"—and this is my chamber!" Draco said, opening the doors to a huge room and rushing excitedly inside. Harry and Draco had been brought to Malfoy Manor, with Lucius excusing himself to send a letter to Harry's Aunt and Uncle, explaining the event and what would be required.
With his father gone, Harry had practically been dragged off by his pureblood friend. Showing Harry around the Manor, Harry had marveled at the expansive grounds and the gorgeous white peacocks strutting around the garden. As they walked through the halls, Draco shrugged.
"So, you'll be in the guest room on the other side of the hall. Dobby was sent to get your things and should be returning soon." Draco said, pointing to the doors on the opposite side of the hallway. Harry peered first into Draco's enormous room, and then the guest room with a look of marvel. "It's not a crawlspace, but it'll do." Harry muttered to himself, missing the seclusion of his own private den. He was looking forward to getting back to his crawlspace when he was home for summer.
"What was that, Potter?" Draco asked, looking over at him curiously. Harry shrugged, "Oh, was just saying I'm surprised the manor doesn't have any crawlspaces or hidden areas." Harry walked up to a guest bed that looked absolutely pristine, ornately gilded with silver and ivory.
"What's a crawlspace?" Draco asked curiously. Harry grinned, as he gestured at the floor. "It's a place under a house when there's not enough room for a basement." Harry explains. "It's normally the size of an entire house, and it's really, REALLY fun to be in. It is really easy to turn into a really private space, and the entire thing feels something like a secret room."
Draco's nose scrunched up. "Sounds like some sort of weird muggle thing. The Manor has a dungeon, like Hogwarts." Draco said as he walked over. Still bearing his large grin, Harry walked over and nudged Draco's side with a teasing, "Cool! I didn't see any lakes around though so it probably doesn't have the same views."
"We can't all have castles made by Merlin himself, Potter." Draco snipped back, not missing a beat as he had a sly smirk on his face. Giving Harry a returning poke to his side caused a retaliation, and soon the two were engaged in a poke war, laughing and fooling around.
A little while later, Harry heard a small voice. "Dobby is returnings with the great Harry Potter's things."
Draco sat up from where he had fallen to the ground with Harry, wrestling and poking each other. Quickly fixing his hair, Draco corrected himself as he put his hands behind his back. "Excellent work, Dobby. You can leave them at the foot of the bed."
"Young Master, is Dobbys required for anythings else?" Harry moved to get up himself, peering at the voice that was right outside the door. It seemed to be keeping hidden, as his trunk flew in. "Great Master Harry Potter's snakey is also beings very clingy."
Harry blinked, and walked out into the hall, seeing nothing but a small head. Amber's coils completely covered the body of a very small person, looking like the gnome he had seen on the ministry statue. "She bes very warms, sir… Oh! Great masters Harry Potter sir! A pleasure… please pardon Dobbys handling of his snakeys, sir!" "A House Elf! I didn't realize you had House-elves. I've read about them, but I never thought— wait, is that how you got the runes into the Twins' robes?" Harry asked, looking at Draco.
Draco grinned, "Guilty as charged, Potter. Though, it wasn't Dobby. I merely requested that the Hogwarts elves do the deed. They were quite eager to punish the Twins, as they have been messing with their food for years."
Harry laughed as the house elf poked his head from Amber's coils. "Amber, you can let him go now. He was only bringing you to me."
Amber's head poked from her coils with a smug look on her face. §§Strange magic rabbit-thing is very warm. Also very gentle. Used magic to pick me up. I thought he looked more comfortable than magic bedding.§§ The large snake hissed.
For the first time, Harry could see how enormous she had grown. The small little creature was two feet tall, but Amber's coils had to be around ten feet now. Her enormous coils were completely engulfing Dobby's body, making him unable to be seen except for his head.
"Dobby, was it? Amber likes you. She said you were very gentle with her. Thank you." Dobby's ears twitched as his large eyes seemed to tear up.
"Great master Harry Potter is as wonderfuls as Dobbys has heard! Great master is skilled and has powerful familiar, and can hear her speaks! Not only that, Dobby even gets thanks from great master. Dobby is not worthy!"
Harry saw Dobby start to sob, as Draco sighed. "Not again. Dobby, that's enough. Stop that." Dobby immediately stopped as Amber hissed, laying her head down atop the house-elf's own.
"Dobbys is sorry, Master Draco sir." Dobby said quickly. "Dobby wills iron his hands, sir, as soon as he leaves."
