Chapter 56
-oOo-
October 31, 1998
Godric's Hollow, England
Harry popped into existence in a side alley next to the greengrocer in the centre of town. It was the main apparition point. Daphne popped in next, followed by Aunt Alice, Uncle Frank, Neville and Tracey. It was a day of sadness and celebration. The sadness showed on the faces of the six coming to pay their respects. The celebration showed around the town as they were preparing to celebrate all Hallows Eve.
"This place hasn't changed much," Uncle Frank commented as they walked out into the main square.
"I don't remember it. I've only been here a few times in the last few years," Harry replied.
Daphne took his hand. "We could have apparated closer to the cemetery."
"I know, but Aunt Alice wanted to look around," Harry reminded her.
"I still can't believe that statue," Neville said nodding to the old war memorial in the centre of the roundabout.
"What statue?" Aunt Alice asked.
Harry sighed. "You won't believe this. It was a brainchild of Dumbledore," Harry said bitterly. Even after almost four years of the man being gone, Harry still hated the man. Daphne's hand tightened in his.
They walked across the road and Aunt Alice gasped as the war memorial disappeared to be replaced by the statue of his parents and him. He had wanted to get rid of it, but the Wizengamot had decided to leave it as a memorial. At least he had been able to get the cottage back.
"James never looked that way and Lily loved James, but that is just wrong," she said to the way Lily looked up at his father so adoringly.
Uncle Frank chuckled. "Lily was more apt to curse him then worship him like that."
Harry smiled. He had been learning more about his parents and what they said sounded like the vision he had of them in his head.
"Lily Potter sounded like a real firecracker," Tracey said.
"Oh, she was. Exceedingly kind woman, but not one you wanted to get on the bad side of," Uncle Frank said.
"Just ask your father-in-law. He upset her once when she was pregnant and I had to save him," Aunt Alice said.
Uncle Frank shrugged. "How was I to know commenting on her kitchen would set her off."
They all shared a laugh. "She was pregnant at the time. Can we blast it?" Aunt Alice asked.
"The Wizengamot voted to keep it," Harry informed them.
"Well bugger that," Uncle Frank said.
When they left, Aunt Alice still didn't look as pleased. They looked into the shoppes, had a nice lunch, then made their way to the old church. As they approached, Aunt Alice took his arm. "Please tell me that the old fool didn't take care of their graves too?"
"He did, but I've made some changes and made sure they are taken care of," Harry assured her.
The others followed behind them as Harry led his aunt to her brother's grave. She touched a few graves stones as they passed: Peverell, Roberta Abbott, Andrew Potter. "He was my great Uncle. Died when James and I were still young. We weren't even in Hogwarts yet."
"I've seen his name," Harry said.
"He was a rather serious person. A Master in transfiguration. There is still so much I need to teach you of our history. He used to live in Godric's Hollow. The cottage that James and Lily moved into was his, originally," she told him.
"I would love to learn more," he told her before stopping before two graves he knew all too well.
Aunt Alice had noticed where they were and fell silent. She stared down at James Charlus Potter and Lily Maria Potter. Harry had made sure his father's name had been properly changed to his real father's middle name. He had also made sure that silly epitaph, 'The last enemy to be defeated is death', had been changed to 'In loving memory of those we always love'.
Aunt Alice leaned forward. Her right hand reached out and touched the stone. Harry didn't cry anymore when he came here, but he felt the sadness. Aunt Alice hadn't had the same experience yet. Tears were streaming down her face as she clung to his arm. "Oh, James."
After a moment, Neville came over and put a hand on his mother's shoulder. Her hand left his to put it over Neville's. "I so wish you two could have known Lily and James. They would have loved you both. They would have loved your wives."
"I wish I could have known then as well," Harry said sadly.
"They were wonderful people. Much like you and Daphne," Aunt Alice said before breaking down into a sob. She dropped to her knees. Neville dropped next to her. His arms wrapped around his mother, and she cried onto his shoulder.
As the family mourned, Uncle Frank conjured flowers to place at the grave while Daphne stepped up to him and Harry put an arm around her shoulders. He felt her comfort as her arms wrapped around his waist.
-oOo-
November 5, 1998
London, England
Harry had been putting this meeting off for months. He knew what the goblins wanted, and he still wasn't sure what he was willing to give them. They had been relatively quiet on their demands of the Pelanstone or Camelot since he had given them Rogsnorg. He could only assume that they had found more than they had thought they would. It made him a little nervous and would need to talk with Croaker again soon. The Wizards and No-Maj's had to be prepared if the goblins chose to revolt again.
As he had been shown the curtesy the last time, the guards didn't require him to remove his wand or weapons when he got to the bronze Vipertooth scaled doors. They opened to Ragnok and one other goblin today. All his staff, guards and accountant desks were empty.
He nodded to the aged goblin he didn't know before giving a slight bend at his waist to Ragnok.
It wasn't until the doors closed that Ragnok indicate the single chair before his desk. "You have been avoiding me," Ragnok said. It was a statement.
Harry shrugged. "I've been busy."
"So, I have heard," the goblins said. "You have recently made a large deposit into your accounts. By the make-up of some of the artefacts I am to assume you finally got into Camelot?"
Harry shrugged again. "If I did or did not, it is none of your concern," Harry told him.
