Chapter 44
-oOo-
December 23, 1996
Rotherham, England
The sun was slowly illuminating the grounds of Greengrass Manor as it crept towards the horizon in the early dawn light. The morning was cold, causing Harry to pull the fur over his face. Daphne's head was against his chest, buried under the fur and hugging him. Feeling her stretching her body against his, her feet moving to rub against his and letting out a cute snort as she slept had his heart leaping, not to mention other parts of him.
Glancing out of the fur, he could see the early rays of sun glistening on frost in the fruit trees upper branches. He shivered as he shifted and cold air rushed in. Daphne shivered, her arm on his chest moving to his side and hugging him closer. The shiver that went through him next had more to do with the bare skinned vixen against him than the cold air.
Looking out again, it started to really hit him that Daphne was sleeping with him. The fact she was completely nude, and the images from last night, really had him heating up quickly.
He shifted again.
"Ten more minutes," a muffled voice said as she moved to snuggle against him as close as she could.
He put an arm over her shoulder. "Luv, the sun's up," he said, not really wanting to leave.
"Mother knows," she told him, sounding totally unconcerned.
Harry held her close, feeling a little nervous to see Auntie Ami's or the Greengrasses' reaction, but at the same time, they were betrothed and not required to be celibate...
Thinking of last night, a goofy grin came over his face.
He sucked in a breath as Daphne's hand left his side to roam. She commented, "Ready to go again?"
He moved to kiss the top of her head, a small groan escaping his mouth. "You keep that up and I will."
The tone in her voice had his blood running hot, especially as she moved to be on top of him. Her mouth hovered just above his. "Is that a promise?" she asked.
He shifted to get a moan of pleasure out of both of them. "I always follow through on my promises..."
The sun was past the horizon when two foxes chased each other through the orchards. A snow fox yipped happily as a larger red fox nipped at her haunches, missing her. The vixen jumped, taking off in a different direction. The sounds of the playing foxes drifted over the grounds as they ran off the energy that was still coursing through them from the night before.
It was a while later that the foxes ended up in the back gardens of the manor. The snow fox finally stopped, breathing heavily. The red fox came to her side, and they nuzzled their necks against each other. When the two foxes morphed back into a handsome, raven hair boy and a stunning, beautiful, dark hair brunette, they could hear laughter from the games room. Daphne leaned into him, feeling tired and a little sore, but still energized in a way she never had been before. Harry's stomach grumbled to smell cooking food from the kitchens. She giggled, "We have to keep that graphorn fed."
"Well, do you blame him? That was a lot of running," he told her, kissing her forehead.
"You still didn't catch me," she said with a hint of laughter on her voice.
"I just let you get away," he commented.
She wrapped her arms around him before motioning towards the house. "You still didn't catch me. Let's go in. I'm hungry."
"Whatever my vixen wants."
She hit his chest playfully. "Your vixen wants a shower and food."
They entered through the door of the games room. Inside a spread was lain out on one of the tables. Most of the people that had stayed the night, even some that hadn't, were in the room enjoying a late breakfast.
Conversation stopped for a moment. Harry felt his face heat a little to be the centre of attention. Daphne stood tall, a similar blush coming to her face. "Breakfast is more of a brunch today," Iliana told them, not commenting on the wild state of each other's hair or clothes, or the fact they both had this satisfied smirk that didn't disappear.
"Thank you, mother. I think we need to freshen up before we eat," Daphne said.
Harry met Ander's eyes. The man gave him a hard look for a moment before nodding his head. A knot of worry that Harry had in his chest lessened. Auntie Ami looked at them as though wanting to laugh. Lady Zabini had much the amused look on her face. Next to her was Mrs Granger, who looked much like she was sharing some joke between the other women. Mr Granger was the only face that looked a little upset.
"Hermione and Blaise are doing the same," Iliana commented. "I do want you both back down here within the half hour."
"Yes, Iliana," he answered.
Doing one last quick scan, he caught Susan sitting with Astoria. Susan's head was on the back of the couch and looking as though she was sleeping. Astoria was giving them her trademark mischievous smirk. Dean was nowhere to be seen.
When Harry went to use a guest room, Daphne didn't let go of his hand. "Where are you going?"
"To take a quick shower and get changed," he told her.
"You are taking a shower with me," she told him, dragging him into her room.
