The Awakening of a Magus

The Awakening of a Magus
Chapter 55 - Thu-Fri, Aug 10-11 - Day 21-22

Warrior & 'Brat'

The Order meeting had gone on for two hours after the Quadralis ritual. Anyone present who didn't already know that Harry was actually the Magus received a quick briefing. After the meeting, scattered conversations went on for another two hours. Dumbledore talked at length with Amelia Bones, both on Order business and Wizengamot business. The mediwitches, Poppy Pomfrey and Judy Mason had cornered Hermione on research regarding soul damage. Ron spent quite a bit of time with several Aurors who were pleasantly surprised at his remarkable grasp of large and small scale strategies. Draco and Snape had several conversations with various people on their specialties ... Scanning and Potions/DADA respectively, as well as their status as Klaatu-shah and blood Slytherins. Amelia Crafter, Rachel, and several others who had just joined the Order were introduced around to the British contingent.

Harry had been, in the man's own terms, 'hijacked' by Jeremy Van Horn, particularly regarding that portion of his background as a Magus scholar. Harry in turn asked Van Horn about his Muggle education, particularly the Electrical Engineering degree and the possible relationships between magical and electrical energy flows. The conversation quickly escalated to levels that in the past would have left Harry dazed. He began to understand for the first time how his mind and intellect had developed, beyond just the improved reading speed and memory. It was scary to realize that with minimal explanation, he comprehended the concepts they were tossing back and forth. At length, they agreed to meet that weekend for more discussion, after Harry had a chance to review some scientific references that Van Horn would provide. Harry began to have some hope that he could find the key to his powers and to controlling backlashes across the Circle bonds.

Once Van Horn retired for the night, the Chamber was nearly empty. Harry looked around both physically and mentally, wondering who was available, who might best help him with the concern that was currently uppermost in his mind. Realizing that the best person was probably the least obvious, he checked to see if Snape was still busy, or if he had already turned in. Mentally finding the man awake in his quarters, Harry asked if he could come by for a talk. Moments later, he was sitting in Snape's quarters tucked in the corner of a couch with a glass of deep-red elf-made wine.

"I'm rather surprised you decided that I was an appropriate choice for a little heart-to-heart, Harry," drawled the former Death Eater. "I would have thought one of your schoolmates, or Albus."

"Actually, I realized you were the best choice because I could count on you to be brutally honest with me," smirked the young Magus. "At least, now that you no longer have those preconceived notions as to who and what I am. Albus would try to be gentle with me, protect my feelings. I know you won't bother with that."

"Quite right. So, what exactly is on your mind? I can feel through the bond that something is weighing heavily on you, but not what."

Sitting up, Harry put down the glass, and leaned a bit forward, elbows on his knees, eyes downcast. "Am I wimping out?"

Snape stared at Harry in shock. "What in the darkest reaches of Hell brought that on?" he nearly shouted.

His fingers fidgeting, bouncing his leg unconsciously, Harry elaborated. "I'm afraid I'm turning into some kind of emotional cripple. I break down too often, I'm too sensitive, I ... need too much. Just look at the last few days!"

"Yes, Harry, just look at the last few days, on top of the last few weeks, on top of the upbringing you experienced," Snape answered intently, almost harshly. "Let's look at all that, shall we? Orphaned at 15 months, you spent 10 years with relatives who hated you and did everything to destroy your self-image. You learned to create a barrier around your emotions to survive, and had no one to turn to. Next phase: Hogwarts and the entire Wizarding world. For the past four years, you have had to deal with extreme expectations, few based on reality, both positive and negative, that changed at the drop of a hat."

"That's not quite true ... Albus always thought the best of me, and you would always think the worst of me," Harry commented in a weak attempt at humor. Snape glared, but there was a slight twitch that hinted he was at least a bit amused.

"No longer, Harry ... no longer," he said quietly. "Now where was I? Ah, yes, the past four years. Add in to that the strain of your various ... adventures and we have quite a foundation of stress and suppressed emotions. Next," Snape pushed on before Harry could interrupt again, "we have those weeks between the ... third task and your Awakening. Albus should be throttled ... after such an experience, he sent you back to stew alone in an unfriendly, unhelpful environment, all in the name of blood protections. If I had an inkling of what your home life was really like, even I would have insisted on some sort of counseling. As Head of Slytherin House, I have experience with students who need to deal with the aftermath of violence, and you faced the creature that even Albus calls the most dangerous Dark Lord in history, and had a schoolmate casually murdered before your eyes. You just bottled it all up again, didn't you?"

As Harry nodded reluctantly, he continued. "Now, the piece de resistance, your Awakening and the events of the past three weeks ... instant passage through three years' worth of physical adolescence, adjusting to massive changes in your mind, body and powers. Your relationships with most of the people you know have changed; you are empath, telepath, and soul reader; you have the burden to responsibly use the greatest store of power the world has ever seen. You had to dredge through a ratty Death Eater's memories and watch the murder of your parents; you experienced the death of a Circle member, the first person to pledge unconditional trust in you as an individual, not an icon; you encountered over 200 Dementors, destroyed dozens, and now have to deal with soul damage. If you didn't have some sort of breakdowns along the way, I would be deathly afraid for the continued existence of our world. It proves that you are still human, that you still have a conscience, that you aren't a walking Armageddon waiting to happen."

He could see Harry trying to find words, but just opening his mouth, then closing it. Finally, Harry said, "But I have all this power ..."

