Summary:
Delacour Godparents By: Danielarrowsmith A very feel-good AU where the Delacours were named Harry's Godparents alongside Sirius. How will this impact Harry? Read on for my interpretation. Harry/Fleur, no bashing - just a sensible wizard and witch helping others avoid blatantly stupid decisions. Fleur one year younger and Tonks a few years younger compared to canon. COMPLETE.Rated: Fiction T - English - Family/Romance - [Harry P., Fleur D.] N. Tonks, Gabrielle D. - Chapters: 36 - Words: 146,311 - Reviews: 905 - Favs: 2,696 - Follows: 2,156 - Updated: Jun 30, 2022 - Published: Mar 16, 2022 - Status: Complete - id: 14054072
chapter 1
Dumbledore took Harry in his arms and turned towards the Dursley's house.
Just then a loud 'crack' sounded, and Dumbledore and McGonagall tensed for battle. Before any spells were fired, an accented voice called out, "Dumbledore? What are you doing with 'arry?".
Dumbledore, who was now preparing for a different kind of battle, turned towards the newcomer and spoke heavily. "Sebastian. I'm afraid James and Lily are gone. I'm taking Harry to his last remaining relatives."
Sebastian Delacour approached Dumbledore, his face a mix of grief and defiance. "No, you are not. You are not 'arry's guardian, and you know full well James and Lily would not want 'im placed here. We are 'is Godparents, we will take 'im in."
Dumbledore shook his head sadly, wishing things were different. "I can't allow that, Sebastian. Harry needs to be with his family".
Sebastian nearly growled his reply, "WE are 'is family! That poor excuse of a sister 'as never even met 'arry! You would dump 'im with strangers after 'e 'as just lost 'is parents? 'ave you gone mad with grief, Albus?!"
Dumbledore sighed again, saddened by what he needed to do, but resolved that it was the right choice to protect Harry. Realising that he could not convince Sebastian otherwise, Dumbledore began to explain his reasoning in a subdued tone. "Sebastian, I have reason to believe that Lily's death has conveyed an ancient form of blood protection on young Harry, and that is why Voldemort could not kill him. I plan to establish blood wards around this house, but in order for the wards to remain active, he must live with blood relatives.
"Think about it, Sebastian – Voldemort may not truly be dead, and even if he is, his followers will seek vengeance. It may be today, it may be in five years time, but they will try to kill Harry. I strongly believe Harry will be safest living here, protected by Lily's love. I only wish to see Harry survive, Sebastian."
Sebastian pulled out his wand, pointing it at Harry. A few diagnostic charms later, and Sebastian had confirmed the presence of a magical protection he did not recognise; it was not complete proof of Dumbledore's theory, but it certainly was corroborating evidence.
Now Sebastian looked defeated. "Merde" was followed by a few moments of silence. "'ow will you explain it to them?"
Dumbledore, still holding Harry, replied, "I will leave him on the doorstep with a note. I would explain the situation to them in person, but I fear they would not react well to a witch or wizard at their door." Dumbledore then indicated McGonagall. "Minerva will remain in disguise, to ensure he is taken in."
Surprising Dumbledore, Sebastian began to disagree again. "No, you cannot do that. It will not work."
"Sebastian, there isn't another choice. We must keep Harry...", began Dumbledore.
"That's not what I mean, Albus. We cannot leave 'im with just a letter. The Dursleys will not understand, and you risk 'arry being abused. I will explain it to them, and convince them to take 'arry in", Sebastian reasoned.
For a moment, Dumbledore's grandfatherly visage returned. "Compulsion charms or similar spells will not last, and you risk causing even more resentment in the end". He had, of course, considered that himself.
A look of distate flittered across Sebastian's face. "Obviously. But I believe I can convince them without magic. Lily didn't often speak of her sister, but she told me enough about her and Vernon for me to know how to convince them."
Dumbledore considered Sebastian's words, and concluding that such a small compromise would not impact Harry's safety, he carefully handed Harry over to Sebastian.
Sebastian gently held Harry, a tear falling down his cheek as he gazed at his Godson. "Oh Harry, your mama and papa may be gone, but their love for you remains. And you still have Appoline and I, and Fleur. We will watch over you."
His steps heavy, Sebastian walked towards No. 4 Privet Drive, a sleeping Harry in his arms and grief in his heart.
...
The conversation had been difficult, but ultimately successful. Sebastian had played on Vernon's sense of honour and Petunia's love of her sister – deeply buried though it had been. The £30,000 pounds he had offered, "to enable you to move or to extend the 'ouse", had no doubt helped too; it would also mean that the Dursleys were less likely to subconsciously perceive Harry as a burden.
The Delacours were not rich, and would normally never have been able to afford such a sum... but muggle banks were unaware of Voldemort and his reign of terror, so were more than willing to offer life insurance to Lily. And Sebastian was now very grateful that he had convinced Lily to take out such a policy, with himself and Appoline as the beneficiaries.
Putting aside thoughts of money, Sebastian again considered the agreement he had reached with the Dursleys. Petunia and Vernon had agreed to take care of Harry, but it was clear they were only doing it out of duty. Sebastian was sure the boy would not be abused, but neither would he be loved. And so Sebastian had pushed for monthly visits, as well as time initially to help Harry settle in. The Dursleys had agreed without too much persuading, and so Sebastian sent a patronus messanger to Appoline – Harry would need as much of his real family as he could get.
...
Harry awoke in the way all babies do – with tearful eyes and loud cries. Sebastian was currently sat in the Dursleys' lounge holding Harry, so was quick to speak in a soothing tone. "It's ok, 'arry. Uncle Sebastian is 'ere. I've got you, you're safe."
Harry looked up at Sebastian, and after a few more moments of Sebastian's voice, Harry had calmed down. Sebastian continued his reassurances regardless. "It's ok, 'arry, I've got you. And soon, Aunt Appoline and Fleur will be 'ere too".
At that, Harry blinked, then began looking around the room. "Lur! Lur!". Sebastian chuckled at the reaction, glad to have a moment of levity. "Yes, Fleur will be 'ere soon."
Just then, the doorbell rang. After a few moments Petunia's resigned voice floated through from the hallway. "Yes, come on in, both of you. Your husband has Harry in the living room." The sound of small yet rapid footsteps approached, as Fleur sought out her target.
"'ARRY!" "Lur!"
Fleur launched at Harry, wrapping her three year old arms around him and kissing his cheek several times. Harry giggled, his face all smiles.
Sebastian looked closer at Fleur, and noted the tear marks down her cheeks – clearly Appoline had broken the news. And sure enough... "Papa, Mama said... She said... We can't see Uncle James and Auntie Lily again?"
Sebastian nodded, sadly. Fleur, arms still wrapped around Harry, lowered her head and whispered, "Does that mean we won't see 'arry anymore?".
Sebastian replied softly, "Fleur, look at me". When she had did, Sebastian gave a small smile. "Fleur, 'arry is like family, isn't he?". When Fleur nodded, eyes looking hopeful, Sebastian continued, "and we would not abandon our family, would we?". Fleur smiled and shook her head. "We will help him settle in, then we will visit him often".
Fleur gave another hopeful look to her papa, and asked, "Couldn't 'arry come live with us?". By this time Appoline had joined her family in the living room, and added her voice to Fleur's. "That's a good question. He would be happier with us, would he not, Sebastian?".
Sebastian explained Dumbledore's reasoning to Appoline, and informed her of the diagnostic charms he had performed, careful to describe the situation in terms that would not worry Fleur. After he had finished, Appoline mirrored the defeated look Sebastian had wore earlier. After nodding her reluctant agreement, Appoline brushed a lock of messy hair out of Harry's eyes. "We will be here for you, my Godson. Always."