It was longer than a half-hour by the time they made it back to the games room. The adults were talking as Astoria played a quiet game of cards as Susan had a small plate of food on the tea table. Lady Zabini was nowhere to be seen. Hermione and Blaise were sitting at a side table having a quiet breakfast together. Harry had never seen Hermione so playful as she laughed at something Blaise said. Nor had he ever seen her be so touchy. They both kept touching each other. Hand on an arm there. Hermione holding Blaise's hand. Blaise brushing a stray strand of Hermione's unruly hair aside. Her hair was messier than he could remember it being in a long time.
Daphne had them get a plate of food from a long table then sit at the large table usually used for card games. Iliana, auntie, Anders and the Grangers were sitting down.
"You look better groomed than a little while ago," Auntie Amelia commented, a smile playing on her face as she took a sip of what smelled like coffee in the small cup.
"I don't know, there is something to that first morning look," Iliana teased.
"Daphne and Hermione are moving a lot better than I did after that first night," Mrs Granger added.
Daphne was sitting tall, the flush that had been on her face earlier had come back. "I wasn't able to freshen up before we came in."
"I would imagine not. We heard two foxes running the grounds for almost an hour before," Anders commented.
"I try to always do my morning exercises," Harry said, trying to get the attention away from Daphne.
The three-woman chuckled. "That would be an exercise," Mrs Granger replied.
"Are we just going to keep teasing them without talking about what last night was?" Mr Granger asked.
Iliana looked up. Her tone was more serious. "And what do you think last night was?"
Mrs Granger gave him a look. Mr Granger answered though, "You are all just alright that our daughters were pretty much forced to go along with what you say magic wanted last night?"
The mood darkened. "Dan," Anders started, but Daphne held up her hand.
"Mr Granger, last night was something extremely private between me and my betrothed. It was a large step for any witch or wizard. I participated in a ritual that is older than any one on these isles remembers. Harry and I did this of our own accord," Daphne told him.
"Dan, I explained it last night," Mrs Granger said, putting a hand over her husbands.
"But Hermione is only seventeen. She should have waited," he retorted.
Anders spoke next. "My daughter and her betrothed did nothing wrong last night. I know I was about their age when I participated in a Yule night. My wife and I did the same the year we were betrothed. There is a large significance, especially if magic gives its blessing, in rites they participated in. I am pleased that you decided to participate in the ritual last night. Magic is pleased," he said to Daphne and him.
"Dan, Hermione is legally of age now in the magical world. We have no say, and she is with a good man," Mrs Granger soothed.
Dan looked to Hermione and Blaise, who were now sharing cute, innocent kisses.
"Dan, letting your children grow up is hard. What all our children decided to do last night was their own choice. They will all be seventeen before September. Our world expects them to be contributing members of our society by that age. They all decided to take that step into adulthood. Do I wish they could have been children for a few more years, of course, but that is not my decision. Harry and Daphne sit at this table now having taken the Rites of Yule and having been blessed for it. I will recognize them, Susan, Blaise and Hermione as adults now. But should they ever need me, I will be the first one to run to their aid," Auntie Ami said.
Harry sat up a little taller. He felt loved by Daphne. He knew Susan, Hermione and auntie looked at him as family. The last few years had changed everything in his life. It still got him though whenever auntie or Sirius, or any adult, stuck up for him like this. He would do her proud to repay her for what she had done for him.
Dan let out a sigh. "I forget at times how different we are from you in our beliefs. I would run to help Hermione, even if she didn't think she needed me. I just thought there were a few more years to have her as my little girl."
Blaise laughed at something, drawing their eyes to the couple. Daphne reached a hand under the table to his. She looked pleased at something.
"So, now that you two are adults," Iliana said, her voice lighter again, "What are your plans today?"
"I wanted to take Daphne to Potter Green," Harry said.
Daphne looked to him, a small smile creeping onto her face. "You renamed it?"
"Yeah. When the goblins finished the rebuild. I wanted to do the final tour today to sign off on the last of the funds to the goblins. I have an appointment scheduled for one. You are all welcome to join us. I also need to visit my friends there," Harry said, more to Daphne than anyone else at the end.
"I would like that. You have been very mysterious about your old family holdings. I think only my daughter and Amelia have been there," Anders commented.
"There are many family secrets there," Harry said. "Once I sign off, you will have full access to my library, as promised."
Anders held up his hand. "I never doubted your word. Though, once you show my wife, she may not want to leave."
Iliana looked like Hermione when teased with knowledge. "I will finally be able to see everything you have?"
"Yes, Iliana. I owe you for what you have allowed me to take from your library," he said.
"Where is this Potter Green?" Mrs Granger asked.
"It's out in the Lake District. It's a castle in the outer mountains. I hope to make a town there someday," Harry told her.