"It's a matter of the balance of nature, I think, Harry," Snape finally said. "I believe that your Awakening is tied to ... Riddle's rebirth and drastic increase in power. So, the universe needed something to offset that dark imbalance ... enter Harry Magus. But your potential is so vast, something has to offset that power. No one can be unstoppable ... so your powers include a sensitivity to causing harm to others. You've spoken of 'the price of power' ... you can add this to the bill. Albus often speaks of the choice between what is right and what is easy. With your power, casual destruction of an adversary is likely to be frighteningly easy. Think of this sensitivity as a way to keep such actions less easy."

After a deep breath, Snape continued, "We are in the midst of war; death will occur around you; there will be times when that death must be at your hands. I am confident that your soul damage can be at least partially healed by the willing assistance of those in your Circle; those people who trust you, respect you, love you. But if you were ever to go out of control, and cause unjustified damage and harm, they could refuse that help to reverse the effects, and eventually your actions would cause your own downfall. It is a failsafe. It will force you to consider non-lethal options in your battles. It is not weakness!" he nearly hissed at the end.

"To destroy Voldemort ... I think that would kill me ... or worse, corrupt me beyond saving," Harry said in a shaky whisper.

Severus leaned forward, grasping Harry's chin, forcing those glazed emerald orbs to lock with his own glowing black. "Then we will all look for an alternative, a way to stop Voldemort that does not require you take his life. It is as simple as that," he whispered with an intense, almost unnatural calm.

Sitting back in his seat with a scowl, Snape focused his magic on first Harry's, then his own wine glass, refilling them. Taking a deep breath, he tried to relax, then took an apparently calm sip ... his flashing black eyes told another story. He glared at Harry, indicating he should at least attempt to do the same.

They sat in silence for a couple of minutes, thinking, sipping wine, trying to relax in quiet companionship. "With your permission, Harry, I would like to share this conversation with Albus ... he is your primary Mentor after all." At Harry's nod, he continued. "And I suggest you share your memory with Nymphadora. For now, she is your closest companion and confidante; eventually, she will be your lover," he smirked at the tremendous blush that appeared on Harry's face. "When that phase of your relationship passes, she will remain a very close friend. Don't ask me how I know this ... perhaps it is some perception resulting from the Mentor bond."

"Severus ... I ... thank you. I was so confused ... I ..."

"Listen well, Potter. Though I am not averse to the occasional man-to-man talk ... occasional, mind you ... I do insist that you take any of your breakdowns to one of the females in the Circle. Dealing with emotional outbursts is not my forte. Well, perhaps a good shouting match wouldn't go awry ..."

"I'm sure you would be smashing," returned Harry with a grin, finally pulling himself together.

"Brat!"

"Git!"

Raising his glass in salute with a smirk, Snape stated, "As long as we understand each other."

Touching his own glass to Snape's with a clink, Harry answered with a smile, "Perfectly!"

Fri, Aug 11 - Day 22

"But they're from Durmstrang!" insisted Ron. "Of course they'll all end up in Slytherin."

"No they won't, Ron," returned Harry. He glanced quickly at the group of students who had just entered with Professor McGonagall. "Out of the 17 over there, I wager only 6 will go to Slytherin." Looking again as though to confirm something, he continued. "Gryffindor will get at least 4, Ravenclaw at least 4, Hufflepuff 2, and one is either Gryffindor or Ravenclaw."

"You're on! What's the bet?" challenged Ron.

"Ah, just a Knut. I only wanted to make a point," returned Harry.

Over the next several minutes, Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Draco, Rachel, Savannah, and several others sitting in the general vicinity were keeping count as the Sorting progressed. Most were sorted in a few seconds, though one took almost half a minute. As that boy approached the Ravenclaw table, Savannah asked what took so long, and he replied that the Sorting Hat couldn't decide between Ravenclaw and Gryffindor. She turned to Harry with a grin, giving him a high-five at his perfect prediction.

Ron was staring at Harry. Ginny elbowed him to remind him to pay up. Digging a Knut out of his pocket, he asked, "How did you do that? Did you predict the numbers, or guess each person?"

Harry blinked, realizing what he had just done without thinking. "I suppose I sort of Sorted each one. That one fourth year, Anton Wagner, I wasn't sure about him, but I guess it wasn't obvious to the hat, either. It was just reflex, but ..."

"Oh Harry, that's just perfect!" bubbled Hermione. She sent out on the Hogwarts link, /- Professor McGonagall? Professor Dumbledore? I think we've found a solution to the Sorting logistics issues. -/

Both professors looked up suddenly with a hopeful expression, then signaled that Hermione should join them at the upper table. They almost laughed to see her drag Harry with her, and shoo the other students back to their seats with a promise to explain shortly. McGonagall asked quickly, "What do you have in mind, Ms. Granger?"

"It's Harry, Professor. He can Sort the students, at least most of them, faster than the Hat can. In a matter of seconds he predicted the results of the Sorting that just finished ... all 17, including the close call on Wagner and which Houses were being considered." Hermione reported this with a proud gleam in her eye and a smile at Harry.

As McGonagall, Dumbledore, and several other nearby staff members turned their gazes on the apprentice, he shrugged. "I didn't quite realize I could. Ron had made a sweeping comment about Durmstrang and Slytherin House, and I just ... looked and knew what the results would be."

