Lord of Shadows Arc, Book One: Prince of Darkness
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Harry Potter › Slash - Male/Male › Harry/Draco
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Adult ++
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16,816
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112
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Category:
Harry Potter › Slash - Male/Male › Harry/Draco
Rating:
Adult ++
Chapters:
17
Views:
16,816
Reviews:
112
Recommended:
0
Currently Reading:
0
Disclaimer:
I do not own Harry Potter, nor any of the characters from the books or movies. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.
(All is Quiet On) New Year's Day/ Simple Gifts
Dear God, just under two months. . .I'm sooo sorry this has taken so long. You know how I like to stay 2 chapter ahead? Well, 16 had a load of troubles--data disappearing, computer crashes. . .but, at long last, the driest chapter I've written. Alas. But 16 totally rocks, and 15 is rather cool too. I may post 15 soon, or maybe not. No promises. . .
Do be on the lookour for the LoS Apocrypha-- backstories and other shorts that aren't in the main timeline, but serve as bits of illumination into it.
Also, I haven't responded to the latest batch of reviews, so lemmee do that now:
Frogslayr:
Uh, wow! Thanks so much for your kind words! Part of hte reason the chapters take so long is I really want the chapters to be as good as possible, and that means putting a lot of thought into each chapter. I also have a lot of affection for the characters, so I think I'm trying to protray them as intelligent, people who actually learn from their pasts. And, I'm trying to make the world "work"-- and as such, things like school politics happen, and secondary characters become very important, even if still "secondary."
Drew
Thank you. Wait and see. . .^_^
Amanda
The chapter into Harry's mind was one of the most personally emotionally challenging that I've written. It's hard to describe how literally painful it was, because those things had to first exist in my mind before I could pass them on to you. . . Angeology is a long standing hobby of mine, and I've always believed that people should incorporate "What they know" into their writing. I'm glad you like what I've had so far. . .
Keri
^_^ Thank you! I really am trying to keep this from being Harry Potter and Some Other Random People. . .
Keikokin
Well, I don't consider it so much "Wicca" as plain ol' Pagan. . . with a healthy dose of Judeo-Christianity. . . But I loved writing that section. Lucius is a very interesting character to write, especially in that context. And, as for the Malfoys. . .I've already set something up for them, several chapters ago. . .^_^
Bitch of Darkness
What a name. thanks for your words, and your appreciation of my efforts to use a mix of all beliefs. . .
Theoddguy
Oh, don't worry. I'm gonna finish this one. . . I may be typing it with Azrael looking over my shoulder tapping his watch, but he'll wait till I'm finished. He promised. ^_^
thrnbrooke
yes, here it is! More's on the way!
Miaka
You liked the song?! YAY! Here's to reading a bunch of Kipling before trying! Yeah, Gryff and Slyth were "close" . . .^_^
AJ
Ah, yesss. . . come, join us! Join the Dark Side. . .I'm glad you've enjoyed it thus far, and hope you continue to do so. . .
Manda
Um, well, not so soon but. . . at least it's finally here. Better late than never, no?
***
Anyway, There you go. The wills are based off my great-great-great grand-pa's, cuz that the only one I had on hand. Yes, the action will pick up soon, but not quite yet. Enjoy, review. . .oh, join the yahoo group (mentione in previous chappies) and check out my LJ at livejournal.com/users/zophiel666
^_^
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I really missed Yule at Malfoy Manor. When I was little, we used to string garlands of holly and ivy all over the house, and my father would encourage fairies to settle into the twists, making it look as though we'd been out fishing for stars with evergreen nets. Every Eve, Father would take me out to the Man-grove, to speak to the Gods of whatever I wished to speak about, and the next morning we'd visit the mysterious world of the Lady Cave, where together we'd listen for the voice of the Great Mother as the Solstice sunrise illuminated carved panels of my favorite stories. And then, we'd tromp back into the Manor, shaking the snow from our boots, and we'd sit for breakfast before I was allowed at the tree. It too had fairies nesting within, and I remember sitting for hours in front of it, mesmerised by the warm, softly twinkling lights, high on the fumes of freshly baked cinnamon biscuits. Not that my mother had cooked them, oh no, but the House Elves did a marvellous job every time.
Now of course, I'm the one leading the way out to the grove and the cave, and it is Harry who bakes the cinnamon biscuits. We have our own grove, around the gift I gave Harry our first Christmas together. It's a little odd to some, celebrating two traditions that appear so seemingly different. But we understand that it's only a difference of names, not of meaning. Or as the Golden Dawn used to say "He who condemneth Osiris and Ra condemneth too Christ and YHVH. He who despiseth Christ and Mary despiseth Osiris and Isis. But he who praises and loves the one praises and loves the other."
--The Prodigal Dragon
Narcissa watched the light as it slid over the figures of the two kings. She had spoken enough the night before, her half-coherent thoughts echoing off the cave walls to surround her in answering confusion. Eventually, the sounds had died, but she had found no answer in the silence. Only the same brooding presence she’d always felt in the depths.
So now she sat, watching the dawn, hoping some sign or omen might come to her. The two kings seemed frozen mid-step to an unheard tango, each held gently in the arms of the other. Once, her relationship with Lucius had been like that—gentle, joyful, even playful. But that had been years before, before whatever happened had happened. Before each got so busy with their own pursuits, before everything grew so . . . fuzzy.
Her gaze absently lighted on a spider spinning a web between the joined hands of the kings. She noted its bright red-orange colouring, identifying it as a bitme, a type of very poisonous spider known for its blindness, and resulting sensitivity to vibration. The design of the web was intricate and predictable, following the same mathematics that governed the design of nautilus shells and spiral galaxies. She watched as the spider leapt from the tip of a stone finger. If it fell straight down, that would ruin the pattern—but bitmes never got the pattern wrong. At the last moment, a dawn zephyr blew through the grove, pushing the spider mid-leap over just a few inches, but enough that the pattern was now complete—and perfect.
Narcissa frowned. She had a feeling she’d just been given the sign she’d been looking for, but she was damned if she knew what it meant. Sighing, she stood up from the stone bench, and stood before the statues. She gazed at them for a moment more before giving a small bow, then walked back, confusion settling around her shoulders once more as she left the grove.
* * *
Several days later, Harry and Draco sat at a foot of a small spruce tree set up as a surprise by Hagrid in their sitting room. The Coven-members who were still at school had joined them, and all were amazed at large size of the pile of presents under the tree. Snape had quickly taken charge, dreading the spectacle of a young Gryffindor jumping into the pile and tearing it to shreds in his excitement.
After over an hour, the presents had all been unwrapped, the Slytherins somewhat surprised at how many gifts they had got. One of the highlights had been Harry's annual gift from the Dursleys: this year, a square of toilet paper--unused, thankfully. Harry had grinned when he saw Draco frowning in annoyance,.
"But Draco, " he said teasingly, "it’s the quilted kind! This is the best present they've ever sent me!"
