GamerFiction
patreon
Harry Potter: The Artisan's Path Chapter 32
🕑 Added 2023-08-10 08:28:06 +0000 UTCHi all,
Here’s the next chapter. Sorry this one is late, but unfortunately I have to obey my lord and master (employer). If only I won the lottery, then I wouldn’t have to work. No harm in dreaming right?
Chapter 32
24th December
The winter night was bitterly cold, with an icy breeze that cut through the air. Despite the chilly temperatures, a group of people sat there without a care, finding warmth and comfort near a towering bonfire. The flames danced and flickered, casting a warm and mesmerizing glow that enveloped everyone in its radiant embrace.
Harry sat on a blanket, with his two girlfriends nestled against him. He felt a profound sense of contentment as they celebrated the Yuletide holiday. They were surrounded by the Greengrass family, Davies, Delacours, Harry's grandmother, and Luna Lovegood. Earlier in the afternoon, Astoria's closest friend arrived on their doorstep. Her father had dropped her off before setting off on one of his adventures. Despite her attempts to appear cheerful, it was clear that she was distressed about being left behind by her father. Astoria swiftly took her inside and did her best to distract her from her sadness.
Thankfully, Luna had managed to overcome her sadness and was now joyfully dancing around the bonfire with Astoria. Harry wasn't sure if this was part of the celebration, but that didn't dampen their spirits as they continued to have fun. Earlier in the morning, Daniel Greengrass had taken the males on a deer hunting expedition. This deer was used as a sacrifice for the pagan ritual during tonight's festivities. Typically, this ritual took place on the Winter Solstice, however, the winter holidays had started late due to the school closing for a week in the middle of the school term.
“I feel like such a third wheel right now,” Tracy sighed from beside them.
“You're welcome to snuggle up to Harry if you'd like,” Gabrielle playfully suggested. “Why not sit between Harry’s legs?”
Daphne cast a withering look at Gabrielle. "Oh, please! Spare me your bird-brained ideas."
“Don’t call me that, Ice Queen,” Gabrielle scowled.
"Please try to remain calm, ladies," Harry gently urged.
"Stay out of it," they said in unison, giving him a disdainful glance.
Harry found himself caught between two individuals locked in a tense glare. Desperate for assistance, he turned to Tracy, hoping she would lend a helping hand. However, instead of offering support, she simply responded with a mischievous grin.
"Why didn't you invite your boyfriend?" Harry asked in retaliation.
"He's not my boyfriend," Tracy said, her face turning red. "I can't invite someone I've hardly even talked to."
The conversation distracted his girlfriends, causing them to voice their opinions on the matter.
"You need to be more assertive in pursuing the man you're interested in," Gabrielle advised.
"Blaise will never notice you if you don't show any interest in him," Daphne reminded her friend. "Especially since there's the added obstacle of him being in Slytherin and you being in Gryffindor."
“It’s hopeless,” Tracy groaned.
"That's not an obstacle," Harry reassured her. "Remember what Headmaster Flitwick said at the start of the year? We have the option to switch houses after the term is over, in case we're unhappy with our initial selection."
"I have no intention of joining Slytherin," Tracy declared. "I much prefer being in Gryffindor."
"Same here," Daphne said before her face contorted into a horrified expression. "Did I say that out loud?"
“Too late to take it back,” Harry laughed. “It looks like we will have to accelerate our plans to open the club up to more members once we return to Hogwarts. Then you will have the chance to cosy up to him all that you like.”
“I suppose,” Tracy replied, although she didn’t look too confident.
Harry felt someone watching him and turned to see the patriarch of the Greengrass family gazing in his direction. He motioned with his head, signalling for Harry to join him in a more private setting. He then turned to Minerva and engaged in conversation, prompting her to rise from her seat and follow him.
Harry shifted his attention towards the girls.“Your father wants to speak to me, Daphne.”
"What does he want? I hope he isn't going to bring up business during the festivities," Daphne frowned.
"It's alright," Harry shrugged, untangling himself from them and standing up. "I doubt it will take long."
