Chapter 34
Terror flooded Harry's body as he watched Hermione's dead body go limp in front of him. Her vacant eyes stared in disbelief, and her mouth was forever stuck in a silent scream. Daphne ran towards Hermione's lifeless body dropping to her knees, crying and shaking his first friend, first love, before looking at Harry and screaming with an otherworldly rage and hatred.
"This is all your fault!"
Her words wracked his body with more pain than the worst cruciatus curse. "Everything you touch becomes tainted and dies! All you do is hurt people. How could you, Harry! You are nothing but a monster! A freak!"
No!
Every one of his senses screamed at him. His instincts would not be fooled. This was wrong. This was not real.
Fear and guilt gave way to a primal fury.
Harry clenched his fangs, and his muscles strained as his iron grip on the sword tightened. The werewolf felt the magic channeling through his body, the colors gathering around him as he raised the sword of Gryffindor over his head.
Sirius and Jacques had given him some weapon training over the summer, but there was no finesse here. This was a visceral strike. It was pure rage and magic, life against death, as the sword struck the cup in front of him.
The old cup gave an inhumane scream, one able to freeze the blood of those around it. Harry could clearly see the blade cutting through the magic that kept the unnatural thing bound in the cup to the plane of the living. Feral rage clashed against the magical abomination, Harry's arm were inundated with pain as he fought. With a final roar, he pressed his magic, and the blade, and with a flash, the Horcrux was no more.
Harry took a deep breath and relaxed a fraction as the unnatural stench began to dissipate. He looked around to see Daphne, Hermione, Katie, and the headmaster watching him. His girls looked scared while Dumbledore had a satisfied but tired smile.
"Well done, Harry, well done indeed. The way you are able to focus and direct your magic is fascinating. And, dare I say, very powerful." The old wizard stood beside him, looking at the destroyed cup. "It was such a beautiful and precious artifact. It is a shame to see it destroyed because of Tom's vanity. Alas, for us, it is good news. If my theory is correct, Tom becomes weaker with each part of his soul we destroy. His soul is so mutilated that he will not be able to do horcruxes, even his magic must be damaged. "
"Yes, I saw that," Harry chuckled. "He is still powerful tho.." The werewolf sighed.
"It is true," Dumbledore placed his good hand on Harry's shoulder. "He has an intrinsic knowledge of magic, and he will never be a weak opponent. But the connection you have with magic is one rarely seen, and, contrary to Voldemort, it didn't come from destroying who you are but from accepting it. And remember, you are not alone." The old wizard looked around them. With a wave of his hand, Dumbledore floated the cup into his hand. "Harry, I know you can't completely trust me, but there is still a thing or two I want to teach you if you would allow me."
Harry considered the headmaster's offer, and could not detect any lies. The older man's time was running out, and Harry did not want to dismiss his help.
Harry nodded. The headmaster smiled at him and said his goodbyes, walking away with the cup.
The sword then vanished from Harry's hand, and only then did he notice how badly his arm shook. How hard it was for him to remain standing, and as he felt himself beginning to collapse two strong arms pulled him into a tight embrace. Hermione's scent enveloped him as she held him with her surprisingly strong arms. The girl pressed her lips into his softly before asking.
"Are you ok, Harry?"
Harry wrapped his non-trembling arm around Hermione and returned her hug, drinking in her calming earthy scent.
"Yeah, I'm fine." He answered. Hermione kept her arms around him while Katie ran a hand through his hair.
"Bloody hell, that was scary." The she-wolf said, looking at the scorched mark on the ground.
"It always is," Harry said, still running his hand on Hermione's back. "It was different this time, tho…" the three girls gave a go-on look at him. "Even if I didn't see magic as I do right now, I can't help but feel that the diary was stronger, more… aware, and dangerous." He said.
Hermione bit her lower lip at this, as she usually did when thinking.
"If the headmaster's theory is correct, it makes sense." She said.
"How so?" Daphne asked. Hermione kept her arms around Harry as they started walking back to the castle.
"If Voldemort gets a little weaker every time one of his anchors gets destroyed, it means there is a connection between his so-called soul and his magic. Think about what Harry and Katie said, that magic is intrinsically connected to each of us. So, he would, in all actuality, be severing his magic." The others nodded. "The diary was the first Horcrux he made, right? He was still in his teens. So, when he made it, his magic would be whole, complete, so the part severed would be bigger. By the time he got to the last ones, his magic would be so mutilated that they would be almost like whispers. Like Harry's scar."
"That… makes a lot of sense," Daphne said.
"Well, let's hope you're right," Harry whispered. "So I can at least have a chance…"
.oOo.
The Dark Lord clawed at his own chest as the burning sensation that spread throughout his entire body finally slowly subsided.Even though his breathing remained labored and his eyesight was blurry for several more minutes.
It was not the first time he had felt like this since he had acquired his new body. Nor was it the first time he felt like something was being ripped from him and lost forever.
And, like before, the monster that stalked him inside his mind got even closer.
Voldemort was convinced Harry Potter's blood had done something to him during the ritual, but he didn't know what, and that infuriated the Dark Lord.
His research was flawless. The ritual he had chosen should have circumvented the blood protections Lily Potter had cast over her son. How regretful he was about killing them. The woman was brilliant, and the man was a powerhouse; they would have made such a great addition to his ranks. But their pesky love for each other and the child had sealed their destinies. If he were honest, Voldemort would have liked for Harry Potter to have accepted his offer and joined him. His was a clearly powerful bloodline, and magic ran deep within the boy; even the Dark Lord could see it. More than everything, the ritual should have allowed Voldemort to tackle this power and steal some of the boy's magic to himself.
But something had gone very wrong. Now, it was his own magic that bled. It was the boy who got the magic from him.
As the pain lessened, the Dark Lord shivered. He couldn't let his followers know what was happening, some of them were nothing more than vipers awaiting an opening to strike. Even if none of them could defeat him, the distraction could prove fatal.
No, he had to find a way to undo the damage to his magic and kill the boy, preferably in the most public way so that he could assert his dominance. The world had to know he was the true Dark Lord and that everyone should kneel before him.
.oOo.
Parvati had to admit that she felt a lot better this time around. The day after her first change had been hell; she felt tired, magically exhausted, and in pain. Now, though the pain remained, it was much less than before, and she actually felt energized, like she was a little more in tune with her magic.
The morning nonetheless, had been a rollercoaster of emotions, first the shock of watching Harry and Katie having sex and the desire she felt at it. Parvati's infatuation with Harry which began a year ago had grown into something much more, but seeing him like that only deepened her desire. She wanted him, and she wouldn't mind sharing. Then, the two strangers appeared. The man was so terrifyingly powerful that Parvati was paralyzed by fear, and only Harry's presence made her not cry and submit to the monster. She was not sure what they were talking about, but she had to be ready for this kind of thing with everything that happened around Harry.