The twins had sent everybody early releases of upcoming new products-- sweets for the students, and "Things Professors Might Want to Know About" for the Professors. Draco and Hermione had been surprised to see they'd both spent a bundle to get each other the very large, leather-bound book The Inklings: Squibs and Half-Bloods who Changed the Worlds, by Sam Tolkien and Eustace Lewis. Everyone received something from Mrs. Weasley, as she was convinced that none of them dressed warmly enough. Draco was most impressed with his forest green jumper, with a little silver dragon embroidered on the chest. Neville had sent everybody seedlings from his hothouse-- Snape was particularly impressed with the young Cacao Mortis he'd received, and wondered aloud why such care and diligence hadn't translated to his own class. Snape himself had long pondered his gifts, as he wasn't used to giving them, but had finally settled on The Assassin's Med-kit: Poisons and Venoms for Getting the Job Done for the students and Moon Like Blood: The Historical Links Between Misogynism and Anti-Lycanism for Lupin (on Pansy's recommendation).
The last package to be opened was Draco's gift to Harry, a large, heavy, oddly shaped thing with a note taped to the outside, which Harry decided to read first.
Harry,
I was thinking, when we have a place of our own. . .this would be nice to have. I think, on many levels, it is us.
Happy Christmas, Love
-your Angel
Intrigued, Harry tore off the paper, eyes widening. Before him stood two statues, cleverly carved to look as one-- two male angels, dancing hand in hand, one carved from marble, the other from what seemed to be onyx or obsidian. Both were smiling gently, and Harry could have sworn that the light one winked saucily at him.
"Oh, Draco. . .it's . . . it's beautiful. . ." Harry was otherwise at a loss for words. Luckily, Dumbledore chose that moment to walk through the door.
"Happy Christmas, everyone! Ah, Severus and Remus, I am glad to see the two of you trying to get along, even if only for one day . . ." The mentioned Professors snorted in unison, then glared at each other in annoyance. Dumbledore continued unabated. "I simply dropped by to deliver, first, my holiday wishes for all of you, and second, these." The Headmaster withdrew several scrolls from his robes, Hermione, Ron and Snape got one each, and Harry and Lupin two.
Curious, Harry opened the first.
TO: Harry James Potter
FROM: The Law Offices of Whyte, Sharke, and Phox
Sylvester Sharke, Attorney and Executor
Re: The Potter Estate
Mr. Potter,
While ordinarily this would have been held off until your eighteenth year, recent changes in Wizarding Age Law, effective New Year's Day, require that these matters be settled as swiftly as possible. Namely, the reading of your late parents' last will and testaments, and the resulting dispersal and handover of their estate and property.
To this end, I have been in contact with your Headmaster to determine when might be most convenient for this to happen. He has suggested the earliest possible date, that of the first of January, preferably sometime in the morning. Please let me know if this is a good time, and if not, what time (after) might be better.
Finally, Mr. Potter, let me say that I was deeply saddened by your loss. I will admit, I didn't know your parents very well, as we had mostly a business relationship. But they were some of the most pleasant clients I've ever had, and I was always honuored to help them with their legal needs. I hope I can be of similar service to you.
Regards
Sylvester N. Sharke, III
Harry was stunned. It had never even occurred to him that he stood to inherit anything. Numbly, he opened the second letter.
TO: Harry James Potter
FROM: The Law Offices of Whyte, Sharke, and Phox
Ravenus Phox, Attorney, Executor
Re: The Black Estate
CC: Hermione Granger; Rubeus Hagrid; Remus Lupin (Werewolf); Severus Snape; Arthur, Charles, Fredrick, George, Margaret (Molly), Ronald, Virginia and William Weasley.
Dear Sirs and Madams;
After much ado and pointless hairsplitting, the duty of the execution of the last will and testament of Sirius Black has finally reverted back to its original executor, myself, it having been locked in the squalid confines of Ministry files and red-tape these many years. Thus finally released, it is my duty to dispense Mr. Black's estate and property as he wished, and so I wish to meet with all of you on New Year's Day, in the afternoon, at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
I find that I must regretfully note that one listed recipient, Mr. Remus Lupin, is not eligible to inherit anything, due to his well-known standing as a lycanthrope, and it is clearly stated under current Wizarding Estate Law that lycans, vampires, changelings, and other "half-human menaces to society" are forbidden from inheriting land or other property. As much as I may personally disagree with this law, I must obey it. However, I still believe Mr. Lupin should attend, as I am, after all, a lawyer of high training.
And finally, there is one last note of Mr. Black's that should be addressed as well.
"Also, according to the discretion of Harry James Potter, Draco Severus Malfoy may also be invited. This is solely Harry's choice, and there is to be no binding legality as to Mr. Malfoy's presence or absence."
I shall see you all on New Year's Day. Until then, Happy Channukah, Solstice, Yule, Christmas, Feast of Sol Invictus, Boxing Day, and St. Stephen's Day.
Regards,
Ravenus Phox, II
Harry was struck speechless yet again. Draco took the papers out of Harry's hand and perused them himself, as Hermione began to mutter about "Total injustice! This is unbelieveable!" Neither were amused as Draco began to chuckle.
"What's so funny, Malfoy?" Ron growled.
Draco rolled his eyes. "You Gryffindors, always take the law at face value. . ."
Ron looked mightily affronted as Hermione spluttered.
"What do you mean by that, Draco?"
The latter smirked.
"Good lawyers get paid so much because practicing law is as much an art as a science. Indeed, it's often more about getting around the law then truly complying with it. The firm that sent these letters is the most vicious and cutthroat firm there is-- all former Slytherins. Phox and Sharke are two of the only three men in the world my father actually fears, because they have refined the art to a deadly point. Trust me, Hermione, if Phox went to all this trouble to note the legal difficulty, and then suggest that Professor Lupin come anyway, it's because he's got a loophole or three up his sleeve."
Ron looked somewhat mollified.
"I still think the law is a travesty." Hermione stated, clearly not mollified at all.
Draco nodded. "I agree, I really do. But until we're in a position to change it--and others along similar lines-- we'll just have to find ways to get around them without breaking them."
The rest of the day was relatively uneventful. Harry wrote notes to both lawyers, informing them that New Year's was an acceptable date, and then began work on his thank you notes. He was taking a break from his writing, and looking through the book Professor Snape had given him, when Pig flew in through the window.
Harry relived the owl of its burden, then called Draco over.
"It's from Ron, thanking us for our gift."
"Dear Harry and Draco,
Believe it or not, I actually did know who T.E. Lawrence was was before receiving your gift. This made it even more impressive, since I knew what I was looking at. Not only a hardcover edition of Seven Pillars of Wisdom, but a first edition, signed by the author. For once, I don't mind getting something used as a gift! But it must have cost you guys a fortune, which is why I'm not going to tease you about acting like a married couple and getting people joint gifts. Although I'm trying not to think about that part of things.
Anyway, Happy Christmas, Harry, and Happy Solstice and Yule to you, Draco.
Sincerely,
Ron
* * *
Harry stared at the parchment before him, glad for Draco's steadying presence. There it was, in his father's handwriting, written only a few weeks before he had been killed.
In the name of Queen Elizabeth II
I, James Godfrey Potter, being of sound and disposing mind, make and declare this to be my last Will and Testament hereby revoking any Will previously made by me.
FIRST: At my death I direct that my body be decently buried or cremated, and my just debts and expenses be paid as soon thereafter as possible, by my executor hereinafter named.
SECOND: After all debt is paid, I give, devise and bequeath all the rest residue and remainder of my Estate, both real and personal which I now possess or to which I am entitled or to which I may hereafter become entitled to my Wife, Lily Potter.
THIRD: Should my Wife happen to die before this Will is enacted, then all that was entitled for her I give to my only Son, Harry James Potter.
