Return of the King Chapter 06

Chapter 06:


After walking through the portal the recently vetted group found themselves atop the inner ring defensive wall facing the city in all its splendor, “Welcome to Toria, the only magical city with active offensive wards, thanks to Elven battle magic,” Remus was rather proud to be the one who showed them the city.


“It’s beautiful,” Bill whispered in awe as he looked over the city as the last rays of the sun washed over it, watching as the streetlights starting coming on all over the city.


The twins less vocal then their brother nevertheless agreed with him, being the shrewd businessmen they were they noticed right away Commerce Street lit up for the night. From their vantage point they saw only two of the building had signs out front, Gringotts and Ollivander’s. “Oi! Bill, you don’t have far to walk to get to work tomorrow,” Fred and George said in unison pointing out the large marble building a few hundred feet from where they were standing.


Bill mumbling under his breath, “He even has his own branch of Gringotts here.”


Standing behind his young friend Remus grinned as he placed a hand on his shoulder, “No Bill that is the Headquarters Branch of Gringotts, Harry lifted the enchantment on the building releasing the lobby and front doors. That set of enchantments is why the high management of Gringotts is so secure, their offices were never actually in London.”


“All well and good, but your pretty city out there won’t look as nice after a bunch of death eaters go rampaging through it,” Mad-Eye was impressed but it looked like there was a lack of certain security features he thought should be added.


Remus started chuckling, “Oh I hope they do try. After tomorrow when Ar’Ron keys the friend or foe wards to the dark mark I pity those who try to enter the city or surroundings.” Seeing the look of disbelief on Mad-Eyes face He explained, “The wards determine if any one entering is friend or foe, the wards are keyed for the magical signature of the being attempting entrance. If it is determined they are in fact foe the Offensive wards take over,” Remus grinned evilly, “There are three possibilities, they could be captured in an energy field for retrieval, they could be stunned and transported to holding cells, or lastly Harry’s personal favorite, upon detection they could be incinerated.”


Breaking out into full blown Laughter Mad-Eye told them, “I like the way the lad thinks.”


“I’ve saved the best for last, turn around,” Remus grinned as they looked over their shoulders as they turned around following Remus's pointing finger.


“No way” said Fred.


“Wicked” George added.


“Very wicked brother mine” Fred huffed.


“Harry really lives…” asked George.


“In that Castle?” pointed out Fred.


“It is way bigger than Hogwarts.” Together they said.


Chuckling at the twin speaking Kingsley announced as he rubbed his hands together in anticipation, “I don’t care what it takes I want a job working here.”


“To bad I am so banged up, I’d join you,” Alastor sounded wistful as he lapsed into deep thought.


“Were going to take a little short cut up to the castle, I hope you don’t mind missing a half hour jaunt,” Remus waited for the groups chuckles to slow up before he led the group a short distance away, to a set of steps leading down into a room in the middle of the wall with a flat silver stone on the floor. Walking over to a flat mirrored panel on a raised pedestal, Remus traced several runes on the mirror and channeled some magic into it causing the silver stone to glow softly. “Okay folks, the way this transport stone works is as you walk across it you will find yourself walking off of the twin to this stone up at the castle.”


Before he was truly finished the twins rushed past everyone running across the stone disappearing when the reached the center.


“What do they think this is a refreshment tour?” Remus managed to get out between their laughs at the antics of the twins.


“Can’t let those two get the better of us, forget that can’t let them get enough of a lead on us to be able to set pranks,” Bill told them as he walked quickly over the stone.


Looking at each other with a wicked gleam in their eyes Kingsley and Mad-eye walked across the stone followed by Remus. Arriving at the transport room Remus caught the quickly moving form of Bill as he chased after the twins yelling out not to prank anyone.


Remus and the two Aurors followed the Weasley’s out into the great hall, only to find them standing in the middle of the hall with the twin’s heads bouncing back and forth as they took in the sight.


“Winky, can you come here please,” Remus called out amused as he watched the twins back and forth antics.


A few seconds later a popping sound could be heard, as Winky appeared in front of Remus, Winky smiled as she curtsied like a proper house elf does, “Sir is home.”


‘Hmm someone must be teaching her proper court etiquette’ Remus thought before smiling at her, “Yes Winky could you go and tell Harry and Ar’Ron we have guests that need clearance please.”


Winky nodded and snapping her fingers popped out.


“This place is…” George said


“Way wicked” Fred added.


“This place is…” George commented.


“Way bigger than Hogwarts” Fred finished.


“Where are…” George asked.


“We Remus…” Fred finished.


Both of the twins looking intently at Remus waiting for an answer.


“Over to you right, those large doors are the main doors into the castle,” Waving his hand around the room, “And this is the main entry hall, anyone having business within the city would enter here and depending on where they needed to go, determines which hallway or set of steps they take.” Remus pointed to the corner, “Mad-Eye, Kingsley that spiral staircase over there,” leads to the guard command center and training hall, after the first hires, Harry plans to train up his own forces not import them.”


“That’s my job” growled out Alastor with a wicked smile finally finding something he could do to be part of this with his tired and broken body.


“Remus can show you around the guard facilities tomorrow after breakfast, Dargoth and the other half of the command teams should be here around 9:00 a.m.” Ar’Ron surprised them entering the hall. “And you two,” Ar’Ron pointed at the red headed twins of terror as they were known, “if you close up your shop for a long lunch, you can accompany Harry down to Commerce Street, as he keys the call.”


As everyone turned towards the voice, Remus questioned Ar’Ron, “I thought we were going to wait until the end of next week before keying the call?”