"And the rumours that the Longbottoms and Greengrasses have suddenly located herbs long thought to be no more?" Ragnok asked.
"Again, none of your concern. We have been out of the country a few times. They could have been found elsewhere," Harry said.
The Head of the Gringotts clan snorted in mirth. "You must think me a spring babe that understands nothing."
"No, I would never think that. You and your people are bright, dangerous and control far more of the wizarding world than most realize. I do not mean to go against you, but as you have a power I cannot match, I have one you cannot," Harry said simply.
Ragnok's eyes narrowed. "It is true then? There is a Pelanstone in Camelot?"
Harry reached into his cloak. The older goblin next to Ragnok stiffened and his hand went towards a knife at his side. Harry stopped. "Peace," Harry said. "I made a deal with Ragnok and Gringotts. The goblin nation kept its side in finding the location. I simply wish to keep my side of the deal."
After a moment Ragnok nodded and the aged goblin moved his hand away, but still looked poised to strike if Harry did something wrong. He reached into an inner pocket and took out a square wooden box that was six inches on each side. After leaning over and placing it on the table he sat back. "One Arcenstone, as promised."
The goblin next to Ragnok took in a sharp breath. "The human would just hand it over? What do you want?" The aged goblin was suspicious.
"Nothing for this. It was a deal made in good faith and I always keep my deals," Harry said.
Ragnok snorted. It seemed as much mirth as disgust. "Yes, you used our words and intentions against us, but this is the deal."
Ragnok reached and pulled the box to him. When he opened it, Harry could see the greed in his eyes. He took it out and the Arcenstone runes glowed a dull green. Harry had never seen that before. Perhaps it was the difference in the powers of goblins and wizards?
Ragnok said something in gobbledegook before placing the Arcenstone into the box and closing it. There was a brief conversation before the aged goblin, who had looked at the bronze sphere with as much longing, bowed to Ragnok and then took the box. He hurried out as fast as his older body allowed and then they were alone.
Harry didn't say anything as he waited for the head of the bank to say what Harry expected to come. Ragnok sat back in his chair, crossed his clawed hands over his chest and regarded Harry for a few. When the goblin spoke, Harry knew they were getting to the basis of the goblins' needs.
"Gringotts would like to offer a formal thank you to your acknowledgement of the Honour Guard at your wedding, Scion Potter-Greengrass," Ragnok said.
Harry dipped his head in acknowledgement. "The House of Potter-Greengrass recognizes the honour and looks upon the Goblin Nation and Gringotts in a favourable light."
Ragnok chuckled in amusement. "You are not a normal wizard and have provided as much profit as consternation for our clan."
"I'll take that as a compliment," Harry said with a slightly cheeky smile.
"I should gut you here and now for such cheekiness," Ragnok said.
"Ah, but I can still provide much profit to Gringotts," Harry said to him. "If you gut me and leave me to the flies, Gringotts would miss out on much."
Ragnok's black eyes bored into Harry. Looking to take the diplomatic approach today, he said, "And what profit could you offer Gringotts over what you already have? You have fattened our coffers to the point that many of my people regard you as a valuable asset. Some even say friend to a race that has been at odds with your kind since either race can remember."
Harry raised an eyebrow. He had seen how many were deferential, almost nice to him, over the last year. It was still odd. The fact that he could meet with the head of Gringotts like this was enough to show the normally untrusting and warlike people trusted him.
"I wouldn't go so far as to call us friends. I still plan to cause you much consternation, but I think the profit for both of us will be worth it," Harry said.
"Again, what profit? I don't usually do such niceties, but you have proven worth it, Harry Potter-Greengrass."
Harry gave a toothless smile. "I would propose a treaty."
Ragnok waited a moment before making an aggravated sound. "You are causing consternation now."
"Like I said, I plan to do that a lot. I would propose a treat between Gringotts and the House of Potter-Greengrass. As you know, I have bought and control all the lands around Potter-Green and Mosedale, including the mountains," Harry said.
Ragnok was immediately interested and leaned forward. "Have you considered our proposal for building a branch in Mosedale?"
Harry shook his head. "No. I won't let you build a whole bank in Mosedale. A branch. With a single tunnel to one of the mountains in the valley… that is something we could talk about," Harry offered.
Ragnok looked slightly disappointed before he seemed to get the full implication. "One of the mountains?"
"I mean it that I own all the surrounding land. Some of it was a challenge to get, but it is mine. Mine to do with what I want. The goblins want away from some of the regulations the Ministry imposes on them for being in a Muggle area and I want a return on my investment," Harry told them, knowing this would be one of the best ways to convince the goblins to work with him. Ragnok looked interested through his surliness.
"I currently lease out all the lands that are being used. I'll admit it essentially comes down to ownership by those using it, but it is still mine," Harry said.
"I thought fiefdoms were illegal by Ministry law," Ragnok said.
"I never proclaimed myself king and I comply by allowing the Ministry to do its thing, but in a way you are right. It is the only way I can add the wards I want and ensure they remain. It will be the same with Camelot. You will see a quiet claim come through soon by Scion Longbottom. He is the rightful heir of that kingdom, and we plan to eventually use it to protect Magical society from the No-Maj's," Harry said.
Ragnok nodded. "I see you heard about the large breach in the Americas?"