"That's a bit of a drive," Dan said.
"We can take portkeys or Floo. I signed off on the connection last week," Amelia told him.
"Hermione says it's easier on her parents when Dobby took them. I could call him in a bit," Harry offered.
"I think that would be sweet of you," Daphne said, leaning over and kissing his cheek.
"My only question is, why aren't Harry and Daphne acting as lovey dovey as my daughter and Blaise?" Mrs Granger asked.
Harry said without thinking, "That's because Daphne and I are in public, Mrs Granger."
Auntie chuckled. "I assure you, Jane, that Daphne and Harry are just like any other teen couple when they are with their friends or behind closed doors."
Harry met his auntie's eyes, remembering the last time she had caught Daphne and him last summer. "I see," Mrs Granger said. "I think you can also call me Jane for now on."
"If you are all adults, you mind as well call me Dan too. How big is this castle of yours?" Mr Granger asked...
Shortly after eleven, Harry waved his hand, "About that big," he said to Dan.
Harry had seen it twice over the fall on weekend trips and still felt a sense of wonder at its size. It made him wish he could have seen Potter Hall when it was still around, but this would have to do.
They stood in a new paved circle with a fountain in it. There was nothing on the pedestal yet, but Harry hoped there would be by the spring, he just didn't know what to do yet. The circle was a hundred feet across and surrounded by new ward posts. It would be the public access point for the grounds, able to accept portkeys and apparition. To the north and south, a new cobbled street had been started, but only went a few hundred feet. To the east, the cobbled path meandered through a few curves of the hill to join the No-Maj road about a mile away. Looking to the west, about a half-mile away, up the sloping hill, a new cobblestone drive led to a gate house that led into the castle.
"How many rooms is in there?" Dan asked.
"Twenty-eight," Harry told them.
"The goblins did a better job than I thought with this new entry point," Amelia commented, looking around with an appraising eye.
"Harry, you paid the goblins to do that?" Hermione asked.
Daphne moved to his side, taking his hand.
"If things work out, they will be doing a lot more around here. Auntie, did you get word if they bought the rest of the lands I wanted?" Harry asked.
"I have not yet. I think there was a hold out or two," she said.
"Harry, what are you going to do with all this land?" Susan queried.
He shrugged. "Make a town. Get some farms going. Live here. Is this how you thought it might look?" he asked to Daphne.
"Better. Can we go inside?" she asked.
"How much money did you say this boy has?" Dan asked his daughter.
"I honestly don't know, but more than I thought," Hermione replied.
Blaise chuckled. "I think Harry is one of the richest people in our world. Oi! Potter. Wait up," Blaise called to the group that was already heading to the castle.
At the gates, they met a group of goblins. Harry looked at them a little dubiously. He didn't like it that more than twenty goblins were standing at his gates, more than half of them in full armour and weapons. This was a much different group than he was used to speaking with. He stepped forward. Looking at his watch, he said, "It's only quarter past eleven. I thought our meeting was at one?"
Auntie Amelia was suddenly at his side. "Harry, this is a time to be respectful," she warned in a low voice. He hadn't had issues before. Sparing a glance towards her, he could see most of the others looked nervous as well. "Chief Executive Ragnok, it is an honour to see you on the doorstep of Potter Green. I would have expected our normal representatives."
In the centre of the goblins was one that looked more aged than Harry had seen before.
"You waste time, just like our last meeting, Director Bones. This is the young welp to be scion to the Potters and Peverells?" the goblin said. He was in a suit, like most of the account managers and tellers preferred. Gold earrings and bars were all over his ears and in his brow. Even so, Harry caught the sword at the goblin's waist and had a sense he was not one to play around with.
"This is Scion Harry Potter. Scion to the Potters, Greengrass, Peverells and Glamorgons. My Scion Potter-Greengrass, this is Chief Executive Ragnok," she said.
Harry had a feeling this goblin was even more impatient than the others. Taking a chance, he exposed the hilt to his own sword and bowed. "Chief Executive, may I ask why you are here? This is my castle."
The goblin looked at him before snorting. "You expose your neck, young one, while demanding of me my business. If only most other wizards were as blunt. This is business between Gringotts and House Potter, though I assume House Greengrass is also involved."
Harry looked to the Greengrasses. "Daphne, why don't you take everyone else in." She nodded while her father moved towards them. "Lord Greengrass, this is business that only Regent Potter and myself should attend for the moment."
"If the Greengrasses are involved, I shall attend any meeting," the man said.
"I really think you shouldn't, Anders," auntie said.
"I shall attend," the man insisted.