“Unfortunately matters have spiraled out of control; we’ve been getting reports from the ministry after you left telling us that it is total chaos over there. Good thing Voldemort will be in a coma for two months, or we would have a fight on our hands and we would be at the disadvantage,” Ar’Ron not only sounded disgusted but looked it.


As they were talking a desk appeared by the wall under the Potter Family Crest, and a map of the castle’s administrative sections drew itself on the wall behind the desk.


“We asked Dobby to get together with the Hogwarts House Elf’s telling them to move the records and such from the ministry to here.” Ar’Ron explained to the shocked group
As more items started to appear around the hall, “By morning the whole British Magical Government will be based out of the castle.”


Minky chose that moment to pop in and bowed, “Majesty, council chambers cleaned and ready. Whole third floor too.”


“Thank you Minky, you can be proud of the excellent job you have done,” Ar’Ron grinned at the beaming Impare’ to be.


“I can see you all have questions,” Ar’Ron saw their curios expressions, and then he motioned for them to follow as he turned and walked down the hallway next to the suit of armor. “But why don’t we go to the family wing and relax and hopefully you will have your answers.” A short distance down the hall they found themselves at a set of steps going up into the tower.


Mad-Eye ever one to be aware of security frowned as he looked at the stairs and used his magical eye to look around, “This is not the best place to have the entrance to the family wing so close to the everyday common halls.”


Ar’Ron smiled like he knew something they didn’t, which he did, “That would be true if these stairs did not end at the astronomy tower with no other landings in between. Notice anything about the fifth step?” He watched Mad-Eye stare at the step.


Alastor, using his magical eye noticed the shimmer of magic around the silver step, then it hit him the transport stone was silver and shimmered in the same way, he grinned as he looked back up, “Looks like another one of those transport stones.”


“Very good, unlike the one you used, this one requires a key to be present on the person, otherwise you could walk on it all you want and you would only go up to the tower.” Ar’Ron smiled as he opening the box he had in his hand, he handed each of them a silver striped acorn. “Keep this somewhere on you at all times, it will allow you to travel to the family wing and up onto the second floor, the second floor only mind you, of our living quarters.” After the explanation Ar’Ron walked up the stairs vanishing when he reached the fifth step.


Looking at where Ar’Ron had vanished Alastor took off his wooden leg and opened a secret compartment and placed the acorn inside it before re-attaching his leg and clumping up the stairs.


The others pocketed their acorns and followed Remus up the stairs, only to stop in shock when they reached the landing and saw through the arch the entry into Natures Palace.


Ar’Ron ushered them through the arch, “Welcome to Nature’s Palace them, my home.” At their confused looks he decided to educate them, “The Palace is the ruling center of the true Elves; I linked my palace from my realm with Potter Castle, at that archway, you can walk from one to the other through a more permanent gate.”


Ar’Ron watched closely and saw only Alastor and bill truly understood what he told them, pointing to the set of stairs, “The guest rooms are up the left steps, there is enough room to house every Hogwarts student in their own room up there.” Pointing to the other set of steps, “The right steps next to the Fairy Oak lead to the private family wing any non family members can not enter, if they try once they reach the second floor landing they would find themselves in a holding cell, The acorns you were given allow you access to the second floor covering the common areas, family dining area, infirmary and such.” Ar’Ron explained briefly the layout as he started up the steps around the Fairy Oak he led them into the large common room, “After we have talked and you’re questions have been answered as best as they can be, rooms have been set aside in the guest wing for your use and you can choose to eat in your room or join us at the family table for breakfast.” Ar’Ron called out for Holly as everyone found a place to sit down and be comfortable.


Popping into the room Holly did her best to curtsey with her large protruding belly, “Majesty calls his Holly.”


“You are looking much better Holly, if you could get with Winky and Minky to bring us a light meal, sandwiches and some snacks and some butterbeers for our guests, though I think I’ll have a half split of the concord wine.” Harry chose that moment to walk out of the infirmary, seeing how flushed and tired he looked he added, “Better make that the whole bottle and several glasses.”


Narcissa hearing the voices coming through her door that she had left open, quickly went downstairs. Reaching the common room she went over to where Harry and Ar’Ron were sitting and asked, “Is he alright, did it go ok?”


Answering Narcissa’s frantic questions Ar’Ron smiled, “He’s fine. He came through the cleansing without a problem, in a few days his magic should be back up to normal, I did however erase the memory of the procedure.” He sighed as he snuggled with his soul mate, “I don’t want him to remember the pain he had to go through or the fight with Franklin as he tried to reassert control. All that matters is that the link is broken and that bastard is nursing one bloody hell of a magical backlash when I threw him out of Draco.” Ar’Ron assured a worried Narcissa she could take a quick peek when he went and checked him for the night, “I also inscribed a rune of mind protection that will make him impervious to the Imperious Curse and will occlude his mind from any type of mental attack.”


Holly popped back in and served the drinks, setting the bottle of wine down by Harry. Snapping her fingers a couple of long sofa tables appeared loaded down with all types of sandwiches and snacks, and then she popped out after being thanked.


After everyone had loaded up there plates and sat down and started to relax, even Alastor for the first time in any ones memory ate and drank food prepared out of his sight.


Harry decided to start things off, “Remus I was a little worried about you not having back up tonight so I had Dobby follow you to the order meeting tonight, he hid in one of the kitchen broom cupboards, so he told us of the high points of the meeting. He also stayed long enough that he caught the headmaster coming back and follow you to the library where he attempted to get in but couldn’t get past the shield you erected. Dobby came back when he left.”


The others were a little disturbed by this news.


