CHAPTER 5: THE HUFFLEPUFF TEMPTRESSES
Harry smiled thinly as he emerged from Gringotts, casting a thoughtful glance over Diagon Alley from the top of its grand steps. Lucius Malfoy still lived, a reminder of the dangers lurking in the shadows. It was too risky to delve into Malfoy's vaults just yet; Lucius could have placed notification spells or bribed a goblin to report any intrusions. Narcissa had provided him with a bank key, tantalizing him with the secrets locked away in the expansive Malfoy vault. For now, he contented himself with finally exploring the Potter family vault.
The Triwizard Tournament contract had liberated him, granting him access to resources beyond his trust funds. Inside the Potter vault, he had discovered ancient grimoires detailing magic not even recorded in Tom's memories. However, it was the vast reserves of gold that interested him most.
If he was to vanquish his myriad adversaries and restore the Potter family to its former glory within wizarding society, Harry knew he needed power. He needed women—many of them. And let's face it, what woman didn't appreciate wealth? They were like goblins or dragons, only much sexier.
His mind wandered briefly to Narcissa, envisioning her in his oversized boxers, humming contentedly as she prepared something in her immaculate kitchen. He could almost see her gently caressing her swollen belly, her body processing the aftermath of their intense union. The shocked reactions of her house-elves suggested it might have been her first time setting foot in the kitchen, but what was more transformative than a woman in love?
Pushing thoughts of Narcissa aside, Harry focused on his goals. It was Saturday, and Diagon Alley bustled with activity. Shoppers filled the streets, friends chatted excitedly, and families stocked up on supplies for the upcoming Hogwarts term. Boys pressed their faces eagerly against the windows of Quality Quidditch Supplies, dreaming of the new brooms and gear that awaited them.
He recognized a few familiar faces from his Hogwarts days, but they wouldn't recognize him. Narcissa had bestowed upon him one of Lucius' old acromantula silk robes, complete with an enchanted hood that concealed his features—apparently a favorite of Lucius for his clandestine dealings. The garments felt foreign and uncomfortable, a temporary measure until his new wardrobe arrived.
Narcissa wasted no time in ordering him an entire closet of clothes as soon as he left her side, eager to prove her usefulness. Harry couldn't bring himself to scold her; her devotion was apparent, even if her methods were sometimes overwhelming. He needed to recruit new allies swiftly, before he found himself entangled in something more permanent.
A flash of red hair caught his attention, but upon closer inspection, it was Susan Bones. She wore a tantalizing strapless white summer dress adorned with a bold blue floral pattern, struggling to contain her ample curves. The dress ended high on her thighs, swaying flirtatiously with each step, hinting at the dangerous allure beneath.
Despite her efforts, Susan wasn't drawing as many glances as her companion, Hannah Abbott, who wore a red-and-blue floral dress. It was intended to be more conservative than Susan's, with its shoulder coverage and ankle-length hem. However, the dress had a surprisingly wide neckline that accentuated Hannah's famously ample breasts, and it occasionally revealed glimpses of her creamy legs as she walked. This unintended display ended up garnering more attention than Susan's attire.
"The girls have truly blossomed," Harry murmured to himself, his gaze lingering on Susan and Hannah as they navigated through the bustling Great Hall. The Hogwarts boys had coined a teasing nickname for them, "The Hufflepuff Temptresses," a label that belied their pure and innocent status. Neither had ever been romantically linked with a boy, yet their figures—Susan's busty curves and Hannah's remarkably ample assets—had become legendary within the castle walls.
Tom's memories lingered in Harry's mind, granting him a deeper appreciation for the nuances of the female form. Still, at their age, it was the allure of feminine charm that captivated the boys, and Susan and Hannah certainly fit the bill. Susan possessed a notable figure, but Hannah's proportions were undeniably striking.
"They've caused more daydreams than the Holyhead Harpies," Harry reflected with a faint smile, recalling the admiring glances and whispered comments that followed in their wake. He understood the fascination; after all, even as a teenager, it was hard to ignore such magnetic allure.
Their friendship had grown strong over the years, forged through shared experiences of warding off jealous remarks from envious girls and the occasional lewd comments from boys unable to resist making inappropriate remarks.
Today, they wore tentative smiles as they shopped, and Harry couldn't help but recall the not-too-distant past when he had returned to Hogwarts with Cedric's lifeless body. Cedric Diggory had epitomized everything Hufflepuff stood for—a kind-hearted and popular figure. Harry was determined to seek justice for him, yet beneath that resolve lurked a selfish unease about how Cedric's death continued to complicate his own life.
Chang, Bones, Abbott—each could have been viable romantic prospects, but Harry felt those possibilities were thwarted by the lingering suspicions and rumors linking him to Cedric's demise. Despite his innocence, the whispers persisted, casting shadows over his interactions with others.