The witch only hoped Harry would trust her one day and explain everything. Well, one step at a time.
The girl finished putting on her school robes when she noticed a familiar scent approaching her. Lavender, who, funnily enough, didn't smell like lavender, but a mixture of paper and her own sweet scent. Now that Parvati's magic was settled and her senses calmer, she could smile as her friend came closer.
"Ok, girl, spill it!" The bubbly girl asked with an excited voice as she grabbed Parvati's hands.
"What are you babbling about?" The Indian witch asked as they descended the stairs into the Gryffindor's common room.
"Oh, c'mon Parv, you have been all crunk for the last few days, then you stay out all night… don't deny it, I saw your empty bed! And now, you look way better and happier! Who's the lucky guy?"
At that moment, the door opened, and Harry entered the common room, still wearing the same clothes from when they woke up, followed closely by Katie and Hermione. Parvati couldn't help but take a deep breath and drink in his scent, now accentuated by the sweat from whatever he had done with the headmaster after she left. His smell was intoxicating and powerful that the girl couldn't help but blush. It got even worse when he just smiled at her as he walked up to the boy's dormitory.
"Oh my goodness, oh my goodness!" Lavender said, dragging Parvati out of the common room. "You did it! You finally did it!"
"What?" Parvati asked, confused.
"You shagged Harry Potter!" Lavender's voice was low but brimming with excitement. "I mean, he's kinda a man whore, like, he has a couple of girlfriends already, but I know you have fancied him for a while…"
"Lav!"
"He must be a very good shag though, to have all those girls running after him, last term he even had a veela and…"
"LAV!"
"What?"
"It's nothing like that!"
Lavender raised one of her perfectly manicured eyebrows at her blushing friend. Parvati had to take a deep breath to try and calm herself, especially now that she knew that Harry was indeed a good shag, by how Katie was riding him, moving up and down his hard… Parvati shook her head.
"Ok," Lavender said, stopping in front of her friend. "I want you to look into my eyes and tell me that you didn't spend the night with Harry Potter."
Parvati looked back at her, ready to deny it, but she could only bite her bottom lip. Even if she couldn't remember, she did spend the night with Harry and Katie.
"Ha! I knew it!" Lavender grabbed Parvati's arm and started walking again. "Don't worry, I will keep your secret. I mean, you don't need any more competition. So, will you snatch him for yourself, or will you keep sharing our promiscuous chosen one with Granger and Bell?"
.oOo.
Katie and her friend LeAnne were the first ones to arrive at the first official meeting of the defense club, other than Harry, of course.
The young wizard was finishing his own routine; shooting spells against the training dummies while dodging spells being fired at him.
Katie had seen Harry fight before, dueling against Fleur, in the ministry, training during the summer, but it never failed to impress her. The look of sheer concentration, the tensing and relaxing of his muscles, the speed, and precision of his movements. And the smell, Katie loved the scent of his sweat, his determination. It did things to her that no one else would ever do. It was a mixture of arousal and admiration, a desire to pounce on him and have her way, be flooded with his seed, and have his cubs.
"Wow…" LeAnne's whisper brought Katie back to reality. "He really is incredible…"
"Yes, he is." Katie smiled, feeling a wave of pride at her friend's words. He was her Harry, her alpha.
"I can see why you let him into your knickers." The blond girl smiled, and Katie elbowed her friend.
"Bint!" Katie said. But it was true, even if she loved him for who he was, there was also something about Harry that spoke to the more primitive and instinctive part of her.
Harry finished destroying the dummies, only for them to begin repairing themselves, and the werewolf finally looked at Katie with a smile. He walked towards the two girls, and Katie promptly stepped forward and kissed her boyfriend, hoping he could smell her arousal.
"Hi, Katie," Harry said with a smile. " Hi, LeAnne."
"Hi, Harry!" The blond Gryffindor waved at him. Daphne, Tracey, and the other Slytherins were the next ones to arrive, with professor Flitchwik, who would be the faculty sponsor of the now-official club.
Katie was surprised by the variety and number of students coming into the room. She saw Hermione squeeze in between two Ravenclaw boys, and make her way to stand by Daphne. She felt Harry tense next to her, and it seemed she wasn't the only one that noticed the sharp uptick in members this year. Grabbing Harry's hand, she gave him a reassuring squeeze before he smiled back at her. Harry took a deep breath, and let go of Katie's hand as his eyes glowed with determination and stepped forward.
"Hello, everyone. I'm happy to see the returning faces and also the new ones." Harry looked around at the other students. "I guess you all know why we're here, so I will not sugarcoat it. Things are bad, and they will get worse before the end. Some of us have already suffered in the first stages of this war," Harry looked at Padma, Parvati, and Susan. "I want to say this war is not our fault. We were not the ones who started it, and unfortunately, most of us can't escape it. It is really shit, sorry, professor, that we have to suffer for the mistakes of others, but I want to remind you all that we have the power to end it. And not only with our wands." Harry chuckled. "To be honest, fighting is the easy part; yeah, true!" He said to the disbelieving looks he was getting. "We go out there, give our best not to die, and take out some of the bastards! The Hard part is what comes next, and that is what we can do differently from those that came before. Here we have people from all houses, blood statuses, social statuses, and colors. We stand together as equals, we will fight together, and we will support each other when this war is over. But first, we have to survive, and I will try my best to teach you how to do that. Those already in the club from last year, this side, new members, over on this side."
Katie watched as Harry took charge with a lascivious smile. She had to restrain herself from pouncing on him again; luckily, this time, she would have someone to redirect her frustrations towards.
"Hey, LeAnne, let's pair together!" She called.
.oOo.
"Oh, good evening, mister Potter." Madam Pomfrey greeted as Harry walked through the hospital wing doors, still fresh from his shower after the defense club meeting.
"To you as well, Madam Pomfrey." He answered. The matron gave him a rare smile.
"I feel like I should chastise you for getting yourself into the hospital so soon in the term, mister Potter, but, luckily, you are not my patient this time." The older woman grinned, and Harry chuckled.
"True. Thanks again, by the way, for letting us use your office."
"Don't mention it, Harry. I was actually quite curious about this kind of treatment. It seems to get more enduring results than our usual mind-healing spells."
"It's a lot of work, though," Harry said.
"Repairing the body and mind is far more difficult than tearing them down, Harry. Now, don't keep Ms. Durant waiting." The Matron said with a warm smile.
Harry nodded at the healer and stepped into her sterile and sober office. Two impossibly comfortable armchairs sat under a picture of a young Madam Pomfrey with an equally young professor McGonagall who both gave Harry a demure smile right before the fireplace flared green, and Justine Durant walked into the room.
