Chapter 8 Part 1

Chapter 8

CwD

July 20th, 1996

"In all my years working as an Auror, I don't think I've seen this many people attend a Ministry-held function before."

"Fudge's last bid trying to win the most important votes of his life. Gotta make it special somehow." A voice snorted.

"No wonder!" The other person chuckled. "Anti-Fudge are you, Larry?"

"Since he was elected. Personally, never liked the ponce."

"Bit of a peculiar chap, ain't he?"

"Understatement of the century, Dom. Understatement of the century."

The air was buzzing with the pleasant murmur of conversation and the tinkling of champagne glasses. Guests mingled and exchanged pleasantries as little Elves decked out in small little suits, baring the Ministry of Magic emblem, glided through the crowd, offering trays of hors d'oeuvres and flutes of sparkling champagne to eager hands.

"Merlin's balls! Look at the arse on that!" 'Dom' whistled lowly.

"Who? Ah. Fantastic isn't it. The way it jiggles from left to right. That's Lady Emmaline Vance. Helluva bird, she is. Voice of an angel but I've heard no man can handle her. Word on the grapevine is that she's a bit… loony… behind closed doors."

"In this day 'n age, who bloody cares! One night! That's all I'd need. She'd go loony for me after." He replied with a salacious grin as his partner laughed.

"Enjoying yourself laddies?" A gruff voice interrupted behind the pair causing them to stiffen.

"Mad-eye." Larry gulped.

"Focus ya bloody morons! Constant vigilance! It's times like this when the enemy strikes! When idiot Aurors like you drop their guard!"

"Yes sir, won't happen again, sir!"

"See that it doesn't otherwise you can join the seniors for training tomorrow. Proudfoot mentioned something about needing two volunteers for our bludgeoning session…" Moody ended with a gnarly grin before the intimidating man limped away.

"Bloody mental…" Dom muttered as he stood up straight and began scanning the crowd lest he angers the scary man again.

Larry lightly cleared his throat before copying his colleague.

"It's gonna be one long night, Dom…"

CwD

Dresses full of sparkling gems and shoes so shiny, one could see their reflection in, shimmered like a sea of diamonds as the elite of society gathered for the annual Ministry Gala, a function renowned for its extravagance and sophistication.

The venue location was in the Atrium of the Ministry of Magic, decorated and transformed making it a ballroom fit for royalty.

Guests were still arriving in a flurry of elegance as a red carpet greeted them from the fireplaces. Once they cleared a small security booth, they were lead into the main ballroom where they were announced by a man with some of the most garish orange glasses Daphne had ever seen.

Finally, their time had come.

She breathed in deeply; attempting to calm her fitful nerves. The dolled up blonde ignored the way her date gave her a look of concern as she stared straight ahead, exercising her Occlumency.

Matthias, her father, looked as usual, the true vision of what a prestigious Lord ought to look like. Hair slicked back, robes immaculate. Even the fake, genial smile he wore looked pleasantly sincere. The man looked every bit of a Lord his enemies wish they could emulate.

On his arm, was her mother, Ellanore, who likewise her husband, looked every bit of a lady of a prominent house. Her enchanting looks, that Daphne inherited, were enhanced by her choice of dress as the older woman looked picture perfect. If one were to look closely however, it was clear the past few years were not kind to her.

The stress and anxiety due to complications with her youngest, Fiona, who was too poorly to attend, had taken a toll on her mentally and physically. The youthful looks that she was once so famous for had become mute and dampened.

Speaking to her parents was Astoria's future in-laws.

Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy stood next to one another with an indiscernible gap between them.

It was so hard to see that originally, Daphne thought she was imagining it, but there was definitely some sort of tension between the two and her theory was all but confirmed when she saw the way Narcissa reluctantly placed her hand on her husband's arm.

Lucius looked his same unctuous self, thanks to some well-placed concealing charms. Daphne in her not so humble opinion, was a bit of a beauty expert and so it was easy for her to see that the man was definitely hiding his true appearance and she could only wonder why.

Finally, a third couple finished the adults in their group.

The Warrington's.

Malakai looked as unchanged as always. Even for such a public event as the Gala today, not a single hair was out of place. The man looked exactly identical to all the times she had seen him at the Manor except for the woman that was on his arm who fit the dull but intimidating countenance of Malakai Warrington like a perfect jigsaw puzzle.

Cassandra Warrington was a close friend of her mother's back when the two were at Hogwarts together. It was how the two families became close.

Whereas Malakai had harsh, sharp features, Cassandra was soft and expressive. Like two opposite sides of a coin. It oddly made them suit one another.

"-Feathers Astoria, Feathers! But what does that oaf Crabbe put instead? Chicken's blood! Honestly, if it wasn't for my timely reaction speed, my new cauldron would've exploded! Not to mention what could have happened to my shoes…"

Daphne's lip slowly began to curl into a sneer as she observed Draco Malfoy talk his gob off about some random, impertinent topic with Astoria watching him as if she was spellbound.

Whether it be for fortune, fame, titles or gold… the beautiful blonde was confident that there was something seriously wrong with her younger sister if she chose to court Draco Malfoy of all people.