McGonagall was now wearing an uncharacteristic grin. "I know you have plans today, but if you could take care of identifying the obvious assignments every two hours or so, the Hat can deal with the close calls. We will be having hundreds of students arriving today, all needing Sorting. The Durmstrang ship is making several trips, about three hours each round trip. The carriages from Beauxbatons have a round trip of a bit over two hours and a ship from Instituto Magia de La Mancha will have several two-hour round trips. We will have two runs of the Hogwarts Express, and quite a few long-distance group portkeys which will cover the Canadian and Australian students. If you really can identify them that quickly, it should only take a very few minutes to deal with each group. Please, Harry? Perhaps we can hide the fact that you are the one ..."

"Uh," Harry looked sheepish, "it's too late for that." Glancing back at the student tables, he continued, "I made a bet with Ron on the final totals. Knowing Hogwarts gossip, over half the school has heard already, and the rest will know in five minutes."

"Less, I would imagine," chuckled Dumbledore. "Just to be polite, we should inform the Hat. However, I doubt it will mind ... it has been complaining already how it is being overworked this year." Reaching behind him, he picked up the Hat, placing it on the table between himself and McGonagall. "Well, my fine old chapeau, knowing you, you've been listening. What do you say to a division of labor?"

The creases in the hat blinked open to show its eyes, and the seam opened into its mouth. "I say I want to take a look before I agree. Potter, put me on. This needs to be a private conversation."

An extra chair appeared behind Harry, so he sat down and put on the floppy old hat. At least it isn't falling over my eyes anymore, he thought.

/- Well, well, Potter. Finally reaching your potential, though there's quite a bit more of that than even I guessed. And now you think you can do my job better than I can? -/ prodded the Sorting Hat.

/- Of course not ... not better. I couldn't tell which House Wagner belonged in, but you were able to decide, -/ soothed Harry. /- I would only place the easy ones. You would have final say on the difficult placements. With so many students coming in, why should you waste your valuable time and effort on the easy calls when you can delegate those? Save your talents for those calls only you can make. -/

/- Ah ha! I still say I was right! You would have done well in Slytherin! Now, just to be sure, show me your memory of how you sensed those students ... yes, I see. Well, well ... I suppose if Snape were to have an input, he'd say that I was the Sorting Hat and you were the Sorting Brat! -/

Harry had made the mistake of taking a sip of juice while this discussion was going on. At that last comment, he struggled, successfully, to keep from spraying half the people at the high table ... instead he choked rather spectacularly. Standing suddenly as he caught his breath, he started laughing, reached up to grab the Hat, waved his wand as though to hex it, then tossed it lightly towards Dumbledore, sending a quick memory burst to those Circle members in the immediate vicinity of the Hat's comments. This, of course, caused Snape to sputter and choke, to the amusement of those who had heard, and the puzzlement of those nearby who didn't.

Hermione suddenly realized something. "Harry," she whispered, staring at his wand. Then realizing she had too large an audience, sent, /- I thought your wand was destroyed! -/

/- It's just a prop, -/ he sent to the nearby Circle. / I conjured a plain holly wand with no magical core. It won't get overloaded if I push too much magic around it, since it's magically inert. -/ "So," he continued aloud, "since the Hat is willing to take an assistant, how do you want to do this?"

"I am given an alphabetical list of names as each group of students arrives," answered McGonagall, "and I record the Hat's decision on that list. How will you go about identifying their Houses?"

Harry thought about what had happened. "May I see that last list?" Harry looked at the list of names, which currently had House Marks beside each. Then he glanced at those who had just been Sorted. "How about this ... I'll stand in front of the group and focus on each House in turn. I can charm my wand for each House, so that when I tap each person who belongs in that House with it, the appropriate House Mark will show up on the list. After I go through all four Houses, anyone remaining goes to the Hat for a final decision. If anyone quibbles with my decision, they can ask to be checked by the Hat, but since I'll only be assigning the definite calls, there shouldn't be any overrides. Are there any groups due in before I'm due at Gringotts? My appointment is a little over an hour from now."

Checking the journal she was using to keep track of the schedule, McGonagall answered, "A Beauxbatons group is due in 10-15 minutes; about 15 minutes after that, we have a portkey group and the La Mancha ship; another 15 minutes after that, we'll have another 2 portkey groups, then a break for almost 2 hours. Can you be back here at 10:30? We'll have another Durmstrang group soon after that, and the early Hogwarts Express run arrives at 11."

"I should be able to work that around the Gringotts business. I do need to be at the memorial this afternoon, but I can do as many as possible before, and maybe slip away for a few minutes after the formal ceremonies," Harry answered, glancing at Draco, who was showing the strain of the events planned for the day. "May I see your schedule?" He glanced through the journal, memorizing the ETAs and group sizes. "Yes, I should be able to take care of most of that. If anyone gets impatient, then Hat can take over until Brat can get away," he smirked.

"You're enjoying that name, aren't you," accused Hermione, half indignant, half amused.

"Of course I am ... the Sorting Brat ... it's hilarious!" The smiles and smirks at the high table showed that most agreed with him. "Come on, Hermione. I want to finish that breakfast you pulled me away from. I have a busy schedule, and you've often reminded me how breakfast is the most important meal of the day," he finished, imitating Hermione's tone at her most officious.

As they headed back toward their seats, Hermione swatted Harry on the arm. "You are a brat, do you know that?" she grinned.

McGonagall decided that the next two groups would be processed together, which gave Harry a bit more time for breakfast. Glancing at Draco, he noticed the Slytherin was not doing well, though he tried to hide it. He had several scrolls that he seemed to study for a few moments, then gave up in frustration. /- Hey, Draco, -/ Harry sent gently. /- Anything I can help with? -/

/- Huh? Oh, it's just these formalities for this afternoon. There's so much to memorize, and I still need to face all those lawyers, and ... bloody hell, my brain is full! -/ Draco sent in frustration.