"Yes. The No-Maj media is now playing it up as UFO fanatics, but it was a dragon that escaped from a preserve and nearly made it to downtown Phoenix. I heard that the No-Maj's actually sent fighter jets after it. I can't imagine the damage it could have caused," Harry said. "It is reasons like that I want to make safe havens where magicals can hide."
"It was a near thing, but I thought you were pushing for a larger integration of wizards into the Muggle society?" Ragnok questioned.
"I am, but we will need safe places should things go wrong or just so we can be ourselves," Harry told him. "That is what I have been pushing for."
"And you are willing to offer Gringotts haven in one of these safe places?" Ragnok asked as though understanding what Harry was saying.
"I plan to offer safe havens for all magical folk and creatures. Mosedale and Camelot are just the start. If the Ministry approves, I plan to use my guild to safeguard Hogsmeade and even Hogwarts better," Harry told him. "Who knows, there may even be more settlements as time goes on."
"And where is the profit in this for us?" Ragnok questioned.
Harry reached into his cloak again and took out a thick stack of parchment. "Here is the treaty I propose. From Gringotts I will need the largest raw gems you can provide or dig up. Each project will take at least six, potentially more. It doesn't matter what they are. In return, I will pay ten percent under market value and allow the goblins to pretty much do what they want in their mountain. It will allow you to remain on British soil with the rights of a normal No-Maj bank to interact with both worlds."
Ragnok leaned far enough forward to put his hands on the table. His lip curled up a bit. "What is the catch for such a boon?"
"You leave me, Mosedale, any lands I do not lease to you and my guild alone. I will train ward weavers, and if they compete against Gringotts and get more business, you do nothing about it. This may expand into enchanting as well. Any Goblin wrought item that is enchanted by the guild will be held in perpetuity by the family that commissions as such without challenge. Anything the guild uses will be paid crafters fee every twenty years to the goblin, family or Gringotts until such item is returned. Ten percent of the cost will be paid to the goblins in recognition whenever a goblin wrought item is enchanted," Harry told him. "I will not interfere with your Cursebreakers, the quality tools, weapons and heirlooms you build. Nor will I interfere in your banking or other services."
Ragnok's lip curled into a snarl. "You would insult us like any other wizard that way? A goblin wrought item is only to be used during the lifetime of a wizard that commissioned or paid for it."
"I understand, but that is not the way Wizards see it. To them, it is an investment and a sign of status. Surely you can understand that?" Harry asked. "I will not stop you from requesting any item back, or even offering fair price. Wizards would understand that."
Ragnok leaned back. There was a long silence. "You ask much, young wizard."
Harry shrugged. "I ask to be fair."
Ragnok snorted. "I will look at this treaty. It will be ratified by the Ministry?"
"They don't need to. I am a senior House on the Wizengamot with the blood of Merlin in me. I hate using it, but that gives me rights over the Ministry by the very seals they used to make the Ministry. What I do on my own lands is up to me. I do plan on filing the treaty and there are provisions in there for the Goblin Liaison office to take over certain parts of it, but I don't think you will ever find a better deal," Harry told him.
Ragnok's face went passive. "I will be the judge of that."
"I would figure nothing less. If you need to talk about it and when you are ready to haggle, you know my solicitor. I will make myself available, and my wife will have a say in it as well," Harry informed Ragnok.
The goblin moved his hand to tap a long fingernail on the rail of his chair. "And if we choose to rebuild our stronghold? It would bring the wizards to their knees without our services. There hasn't been a wizard led bank in the history of these isles."
"Considering it's outside the British Ministry, you have the full rights to do that, but if you abandon Gringotts you lose all the treaties and the rights to bank on British soil. Can Gringotts afford to lose that? I know it will be difficult, but you forget that my allies and I have spent much to educate wizards on the No-Maj world. I am sure I can find squibs or Muggleborn that understand banking and would be willing to establish a bank or two. Now that I know this is a possibility, I think I'll get a plan together," Harry challenged.
"Britain is not the only lands that the goblins deal in," Ragnok said with a snarl.
"It is the only nation that the Goblins of Gringotts are allowed to bank in," Harry said. "If you can find a way to get along with another clan, you are welcome to it, but I rather think you would have done that centuries ago instead of staying here."
There was a long, pregnant pause as Ragnok was thinking. After a moment, he started to laugh. "You have the largest bollocks I have ever seen. You negotiate like a goblin. By the way, how are your pets?"
Harry smiled. "Sahassa and Harssess are doing well. There is a clutch on the way. I am not looking forward to it, but I fear that Harssess will not survive another year or two." There was a sadness that coloured his voice.
Ragnok tapped his finger. "A shame. Fine specimens. Gringotts will offer fair value when the basilisk dies."
Harry made a face. "I'm unsure I will do that. They have been my familiars and good friends the last few years. She deserves a proper burial."
"Perhaps. There is much profit in a basilisk though. Especially one so large," Ragnok said. "It could net over a hundred thousand galleons."
Harry snorted. It was always about profit. The legendary goblin greed. "Perhaps. I will see what her wish is and what I would like to do."
"Very well. Now, I am a busy goblin and you just made me busier," Ragnok said. It was clearly a dismissal as he took up the pile of parchments and started to read through the treaty.
Harry got up, showing himself out. He doubted any other wizard would be afforded such a pleasantry on goblin soil. Outside the door a contingent of goblins in suits were waiting. Three of them bowed their heads to him as he passed. Harry inclined his head back. He waited for a single guard to start walking him towards the main doors.