"It's unfair," Harry thought bitterly, as he watched Cho Chang browse through a rack of dresses with her friends. His association with Cedric's tragic fate seemed to taint every aspect of his existence at Hogwarts, affecting not only his relationships but also his peace of mind.
He glanced over at Susan and Hannah, who were engrossed in examining jewelry at a nearby display. They smiled warmly at each other, their bond a reminder of the support and camaraderie that sustained him through turbulent times.
"I'll clear my name," Harry vowed silently, clenching his fists in determination. Cedric deserved justice, and Harry would see to it that the truth prevailed, no matter the personal cost.
Harry moved with purpose through the bustling crowds, his presence commanding attention. As he approached Susan and Hannah, he deliberately dropped his hood, revealing a confident smile that belied the weight of rumors that had plagued him since Cedric's death.
"Susan, Hannah," Harry greeted them warmly, his voice carrying assurance. "It's good to see you both."
"Harry?" Susan gasped, surprised by his sudden appearance.
Hannah's eyes widened as she took in his changed demeanor. "You look... different," she stammered, her cheeks coloring slightly under his gaze.
"As do you," Harry replied smoothly, admiring their attire with genuine appreciation. "It's refreshing to see you two outside of the usual Hogwarts uniform. Those dresses suit you both perfectly."
The compliment caught them off guard, and they blushed in unison, flattered yet cautious. Harry noticed Susan's protective gesture, her hand subtly resting on Hannah's arm—a silent warning amidst the lingering uncertainty.
"I've missed seeing you around," Harry continued, aiming to dispel any tension with his genuine warmth. "How have you been?"
Susan exchanged a quick glance with Hannah before replying cautiously, "We've been managing, Harry. It's been... eventful."
Harry nodded understandingly, sensing their unease. "I know things have been difficult lately, but I want you to know I'm determined to clear my name. Cedric... he deserves justice."
Hannah nodded solemnly, her earlier blush replaced by a seriousness that mirrored Harry's resolve. "We believe in you, Harry," she said quietly, her voice unwavering.
A sense of solidarity settled between them—a reminder that despite the challenges and the rumors that circled like vultures, their bond remained steadfast.
"We'll support you, Harry," Susan affirmed, her grip on Hannah's arm tightening slightly. "Whatever you need."
Harry smiled gratefully, relieved by their unwavering support. "Thank you, both of you. It means a lot."
As they stood together in the midst of the bustling shopping crowds, Harry felt a renewed sense of determination. With friends like Susan and Hannah at his side, he knew he could face whatever challenges lay ahead, rumors be damned.
"Where's the Harry we knew gone? He was never this smooth," Hannah giggled, her earlier tension easing momentarily.
"I had to grow up," Harry replied somberly, his demeanor serious. "I hate to interrupt your shopping day, especially after everything that's happened. But House Potter owes the Great House of Hufflepuff an explanation for what happened to Cedric, and whether you accept it or not, you two are now the leaders of that house."
The smiles vanished from their faces as Susan asked cautiously, "What is it you want, Harry?"
"Voldemort has returned," Harry stated firmly. Hannah flinched, and Susan looked startled.
"I know the papers are calling me a liar, but I have proof," Harry continued earnestly. "I believe the House of Bones possesses a Pensieve. I need to show you the memories—to prove my words and to honor Cedric's bravery and honor in his final moments."
Susan started to respond, but Hannah interrupted, pulling her aside for a brief, urgent conversation. After a moment, they returned to Harry, their expressions grave yet determined.
"Let's Floo back to my house," Susan declared, leading the way without glancing back. Hannah offered Harry an uneasy smile before following Susan's lead. Harry trailed behind them silently as they Flooed from the Leaky Cauldron to the Bones manor, the flames whisking them away to their destination. Harry couldn't help but let out a snort of amusement as he took in the grandeur of the estate.
The Bones manor was more than just a house—it resembled a sprawling country manor akin to the Malfoy's, but with a distinct difference. Where Malfoy Manor was surrounded by meticulously manicured lawns, expansive and grand, the Bones manor was enveloped in a lush tropical jungle. Vibrant flowers, exotic plants, and towering trees created a riot of colors and scents, overwhelming Harry's senses and causing him to break into a sweat from the heat and humidity.
"This is the tropical biome," Susan explained, gesturing toward a faint, almost transparent shield that encompassed the area. "We cultivate thousands of different species in our various biomes, supplying the majority of potion ingredients used throughout Britain."
Harry nodded, impressed by the scale and purpose of the Bones estate. "It's incredible," he remarked, taking in the thriving ecosystem that seemed to thrive despite its magical containment.