"Perhaps he wants to ask about your intentions towards Daphne?" Gabrielle tittered mischievously.
"Do you really think so?" Harry asked anxiously, running a hand through his dishevelled hair.
"Don't scare him like that," Daphne scolded her. "You better not keep my father waiting, Harry. Gabrielle and I will find ways to entertain ourselves."
Harry walked over to where Daniel Greengrass and his grandmother were standing. The latter appeared far from delighted, yet held back from uttering a word.
"Harry, there are several matters I would like to discuss with you," Daniel Greengrass stated. "Although tonight may not be the most opportune time, one of the issues does require urgent attention."
"Sure," Harry said with growing unease. Was Gabrielle correct? Was he going to inquire about his intentions towards Daphne?
"Firstly, I would like to express my gratitude for the unicorn ingredients that you provided to Daphne. Your contribution played a significant role in persuading Snape to accept her as an apprentice."
"I had no idea why she needed them, but I was more than happy to give them to her. I had more than enough to spare."
It came as a surprise when Daphne told him about securing an apprenticeship with Professor Snape. It was clear that she was farther ahead in Potions than the other first years, so her desire to get ahead wasn't unexpected. Even though it meant less time together, given Snape's demanding nature, he couldn't help but feel happy for her. After all, he was equally dedicated to his own projects.
He had mixed feelings about Professor Snape. While he didn't necessarily like him, he didn't harbour any hatred towards him either. Snape behaved as if he wasn’t even there, which he found preferable to the man actively despising him. As for the reasons why Snape treated him like that, he didn’t really care enough to find out.
“Either way, if there is something you need, do not hesitate to ask,” Daniel said.
Harry shrugged. Daphne was his girlfriend. He didn’t need repayment for giving her a gift.
“I heard from Pierre that you will get a steady supply of Unicorn ingredients from the herd that you are relocating,” Daniel said. “Do they expect further repayment?”
“Yes,” Harry nodded. “But that is something private that I am not willing to disclose.”
“Very well. May I ask what you are going to use the ingredients for?”
“I am going to use the horns in my next project,” Harry replied. “Other than that, I don’t have a clue. It was a surprise that the unicorns offered me their blood. I may use it to create a runic ink.”
It was the main reason why he initially approached the unicorns was because he learned that unicorn horns had surprising applications as an additional ingredient in metalworking. When combined with other ores during the smelting process, it provided increased elasticity and strength to the resulting metals. This ultimately resulted in the development of specialized weapons, like poles and spears, which required high levels of flexibility so they could bend without breaking. It was perfect for the bo-staff he wanted to craft.
"I am interested in acquiring any ingredients that you do not need," Daniel proposed. "I can provide you with the most favourable price for them."
"Better than selling them to other businesses?" Minerva inquired, her brow raised with curiosity. "By how much?"
"Fifty per cent," Daniel stated firmly.
"That much?" Harry exclaimed, taken aback.
"It is not solely about the profits from their sales," Daniel stated. "Rather, it revolves around the capacity to provide ingredients that my competitors lack. Unicorn blood, being scarce, is consistently sought after. By supplying it..."
"Then more people will choose to buy from your business," Harry concluded. "I understand. They would also be more inclined to purchase other ingredients from you.”
"Smart lad," Daniel voiced his approval. "So, what is your answer?"
"I don't have any issues with it," Harry replied. "However, you will need to get my grandparents' approval since I'm still a minor."
Daniel cast a questioning look in Minerva's direction.
“I don’t have a problem with it,” Minerva replied. “I am sure Charlus would say the same.”
"Excellent. I will have my lawyer draw up a contract as soon as possible," Daniel said. "Another matter I wish to address is the Winter Solstice Wizengamot meeting. Have you been informed about everything that was discussed?"
Harry shook his head mutely. It wasn’t something that he was interested in.
"Harry doesn’t need to worry about it,” Minerva asserted. “Charlus and I have decided to delay teaching him his family responsibilities until he reaches fifteen. Our intention is to let him enjoy his childhood first."
