morning)
Daphne hummed to herself, unconcerned if any could hear her while she worked. She was the only one in the department working today, as everyone else had taken the day off in celebration of American Independence Day. Initially, Daphne had been curious about the holiday, but once she ascertained it was essentially a big gathering where muggles launched fireworks (and magical folk did the same, just their versions), she determined she would work instead.
She could see the fireworks later that evening.
Besides, she had a fascinating and riveting project going on with an ancient cache rumored to have been discovered where the ruins of Atlantis were believed to be. Not one to indulge in such fanciful postulations, Daphne instead approached the project with a clinical professionalism she was rapidly becoming legendary for in Gringotts.
A few diagnostic spells were all it took to recognize a very hefty runic ward matrix with enough deadly traps to make an Egyptian Pharaoh's tomb to look like a walk in the park.
Whatever this ancient box contained, it was believed to be very valuable.
And Gringotts, being money-driven, was eager to get their claws into whatever the cache contained.
Daphne had earned a reputation for having an… 'abstract' approach to runic ward matrixes. No one really knew how she did it, but she had a muggle device that simplified the Arithmancy significantly when breaking down the primary matrix. Her co-workers called it an Arithmancy Muggle Numeric Device.
A hefty name for what muggles called a calculator.
Getting said calculator to work had been a chore. Electricity and batteries – or, as Daphne initially called it: Eclektriky – was a mystery to her and failed to work in a magical environment. Take something that ran on electricity to the Branson Magical District, and it would cease working immediately.
Oddly enough, it resumed working once she left the Magical District.
Persistent study in the Branson library and some time spent learning how to use computers and the internet, however, had given Daphne enough wherewithal to understand how to dissect the muggle device that fascinated her so. To her alarm and disappointment, the innards of the calculator had been another mystery to unravel.
More of her free time dedicated to studying in the muggle library yielded a deeper understanding of calculators, and Daphne purchased several to experiment on. It only took a couple of months (and several custom runic clusters around the circuitry) to prevent her calculator from failing at work.
With the power of an instant calculator in hand, all Daphne had to do was break down the runes into numbers and then she could quickly input large values into her calculator and yield instant results to her calculations. Wards, after all, were created via runic clusters, and those runes had a numeric value determined by the language they were written in.
Once the language was determined, knowledge of the numeric value was all that was required for Daphne to quickly deconstruct said wards. Gringotts couldn't be happier with her performance of late, and there was rumor she was going to be promoted to Senior Curse Breaker soon.
Alas, the focal point of her method of resolving said mysteries was understanding the language in which the ward and runic clusters were written.
And Daphne couldn't make heads or tails of the language her current project was protected by.
It was a puzzle she was more than happy to dive into, and thus was humming contentedly as she scratched several simulations on a parchment with her quill. Her tongue was sticking out just past her lips as she scribbled furiously, her golden blonde hair in a high ponytail, although some strands had escaped and framed her face.
Absently, she tucked a rebellious strand behind her ear, ceasing her humming as she snatched her wand from behind her ear and began a simulation.
After darting behind a protective wall, put up for potentially violent rejections of her simulation, of course.
A rather violent explosion later, and Daphne was back to humming and writing.
"A tough customer, it would seem," she sang as she swayed to some unknown music playing in her mind.
While still lonely, Daphne had found a deep happiness in her career, and was beyond grateful to Gringotts for providing her with employment. Her performance of late, she felt, was paying back the debt twofold. A bell echoed throughout the department and Daphne made her way through the dimly lit room to her cubicle.
It was…messy. But Daphne attributed that to all the research she had to compile for her method. Sure, it could use a good organizing, but Daphne was far too busy solving the mysteries of ancient, cursed objects to bother with such trivialities.
She checked her mailbox and huffed in irritation to find it empty.
"Still no patent," she muttered. "How long does it take? I know it's a groundbreaking discovery. But I also know no one else has done what I've done!"
She pouted petulantly before collecting her purse and cloak, drawing it over her plain grey work robes. A quick wave of her wand and she silently transfigured a more suitable outfit for the muggle world.
Maybe tomorrow, Daphne thought hopefully.
She really wanted that patent approved. It would catapult the Greengrass fortune far beyond what it had been when it was run by Cyrus. The ability to have electrical devices, like cell phones, work in the magical world opened endless possibilities for muggle-born and half-bloods.
It also allowed families to stay in touch, which was important to Daphne. She personally didn't own a cell phone – who would she even call if she did? – but she could appreciate their function.
Daphne exited Gringotts and entered the Branson Magical District (or BMD, as Daphne abbreviated it). It was relatively empty, most of the shops closed. A few firework shops were open, but Daphne ignored those as she passed by. Usually, on a day where she had the office to herself, Daphne would prefer to skip lunch.
Sadly, Gringotts had cracked down on the mandatory lunch and break policy, citing that no one was allowed to skip said events.
Curse the Goblins for taking care of their own! Daphne didn't want to take lunch! She wanted to solve that mysterious cache!
A few blocks from the entrance to the BMD was a coffee shop Daphne frequented for lunch and on her days off. She found she enjoyed watching couples interact, as it was a popular dating location. She pointedly ignored the twinge in her chest while watching them.
She waved to one of the baristas, a muggle girl named Sarah, and ordered one of the festive hot teas served this time of year.
Thank Morgana this place serves tea along with coffee, Daphne thought as she added a bit of sugar to her tea and took a seat in her favorite corner.
She quietly observed the comings and goings of those around her with a soft smile, her mind still whirring around her latest project. Daphne was confident she would figure it out in time.
She had a reputation to uphold, after all.
-GU-
3 Months Later
October 31, 1998 (Somewhere in America – Morning)
"Harry!" a voice squealed, and Harry found himself enveloped in a curtain of silvery blonde hair.
"Fleur!" Harry laughed as he embraced his friend. "It's been far too long!"
"Yes, it has," Fleur sighed. "I am sorry, Harry. Life has been, well…"
"Life," Harry finished with a grin. "I understand. Your English has gotten much better. Hardly any accent."
"Thank you," Fleur gave a mock curtsey. "Being engaged to an Englishman has motivated me to perfect my English."
"…Engaged?!" Harry blurted. "I mean- Congratulations!"
"Yes! We are going to be married during the summer of next year. Will you come?" she pleaded with large, puppy dog eyes.
"Only if I can stay under my invisibility cloak," Harry grumbled.
"This is acceptable," Fleur hugged Harry again. "You look… Happier."
Harry shrugged and Fawkes squawked as he landed on Harry's shoulder.
"Have you found a lover?" Fleur asked, cocking her head to the side quizzically.
Harry snorted. "No. I actually…" he trailed off as he contemplated his response. Finally, he took a deep breath. "I reconnected with my family, Fleur."
Fleur gasped. "You did?"
"Andromeda, Ted, and Dora," Harry said with a nod.
"I have so many questions! How did you do this? When? Why?" she pressed excitedly.
"As for the how, I have Fawkes," Harry pointed out dryly, poking the phoenix in the chest. Fawkes, of course, squawked dramatically.
"Ah, yes," Fleur said, slightly embarrassed at her silly question. Fawkes was how they continued to keep in touch.
"As for when, it was shortly after Christmas," Harry informed. "I was…struggling with old memories and loneliness."
Fleur nodded sagely. "It is not good for you to not have a companion, Harry."
"But I have you," Harry protested slyly.
Fleur scoffed and folded her arms.
"…And Fawkes," Harry protested weakly.
Fleur rolled her eyes.
"…And the portraits," Harry gestured to his Rowena, Salazar, and Arcturus.
"It's not working, my Heir!" Salazar called.
"Keep digging!" Arcturus cackled.
"…And Dobby!" Harry pointed at his house-elf friend who was doing dishes.
Fleur just stared at him, arms still folded, clearly unimpressed.
"Um… How are you?" Harry attempted weakly.
Fleur sighed and shook her head at Harry's hopelessness. "Let us get out and walk around, Harry. We will talk. I will tell you about William Weasley, my fiancé, and you will attempt to explain why you are still single and alone. As well as provide more detail as to what provoked you to reach out to your family, as well as what has happened since."
"We haven't seen each other in years, and you want to remind me I'm alone…" Harry groused playfully as he went for his coat.
"It has not been that long, Harry Potter!" Fleur smacked Harry's arm. "Now quit your complaining and take me to a good coffee shop." She paused in thought for a moment. "What state are we in anyway?"
Harry blinked. "I don't actually know."
"How can you not know?"
"Well, I do have an apartment in every state now…" Harry trailed off.
"Then how will you know where to take me?" Fleur demanded imperiously.
"We'll walk outside, and I'll get my bearings," Harry said nonchalantly. "Unless Fawkes can tell us what state we're in."
Fawkes squawked. Fleur raised a dainty eyebrow at Harry.
"Nope. Still can't understand him," Harry laughed, wincing as Fleur proceeded to assault him.
"You speak as if he can talk!"
