Chapter 12
Nimbus Brooms
Friday morning Bill, Harry and Ginny flamed into the lobby for Nimbus Racing Brooms. The polished black marble floor reflected a sky blue ceiling, with illusionary clouds floating through the sky. The effects were very reminiscent of the Great Hall. Ginny beamed as she looked around, and the boys were able to be happy from seeing her expression. They walked about 40 feet to what seemed to be a reception desk, with a young lady in her mid twenties who was working through letters. When they approached, Ginny started, "Hello, Ginevra-"
"Weasley," the receptionist finished with a smile. And what caught Ginny's ear the most was the way it was said, with a tone of respect and admiration. "You are most welcome to Nimbus Racing. Your article has been all over the business. Mr. Whitehorn specifically ordered an edition for each employee. You have been the talk of the office for the last week. Please follow me." Bill and Harry exchanged looks of positive surprise.
They were led down the hall and around the corner to a posh office. "Mr. Whitehorn, the Weasley Warriors are here."
"Good, good, good, bring them in." A man in his 50's rose from his desk, fit but bald. Wearing a blue dress shirt with his sleeves rolled up, and tie but his blazer was hanging on a coat tree on the side. He met them in the middle with a smile and hand out. "Devlin Whitehorn, the pleasure is mine. He shook their hands and nodded in respect, Ginevra, William, and of course Harry. Welcome to Nimbus."
He showed them to green leather chairs across from his desk. "While we have Vicky, would any of you like anything: Tea, Coffee, Water?" The youths all shook their heads and Vicky left. "Well, may I begin by saying again, we appreciate and respect your actions."
"Thank you, sir." Harry replied, "If I may, your's has been some of the warmest praise we have received.
"Ah, well with good reason. You see, I am old enough to remember the end of the First Wizarding War, and I have felt similar to you about the poppycock. In my heart, I am just a broom smith. You, young man, you put to word, what I have felt for quite some time. So if you do not feel I am infringing on phrasing, I will embrace it. His name is Riddle, and I will not live in fear."
"Well said, and thank you, sir." Harry nodded.
Then he turned to Bill. "And you Mr. Weasley. I have heard the naysayer tut their tongues and call you rash, or that you got carried away. But…" he held up his wedding ring. "For thirty three years, I too have had a good woman by my side, and even now but especially when we were your age, if someone were to throw a hex at her. I would have done the exact same thing."
His vision drifted from the trio in front of him and drifted to the trio at his home. "I have two wonderful children with that woman. If Riddle were to come for one of them, I also would say no. So I thank you, and the rest of your clan for doing so."
"Thank you, sir." Bill replied.
"Which takes us Miss Weasley. In all my days of either war and brooms, I have never even heard of that approach. Absolutely brilliant! Which takes us to the heart of my invitation. First and most personally important, I would appreciate a small indulgence. I would like the opportunity for you, all of you, to give us your tale first hand to myself and a team of my people. Mostly because I believe it is a tale worth telling. There has been too much fear mongering for too long, if there is a victory like this it should be spread.
Second, unfortunately it is a bit of a business, but I am truly trying to make a mutually beneficial situation. Now please be honest with me, what broom were you riding?"
Ginny smiled, "Nimbus 1000, sir."
Whitehorn's face shown even brighter, "A 1000? Oh, I may have a treat for you. Still that is perfect. As I said, I'm a broom smith, and I wouldn't mind selling more brooms. I would very much like make use of your battle as a bit of marketing."
"Marketing?"
"Advertisement, yes. Every year we do something. And more often than not we usually find a quidditch player. Sales are average, hardly anyone even takes notice of the player. But what if there were a way for me NOT to just sell a few brooms, but to also inspire a few folk. If this young lady can take to the skies to fight Death Eaters… what the hell are the rest of us doing?"
Ginny sat and thought for a moment. Her normal reflex of boldly going was crying to do so. But she understood why Dad had asked for Bill to come. This may be a day that restraint is valid. "Mr. Whitehorn, we wouldn't have any issue with giving a detailed account to your people. But before I give a recommendation to anything, I would need to see it and fly it. Run it through its paces."
"That's all I ask. One step at a time is perfectly reasonable. Thank you for even considering an old man's crazy idea. Let's go meet the team." He led them out of the office and down another hall. The three of them hung back a bit.
"Bill, this is a bit more than a free broom!" Ginny whispered yelled.
"I underestimated you, sister, I promise it will not happen again."
Ginny's fingers were laced with Harry's, who was remarkably calm, which she took notice of. "How come you aren't freaking out?"
Harry let out a cocky grin. "A few reasons. First, it is exactly because you are so wound up excited right now, I figure the best thing you need is a stable ground. So here I am. Second, compared to my usual misadventures, this is mild. No one's died, No one's missing. No one's threatening. Hell, I would say I am cautiously optimistic he may be playing straight with us. Really Gin, this looks like it could be a really good day for you, take it. Bill and I are right here, and all three of us are carrying our wands for a reason."