Appoline turned to Sebastian; she didn't want to put this off too long, as the Dursleys were already being far more accommodating than she had expected. "My love, how do we plan to get 'arry settled in here?"
"Well, my darling, I was thinking...".
chapter 2
The first question Sebastian and Appoline needed to answer was: where would they stay whilst settling Harry in at Privet Drive? The answer was simple: in a tent. They knew Petunia and Vernon would not willingly let them stay in the house, and any overt magic was sure to undermine the hard-won truce Sebastian had gained. The Dursleys didn't need to know the tent was magically enlarged and more comfortable than a normal muggle house.
Fleur's reaction was entirely predictable. "We're going camping with 'arry?!" she practically squealed in excitement.
Sebastian gave a small smile and began to explain, "not exactly, my angel, we will only be...", but Appoline cut him off gently. "That's right, Fleur. We're going camping with 'arry, in the garden".
Fleur beamed at her mama, then turned to Harry. "Did you hear that 'arry? We're going camping together in THE GARDEN!". Sebastian merely gave a rueful smile, shaking his head. Then turning to Appoline, he murmured "It's getting late. I will explain our plans to the Dursleys and then we can get settled for the night.".
...
Vernon hadn't been thrilled with the idea of some near-strangers camping in his garden – that's not something decent sorts get up to! – but Sebastian was able to convince him that the alternatives were worse. Surprisingly, Petunia seemed to approve of the idea, suggesting that they could tell their neighbours they were checking to make sure the tent was of good enough quality before taking it on holiday.
And so with another hard-won discussion, Sebastian set up a wizard tent in the Dursleys' garden. The tent was relatively modest - for a wizarding tent. Two bedrooms ("Mama, I want to share a room with 'arry!"), a kitchen ("Papa, can we have crêpes for breakfast?"), a bathroom ("Did you bring the bath toys, Mama?"), and a living room ("can we see the kitchen again?").
It had gotten very late for Fleur and Harry, so without too much delay Sebastian and Appoline put them to bed; Fleur quite upset that she would be alone in her room whilst Harry would be in the same room as his Godparents. "'arry may need us tonight, angel, and we wouldn't want you to have poor sleep too", Sebastian explained.
Once the children were asleep, Sebastian and Appoline had time to talk, and grieve. Both had tried to stay strong for Fleur and Harry's sake, but now alone they wept for friends lost, and for poor Harry.
...
The first night was particularly hard. Harry had nightmares and desperately wanted his mum and dad, crying out for them. Sebastian and Appoline comforted him as best they could, though they both believed Harry had started, perhaps subconsciously, to realise something was very wrong. The elder Delacours were, however, somewhat thankful – they were here when Harry needed them, and they shuddered to think what would have happened if the Dursleys had had last night as the introduction to their nephew!
Whilst the first night was undoubtedly the hardest, the next couple of days were also very difficult, especially as Fleur began processing her own grief. As such, Sebastian and Appoline were grateful when they found that Fleur and Harry were a large comfort to each other; it was not uncommon for Harry to be snuggled up next to Fleur on the sofa, sometimes with one of them crying, but always with both drawing comfort from each other.
On day three, although all four were tired and drained, the mood was different. There were fewer tears, and more laughter – like when Fleur tried to teach Harry how to spin around in circles, or when Appoline made a soft toy of Harry's – a wolf - bounce around the room with magic. It was also the start of introducing Harry properly to his Aunt, Uncle and Cousin, and in a way that attempted to nurture a... if not loving, then at least cordial relationship. And whilst doing so, Appoline was careful that her veela heritage – her allure in particular – did not create unnecessary problems.
...
The next morning, Sebastian and Appoline felt they needed to start solving some of the practical challenges of Harry living with the Dursleys, and on that note Sebastian sought out Vernon and Petunia for a conversation. "Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, could I have a few moments of your time?"
Vernon looked suspicious – perhaps his default state. "Is there a problem?". Sebastian shrugged, "Nothing that cannot be solved. Firstly, we wanted to know where Harry would sleep once he lives here". Vernon frowned, but kept silent as Sebastian continued in a subdued tone. "Secondly, were you aware that most of 'arry's belongings were... lost when 'e was orphaned?"
Vernon face started to redden. "Now look here. I know you've promised us some money, but that wasn't so we could spend it all straight away on...".
Sebastian held up his hands to placate Vernon. "Apologies, that's not what I meant. We plan to go shopping for 'arry today, but first wanted to check you did not 'ave any unwanted spare clothes or toys 'e could use." And then, because Sebastian knew he needed as much goodwill as possible, he added " We also wanted to buy a small gift for young Dudley. We know this will be just as big a change for 'im as it will be for 'arry".
That second part was clearly a lie, but the offer has the desired effect. Vernon's face relaxed, and Sebastian thought he might even have seen Vernon smile, for a moment. "Well, that's... Yes, that's very reasonable of you. Petunia? Do we have any cast-offs we can give Harry?".
Petunia nodded thoughtfully. "He is a bit smaller than our Dudders, maybe some of the clothes he's grown out of? I don't think we can spare any toys, our sweetums barely has enough as it is!". Sebastian, quite valiantly, managed to hide his thoughts – Dudley was clearly spoiled, and it would probably do him well to share! But that was not an opinion he would choose to voice. Instead, he merely smiled and nodded, "That would be much appreciated, thank you both."
After a few moments, Sebastian raised his first point again. "What about 'arry's bedroom? We would not want to buy a cot or wardrobes that did not fit the space."
Vernon's first thought went to the cupboard under the stairs; it was large enough for a cot, and they often used their guest room for Marge's visits. But that clearly wouldn't be acceptable to the Delacours. Besides, they had already been offered the pounds for an extension; they could perhaps build a downstairs guest suite, which Marge would prefer.
Petunia was clearly waiting for Vernon's reaction – the guest room was the obvious choice, and it really was only his sister who used the guest room – so Petunia just nodded her agreement when Vernon answered, "it'll have to be the guest room. My sister uses it when she visits, but that extension you mentioned can be a new guest room."
Vernon led Sebastian upstairs to see the room. It was on the small side, but Sebastian was sure it would be sufficient.
...
For the rest of the day, many deep and philosophical questions were asked and answered. "Papa, did that dog sneeze?" "Maybe?". "Mama, why are there so many beds in this shop?" "because it's a bed shop". "'arry, do you like the dragon socks?" "Lur!". "Papa, how old is that man?" "quite old, judging from his face" "Sebastian!". "Mama, can we stop for cake?" "...alright".
The Delacours enjoyed their day out with Harry, even just shopping for essentials. By the end of the day Sebastian and Appoline had spent a small fortune, but Harry would have everything that he needed and the Dursleys wouldn't feel burdened. They had even managed to pick up a cute cuddly toy for Dudley which looked remarkably similar to a niffler.
At one point, whilst Fleur was busy sharing a small cake with Harry, Sebastian and Appoline had discussed their return to France. Harry still missed his parents, and would sometimes cry for them, but he was settling in far better than expected, and the Delacours couldn't remain in the Dursley's garden indefinitely. They agreed that after another few days, all going well, they would say goodbye to Harry and let him adjust to life with the Dursleys. While they longed to take Harry with them, they understood Dumbledore's reasoning.
...
If the Delacours had doubted their decision to leave Harry at the Dursleys', the owl they received from Dumbledore that evening would rid them of such doubts. The letter was short, and contained sobering news.