Draco had never explicitly involved himself with Daphne most likely due to his father's orders. With the way his eyes gained a cruel gleam whenever he casted his gaze at her, all but confirmed he was told of her past most likely from the same girl who stood next to him and yet, he had never said a single word regarding it.

It was clear to her that the courtship between Draco and Astoria was extremely lucrative and the last thing dear Draco wants to do is upset his dear daddy by pestering her.

Not that Daphne's parents would do anything about it anyway.

Though they were in the same year, Daphne and he had remained civil enough but that didn't mean the boy wasn't an insufferable little git.

She had once sincerely believed Draco had a thing for Potter with the amount of drivel he would spout about him and she knew she wasn't the only one.

Nevertheless, none would speak out. His name protected him ever since he arrived at Hogwarts and now, to her ever growing horror, the ferret would become utterly unbearable once he takes on the title of Lord Black.

Draco, in the future, would definitely become the most powerful man in Magical Britain with everything he was to inherit.

The Malfoy title, coupled with the Greengrass title from the union of him and Astoria as well as the title of one of the Coloured Families would make the future Lord Malfoy unstoppable.

Well… It would make the Dark Lord unstoppable. Daphne thought with a shiver.

"It's time."

Daphne blinked before looking up at the person who stood next to her.

Cassius Warrington was someone who she had known since childhood. He was an only child and because her family and the Warrington's were close, she had seen a lot of him growing up.

Jerking his head dramatically, he flicked the silver strands of his long, curly hair that had got in front of the same brown eyes he had inherited from his father. As well as his height and build. Apart from that, that was where the similarities between the two ended as Cassius was mostly his mother in appearance.

The older boy was smart, charismatic and handsome.

Three qualities that had most girls swooning since an early age and because of this, he had developed quite a bit of an ego. Even for a Slytherin, he was well liked by everyone because of how open and outgoing he was, which was amplified when the betrothal between Daphne and him was made public in her Fourth Year.

While the whole school knew how spoilt the young Malfoy was thanks to his father, Cassius' pride became almost as bad as Draco's but the difference between the two was that Cassius had managed to retain his charismatic self somehow and not have ego issues like Draco.

Cassius was somewhat of a prodigy in duelling and his accolades were well broadcasted in the papers everywhere which earned him a bit of a reputation and although that was a big thing to him, that was not the true source of his self-importance.

Looking to her left, she met her reflection that the black, shiny bricks of the Ministry's walls provided her.

Daphne was not vain. She knew she was attractive.

She was known to be distant and unapproachable and since, Cassius had somehow, thawed her out as if she was some princess stuck in an ice sculpture, he had, according to the Hogwarts rumour mill… won.

"Yes. I suppose it is." Daphne replied with a blank expression. Inwards however, she wished this day had never come about.

"Don't worry Daphne, you'll have a splendid night. You're with me after all." He grinned audaciously, giving her hand a squeeze and slightly puffing up his chest which caused her to sigh internally.

Cassius liked her. A lot. And she… felt absolutely nothing for him and likely never would.

In all practicality, Daphne felt nothing for anyone or anything.

Love was simply a fantasy after all. One that she had accepted at a very young age, she'd never get to experience again.

Feeling as though someone was watching her, she carefully looked up and her eyes met her father's.

Cold, electric blue eyes regarded her as her true objective for being here today replayed in her mind.

Daphne was here for one person and one person only.

Potter.

How did people make friends again?

CwD

Soft music played throughout the room, their melodies drifting through the air like a siren's song, enticing one or two guests to the dance floor as the night progressed.

Daphne, however, wasn't one of them.

"Introducing Lord and Lady Leonard Fedor of the House of Fedor…" The announcer announced as Daphne stood off to the side, swishing around a glass of red wine in her hand.

After the whispers and looks of awe that was directed at her family and their entourage of the Malfoy's and Warrington's, it was almost an hour later when she had managed to slip away with Cassius struggling to keep up behind her.

Daphne hated their leers and indirect remarks.

The people that could only wonder about her status treated her as if she was some rare, intriguing animal. The eldest child of a house as illustrious as the Greengrass', mysteriously having their heiress title removed and given to the younger daughter... what more could they want for gossip?

If it wasn't that, it was making subtle inquiries for Daphne's hand in marriage. They knew she was betrothed and yet they believed they themselves were a better match. Some of these men were her father's age! The way they looked at her… if she had known Legilimency, she'd probably be sick.

For most of these men, age was simply a number. As long as the woman had holes, they were breedable according to them.

Disgusting creatures…

"Daphne! Wait up will you…!"

"I will be fine Cassius. You don't need to stay with me the entire evening."

Cassius had an affronted look on his face. "I am your date, more importantly... your betrothed! I believe it's my job-" He began when he was suddenly surrounded by a gaggle of young giggling girls and his once tense mood instantly did a one-eighty.

"Thank Morgana…" Daphne mumbled under her breath. She needed a break and his personality was not something she quite cared for at the moment.

Moving away from the swarming crowd, Daphne went towards the side of the wall. It allowed her to have a good view of the entire gala and try as she might, she still couldn't see if Potter was here.