-oOo-
November 6, 1998
London, England
After Harry's talk with the goblins, he finally knew it was time to confront Croaker again. As he enjoyed doing, he used his Peverell ring to just waltz into the Department of Mysteries. After asking the spinning room for Croaker's office, a door opened into the hallway that his office was down. He knew it drove the man barmy that he could do this. In truth, not many could. Only the oldest houses that had signed the original Council pact, before the Ministry, could.
He walked down, counting the doors until he got to the seventh one on the left. Just like all the others it was nondescript. He knocked and waited a moment for it to open. When it did, he found Croaker sitting at his chair and leaning back into it.
"I have finally figured out how you do this," Croaker said without preamble.
"It wasn't any great secret," Harry said with a smirk.
"No, but it was lost to the annals of time. Which house?" Croaker questioned.
"The Peverells," Harry told him, giving the man a winning smile before Harry tried to crush him for the final time.
"Take a seat, Scion Potter-Greengrass. I have not been able to congratulate you on your nuptials. I didn't seem to get an invitation, though my nephew and my sister-in-law did," the man said.
"It was a family affair," Harry said cheekily.
Croaker gave a smile. "With how the Daily Prophet and most of the magazines and papers across the continent covered it, I highly doubt that."
Harry shrugged. "I have a large family, lots of friends and allies," Harry said.
"Including the goblins?" Croaker asked.
"I wouldn't call us allies. Business partners most likely. They did that of their own accord," Harry said.
"And it had nothing to do with you giving them secrets that put us all in peril?" Croakers' voice was harder now.
"I think it's mutually beneficial for now that both our races get along. I don't see that changing any time in the next few centuries," Harry replied.
The man's hard eyes regarded him. "What have you done now?"
Harry shrugged. "Nothing that is too dangerous. I would say that the Ministry and the clans of Gringotts are more on equal footing now. It's nothing that I didn't tell you I was already doing."
Croaker frowned. "You have no clue what dangers you have unleashed. All I can say is that I am thankful you gave up the quest for Camelot."
Harry gave a smug smile. "I wouldn't say that."
Croaker's frown grew. "I know that you have never used the medallions I gave you to get in and there has been no sign of other activity."
Harry's smug smile didn't drop as he shrugged. "I don't think you are guarding what you think you are."
The man blinked at Harry, his face going blank as he seemed to think of what Harry had said. It seemed like a slow dawning thought. "The citadel… it's not Camelot, is it?"
"Not ever going there I couldn't tell you, but I can say I have been into Camelot. It's a rather interesting place. Lots of history. Some pretty unique magic," Harry said.
"Bloody fuck!" Croaker exclaimed before shooting up. "If it's not Camelot we are protecting, what the bloody hell is it?"
"My guess?" Harry asked, enjoying seeing Croaker lose control.
Croaker growled at him in consternation. "Your guess," the older man demanded.
"Avalon," Harry told him. "Though, there are two other sites it could be. One is St Christopher's Monastery. The other is one we don't know the name of yet, but it is said to protect a gate to a most horrible fate."
Croaker blinked at him. "What is St Christopher's Monastery?"
"If the records I've heard of are true, it holds a Holy artefact from the Crusades that is said to be able to kill hundreds of men in a single go. Not sure what it is, but it sounds pretty nasty and has wards made by the Monks of the monastery, who were rumoured to be wizards that fought in the Crusades and were baptised to be Holy fighters. I doubt that protections are like the mists around Avalon and Camelot, so most likely Avalon," Harry said.
Croaker closed his eyes for a moment and looked to be counting, regaining his occlumency calm. "Right. I suppose Hermione found all that?"
Harry shrugged. "There are many libraries and other knowledge in my family and alliance. I just thought you should know in case it was something the Unspeakables wanted to investigate. You are tasked with protecting the British wizards, aren't you?"
"You're a bloody dick," Croaker said before making it back over to his chair.
Harry grinned back. "I can get you the information I have. You know, purely as a concerned citizen."
Croaker glared at him.
"So, what can I do for you today if I have nothing for you now?" the man asked bitterly.
"Well, it is a mixture of what we can do for each other," Harry said.
"And what is that?"
Harry took out a small black notebook from his cloak. He placed it on the desk. "The complete bloodlines of every family we know about that signed onto the Council and Ministry compacts. I want to make some changes but leave most of the current system in place. It is imperative that we don't destroy what is established."
Croaker stilled. His eyes looked at the small diary size book. "That seems smaller than I thought it would be."
"Like I said, it's all the bloodlines we have that would be required to change things," Harry said.
Croaker licked his lips. "It goes all the way back to the Camelot Court?"
"No," Harry told him.
Croaker's eyes flicked up. The hunger that was in them turned to anger quickly before he schooled himself again. "We need the original bloodlines and their relatives to change the original accords that Arthur, Morgana and Merlin put in place. There is no other way to change the base of our government."
"I don't want to change the base of our government. After talking this over with Hermione and my allies, none of them want too either. We do want to change some things though. Most importantly is land ownership and what the Ministry classifies as fiefdoms," Harry told him. "Oh, and replace the old hereditary seats of those families that are dying out or already gone with elected positions or elevate other families. But there will be special requirements for that."
