Playing With Magic

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Chapter 34: End Of Yule Break

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January 5, 1992 - Wiltshire, Greengrass Manor, Lord's Study

Lord Cyrus Greengrass

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"Nothing?" Lady Evelyn Greengrass asked, having read the report her husband handed her. She was confused as to how Masters in the art of potion making couldn't find anything to work with. Not even a starting point. They may have to take a long time to reverse engineer the Healing Potion Grey gave them for Astoria, but to not even have a place to start from was absurd. Evelyn frowned, "I didn't see an enchantment on the bottle that would tamper with their work."

"There wasn't one, I had a few Master Enchanters check to be sure. They were only enchanted to be unbreakable." Cyrus revealed with a shake of his head as he leaned back in his seat behind his polished mahogany desk, resting his head in his hand. "They confirmed it did just as Grey and Lord Black said it would, but they could only try and modify it at best. Even with only a few days with it, they had come to the conclusion that trying to reverse engineer it without being given the, and I quote, 'newly discovered ingredients' would take a lifetime."

Seeing his wife's frown, Cyrus continued, "They were adamant that some of the ingredients didn't even grow in the magical - or muggle - world. So either they were a new discovery, or created. Like-"

"Alchemy," Evelyn interrupted, eyebrows slightly raised as she placed the report on the table before getting comfortable in her own chair. "You think he truly knows and regularly practices Alchemy."

Cyrus nodded, "I'm inclined to believe them in that regard. The information showed nothing of magical heritage or training, and the boy seemed to already have an absurd amount of money even before freeing Black. Most likely from selling gold to the goblins."

"Yes, but Alchemy? He's barely in Hogwarts." Evelyne gave her husband an incredulous look. "It would take longer than a few months to get to that point, and that's after Newt-level Potions and Transfiguration."

"My thoughts exactly," Cyrus smirked. "He did alter the Animagus ritual somehow, and now this. He's no doubt planning to complete his Hogwarts education within the year. If the report on his muggle upbringing is to be believed, he was already a prodigy to the point of getting a PhD at such a young age. I see no reason he would finish his Hogwarts education within a few months."

And wasn't that a surprise. Muggle information or not, it was way too young to have such an accolade. The more they learned about the boy the more they started to realise how ridiculous some of the things he had accomplished truly were.

"We won't be able to beat Dumbledore's offer, and I have no doubt he has offered to take him as an apprentice, which he'd have accepted," Evelyn pointed out with a slight thoughtful frown as she brought her hand to her chin. "It would be too big an opportunity to miss out on. If not Dumbledore, then maybe Flamel, if he's even willing to take another apprentice in the art."

After a long moment of deep thought, Cyrus spoke, "He might actually be the one to do it Ev'." 

The fact that Grey had said he could make the cure a 'summer project' was music to his ears, but it also told him that the boy would be working on several things during the summer. He wouldn't be solely focused on their problem. Not that he had any reason to. Trying to push him to do so could backfire spectacularly, and with him being in different classes, it would be harder to form a better connection between him and Daphne."

Being so lost in thought, Cyrus didn't even realise his wife had already walked around the table until she placed her hand on his cheek. Looking up at her, he smiled as she spoke, "We'll see what comes of this… 'summer project' of his." She paused, before giving him a smile of her own. "But I'm inclined to agree, husband. If he truly can find a way to cure Astoria, it would change everything. So, how do we ensure his continued cooperation? How do we make sure he sees this through and doesn't push it to the wayside?"

"We must continue to support him, provide him with whatever resources he needs, and perhaps more importantly, make sure he knows that he has our full backing," Cyrus sighed, as he placed a supportive hand on hers. "The boy is clearly sharp. He'll see through any attempts at manipulation. But if we show him that our interests align—that helping us benefits him as well—we may be able to guide him toward a solution."

"Well done, husband," Evelyne said with a grin while she made herself comfortable on her husband's lap. "Care for a reward?"

The Lord of House Greengrass did not turn down his reward. It would not have been strategic to do so, and House Greengrass was known for its strategic business decisions. 

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Greengrass Manor - Main Library

Johnathan Grey

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Having flipped through the last page of the book on curses, a smirk made its way to my face, knowing that I was able to get through most of the books in the library with actual spells. Unlike the list that Daphne had offered in Hogwarts, they hadn't taken out the ones that would make me less focused on healing and rituals. There wasn't anything that I would find in Knockturn Alley or anything but it was good to get some more spells, regardless of their power.

