Chapter Sixteen
The Court of Public Opinion
Bres wasn't home when Lunette got back to Baker Street and somehow managed to stumble into bed. She shivered and dreamed of turning into a dragonfly, painfully flying through the darkness that very first time she encountered her grandfather's fort. The memory was filled with aches and pains, but in the end there was also warmth and welcome. She snuggled when she felt a strong presence beside her and she felt comfortable and safe… and then he started to snore. Since when did Bres snore? He had never snored before. Just what had they given him this time? And was it actually loud, or did it only seem that way because of her own condition?
Lunette pushed and prodded at him insistently until he finally woke up.
"Not now, Islene," he murmured. "I have a headache."
"And just what were you up to all night?" Lunette interrogated him.
"We went ghost hunting," Bres yawned. "And then we went for donuts."
"Oh no, not again! Didn't you learn your lesson the first time?" Lunette said.
"I don't see how you have any room to criticize," he pointed out. "You should take it easy, being half human and all…"
"Maybe you should stop talking now before I'm tempted to throw you out and forget why in the morning." Lunette said flatly.
"Alright," Bres agreed immediately and rolled over, giving her some relief as her head fell heavily against her pillow once more.
By the time it was morning, Lunette didn't feel well… not at all.
"Perhaps it would be best if we just stayed here today," Bres suggested, holding some foaming water that Darcy had offered as the Trade Elf staff deftly changed out the sheets and blankets. "You are not well enough to go anywhere."
"This isn't like me. I've never gotten this sick during any of my other pregnancies! My Dark Fae side has always been dominant enough that I've never had to worry about my alcohol intake before."
"I believe it's because human wine is so low quality," Bres speculated seriously. "You had probably best not try that again, or stick to drinks made strictly for elvenkind."
"Lovely," Lunette said, still not brave enough to leave the bathroom. It was some time before she felt well enough to try the remedy.
Blair and Bonnibel had morning tea in the Conservatory, looking up when Moira came down in a white dress and long lace gloves, with a formal, coral witch's hat with a white rose band for a splash of color. Moira's dark hair was gently curled in the front with a knotted braid in the back, designed to highlight both her innocence as well as natural maturity at the same time. A tasteful diamond necklace broke up her neckline, basic as to not seem pushy but still making a statement about her right to attend.
"Lovely! Yes, lovely! That'll do nicely!" Blair said and got up to make one final check, while Bonnibel looked more thoughtful than anything. "I don't suppose I need to remind you just how important this garden party is. Eric Dalance is at the highest level of the Wizard peerage… oh, but don't forget he prefers less formal titles, especially when he is the host, so don't forget yourself… let your fiance set the tone."
"Nevermind all of the decorum and foolishness," Worley said as he walked in from the garden. "Do not forget what you're really there for."
Blair sighed, turning to her brother.
"Whether you like it or not, Moira's ability to navigate the higher echelons of our society is quite vital to your aspirations, dear brother. While Horus Crumb may be in our social circle, all of the guests outside of the educational field will be of a different caliber, and it is vital that she handle the situation with poise and dignity… moreso, in fact, than those born into the position. You wouldn't want her to disgrace not only us but make it so that Horus no longer sees her as bride material, do you?" Blair pointed out.
"Don't worry, Aunt Blair, I plan to be as poised and as proper as possible. I happen to like Horus, even if he is a bit older," Moira said.
"It will ultimately be to your advantage since you'll outlive him," Worley said curtly, and Moira nodded slightly in agreement. "Your invitation into high society marks a new milestone for our family; take advantage of it as much as possible without exposing yourself."
"Cadha is doing enough of that as it is," Bonnibel said snidely.
"That's what she gets for sleeping with Lord Grimbol without being strong enough to secure marriage vows," Worley said crisply. "At least she's learning how to take advantage of her soiled reputation for the benefit of the family."
"I think Cadha's done rather well for herself, actually," Blair decided. "Eadwig Grimbol's tendency to brag to his friends about his exploits in great detail has done nothing but given her more opportunities to know the inner workings of the upper class."
"Intimately," Moira agreed.
"She can access information that we can't and holds a great deal of influence, especially since none of the wizards she's been involved with can afford to lose the secret that they've been satisfying their curiosities," Blair said. Bonnibel and Moira exchanged smug glances at that. "But the two of you must be above all of that. You should be the most poised members of wizard society. Isn't that right?"
"Yes, Mother," Bonnibel said.
"Yes, of course, Aunt Blair," Moira agreed. "It's too bad that Leonard wasn't invited, Bonnibel."
"He may not be a board member, but he's still richer than the Crumbs," Bonnibel retorted.
"Now, let's not fight among ourselves. Horus will be here at any moment to pick Moira up," Blair said.
"I'll go sit in the front room. I know from experience that Horus doesn't like to be kept waiting," Moira said.
"Fine. Do whatever you can at that event to make our voices heard," Worley said.
"Yes, Father," Moira said with a smile, going to the front to wait for her escort.
When Horus arrived, he gave Moira a cordial bow of the head and commented approvingly at her appearance, his thoughts confirming that the compliment went beyond his intentionally stiff politeness. Horus was intelligent, calculating, and reserved, holding himself with an aire that went above his station. He was more than twice her age, but perfect for her in every other way, Moira decided. She smiled warmly and took his arm with a strategically alluring complement over her own.
Watching from the archway, Blair smiled at her approvingly, while Worley simply left to head back to the Traditionalist's Club.