"No, you won't," Harry said in a hard enough voice the man stopped. Harry looked at him, not wanting the man to ruin anything that might be between him and the goblins. Harry didn't trust Anders to not attempt to control the situation or let his 'traditions' step in. Harry's magic expanded to show his will in this. "When our business involves the Greengrasses directly, I shall call, until then, you have named me your Scion and I will represent our houses to the best outcome for all."
Anders looked displeased at this.
"You are wasting my time," the aged goblin grumbled.
"My apologies, Chief Executive," Harry said. "Daphne, please show everyone around."
Daphne gave him a brief look and a nod. He knew she hadn't been here since it was completed, but she knew the prints. Anders looked very displeased but went off through the main gate with his daughter. Hermione gave him a questioning look. Harry was thankful she wasn't as much of a busybody in his affairs anymore.
Harry motioned towards the gates. "I have a private meeting room we can go to." Harry meant to let them into the old keep, one of the places he had intentionally kept the goblins out of.
With a nod, Ragnok turned. Harry felt a little annoyed to have the goblin leading in his own house as they crossed the courtyard but didn't let it show. He did let out a small smile when they were forced to stop at the large double doors to the keep.
Harry stepped before them, putting his ring to the door. "You are to only come into the guest hall. If you go anywhere else, I will claim a violation on the Houses of Potter and Peverell."
The aged goblin bared his teeth some. Most of the others shuffled and looked distinctly upset to be told what to do.
"I have been told it was difficult to establish the ward stones and rebuild some of this because you would not allow entry to this place," Ragnok replied.
"If you had allowed the crystal wards that I wanted, then it would have been easier for you," Harry retorted, giving the goblin the same attitude. Auntie looked between amused and scared at his petulance.
Ragnok gave him a hard look. "Wizards have shown to not be trustworthy enough."
"And goblins tried to penetrate the wards after I told them not too," Harry replied. "You are just lucky my guardians didn't try to stop you."
There was a chortle from a few of them.
"We do not fear what wizards think of as guardians," one of the other accountants said as they sat around the large table in the room. Harry sat at the head, while Ragnok sat at the other end. Auntie sat to his right, while the three other goblins in business attire sat around their Chief Executive. The guards stood behind the aged goblin.
"You would not want to meet my guardians. We are sat at my table, what is it you wish to talk about?" Harry questioned.
Ragnok snapped his fingers and the goblin to his left took out a scroll and several other parchments from an inner pocket. "What is this tripe?" Ragnok asked, a slight bit of anger in his voice.
Harry looked at the scroll. He could see the broken seal with the House Potter crest on it. "I would say that is a scroll with my House crest. One of many that I have sent in the last year or so."
Ragnok snarled. "You know what this scroll and paperwork is. How dare a welp like you claim you are of Merlin's blood and call on treaties long dead. Gringotts refuses to grant you the right to train others in ward weaving."
Harry looked to auntie, who hadn't said a word yet. She regarded Harry, as though saying this was his show. Harry took in a deep breath. "I assure you, Chief Executive, I am a descendant of Merlin. The treaties of the Camelot Court are still in effect for all those of his blood, or any one of blood from that court. Do you really want to challenge my claims on this?"
For a moment he wished he had Daphne or Hermione at his side. They had both studied the treaties better than he had. He did know the challenge clauses though.
Ragnok eyed him. "You know the price is blood," the goblin stated.
"It will not be mine," Harry said, sounding far surer than he felt.
"Regent Potter, you agree to this farce?" Ragnok demanded.
"Chief Executive Ragnok, there is nothing to agree too. My ward is of the blood of Merlin, his cousin is of the blood of Pendragon and his betrothed is of the blood of Le Fay. All have the rights of the covenants the goblin laid down in eternal friendship according to the treaties. No blood of any line has ever violated those rights, either intentionally or unintentionally, unless the goblins have verifiable proof?" Auntie Ami questioned.
Ragnok and a few others bared their teeth again, a very dangerous sign from them. "If you lie, I will have your innards for my sausages," Ragnok said in a deadly voice. The guards behind him all reached for their weapons.
Harry had had enough. He slammed his hand on the table, letting out a burst of magic. "You dare threaten me on my own grounds! Sahassa! Harssess!"
The use of his parseltongue made all the goblins freeze. "Auntie, please step out," Harry said.
"I will stay," she said, though there was a little fear in her voice. It took only a moment for the sound of scales to be heard grinding over the hard stones of the stairs at the corner of the room.
The goblins said something in gobbledegook. Harry stared them down. "You are on my lands. Do you question my word?" Harry asked.