Alastor stared at Harry through his explanation to Remus, “I can get you the twenty-five people you want by Saturday, good experienced people, not afraid to fight dirty if needed. Most were forcibly retired by Fudge after Voldemort’s down fall the first time.” Alastor decided now or never, and never one to hold back he laid his proposal on the table so to speak. “Also I want in,” raising a hand as he glanced at them and his body, “Don’t worry lad, I know my own limitations and I cannot work the field any longer, but I think I will best be suited as one of your instructors when you set up your training academy.”


Nodding his head, Harry had heard from people he respected that Mad-Eye was one of the best out there, and the only reason he was retired was due to the fact he was opposed to the ban on the practice of dark arts, he felt it handicapped the Aurors to much. Well that and the fact he believed magic wasn’t light or dark, “I am glad to hear it Mad-Eye, your hired, 70 galleons a week to start. You will be sharing duties with a goblin and an elf.” Sighing Harry sipped his wine, surprised at how good it was, “From the records I have read in the Potter journals, Wizarding kind should be one hundred times more powerful than they are today.” Frowning as he thought back to what he read he tried to keep from being angry again, he liked the couch he was sitting on, “I found the reason in the Journal by Robert Potter, seems the ministry feared for their power base if the council ever returned to power, so they went on a spree to eradicate as much knowledge as they could. In the process they decided why not dumb down the people; make it easier to control them.”


Staring at Mad-Eye and Kingsley Harry took another sip of his wine as he grabbed a small finger sandwich, “That is what is going to make your job harder than normal. For the most part until the first class graduates you are going to be one step ahead of your students, it’s going to be a hard job, but in the end the guard forces will be the best wizards or goblins have to offer. Are you sure you still want the job?” Harry asked as he started eating.


“Where do I sign? And call me Alastor,” An eager Alastor leaned forward in glee.


Ar’Ron looked at the new trainee instructor thoughtfully, “I think it would be in our best interest to give you permanent access to the second floor family wing of the palace. I’ll take care of that tomorrow, we’ll want you to handle vetting ministry employee’s tomorrow and Saturday. We want you to weed out any informers or Voldemort supporters, we’ll give you a truth stone to use, and those that pass you can give them a ring that will allow them to use a transport stone I’ll place in the ministry foyer that will bring them to the apparition point in Commerce Ally for now.”


Kingsley seeing that Harry was looking at him questioningly, he thought he should make his intentions known, “Harry when I heard that you were looking for people, I wanted to come over with the others and make my case to be hired.”


Thinking back to the times he had seen Kingsley fight death eaters, hearing the tales of the battles and how he was a team squad leader, Harry told him, “I have seen you fight and know that you are pretty good, the only question I have is if you can work side by side with a goblin?”


“I will have no problems with that and I don’t think the goblins have any problem with me either,” Kingsley grinned at not being dismissed out of hand.


“Ok then, I’ve a job I think you would be perfect for,” harry smiled thinking about who he could pair him up with. “It’s hard work, what with all the scheduling of teams, setting up training sessions to get them up to speed, at least in the beginning. Then you have things you will need to learn like how to use Runic spell blocks, plus the laws are slightly different from what you are used to, I found a copy of the laws of the times back when the city was occupied, and I think they were good ones, so those are the ones the guards will follow.” Harry watched the excitement build on the Aurors face before asking with a sly smile on his face, “All in all it would be a challenge being a command team member, are you interested?”


“Are you kidding of course I’m interested. I can give notice tomorrow and start immediately,” Kingsley told him eager to begin.


Still thinking who would be the best fit to partner him with Harry decided it would be Dargoth, “Fine, starting pay is ninety galleons a week and you will be working the day shift with Dargoth as your partner, The day shift is the lead command team and will oversee the other teams if needed or in an emergency.”


Ar’Ron was very glad to see Harry start to settle into the swing of things by making decisions for himself, all he had needed was the support it looked like. Since they had decided on the moving of the government to Potter Castle he thought of one more thing that needed to be handled. Reaching around he pulled off one of his belt cases, opening it there was one very large gray block with a white line down the center nestled inside.
“Which one of you two can get down to the veil room tomorrow?” Ar’Ron looked at the newly hired guard instructor and shift commander.


“Either of us can get there, but I probably will have more time, seeing as Alastor will be vetting ministry workers,” Kingsley told him eyes glued to the large block in the case in Ar’Ron’s hands.


Handing over the case Ar’Ron told him what he wanted done, “I want you to go to the veil room and place this block on the inside of the doorframe. Make sure you do it from the outside, so you are not trapped in the room. To charge the block you need to hold it in your wand hand and channel your magic into it until it glows brightly, with this one wait until the white line glows bright enough to hurt your eyes when you look at it. It will activate once it touches the doorframe.” Seeing the lost look on his soul mates face as he instructed Kingsley on how to activate the shield, Ar’Ron pulled Harry over into a loose embrace. “I have a hunch that that abomination is not as inactive as everyone thinks, this will make sure no one else is thrown into the damn thing.”


After a few more moments of silence Harry looked over at Bill sitting on the couch opposite of him, “Bill, are you looking for a job too?”


“Oh, no Harry, I’m very happy working for Gringotts, I wanted to come over and tell you to your face that I am having no part of Dumbledore and the order, and all you have to do is ask and I will be there for you,” Bill sincerity told Harry all that he needed to know.


Fred spoke up alone which shocked everyone, as they never talked except in twin speak, “Harry, we want you to know that we are behind you one hundred percent, partner of ours.”


Ar’Ron glanced around as he placed his empty glass on the table, “Is there anything else that needs to be brought up before we head off to bed?”