"Welcome, mademoiselle Durant!" Harry greeted the beautiful dark-skinned veela as she waved her wand, vanishing the soot from her clothes.
"Merci, monsieur Potter," Justine greeted back, phantom kissing both his cheeks before sitting in one of the chairs while Harry took the other.
"So Harry, how has your first week back at school been?" The therapist asked.
Harry ran his hand over his hair, something he now recognized as a sign of his anxiety, and took a deep breath. He started relating what had happened since he had come back to school, everything other than his night encounter with Theodore Nott. Justine's eyes widened as he spoke about Fenrir and their exchange in the forest.
"I can't help but notice," Justine said, keeping a calm, supportive tone. "You sound more disturbed when you talk about Greyback than when you do about the Dark Lord."
That made Harry stop and think, and, after a couple of seconds, he couldn't help but nod.
"I think it is different. Voldemort is someone crazy by power, but in a way, I could never see myself being him. Yes, we will face each other, and one of us will die, but I see him almost like my antithesis." Harry laid back in the chair and looked at the ceiling. "Greyback is different; for me, he is scarier. From the scars on his body to the way he sees magic. I can see myself in him. I can never see myself becoming like Voldemort, but I can see myself becoming like Greyback. And that terrifies me to no end." Harry looked back at Justine, who nodded encouraging him to continue. "And there are also the dreams…"
"Dreams?", She gently pressed when Harry trailed off.
"Yes, dreams of a world where the wolves rule above all others, magical and non-magical, feared and revered. Dreams of violence and hunting and… mating. It seems Greyback has those too and calls them the hunter's paradise or something." Harry spoke quietly, unsure and hesitant to acknowledge the shared visions, and dreams of a monster.
"And you? What do you think of those dreams?" The veela asked with interest. Harry raised a questioning eyebrow, thinking hard about the question. He had thought about the reoccurring dreams more than once.
"To be honest, being a little anticlimactic, I think they are just manifestations of my predatory subconscious. Just like the dreams of normal wolves, the only difference is that I have a more rational mind to think about it…" Harry said, and Justine smiled at this. "What?"
"Tell me again why your grades are average in the non-practical subjects?" She asked.
Harry Shrugged.
"My relatives taught me very early not to get notice…"
.oOo.
By now, Daphne and others knew that if you could see the door when the Room of Requirement was in use, you were expected, or at least welcomed inside. She entered the usual training configuration that Harry used and could hear the shower in an adjacent room to the right.
A comfortable couch materialized as Daphne sat down, deliberating about what she wanted to say to her boyfriend that night, and how she would say it. She looked around his training room. Harry had been pushing himself to the point of exhaustion, barely able to manage his classwork. Fortunately, the term had only started so she and Hermione would be able to put some sense into his head before too much damage was done. Still, Daphne could understand to an extent why he was doing it.
Why bother with school when Death constantly hounded your footsteps?
Daphne sighed, she hated this cloud hanging over Harry, over them. She despised it. Why couldn't she be pursuing a carefree life like Tracey?
Daphne's train of thought was derailed as Harry walked out of the bathroom, dressed only in sweatpants and trying to dry his mess of hair with a towel. The witch stared, entranced by the way the few remaining droplets of water ran off his defined chest down his taut abdomen, drawing attention to his scars and the rune arrays marked on his chest. It never ceased to amaze her how much his presence affected her, even now after months together, her body would respond without any effort on his part. Moving her gaze to his eyes, she nearly froze at the power they held to captivate her once more. Except this time, she found something else in those emerald eyes, and it cooled her desire long enough for her mind to begin refocusing on her goal for tonight.
"Hi, Daph." Harry smiled at her, that bloody smile that made you feel like you're the most important person in the world and how happy he was to see you. A smile only a precious few ever experienced. Her heart fluttered, and all that Daphne could do at that moment was smile back and hope she could convey the same to him.
The witch noticed Harry's eyes hovering the exposed skin of her legs between the hem of her school skirt and her tights. Daphne quirked an eyebrow at Harry before she tapped the space beside her on the couch, silently asking Harry to sit. The young werewolf did just that.
"So, Harry, tell me…" Daphne said, resting her head on her hand. "What's your plan? "
Harry raised an eyebrow at the question.
"Well, I will keep training and preparing while the Headmaster, Sirius, and the others make sure there are no more Horcruxes and track Tom down. Then, when we find him, I will try and challenge him in a public way and…" Daphne gently placed a hand on Harry's bicep causing him to stop talking and look up at her deep frown and furrowed brows.
"That is not what I'm talking about, Harry. What do you want to do when it's all done, after you defeat him?"
Harry sat like deer caught in the headlights. He seemed to think for a while before turning his face away from Daphne.
"Why, miss Greengrass, are you hoping to take our relationship to the next step?" Harry's attempt to deflect was further diminished by a smile that didn't reach his eyes as he turned back to Daphne. Precisely the kind of response Daphne expected.
"Actually, yes," Daphne said, and Harry's eyes went wide once more. "But let's start with something else. Something simple. What do you want to do after you graduate?"
"I… I…" Harry stuttered, his mouth doing a marvelous impression of the goldfish Daphne saw when she was five. "I don't know if I will graduate, Daphne."
"Yes" Daphne turned her body to face him, "but what if you do?"
"Don't you think it is a little useless to think about it?" Harry turned away slightly, running a hand through his hair..
"Have you ever known me to ask a useless question, Mister Potter?" Any other moment this would have been a tease, but there was no humor to be found in Daphne's calm, controlled tone. "
"As much as I think I can take the wanker down, I… I'm afraid I will go down with him." It came out quietly, a secret not readily shared and Daphne gave Harry a sad smile. She moved her hand to Harry's cheek, guiding him to look at her.
"And then what happens? With me? Fleur, Hermione? Katie? What happens to the Potter line?" Harry looked at her silently, tears forming in the corner of his eyes. Daphne pressed on, "What happens if you don't die, Harry? What kind of life do you want after for yourself?"
Harry's l eyes weren't looking at her, they were staring beyond her, this room, and it nearly broke her to see how lost he was. Daphne stroked his cheek, helping bring him back to the conversation at hand.
"What do you want to do first, Harry? Do you want to travel the world, do you want to buy a home that is truly yours?" Daphne gazed deeply into Harry's eyes, willing the hope and desire of a future for him to be accepted.
Harry only held her gaze for a brief moment before looking down, "What if I die, Daphne? What happens then?"
Daphne didn't want the discussion to go in that direction but decided to answer the question, if not in the manner Harry was pushing towards.
"If you have no living magical family or heir, your vaults will be sealed. After some years, if no one can claim them, the properties will be seized by the ministry and auctioned, and the seat in the wizengamot will stay empty. That will be the story of the Potter line. As you are the only surviving member, and they were notorious for the small number of descendants. The Black line is also at risk if anything were to happen to Sirius before he can sire an heir."