"What are you playing at, welp?" Ragnok asked, the only one not to look nervous.
Harry waited for the first of his familiars to enter the room. Sahassa came in, moving to Harry's right side. From the reaction of the goblins, they were all ready to fight. Harry's wand came to his hand. "You harm them, and the House of Potter will declare open war on Gringotts. I have enough funds squirrelled away to last until the last drop of goblin blood is spilt."
Harssess came into the room, raising her head to glare at the goblins, who most turned away, shielding their eyes. Harry didn't blame them. Most didn't know that the basilisks had two eyelids. But seeing two twenty-foot-long basilisks at the other end of the room was enough to scare all but the bravest souls.
Ragnok leaned back in the chair, crossing one hand over the other onto his stomach. One of the guards went to move towards the basilisks and Ragnok barked out an order that had the eye shielding guard stop in his tracts. Sahassa gave out a dangerous hiss, curling in a way that he could easily strike out.
Auntie held a brave face, glaring at the goblins. Harry didn't miss her hand shaking a little to have the two basilisks around them.
"Do you have the tongue of the dragons and trolls as well?" Ragnok asked.
Harry blinked. "The what?"
"Merlin was rumoured to have the tongue of many creatures. It was him that taught the goblins how to talk to and control trolls. He had the gift to talk with all greater serpents and dragons. Do you possess those abilities, or do you not know?" Ragnok enquired.
Feeling caught off guard, not having come across that yet, he said, "Uhm, not that I know of."
"Pity. It would be nice to control dragons in a better way than we do. It was long rumoured that the Peverell's were able to control and most often had basilisk familiars. They used them as guardians on all Peverell lands, though I assume these are the last two since this is the only known intact Peverell keep," Ragnok informed him. "The lines of Slytherin, Peverell, Gaunt, Mayweather and Erroll were all known to have come from Merlin. With the death of the last Peverell, we thought the direct line irrevocably broken."
Harry raised an eyebrow. "I can confirm that one of my great-uncles was the last Parselmouth among the Potters. Why don't you fear my basilisks like everyone else in this room?"
"I know of the inner eye," Ragnok said simply. "If you wished to kill us, we would be dead."
Ragnok motioned to the paperwork. "The goblins will not protest your claims on one condition."
Harry sat back now, his hand going to Harssess' head, stroking her hard scales. "And what is that?"
"You mentioned Camelot. We want what goblin treasure is hidden there. You shall have all the top Curse Breakers you shall need, but all goblin wrought items shall be returned to Gringotts, or the other clans that can claim them," Ragnok said.
The shuffling among the other goblins looked more excited now. He could still see the fear of his familiars, but that was pushed back at whatever was in Camelot they wanted. Harry held Ragnok's gaze. "I will talk with the other two heirs, but I want something in return."
Ragnok still looked at ease, but his eyes narrowed. "You are already getting much from us."
Harry snorted. "I doubt the use of your top Curse Breakers and trackers is anywhere near the worth of what you are seeking. I want crystal ward stones on my castle. You will show me how to make them and will never challenge me or any of my kin or guild for our secrets," Harry stated.
Ragnok baulked. "Why would we show you how to do something we haven't ever shown a wizard?"
"Because I have a feeling I know what you are looking for and if you get it, wizards will not be able to challenge Gringotts without serious loss of life or our society," Harry replied. "I also know you have the ability to make wards even stronger than the crystal ward stones but need a wizard to do so."
Yes, the journals and his Latin classes were starting to pay off.
"You can't be serious you would listen to this welp!" one of the other goblins in a suit demanded.
Ragnok started to chuckle, or that was what Harry thought he was doing with the gravelly sound coming out of the goblin's throat. "I must say, I don't remember the last time I met a wizard with such a large set of balls. We can negotiate on this. I believe you have an appointment next week at Gringotts?"
"I do," Harry said, feeling a little dubious.
This made the goblin laugh for a moment. "I give you the honour of Gringotts that you will be treated as a guest of the clan. Nothing shall befall you and we shall all keep your pets here a secret. I would expect your betrothed and cousin to attend. Any matters of the Camelot Accords are to be open to all presiding parties."
With that, Ragnok shuffled to get out of the chair. "Bilnag. Call the builders and have them come as soon as possible. I would like all other business between us and House Potter closed before our next meeting."
The goblin that had had the outburst blinked at his boss. "Yes... yes Ablax Ragnok."
"A big set of balls," Ragnok made his gravely chuckle again as he moved to leave. All but one guard and Bilnag stayed.