When I finally met the Dwarves, they had been more than receptive to my proposal about the sale of Dragon Silver than I initially thought. I was fully aware that there would be backlash from the Goblins, but the Dwarves were so eager to seize an opportunity to undermine their long-time rivals, that they had accepted my terms without much negotiation. They were also enthusiastic about the prospect of acting as middlemen in the deal so they could meet face-to-face with the Goblins when they came asking around, seeing it as a chance to cut the Goblins down a notch.

One of their leaders had even gone so far as to declare that, "Even if this deal were to lead to war with the Goblins, it would be worth it just to take them down a peg."

The terms I set kept me out of the spotlight for now. The Dwarves accepted to be the face of the operation, managing the requests, distribution and sales of the Silver while I remained in the background, quietly benefiting from the arrangement. Although Lord Greengrass set up the dal itself, he wasn't actually part of the deal and didn't actually seem upset about it. But, as a way to thank the man, I gave him a batch of two dozen vials of Health Potions for Astoria after he confirmed their effectiveness with Sirius. 

I had no doubt he also got a second opinion from Potions experts once he got their hands on them. For the last few days, Astoria had been taking sips of the Potion whenever she was here and there—like I had prescribed—whenever she felt her disease was affecting her too much. It was like filling up her health bar after she had slowly lost health over time. It also allowed the Potions to last longer. Cyrus still tried to pay me for the batch, but I was sure to turn it down. I didn't want to owe the man in any way.

As I closed the book and placed it back on the shelf, the peace and quiet of the room was suddenly interrupted by the sound of the door bursting open as Astoria Greengrass rushed in. "John! Everyone's ready to leave for Platform!" she announced as she practically kept bouncing in place with a Joker-style grin plastered on her face.

Looking at the girl, a warm smile on my face. She looked healthy, well, healthier using my potion than the one she was using before. Slightly less pale, but you would only really notice the difference if you were looking for it. "Thank you for letting me know, Tori. I was already ready and was just waiting for you guys to finish up."

As I spoke, Daphne appeared in the doorway, looking slightly apologetic. "I'm sorry to have kept you waiting, John. But, somehow, I don't think you mind all that much, considering how much you seem to love this library."

"That's exactly why you shouldn't be apologizing," I shrugged with a casual grin. "This library is worth the wait. I think I finally got through most of the spell-based book. I could always come back to visit and start on the theory-based ones."

Daphne rolled her eyes as she shook her head, "Well, unfortunately, we'll have to keep you from it for now. We should head to the Floo to meet Mother and Father."

"John, can you summon the wolf again? Please?" Astoria asked as she tried to give me her best impression of a puppy, with her hands clasped above her heart as she looked up at me. 

"Sure, Why not?" I chuckled as we started our walk to the Floot. She was easily impressed and whenever she got too giddy, I would only have to summon the wolf and let her jump on and treat it like a horse. With a flick of my hand, I conjured the [Spectral Wolf], and watched as its ethereal form materialised beside us. Astoria's face lit up as she immediately climbed onto the wolf's back, her small hands gripping its shimmering fur like a set of reins. The girl kept giggling as she rode the wolf alongside us as we walked.

As we continued their walk down the elegant corridors of the Manor, the sight of Astoria riding the spectral wolf brought a smile to Daphne's face even though she was trying to give her an exasperated look. Astoria may have been barred from learning the more difficult spells in case she went overboard but there was nothing stopping her from getting me to do magic whenever she could. And she took every chance she got.

As we made our way to the grand fireplace where the Floo Network awaited, we were greeted by the sight of Lord and Lady Greengrass already dressed and ready to depart. Cyrus and Evelyn were impeccably dressed like always, with Cyrus in a tailored suit of dark grey accented by a deep blue tie, while Evelyn wore a graceful gown in shades of grey and blue that perfectly complemented her husband's attire. When Lord and Lady Greengrass noticed Astoria perched happily on the back of my [Spectral Wolf], they couldn't help but smile.

"Is everyone ready?" Cyrus asked, still smiling, as he took a moment to guide his eyes over our clothes to verify that everyone was prepared. Daphne and I were already in our Hogwarts robes and gave the man a nod. Astoria slid off the wolf's back with a small sigh and quickly tried to smooth out the creases in her dress with her hands, wanting to look as presentable as possible. Her outfit, like her parents', was a tasteful blend of greys and dark blues.