Croaker's eyes narrowed. "That is not Hermione's or mine vision."
"Not the original vision, but I have found out stuff that would have very dire consequences if we were to abandon the base foundation of our government," Harry said. He would like a more egalitarian government, but there was something about the hereditary system that was required.
The man across the desk eyed him. "What has changed?"
"Magic," Harry said simply.
"Explain," Croaker said in a level tone.
"Well, more specifically our magic. Our magic isn't wild anymore. We rely on the constant that a spell can be learned, and it will have the same effect each time. Magic has changed with that. Surely the Unspeakables understand this?" Harry asked taunting the man that he had grown to dislike. This was a major discovery that had rocked Hermione over the summer. Her pregnancy hormones probably hadn't helped either.
"Anyone that has studied the deeper mysteries of magic knows it changes over time. I don't get what you are getting at," Croaker said.
"The Merlinian bindings," Harry said simply.
Croaker looked a little bothered. "They are just rumours and made-up tales by those that don't understand the baser rules of magic. There is no such thing as 'wild magic' or the bindings. If there was, the Unspeakables would have been able to find them."
Harry grinned. "If you say. Unless the binding is so ingrained into the current magic of the world that you couldn't detect them without breaking the laws of magic," Harry said. It had taken him the better half of two weeks to get that lesson from Myrddin.
Croaker blinked. The man sat back in his chair as though thinking hard about a thought he never had. "That doesn't make sense. The Unspeakables find ways to break many of the laws of magic."
"Do you? Or do you just find work arounds?" Harry pressed.
There was a longer silence this time. "You are saying that the laws of magic are so ingrained and ruled by our magic that it is impossible to detect? That can't be possible. Even shirting around the edges of the fifteen base laws we know you should be able to detect or infer something."
Harry just shrugged. "By binding the wild magics, Merlin was able to introduce a stable a methodology for casting. It was more of how the Roman's used magic, but it was still more controllable. Over time the magic available to us has changed again. It is now the magic of our Wizengamot, and a few other bodies like this around the continent, which maintain the bindings. I can tell you that they need to be maintained. Hereditary seats are far more important than you think. Well, actually, it's the shared magic of the houses and all that are blood related. The purebloods and old families got something right, even if they forgot why. If we are to change the system, then those voted in will need to make pledges of their magic to uphold the Wizengamot. That will work, but it is not as strong as binding your bloodline to upholding the magic of the Wizengamot. Otherwise, if we keep losing the old Houses, those that have pledged their magic, and their families, to upholding the Wizengamot, very bad things will happen."
There was another silence.
The silence dragged on for a few minutes.
Harry was starting to wonder if he said too much when Croaker reached for the book. Harry let him take it. Croaker opened it and started to leaf through it. After a moment, he asked, "How many families?"
"There are only fifty-three left that can be traced to those that signed and pledged their magic to the original compacts. Thirteen of them are no longer on the Wizengamot. They will need to be reintroduced," Harry said.
"There is an entire treatise in here about how the magic is bound," he said, turning another page.
"I only asked Hermione to give her foot notes version. I don't want everyone to know how it is done or what is fully required," Harry told him.
Croaker looked up. His eyes looked through his bushy brow. "This isn't even the whole thing?"
"It is all the families. All the information that the Unspeakables need to work with the seals and bindings. It won't be enough to break them, not even with an Arcenstone. The blood is too strong. Not unless you want to commit suicide and kill off the Wizengamot and their families," Harry said, trying to make sure the man understood the gravity of what would happen if he tried to go through with his original plans.
Croaker looked back down, and Harry waited as he scanned a few more pages. "Merlin, this girl is brighter than I thought."
Harry smiled. "She has been called the brightest witch of her age."
"She may be one of the brightest of our Age," he said. "Can I talk with her?"
"That is up to her. I don't control Hermione. Though, she is rather busy with Juliette and will be starting her mastery in the spring," Harry said.
"What is she mastering in?" Croaker enquired.
Harry rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, I'm afraid that I've steered her away from her more revolutionary thoughts, but she still wants to be a solicitor, though her real talents lay in Arithmancy and Runes. She is going to get her mastery in Arithmancy, and then I have no clue, but she says she would like to still work with me."
"A pity," Croaker said. "That sounds like a waste in talent."
"Maybe. Maybe not. I have big plans. Plans that will see many of her dreams become known," Harry said.
Croaker looked back up from the book. "Plans that involved Camelot, fiefdoms and wild magic?"
"Wild magic, no," Harry said definitely. He would not unleash that plague. "Protecting our world, yes. Protecting the No-Maj's, definitely. Protecting magic and ensuring it is still around for future generations, which is my biggest aspiration, most assuredly."
Croaker regarded him for a long few moments. "We may not be as diametrically opposed as I thought."
"No clue. I am having a meeting of my alliance in two weeks. I would like you and whomever else you need there. We will need the Unspeakables to be able to explain what this is about and how the process works. Are you willing to work with us?" Harry asked.
Croaker looked back down at the book. He flipped another page. "She was always good of taking simple concepts and breaking them down to the most basic and convoluted way of seeing things," Croaker mused.
"She is brilliant," Harry said.
"An understatement," Croaker agreed.
"Can we work together?" Harry asked.
"I need to read through this and look at the blood lines. Thirteen you say?"