Harry began running his hand through his hair, his eyes pinched closed as he took in Daphne's matter-of-fact reply, "Are you saying that if I don't survive my fight against Voldemort, that Draco could possibly inherit the Black Family fortune, and then buy the Potter fortune?"
"Yes," She continued to stroke his cheek, his stubble catching the ridges of her thumb every so often.
"Can't I give it all to you girls?", Harry opened his eyes, beseeching Daphne for a saving grace.
"Not until you become of age, the ministry made sure long ago that the fortune of dying families went to those that benefited them. Your only option is to have an heir to pass on your wealth."
"I... I …" Harry raised his eyes towards the dome ceiling. "You know… Professor McGonagall asked me something in my third year", his hands came down to rest in his lap as he continued. "At the time, I said I wanted to be an Auror. I had just found out what they were, and fighting dark magic user seemed to be my calling and now I-."
Harry's words were cut short as he took several short breaths, trying and slowly failing to stem the sob caught in the back of his throat.
Daphne leaned forward slightly, her thumb numb from rubbing across the stubble on Harry's cheek. Barely above a whisper, she asked, "And now?"
"I…" Harry looked down at his calloused and scarred hands. "I…I don't want to keep fighting… when it's over…."
Daphne gently and slowly moved her arms around Harry's neck and pulled him close to her, resting his head on her chest and letting him bask in her scent, while she did the same.
"There is a strength in not wanting to fight anymore, Harry; you have already done a lifetime's worth. If someone deserves some peace, it is you."
"I mean, I know I will have to fight politically…" Harry chuckled, and Daphne giggled.
"We can bring some real change, you know?" Daphne said.
"I hope so." His whisper ghosted over through her shirt, warming her skin.
"Potter the Politician sounds better the Potter the Auror, don't you think?!" Daphne teased.
"Yes…"
"Thank Merlin!" She nearly sobbed.
Harry got up from her chest and looked right into her eyes. Those emerald feral eyes looked deep into her soul. Daphne could see so much love, so much wanting and fear. So much honesty.
"Daphne, I… I want a family…"
.oOo.
Dressed in a hood, with shadows cast on his face, Draco entered the dirty pub in Knockturn alley. The place seemed covered in some kind of din fog, a mixture of cigar smoke and potion fumes. The smell of alcohol and urine was overwhelming and putrid, but he was sure they would be safe from prying eyes and ears inside this hellhole.
The Dark Lord had been actually easy to contact. Too easy, perhaps. A letter to Theodore Nott, then one to his father, all written in code, of course, and a business proposal from the new Malfoy head of house. The Dark Lord must be in real need of resources, Draco thought; some of the families in his clutches were well off, but none compared to the wealth of the Malfoys. Only the Greengrasses came closer, and the Blacks and Potters could surpass them. Not bad for a family that was not ancient or originally noble.
Draco scanned the room, and saw Frederick Nott seated on one of the tables in the back of the pub, and he also noticed Anthony Dolov on the table right beside him.
"Mister Nott," Draco said as he approached the table.
"Draco…" the older wizard started, but Draco decided to cut him right from the start; he was the one holding the cards today, after all.
"That would be Lord Malfoy."
The man raised one of his thick eyebrows. Frederick Nott was tall, just like his son, and spotted a well-trimmed beard over a bony face. His short brown hair was painted with gray strands, like his beard, and his eyes were cunning and intelligent. He smiled, showing a row of yellow teeth. "Through my family's tradition, once my father's magic faded and his marriage was dissolved, I became emancipated and the Lord of my house."
"I see," He answered. "May I offer you something to drink, Lord Malfoy?" The sarcasm was barely hidden from his voice as he spoke.
"Thank you, but I will have to refuse. I don't think I can trust the cleanliness of this establishment."
"I can understand that." The man looked around. "The Dark Lord is eager to receive you back into his ranks, milord. He told me to send his praise at your smart thinking in taking your family's mantle and cutting the ties with your blood traitor relatives."
Draco smiled as the man spoke, encouraging him to continue.
"The Dark Lord is pleased, and he asked to inform you that you will be honored with the dark mark, and a position as his representative when you are back at Hogwarts." Nott smiled, but it didn't reach his eyes, and Draco knew it was because this was the position the man's son currently occupied.
"No." Draco finally said.
"What?"
"I said no." Draco waves his hand dismissively.
Frederick Nott looked at him in disbelief; behind him, Draco saw Dolov stiffening.
"Are you insane, boy? The Dark Lord is offering you a great…"
Draco raised his hand.
"Once again, I must remind you who is the superior here, mister Nott. I will be returning to Hogwarts, and I will not take the mark. I will, however, offer my support to the cause." Nott gestured at Dolov, who was ready to draw his wand, to calm down. "See, Nott; I will not make the same mistake as my father, or you, for that matter. I will work my way independently, and I will help the Dark Lord, but I will want something in return."
"And why would you think that will work? Why shouldn't I kill you right now?" Nott tried to intimidate the younger wizard.
"Because I have something he needs, mister Nott. I have the Galleons the cause is desperately lacking."
Frederick Nott took a deep breath and smiled.
"Your father taught you well, Lord Malfoy." The man stood up. "This is a dangerous game you are playing, milord; let's see how well you play."
chapter 35
"The nerve on that boy!" Sirius growled as he filled several glasses of whiskey for the people gathered in the main sitting room of 12 Grimmauld Place. Sirius' foul mood filled the room while Amelia Bones and Arthurs Greengrass pensive glances. Remus descended from upstairs, carefully grabbing one of the glasses being magicked towards everyone present. Remus managed to walk from the stairs to a chair thanks to the refurbishment and modernization of 12 Grimmauld Place courtesy of ample assistance from Amelia and Apolline. Narcisa wrapped up those present and was the only one aside from Remus not to have just returned from the latest wizengamot session.
"What happened?" Narcisa asked, eager for news.
Sirius looked at her and frowned.
"Today, your son claimed his seat at the mot as is his right as the Lord of the Malfoy family." Sirius all but spat before gracelessly dropping into the set beside his fiancee.
"But he's sixteen!" Narcisa said.
"Yet, it seems when I annulled your marriage it triggered the Malfoy family's magic to appoint a new Head of the family." Arthurs said.
"But that could only be done if…" Narcisa's words died out as she realized that Lucius was dead, or at least his magic was.
"My condolences, Miss Black…." Remus said in a formal tone.
"No need for that, Lupin; there was no love left between my ex-husband and me; I'm just worried for my son.", Narcisa waved her hand dismissing the news as she would an irritating fly.