After I cancelled the [Spectral Wolf], we all stepped into the Floo one by one. The green flames flared up as Cyrus called out our destination, "Platform Nine and Three-Quarters!" The Floo network immediately whisked us away. 

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King's Cross Station - Platform 9 ¾

Johnathan Grey

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As we arrived on the platform, we were immediately met with the lively atmosphere of King's Cross Station, the sound of chatter and the hiss of the Hogwarts Express. Casually walking to the train, Cyrus let Daphne and I take the lead as he and his wife allowed Astoria to use their hands as a swing. "Wee! Hehehe. Wee!"

Standing near the Hogwarts Express, we exchanged our final goodbyes. The platform was alive, but not overly so. Cyrus and Evelyn Greengrass exchanged a few words with Daphne, making sure everything was in order before we departed, while I made sure Astoria behaved herself while I was at Hogwarts and promised to visit again soon. Just as Daphne and I were about to turn and board the train, I noticed a few familiar figures approaching through the Floo entrance, causing the Greengrass family to turn, following my line of sight.

"Cyrus, Evelyn," Sirius greeted with a broad smile, extending his hand to Lord Greengrass as he reached us with Harry and Remus by his side. "A pleasure to see you again, my good man. How was your Yule?"

"Good, thank you for asking, Sirius. Remus," Cyrus shook both their hands with a respectful nod, acknowledging both men. "It's good to see you. I trust yours were enjoyable as well?"

"Indeed, they were," Sirius replied, casting a quick glance at Harry, who was already moving toward me.

"Hey, John! How was your Christmas?" Harry asked with a wide grin on his face as the adults continued their exchange. Spending time with Sirius and Remus, his real family, must have done him some real good. Vin Diesel really was right. It really is about family.

"It was good, better than good, actually. I was able to get a lot done over the holidays." I responded with a smile. "How about yours?"

"It was great," Harry may not have raised his voice, but his giddiness let me know he really wanted to. Taking a closer look at the boy, I would have guessed he had some sugar in a few minutes ago. "But you know, you could have still come over. We missed you."

"I'll definitely be over during the summer break. We'll have plenty of time then." I chuckled, shaking my head a little. Before he could say more, I asked, "So, did you manage to do some reading on magic during the break?"

"Oh, that reminds me—" Harry's eyes widened before he grinned. "Thank you for the gift, John. It was brilliant! - not that I understood much of it before putting it down. But I've got something for you too. It's in my trunk. I'll give it to you when we find a compartment."

"That's much appreciated," I nodded appreciatively. I had gotten him the same book on Arithmancy as I did everyone else. What could I say? It was useful for everyone. "I'm glad you liked the gift. It's mostly third-year stuff, but in reality, it's best to start earlier. " I shrugged before gesturing to Daphne and Astoria, who had been standing a little to the side, "Harry, I'd like you to meet Daphne and Astoria Greengrass. Ladies, Harry."

Harry turned to them with a polite smile. "Nice to meet you both." He then tilted his head as he looked at Daphne a little more. "Er, you're in our year. Daphne, right?"

"Yes, nice to see you again, Potter," Daphne returned the smile with a slight nod.

Looking like we had just given her permission to burst after holding back so long, Astoria practically shouted, "Hi, Harry! Is it true you fought a Dragon and Ghouls and Vampires? Which ones were hardest? Can you teach me how to summon a storm? If you summon a storm, won't that also hurt you? Are you immune to storms?"

Harry glanced at me, looking for some kind of explanation or help. I helped him by simply shrugging my shoulders and smiling back. After squinting his eyes at me, he gave a friendly nod to Astoria and said, "Hi, Astoria. It's nice to meet you. Er, I was really young, so I didn't really have any of those adventures. They seem way too dangerous."

"Calm down, Astoria," Daphne came to Harry's rescue. "How many times do I have to tell you those books are fiction?" That almost made me laugh, seeing that, within a few years, he was supposed to go up against a dragon, a Basilisk, Dementors, and a Dark Lord, so she wasn't far off from the truth. Harry sheepishly smiled as he massaged the back of his neck while Astoria pouted due to Daphne's admonishment. 