She allowed a small smile to appear on her face when a tiny elf offered her a glass of wine before she returned back to her thoughts, sipping on the wine every few seconds.

Maybe father was wrong and Potter's not even going to turn up. It's been almost two hours since the event as started… if he's not going to turn up then at least this evening will be somewhat tolerable…

Whilst Daphne was contemplating her plan for one Harry Potter, a surprised voice interrupted from her left.

"G-Greengrass."

Daphne blinked before turning her head to the voice.

"Davis." She replied coolly as Tracey Davis materialised out of nowhere next to her.

The shorter girl wore a cute black dress that extended down to just past her knees and instantly, Daphne was jealous.

Hell would have to freeze over if Daphne ever got wear something like what Tracey was wearing.

"What a surprise! I don't think I've seen you attend these sorts of functions before, Greengrass…" Tracey said with a tilt of her head; her brown curls bouncing at the action.

She's fishing.

Daphne gave a half shrug in response.

It was true. Ever since her father had removed her heiress title and given it over to Astoria, Daphne was never required to attend any of the formal gatherings.

Not to say that she didn't want to attend… in fact, she did.

Daphne loved dressing up and looking pretty. It was a hobby of hers. She didn't care for the guests or the event itself because it wasn't her duty to but instead, wanted to use the formal get-togethers, as a way to try out the new pieces of clothing.

Perhaps she was a little vain.

Her philosophy was that as she was blessed with good looks, it was only right that Daphne show it off. She was given an allowance and with it, the only things she'd buy were materialistic items.

Garments, jewellery, shoes and even more garments.

Everyone had a little thing that they used to get away from their daily lives.

For her, it was fashion. Her escape. It was the only thing she had left that she enjoyed.

Soon though, she'd be married off to Cassius and the aspirations and goals she had set in her life were all going to die away. Though, as Daphne really thought about it, perhaps her little hobby of hers was just a way for people to recognise that she existed.

The contract that they had agreed on was harsh and heavily restrictive on her. Cassius had every opportunity to amend the contract but like usual, it was either he simply didn't know or didn't care.

At the end of the day, it was what her father determined and naturally, she'd obey.

Daphne had no other alternative. She did not want to end up becoming the once, Andromeda Black, a woman from the House of Black who'd became a blood traitor for going against her family.

Her father had always reminded her that he wouldn't hesitate to do the same to her.

Tracey hummed before swiping a similar glass of wine from a floating silver plate and stood next to the blonde.

A silence ensued between the two which was slowly becoming awkward.

Though she and Tracey shared a dorm at school, they were merely… acquaintances or so Daphne had thought.

A fleeting memory appeared in her mind of a small, shy brunette asking if they could be friends back in their First Year. That was until the memory melted into the same brunette's eyes, tearing up due to the cruel words Daphne had said in their Fourth Year, which ended whatever amicable terms they had since their first conversation.

"You look wonderful, D-Greengrass."

The same, automatic answer that she had repeated so many times during the night, was on the tip of Daphne's tongue. That was until she turned to look at Tracey and saw a genuine expression dancing on the freckled brunette's face.

Daphne's mind froze as if she forgot how to respond.

Reinforcing her Occlumency, she took a silent breath. Her face was still impassive but her eyes softened as she regarded the smaller girl next to her who's demeanour became timid the longer Daphne took to respond.

Daphne's lips warbled. "Thank you D-Davis… You look wonderful too."

Noticing her lips, Tracey's eyes widened before she offered the blonde a beaming smile in return before the two girls turned and looked at the scene in front of them and instantly, the once content mood between the two, disappeared.

The duo watched how Cassius laughed along with the obnoxious looking girls; a goofy grin plastered on his face as a dark-haired teen pressed her chest provocatively against his arm.

"What a slimy little git! Honestly! Doesn't it bother you that Warrington is getting mobbed by a bunch of horny little girls and that it looks as if he's enjoying every second of it?" Tracey growled.

"No."

"N-No?"

Daphne maintained her cool exterior as she closed her eyes and took a sip of wine from her glass.

Tracey gazed at her in disbelief and waited to see if Daphne would elaborate but when it was clear she wouldn't, her cheeks puffed up in anger.

"It's disrespectful, Daphne! Flirting around with other women so publicly when the person you're going to marry is right in front of you… Fine. If you're not going to say anything, then I will…" The curly haired girl muttered as she placed her glass on a table next to her.

"I do not appreciate you butting in other people's business, Davis." Daphne reprimanded coldly, clasping her hand around the brunette's wrist causing Tracey to pause in her step and turn to look incredulously at the blonde.

"Your betrothed is mocking you, humiliating you even, and you'd rather stand here and chastise me?"

Daphne's nostrils flared before she sighed.

"You don't understand." Daphne said monotonously, unhanding Tracey who rubbed her wrist.

"Then help me to!"

"Why? What would explaining the reason to you, do?"

Tracey stopped her retort before looking despondently at the beautiful blonde who had narrowed her eyes.

"I-I-I don't know. I-I just don't want my f-friends getting hurt…" She said in a small voice, her shoulders sagging.

"I don't recall us ever being friends," The blonde began harshly, turning her back on the brunette and walked away until she stopped in her step. "Do not get involved in things you don't understand, Davis." She ended dispassionately, leaving a dejected looking Tracey behind.