FOURTH: Should the circumstances of clause Three occur before Harry is of legal age, I will that the aforementioned property and estate be held in trust by Gringotts Bank until such a time as he is eligible to inherit.
FIFTH: I hereby appoint Sylvester Sharke, of the firm Whyte, Sharke, and Phox, to be sole executor of this my last Will and Testament.
League Alley, London
September 5th, 1990
Signed - James Godfrey Potter
We, the undersigned, at the request of James Godfrey Potter, in his presence and in the presence of each other, sign this Will as witnesses thereto he having signed at the end thereof in our presence, at the same time declaring it to be his last Will and Testament.
Sirius Black, 666 League Alley
Remus Lupin, 666 League Alley
Peter Pettigrew, 666 League Alley
Sharke cleared his throat.
"Due to the circumstances surrounding your parents' death, the first clause is impossible to fulfill. As for the rest, Mr. Gildinar has a complete accounting of the Estate and assets for you, as well as the keys to the Estate and vaults."
Harry looked over to the goblin, who slid over a folder thick with parchments, and then a wooden box which he opened to reveal keys of different shapes and sizes.
"Mr. Potter," the goblin said, "I'm sure you will find everything in order, though if you have any questions, I'll be glad to help. Oh, the ah, keys have labels to tell you where they go."
"Thank you," Harry replied, looking over the keys, repressing a chuckle when he silently read "Portkey to Godric's Hollow. Password: Gorgeous Gryffindor!"
"Good God, Snape was right, my father was an egotist." As Harry examined the keys, Draco opened up the folder and glanced through the papers.
"I assume the one percent discrepancy is from standard administrative costs?" he asked.
Gildinar was silent, looking instead to Harry. "What? Oh, yeah, Draco's my husband, so he's got power of attorney. You can answer any of his questions. . ."
"Indeed?" The goblin raised a craggy eyebrow. "That is more of a shift than even I had expected, Mr. Malfoy. To answer, yes, the one percent is the standard deduction for administrative costs. You will see it detailed on schedule D-12."
Harry put the keys down as Draco checked the parchments, looking over his husband's shoulder.
"You're going to have to teach me what all those figures mean," he said, frowning, "because right now, it looks like I'm a millionaire."
Draco looked at him. "That's because you are."
Harry blinked. "Oh."
The reading of his mother's will went much like his father's. The sum of money was smaller, and there was no additional real estate involved, but there were vault keys to be added to the box, and more parchments to be explained later.
Then everyone broke for lunch, Harry glad to be away from the too sharp eyes of the lawyers and accountants. They ate in the privacy of their own rooms, Draco patiently explaining the different types of assets and accounts that Harry had inherited, the varying rates of interest, and how best to utilise each one. Then they went through the keys in the box, separating out the estate keys, money vault keys, and safety deposit vault keys.
After an hour, Harry sighed. "Well, I suppose we'd best get back to hear Sirius' Will. . ."
Draco put an arm around his shoulders. "You going to be alright?"
Harry nodded. "Yeah. I suppose I'm just glad to get this over with. . .You know, one fell blow and all that. . ."
Draco held his hand on the way back to the meeting room. This time, the entire Weasley family was present, as well as the three Professors and Hermione. Draco and Harry took seats between the worn-looking Lupin and the baffled-looking Snape.
"Right then," this time, it was Ravenus Phox who spoke. Harry wasn't sure, but he thought he could see a resemblance between him and Mr. Sharke. The lawyer continued, "since these documents are copy-proof, I'll be reading it aloud, and then offering it for individual inspection afterwards. Any objections?"
There were none, so he began.
In the name of Queen Elizabeth II
I, Sirius Black, being of sound and disposing mind, make and declare this to be my last Will and Testament hereby revoking any Will previously made by me.
FIRST: At my death I direct that my body be decently buried or cremated, and my just debts and expenses be paid as soon thereafter as possible, by my executor hereinafter named.
SECOND: After all debt is paid, I give, devise and bequeath all the rest residue and remainder of my Estate, both real and personal which I now possess or to which I am entitled or to which I may hereafter become entitled, to my godson, Harry James Potter, with the exceptions that follow.
THIRD: Should I die before Harry is of legal age, I will that the aforementioned property and estate be held in trust by Gringotts Bank until such a time as he is eligible to inherit.
FOURTH: To Rubeus Hagrid, I leave all materials in my possession relating to Hippogriffs and Grims, with the hope that he will use them as appropriate.
FIFTH: To Hermione Granger, I give access to, and borrowing rights for, all Black family libraries, including those outside of Britain.
SIXTH: To Ronald Weasley, I leave the original manuscript (plus translation) for Sun Tzu's The Art of War, as I believe he may find it useful.
SEVENTH: To Ginny Weasley, the black leather-bound blank book for her use, with the assurance that there are absolutely no spells, charms, enchantments, or other magical oddities about it. It is simply an assemblage of paper wrapped in leather.
EIGTH: To Arthur Weasley, I leave my Gameboy, with games, and my stash of Muggle batteries, as I think he would find them. . . interesting.
NINTH: To Molly Weasley, in apology for clause seven, I give the contents of Black vault number four, containing many bolts of rare fabrics and materials, including invisibility Cloth, Dragon Hide, and Spider Silk.
TENTH: To Bill Weasley, I leave the Sekhmet Medallion, which he will know how to use.
ELEVENTH: To Charlie Weasley, I leave the Ryuu flute, since he may find it helpful in his work.
TWELFTH: To Severus Snape, I leave a poster for his classroom, reading "I'll start acting nice when you start acting intelligent" as well as a T-shirt reading "Despising you makes me feel all warm inside" to be considered a post-mortem peace offering. Oh, and the First Edition signed Most Potente Potions in the main estate library.
THIRTHEENTH: To Remus Lupin, I leave the property of 12 Grimmauld Place, and the farm in County Claire, Ireland.
FOURTEENTH: To George and Fred Weasley, I leave ten percent of my current monetary assets, for the express purpose that they, with their business sense, use the funds to found a non-profit organization with the purpose of finding a cure for lycanthropy, and helping those currently infected. Moreover, I would like for the board members to include, in addition to the twins, Severus Snape, Remus Lupin, Harry Potter and, if available, Draco Malfoy.
FIFTEENTH: If Draco Malfoy has, since the writing of this will, married my god-son Harry Potter, then he is to be given care of Black Vault Number Seven. However, if Draco has either not married Harry, or if Harry would rather, then Draco will get nothing.
SIXTEENTH: To that worthless rat-bastard Peter Pettigrew goes nothing save my wishes that he die painfully and give Satan a good lay when he gets to Hell.
SEVENTEENTH: I hereby appoint Ravenus Phox, of the firm Whyte, Sharke, and Phox, to be sole executor of this my last Will and Testament.
League Alley, London
January 15, 2002
Signed - Sirius Black
We, the undersigned, at the request of Sirius Black in his presence and in the presence of each other sign this Will as witness thereto he having signed at the end thereof in our presence at the same time declaring it to be his last Will and Testament.
Kingsley Shacklebolt, 666 League Alley
Albus Dumbledore, 666 League Alley
Alastor Moody, 666 League Alley
Harry sighed as the reading finally finished. As Phox had read, Sharke had passed out various parcels to those assembled. Again, Harry was given a box of keys and a folder of parchments. Draco started chuckling as he lifted the top parchment off the pile.