Lace-covered garden tables and spotless white chairs were scattered through the back garden of Eric Dalance's large Dover home, while the front garden presented a small pavilion with tea, wines, and a large sparkling glass container of fruity spiked punch. Next to the drinks was a long table filled with pastries, hors d'oeuvres, and lunch plates easily managed at such a formal affair; Moira rightly guessed that it was more than likely catered by Coven Suites Catering. There was a professional string quartet playing softly in the background, and the breezes coming from the Channel tamed the warm summer sun and made the temperature quite pleasant.
Standing by the home's open gate was Aurelius in his Auror cloak and Apollo in his Enforcer robes, signalling from their clothing that they were only there as part of security detail.
"Good morning, Horus, it's good to see you. You're looking well," Aurelius said cordially.
"Thank you, Aurelius, you're looking the same as ever. You know Moira Maxen, of course," Horus said.
"Yes, congratulations on your recent engagement," Aurelius said. "Please, come in."
"Congratulations," Apollo added.
"Thank you kindly," Horus replied. The two of them went in, and Moira noticed Horus shaking his head slightly.
"To think, Apollo threw away his budding Quidditch career for an LE uniform. I simply don't understand it," Moira murmured softly, gazing at Horus.
"Neither do I," Horus said. Especially when he gave it up for a mudblood witch who was so problematic that she was rejected by her birth parents, he thought at Moira. She nodded to him to show that she had picked it up. "Come, let us be the perfect guests… unless anyone brings up politics, that is. You'll back me up, of course?"
"Absolutely, if you do the same for me," Moira said beatifically.
"While I admire your enthusiasm, this particular situation requires a great deal of subtlety and tact which I have years of experience in," Horus said gently.
"I understand, Horus. I'll follow your lead," Moira said, taking his arm.
Horus walked her over to where Eric Dalance was talking to his wife and… was that Hope Willowby? The reminder that Hope was on the school board made her realize that she wasn't the first Maxen to go to one of these parties after all. Why wasn't Eben being sent on these tasks, she thought with annoyance, but then quickly turned her expression to the practiced smile that Blair had taught her.
"Wow. You two actually do look well together," Hope said in a flat, surprised tone.
"Now that you mention it," Tonks agreed, looking between them.
After a greeting like that, Moira wondered with irritation why they had to put on their best manners at all.
"Welcome, welcome! Congratulations, Horus and Moira on your engagement," Eric said. He offered his hand to Moira in a more formal stance, so she curtseyed gently. "I saw from the newspaper that your cousin Bonnibel is getting married as well, to Lady Dufrais' son, I believe."
"Yes, thank you, your grace. My Aunt Blair is planning to host our wedding in a month or so, and will be sending out invitations shortly," Moira said.
"It's quite alright, Moira, you can ignore my title. I prefer to be seen as an educator of high standard and that is that. Everyone calls me Eric, whether they choose to honor their own titles or not. Besides, high manners are a lost cause when there are Aurors present," Eric said teasingly, looking over at his wife and Hope.
"That's very true," Tonks agreed.
"I understand wanting to be appreciated by your merits, Eric, but do you not also lead the Order of Merlin as well?" Moira asked.
"I am the order's speaker, yes, but Merlin is the true leader of the order," Eric protested.
"Has he ever even gone to one of those meetings?" Horus inquired skeptically.
"Only in times of great crisis, which fortunately hasn't happened in a few years. It's been rather quiet lately, actually," Eric admitted.
"Then let us hope it stays that way, because I prefer garden parties over crises," Moira replied. Eric chuckled.
"Yes, I quite agree. But I see you haven't gotten any drinks or cakes yet! Please, help yourselves," Eric said cordially.
"Thank you, Eric," Horus said, leading towards the table.
Minerva was standing with her teacup near the enchanted teapot, knowing that it would automatically fill her cup the moment it became empty. It was an obvious attempt to get several cups at once before having to deal with the rest of the party.
"Good morning, Minerva. Rough night?" Horus asked as he picked up a teacup and saucer and handed it to Moira.
"Good morning Horus, Miss Maxen. Thank you for inquiring, but it's nothing a few cups of tea can't put to rights," Minerva said. "Congratulations on your recent engagement, Horus. I'll admit to being a bit surprised at first, but I am glad, all things considered."
"Yes, after the first disastrous marriage I was a bit jaded, and I believe I had earned the right to be cautious after that," Horus said. "After meeting Moira at a party and dating her since her Debutante Ball, I am convinced she is perfect for me. She is intelligent and lovely, and she isn't put off by my countenance."
"Being a Truth Seeker helps that part of it," Moira explained with an affectionate teasing lilt to her point. "I can see past his stoic exterior."
"I know another couple who started out in the exact same way," Minerva said. "In fact, they even had the same age discrepancy as the two of you, yet look at them now," Minerva prompted with a smile. They glanced over to see Jennifer and Severus by the garden archway, talking to Aurelius and Apollo.
"I can't imagine the headmaster of Hogwarts ever being as reserved as my Horus," Moira admitted.
"Oh, he certainly was, Moira. He is very different from when I went to school," Horus replied.
"You graduated ahead of Aurelius, did you not?" Minerva asked.
"Yes, I was Head Boy when he was in first year," Horus replied.
"Even then he had started to soften compared to what he was during the Terrors. Sometimes it takes a Truth Seeker to see through the rough exterior, I suppose," Minerva replied.
"I take heart in knowing that Moira, at least, will never refer to me as a cold fiend," Horus said dryly.
"I would never do that to you," Moira assured him.