Tracey watched Daphne glide away through the parting crowd until she couldn't see her any longer.

She felt utterly awful.

"Was that Daphne just now, Trace?" A feminine voice asked the brunette who looked up at the new interruption.

"Lily… Y-Yeah it was."

Lily Moon, Tracey's friend and dorm mate, gave a sympathetic smile to the glum looking girl. "Still no luck, huh?"

Tracey shook her head before sighing, "I-I really thought today could be it. That she'd finally want to be friends again. She looked ever so lonely, Lily… It was really obvious today!"

"Give her time, Trace. I'm sure she's got a lot on her mind. You've heard the rumours about her family. Not to mention…" The black-haired girl cast her eyes at the ever so popular Cassius Warrington and grimaced as she watched him drink from a goblet one of the girls from his entourage gave him.

"He doesn't deserve her." Tracey hissed as her eyes narrowed.

Lily chuckled, "Funny, you sound like Ropier only, the opposite. I still remember the hissy fit the bitch had when she found out about their betrothal."

"Thanks Lily." Tracey growled sarcastically at her friend who held her hands up before her face grew serious.

"Look, don't get involved, Tracey." Lily warned, placing her hand on her friend's forearm. "So far, she's been pretty reserved but don't push your luck. All it takes is for someone to get the wrong impression and then word will travel until it reaches Daphne's father. That's the last thing anyone wants especially our families."

Tracey grimaced but nevertheless nodded.

"Chin up girl. You're wearing such a pretty dress that does wonders for your tits. Last thing anyone needs to see is such an ugly face on such a sexy body." Lily cackled, deftly avoiding the swipe from the scowling girl who's sour expressions began lifting.

Glancing one last time in the direction Daphne had walked off to, Tracey set her sights on the laughing black-haired girl and thought of ways on how she was going to get her back.

CwD

"Careful dear," A voice said, cutting through Daphne's thoughts as the blonde looked up, "A lady must always keep her head held high lest she walks in to someone."

Standing in front of her was a middle-aged woman with smooth, silver hair. She had the most curious amber eyes and was dressed in a very flattering, cream coloured gown.

The woman was beautiful and had a calming presence to her that quelled some of Daphne's conflicting emotions as the younger girl's etiquette kicked in.

"My apologises-"

"My oh my, aren't you just simply wonderful looking!" The woman interrupted; her eyes as wide as saucers. She closed the distance between herself and Daphne until she stood face to face, close enough that Daphne had to lean back slightly. The woman stared at Daphne inquisitively until her face relaxed and a serene smile came upon her lips.

"What is your name child?"

"D-Daphne ma'am. Daphne Greengrass."

"And a beautiful name to boot! Greengrass…Green… Grass," She hummed, leaving Daphne's personal space, "Yes... Your name is ringing some bells. Your ancestor was the famous Cecelia, no?"

The young blonde's eyes darkened immediately, her face instantly going cold as she clenched her fists hard.

That name was poison.

The very cause of her entire misfortune.

"Relax child. I hold no prejudice against your family for that woman did. It was a troublesome time after all…" The amber eyed woman said sympathetically before she paused and looked intently at Daphne.

It was strange.

Daphne felt as though her soul was completely bare in front of this woman as the intensity at which she was being surveyed felt immeasurable.

"W-Who-"

"I feel as though you need to hear this," The strange woman interjected, invading Daphne's personal space again, "There is no curse more twisted than love, dear Daphne. You'll feel like you've lost your way but… never lose hope." The woman whispered, her amber eyes flickering against the light.

"I-I don't understand…" Daphne said startled.

"Not yet. Perhaps… one day, you will." The woman finished knowingly.

"Perry! At last! You do know how to worry a man." A familiar voice cut through as Daphne looked unexpectedly when Albus Dumbledore joined the two of them.

"H-Headmaster?"

"Oh, hello there, Miss Greengrass. I did not quite see you there. I do hope you are having a pleasant evening, my dear." Dumbledore said with a small smile as he looked down at the girl. He was decked out in bright purple robes that made the old man stand out like a sore thumb.

Daphne cleared her throat, "Y-Yes sir." She said, blinking owlishly between Dumbledore and Perry who hadn't taken her eyes off Daphne.

"Ah! I have seen you have had the privilege of meeting a dear friend of mine. This is…", Dumbledore stopped, noticing Perry's eyes shift to him whilst also raising a well-manicured eyebrow, "Mrs Perry Le'Malf." He finished with a dubious sounding chuckle as Mrs Le'Malf cleared her throat.

Daphne had never seen her Headmaster act so uncertain in her life.

The normally eccentric wizard she was so used to seeing in feasts at school was all but absent. It was almost as if he was being chastised like a child which when she thought about it, the image translated into something insanely bizarre in her mind.

"Here with your family, Miss Greengrass?"

"Yes sir." Daphne stiffened slightly.

If Perry and Dumbledore had noticed, they did not comment.

"And how are they?" He asked kindly as the older woman watched the back and forth curiously.

Daphne's voice went monotone, "Well, thank you."