"You know, he's smart enough that it wouldn't surprise me if he could. We did learn he can do math," Harry said as he opened the door for Fleur.
"No!" Fleur gasped.
"Oh yes," Harry chuckled as he locked his door and started down the stairs, the Veela in tow. "It's quite the tale… You see, I decided I wanted to visit that dragon, Khisanth, that almost killed me in the first task during…"
-GU-
October 31, 1998 (America – Missouri – Branon Magical District – Gringotts - Noon)
"Trial sixty-two," Daphne announced, her quick-quote quill writing rapidly on a floating parchment.
Darting behind her protective wall, Daphne initiated the simulation only for nothing to happen.
Wait for it…
A sizzling sound, followed by a cacophonous explosion, and the ground trembled slightly. Daphne sighed.
"Drats," she skipped out from behind the wall, heading back to her cubicle.
"Any luck, Daphne?" a male voice questioned. Daphne turned to see her boss, Steve, staring at her with a knowing grin.
"You know if I had managed to find success, I would be bouncing off the walls, Steve," Daphne huffed.
"Well keep at it. You're getting close. I can feel it!" Steve encouraged.
Daphne rolled her eyes. "You've said that every day for the past three months."
"And every day you get closer to the solution. This cache, whatever it is, is going to be huge when you unlock it, Daphne."
"And if it's filled with nothing but sand?" Daphne asked hesitantly.
"Then you'll have discovered a new runic language you can patent, should go just fine with your most recent patent. Congratulations on getting that finally approved," Steve chuckled.
Daphne offered a sheepish smile. It had taken far longer than she desired, but her patent to have electrical devices run in the magical world had finally been approved and she had several investors clamoring to get started. Daphne didn't want to start her own business, however.
No, she enjoyed the thrill of problem solving far too much to abandon her post at Gringotts. For their part, Gringotts was relieved and ecstatic she was staying and had given her a substantial raise. Daphne was now sending Aria's annual salary back home every month.
Aria initially protested this vehemently. Daphne finally got through to her when she explained her patent. Minerva had never been prouder and had all but begged Daphne to come teach Arithmancy at Hogwarts when Professor Vector stepped down.
Daphne had politely declined. Truthfully, she was unsure if she could ever return to Britain to live again.
"Now get to lunch, Greengrass," Steve teased. "Garluk will have my skin mounted above his throne if he thinks I'm making you work through mandatory breaks.
"Yes, sir," Daphne mock saluted and dropped her quill and parchment off at her cubicle before gathering her purse and cloak. A quick transfiguration of her robes later, and Daphne was on her way to her favorite coffee shop for lunch.
There was a niggling in the back of her head that today had a surprise in store for her. She wasn't sure if that was good or bad, but with the way her luck had turned of late, she was leaning toward a positive surprise.
Maybe I'll finally break the code after lunch! Daphne squealed internally at the thought.
-GU-
October 31, 1998 (Somewhere in America – Coffee Shop – Noon)
"This place is nice," Fleur approved as she glanced around while sipping on her coffee.
"Yeah, I come here whenever I'm, uh, in the area," Harry chuckled and sighed wistfully. "You know, I forgot today is Halloween."
"It is, isn't it?" Fleur hummed.
"Pretty sure this day is cursed for me," Harry chortled. "Or, it was, until I broke said curse. Let's see…1991 it was a troll in the dungeon. 1992 it was a basilisk attack. 1993 was a supposed mass-murderer invasion. 1994 was the Triwizard cup…"
"Yes, I know these things," Fleur hissed as she scalded her tongue and set her coffee down in frustration. "But enough about such things. You know what I desire to know – Now spill!"
"Alright! Alright!" Harry laughed. "Goodness, where do I even start?"
Fleur blew on her coffee as she impatiently waited both for it to cool and Harry to get on with it.
"Well, it started shortly before Christmas," Harry began. "Khisanth had left once she completed copying the tomes in the Peverell library that were of interest to her. Not long after, I found myself craving – pardon the expression – Human company. I didn't mention it on the way over here, but Khisanth is able to take on the form of a rather exotic human female."
Fleur felt as if her eyes were going to pop out of her head.
"That was about my expression when I first saw her," Harry indicated to his Veela friend. "I suppose, in a way, it served to mute that feeling of isolation that was beginning to weigh on me."
"I- I see," Fleur stammered breathlessly.
"Then the dreams started," Harry said softly, his expression darkening. "I began hearing Sirius in my sleep. Remembering things which I had long thought forgotten."
Fleur sympathetically patted Harry's hand.
"It culminated on Christmas," Harry narrated as if in a trance. "I went to see my parents… Their graves, I mean." His breath hitched and he gruffly cleared his throat. "I also went to where it happened. Where he killed them."
Fleur covered her mouth with her hand, her eyes watering.
"It was both awful and wonderful, in unique ways," Harry admitted slowly. "After, I just wanted to get away. Far, far away. Away from the memories, and the pain, and the feeling of being alone."
He sighed heavily and took a swig of his tea.
"It didn't really work. I eventually found myself in Alaska and spent some time in the wilderness with just Fawkes. The scenery there is breathtaking, Fleur. I- I lost myself for a while in it all…" He chuckled darkly. "But that cursed feeling persisted until I could bear it no longer. Uncaring of the consequences, I finally penned a letter to Andromeda."
"If I may," Fleur interjected gently, waiting until Harry nodded for her to continue. "Why did you not contact her sooner?"
Harry shrugged. "I think I was so wrapped up in living," he emphasized the words by doing air quotes, "that I forgot what I was living for. At first, I ignored them for their own safety, as they were under the Fidelius. A tricky bit of magic that one, and not one I wanted to test by circumventing via phoenix."
Fleur nodded and motioned for him to continue.
"But I knew when they dropped it. I figured it wouldn't take long for Croaker to do his part. Never thought old Moldyshorts would attack the DOM head on though," Harry snorted.
Fleur blinked as she processed what Harry said. "You have started following British Wizarding news?"
Harry waved away the question as if shooing a fly. "No. Never. That country can burn for all I care. There are only a select few within whom I care about. What I now know is strictly from conversations with Andromeda, Ted, and Dora."
Fleur licked her lips nervously, and Harry could tell she was struggling to pose her next question.
"Did…" she paused. "Did they tell you about…"
"Daphne?" Harry said the name in a voice barely above a whisper.
Fleur could only nod.
"Yeah…" Harry stared down at his steaming coffee cup. Then he laughed, but it was hollow and mirthless. "They told me about her, alright… I swear Andromeda was about ready to flay me alive once she got going, and Dora wasn't far behind her."
"I am sorry I never spoke of her-" Fleur began.
"Don't-" Harry held his hand up to forestall any unnecessary apologies. "I am thankful that you didn't, Fleur. I'm not honestly sure how I would have reacted had you attempted to. You're a good friend."
Fleur gave a tremulous smile and half-hearted nod. "Still…" she began slowly. "Daphne has not had it easy, Harry."
"I've been made aware," Harry replied with a grunt. "I learned a lot on my Alaskan reflection journey. During my introspection, I determined that Daphne was innocent of most of her…actions…" He sighed heavily. "As the Americans say: hindsight is 20/20."
Fleur cocked her head to the side curiously.
"Muggle expression," Harry offered an empty smile.
"Have you thought about contacting her?" Fleur asked cautiously.
Harry was already shaking his head halfway through the question. "No- I mean, yes. But no. Both Andi and Dora won't even let me see Tori." He scoffed. "As if they could stop me if I truly decided to. Most people forget I control Hogwarts…" He frowned, his countenance darkening. "Andromeda has told me to not seek out Daphne."
"You know where she is?" Fleur questioned in surprise. "That's impressive if so, Harry. I am sure that certain people know, but all that has been made public is she is now employed by Gringotts somewhere."
"And that is all I know as well," Harry shrugged. "I have ways of locating her if I desperately needed to," he smirked. "Fawkes, remember?"
Fleur took a sip of her coffee; happy it had cooled to a drinkable temperature.
"I've decided to respect Andromeda's wishes, however. I viewed plenty of pensieve memories…" He shuddered and swallowed heavily. "What I saw wasn't pretty. At first, I thought the way I handled the situation I found myself in justified…" Harry took another swig of his tea. "Now? I feel terrible about how it all panned out. I practically ruined Daphne in my quest to detach from Wizarding Britain."
"She did play a part," Fleur reminded Harry pointedly. "The blame does not lay solely with you, Harry."
"No, it lays with her bastard of a father, his boss, and his cohorts," Harry returned immediately. "I won't lie and say Daphne didn't rip my heart out in the process. She did." He winced and unconsciously grabbed his chest as if plagued by phantom pain. "But her actions weren't her own. I think, deep down, I always knew that. I just didn't want to accept it in the moment."
"You speak as if you still have feelings for her, Harry," Fleur hummed over her coffee.
"I suspect you already know the answer to that, Fleur," Harry stated directly, locking Fleur's gaze with his own.
