Chapter 7 - Settling In
The steady hum of magic echoed faintly as Borzak stepped into the main chamber through the glowing door at the far wall, his silver-edged armor reflecting the golden light. He crossed the room with purpose and bowed deeply before King Ragnok, who stood near the humans and house-elves.
"My King," Borzak said with respect, his tone formal. "The hallway is prepared, and all rooms and facilities are ready. The chamber has adapted to the needs of your guests."
Ragnok nodded, his sharp emerald gaze shifting toward the gathered group. His commanding voice filled the space as he spoke. "Come," he said, his tone both regal and calm. "It is time for you to see what the chamber has provided."
Deprak, tall and imposing as always, moved to Ragnok's side. Her sharp eyes scanned the group as she gestured for them to follow. Harley exchanged a look with Sirius and Remus, both of whom nodded, and the three fell into step behind the goblin king. The rest of the group followed close behind, their movements filled with curiosity and quiet anticipation.
Borzak led them toward the glowing door, its intricate carvings shimmering faintly in response to their presence. The runes pulsed brighter as his hand touched the door's center, and with a low, melodic rumble, the door opened inward. Beyond the threshold stretched a wide stone hallway bathed in warm, golden light. The walls were etched with glowing runes, their soft hum creating an atmosphere of calm and reverence. Heavy wooden doors lined either side of the corridor, each engraved with unique symbols that seemed to radiate life.
As they stepped into the corridor, Borzak gestured to the doors on either side. "These are your living quarters," he explained, his voice steady. "Each door represents the room of its occupant. The runes and symbols reflect the essence of the individual within, and the magic of the chamber ensures that every room is perfectly suited to its occupant's needs. Each includes a private bath, fully enchanted for comfort and relaxation."
Murmurs rippled through the group as they began to examine the doors more closely. Hermione brushed her fingers lightly over the glowing carvings on one of the doors, her brown eyes wide with wonder. "These enchantments are remarkable," she said softly. "The detail in each rune is extraordinary."
Ron, standing beside her, gave the door a wary glance. "I just hope they don't decide to lock us in," he muttered. "Or rearrange themselves while we're sleeping."
Luna smiled serenely, her dreamy voice cutting through the chatter. "Runes are like songs," she said. "If you listen carefully, they'll tell you their secrets."
The group continued down the hallway, pausing briefly as Borzak opened one of the doors to showcase an example of what the rooms offered. Hagrid's door, marked with symbols of strength and loyalty, opened to reveal an immense space with high ceilings and furniture sized perfectly for his towering frame. His spacious bath was equipped with oversized fixtures, designed with his needs in mind.
Hermione's room, as they passed it, was filled with shelves of enchanted texts and cozy nooks for reading, while Luna's room featured a ceiling enchanted with a moving night sky, the stars twinkling softly above. Neville's room boasted a small enchanted garden glowing with magical plants, its soft light casting a serene atmosphere.
Rooms for married couples were positioned near their children's quarters, reflecting the chamber's understanding of familial bonds. Molly and Arthur Weasley's room was warm and inviting, with a cozy sitting area and accents of rich wood. Dan and Emma Granger's room was practical yet elegant, their private bath enchanted with soothing charms. Andromeda and Ted Tonks' room exuded a quiet calm, its soft lighting and warm tones reflecting their personalities.
The communal room for the house-elves was pointed out next. "House-elves prefer shared spaces," Borzak explained, opening the door for them to see. Inside, the room was reminiscent of the Hogwarts dormitories but simpler and more practical. Rows of bunks, each with its own shelves and personal space, lined one wall, while tables for meals and workspaces filled the center of the room. An enchanted fireplace radiated warmth, providing a comforting and welcoming atmosphere. The house-elves murmured their approval as they stepped inside, already taking to the room with ease.
As the group moved further down the hallway, Borzak gestured to a series of additional doors. "Beyond the living quarters, you will find shared spaces designed to meet your needs during your time in the chamber," he said.
He opened the door to the training room first, revealing a vast space reinforced with enchantments. The walls were lined with weapons and tools, their surfaces gleaming faintly with magic. "This room is for combat practice," Borzak explained. "It will adapt to both magical and physical training."