Draco groans. "This is what I mean about him being odd. Father never mentioned why Dobby is so queer, and he seems to want to punish himself over even small things. Either that or he's about to burst into tears over being thanked. I know Father doesn't reward the elves much but he never actually harms them from what I've seen." Draco says with a sigh. "No need, Dobby. Just go ahead and put Amber onto Harry's bed and go and get her a snack from the kitchen. Does Uncle Severus still have those mice in stasis for experimenting with potions?"
"Yes, Master Draco sir!"
"Then get one of those, and hop to it." Draco waved his hand dismissively, as Dobby walked over to the bed, trying to pull Amber off.
§§No! I don't want my pillow to go! Small creature is very warm. Is good alternative for when Speaker is not here.§§ Amber's indignant hisses were easy to see as the large snake was preventing herself from being removed from Dobby's body.
Dobby squeaked. "Great Master Harry Potter, sir! Snakeys does not want to go in bed!" Dobby said, sounding a bit distraught. The struggle of the house elf caused Harry to laughed, "Like I said, it seems Amber likes you, Dobby. She says she doesn't want her 'pillow' to go."
Draco snorted lightly. "It seems, Dobby, that your duties while Harry is here are to tend to his snake. You may take her with you to Uncle Severus' potion lab to get the mouse, and then you are to come back here and stay with her. Harry has a grooming kit, I assume, so you can spend some time polishing her scales. I bet she'd like that."
"Grooming kit?" Harry asked quickly.
Draco looked over at Harry, seeing the confusion on his face and blanching. "Bloody hell, Potter. You don't have a grooming kit for your snake? That's basic stuff." The reaction to him made Harry rub the back of his head sheepishly. "Well, she never really stated she wanted or needed grooming."
§§I have always eaten my shed skin so that I am not found in your domain.§§ Amber hissed from atop Harry's head. §§But it would be nice to be able to have your help when I shed, Speaker.§§
Harry blushed, a bit embarrassed that he hadn't thought of his snake. Now that he thought of it, he really hadn't done much with Amber. "Uh, well, I'll be sure to get her a grooming kit and stuff at Diagon Alley." Harry said, as Draco nodded and crossed his arms, saying, "If she really is a familiar she wouldn't HAVE to have it, Potter. You need to take care of your companion better. After all, she's your familiar."
Harry looked sheepish as Dobby and Amber suddenly vanished, undoubtedly the Popping that Draco had mentioned elves can do. After Dobby left, Draco walked over to a chair and sat down, gesturing around at his room. "So, Potter. What do you want to do today? Dobby brought your broom, so we could practice our quidditch and fly."
"You sure you need a broom, Draco? Those bloody great wings of yours seem like they'd work well." Harry gave a sly grin, teasing his friend again.
Draco smirked at the tease, replying back, "My wings in Drake Gryphon form are magnificent but I doubt they'd let me play Quidditch as an animal, Potter."
"That's true. But then again maybe you should ask for an exception. Anything would be an improvement over your normal flying skills." Harry's face was completely neutral as he spoke, but the snark definitely got the reaction Harry wanted as Draco grabbed a pillow from a nearby chair and chucked it into Harry's face. Harry laughed, and soon the two were pillow-fighting each other.
Evening arrived with alarming speed. Draco and Harry decided to take a break in the massive sitting room of the Manor, having made a big enough mess with pillow feathers to give the house elves work to do. Harry had started to clean it himself, but when Draco called the elves, they had looked so ludicrously happy that Harry had immediately stopped picking up the feathers.
The massive doors to the entry hall opened, and Harry heard a voice. "Draco, dear? I'm home!" It definitely wasn't Lucius; Harry looked up from the book he was reading at the feminine voice.
In the doorway was an older woman, slender, and reminding Harry of his changed Aunt, in a way. She had beautiful golden hair that was quite long, cascading down her shoulders like they were a waterfall. Harry was surprised. "Draco, is that your sister?"
The woman laughed, with Draco doing the same after a second. "Potter, that's my mother. Welcome home, Mother!" Draco hopped from his seat, hurrying to the woman and hugging her.
"My, it seems that my little Dragon has made a charmer of a friend. Sister indeed." The woman smirked at Harry, who turned beet red. He hadn't expected her to hear that.
"I am Narcissa Malfoy, Heir Potter. Welcome to my home. I wish I was here when you arrived, but unfortunately I was out dealing with matters of the Malfoy Family." She nodded, speaking in a formal tone. She was graceful, giving a polite curtsy to Harry.
"It is my honor to be here, Lady Malfoy. Thank you for inviting my humble self to your home." Harry repeated back, using the etiquette book's suggestions yet again. It truly was one of the best books Mister Dark had given him.
