CHAPTER – 23 THE ENCLAVE OF CINNAMON TREES
Nestled deep within the heart of the countryside, the Greengrass Estate was an isolated sanctuary, situated at least an hour's journey away from any semblance of human civilization. A majestic forest of towering oak, ash, and birch trees enveloped the estate, their ancient limbs casting dappled shadows upon the hallowed grounds. The expanse of the estate was truly awe-inspiring, leaving Harry with the impression that it held an abundant supply of the finest wood, destined for Ollivander's meticulous wand-crafting. The forest, filled with centuries-old trees, whispered secrets of bygone ages, and as Harry gazed upon it, he couldn't help but feel a sense of ancient magic resonating within.
As Harry and Sirius materialized just outside the grandiose entrance gate of the estate, they were met with an unexpected sight. A formidable contingent of guards, each of them bearing the colossal stature of a Hagrid, stood sentry. One of the guards approached with a measured and unyielding demeanor, his spine erect, shoulders squared, and fingers hovering near the trigger, betraying a readiness to respond to any inkling of aggression. There was no hint of a welcoming smile in his expression, making it abundantly clear that these guards took their responsibilities with utmost seriousness.
Intriguingly, Sirius had portrayed Joshua Greengrass as a character who had adeptly exploited the guise of neutrality to safeguard his own life. Yet, the presence of such formidable half-giant security personnel left Harry pondering: would a figure affiliated with the Death Eaters truly enlist these imposing sentinels as protectors of his stronghold?
Harry couldn't help but wonder about the estate's history and the kind of secrets it might hold within its ancient walls. The Greengrass family, known for their longstanding ties to the magical community, had been reclusive for generations. Rumors whispered that the estate housed a vast library of rare and forbidden tomes, and Harry couldn't help but imagine the wealth of knowledge hidden away within those imposing walls.
Sirius displayed an unwavering air of confidence, completely unswayed by the imposing guards. "We're expected guests," he calmly asserted, his voice unwavering.
The towering guard remained steadfast; his unyielding demeanor intact. "Please state your names," he demanded, his voice unflinchingly formal, leaving an air of intrigue and anticipation in the cool breeze that swept through the ancient trees, as if it carried with it the secrets of the Greengrass Estate.
"Sirius Black and Harry Potter," they replied in unison, the words echoing through the forest, blending with the rustling leaves.
A subtle change took hold in the guard's countenance. He nodded in acknowledgment, but his stoic expression remained. "Please wait," he offered, motioning for another guard to bring forth a peculiar-looking bowl filled with a curious substance that resembled water. The clear liquid shimmered with an otherworldly glow, captivating Harry's attention.
Sirius, slightly taken aback, raised an eyebrow. "This is..."
"Mr. Black," the guard interjected firmly, "we are simply following established procedures. The liquid in the bowl is a bespoke variant of the Thief's Downfall, a substance used within the labyrinthine confines of Gringotts. Our intent is to ascertain your true identities."
Without further protest, Harry and Sirius obliged. They both dipped a finger into the mysterious bowl, the sensation sending shivers down their spines. As they did so, a subtle surge of magic enveloped them, cleansing them of any enchantments or disguises. The guards, once tense and vigilant, now exhibited a more relaxed demeanor as their suspicions seemed to be assuaged, the ancient trees above rustling in approval.
The guards retrieved the bowl with a gentle touch, stepping aside momentarily before one of them operated an unseen mechanism. In an instant, Harry sensed a significant transformation in his surroundings. The forest seemed to draw back like a curtain, revealing the true grandeur of the Greengrass Estate. A sprawling mansion made of ancient stone, adorned with intricate carvings and magical runes, came into view. It seemed to have been seamlessly integrated with the natural surroundings, a testament to the Greengrass family's mastery of both magic and architecture.
Sirius, with a hint of disdain, remarked, "So many lethal wards. Greengrass must be quite the paranoid host, subjecting his guests to this level of scrutiny."
Harry couldn't help but find the comment ironic, considering Sirius' own family home, Grimmauld Place, was known for its own unique brand of security, including a homicidal, house-possessed elf and an intricate web of protective wards. He glanced at Sirius, noting the hint of tension in his godfather's features. The mention of the Greengrass Estate's wards had stirred memories of their own, less than pleasant, experiences at Grimmauld Place.
As they made their way towards the imposing entrance of the mansion, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding. The forest had concealed the estate well, and he wondered what secrets the Greengrass family might be guarding within its ancient walls. The story was far from over, and he knew they were only beginning to scratch the surface of what awaited them at the heart of the countryside.
"Are we expected to walk the entire distance?" Harry inquired, as he realized they had entered an area warded against Apparition and Portkey use. The enchantments in place were indeed formidable, a testament to the Greengrass family's commitment to security.
The guard chuckled lightly. "No need to walk the entire way, sir. It's just a short distance from here."