"Yes, I do," Fleur nodded demurely. "The question, Harry, is what are you going to do about it?"
"As previously stated," Harry drawled slowly, "I will respect my family's wishes."
Fleur seemed to dislike this answer, but instead of voicing her disdain for Harry's inaction, she merely clicked her tongue. "Then perhaps you should attempt to find a lady friend on this day."
"Well, my parents did die on this day," Harry deadpanned.
Fleur winced but pressed forward. "And why you should seek to create a reason for this day to be a good day, Harry."
"If you say so," Harry absently swirled his tea. "Enough about my love woes, or lack thereof. I take it by the ring on your finger you are pleased with William?"
"Yes," Fleur beamed, her smile radiant. "Although my maman and papa are still hesitant, I believe they are warming up to him. William understands my desire to remain in France and is actively working to transfer to the French branch of Gringotts."
"He's part of the British branch then?"
"No," Fleur shook her head. "Egyptian, actually."
Harry whistled. "Only the best curse breakers go to Egypt."
"He is very good at what he does," Fleur proclaimed proudly. "And I am happy to know he loves me more than his work. We will both be very happy in France, especially since Britain is still plagued by that Dark Lord."
"Pity he survived," Harry quipped over his tea. "I thought for sure Croaker would have done him in."
"He is still very much a menace, if one is to believe the Daily Prophet," Fleur continued. "Although they are more than happy to keep blaming…" she trailed off, her attention elsewhere.
Harry growled in irritation. He knew who they blamed. Andromeda had been ruthless in showing Harry exactly what his dismissal of Daphne had wrought upon the poor girl. By condemning Wizarding Britain to handle their own problems, he had inadvertently given them the perfect scapegoat in Daphne Greengrass.
"Oh, I'm aware of the lambasting Daphne took until she became employed. Andromeda made sure of it," Harry said lowly.
"You are still partial to blondes, yes?" Fleur asked out of the blue.
Harry blinked. "What?"
"Blondes, Harry. You still prefer them, do you not?" Fleur questioned again.
"Uh, I mean, yeah, I guess I prefer blondes," Harry flushed slightly at the inquisition. "Why?"
"Well, there is a cute blonde who just entered and is ordering. You should speak with her," Fleur encouraged with a mischievous glint in her eye.
"Okay, hold on," Harry held his hands up in a halting motion. "First off, is it okay for a girl to acknowledge another girl as cute? What's the protocol for that?"
"Psh," Fleur shooed away Harry's insinuations. "Quit stalling. You are lonely, no? Do something about it."
"I'm not going to just walk up to some random muggle and ask her out!" Harry said obstinately.
"She is not muggle, Harry," Fleur waggled her finger.
"And how in Merlin's name do you know that, Fleur?"
Fleur indicated herself with her thumb. "Veela," she said as if that explained everything.
Harry mimicked her motion. "Human," he deadpanned.
Fleur frowned. "She is wearing transfigured clothing, Harry. I can sense the magic from them."
"Well, what's a Witch doing in a place like this?" Harry asked as he took another swig of his tea.
"You won't know if you don't ask," Fleur pointed at him. "Get going."
"Ugh, you're a terrible wingman- woman- whatever," he grumbled. "And I don't mean that as a jab at your avian heritage."
"I am aware," Fleur giggled. "Now hurry. She just finished ordering. Invite her to join us. I admit I am curious as to why she is here."
"Oh, very well," Harry begrudgingly acquiesced. "It's not like anyone here is going to recognize 'The Great Master Harry Potter Sir' anyways."
"What?"
"Nothing but an inside joke," Harry chuckled. "I'm going! I'm going!"
He stood and quickly identified the woman Fleur was speaking of. Her golden blonde hair glistened in the bright lighting of the shop as she looked for an empty table. She looked vaguely familiar to Harry, but he shrugged it off and gave a half-wave to get her attention. It seemed to work, and he found himself locking eyes with the sapphire blues of the startlingly beautiful woman.
Only for her to gasp and drop her lunch tray in shock. Her drink – tea, judging by the color – fell to the ground and promptly exploded, showering nearby diners with the liquid. Her sandwich – a club, judging by the lettuce and tomato – splattered to the ground in a macabre cartwheel.
She remained frozen, completely oblivious to the employees of the coffee shop moving around her to clean up the mess, and the diner's unfortunate enough to be in the blast zone grumbling and cursing their luck. Harry noted she was trembling, but from fear, cold, or nerves he was unsure.
Her eyes shone with a maelstrom of emotion, and Harry felt a tumult of emotion as recognition registered within his mind. He took an automatic step forward.
She took a step back.
The action caused panic to flare up in his mind. Immediately, he opened his mouth to speak but he found words had escaped him. He was suddenly, acutely aware of the growing amount of attention they were garnering. He attempted to speak once more, but still no words came. Instead, he took another step forward.
And she took another step back, her eyes darting toward the door.
Frustration at his inability to speak roiled through him. She was here! In America! Right in front of him! Knowing that he had to say something – anything! – he opened his mouth once more.
"Daphne," his voice cracked as a myriad of emotions attempted to make themselves known through his tone.
She fidgeted with her empty hands, her eyes turning to the door once more. Harry watched as she closed her eyes slowly, clearly waging a mental war. Finally, she opened her eyes and sighed, resolved.
"Hello, Harry," she said softly, her voice slightly more mature but still as magical and alluring as Harry now remembered.
His mind made sure of it by assaulting him with memories both past and more recent, courtesy of his family.
Harry swallowed, unsure of how to proceed. What exactly was he supposed to say? What should he say? He could tell she was ready to bolt at the drop of a hat, and that was the last thing that he wanted. No, ironically, what he wanted was to ask her out as originally intended.
Curse you, Fleur! Harry screamed mentally. If this was planned, it was bloody brilliant, worthy of Papa Sal himself. If this was a random happenstance, then I now have PROOF Potter Luck is real! If I ever get around to using the Resurrection Stone to speak with Sirius, I'll make damn sure I bring it up to him!
As if summoned, Fleur appeared at his side.
"Hello," she greeted warmly. "I am Fleur Delacour. My friend Harry and I would love if you joined us for lunch."
"Hi, Fleur," Daphne said timidly. "I remember you from school, but you may not remember me. I'm Daphne Greengrass."
Fleur balked. She didn't remember Daphne, but she knew who Daphne Greengrass was.
"Morgana's tits," Fleur said weakly. Her first inclination had been to laugh, but the gravity of the current situation overruled her.
"Yeah, that about sums it up," Harry muttered in disbelief. Of all the places and times for him to run into Daphne Greengrass… Now?
"I-I should g-go," Daphne stammered, her eyes having finished inspecting Fleur. "Co- Congratulations on your en- engagement, you two," she managed to stutter.
Harry could tell she was going to flee and found himself subtly positioned to intercept her when a sound interrupted both his and Daphne's impending chase.
Fleur was laughing.
As always, it was lilting, musical, and infectious. It severed the rising tension, causing Harry to exhale slowly and Daphne to slightly relax. Fleur shook her head, wiping a stray mirthful tear from her eye.
"We are not engaged," she gestured at Harry and herself. "Just friends who have not seen each other for quite some time."
"O-Oh," Daphne squeaked and blushed cutely.
"Please join us," Fleur stepped forward with an outstretched hand.
"I don't want to impose," Daphne shook her head and tucked a stray lock behind her ear, making Harry's heart thump erratically at the motion.
"It is no imposition," Fleur assured. "I was telling Harry to approach you and invite you to join us. I admit I did not know who you are…" She gave Harry a pointed look as she declared this. "…but I find the revelation quite…timely." She shot a wink at Harry.
He barely acknowledged it, his entire being still reeling from encountering Daphne. There was so much he wanted – needed – to say, but he had yet to find the words.
Daphne sighed, and it seemed to come from the tips of her toes. "I suppose I can join you."
"Excellent," Fleur clapped her hands, uncaring of those who were distracted by her motion. "I will go order your lunch, since you spilled yours. Go and have a seat. I shall join you shortly."
Daphne clearly wanted to protest but submitted herself to the inevitable and followed Harry, who made sure to glance over his shoulder constantly to ensure she was still there.
When they made it to the table, Harry swiftly sat down without bothering to pull out Daphne's chair. He saw her deflate ever-so-slightly and wanted to kick his own arse at his idiocy. He watched Daphne sit down slowly and then fold her hands in her lap, looking anywhere but at him.
He took the time to inspect her, drinking in her beauty. And Merlin was she beautiful! It enraptured him, almost as if Daphne had an allure of her own. Catching himself staring, Harry blinked and shook his head to clear his mental fog. Deciding to break the silence, Harry spoke with an eloquence befitting kings, happy to have finally found his voice.
"Hi."
-GU-
Daphne sighed heavily as she looked Harry in the eyes, pointedly aware of how mesmerizing they were to her. Her heart ached at his presence, and she had a myriad of questions running through her mind. He looked even more handsome than she remembered; more rugged, muscular, and older.