The healer's room came next, filled with medical supplies and enchanted tools for treating injuries of all kinds. Tekrik, the goblin healer, was already inside, methodically organizing the space. Augusta Longbottom stepped forward to briefly inquire about Tekrik's plan for assessing Frank and Alice, her tone sharp but filled with gratitude.
"Rest assured," Tekrik said, his voice calm. "They will receive the highest level of care."
The library followed, an expansive room filled with towering bookshelves and enchanted scrolls. It was a scholar's dream, with reading nooks and tables for study illuminated by soft, magical light. Hermione's eyes lit up at the sight, and even Luna hummed softly with approval.
Next was the war room, a circular space dominated by a large, enchanted table in the center. The table displayed a glowing, three-dimensional map that shifted and adjusted as Borzak approached. "This room is for planning and strategy," he explained. "The map can be used to visualize potential scenarios and locations."
Finally, Borzak led them to the recreational area. Gasps filled the air as they stepped inside. The room was enchanted to mimic the outdoors, complete with a moving sky of soft sunlight and gentle clouds. A lush garden stretched across the space, with a path winding down a small incline to a sparkling brook. The brook fed into a crystal-clear lake designed for swimming, while an adjacent area was set up for flying practice and other outdoor activities.
"It's beautiful," Luna murmured, her voice filled with awe. "It feels like the real outdoors."
"It's amazing," Hermione added, her tone reverent. "The enchantments are so detailed."
Ron tilted his head toward the flying area, his face lighting up. "Think we could set up a Quidditch match?" he asked.
Sirius chuckled, clapping him on the shoulder. "Let's get through training first, Weasley. Then we'll talk."
Finally, Borzak led the group to the dining hall, another grand space filled with long tables and sturdy chairs glowing faintly with enchantments. Off to one side, a buffet had been arranged, displaying an array of dishes representing magical, non-magical, and goblin cuisines. The tantalizing aroma of the food filled the air, drawing murmurs of interest from the group.
The hall was bustling with activity, as the remainder of Ragnok's clan—goblins who had joined them in the chamber—were already seated at some of the tables, speaking amongst themselves. The goblins greeted the arriving group with polite nods, their sharp eyes scanning the humans with quiet curiosity.
Borzak gestured to the room. "This is your dining hall," he said. "Meals will be served here, and the chamber will replenish food as needed. You are encouraged to share meals together—as one family, as one clan."
The group began to step inside, their attention drawn to the buffet and the mingling goblins. Though the challenges ahead loomed large in their minds, the warmth of the space and the sense of unity brought a glimmer of hope.
As the group stood gathered near the entrance, King Ragnok moved to stand before the assembled goblins, humans, and house-elves. His emerald-green gaze swept across the room, his presence commanding as he prepared to address Clan BlackSteel.
His voice carried authority and clarity as he began. "Tonight, we are all here as allies—united by purpose and, for some, by bonds of family. Clan BlackSteel stands not only for strength and tradition but for loyalty. These bonds extend beyond our goblin kin and now reach into the wizarding world through Harley Potter."
Ragnok gestured toward Harley, who stood near Sirius and Remus, her emerald-green eyes steady but curious as she watched him. "Harley Potter is not simply our ally; she is my adopted daughter," Ragnok declared, his voice resonant and strong. Gasps and murmurs rippled through the gathered goblins at this revelation, their sharp gazes turning toward Harley with expressions ranging from surprise to approval.
"She carries the rare title of Eternal Goblin Friend," Ragnok continued, his tone steady and proud. "A title earned not by birthright but by actions that embody loyalty, honor, and sacrifice. Through this bond, Harley represents House Potter as Eternal Goblin Friend—a bond that extends to those she brings into House Potter's protection."
The murmurs of the goblins grew louder, their surprise shifting toward understanding. Deprak, standing beside Ragnok, watched the reactions of her kin with a faint smile. Barzok, the weapons master, nodded approvingly, while Thirda tilted her head slightly, studying Harley with renewed interest.
Harley, though surprised by the formality of the announcement, nodded slowly in acknowledgment, her expression softening. "Thank you," she said simply, her voice carrying quiet gratitude.
Ragnok turned his gaze toward Sirius, who had been standing close to Harley, his grey eyes flickering with curiosity and respect. "Sirius Black," Ragnok began, addressing him directly. "Through your lineage, House Black carries the status of Goblin Friend. While this bond is lesser than that of Eternal Goblin Friend, it affords you and your kin certain services and protections within the goblin nation."