With the very next step he took, Harry found himself transported through what felt like an entire grove of oak and birch trees, as though someone had miraculously whisked him half a mile in a single stride. He couldn't ignore the faint threads of magic interwoven throughout the place. It seemed that his bloodline magic had significantly heightened his ability to sense and interact with the magical energies surrounding him, perhaps for the purpose of dismantling these very wards. The sensation was both exhilarating and disconcerting, making him contemplate the extent of his newfound powers.
Harry couldn't help but scowl at the thought. His newfound magical abilities were undeniably potent, but he couldn't help but suspect that they had been honed for the specific purpose of breaking down such formidable defenses. It made him wonder about the intentions behind this gift and who had bestowed it upon him.
Four measured steps later, they arrived at the imposing edifice known as Cinnamon Grove. The building stood as a brooding chateau, a fusion of French architectural elements interwoven with a blend of gothic and modern-minimalist design. The contrast of styles was striking, reflecting the complex nature of the Greengrass family. It was a sight to behold, and Harry couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship involved in its creation.
Their car came to a stately halt right at the front entrance, where a female house-elf, impeccably dressed in a neat linen toga, stood in solemn anticipation. She exuded an air of dignified servitude that was rare even among house-elves.
"Mr. Harry Potter and his esteemed associate, you are cordially welcomed to Cinnamon Grove," the elf declared with a graceful bow. "I am called Fiana, and Fiana is at your service for the duration of your stay."
Sirius, ever the epitome of aristocratic haughtiness, responded, "Indeed," with a subtle nod of approval.
"Please, follow me." Fiana, with a snap of her nimble fingers, proceeded forward, prompting the grand oak doors to swing open with a sonorous gong. Harry and Sirius swiftly followed suit, crossing the threshold into the opulent mansion, their footsteps echoing in the grand foyer. The interior was just as awe-inspiring as the exterior, filled with artwork, antique furniture, and magical artifacts, each telling a story of the Greengrass family's long and storied history. As they ventured further into the depths of Cinnamon Grove, Harry couldn't help but feel that they had entered a realm where every detail had a purpose and every corner held a secret.
In a hushed whisper, Sirius asked, "Feeling nervous?"
Harry admitted, "Just a tad."
"Heh, me too," his godfather conceded. "But always remember what I taught you."
"Hit hard and hit fast?"
Sirius chuckled. "Not quite."
"Contraceptives are always handy?"
A snort of laughter escaped Sirius. "Practical advice, but not the one I had in mind."
"Never let them see you sweat?"
Sirius beamed at Harry's close approximation. "That's the spirit." With that, he squared his shoulders and took the lead, the weight of their mission hanging heavily in the air.
Taking a deep breath, Harry steeled himself and followed his godfather into the enigmatic depths of Cinnamon Grove, a place shrouded in mystery and intrigue.
The Greengrass Chateau stood in stark contrast to the Black Townhouse in nearly every aspect. Most striking was the abundance of open spaces within the mansion. With its expansive windows and capacious rooms, the house seemed to breathe with ample airflow. This colossal citadel of grey stone perched precariously on the edge of a sheer cliff, providing breathtaking views that descended thousands of feet into a lush tapestry of wooded foothills. The panorama was nothing short of breathtaking, and Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as he gazed out at the natural beauty that surrounded the mansion. The air was filled with the earthy scent of the forest below, a stark contrast to the city's pollution that he had grown accustomed to.
Within these grand halls, there were no rugs, no carpets, no ornate floor decorations; it was as if the Greengrass family abhorred the very idea of walking on marble or stone. This was further accentuated by the fact that the ground underfoot felt like a verdant lawn, all the way through the entrance. Harry couldn't help but wonder about the magical enchantments that allowed the mansion to have such a unique and natural feel. The absence of ostentatious luxury and the focus on nature added an unusual serenity to the chateau, making it a place of quiet grandeur and understated opulence.
As they ventured deeper into the heart of Cinnamon Grove, Harry couldn't help but feel that every step was taking them further into the unknown. The aura of the Greengrass Estate, with its enigmatic design and ancient magic, was unlike anything he had experienced before, and it left him with a sense of anticipation mixed with trepidation.
The house-elf, still in attendance, gently suggested that Harry remove his boots at the door, encouraging his feet to connect with the fresh blades of nature beneath. Harry complied, feeling the soft grass underfoot. "Green grass indeed," he mused to himself, the connection to the estate's name not lost on him.
Before him, a cultured voice beckoned his attention. Harry turned to face the speaker, a man in his mid-to-late forties, with a striking combination of reddish-brown hair adorned with light strands of white, evoking the image of a pristine lake on a serene day. He was clad in tasteful, fine-quality robes, reminiscent of Muggle formal wear, and there was an air of sophistication about him.