Her emotions, however, were in shambles. Morbid embarrassment hung over her at having dropped her lunch the way she did. Her inability to react and clean it up or even acknowledge it. Her misinterpretation of Fleur and Harry's engagement…
But what hurt the most was Harry. The past several months she had taken steps to begin letting go of her feelings for him. She knew he resented her, hated her even, and yet she found she still longed for him. It was a conscious decision on her part, made after months of reflection, that it was simply time to move on.
And then he randomly showed up in her favorite coffee shop. In the United States of America. In the state of Missouri. In the city of Branson. If Daphne hadn't seen just how unlucky Harry was, – or lucky, based on perspective – she would have refuted any statement that this encounter was sheer happenstance.
Although she was now determined to see this through, Harry's lack of manners in pulling her chair stung far more than she cared to admit. It also reminded her that she hadn't quite moved on (despite having convinced herself to the contrary).
She had passed the first test and had not bolted at first sight of him. That was a victory in her book. Now, it was time to finally clear the air and tell him the truth. To give him the binder she always kept on her (an action that refuted her claims of having moved on). She would find what he wanted from her for healing Astoria, and then, finally, she could move on after he had exacted his price.
With all of this in mind and her emotions firmly in disarray, she spoke, fully intent on getting the ball rolling.
"Hi."
Fleur appeared, dropping a tray that perfectly mimicked Daphne's previous order before her. Daphne looked over at the Veela who was seated on either side of them.
"I just had them remake the order," Fleur explained as she gestured at the tray.
"Th-Thank you," Daphne said gently and took a bite, grateful to have something to chew on to prevent her from talking.
"So, this is a surprise, no?" Fleur smiled pleasantly, sipping on a new cup of coffee she had ordered.
Daphne and Harry both nodded.
"I find myself curious as to why you are here," Fleur prompted Daphne after she had swallowed.
Daphne froze with the sandwich halfway to her mouth.
"I work in the Branson Magical District," she explained softly. "It's my lunch break, and I usually come here. My normal spot was taken though."
"Is it usually busier around the holidays then?" Fleur questioned.
Daphne nodded.
"What do you do for work?" Harry asked.
Daphne hesitated, her mind attempting and failing to process Harry's motives in asking such a question. "I'm a curse breaker for Gringotts," she eventually replied.
"Oh! My fiancé is also a curse breaker," Fleur gasped. "But why are you working in America of all places? Surely you should be in Egypt, what with your credentials, no?"
Daphne watched Harry's expression morph into one of confusion briefly, before a knowing look flashed across his eyes. She found it curious, because it indicated that he, at the minimum, knew what Fleur was referring to. Did he sometimes inquire about her with his Veela friend? Why? For what purpose? Not wanting to be rude, Daphne answered Fleur's question.
"The Egyptian field is directly tied to the British branch of Gringotts, and they wouldn't hire me," Daphne whispered, her voice laced with hurt. "I was lucky to get an assignment in America. I took it immediately."
Harry scowled, and the dangerous expression on his face made Daphne's confidence shatter. This was a mistake. She shouldn't be here. She no longer wanted to be here. Had she done something to make him angry? Was her having finally found gainful employment so enraging to him?
"I remember reading that you scored the most NEWTS since Dumbledore himself," Fleur smiled encouragingly briefly before it faltered. "You should have been welcomed anywhere you applied with open arms."
"The Ministry felt it would be bad for morale if I was hired," Daphne said bitterly as she stared at her hands, still in her lap. "After all, I'm the reason for all of their problems."
Harry made a noise that, to her, sounded like a snort of derision. She looked up, hurt, and felt angry tears begin rising.
How DARE he! How dare he downplay my pain!
"I'm sorry," Harry surprisingly interjected, his voice quavering. "Daphne," he repeated soothingly, "I'm sorry. That was not a noise meant to indicate mockery of your situation. It was my own rage being choked back at the stupidity of the British Ministry."
"It-It's okay," Daphne said in a voice that indicated anything but. She knew her voice was quaking with barely contained emotion, and her vision was blurring rapidly from rising tears threatening to spill, but she didn't care. She also found herself thoroughly confused by Harry suddenly explaining himself.
But why would he feel rage at the Ministry's response to her? That didn't make any sense. They were bemoaning the loss of him and blaming her. Why would that anger Harry? He didn't suffer from it. She did. Isn't that what he wanted? Isn't that why he left the way he did? The questions kept piling up in Daphne's mind, driving her into a frenzy that she could only assuage by continuing to narrate, although she did not understand why she bothered.
"I applied for every Ministry job that I could, based on my NEWTS," Daphne said tersely. "I was told by John Dawlish, the temporary Head of the DMLE, that it was considered bad for public morale if I was employed at the Ministry. He was at least kind enough to be candid with me that I should anticipate rejections for every application I submitted."
Fleur said some choice words in French that Daphne was sure were not polite.
"I then applied in person to every shop in Diagon and Knockturn alley. None would have me," Daphne blinked, and several tears finally fell down her cheeks. "I went to Gringotts to get a business loan, thinking I could start something under a pseudonym and was denied. Thankfully, the Deputy Manager offered me a job in America. I took it without hesitation."
"I am glad you are on your feet," Fleur said sincerely, and Daphne knew she meant it. "I never bought any of that tripe Skeeter reported on you. There are always two sides to every coin," she said with a curious sidelong glance at Harry.
"Thank you," Daphne wiped her cheeks and gave a tremulous smile. "It was very tough after-" she choked on her words, swallowed, and plowed forward. "After everything that happened." She turned to face Harry, finding an unreadable expression on his face. She sighed heavily. It was time.
Aware that Harry was watching her in silent contemplation, which she was positive was judgement, Daphne subtly drew her wand and cast a few charms to provide them privacy for what she wanted to say. Fleur was notably impressed.
"I'm sorry for everything that happened, Harry," Daphne began slowly. "I hate myself for having hurt you the way I did. I think Tori told you, but my memories were altered by my-" she hesitated and steeled herself. "My father."
Harry moved to speak but Daphne plowed on, refusing to look at him.
"I did love you," she continued weakly, her voice cracking. "I think I still do."
Daphne heard Harry's breathing hitch but didn't dare look at him. Instead, she fumbled in her purse with shaking hands before giving up and using her wand to Accio the shrunken binder, which she quickly unshrunk and presented to Harry, her eyes locked on the table.
"This has everything," she explained tremulously. "Everything since the day we met. What happened, what was me, what was not me, what I said of my own accord, regardless of what may have been influencing me. What I did to hurt you, and what I was forced to do. All of it. It took years to compile, and I wanted you to have it so it could, perhaps, afford you the same closure it afforded me."
Daphne took a deep breath.
"Lastly, I wanted to thank you. Thank you for saving Astoria, my baby sister. I am so beyond grateful for whatever it was you did to break the blood curse on her." She slowly pulled a folded, faded piece of paper from her purse and slowly unfolded it, sliding it across the table toward Harry, her eyes on her hands as she did so.
"You returned this to me, and I can only assume it was because you wanted me to fulfill the oath I made," Daphne closed her eyes and recited, "If you heal Astoria, I will give you anything you ask for. If I don't have it, I'll work for the rest of my life to obtain it."
She opened her eyes slowly and firmly stared directly into Harry's emerald-green eyes. "So, I ask you, what do you require of me, Harry Potter?"
Daphne observed as Harry stared down at the binder and letter. Astoria had told her that Harry had indicated he knew Daphne was innocent. So why did he look…confused?
"Daphne," Harry said slowly, his voice strained. "You owe me no debt. I saved Astoria because I view her as the little sister I never had." He seemed to be struggling with what to say next. "I require nothing of you, Daphne Greengrass," he finally declared. "You owe me no debt."
"You are certain?" Daphne asked.
"Completely," Harry affirmed, and Daphne watched him take the binder in his hands. "Also, thank you for the binder. It must have been quite a bit of work."
"It was," Daphne offered a sad, but relieved, smile. "I suppose I will see myself out."
"Why are you leaving?" Harry all but blurted out. "You've barely touched your lunch!"
Why does he look so hurt? Daphne wondered to herself. Why does the thought of him caring for me still make my heart flutter? I thought I was over this! And why in Morgana's name did I tell him I think I still love him?! That's not true… I don't… I… Oh Gods…
"I- I have to go," Daphne whispered. "Work."
"Stay," Harry intoned gently. "Please, Daphne."
Her tenuous control over her emotions stretched to the breaking point and nearly snapped as an errant sob escaped her lips. She clamped a hand over her mouth and shook her head as she pushed her chair back far louder than she would have preferred. Harry mimicked her action which frustrated her as they both staggered to their feet.
"Daph-"
"No, Harry!" Daphne finally barked out. "I- I don't know what you think you're doing, being nice to me, but you can drop the act!"
Harry flinched as if struck.
Daphne sobbed and tears spilled down her cheeks. His confused, hurt expression caused the same emotions to rebound to herself. Biting her lip, Daphne recovered what little dignity she felt she had left and straightened her transfigured shirt.