"Well, we'd better get on the train," I said, nodding toward the carriages, after we all exchanged a few words. We said our goodbyes, and Harry, Daphne, and I boarded the train. We didn't find any of our friends here yet, but we were fine with just sitting in a compartment and waiting for them. Choosing the compartment next to where Sirius, Remus, Lord and Lady Greengrass were talking, we took our seats. Harry chose then to reach into his expanded trunk, rummaging through it before finally pulling out a neatly wrapped package.

"Here it is," Harry said with a grin, handing me the gift.

Using [Observe], I already knew what it was but took the package with a smile and unwrapped it anyway. Inside, I found a book titled Prank Spells and Curses for the Mischievous Mind. The cover was a mixture of vibrant colours and laughing faces. "This is great, Harry. Thanks," I said, as I gave the boy a fist bump. 

As the boy reciprocated, I glanced at the finely crafted ring on his finger. I already noticed it outside, and so did the Greengrasses, Daphne included, but none of us brought it up. With a curious look, I prompted, "I see you've taken a liking to wearing jewellery now, just like me," I nodded, gesturing to the several enchanted rings on my own hand. "Not that I blame you. It suits you."

"It's not just jewellery, John." Harry glanced at his ring and smiled. "This is my House Heir ring. It's enchanted and supposed to be worn by the next in line for the lordship of House Potter."

I let out a snort as I shook my head a little. "Oh, I know what it is and what it does, Harry. Unlike you, I actually took the time to read up on magical society before coming to Hogwarts. And bothered to read up some more after I got here, for that matter."

"Oh, er, yeah," Harry laughed as he sheepishly massaged the back of his neck. "Yeah, I'm still catching up on a lot of things."

"Well, better late than never." I leaned back in my seat, finally flipping open the book Harry had given me. My eyes caught some interesting spells I hadn't seen before. Pranking or not, they could come in handy, especially when combined with a [Ward]. I'll be able to add the effect to wards so that they can thoroughly embarrass people when they go snooping where they shouldn't. Seeing that none of them seemed lethal, I would even have to alter them to question prisoners at a later time.

"Yeah," Harry nodded. "I'm starting to realize that. Sirius said as much…and so did Hermione, now that I think about it. I just didn't expect there to be so much to learn about all this, y'know? Also, I heard Sirius talking about getting you one, y'know like setting up a House or something."

"Oh yeah?" I raised an eyebrow, looking up from the book. In the corner of my eye I noticed Daphne silently observing with her eyebrows raised a little as well. "I kind of didn't want to bother with the whole politics of the whole thing, that's why I didn't want to bother with it at first, but I might have to rethink that way of thinking. And don't worry, you've got time to figure it all out. If you ever need help, you know where to find me."

Before we could continue the conversation, the door to their carriage slid open, revealing Tracey Davis and Hermione Granger standing in the doorway. They must have seen us through the window and made a B-line straight here.

"Hey, Daphne, John, er Harry," Tracey greeted, already putting her trunk in the overhead compartment. With her trunk's weightless charm, it only took a moment. Then slumped down next to Daphne, leaving the seat next to Harry for Hermione. "Thanks for the gift you sent over Yule by the way, John. It was really thoughtful."

Hermione, already sitting next to Harry after he helped her with her trunk, nodded in agreement. "Yes, thank you, John. The Arithmancy book you sent was incredibly informative. I couldn't put it down throughout the holidays. It was just what I needed." She said, before she gave the two other girls in the compartment a nod. "Er, hello, Dapne, Tracey."

"Hello, Granger," Daphne gave the girl a polite nod.

"Heya, Hermione," Tracey gave her a smile and a quick wave.

"Don't worry about it." I shrugged. "Glad you both liked it." I said, before going back to the book in my hand, flipping through another page.

Daphne seemed to give me a blank look. "You gave all your friends the same gift, didn't you?"

Feeling everyone's eyes on me, I rolled my eyes as I glanced up at Daphne and simply said, "It's very useful." This only made everyone chuckle as Daphne shook her head in resignation, a small smile tugging at her lips.

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"Nobody Tosses A Dwarf!"

— Gimli, Lord Of The Rings.

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Autor Here

Mother: So, you like going back to school?

Child: Yeah, I can see my friends again.

Mother: But I thought you said you hate school.

Child Looks at the mother like an idiot: … Because it's school!

Mother: Ah…Ok then.

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