"Just as I thought, Harry, Mr. Phox has a way for Professor Lupin to get around the lycan anti-inheritance clause."
"Hm? How?"
Draco smirked. "If an inheritor is unable to accept his inheritance, whatever it is automatically reverts to the main inheritor. In this case, you. Then, once you sign these papers to make all this property yours, you can give it to whomever you want, with these other papers here."
"Oh, well alright then. . ." Harry quickly got to work on the forms, pausing only once.
"Asking price? Can't I just give it to him as a gift?"
Mr Phox shook his head.
"It wouldn't be recognised, legally. This loophole comes from the old tradition of dowries, where the asking price could be something like marriage to my ugly daughter, a keg of Guinness, something like that. . ."
"So, something symbolic then?"
"Exactly."
Harry turned to his Professor.
"Professor, what have you got in your pockets?"
Remus emptied his pockets onto the table.
"Three Sickles, four Knuts, a Chocolate Frog and some lint."
"Right then. . . two Knuts and a Chocolate Frog . . . " Harry muttered as he finalised the forms. He handed them back after signing at the bottom. "Is that all then?"
The lawyer nodded. "Unless anyone else has any questions? No? Well then, that's it. I would suggest, however, that sometime in the next month you go and make sure all the real estate and vaults are in order and that nothing is missing. If there are any problems, just contact our firm and Gringotts, and we'll be happy to help you."
With that, the reading was finished and the lawyers and accountant left for the day. Harry sighed, rubbing his eyes wearily with one hand while surveying the rest of those still assembled around the table.
"Was there something else to discuss?" Harry asked, puzzled.
Snape nodded. "Yes, as a matter of fact. I thought that now that this was over with, we could discuss some things that happened last night. But I thought it best to wait for the headmaster, so I don't have to explain it twice."
As usual, Dumbledore chose that moment to make his entrance.
"So, Harry, everyone, how was the reading?"
There were varied grunts of puzzlement and tiredness.
"It was . . . interesting. . ." Draco finally said. "Professor Snape got a tee-shirt, a poster, and a book out of it."
"Did he indeed?"
"You signed as witness, you should know," muttered Snape darkly.
"Oh, I had forgotten that clause," Dumbledore replied. "Leaves room in the head for more important things, like coordinating one's wardrobe to match one's socks." His eyes twinkled merrily for a moment more before turning serious. "Now, you had something you wanted to discuss, Severus?"
The Potions Professor pulled himself up in his chair. "Yes, headmaster, there was, and since everyone here is either a member of the Order or of the Coven, I thought I might as well bring it up here and now.
"Last night was the annual Hogmanay meeting for the Death Eaters and You-Know-Who, and as always, was held at the Lestrange Estate. Nothing much happened, except for this: Bellatrix said she'd been doing some research into 'new ideas', and while most of them were things either Lucius or I had already thought of, and discarded, there was one idea that I'm not quite sure what she meant, but I think Granger might know about it. . ."
Hermione made sure to be doubly attentive, now that her reputation might be on the line. Snape continued.
"The term she used was . . . 'Gene splicing", I think it was. She seemed quite taken with the idea of 'genetics', of which that was a part. But the thing is, that's a Muggle science, so none of the rest of us knew what she was talking about."
Hermione nodded. Her parents had often spoken of how gene therapy might be used in dentistry for growing new teeth, preventing cavities, or other speculative wonders.
"Ah, yes, I know a bit about the basics, but I'm far from an expert. . ."
Snape gestured for her to continue, so she straightened in her chair, and went into lecture mode.
"Right, well, genetics is the study of DNA-- Deoxyribonucleic acid-- which is the sort of 'blueprint' if you will, for all life. Every cell in your body carries the entire sequence of codes that determines if you're blonde or brunette, what colour your eyes have, etc. . . even down to the patterns of your fingerprints. Once one understands this sequence--once one can read it, one can then manipulate it to do everything from making disease resistant crops, replacement organs, to clones or even, conceivably, new species altogether."
Snape nodded his understanding.
"What's a clone?" Ron asked, understanding most of what she'd said.
Hermione smirked. "Fred is. Or George. Identical twins are naturally occurring clones-- two distinct individuals with the exact same genetic code. But with genetics, the right knowledge and skill could let you take a piece of hair from Ginny's head and create another Ginny in a vat somewhere. They've already done it with a sheep and a kitten."
"It'll be dinosaurs next. . ." Charlie muttered.
Hermione grinned.
"I saw that film too, Charlie, but I think it alone sufficiently convinced people that they wouldn't like to meet a velociraptor in person. Back to the subject, did Lestrange say anything else?"
"No, she only said it was something to look into . . . but from her expression, I'd wager she already had a few ideas, but didn't want to share them in front of the rest of us. Aside from that, the only thing I have to report is that Voldemort’s been using the Cruciatus a lot less recently, and no one's sure why."
Harry nervously cleared his throat and blushed as Draco began to giggle next to.
Snape frowned. "Much as I am personally relieved at this new change in the Dark Lord’s habits, I do not see where such news merits such a response."
Draco struggled to bring himself under control. "I'm sorry, Professor, it's just, heehee, we know why he's holding back. . ."
"Oh, do tell. . ."
Harry blushed even harder, refusing to meet anyone's eye as Draco continued.
"Since Harry always feels it when Voldemort casts the Cruciatus, we decided to find out if it worked the other way. And it does."
Snape raised an eyebrow. "And what are you sending him? I doubt the two of you have taken to cursing each other just for giggles. . ."
Harry chose this moment to bury his flaming face in Draco's sleeve.
"Oh no!" the latter replied, smugly. "Nothing of the sort. We distract him with very powerful overwhelming emotion, so he's learned not to think about curses too loudly."
"Distract him?"
Draco started blushing now too.
"If you'll excuse the crudity, it gives a whole new meaning to the term 'mind-fuck'."
It took a moment for that to sink in.
"Eurgh!" Ron exclaimed vehemently. "I did not need to know that!"
Hermione and Ginny took one look at each other and bent over snickering.
"Way to go!" the twins exclaimed in unison.
Molly Weasley looked disapproving of the vocabulary, but said nothing.
Dumbledore's eyes started twinkling again.
"Let me make sure I understand your meaning, Draco." Snape drawled. "You mean to say that every time he's wanted to curse us, you and your boyfriend have decided to distract him by engaging in 'relations'?"
"Well, we missed a few times," Harry muttered from his hiding-place.
The Professor nodded.
"Which would explain why the two of you are so tired in the mornings after meetings when no one is cursed."
Harry nodded into Draco's shoulder as Ron did the math.
"Ohh," the latter moaned. "I really didn't need to know that. . ."
Snape chuckled darkly. He had missed tormenting the Gryffindor.
"Well, it looks like raging teenage libidos can be useful after all."
* * *
Dear Gods, what a tedious arrangement that was. Three Wills in one day, and then Snape's news about Bellatrix and the subsequent embarrassment of Draco's confession... good Lord, it's no wonder I couldn't speak to anyone for the rest of the day. And then, I began to worry how Professor Snape would ever be able to keep a straight face in front of Voldemort again, and all I wanted to do was bury my head in a pillow and give the rest of the world my middle finger.