Dumbledore's expression fell as he regarded his detached-sounding student before he gave Daphne a genial smile. "Excellent. I was not aware you knew Miss Greengrass, Perry?" Dumbledore asked the other woman, raising an eyebrow.

"Just got acquainted actually, Albie. Daphne is such a fascinating young lady; I just couldn't help myself." Perry answered, grinning at Dumbledore's reaction to his name.

Daphne once again looked back and forth between the two.

Here she was at a Gala, with a mission to befriend Harry Potter of all people, all the while talking to one of the strangest women she had ever met, who, although seemed to look like she was in her mid-thirties, had a hold on her very own Headmaster who was at least triple the woman's age.

The same headmaster who was the most powerful wizard in the country, seemed to even defer to the woman which raised many questions in her very confused brain.

What a peculiar woman…

It seemed to Daphne that there was a lot of unexpected happenings going on today and unbeknownst to her, it most definitely wasn't over.

"EEEP!"

The shriek was so out of the blue, it cut off all sound allowing silence to manifest in the large room.

The band that was playing soft music in the corner stilled their instruments as even them, the staff and the guests zeroed in on the noise, their eyes roaming around until they locked onto the announcer near the entrance of the event, who looked as if he was going to pass out as he stared down at a piece of parchment in his hand.

"Really Albie… Le'Malf… Is that really the best you could come up with?" Daphne heard the strange womanwhispering behind her, but the conversation between her headmaster and his friend fell on deaf ears as Daphne, and like others around her, had their attention focused elsewhere.

"Uh…" The announcer began.

Due to the sonorous charm still being in effect, his voice bounced around the large room, the sound so loud, that it effectively cut off all remaining mutterings, replacing the once lively atmosphere with an eerie silence that made the hair on the blonde's skin stand up in attention.

Daphne knew.

She didn't know how she did, but she knew.

She could feel it. Deep down in the very fibres of her skin.

The blonde shivered, a tingling feeling came rolling down her back as she involuntarily rubbed her arms up and down with her hands. It was as if someone was dragging their finger down her spine, leaving only featherlight touches behind.

A palpable energy filled the opulent room as everyone, guests and staff, looked anticipatedly towards the entrance of the venue.

"How wonderful! Finally, he's finally here, Albie… Oh, how long I've waited to meet him…"

"Indeed…" Dumbledore replied softly, his blue eyes glowed with restrained power behind his half-mooned glasses as the Premier Mage of Magical Britain stored his hands in the sleeves of his robes and stared directly at the large double doors that slowly creaked open.

He could feel the Elder Wand that was in his sleeve softly vibrating as if it was yearning to be reunited with its owner.

It was how he always knew where the boy was.

Dumbledore may have won the notorious wand from Gellert all those many years ago, except, he would never have earned its true allegiance.

No, that was only reserved for those that held the blood of its original owners.

It was why the wand constantly sought not only Harry, but Tom too.

The last remaining Peverells.

Dumbledore flared out his magic; a technique that removed his normal sight and allowed him to see the magical properties of his surroundings. Focusing on the double doors, he directed his magic towards it and was shocked at what he saw.

Harry had changed. Drastically at that. The warring magic that he felt at the end of the battle at the Ministry had all but disappeared.

Perhaps sending him back to his relatives worked at calming his fluctuating magic?

Although theoretically possible due to the Blood Wards, the process should have taken much longer…

No…

This is something else entirely. Something that should not have been possible to accomplish in such a short time…

As he thought of the possibilities, he felt opposing magic strike back at his own from behind the door.

The magic felt untrained and powerless but there was a certain level of resilience behind its force. Almost as if it was trying to block him from seeing further…

For the first time in a while, Dumbledore allowed a genuine smile to coat his wrinkled, old face as his excitement bubbled.

"I know that look…" Perry muttered next to him, rolling her eyes fondly at the young man.

Harry had changed. How, Dumbledore did not know and he most definitely would find out as he watched in eagerness as the doors opened more and more.

And what an entrance it will be… He inwardly chuckled, Charlus always loved his theatrics and as he had passed them on to James, his grandson most definitely inherited the same proclivities.

The air itself stilled in anticipation. A small, subtle shift in the environment that only a few more magically acute individuals felt.

Daphne wasn't one of them and yet, she could feel it. The very same presence that she felt that very same night when she was held in his arms.

Only… it was different.

There was a certain level of intensity, one that she'd never felt before in his company and it was lurking behind the slowly opening doors.

It brought out emotions she'd experienced before and at the same time, emotions she never knew existed.

Fear and… euphoria and for the latter, she had no idea why she felt that way.

The announcer cleared his throat loudly, the sound not deterring the observers as their whispers grew, watching the creaking double doors open wider and wider until the closer observers could see the outline of two silhouettes.

"I-I-Introducing… L-Lord… Hadrian Potter of the Noble and Ancient House of Potter and the lovely Madam Andr-" Daphne felt her mind fading away the moment she heard his name, focusing on nothing else except his eyes.

Emerald eyes that seemed to flicker in the light as he stood framed by large doorway.

Finally… Harry Potter had arrived.