The man spread his hands gallantly, extending a warm welcome. "Ah, Harry Potter. And the one and only Sirius Black, in the flesh. Please, feel welcome in my modest abode."
"Modest," Harry repeated mentally, arching an eyebrow at the irony of the term used to describe the extravagant surroundings that surrounded them. The contrast between the opulent estate and the term "modest" was both amusing and perplexing.
Sirius clenched his jaw, a curious undertone of tension in his voice as he enunciated, "Greengrass."
Not wanting to dwell on the unexpected tension, Harry swiftly interjected, bowing with a gracious nod as he recalled the etiquette Sirius had instilled in him. "Thank you for extending your hospitality, Mr. Greengrass. Your home is truly... unique."
Joshua Greengrass responded with a warm smile, his presence seeming to fill the room. "It has always been the Greengrass motto to be in harmony with nature. Dum Spiro Spero. So long as we draw breath, we hope." His words carried a profound sense of tradition and heritage. "I look forward to engaging in discussions regarding the Greengrass legacy in the near future."
Harry, unsure of how to respond to such a statement, squared his shoulders and managed a somewhat trembling smile. The weight of the legacy and expectations that seemed to accompany their visit was not lost on him. As he glanced around the room, he couldn't help but feel like he was on the precipice of something significant, something that would potentially shape the course of his journey in ways he couldn't yet fathom.
The Greengrass patriarch's expression changed to one of realization. "My apologies for my lapse in manners. Please, take a seat." He called out to a house-elf named Kenny, who promptly appeared in the room, accompanied by a gleaming silver kettle, glass cups, sugar, and a delectable assortment of confections, which seemed to materialize effortlessly on the coffee table. Kenny offered a swift bow to everyone before vanishing from sight.
Joshua gestured toward the tea and refreshments. "Please, make yourselves comfortable."
Harry cautiously seated himself, his mind racing as he contemplated all that he had learned about the man before him. Sirius had described Joshua Greengrass as a man of strict formalities—a figure who might contemplate murder under the cloak of darkness but offer cake and biscuits if you dropped by on a Sunday. He was a devotee of protocol and took the preservation of appearances seriously. Listening to Sirius's descriptions was one thing, but experiencing it firsthand was proving to be an entirely different endeavor.
"I assume you would prefer your godfather to lead the discussions, Lord Potter?" Joshua inquired, the subtle yet crucial moment of choice hanging in the air. Would Harry assert his authority as the Potter Lord or follow the lead of his godfather, who also held the title of a House Lord, albeit a different one?
Fortunately, he and Sirius had already settled this matter during their preparations.
"You requested my presence," Harry replied with unwavering resolve, "and my godfather is here because I highly value his counsel."
Sirius chimed in, wearing an expression of mild impatience. "As Lord Black, I'm eager to expedite this formal facade, but I also understand the significance of our meeting today."
Joshua Greengrass nodded in acknowledgment, recognizing the balance of power and the dynamics between the three figures in the room. It was a moment where mutual understanding was reached, and the stage was set for the discussions that would shape their future interactions. Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of empowerment, knowing that he had made a clear and conscious choice in this subtle power play, and he was ready to navigate the complexities of the Greengrass legacy with his godfather's guidance.
Joshua's smile broadened. "I see. That simplifies matters." He settled comfortably into the couch. "Mr. Potter—may I call you Harry? I have a daughter your age, after all. You can call me Joshua. No need for excessive formality."
"Of course, Joshua," Harry readily agreed, his gaze shifting to the view of the vast expanse of grassy lawn beyond. "I was curious about the security outside."
Joshua leaned forward, intrigued. "Yes?"
Harry's curiosity probed further. "Are they..."
"Half-breeds," Joshua confirmed with an amiable nod. "More precisely, half-trolls and half-giants."
"What's their role, exactly?" Harry inquired, his curiosity piqued.
"Trolls possess remarkably high regenerative capabilities, and giants exhibit extraordinary magical resistance," Joshua explained. "These qualities make them excellent for security purposes. As for their specific duties, they serve as my troubleshooters."
Harry blinked, uncertain. "Troubleshooters?"
"That means, Harry," Joshua elaborated with a wry smile, "that when there's trouble, they shoot at it."
A silence hung in the air as Harry processed this unconventional form of "troubleshooting." He had to admit that it was an unexpected but effective approach to security.
"But I thought—"
"That as a well-known supremacist, I automatically despise individuals of other species?" Joshua interjected, his tone firm. "While such beliefs exist, I would advise against making sweeping judgments about entire groups of people so readily, Harry."
Harry was taken aback. "I... I didn't mean to imply... I just... I'm learning."
Joshua nodded with understanding. "And learning is an admirable pursuit, Harry. It's important to question assumptions and seek understanding rather than jumping to conclusions. It's a lesson that has served me well in my life."