So, of course Draco wanted to have some music practice right then. He'd been exchanging owls with Susan Bones and Lisa Turpin, and they already had some ideas about what to do. Draco was bouncing off the walls sometimes in his excitement, and this day was no exception-- Susan had sent Draco the "exception to the All-British Rule" we'd imposed on ourselves. Her excuse was that if we won that trip to America, it'd be nice to "know something of theirs." So she sent us a song from some musical called Grease. The song was to become our now famous rendition of "Summer Love." Because of the crappy mood I was in, I hated it at once. But damn it all, it does have a catchy tune, doesn't it?
I couldn't get it out of my head for weeks.
--Lion at Midnight
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tbc. . . all in good time. . .
Do be on the lookour for the LoS Apocrypha-- backstories and other shorts that aren't in the main timeline, but serve as bits of illumination into it.
Also, I haven't responded to the latest batch of reviews, so lemmee do that now:
Frogslayr:
Uh, wow! Thanks so much for your kind words! Part of hte reason the chapters take so long is I really want the chapters to be as good as possible, and that means putting a lot of thought into each chapter. I also have a lot of affection for the characters, so I think I'm trying to protray them as intelligent, people who actually learn from their pasts. And, I'm trying to make the world "work"-- and as such, things like school politics happen, and secondary characters become very important, even if still "secondary."
Drew
Thank you. Wait and see. . .^_^
Amanda
The chapter into Harry's mind was one of the most personally emotionally challenging that I've written. It's hard to describe how literally painful it was, because those things had to first exist in my mind before I could pass them on to you. . . Angeology is a long standing hobby of mine, and I've always believed that people should incorporate "What they know" into their writing. I'm glad you like what I've had so far. . .
Keri
^_^ Thank you! I really am trying to keep this from being Harry Potter and Some Other Random People. . .
Keikokin
Well, I don't consider it so much "Wicca" as plain ol' Pagan. . . with a healthy dose of Judeo-Christianity. . . But I loved writing that section. Lucius is a very interesting character to write, especially in that context. And, as for the Malfoys. . .I've already set something up for them, several chapters ago. . .^_^
Bitch of Darkness
What a name. thanks for your words, and your appreciation of my efforts to use a mix of all beliefs. . .
Theoddguy
Oh, don't worry. I'm gonna finish this one. . . I may be typing it with Azrael looking over my shoulder tapping his watch, but he'll wait till I'm finished. He promised. ^_^
thrnbrooke
yes, here it is! More's on the way!
Miaka
You liked the song?! YAY! Here's to reading a bunch of Kipling before trying! Yeah, Gryff and Slyth were "close" . . .^_^
AJ
Ah, yesss. . . come, join us! Join the Dark Side. . .I'm glad you've enjoyed it thus far, and hope you continue to do so. . .
Manda
Um, well, not so soon but. . . at least it's finally here. Better late than never, no?
***
Anyway, There you go. The wills are based off my great-great-great grand-pa's, cuz that the only one I had on hand. Yes, the action will pick up soon, but not quite yet. Enjoy, review. . .oh, join the yahoo group (mentione in previous chappies) and check out my LJ at livejournal.com/users/zophiel666
^_^
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I really missed Yule at Malfoy Manor. When I was little, we used to string garlands of holly and ivy all over the house, and my father would encourage fairies to settle into the twists, making it look as though we'd been out fishing for stars with evergreen nets. Every Eve, Father would take me out to the Man-grove, to speak to the Gods of whatever I wished to speak about, and the next morning we'd visit the mysterious world of the Lady Cave, where together we'd listen for the voice of the Great Mother as the Solstice sunrise illuminated carved panels of my favorite stories. And then, we'd tromp back into the Manor, shaking the snow from our boots, and we'd sit for breakfast before I was allowed at the tree. It too had fairies nesting within, and I remember sitting for hours in front of it, mesmerised by the warm, softly twinkling lights, high on the fumes of freshly baked cinnamon biscuits. Not that my mother had cooked them, oh no, but the House Elves did a marvellous job every time.
Now of course, I'm the one leading the way out to the grove and the cave, and it is Harry who bakes the cinnamon biscuits. We have our own grove, around the gift I gave Harry our first Christmas together. It's a little odd to some, celebrating two traditions that appear so seemingly different. But we understand that it's only a difference of names, not of meaning. Or as the Golden Dawn used to say "He who condemneth Osiris and Ra condemneth too Christ and YHVH. He who despiseth Christ and Mary despiseth Osiris and Isis. But he who praises and loves the one praises and loves the other."
--The Prodigal Dragon
Narcissa watched the light as it slid over the figures of the two kings. She had spoken enough the night before, her half-coherent thoughts echoing off the cave walls to surround her in answering confusion. Eventually, the sounds had died, but she had found no answer in the silence. Only the same brooding presence she’d always felt in the depths.
So now she sat, watching the dawn, hoping some sign or omen might come to her. The two kings seemed frozen mid-step to an unheard tango, each held gently in the arms of the other. Once, her relationship with Lucius had been like that—gentle, joyful, even playful. But that had been years before, before whatever happened had happened. Before each got so busy with their own pursuits, before everything grew so . . . fuzzy.
Her gaze absently lighted on a spider spinning a web between the joined hands of the kings. She noted its bright red-orange colouring, identifying it as a bitme, a type of very poisonous spider known for its blindness, and resulting sensitivity to vibration. The design of the web was intricate and predictable, following the same mathematics that governed the design of nautilus shells and spiral galaxies. She watched as the spider leapt from the tip of a stone finger. If it fell straight down, that would ruin the pattern—but bitmes never got the pattern wrong. At the last moment, a dawn zephyr blew through the grove, pushing the spider mid-leap over just a few inches, but enough that the pattern was now complete—and perfect.
Narcissa frowned. She had a feeling she’d just been given the sign she’d been looking for, but she was damned if she knew what it meant. Sighing, she stood up from the stone bench, and stood before the statues. She gazed at them for a moment more before giving a small bow, then walked back, confusion settling around her shoulders once more as she left the grove.
* * *
Several days later, Harry and Draco sat at a foot of a small spruce tree set up as a surprise by Hagrid in their sitting room. The Coven-members who were still at school had joined them, and all were amazed at large size of the pile of presents under the tree. Snape had quickly taken charge, dreading the spectacle of a young Gryffindor jumping into the pile and tearing it to shreds in his excitement.
After over an hour, the presents had all been unwrapped, the Slytherins somewhat surprised at how many gifts they had got. One of the highlights had been Harry's annual gift from the Dursleys: this year, a square of toilet paper--unused, thankfully. Harry had grinned when he saw Draco frowning in annoyance,.
"But Draco, " he said teasingly, "it’s the quilted kind! This is the best present they've ever sent me!"
The twins had sent everybody early releases of upcoming new products-- sweets for the students, and "Things Professors Might Want to Know About" for the Professors. Draco and Hermione had been surprised to see they'd both spent a bundle to get each other the very large, leather-bound book The Inklings: Squibs and Half-Bloods who Changed the Worlds, by Sam Tolkien and Eustace Lewis. Everyone received something from Mrs. Weasley, as she was convinced that none of them dressed warmly enough. Draco was most impressed with his forest green jumper, with a little silver dragon embroidered on the chest. Neville had sent everybody seedlings from his hothouse-- Snape was particularly impressed with the young Cacao Mortis he'd received, and wondered aloud why such care and diligence hadn't translated to his own class. Snape himself had long pondered his gifts, as he wasn't used to giving them, but had finally settled on The Assassin's Med-kit: Poisons and Venoms for Getting the Job Done for the students and Moon Like Blood: The Historical Links Between Misogynism and Anti-Lycanism for Lupin (on Pansy's recommendation).