CwD

"Remember what I told you before, Hadrian. There are quite a lot of unsavoury individuals here today as well as quite a few foreign guests too. Keep calm and control your feelings. Tonight is not the night to be exchanging spells." Andromeda whispered as Harry minutely nodded.

He surveyed the room, his eyes locking onto as many people he could see. Emotions ranging from awe, happiness, disbelief, anger and outright hate, was displayed on the guests faces but it was those who looked at him with indifference and inquisitiveness, the ones he took careful note of.

Two blondes were unmistakeable and Harry had to visibly clench his fist in an attempt to not rush the pompous looking form of Lucius Malfoy.

Though from the blonde's expression, Harry took some satisfaction in the fact that the oily fucker had never looked so shocked in his life. His gob was open, his eyebrows high and the cruelness from his eyes were all but gone as Lucius stared at him in utter disbelief.

But it was the woman next to him that caused Harry to raise an eyebrow.

Narcissa Malfoy, from the time he had met her at the Quidditch World Cup, he thought of her as the perfect addition to the Malfoy family. She had an air of superiority, as if everyone and everything was here to do her bidding and yet today, it looked as if she had seen a ghost.

The admittedly gorgeous blonde had her eyes not at him, but at Andromeda who from his peripheral, was looking anywhere but in Narcissa's direction.

Probably the first time the two are seeing each other in Merlin knows how long.

Dumbledore of course, stood out from the crowd like Harry usually did with the Dursleys. The old man was beaming at him from across the room which Harry completely ignored, turning his head completely away from his direction.

He had a bone to pick with him after all, so he'd deal with Dumbledore and his annoying propensities later.

"L-Lord Potter." The announcer began nervously.

"Yes?" Harry turned to look at the nervous man.

"It seems you and Madam T-Tonks are the final guests for the night. If you would go ahead and join the others, the Minister will be saying a few words. Refreshments are located around the side and are also being distributed, so do help yourselves to whatever catches your fancy."

Turning his head to where the announcer indicated the Minister was, Harry made sure to carefully hide his growing sneer. The bumbling fool looked as if he was about to have a fit with the way his lackeys were whispering in his ear, the paleness of his face and the sweat building up on his forehead. The constant looks in his direction didn't dissuade the fact that Fudge looked more panicked than ever before.

Serves the idiot coward right. Harry scowled in his mind.

The sooner Fudge and his administration was gone, the higher the chance that less people would die.

Harry smiled thankfully at the announcer, "Thank you, Mr…?"

The man beamed, "Grenthorn, Oliver Grenthorn. My daughter, Olivia, speaks very highly of you, Lord Potter.

"Grenthorn? Oh right, the Fourth Year Gryff," Harry nodded, "I remember Olivia asking me for help for DADA last year. She's definitely got talent; you should be very proud."

"Thank you, my Lord." The announcer replied with wide eyes before gratefully, bowing his head.

Harry nodded until he refocused his gaze on the room. His grandfather's memory on wandless magic coming to the forefront of his mind…

"Wandless magic is a difficult concept to accomplish except; I have no doubt that it'll come naturally to you. You see, the way my father taught me, was to first learn how to use wandless magic on your body itself and its immediate surroundings before you get to the more complicated stuff."

"On my body?" Harry questioned as Charlus nodded in his painting.

"A hair colour changing charm for example, or a switching charm to replace your lousy slippers for your boots. Small things like that, which not only doesn't take a lot of magic to do, but it also isn't very complicated. If you can master the small things son, the harder things will be easier to accomplish…"

Harry took a silent breath, squeezing back on Andromeda's hand.

It was now or never.

"Some wine, Andi?" Harry asked innocently. He made sure to speak loud enough for the closer individuals to hear.

Andromeda looked up at the young man's smirking face and narrowed her eyes before sighing.

"Behave…"

"I'll take that as a yes." He grinned.

Closing his eyes, Harry felt the magic in his body reacting to his desire. Squaring his shoulders, he flared out his magic and felt it explode as if a firework had gone off, scattering from every corner of his body. The grip Andromeda had on his arm tightened as he heard gasps from the people around his direct vicinity.

Since his encounter with Andromeda's cousin, Harry had a lot of practice with Charlus on how to reign in his oppressive aura when it leaked out. After much failure and a lot of property destruction, it wasn't long at all until he had finally managed to control his aura enough so when he'd release it, the magic wouldn't completely leave him depleted.

Controlling the same volatile magic he had involuntarily used back in Diagon Alley, Harry forcefully pushed it down towards his feet. He could feel the power surge down his legs and he knew he'd done it correctly.

A smirk appeared on his face as opened his now glowing eyes until finally, Harry took a single step forward. Instantly, the tangible atmosphere changed.

The room seemed transformed. Charged with an electric energy that made the hairs of Harry and Andromeda's observers stand.

Murmurs broke out as the guests watched on with growing awe and fear. Even the ones who had nothing but disdain towards Harry couldn't argue the fact that the power move was effective.

In one single action, Harry had proved to any potential doubters that he may in fact, be the real deal, that there might be a modicum of truth behind the rumours that people had heard over the years about the young Lord.

The pressure from his little stunt was felt all around. With each step he took, a pulse of magic shot from the pair like the vibrations of a beating heart. For the ones who were not as magically stout, it felt as though an invisible entity was pushing them back little by little, many people moving out of the duo's way as they walked by.