"We both know that you hate me, Harry," Daphne said in a watery, but resolute, voice. "And I don't blame you for hating me. I just want you to know that no matter how much you've hated me, it can never compare to how much I hate myself."
Harry appeared to have something to say but was silenced by a stern glare from Fleur right as she reached out and grabbed Daphne's hand, preventing her from storming off. "Daphne, join me in the ladies' room for a moment." It wasn't a question.
Daphne nodded numbly; the fight having left her. Defeated, she followed Fleur, leaving a very confused Harry Potter behind.
-GU-
After ensuring the bathroom was empty, Fleur's wand was a blur of motion as she sealed it off and warded it against any intruders. Daphne watched her, recognizing every spell she cast. She could appreciate the skill, and it was a testament as to why Fleur had been chosen as a Triwizard champion.
The Veela whirled on Daphne suddenly, causing her to take a step back.
"What are you doing?" Fleur hissed.
"What?" Daphne squawked.
"Harry clearly has unresolved feelings for you," Fleur said in exasperation. "You don't have to be a Veela to know that, Daphne."
Daphne snorted derisively. "Unresolved feelings. Yeah, right. He hates me."
"He does not," Fleur shook her head. "Hate is a very powerful, vivid emotion. I would know if that was what he felt."
"I've done what I needed to do, Fleur," Daphne said bitterly. "I told him I was sorry. I told him the truth and gave him everything I've worked on for the past three years. I-" she sobbed bitterly, and Fleur reflexively embraced her. "I can finally be free, Fleur. I don't want to hurt anymore."
"Harry is hurting too," Fleur whispered soothingly.
"Yeah, well he made sure he properly wrecked my life. I thought today was going to be a good day! I finally got my feet under me. I don't need-" she pulled back and flapped her arms. "Whatever this is!"
"You need closure, Daphne," Fleur whispered.
"Why do you care?!" Daphne shrieked, her emotions boiling over.
"Harry is my friend!" Fleur countered. "I do not condone all he has done, but I understand why he did what he did. All I want for him now is to find happiness and someone who will love and care for him."
Fleur glared at Daphne, daring her to challenge her words. "I am Veela, Daphne. We are creatures of passion. I feel the truth of your love for Harry just as I feel his for you, although he may foolishly deny it."
"Well, this has been lovely," Daphne said sarcastically, sniffling and wiping her eyes. "But I have to get back to work."
"This may be your one chance to repair your relationship with Harry-" Fleur attempted as Daphne began rapidly deconstructing her charmwork with shocking efficiency.
"Harry and I had our chance, Fleur," Daphne called over her shoulder as she jerked the bathroom door open. "I hurt him, and he repaid the favor tenfold. Yes, I sometimes have dreams of us reconciling, re-falling in love, and one day holding the daughter he saw in the Mirror of Erised."
Daphne looked over her shoulder, a soulless smile plastered on her expression.
"But they are just dreams, and I have to let them go."
Fleur watched Daphne storm from the bathroom, the door shutting behind her and leaving the Veela alone.
-GU-
Should have gotten her chair, Harry scolded himself as soon as Daphne and Fleur left him alone at the table.
He hummed to himself as he went to take a drink of his tea. It was empty. Frowning, Harry stared at the dregs, his mind replaying the conversation numerous times. He was thoroughly confused by Daphne. What provoked such a volatile reaction? Him being nice? Was he supposed to be a cad to her?
No… Harry thought, shaking his head. There is something obvious I'm missing.
Harry gasped as realization struck him. Of course! Daphne had no idea Harry knew everything. Andromeda and Dora must not have told her they had been in contact with him!
…Which makes sense, I suppose, Harry thought. Although this does put me in a bit of a bind. I doubt Daphne will be pleased to find out Andi and Dora were keeping their contact with me from her. We did say it was a family matter though, so maybe that's a viable defense?
He sighed in frustration. This would have been much easier if he had been allowed to simply seek Daphne out; instead, he had been expressly forbidden from doing so. Now it was all a convoluted mess.
"Typical Potter Luck," Harry muttered bitterly.
Harry closed his eyes and sighed heavily, taking a moment to center himself. Seeing Daphne again was…nice. Just hearing her voice brought him calm, and her eyes were just as mesmerizing as ever. And when she cried-
Harry flinched, his eyes shooting open as a door behind him banged loudly. It was only an employee rummaging through a resupply closet.
It felt like a dagger was being driven into my soul, Harry thought morosely.
Then there was the issue of his blood doing that annoying singing thing it did when he had first met her. Once again, it was as if his very magic was crying out for Daphne. Thanks to his time spent in the Peverell library, he had a better grasp on it all now.
Harry had long since confirmed he'd shattered whatever tampering Dumbledore had attempted with the Elder Wand. He felt its comforting presence thrumming against his wrist as it rested in its holster, begging to be used. He ignored its call, focusing on keeping his eyes peeled for Daphne. He was willing to bet she would be making a quick exit after her impromptu conversation with Fleur.
I can't let her leave thinking I'm acting, or playing with her emotions, Harry thought firmly. Fleur is right, as she usually is… I am tired of being alone, and Daphne feels like…
"Home," he muttered under his breath right as he caught a flash of golden blonde hair in his peripheral vision.
Daphne hurried to the exit of the coffee shop, not sparing him a glance. Scrambling to his feet, (and almost upending his chair in his haste) Harry weaved his way through the crowd, but Daphne was far enough ahead that he knew she would be gone before he could ever reach her.
"Daphne!" he called out loudly.
She hesitated long enough for him to gain on her but did not acknowledge his call.
Cursing internally, Harry forced his way forward and caught her just outside the exit. He grabbed her hand, tugging harder than necessary and causing her to stagger backward.
"Wait a minute!" he pleaded.
"Release me!" Daphne said dangerously, and Harry recoiled from the venom in her tone, letting go of her hand.
"Look-" Harry held his hands up as she glowered at him. "We need to talk."
"About what?" Daphne's voice cracked, and Harry could hear the watery warble in it. He felt his heart throb painfully in his chest.
"Us-" Harry began only to see Daphne's expression turn thunderous. "I mean, me- I mean, you!" Harry blurted, his hands flailing helplessly. He growled and Daphne's expression morphed into one of fear.
Damnit! He swore at himself. Stop scaring her and just say it!
He saw the confusion in her eyes, and her posture tightened as she drew within herself. "What are you trying to say?" she demanded.
Harry nervously licked his lips, carefully considering his next words. That was the question, wasn't it? "I don't know," he finally admitted lamely, wishing he could kick his own arse. "I just feel like we should talk."
He fully expected her to turn on her heel and apparate away, international statute of secrecy be damned. She didn't, and instead appeared to be scrutinizing him heavily.
"You never do take that cloak off, do you?" Daphne asked suddenly.
Harry felt the Deathly Hallow on his back flutter of its own accord, as if it relished being acknowledged. He felt his blood freeze at the question.
She can still see it… Harry could scarcely believe his own thoughts. She can still see it!
"Always," Harry said softly.
Daphne fidgeted, clearly waging some form of internal debate. She stepped forward and Harry kept perfectly still, only the twitch of his eyebrows betraying his surprise. She took another step forward until they were less than a foot apart.
And then she reached out and touched his cloak, fingering it gently before letting it fall back, a slight smile dancing on her lips.
"It's still cool to the touch," Daphne said to herself before retreating to a distance she deemed comfortable.
"Daph-" Harry began, his voice hoarse from his shock.
"I have to get back to work," she interrupted wearily.
"Can we talk when you get off work then?" Harry attempted, reflexively rubbing the back of his neck. "I have a flat- er, apartment nearby. I can give you the address?"
Daphne fidgeted and chewed her bottom lip, clearly uncomfortable.
"I'll even swear an oath no harm will come to you," Harry pressed. "On my life and magic if necessary."
Daphne sighed and spoke in a voice thick with emotion. "You don't need to do that."
"After work then," Harry pleaded in earnest.
"After work," Daphne affirmed as she began rummaging in her purse. She eventually pulled out a very familiar object, holding it out to him expectantly. "Here," she nodded her head at the outstretched mirror. "You should call Andi. I'm sure she would like to hear from you."
Harry felt his stomach drop to his shoes. That was not going to be a fun conversation. Keeping up appearances, however, was monumentally important. He accepted the mirror immediately.
"Thank you," Harry said sincerely. "I will make sure to contact her." He cleared his throat. "Uh, would you prefer I give you the address or, um, would you prefer Fawkes or Dobby-?"
"The address, please," Daphne responded quickly.
Harry nodded and fumbled around his pockets. He didn't carry paper or a pen! What bloke would carry those things?
"I am perfectly capable of remembering the address," Daphne said dryly.
Harry sputtered, his face flushing in frustration at having, once again, performed a perceived insult to Daphne. He was seriously considering hexing himself when Daphne passed him a scrap of parchment and fountain pen. Sighing in relief, Harry took it and quickly scribbled down the address.