"Sebastian and Appoline. Late last night, the blood wards I erected were triggered. A few hours later, the Longbottoms were attacked by Death Eaters, who were later captured. The wards appear fine, but I will check them later. Be careful. Albus"
Appoline, who had read the letter first, shared it with Sebastian. The news of the Longbottoms was awful, as was the thought that Voldemort's followers had targeted Harry. It was worrying that they had even been able to attempt harm, though Appoline and Sebastian were relieved the wards were working well.
...
Later, Dumbledore had confirmed the wards were unharmed, and explained that the wards would even protect Harry for short periods when he left the house. The Delacours breathed a sigh of relief at that.
All too soon, the next few days were over. Harry had spent two nights in his new room relatively well settled, his relatives had proved able and willing to take care of him, and the Delacours knew it was time to say goodbye. Fleur was tearful – she had loved the time spent with little Harry and didn't want to go, but Appoline reminded her that they would see him soon.
With cuddles all round (including an extra long one from Fleur) and many heartfelt words "we love you and will see you soon, my Godson" "we will miss you 'arry" "Love you 'arry!", Fleur allowed herself to be led away, and back home to France.
chapter 3
Fleur was exhausted when the Delacours returned to France – several days of high emotion guaranteeing it – and Sebastian and Appoline had to admit they were pretty tired too. But it was a positive tiredness, coming from the knowledge that they had provided help to someone they loved.
Rest would be incredibly short-lived, however. Fleur had been put to bed and Appoline was reading the French wizarding newspaper when she cried out in shock. Sebastian came over to see what the problem was, and Appoline merely pointed to the article: "Sirius Black arrested for the murder of James and Lily Potter". Reading the article together, Sebastian and Appoline were horrified – they thought they knew Sirius well, and to read that he had not only betrayed the Potters but had killed dear Peter and a group of innocent muggles was truly shocking.
Appoline turned to Sebastian, a look of horror on her face. "I can't believe it! Sirius betrayed them?!". Sebastian shook his head, equal parts appalled and disbelieving. "It cannot be true, can it? What happened at his trial?". A few moments to check, then, "The article doesn't mention it. Sebastian, we must know what happened."
Sebastian nodded. Emotionally, he was convinced Sirius must be innocent. Logically, he knew this was likely another example of Voldemort's greatest strength – his ability to turn people to his cause. Steeling himself for the worst conversation he would have this month – and that was saying something! – he walked towards the floo.
...
Albus Dumbledore sat in his office, a myriad of emotions cascading through him. Voldemort was gone, at least for now. Harry Potter was safe and well, thanks mainly to the Delacours from what he could tell. But James and Lily were dead. Frank and Alice were in St. Mungos. Sirius had murdered innocents. And now many of Voldemort's inner circle were likely to escape justice based on centuries-old pureblood laws – and there seemed to be nothing he could do about it!
It was as Dumbledore was desperately trying to wrestle with these thoughts that his fireplace flared green, and a voice called from within, "Albus? Are you free to talk?"
Sensing tension but not an emergency, Dumbledore replied "one moment, Sebastian" then carefully took a memory and added to it his pensive – it would help later with ordering his thoughts.
After less than a minute, Dumbledore had finished and was approaching his fireplace. "Do you want to come through?"
"Thank you Albus, yes please".
The connection then fully open, Sebastian stepped through into Hogwarts' Headmaster's office.
"Would you like a lemon drop, Sebastian?"
Sebastian shook his head, "No thank you, Albus. And I know you must be very busy at the moment, so let me get straight to the point". Dumbledore nodded in response.
Sebastian took a moment to order his thoughts, then spoke. "Appoline and I were 'orrified to 'ear what Sirius did, and we are struggling to believe it. Not much was reported in France, and certainly nothing about 'is trial. We were 'oping, as a personal favour, you could tell us what you can; 'elp us understand and set out mind to rest."
Dumbledore's shoulders slumped, and he looked more weary than Sebastian had ever seen him – even during the war. "There's both much to tell but also not much. Take a seat and let me explain what's been happening in Britain."
Sebastian nodded, and made sure to sit comfortably. Dumbledore's implication that he would get a broader explanation than he initially expected was not lost on Sebastian.
"How much has been reported since Halloween in the French papers?"
"We do not know. 'onestly, we only returned to France today, and were too busy with 'arry to keep up with the news whilst in Britain."
Dumbledore nodded approvingly, then began to explain. "Voldemort's best known Death Eaters have almost all been arrested, and are awaiting trial. However, whilst those of us working for the light were keeping details under wraps to ensure fair trials, the accused were busy.
"There are those who refuse to renounce Voldemort, of course, but for the rest the plea is easy – 'I was under the Imperius ' or 'I was under compulsion charms' or even 'I was under loyalty potions'. And to support those pleas are the actions the Death Eaters have taken: large donations submitted to St. Mungo's and elsewhere, apologies published to the Daily Prophet 'for what I did when under He Who Must Not Be Named's control', condemnation of any Death Eater caught committing crimes after Voldemort was defeated; even bribes to the Wizengamot, I suspect.
"Of course, none of that would matter in France. But in Britain, Purebloods are protected – we have centuries old laws which state that Purebloods cannot be forced under Veritaserum, dating back to a time where family secrets needed protecting. I'm afraid this means that it is highly likely many Death Eaters will go free."
Sebastian was silent for a few moments, controlling his emotions – this was no place for rage, horror, incredulity or exasperation. After he felt sufficiently ready, Sebastian asked, "And where does Sirius fit into all this?".
Dumbledore sighed – a bone-deep, wearied sigh – and answered, "Sirius was found a few days after Lily and James ... after Halloween, surrounded by dead muggles, laughing. Muggle witnesses say Peter confronted him, shouting about how he betrayed James and Lily, but then Sirius killed him – right then and there – and laughed about it. The Death Eaters on the Wizengamot were willing to throw him to the wolves to aid their own innocent pleas, with Lucius Malfoy even admitting that he had personally seen Sirius killing muggles.
"So those of the light had a choice: we either risk a trial and have Sirius claim Imperio, possibly letting James and Lily's betrayer go free; or in light of overwhelming evidence we sentence him to Azkaban without trial."
Sebastian needed a few moments to calm himself. He liked to think he was usually in control of his emotions, but what he had just heard was enough to test any man. Once he could think clearly, Sebastian responded. "'ave you, or anyone you trust, spoken to Sirius since?"
"Sirius was sent to Azkaban yesterday, so there hasn't been time for anyone from the order to see him. Then again, I'm not sure I understand what that would achieve, Sebastian."
Sebastian looked Dumbledore straight in the eye. "Albus?"
"Yes, Sebastian?"
"I asked you a week ago if you 'ad gone mad with grief. That was 'arsh of me and I apologise." Dumbledore smiled and was about to comment, but Sebastian continued. "I thought your grief was clouding your judgement. But right now, I know it is."
Dumbledore looked puzzled, and motioned for Sebastian to continue. "Think about it, Albus. Your evidence consists of witnesses seeing Sirius act completely out of character, and the word of a Death Eater. I see why you didn't risk a trial, but what if he is innocent? Why not ask if Sirius will provide evidence under Veritaserum from 'is cell? In fact, can you not force 'im to do so, if he is convicted?"
Dumbledore started looking thoughtful. "But what about the Fidelius?"
"What about it?"
"James himself told me he planned to use Sirius as his secret-keeper, so the fact that Voldemort knew where to find them is further evidence."
"There are different possibilities, Albus – the secret over'eard, the secret written down and given to another, or maybe just that Sirius is guilty. But what do you 'ave to lose?"
The two sat in silence for a couple of minutes, both men heavy in thought. Then, Sebastian spoke up, changing topic. "Have you thought about asking the Death Eaters for a vow during each trial?"
...