Matthias Greengrass watched the young Lord and his partner carefully, his fascinated expression hidden completely from his face.

"He is nothing like what I had imagined." Malakai Warrington said in his same baritone voice as he walked up to the blonde man.

"Indeed," Matthias began, "I am beginning to question whether or not Daphne had lied to me."

"Perhaps…"

"What do you think of him?"

Malakai watched Potter sharply, his brown eyes focusing on every aspect of him. The way he walked, his posture and then finally, his magic. There was something about it that felt familiar…

Blocking out his surroundings, Malakai concentrated on the boy's magic, pushing out tendrils of his own to get a feel of the type of magic Potter was currently utilising.

That was a mistake.

The silver haired wizard felt his body stiffen instantly as a sharp tearing sound screeched in his ears causing him to wince and forcefully break his Magic Sight.

When he looked back up, he was met with emerald, killing curse eyes that had turned to his direction and was staring at him directly from across the room.

Something is wrong…

Malakai's instincts were all screaming at him to break eye contact which he did with haste as he placed his hand on his head, feeling as if a headache was approaching. Growling softly, he had to restrain himself to not pull out his wand and curse the foe that had made him, of all people, feel unsettled in his own skin.

The power that ran through Malakai's veins was mighty enough that he was never truly frightened of anyone but his interaction with the Potter boy was different to anything he had ever experienced before.

His pride was damaged.

A boy younger than his own son had unnerved him.

"Well?"

Malakai returned his gaze back to Harry who was no longer watching him. The brown eyed wizard watched how the young Lord offered a glass of wine to the blood traitor before they began speaking in soft whispers.

"He is dangerous."

"It is as I thought…" Matthias whispered, his eyes never leaving Harry's form.

"I could feel a power in him. Something untrained and volatile. Something dangerous. His magic is potent and if his abilities are nurtured, his strength will be considerable."

"How powerful? Like Dumbledore? Like…"

The Dark Lord?

Sharp, emerald, green fires flashed in Malakai's mind.

"I do not know…"

CwD

"…The Ministry will always have this country's best interests at its centre and I, your Minister of Magic, Cornelius Oswald Fudge, will continue to protect and support this country and its people, during these dark and perilous times… "

"…Together, we have accomplished much but there is still more to do to ensure the wellbeing of our community from the dark forces that attempt to overrun it. With your trust and backing as you have continued to do so, any obstacle that may arise, I am confident we can overcome it… together! Thank you, my friends on your unwavering support!" Fudge finished, his cheeks red in exhaustion as he beamed at the crowd who, he was too obtuse to see, had apathetic looks on their faces.

"Finally! You'd think he'd never stop talking." Harry grouched.

Andromeda chuckled. "Oh darling, that little speech of his was hardly anything. Once you take up your seat on the Wizengamot, there will be a lot more than this."

"I can hardly wait…" Came the sarcastic reply of the teen. He looked around the room, focusing on the guests he could see.

"Judging by their faces, it's honestly kinda funny how Fudge thinks he'll still be running office by the end of the summer." Harry muttered, munching on his forth bite-sized piece of treacle tart.

"His hard-headedness cost him. Only those within his administration remain as his only supporters." Andromeda said, her lip curling as she watched the Minister blundering about in front of uninterested group.

Harry hummed, "Wonder who'll be the next Minister..."

"Dora mentioned there being rumours of Madam Bones wanting the position."

"Susan's aunt."

"Madam Bones was two years younger than me when I was in Hogwarts. From what I know of her, she is a good woman." Andromeda mentioned, drumming her nails on the side of her glass.

"She was at my stupid hearing. Now that I think about it, I do remember her being pretty fair. Nym seems to trust her so that seems good enough for me."

"It was terrible hearing about her brother, Edgar and his wife Suzette… Such a terrible incident. They were in the Order before he and his wife were murdered by Death Eaters." Andromeda said with a heavy sigh.

"Susan's parents…" Harry realised sadly, his eyes tracking the buxom redhead as she laughed at something Ernie Macmillan had said. She was just like him and it was honestly depressing he hadn't known sooner. It would've been nice to talk to someone who had gone through something similar.

During the course of the night, many Lords and Ladies had regained their wits and albeit warily, came to speak to him and Andromeda after seeing the carefree attitude they both exuded.

Most discussions were kept to very benign topics such as how school was going for him and what he planned to do in the future which were topics he could handle.

Harry spoke calmly and kept his answers vague enough that most was happy with his answers. He had learnt a lot from his grandparents on how to read people and though practice, compared to the real thing was entirely two different worlds, judging from the smile Andromeda directed to him over the course of the evening, he reckoned he was doing pretty well.

"Lord Potter, you never explicitly defined the relationship you had with Madam Tonks…" Allen Abbot, who insisted he be called 'Al' asked. Judging from the other Lords and Ladies who had surrounded them and even the ones lurking around, it seemed they were very interested in the connection.