Harry met Draco's eyes, then held out a hand for the scrolls. /- Let me help, Drake. I'll memorize them in a few minutes, then send you the information in a briefing. No sweat. Give yourself a break. You don't have to do it alone, you know. -/

Pride battled with gratitude, and gratitude won out, prompting Draco to push the scrolls over to Harry, who quickly put up a cover story. "You promised you'd let me see how everything is going to play out this afternoon, since I'm so clueless about Wizarding customs. You'll still have plenty of time for a final review." Harry seemed to be skimming past most of the information, but his friends realized he was actually memorizing every smallest detail. In a few minutes he had finished. He returned the scrolls, saying, "Better you than me, Draco. That's a lot to remember, isn't it?"

Then Draco felt the touch of Harry's mind, and the flow of information gave his eyes a glazed look for a few moments. Blinking, Draco smirked at Harry and answered, "True that, Potter. Some people have better memories than others, I'm afraid. Those that don't should only be grateful for those that do," he said in a cryptic manner that any stranger would understand completely opposite to what he meant.

/- You're welcome, -/ Harry sent softly. He then looked up as McGonagall was leading in a very large group of first through seventh years, explaining the House system with the same speech she had used for decades. Harry had an odd feeling about some of the students, though, and relaxed his shields. /- Minerva, -/ he sent, /- nearly half of them are having problems understanding what you're saying. I don't think the Translation Charms are in place yet. -/ He stood, grabbed Ron by the arm, who hurriedly took just one more bite of toast, and headed for the group. "Ron, we need you to do a broadcast to this lot to find out who still needs a Translation Charm."

Ron's eyes widened, "I thought that was supposed to happen before they arrived."

"So did we, but I don't think it did," answered Harry, looking at McGonagall.

Ron took a deep breath to get focused, then looking at the group to get his range, began a mindspeech broadcast. /- Hello there, I'm Ron Weasley, the local mindspeaker. I'm calling you this way because not everyone in the group speaks English, or has a Translation Charm in place for English. Raise your hand if you can't communicate fluently in English. -/ There was a groan from the staff in the immediate vicinity. /- Right. Well, those that are fine with English, you can ignore me for the next bit. -/

There had been some discussion earlier in the week. The most frequent Translation Charms were expected to be for Spanish, French, and German as the primary or secondary languages of the incoming non-English schools. Harry had already prepared for those languages, just in case. In perfect French, he announced, "Whoever needs a French to English translation, catch one of these." He waved his wand, producing what looked like a group of white bubbles that floated above the group. As a hand grabbed each one, the bubble would dissolve, casting the appropriate Translation Charm on that person. Then he asked the same for Spanish and for German. He glanced at Ron to check again for anyone who wasn't ready for English. No one raised their hand, but a few seemed hesitant. It turned out that a number of students of various native languages were ending up with doubled-up Translation Charms, from their own languages to one of the primaries, then from there to English. This could be extremely stressful over time.

Harry decided, "For anyone who is dealing with doubled Translation Charms, talk to one of your House Heads over the next couple of days. We need to know what languages to research to get you a direct Translation Charm. The Magus, Darius, is able to learn languages very quickly. He told me he is willing to work out whatever language charms are needed, though it may be several days before he has time for everyone. You may need to deal with the doubling for awhile, but hopefully no longer than a week." The gratitude he saw on quite a few faces was more than enough payment for the extra work that would be involved.

Indicating to McGonagall that the group was ready for her, he walked past her to pick up the name lists as she went over her introduction again. He spread the three lists out on a table, using magic to make them lay flat. He quickly memorized the names ... over one hundred twenty in this group. He used the first name on the first list to decide where to start. Argyle, Daphne, third year, S.S.S. ... she's a definite Ravenclaw.

The Sorting Hat was now putting in its two pence:

"In Gryffindor, we take the brave.

In Ravenclaw, the smart.

In Slytherin, ambition rules.

The Hufflepuffs have heart.

The Houses four are waiting

to welcome you this day.

So many need my services

'Some help I need,' I say.

The Sorting Brat will place you,

if only one you fit,

But if two Houses call you,

beneath my brim you'll sit.

Relax and wait your turn, now.

It shouldn't take too long.

We're in a rush, you see, so

I'll have to end my song."

The previously frightened and anxious children were giggling by now, listening to the silly Hat and surprised that the tall, almost intimidating young man wasn't the least offended at what the Hat had called him. He was even laughing about it!

"Right then. The first group will belong to Ravenclaw. If I tap you on the shoulder, head for that table with the blue tablecloth." He passed through the group once to get all the easy assignments, then he stopped, eyes sweeping the group once more, then tapped two others. Remembering the first unassigned name on the second list, he thought Benoit, Cherlyn, sixth year, Beauxbatons ... she'll be good in Slytherin, even if she is a nice girl, he chuckled to himself. "Next group, Slytherin, green tablecloth." He used the first unassigned name on the third list to choose Gryffindors next (red table), then finished with Hufflepuffs (yellow table). "Anyone left will need to put on the Sorting Hat. There is nothing wrong with having the characteristics of more than one house. The Hat had trouble deciding my House, and I'm not ashamed of it."

Someone called out, "I thought you were pure Gryffindor. Where else did the Hat want you?"