Lucius Malfoy was confident. His trial being delayed by a week was an irritation, but one that let his contingency plans further mature. He had planned well in case of his master's demise, unpleasant though it was, and Lucius knew he would walk away as a free man. As he approached the courtroom, he schooled his features into a look of remorse and self-loathing.
As he sat in the accused's chair, and felt the chains wrap only loosely around him, he fought down a smirk. That was another sign that the Wizengamot were in his pocket!
As the trial commenced, and Lucius (well, his respectable Pureblood lawyer) began his defence, the Wizengamot appeared to take his side more and more. Lucius felt smug - perhaps those bribes would turn out to have been unnecessary!
The first feeling of unease arrived when the prosecution – led by Amelia Bones, the blood-traitor – stated the need to call witnesses. This was unexpected: since Lucius had admitted to everything, albeit claiming Imperio, there really shouldn't have been a reason for any.
The unease turned to full blown panic as Sirius Black took the stand. Lucius' lawyer objected on the grounds that Black was a convicted criminal, however Amelia just smiled somewhat predatorily as she explained that Lord Black had been cleared of all charges when tried willingly under Veritaserum. Further, as he was a key witness in 'an undisclosed case' – Amelia's grin looked positively ferocious as she said that – news of this was kept from everyone but the Wizengamot, and even then under an oath of secrecy.
Lucius internally cursed his own arrogance: he had believed lying about witnessing Sirius commit murders was one of his smartest moves, and now it risked his downfall!
Before anyone had asked him a question, Sirius addressed the Wizengamot in the sombre, respectful tone he was best known for. "Oi! Who do I need to convince to dose me with Veritaserum? After all, we just had a naffing civil war, with psychopaths running around torturing and murdering people; seems like the sort of occasion where you wanna make sure you can believe what the person's telling you. Since I've got nothing to hide, go ahead and dose me."
Lucius saw his lawyer rip up something he had written whilst Sirius walked to the stand, and now the lawyer looked helpless. At the same time, Amelia ordered, "Dose him".
Sirius grinned as the potion went down, making a big show of his empty mouth after swallowing.
"Sirius, forgive me, as some of these questions are those you have answered before. Nevertheless, they are necessary for this trial.
"Sirius, are you, or were you ever, a follower of Voldemort?"
"Of course not, the guy was a murdering psycho."
"Did you kill Peter Pettigrew?"
"No, the idiot killed himself trying to run away from me – his own curse backfired on him. It's why I was laughing so hard when the aurors found me."
"Have you ever killed a Muggle?"
"Nope. One of them sold me my motorbike – what's not to love about them?"
"Have you ever tortured a muggle?"
"Erm... I may have pranked Lily's sister a few times, but assuming hair loss isn't torture... No."
"On the 14th of June this year, did you participate in Muggle killings, of which the defendant claims he witnessed?"
"I mean, obviously not, given my answers so far."
"Can you think of any reason why Lucius may have claimed he witnessed you kill muggles?"
"Because he's a cowardly, lying sack of..." Sirius quickly glanced around the room, and noting there were some teenagers in the viewing gallery, coughed then corrected, "Because he's a horrible Death Eater and if he told the truth you'd chuck him through the veil?"
"No further questions"
...
Lucius did not volunteer to take Veritaserum. Lucius was also unwilling to make a vow to prove his truthfulness. Lucius tried to argue that a Pureblood's word should be sufficient, but he knew he was grasping at straws, and could tell that he had not convinced the Wizengamot – especially when he felt the chains of his chair tighten around him.
But Lucius was a Malfoy, and he would leave with pride, regardless of the outcome. So when the vote was held, and over half of the Wizengamot voted to convict him – life in Azkaban – he held his head high. For about a minute.
"May I make a suggestion?" asked Amelia to the Wizengamot at large.
"Go ahead" Replied the Chief Warlock.
"Since Lucius is now a convicted criminal, I understand he is no longer exempt from forced Veritaserum, correct?"
The Chief Warlock gave a feral grin. "Correct. What is your suggestion?"
"Dose him, find out what he knows, and use it to prosecute the others."
"NO! YOU CAN'T! I'M A MALFOY!"
...
Three weeks had gone by since Lucius' trial, and the British wizarding community had been rocked by the revelation of just how deeply Voldemort's influence had seeped into society. In fact, the news had spread around the wizarding world and it was the only thing most wizarding families were talking about. But not the Delacours. At least, not today.
"Can we go now Mama? Please? Can we?"
"Fleur, angel, you still need to clean your teeth."
"No I don't!" said Fleur, proudly, holding aloft a tube of toothpaste. "I already did it!".
Fearing the worst, Appoline examined the scene, and sure enough... "Fleur? Why is there toothpaste on the walls? And your dress? And in your hair?"
Fleur looked sheepish and tentatively suggested, "Because I cleaned my teeth really well?".
Appoline sighed in bemusement then waved her wand, glad once again for cleaning charms.
"Come on, let's go see if Papa is ready."
A few minutes and some apparition later, the Delacours were back in Britain. Once she had got her bearings, Fleur practically skipped down the path to number 4, just barely holding her excitement. But when the doorbell was rung and Petunia opened the door holding Harry in her arms, the whole street could have heard the cries of joy.
"'ARRY!"
"LUR! LUR!"
chapter 4
"Mama, can I hold 'arry?"
Appoline chuckled then replied, "Not yet my angel, you might drop him. Wait until we get to the play park".
Fleur pouted, but couldn't find fault with the argument. Then, just to check the answer hadn't changed in the last five minutes, she asked, "We're going to spend the whole day with 'arry, aren't we?"
Sebastian shared a look of fond exasperation with Appoline. "Yes, my sweet. Just like Mama said the last time you asked. We will take 'arry back home just before bedtime."
Fleur nodded to herself, satisfied for now. Then, turning to Harry, she declared (again), "'arry, you're spending the whole day with us!"
Harry, for his part, just beamed at all three Delacours, happy and excited.
Once they had arrived at the park, Fleur threw her arms around Harry and cuddled him; it had been completely unreasonable for her Mama and Papa to make her wait so long for this!
Sebastian and Appoline smiled as, after a minute, Fleur led a newly-walking Harry around the play park, Harry's hand tightly grasping Fleur's. After a few reminders - "Fleur, you need to slow down, 'arry can't walk that fast" "Fleur, don't spin 'arry around so much" "Fleur, 'arry can't climb steps yet" – Fleur started getting the hang of playing with Harry. Harry, for his part, couldn't stop giggling – neither of them could, really – and the sound was a memory the Delacours would treasure.
Fleur and Harry were inseparable; clearly they had missed each other heavily over the last month, and Appoline wondered if this would be the case each time they visited. If they weren't so cute playing together, Appoline might have felt slightly put out that her Godson didn't seem too interested in her and Sebastian. "Does it feel like we aren't needed?"
Sebastian chuckled. "They are adorable, playing like that. Do you think they will run out of energy before lunch?"
...
Fleur and Harry did not run out of energy before lunch. They didn't run out of energy during lunch "They have McDonald's in 'arry's country too?!". They did have a short nap just after lunch, but then both children wanted nothing more than to run around and play together.
All too soon, however, the day had ended and a teary-eyed Fleur was giving one last cuddle to Harry. "I'll miss you, 'arry! We'll come visit again soon!"
Sebastian and Appoline were also sad for the day to end – spending time with their Godson had been wonderful – but both were glad to see that Harry appeared to be doing well, and was obviously being looked after by Vernon and Petunia.
With one last cuddle each, and some well wishes, "we love you, 'arry, and will see you soon" "goodbye, my wonderful Godson", the Delacours apparated away for another month.
...
It had been several more months - and several more Delacour visits – since Harry started living with the Dursleys. Summer was near its peak, and today four year old Fleur was impatient.