"Aunt Andromeda and my late mother were good friends. As you know, like the Longbottom's, the Potters were targeted during the last war by V… You-Know-Who… and as such, the status of their relationship was kept hidden for their safety. We only reconnected recently." Harry finished, shooting a warm smile to the woman on his arm as she smiled back.

Everyone stiffened at Harry's almost slip up, some visually trembling at even the mention of Voldemort's moniker.

"Y-Y-You've never said your plans for your personal future, Lord Potter?" Lady Robins questioned, swiftly changing the subject much to Harry's amusement, "There a lucky lady somewhere along the line…?" The Welsh woman giggled nervously, causing most to release an audible sigh.

"Uh… Not at the moment, Lady Robins-"

"-In that case, I must introduce you to my beautiful daughter, Imogen, Lord Potter!" Lord Ernest Hawksworth interrupted causing most to scowl at the man.

"Ernest how crass! We had an agreement, you cheat!" Someone shouted as Harry blinked in mortification as the crowd's noise level increased.

"My granddaughter has told me she's more than interested too, Lord Potter! She may be a little up in the years and in size, but she'll put some hairs on your che-"

"-Grandpapa, how could you!" A girl wailed who Harry guessed was the granddaughter, before she barrelled through the animated crowd.

This whole situation was beginning to get quickly out of hand as people began to shout out proposals as if Harry was being sold at some auction.

"Andi…" The young Lord begged whilst Andromeda struggled to stifle her giggles.

"Hadrian," She began, her voice silencing the crowd, "While appreciates the sentiment, is not considering any proposals at this moment as he's focusing currently on his schooling. Perhaps in the future, he'll be more open to your offers." She said with a pleasant smile; the crowd reluctantly accepting.

CwD

Dinner came along soon enough, which brought about its own problems. Problems which Harry wanted to avoid completely but when those problems concerned one Albus Dumbledore, the teen figured out a long time ago that if push comes to shove, the old man will likely have his way most of the time.

The situation at dinner was one of those times.

"Does this not bring back pleasant memories, m'boy-"

"-My grandfather wants a word." Harry interjected, swiftly cutting of the wizened wizard.

"Yes… Nymphadora did mention something about Charlus… I suppose you've found a magical portrait of him then?" Dumbledore asked with a sigh as he watched the young man cut his duck into cubes.

Somehow, though Harry was definitely sure it was the old man's doing, he and Andromeda had been placed on a table with Dumbledore and his friend who had a pair of one of the most striking eyes Harry had seen. Finishing the group was strangely, Neville's gran, Augusta Longbottom, who, much to Harry's glee, was still rocking her weird, stuffed vulture hat.

Harry nodded, seeing no reason to lie to Dumbledore.

"And Grandma. She's ever so pleased to hear that you're coming to visit." Harry innocently added, enjoying the way the old man stiffened in his seat.

"Harry-"

"Until you speak to them, Dumbledore, I don't want to speak to you. Besides, didn't you already send a letter regarding our impeding conversation for tomorrow?"

"Yes, however-"

"-Ergo, I don't want to speak to you now. I'm in a pleasant mood Headmaster, I'd rather nothing ruin it." Harry finished, scowling at Dumbledore who let out another sigh at the stubborn teen.

"Very well. Nevertheless Harry, I do have to apologise for tomorrow as our upcoming meeting will have to be postponed for a later date. Unfortunately, a situation has arisen which requires my utmost attention."

Harry shrugged. "So, when then?"

"I will be sure to let you know beforehand." Dumbledore replied tiredly.

Soon enough, the tense situation shifted as Dumbledore, thankfully, excused himself along with Augusta a few minutes after who had been quietly conversing with Andromeda.

"I didn't know you knew Neville's gran."

Andromeda nodded before her eyes lost their shine. "I sometimes see her and her grandson during their visits to the Janus Thickey Ward."

Harry nodded before offering Andromeda a smile which she returned with a sad one of her own.

"Thanks for not getting involved. With Dumbledore." The teen said after a moment.

Andromeda gave him a fond smile. "Only unless you needed me to, sweetie."

Opposite the twosome, Perrywatched the interaction carefully until she cleared her throat, reminding them of her presence.

"Do forgive dear Albie. He really does have the best intentions at heart no matter how foolish his ideas might be." The amber-eyed woman said, an exasperated look on her beautiful face as she daintily wiped at her lips before standing.

"Sorry ma'am, I didn't quite catch your name…?" Harry asked with a tilt of his head.

"Perenelle Le'Malf," She said before chuckling, "Though do call me Perry. I had actually come to see you today, my dear, but quickly realised that it perhaps wasn't the most appropriate setting."

"Confused?" Perry asked amusedly when Harry looked bewilderingly at Andromeda who also seemed puzzled.

Perry leaned down so only the two could hear before whispering, "I show not your face but your heart's-"

"-Desire." Harry finished, looking wide eyed at the woman as he put two and two together.

Perry smiled brilliantly at him.

"Nic sends his regards. He was unable to make it unfortunately but did tell me to extend an invitation for a spot of brunch whenever you're free Harry Potter." She said warmly, "I do hope you'll accept dearie."

"O-Of course."

"Très bien. Look out for our owl!" She ended, offering a confused Andromeda and a gobsmacked Harry one last smile before she happily strolled away.

CwD