"The Hat told me that I would do well in Slytherin, too, but decided on Gryffindor, though right now, since I'm an apprentice, I'm outside the House system," answered Harry.

Before he could continue, Draco interrupted in a loud voice, "Saint Potter? Nearly a Slytherin? It just boggles the mind! It takes my very breath away!"

"Thus saith the Slytherin Prince ... all heed ye," Harry returned in a bored monotone, then joined the crowd who was laughing at the two former enemies. "Enjoy your time at Hogwarts. I need to prepare for the next group. Prefects," Harry noticed that McGonagall had already left to prep another group of over 50, "please wait for the next group to finish before you take your new housemates up to the dorms."

The next group went much like the first. Translation Charms were needed. Apparently there had been a misunderstanding because everyone had assumed that the Charms would be applied at Hogwarts, not on the trip over. These students were processed quickly, Harry using the same kind of method to choose the order of the House selection. He was having a 95-98% success rate, so the Hat didn't have much work to do. One student protested Harry's assignment of him to Hufflepuff, but his appeal to the Hat gave the same result.

Even with the extra delay caused by the Translation Charms, he had ten minutes before his Gringotts appointment. Sending a message to McGonagall that he was leaving, he checked that Dumbledore was ready, slipped into the staff dining room to avoid startling anyone, and Disapparated, heading for the offices of Clearwater, Clearwater and Boggs.

The walk to Gringotts was a short one, only about two minutes, and the weather in London was very comfortable. Justus Clearwater's initial research hinted that Lily Evans Potter was indeed the 'missing' custodian of the Thorne estate. He looked forward to figuratively crossing swords again with the Rosewood lawyer, Elway S. Cheetum. Everything pointed to a cut and dry case now that a magical male heir to Clover Thorne Rosewood's estate had come of age. He had every reason to expect that this visit to Gringotts would confirm Harry as the newest Baron Thorne. Even Albus Dumbledore wore something close to a smirk, since he had periodically had to deal with Sequoia Rosewood and Silvius Parkinson's repeated appearances before the Wizengamot.

Justus kept alert to the reactions of those they passed in Diagon Alley. It was enlightening, walking along with Albus Dumbledore and Harry Potter, both dressed smartly for business (though Dumbledore's outfit still was eccentric by most standards). Any onlookers who did not recognize Harry were informed by others in excited whispers about The-New-and-Improved-Boy-Who-Lived. He smiled as he realized that, though Harry was doing his best to ignore all the attention, he was distinctly uncomfortable about it. Justus was well-versed in reading body language ... he had to be, in his business.

As they entered Gringotts, Justus stepped forward to the goblin occupying the information desk, whose nameplate said 'Nelix'. "Mr. Harry Potter and Master Albus Dumbledore are here for an appointment with Senior Goblin Snorlax," he announced, introducing Dumbledore in a way that indicated his relationship to Harry and his reason for being there. As Nelix signaled another goblin to escort the visitors, Clearwater was startled when Harry smiled and greeted their escort by name ... in the Goblin language. Perhaps there is more reason for Dumbledore to give me a Gobbledegook Translation Charm than I realized, he thought.

"Greet you, Griphook!" Harry said in Gobbledegook with a smile and a small but meticulously appropriate nod of his head to a respected business acquaintance. One of the subjects he had been studying during the long nighttime hours was Goblin language, traditions, and etiquette. Plus Dumbledore's long-lived experiences had added greatly to the pool of knowledge in ways that books could not convey. Harry was adamant about learning as much as possible about the various magical races. He figured, if he was going to insult a being, he would do it because he intended to, not because he was ignorant of their ways.

Of course, the goblins were not only shocked that Harry had recognized Griphook from a three-year past encounter (humans rarely bothered to differentiate, claiming that all goblins looked alike to them), but they were stunned that his command of the language included near-perfect pronunciation (human vocal chords just couldn't quite get it perfect) and absolutely perfect and appropriate gestures (humans almost never noticed or cared that the language included gestures). After a long moment, Griphook answered in full Gobbledegook to see if the human had merely memorized a greeting, or had really learned their ways.

"Greet you, Harry Potter!" he said, with a matching nod. "You do me honor," he clarified, since The-Boy-Who-Lived had greater status than a novice banker such as he. Griphook's eyes widened as Harry responded with a gracious gesture that acknowledged the accuracy of the comment, but did not retract the earlier level of greeting. "Permit this one to escort you to Senior Snorlax, esteemed sirs." Griphook gave a shortened but very respectful gesture acknowledging the status of the two highly-ranked humans, and by association, their legal counsel.

/- Perfectly executed, my boy, -/ sent Dumbledore with a proud smile. /- Remember now. Snorlax is not only a banker, but a highly-ranked warrior. You will need to balance your interactions accordingly. -/

/- Yes, Master, I remember, -/ Harry answered with a cheeky grin and a mental sing-song lilt. He sensed that Justus had noticed the conversation and met his eyes. The solicitor carefully mouthed the words 'mindspeech link' with a questioning tilt of his head. Harry nodded. The older man sighed with a regretful air. /- Should I? -/ Harry asked Dumbledore, who answered with a slight shrug, as though to say it was Harry's decision. Since he had a very good feeling about the Clearwaters, and since it was only a matter of time before Justus would learn more about his powers, Harry decided. /- Mr. Clearwater? It might be helpful if you were able to join us sometimes in these silent conversations. I think I can manage a local mindspeech link among the three of us for meetings like this. Are you interested? -/

Clearwater's eyes widened as he glanced around the corridors they were still traversing on the way to Estate Transfers. /- Here? Now? How local? -/ he thought at Harry, assuming that if Harry could send like that, he could also receive.