Remus cleared his throat, “I ended up inviting Trazthorn and his crew, the ones that did all the work on Grimmauld place, to lunch on Tuesday. I had tried to give them some galleons as a bonus for their quick work, but they refused. But when I offered them lunch with us instead they practically threw themselves down at my feet.” He grinned at Harry, “I have a feeling that being invited to lunch at the castle has become a status symbol among the goblin management.”


“We probably should have the Governors of Gringotts over then. And to make sure they are not slighted in matters of honor, they should be the only goblins we invite at dinner time,” Ar’Ron looked at his mate, seeing the nod of agreement from Harry. “Sunday night then; we can pass along the invite tomorrow when we go to Gringotts to meet with Snape.”


Ar’Ron thinking on schedules for tomorrow, and positions needing to be filled looked at Remus, “Remus, are you doing anything in the morning?”


“Nothing that can’t wait until the afternoon, what do you need done?” Remus was intrigued, wondering what needed to be done.


“Nothing that should take to long I would think,” Ar’Ron smiled at the thought of releasing more of the house elves from their slavery enchantment. “Could you pop over to Japan and pick up some house elf’s young enough for the bonding of Impare’? Make sure two of them a culinary trained in Japanese cuisine, and if there are a couple farmer trained to help out grab them too, take Thorny with you.”


“And Dobby, he has the household money pouch,” Harry though about something Dobby had asked him this afternoon, “See if he can find any that would be a good fit for the protectors own.” Seeing the looks of mass confusion Harry called for Dobby so the Impare’ could explain while he sat back and watched their faces.


Dobby popped in and grew excited when he heard his Sir wanted him to explain to other wizards his plan, “Dobby is reading book. Book is having Majesty who is protector of peoples. Majesty has guards and all for city. But he has secret group named protectors own to protect protector.”


Alastor smiled and chuckled at the thought, “Good idea that Dobby has. No one would ever suspect a house elf of being a guard, not only that they blend in as everyone refuses to see them…I like it.”


“Anything else?” Ar’Ron asked hoping no one would say anything as he wanted to get to bed before anyone fell asleep this time.


Sighing Harry nodded, “I am so going to hate myself for saying this. But I think the Wizarding world needs to be thrown a lifeline, before the chaos gets any worse, I think that the Council of Twelve needs a formal introduction.”


Ar’Ron squeezed Harry’s hand in encouragement as he leaned forward a little so he could see around him, “Narcissa.”


Surprised to be included in the conversation she responded very formally. “Yes my Lord, how may I serve?”


Harry started a quiet pleading rant that had been building up, “Harry, just call me Harry, at least in the family wing. I need a place to be just me, not some lord this, lord that or the bloody boy who lived.”


Ar’Ron pulled Harry in tighter and placed a small kiss on the side of the face to calm him down.


“Sorry, at times it just gets a little too much,” Harry said softly.


As much as Narcissa’s upbringing told her it was wrong, this was a request from her Lord, so how could she not honor it, “If that is your wish Harry.”


“Thank you; I was wondering if you had any experience planning big events?” Harry leaned into Ar’Ron for support.


“Would you like me to take over planning the ball then?” Narcissa asked excited at the prospect.


“Would you?” Harry asked with pleading eyes.


“Oh yes it is the least I could do, I do so love planning parties, what day shall I plan for and do you want it to be a luncheon or dinner event?” Narcissa said with a fanatical gleam in her eyes as she started making lists of who needed to be invited.


Not sure he liked that gleam Harry hesitated as he looked at her, he knew this was not going to be fun, and now Narcissa’s gleam was the proof he was going to hate the whole thing, “August first and Dinner I think.” Seeing the look on her face when he told her the date he decided, nope, did not like it at all, looking over at Remus and Alastor talking to Dobby, Remus and Bill chatting and the twins watching him with glee, Harry wondered what he had let himself in for.


Seeing Sage in the open door to the infirmary Ar’Ron got up and told the rest of the group, “ I am going to take one last look in on Draco to see how he is doing before going to bed, Dobby can take you lot over to your rooms when you are ready.”


Saying good night Harry got up to Follow Ar’Ron into the infirmary with Narcissa right behind him. Seeing Sage whispering into Ar’Ron’s ear he stopped in the doorway, Harry turned to Narcissa, “Would you give us a minute before you enter? I want to make sure Draco did not toss the sheet off. I don’t want him embarrassed knowing that his mother got to see his sensitive bits, even if he is asleep.”


Walking in he whispered to Ar’Ron what he told Draco’s mother, noticing the blond tossing and turning slightly. “Help me a minute would you Mel’Anin? Hold him up on his side while I put some cream on his back.” Ar’Ron asked as he pulled the sheet back.


As soon as Harry touched the young man he settled down; while Ar’Ron was applying the cream that Sage had brought in, he thought back to earlier in the day when Ar’Ron inscribed the runes of mind protection on Draco.


“Well that’s done, might be a better idea to inscribe the runes now while he is out of it.” Ar’Ron said out loud, mostly to himself.


“You stay sitting there on the bed and I will turn him around so he is sitting in front of you. You can then support him as he leans back into you.” Ar’Ron grinned at Harry knowing what would most likely happen.


Slowly taking the naked young man out of the kneeling position that Harry was holding him in so he had access to his back, Ar’Ron moved Draco to the side and up slightly so his legs that were once under him where now free to be moved and with Harry’s help they turned Draco so his legs were stretched out on either side of Harry and his butt was on the bed in front of Harry’s crotch, Now Draco was sitting face to face in Harry’s lap his chest against Harry’s and his head was cradled by Harry’s hand against his neck.