"Either way, my father has been after me to attempt another relationship for some time now, to the point where, when he commented about her age, I promptly told him where to put his criticism. If he wants grandchildren with his own name attached, he should stop being so judgmental. It's bad enough to have outsiders criticise it, I certainly don't need it from my own family," Horus said.
"He is simply being a Crumb, Horus. I'm certain he'll come around," Minerva reassured him sincerely.
"Yes, more than likely after our first son is born, knowing my father. If I accomplish nothing else, I want to learn to be a less critical father than he was of my sister and I when we were growing up," Horus said.
"You'll do perfectly well," Minerva said. "In fact, I won't be a bit surprised if you have news on that endeavor by the time I get back."
"Oh, are you going back to the Otherworld?" Horus asked.
"Yes, after the next board meeting, for a quick check-in," Minerva replied.
"Eric will be your proxy again, I suppose," Horus ventured.
"Actually, no, now that you mention it. I am going to choose Hope this time," Minerva said with a smile.
"Hope? Why would you choose the one member of the board that constantly proposes that we absolve it and start a new one?" Horus asked with disbelief.
"I realize that her ideas are quite radical, and she very often votes for or against proposals that I do not," Minerva acknowledged. "But it is the fact that her ideas are fresh and not as conservative as mine that I have decided to allow her to vote on my behalf. Having an extra vote will give her ideas a second look, and at the same time, it will force both Reformists and Traditionalists at that table to work together to tone those ideas down when they're too far forward. I can't think of a better check and balance while I'm away," she added in amusement.
"Then very little will get done this year," Horus said with exasperation.
"That's the general idea, yes," Minerva agreed. "I had best go see what Jennifer wants. I don't want her arm to fall off while trying to get my attention."
"We needed to pay our respects to the Box and Meyer families anyway," Horus said.
"Ah yes, I saw them in the back. They've gathered tables by the rose garden," Minerva offered.
"Thank you, Minerva," Horus said, and he and Moira both chose a plate and carried it to the back.
Minerva watched them go, then wandered over to where Jennifer and Severus were standing just inside the gate, talking to Hope.
"There you are, Minerva! I see you made it on time," Jennifer said.
"Did you doubt that I would?" Minerva asked her as she stepped closer.
"It's just that I am supposed to give you a message," Jennifer explained. "Lunette was feeling terribly ill this morning and sends her regrets, and Bres has decided to stay and look after her. Bres thinks now that she's carrying a child that's more Fae than not she has to be more particular about what she drinks. But considering humans shouldn't drink it at all in her condition, I didn't know what to tell her, and I doubted that Cottonwoods would know either. So, I decided to ask Sagittari to come back early just to be on the safe side. It'll take him a few days to get here, of course, so she's taking it easy for the rest of the day."
"Yes, that sounds wise," Minerva agreed. "I do feel a bit guilty about offering to take her upstairs for a few more drinks if she got as ill as all of that, but she insisted that she would be fine."
"That doesn't surprise me," Severus said. "Ever since Lunette returned, I've heard her speak about how well she can handle things due to her past experience with relationships and such. But she would be better off if she treated her relationship with Bres as something completely new and stop making assumptions based on what relationships she's had in the past."
"He's right. She uses it to cut me off anytime I try to help," Jennifer agreed. "Bres isn't like that, though. He's always willing to listen, and he's even willing to listen to different points of view before he makes up his mind about things."
"I'm sure it's because he has little experience with this world, and it's foreign enough that his own experiences aren't getting in the way… at least, at the moment," Minerva said, then became serious. "Jennifer, I don't know how much you pick up, but his life before coming to this world was quite harsh."
"Yes, it was. I read him quite clearly," Jennifer admitted. "He's compartmentalized his feelings on the matter, but coming from a kingdom where they struggled to survive for so long, it's very jarring for him to be surrounded by such abundance. But he's very open minded and is adapting very quickly… quicker than Bael in some ways."
"His ability to adapt quickly probably comes from that same survival instinct that allowed the Delves to endure considering everything that was thrown at them," Severus replied. "But so far he's seen a very tailored view of humanity, surrounded by Lunette's friends and people willing to support him. I wonder how he will do once he's out of the sandbox?"
As expected, there were very few Traditionalists invited to Eric's garden party, and nearly all of them worked in education fields or were members of the Hogwarts governor's board. There were a fair number in Solidarity, however, and amusingly enough seemed to be filling the space between the side garden where most of the Reformists had gathered and the corner rose garden, mostly filled with Meyers, Bulstrodes, and Boxes.
Solidarity had a number of Ministry officials like fellow board member Charles Weasley of Magical Beasts speaking to Minister Otto Delany from Artifacts. Pierce Selwyn and his son Elliot were conversing with a pair of wizards who graduated St. James the same year that Pierce had, while TJ was walking with Beth Craw among the other Reformists in the side garden.
"Did you still want to talk to Charles about that one matter?" Moira asked Horus.
"Yes, but let's not go over there by ourselves. I'm not certain what sort of position Solidarity has on this new 'ambassador' of ours. Let's go see Garret and Theresa first," Horus suggested, going over where the Meyers were sitting with Janders Box.
"Good day, Horus, congratulations on your recent engagement. Please have a seat," Garret said. There was a flurry of back and forth politeness, with the usual pleasantries and appreciation for the witches' dresses and hats.
"I see we're mostly here now, except I didn't notice Stella on my way in," Horus said.
"They're out of the country looking at properties," Janders offered.
"Moving?" Horus asked with interest.
"I don't believe so; I believe it's more for their daughter," Janders said. "Were you hoping to get someone a bit less moderate on the board?"
"I'm tired of our concerns being overruled if that's what you mean," Horus said.