Narcissa smiled, before walking over to a chair. "Would you mind if I joined you and my son? I wouldn't mind some tea to relax." Harry nodded quickly, gesturing to the other chairs. He didn't mind others joining them at all. He was a bit nervous at the woman, not wanting to make her dislike him. "Of course, Ma'am. It's your sitting room." Harry said, his tone belying his nervousness.
Draco tugged at Narcissa's hand with a grin. "Mother, Father already brought us to register our forms. Would you like to see mine?" Narcissa looked over with a smile, her hand cupping Draco's cheek. "So what your father told me is true? You're an animagus?" Her voice was quiet, as if she didn't even believe her own statement.
Draco puffed his chest out with pride, and shifted right in front of her. His Drake-Gryphon form was small enough that it didn't cause too much chaos, though that was only because Draco was so young. In a few years, Harry thought, Draco probably wouldn't be able to use his form inside; at least, not inside normal houses. The sheer size of the manor would probably fit him.
Narcissa's eyes grew wide as she walked up, her hand moving to the feathers of Draco's neck. Stroking them gently, she whispered. "My little dragon now truly is one." Her hands move to the scales on the torso of the creature, as Draco spread his wings to allow his mother to touch them.
Letting Narcissa examine Draco, Harry moved over to his seat and picked up the book again. He wanted to give her a bit of time with Draco, and thus was confused when she walked over to him and gave him a smile.
Narcissa's simple comment made Harry extremely confused, "Well? I'm waiting."
Harry blinked, suddenly acting like a deer caught in a pair of headlights. "Uhhh—?" He couldn't think of what she wanted, as she laughed gently, "I'd like to see yours as well, Heir Potter."
Harry blinked. He hadn't thought she'd want to see his. After all, she was Draco's mother! Harry opened his mouth, but after a few seconds, Narcissa spoke. "It's quite impolite to leave your mouth hanging open in front of a Lady." The witch gave a cheeky smirk.
"Um, y-yes ma'am." Harry closed his mouth and spoke quickly, putting back down his book. Narcissa gave another smile, shaking her head. "Just Mrs Malfoy, please, Potter. You don't have to be so formal around me when we aren't in public." Narcissa pat Harry on the head, before stepping back to give him room.
Harry wasn't used to someone actively asking about him and quickly hopped out of the chair. Draco returned back to his human form, sitting down and smirking at Harry. Without hesitation, Harry let his magic surge around him as he allowed his body to shift into his fox form. The familiar sensation flowed around him, causing him to feel at ease as the tension from Narcissa's presence disappeared. His fox form always calmed him, feeling his change finish as his three tails flicked behind him.
"Magnificent." Narcissa's voice reminded him where he was as Harry's eyes opened, only to see her hands moving down and cupping his furry cheeks. "I'm unsure what creature this is, but foxes have always had magical connotations. It's such a shame they've been hunted to extinction in most parts of Europe." Narcissa sighed.
Harry let her hands pet him, moving down to touch his tails. He flicked them, as he felt his magic build as she touched them. "Both of you have done an amazing job." Narcissa said after a moment of quiet awe.
Harry almost regretfully turned back into his human form, but seemed a lot more calm when he did. "Now, dinner will be in an hour, Moxxy will be serving it tonight. It seems there was a bit of an argument in the kitchens over who would be making dinner for our guest tonight, and Moxxy won the argument." Narcissa smiled.
Harry blinked. "Dobby also seemed to be extra-polite to me. Why are your house-elves so excited about someone like me?" Narcissa considered, tapping her chin with her finger. "Well, that would be because of you defeating the Dark Lord, of course." Narcissa explained, "The Dark Lord was never a fan of House Elves, shall we say."
Harry blinked. "But didn't Lord Voldemort push for the rights of the Purebloods? Disliking the servants of the Purebloods seems a very odd thing for him to do."
Narcissa flinched heavily at the mention of the name, but shook her head. "Unfortunately, many of his dislikes are a mystery to us. He was very tight-lipped with his own desires, preferring to seclude himself on most days. When the Blood War began, it got worse and worse, especially with my husband."
Harry nodded. He had heard about the Imperius curse, and how so many purebloods had been forced to follow Lord Voldemort. He didn't know how much he believed it, but he wasn't about to air that dirty laundry here in the sitting room of a man who had stated such.
With that, the conversation turned lighter with Narcissa asking the two boys how their first year in Hogwarts was going. Harry and Draco explained how they had both become Princes, making Lady Malfoy quite happy with both of them.
It wasn't long before dinner was served. Narcissa led Draco and Harry into the large dining hall, the magnificent ancient oak table set with candles flickering in the middle. The scent of a multitude of dishes was in the air, making Harry's stomach grumble as he sat down.