"It's under Fidelius," Harry explained apologetically. "I probably should have said that from the get-go."
Daphne shot him a hollow smile. "I understand. I get off at six."
"See you a quarter after six then?"
"Okay," Daphne whispered.
They both stood awkwardly staring at each other.
"R-Right," Harry cleared his throat. "Um, have a good day at work."
"Thank you," Daphne whispered softly, waved stiffly, and turned on her heel, departing at a brisk pace. She didn't look back.
Harry breathed a sigh of relief and suddenly felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand at attention. He chuckled grimly and called over his shoulder.
"Alright, Fleur. Let me have it."
"Non," Fleur said airily as she appeared at his side, pushing the binder Daphne had given him into his hands. "For an impromptu meeting, you did well. She is very confused and scared."
Harry gave her a sidelong glance.
"I did not know it was her," Fleur promised with a sad smile. "But, I think, it is good that it was." She paused for a moment in thought. "Although perhaps the setting could have been better."
"I guess it remains to be seen if I'll thank you," Harry sighed.
"Oh, I am sure you will be more than happy to thank me in the future," Fleur said mysteriously.
"Care to share?" Harry prodded.
Fleur snorted. "No. That is for you both to navigate. Just make sure you fix this." She glared at him as she said it, causing a shiver to run up Harry's spine. "Second chances do not happen often, Harry."
"I'll do my best," he promised.
"And you will be at my wedding," Fleur declared imperiously.
"I wouldn't miss it for the world, Fleur," Harry swore. "I will be there."
She gave a satisfied, dainty nod.
"Under my cloak."
Fleur rolled her eyes and giggled. "Perhaps even that will change."
Harry shrugged. "Do you need Fawkes to take you home?"
"That would be preferable," Fleur fell into step with Harry as the two started back toward his apartment.
They walked in companionable silence for several minutes before Fleur decided to break it.
"I expect you to be a gentleman, Harry," Fleur quipped, a hint of steel in her tone. "Don't think I missed your barbarity on full display earlier."
Harry winced, properly chagrined. "I'm not proud of it, okay? I was shocked to my core! I just forgot to get her chair."
"You get a pass from me this once, because I know you were surprised," Fleur assured.
Harry chose not to acknowledge the statement and instead focused on unlocking his door. He opened it to find Fawkes perched atop the dining table, cooing softly, and a seven-foot tall, devastatingly gorgeous, midnight black haired woman, with blood red eyes and a crimson dress that was way too provocative standing nearby, apparently conversing with the phoenix.
Fleur gawked, and Harry was alarmed to see feathers begin sprouting out the collar of her blouse and down her arms.
"Juste ciel, Harry Potter!" Fleur gasped, her hand coming up to her mouth. "Dr- dra- drag-"
"My oh my, Whelpling," Khisanth drawled sultrily. "You do always surprise with your company. And who might this little bird be?"
"I swear to Merlin!" Harry groaned as Fleur stared at him dumbfounded, gesturing erratically at the dragon lady.
-GU-
Daphne returned to work in a daze, the piece of paper from Harry clenched in her fist. How she got back to her cubicle was a mystery – it was almost as if she apparated back, even though she knew she hadn't.
What am I doing? Daphne asked herself as she slumped into the comfort of her cubicle chair. Did I really agree to subject myself to further hurt? Why? Why did I agree to see him?
She closed her eyes, her face contorted in agony, her fists clenched in sheer frustration as she cursed her own stupidity. Slowly, she lowered her forehead atop one of the many stacks of papers littering her desk, fully intent on having a good cry. A voice from behind interrupted her attempt to vent her emotions.
"Daphne?"
Gasping, Daphne bolted upright, spinning in her chair, and looking abashed. "Steve! I-"
"Are you okay?" Steve asked, concern etched on his face as he inspected her.
"Yes- No- I mean-" Daphne stammered before tremulously sighing and uttering miserably. "No, I'm not okay."
"Go home, Daphne," Steve said firmly but compassionately. "Merlin knows you haven't taken a day off in months. I was planning on forcing you to take some time off soon anyway. Hell, take the rest of the week off. That cache isn't going anywhere and will be here when you get back."
"R-Really?" Daphne asked timidly.
"I insist," Steve smiled warmly. "I'll see you next Monday," he called as he departed with a wave over his shoulder.
Daphne felt something wet hit her hand and started, quickly wiping her cheeks. Apparently, she had been crying. Sniffling, Daphne gathered her things and swiftly made her way toward the employee floo network within Gringotts. She desperately needed to talk to someone she trusted and knew just the person.
It wasn't until she grabbed a pinch of floo powder that doubt floated around her mind.
Will this even work? She asked herself. Surely the wards will prevent…
Daphne shook her head and threw down the powder, clearly calling out, "Hogwarts, Headmistress Office."
And in a flash of green fire she was gone.
-GU-
"Merlin has long been dead," Khisanth snorted, sending a plume of smoke from her nostrils. "Why your kind insists on invoking the name of the dead puzzles me."
She took a deep inhalation and blinked several times before grinning saucily. "I smell heightened pheromones. Fascinating. Tell me, Whelpling, do you intend to mate with this one?"
Fleur bristled. "What?!" she squawked.
Harry swore he could hear Arcturus and Salazar howling with laughter in another room.
"I'll have you know I am engaged to be married!" Fleur shrieked, her facial structure sharpening. "Harry! Explain yourself! Why do you have this- this-"
"Magnificent specimen," Khisanth finished smoothly with a humble nod as she ran a hand slowly down her figure. "Yes, I know, little bird."
Fleur sputtered in bafflement.
"Quit breaking my Veela friend," Harry scolded. "She's not my lover. She's marrying an English curse breaker-"
"How droll," Khisanth waved her hand, almost hitting Fawkes who squawked in agitation and flapped his wings. "All one needs to do is have a thick enough hide to weather such trivialities as curses."
"Yes, well, not all of us can be dragons," Harry muttered.
"A pity too. You would make a fine mate," Khisanth informed with a predatory smile.
Harry paled.
"Is that DRAGON flirting with you?" Fleur hissed in his ear.
"Not now, Fleur!" Harry mock-whispered back.
"Are you cheating on Daphne?!" Fleur demanded, her voice rising.
Harry spluttered. "What?! I'm not even with Daphne, Fleur!"
"I see you have a propensity for bedding flowers," Khisanth chuckled, the deep reverberation caused by it belying her lithe form.
"We are NOT sleeping together!" Fleur barked over Harry's shoulder.
"Did you say Mistress Daffy?" Dobby popped into the room, smiling ear to floppy ear.
"Oh. My. Gods." Harry smacked his forehead in exasperation.
There was no mistaking the distant cackling of the portraits now; even 'Mama Claw' was giggling profusely.
"Master Harry has found Mistress Daffy?" Dobby asked hopefully.
"A Mistress? Why have I never met her?" Khisanth questioned, sounding quite put out.
"I don't have time for this," Harry shook his head as he slumped onto his couch with a groan.
Fawkes chose that moment to flap over with a piece of parchment in his claws that had several correctly answered math questions. Harry stared at it blankly, his mind overloading and his eyes getting a glazed look.
"Harry?" Fleur poked him tentatively.
"Cease your dramatics," Khisanth scoffed. "Humans! So weak."
"Dobby will prepare a feast for Master Harry and his Miss!" Dobby did a little jig and prepared to bolt.
Fawkes squawked, pecked the parchment, and then proceeded to peck Harry atop the head.
"CONFOUND IT!" Harry roared before glaring at all involved parties. "Fleur- Meet Khisanth, the dragon I mentioned earlier. Khisanth- Meet Fleur, my friend who is a Veela and engaged- but NOT to me. Also, I have another friend-"
"Mistress Daffy!" Dobby interjected excitably.
"Yeah, Daphne…" Harry trailed off, then blinked, his expression blank. He shook his head to clear his mental fog. "Who will be coming by later tonight. You can't be here." He paused as he regarded the dragon lady. "Why are you here?" He waved his hands in the air, shooing away her response. "No! Not yet. No time. You can't be here- got it?"
Khisanth scoffed and folded her arms. "As if you could make me leave," she claimed petulantly.
"Dobby, no feast!" Harry said sternly, causing the house-elf's ears to droop. "No- Wait. Yes feast."
Dobby perked up.
"But nothing overkill! I don't want to scare her off. Just make some snacks and tea or something."
Dobby nodded jubilantly and disappeared with a pop!
"And you!" Harry shook the parchment at Fawkes. "How on earth did you manage this?"
Khisanth cleared her throat as daintily as a dragon could, tilting her nose in the air haughtily. "I may have determined to test him."
"Huh." Harry reviewed the parchment once more. "Well, uh, good job, buddy." He gave Fawkes a commissary pat on the head.
Fawkes was quite pleased with himself.
