CHAPTER SIXTY-NINE

If there was one emotion that Thanatos was not used to feeling, but was definitely becoming better acquainted with, it was the feeling was apprehension. The Primordial of Death normally would have been blasé about meeting Orion's father but with the words of Lord Black's letter still swimming in his head, Thanatos caught himself several times that morning preparing for that meeting like he was about to step into the Court of the Underworld and provide a case before the Three Judges that a soul should be given to him instead of sentenced.

Thanatos hated being in the limelight – always did. Now, he was very likely going to have to pull off the performance of his immortal life in order to protect his Mistress's most precious and dangerous secret. If it was the will of the Moirai for these wizards to eventually find out, then so be it, but he was not going to simply hand over the most dangerous pieces of information about Harry on a silver platter.

Not to Arcturus Black, not to Minister Spencer-Moon and not even to King George VI himself!

Thanatos splashed water into his face and held his own reflection's gaze with one of determination before he dried himself and went to dress in one of his sharpest suits that did not immediately scare people off. It was actually the lightest shade of black he actually owned; he surprised himself by putting it on.

The rest of the family had not expected it either.

When Thanatos went downstairs to join the Flamels, Hypnos, Zagreus, Melinoë an Persephone for breakfast – the Queen of the Underworld had made the coffee and was currently teasing Hypnos about seeing Rollo later – most of the lively noise died down a little when they noted that the Primordial was not dressed entirely in full black for once. Indeed, Zagreus almost choked on the last egg he managed to pinch.

Living on rations was not something he was used to!

Melinoë blinked in absolute shock. "Who are you and what have you done with Tosti?"

Thanatos huffed as he took the seat at the breakfast table. "Ha-ha, very funny, Melinoë. Please be quiet."

"We should not mention this to Harry. She might get worried that you're ill," Hypnos smirked.

"That goes for you too, brother!" Thanatos stated as he served himself some porridge.

"Well, I think it is rather dashing," Persephone decided to save what was left of the Primordial's pride. "I am personally relieved that you are not adopting those ridiculous robes that the wizards love so much. You have enough cloaks as it is and you need to stop hiding that handsome face of yours."

Thanatos was rather red at this point.

"A robe would mean we would blend in a whole lot more," Hypnos pointed out. "Fortunately we all already have a reputation of being a little bit strange and different so no one has asked any awkward questions."

"I did not mean anything by it," Persephone reassured. "I just don't think Lanais likes her husband to have such a pasty complexion."

"Mama, I think she personally doesn't care!" Zagreus objected.

"And she loves his pasty complexion!" Melinoë added.

Thanatos begged quietly for some kind of intervention, be it mortal or divine. But knowing the Moirai, they were likely having the time of their lives right now!

It was Perenelle who attempted to save what was left of Thanatos's sanity and pride. "At what time are you meeting Lord Black?"

"Ten-thirty at the Prestige," Thanatos answered. "Not exactly neutral territory considering his kinsmen owns and runs the place, but I would prefer a Lord Black who is at ease rather than one who feels tense and threatened in an unknown location."

"Indeed! A Black out of water is rarely a good thing," Nicholas agreed immediately. "Give the family regards to him, Tosti."

Thanatos huffed. "I will, Nicholas."

"And be polite and extend an invitation to him to come for a visit," Persephone added primly. "Do not be ultra-modern and forget all your manners and decorum."

"Mother, do not use Tosti as a means to try and meet Orion's father!" Melinoë blanched.

The Queen of the Underworld did her best to appear as innocent as possible. "How else am I supposed to meet them? Plus, entertaining friends and allies is the done thing! At least it was in my time …"

"Mother!"

The Primordial of Death had decided he had had enough at this point. He exchanged an apologetic look with Perenelle and Nicholas and a look of exasperation with Hypnos before he grabbed a sandwich and stood up to grab his cloak. Because of Persephone and her interfering their training of Harry had also fallen behind! They did not want to risk Persephone meeting Harry just yet …

"Thanatos, don't go just yet! I was teasing," Persephone pouted a little.

"I know, cousin," Thanatos gave her a pointed look as he fastened his cloak. "I think I will try and be there a little early. I want to at least make a good impression on Lord Black and the Minister."

Before anyone else could protest, he was out of the door and Apparated away to Diagon Alley. Thanatos had never been so happy that he had created the Tom Burke persona before in his immortal life – other business owners simply gave him a cheery wave when they spied him and early shoppers barely paid him any attention. Just the way he liked it.

He was only paid any substantial attention to the by bodyguards and security at Prestige. Arcturus the Younger had hired some rather comically burly men – the kind who looked as though they really did not need a wand to toss someone out for unruly behaviour – and Thanatos had to think of an image of Hekate dressed in yellow in order to stop himself from laughing.

"Good morning, gentlemen," he greeted them rather cheerily. "I am expected."

"And you are?" the one on the left grunted.

"Thomas Burke."

He felt a little bit of satisfaction when the security guards stood to attention at his name.

"Welcome to Prestige, sir. You are indeed expected."

Thanatos gave a serene smile at them before entering the club and bar. The Primordial was rather impressed with the interior and décor – just everything exuded exclusivity and opulence. Typical of a Black, but it was not an environment he would consider gaudy. The palace of King Midas had been far more headache inducing when it came to the gold!

What he had not expected, was to be met inside by the club owner himself. Arcturus Black the Younger exuded charm and pride, and his aristocratic features were well defined. He wore an amulet with the coat of arms of House Black around his neck, though Thanatos had no idea why he would need to. There was not one person in the building who did not know who he was.

"Ah! Mr. Burke! Welcome, welcome," the scion of House Black beamed at him. "It seems that you had the same idea as my kinsmen and the Minister! They are both already here – do follow me. I have ensured you have one of my best and favourite tables; if I didn't, I am pretty certain Arcturus would never have let me live it down!"

Thanatos chuckled. He followed the club owner up the well carved spiral woodened staircase up to the VIP section of the club – the Primordial should not have been surprised amount of the emerald green and silver around the room, but he felt like he was back in the Slytherin common room. He soon spotted Lord Arcturus Black and Minister Spencer-Moon at a well carved oak table at the back of the room, playing a game of wizard's chess.

Their heads turned rather sharply when they heard footsteps approach. When they saw Thanatos, both of them sat up rather snappishly and gave him their best political smiles.

"Ah! Mr. Burke; I see great minds think alike!" the Minister for Magic stated jovially as he and Lord Black rose to their feet and extended their hands. "Leonard Spencer-Moon, Minister for Magic. It is a pleasure to formally make your acquaintance, sir."

"Likewise," Thanatos answered, taking the Minister's hand and then taking Lord Black's.
"Lord Black. A man who does not need an introduction."

Arcturus Black smiled wryly. "I could say the same about you, sir. I am simply glad that I not only have a face to a name but I finally have a good opportunity to talk with you. I must apologise that it has taken this long."

"Your Lordship is a busy man. I completely understand," Thanatos reassured easily as all three of them sat back down.

"Yes, he is. I sometimes wonder how he finds the time to run his own House while he rules the Wizengamot," the Minister joked.

Lord Black gave his friend a pointed look before he turned to Arcturus the Younger, who was still watching the interactions with undisguised amusement. "Arcturus, would you be so kind as to make one of your delightful mixed drinks for our guest?"

Arcturus the Younger took the hint and bowed. "Of course, my Lord. It would be my pleasure."

It had been a good few centuries since someone bought him a drink. It made Thanatos smirk a little in amusement and give Lord Black a pointed look of his own; he raised an eyebrow for good measure. The gesture was not lost on Lord Black either.

"Forgive me for being rather presumptuous and ordering for you, but they are rather good," Lord Black informed as he sipped his own drink. "Moreover, it means that Arcturus is distracted for a little while. He can be such an eavesdropper."

"Much like the rest of the family," the Minister really could not resist teasing. He regarded Thanatos closely. "I really must ask how you and the rest of your family are, considering the latest debacle at Hogwarts."

"Ah yes, the empousa," Thanatos scoffed. "Henry and myself have rather strong stomachs and nothing ever seems to phase Melanie all that much, but I can admit that when we heard that there was an Undead in the school – and an Ancient one at that – we had to take a moment to not begin to panic."

"There really was no indication that there was an empousa in the artefact?" Lord Black sounded interested to say the least.

"None, not to mention that the goblins had no inkling either," Thanatos shook his head derisively.

"So Griphook, Ironfang and Rosberg have been reassuring our offices," the Minister sighed. "Apparently some foolish parents have been sending Howlers to Gringotts, which caused poor Melissa to get quite the headache!"

"I can imagine. It's a headache no one in your office needs at present," Thanatos pointed out. He decided to see if he could turn the personal table onto the Minister already. "How are you all holding up? How are your families?"