Amelia, Sirius, and Arthurs looked at each other with varying looks of concern. "Why can't Harry Potter do the same? He is the last Potter, after all."
"Different family magic," Remus said. "His magic recognizes he still has family," Remus pointed at Sirius. "He will have to wait until he turns seventeen or gets married."
"I see…" Narcisa held her whiskey with both hands, a pensive look passing over her face. She nodded and turned her attention to Lord Greengrass. "Perhaps we should talk to Monsieur Delacour about making Harry family, officially?"
Arthurs quirked an eyebrow as he pondered Narcisa's suggestion, "Perhaps we should ''.
"We will do nothing without talking to them first," Sirius interjected, then turned to his cousin, worry etched in every line of his face. "Cissy, I'm afraid things are not good for your son. He made it very clear who he was supporting today." Narcisa brought a hand to her chest as if squeezing would hold her breaking heart together.
"How so?" She asked.
"Dolores Umbridge, I'm still impressed by how she dodged Azkaban, presented legislation that would increase the surveillance of non-magical relatives of both first-generation and squibs. Draco seconded it, thus committing the wizengamot to debate and possibly put it to a vote." Amelia said.
"First generation?" Narcisa asked.
"What people call Muggle-borns outside Britain." Remus pointed out. "But, that will hardly pass."
"I would have agreed with you two days ago, but I am not so sure after the attack." Arthurs added as he took a sip of his glass.
"Attack?" Both Narcisa and Remus asked. "What attack? The papers haven't said anything." The werewolf finished.
"Yes, because of both the ministry," Sirius gestured at Amelia. "And the aurors prevented that, as it still is an ongoing investigation. That didn't stop the toad and Draco from using it anyway."
"An entire magical family had been attacked in a village near Devon," Amelia explained. "Three deaths, one survivor badly injured," The woman took a deep breath. "The survivor is a ten-year-old, about to start Hogwarts, one of the dead was three years old…" tears filled her eyes as she spoke. "As far as we know, no magic was used, they were…" Sirius placed his arms around her shoulders. "they were beaten to death. Blunt instruments, like cricket batons and wooden poles. The aurors also found religious messages scattered around the walls and over the bodies." She finally took the entire cup of whiskey in one go.
"They are saying this was the work of a non-magical religious extremist group." Arthurs continued. "They are using this to try and pass the bill as an act of protecting those families, instead of what it really is, a registration of possible targets."
"History repeats itself…" Remus whispered before the room settled into an uncomfortable silence.
"Do you think the death eaters are behind this attack?" Remus asked.
"It's possible…" Narcisa said.
"Maybe," Amelia answered. "But we also can't ignore the possibility of a new threat, and the Dark Lord is taking full advantage."
"Fuck…" Sirius said, pinching the bridge of his nose.
Suddenly, they heard the sound of a window opening, and Hedwig flew into the room, landing on the center table and presenting a letter to a confused Arthurs.
.oOo.
Hermione was thankful that the first Hogsmeade weekend happened while the weather was still nice, so she didn't need more than a nice jacket and a scarf against the chilling wind.
The witch was also very happy that Harry had insisted that they had an actual date until the time they would meet Daphne and the others for lunch. Hermione had immersed herself in researching Voldemort's Horcruxes and soul magic, even going after some of the darkest books in the Black's library. Her devotion to research was only matched by Harry to his training, and, honestly, both needed the time off. They were both exhausted in their own way, she had noticed how more wolfish his behavior was becoming as he constantly pushed his limits.
Hermione also knew that the weekends were the time Harry could dedicate to Fleur, so, to have him just for her for an entire morning, just being a couple, was magical in itself, especially after the day before.
The news about Draco claiming his seat in the wizengamot had hit them hard, especially Pansy, and they were unsure of the ramifications of that action, but they had no doubt who the new Malfoy Lord would support.
That made their time even more special. They talked, laughed, and kissed. They visited Hermione's favorite shops, getting some new books and supplies, and even met with Blaise and Ginny, who were on a date by themselves. Hermione had to admit she was having a great time.
As they walked hand in hand towards the Three Broomsticks, the couple heard a delightful squeal behind them and turned around just in time for Hermione to be engulfed by an excited Fleur. The veela threw her arms around the brunette's neck and pulled her into a soft kiss, much to Hermione's surprised delight.
"Oh 'Ermione! I missed you!" The French witch said with glee.
"Missed you too, Fleur!" The younger girl blushed with a smile.
"And you, Mon amour…" The veela turned towards a grinning Harry and pulled him by his shirt. What followed could only be described as a snog; as the two embraced and kissed heatedly, Fleur grabbed Harry's hair as his own pulled her closer by her waist. Hermione watched as some people stopped to gawk at the blatant display. "My loup garou… je t'aime!"
"Love u' too, Fleur…" Harry answered, catching his breath.
"Sorry 'Ermione, I just couldn't resist," Fleur said, looking unapologetic at the girl.
"Oh, don't worry, I understand. I see him daily, and it is hard to control myself sometimes." Both girls giggled as Harry looked around, a little embarrassed to see they had an audience.
"Hum, ladies, should we go inside?" He all but pushed them towards their destination.
"Of course, they're probably waiting on us," Hermione said, still holding Harry's hand as Fleur latched herself on his other arm. "How is work going, Fleur?"
"A constant test of my mental and physical endurance, and that is just dealing with Mister Weasley . The rest has been excellent training for becoming a top enchantress."
"Weasley?" Hermione asked, curious.
"Oui, William Weasley, the eldest Weasley brother, I think …" Fleur answered, not hiding the disdain in her voice. "The lack of boundaries is genetic, apparently…" She said, but stopped walking, as the wave of magic coming from Harry surrounded her. Hermione shivered as the magic ran through her body. It felt loving, protective, and possessive. It was like his magic was marking and claiming them as his. Hermione didn't know how to feel, she welcomed his magic, like an extension from when they were together and he claimed her as his, but still, something in the back of her mind was bothering her. Fleur, on the other hand, pressed her body closer, and her eyes darkened with lust.
"Is he giving you trouble, Fleur?" Harry asked, his voice a low growl, and his eyes flared with a soft glow.
"Nothing that I can't handle, Mon amour. But merci, I appreciate the concern," The veela said, licking her lips. That seemed to bring Harry's rational mind back, and for a second, he looked ashamed of his magical outburst but didn't say anything.
"It's ok, Harry," Hermione said, getting her body closer to him as they entered the very packed Pub.
As usual, during the students' visit weekends, the pub was packed to the brim, and they would be lucky to get a table in less than an hour. But that was not the case today. Harry waved, trying to catch Madam Rosmerta's attention. The old witch saw him and smiled as she levitated a couple of butterbeer bottles. Giving some orders to her two helpers, the barkeeper approached Harry with a smile.