"It's a good thing you're marrying a Maxen then," Theresa said.
"What does that have to do with anything?" Garret asked his wife.
"Because of the one family member rule," Theresa explained. "Technically speaking, Moira and Hope are sisters-in-laws, and as far as the board rule is concerned, that's too close. Since Horus has seniority, Hope will be the one that'll have to resign by the end of the next school term."
"That will be a relief! She's so outlandish with her proposals that Tonks was moderate by comparison. Even the Reformist board members kept telling her to tone it down," Janus said. "I don't suppose there's a chance that she'll resign early?"
"I seriously doubt that will happen," Horus replied.
"Perhaps that's a good thing," Moira suggested and Horus gazed at her questioningly. "Perhaps we can use the extra time to find a Traditionalist to fill her position."
"Typically the person going out recommends someone," Horus explained.
"That doesn't mean the recommendation will go through, especially if we offer a name that the moderates approve of," Moira pointed out.
"Like who?" Horus asked
"I have no idea, that's why a bit of time is good," Moira said.
"I think Moira has a point," Garret said. "You could start gathering information on who Solidarity might be willing to vote in from our perspective and use our time wisely promoting them. Perhaps we'll have enough votes to override whoever Hope or Dalance picks."
"I can help you there," Moira offered. "You can offer possible candidates at social events, and I can glean from their thoughts which ones have the most positive reception."
"Yes, it'll be nice having a Truth Seeker on our side this time," Horus said.
"Suddenly your interest in her finally makes sense… no offense, Moira," Janders added apologetically. "It just seemed out of character at first."
"Not at all, Janders. She's as calculated as I am, and despite her age and obvious beauty, she's perfect for me," Horus said.
"Don't you know how to turn a compliment," Moira teased.
"You didn't choose me for my callous outward exterior," Horus said.
"Actually I love your callous 'outward exterior'. It reminds me of my grandfather," Moira said with a gleaming smile.
"Fine, I deserved that one," Horus said. Moira smirked with amusement. "But now that your curiosity about our relationship has been settled, can we speak about something more concerning? Because I want to know more about the fact that a race so vile that we weren't allowed to learn about them until fifth year at Hogwarts is suddenly accepted as an ambassador of the Ministry. Is it all because he married a famous American judge? There wasn't even a formal hearing from the Sentient Beings committee."
"Yes, isn't it frightening? A Dark Fae who causes a shudder through everyone he passes… he's been frightening everyone in the Leaky Cauldron and the alley lately. Can you imagine that the Ministry would roll out the carpet for someone who reminds everyone of Mirage? I mean, what do we know about him outside of that interview?" Moira asked.
"Especially considering that Defense Against the Dark Arts had nothing good to say about them. They can slip into the shadows… they can even appear like shadows, and they know how to debilitate wizards in a flash if they have the element of surprise," Horus added. "Yet we are supposed to accept this appointment because Counselor Vallid says he's safe? I know she used to have a reputation for being fair, but now that it's come out that she's Half Dark Fae with ties to the Unseelie Court, I don't see why I should take her word for it. Whatever happened to government checks and balances?" Horus asked.
"I really don't know much about it outside of that interview in the Daily Prophet," Theresa admitted. "I had already guessed that Counselor Vallid was Half Fae from her age, and I know she's very well respected, especially in the States. She's also one of the most renowned Truth Seekers in the world. I'm sure if her new husband is as bad as Mirage, she never would have agreed to marrying him," Theresa said.
"You have a point, Theresa," Garret agreed. "But even if that article Lockhart wrote is on the level, Horus is right that there should have been some sort of due process. They rushed it through because they knew that concerns about his race's tendency towards violence would have been brought up in committee. Whether I believe their story or not, I do believe in going through the proper channels."
"I think I know why," Janders offered. "My aunt mentioned that she actually saw that Dark Fae going into the Gringott's Bank a couple of weeks ago with Professor Craw. She had a strange feeling and looked up to see them walking over to the Bank Officer's desk with all of the customers staring at him like they'd seen a ghost. Despite that, Griphook let him into the back like he was a VIP or something."
"Lunette Vallid does have a lot of money," Theresa pointed out.
"True, but she doesn't have a vault here, she's an American," Janders said. "I think Professor Craw must have pulled some strings. That's probably how they got him declared an Ambassador without red tape too, considering her father is the LE Minister and her daughter is Minister of Mysteries."
"Would Minister Wilder agree to it after that fight in Hogsmeade?" Moira asked.
"What fight is that?" Horus asked her curiously.
"The day before the article came out, there was a fight in the middle of Hogsmeade on the high street, right in front of my father's off-licence between Mage Wilder and that Dark Fae," Moira replied in a quiet voice, making certain none of the Reformists were nearby. "My father didn't know what it was about at the time; he was inside doing the inventory when it happened. Minister Wilder and Lunette Vallid rushed in to break it up, but it was quite obvious that her husband saw him as a threat. Do you suppose they were threatened and forced to go along with it for some reason?"
"That doesn't make sense, if he's on friendly terms with Professor Craw," Janders replied. "Then again, none of it makes much sense."
"Perhaps we can get Charles Weasley over here? He may know more about this than we do," Horus suggested.
"I'll admit to being curious about what he knows on the subject," Garret said, getting his attention. Charlie glanced over and said something to Pierce Selwyn before wandering over.
"Good morning… at least, I think it is," Charlie said, glancing between them. "You Traditionalists don't have to stay back here in the corner, you know. Come join the party! Everyone will think you're having intrigues and are in the process of pulling me in for fun."