The Minister was abjectly surprised at the question. It would have been rather adorable if Thanatos was not aware that both the Minister and Orion's father had invited him for their own hidden reasons. "Well, I am tired – I sleep whenever I am able to! I drink a lot of Pepper Up Potions and drink a lot of coffee. My wife and children are as understanding as they can be. Melissa's children don't like that they don't get to see their Mamas too often but that cant be helped at present. So I would say, strained but good. Thank you for asking."

"And your family?" Thanatos turned to Lord Black.

"Melania had to be talked down from visiting Hogwarts to see Orion and the Lady Hera. Fortunately my daughter Lucretia and my mother are very good at tempering my wife. I have had to settle the half of the family who wanted to send Howlers to Gringotts themselves and the other half who have some rather questionable opinions," the dangerous look in Lord Black's eyes told Thanatos enough. "Dealing with the Wizengamot is not as stressful as family."

"Is that not always the case?" Thanatos pointed out with a wry grin.

"Yes, I suppose that is true – ah! Arcturus! Right on time," Lord Black had spotted his cousin, which had put a small pause on the conversation. Arcturus Black the Younger smiled rather brightly as he happily set down a glass of Firewhiskey mixed together with Yeti's Scream.

Thanatos gave him a smile of gratitude. "Thank you, sir."

"Not at all. Enjoy!"

Arcturus the Younger bowed and took his leave before the Head of his House dismissed him again. Thanatos took an experimental sip, and then another when his taste buds registered the taste and considered it more than acceptable. The Minister chuckled a little. "Arcturus has some of the best drinks on offer."

"Indeed he does," Lord Black concurred easily, not looking away from Thanatos as the disguised Primordial took a few more sips. "Speaking of family, how is your ward, truly? Without the feathers and fluff my son likes to put in his letters."

Thanatos kept himself composed but his walls suddenly got a little bit higher. He set his crystal glass down and swirled the liquid within. That was when he tasted it – the very subtle hint of Veritaserum. A damn truth potion; he should have probably seen this one coming. Fortunately, his divinity protected him from the trifling tricks that the children of Hekate could pull. But, as Thomas Burke, Thanatos had to play along with it.

The question was, who gave Arcturus the Younger the order to put it in …?

"Harry says she's fine, but I know that even this debacle has gotten to her," Thanatos replied, allowing the potion to take a little bit of an affect. "It is different when it's just a simple Dark artefact. But when it is a prison to a Dark Undead – a child of two powerful goddesses – that puts the rest of her friends at risk … old memories start to resurface."

"Memories of the war?" the Minister asked with interest.

"Yes," Thanatos felt more than comfortable to answer that one extremely bluntly. "Harry and her friends grew up in an environment that could have rightly driven all of them to the Dark. She has suffered more than she could ever care to admit even to herself."

"Her parents – I do not understand them. Why did they let their only child be turned into a solider?" Lord Black sounded a lot more searching in his tone.

"They had no say in it," once more, Thanatos opted for the truth, except he did not mention that both James and Lily were too dead to stop anyone.

The Minister could not disguise his absolute shock; Arcturus Black managed to keep his countenance but his eyebrows did raise considerably. "What do you mean they had no say in it? Of course they had a say in it! How-"

"Then, with all due respect, Minister, I suggest you do not ask your security services or the Muggle security services what they do in order to try and win wars if that turns your stomach," Thanatos responded rather icily.

Minister Spencer-Moon was well and truly cowed by that. Lord Black cleared his throat. "Did you know Harry's family well?" he continued.

"One side of the family, yes," Thanatos replied with a knowing smirk. He took another sip of the spiked drink. For some reason, the Primordial rather liked this particular game of cat and mouse, now that he knew the strategies afoot. "I knew them very well indeed, but … over the years we lost contact. I did not know fully of Harry's existence until last year when she came to my bookstore. I knew there was a child, but whether they were boy or girl or alive or dead – no, I didn't."

The Primordial could not help but smile at that particular memory. "I, at first, could not believe that she had found me. I thought that I would be the one to potentially find her. But there she was …"

"When did you tell her of your connection to her family?" Lord Black actually managed to sound curious this time.

"Well … I procrastinated on that for a good while," Thanatos sheepishly admitted. "Melanie and Henry threatened to tell her themselves since they rightly believed that she had the right to know. It came to light during a trip to Gringotts and, that was when I attained official guardianship of Harry."

For a moment, the interrogation was halted. The Primordial saw the gears whirring in the heads of both Lord Black and the Minister. Indeed, the Minister looked as though he was about to order himself another drink. Perhaps both of them were rather unsure about how to arrive at the questions they actually wanted to ask.

Finally, it seemed that Lord Black had an epiphany. He cleared his throat. "Mr. Burke, I do not mean to interfere in business that does not concern me," this almost made Thanatos snort into his glass, "but I feel like I would not be a good ally to your ward if I did not ask this of you."

The Minister for Magic at this point put Silencing Charms around the table. The Primordial braced himself.

Arcturus Black continued the moment he knew that they had complete privacy. "I have been hearing some … whispers and talk around the Wizengamot," he started off carefully. "I am sure that it is nothing except idle gossip whipped up by jealous heiresses and bored Lady Consorts with nothing better to do than to stir up trouble, however I – and the Minister – would like to know if you are informed of what is being said."

"And what precisely is being said?" Thanatos's tone hardened quite a bit at this point. He definitely did not drink a sip from his glass.

One simple glance was exchanged between the Noble and the Minister before the Minister plucked up what little courage he had. "Is it true that Hera Evans is actually Hera Peverell?"

There it was.

Thanatos's hand reflexively tightened around the crystal glass while he unflinchingly held the gazes of these two powerful wizards. His eyes went from one set of eyes to the other; the disguised immortal did not so much as utter a word. He then released the glass entirely.

"Does your cousin's kitchen also make bites to eat?" was what Thanatos eventually asked serenely. "I am suddenly rather peckish."

That caused both Lord Black and the Minister to blink a couple of times in undisguised shock. Clearly, they had not expected that kind of side-step. The Minister recovered first, looking extremely conflicted, while Thanatos got the impression that Lord Black was almost visibly irritated.

He had neither denied, nor confirmed; this was not what they had wanted, but Thanatos was well versed without manoeuvring mortals. After all, no one escaped him or his Reapers for a reason.

"Since the wars began, the menu has shrunk slightly," Arcturus decided to indulge him. "However, his cook does make Lord Woolton's Pie, Oxford potato soup, and fish and chips for his VIPs."

"I never imagined that your cousin economised on anything!" the Minister grinned.

"Yes, I was surprised as you were. Apparently, it is only a recent development, thanks to the Lady Hera, actually," Lord Black informed, which took Thanatos by surprise.

"Harry? How?"

"She debated some of my kinsfolk on their views of Muggles. She left an impression, let me say," Lord Black actually allowed himself to smile at this point. "Though Arcturus still does not like them in any way, he did do some research into what they are eating in order to get through the war, and he wanted to give them a try."

That was the last thing Thanatos expected to hear.

"Well I never! I never thought I would know of one Black who is trying to ration," the Minister teased. He then sobered up a little as he turned back to Thanatos. "I assure you, Mr. Burke, if the rumour is true about the Lady Hera, we will do our best to protect her from the sharks, but there are some powerful people in the country who would want to know the truth."

Thanatos did not need three guesses to know whom Spencer-Moon was referring to. But once more, the immortal held his tongue and simply stared back at the Minister. It was not time yet for them to know, no matter how much these two may wish that it was different.

A flash of frustration appeared in the eyes of both Lord Black and the Minister for Magic, but that had quickly been replaced by resignation. "I see," the Minister sighed deeply. "Well, I cannot say that I am truly surprised by this reaction. Arcturus suspected you would be rather reluctant to give any information to the affirmative or the contrary."

Thanatos simply raised an eyebrow that could easily be translated to, yes, well, no surprise there then. A sly smirk formed for a moment. "Are you two gentlemen joining me for a bite to eat, or do you have slightly more important matters to attend to?"

"Whether or not a Peverell is back is important, sir! It may not be so to you, or your family, or the other vassals of House Peverell, but it is to the Crown and it is to my office and Downing Street," Leonard Spencer-Moon continued, going bright red in the face. All the while, Thanatos kept himself completely composed.

Lord Black knew they were beating their heads against a brick wall at this point. He rose to his feet with an air of resignation that did not suit his usual aristocratic poise and pride, but there was a promise in his eyes that this matter was far from over. "Leonard, I did warn you this would happen. No trick nor any number of words can ever make a Peverell or any of their vassals expose any kind of secret. Let Mr. Burke keep his, for now."

The Minister looked extremely reluctant to leave. He stared down Thanatos for a single moment longer before he got to his feet and gathered his hat and cloak. The Primordial did not turn to watch them leave – that would have just sent the message that Thanatos did not want to send. That their pathetic strategies had any effect on him at all.

He dispelled the privacy spell from around the table and took a deep breath.

I take it the problem has been handled, brother?

For now, but they will not let this go. Thanatos scoffed.