"Two witches in his arms, just like your dad." The older woman said, and Hermione noticed Harry's surprised look. "Your friends are waiting for you upstairs, hon, room 102. Lunch will be served there in a few." Rosmerta said, and before Harry could ask anything, she had spun about and was tending to other clients. Hermione squeezed his hand, and they made their way through the sea of patrons. As they walked, a good number of people turned around to look at them, and Hermione was surprised that she was getting just as many looks as Fleur or Harry. The werewolf's magical aura enveloped them, and once again, Hermione was hit with the same inner conflict as before. She loved when Harry acted dominant and possessive while they were in bed.Hermione needed to relinquish control when she was with him, she had to manage everything in her life to exceed the perceived limitations of being a woman, and a muggleborn. Except when she was with Harry, she trusted him explicitly to let herself go and not make all the decisions. That was the bedroom, and this…was not the same thing., She wasn't sure how the other girls felt about it, especially in situations that would put them and Harry, in danger. She would try and make him understand there was nothing to fear, that she loved him, that they all loved him and would not leave him. Hermione knew his low self-esteem was partially to blame, but he could overcome it.
As they arrived on the second floor, into the private area, Harry knocked on the door for room 102, and Daphne's voice called for them to enter. Turning the knob, Harry pushed the door open, allowing Fleur to greet Katie with a bright smile and a tight hug, before giving Daphne a much more subdued embrace. Looking around, Hermione was surprised to see they were not the only ones. A big rectangular table was pushed against the wall opposite the door with comfortable-looking chairs placed in the middle of the room. She could see Neville seated between Tracey and Hannah, and a blushing Susan sitting in front of her best friend. Hermione followed Susan's eyes and found them directed to Harry, before making the connections; those were the traditional members of the alliance, or at least, the noblest ones. Harry kissed both Daphne and Katie before sitting, and with a wave, food, and drinks started appearing on the table.
Having been kept in the dark as to the reason for the gathering, Hermione was able to finally voice the only logical reason to meet like this, "Are we all here because of what Malfoy did?"
.oOo.
Katie looked around at what she would call her pack. Almost everyone was there, and Parvati would be a welcome addition, but the time wasn't right for her to take on whatever this meeting was about.. As Daphne organized this gathering it was probably something political, which confused Katie; usually, she wasn't called for those. Katie shook her wayward thoughts away as Hermione finished asking her question.
"No, though it is related, we wanted this meeting before we got the news," Harry said, and Katie noticed he looked a little worried. Everyone gave their full attention to Harry, he took a sip of his butterbeer and looked around the table. "I have been talking with Daphne, and together we have been considering and planning around the uncertain future facing us. I was being honest in the first defense meeting; things are about to get worse, if not now, very soon." He looked at Neville and Susan. "Our families suffered greatly last time, and…." Harry took a deep, steadying breath. " I decided to make sure my family will make it whether I survive…or I don't…" Katie could hear the muted gasps around the room, but Hermione, Daphne, and Fleur had fierce and determined looks on their faces. They would fight so he could survive, just like herself. Harry took another sip. "So, this is what we came up with, and you tell us what you think."
"Three days ago," Daphne said. "I sent a letter to my father, asking him to get a betrothal contract between Harry and me, officially, but for the Black family."
Silence.
"Harry!" Hermione was the first to speak, her fists clenched in her lap. "Betrothals are a barbaric practice!"
Neville, Hannah, and Tracey flinched.
"Yes, Hermione," Harry answered calmly. "They can be, but such are the rules of the game right now. We can try changing them later, but it's a battle we can't take on right now. Of course, our contract wouldn't be as near as bad as the Malfoy's, just enough to give Daphne some legal security and all the freedom we can, contrary to what Lucius Malfoy made with the Parkinsons. I believe Neville is doing it for that same reason, right?"
"Yes,That way, I can extend my family's prestige and protection to them." The young wizard said, gesturing to the two girls at his side.
Hermione bit her lip the way she usually did when analyzing and overanalyzing something.
"Hermione, in some aspects, the magical world is still in the Victorian age, maybe almost medieval," Harry said, placing a hand over hers. "It will take time to change, but I will use anything at my disposal to protect you. Remember, we are the change we want, but you must survive…"
Hermione nodded, but remained silent.
"I will not beat around the bush here," Daphne took over, looking at Fleur. "We all know who will be the next lady Potter if… when Harry finishes the Dark Lord. So, I think you should consider the same, Fleur, especially being who you are."
Fleur looked thoughtfully at her. She understood what Daphne was talking about, especially her being a veela in one of the worst countries for people like her. Katie saw the determined look in Fleur's eyes. The she-wolf didn't understand veela magic fully, but she was sure Fleur was with Harry forever. Katie looked at Susan, who seemed confused, and a little jealous.
"Hermione and Katie, you should consider becoming wards of one of those houses as well; at least politically, you would have some shielding." Daphne continued.
"Yes, this is what I am doing with Hannah," Neville said. "Her father asked for line continuation anyway."
"I wish I could marry you all," Harry confessed. "But holding two titles is already a stretch."
"No, Harry!" Katie interjected. "This is already more than anything I could ask!" Harry smiled back at her, then looked at Hermione, who nodded in agreement.
Daphne took a deep breath, and as she let out the breath slowly Katie's nose picked up on the…fear? .
"The marriage contracts will protect us, but to safeguard the Potter estate Harry will need an heir…before he fights the Dark Lord" She said, and the room went silent. Katie's mind went into overdrive, and it was one thing talking about political marriages; it was another talking about puppies. Hermione's eyes went wide, and Fleur smelled surprisingly aroused.
"What?" Hermione breathed out, barely louder than a whisper.
"Yes," Daphne said, explaining why they had reached that conclusion, but Katie barely listened. Her rational mind and her instincts were at odds at that moment; her body trembled, all the desires she kept having those last months coming to the surface at once. Harry must have sensed it as he looked directly at her while Daphne spoke. "It will take some time for the effects of the contraceptive potions to leave my body-, "Daphne continued, but was interrupted by Katie.
"No." The she-wolf said.
"What?" Daphne asked.
"It should be me," Katie said, to everyone's surprise.
"Why?" Hermione asked. "Why would you say that-"!" Both Harry and Fleur placed their hands over Hermione's, stopping her protestation. "I know we all entered into this relationship of our own will, but having a child, for this reason, is different. That would let go the control of your life and body because of some ancient, medieval law! There must be another way!"
"You can feel free to look for it, Hermione, but I don't think we have the luxury to wait." Daphne said with a sharp tone.
"Why should it be you, Katie?" Harry asked, and his voice calming the tension for the moment. .