/- 'Yes', 'yes', and 'within about a mile, I suppose', -/ he smiled, his vivid emerald eyes beginning to acquire Dumbledore's twinkle. At the smile he received in response, he unobtrusively touched Clearwater's arm with one hand and Dumbledore's with the other, since he didn't want to make it look too easy yet. In moments, a short-range mindspeech link had been set up among the three. /- If all three agree, I can do the same for Mrs. Clearwater, Draco, and Severus. I'll ask Draco and Severus when we have a free moment. -/

They had just stopped in front of a nicely-carved wooden door, bearing a metal plate that said 'Estate Transfers Department, Senior Snorlax, Head'. Griphook, instead of knocking, dragged the pad of his long index finger delicately across the plate, from upper left to lower right. A moment later, a chime sounded and the door opened. Griphook entered first. He announced the visitors in such a way, by word and gesture, that Snorlax would be aware that they appeared to be fully knowledgeable of Goblin etiquette and should be dealt with honorably. He then stepped back, bowing and gesturing that they should enter.

As the subject of the appointment, Harry entered first, followed by Dumbledore as his Master, and Justus as his advisor. First, gestures were wordlessly exchanged between Harry and Snorlax, each movement bringing a light of respect to the eyes of the goblins, and pride to the eyes of Dumbledore and Clearwater. Then Harry began again in Gobbledegook. "Greet you, Senior Snorlax. Though this one is merely a young warrior of undeclared rank, it is hoped you will accept a gesture of respect to a highly-ranked warrior, First of the Diamond Cohort." The initial part of the greeting was accompanied by gestures for a highly-respected business acquaintance from a person of moderate civilian status. The second part, however, was accompanied by gestures of a young warrior, both proud of his ability and potential, yet humble in the face of vastly greater experience, rank and status. The Diamond Cohort was the elite of the Goblin warriors, the fiercest and most powerful of their kind, answerable only to the head of the Goblin people, Ragnok, who was also the president of Gringotts Bank.

The gracious gestures of acknowledgement from Snorlax to Harry were extremely rare between the two peoples. They were only slightly less complimentary than those that Dumbledore himself had been given in formal encounters. Snorlax answered as First of the Diamond Cohort, "This one is honored, young warrior, that you have learned of our ways so meticulously. Perhaps when your Master deems the time appropriate, we may determine the ranking you are entitled to hold." Snorlax nodded and gestured toward Dumbledore, and they exchanged greetings, gestures, and promises to arrange for the great honor of determining the Goblin warrior ranking of a human.

Snorlax then shifted from his persona of warrior to that of banker, saying in Gobbledegook, "Shall we continue our business in this language, or does your advisor require that we speak in human English?"

Harry answered, "Mr. Clearwater has been given a Translation Charm to allow him to understand our speech, sir. I would like to continue in this tongue, providing you will not take offense if my insufficient experience causes some unintended insult. I ask that you offer correction to any such mistake on my part, or on the part of my advisor. However, if it is your preference, we will conduct our business in English."

After a moment of consideration, and a glance at Dumbledore that asked if the human's apprentice knew what he was getting into, the goblin's face broke out into a broad grin, something humans rarely witnessed. He nodded, saying, "Let us continue as we have begun." He glanced and gestured to Griphook, dismissing him, and instructing him to make a report to 'their superior', which could only mean Ragnok himself.

Dumbledore had taken it upon himself to send to Clearwater a quiet mental translation of the gestural portions of the Goblin language, since Translation Charms could only handle the verbal portions. Justus was visibly impressed that Harry's command of Goblin ways was such that it merited a report to Ragnok himself.

"First, Mr. Potter, we will address the estate of your father, James Godric Potter. Tell me. How much do you know of the line of Gryffindor?" asked Snorlax, wondering if the boy knew of his heritage.

"If you will, please just call me Harry. I do know that the Potters are descended from Godric Gryffindor." With a glance at Dumbledore, he asked, "Shall I summarize what I already know?" At his Master's nod, he began. "Godric Gryffindor had four children, three by his wife, Amalthea, and one by his mistress Demelza during a three-year estrangement from his wife. The eldest, Broderick, died without heirs. The second, Duncan, was Demelza's son, but after her death was legitimized and raised by Godric and Amalthea with his other children. Duncan's line is the source of the Potter connection to Gryffindor. The third son, Javan the Scholar, is the source of the Dragonrider connection. The fourth child, a daughter, Athena, is the ancestor that ties the Dumbledores to Gryffindor. Each of those three lines has one person designated as Lord or Lady of the line, though in these times, those titles are only used in formal ceremonies and rituals. My esteemed Master," he said, nodding at Dumbledore, "is Albus, Lord Dumbledore of the line of Gryffindor. I believe Rachel inherited the title from her father," he said with a questioning glance, "and is Rachel, Lady Dragonrider of the line of Gryffindor. And, now, I suppose, unless there is a Potter branch I don't know about, I will be Harry, Lord Potter of the line of Gryffindor."

"Good, very good," commented Snorlax. "What of the hereditary artifacts?"

"That I haven't had a chance to research completely. As I understand, each of the three lines has custody of a magical artifact belonging to the Gryffindor family. At the death of the current Lord or Lady, the artifact is magically transported back to the family vault to wait for the next heir of the line to take possession. I am going to guess that the Dumbledore artifact is the Sword of Gryffindor," he said with a smile at the headmaster.