Well, if they start to prove a bit of a nuisance, we will just have to put these wizards back into their corner, the God of Sleep stated simply. It would not be the first time we did that.No it wasn't, and Thanatos hated doing it every single time he had been forced to intervene to protect one of his Masters. He had been surprised it had not been necessary until now.

No, it would not – but I do not think it necessary at this moment in time.

Cheeky of them, to slip that truth serum into your drink.

In hindsight, I should have seen that one coming. Thanatos finished the last of his drink. Has Zagreus taken Persephone somewhere else?

No, not yet.

Then I am heading to my shop. I need some peace and quiet. Will you be home later?

Probably not. I am spending some time with Rollo and Meg.

All right.

Before Grindelwald pulls his next card …

Thanatos closed the Link, sighing to himself. He left a few Galleons next to the drink and rose to his feet. The man everyone believed was a bookshop owner tried to ignore the fact that there were a good few people in the Prestige whose eyes followed him out of the club.

#########################################################################

Of all of Grindelwald's 'house guests', none was there as long or as precious to the Dark Lord as one Elois d'Huart. Though Elois did not get many frequent visits from his captor, he was under no impression that it was a good thing. After all, Elois had been one of the first people Gellert Grindelwald had snatched when the First Wizarding War had truly begun, and for very good reason.

Elois had valuable information on the Flamels, which at one point had been very useful to Grindelwald. It was one of the reasons that the forty-year-old wizard had been kept in one of the nicer rooms. However, ever since the Immortal Alchemist and the Immortal Sorceress had been snatched from Antwerp, Elois's usefulness had rather diminished, which meant he had soon been regulated to the same number of interrogations as the rest of the 'house guests'. That is, until Grindelwald took an interest in a particular set of skills Elois had.

Elois was rather gifted with enchantments, curses and hexes that affected someone's ability to sleep. He had once put an entire village asleep in order to incapacitate Grindelwald's men so that the Resistance could rescue from highly prized guests from under the Dark Lord's nose. It was one of the reasons that the wizard was forced to wear barbaric suppression cuffs around his wrists.

But now, for whatever reason … Grindelwald was very interested in getting Elois to use those powers for something else. In between the Burning Hexes, Stinging Jinxes, Cutting Charms and Sensory Deprivation Hexes and the screaming, Elois wondered why only now.

He spluttered and wheezed as the Dark Lord gave him a small reprieve.

"So, have I given you enough time to think about my offer, monsieur?" Grindelwald asked jovially. "Or do you need some more time?"

Elois hissed and grunted in pain as he looked up at those mismatched eyes that gave him nightmares. "If you think for one-minute zat that I will just bend the knee to you and submit my magic to you, you have another thing coming-"

Another curse was inflicted on the man. As he crumpled over in pain, the Dark Lord tutted. "Attitude, attitude, dear Elois! That is no way to treat your gracious host, non? You could not be of any help finding dear old Nicholas and Perenelle, so now – I just want you to perform a tiny, little spell for me. That is all."

Elois laughed mirthlessly, which caused him to grip his side and his ribs as the pain rocketed through him. "A tiny, little spell," he managed to sneer. "As if I would ever lift a wand to help you – you can keep this up, Grindelwald, but I will never bend!"

All Grindelwald did in reply was chuckle. Elois watched him pour himself a couple of tea, humming some kind of Austrian song under his breath as he put sugar into it. The Frenchman gathered what little breath he could. There was a tense silence that suddenly blanketed the room. Indeed, one could only hear the fire in the hearth and the rumbling of thunder.

"You have nothing left to hold over me," Elois continued in a hiss. "Not even the Flamels."

Grindelwald hummed. "That is not entirely true, is it?" he pointed out silkily. "I still have plenty of other guests, as you fully well know." A cold glint entered his eyes. "I could always ask Vida, Credence and Queenie to pop in on them and say hello – and also explain how your insubordination and disrespect has brought their visit around."

Elois continued to glare at his captor with undisguised hate.

"A few of them will have their photos taken soon," the Dark Lord continued nonchalantly. "As part of an agreement I have with one of my dear little birds, you see. Now, I don't know about you, but I would not be happy to see that my friends have been harmed for someone else's gross miscalculation. Would you be happy, Elois?"

"You bloody bastard," was the answer to that.

Grindelwald tutted, but did not get to do much else for a little while because, much to the shock and disbelief of Elois, the wand in the hand of the Dark Lord started acting up. It turned the man's black leather boots a rather offensive shade of yellow and then, made Grindelwald's teapot levitate and dance in thin air. He could barely believe what was happening in front of his eyes.

The wand was rebelling against its master …

This rarely ever happened. Indeed Elois would have risked his life to laugh until the jovial mask fell away from Grindelwald's face completely and only left the purest of anger. "YOU INSOLENT – HOW DARE YOU EMBARRASS ME RIGHT NOW!" he exploded. "WE HAVE NO TIME TO MUCK AROUND!"

The wand was apparently not in agreement, because it turned Elois's hair bright blue. This once again made the wizard blink in sheer shock.

"WE ARE TRYING TO PERSUADE HIM TO HELP US, NOT RIDICULE HIM!"

The wand let out a few sparks, almost as though it were … laughing. Laughing! Could a wand even find anything amusing?

What was going on? Something really was not right here …

Grindelwald soon turned his attention back onto Elois, and the man desperately tried to recompose himself. The anger, stress and deep-seated frustration was all over the Dark Lord's face, making his eyes glow menacingly. "Enough pleasantries, Monsieur d'Huart," he hissed darkly, all manner of the playful aura gone. "You will give me what I want, or I will make this castle sing an aria of pain!"

It would appear that Gellert Grindelwald was not as in control of this situation or the war as Elois first thought …

Which meant that the Dark Lord was currently at his most dangerous. Elois knew that this time, if he refused, some other prisoner in the castle would be dealt the punishment that was meant for him. He had no self-preservation left, but he was not going to sentenced someone else to the Cruciatus, for that is what Elois truly feared would be awaiting them.

"What spell do you wish me to perform?" he growled through gritted teeth.

The smirk that met Elois was cold and triumphant. "Now that's better," Grindelwald purred menacingly. He swigged back his tea and prowled around to Elois. "Tell me, Mr. d'Huart, how long can your sleeping spells keep someone under?"

"Depends on the spell, the area it needs to cover and the age of the target," Elois responded. "Why?"

"Because I am trying to study someone," Grindelwald answered crisply. "Only there are some irritant mites who think they can interfere in my plans. They rendered the empousa useless and thus I am not forced to find manners in which I can make sure none of them can ruin my plans again!"

Elois continued to glower at him. The Dark Lord continued. "The Realm of Sleep is a tricky, trifling place. Very few mortals truly know how to traverse the boggling lands – you count yourself amongst the lucky few, my dear Elois. What I want, is for you to put only one person to sleep for an extended period of time."

This made Elois's eyes widen.

"If you wish to test this person, how will you be able to do it when they're asleep?" he dared to question.

"Oh, I am very certain you know the answer to that yourself, monsieur," the Dark Lord regained his smirk. "You will put me to sleep as well! Is that not great fun?"

Elois dared not to answer that.

"So, how long will it take for you to concoct me a little sleeping spell?"

May the gods and Merlin forgive me …

"For what you require, some time," came the rather honest answer. "I will need a cauldron, my runes and some sedative herbs."

"I will send Credence out for them at once – on a happier note, would you like a cup of tea?"

##########################################################################

Dear Lord and Lady Lestrange,

Enclosed with this letter are the results of Mistress Nymera's latest tests, in addition to an improved Invigoration Potion that has been custom-brewed to Mistress Nymera's needs and condition. To cut through the jargon, I regret to inform you that your daughter will never not be able to live without them. The Curse has been inside her system for too long.

Ensure that she takes one glass at breakfast, one glass at dinner and one glass before bed.

May your enemies fall at your feet,

Rava
Head Healer at Gringotts

"This was to be expected," Regina Avery commented grimly as she passed the letter to Amaris, suddenly wishing she had something stronger than tea.

"When did this arrive?" Amaris wondered even as she took the small letter in.

"This morning," Rhiannon replied coolly as she continued to pace. "As for the results of Nymera's test, her muscles are slowly getting stronger. The new draught is supposed to expedite the healing process a little but not so much that it will put her life too much at risk. Nymera will eventually be able to walk, but she will need to take regular breaks as she gets older." She sighed. "Nymera took her first dose today – says the potion tastes of peaches so that is something."

Amaris placed the letter onto the table and reclaimed her own tea cup and sipped it. "Did … did they give any indication … how long …?"

She did not dare to be too blunt, but the implication was enough.

"Well," Regina cleared her throat, "I think it is very fortunate indeed that we do not see Anne Underwood any time soon. Unless of course Melania Black decides to invite her to yet another soiree. I also haven't heard anything more about that rumour surrounding Hera Evans-"

A nearby window cracked at the simple mention of the youngest Underwood witch. Rhiannon's eyes were swimming with her magic. "Do you and your husband have another trick up your sleeves to get that bitch to confess to what she has done to my daughter, Regina? Because I am losing my mind, day after bloody day!"