"What is your opinion on the matter?" Daniel inquired of Harry, showing no signs of being deterred by Mirnerva's response. "I have already commenced instructing Daphne on her obligations."
"Politics isn't really my thing. I'd rather not have to deal with it," Harry responded before a mischievous impulse led him to utter something audacious. "In the future, if Daphne and I decide to get married, I might consider allowing her to act as my proxy, relieving me of the responsibility."
Minerva facepalmed and Daniel nodded thoughtfully, though his eyes gleamed. “Then I shall encourage my daughter to secure your hand by any means necessary.”
Harry blinked, not expecting that response.
“Daniel,” Minerva said, her tone turning icy.
"I'm just kidding," Daniel waved his hand, finally revealing a smile. "While I can't deny the benefits of my daughter marrying into your family, I won't jeopardise her happiness. She'll choose her own husband."
Harry breathed a sigh of relief. After all, he was only thirteen years old; marriage was the last thing on his mind. It looked like his attempt at humour had completely backfired.
“As for the Wizengamot meeting,” Daniel expressed in a serious manner, "I believe it is important that you are informed about the current situation. Madam Bones also requires your help regarding a matter that was discussed during the meeting."
“Okay,” Harry replied.
“I am going back to return to the festivities,” Minerva rolled her eyes. “I have had enough of politics to last a lifetime.”
Daniel smiled as he watched her leave. "I can understand where your lack of interest in politics comes from."
“One of her better traits,” Harry smirked. “Should we include Daphne in this discussion?”
"I've already talked to her,” Daniel replied. “During the meeting, several policies were proposed, but only a few have significant implications. One policy that directly affects you is the potential sale of Basilisk parts. Minister Fudge is attempting to acquire them based on the argument that Amelia, being a Ministry employee, shouldn't personally profit from the sale of these parts."
"She isn't benefiting personally from them,” Harry argued. “She is utilising them for the needs of her department. Besides, how is Fudge any better? I suspect he'll channel the profits from the sales for his own financial gain."
“I have no doubt about that,” Daniel replied. “The current situation is at a standstill, and the sale of Basilisk parts cannot proceed until it is resolved."
“How much stake do you have in this?” Harry inquired.
Daniel nodded briefly in acknowledgement of the question posed to him. "Madam Bones and I have reached an agreement. She will sell half of the Basilisk parts to me at a discounted rate. Normally, it would be a lengthy process to dispose of the Basilisk parts, as flooding the market all at once would result in diminished profits. By selling to me, Madam Bones achieves an optimal balance in terms of profitability and receives an immediate injection of funds for her department."
“So why do you need my help?”
"You were the individual who successfully killed the Basilisk, were you not?"
"Technically, yes. However, I wouldn't have been able to do it without the help of the Aurors," Harry replied.
"That is of no consequence. Given the circumstances, it can be determined that you successfully defeated the Basilisk. As a result, you have the right to declare the Basilisk as your personal acquisition in accordance with the provisions of 'The Creature Slayer Act' of 1476."
Harry grasped the direction in which this was heading. "So, if I understand correctly, you're suggesting that I take ownership of the Basilisk and then donate Amelia's share to her department. Wouldn't that simply result in us facing the same issue we're currently dealing with?"
Daniel shook his head in disagreement and clarified, "Donations made to a department do not fall within the jurisdiction of the Ministry, as long as they are appropriately documented and transparent."
Although it may have been convenient given the current situation, there was concern that this practice could be easily exploited. What prevented others from bribing department heads disguised as well-intentioned donations?
“Well, I don’t see any problem with it,” Harry said after a moment to consider it. “As long as it doesn’t paint a target on my back.”
“It won’t,” Daniel promised. “As your guardian, Charlus will be able to petition for the Basilisk remains on your behalf.”
“Then let’s do it,” Harry said before a gust of wind caused him to shiver. “Is there anything else we need to discuss? Because I want to return to the warmth of the fire.”
“Only one thing,” Daniel assured him. “The traditional Wizengamot members have changed their tactics slightly in regards to getting Professor Flitwick removed as Headmaster.”