"Yes. Most of them were banned for past transgressions. Only four of them are still considered of society, so it may be a hard sell, but they would need Wizengamot seats and to take the original vows for this to work," Harry told him.
"And how many of them are of the Sacred Twenty-Eight?" Croaker asked.
Harry snorted. "Only nine," Harry said. "You know the three houses that were banned from that group."
Croaker shook his head. "So many of the issues of the last hundred years were from that block and their beliefs. I wonder how well it would go over for those left to understand they weren't as old or revered as they thought."
"Well, nine of the houses are extinct now. The rest were mostly neutral, or light aligned in the last fifty years," Harry said.
"Have I ever said how much I hate politics?" Croaker told him as he leafed another page over.
Harry snorted. "You and me both. I'm glad to have a woman that doesn't mind it."
"Behind every great man is a great woman," Croaker said in a wizen tone.
"I like to think it's the other way. I don't want to be a great wizard. I know I am. I know I've been thrust into it, but I would give everything I have to see Daphne get where she wants," Harry replied.
"Yes, well. Ambition is one of the strongest Slytherin traits. I am not surprised she wants more. I am actually surprised you were not a Slytherin with what you have accomplished already," Croaker said. He sounded a little amused at the thought.
Harry grinned. "The Sorting Hat considered it. Draco Malfoy made my decision not to go there. Daphne's ambition is to see me be great, be everything needed to see our dreams become a reality and for her to see her family continue."
Croaker snorted. "Yes, I do not lament the loss of the Malfoy's to our society. You both have lofty ambitions that are to be celebrated. Is there anything else today?" Croaker asked. He flipped back a few pages.
"Just to let you know, I am claiming the rights as the last direct decedent of Merlin to enact a new treaty with the goblins," Harry said. Croaker snapped his head up. There was a brief anger across the man's face. "It will give them some of what they want, I get what I want, and it should put in safeguards for the Ministry and our world. Like I said, I am putting us and the goblins on an even footing. I would not just allow them to run ram shod over us though."
Harry got up. Croaker made a face. "You play dangerous games, Harry."
He shrugged back at the man. "Like you, I want us all protected. Keeping other races supressed, angry at us and looking to get one over on us does no good. I have plans to keep them so busy over the next hundred years that I doubt we will see a possible revolt for a long time. If we ever do again."
Croaker's frown deepened. "What other secrets do you have that the Unspeakables don't?"
Harry gave him a cheeky grin. "That is for me to know and you to find out… if I want you too."
"Veritaserum mixed with a panicking drought and legillimency works wonders," Croaker deadpanned.
"Try it and you will see how fast the Potter-Greengrass alliance comes down on you," Harry warned. "I may even have the goblin support for a transgression like that."
Croaker looked to think twice before he responded. "You are not above the law, even being a decedent of Merlin."
"I have broken no laws and the secrets I have are covered under my Lordship and family charter, as approved by the Ministry. I guarantee that Minister Longbottom, Lord Longbottom and Neville will be the least of your concerns. My aunt is the DMLE director and most likely slated to be the next Minister. Do you really want to start a feud?"
Croaker shook his head. "No. I do not want a feud. I have seen how you end those, and I would like to live another hundred years. I will be in touch."
Harry nodded and walked out of Croaker's office. He gave a bright smile to another Unspeakable that came out a door with a look of incredulity that Harry would just be walking through the Department of Mysteries unescorted.
-oOo-
December 21, 1998
Rotherham, England
Anders looked happily around at the gathered crowd in his large games room. Somehow this simple celebration of Yule with his family and close friends had turned into something larger. They would be going out to the pyre in a few minutes, but he had called attention to the people in the room before shuffling them outside.
At his side was his wife. Iliana was as beautiful as ever, even after twenty-one years of marriage. His son in her arms was just as much a source of pride as his two daughters, is son-in-law and the boy that would soon be betrothed to be his future son-in-law. It was the perfect picture of a happy family, and one that was not forced or coerced.
"Thank you all for your attention for a few moments. The pyre is ready for our celebration, but it is still a short bit before I begin those celebrations," he said to the gathered crowd. "My family and I would like to thank you for coming to celebrate the night of rebirth with us as we usher out one year and welcome another by the ways of magic."
He rose his glass and most of those in the room followed suit.
"As we have all seen large changes in the last year, I would like to give special recognition to my son, the Scion Greengrass, whom was gifted to Iliana and I when we thought no more gifts would come. For everyone with us that has welcomed in a new addition to their family, or is expecting, I hope that the blessing of the mother and horned god is on you, as with my family."
He indicated Lord and Lady Weasley, Scion and Heiress Thatcher-Grainger, his daughter and a few others. There was a general murmuring of those passing on the blessing either in the goddess's name or whichever deity they believed in.
"I would also like to recognize and ask for a blessing to those that joined in marriage this year. My son and daughter, Scion and Heiress Potter-Greengrass. Our close allies and friends, the Scion and Heiress Longbottom, the Scion and Heiress Thatcher-Granger, the newly minted Lord and Lady Prewitt…" he looked around the crowd. "If I miss anyone it is not by choice, but there is a larger gathering here than in many years."
There was some chuckling and acknowledgement.
"May the couples be blessed with fortune, happiness and children," Anders said. He took a sip from his cup after most repeated his words.