Katie swallowed, her eyes never leaving Harry's, "Daphne still has one more year of school after this one. Also, she has her healer internship with Madam Pomfrey, and we may soon be in dire need of those skills. The same goes for Fleur's enchantress and curse breaker training. Hermione, well, let's be honest, you're easily the smartest person in this room and losing your ability to find solutions buried deep in forgotten tomes is not something we can risk. "
"K…Katie, I…" the bushy-haired girl blinked rapidly, unshed tears forming in the corner of her eyes.
"But why does that make you a better choice?" Fleur asked. "You are a powerful witch and wolf in your own right, one who would be sorely missed."
"Well, first, this is my last year, and I am already an adult in the eyes of the law. Like Daphne, I will need a couple of months before the potions get completely out of my system, so I will already be done with my NEWTS when the baby comes. Also, because of who I am, I can't play quidditch… I don't even have the prospect of a good job. And… I want it!" Katie looked deep into Harry's eyes, trying to convey all her honesty. "I really want to see our kids, Harry; I have been dreaming of them, of raising them, and building a better world for them. I want this, and I want it a lot!"
Harry quickly got up and captured Katie's lips in a deep, passionate kiss, rushing his thumbs over her cheeks and drying the tears she didn't even realize were there. When they parted lips, Katie looked at Daphne, who smiled softly.
"Ok, I will ask my father to prepare a contract, both for you to become a ward of house Black and to protect you and your child politically."
"Protect?" Fleur asked.
"So she doesn't get accused of line theft," Hannah said.
"Exactly." Daphne agreed. "Now, Susan and Neville, I would suggest you two do the same."
Susan blushed as red as her hair.
"I… is not…" the red-haired girl tried to say, and Neville looked pensive.
"I understand you also need line continuation, being the last Bones, right?" Daphne asked.
"I mean, yes, I guess," Susan said. "Though my aunt is about to be married to Lord Black, and they are still young…"
"Sorry, but that wouldn't work," Harry said. "Unfortunately, Sirius can't have kids because of Azkaban."
"Oh…"
"Yes," Daphne continued. "The way I see it, your two best options are in this room, unless you have someone else in mind."
Susan didn't believe someone could blush so much, and when Fleur spoke, Susan blushed even more.
"Are we just going to ignore the fact that Susan is completely in Love with 'Arry?"
"What!" Susan tried. "I… not like that, I…" She kept mumbling but was met with a lot of raised eyebrows. "Bloody hell…"
At this, Fleur's aroused scent seemed to amplify, and both Harry and Katie looked at the grinning veela.
"Susan," Harry said. "Our houses have always been allied, and honestly, I find you incredibly hot." Susan seemed about to faint. "But, what I have with these girls is something special, magical, and I can't promise you the same. Also," He looked at Katie, Daphne, Hermione, and Fleur. "I would only do anything if all of us, and I mean all, agree too."
Daphne nodded.
"Think about it, Susan, and I can ask my father to make another contract for you, securing your rights and name. Harry would be something akin to a consort to you…"
Suddenly, a loud bang came from outside, and they were all standing in one move.
.oOo.
Ginny was having a great time. As expected, her boyfriend had asked her to go on an actual date over the weekend, and she was as happy to oblige, especially this being her OWL's year. Ginny would make sure to enjoy her time before she got swamped with studying for the exams.
She was surprised when Blaise had asked her to wear a skirt; he never pushed her to wear anything or tried to tell her what to do, so, it made her very curious. Luckily, Astoria had landed her an adorable pleated skirt so she wouldn't have to go with the old-fashioned ones her mother made her buy or use the one from the school uniform.
Blaise was waiting for her at the carriages, and the smile the tall, dark-skinned boy gave when he saw her was enough to brighten her day. Blaise was a very handsome young wizard, with his dark brown skin contrasting with his pale gray eyes. He always moved very elegantly, and for a time, Ginny was afraid she was not refined enough for him, but the wizard had put those worries to rest. He had chosen one of the covered carriages and offered his hand to help Ginny in with an overly theatrical gesture, making her giggle.
The reason for the chosen carriage and the skirt were revealed as soon as the door was closed. With a flick of his wand, Blaise locked and silenced the door and kneeled in front of Ginny's shapely legs. Her eyes went wide as his hands started caressing her, going up and down her soft, freckled skin.
They had progressed their relationship over the summer, exploring and learning each other's body whenever they could, but Blaise had never been so bold, doing this kind of thing in a place like this. Ginny was not sure at first, but the look of desire in his eyes, the adoration, the lust was all encouragement she needed. Biting her lip, the red-haired nodded, her breathing getting heavier as her boyfriend's hands hovered over her knees. Her pussy was pulsing with her heat in anticipation, and she could already feel her wetness clamping into her panties. Blaise's hands were gentle, but firm as he held her knees and spread them apart. At first, she felt self-conscious as her soft white, and blue striped panties came into view, but the look of wonder and hunger on his face threw that away. The fact that he could see the wet spot forming on the fabric right over pussy was an even bigger turn-on.
Blaise kissed the inside of her creamy thighs, getting closer and closer to Ginny's core, savoring her pale skin inch by inch in the most delicious torture. The witch let out a soft moan as he finally reached her panty-clad pussy and took a deep breath, savoring the scent of her womanhood. Only when Blaise's fingers brushed against the cotton of her knickers was that Ginny realized that he had let go of her knees, but her legs kept open, welcoming the dark-skinned wizard in between them. They had yet to go all the way, but Ginny was finding it harder and harder to wait. Using his fingers, the wizard pushed her panties aside, and Ginny blushed, well aware of how wet she was down there.
"Merlin, you are beautiful, Gin," Blaise said, taking a deep breath. "I love your scent," Then, he licked her swollen outer lips before his tongue parted her slit. "And bloody hell, I love your taste."
That was the last thing she heard before he dove into her, lapping on her slip and her clit, and all she knew was pleasure.
Luckily, she came before they arrived at the village, and the wizard cast some cleaning charms at them before they got out of the carriage. After that, the date went great, with some light shopping for needed supplies and a lot of laughing, touching, and kissing. At some point, they met Harry and Hermione, as the intelligence witch shop for some new quills. Blaise and Harry engaged in some talk about an potions assignment while Ginny walked with Hermione.
"How are things going with Blaise?" The older witch asked.
"Great, actually. A little scary sometimes."
"Yeah? Why so?"
"He made me feel things I never did before," Ginny said. "I think I finally understand what you talked about, you know. The difference between a crush and being in love for real."
"That's good, Gin! I'm so happy for you!" Hermione said, giving the red-haired a hug.
"I would ask how you and Harry are going, but even a blind person could see how happy he makes you," Ginny smirked, and Hermione blushed. "I don't know how you manage tho…"
"What?"
"Daphne, Katie, and Fleur. I think I would go mad."
Hermione looked at her with a thoughtful expression.