“How does the Wizengamot have a say in the running of Hogwarts? I thought the school is not under the purview of the Ministry?”
“It’s not,” Daniel replied. “But that doesn’t mean that they cannot target him indirectly. They have submitted another proposal that all half-breeds cannot hold positions of importance. They are using Hagrids situation and the Acromantula as their chief argument.”
“Surely, it didn’t pass?” Harry asked in alarm.
“No, a policy rarely makes it through on the first reading. Usually, it takes several amendments before it is finally accepted, or is dismissed altogether.”
“Don’t you have the numbers to dismiss it completely?”
“No,” Daniel grimaced. “Unfortunately, the traditional members have found some unlikely allies in the light families who used to belong to Dumbledore’s faction.”
“They are doing it out of spite,” Harry said with an angry expression.
“That’s probably the main reason,” Daniel admitted. “However, it’s possible that they support the policy. I know Amos Diggory is prejudiced against Werewolves at least. It wouldn’t surprise me if was the same for half-breeds.”
Harry snorted with a disgusted expression. He had a passing acquaintance with Cedric Diggory, who was a third-year Hufflepuff. Hearing Hannah incessantly gushing about how irresistibly attractive Cedric was had made him well aware of the boy's existence. As far as Harry could gather, Cedric seemed to be a decent person, nothing like his father.
“What can we do about it?” Harry asked, interested in the situation despite himself.
"Nothing too challenging. If you were to state your opinion in an article….” Daniel trailed off suggestively.
“I will talk to Lauren tomorrow,” Harry agreed after taking a moment to consider it. He felt a little used, his fame being exploited to sway some votes in the Wizengamot, but it was for a good cause.
"Luna!" Sylvia Greengrass shouted, causing him to turn and investigate.
Harry flushed with embarrassment as he observed Luna had discarded her skirt and twirling around the bonfire, naked. Astoria, wearing a mischievous grin, toyed with her dress, seemingly contemplating whether or not to join Luna in her uninhibited display.
Daniel hastily shielded his eyes while Sylvia rushed to dress Luna, as his girlfriends laughed and rolled on the ground in fits of hilarity.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=
25th December
Harry was abruptly awakened when two people jumped on his bed. Before he could gather his thoughts, his girlfriends gleefully showered his face with kisses, catching him off guard. He observed with wide eyes as they appeared before him adorned in a delicate negligee, revealing a generous amount of skin. Harry couldn't help but focus on the alluring view of their enticing cleavage. Deep down, he longed for them to lean in just a little further, hoping to indulge in more than just a tantalising glimpse.
"Ah, a joyous Yuletide to you, Harry!" Daphne exclaimed, a playful twinkle in her eye. "Spot something that tickles your fancy?"
"I reckon we've transformed him into a bonafide half-wit," Gabrielle chortled, unable to contain her amusement.
"Give me a moment to regain my bearings," Harry groaned. He discreetly pulled the covers over his lap to conceal any visible signs of the effect they had on him.
"What's the matter?" Daphne inquired, playfully prodding the blanket, a tad too close for comfort. "Did some sort of affliction befall you?"
"We must determine the underlying cause of your discomfort," Gabrielle said, tapping her chin. "Sit back and let Nurse Delacour and Greengrass work their magic on you."
"Scram, you pair of vixens!" Harry fired back. "If you stick around, I won't be held accountable for the epic punishment I unleash upon you!"
"What kind of punishment is that?" a voice asked from the doorway.
The trio gazed toward the doorway, where two girls' heads emerged, observing them with curiosity. Astoria and Luna were already dressed, with the latter wearing an eye-catching green outfit that resembled a Christmas tree decked out in various festive ornaments.
"Oh, bother," Luna exclaimed. "I had hoped to rouse Harry from his slumber."
"We could still bounce on his bed," Astoria playfully suggested, ready to make that mischief a reality.
"No, you don't," Daphne said quickly, springing off the bed with Gabrielle close behind her. "Let's give Harry some space to get dressed, and then we can go downstairs and open our presents."