Regina avoided her friend's gaze for a moment and busied herself with one of the finger sandwiches before she dared to give an answer. Not because the lawyer feared that Lady Lestrange would not like her answer, but because whenever she got truly angry, Rhiannon scared the heebies out of Regina.

"We do," Regina reassured. "However, it may be rather hit or miss…"

"In what way?" Rhiannon demanded, folding her arms imperiously.

"Well … do you happen to know the list of peoples permitted to give testimony in court?" Regina opted for a very careful answer.

"Those of legally sound mind, body and spirit and those of intact memory," it was Amaris who answered, who had happened to remember terms mentioned in legislation her father and her husband proposed.

"Specifically?" Regina continued.

"Children and adults who are legally competent and spectres and spirits of the past."

A grin spread onto Mrs. Avery's countenance at this point. "My dear Amaris, I think you might be getting a little bit rusty. You have missed two of the list."

"Two?" Rhiannon repeated while Lady Nott raised an eyebrow in surprise.

"Yes, two," Regina confirmed rather giddily, her eyes shining knowingly. "Two that are so archaic and rarely used that many courts forget these two are legal witnesses-"

"The suspense is killing us, Gina, please get to the point."

"Familiars and portraits."

It was safe to say that one could have heard a feather drop to the ground. Amaris very nearly dropped her tea cup. Indeed, Rhiannon could not stop blinking at her old friend in utter, complete discombobulation.

"Sorry, come again?" Rhiannon whispered.

"Did you just say familiars and portraits?" Amaris was just as much in shellshock.

"I did, my Lady!" Regina confirmed happily. "And before you throw accusations that I must have been kidnapped and that someone has Polyjuiced themselves as me, I assure you that it is not the case. I am being one hundred per cent serious. Familiars have been used as witnesses since Ancient times and portraits have been used since the fourteenth century."

"In which cases?" Rhiannon dared to ask.

"The Case of the Three Praetorian Guards and the Murders at Antoine Hall in 1365."

Both Amaris and Rhiannon found themselves massaging their temples for a moment, until their trains of thought suddenly grinded to very sharp and very lethal halts at the station of realisation in their heads.

"Do you mean to insinuate that you are planning on using a familiar or a portrait as a witness against Anne and my husband?" Amaris paled rather quickly.

"Or both," Regina confirmed.

Rhiannon shook her head despondently. "Regina, I love you but I think you may now finally overreach yourself. Because, where in the name of Merlin could you find a familiar or a portrait who saw or heard anything poignant?!"

The Avery lawyer grinned. "You just need to trust us, my friend."

"Oh for the love of …"

Amaris regarded Rhiannon with an undisguised look of sympathy, but at the same time she knew that the Averys were not only serious, but they already likely had a plan – or at least, a list of potential unbiased familiars and portraits who could be potential witnesses. But even Lady Nott had not the foggiest idea how the Averys could get a confession out of Anne Underwood out of these witnesses!

There were times that Rhiannon and Amaris forgot that Regina did have a bit of a mad streak now and again, and her husband was just as bad.

It was then that Lady Lestrange's sanity was saved by one of her elves.

CRACK!

"Mistress! Vinkey apologises for disturbing but Vinkey needs to tell Mistress that Mistress Nymera is making her room float!"

The shock of Regina's plan has quickly dissipated. Rhiannon, Amaris and Regina followed Vinkey with a bit of pep in their step – they were far too dignified to full on run but it was quite close to it. The elf led them to Nymera's room and three pureblood ladies came quite firmly through the door, only to be met with young Nymera's toys, doll house, chairs and rocking dragon dancing in the air. Nymera herself had a Standard Book of Spells: Year 1 open in front of her and looking sheepish.

"Mama!" Nymera exclaimed nervously. "I told Vinkey not to disturb you!"

Rhiannon raised an eyebrow and folded her arms once more. "Yes, and I see why! What do you call this, young lady?"

"Eeeeerm … Practise?"

Nymera attempted to look as innocent as possible, which made Regina and Amaris giggle and also shake their heads.

"It is your nap time, Nymera."

"But I am not tired!"

"Oh no? So I am imagining those dark circles under your eyes, am I?"

Nymera let out a treacherous, jaw breaking yawn before she could throw out another excuse, making her mother chuckle. "OK … maybe I will just close my eyes for a little bit …"

"Yes, I think that is a very good idea, dear," Rhiannon concurred as she and Amaris started to dispel the levitation spells around the room. Nymera yawned again as she curled onto her bed in a foetal position while ignoring Vinkey's light scolding.

Both Regina and Amaris grinned as Rhiannon rejoined them after tucking her daughter back into bed. "I think it is safe to say that Hogwarts will have their hands full when Nymera enters her halls!" Regina commented as they left Nymera to her nap.

"Yes, I think you may need to prepare for letters home, Rhiannon," Amaris agreed. "I am willing to bet that Nymera will be off like a firecracker!"

"That is what we fear," Rhiannon confessed with a sigh. "I am already preparing for new silver hairs and a few more sleepless nights."

"Oh, only a few more?" Regina teased lightly, earning herself a few sparks to her side. "Hey! Look at the bright side, Rhiannon, by the time Nymera gets there, Hogwarts might have one or two tricks up their sleeve to deal with her considering the fact they have the Lady Hera currently under their roof!"

Neither Rhiannon nor Amaris could argue against that point!

###########################################################################

"This is not how I imagined spending Valentine's Day morning…"

"Did you expect today to begin normally or something, Wally?"

Walburga gave Altair a pointed look and gave a sigh of resignation. Altair smirked at her and Tom chuckled lowly as all three of them had turned back to watch Harry and Orion ran amuck in Zonko's joke shop. While Altair and Tom had already suspected that their Valentine's Day would not start of normally; the soul crystal flowers Harry had gifted them both at breakfast had been the most regular thing that day. Walburga, though, had hoped her fiancé and best friend would act normal for at least one holiday.

However, all three future Consorts were now forced to wait as their Valentines went around Zonko's on a quest to find new pranks, likely in their last ditch bid to make Professor Dumbledore lose all his hair with stress at the Quidditch finals. Already, Altair, Tom and Walburga had gotten the idea that Dumbledore may need a heavy dose of smelling salts.

"Harry, I found the books!"

"Well done, Orion – I found something fun!"

"Oooooo what is it?"

"It's some kind of music box!"

"What kind is it – ooooo I know this! We will buy that too!"

While Altair and Tom enjoyed watching the pair giddily plotting, Walburga was far more sedated. But, not for the reason the boys initially suspected. She had not truly been vexed by this impromptu joke shop trip. The letter she had received from her mother that morning was causing major concern. The kind of concern that Walburga knew that Harry, Altair, Tom and Orion really did not need right now.

Questions asked about who Harry really was …

"Done!" the happy announcement from Orion knocked Walburga out of her wandering train of thought. Both he and Harry had a couple of bags. "Apologies for this, everyone, but it needed to be done."

"You are not going to give us a clue as to what you two are planning this time?" Altair fished as Harry took his arm and Orion offered his arm to Walburga, who immediately took it.

"You know us, darling. We don't like spoiling our surprises!" Harry grinned.

Orion planted a soft kiss on Walburga's cheek apologetically, causing her to flush bright red. "Are you annoyed at us? I am sorry; I am sure there are still some table at Madam Paddifoot's."

Walburga gave him a reassuring smile and a gentle squeeze on the arm. "I am not annoyed. Nor am I entirely surprised. You and Harry have been waiting for this for a while." She considered asking Orion if he had received any odd letters from Aunt Melania or Uncle Arcturus, but she decided against it.

"Then what ever is the matter?" Orion frowned.

"I will tell you later," Walburga decided to buy herself some time. "I just got a worrying letter from Mama."

That made Orion frown a little deeper but he did not press the matter further. He and Walburga both decided to distract themselves listening to Altair regaling Harry with every funny Valentine's related story he could remember, with Tom jumping in now and again. By the time they had gotten to Madam Paddifoot's, they had gotten through the Druella and the Three Suitors saga, Dolohov's Secret Admirer, the Love Note Saga and the Love Riddle story.

Orion had been tempted to give his take once or twice, but he actually managed to restrain himself. Walburga did wince once or twice during the Love Note Saga, as her own Love Note during fifth year, and it had not been sent to Orion. It had been sent to Rigel Higgs, one of the popular boys in seventh year at the time, and it taken months before anyone had let her live it down! Orion had fortunately never taken it personally, and had simply teased that Rigel had gone off the consideration list for the names for any sons.

"So my Courtship Boxes to you two was not the first Love Riddle in this school!" Harry definitely could see the funny side in each of the stories.