"What's the surprise, Papa?"
Sebastian smiled and shook his head. "If I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise, angel".
Fleur started going through the list of things she clearly rated as Good Surprises. "It can't be my own wand yet, as I'm not starting Beauxbatons. It can't be Christmas. It can't be an 'arry visit, since we had one last week. Are we visiting Grandma?"
Appoline smiled and looked to Sebastian. "Do you have the parcel?"
Sebastian tapped his pocket. "Yes, darling"
"Can I have the surprise now?"
"We need to wait another five minutes, angel"
"Is the surprise in Papa's pocket?"
"Your surprise is not, no"
A pause, and then: "Whose surprise is in your pocket, Papa?"
Sebastian grinned in good humour. "That's a surprise."
Fleur responded as any self-respecting girl her age would: by pouting and sticking her tongue out.
The next four and a half minutes dragged by for Fleur. She loved surprises, but disliked waiting for them! Especially since her Papa and Mama had made comments about it all week, teasing her like they enjoyed her suffering!
Finally, the minutes were over – Fleur counted them herself – and then: "Is it time for the surprise now?"
Sebastian checked his watch, smiled and nodded. Then, standing, he reached out for Fleur's hand. As soon as he held her hand firmly, Sebastian nodded to Appoline and both wizards disapparated with a muted "pop".
Fleur disliked apparating, especially when her Papa gave her no warning! But when she saw where they were, her eyes opened wide and she turned to look at her Papa. "Papa, are we really...?"
Sebastian grinned at his daughter. "It's 'arry's birthday today, Fleur. We wouldn't want to miss his birthday, would we?"
Joy blossomed onto Fleur's face, and she practically pulled her Papa towards the front door of number 4 Privet Drive. As soon as Sebastian rang the doorbell, a shout from inside could be heard quite clearly: "It Lur! Lur here! I see Lur! And Bastian! And Poleen! They here!"
The door opened and, as had become tradition, Harry and Fleur hugged each other tightly, shouting and giggling.
Sebastian saw it was Vernon who had opened the door, and with smiling eyes offered, "I apologise for my daughter, Mr. Dursley; I 'ad 'oped she would be less... enthusiastic, given she only saw 'arry last week."
Vernon just nodded stoically. Also tradition, of sorts.
"Is 'arry's bag packed?"
Vernon handed over the bag. "Yes. Not that we could forget – his first sleepover is all he's talked about. You'll have Harry until evening tomorrow?"
Sebastian smiled and nodded. "Yes, we 'ave much planned for our Godson."
Vernon grunted, then turned to Harry. "Have a good time."
Harry, all smiles, simply declared "Yes!".
...
It was when the four were back at the Delacour home that Appoline realised she had forgot to tell Fleur about the sleepover.
"Fleur, can you take 'arry's bag up to your room, please?"
Fleur looked puzzled. "Why does 'arry need his things in my room, Mama? Are we playing there later?"
Sebastian, also realising that no-one had told Fleur, grinned. "Oh angel, didn't we mention?"
"Mention what, Papa?"
"The sleepover, of course", replied Sebastian innocently.
There were a few second of blissful quiet, then: "WE'RE HAVING A SLEEPOVER?!"
Appoline and Sebastian laughed and nodded. Harry laughed too, though he wasn't sure what the joke was.
A few more seconds of quiet, and then realisation hit a second time: "AND 'ARRY'S SLEEPING IN MY ROOM?!".
...
By late afternoon, Fleur was ready to declare the day as 'the best day ever'. There had been Harry, presents, cake, games, and there would even be a sleepover!
There was one more surprise for Harry and, by association, Fleur, though. That evening, half an hour before dinner, the doorbell rang. Appoline went to answer, and after a few moments a familiar face appeared.
"Uncle Siri!"
"Uncle Woof!"
"Hello Fleur! Hello Harry!"
And thus was Lord Sirius Black violently hugged by his honorary niece and his Godson.
Fifteen minutes later, Sirius could be found racing through the house, with Fleur on his back, Harry in his arms, Sebastian cheering him on, and Appoline looking part amused and part exasperated – she had allowed half an hour for Sirius to tire the kids (and himself!) out before dinner, though perhaps she hadn't allowed enough time. 'And they hadn't even got to the most chaotic part yet'. Of course, no sooner had she thought that...
Harry, in between giggles, asked, "Uncle Woof, you be dog?"
Sirius grinned. "Well, since it's your birthday..."
Appoline counted to five, and then: "Mama! Come see Uncle Siri!" "Uncle Woof a dog! Uncle Woof a dog!" "Woof! Woof!"
...
Dinner was a little late. Bedtime doubly so. But once the children were in bed, the adults could catch up.
"So how have you been since we last saw you?", Appoline asked.
"Really good. Remus and I had a long conversation a month or so ago. Well, after he whacked me again, of course. Since then, things have been more like the old days.
When Remus had found out the details around James and Lily's death - particularly that James and Lily were dead partly because Sirius trusted Peter over him – the werewolf had felt shock, then disbelief, then hurt, then anger. It had taken months for Remus to grieve, and heal.
"That's good, I think?"
"Appoline, darling, it's always good when someone hits Sirius"
"Hey!"
"But joking aside, I'm glad. We hadn't invited Remus here tonight because of the full moon, but we were not sure what we would have done otherwise. It's good to know next year 'arry can have all his real family together for his birthday."
Sirius smiled and nodded. "Yeah, exactly! Speaking of Remus, he's been keeping on touch with you all and Harry, right?"
Appoline nodded. "We made sure he knew how to contact 'arry, and he's even visited with us once or twice."
Sebastian laughed, then added, "Of course, Fleur is torn – she loves Remus, but also just wants to monopolise all of 'arry's time".
Sirius looked amused. "Really? She's not like that with me. Is she?"
Sebastian grinned. "No, but perhaps that is because you are closer to their age? Mentally?"
"Hey!"
Appoline laughed, then added "Honestly, the fact you run around like a lunatic playing with them might have something to do with it. Also, you can transform into a massive dog."
"It's at least 80% the dog that does it"
Sirius looked mortally offended... then joined Sebastian and Appoline in their laughing.
...
That sleepover was the first of many. It became a tradition that the monthly Harry visits lasted the whole weekend, so too did special occasions like Harry's birthday, Christmas, and – albeit a more sombre affair – Halloween. And whilst Harry was treated relatively well at the Dursley home, it was the Delacour weekends that he looked forward to most.
When Harry turned three, Sebastian and Appoline started teaching Harry some French during each Delacour weekend. Harry had picked up a fair amount by osmosis, and whilst Fleur had started learning English – "I want to know what 'arry is saying!" – there were times when Harry and Fleur were obviously struggling with the language barrier.
Harry was an eager student; Sebastian and Appoline were sure he shared the same motive as Fleur, which they found adorable. By the time Harry turned four, Fleur's English and Harry's French was sufficient for them to be able to chatter away to each other mostly unaided, though sometimes Fleur had to resort to dragging Harry somewhere by the hand and pointing – something Harry did not mind.
...
Whilst Harry craved the times where he could see the Delacours, and Fleur in particular, there was someone who hated them.
Tom Marvolo Riddle was currently experiencing agony. Something must have gone wrong with one of the Horcruxes – whilst they had clearly stopped him dying completely, nothing in his research mentioned periods of intense, debilitating pain every month. The worst Dark Lord in history, still a mere wraith, had almost collapsed into the North Sea when one of those torrents of pain had flooded through his form.