"I would also like to ask for the blessing of the coming union of my daughter, Astoria, as she has now become betrothed to Scion Eric Higgs. We will be some years away before they are married, but it is a cause of celebration just the same," he said. He got a nod from Harold, the Lord Higgs.
"Lastly, before we go outside, I would like to acknowledge the miracle that has so recently happened to ones that were once thought lost. The Lord and Lady Longbottom has rejoined us after many years, and I look forward to working with them as Lord Longbottom takes his place on the Wizengamot. I see many prosperous years before us if you are anything like your mother, son and nephew," Anders said.
Frank held up his glass in acknowledgement as there was a round of clapping around the room. It was not built to hold so many people, but Greencross didn't have a ballroom. He would have to talk to the goblins about that as he could see more gatherings of this size or larger occurring here more frequently.
"The only announcement I have left is for those that are sixteen or older," he said, looking around the room. "Tonight, is the celebration of Yule, the night old magic dies and new magic is born. If any wish to participate in the Rights of Yule, locations will be made available. The Potter-Greengrass and Greengrass elves can show you, but I do stress, this is for anyone sixteen or older."
There was a murmur through the crowd, but not a great stirring.
"Now, if you would all join me with your offerings to the pyre, we can gather around and start the true celebration of the night," he said, gladly ushering people out to the real purpose of the night.
-oOo-
January 13, 1999
London, England
It had been two months to work out the final details of the treaty. He had thought it would be far longer, knowing how hard the goblins bargained and fought for every advantage they could, and wizards were generally unwilling to give an inch when it came to 'lesser beings'.
Harry was willing to give and take, and he felt it had been a good balance. Most of the treaty was still intact in its original form. It had been more a semantic of words than any real groundbreaking changes. Now was the day to sign it.
His now showing wife stood at his side. On the other side of them was Auntie, Sirius and Ted Tonks. The goblins had almost ten times that many in the conference room. Ten guards, all the senior managers of the bank, a few senior goblins that Harry didn't know but looked very important, and finally Ragnok. He was in full battle armour that shined silver and looked scaly, instead of a nice suit.
Harry and his group were in formal House robes with his Order of Merlin taking pride of place above the new crest of Potter-Greengrass. He felt pompous and disingenuous, but this was a formal affair.
A goblin in a very smart business suit stepped forward and placed a thick stack of parchments on the centre of the table, which would require him and Ragnok to move. "If the parties have agreed to all stipulations of the treaty, step forward," the officious goblin said.
Harry bent his arm and Daphne put her arm into the crook of it. He walked Daphne to the centre of the table, with the others just behind them.
Ragnok approached from the other side with three other goblins. They were in business suits. All had gold earrings and other jewellery. One of them had two medals on his left breast. Harry didn't know what they were but must be important to the goblins.
When they met in the centre, Harry and Daphne gave Ragnok a respectful bow. Ragnok returned it, though not as deep in his armour.
"Does the House of Potter-Greengrass and the clans of Gringotts agree to this treaty?" the goblin between then questioned.
Harry stood a little taller as he spoke. "The House of Potter-Greengrass is willing to accept this treaty that will be active on all lands owned by the House of Potter-Greengrass. It will be witnessed by the House of Bones and Black. The House of Tonks will officiate for the wizards."
Ragnok replied, "The Clans of Gringotts ratifies this treaty and its hold over them when on the lands owned by the Potter-Greengrass clan. The Clan Chiefs of Gringotts will witness and Head of Contracts will officiate for the goblins."
"With both parties in agreement, please sign," the one that put the treaty down said.
In a sign of faith, Harry indicated for the goblins to sign first. Normally they would not be trusting enough to do so before a wizard did, but Harry had garnered enough respect that they didn't doubt his word he would sign.
Ragnok and the three clan chiefs signed the parchment. When Harry bent over, he could feel his own magic bleeding into the binding of it as he signed. His intention was to see this upheld. It was the first treaty that Gringotts had willingly signed without a war, revolt or threat over their head in many hundreds of years. The magic from both parties was complimentary, not confrontational.
Daphne, Aunt Ami and Sirius signed before Ted and the officious looking goblin did the same. Ted withdrew his wand while the goblin took out a rod of gold that had been highly stylized and encrusted in gems about a half inch across at either end.
Ted and the goblin touched the page with the signatures. The magic of the bindings pulled on them all for a moment before he knew it was sealed as all the signatures glowed blue before it faded.
Ragnok clapped his hands together, his armour clinking and rattling with the movement. "We will have our survey teams in Mosedale and at Grey Mountain tomorrow. Ground will be broken as soon as possible. Gringotts looks to continue its very prosperous dealings with the House of Potter-Greengrass."
"That is fine. I need my first shipment by March," Harry told him.
"Yes. Yes. Gringotts will honour its side of the bargain. Now, file this with your Ministry. I have plans to execute," Ragnok said, almost looking giddy for such an older goblin as he turned and indicated for all the others to follow.
Harry gave a bemused smile as they all walked out of the room, the official taking the original and leaving two copies for them. Daphne commented, "Can a goblin be giddy?"
"Apparently. You didn't sign me up for anything that will get us killed, right?" Sirius asked, suddenly apprehensive.
"I reviewed the treaty and worked out the details. There is no ambiguity in the important clauses, and I made sure the goblins didn't put it in. Very devious," Ted said.