Sirius raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "House Black has always valued its alliances with the goblin nation," he said smoothly. "It's good to know those alliances remain strong."
Ragnok inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment. "Indeed," he said. "Through these bonds—both ancient and newly forged—we strengthen the ties between our worlds. Clan BlackSteel recognizes the significance of these alliances and will honor them."
The humans exchanged glances, some murmuring quietly among themselves, while the goblins and house-elves shifted subtly, the dynamic of the room changing as the weight of Ragnok's words settled over them.
Ragnok stepped back slightly, his gaze sweeping the room once more. "Tonight begins the forging of new bonds," he said. "Use this time wisely, as allies and as clan."
With his speech concluded, the tension in the room began to ease, replaced by the quiet buzz of conversation as the goblins and humans began to mingle at the tables. Harley remained near Sirius and Remus, her thoughts filled with the enormity of what had just been revealed.
As the humans found their seats, the goblins returned to their places, quietly exchanging remarks about the newly strengthened alliances. The dining hall seemed to grow warmer, as though the bonds being formed had filled the space with light and hope.
The teens lined up at the buffet table, trays in hand, chatting quietly as their gazes roamed across the tantalizing array of food and drinks. The aroma was almost overwhelming, mixing smoky goblin spices, rich magical flavors, and the comforting scents of non-magical dishes. Each teen's tray glimmered faintly with enchantments, ensuring their plates and drinks would stay balanced as they moved through the line.
The drink table caught their attention first, offering a wide selection that catered to every taste. Harley led the way, her emerald-green eyes lighting up as she spotted Coca-Cola and sweet tea. With a grin, she poured herself a glass of Coke, listening to the fizz as the bubbles rose to the surface. "Thank Merlin," she said with a sigh of relief. "Something familiar. I thought I'd be stuck with pumpkin juice forever." She quickly added a glass of sweet tea to her tray, glancing over at Hermione. "You should try this—it's a Southern classic."
Hermione hesitated, her gaze shifting between the sweet tea and pumpkin juice. "I'll stick with pumpkin juice for now," she said, pouring herself a goblet of the glowing orange drink. "Maybe later."
Ron was already eyeing the goblin drinks with curiosity. He grabbed a goblet of Emerald Draught, the shimmering green liquid refracting the light as he tilted the pitcher. "Borzak said this is made with emberfruit nectar. Bet it's got a kick," he said, adding it to his tray without hesitation.
Fred and George weren't far behind, sharing identical grins as they both poured themselves goblets of the same drink. "If it glows, it's got to be good," Fred declared.
"Or it might make us glow," George added, nudging his brother.
Ginny chose butterbeer, filling her goblet carefully before adding a glass of sweet tea. "This all looks amazing," she said, balancing her drinks on her tray.
Luna selected gillywater, her silvery gaze lingering on its faintly glowing bubbles. "It's like starlight in a glass," she said softly, her tone dreamy.
Neville hesitated but eventually poured himself some lemonade and water infused with mint and cucumber. "Better start simple," he muttered, keeping his selections modest.
Daphne and Tracy approached the drink table with their usual composure. Tracy chose the smoky Blazing Bark Tonic, intrigued by its faintly amber hue. "This smells interesting," she said, pouring herself a goblet.
Daphne opted for cucumber water, her movements graceful as she set the pitcher back down. "I'll save the adventurous choices for later," she said coolly.
Draco surveyed the table carefully before selecting Blazing Bark Tonic as well. He swirled the liquid slightly before setting it on his tray. "Looks sophisticated enough," he remarked with a smirk.
With their drinks chosen, the teens moved on to the food.
The buffet stretched along one side of the hall, divided into goblin, magical, and non-magical sections. Each table was laden with steaming dishes, their aromas blending into a feast for the senses.
Harley led the way again, methodically picking her food. She started with a bowl of Brunswick stew from the non-magical section, appreciating the hearty mix of chicken, tomatoes, and vegetables. She then added a slice of pepperoni pizza and moved on to the goblin section, where she chose Ember-roasted Skalriks and a small portion of Rockroot Mash. "It's like a greatest hits album of food," she joked, balancing her tray carefully.