Hannah nodded in agreement, her unease from earlier dissipating as she saw Harry's genuine interest. "We take great pride in our gardens," she added, leading the way toward the imposing entrance of the manor.
As they approached the grand doors, Susan turned to Harry with a determined expression. "Let's find that Pensieve," she said firmly, her tone leaving no room for doubt.
Harry nodded, his resolve renewed. "I'll show you everything," he promised, knowing that the truth within those memories would be his strongest ally in the days to come.
Together, they entered the Bones manor, ready to confront the challenges and uncertainties that awaited them inside.
"Wow, that's impressive," Harry said sincerely, following Susan up the garden path toward her stately home. The shimmering magical shields over two other biomes caught his eye, adding to the aura of mystery and sophistication surrounding the Bones estate.
"Each biome has over a hundred wards or runes etched within to carefully control the temperature, moisture, and magic level, ensuring optimal conditions for the plants," Susan explained, her voice carrying a practiced cadence as though she had recited this information many times before.
Harry listened attentively, his admiration for Susan growing. He couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for her. Having lost her entire family except for Amelia Bones during Voldemort's rise, she must bear significant responsibilities to uphold the Bones family legacy. It struck a chord with Harry, reminding him of his own burdens and the premature loss of his parents.
As they walked, Harry observed Susan closely. Her magic felt strong yet tinged with a hint of insecurity and yearning. He admired her resilience, silently acknowledging the weight she carried.
"I can imagine it takes a lot to maintain all of this," Harry commented genuinely, gesturing around at the thriving gardens and the magical biomes. "It's truly remarkable."
Susan nodded, a small smile touching her lips. "Thank you, Harry. It's a labor of love and necessity for us."
They continued their walk, the grandeur of the Bones manor unfolding before them. Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie with Susan, knowing they shared a burden of responsibility and loss that few could fully understand.
As they reached the entrance of the manor, Harry felt a renewed determination. Whatever challenges lay ahead, he was grateful to have allies like Susan by his side. Together, they would face the trials ahead, united in purpose and strength.
He could feel it in her magic, strong but insecure. Yearning. As the two girls walked in front of him, he enjoyed the sight of their behinds, their tight dresses not hiding their full figures. He flared his own magic a little, and watched their hips swing a little more. He hid his smile. Mother Magic wanted him to take them, he just knew it. But first, he'd have to play the game. It wouldn't do to be unbecoming, after all, not for a Lord.
Harry entered through the wide-open French windows, stepping into a charming sun-room bathed in dappled light that played across the cream cushions of the wicker sofas.
"Susan!" an elderly woman exclaimed in surprise from where she reclined on one of the sofas. Quickly regaining her composure, her surprise gave way to her usual stern expression. "Lord Potter," she acknowledged with a respectful nod.
"Madam Bones," Harry replied, bowing deeply. "Forgive me for intruding upon your weekend. House Potter is grateful for your hospitality." He was thankful for Tom's knowledge of pureblood etiquette gained through years of pretending to be one.
"House Bones is honored to receive you," Madam Bones responded graciously, waving away his concerns. "To what do we owe the pleasure?"
Harry glanced at Susan, silently prompting her to explain. She hesitated briefly, uncertain how to proceed.
"Rudely interrupted the girls' shopping trip," Harry said with a relaxed smile, attempting to lighten the mood. "In all the chaos of the third task, I never had the chance to properly explain what happened. I don't want Professor Dumbledore or the Daily Prophet to spin my story for me. I understand how significant Cedric was to House Hufflepuff, which is why I've asked Susan and Hannah for the chance to set the record straight. If it's not too presumptuous, I was hoping to use your Pensieve?"
Harry noted the effect of his words on Madam Bones. He saw her eyes widen slightly, recognizing the potential importance of what he was proposing. It was a calculated move—offering a solution rather than demanding compliance.
"Of course, of course," Amelia Bones replied, visibly flustered as she adjusted her formless dress. "Would you mind if I joined you? Not in any official capacity, of course, but I have many unanswered questions from that day."
Harry nodded appreciatively. "Your insight would be invaluable, Madam Bones. I believe it's crucial to provide clarity on what transpired, especially for Cedric's sake."
Susan and Hannah exchanged glances, silently acknowledging the gravity of the moment. This was their chance to support Harry and potentially uncover the truth behind Cedric's tragic end.
"Thank you, Madam Bones," Susan said earnestly, stepping forward. "We trust Harry, and we believe in his integrity."
Harry felt a surge of gratitude toward Susan and Hannah. Their support bolstered his resolve as they prepared to delve into memories that could change everything.
Step into the world of BUGSHOT 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 BUGSHOT 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!