Harry felt a mixture of relief and gratitude for Joshua's willingness to engage in a meaningful conversation. It was a reminder that not everything was as it seemed, and he was determined to approach their discussions with an open mind and a willingness to learn from the complexities of the magical world.
Joshua continued, undeterred. "You should also be aware, Harry Potter, that Greengrass Exports and Imports employs over two thousand Muggle-borns. In fact, House Greengrass hires a significant number of Hogwarts students immediately after they complete their NEWTs."
Harry exchanged a bewildered glance with Sirius, who wore a strained expression.
"I understand," Joshua pressed on. "Perhaps I have been unjustly portrayed as a pureblood bigot."
Sirius challenged him, his voice edged with skepticism. "So, you're telling us you're not?"
Joshua's response was unequivocal. "Precisely. I am a magical supremacist, an adherent to Grindelwald's ideology. It's not the same as being a pureblood bigot."
Harry couldn't help but counter, "Grindelwald was a dark lord."
Joshua's response was delivered with a calm assurance. "He was, and his methods were wrong. But his ideas, the ones he initially advocated, about magical superiority, were not entirely without merit. He, too, believed that there should be a separation between magical and non-magical worlds, and that wizards and witches should be the ones to lead in this new order."
The revelation left Harry with a complex mix of thoughts and emotions, stirring a profound sense of uncertainty about the man before him.
"Voldemort was a Dark Lord. Grindelwald was a visionary," Joshua countered with a solemn tone. "A man ahead of his time. You see, Harry Potter, I am a businessman with a significant presence in both the magical and No-Maj communities. I don't view Muggles as inferior, but rather as 'Other.' Not devoid of value, but possessing different qualities. Not expendable, but with distinct dispositions. Magic..." He paused, letting the word hang in the air, "Magic manifests in rare souls, a gift granted to those destined for greater things. Our forefathers understood this, which is why Muggles revered them as the Old Gods in the time before the Dark Ages descended upon us."
Harry couldn't help but be taken aback by the perspective Joshua presented. The man's ideology was a stark departure from what he had been taught about magical purity and the dangerous beliefs of figures like Grindelwald. It was a lot to process, and Harry found himself grappling with the moral implications of such ideas, unsure of how to respond.
Joshua locked eyes with Harry. "Do you not concur, Harry Potter? You, who endured a decade under the cruelty of those incapable of wielding magic?"
Harry wanted to vehemently disagree, to accuse Joshua of falsehoods, but the memories of Vernon Dursley and the torment he had endured silenced his dissent.
"Enough," Sirius interjected firmly. "We didn't come here to engage in a philosophical discussion about Grindelwald's ideology. Your letter mentioned a maledictus, so let's focus on the matter at hand."
Sirius's words broke Harry from his inner turmoil, bringing him back to the immediate situation. He observed as Joshua's cheerful demeanor was abruptly stripped away, replaced by a shadow that descended over his countenance.
"The letter, yes," Joshua acknowledged with an audible sigh. "I'm not sure how well you're acquainted with the genealogy of James Potter, but he and my wife, Anastasia, were first cousins."
"I'm aware," Harry responded. "My grandmother mentioned the connection. I only recently discovered my family lineage, thanks to Sirius. Your letter filled in the remaining gaps."
"I understand," Joshua nodded. "I belong to the Pince family, and my marriage brought me into the Greengrass lineage. Since Anastasia's passing, I've been acting as the Family Regent, striving to safeguard its future."
"We are also aware of some of your other dealings, Regent Greengrass," Sirius interjected, his tone carrying a note of reservation. "Specifically, your arrangement with Malfoy concerning House Black."
The Regent's expression tightened. "True, I cannot deny that. Neither Lucius nor I anticipated your ascendancy to the Lordship of House Black. We both assumed it would fall to his son, Draco."
Sirius quipped with a smirk, "I do like to keep people on their toes."
The tension in the room was palpable as the conversation shifted to more immediate concerns, leaving the weight of their past discussions hanging in the air, unaddressed but not forgotten. Harry couldn't help but wonder how their interactions would evolve and what secrets lay beneath the surface in the intricate world of magical politics.
Harry, eager to steer the conversation back to their primary purpose, interjected, "Could we discuss the maledictus now?"
"The maledictus, yes," Joshua responded with a slightly uneasy cough, revealing a rare crack in his typically composed demeanor. "In many ways, that is the focal point of our meeting."
"We were hoping for more information," Harry explained, seeking clarification.
"If that is your desire," Joshua replied, "I hope you won't mind if I involve my eldest in our discussions, with your consent."
Harry glanced at Sirius before nodding. "Yes, please."
"Kenny!" Joshua summoned the house-elf. "Please inform my daughter that we require her presence."