The last package to be opened was Draco's gift to Harry, a large, heavy, oddly shaped thing with a note taped to the outside, which Harry decided to read first.
Harry,
I was thinking, when we have a place of our own. . .this would be nice to have. I think, on many levels, it is us.
Happy Christmas, Love
-your Angel
Intrigued, Harry tore off the paper, eyes widening. Before him stood two statues, cleverly carved to look as one-- two male angels, dancing hand in hand, one carved from marble, the other from what seemed to be onyx or obsidian. Both were smiling gently, and Harry could have sworn that the light one winked saucily at him.
"Oh, Draco. . .it's . . . it's beautiful. . ." Harry was otherwise at a loss for words. Luckily, Dumbledore chose that moment to walk through the door.
"Happy Christmas, everyone! Ah, Severus and Remus, I am glad to see the two of you trying to get along, even if only for one day . . ." The mentioned Professors snorted in unison, then glared at each other in annoyance. Dumbledore continued unabated. "I simply dropped by to deliver, first, my holiday wishes for all of you, and second, these." The Headmaster withdrew several scrolls from his robes, Hermione, Ron and Snape got one each, and Harry and Lupin two.
Curious, Harry opened the first.
TO: Harry James Potter
FROM: The Law Offices of Whyte, Sharke, and Phox
Sylvester Sharke, Attorney and Executor
Re: The Potter Estate
Mr. Potter,
While ordinarily this would have been held off until your eighteenth year, recent changes in Wizarding Age Law, effective New Year's Day, require that these matters be settled as swiftly as possible. Namely, the reading of your late parents' last will and testaments, and the resulting dispersal and handover of their estate and property.
To this end, I have been in contact with your Headmaster to determine when might be most convenient for this to happen. He has suggested the earliest possible date, that of the first of January, preferably sometime in the morning. Please let me know if this is a good time, and if not, what time (after) might be better.
Finally, Mr. Potter, let me say that I was deeply saddened by your loss. I will admit, I didn't know your parents very well, as we had mostly a business relationship. But they were some of the most pleasant clients I've ever had, and I was always honuored to help them with their legal needs. I hope I can be of similar service to you.
Regards
Sylvester N. Sharke, III
Harry was stunned. It had never even occurred to him that he stood to inherit anything. Numbly, he opened the second letter.
TO: Harry James Potter
FROM: The Law Offices of Whyte, Sharke, and Phox
Ravenus Phox, Attorney, Executor
Re: The Black Estate
CC: Hermione Granger; Rubeus Hagrid; Remus Lupin (Werewolf); Severus Snape; Arthur, Charles, Fredrick, George, Margaret (Molly), Ronald, Virginia and William Weasley.
Dear Sirs and Madams;
After much ado and pointless hairsplitting, the duty of the execution of the last will and testament of Sirius Black has finally reverted back to its original executor, myself, it having been locked in the squalid confines of Ministry files and red-tape these many years. Thus finally released, it is my duty to dispense Mr. Black's estate and property as he wished, and so I wish to meet with all of you on New Year's Day, in the afternoon, at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
I find that I must regretfully note that one listed recipient, Mr. Remus Lupin, is not eligible to inherit anything, due to his well-known standing as a lycanthrope, and it is clearly stated under current Wizarding Estate Law that lycans, vampires, changelings, and other "half-human menaces to society" are forbidden from inheriting land or other property. As much as I may personally disagree with this law, I must obey it. However, I still believe Mr. Lupin should attend, as I am, after all, a lawyer of high training.
And finally, there is one last note of Mr. Black's that should be addressed as well.
"Also, according to the discretion of Harry James Potter, Draco Severus Malfoy may also be invited. This is solely Harry's choice, and there is to be no binding legality as to Mr. Malfoy's presence or absence."
I shall see you all on New Year's Day. Until then, Happy Channukah, Solstice, Yule, Christmas, Feast of Sol Invictus, Boxing Day, and St. Stephen's Day.
Regards,
Ravenus Phox, II
Harry was struck speechless yet again. Draco took the papers out of Harry's hand and perused them himself, as Hermione began to mutter about "Total injustice! This is unbelieveable!" Neither were amused as Draco began to chuckle.
"What's so funny, Malfoy?" Ron growled.
Draco rolled his eyes. "You Gryffindors, always take the law at face value. . ."
Ron looked mightily affronted as Hermione spluttered.
"What do you mean by that, Draco?"
The latter smirked.
"Good lawyers get paid so much because practicing law is as much an art as a science. Indeed, it's often more about getting around the law then truly complying with it. The firm that sent these letters is the most vicious and cutthroat firm there is-- all former Slytherins. Phox and Sharke are two of the only three men in the world my father actually fears, because they have refined the art to a deadly point. Trust me, Hermione, if Phox went to all this trouble to note the legal difficulty, and then suggest that Professor Lupin come anyway, it's because he's got a loophole or three up his sleeve."
Ron looked somewhat mollified.
"I still think the law is a travesty." Hermione stated, clearly not mollified at all.
Draco nodded. "I agree, I really do. But until we're in a position to change it--and others along similar lines-- we'll just have to find ways to get around them without breaking them."
The rest of the day was relatively uneventful. Harry wrote notes to both lawyers, informing them that New Year's was an acceptable date, and then began work on his thank you notes. He was taking a break from his writing, and looking through the book Professor Snape had given him, when Pig flew in through the window.
Harry relived the owl of its burden, then called Draco over.
"It's from Ron, thanking us for our gift."
"Dear Harry and Draco,
Believe it or not, I actually did know who T.E. Lawrence was was before receiving your gift. This made it even more impressive, since I knew what I was looking at. Not only a hardcover edition of Seven Pillars of Wisdom, but a first edition, signed by the author. For once, I don't mind getting something used as a gift! But it must have cost you guys a fortune, which is why I'm not going to tease you about acting like a married couple and getting people joint gifts. Although I'm trying not to think about that part of things.
Anyway, Happy Christmas, Harry, and Happy Solstice and Yule to you, Draco.
Sincerely,
Ron
* * *
Harry stared at the parchment before him, glad for Draco's steadying presence. There it was, in his father's handwriting, written only a few weeks before he had been killed.
In the name of Queen Elizabeth II
I, James Godfrey Potter, being of sound and disposing mind, make and declare this to be my last Will and Testament hereby revoking any Will previously made by me.
FIRST: At my death I direct that my body be decently buried or cremated, and my just debts and expenses be paid as soon thereafter as possible, by my executor hereinafter named.
SECOND: After all debt is paid, I give, devise and bequeath all the rest residue and remainder of my Estate, both real and personal which I now possess or to which I am entitled or to which I may hereafter become entitled to my Wife, Lily Potter.
THIRD: Should my Wife happen to die before this Will is enacted, then all that was entitled for her I give to my only Son, Harry James Potter.
FOURTH: Should the circumstances of clause Three occur before Harry is of legal age, I will that the aforementioned property and estate be held in trust by Gringotts Bank until such a time as he is eligible to inherit.
FIFTH: I hereby appoint Sylvester Sharke, of the firm Whyte, Sharke, and Phox, to be sole executor of this my last Will and Testament.
League Alley, London
September 5th, 1990
Signed - James Godfrey Potter
We, the undersigned, at the request of James Godfrey Potter, in his presence and in the presence of each other, sign this Will as witnesses thereto he having signed at the end thereof in our presence, at the same time declaring it to be his last Will and Testament.