"I can understand your point," Hermione said. "To be honest, it is not always easy. But Harry gives me something I need, and I can give him something he needs. But he also needs some things I can't give him, at least, not right now."
"And you? You don't need other things?"
"Romantically? No. Sexually,". Hermione said, and Ginny blushed. "He is actually more than I can handle. And, if I'm honest, I have found something with these other girls I really treasure. In the end, we're all connected, and Harry is the glue." Hermione shrugged. "Ok, that sounded better in my head." Both girls giggled.
"Mental," Ginny said. "The lot of you!"
After they said goodbye, Blaise and Ginny resumed their date, and Blaise showed her a nice little restaurant that Ginny didn't know about. It was a little pricey for her, but Blaise insisted on paying for lunch.
It was, all and all, a pretty good date.
So, of course, the death eaters had to spoil it.
They were coming out of the restaurant when the apparation pops started. All around them, many figures dressed in black robes came into existence, overwhelming the aurors stationed in the village by numbers alone. Ginny squeezed Blaise's hand forcefully, when one of the masked men looked at them, but, surprisingly, there was no attack. Only the sounds of people screaming in panic came from all over the city.
"There is no need for fear," A booming voice echoed all through the streets and alleys of the crowded village. "You have been lied to! We're not here to harm anyone, as every drop of magical blood is precious! No! We are here to help you, to help our people, and heal magical Britain! Your ministry, bought and dominated by so-called "progressive" and "light" individuals, have been deceiving you for years, and we are here to bring those lies into the light." Suddenly, pieces of parchment started raining all over the town; Ginny looked at one that landed close to her feet, only to see a picture of a perfect magical family, an attractive wizard, a beautiful blond witch, and two kids, and the title "Why Blood Matters" under it. "They say we are terrorists, monsters! But who else is fighting for our traditions? Our families? Our way of life? Who stands against those who want to destroy all that is most sacred to us? They say we hate the muggle-borns. Lies! We don't hate them! We only wish to educate them about our ways, so, with time, they can be integrated and become productive members of our society, in their rightful places. They say we are violent! But is it violence to defend oneself, one's way of life? They attack us, and we fight back. Oh yes, we fight back; we fight for our families, our traditions, and your families. We fight for you." There was silence. One of the death eaters came from the adjacent street, pushing someone dressed in the red robes of the aurors, and making him kneel in front of the talking man. "But, we need to warn you. Peace and freedom are not free. We shall not tolerate traitors!" He pointed his wand at the man, who Ginny now could see was a young man. The wand's point glowed with a green hue, and Ginny pressed herself against Blaise.
"STOP!" A voice called, and Ginny saw Harry walking out of the Three Broomsticks.
.oOo.
Harry had heard enough. He looked back at his friends, nodding at Fleur and Katie, before leaving the pub.
"STOP!" He screamed before the death eater killed the auror. Harry could smell the other death eaters around the square and the fear of the people watching. But he could also the the magic swirling around himself. Harry was not afraid as the magic began swirling around him. He was magic's hunter, and they were hisprey.
Time, Daphne and Susan had told him. They just needed time. The aurors would be coming, just like the professors. They would just need some time to take down the wards set by the death eaters.
Harry focused his senses and his magic on the man about to cast the death curse. His smell was familiar but vague. Parkinson!
"Let him go, Parkinson," Harry spoke, and his voice was magic carried through the village. The man flinched when he heard his name, and pointed his glowing wand at Harry.
"Look!" The man quickly recovered from his surprise. "The so-called hero of the wizardry world! The chosen one. The model they are trying to shove down your throat, nothing more than a promiscuous boy who degrades himself by lying with half-breeds and beasts. A weakling who is nothing without Dumbledore. So much for the so-called champion of the light!"
Harry laughed.
"There is no light or dark, Parkinson, only magic," Harry said, and he could hear some gasps. "And I can see how weak your's is!" He taunted, hoping his bravado would work. Harry knew that, at this point, it was all theatricals. He needed to be seen, and he needed Voldemort to know he was here; he needed to make a stand.
"It is a shame that my lord wants you alive, Potter, or I would kill you right here, right now!" The black robed man said. Harry could see the magic gathering through the man, flowing to his wand.
"Your pathetic Dark Lord already tried how many times? And you think you can?" Harry gave a quick glance at the auror, still kneeling on the ground, but with a stubborn look on his face. The other death eater who was holding him was distracted by the exchange between Harry and Parkinson.
"You little brat!" Parkinson screamed before flicking his wand. "Incarcerous!" Just like with the Horcrux, Harry could smell the magic; he could see as the colorful strands of energy gathered and began to form into chains. It was beautiful.
Harry waved his no wand hand as the spell approached him, manipulating the magic around the air and the magic from the spell itself. For those watching, it seemed like he had parried the incoming attack as the chains flew to the side and collided against a wall to Harry's left. It was all it took.
The auror got up quickly, and hit his head hard against the death eater's chin, and a barrage of spells came from the pub behind Harry, taking two more robed figures before they could react. Channeling his magic, Harry waved his wand, and Parkinson was pulled from the ground with a scream in Harry's direction. It was a very flamboyant display of power, but one Harry needed to do, if he wanted Voldemort to come out of hiding. Like every wannabe narcissistic dictator, his own pride was his greatest weakness.
With a painful cracking sound, Parkinson was thrown against a wall, and with a wave from Harry's off-hand, his mask vanished, revealing the man's face, contorted in a mix of anger and fear.
"You son of a mudblood!" The now revealed death eater screamed and raised his wand. "AVA…" Harry's wand slashed through the air and the cutting curse silently severed Parkinson's hand.The man watched with wide eyes as his hand, still gripping his wand, fell to the ground. Lord Parkinson held his arm just below the amputation and started screaming. More spells came from the pub, and other places around the streets against the other surprised death eaters; Harry himself banished another man against a tree, powerfully enough to break both the death eater and the wood.
"Pathetic…" the werewolf said as he stood over Lord Parkinson. "You death munchers are weak and pathetic…." The sound of apparitions popped all around Harry as the aurors finally arrived. "You are all just prey, and the wolves are at your gates," Harry said, before stepping into the man's wand and snapping it.
The ground around him exploded, and Harry was tossed to the side, rolling as he hit the cobblestone of the street. He cursed himself, "Too cocky, should have paid attention!" Spells continued to fly over and around him. A sharp pain erupted from his leg as he tried to get up, and looking down, he saw a piece of wood piercing through his flesh. He almost laughed at the irony; here he was, lecturing Lord Parkinson about Voldemort's hubris, and he was caught on his own. It happened very fast. With a grunt, Harry pulled out the piece of wood from his leg, and turned towards the death eaters, only to see them activating the emergency portkeys and disappearing. Only Lord Parkinson's hand remained behind.