Instead of Kenny, one of the doors on their left swung open, and a young woman entered. On first sight, Harry couldn't deny that she was attractive. She didn't possess the glamorous beauty of the Patil twins, the exotic allure of Cho, or the otherworldly magnetism of Fleur, but she had a naturally pleasant appearance. High cheekbones, bright blue eyes, and sleek, golden tresses framed her face. She moved with a grace that Harry suspected came from careful practice.
"Potter," she acknowledged with a slight nod of her head, then repeated the gesture toward Sirius.
"Uh... Greengrass!" Harry stammered, feeling somewhat foolish.
She raised an elegantly arched eyebrow. "You don't know my name, do you?"
"You're Daphne," Harry asserted with more confidence than he truly possessed.
"Oh?" She raised her eyebrows in mild amusement. "What gave it away?"
"The way you said 'Potter,'" Harry replied. "Although, when it comes from a Slytherin blonde, it usually comes with a hint of condescension. Should I feel shortchanged?"
"I'm not sure," she countered. "Should you?"
Harry couldn't help but feel a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty about Daphne Greengrass. She had an air of confidence and poise, and her casual demeanor was a departure from the formalities they had encountered with her father. It was clear that she was someone who navigated the intricacies of the magical world with ease, and Harry couldn't help but wonder how she fit into their mission regarding the maledictus.
"Please," Joshua interjected with a pleasant smile, "let me introduce my eldest, Daphne, the Heir Apparent of House Greengrass."
"Hello, Miss Greengrass," Sirius greeted.
Daphne reciprocated with a simple, "Likewise," before taking a seat next to her father. Harry noticed her hands trembling ever so slightly before she regained her composure.
He returned his attention to Joshua. "You were about to tell us about the malediction?"
Joshua nodded, his expression growing solemn. "This curse dates back to 1906. Ophelia Greengrass, the Lady of House Greengrass at the time, had a child out of wedlock with Antonius Belby. It is believed that her husband, Sagittarius Black, discovered her infidelity and reacted... poorly."
Sirius winced. "An understatement, I presume."
"I suppose it is," Joshua acknowledged with a bitter tinge in his expression. "He placed a profoundly malevolent curse upon her, one fueled by his own abhorrence and intensified by his own death. That marked the origin of the curse that has afflicted the Greengrass bloodline ever since."
Harry quickly glanced at Daphne, who appeared almost like a poised mannequin, her face almost expressionless. Yet, there was a subtle tension around her lips that betrayed her inner turmoil.
Sirius, his brow furrowed, said, "Wait a minute. 1906? That's—"
"Precisely eighty-nine years ago," Joshua confirmed solemnly. "We are now just two years short of the ninety-first year."
Intrigued, Harry inquired, "Why is ninety-one significant?"
Joshua took a deep breath before answering. "Ninety-one years marks the culmination of the curse, the point at which it reaches its zenith and consumes the cursed individual entirely. There is no known way to break this curse, no counter-curse, no antidote. It progresses relentlessly, slowly sapping the victim's humanity until it transforms them into a creature of darkness, devoid of any remnant of their former selves."
The weight of the revelation hung in the room, a heavy silence settling in. The urgency of their mission to find a solution to the malediction was now more apparent than ever, and Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of dread about the ominous fate that awaited Daphne and her family if they didn't succeed in breaking the curse.
"My daughter informed me that you did not choose Arithmancy as an elective at Hogwarts and instead opted for Divination," Joshua remarked, fixing his gaze on Harry. "An easy OWL, perhaps?"
Harry's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as he briefly glanced at Daphne.
Daphne's expression remained stoic and unchanged.
"Ninety-one holds a unique significance in numerology, Harry," Sirius began to explain. "You'll probably encounter this during your DADA NEWT studies, but unlike charms or transfigurations that tend to weaken over time, curses tend to grow stronger. The longer a curse persists, the more potent it becomes. This is why Egyptian tombs, for instance, are so perilous."
Harry absorbed the information but remained puzzled. "But that still doesn't explain the significance of ninety-one."
Joshua leaned forward, his expression grave. "Ninety-one marks the threshold when the maledictus reaches its zenith. It's when the curse becomes most powerful, and the individual bearing it faces the greatest risk."
The implications of this revelation weighed heavily on Harry, who couldn't help but feel an urgent need to delve deeper into the matter.
"Thirteen is considered the most potent magical number, followed closely by seven," Joshua began, leaning forward. "When you multiply thirteen by seven, what do you get?"
"Ninety-one," Harry replied, fascinated by this numerological insight. He had never encountered discussions of the magical significance of specific numbers beyond their relation to Arithmancy.
"Upon reaching the ninety-first year since its inception," Joshua continued grimly, "the curse is likely to receive an immense surge in strength, possibly the most significant one to date. It may achieve the very purpose for which it was cast."
The weight of the curse's significance and its impending culmination became increasingly clear, leaving Harry with a profound sense of urgency to find a solution before it was too late for Daphne and her family.