With his trademark twinkle, Dumbledore answered, "You should know ... you killed a basilisk with it," he commented with an apparently casual manner, but said deliberately to convey to the goblin warrior that his apprentice was not unblooded. In explanation to Justus, he added, "Though a particular line has custody and possession of a particular artifact, those artifacts may be used by any of Gryffindor blood."

Snorlax was visibly impressed yet again. "It is amusing that the sword would be the artifact of the daughter's line, a woman named for a mythical figure known for both wisdom and warrior skills. From Javan the Scholar, the Dragonriders hold a collection of journals and spell books in Gryffindor's own hand which are almost entirely in hidden text keyed to his descendents. From Duncan, the Potters hold Gryffindor's wand, an extremely powerful tool that has yet to find a new owner among his descendents." Harry was nodding in acknowledgement of the information, thinking there was nothing else.

However, Snorlax was not finished. "From Broderick's line, since he died without issue, Duncan passed on to the Potters the Gryffindor signet ring, sign of Gryffindor's Heir. Few descendents of Gryffindor are accepted by the ring as his heir ... your father was not the Gryffindor Heir, nor were quite a few generations before him, so it is no insult if the ring does not accept you. However," here, the goblin's voice softened, and he gave Harry a sharp, assessing look, "we have reason to believe that the ring will once again be worn by a Gryffindor descendent very soon." He sat back, observing the quickly suppressed surprise on Harry's face. "Once the paperwork is completed, you will be escorted to the Potter family vaults. Your current vault is reserved for minors of the Potter line and holds only cash. Several minor investments are designated to maintain that vault," he smiled at Harry's startled expression that 'minor investments' were enough to maintain what he thought was quite a large amount of gold.

Snorlax brought out a rather large file of paperwork for the three humans to review and for Harry to sign in order to take control of the Potter inheritance. "First, you need to review the various properties that are part of the Potter estate ..."

As paperwork was slowly being processed in Estate Transfers, there was a change of personnel at the main information desk. Griphook did not like the goblin that now directed visitors about. Cragmire was, even among goblins, a crafty individual, but not in ways that all goblins considered proper. He was part of a dissident minority among the goblins that felt Ragnok was too soft. Griphook didn't trust the fellow, and felt he was lacking in honor. Cragmire tried to summon him for a menial errand, one that a youngling should have performed. He was pleased to be able to say that he was on an errand for Snorlax, who was too highly-ranked to be overruled by this fool.

He made his way to Ragnok's office as ordered. Griphook was astounded by the young wizard he had just left. This was a wizard who had respect for Goblin-kind. Even more than Dumbledore, who was well-educated and gracious, this Harry had ... something ... that drew the young goblin (for Griphook was young for a goblin, being only 40 years old, a newly-qualified banker, and novice warrior). He treated beings alike, whether human or goblin. It was said he was friend to a half-giant and to house-elves as well.

Apparently, Ragnok had been expecting a message from Snorlax, because Griphook waited a very short time in the outer office before he was summoned into Ragnok's presence. In word and gesture, he summarized his observations concerning one Harry Potter. Ragnok was so startled by the information that he insisted on a full report. Among the goblins, this meant a showing of memories, similar to using a pensieve or Legilimency, yet also quite different, since goblin magic was so different from human magic. For goblins, this meant a true surrendering of one's self to another. Ragnok, as leader of their people, was the only goblin who could require such a report, and was one of the few with the power to perform the magic. It was not a pleasant experience for the subject, but Griphook was almost eager to share what he had seen. The process left a lingering mental connection for several hours between the two, and left Griphook uncomfortable and exhausted. Ragnok, however, was so pleased by the report that he ordered Griphook to take an hour off duty to recover, a rare reward for the workaholic race.

As Griphook was heading off towards his room in the Gringotts employees' quarters, Cragmire had summoned yet another goblin to take over the information desk so that he could personally escort a tall, white-haired man that appeared to be Albus Dumbledore to Ragnok's office. A second human accompanied them, one that seemed to be there very reluctantly, and could be recognized by some as Ludo Bagman.

Outside Ragnok's outer office, Cragmire glanced at the two humans, and said, "You will need to be quick about it. The security is very tight. You have the portkeys I provided?" he asked.

The two humans nodded. The one who looked like Dumbledore whispered, "You will have the rest of our payment there?"

"Of course, of course," the goblin snarled. "You will receive all the payment you deserve, and more," he smirked. He detested humans in general, and disdained assassins in particular. Oh, they would get the payment they deserved. The portkeys that were supposed to take them to safety after they completed their mission to kill Ragnok, those portkeys were deliberately flawed and would splinch them, fatally. No one could trace the portkeys or the Polyjuice Potions to him. The stolen hairs and potion remnants had already been destroyed. Only his superiors in the goblin opposition party would know that he was responsible for this triumph ... for now.

Cragmire didn't know that he made his first, very critical mistake when he announced to Ragnok's secretary that Albus Dumbledore had brought the heavily-indebted Ludo Bagman to the goblins for a reckoning. The moment the secretary informed Ragnok of the visitors, the head Goblin knew something was very wrong, having just seen in Griphook's memory that Albus Dumbledore was tied up in the Estate Transfer office with Snorlax and Harry Potter. Ragnok responded that he needed to complete some vital matters he was working on, and said he could see the Chief Warlock in 15 minutes. There were too many unknowns for Ragnok's peace of mind ... who was outside (not Dumbledore and Bagman), what was their purpose (nothing good, surely), was Cragmire a part of it (very possible), what weapons did they have (expect the worst), who could be trusted among the goblins (only the Diamond Cohort, and perhaps Griphook, since he had just read his memory) ...