Ron was less restrained, loading his tray with a generous helping of Stonefire Stew and multiple Molten Crag Biscuits from the goblin table. "This stew smells incredible," he said enthusiastically, spooning some onto his plate. He added slices of pizza and sweet and sour chicken from the non-magical side, grinning as his tray filled to capacity. "Now this is a feast."
Hermione took a more cautious approach, serving herself a small portion of Stonefire Stew after Ragnok explained its volcanic roots and flame-grilled meat. She balanced it with roasted vegetables, pumpkin soup, and a piece of grilled salmon from the non-magical section. "I'm going for variety, but manageable," she said, glancing at Ron's overloaded tray.
Ginny mixed her choices with care, opting for roast chicken, Rockroot Mash, and a small salad. She added a bowl of Brunswick stew and nodded approvingly as she placed her tray down. "This looks incredible," she said, eyeing the stew curiously.
Luna's tray was modest, filled with glowing Rockroot Mash and roasted pumpkin salad. She added a single Molten Crag Biscuit, her gaze drifting across the goblin table as she murmured, "Each dish tells a story. It's lovely."
Neville hesitated but followed Ron's example, adding a small serving of Stonefire Stew to his tray along with roasted potatoes and a piece of pizza. "Just trying a bit of everything," he said quietly.
Fred and George were predictably reckless, piling their trays high with butterbeer fondue, treacle tart, Stonefire Stew, slices of pizza, and even a daring attempt at mixing goblin and magical dishes together. "We're conducting culinary experiments," Fred declared.
"Scientific, really," George added with a laugh.
Daphne chose lighter fare—salad, roasted vegetables, and a small portion of Rockroot Mash. "Nothing too heavy," she said thoughtfully. "It's all about balance."
Tracy went straight for the goblin stew and Molten Crag Biscuits, balancing them with sweet tea and pasta salad. "Bold flavors," she remarked, glancing at the goblin dishes.
Draco selected smaller portions of Ember-roasted Skalriks, Rockroot Mash, and roasted vegetables. He added a bowl of pumpkin soup from the magical section and a slice of grilled salmon from the non-magical table. "Everything in moderation," he said smoothly, setting his tray down with precision.
With their trays full, the teens made their way to Harley's table. The house-elves were already seated at their own table nearby, chatting softly as they sampled their food. Harley glanced over and gave Dobby a warm smile, prompting him to beam and bow slightly.
Daphne, Tracy, and Draco paused briefly, exchanging glances. Daphne stepped forward first. "Mind if we join you?" she asked, her tone polite but warm.
Harley smiled brightly, gesturing to the empty seats. "Of course! Sit with us."
Tracy set her tray down beside Luna, her expression relaxed. "Thanks," she said, settling in.
Draco, ever composed, took a seat beside Daphne, his movements deliberate as he adjusted his tray before sitting. "Thank you," he said formally.
The girls greeted one another warmly, their familiarity drawing curious glances from the boys. Ginny leaned across the table to catch Daphne's eye, her tone genuinely happy. "It's good to see you," she said.
Daphne nodded, her cool exterior softening. "You too," she replied. "Feels like it's been ages."
Tracy grinned. "We've all been so busy with school, we barely get to catch up."
Luna's dreamy gaze shifted to the group. "Friendship doesn't dissolve," she said softly. "It's like threads in a tapestry. They remain."
The boys exchanged confused glances. Ron frowned slightly and leaned toward Neville. "So… since when are we buddy-buddy with Slytherins?"
Fred raised an eyebrow, grinning. "Good one, brother dear. Feels like we missed the whole backstory."
Draco, overhearing, smirked faintly but said nothing, letting the question hang in the air.
The table fell into a brief but expectant silence after Ron's blunt question—"Since when are we buddy-buddy with Slytherins?"—prompting everyone to glance at the Gryffindor and Slytherin girls. Ginny smirked, and Hermione gave Ron a pointed yet amused look, clearly deciding he deserved an explanation.
Harley leaned forward slightly, her emerald-green eyes bright as she began, "Actually, I started the study group during our first year. It was just me, Hermione, Susan Bones, Hannah Abbott, Daphne Greengrass, and Tracy Davis back then. I wanted a group where we could help each other without all the house rivalries getting in the way."
Daphne tilted her head, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "And we're very grateful you did. A Gryffindor pulling together two Hufflepuffs and two Slytherins—people thought you were a bit mad. But you made it work."