Top of Form
Harry almost hesitated to ask, but he couldn't suppress his curiosity. "What was its original purpose?"
"The complete and absolute eradication of the Greengrass bloodline."
The weight of the revelation hung in the air, stifling the room with silence. Father and daughter remained uncharacteristically silent, save for the subtle, persistent twitching of Daphne's hands.
Finally, Sirius broke the silence, his tone notably subdued. "I assume Ophelia was an only child?"
Joshua shook his head. "She had an older brother. Unfortunately, his preferences were considered... unconventional. As a result, her father removed him from the line of succession and designated Ophelia as the Family Heir."
He took a slow sip of tea, his thoughts veering back into the intricate tapestry of the past.
"Ophelia's daughter, Andrea, passed away at the tender age of nineteen, shortly after her marriage to Marcus Bletchley. She gave birth to twin daughters, Camilla and Euphemia. Euphemia, as you may know, is your grandmother, Harry. Both sisters decided to delay starting a family for as long as they could, until a very renowned seer of that era, Cassandra Trelawney, suggested a specific date and time for conception in 1960. One of the many factors influencing her choice was the auspicious positioning of Caput Draconis in Virgo. Your grandparents conceived James Potter, while my mother-in-law, Anastasia, conceived my wife."
Harry questioned, "Did this astrological timing help?"
Joshua's expression darkened. "Neither of them perished during childbirth, so it appears it did help."
Harry shot a quick look at Sirius, who had paled considerably. Just a day earlier, Sirius had expressed his concerns about the state of Euphemia Potter's health, and now they were learning that his fears were not unfounded.
The room was filled with a heavy silence, and the weight of the revelation was beginning to settle in, leaving everyone contemplating the intricate web of family history, curses, and fateful events that had brought them to this critical moment.
Harry felt uncertain about this. Given the unique nature of his own magic, owing to the Peverell legacy, he had strong doubts that any distinct Greengrass traits survived within him. Already, he exhibited no signs of the Potter family's talent for transfiguration, and unlike his mother, he was not a runesmith. In fact, he lacked any knowledge of runes. His abilities seemed limited to destruction.
He considered himself a harbinger of destruction, incapable of saving anyone, as evidenced by his parents' graves.
Sirius ventured, "If the curse only targets female members of the family, then Harry—"
"Lord Black," Joshua's voice sliced through the room like a whip, instantly silencing them both, "I hope you are not suggesting that, because Mr. Potter is male, he can dismiss my daughter's fate. Both of them are innocent children and deserve an equal chance at life, wouldn't you agree?"
Sirius was quick to respond, "I'm not advocating condemning anyone. However, it's not my godson's responsibility to bear the weight of everyone's salvation. The last time he took on such a burden, he became an orphan. He continues to suffer from that loss, unlike those who managed to benefit from the tragedy."
Harry appreciated Sirius's words and silently nodded his agreement. The weight of his past and the expectations placed upon him were a constant struggle, and he understood the importance of not letting the burden of others' expectations consume him.
Joshua sighed, acknowledging the validity of Sirius's point. "You are right, Lord Black, and I apologize for my outburst. I do not intend to place the full burden on Mr. Potter. My purpose is to share our family's history, to provide information, and, if there is any chance, to seek your cooperation in finding a solution."
Daphne finally spoke, her voice calm but tinged with a sense of resignation. "I appreciate your willingness to help, Harry. But, ultimately, it is our family's curse, and our family's responsibility to find a solution."
Harry met Daphne's gaze and nodded in agreement, recognizing the importance of the Greengrass family taking an active role in resolving their own curse.
With this newfound understanding, they continued their discussion, delving deeper into the curse and exploring any potential leads that might offer a solution to save Daphne and the Greengrass bloodline.
Joshua, his composure returning, resumed the explanation. "Indeed, the curse's mechanics are essential to understanding our predicament. The maledictus curse primarily affects the females of the Greengrass bloodline when they reach the age of twenty-five. It's not a sudden, devastating event but a gradual transformation that takes place over the course of a year."
Daphne, who had been silent for a while, finally spoke, her voice bearing a mixture of sadness and resignation. "I turn twenty-four in a few months, and it's not a fate I would wish upon anyone."
Harry's heart sank as he realized how close Daphne was to the age when the curse would take effect. The weight of her situation pressed heavily on him.
"So, what can be done to prevent this transformation?" Harry asked, his determination to find a solution burning brightly.
Joshua sighed once more, his shoulders slumping. "That's the question that has haunted our family for generations. Many experts, including the most renowned curse-breakers and healers, have attempted to find a solution, but none have succeeded. The curse is unlike any other they've encountered. It seems to adapt and resist any countermeasures."
Sirius chimed in, "Is there a way to lift or modify the curse's parameters so that it doesn't affect the females in the family?"