Griphook's memory ... Griphook ... focusing on the lingering mental bond with the young goblin, Ragnok sent a message, /- Silent alarm to Snorlax and the Diamond Cohort only. Cragmire has brought someone claiming to be Dumbledore to my office. Assume the worst. Prepare counter measures. Safeguard the facility. -/

Spurred on by the message, Griphook hurried back to Snorlax's Office, taking every possible shortcut. Bursting into the office without warning, he quickly used the gestures needed to convey Ragnok's emergency message. In his need to do his duty, he forgot that at least two of the humans in the room would understand the message as well ... forgot until both of them suddenly stood, no longer simple wizards in the midst of banking business, but formidable warriors, ready for action. "Someone is impersonating me?" asked Dumbledore in a chilling voice, the usual twinkle in his eyes frozen instead into an icy gleam.

Harry's eyes seemed to bore into Griphook. "I beg your forgiveness," he said. Griphook was confused until he felt a presence in his mind, an extremely powerful presence, reading his memory (though without any of the pain usually associated with the process in a goblin), then tracing along the linkage to Ragnok. He felt power flow through him, from the human to Ragnok and outward. Then the flow stopped. Griphook stumbled from the shock, but a strange, soothing sensation filled him, a healing energy that restored his strength. He blinked to see a pair of glowing emerald eyes just fading back to normal. Again, Harry whispered, "Forgive me, Griphook. For Ragnok ... we had to know and quickly." Still not completely understanding, Griphook nevertheless trusted this human, so he nodded and weakly gestured in acceptance, with just the slightest flicker of a gesture that insisted on a later explanation, which received a small nod in response.

Harry turned to Dumbledore and Snorlax. "Two Polyjuiced humans and a goblin by the name of Cragmire are the problem. The humans are there to assassinate Ragnok; the goblin hired them and has arranged for their deaths once the job is done, based on a couple of defective portkeys I sensed. They have quite a few magical artifacts and weapons, including some very explosive items they think of as 'Curse Grenades' ... a rather ingenious combination of magic and technology. Cragmire had left the outer office when I checked, but I got a good look at the surface thoughts of the humans. Ragnok stalled them for 15 minutes ... and 5 of those minutes have passed."

Snorlax quickly digested the information. "I must hear how you can know this before we can proceed."

"Please just trust me for now. I will explain what I can later. There is too little time," Harry glanced at Justus. "Mr. Clearwater, you need to stay here." He then faced Snorlax, the warrior of the Diamond Cohort. "Honored warrior," he said and gestured, "I ask that you proceed as your leader has ordered. I left the information I just spoke of in the mind of Ragnok. However, humans are preparing to bring dishonor on my kind, using the face and form of my warrior-Master to accomplish their mission. My Master and I will go directly to Ragnok to offer our protection while you do as you must to gather your people, to protect Gringotts and apprehend the traitor who has betrayed your leader."

"Gringotts is warded to prevent Apparation and even goblin-transport. How ..." Snorlax protested.

"I can bypass the wards, honored warrior." Harry gestured again that explanations must wait. "I swear on my honor, my magic, and my soul that I mean your leader no harm. If you have need for others to be transported to Ragnok, tell my advisor and he will convey the message," Harry said, glancing at Justus, who nodded agreement. "The three of us share a mindspeech link." With a glance at Dumbledore, he extended his powers to include the older man, then Apparated to Ragnok's office.

Ragnok was still reeling from the presence that had flowed through his mind. Any lesser goblin would have been totally drained by the experience. He fleetingly hoped that Griphook had not suffered too badly from being used as a channel for such power. The presence had promised to arrive momentarily to assist, and had reported on the visitors as it left his mind. He was preparing the weapons and armor taken out of the hidden compartment in his office, when he sensed two beings in the room with him. Whirling about, weapons and magic at the ready, he was shocked to see that Harry Potter and Albus Dumbledore had appeared, surrounded by a powerful magical shield. Both could be seen using goblin warrior gestures, offering alliance and assistance, asking his acceptance. As Ragnok relaxed his stance, the shield evaporated.

Before Ragnok could say a word, Harry Potter had dropped to one knee before him, as would a supplicant goblin, saying in word and gesture, "Forgive this youngling for intruding in your mind without your consent, High One. Information was needed without delay. When the crisis has been resolved, I submit myself to you that you may have recompense for my transgression. Already have I begged forgiveness of Novice Griphook and healed the effects of the process, and will offer him whatever compensation you dictate."

Ragnok was not the leader of his people for nothing. He knew that the mind and power that had flowed through him was far beyond even what his friend Dumbledore could have accomplished. "Rise youngling. There was need and I take no offense. It was, after all, on my behalf. Unless Novice Griphook asks for more, your apology and healing should be sufficient compensation." As Harry stood, gesturing his acceptance and gratitude for the goblin's decision, Ragnok's face shifted into a rather frightening grin. With a penetrating glance into the slightly glowing emerald eyes of The-Boy-Who-Lived, he said, "Before we face the enemy, you would do well to take your other form, Darius. That is, if you wish to keep your secrets a little while longer."

to be continued

... don't kill me for the cliffie J