Bilnag, after the others had left, jerked up. "If you excuse me, Scion Potter-Greengrass. I must call the others from outside the wards."
"I will be out in a short bit to greet them," Harry said.
When the last two goblins left, Harry sagged into his chair. Auntie Ami got up and moved to the far side of the room. "Harry, why the hell did you call up your basilisks?" She was shielding her eyes.
"I felt that we were in danger. Auntie, they won't hurt you. There is a second lid over their eyes," Harry assured her. To date, only Daphne had ever seen them.
You should have let me eat one of them, Sahassa hissed angrily.
They threatened you, Harssess added.
Goblins respect strength. If you had killed one of them, even in my own house, there would have been other bloodshed, he explained to them.
Auntie just looked at them
I am hungry now, Sahassa grumbled.
Can you wait until the other goblins go and my guests leave before you go hunting? Harry requested.
Sahassa let out an annoyed hiss. We shall not hurt master's mate or others invited here.
I know, my friend, but not everyone knows about you. At least wait until it is dark, Harry said to Sahassa.
I think it may be sooner than thought that we will lay a clutch, Harssess said.
There was a small panic that went through Harry. You said it was decades away.
Harssess lifted her head to look Harry in the face. We are the guardians of this keep. You have enemies. I can smell it. I will not leave you or your mate unprotected should something occur.
Sahassa hissed irately. I feel the calling grow.
Harry frowned. He thought everything would be better without Voldemort and the Death Eaters, but perhaps his antagonization of Croaker was more dangerous than he thought? Or the Goblins? Or the Purebloods that still wanted to control everything?
"What are you talking about?" Auntie asked, starting to look more at ease now she was on the other side of the room.
"Sahassa wanted to eat the goblins. I told him no, for now," Harry said. "I'm sorry to scare you."
You should go back for now. More goblins will be here soon, Harry told them.
Yess, our Harry, Harssess hissed, turning and moving towards the stairwell.
Sahassa moved to put his head near Harry. Harry ran a hand down his scales. Thank you.
Sahassa nodded and followed his mate.
She led out a breath and took a seat. "Bloody hell, Harry. I try to not let that bother me."
"I know most don't like me talking parseltongue," Harry admitted, not feeling any shame of it though.
She gave a soft chuckle, sounding like she was letting the last of her fear go. "It does sound a little creepy, but the goblins respect strength and you showed them that."
Harry gave a soft chuckle of his own. "I was scared," he admitted.
"As you should be. Now, let's go meet the others and get all the wards handed over to you," she said.
"Yes, auntie," he replied. She gave him a look that he didn't need to be so demure to her anymore. Apparently, she was really taking this adult thing seriously. "Dobby?"
Half a minute later, the small elf hurried into the meeting room. "The Great Harry calls Dobby?"
Auntie chuckled to see his face. He still wanted to fight being called 'The Great Harry', but by now was becoming resolved to accepting the title. "Yes, Dobby. Where is everyone else?"
"First floor, near the master sweet. Lady Iliana is in the library with Ms Granger. Dobby informed Ms Granger where she is allowed to look," Dobby said with a smile.
"Brilliant. How are your little ones?" Harry asked, walking towards the new stairs next to the tower entry room. He really didn't have much time yesterday to catch up with Dobby or Tipsy.
"They is getting big," Dobby said with a huge smile now. "Mopsy is running around and we is keeping her out of trouble. Wiggles, he is being a mischievous little elf. Dobby is having to help Tipsy clean up."
"Yes, Wiggles is quite mischievous. Though, I found the artwork in the atrium quite good," auntie said with a chuckle.
Dobby looked very embarrassed and grabbed his ears.
Harry chuckled. "Dobby, don't hurt yourself. I didn't see anything when I was there yesterday. I can't wait to see them when I go back to Grace Hall later. If you need me to help, let me know."
Dobby shook his head as they walked through the castle. Harry could already hear voices from one of the empty bedrooms near the master suite. "Dobby and Tipsy will handle it."
"Are you sure? This place is larger than Grace Hall and you are still helping there. I was thinking of another house elf or two, if you know of any that might want a job. If not, I'll ask auntie to look at finding a steward and get a few other staff here over the next year or two," Harry said. The importance of maintenance and the proper people, or elves, to do so had been made abundantly clear in his estate management lessons.
Dobby looked at him for a second. "Dobby can do," the elf said a little defiantly. "Wiggles and Mopsy will be ready in a few years."