Joshua shook his head. "If there is a way, it has remained hidden for over eighty-nine years. We've explored countless avenues, from the darkest to the most esoteric magic, but the curse persists, unyielding and merciless."
Daphne's voice trembled as she spoke, her eyes welling with tears that she quickly blinked away. "I fear I will be the next victim, and there is nothing I can do to stop it."
A somber atmosphere hung over the room, and the urgency of their quest to find a solution grew more apparent. Harry couldn't help but wonder if there was a way to break the curse or if they were destined to face an even grimmer fate.
Harry exchanged a puzzled glance with Sirius before responding. "I've never heard of a Greengrass Vessel before. What does that mean?"
Daphne sighed, her voice carrying a tone of resignation. "It's a concept within our family, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. A Greengrass Vessel is a male member of the family who carries the Greengrass bloodline but is not directly affected by the curse. It's believed that they are somehow immune to the curse's transformation effects."
Harry's brow furrowed in confusion. "So, does that mean I can't be affected by the curse because I'm a Greengrass Vessel?"
Joshua shook his head, his expression remaining solemn. "It's not that simple, Harry. The truth is, we don't fully understand how or why a Greengrass Vessel remains unaltered by the curse. It's a mysterious aspect of our family magic, and it could be attributed to various factors, including the unique characteristics of the individuals who bear the title of 'Greengrass Vessel.'"
Sirius leaned forward, his curiosity piqued. "Are there any known rituals or spells associated with the concept of a Greengrass Vessel?"
Joshua nodded. "Indeed, there are, but they are closely guarded secrets within the family. These rituals are performed when a male member of the Greengrass family is designated as a Vessel, typically at a young age, to ensure their protection from the curse. The specifics of these rituals have never been disclosed to outsiders."
Harry's mind raced as he absorbed this new information. He was now not only concerned about Daphne's fate but also intrigued by the concept of the Greengrass Vessel and the secrets surrounding it. This was a unique and unfamiliar facet of magic that he hadn't encountered before, and he couldn't help but wonder about the implications for his own life.
"What can we do to help Daphne and find a solution to this curse?" Harry asked, his determination renewed.
Joshua sighed deeply, his shoulders heavy with the weight of their predicament. "That's the question that has plagued our family for decades. We've consulted experts and sought answers in every corner of the magical world, but we've found no definitive solutions. The curse is unyielding, and it has resisted all attempts to break it."
Despite the grim outlook, Harry couldn't accept defeat. "There must be something we haven't tried. We'll find a way to break this curse and save Daphne."
Daphne's eyes met Harry's, and he could see a glimmer of hope in her gaze. It was a spark of hope that he was determined to turn into a blazing fire of determination.
Daphne nodded. "Yes, Harry. The Greengrass bloodline carries the power of 'Summer,' and as a Greengrass Vessel, you inherit that magic, albeit to a lesser extent. It's a rare occurrence for a Greengrass Vessel to be created, and the reasons behind it remain mysterious even within our family."
Harry felt overwhelmed by the revelation. The idea of inheriting a magical tradition and bloodline from the Greengrass family was both fascinating and perplexing. It raised numerous questions about his magical identity and abilities.
"So, what does this mean for Daphne?" Sirius asked, getting to the heart of the matter.
Joshua sighed heavily. "It means that as the curse approaches its ninety-first year, Daphne will be in grave danger. We need to find a way to either lift the curse entirely or ensure that she won't be affected when it reaches its zenith."
Harry's determination grew as he considered the challenge ahead. He couldn't stand by and let Daphne fall victim to this ancient curse. They had to find a solution.
"Let's work together to find a way to break this curse," Harry declared. "We won't let it harm Daphne."
The Greengrass patriarch and his daughter exchanged a grateful look, their appreciation evident in their eyes.
Joshua extended a hand toward Harry. "Thank you, Harry. We welcome your assistance and the support of House Black in this endeavor."
Harry shook Joshua's hand with resolve. "We're in this together, and we won't rest until we find a solution."
As they continued to discuss the curse and the potential paths they could explore, the weight of the challenge before them became apparent. It was a race against time to unravel the mysteries of the curse and protect Daphne from its deadly effects. But with determination, a unique blend of magical legacies, and the support of House Black, they were ready to face the unknown and confront the curse that threatened the Greengrass family.
"Is it not the case?" Joshua countered, his voice brimming with eagerness. Harry recognized that hunger, the desperate longing to be validated. It mirrored his own yearning for answers. "For many years, I've contemplated the possibility that it might have been your status as the Vessel of Summer that enabled you to survive the Killing Curse in 1981. You've accomplished feats that would be unattainable for individuals twice your age, the most prominent being your mastery of the Patronus charm and your ability to repel a hundred dementors at once."