Rather than gain strength, Tom had to fight to retain what little strength he still had, and whilst he hated these periods he could not understand what was causing them. At these times, the dark lord who named himself Lord Voldemort was truly afraid.
chapter 5
Harry was enjoying school. He and Dudley were making friends with several of the people in their class, and whilst Dudley was naturally more prone to distraction than Harry, Harry's good influence meant that Dudley at least tried to pay attention and learn. Most of the time.
But whilst Harry had some friends at school, it became common knowledge that Harry's best friend was someone he saw once a month. Harry hadn't meant for the whole class to know, it just happened because of a particularly observant teacher:
"Harry? You seem quite excited today. Is there something you're looking forward to?" asked Miss. Peach, Harry's teacher.
"Oh! I... well..."
Dudley, the more outgoing of the two, got there first. "Oh, Harry's always like this before a Delacour weekend!"
Miss Peach looked intrigued. "And what is a 'Delacour Weekend', Harry?"
"Oh, the Delacours are..."
"Dudley, give your cousin a chance to answer" Miss. Peach chided gently.
"Sorry Miss. Peach"
"Well, the Delacours are my Godparents. Well, Sebastian and Appoline are. Fleur isn't my Godparent, because she's only six. But she'll be seven soon. They live a long way away, in France, but every month I see them for a weekend. We always do fun things, and I get to see Fleur, and they're sort of like my family but not actually my family like related, but they say they're my family, and... And that's what a Delacour weekend is, Miss. Peach"
Miss Peach, who was used to such streams of consciousness, didn't bat an eye. She was about to ask a question when Dudley whispered (well, half shouted) conspiratorially, "Fleur is Harry's favourite. He talks about her the most".
Harry, trying to be polite, clarified. "Well, I love Sebastian and Appoline too, but I love Fleur just a bit more."
"She's Harry's best friend", nodded Dudley sagely.
Miss. Peach looked a little surprised. "Oh, I thought Dudley might be your best friend."
Again, Dudley got there first. "No, my mummy's my best friend and Fleur is Harry's best friend. But we're second best friends."
Harry nodded importantly.
Miss. Peach smiled affectionately – children could be so cute. "I see! Well, thank you for telling me about Delacour weekends, Harry"
Then, as the thought occurred to her, "Harry, if you spend time in France every month, does that mean you can speak some words in French?"
Harry nodded proudly. "Yes, I've been learning since I was three!"
"Very impressive!" exclaimed Miss. Peach. She had no idea what Harry just said, having never learned French herself, but she was a primary school teacher – she was excellent at pretending she knew what her pupils were talking about.
...
It was not that Delacour weekend, but the one after, when Fleur turned seven. It was also the first Harry visit that Fleur was not looking forward to.
"Fleur, I don't think you need to be so worried."
"But Mama, we don't know how 'arry will react!"
Appoline sat next to Fleur, putting an arm around her. "Fleur, angel, is there something you're worried will happen?"
"What if... What if 'arry can't talk to me anymore? Or if he goes all drooling?" A pause, and then Fleur voiced her main fear: "What if Harry doesn't like me anymore?"
Appoline pulled Fleur closer, kissed her head, then answered her. "Your allure has only just started to appear, and you will learn to control it before it gets too strong. Besides, I don't think it will cause 'arry a problem."
"How come, Mama?"
Appoline smiled. "Because I expect 'arry has gotten used to it at least a little, no? I control my allure most of the time, but 'arry has been exposed to it for years and he hasn't stopped loving me, has he?"
Fleur gave a small smile. Her worry was still there, but she also had a glimmer of hope to balance out the fear. Maybe Harry wouldn't be affected by her allure after all.
...
Harry was affected by Fleur's allure, in a way. Though not in the way Fleur had imagined.
"Fleur!" cried Harry, as he threw his arms around her and hugged her tightly.
Fleur hugged Harry back, but she was a little distracted, waiting to see if anything bad would happen.
"Fleur, are you ok? You seem a bit sad."
Fleur shook her head. "I'm ok, 'arry"
Appoline saved Fleur some embarrassment. "Fleur is just worried about something silly, to do with magic. She will be ok by tomorrow, I'm sure."
Fleur just nodded and held Harry.
"Why don't you two go catch up? I'm sure you 'ave lots to talk about." Appoline knew they always did.
Fleur led Harry to their favourite sofa, where they sat opposite each other and began to talk. It was only after a minute, however, when Harry moved to sit next to Fleur.
"'arry?"
"I want a cuddle. You feel sort of warm and relaxing like Appoline sometimes does, and I like it."
Fleur looked a little apprehensive, but when Harry merely burrowed into her side and carried on chatting away like normal, she started to feel better. Her allure making Harry a bit more cuddly – sort of like a large teddy bear, really – was actually nice.
...
By the end of the weekend, Fleur actually quite liked her allure. Harry clearly enjoyed the warm, relaxing feeling it gave him, but he was still her Harry, and they were still best friends. Also, Sebastian had commented that Harry kept acting like a cat that wanted head scratches, which made Fleur giggle whenever she thought about it.
Appoline was delighted. She hadn't said it to Fleur, but she had been a little worried herself that the allure would affect Fleur's most treasured friendship. As it was, that friendship was clearly fine.
Appoline did wonder briefly if this meant Fleur would monopolise even more of Harry's time in future, but she smiled and shook her head fondly – Fleur and Harry were adorable together.
All too soon, however, the weekend was over and Harry was being given a month's worth of hugs from the Delacours. Fleur, especially, hugged Harry for an extra long time, with Sebastian having to practically peel them apart in order to get Harry back for bedtime.
"You will see 'arry soon, angel. You can let him go for now", teased Sebastian.
Fleur just sighed, and gave Harry one last squeeze goodbye.
...
Elsewhere, a different family was spending time together, though one member of the family was currently experiencing a shocking betrayal of the highest order.
"You know Harry Potter?!"
"Erm, yes? I'm his Godfather, after all."
"Dad, Uncle Siri is messing with me isn't he? This is like that time he told me that I could turn into a badger, isn't it?"
Sirius laughed loudly at the memory. He didn't even know whether Metamorphmagi could turn into an animal or not, but he had said it so confidently that Nymphadora believed him. And spent the next 2 hours giving it a go. The fur on her back had been particularly impressive.
Ted Tonks smiled. "Actually dear, he's telling the truth this time. Sirius sees him quite regularly, too."
"WHAT? Why didn't anyone tell me?"
"Nymphadora, why are you shouting?", asked Andromeda, coming into the room.
"Mum! Uncle Sirius knows Harry Potter, and dad knew, and neither of them told us!"
Andromeda looked confused. "Of course he knows Harry, Sirius is his Godfather after all."
In that moment, Nymphadora Tonks felt the full force of the betrayal. "YOU KNEW TOO?!"
In order to mollify Nymphadora, Sirius had to promise to introduce her to Harry. Of course, that just meant that she was excited.
"When can we go meet him?", she demanded.
"Well I might not have mentioned this earlier...", began Sirius.
"Yes?"
"...but I've already met him, so it's really just 'you', not 'we'", he finished cheekily.
Nymphadora whacked Sirius on the arm and scowled.
Sirius laughed. "Ok, ok. Well not this weekend, he's seeing his other Godparents. Maybe he can come for dinner one evening this week, and you can join us?"
"Yes! Do that!"
...
Harry was happy to spend time with his Uncle Woof – the nickname now a shared joke between them – but he was currently a little confused.
"But why does your cousin want to meet me?"
Sirius was about to correct Harry, but then realised that explaining second cousins was a waste of time. And he'd probably get it wrong, anyway. "Because she's heard all about you, of course!"
"What have you told her about me?"
"Well, it turns out not all that much apparently. She was quite miffed about that."
Harry just looked more confused. "But you said she's heard all about me!"
Sirius joined Harry in looking confused. "Well, of course she has, pup. You're Harry Potter."