"No, it wasn't but it was the first that had the Ravenclaws completely stumped. You have no idea how disappointed we all were when Quinn solved that damn Acheron configuration within lunchtime and then turned down poor Carmichael because the puzzle wasn't challenging enough!" Altair laughed heartily.

"I still think O'Reilly's puzzles hidden in storybooks for Urquhart was creative, well-executed and rather sweet," Tom put in, making Orion and Walburga grin brightly.

"Oh it was, but the clue from Babbity Rabbity and the Cackling Stump was so obvious even I figured that one out," Altair smirked.

The atmosphere at Madam Paddifoot's Tea Shop was even more mushy than normal. There was not one customer there that wasn't on some kind of date. There was one table left that was big enough for all five of them. The group spied Abraxas and Ygraine nearby, both of them looking ever so slightly uncomfortable or tense but in deep conversation. So much so that they didn't seem to be aware of anyone else around them. It made Harry and Walburga smile even more.

"So, gentlemen, shall we get Harry to enjoy Madam Paddifoot's Valentine's Day special?" Orion suggested, eyes shining with mischief. Already Walburga hid her amusement behind her hand.

Altair definitely liked that idea. "Oh yes! It will be Harry's one and only time to get a taste of it!"

Dread and resignation descended upon Harry within seconds. "The cakes are all in the form of something adorable, aren't they?" she stated dryly, the dragon cake fiasco still very clear in her mind.

Orion and Altair attempted to look innocent, but it did not really work too well. Walburga giggled while Tom put Harry out of her misery. "They're in the form of lovebirds and are meant to be shared."

The Mistress of Death grumbled incoherently at that. "That doesn't answer my question!"

"Well, there are people who think the cakes are adorable," Tom admitted.

"Oh bloody hell," Harry sighed. "Very well, let's the cake. But if any of you start betting if I will eat or not, I will not touch a bite and you and Altair can finish the thing."

"Deal," Altair knew that was the best he could get; he and Orion quickly headed for the counter to make the order before Harry could change her mind.

"So when are those goblins going to compensate you for the empousa?"

Walburga's question caught Harry slightly off-guard. Harry raised an eyebrow. "What?"

"Your wages," Walburga clarified patiently. "They haven't paid you yet."

"Oh yes. You may need to remind them. They might have forgotten because of the Howlers," Tom agreed.

Quietly, Harry felt her nerves rise. She was very certain that it was an oversight from Griphook but the slip was too much of an overt oversight – after all, they had to keep up the pretence that the latest assignments were from Gringotts and not Grindelwald. The pressure was likely getting to the goblins too, unsurprisingly.

"I am sure it is only a minor oversight," Harry responded nonchalantly. "Parents sending Howlers to them and possibly having meetings with interfering Ministry envoys can easily make someone a little bit forgetful."

And I am afraid I might need to give them extra work.

Harry was a little relieved that she could tune out Walburga and Tom's ensuing conversation about uppity parents in favour of Thanatos.

Happy Valentine's Day, Tosti! Why would you need to give the goblins even more stress than I already do?

Well, I have no idea if Orion or Walburga told you, but someone knows something they really shouldn't. About you.

Uh oh.

I am not liking where this is going … Harry really could not keep the sass out of her thoughts.

You shouldn't. It would seem that Lord Black and the Minister for Magic himself heard something about your true identity from someone – fortunately they didn't have any concrete evidence.

How do you know?

Because they submitted me to a rather funny attempt at an interrogation. They went so far as to put Veritaserum in my drink.

Harry could not believe what she was hearing. Excuse me?

Oh don't fret, Mistress. Potions don't work on gods.

Hang that! That they even had the nerve is pissing me off!

Thanatos chuckled fondly. Just leave it to me. You just concentrate on your boys and your friends. As you should; I just wanted to make sure you were up to date.

But …

Harry. I will have no arguments.

Before the Lady Regnant could offer any kind of argument, Thanatos closed the Link himself. Orion and Altair returned right on cue, levitating two lovebird cakes, a large pot of tea and several tea cups. Harry internally grumbled.

It seemed that a quiet Valentine's Day was definitely not in the cards!

##########################################################################

Athenaïs had been quietly making her own Valentine's Day plans and they involved Hagrid and Aragog. The Gargouille did not see the point of celebrating one day of loving one's mate since she was fairly certain most loved their mate every day – or at least should be doing – and thus decided she would be spending the day reuniting two close friends. Since Atty did not have a mate of her own, she thought making Hagrid and Aragog happy would be a day well spent. Mr. Alsop kept a close watch on Hagrid almost all the time, thus he barely had any time to try and find Aragog.

After all, Harry, Altair and Tom did not need her help anymore when it came to their relationship, and practically everyone had warned her not to interfere too much in the business of Caius and Arc. No one had said she couldn't help Aragog see his friend again, though.

What made it even better, was that Seraphina, Sigyn and Frey had come along to help. Secretly Athenaïs also knew that they wanted to see Aragog again, but none of them had the spine to admit that. The happiness flowed through the Gargouille so overtly, that she radiated that glee. Which was why Hagrid had a face splitting grin across his face when the group approached.

"'Ello Atty! What has ya so 'appy? And who are yer friends?" he asked curiously when he noticed the three other familiars as Fang hid under the scarecrow, whimpering in fear. Seraphina, Sigyn and Frey were more than a little miffed at the dog's actions.

Athenaïs did not answer the first question but did introduce her friends with enthusiastic chirps, nudging them forwards with her head. Especially Seraphina, who was haughtily eyeing Hagrid's rather grubby hands with a rather judgemental look in her eye. While Sigyn and Frey had introduced themselves politely, Seraphina had continued to regard the groundskeeper's apprentice with distaste. This got under Atty's skin rather.

"I thought Walburga taught you to mind your manners, Seraphina! Introduce yourself and be polite."

"I am not going anywhere near those hands! They are unwashed!"

"You are not going to die from a little dirt!"

"No, but it does mean I need a bath! I already had one yesterday."

"You regularly need baths anyway. Stop being so rude!"

Hagrid had watched and listened to the argument between the cat and the dragon with undisguised amusement. He had not understood everything that Atty and Seraphina had said, but he got the gist of it.

"Atty, it's OK," he reassured and looked at Seraphina. "It's nice ta meet ya, Seraphina. I'm sorry fer the state of me hands. I have just finished the last of the gardenin'. But I won't pat ya if ya don't like dirt."

Seraphina gave a soft, grateful meow.

Atty gave a scoff. "You didn't deserve that apology."

She got a deep scowl from Seraphina for that. Frey gave them both a whack around the head with her tail to stop any ensuing arguments taking place. Hagrid decided to help Frey by turning back to Atty.

"So, Atty, what is this surprise ya want ta show me?"

The Gargouille lit up once more and started pulling at the humongous leather trench coat that the half-giant donned, signifying to Hagrid that she wanted him to follow her. Already Sigyn, Frey and Seraphina headed in the direction of the Forbidden Forest. This made Hagrid frown in deep concern.

"The Forest? The Forest is dangerous fer ye lot! What's …"

"An old friend," Atty chirped cryptically, her eyes dancing with mischief. "Trust me, Hagrid. Please?"

There was a momentary flash of doubt that flitted across Hagrid's countenance, but that was soon replaced by abject curiosity; Atty could see the gears whirring in the young half-giant's eyes, obviously trying to guess as to whom she was referring too. A few more pulls at Hagrid's cloak from the Gargouille were enough to convince him to follow her.

On the short journey to Aragog's lair, Hagrid listened to the stories told by Sigyn about how this was definitely not their first trip into the Forest. About how they had taken a risk by following Hera Evans into the Forest when she had a rather dangerous artefact to decurse, and couldn't tell anyone anything about it because the goblins had put her under a gag order. It seemed that some of the tall stories both he and Mr. Alsop had heard were not as tall as they had initially thought!

"Of course that was when we met your old friend, and an Animagus called Minerva," Sigyn continued matter-of-factly. "At first, I thought we would all end up as your friend's lunch but he's really nice."

Hagrid was about to let his curiosity get the better of him and ask which friend of his they were referring to – after all, he could count on one hand how many friends he actually had. But then the half-giant started spying a decent number of spider webs around, decorating nearby trees and bushes like silvery banners, and a smile started to spread across his face.

Even more so when Athenaïs howled ethereally and immediately the head of Aragog popped out of the growing hollow. The Acromantula clicked his pincers excitedly. "Atty!" he cried happily, making Hagrid gape unabashedly. "How are you? It's so nice to see you again! Hello Sigyn! Seraphina! Frey! How is Harry doing? How is Minerva?"

Hagrid watched in amusement as the familiars launched into their own answers, meowing, chirping and hissing over each other, but Aragog had no issue catching each answer, nodding along. "She had to deal with an Undead in the school? Oh my! OK, she didn't get hurt, I am very glad. Oooo Minerva has boy trouble, does she? Does the boy not like her – oh, he's Muggle? … What is a Muggle? People with no magic? I don't see the problem – she doesn't know if he wants a relationship with a witch? Well, she should ask him!"