Harry noticed Draco’s semi erect penis slick with fluid slowly start to rise and felt himself stir also. With nothing else to do, as he could not see to watch Ar’Ron inscribe the runes, Harry watched with fascination as Draco became engorged. He decided it had a nice shape to it and a descent size. He could not help himself but to rub the young mans stomach in a soothing manor. He was drawn out of his thoughts as he felt Draco’s body stiffen and looking down he watched as he shot seven times with some going as far as his chin with the force of his orgasm. Absentmindedly rubbing the slippery liquid into Draco’s skin Harry commented, “First Remus and now Draco, is there something about this type of magic that turns people on.”


“Yes, well, as you will find out yourself when you have finished learning Runic spells and start inscribing runes your self, that the touching of Elvish magic to the magical core of a wizard is very erotic and that is the result, Ar’Ron pointed to the mess Harry was rubbing into Draco’s skin, “though it does look like he shot a nice amount.”


The sound of Narcissa asking how Draco was doing broke Harry out of his memories and back into the here and now.


“He will be fine, his magical core is connected nicely and by tomorrow afternoon after lunch he should be free to go on up to his rooms. He was a little restless when I came in, but another coat of skin regeneration cream and he settled right down,” Ar’Ron told her as he covered Draco back up and Narcissa walked in.


“I will spend the night, just in case he needs anything.” Harry looked at Draco sleeping peacefully.


“We can take turns Mel’Anin, there are after all plenty of beds” Ar’Ron chuckled thinking about playing doctor after everyone went to bed.


After leaning down and giving her son a kiss on the forehead Narcissa bid them a goodnight, and returned to her rooms.





Sitting down next to the bed Harry took out a piece of parchment to write a quick note, taking the quill and dipping it in the ink Harry quickly wrote a note to Bill’s boss at Gringotts asking him to have some one waiting in the lobby of the headquarters branch to show Bill the way to more familiar surroundings as he was staying at the castle at the moment. He then attached a short note asking for the first one of his managers that retrieved the note to pass it on. Rolling the parchment into a scroll he took the communications box from his belt, unshrinking it he placed the scroll inside for transport. Shrinking the box and putting it back on his belt he then moved his attention to Draco.


A very young Goblin page stood guard inside the office of the Lord Potter’s managers, his only job was to watch the strange little box on the table and notify whichever family manager was on duty if it started to glow.


He was shocked to see the box glow indicating it had been activated. Quickly writing a note to summon the manager on duty, he put it in the specially charmed basket on the long oval table watching it disappear before returning to watching the box.




Breakfast was not for another hour But Remus had decided to get an early start, walking down the steps and across the common room into the family dining room he was surprised to see Kingsley and Mad-Eye hard at work, parchment taking up most of the table. Making his presence known, Remus chuckled, “Merlin how many trees had to die for this mess.” Seeing he had the two’s attention, Remus poured himself a cup of tea, “Did you even go to bed and sleep last night?”


“Course we did,” Kingsley perked up then pointing over his shoulder towards Mad-Eye. “Though this one decided that we had wasted enough time laying down on the job and we needed to get a jump on the day...Two hours ago.”


Laughing at the picture that came to mind of Mad-Eye pounding on Kingsley’s door cursing up a storm, he noticed that they were wearing their new uniforms.


Mad-Eye Growled out in annoyance as he fussed with his uniform, “Take a man’s clothes when he’s not looking, I feel naked without my robe.”


Walking in Ar’Ron commented as he went over to the table with the tea pot, “I think you’ll like this uniform Alastor, That is Elven battle issue. The more spells that hit it the more powerful its protections become, it will even stop the killing curse from killing you, as long as the curse does not hit your skin.”


Mad-Eye stopped tugging on the clothes long enough to give them an appraising look.


Pouring himself some juice Ar’Ron sat down, pointing at the piles on the table. “Is there some order in that chaos?”


Chuckling Kingsley grinned after sipping his coffee, “I’m a neat everything in its place person, while Alastor is a everything in its own pile person, you can tell who is winning.”


Grumbling about traitors under his breath Alastor pulled a sheet of parchment out of one of the pile and passed it over, “These are the people we feel would be worth sounding out for the guard positions. The top three names are the ones that we feel are the best of the best and Harry should consider them for the two open command positions. This stack is letters ready to be owled setting up a meeting time for those on that list.”


Scanning the list Ar’Ron noticed thirty names on it, “Dobby,” he called out as he summoned a ring with the crest of the Torian Guard Training Academy on it. He waved his hand, and the ring hovered above the stack Alastor mentioned and as they rolled themselves up and sealed themselves, once sealed the ring would touch each scroll imprinting the training academy seal on it. A few moments after the last scroll was sealed Dobby popped in.


“Majesty is calling for Dobby?” The Impare’ asked as he looked around with wide eyes at all the parchment around the room.


“Yes Dobby could you pop over to Hogwarts Owlery and post these for us, make sure you are not seen, then pop back when you are done,” Ar’Ron asked the little Impare’ for his help with mailing the letters.


“That ring is yours by the way Alastor that is the more permanent solution I talked about last night, once on your finger it can’t be removed from your hand except in death even if your mind is not fully under your control. It is also the seal of your position,” Ar’Ron said pointing at the two last stacks, “What about that mess.”


“Different contingency plans for vetting ministry workers, questions to ask and such” Alastor replied as he gazed at the ring before putting it on.