Sirius Black, 666 League Alley
Remus Lupin, 666 League Alley
Peter Pettigrew, 666 League Alley
Sharke cleared his throat.
"Due to the circumstances surrounding your parents' death, the first clause is impossible to fulfill. As for the rest, Mr. Gildinar has a complete accounting of the Estate and assets for you, as well as the keys to the Estate and vaults."
Harry looked over to the goblin, who slid over a folder thick with parchments, and then a wooden box which he opened to reveal keys of different shapes and sizes.
"Mr. Potter," the goblin said, "I'm sure you will find everything in order, though if you have any questions, I'll be glad to help. Oh, the ah, keys have labels to tell you where they go."
"Thank you," Harry replied, looking over the keys, repressing a chuckle when he silently read "Portkey to Godric's Hollow. Password: Gorgeous Gryffindor!"
"Good God, Snape was right, my father was an egotist." As Harry examined the keys, Draco opened up the folder and glanced through the papers.
"I assume the one percent discrepancy is from standard administrative costs?" he asked.
Gildinar was silent, looking instead to Harry. "What? Oh, yeah, Draco's my husband, so he's got power of attorney. You can answer any of his questions. . ."
"Indeed?" The goblin raised a craggy eyebrow. "That is more of a shift than even I had expected, Mr. Malfoy. To answer, yes, the one percent is the standard deduction for administrative costs. You will see it detailed on schedule D-12."
Harry put the keys down as Draco checked the parchments, looking over his husband's shoulder.
"You're going to have to teach me what all those figures mean," he said, frowning, "because right now, it looks like I'm a millionaire."
Draco looked at him. "That's because you are."
Harry blinked. "Oh."
The reading of his mother's will went much like his father's. The sum of money was smaller, and there was no additional real estate involved, but there were vault keys to be added to the box, and more parchments to be explained later.
Then everyone broke for lunch, Harry glad to be away from the too sharp eyes of the lawyers and accountants. They ate in the privacy of their own rooms, Draco patiently explaining the different types of assets and accounts that Harry had inherited, the varying rates of interest, and how best to utilise each one. Then they went through the keys in the box, separating out the estate keys, money vault keys, and safety deposit vault keys.
After an hour, Harry sighed. "Well, I suppose we'd best get back to hear Sirius' Will. . ."
Draco put an arm around his shoulders. "You going to be alright?"
Harry nodded. "Yeah. I suppose I'm just glad to get this over with. . .You know, one fell blow and all that. . ."
Draco held his hand on the way back to the meeting room. This time, the entire Weasley family was present, as well as the three Professors and Hermione. Draco and Harry took seats between the worn-looking Lupin and the baffled-looking Snape.
"Right then," this time, it was Ravenus Phox who spoke. Harry wasn't sure, but he thought he could see a resemblance between him and Mr. Sharke. The lawyer continued, "since these documents are copy-proof, I'll be reading it aloud, and then offering it for individual inspection afterwards. Any objections?"
There were none, so he began.
In the name of Queen Elizabeth II
I, Sirius Black, being of sound and disposing mind, make and declare this to be my last Will and Testament hereby revoking any Will previously made by me.
FIRST: At my death I direct that my body be decently buried or cremated, and my just debts and expenses be paid as soon thereafter as possible, by my executor hereinafter named.
SECOND: After all debt is paid, I give, devise and bequeath all the rest residue and remainder of my Estate, both real and personal which I now possess or to which I am entitled or to which I may hereafter become entitled, to my godson, Harry James Potter, with the exceptions that follow.
THIRD: Should I die before Harry is of legal age, I will that the aforementioned property and estate be held in trust by Gringotts Bank until such a time as he is eligible to inherit.
FOURTH: To Rubeus Hagrid, I leave all materials in my possession relating to Hippogriffs and Grims, with the hope that he will use them as appropriate.
FIFTH: To Hermione Granger, I give access to, and borrowing rights for, all Black family libraries, including those outside of Britain.
SIXTH: To Ronald Weasley, I leave the original manuscript (plus translation) for Sun Tzu's The Art of War, as I believe he may find it useful.
SEVENTH: To Ginny Weasley, the black leather-bound blank book for her use, with the assurance that there are absolutely no spells, charms, enchantments, or other magical oddities about it. It is simply an assemblage of paper wrapped in leather.
EIGTH: To Arthur Weasley, I leave my Gameboy, with games, and my stash of Muggle batteries, as I think he would find them. . . interesting.
NINTH: To Molly Weasley, in apology for clause seven, I give the contents of Black vault number four, containing many bolts of rare fabrics and materials, including invisibility Cloth, Dragon Hide, and Spider Silk.
TENTH: To Bill Weasley, I leave the Sekhmet Medallion, which he will know how to use.
ELEVENTH: To Charlie Weasley, I leave the Ryuu flute, since he may find it helpful in his work.
TWELFTH: To Severus Snape, I leave a poster for his classroom, reading "I'll start acting nice when you start acting intelligent" as well as a T-shirt reading "Despising you makes me feel all warm inside" to be considered a post-mortem peace offering. Oh, and the First Edition signed Most Potente Potions in the main estate library.
THIRTHEENTH: To Remus Lupin, I leave the property of 12 Grimmauld Place, and the farm in County Claire, Ireland.
FOURTEENTH: To George and Fred Weasley, I leave ten percent of my current monetary assets, for the express purpose that they, with their business sense, use the funds to found a non-profit organization with the purpose of finding a cure for lycanthropy, and helping those currently infected. Moreover, I would like for the board members to include, in addition to the twins, Severus Snape, Remus Lupin, Harry Potter and, if available, Draco Malfoy.
FIFTEENTH: If Draco Malfoy has, since the writing of this will, married my god-son Harry Potter, then he is to be given care of Black Vault Number Seven. However, if Draco has either not married Harry, or if Harry would rather, then Draco will get nothing.
SIXTEENTH: To that worthless rat-bastard Peter Pettigrew goes nothing save my wishes that he die painfully and give Satan a good lay when he gets to Hell.
SEVENTEENTH: I hereby appoint Ravenus Phox, of the firm Whyte, Sharke, and Phox, to be sole executor of this my last Will and Testament.
League Alley, London
January 15, 2002
Signed - Sirius Black
We, the undersigned, at the request of Sirius Black in his presence and in the presence of each other sign this Will as witness thereto he having signed at the end thereof in our presence at the same time declaring it to be his last Will and Testament.
Kingsley Shacklebolt, 666 League Alley
Albus Dumbledore, 666 League Alley
Alastor Moody, 666 League Alley
Harry sighed as the reading finally finished. As Phox had read, Sharke had passed out various parcels to those assembled. Again, Harry was given a box of keys and a folder of parchments. Draco started chuckling as he lifted the top parchment off the pile.
"Just as I thought, Harry, Mr. Phox has a way for Professor Lupin to get around the lycan anti-inheritance clause."
"Hm? How?"
Draco smirked. "If an inheritor is unable to accept his inheritance, whatever it is automatically reverts to the main inheritor. In this case, you. Then, once you sign these papers to make all this property yours, you can give it to whomever you want, with these other papers here."
"Oh, well alright then. . ." Harry quickly got to work on the forms, pausing only once.
"Asking price? Can't I just give it to him as a gift?"