Harry looked blankly at Sirius. Sirius was being very strange!
Realisation began to dawn on Sirius. "Wait... Hasn't Sebastian or Appoline explained it to you?"
"Explained what, Uncle Woof?"
"That you're famous in the wizarding world, pup."
"Really? Why?"
After Sirius had given a brief overview to Harry, and after Harry had taken a few minutes to try to understand what it all meant, it was still too confusing. "But I can't remember any of that night!" declared Harry.
"Yeah, I know. People are weird sometimes. But Nymphadora will be all excited to meet you."
"Oh. Ok."
...
Nymphadora arrived with Ted and Andromeda – Sirius had figured he might as well invite the whole family – and to say she was excited to meet Harry was an understatement.
"Wow! You're Harry Potter! I can't believe I'm meeting you! It's so cool that you stopped an evil wizard when you were one! And look at your scar! It's just like the books said; it's so cool! What cool magic can you do?"
Harry was amazed. Not at the fact that this girl said all that without breathing (impressive though that was), but at her hair! It was cycling through the colours of the rainbow several times a second!
"Nymphadora, how about you introduce yourself to start with? I'm Andromeda, by the way, and this is my husband, Ted"
"Hello Harry, it's good to meet you."
"Hello, I'm Harry" replied Harry, a little shyly.
"I'm Tonks!" said Nymphadora
"No" "Too confusing" "Vetoed"
"What? What's the matter?" replied Nymphadora a little crossly.
"Too confusing. The three of you all have the same last name, you can't use that as a nickname when your mum and dad are right there", answered Sirius, getting there first.
"Urgh! But my name's silly!"
"It's a lovely name" "It's a fine name" "..."
"See! Uncle Siri agrees!"
Harry, by this point, was enjoying the show. Not the discussion, of course, but how the girl's hair seemed to change so often! It was fascinating.
"How about a nickname instead?"
"Uncle Siri, I will whack you if you call me 'Nymph' or 'Nympho'"
"Erm... Dora?"
Nymphadora just glared.
"Ok, maybe a nickname that doesn't have anything to do with your name?"
"Like what, Uncle Siri?", said Tonks, suspiciously.
"Cheveu" offered Harry, surprising everyone.
"Cheveu? What made you think of that?" asked Nymphadora.
"It's French for hair, and your hair is so cool! It keeps changing colours!"
Nymphadora gave an embarrassed smile. "It's just something I could always do. It's a special magical thing I was born with"
"Wow! That's really cool, Cheveu!"
"Not as cool as beating up an evil wizard when you were a baby."
"But you can do your hair thing all the time, and I don't even know how I beat the evil wizard!"
The girl stopped for a moment in thought, then came to a decision. She stuck out her hand towards Harry, and introduced herself: "Hi. I'm Cheveu. Nice to meet you."
Harry grinned and shook Cheveu's hand.
...
By the end of dinner, Harry had decided that he quite liked all of the Tonkses, but Cheveu in particular. And when Cheveu had declared that Harry could be her little brother, Harry was delighted.
Harry would have liked to stay and play longer, but Sirius knew it was getting towards Harry's bedtime and that he needed his sleep. So, reluctantly, Harry said his goodbyes and Sirius apparated Harry back home.
A couple of minutes later, Sirius was back. "So, what did everyone think of Harry Potter?"
"He's really cool! And he's going to be my brother!"
"I didn't know you wanted a little brother, dear"
"I don't want just any little brother, mum. I want a cool brother! And now I have one!"
"I liked Harry. He seems like a nice boy", offered Ted.
"Yes, he does. Even if he has pretty much guaranteed that our daughter will never use her given name", said Andromeda, disappointedly.
Sirius laughed. "Well, at least Nymphadora is happy"
The girl in question gave a haughty look. "My name isn't Nymphadora, Uncle Siri. It's Cheveu."
chapter 6
Harry had been at the Delacours' home for five minutes, and therefore he was on his favourite sofa, burrowed into Fleur's side and happily chatting away.
"...and her hair kept changing colour! It was really cool."
"Was someone jinxing her? Was it Uncle Siri?"
Harry shook his head. "No, she said it was some magic she could do since she was a baby."
"I've not heard of that before. Maybe we should ask Papa about it. You said it was Uncle Siri's cousin?"
Harry nodded. "Yes, that's what he said"
Fleur smiled. "Then Papa might know her"
At that moment, Sebastian and Appoline appeared. "I might know who?"
"Uncle Siri's cousin. 'arry met her the other day, and says her hair kept changing colour but it wasn't a jinx."
Sebastian chuckled in recognition. "Ah, you mean little Nymphadora. She's a Metamorphmagus, which means she can change what she looks like whenever she wants."
Harry nodded. "That's her. But she didn't like her name, so I gave her a nickname."
Sebastian looked curious. "What nickname?"
"Cheveu" said Harry, matter-of-factly.
Sebastian sniggered, and Fleur laughed. "You named her "Hair"?!", Fleur asked in a disbelieving tone.
"Because her hair kept changing colour. And I think Cheveu sounds nice" said Harry, a little affronted.
Fleur valiantly tried to stop her giggles, and mostly succeeded.
"Anyway," Harry continued "she even said I could be her little brother!"
Fleur had an odd look on her face. "How old is she? She must be quite old to be Uncle Siri's cousin."
Appoline answered, "she'd be about nine or ten, I think."
Fleur felt strange. She thought Harry was talking about an adult, but now she knew he was talking about a girl a couple of years older than her, Fleur's stomach didn't feel very nice.
Still, she decided to ignore that feeling for now, and think about it later; there was a different thought swimming through her mind now. "I wish I had a brother or a sister", Fleur thought aloud.
Sebastian and Appoline grinned at each other – this was perfect!
"Well Fleur, that's actually something we came to speak to you and Harry about", began Appoline.
Fleur and Harry looked up at Sebastian and Appoline, curious.
"It turns out wishes do come true, angel, because your Mama is pregnant!"
Fleur blinked once. Twice. Then she squealed in delight. "Really?! You're really pregnant? I'm going to have a baby brother or sister?!"
"Sister probably, with our Veela heritage. But yes, angel."
Fleur extracted herself from Harry, stood up, and was then was pulled into a Delacour family hug. A few seconds later Harry joined in.
"That's so exciting!", exclaimed Harry.
Fleur just nodded, her eyes wet with happy tears.
...
The Delacours had a family celebration, and happy emotions were running riot during the day. But as evening approached, Fleur's mind went back to the earlier conversation about Cheveu, and by bedtime she was able to voice at least part of her worry.
"'arry?", came the voice from the other bed in the room.
"Yes, Fleur?"
"... are we still best friends?" Came the nervous question.
Harry was not expecting that question. Why would Fleur even ask that?
"Of course we are! We'll always be best friends!"
"But... but you talked a lot about Cheveu, and she sounds cooler than me, and you said she's going to be your big sister, and you'll probably go to the same school, and... and... it makes me sad that you won't be my best friend anymore"
Harry knew this was serious – best friend talk was about the most serious topic you could get at their ages, aside from cake. So he climbed out of his bed, climbed into Fleur's bed, and hugged her as tightly as he hugged his wolf teddy.
"Fleur, you'll be my best friend forever!" Harry proclaimed. "Everyone knows that. Even Dudley and my other friends at school know you're my best friend."
Fleur hugged Harry back, but her worries remained. "What about when you go to 'ogwarts? Or when we're all grown up?"
"I'll make sure everyone at Hogwarts knows your my best friend. And we'll be best friends even when we're all grown up. We could even live in the same house when we're older!"
Fleur looked at Harry, eyes full of hope. "We can live in the same house when we're older? And I would see you everyday?"