Harry walked in while Alastor was explaining his plans, “Why don’t you question department heads and sub heads today, send them over to become familiar with their new offices and all the others after questioning can have a three day weekend.” Harry eyes glowing in anger remembering his dealings with Fudge and his lackey’s, “Though I want to make it clear that all ministry employees will have to swear a blood oath of loyalty to the council and if they are working in this castle to Lord Potter.”


“I think I can lighten those lists for you a little bit, members of the Department of Mysteries, Unspeakables and Magical Law Enforcement will be staying in the old ministry building; they can split up the space. They can be checked out later,” Ar’Ron told Alastor as he started to eat the food he placed on his plate.


“Taking that into account I can question everyone else by noon using one of your truth stones, what do you want done with those that don’t pass?” Alastor wondered how far Harry was willing to go.


“As much as I am angered by the betrayal of Wizarding kind by the fools in the ministry, telling you to kill them, while making me feel safer, is probably not the best idea.” Harry told him, then thinking about it as he drank down some juice, “Memory charm them, give them false memories of being fired at least a week ago and port key them to their homes.”


“We were going to work out this morning right, I need to work out some anger,” Harry told Ar’Ron bruskley.


“Sounds like a good idea Mel’Anin,” Standing up Ar’Ron summoned a box of green wood with two griffins rampant on the lid and placed it on the table in front of his empty plate. “Alastor the rings I told you about are in here, they should be placed on the pinky.” With that Harry and Ar’Ron left the room towards the dome gardens for their workout.


Remus stood up putting his teacup down on the table, reaching into his robe pocket he placed the truth stone from last night on the table, “Here you go Mad-Eye this is the stone I used last night. Try not to have too much fun today,” He grinned motioning for the broad shouldered Impare’ to follow him out. Then he told Thorny to find Dobby and to meet him downstairs in fifteen minutes so they could leave. Deciding he could spare a minute Remus walked into the infirmary to check on how Draco was doing, seeing the young blond sitting on the window seat he walked over and sat down against the opposite wall, “Good morning Draco how are you feeling this morning?” Remus asked as he looked him over.


Draco looked away from the window when he felt movement near him, “Good morning Professor, I’m still a little weak, but I am able to use my magic again.”


Remus smiled back, he looked happier, more content he thought, “I am glad to hear that, but you can call me Remus you know, I have not been your Professor for two years.”


With a small smile Draco shook his head, “I’m not so sure about that, Harry mentioned something about you helping to bring me up to speed.”


Surprised, but yet pleased at the thought of teaching once again, Remus looked out the magical window, seeing two figures attacking each other his eyes widened in shock, “Is that Harry down there?”


“He said he was going to be working out before breakfast,” Draco nodded, “To bad we can’t see them up close.” As soon as the words left his mouth the window shimmered and refocused on the two dueling as if they were right next to them.


Narcissa walked in and noticed Remus and Draco sitting in front of the window, walking over she embraced her son, “Good morning darling, how are you feeling this morning?”


“Fine mother, I am feeling stronger as time goes bye.” Draco replied eyes not leavin the scene in front of him.


Somewhat confused over his mother’s behavior Draco glanced over his shoulder, “I’ve missed having you hug me.”


Strangely serene at the thought Narcissa smiled, “Our new Lord while he might have to be stiff and formal outside the family wing, much prefers to relax and considers physical and verbal displays of affection to be a strength, unlike Lucius who considered it a weakness. After watching it in practice last night I much prefer the former and must agree that it is definitely a strength.”


Looking out the window for the first time, “Oh my Harry looks quite angry,” Narcissa said in surprise.


Remus sighed, “Looks like he found out about Hermione’s betrayal this morning.”


“Silly girl, if she only knew about him being one of the Lords of the council.” Narcissa said in mild disgust.


Remus felt sickened by the thought of the lies Albus was spreading, “She knew, she has known for several years, but being muggle born she had nothing but contempt for the council, much preferring the ministry which closely resembles the muggle government she is used to.” Continuing Remus then shocked them both by saying, “Its one of the few things Harry agrees with purebloods on, though I think his solution is ingenious.”


Draco sensing that he would learn more on how his Lord thinks looked back at the fight and asked, “Can you tell us his solution, Remus?”


Sighing Remus looked at his watch and seeing he had a couple of minutes left, “I’ll only be able to give you the high points, as I have an errand to run for Ar’Ron in Japan.” Seeing their nod he closed his eyes briefly before continuing, “Harry did some research and found out that most muggle born children are in fact born from Squib parents that have lost all knowledge of their family line. He also found out if the Squib parents were to live in a high magic environment like a magical village, all their children would be born magical. He plans to make all parents of magical children move into magical communities and be taught our culture; all children would then be taught about the magical world from infancy.”


Sighing Remus saw the shock on Narcissa and Draco’s faces, “The policy of disowning Squibs and driving them away does harm to the next generation that would have been magical, there is more of course like how the underage magical law results in loss of power overall in the child and more, your mother can fill in most of what I did not say.” Remus got up and started towards the door, “I really have to be going now; I should be back in time for lunch I hope, if not, I will see you in the dinning room later.”


Looking out the window again Draco saw Harry in the arms of Ar’Ron with tears running down his cheeks, “Granger, you don’t realize what your betrayal means, but I fear you will not like finding out the consequences.”


Silently Narcissa agreed with her son’s assessment, then she was surprised when Draco asked the window if there were other views that he could change to. Choosing the scene of the beach, Draco relaxed back against the wall, “Mother can you tell me what Remus was talking about?”


At that moment sage walked in, snapping her fingers she moved some of the beds out of the way and placed a long dining table with chairs in there place. “Young Sir can get answers after meal. Majesty and Prince say that breakfast to be served here so all family can eat together,” Sage told them right before she popped out.