That seemed to do the trick, as the two younger girls disappeared from the doorway. Harry waited until everyone was out of his room before walking over to his dresser and finding some clothes to wear. It was a pity that Astoria and Lunas had interrupted them, as he would have liked to see how far his girlfriends would have taken their little game. Although, it was probably for the best that they didn’t.
Downstairs, Harry discovered everyone gathered in the living room. They were gathered around a huge tree adorned with an abundance of gifts neatly arranged below it.
"Finally! You've arrived," Astoria scowled, eyeing the presents with an impatient glare.
"Do I have time for breakfast before we start?" Harry inquired as he settled into the seat beside Daphne and Gabrielle.
Luna asserted, "No, it is not our fault you slept in."
"Here," Minerva presented a tray filled with minced pies.
"Thank you," Harry said as he grabbed one and took a bite.
"How on earth could you stomach those for breakfast?" Fleur grimaced in utter disbelief. "You Englishmen sure have a knack for eating the most peculiar things."
"Hey, don't knock it until you've tried it," Harry replied, grabbing another pie off the tray and waving it at her.
"I should be offended on behalf of my country," Daniel said with amusement.
"That is your prerogative," Pierre responded. "However, it does not negate the fact that the English have a terrible palette."
"It's nothing compared to the Scottish," Harry said, smirking as he glanced at his grandmother.
"Don't pick a fight you know you'll lose, ogha," Minerva bantered.
“Let’s sort the presents into piles,” Slyvia suggested before Astoria could tear into her first present. Astoria reluctantly complied with her mother's suggestion. Together with Luna, they efficiently sorted through the presents, ensuring that each person had their own pile. The adults' pile was noticeably smaller, as it was requested that the kids refrain from getting gifts for anyone other than their own parents or relatives.
Before they could begin, Charlus entered the room and greeted them. "Apologies for my tardiness, but the task at Hogwarts took longer than expected."
"You've arrived just in time," Luna said with a bright smile, indicating a stack of presents. "I have sorted out your gifts for you."
"Thank you, Luna," Charlus said, settling into his seat. "Please don't let me keep you any longer. Let's open our presents."
Harry began to unwrap his own presents. He opened his grandparent's present first and discovered a photo album filled with memories of his parents and himself as a baby. The emotional weight of the present hit him like a wave, making it feel more precious than any expensive gift they could have given him. Grateful for their thoughtfulness, he set it aside, knowing that if he opened it at that moment, he might not be able to hide how much it affected him. Revealing such vulnerability in front of everyone was the last thing he wanted.
He got a book about Enchanting from Gabrielle, although it was in French. It was a blatant hint that she would like him to learn her language, which he was going to do at some point anyway. Daphne gave him a flower from her own greenhouse. It was a Reverie's Vision Hibiscus, a flower that emitted a fragrance believed to banish nightmares and promote restful sleep. Astoria and Luna gifted him a selection of assorted chocolates and confectionery. Tracy chose to give him a bottle of Sleekeazy’s hair potion, which was amusing since it was actually invented by Fleamont Potter, who happened to be Charlus’ brother. Tragically, both Fleamont and his wife succumbed to Dragon Pox in the 1950s.
His friends had also sent him their presents. He received books from Hermione, Terry and Padma, which wasn’t really a surprise. Susan gifted him a Foe-Glass, a magical item designed to alert you when an enemy was in close proximity. Hannah gifted him a tin of chocolate fudge, which was made using one of her family's special recipes.
The adults bestowed upon him various gift cards for clothing, books, and potion supplies. Although it wasn't as interesting, he still appreciated the gesture. Sirius and Remus sent him a huge box filled with pranking items, courtesy of the Marauders. The box was accompanied by a book that contained detailed notes on how to create the Marauder's Map. This last item sparked excitement within him, as he was unsure if he would ever get the stolen map back. Later, he planned to examine it closely in hopes of replicating it.
The final gift was a delightful surprise. It came with a note from Violet Rosier, who mentioned that her brother Lewis had sent it to her to pass on to him. He eagerly unwrapped the gift to discover a gold pocket watch inside. A note was attached to the back of the watch.