Hagrid almost didn't want to interrupt, but he had really missed his old friend. The half-giant gently cleared his throat; the sound still echoed around the clearing quite loudly. That halted the conversation, but also got all of Aragog's eyes to finally notice that he was standing there. For a moment, the Acromantula was in disbelief; his eyes blinking rather rapidly in shock.

"…Hagrid?"

Atty grinned brightly, looking from Hagrid to Aragog and back again excitedly.

"Hello, Aragog," Hagrid smiled broadly. "I am here. I'm sorry it took so long-"

He didn't get to finish his apology, because soon Hagrid found himself tackled to the ground, getting hugged rather fiercely by a giant spider. A sight which concerned Sigyn, Seraphina and Frey ever so slightly but made Atty herself roll on the forest floor, laughing her wings off.

"Y-you're h-h-here!" Aragog sobbed happily.

"Yes, I am!" Hagrid laughed. "Aragog – Aragog yer bigger than before! Let me up, would ya?"

The Acromantula was reluctant to comply but after some persuading from Seraphina and Sigyn that he might accidentally hurt Hagrid in his enthusiasm, Aragog moved so that Hagrid could get up. Atty tried to get some oxygen back into her lungs at this point. Hagrid chuckled too, showing that he was not only all right but that he wasn't in the least bit annoyed.

"I missed you too, old friend! So much. Glad ta see ya made some new friends, though!"

Aragog clicked his pincers happily. "Yes! They keep me good company whenever they can. They help me battle the loneliness."

Hagrid smiled softly. "Good. Glad ta hear that."

There appeared to be a question swimming behind Aragog's eyes but the Acromantula seemed nervous to ask it. Instead, Aragog asked, "tell me what you have been up to lately."

"I have been busy since coming back, more than I was at Hogwarts! Mr. Alsop has me plantin' the harvest at the moment – took me aal around the grounds yesterday to make sure I know all about the plants and wildlife that need care and an eye on.."

Aragog lost himself to Hagrid's stories, listening in rapt fascination. Seraphina, Sigyn and Frey took the opportunity to take a snooze while Atty held vigil over the group. This was still the Forbidden Forest, after all – Atty knew this place was dangerous and not be trifled with. Her encounter with the centaurs told her as much.

The centaurs …

Atty shivered at the memory of them and their ominous prophecy. As hard as she tried to distract herself, the Gargouille could not get those words out of her head. The centaurs knew that Harry was not originally from this time, and that at some point in the near future … something was going to happen to her.

Atty's jaw clenched at the mere thought of it.

Her ears pricked up when she heard a twig snap behind her. The Gargouille's head snapped around, ready to strike any potential threat; she only relaxed a smidge when her gaze landed on a pure white horse-like creature with a golden horn protruding from its forehead. The dragon blinked in surprise. A unicorn?

Are we in its territory?

Before Athenaïs could ask that question, the illusive creature was gone, disappointment flooding Atty. However, that disappointment was soon replaced by something else entirely, namely apprehension and suspicion. For, she did not even have time to look away before she heard more twigs snap and more hooves on the ground. At first, Atty thought that perhaps the unicorn had decided to come back but she was soon growling at the sight of two centaurs, bows slung on their backs and their eyes on the group.

Atty could not say if she recognised these centaurs or not, but she frankly didn't care. She started to growl.

Her growl caught the attention of her friends.

"Centaurs," Hagrid stated with a tone of resignation as he got to his feet. "Come on, everyone. Atty, stop that growlin' before they see ya as a threat! Ya don't want an angry centaur on yer claws."

They already see me as a threat because of my Witch, Atty thought to herself but she kept her thoughts to herself. She glowered at the centaurs but stopped her growling.

Frey and Sigyn nudged her sharply.

*Come on, Atty. Don't do anything foolish,* Frey warned.

"Who? Me?" Atty attempted to appear innocent, though it did not really work too well. She gave the centaurs one more glare before she followed her friends, Aragog in pursuit as he was insisting on walking them to the edge of the Forest as always.

*Yes, you! Move it!*

The dragon giggled and looked back over her shoulder to see if the centaurs were following them or not.

They were, and they were regarding her with knowing looks. She really hoped that they didn't say anything that would cause any awkward questions later with Seraphina, Sigyn and Frey. Or even Hagrid. But it seemed that the Fates had decided to make Atty a whipping dragon.

"Be careful, little one! The crux of fate approaches!"

For the first time in quite a while, Athenaïs openly growled at the two horse-men. Which caused enough concern amongst her friends that Hagrid went back and scooped the Gargouille up and marched her out of the Forest.

"Atty, what did I say? I didnay mean that as a joke!" Hagrid scolded.

*Really, Atty! You are lucky they are not firing those stick things!* Frey was not amused either.

Seraphina and Sigyn stuck to shaking their heads in disappointment at her, but Athenaïs did not pay them any attention. Only Aragog didn't say anything, knowing fully well why the centaurs had put his friend on edge.

The crux of fate approaches …

That did not sound good. Not good at all.

##########################################################################

Ophelia had not expected to spend Valentine's Day in Kelpie's Hollow, but it was a pleasant surprise. Malum had reserved a table at the café, which was a good thing because the establishment was unsurprisingly packed. Artemis and Heron, who had joined them at the hamlet, had just managed to take the last unreserved table.

Loreley and Druella, both of whom either did not have Valentines or their fiancée attending Hogwarts, had gone off together to explore the market and to buy some flowers for Mr. Ogden's tree – Loreley had wanted to pay a quick visit to the grave. Druella had been all too happy to volunteer, desperate to get away from all the 'lovey dovey nonsense', as she called it.

Ophelia had not been surprised in the slightest; Druella always hated Valentine's Day, and the present she had gotten in the mail from Cygnus this morning had dampened her mood a little. He had sent this rather garish, statement necklace that was definitely not an every day accessory, and definitely not something Druella would have ever bought for herself.

Ophelia had felt almost sorry for Cygnus, but she already suspected that Druella's fiancé did not take any opinions into consideration when buying it. Had he done so, anyone who knew Dru would have told him that the present was a bad idea.

Malum could have given better advice. Ophelia had been most surprised that he had gotten her a gift – her Courting Box was not entirely finished yet, so she had not expected anything for this Valentine's Day. But it seemed that Malum had been serious about giving her a proper Valentine's Day experience.

The beautiful Dragon's Breath necklace was more than enough to distract her from some worries that had been circling around her head. The tea and cake finished the rest of the job.

Malum chuckled at hr expression. "You look as happy as Harry while eating a treacle tart," he commented fondly.

Ophelia finished her mouthful and smirked. "It has been a while since I had a Victoria sponge cake, surprisingly. I never thought that I would miss it as much as I have been missing it."

"Victoria sponge is a favourite of my mother's so you can expect a whole lot more of it in the future," Malum flushed a little at the implications of his words, which only made Ophelia grin even more.

"Good. I am very glad to hear that," she reassured as she poured herself another cup of tea.

"You like chocolate cake too, right?"

"I do. Carrot cake as well," Ophelia replied. "You remembered. That's surprising."

"Well, technically I have known you for six years and I am not entirely unobservant," Malum pointed out as he started to work on his own piece of cake, in order to hide a little how red his face was. "I do notice the little things about people."

"Which made you a very good spy," Ophelia could not help but tease a little.

Malum almost choked on his piece at that but nodded his head in ashamed agreement. "Yes, I suppose so," he agreed once he had gotten rid of his mouthful. "Which is why I also know that there is something on your mind again." He gave her a pointed look. "Do you want to tell me what is going on?"

Even if I did, I doubt you would believe me.

Ophelia strengthened her Occlumency barriers just in case as she raised her eyes to Malum's. Other than the questions that she had about Harry's first life and the questions she had for Loreley Malfoy; she had a sneaky suspicion that Harry's last case was not entirely a Gringotts assignment. Indeed, the Rowle heiress was willing to bet her favourite pair of shoes that the empousa was a Grindelwald trick to test Harry.

But could she tell Malum without him telling Tom Riddle or Altair about her suspicions? Because if it was the case, and Harry had not told them in an attempt to protect them – knowing her it was likely – Ophelia would be responsible for causing strife between the throuple. Not something she wanted, especially since there was relative peace at present. And if Ophelia was wrong and Malum told Harry's future Consorts anyway, the damage would be for nothing.

"I just think that the whole empousa thing smells of fish," Ophelia confessed carefully.

"Smells of fish, how?" Malum wanted to know.

"Well," Ophelia swirled the tea in her tea cup, "I just find it odd that the goblins had no idea if the object was a prison or not. Like that portrait at the beginning of the year! The one with the two men imprisoned inside."

"Oh yeah! The guys that are still in St. Mungo's. Father wrote to them just in case they are ever well enough to testify against Grindelwald and they wanted their own lawyer," Malum informed. "He received no answer yet but yeah, I remember. Harry brought that thing into History and none of us suspected two people were inside." His brow furrowed. "Do you think that Grindelwald sent something to Gringotts to get it to Harry?"