Harry grinned as a thought occurred to him: "Every day can be a sleepover day!"
Fleur giggled; she was feeling a bit better.
...
The next morning, Appoline went to wake up Fleur and Harry; that in and of itself was unusual, as the two were usually up early on a Harry weekend. When Appoline walked into Fleur's room, she was met by a surprising but adorable sight – Harry and Fleur were sat up together in Fleur's bed, leaning against each other and fast asleep.
"Fleur, 'arry, it's morning" Appoline called softly. Harry stirred first, blinking his eyes and looking around confused. His small movements woke up Fleur, who also woke confused.
Appoline smiled indulgently. "Shall I assume you were in bed a little late last night?"
Harry, having his bearings first, answered. "Fleur was feeling a bit sad, and we had to talk about best friends, and then she felt better, and then we fell asleep."
Appoline felt she was clearly missing a key detail. "You had to have a conversation about best friends?"
Fleur looked a little embarrassed at that question, so she let Harry answer. "Fleur was a bit worried that we might not be best friends, but I told her we would always be best friends, even when we were grown ups. We're even going to live in the same house when we're older, so we can have sleepovers every day!"
Fleur looked moderately embarrassed, but gave a small smile and nodded. Appoline, on the other hand, laughed a little before she could stop herself. "I see! Well thank you for explaining that. Anyway, breakfast is ready, so hurry up and come on down."
...
For the next few Delacour weekends, Harry saw Appoline's stomach get bigger and bigger. By Harry's sixth birthday, her stomach looked huge, though Harry was told there were probably a couple of weeks left until the baby was ready to come out.
Appoline had explained that because the baby was nearly ready to arrive, she would rest at home while Sebastian took Fleur and Harry out for the day. The trip would be Harry's first trip to the zoo.
"Let's go look at the birds! Then the penguins! Oh, and then the otters!" exclaimed an excited Fleur.
Sebastian chuckled at Fleur's enthusiasm, then gently reminded her, "It's 'arry's birthday, angel, don't you think he should decide?"
Fleur muttered a quick apology, but Harry just smiled and squeezed the hand he was holding. "Let's look at everything!"
...
Harry had not been exaggerating - he really did want to see everything. Sebastian had planned something else in case they finished early at the zoo, but that clearly would not be needed! By late afternoon Sebastian, Fleur and Harry approached the remaining area of the zoo they hadn't yet explored – the reptiles.
Fleur had claimed the reptiles were the least interesting of the animals at the zoo, and so far Harry had to agree – the turtles barely moved, the crocodiles were being lazy, the lizards were hiding somewhere and the snakes were asleep. Harry had turned to leave when he heard a voice.
"Just a bit longer mate, and then the idiot humans will leave and we can stop pretending to sleep."
Harry turned back suddenly, looking around. "Who said that?"
"Oi! Geoff! That human almost sounded like he was speaking to us"
"Have you eaten this month? You know you always hear things when you're hungry, Barry"
"Who's speaking? Who's there?", asked Harry.
"Bloody hell, Barry, it's a speaker!"
"What? No way! We haven't seen one of them for ages!"
The two snakes nearest Harry stopped pretending to sleep. They were now very much awake, and facing each other him.
"Hey you! You must be a wizard, and a special one at that if you can hear us! I'm Geoff" the left snake nodded.
"And I'm Barry." The right snake nodded.
"I'm Harry. And this is my best friend Fleur and my Godfather Sebastian."
"Nice to meet you Harry!"
"Yeah, nice to meet you, Harry."
"Say, Harry?"
"Yes, erm, Barry?"
"Any chance you can conjure a vole? I'm really craving vole."
"I knew you were hungry!"
"Yeah, but I wasn't imagining things, was I?"
"Well I haven't started magical school yet, so I don't know any spells, but... Sebastian, do you know how to conjure a vole?"
...
Harry had a pleasant chat with Geoff and Barry, and once Sebastian had overcome his initial shock he proved he was, indeed, able to conjure a vole. Fleur was fascinated by the snakes, and Harry's ability to talk to them, but she was a little disturbed by the feeding. Still, she did enjoy it when Harry offered to act as a translator for a minute.
All too soon, however, the three humans had to leave - especially when another family entered the reptile area. So with some goodbyes - "Visit us again Harry!" "Yeah, and bring the Vole Wizard!" – Sebastian, Fleur and Harry left the zoo and returned back home... Although not before a trip to the gift shop to spend some (but oddly, not all) of the money Sebastian had given them both.
On the way back, Sebastian explained that Harry's special talent meant he was known as a parselmouth. He also explained that in Britain, parselmouths had often been evil – Lord Voldemort as the most recent example – so he might wish to hide his ability.
Fleur was impressed, and also happy that Harry now had a special talent that even most witches and wizards didn't have – just like she did. The only thing she didn't like was the idea that Harry would have to hide his talent – that seemed silly to her.
When they returned to the Delacour home, it was to find Sirius and Remus had already arrived.
"Uncle Woof! Uncle Remus!" "Uncle Siri! Remus!"
"Happy birthday pup! And hi Fleur" "Happy birthday Harry. Hello Fleur."
After a round of hugs, and a period of both Sirius and Remus chasing Harry and Fleur around the house, the conversation turned to Harry's newly-discovered talent.
"That's really cool; Parselmouths are really rare, pup" stated Sirius
"Indeed", smiled Remus, "though we'll have to be careful who knows about it; the stigma around them in Britain is quite strong."
"Hey, how about we conjure a snake, and then Harry can show off his ability?"
"No, not in the 'ouse"
"Agreed. Not where Appoline could see."
"Sebastian!", Appoline half shouted, half laughed. He could be incorrigible, but she loved him dearly.
"'ow about some nearby woods?" Sebastian suggested more seriously.
...
It was becoming tradition for Harry's birthday dinner to be late. Harry was excited to try out his new talent, Fleur wanted to talk to another snake, Sebastian wanted to witness parseltongue again, Sirius wanted to see if snakes could understand barking (they couldn't), and Remus just wanted to see his honorary nephew and his best friend having fun; as such, it was later than planned when the five returned to the Delacour home. Appoline had expected as such.
After dinner, and after Sirius and Remus had left, "love you both, pups!" "Bye Fleur. See you soon, Harry", Fleur had a serious question she had been pondering on and off all day: "Mama, Papa, how much do houses cost?"
"Quite a lot, angel. Why do you ask?"
"Well, we need one for when Harry and I are grown ups and we want our own house for sleepovers."
Harry nodded solemnly, fully in agreement.
Sebastian barely managed not to laugh, though his eyes showed his amusement. "I see. Well, houses cost more than most things – more than toys, games, books; even more than broomsticks."
Fleur was a little surprised – broomsticks were very expensive! – but the knowledge was helpful. "So we would have to save for a long time?"
Appoline smiled encouragingly. "Yes, but saving is a good habit to get into. You might even decide, after a while, that you want to use the money for something that costs a little less than a house"
Fleur nodded. "Could we use the money we didn't spend at the zoo to start saving?"
Harry nodded, earnestly. "Yes, could we?"
Sebastian chuckled; this explained the leftover money from the gift shop – those two were smart! A wordless conversation between Sebastian and Appoline, and then: "Yes, you can; that's a very sensible idea. You realise with exchange rates that would be about four galleons?"
Harry looked pleased, Fleur too. They hadn't expected francs to be worth so much! They knew there was a lot more to save – broomsticks could be hundreds of galleons, so houses must be even more – but this was a good start.
Fleur and Harry had one more question they wanted to ask, and this time Harry voiced it: "Can we set up a shared Gringotts account for Fleur and I?"