"It wasn't just about studying," Hermione added, her tone thoughtful. "It was about support, too. Hogwarts is overwhelming, especially at first, and having a group made it so much easier."
"And you weren't judgy like some people," Tracy added with a grin, shooting a teasing glance at Ron. "That made a big difference."
Harley continued, "The next year, Ginny and Luna joined us, along with Astoria Greengrass. It felt natural—everyone fit right in."
Ginny leaned in, her grin widening. "I was just a little first-year trailing after you lot, but you never made me feel like I didn't belong. I learned so much from all of you."
"It was the same for me," Luna said softly, her silvery gaze distant yet serene. "Friendship doesn't see houses—it grows wherever there's light."
"And Astoria," Daphne added fondly, her voice softening, "she was thrilled to join us. She's always looked up to all of us, especially you, Harley. Being part of the group meant everything to her."
Fred leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms as he smirked. "So the girls have been keeping all the good secrets, is that it?"
George nodded, mock-serious. "The best study group in Hogwarts history, and we weren't invited. We're wounded."
Draco, who had been listening with quiet interest, raised an eyebrow. "You've all been friends this long, and yet some of us didn't know? Or were you just avoiding mentioning it around certain people?"
Harley shook her head firmly. "It wasn't a secret—it just wasn't something we broadcast. Not everyone would have understood."
Ron frowned slightly. "All right, but if you're such good friends, where are Susan and Hannah? And what about Astoria? Why aren't they here?"
The question made the group pause, their expressions flickering with confusion before they turned toward Amelia Bones, who had been seated at a nearby table. She had been listening quietly and now stood, her voice calm and reassuring as she addressed them.
"They couldn't be here yet," Amelia explained. "The Abbot family is currently out of the country, and Susan and Hannah went with them. They're expected to return tomorrow, but they couldn't accompany me into the chamber today. I explained this to Deprak when she came to retrieve me."
"Out of the country?" Ginny asked, tilting her head. "During all of this?"
Amelia nodded. "It was a prearranged trip, planned long before everything unfolded. Sometimes prior commitments must still be honored, even during times like these."
Harley's expression brightened slightly as she leaned forward. "Wait—so they'll be here tomorrow?"
Amelia smiled faintly. "Yes. Deprak made arrangements for Susan and Hannah to join us via the portal between Gringotts branches. Once they return to London, they'll use the portal to enter the chamber."
"That's brilliant," Ginny said with a grin. "They'll be here in no time."
Daphne hesitated, glancing at her tray for a moment before looking up. "As for Astoria," she began, her voice quieter now, "she wanted to come more than anything. But she came down with something just before everything started happening. She's recovering, but she's not well enough to be here yet."
"I'm sorry to hear that," Hermione said sincerely. "She must be so disappointed."
"She is," Daphne admitted, her composure softening slightly. "But I promised her that I'd share everything I learn with her. She doesn't want to miss a single detail, and I won't let her feel left out."
"She'll be here when she's ready," Harley said, her voice filled with quiet confidence. "And when she does, we'll make sure she feels like she never missed a thing."
Before anyone could respond, a sudden hum of magic filled the air. The teens turned toward the entrance as golden runes appeared, spiraling along a glowing portal that shimmered into existence. The swirling light rippled, and two figures stepped through.
Susan Bones and Hannah Abbott emerged, their faces lighting up as they took in the sight of the bustling dining hall and their friends waiting for them. Susan's auburn hair gleamed under the enchanted sconces, and Hannah's blonde curls bounced lightly as they walked forward, trays in hand.
"Susan!" Amelia called warmly, stepping toward her niece. Susan's face broke into a wide smile as she rushed to embrace her aunt.
"Aunt Amelia," Susan said softly, her voice filled with emotion. "It's so good to see you."
Amelia smiled, resting her hand on Susan's shoulder. "And you, too. I'm glad you're here, safe and sound."
Hannah stood close by, her gaze already scanning the room. Ginny waved them over with an enthusiastic grin. "Susan! Hannah! Get over here—we've got so much to catch you up on!"
The two girls exchanged quick hugs with Amelia before hurrying over to their friends. Harley stepped forward to greet them, her emerald-green eyes warm with excitement. "It's so good to see you both," she said, pulling them into a hug. "We've missed you."