This pocket watch has a fascinating history, and I'm confident there's more to it than meets the eye. Take a closer look and see if you can uncover the hidden secret contained within.
Harry's face lit up with a smile as he realised that Lewis had not forgotten about him. This was just like Lewis, always giving him another puzzle to solve.
“Who is that from, Harry?” Charlus asked.
“Do you remember me telling you about Lewis? The man who owned the junk shop?”
“The Squib?” Charlus asked in surprise. "I am still indebted to him for giving you a place to stay after you fled the orphanage.”
Harry nodded before he found himself enveloped in a warm embrace from his grandmother. The gift he had prepared for her turned out to be an exquisite dresser meticulously crafted for her bedroom. To ensure ease of placement beneath the tree, he had shrunken it down until it fit into a small box.
“It’s beautiful, Harry,” Minerva thanked him, giving him a kiss on the cheek.
“This is amazing, Harry,” Charlus said, after unwrapping his present. He held up a replica of a uniform from the British Army. It was evident that he had a deep affection for military uniforms.
Daphne wrapped her arms around him, grateful for the collection of rare potion ingredients she had just received as a gift. Harry had purchased them from the Source. Although they were meant to be used to create runic inks, most of them were used as potion ingredients as well. Unfortunately, he was almost completely drained of all the points he had accumulated. He hoped that the Source would provide him with more tasks soon, and offered points as a reward.
"Harry, where is my present?" Gabrielle asked, sounding upset.
Harry winced, “Sorry, Gabrielle. It completely slipped my mind to tell you beforehand that your present wouldn’t be here. I have a surprise waiting for you back at your house.”
Gabrielle nodded, her expression filled with relief, before turning sharply towards her parents. “Were you aware of this?”
“I helped him with it, yes,” Pierre replied with a smile.
Appoline smiled from beside her husband. “I helped keep it a secret from you until today. It wasn’t easy.”
“I cannot wait,” Gabrielle declared, heading for the exit. “Excuse me while I go find my present.”
“Hold on young lady,” Pierre said, halting her in his tracks. “You are not going back home alone. Have you forgotten that our home was invaded?”
Gabrielle's expression turned sour, wearing a pout on her face.
“Why don’t we all go for a visit?” Minerva suggested. “I would like to see the present Harry has prepared for Gabrielle.”
Everyone agreed, and Sylvia summoned their house elves to assist with tidying up the mess they had made. This action bothered Gabrielle, although she made an effort to conceal it.
Harry took hold of Daphne's hand and leaned closer, whispering in her ear. "Sorry if it seems like Gabrielle received the better gift. However, when the chance to acquire the unicorns presented itself, I knew that it was ideal for her."
“Are you kidding?” Daphne's eyes gleamed. "The Crow's Staff, one of the plants you gave me, hasn't been seen for decades. It's fortunate that its seeds are still intact. This means I can cultivate and propagate it in my greenhouse."
Her father appeared in front of them, having overheard them. “Daphne, you should take care of that before we leave. We don’t want anything happening to the plant.”
Daphne nodded and left the room.
Daniel glanced at Harry, a quizzical expression on his face. "It's quite remarkable how you have such ready access to such rare ingredients. Are you our lucky star, Harry Potter?"
Harry hid a wince. It appeared that he needed to exercise more caution when distributing gifts in such a careless manner. How was he to be aware that the plant was so rare?
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
"Why are we going in this direction?" Gabrielle questioned again as they made their way towards the woods situated on the southern edge of the Delacour estate.
“So impatient,” Harry teased. “You don’t have long to wait.”
“Delayed gratification is no fun,” Gabrielle said with a suggestive wink.
Harry's cheeks flushed, yet he chose to disregard her provocation. The consequences of her parents hearing their conversation could potentially land him in serious trouble.
They reached the edge of the woods, and Gabrielle gazed into its depths, eagerly searching for her gift. It had become clear to her that the gift was a magical creature since it was placed outside, far away from her house. However, she was still clueless as to which magical creature it might be.