"Dobby, I will not have you pushing yourself, and I know they are not supposed to be bonded or allowed to become full house elves until they are ten. I will be moving in here over the summer, and you will still need to spend time with Tipsy and your kids," Harry told him.
Auntie was watching them go back and forth as they had stopped two rooms down from the others.
Dobby still looked a little defiant, even if he was pulling at his ear. "Dobby will serve the Great Harry and his mistress. Dobby is family," he replied.
Harry sighed, knelt and put his hands on Dobby's shoulders. the elves duller green eyes met his emerald eyes. "Dobby, you do serve me. You are part of my family. As I have learned," he looked to Auntie Amelia, "family takes care of family. It is not just your responsibility. I know you look at Auntie Amelia and Susan as your family too, and you have your own. I will never reject you from working with me, but I need you to help your family, all of it, when and where you can. Daphne and I will be a family in about eighteen months from now. We will probably need another elf or two to help around here. If you tell me now you need the help, you will be serving us in a good way."
Dobby still pulled at his ears. It took a long moment for Dobby to answer. "Dobby can manage for now with and empty house and only the tower. Dobby may need help to get furniture, remove items from the Potter vaults, tend the lands and set up the greenhouses."
Harry nodded. "Thank you, Dobby. Do you know of any other free house elves or where I can look for others?"
"Gringotts," Auntie Amelia said. Harry looked up to her.
"Gringotts?"
"They will know if any are available or other families are looking to sell theirs. Free house elves are not common," she said.
Harry nodded and looked back to Dobby. Dobby was nodding. "Dobby knows of no other free elves. Dobby knows of two others that would like to leave their masters, and Misses Amelia is right. The goblins would know of others."
Harry thought of that for a moment. "We'll add that to our conversation with the goblins. Can you go meet the ones that are supposed to come and lead them to us?"
"Yes, the Great Harry," Dobby said with watery eyes. Dobby moved to hug Harry before snapping his fingers.
Auntie put a hand on his shoulder before standing up. "Expertly done. When you turn seventeen this summer, I won't have any reserves of handing over your inheritance. I'm still going to keep the restrictions on for you to only be able to get at half your money," she said.
When he stood, Harry gave her a smile. "You trust me with that much?'
She smiled back. "No, but you pretend at being responsible well enough."
Harry laughed at her, finally joining the others in the bedroom.
"I see you lost some people," Harry joked.
Daphne turned with an exasperated expression. "You should have never told them about the library. We had to go there first."
"I figured," Harry said. "What do you think?"
"This place is wicked," Susan said.
"When can I move in?" Astoria asked.
"I don't think this is yours," Anders replied.
"We have enough rooms to keep a guest room for her or anyone that needs it," Harry countered. Daphne took his hand as he came over to her. "What do you think?"
She looked at him, a smile on her face. "This will be the nursery," she told him. "We'll have the goblins add a door there, just in case."
Harry looked at the wall. "Is the main bedroom there? I thought there was a closet on the other side of the wall?"
"I don't know, I haven't been in there yet. Astoria was insisting I wait for you," she told him.
"Is there any bed in there yet?" Susan asked with a smirk.
Anders raised an eyebrow. "I am not expecting any grandchildren for a few years," he told them.
Harry felt his cheeks flush a little. "No, sir."
Daphne moved to be flush to his side. "I would like to be wed first."
Harry gave a small smile. "As you wish."
They heard the group of goblins coming down the hall. He knew this would take a while to go through the whole castle.
-oOo-
December 31, 1996
Cleasby, England
Tracey stood with her mother and Madam Longbottom. Tonight, was the Longbottom's New Year's ball and her mother had been invited to help organize it this year, meaning Tracey had been dragged all over England this past week, and spent more time at Neville's than she had before.
Don't get her wrong, she was not complaining, especially after celebrating the Rites of Yule with her betrothed with the Longbottoms and some of their family friends. Since then, she had spent two other nights here, one without her parents or Madam Longbottom knowing. Or so she hoped. Madam Longbottom was very happy for the union, but a bit old fashioned in her beliefs still.
Tonight she planned on the same.
"You have drawn in quite a crowd," her mother said, indicating the mostly full great hall of Longmarche.
"I will admit that since we have aligned more in the centre, I find myself more popular. I am just pleased the stars of this alliance are not outshining Neville tonight," Madam Longbottom said.
Tracey smiled to see Neville talking with a group of people with her father. Harry and Daphne were standing off to the side, talking with Susan and Hannah. Neville was far more confident now as he talked with the group. She caught him looking towards her and gave him a small smile. The look in his eyes was exciting.