"I … I don't know for certain but I wouldn't put it past him," Ophelia swallowed. "Queenie Goldstein made it clear at the Yule Ball that the Dark Lord is extremely interested in Harry and her abilities."

"And he still has no idea that she's … the one he has been hunting?" Malum shook his head in disbelief. "This is mad. Pure mad!"

"I know, but I could be wrong," Ophelia pointed out. "It's just a suspicion."

"You know as well as I do that your gut tells you something for a reason," Malum responded easily, finishing the last of his tea. "But onto a more pleasant subject, have you girls gotten your bridesmaid dresses for Druella Rosier's wedding?"

Ophelia snorted. "Not yet. Druella wants to battle her mother for control over our dresses and her reception dress, but so far Lady Rosier has refused to heed anything she says. I can tell that it is driving Dru completely up the wall!"

"I can imagine! I must confess that I am rather happy none of our families are taking over or pressuring us," he took one of her hands into his. "Courting is nerve-wrecking enough without someone breathing down one's neck!"

"Indeed," Ophelia concurred easily, trying to ignore her flaming cheeks.

"Has she shown you her wedding dress? Druella?"

"No, even that Lady Rosier seems to be most reluctant to share with her!"

Malum shook his head in disbelief and sighed in resignation. "I have a feeling that she's not going to be too happy with it."

Ophelia found herself smirking a little. "Would you like to bet on that?"

Malum smirked too. "How much are we betting, my dear?"

"If Druella actually likes the dress, you will let me take you on a trip to Rowena's Sanctuary," Ophelia surprised him with the statement. "If you're right and she hates it, I will let you take me to a Quidditch game of your favourite team."

Malum's eyes lit up. "You have yourself a deal, Miss Ophelia," he agreed, shaking her hand before planting a kiss on the back of it.

The Rowle heiress really had to think of dancing hippogriffs in order to keep her mind out of the gutter. Ophelia focused on finishing her cake and her third cup of tea; once she did, she and Malum were surprisingly joined by Artemis.

"Excuse me for the interruption, but I got a message from Lorri. She and Druella have just visited Clare and her mama, and are now heading to the Druid house Mr. Ogden left us. She wants to know if we care to join them," Artemis informed with a grin.

"Are you and Heron going?" Malum wanted to know.

"We are. Heron has wanted to go back," Artemis answered. "Soooo?" she grinned. "Are you guys game or would you like to be left alone?"

Malum looked at Ophelia. "I leave it up to you," he smiled at her. "I don't mind either way."

Why are you always a gentleman, damn you? Ophelia grumbled internally.

She was extremely tempted to kick Artemis in the shin when she spied the knowing, teasing look in the Potter girl's Imperius gold eyes. "Thank you, Artemis. I think we will join you. I admit that I have wanted to see the house again myself."

Ophelia and Malum quickly finished their tea – Malum left a few Galleons for the café to cover the bill and the tip – and followed Artemis and Heron out into the hamlet. It was probably a good thing that they had decided to make their escape, because the café had gotten insanely busy and noisy. The four of them had a rather brisk pace, much to Ophelia's surprise – she had not expected to be marched to the house, but Artemis had a rather fast normal pace that she, Heron and Malum tried to match.

"Artemis, there is no Snitch or Bludger! Slow down!" Malum huffed.

"We do not have much day light left! Let's not waste it!" Artemis responded rather dramatically. Ophelia rolled her eyes at this, chuckling.

Heron chuckled at her antics fondly, which made Ophelia coo quietly. Malum pouted playfully, but also chuckled at her. When the three of them had gotten to the house, they saw Druella standing in the front garden, looking ever so slightly exasperated, while Loreley was flitting around the garden, seemingly studying or noting things down.

When she spotted them, Druella looked slightly relieved and jogged over to them. "Thank Merlin you're here, Potter. Loreley has been like this since we got here and I have not the foggiest idea what has gotten into her."

"What do you mean?" Artemis questioned.

"We were just in the bookstore, looking for some extra books on Mind Magics – you never know, right? – and I was just talking to Clare's mum when Clare said something to Loreley about the energy in the earth around the house, but that it had nothing to do with the leyline." Druella then gestured behind her. "Et voila. This is what we have on our hands right now. And to think, I was glad that I didn't have to look at my brother's mopey face today!"

Artemis exchanged a look with Ophelia; both of them looking as nonplussed as each other. Nevertheless, they both headed onto the grounds and into the gardens, both curious as to what had suddenly gotten into their rather enigmatic friend. Loreley, meanwhile, was walking circles in the garden, utterly preoccupied with drawing something.

"Lorri!" Artemis called. "What is going on? Are you having the Valentine's jitters again?"

Ophelia frowned at that. Valentine's jitters? Did this kind of thing happen every year?

"Look at the flowers!" was all Artemis got as an answer. "They're not normal!"

Oh boy …

Artemis herself blinked rapidly in confusion and turned to look at a nearby flowerbed. On the surface, it seemed that the Potter heiress saw nothing untoward. "What in the name of Morgana's mud-stained boots …?"

"Look at them! Really look at them!" Loreley insisted, sounding rather erratic.

Something was not right here …

Artemis apparently did not want to start any arguments on Valentine's Day and decided to humour Loreley by complying. She grumbled incoherently to herself as she did so, though. Ophelia herself, though, almost jumped out of her skin when Loreley suddenly grabbed her arm and pulled her aside.

"This place is a nexus."

Ophelia thought she had misheard Loreley the first time. "What?"

"You heard me. This place – it's a nexus. An epicentre for time magic, divination, astronomy, Druidry … no wonder Mr. Ogden and his wife did not simply wish to hand this place to anyone!" Loreley pushed the sketch she had been making into Ophelia's hands and paced a little. "In the wrong hands, the power in this place could be thoroughly misused."

"So, what was your idea regarding it then?" Ophelia wanted to know.

"I thought it best that I live here – perhaps taking on Clare's mother on as a caretaker if and when I am away. After all, the nexus could help Clare gain some control of her abilities, though she does not know it yet," the Malfoy heiress stopped pacing for a moment and turned to look directly at Ophelia. "I know you have questions – about me, about Harry."

"You can definitely say that!" Ophelia concurred easily.

"You will have your answers soon, just not yet," the Seeress informed her simply. "Your questions should be the least of your concern at present, Ophelia. You need your wits about you, for your suspicions were right. The empousa was only the beginning."

The Rowle heiress's eyes widened.

"The beginning?!" she hissed. "You mean to tell me that Grindelwald is going to test Harry again?"

"Oh yes," Loreley confirmed grimly. "And not in the way that anyone will expect."

"What do you mean by that?" Ophelia demanded. "How will he test her?"

"It is not the how that should concern you. It is the where," was the annoyingly cryptic answer that Ophelia got.

Blood boiled in Ophelia's veins. Her jaw clenched for a moment; for a split second, she was tempted to use Legilimency to see if she could See for herself precisely what was going to happen. But something told her that Loreley was already three steps ahead of her on that and had that particular vision hidden thoroughly away behind mind shields.

"The crux of fate approaches, and we had all best be ready when it does," Loreley added gravely.

Ophelia remained in stunned, angered silence.

Damn Grindelwald. Damn his pathetic ambitions.

"Merlin's uncombed beard! There are fairies in these flowers!" Artemis's squeal knocked Ophelia back down to Earth. "Heron! Avery! Druella, come look!"

Fairies. Of course …

Ophelia scoffed at the knowing look in Loreley's eyes. Of course the whole erratic babbling had been part of some kind of act! She followed Loreley back to where Artemis was pointing in the pond; Druella, Malum and Heron hurried over. She could only smile a little when Malum looked at her with concern.

All Ophelia knew, was that she was now going to regard every package Harry got with extra suspicion.

#######################################################################

Felix Mulciber almost regretted joining Arcturus Rosier at The Three Broomsticks for a drink. Mulciber had been very much looking forward to avoiding all the couples that were very likely heading to Madam Paddifoot's and more importantly, to avoid all the gaggle of single ladies – both eligible and social climbing. After all, no one took their date to The Three Broomsticks unless it was for a Butterbeer and a hearty lunch. Rosier had insisted on getting lunch there, seeing as there would be some sweet Valentine's deals to capitalise on.

Felix could not resist the temptation. Studying up and coming model broomsticks had been hard work, after all. However, poor unwitting Mulciber soon found himself next to an agitated Rosier, despite the decent drink and the bite to eat that they had ordered.

Why?

Much to the surprise of Mulciber, Rosier was watching Caius in the company of Zach Rollins and a stunning woman who was clearly Rollins' mother – she looked like an older version of Melanie with a more feminine taste in clothing – who was presently fawning over Caius, much to his shock and embarrassment. Rollins himself had his head in his hands.

"Mama! We discussed this!" he hissed in an attempt to rein his dear mama in.