In a fit of perfect timing, the unicorn foal emerged from the woods at that exact moment, followed by the rest of the herd. Gabrielle released a squeal and approached the unicorns. She didn’t rush, knowing that she could frighten them, and first impressions count for everything. The other girls followed after her, equally enraptured.
Harry gave himself a mental pat on the back for procuring such a gift for Gabrielle. It would be hard to beat next year, but that wasn’t something he had to worry about for a while.
After spending an hour with the unicorns, Gabrielle rewarded him with a passionate kiss, leaving him dazed.
"Close your mouth," Charlus playfully chided his grandson, a hint of amusement in his voice. "You don't want to catch flies, do you? It's time for us to head back home. Remember, you have to leave soon to go to Sirius’ place."
=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Harry landed on the floor with a thump after travelling by portkey to his godfather's home. Sirius extended a hand to help him up. Sporting a floral shirt and shorts, Harry's godfather's casual attire made him feel overdressed.
"Hey pup," Sirius playfully tousled his hair. "So, how did the celebration with your girlfriend's family go? Did things get feisty?"
"Absolutely not," Harry quipped, oozing with smugness. "I must say, my charm and the impeccable attention I showered upon Daphne and Gabrielle left their parents completely awestruck. Mark my words, they won't be able to resist acknowledging me as the ultimate boyfriend material."
Sirius raised an eyebrow, eyeing him with a healthy dose of scepticism. "Come on now, spill the galleons! How much did you bribe them?"
Harry looked at him innocently. “I don’t know what you are talking about.”
“Yeah right” Sirius snorted. “Come on, I have guests I would like you to meet.”
Harry followed him down the hallway, taking in his surroundings. Although he was aware that Sirius had relocated from Grimmauld Place, he had never visited this particular location before. This wasn’t Sirius' permanent residence, but rather a vacation home that he had acquired. Harry couldn't help but notice how uncomfortably warm it was. Beads of sweat were already forming on his forehead, and his skin was starting to flush from the heat.
The house exuded a sense of brightness and spaciousness, Featuring floors made of wood and walls constructed with thin bamboo slats. It looked like a stiff breeze could blow the house over. As they passed an open window, he caught a glimpse of the beach adorned with golden sand and waves crashing against the shore. Were they on a tropical island?
“Where are we?” Harry asked.
“Fiji,” Sirius replied.
Harry looked down at his sweatshirt and pants, sighing. “You couldn’t have told me beforehand? I’m way too overdressed. Why do you want to spend the winter holidays in a completely different climate, anyway?”
“We will get you a new wardrobe. It’s why I asked you not to bring any luggage.”
“You haven’t answered my question.”
“I despise the cold,” Sirius admitted. "Fortunately, I have the means to live anywhere I want, so I can avoid the winter altogether."
Sirius escorted him to a veranda that overlooked the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. A table was set up, where Remus and Lauren were already seated. With them were an older couple, an elegant, aristocratic woman and a slightly plump man with a friendly face. Sitting beside them was…
“Wotcher, Harry,” Tonks waved.
“Tonks, what are you doing here?” Harry asked. “Have you forgiven Sirius already?”
Sirius winced, resembling a puppy that had just been kicked.
"Let's just say I'm trying to move on," Tonks replied. "But let's forget about that. Allow me to introduce you to my parents; this is Harry Potter, Mum and Dad."
“Also known as Andromeda and Ted," her mother said dryly. "Hello, Harry. It's a pleasure to finally meet you. Tonks has told me a lot about you."
“Anything bad she had to say about me, it was a total lie,” Harry said.
“She had nothing bad to say about you, besides your total disregard for your own safety,” Ted chuckled.
“Like I said, a total lie,” Harry grinned.
"Please tell me, Heir Black," Andromeda emphasised his title. "How are you conducting yourself as the future Head of the family? Are you aware of the responsibilities you will undertake as the Lord of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Black?”
Harry shot his godfather an alarmed look. Why did he feel like he had stepped into an ambush?
So, what do you think? Harry is being grilled by Andromeda, who is one intimidating woman. How will he respond?
Thanks for reading.