The absence of their host was obvious as Harry peered at the head of the table, as Narcissa noted his gaze and spoke up. "Lord Malfoy is currently out of the house, visiting Borgin and Burke's once more. He seems to have a lot to do this past week. I'm sorry he couldn't be here tonight, Draco."
Draco's voice was calm, but Harry could hear the hurt. "It's okay, Mother. I'm sure he'll be here for other dinners this week, right?" Narcissa gave a bitter smile in return. "One can only hope, Draco. Your father's always so busy at the Ministry." Narcissa's tone seemed a bit wistful, as Harry knew she probably both resented and adored her husband's position.
Harry ate quietly and carefully, making sure not to embarrass himself with lack of manners. Harry kept quiet, but could see how Draco's head was hung with melancholy with his father's absence.
The next two days were a flurry of activity for Harry. Draco was eager to show him the Malfoy family library, a grand, expansive library that Harry could FEEL the ancient magic within. He was told not to touch anything, and with his ability to see the magic he didn't dare to even breathe around many of the books. The entire library seemed to be powerful, with ancient family magics that would sooner tear out his organs than allow him access to its secrets.
Idly, Harry wondered what Hermione would do. He hoped she wouldn't just force her way and try to read a book. The thought of his friend grabbing one of the books with a darker aura made him shudder as he imagined what some of the curses could do.
Flying with Draco was fun as always. The two spent time just circling around the house instead of really doing any practicing. They tossed a quaffle back and forth here and there, but Harry knew Draco loved flying just as much as he did; he vowed to try to get Draco flying in his animagus form by the end of the week.
With such active days, Harry didn't even notice when it was the day they were to meet up with Harry's Aunt and Uncle. Lucius took Narcissa first, then immediately returned to pick up Harry and Draco; he apparated them just down the street from Privet Drive.
Heading down the street, Harry noticed Miss Figg's eyes from her window once again as the family headed towards Number Four. When they walked up the driveway, Harry took the lead and walked up to the door, knocking lightly. It took a single knock before Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia were outside, Petunia moving to Narcissa and looking at the woman.
"My goodness, those robes are beautiful. They're far nicer than anything my sister had at Hogwarts." Petunia said, complimenting the blonde witch. Narcissa seemed pleased at the compliment, giving a feminine giggle and a smile. "Yes, they're Acromantula silk. Some of the finest material available. They're quite expensive; I also commissioned a family friend from France to do the detail work."
Petunia smiled, eyes glistening with excitement as she started to speak with Narcissa about French wizards, as Petunia offered her own insights on similar French fashions. Vernon moved to speak with Lucius as they walked to Vernon's car, their topic quickly going to investing and moneymaking.
Just like her husband, Narcissa seemed amazed at the quality of the car, especially when she got inside. Lucius seemed to be appreciative of being back within the luxurious vehicle, "If only brooms had such luxury. Muggles may have their faults, but they certainly know how to, at the very least, treat their betters." Lucius said with an arrogant smirk.
Vernon smiled right back. If he took exception to the 'betters' comment, he didn't show it. The sight made Harry recall advice from his uncle from years prior.
"There will always be people who are more successful than you, lad. Always remember that even if they are arrogant, it's proper to show respect. Even if you don't want to."
Privately, Harry wondered if Vernon's smile was fake, or if it was genuine. Either way, the car soon took off, as it drove to the end of the street and past Miss Figg's eyes which peered from her window.
The trip to the Leaky Cauldron was a bit longer than it had to be; both Lucius and Narcissa requested to go the long way. Harry could see even his friend was enjoying the comfortable luxury car, barely able to control a snigger at the sight of Draco slouching in the soft upholstry.
As they arrived in front of the Leaky Cauldron, the Dursleys got out of the car and got the doors for the rest of the group, with Harry assisting. Harry saw the slight look of regret as Lucius got out of the car, one that quickly passed as the Pureblood placed his hands on his cane. "Now, let's move on. We do not need to dally here too long; I have an appointment for your robes today."
Vernon looked at Petunia, who seemed far more eager than any time Harry had seen her before. She looked far, far younger than she had the past ten years, something Harry couldn't really get over. His Aunt seemed like an entirely different person.
Lucius and Narcissa led the way, opening the portal to Diagon Alley. It was crowded as usual, but it didn't take long for the group to get to Madame Malkin's and make their way inside. As they did, Lucius tapped his cane against the wood flooring.
"I am here for my appointment, Madame Malkin." Lucius' voice was commanding, as several aides hurried to the front of the store, pulling the blinds and closing the door. As Madame Malkin stepped from the back room. "Of course, Lord Malfoy. As you requested, we will make sure that your guests have utmost secrecy." The pudgy witch gave a polite bow, and walked up to Vernon and Petunia. "Now, you two must be the Dursleys. Please, come with me."