"Nobody is going to mistake you for anything but a Weasley," Janders assured him.
"We simply want to ask about an internal Ministry matter…" Garret explained.
"If it's an internal Ministry, I don't see how it has anything to do with anyone here except you, since no one else at this table works there. Can't it wait until a more appropriate time?" Charlie asked Garret.
"I think it has to do with everyone that sits on the Wizard Council, actually," Horus interrupted. "Why didn't that Dark Fae husband of Lunette go through the proper channels to become an ambassador?"
"Oh, so you really are over here having intrigues," Charlie concluded. "I'm afraid you'll have to ask someone closer to the source, and even then you may be out of luck. The proposal came out of the Mysteries department with both the LE Minister and the Minister of Magic signing it. I only found out because they filed paperwork that reclassified the Svartalfar as a "Sentient Race" instead of a "Dark Creature" and moved the file out of my department. To be honest, the only reason we even had a file on Delves at all was as a precaution when the portals were failing. According to all known records, they left at the end of the invasions and hadn't returned since. We based all of the files on those old invasion accounts just in case they were one of the Dark Fae races that slipped through, but as far as I know, none of them did. In short, we have no recent data to go on; we have no idea how they've changed since those ancient times when they were unquestionably a vicious brutal race… but then, so were humans."
"We may not know how much they've changed, but we also don't know how much they haven't changed either. Don't you think we're being a bit too trusting considering our lack of knowledge on this matter, regardless of what sort of personal connections the Delf has?" Horus asked, and noticed Charlie's expression change.
"And what about the fact that he seems to have already provoked someone in the Ministry despite the fact that he's only been here for two weeks?" Moira added.
"Perhaps they rushed the paperwork through because he hurt someone and they're attempting to cover it up," Horus suggested.
"That's a lot of wild speculation," Charlie protested.
"Yes, that's the problem with not going through the proper channels. It leads to speculation," Garret said. "The Ministry's lack of transparency has been rather troubling lately."
"Perhaps the Ministry should make an official statement on the matter to reassure everyone that he isn't going to hurt anyone," Moira suggested.
"It'd probably be a step in the right direction, at least, especially if they can't give us some explanation as to why they didn't go through regular channels," Horus said.
"You know what? None of this has nothing to do with me anymore since I already signed paperwork declaring that he's not a Dark Creature. So…" Charlie looked around. "Ask Percy, he may know more about it, or Alex when she gets here. Anyway, I need to go say hi to Harry," he decided.
Charlie felt a lot of curious eyes on him as he wandered through with only nods to some of the other members of the Solidarity party as he made his way over to where Harry, Jamie, and Owain were standing. Jamie and Owain were dressed to fit their station, while Harry wore his best Auror's robe; a sign that he was also working security that day.
"Hello, Charlie! Do you need me to go escort Horus out again?" Harry asked after noting where he came from.
"No, he hasn't gone that far," Charlie reassured him. "But they were starting to ask a lot of questions about Lunette's husband and how he achieved diplomatic status so quickly, complaining that it didn't go through regular channels and that it lacked transparency."
"They've been using that term a lot lately… transparency," Owain commented. "Along with open government."
"Of course they are, because they want to know what Reformists are up to," Harry said. "If the tables were turned and they were in charge, they'd be calling for more security to protect everyone's individual rights of privacy."
"Well, as far as I'm concerned it has nothing to do with my department. I don't know Lord Bres or anything about it, so I'm just passing on the fact that they're not happy about the fact that it was pushed through without going through the proper channels," Charlie told Harry.
"It would have been a lot worse if they had tried. They'd be pulling out every single Defense book we have to use against him, it would have been a lot worse," Harry assured him.
"Maybe," Charlie said thoughtfully. "Although they do have a point that it's a bit much to expect everyone to accept that a Dark Fae race that they've all been taught was evil is now a peaceful diplomat because of one strategic marriage. In fact, it's raised a lot of eyebrows, and I've had a fair number of curious people wandering into my department to ask questions, and they haven't just been Traditionalists either."
"What have you been telling them?" Harry asked with a frown.
"The same thing I just told Garret and Horus, that the file's been moved to Sentient Beings and that I have no information on their current race because of how long it's been. The problem is that some of us think it's important to find out more about him before I judge, others are going to use that lack of information to fill in the blanks," Charlie said.
"Thanks for the warning, Charlie. It's not something entirely unexpected, though," Harry admitted.
"Uncle Charlie, I don't suppose you'd want to come to the museum with me for an exhibit opening at the end of the week?" Owain offered. "You see, I happen to be good friends with Bres of Ilsudan, and he's been employed at the museum making an exhibit about his culture."
"Actually, I am interested in going… to get some context, if nothing else," Charlie agreed. "Drop by the department and we'll work out a meeting time."
"Certainly," Owain said, and then Charlie walked over to where Percy and Garret were talking to see what he had to say on the subject as well.
"At least it sounds like my uncle's on our side," Jamie said.
"I wasn't really worried about him. He's still a Weasley whether he identifies with Solidarity now or not," Harry replied. Hesearched the crowd until he saw Jennifer standing in a group with Minerva, Angela Greisley, and Mandria Shea-Gaffney.
"Of course all of the Greisleys are suspicious. It's what they do," Angela said bluntly. "When I told Victor that Bres was staying at your house, Jennifer, he just rolled his eyes and didn't bring up again. But when my in-laws heard about it, they were quick to come up with an excuse why they couldn't come to the museum to see the new exhibit anytime soon."