Draco wondered out loud as he stared at the table, “I wonder why the table is so big?”


“Young Sir is asking why table so big? “ Holly asked as she walked into the room, “Tis Majesty and Princes order that all elf’s and Impare’ eats with the family at breakfast meal, so house needs and tasks be gone over.”


Soon The rest of the partially bonded elf’s and Impare’ wandered into the room and took up their seats. A Few minutes later in walked a freshly showered Harry followed by Ar’Ron, when they sat down and greeted everyone the food appeared on the table.




Arriving at the international port key point deep under the Japanese Ministry of Magic, Remus pulled out his notes with the directions to the house elf facilities.


Hiro liked working the night shift as for the most part there was nothing to do. Startled out of his contemplations by the arrival of someone port keying in, He quickly drew his wand and ran towards the arrivals room. Seeing the western wizard and two creatures that looked like house elf’s but were taller and had shorter ears, and not sure what they were he yelled out, “HALT, DO NOT MOVE.”


Hearing someone yell out, Remus looked up from his notes surprised to see a wand pointed in his direction.


Dobby seeing the wand pointed at Remus drew him self up in battle mode. Snapping his fingers the guard’s wand ended up in his hand, with another snap the guard was bound in chain and hovering upside down. Dobby then said, “Nasty wizard, point’s wand at princes, Remus.” Walking over so that his face was in front of the guards face Dobby snarled, “Maybes Prince lets Dobby plays with nasty wizard.”


A little shocked yet amused at the antics of the overprotective Impare’, Remus walked a little closer to see the guard was wearing the uniform of the Japanese Auror corps, “Not to be rude or anything but why where you ready to hex me?” Seeing the guards face going red, Remus asked Dobby to turn the guard right side up to better answer his questions.


After being righted Hiro said, “Excuse please, but I was not expecting any one to arrive at this time, you startled me. And when I saw your companions, I was not able to recognize them.”


“Dobby release him please, I don’t think he means us any harm.” Remus directed still amused.


“What are they, he acts like Samurai,” Hiro told Remus in awe.


Dobby’s ears perked up and he got very excited bouncing up and down on the balls of his feet, “Dobby read book about Samurai” turning so he could plead with Remus. “Can we get Samurai Elf’s? Harry Potter Sir be safe with Samurai in Protectors own.”


Hiro hearing Harry Potter being mentioned grew nervous, he did not have the diplomatic training that the day shift had and he was rapidly getting in over his head, “Please is Potter-sama coming?”


Motioning for Dobby to return the guards wand buying him some time to think, Remus tried to pull up what little he remembered about the Japanese culture, the only thing he truly remembered was that they were very formal and precise in their speech. And adding sama as an honorific to the last name meant something, but for the life of him he couldn’t remember what it meant.


Being very precise with his words Remus answered, “Lord Potter had a previous engagement, so I was asked to come in his place. I am here to acquire the services of a culinary expert and procure the services of several house elves.”


Hiro thought the whole situation was way above his station. Hearing Harry Potter called both a prince and identified as Lord Potter. Thinking back to his history lessons it slowly came to him that the ruling members of the Council of Twelve were called Lord. Oh Shun Tzu, he read in the paper the council once again ruled, that means this one was a direct envoy… Nervously so as to not bring any more dishonor to himself Hiro bowed, “Excuse please. Please follow so you may rest and freshen up from your journey, while I get someone more appropriate to help you.” Leading the trio to the diplomatic lounge where refreshments where laid out, he pointed out the bathroom area and asked if they needed anything else.


Remus told the guard that everything was more than satisfactory as he poured himself a glass of ice water.


Hiro bowed while taking two steps backwards before standing up and turning and leaving the room, he quickly walked over to the mirror on the right wall a few feet from the door. Tapping his wand on it to activate the recording feature he quickly explained the situation and when he finished muttered a spell setting the mirror to repeat his explanation to whomever called the mirror at this location.


Taking a deep breath he tapped his wand on the red cover under the mirror causing it to drop open exposing a large red button, this button had not been pushed in over three hundred years, not even when world war two broke out was it needed. With one last plea to those that had gone before, he pushed the button.


Sighing Remus thought that any hope of a quick in and out trip with him making it back home for a late brunch had just gone out the window he sighed, “Dobby, Thorny looks like we may delayed slightly, too bad I didn’t eat breakfast earlier.”


Thorny snapped his fingers and on the low table in front of the couch a breakfast of scrambled eggs and toast with juice and bacon appeared.


“Thorny comes prepared,” The Impare’ in charge of magical creatures told him.


Laughing Remus pointed at the two empty chairs and told the two to join him.


Alarms starting ringing and red lights flashing throughout the Japanese Ministry of Magic signaling a diplomatic emergency, Chief of staff Nakamura had just started for the exit doors of the ministry building, when to his horror the alarms started blaring, and he paled when he saw the red lights flashing and the low tone of the alarms. Forgetting his dignified pace he raced to his office to find out what was going on.


The Japanese prime minister was enjoying a late afternoon cup of tea waiting for the families dinner to be ready, it had been another fine day with nothing much to do. His quiet contemplation was ruined when the fireplace across the room flared to life, with the head of his chief of staff appearing in it.


“Minister, sorry to disturb you at this late hour, but we have a situation that has the potential to become a disaster,” Chief of Staff Nakamura told him as soon as he saw the minister. He then proceeded to bring the Minister up to speed with events of twenty minutes ago, “Hiro, the guard on duty, said one of the little ones snapped food to the table and they are having their morning meal and discussing an upcoming banquet that the governors of Gringotts will be attending and whether or not they should pick up some Kobe beef for it while they are here,” Nakamura told him rambling out useless facts in his nervousness.