"We missed you too!" Susan said with a laugh, her eyes sparkling. "It's been a whirlwind."
"I can't believe we're finally here," Hannah added, her tone filled with relief and joy. "It feels surreal."
"Well, you're here just in time," Tracy said with a grin. "We've only just sat down."
After a few more hugs and "I missed you" exchanges, Susan and Hannah grabbed trays and headed to the buffet, their expressions lighting up as they surveyed the spread.
Susan eagerly ladled herself a bowl of Brunswick stew, savoring the comforting aroma of chicken, tomatoes, corn, and lima beans. "This smells amazing," she said, glancing at Neville with a smile.
"It's really hearty—you'll love it," Neville replied, his cheeks faintly pink.
Hannah added Stonefire Stew, a slice of pepperoni pizza, and roasted vegetables to her plate. "I don't even know where to start," she admitted, laughing softly. "Everything looks so good."
"You'll figure it out," Ginny said with a grin, grabbing another glass of sweet tea while they filled their trays.
Susan added a piece of roast chicken and a Molten Crag Biscuit to her tray, her excitement evident. "I've heard the goblin food is fascinating—I can't wait to try it."
With their trays full, the two girls joined the line at the drink table. Susan poured herself a glass of pumpkin juice, while Hannah grabbed lemonade and a goblet of butterbeer. They exchanged excited smiles before returning to the table to rejoin their friends.
Susan took the seat between Ginny and Neville, while Hannah slid into the spot beside Tracy. The table erupted with cheerful greetings, laughter, and excited chatter as the group welcomed their long-missed friends.
"This place is incredible," Susan said, glancing around with wide eyes. "I can't believe we're finally here."
"And the food!" Hannah added, her tray now neatly arranged in front of her. "It's amazing."
Fred leaned back with a grin. "Wait until you see the dessert table. Save room—it's worth it."
The table filled with lively conversation and laughter as the group caught up, their bonds feeling stronger than ever with everyone finally together
The table grew quiet for a moment as Ginny asked, "If Susan and Hannah were supposed to join us tomorrow, how come they're here today?"
Before Amelia could respond, Deprak stepped forward from where she had been standing nearby, her commanding presence drawing the group's attention. Her sharp gaze swept over the teens before she spoke, her voice steady and deliberate.
"The reason Susan Bones and Hannah Abbott were able to join you ahead of schedule is simple," Deprak began. "The portal was activated on behalf of Harley Potter, who holds the rare title of Eternal Goblin Friend. This status carries with it certain privileges, one of which is priority access to goblin services. When the portal was requested for Harley's chamber, it automatically became the top priority, ensuring immediate access. As Susan and Hannah were traveling to join her, their request was elevated above others who were waiting for portal services."
The teens listened intently, the weight of her words sinking in. Hermione's brows furrowed in curiosity. "So their arrival today was entirely because of Harley's status as Eternal Goblin Friend?"
Deprak nodded. "Precisely. Eternal Goblin Friends are considered part of the goblin nation in a unique way. This status not only benefits the individual but also extends to those they bring into their fold. As members of Harley's pack, Susan and Hannah were granted the same priority."
Fred leaned back, letting out a low whistle. "Blimey. That's quite the perk."
George smirked. "No kidding. Think the goblins would let us borrow their portal for a quick trip sometime?"
Deprak raised an eyebrow, her expression remaining composed but firm. "The portal is not a convenience for casual use. It is a privilege tied to duty and honor. Those who abuse such privileges would quickly find themselves facing the consequences."
Fred and George exchanged guilty grins but said no more.
Harley, meanwhile, smiled warmly at Deprak. "Thank you for making it happen. I know the portal must be in high demand, but it means a lot to have everyone here."
Deprak inclined her head. "It was the right thing to do. And now that Susan and Hannah are here, your group is complete—for now." Her gaze softened slightly, an unusual warmth creeping into her expression. "May I join you? I'd like to learn more about the bonds that have brought you all together."
Harley's smile widened. "Of course, Deprak. We'd love to have you."
Deprak set her tray down at the table and settled into an open seat, her sharp eyes now filled with quiet interest as she became part of the lively group. The teens welcomed her warmly, the inclusion of the goblin leader adding a unique energy to their gathering.