"I'll go to the exhibit," Stew Gaffney said as he came up behind Mandria, handing her a drink. "You never know. He could need a counselor considering the reception he's getting."
"Funny, but I'm pretty sure Lunette would have an objection to that idea," Mandria said.
"Not if she hasn't kept up her licensing," Stew pointed out unconcernedly. "You're not planning to let him teach or anything, are you, Professor Craw?"
"Well, no, but Boulderdash is planning on hiring him as an Assistant Librarian," Jennifer admitted.
"Damn, that still falls under Tim's jurisdiction. Oh, well, maybe he'll be accused of murder or something and Tim will need more help," Stew said hopefully.
"Why did I marry you again?" Mandria asked him flatly.
"You needed someone with a sense of humor to balance out your serious personality," Stew suggested. "And I make more than you."
"I'm a teacher, so of course you make more than me," Mandria said dryly.
"You won't object if he's an Assistant Librarian, will you, Angela?" Jennifer asked her.
"I wouldn't object even if you went all in, Jennifer, to get even with my inlaws if for no other reason," Angela said.
"Hey," Harry greeted as he walked up, and they all replied warmly. "I hope you're not expecting that vote to be unanimous."
"No Harry," Jennifer said with a knowing smile and nod to let Harry know that she had read his mind. "But don't worry. In time, we'll win them over."
"Always the optimist," Harry said with a grin, shaking his head at her.
It was very satisfying to take down the partitions so that everyone could fully see their work. Halbert Hagrid was especially intrigued as the rest of the museum employees gathered around to take a look at the cavern city inside the large geode and crystal castle. A soft melody played on the recorder, and Halbert and Adam Hinge watched curiously as magic smoke drifted out of the recorder and onto a silk screen on the wall. There, they saw scenes of the Delves wandering through the city. Delvish women gathered water from bubbling fountains and waited around a giant tree until Delvish men with bright yellow sashed brought trays filled with wrapped bundles. They knelt as they each took one, depositing empty wraps in a large bag.
"Is that food?" Halbert asked.
"Yes, that is their family's daily rations, which consists of tuber cakes, mushrooms, moss, and sometimes dried meat. Everyone in the city gets a share of food, although the portions may vary depending on our current food supply. The same goes for my father's table; if the hunters have a poor day, the meat goes to the soldiers first, since they're the ones that kept us safe from the demons," Bres explained.
"That is hard," Adam grunted, and Halbert nodded in agreement. "No wonder everyone in those visions look so damned unhappy."
"Unhappy?" Bres said, bewildered. He glanced at the visions on the silk screen. "They aren't unhappy at all. Delves simply don't over exaggerate displays of emotion like you do in your culture, because we don't need to. I have been informed by my wife and others that humans do not see the auras of life force around creatures like Fae races can."
"That's true," Halbert agreed. "Most giants and Fomorians don't either, but a lot of them have a keener sense of smell. It's some sort of survival instinct."
"Well, over time, we were able to learn how to read auras at a further distance so that we could better understand each other's emotions better. Because of that, there is no need for exaggerated expressions. It is unnecessary and considered obnoxious. I was always in trouble for being too expressive as a child, not that the discipline helped," Bres said with a faint smile.
"I take it that expression right there is probably inappropriate," Halbert observed, catching on.
"Most decidedly," Bres agreed.
"Does anyone else have any questions about Bres about his exhibit before we get ready to open?" Ambrose asked.
"No, but I wish you good luck today," TJ said.
"And if you're nervous, it's okay," Pete Cander offered. "Even if you are feeling nervous, nobody's visiting is going to be able to tell, so it doesn't matter."
"He's got a point," Ambrose chuckled, glancing at his watch so openly that everyone else standing around took turns offering Bres good luck before walking back to their sections and floors.
Left to himself on an empty floor, Bres soon became bored. He pulled out a book to look at until anyone came in.
In many ways, Ambrose was more excited about the new exhibit than anyone else, putting out folded signs leading visitors downstairs and posters near the doors and the Doorlift. But as visitors began to trickle in and wander around, Ambrose noticed something strange in their behavior. Some went to the cafe, others stopped for a courtesy map to discuss what they wanted to see, and families with small children immediately went upstairs or used the Doorlifts to get their prams to the Children's floor. It was, in fact, just like any other day. Typically when a new exhibit opened, the majority of guests would make a beeline to it because they wanted to see what was new. What was this strange amount of apathy?
After a while, Ambrose wandered over to a couple with an older child of ten or eleven, peering at the map.
"Good morning! I'm the curator, Ambrose Tinker. I don't believe I've seen you here before," Ambrose greeted them warmly.
"Good mornin', aye, we're from Donegal Town," the wizard said. "I'm Arden Kelly, my wife Sheila, and this is my son Brian, who got his letter to attend the famous Hogwarts magic school just yesterday," he said proudly.
"My 'usband was so excited he brought us here straight away to spend the weekend to visit the Ministry an' to see about finding some work and some property," Sheila said.
"And since we were nearby, I thought we'd have a wee bit of a look around when we heard there was a museum for our Brian," Arden explained with a grin.
"Were you asking at the hotel? What do you do?" Ambrose asked curiously.
"A bit of this an' that. My current job is at a pub as a barman, but I've done all sorts of work. My Sheila makes wrapped sandwiches at a comp'ny that caters to the local marts," he explained.
"Oh, but I would love to work somewhere with more of our own kind, really… we've nothing at all against Muggles, mind you, but it would be nice to relax and talk about witch things instead of always holding it back," Sheila said.