“Stand back I am coming through,” The Minister told him as he grabbed a pinch of Floo powder and threw it in the fire.


Remus was just finishing up an enjoyable breakfast when the guard came in with a young man, the young man bowed deeply, holding the bow on his second time down. “The Minister and Chief of Staff ask your forgiveness for not being here to greet you personally and for any unpleasantness that occurred after your arrival.”


A Little relieved that he would not have to use his get out of trouble port key, Remus’s smile disappeared as it then sunk in that they would be lucky to get back in time for dinner.




“Mother do you know where Harry is? I was wondering if he could suggest something to read, he told me that the library here contained a copy of every tome ever written,” Draco asked excited at seeing the library and walking through it to see what was there.


Looking up from the press release she was working on Narcissa smiled, “I am not sure, I think I overheard something about dueling practice after he was finished at Gringotts this afternoon,” She replied tapping her finger on her chin trying to remember if anything was really said about where Harry would be this morning.


Sage came in with a potion vial, placing it in front of Draco she pointed at it, “Time for young Sirs potion, is last one.”


Taking the potion and drinking it down Draco’s comment was not quite a whine but puzzled, “I don’t understand how they get it to taste so good.”


“Is an Elven potion,” Sage replied sagely, as if that would explain it.


Thinking that surely Sage would know the whereabouts of Harry, Draco decided to take the chance and ask, “Sage do you know where Harry is?”


Sage nodded as she cleaned up next to the bed, “Prince is in potions class. Elven potions class 1,” trying to get her mouth around the unfamiliar words she shrugged.


Draco groaned, “Bloody hell I am stuck here when I could be learning something fun.”


“Lunch is in one hour, can Sage bring young Sir something to read?” She ignored his whine and looked at him.


Perking up at the thought of being able to do something Draco asked if she could bring a copy of the book Harry was using in Potions class.


Sage scrunched her face up in concentration and with a snap of her fingers a set of three large books appeared on the nightstand.


Draco thanked Sage and watched her pop out, picking up the first book he opened it up to see it written in a language he did not recognize, opening the others he found the same. Frustrated he sat there glaring at the books as if it was their fault he could not read them.


Harry still grinning walked into the infirmary with a large box of potions that he had finished brewing a short time ago with Ar’Ron at his side, “Hello Draco ready to get out of here?”


“Harry,” Draco perked up before groaning seeing the box of potions, “Sage told me I was finished taking potions, as much as I enjoy the taste please tell me those are not for me?”


Laughing Harry shook his head, “Sorry to burst your bubble Draco but these are for the potion stores, unless you or I do something stupid.”


Draco smirked at the thought he was still smiling as Sage popped in.


Harry seeing Sage pop in to check to see who had walked in smiled at her, “Could you put these in the potion stores under stasis spells please Sage.”


Sage nodded her head eager to please, taking the box she started for the store room when she stopped by Draco’s bed seeing the books spread out untouched, “Did young Sir find books break boredom?” Sage asked hopefully.


The old Draco under control by his father would have screamed and raged and hit the little elf for giving him books he could not read, the newly freed Draco much like his younger self just sighed and told the little elf, “Thank you for getting me the books, unfortunately they were written in a language I can’t read.”


Horrified that she was not able to do her job properly, Sage looked dejected and remembering that she was not allowed to punish herself, “Sage is sorry young Sir Sage did not know,” as she held up one of the books and tried to read the title.


Seeing the totally dejected look on the little elf Draco told her, “I’m not mad at you, you didn’t know, it’s not your fault.”


Ar’Ron walked over to sit on the end of the bed picked up the book from Sage’s hand, looking at the title and setting it down with the others he pulled the little house elf into a hug, “He’s right you know Sage. You did nothing to be punished for as you did not do anything wrong. You had no idea Harry could read Elven, and I bet you just brought copies of the books Harry was reading without giving them a glance.” Seeing the elf was happier he reminded her that she and Minky were to go through the binding that night at 9:30 p.m.


Ar’Ron looked back at Draco, “So Draco I see you have a love of potions.” Waiting for the young man to nod he continued, “If you had to take your NEWTS today which subjects would you pass and which would you not be able to do well in?”


Draco without needing to take a moment to think about it told him, “Outstanding in Potions, Exceeds Expectations in Ancient Runes, Arithmancy and DADA, the others need work.”


“I think you left out one outstanding, Care of Magical Creatures,” Ar’Ron nudged him.


“No way, do you know how much I struggled to get an Exceeds Expectations in that class.” Draco said in disbelief, “Unlike my father I have nothing against Hagrid, but he does choose creatures that are on the dangerous side.”


Ar’Ron explained his reasoning’s while chuckling, “You see Draco, you are both right and wrong about Hagrid. Harry shared his memories with me and Remus filled in the blanks so to speak, Hagrid being part giant does not see things the way a non giant would, what to us would be a mortal wound, would be nothing but a scratch to him. So he lacks perspective, the other thing is even though he is qualified as a beast master in COMAC he never did go through his OWLS, and has no idea of what level is expected out of fifth year students.”


“Merlin,” Harry said in surprise at the sudden insight that flashed into his mind, “He never did know how to teach young students, so he teaches on his level, which is beyond NEWT level.”


Chuckling at the two young men’s faces as the realization hit them, Ar’Ron sat there contemplating the young blond before he looked at his mate, “Harry I need for you to put on your Lord mask for a moment, I need to ask a couple of questions of Lord Black.”