Vernon and Petunia seemed surprised at the treatment, heading over to stand on larger versions of the pedestals Harry and Draco had stood on at the beginning of the school year. Harry gestured to some chairs, before digging into his robe and pulling out a book. Draco moved to sit down, but he was so anxious that he didn't seem to care about the book, even when Harry offered him another.
Time passed as Vernon and Petunia were measured, turned, and measured over and over. Lucius and Narcissa took seats near the front door, and before long Madame Malkin finished her measurements. "Simple enough, I should be able to finish your robes within an hour."
Vernon and Petunia both nodded and gave her a polite thanks before heading to rejoin Harry and the Malfoys. Lucius nodded to the two was they walked up. "Excellent. I assume you both know enough etiquette that you will not embarrass myself or your nephew at the Ball?" Lucius asked, standing up and putting away a small book he had been reading.
Vernon looked at Petunia, who nodded and spoke for the two of them, "I believe I know enough about muggle nobility to factor into your own world. Still, I would enjoy a good book to make sure I know the basics before the Ball proper."
Harry piped up. "I have a book on Wizarding Etiquette you could read, Aunt Petunia! Draco, can we call Dobby here?" Petunia seemed surprised, but nodded to Harry as he turned to Draco excitedly.
"Dobby!" Draco called, causing the little elf to appear in the middle of the group, Vernon and Petunia jumping in place from the surprise. "Yes, Young Master Draco sir?" Dobby was polite as always, though the enormous snake coiled around the small creature made him seem a bit more terrifying than noble. "Snekky still not like being away from Dobbys, sirs and madams," Dobby quickly explained at the curious look Narcissa and Lucius were giving him.
Harry laughed, eventually wiping a tear from his eye after a few moments of deep laughter. "Well, Dobby, can you go into my trunk at the Malfoy Manor and bring my Aunt Petunia my copy of Nobility and Customs of the Wizarding World?"
"Dobby woulds love to help Great Master Harry Potter's Auntie!" There was a sudden pop as Dobby disappeared, returning with the book held in his small hand. Amber hissed gently, a little annoyed that her hugging-companion kept moving, but begrudgingly shifted herself a bit as Dobby beamed with pride.
"Thank you, Dobby. You may go now," Draco said as the book was given to Petunia, who opened it and peered inside. Dobby soon popped away, as Vernon's gaze on Harry indicated questions would be asked later.
Lucius clapped his gloved hands to get everyone's attention. "Now, let's return to my Manor through the floo. Madame Malkin will deliver your robes to my home via the floo when they are completed." Lucius said, gesturing towards the door. The group was shortly leaving the store, but Harry suddenly felt the feeling of them being watched. His inner fox growled a bit, as he looked around at the crowds moving up and down Diagon Alley.
His gaze flitted across several faces before noticing a strange, brown-haired man. However, the man's magic wasn't fitting for him, unlike everyone else around. It swirled and pulsed with color, having a wild freedom to it that seemed better suited to a brash and excitable person. It was unnaturally similar to Harry's own magic and reminded Harry mutedly of Ollivander's.
Harry glanced at the man, who caught his gaze for a second and then quickly disappeared into the crowd. The feeling of being watched didn't go away, however, as the group headed down Diagon Alley. It wasn't long before Harry noticed another person, a young blonde witch this time, with the exact same magic around them. Harry was nervous, meeting the witch's gaze. He could see a flash of confusion for a second, before she too disappeared into the crowd.
It wasn't long before the group neared the Leaky Cauldron allowing Harry to discreetly whisper to the group, "Lord Malfoy? Uncle Vernon? I think we're being followed by a few people…"
Lucius' eyes immediately moved to the crowd, gesturing for the group to move to the side of the alley. "Are you certain, Potter?" Lucius asked lightly, keeping his voice low. Uncle Vernon was also watching around the group like a dragon guarding its hoard.
Harry whispered softly, making sure he wasn't heard by anyone but the group. "At first it was a man with brown hair and a gaunt face. Then a lady with blonde hair and chubby cheeks." Harry's eyes danced over the crowd again. Sure enough, he saw the magic again, but this time was a third person; a short, chubby wizard with salt and pepper hair. Harry whispered about the man's presence to Lucius, who immediately had his wand out of his cane and at his side. Harry saw the man quickly disappear into the crowd, a mix of confusion and alarm on his face.
"Let's hurry to the floo. They cannot follow us through that." Narcissa said quietly. Lucius nodded, making it appear he was agreeing with something that his wife had mentioned offhand. Moving together, the group entered the Leaky Cauldron.