It didn't work.

"Allow your Mama to fuss a little," Mrs Rollins pouted a little. "He really is more of a darling than you told me! And so young!"

"Mama!"

Caius really had no idea what to think; there was a pleasant flush in his cheek that just boiled the jealous rage in Arc even more. Mulciber blinked in sheer disbelief, practically gaping. "Wait … So it's true? Dolohov is-"

Arc whirled to him. "Got a problem, Mulci?" he growled warningly.

"No! No, no, no," Mulciber hastily reassured, seeing Arcturus's magic flash in his eyes rather dangerously. "I am just … surprised. I thought the things that were said about him and Melanie's brother were just something people had been whispering about to stir up trouble."

After all, Felix knew just how intolerant Mr. Dolohov was. It was one of the reasons his own father got on so well with Ivan Dolohov.

Mulciber then returned the focus on Arc's very strange behaviour. "So, considering your reaction just now, you don't particularly care about Dolohov's … preferences either," he noted slyly. "Yet, you look like you want to hex Rollins and possibly his mother into the next century."

"Your point being?" Arc demanded icily.

"Why do you care?" Mulciber found himself asking rather bluntly. "It's not like it's any of your concern …"

His voice tailed off just as he had a bit of a lightbulb moment as he took in Arcturus Rosier's annoyance fully. It was not just simply anger – it was jealousy! Mulciber paled a little. He had suspected that Arcturus indeed took a fancy to both the opposite gender as well as his own. After all, stories of his exploits were famous amongst the student body. But every single one had been meaningless, and Mulciber knew it.

This was clearly different.

Dolohov and Rosier … that would certainly complicate a whole of family matters in both Houses!

"I care because I don't trust Zach Rollins," Rosier's answer knocked Felix back down to earth and off his train of thought. "We know nothing about him and he took an interest in Dolohov far too quickly."

Mulciber hummed noncommittally and attempted to keep a smile off his countenance by biting into his cheek for a moment. "Uh huh," he responded dryly. "And that's a problem because …?"

"It's suspicious!" Arcturus insisted.

"Is it? Because not too long ago we knew nothing about Harry Evans and a lot of people became interested in her very quickly," Mulciber pointed out as a small smirk started to grow.

"That was different!" Rosier tried to insist, turning ever so slightly red.

"Oh really?" Mulciber raised an eyebrow. "How exactly?" he couldn't help but tease.

Rosier flushed even more. "She … She's an orphan who needed support," he threw out.

"And Rollins clearly needs support when it comes to dealing with his mother," Mulciber responded easily, eyes shining with mischief.

"That is not the same thing!"

Before Mulciber could continue poking the Rosier dragon, both of them noticed that Mrs. Rollins had headed back to the bar, humming happily as she did so – it seemed that no one in the Rollins family was entirely normal either! Once Rosier noticed that the chaperone had left her charges unattended, he whirled back to watch Dolohov and Rollins.

The pair did not say anything to each other; they didn't need to. It appeared like all they needed to do was communicate with simple looks. Arc forgot about Mulciber and his teasing quite quickly as his jaw clenched firmly, watching as Rollins took one of Dolohov's hand rather subtly.

"Admit it to yourself," he heard Mulciber's voice ring in his ears. "You're just jealous…"

Arc did not get even a chance to retort.

Because he watched as Zach Rollins invaded Dolohov's personal space, and lay a tender kiss on his cheek. Neon red flashed across the eyes of Arcturus Rosier. Before he could stop himself, or Mulciber could disarm him, Arc had raised his wand and cast a non-verbal Bat Bogey Hex at Rollins.

The Three Broomsticks was soon in uproar as Mortis Bats like creatures were suddenly flapping and screeching madly around the pub, causing people to hide and scream or try and dispel the bats. Mulciber had rushed over to Rollins to help de-hex him; Arcturus himself stormed out, tears pricking in his eyes.

As for Dolohov, the moment he knew the spell had been broken, he had decided to chase down Arcturus and demand what his problem was. Dolohov too had seen the young man after whom he had been pining for the past six years leave the pub without trying to help in any way, leaving Dolohov to surmise it had been Rosier's Bat Bogey Hex.

Surprisingly, Zach had encouraged him to go after Arc, which made Dolohov less guilty for doing so.

Arcturus had never run so fast in his life. He knew he would never live this down, especially not with Druella when she heard, which was probably why Arcturus headed to the first place that came to his head. The Astronomy Tower. Unfortunately for him, his pursuer had a feeling where he was heading.

Arc had only just arrived at the Tower and started to pace up and down like an agitated lion, tears started to roll down his cheeks and his hands travelling through his hair.

What did I do …

What did I do?!

"Care to explain what the hell that was about, Rosier?"

Arcturus whirled around and ground to a halt, eyes widening with guilt at the sight of Dolohov, who was regarding him with anger and disbelief.

"I … I don't …" he tried to answer, feebly.

"Don't bother denying it! I know it was you who cast the Bat Bogey Hex on Zach!" Dolohov snapped as he drew closer. "So, care to explain what the hell possessed you to do it?"

Arc hardened a little, pulling up his defences. "What does it matter?" he hissed. "He's fine. Why don't you just go back to him?"

Dolohov only flinched a little at the ice in Arc's voice but did not step away from him. Instead, he got closer. "It matters, because I don't get why you would do it! And I won't; he sent me after you!"

There was more than a little pang of hurt inside Arc at hearing that. Dolohov had not come because he wanted to…

"Answer me, Rosier," Dolohov demanded, this time less harshly. "Why did you do it?!"

For a moment, Arcturus refused to answer. That only agitated Dolohov further.

"Damn it, tell me!"

"I did it for the same reason I put the Ill Health Curse on Harry!"

The words had left Arcturus's mouth before he could stop them. It made his own eyes widen at the realisation. Dolohov could not miss the implication, and indeed the Russian didn't judging by the absolute shock and disbelief that started to take over his countenance.

"What?" he whispered, looking and sounding more vulnerable Arcturus had ever heard or seen him. It made Arc want to embrace him, desperately. "What … No … No! It is not possible! You were jealous of Nott and Harry … You can't be jealous …"

Arcturus took this moment to approach Dolohov, his heart beating so fast in his chest that he heard the blood rush in his ears. When he was close enough, Arcturus decided to throw all caution to the wind and pressed a tender kiss to Dolohov's lips. The Russian froze for a moment, before slowly responding.

Neither knew how long they were like that, but when they stopped to catch their breath, they simply stared at each other as if they both just came out of some kind of daze.

#######################################################################

"Have you given them the Dreamless Sleep, Emma?"

"Yes, sir. However I upped the dosage just in case," Emma responded grimly, looking at the slumbering forms of Ambrose and Bradley with undisguised concern. At present, they looked at peace, but also a mess. Their hair was ruffled and deep rings circled their eyes. "Their spasms have been getting worse – I held hope that they have been getting better but it's been getting worse. Ever since the empousa debacle at Hogwarts, they have just been going downhill."

Philip had feared as much. The behaviour of both Hit Wizards had affected their roommates so much that Patricia had to be stuck to her bed in order to stop her from escaping. Hourglass spent his time exploring the ward with his Healers in hot pursuit.

"Did they mention Grindelwald again?" Philip wanted to know.

"Not by name, but the insinuation was enough," Emma answered. "They mostly spent their time singing."

"Singing?" Philip repeated. "What song did they sing?"

Emma was ghostly pale when she turned to her superior. "Are you certain you want to know, sir?"

"I would not ask if I did not!" Philip huffed. "Tell me before I order you to tell me."

Emma gulped inaudibly. For the first time since she came to the hospital, Emma March considered disobeying her superior. However, her mouth had other ideas.

# The blanket of Night takes the Child,
The Child of Death deep into the Realm
of Sleep and Dreams where none can reach,
At the behest of the Dark One,

'Let me see, let me see,
what she can do,
Let me meet her in the bowls of Darkness' #

There was no fixed rhyme – nor reason – to this song but Philip knew that was not the point. Not when the song had come out of the mouths of Bradley and Ambrose. They knew something was about to happen to the Lady Hera.

But … Child of Death?

What did they mean by that?

#######################################################################

Harry: Umbreon! Orion's hyperventilating!

*Tom proceeds to fan the very red Orion*

Tom: Breathe, Orion, breathe …

Orion: AAAAAAGGGGGHHH!

Grindelwald *munching on a cookie*: I don't see the problem. Furthermore, I am so glad that Rosier and Dolohov stopped being such Kartoffeln.

No of course you don't, you absolute psychopath, and don't change the subject! I sometimes wonder why I decided to write you like this!

*Cue evil laughter from the Dark Lord*

Oh dear … And it is only getting worse from here … Stay tuned for the next chapter everyone! Thank you again for your continued support of this particular sand castle I made in JK's universe. I am not going to lie, when FFN was off line I had a small moment of panic. I am so glad that it is now back online though!

Kingmaker'sUmbreon