"I know others reviewed it as well, but I can't shake the feeling you just did something we might regret," Auntie said.
"I think it will be the opposite," Daphne said. "I don't think the goblins realize how much they stand to lose if they break the treaty."
Harry shrugged. "I didn't hide anything in there."
"They do understand if they revolt again without going through the proper channels that you can claim half of all their holdings?" Auntie asked.
"As I would lose half of mine if I broke my side," Harry said.
"Why do I feel like there is a trick in here beyond that?" Sirius questioned.
Harry smirked. "I was honest with everything we agreed too."
"Pup, what did you do? I can't afford to do anything to upset my wife," Sirius said.
Harry just grinned. Daphne replied for him. "The goblins tried to pull one over us. I don't think they realized we did the same to them."
"What did you do?" Sirius demanded.
Auntie was looking at them curiously.
Ted just chuckled. "They'll figure it out eventually. I'm still not convinced that they didn't manage a few advantages as well."
"I'm sure they did," Harry acknowledged.
"Pup? Don't leave me hanging," Sirius whinged as they walked out of the conference room.
-oOo-
January 28, 1999
Camelot, England
"Good. Good. You are getting the feel of the magic," Myrddin said as Harry was sweating as he worked with the Pelanstone. He was in his mindscape as his magic worked the physical sphere outside in the real world.
He stood in the centre of a room that looked almost identical to the one containing the wild magic containment array. It thrummed with magic, like the room, but this was his own. Over the last two months he had been working to build up his core and tolerance to channel the almost incomprehensible power of the Pelanstone. He found it easier to picture his core this way than anything else, especially since he knew the power in the real thing.
He was trying to be careful to not burn himself out.
"It's been months and I still struggle with it," Harry said when he let the magic go. He felt to his knees as he panted.
"You are doing well, my heir. It took me decades to get to the point of making the binding crystals. I expect it to be another year or two to be able to channel enough to make the ward crystals you want," Myrddin said.
"Bloody hell," he said. He straightened his back and put his hands on the top of his head to catch his breath.
"I think that is enough for today. I would like to talk to you about the infusion of the crystals. You have made great strides in your own studies, but you are missing key elements that are far more important than you realize," Myrddin said. He waved his hand, and they were suddenly out of the crystal room and sitting in a private box in the stands of the stadium.
Harry blinked. He thought he was really starting to master occlumency and his mind, but the way this thought of his ancestor just moved about his head like it was nothing had Harry feeling like a mere babe. It was very humbling in a way. He was just pleased that the memory didn't brag or make him feel bad about it. No, he had a feeling the man, in real life, had been a great teacher and someone who cared for people and his homeland very much.
Harry took a seat in a chair as Myrddin took a spot next to him. "I must admit that there was no sport like this when I was alive. It must be very thrilling."
Harry smiled. "It is. There is nothing like the rush of air as you chase after a snitch, nor the thrill of victory."
"Something you had very little of in your early life," Myrddin commented.
Harry nodded. He was getting old enough, healed enough and far enough away from the pain and hurt to not let it affect him that much anymore. "It was how I grew up. I am a different person now."
"Yes, but your roots have kept you humble, appreciative of what you have and where you are now," Myrddin said.
"Is this part of the lesson?" Harry asked. Myrddin had a way of often bringing aspects of Harry's life into the lesson the man was getting at.
"It is a very important part of what I am to teach you," Myrddin said.
Harry pondered it for a few moments. It was the way of this master and apprentice relationship. Myrddin preferred to guide him where he needed Harry to go, but not give him the answers. After a few minutes, Harry said, "I don't understand what you are trying to tell me? I have accepted what happened to me. I am in a better place. I know what love is now. Those people are still in prison. What are you trying to tell me?"
"That the magic of the Pelanstone is a type of wild magic. All wild magic is ruled by emotions, intent and our perspective. The fact that you have already figured out who you are, and who you want to be, has greatly accelerated the base teachings I had expected to do. In here," Myrddin said as he put a hand over Harry's heart, "is the core of who you are. Wild magic uses that. It feeds and builds off that. You are a good person. One that does not seek power or to rule over others. You only wish to help and protect those, like you were not when you were younger. This will be your greatest strength when you learn to infuse and mold the crystals. Forget the magic that is bound by the runes. That means nothing if the base material is not formed properly."
Harry met his mentor's eyes. A deep understanding that all he had gone through, all the challenges that had forged him in his eighteen and a half years, had prepared him for his chosen path in a way little others could have. "So, because I want to protect, my magic will be stronger to make the ward stones?"
Myrddin gave him a smile. "In a very basic way, yes. There is far more too it, and we will delve deep into the forging of the crystals over the next few months. You just remember that it is in here," Myrddin patted his chest, "that makes the largest difference. I have a feeling you will understand more when your child is born. Children have a way of maturing people in ways unexpected and unpredictably, but I feel it will just make you stronger."
Harry nodded.
"That is all the time I have today. Please return tomorrow. I would like to talk of this more," Myrddin said.
"I will," Harry promised.
A moment later he was sitting on a pillow he had brought so he didn't need to sit on the cold, hard marble floor of the chamber. The two-story tall main crystal towered over him as the Pelanstone runes still glowed a dull blue. Harry took a few moments to make sure he had caught his breath before standing up.
Tomorrow would be a new day and a new lesson. For today he had to ponder on what he was just told.