As they entered the floo, Harry saw Narcissa take Petunia, and Draco take Vernon, allowing them to pass through the green flames. Lucius remained with Harry, before gesturing for him to go through. As Harry stepped up to the fireplace, he saw the magic once more, this time as an old witch who seemed to be leaning on a cane. That same confusion passed through her face as Harry's eyes locked with her own, just before Harry disappeared into the floo's flames.
A few moments after Harry arrived, Lucius came through. Vernon brushed himself off, hurrying to Harry. "Are you alright, lad?" Uncle Vernon's arms were brushing Harry off, making sure the boy wasn't harmed in any way. Harry sighed, "I'm fine, Uncle Vernon. But that group of people was strange. They all seemed to be watching us." Harry turned around as Lucius came from the floo a few moments later, appearing concerned.
"Perhaps they were keeping an eye on myself. I know that a Wizengamot sessionis going to be in a week, and I am often a high profile advocate for the Traditionalist party," Lucius said, hands resting on his cane. "But of course, where are my manners. Welcome to Malfoy Manor, Mister and Miss Dursley."
Petunia peered around at the regal black and gold furniture, as Vernon was speechless. "I wish Dudders could see this…" Petunia breathed out in reverence.
Harry chuckled. "Maybe we can set something up in the future, Uncle Vernon."
Lucius peered at Harry, the corner of his mouth twitching before he responded. "Well, I did invite yourself, Heir Potter, so I do not think that having your guardians around would be too much of an issue."
Harry saw a split second of a surprised look on Narcissa's face, before her face shifted to a gentle smile. "Of course. We'd love to have you."
Leading Vernon and Petunia into the massive sitting room, Draco spoke up. "Myself and Potter will be outside for the hour. Would that be alright, Mother?"
Narcissa nodded, as she returned to the Dursleys, leaving Harry and Draco to hop outside.
As soon as they were out in the garden, a couple of the peacocks scrambled away from the boys as Harry turned into his fox form and chasing after one of them. Draco laughed, and suddenly was in his Drake-griffin form.
The two started to romp about the garden, chasing the peacocks and otherwise having fun with their animal forms. Jumping on Draco's back, Harry would ride on Draco here and there, his small fox form almost a quarter of the size of Draco's drake-griffin form.
After a while, Harry turned back into his human form after hopping off Draco's back, speaking up. "Let's try to get you to fly!" Draco's griffin eyes widened in surprise as Harry chuckled. "It can't be that hard, right? Instincts and all that. Just open your wings!"
Harry saw Draco's wings open; the massive dragonlike wings spread majestically. Moving towards them, Harry started to slide his hands down the wings. "I think you need to push off the ground while flapping hard. That's how normal gryphons do it according to books I've read." Harry could see the magic focused around the wings, and inside of Draco's chest was a hot, fiery magic deep within.
Draco chirped in response, moving as if he was going to pounce, and leapt into the sky. His wings flapped, buffeting Harry with wind as he raised a hand. "That's it, Draco! Keep flapping your wings!" Draco stayed up for a moment, but the flapping of his wings stopped. As soon as he stopped flapping, he plummeted to the ground and landed on a large bush with an indignant squawk.
Harry laughed. "You have to keep flapping your wings, I'm pretty sure!" Draco let out a screech in response, making Harry laugh harder. Once he was recovered, Draco pushed himself out of the large hedge bush, before moving back into a pouncing stance.
This time, Harry saw Draco flap his wings as he climbed higher and higher, starting to move into the sky. At first, Draco's movements in the air were tentative, but as Harry instructed him to try different things, Draco started to fly around in the air.
"Magnificent." Harry heard Narcissa's voice next to him, turning to see the blonde witch looking up at Draco. "This is all thanks to you, Potter."
Harry blushed, kicking a loose stone on the ground and averting his gaze sheepishly. "Oh, Draco did the ritual himself. I really don't deserve any praise." Did McGonagall tell her about the close call? Harry was suddenly worried, trying to keep his attention on Draco.
"Of course you do. At the start of the year, Draco was for all intents and purposes a perfect pureblood prince. That all changed when you became his friend. Even my Lucius seems to be warming up to your guardians slowly but surely, Potter. That is no small feat. He's been against muggles since his Hogwarts days."
Harry's attention was sufficiently broken as he turned to look at Narcissa incredulously. "I— all I did was make a deal with Draco on the train. We made a few other friends, and I made us all promise we'd be friends no matter the house."
"And how many other students would have done that? You've been a better role model for my Dragon than even his father has been. I've always been a follower of tradition; but ever since I held Draco in his arms when he was born, Draco has always come first. You have given Draco options, Potter. Options that he'd never have had had he been focused entirely on being a perfect pureblood Slytherin." Narcissa says softly, a wistful tone taking the conversation.