Mr Phox shook his head.
"It wouldn't be recognised, legally. This loophole comes from the old tradition of dowries, where the asking price could be something like marriage to my ugly daughter, a keg of Guinness, something like that. . ."
"So, something symbolic then?"
"Exactly."
Harry turned to his Professor.
"Professor, what have you got in your pockets?"
Remus emptied his pockets onto the table.
"Three Sickles, four Knuts, a Chocolate Frog and some lint."
"Right then. . . two Knuts and a Chocolate Frog . . . " Harry muttered as he finalised the forms. He handed them back after signing at the bottom. "Is that all then?"
The lawyer nodded. "Unless anyone else has any questions? No? Well then, that's it. I would suggest, however, that sometime in the next month you go and make sure all the real estate and vaults are in order and that nothing is missing. If there are any problems, just contact our firm and Gringotts, and we'll be happy to help you."
With that, the reading was finished and the lawyers and accountant left for the day. Harry sighed, rubbing his eyes wearily with one hand while surveying the rest of those still assembled around the table.
"Was there something else to discuss?" Harry asked, puzzled.
Snape nodded. "Yes, as a matter of fact. I thought that now that this was over with, we could discuss some things that happened last night. But I thought it best to wait for the headmaster, so I don't have to explain it twice."
As usual, Dumbledore chose that moment to make his entrance.
"So, Harry, everyone, how was the reading?"
There were varied grunts of puzzlement and tiredness.
"It was . . . interesting. . ." Draco finally said. "Professor Snape got a tee-shirt, a poster, and a book out of it."
"Did he indeed?"
"You signed as witness, you should know," muttered Snape darkly.
"Oh, I had forgotten that clause," Dumbledore replied. "Leaves room in the head for more important things, like coordinating one's wardrobe to match one's socks." His eyes twinkled merrily for a moment more before turning serious. "Now, you had something you wanted to discuss, Severus?"
The Potions Professor pulled himself up in his chair. "Yes, headmaster, there was, and since everyone here is either a member of the Order or of the Coven, I thought I might as well bring it up here and now.
"Last night was the annual Hogmanay meeting for the Death Eaters and You-Know-Who, and as always, was held at the Lestrange Estate. Nothing much happened, except for this: Bellatrix said she'd been doing some research into 'new ideas', and while most of them were things either Lucius or I had already thought of, and discarded, there was one idea that I'm not quite sure what she meant, but I think Granger might know about it. . ."
Hermione made sure to be doubly attentive, now that her reputation might be on the line. Snape continued.
"The term she used was . . . 'Gene splicing", I think it was. She seemed quite taken with the idea of 'genetics', of which that was a part. But the thing is, that's a Muggle science, so none of the rest of us knew what she was talking about."
Hermione nodded. Her parents had often spoken of how gene therapy might be used in dentistry for growing new teeth, preventing cavities, or other speculative wonders.
"Ah, yes, I know a bit about the basics, but I'm far from an expert. . ."
Snape gestured for her to continue, so she straightened in her chair, and went into lecture mode.
"Right, well, genetics is the study of DNA-- Deoxyribonucleic acid-- which is the sort of 'blueprint' if you will, for all life. Every cell in your body carries the entire sequence of codes that determines if you're blonde or brunette, what colour your eyes have, etc. . . even down to the patterns of your fingerprints. Once one understands this sequence--once one can read it, one can then manipulate it to do everything from making disease resistant crops, replacement organs, to clones or even, conceivably, new species altogether."
Snape nodded his understanding.
"What's a clone?" Ron asked, understanding most of what she'd said.
Hermione smirked. "Fred is. Or George. Identical twins are naturally occurring clones-- two distinct individuals with the exact same genetic code. But with genetics, the right knowledge and skill could let you take a piece of hair from Ginny's head and create another Ginny in a vat somewhere. They've already done it with a sheep and a kitten."
"It'll be dinosaurs next. . ." Charlie muttered.
Hermione grinned.
"I saw that film too, Charlie, but I think it alone sufficiently convinced people that they wouldn't like to meet a velociraptor in person. Back to the subject, did Lestrange say anything else?"
"No, she only said it was something to look into . . . but from her expression, I'd wager she already had a few ideas, but didn't want to share them in front of the rest of us. Aside from that, the only thing I have to report is that Voldemort’s been using the Cruciatus a lot less recently, and no one's sure why."
Harry nervously cleared his throat and blushed as Draco began to giggle next to.
Snape frowned. "Much as I am personally relieved at this new change in the Dark Lord’s habits, I do not see where such news merits such a response."
Draco struggled to bring himself under control. "I'm sorry, Professor, it's just, heehee, we know why he's holding back. . ."
"Oh, do tell. . ."
Harry blushed even harder, refusing to meet anyone's eye as Draco continued.
"Since Harry always feels it when Voldemort casts the Cruciatus, we decided to find out if it worked the other way. And it does."
Snape raised an eyebrow. "And what are you sending him? I doubt the two of you have taken to cursing each other just for giggles. . ."
Harry chose this moment to bury his flaming face in Draco's sleeve.
"Oh no!" the latter replied, smugly. "Nothing of the sort. We distract him with very powerful overwhelming emotion, so he's learned not to think about curses too loudly."
"Distract him?"
Draco started blushing now too.
"If you'll excuse the crudity, it gives a whole new meaning to the term 'mind-fuck'."
It took a moment for that to sink in.
"Eurgh!" Ron exclaimed vehemently. "I did not need to know that!"
Hermione and Ginny took one look at each other and bent over snickering.
"Way to go!" the twins exclaimed in unison.
Molly Weasley looked disapproving of the vocabulary, but said nothing.
Dumbledore's eyes started twinkling again.
"Let me make sure I understand your meaning, Draco." Snape drawled. "You mean to say that every time he's wanted to curse us, you and your boyfriend have decided to distract him by engaging in 'relations'?"
"Well, we missed a few times," Harry muttered from his hiding-place.
The Professor nodded.
"Which would explain why the two of you are so tired in the mornings after meetings when no one is cursed."
Harry nodded into Draco's shoulder as Ron did the math.
"Ohh," the latter moaned. "I really didn't need to know that. . ."
Snape chuckled darkly. He had missed tormenting the Gryffindor.
"Well, it looks like raging teenage libidos can be useful after all."
* * *
Dear Gods, what a tedious arrangement that was. Three Wills in one day, and then Snape's news about Bellatrix and the subsequent embarrassment of Draco's confession... good Lord, it's no wonder I couldn't speak to anyone for the rest of the day. And then, I began to worry how Professor Snape would ever be able to keep a straight face in front of Voldemort again, and all I wanted to do was bury my head in a pillow and give the rest of the world my middle finger.
So, of course Draco wanted to have some music practice right then. He'd been exchanging owls with Susan Bones and Lisa Turpin, and they already had some ideas about what to do. Draco was bouncing off the walls sometimes in his excitement, and this day was no exception-- Susan had sent Draco the "exception to the All-British Rule" we'd imposed on ourselves. Her excuse was that if we won that trip to America, it'd be nice to "know something of theirs." So she sent us a song from some musical called Grease. The song was to become our now famous rendition of "Summer Love." Because of the crappy mood I was in, I hated it at once. But damn it all, it does have a catchy tune, doesn't it?
I couldn't get it out of my head for weeks.
--Lion at Midnight
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tbc. . . all in good time. . .