"You always know what to say." For the briefest of moments Ginny's view bounced between each of the boys in frustration. Finally resulted in her muttering, 'to hell with it' and reaching over to kiss Harry, which had the calming effect she hoped. She broke away and sheepishly looked up to her brother. "Sorry, Bill."
"Gin, I am your eldest brother, who is engaged, and I honestly like Harry."
Hearing that she returned to the smile and took a few steps to catch up with Mr. Whitehorn. Harry whispered to Bill, "How dead am I?"
"Far from it Harry. I'm not Ron. Maybe it's the fact I moved out for a bit. But I am aware my kid sister has grown into a lovely young lady. I've now seen you be both the beast to defend her and also a grounding to stabilize her. You become what she needs. One can't ask for much more from a suiter."
Whitehorn led the trio to a larged conference room. Sitting around a boardroom table was about a dozen men and women, even three goblins. Whitehorn brought them to the head of the table. "This is largely my advertising team, a few department heads, and a few people who I feel should just hear your testimony. Ladies and gentlemen, we are honored today to have three of the victors from the Battle of the Burrow; Ginevra and William Weasley and Harry Potter, and they have agreed to give us a first hand account." He walked down to the other end of the table, sat, gestured for them to do the same. "Please, at your leisure."
Years of being siblings gave the Weasleys the reflex advantage as they quickly took their seats. Ginny shared a delightful smile with her brother and a few chuckles among the staff. Harry looked at her and then to his audience. "Well then," he grinned, "Let's take it from the top. We were sitting for supper…" Harry began but all three hopped in. It was unusual for Harry. No one here seemed antagonistic, no one seemed suspicious. Everyone seemed interested, most even supportive. Erring on the side of caution, Harry tried to omit his final Death Eater encounter, but he had mentioned Ginny's fall and the Crucio attack.
"So Ginny fell, a death eater cursed her. What happened there?" one asked.
Harry paused and thought for a moment, but then thought 'This is war.' "My wand had been blown out of my from a previous hit, so when Gin was hit with a Cruciatus curse, I essentially reacted, attacked, and essentially beat the hell out of him."
That generated several reactions, but not the way Harry expected. Whitehorn nodded in complete agreement. Someone in the rear gave a, "Good show."
Most of the eyes went to Ginny. "You went through a Cruciatus curse?"
"Unfortunately but yes." Ginny confirmed.
"I thought those were Unforgivable… illegal?"
"Death Eaters don't care." Bill summarized.
"Riddle hit me with one last year. This is how they operate. I am sorry if this is a shocking introduction to you, I apologize, but welcome to the war."
Whitehorn raised a finger. "Last year? So you were fully aware of what kind of people you were dealing with and what depths they sank to, and yet you all rode out to battle anyway?
"Yes," the trio said in unison.
"Merlin! The courage of you lot," he smiled.
From there the questions focused more on the broom work, which Ginny handled.
"How long have you actively been flying?"
"About 9 years now."
"What broom were you on?"
"Nimbus 1000."
"How hard was it to cast and fly at the same time?"
"Not very, casting wasn't hard. Avoiding spell fire was the harder part."
"What do you think your top speed was?"
"Oh, I was pushing it for all it was worth, so like 100, maybe a hair over. In hindsight, I should have summoned Firebolt. Harry, I've got permissions on that right?"
"Absolutely." he nodded.
"Firebolt? So how fast have you flown ever?"
"Oh, well that would have been on Harry's broom, but I think I've gotten to 130? 140?"
Harry nodded in agreement.
Nods of respect came from around the table.
Ginny and Harry just looked at each other and shrugged.
Whitehorn smiled, "Jacobson, why don't you bring it in." He got up from his seat and walked over to the trio. "If you are curious about their reactions, it's because most of our test pilots get… a little nervous over 125. So your experience at those speeds is… really quite impressive." He smiled.
"Now, I don't blame you Mr. Potter, for a Firebolt. That is a quality broom. In fact, it's existence is partially my fault. Nimbus has been at the top for so long that, well.. I think we got a little complacent. We certainly did with our names, 2000, 2001. And I can't say as we were really pushing anything with those models, more just updating. So when Firebolt was released, they deserved their praise. But…" Whitehorn said with a raised finger. " I choose to make it the kick in the pants we needed to send us back to the drawing board."
His employee came back with a long wooden case he carried with a handle. Whitehorn helped him gently lay on the table before the three visitors. He opened it up and from it floated a broom like they had never seen. A long black broomstick with gleaming silver metal work rear brushing uniquely a blood red. At the head of the staff was also a large red ruby. "Our latest model. Ironwood shaft bonded to mythril lattice work. Double the arcane thrust projector. Brand new element, " Pointing to an inlaid red ruby at the pommel of the broom. "Secondary directional projector designed specifically for tight maneuverability. She stops and corners on a dime. Estimated top speed: 160. Originally she was developed under the name Skyblazer, but" he turned to look directly to Ginny, "with your blessing, I would like to name this line, Reign of Fire, in your honor, and if you will pardon the pun."
"You want to dedicate an entire broom series to me, because I fought some Death Eaters?" She said shocked.