Harry rubbed the back of his head sheepishly, shaking his head. "I see. Well, you're welcome? I guess? I don't really know what to say to that."
"All I ask is that even if things get difficult, please remain my Draco's friend. He can ill-afford to lose a friend like you." Narcissa said gently. Harry nodded, steel in his voice as he responded, "You can be certain about that, Lady Malfoy. Draco's my friend and I won't let that change."
Narcissa didn't say anything in reply, instead patting Harry on the head as she looked up, seeing Draco gliding down in lazy circles. As he landed, he turned into his human form and ran up to Narcissa. "Mother, did you see? I can fly!"
Narcissa smiled, kneeling down and hugging Draco. "I saw. My little dragon can fly as well as any dragon could!" Harry smiled, happy for his friend as he looked around. As he did, he felt an odd sensation, a wisp of magic that sparkled out of sight as he tried to look at it.
Walking over to it, Harry made his way to the sparkle, kneeling down. Carefully parting the grass, he found a small, glimmering key. Draco noticed Harry looking at it, and walked over as Harry picked it up. "What did you find there, Potter?"
"I don't know. It's some sort of key. It looks like it's made of silver, but it's too bright for that. It's got moss growing on it, but it's not tarnished at all. See?" Harry asked as he pulled the moss off.
Indeed, the key was around the size of a pinkie finger and seemed to have lost none of that lustrous silver color. In fact, after Harry removed the moss and roots from the key, it seemed like it was brand new.
"I've never seen a key like that before. Mother, do you know what it's to?" Draco asked as Harry offered the key to the blonde witch. Narcissa took it carefully, examining it.
"I'm not entirely sure either, Draco. Malfoy Manor used to be an old summer home of the Black Family, who gifted it to the Malfoys as my dowry." Narcissa explained. "We have found many old rooms in the Manor that are locked to us; perhaps you should check them, or ask the elves?"
Draco considered. "Alright, thank you, Mother. Kippy?"
A female elf appeared, wearing the same pillowcase clothing Harry had seen on Dobby. However, Kippy's pillowcase was a carefully bleached and tended white, unlike Dobby's ratty one.
"Do you know what this key is?" Draco asked, as Narcissa handed it back to Draco to show to the elf. The elf carefully examined it, and then shook her head sadly. "Kippy not know. Kippy sorries!"
"Would any of the other elves know?" Draco asked.
Kippy shook her head. "Kippy being Head Elf. Kippy knows mostest about Malfoy Manors. No elfses know more than Kippy!" The elf seemed quite proud as she gave something that looked like a salute.
"Alright, you may go now, Kippy." Draco said, as Kippy popped away to return to her duties. Draco handed it back to Harry, and grinned. "Seems we have something to do tomorrow!" With a knowing grin, Harry nodded in response.
The hour soon passed, as the floo's flames flickered and a package was gently pushed from it to the flagstones in front of the fireplace. "A pleasure doing business, Madame." Lucius stated as he tapped his cane against the ground, making the parcel float.
It floated over to the sitting room table, where Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon were sitting; Harry and Draco had returned inside to get a drink. Looking over the parcel, Petunia's face was a mix of apprehension and excitement as she reached forward and delicately pulled the strings binding the parcel.
When it opened, Petunia gasped and took out a robe that looked like it had been made with liquid darkness. Along the hems of the robe was what looked like molten silver, glimmering in the magical lighting of the sitting room.
"This is beautiful. Thank you so much, Lord Malfoy. It makes me happy that we will be able to show off such beautiful robes given to us by the Malfoy Family." Petunia said, gratefulness obvious in her voice.
Vernon reached in and took his own robes, the same pitch black robes but this time with a gilded gold hem; Vernon seemed surprised. "I'm quite surprised. This style is reminiscent of the early nineteenth century. Would I be allowed to bring a hat, Lord Malfoy?"
Malfoy seemed surprised at the comment. "I believe so. What sort of hat are you considering?" The interest was thinly veiled in Lucius' voice as Vernon considered. "Well, during that era, muggles invented a specific style of top-hat for formal occasions. My grandfather left me one in his will, an old black silk top hat that would go perfectly with this."
"Really. Please bring your hat with you to the ball. Should it be too… muggle, then I'll have you remove it, but I would be interested in seeing such a hat and seeing if it truly matches the robes."
Vernon nodded as he thought carefully. "This appears to be excellent for the outer layer. Would I be able to wear my tuxedo attire beneath, perhaps? It would accentuate the robe itself."