"And don't even think about bringing Sparky to this little gathering!" Harry warned dangerously, poking Fawkes in the chest. The phoenix squawked dramatically and hid his head behind his wing. "I know you were thinking it!" Harry accused. "Now, take Fleur home."
"No!" Fleur ducked as Fawkes attempted to grab her. "I want to speak with Lady Khisanth."
Harry noted Fleur's feathers had receded.
"I suppose I can tolerate your presence," Khisanth said in faux humility to Fleur. "But we will be speaking, Whelpling."
"Yeah, yeah," Harry waved her away. "Later. When I have time. You already have access to Peverell Castle, so I'm confused as to what you want."
Khisanth opened her mouth and then closed it, a very faint blush coming to her cheeks. "It's not like I was bored or anything!"
Harry wisely choked back a laugh as Khisanth's eyes narrowed dangerously. "Right. Got it. Go converse with Fleur then."
As the two ladies vanished into one of his spare rooms, Harry wearily rubbed his eyes.
"Why do I feel like this is going to be a disaster?" Harry asked Fawkes.
The phoenix cocked his head to the side but didn't respond.
"I can't believe I'm saying this," Harry muttered to himself, "but I think I'd actually prefer to deal with Sasha tonight."
In response, Fawkes subtly tightened his claws on Harry's shoulder and poofed them both out of the apartment.
-GU-
October 31, 1998 (Hogwarts – Midday)
Sasha slithered stealthily into a nearby abandoned classroom, having escaped 'The Tori's' care. She was intent on finishing her project. A piece of chalk was in her snout which she set down so she could properly inspect the scribbles she had inscribed on the stone floor.
To a normal passerby, they were just lines which might be confused as having been drawn by a two-year old child.
To Sasha, they were so much more.
Arithmancy was simple for a Queen such as herself. Calculations came quickly to her superior intellect, and Sasha easily determined answers to the questions which 'The Vector' posited. Yet she knew 'The Fawkes' could also perform such feats of intellect; impressive considering his small and feeble brain.
No. Sasha needed more to impress her Master. She knew 'The Fawkes' could not write. In this, she would surpass him.
"And then I shall be allowed to feast on The Fawkes, who will be so delicious. And then Master shall worship and praise me," she said to the empty room.
Sasha daintily – for a snake – picked up her chalk piece and began writing once more, managing to draw a squiggly number one.
"Fufufu!" Sasha laughed evilly with the chalk in her snout.
The door to the classroom was kicked open as Astoria stormed in. Sasha hissed in agitation, preparing for the firm scolding she knew she was about to receive.
"Leave me to my work!" Sasha wailed as Astoria began whomping her with a rolled up Daily Prophet paper.
"Bad Sasha!" Astoria scolded. "How many times have we been over-" she paused, her eyes widening. "Are you writing?!"
"Yes! I must surpass The Fawkes so Master can reward me by allowing me to feast on his delicious flesh! Then Master shall praise me and worship me for being such a good guard basilisk to your thankless self!" Sasha explained.
"Uh huh," Astoria nodded as if she understood Sasha. She didn't. "Daffy is gonna get a good laugh from this." Astoria mused aloud as she gathered a reluctant Sasha in her arms.
"Noooooo!" Sasha wailed dramatically.
"Oh hush!" Astoria smacked Sasha on the snout, causing the basilisk to pout petulantly. She stared at Sasha with a raised eyebrow as the basilisk glowered at her. "Okay, look. I know you can understand me, Sasha. How about I give you one hour a week to come practice…whatever it is you're doing?"
Sasha perked up. "This pleases me greatly! Yes! My power will grow!"
"Yep," Astoria nodded as Sasha hissed in pleasure. "Mmhmm." She began petting Sasha's snout as the basilisk continued to pontificate her achievements and future Queenly glory.
Sasha was content to be worshipped.
…For now.
-GU-
Minerva McGonagall was having a relatively quiet year, and she couldn't be happier. She finally had a full staff, including a new Transfiguration teacher, and there had been no crazy events like trolls, basilisks (apart from Sasha), dementors, tournaments, toads, or other such nonsense.
All Minerva had to worry about was coordinating teachers, reviewing student performances and grades, and handing out the occasional punishment for unruly, or overtly amorous, students. That was fine and well with her, and she offered a rare, private half-smile to no one in particular as she lifted her teacup to her lips while viewing the great hall from the staff table.
Alas, the wards had to flare, alerting her to an unknown presence in her office. Minerva could count on one hand how many people could access her office by floo, and they were all in the great hall having lunch. Well, almost all of them. Astoria had charged out just a moment ago with a rolled up Daily Prophet in hand.
Minerva rightly assumed it was to track down Sasha, who had taken a liking to occasionally prowling the abandoned classrooms. Minerva almost pitied the basilisk.
Almost.
"Dora," Minerva said gently, halting Tonks from finishing regaling a rather garish tale of her Academy days to Flitwick.
"I didn't do it!" Tonks automatically responded, causing Minerva to roll her eyes.
"Good Lord, girl, you don't even know what I want," Minerva huffed.
"So…I'm not in trouble?" Tonks asked sweetly.
"Please collect Astoria Greengrass and bring her to my office immediately," Minerva ignored the question entirely, focusing on the issue at hand.
Tonks wisely saluted smartly and started off while Minerva stood and drew her wand. A whispered Expecto Patronum, and a cat Patronus appeared which Minerva whispered a quick message to before it darted through a nearby wall. Shooting Filius a look that said, 'You are in charge.', Minerva gracefully made her way to the seventh floor.
-GU-
Daphne stepped out of the floo and nearly broke down but held herself together long enough to take a seat at the table she had spent so much time at during her sixth year. Minerva's office was a safe haven for Daphne, and she felt her tenuous control of her emotions stretched to the snapping point.
Once Daphne had sat and set her purse down, she finally buried her head in her arms and sobbed, venting the tsunami of emotion within. She knew Minerva would come. There was no way the Headmistress was not alerted to Daphne's presence in her office.
Anger, sadness, hurt, fear, and joy, all pushed their way out of Daphne as she sobbed bitterly. But the most prominent emotion she experienced was confusion. Confusion at Harry's demeanor during their encounter. Confusion at his insistence they talk.
What more was there to talk about? What more needed to be said?
Confusion as to why she agreed to see him again.
At some point, the door to Minerva's office opened and the Headmistress herself stepped in before taking a seat beside Daphne and gently rubbing her back. Daphne's sobs intensified as Minerva gently pulled her into an embrace, allowing Daphne to wail into her robes.
"Hush now, Daphne," Minerva soothed. "It's okay now."
Daphne nodded and shuddered, hiccupping violently as she futilely attempted to stymie the flood.
The door to the office opened once more.
"Headmistress! You'll never believe what Sasha was doing!" Astoria exclaimed. "She was writi… Daffy?"
Astoria numbly passed Sasha to a wary Tonks before bolting to her older sister. Minerva wisely released Daphne and leaned back as Astoria practically bowled her sister out of her chair.
"What's wrong?" Astoria demanded worriedly as she inspected Daphne for injuries. "What happened? Who did it? I'll kill them! No! Sasha will kill them!"
Sasha hissed with pleasure, causing Tonks to raise an eyebrow at the basilisk.
Daphne was shaking violently, causing Astoria to vibrate as her older sister held onto her for dear life.
"Will someone tell me what's going on?" Astoria demanded irately.
Minerva frowned and was about to scold the rambunctious teenager when the floo flared and Andromeda stepped out.
"Minnie, you said it was an emergency-" Andromeda paused as she regarded Daphne. "What happened?"
Daphne shook her head, threatening to crack Astoria's ribs with how tightly she was holding her.
"You saw Harry, didn't you?" Astoria asked knowingly as sudden realization hit her.
Daphne nodded, causing Tonks and Andromeda to gasp and Minerva's eyes to widen.
"In America?" Tonks blurted.
"You saw Harry," Andromeda whispered, shocked. She held a hand to her mouth.
The floo flared with an apologetic Aria Greengrass arriving. As Daphne felt her mother's warm, comforting embrace, she was jolted loose when everyone in the office shrieked as Harry Potter himself appeared via Fawkes into the Headmistress's office. And, of course, several things happened at once.
Harry, who was nearly forcibly expelled from the office upon arrival by the wards, felt the Hogwarts wards rejoice as they tested, confirmed, and transferred control to their Lord. He groaned as he bent over, dry heaving from the sudden influx of magic rushing through his body.
Astoria gasped, burst into tears, and tackled Harry to the ground with a shout of joy. Harry was suddenly very aware of how much Astoria had physically matured over the last three years.
Daphne recoiled and stumbled backwards upon recognizing Harry, tripping over a nearby chair and nearly taking the table, kettle, and teacups with her. Aria stood in front of her daughter as defensively as she could, with Minerva quickly joining her.
Andromeda scowled, which did not bode well for Harry. Dora frowned, but her eyes glinted with mischief as she viewed the rapidly escalating chaos.
Fawkes preened for a job well done, delivering Harry to exactly where he needed to be.