"No problem," Ambrose said with a smile. "I think you'd probably be better off trying to find somewhere to live in Hogsmeade, since it's near the school and it's a bit cheaper than here, but if you need starting jobs that you can count on before you move, I'll make sure you get taken on at the hotel, or even here, Sheila. If you don't mind making sandwiches, perhaps you wouldn't mind helping out at the cafe. Most of the workers that Ronnie has right now are students, so another pair of hands is more than welcome. But don't feel obligated to stay if you find work in Hogsmeade… I'm offering it to make certain you have steady work so you don't need to worry about that part of the equation."
"Are you dead sure you can guarantee a job for me at the hotel?" Arden asked seriously.
"Yes I can, it's owned by members of my family," Ambrose explained. Arden's expression brightened, both pleased and incredulous.
"There, now! And you thought I was wastin' money by taking this trip!" Arden said to his wife. Thank you very kindly, Mr…"
"Ambrose is fine," Ambrose assured him. "Anyway, I came over to tell you we have a new exhibit today if you're interested. It's down on the World Cultures and Magicology floor, all about Svartalfar."
Both Arden and Sheila's expressions fell. Only Brian looked mildly interested.
"Is it very violent?" Sheila asked worriedly. Ambrose blinked.
"No, of course not! It's about their culture… where they live, what they eat, and their daily activities; government, music, interests, all that sort of thing, just like all of the other cultural exhibits here," Ambrose said, slightly annoyed.
"I beg your pardon, no offense was intended at all," Arden assured him. "It was simply that we got to watch Wizardnet tellie for the first time last night in our room, and since there wasn't a game on, we watched a special on Wand1 on Myths vs. History, all about the Faerie Invasions, and since so much of that happened in our country, we were interested. Last night, they focused on the different races of the Unseelie Court."
"Oh really, and they covered that subject a day before this exhibit opened. What a coincidence," Ambrose said flatly. "The invasions happened a very long time ago. They're actually very reserved and not the slightest bit hostile. Would you like to meet one?"
"Are you sure it's safe?" Arden said.
"Of course it's safe. He's an employee of the museum," Ambrose said, growing even more curious about what Wand1 had been saying about them.
"Right, then! Since you've been so kind, it's only right that we take your suggestion," Arden said, and Ambrose smiled, leading them downstairs, making comments along the way about some of the exhibits they were seeing and using the map to get some idea of how it correlated.
The entire family hesitated once more at the bottom of the second step, staring at the dark-haired figure with perfect posture despite the fact that he was reading a book. He swiftly put it away, bowing his head at Ambrose and the very nervous family that was looking at him with trepidation.
"This is Ambassador Bres of the Svartalfar people, known informally as Delves," Ambrose explained. "This is the Kelly family. It's alright to come closer, he won't bite."
"May I explain?" Bres inquired.
"That's why you're here, so yes," Ambrose said with a smile.
"What you are feeling is nothing more than what your people would call a curse. It warns races that were once our enemies that we are nearby and could be a threat to them," Bres explained. "The Fomorians call it a Stain; a sort of mark that was put on us by the True Danaan after losing a battle… a sort of punishment and a condition of surrender that happened in my grandfather's time. Even though many less years have passed in our world than yours, it was still a very long time ago, well before what my people call the Age of Demons, where we were trapped over a generation in our own city. But this sort of curse is passed on to one's children and their children, which is why you still feel it."
"Does that mean you can't sneak up in shadow forms like you used to?" Brian asked out of the blue. "I mean… people would sense you coming, so you couldn't kidnap them or take their children or slit their throats or anything…"
"Brian!" Sheila said with a frown, clucking softly at her son.
"Yes, that is so. One of the reasons it was put on us was to protect against our stealth, but the shadow walking you refer to is only something we can do at night," Bres said.
"That's good to know," Brian decided.
"You should also know that we are now at peace and you have nothing to fear from me. Even if we were at war, I'm a scholar and a diplomat, not a soldier," Bres explained. "Would you like to see what my home looks like?"
Feeling more curious and at ease, the family went over to see his exhibit.
Ambrose smiled at that, then sighed when saw others skirting the stairs. Was he literally going to have to escort every single guest down there to keep them from avoiding it? Looking back over at the family asking basic questions to ease their fears as well as basic curiosity, Ambrose watched as Bres answered each one, unoffended no matter what the question was.
Fine, Ambrose thought to himself with determination. If he was going to have to lead them down there one by one, he would do exactly that. He went back up the stairs noticing just how many people were waiting for the Doorlift to go to sublevel three rather than taking the stairs past the creepy sensation they were getting. Sighing and wishing he could turn off the lifts and get away with it, he went back to the lobby to find someone else to convince to go down there.
When he got to the lobby, he saw Jennifer standing inside with Serendipity in one hand and Samantha in the other.
"Hi, Jennifer! I see you have your hands full!" Ambrose said with a smile.
"Oh, good morning! We've come to see the new exhibit and then to play for a while. Isn't that right, girls?" Jennifer said.
"I want to play first, Aunt Jennifer," Sam said.
"I want to see Bres," Seren argued.
"Yes, alright! Don't you want to see Bres too, Samantha? Let's see Bres first," Jennifer told her.
"Actually, I'm glad you're here. I've been having a lot of trouble getting anyone down there. Some of them are avoiding it because it doesn't feel right, and others are avoiding it because Wand1 apparently put out some sort of special on all the Dark races of the Unseelie Court or something," Ambrose said with frustration.
"Well, I didn't know they did that, but I'm not in the slightest bit surprised either. I could tell you plenty of stories about what they did to get rid of me when they heard an infamous Craw Dark Witch was teaching at Hogwarts. They even forced me to resign," Jennifer recalled.