Once more Lucius seemed surprised. "A tuxedo? I believe I have heard of that term for muggle clothing here and there. I know little of it, but you may bring it. Just be sure that you bring another set of clothing, just in case the tuxedo is, as well, too muggle for our sensibilities." Lucius said.
Petunia's eye seemed to twitch at the repeated mention of being too "muggle", but Vernon's hand found hers and squeezed it, calming the woman down as he nodded and replied, "Of course, Lord Malfoy. Once more, thank you so much for this favor you have shown us."
Lucius shook his head. "No, I am merely repaying the favor you showed to myself and my family by returning the heirloom chair to myself. No Malfoy would ever be indebted, much less to a muggle. We magicals are of old blood, and thus our honor demands we repay our favors." The word seemed to be slightly less insulting this time, it felt.
Vernon nodded, noting the lighter usage of the term 'muggle'. "Quite a noble viewpoint, one lost by many of the muggle elites in this day and age. Perhaps the traditions of the magical world have remembered things that we of the mundane world have forgotten."
Lucius nodded in agreement, as Vernon took a small goblet of wine from its position next to him, standing up and clearing his throat, "I propose a toast. To friendship, and family both. May both our families have a bright future ahead." Vernon lifted his glass.
Around the table, glasses were raised, with Harry and Draco raising their goblets of juice. "Here here!" came the voices of both children and adults, as glasses were tapped together and each of them drinking.
Draco was surprised, seeing his father so nonchalantly accepting a toast from a muggle. His father, one of the highest ranking members of the traditionalist party, drinking with a muggle at his manor! He'd never have guessed this would happen even a year prior, but Harry Potter was definitely a powerful force of change.
Harry grinned as Draco's gaze fell on him. "So, tomorrow is the Ball, right?" Harry whispered. "I never got to ask you who all will be there?" Draco blinked, and pinched his chin as he mused, "Oh, most of the Ministry and many members of the Wizengamot. The Easter Ball is one of the Ministry Balls that happens every year."
"Ahhh, so it's really important." Harry said, feeling a bit of anticipation building within him.
Draco nodded, "The Ministry Balls are where alliances are made and broken. I've only been to a few, but us Heirs normally are meant to remain quiet and watch the proceedings. It's got some really good food, though."
Harry snickered. "Ron will be jealous as anything when he hears that." This snicker made Draco smirk, as conversation resumed at the table.
It wasn't too much longer before evening arrived, with Lucius and Narcissa returning the Dursleys to the Leaky Cauldron through the floo. Heading through afterwards, Harry stumbled through the floo to see the Leaky Cauldron in the middle of the dinner rush.
Heading through the evening crowd, Lucius and Narcissa were led by Vernon and Petunia to the car, and soon embarked to return to Privet Drive.
The drive was much the same as the one earlier that day, but once more Harry saw his friend and his parents enjoying the luxury car. As they rounded the corner into Privet Drive, Harry noticed Arabella Figg sitting outside, one of her many cats on her lap and enjoying some tea in the cool evening air as they passed.
Once Vernon parked, he moved to get the door for Lord Malfoy and his wife, Harry and Draco hopping out of the car and following. Harry could feel some of the neighbors watching, as he saw Miss Figg down the street disappear into her house.
"Thank you for such a wonderful time today, Lord Malfoy." Petunia smiled radiantly. It was obvious she meant what she said. "I haven't been in Diagon Alley since— since my sister went there in her first year."
Lucius gave a polite smirk. "Of course, Mrs. Dursley. You were a joy to host in my home, as well."
Vernon gave a polite bow. "Thank you on behalf of myself as well, Lord Malfoy. We hope to see you tomorrow evening, before the ball begins?" Lucius nodded, as Vernon smiled to Harry as the pureblood spoke, "Of course. We shall be here to escort you then as well. Until then, good tidings."
"You behave at the Manor, lad. Don't get into too much trouble. And when you get home for summer, your Aunt and I have questions about your new pet." Vernon gave a wink and a grin at Harry, one so quick that only Harry noticed.
Harry smiled back and nodded, as Lucius and Narcissa escorted the boys down the street. Once they were out of sight of prying eyes, the two adults apparated the boys away.
-Author's Notes-
We're in the home stretch now! Less than 5 chapters left!
As always, if you're interested in betaing the story, send me a PM! More people to bounce ideas off of and to proofread my work is much appreciated, as it makes the story much better before public release.
Make sure to go to my profile, as we near the end of the book I now have a poll on Fanfiction to decide if I add on to this fic and make it all one big story of 1m words, or make a new fic for each school year! If you're reading this on Fanfiction, please vote, it should only take a few seconds. The poll is located on my profile, as mentioned before!
Harry Potter is owned by JK Rowling.