Harry's mind raced as he considered Joshua's theory. The idea that his survival in 1981 might be linked to his role as the Vessel of Summer was an intriguing one. The power of Light and Life opposed to the curse of Death and the soul-draining dementors did make a certain sense. However, it wasn't the case. He was a Peverell Vessel, bound to the power of Unmaking.
Unmaking was not just about negating life; it could unravel curses, which were a form of magic, rendering them vulnerable to Death magic. Given that he had recently survived a deadly curse, this explanation made the most sense. It also applied to his ability to repel dementors. But did that mean he was born with access to the Peverell lineage and its family magic? Why him? What set him apart as the son of a Muggle-born? If anything, his lineage should have prominently displayed Potter or Greengrass characteristics, not something that had been dormant for fifteen hundred years.
Harry leaned forward, his brow furrowing in thought. "Joshua, your theory is fascinating, but I believe there's more to it than just being the Vessel of Summer. I have recently discovered that I am a Peverell Vessel, which is tied to a unique branch of magic, the power of Unmaking. This magic doesn't just negate life; it can also unravel curses, making them susceptible to Death magic. That's likely why I survived the Killing Curse, and it also explains my ability to repel dementors."
As he spoke, Harry's mind raced with questions. Why had this dormant power surfaced in him, a Muggle-born's son? It was a mystery that went beyond his understanding of magic. The Potter and Greengrass characteristics were expected, but the Peverell lineage added a layer of complexity to his heritage.
Joshua nodded thoughtfully, absorbing Harry's explanation. "It's a remarkable revelation, Harry. But it still leaves us with the question of why you, and how this power remained hidden for so long."
Harry sighed, his eyes fixed on the shimmering surface of a nearby pond. "I wish I had all the answers, but it's a puzzle I'm still trying to piece together. There's more to my heritage and destiny than I ever imagined."
Yet, the ancestry test had labeled him as a Greengrass. His mother had survived his birth without astrological assistance, and his Patronus was remarkably powerful. But Life and Death were polar opposites. Could he truly have both within him? What am I missing here? Maybe Vernon wasn't that far off with his accursed epithet. A freak. That's what I am.
"I find myself curious to know what is going on inside that head of yours, Harry," Joshua said.
At his words, Harry controlled his expression. "Sorry, I was just... thinking."
"Good," Joshua replied with an easy smile. "It shows you are giving this a fair amount of thought."
"You were talking about the curse?" Sirius prodded.
"It is our Family Magic that aids us in countering the curse," Joshua explained, unaware of Harry's growing turmoil. "However, as I mentioned before, curses become more malignant with time. With two wizarding wars and everything else that has transpired in the past century, the Greengrass family has been unable to produce a Vessel. Daphne possesses the bloodline, the affinity, and I have molded her into the appropriate mindset for a Greengrass..."
"But she isn't a vessel," Sirius astutely observed.
A fleeting, sinister expression briefly crossed Daphne's face, disappearing as quickly as it had appeared, as if it had never been there at all.
"Yes, she isn't," Joshua acknowledged, smiling at Harry. "That's why I wish to offer my daughter's hand in marriage to you, Harry Potter."
Harry blinked.
"Say what?"
Harry was taken aback by Joshua's proposal. Marriage to Daphne Greengrass? It was an unexpected turn of events that sent his mind into a whirlwind. He had anticipated discussions about family magic, curses, and lineage, but this offer had caught him completely off guard.
Joshua continued, his tone sincere, "It's a union that could potentially strengthen our family's magical legacy, Harry. You're a Peverell Vessel, and your unique abilities could complement Daphne's lineage. We believe that together, you and Daphne might have the power to counter the malignant curses that have plagued our family for generations."
Harry struggled to find words, still processing the proposition. He glanced at Daphne, who was looking at him with an unreadable expression. The weight of the decision hung heavily in the air, and he felt a mix of curiosity, uncertainty, and the weight of responsibility.
Daphne finally spoke, her voice steady. "I want you to understand, Harry, that this is not a decision to be made lightly. It's not just about our family's magic; it's about our futures as individuals. If you need time to think it over, I respect that."
Harry nodded, grateful for her understanding. "I appreciate the offer, Joshua, and I need some time to consider it. This is a lot to take in."
Joshua nodded in return, his expression thoughtful. "Of course, Harry. Take all the time you need. We understand the gravity of the decision."
The room fell into a contemplative silence as Harry, Joshua, and Daphne each grappled with the unexpected turn of events and the potential implications of this proposal.
Step into the world of PEVERELL_MAGIC on P.a.t.r.e.o.n! Experience where tales unfold, magic ignites, and the future takes shape.
For exclusive support and early access to upcoming chapters, join us at PEVERELL_MAGIC on P.a.t.r.e.o.n.
Note: Get the scoop a day before anyone else! Updates release on P.a.t.r.e.o.n before they hit FanFiction. Join us for free to read ahead!