…And everyone forgot Sasha, who, upon seeing her mortal nemesis in the flesh, immediately leapt through the air, fangs bared, as she attempted to, "…feast on the delicious flesh of The Fawkes at last!"
Harry managed to register the parselspeech and fumbled to get out from under Astoria, who was squeezing the life out of him, sobbing uncontrollably.
Fawkes chirruped mockingly and lazily flapped his wings, flying slow, deliberate circles around the room. Sasha, missing the phoenix by a mile, collided with the stone wall behind Minerva's chair and fell to the ground in a heap.
"Sasha!" Astoria barked out dangerously.
"Sasha!" Harry called simultaneously.
"Master! You have returned! At last!" the basilisk exclaimed. "Save me from The Tori's wrath, oh wonderful master! I too have learned The Math and can perform it far better than The Fawkes!"
"What's she saying?" Astoria demanded as she looked down at Harry quizzically. Then she gasped. "Your scars! What happened to them?"
Apparently, Harry's shirt had ridden up after Astoria had tackled him…
"Harry! I told you to stay away from Daphne!" Andromeda scolded.
"Uh, hey, Squirt," Tonks waved weakly. "Welcome back-?"
"Bloody hell!" Harry groaned.
Astoria giggled and gripped Harry tighter. "You're not going anywhere, Potter!" she whispered smugly. "Not until you've reconciled with Daffy!"
"Master! Please allow me to eat The Fawkes! I have been taking flying lessons!"
Harry blinked in confusion.
"Astoria, get off of Potter!" Minerva commanded.
"You can't eat Fawkes, damnit!" Harry hissed out, causing Astoria to squeak, detach, and scramble away. "I told you; he is family!" Harry jabbed a finger up at Fawkes. "And you!" he shouted at the phoenix. "Have got some explaining to do! This is far worse than that time you brought Sparky to Britain!"
"Sparky?" a chorus of feminine voices echoed.
Harry flapped his arms. "Not now!" He kept his glower locked on the phoenix who he knew could see him. "Quit antagonizing Sasha and apologize!"
Fawkes squawked in outrage.
"Don't sass me!" Harry snapped. "Apologize!" He rounded on Sasha who looked positively exultant at 'The Fawkes' receiving such a reprimand. "You too, Sasha!"
"But Master!" Sasha wailed in protest.
"Merlin it's like having children!" Harry groused as he turned on his heel to face Minerva. "Why on earth would you sign up for a job teaching?" He asked his former Head of House.
"Some of us are called to it," Minerva said with an arched eyebrow. "Although it can be…taxing…dealing with youth."
Harry grunted as Fawkes landed back on his shoulder. "…Right. Well, this was, as usual, not my fault. So, I suppose I'll be going…"
"You absolutely will not!" Astoria screeched, fumbling for her wand. "I'll hex you where you stand if you try and leave without speaking to me, Harry Potter!"
"You've been talking to Harry?" Daphne asked Andromeda softly, but the accusatory tone silenced everyone, even Sasha.
Andromeda sighed heavily, shaking her head. "Harry reached out to us shortly after Christmas," she admitted. "I take full blame for not telling you. Truthfully, I didn't think it would be good for you two to meet again."
Daphne nodded silently, her face a stone wall as her Occlumency shields were clearly clamped down and in full effect. The Ice Queen, it seemed, had returned to Hogwarts. She turned to Tonks. "And you?"
Tonks swallowed nervously and fidgeted. "I was told it was a family matter," she said, wincing as she did. "Morgana's tits, Blondie, you know you're the sister I never had. But-"
"I'm not a Black," Daphne said coldly.
Tonks blushed and nodded.
"I didn't know a damn thing," Astoria growled as her older sister glanced at her. "I'm just as incensed as you are, Daffy."
Daphne didn't need to look at Minerva or her mum to know they had been kept out of the loop. She regarded Harry with perceived indifference. "You didn't think to mention this during our encounter?"
"Would you like me to swear on my magic I intended to speak of it tonight?" Harry asked severely.
"That at least explains your demeanor," Daphne deadpanned.
Harry ground his teeth. "Look, Daphne, I just want us to talk; without an audience," he gestured at the others in the room.
"You wanted to seek me out," Daphne didn't ask.
"Yes," Harry nodded.
"Why?"
Harry pondered his response for nearly a minute before finally shrugging and detaching his cloak. With a casual indifference, he tossed one of the Deathly Hallows at Daphne, who automatically caught it and stared at him perplexedly.
"What just happened?" Astoria asked the room before her eyes widened in surprise. "Oh! He took off his cloak! You're holding his cloak!" She pointed wildly at her older sister, whose hands were currently invisible.
"So what?" Daphne said frustratedly. "What does this mean, Harry?"
"It means everything," Harry sighed as he irritably ran a hand through his hair. "And nothing."
Daphne scowled and was going to berate Harry for his ridiculous mysteriousness when he continued.
"When the first and second of the Three Brothers perished, the third did more than just hide beneath the cloak. When he passed it on to his son, just before he greeted Death as an old friend, the Lord Peverell explained that the cloak could test the worthiness of a spouse."
Harry saw Daphne's eyes widen in surprise as her mind began racing.
"Those who can interact with the Hallow – who have no ties to Peverell blood – are deemed worthy companions and, most importantly, will never betray said blood. That's not to imply the existence of soulmates – It's merely a test that was unique to this Hallow." Harry finished his explanation and held out his hand, palm up.
"You've been able to interact with the Hallow since we were eleven years old, Daphne," he said slowly. "And today, you were still able to see and interact with it."
Daphne shakily returned the cloak to Harry. He casually draped it back over his shoulders where he knew she could still see it, when no one else could.
"Could there be other women?" Daphne managed to croak out.
Harry shrugged. "I am sure there could be. But, for now, the only woman who has ever been able to see and interact with the cloak outside of my direct intervention is you."
He watched a few tears spill from her eyes, tracking down her cheeks. He longed to go wipe them away, but held his ground as Daphne, now trembling violently, turned to Andromeda.
"You told him everything, didn't you?"
Andromeda nodded stiffly.
"We showed him-" Tonks began.
"Dora!" Andromeda barked.
"She deserves to know, mum!" Tonks protested. "There's no sense trying to prevent the inevitable! Harry's right here." She jabbed a thumb at him, her expression tightening. "And so is Daphne."
Andromeda huffed. "Yes, we showed him memories, Daphne."
She laughed hollowly. "So that binder was unnecessary."
"No," Harry took a step forward, his voice strong and commanding. "Never. I will read every page. I swear it."
Daphne hugged herself and took a step back. "What do you want, Harry?" she asked warily.
"I want to talk," Harry assured. "Just us."
Harry nearly yelped when he felt Astoria drive a boney elbow right into his ribcage. He glared at her, but she gave him a 'What the hell are you doing?! Just tell her!' look that made him finally cave.
"I think I still love you too," he admitted softly.
Daphne sobbed and shook her head. Harry watched Minerva and Aria move to embrace her, which is the only thing that prevented him from doing so first.
"I need to go," Daphne said in a watery voice. "I can't do this."
"Daph-!" Astoria began to protest.
"Not now, Tori!" Daphne sobbed. "Please! I just want to go."
Harry backed away from Astoria, leaning against the furthest wall from Daphne. "It's okay, Daphne," he assured gently. "Leave. I promise we will not follow you."
Daphne, still sobbing, hurriedly moved to the floo and managed to call out the American Gringotts destination. She disappeared in a swirl of green flames.
There was a heavy silence in the room before Astoria, with tears streaking down her cheeks, began pounding her fists into Harry's chest. "You IDIOT!" she shrieked. "Why did you let her go?! Why are you not going after her?!"
"She needs time to calm down, Tori," Harry answered numbly. "Pursuing her now will do no good, and I'd prefer to stay in Gringott's good graces."
"You better fix this!" Astoria sobbed.
"I will," Harry promised.
"And you're not going anywhere until you answer a whole bunch of questions, Mister!"
Harry chuckled as he embraced his dearest friend, who had grown to be just an inch shorter than her older sister. He ran a hand through her dark hair as she continued to cry into his chest.
"I missed you, dummy," Astoria whimpered.
"I missed you too, Little Lioness," Harry whispered.
Minerva sighed as she waved her wand, setting the chair Daphne had toppled over upright once more. Another wave of her wand and tea started pouring. "Tea, Potter?"
"Please," Harry nodded.
"Dora, you have a class to teach, I believe," Minerva dismissed her DADA Professor with a wave. "Please let Filius know that I will be taking the rest of the day off to deal with personal matters."
"Yes ma'am," Tonks gave a nod of deference and swiftly departed, clearly relieved to be spared from the current situation.
"Astoria, you are excused from the remainder of your classes for the day," Minerva informed.
Astoria gave a wet snort into Harry's shirt, pulling away to grin at her Headmistress, despite her puffy reddened eyes and runny nose. "I'm not going anywhere," she stated defiantly before looking up at Harry. "And neither are you."