"It is getting close to midnight. I suppose I should play the host. Tracey, go get Neville. You and he should stand next to me tonight. Someday this will be your responsibility," Madam Longbottom instructed.
"Yes, Madam Longbottom," Tracey said, giving a demure nod to her and then her mother.
She wove her way through the crowd to Neville's side, wrapping her arm around his. "Will you excuse me, father, if I steal my betrothed?" she asked, getting a few chuckles from the other Lords and men in the circle. "Your gran would like to start the New Year's count down."
"Of course. I'm sure he is ready to escape," her father said.
"Excuse me, my lords and gentlemen," Neville said, allowing her to pull him away. Neville leaned over, "That was so boring. Have I told you I love you yet today?"
"You could mention it more," she commented with a small smirk.
"Every day I can," he promised.
She kissed his cheek as they approached the stage. "I love you," she whispered.
Madam Longbottom moved to the stage and the band stopped playing. Neville took the lead now and she let him lead him as she should. Tracey may not always like to play the lady, but she would be required to soon enough. Neville and her were to be married in August after they graduated. Harry and Daphne would be married the weekend after Harry and Neville turn eighteen, and her and Neville two weeks later.
Neville led her by her hand onto the stage. With the stopping of the band, the hall quieted, everyone turning to the stage. She put on the face she was expected to wear as Neville stood tall next to his Gran. Neville had grown over the last few years, meaning she only came up to his shoulder as he stood with his shoulders back and his arms filling with muscles. His gran was just about as tall as she was.
The old woman gave them a satisfied smile before turning out to the crowd, touching her wand to her throat before saying, "On behalf of House Longbottom and House Davis, I would like to thank everyone for coming tonight."
There was a general murmur of thanks, and many held up a champagne or other alcoholic glass.
"Tonight, we celebrate the changing of the year from nineteen ninety-six to nineteen-ninety-seven among friends and family. The old guard, the current guard and the new guard of our world are all here tonight. Master Peleus and Madam Quinten," Madam Longbottom said, indicating the elderly Wizengamot members and the middling aged adults standing next to them, "Gracefully bowed out this last Solstice meet, passing the flames to their children."
The groups nodded to Madam Longbottom.
"And in a few short years we will be adding others to our numbers. As you all know, Scion and Heiress Potter-Greengrass shall be gladly accepted among our ranks. As will the new House of Granger. Most importantly, my grandson will be eligible within the next few years, and with his eligibility, I would like to announce a joining of alliance between the House of Longbottom and Davis," she said, with some pride.
There was lots of applause.
"Other alliances and unions have also occurred, though some may not join us for a few years. Scion Davis, and his newly brushing bride, Heiress Davis," Madam Longbottom said, raising her glass to them.
As this was going on, a few elves were moving around to make sure everyone had a drink. "Joining them is the Scion Prewitt and his beautiful bride."
Tracey could see Percy Weasley and Penelope Clearwater, well, Penelope Weasley now.
"And his brother, the Lord Weasley, shall marry the stunning Mademoiselle Delacour this summer. I know this may not be all the new couples or marriages, but those are the ones I know of in our growing alliance," Madam Longbottom stated.
"My point is for the first time in decades, the majority that was guiding our government and world was ruled by close minded and blood centric fools that nearly brought us to ruin. Instead, we... all those in this room, are leading us into a new age. One where everyone will truly have a chance, no matter if you are from a family that has never had magic before, or been pure for generations, or anyone in between. I toast to all of us that see this vision of our changing world." Madam Longbottom raised her glass.
"To my grandson. To his bride to be. To all those that shall take up our vision." She tipped her glass to her lips and everyone else followed.
"Now, for the fun of tonight. The clock says its twenty-five seconds to midnight. If anyone needs a refill, now is your time," she told everyone.
Tracey beamed at the way Neville and her were called out and honoured. She had no delusions that her best friend would be the true power in the alliance, but her beau would be at the top with the Potter-Greengrasses. She never cared for all this before, but she couldn't deny that now she had it, her Slytherin tendencies were grabbing it.
"Ten!"
She called out with everyone else as the clock over the fireplace at the end of the hall ticked towards midnight.
"Six!"
Neville pulled her in closer. She turned to him, going up on her tip toes.
"Four!"
Neville leaned down.
"Two!" she yelled out happily. Neville grinned at her.
"Happy New Years!" echoed around the hall. Tracey didn't care if she was supposed to be a lady, throwing her arms around his neck, kissing him to show how much she cared for him. Neville put his hands on her hips, returning the passionate kiss.
Around the room, she wasn't the only one celebrating the new year this way.