"Wait, what? I didn't hear that story before," Ambrose admitted with a surprised smile.
"Remind me to tell you about it the next time there's a family gathering. But right now I have a plan to help your guests warm up to Bres, although it may require taking him away from his exhibit for a while."
"If it keeps me from having to escort guests down there one family at a time, I'm listening," Ambrose assured her.
"Lovely! Then please ask Bres to come up to the children's floor. Come along girls! Let's go color with Bres!" Jennifer said, and the two girls excitedly ran to the stairs, talking as they went up them.
"Are you sure putting him on the children's floor is a good idea?" Ambrose asked skeptically. "I don't want them to be too scared to go up there."
"The younger the children, the less it seems to affect them, and Bres has a natural way with children. His empathic ability makes it easier for him to understand them on their level, and it doesn't take them long to warm up to him. Go fetch him, and I'll show you what you mean," Jennifer said with a smile as she went up the stairs.
Shrugging, Ambrose went downstairs, unsurprised to see that the Kelly family had moved onto other exhibits and Bres was tempted to pull out another book. The two of them went to the Children's Floor through the Doorlift and several of the parents looked around uncomfortably, but most of the children kept on playing. Serendipity ran over to Bres excitedly, pulling him over to the table.
"Look at that enormous color table! I know you, you're Sirius Black's daughter, aren't you?"
"I'm Sam!" Samantha declared.
"I just picked her up a little bit ago. She's going to be spending the week with us, aren't you, Sam?"
"She likes tea parties too," Serendipity told him.
"I see, well then we'll have to have some, won't we?" Bres decided.
"Will you stay and color?" Jennifer asked with a smile. Bres glanced around at Ambrose, looking for direction.
"Go ahead, Bres, it isn't like you aren't still helping out," Ambrose replied.
"Well, yes, I suppose that's true, but I was looking forward to sharing my culture today," Bres admitted.
"That'll be easier if we can demonstrate to them that you're not a threat," Ambrose explained.
"True. Yes, I see," Bres said, trying to find a crayon that wasn't broken. "I can't help but be a bit disappointed."
"Perhaps there's a way you can do both," Jennifer pondered thoughtfully, glancing at the different coloring pages. "I notice that most of these have something to do with the museum. What if there were some pages featuring his city and his castle?"
"It's not a bad idea. How well can you draw, Bres?" Ambrose asked.
"Hold that thought a moment," Jennifer said, and walked over to a painting of several children playing.
"Dawn, do you know if your father is back from New Mexico? I want to call in a favor," Jennifer said.
"Sure he's back. What should I tell him?" the painting of a seven-year-old Dawn Pyther asked. "Tell him that the museum needs some emergency drawings for coloring papers," Jennifer declared. Shrugging at that, the painting left and did what she told.
As it approached eleven o'clock, the museum began to get busy, as it always did as parents brought their toddlers for a quick play and a lunch in the cafe. But while there may have been short hesitations at the Doorlift and the top of the stairs, it quickly melted away when they focused in on where several young children were coloring next to a pointy-eared Delf wearing a balloon wizard hat.
"Would you like a coloring paper of the city cavern or of the castle, Edgar?" Bres asked.
"One castle please!" Edgar said. Next to him, Emily scribbled on the city for a bit before turning it over to draw herself.
"Does anyone else want a balloon animal or hat?" Pyther offered. Several children came over, putting their hands up.
"Those are great, Pyther. I didn't even know you knew how to do that," Ambrose said with appreciation.
"As a matter of fact, I learned how to do it just recently. Belinda was teaching Joy how to make a poodle, and I got sucked in," Francis admitted with amusement. "I'm hoping to impress my students next year with it."
"It definitely impresses me," Ambrose said appreciatively.
"So how is everyone doing at the circus town, Francis?" Jennifer asked.
"I've never seen them happier, and the property they bought for their home base is quite revitalized now, even though the heat outside can be quite oppressive. They have also converted an old airport hanger into a practice area for their wire acts that's both safe and comfortable. Tolly and Penwiggle have really worked hard on the place," Francis assured her, handing off another balloon wizard hat.
"I'm glad. I know it's hard to believe after everything we went through, but I miss them sometimes, especially Tolly," Jennifer replied.
"You should visit sometime. Cookie runs a bed and breakfast… it's the only hotel in town, but the coffee's good," Francis said with a smile. "Does anyone else need a balloon hat?"
"Oh me! Me! Pick me!" Charlie Weasley said, waving his hands frantically.
Everyone looked over to see Owain, Zack, and Charlie standing at the top of the stairs, looking over in disbelief at what was going on.
"Aren't you a bit old for a balloon wizard hat?" Francis teased.
"How old is that Delf?" Charlie challenged him.
"One hundred and twenty seasons," Bres replied.
"If he's not too old, I'm not too old!" Charlie declared, and Francis handed him a hat.
"Anyone else?" Francis asked.
"Well no, I'm good, but if you can make a couple of balloon rapiers for when I visit Peeves, that might be fun," Zack said.
"I can teach you how to make those," Francis said.
"You're on, but for right now, we're actually here because we want Bres to show us his real exhibit," Zack said.
"It's alright with me," Ambrose decided, wearing a balloon wizard hat of his own.
"Thank you for coloring with me," Bres told the children and stood up.
"Thank you!" "Good-bye!" they said back, and Bres stood up and led them over to the Doorlift to show him his exhibit.
Nobody pointed out that he still had a balloon hat on his head until the end of his shift.