"Frankly, yes. Like I said, yes I want to sell brooms, but I would like to do more. We have celebrated quidditch players for decades. This year, with the Second War starting, why don't we celebrate someone truly worthy? Not just someone good in a game. But a hero with courage and skill, willing to stand and fight for their family. Someone like a Crimson Witch?"
Bill cleared his throat. "Obviously there are details to discuss and this is NOT an on the spot decision."
Whitehorn smiled and waved away concern. "Of course it's not, my dear good sir. I'm introducing an offer. If I have offended anyone, I will even offer my apologies. I just can't help but think there are many mutually beneficial opportunities here and I'm old enough I do appreciate a win-win when I can find them."
Harry raised a finger. "Mr. Whitehorn, you said estimated top speed 160?"
"I did, and I also said my flyers get nervous over 125. And I believe Miss Weasley herself wisely said she would insist on flying anything before endorsing it. Why don't we break for lunch? My team has worked up something quite fine. But after you've had a chance to talk amongst yourselves, well, many of us would love to see the Crimson Witch run her own flying test."
Ginny had grabbed hold of Harry's hand during the display. Harry himself seemed to remain calm and composed, just like when interviewing with Rita. She envied his ability to handle himself sometimes. Apparently picking up her anxiety, he looked over to her with that grin that could cut through any emotions, and visibly breathed deep and steady. He rubbed his thumb back and forth, to the ticking of a clock. Like somehow through minor unspoken gestures, he could simply magically transfer peace and calmness to her, which felt like he did. That was immeasurably soothing. With the surge of excitement managed for the moment Ginny simply replied, "I will say yes, and thank you, for lunch."
"Excellent."
They broke for lunch in a lovely open air patio with fine linen tablecloths and full service staff. Lunch itself was roast lamb with roasted potatoes, salad, and a full bar available. As they sat Bill whispered, "I recommend we ALL avoid the bar."
"Bill," Ginny smiled, "You don't think I never touched a drink before, do you?"
"Not my point, sister. In fact I'm sure you have. My point is with the developing situation. Gin, and I know you are sorely tempted to, I will tell you I will fight you if you attempt to fly that broom anything short of stone sober. And Harry, one does not make investment decisions drunk either."
"I thought that was a bit we did to help convince your dad?"
"Originally it was, and in fact I even told Gringotts the same to count today as a workday. But the facts of the matter are that this is looking more and more like a legitimate situation and more than that an opportunity."
"You haven't steered me wrong yet, Bill. What are you thinking?"
"Well, first I will remind you two that we are unusually close to the front lines of this war. No offense, Harry."
"None taken."
"As you both saw, most people haven't had run ins with Riddle or had to actually fight another wizard. Hell I'm surprised to hear of skittish flyers here. Regardless, I say that to highlight the fact, NOT everyone here may be out to get us. Whitehorn makes a logical case and sounds sincere."
Ginny smiled, "Alright, of age adult at the table. How do we play this?
"Well, first rule for all of us, no signatures today. Any standard business will expect parties to read, review and consider."
Ginny and Harry nodded in agreement.
"Second, one assumes you would like to fly that broom?"
"I will admit Harry is the only reason I'm not on it now. Thank you for that by the way."
"That's why you keep me around."
"Well, you and Harry are more versed with high speed flight, I will trust your judgment. Which means, Ginny, I'm giving him my vote on how the flying goes. I love you, but your fearlessness can slip too often into recklessness and today is not a battle. It's business."
"I'm inclined to explore this. Gin knows her way on a broom. Can you promise to maintain something resembling a level head out there?"
She lightly glared at the two of them. "I want to hear the words that your concerns are more with the broom than my flying skills."
"Absolutely correct, sis"
"Like I said, I know your skills, babe. I don't know the broom."
Ginny signed. "Concern for safety is sweet and appreciated. Thank you."
"That's still not a 'yes' yet Gin." Bill pointed out.
"Yes." Ginny answered overdramatically.
"Thank you," her brother replied. "I love you. Now thirdly, assuming the flight goes well. Gin you ought to be compensated for your endorsement."
"Already thought of that."
"Good, I would say at least 10."
"Really? Only 10 Galleons?"
"Percent. 10 percent of sales, Ginny."
Hushing to a whisper. "Bill, that could be quite a lot."
"Which is exactly why I say it. He is selling his motivations well enough I may believe him. But regardless of why he wants to do something different, the bottom line is he feels you would help him sell more brooms. So you deserve a share."
"I'm going to side with your brother on this one. You are worth it."
"Alright, noted."
"Fourthly, if we get this far, Harry I would very strongly suggest we each actually invest in this company, before launch. If the fan mail is any indication, the sentiment behind Crimson Witch is high, there are likely gains to be made here."
"Good call."
"Wait… are you two planning to profit off of my good fortune?"
"Yes." they said in unison.
"Good," she laughed. "At least we're all in agreement then."
They finished their meal and relaxed a bit. When Whitehorn returned he asked, "So, are we calling it a day or is the Crimson Witch taking the skies again?"
Ginny smiled. "Mr. Whitehorn, I'd like to see your broom please."