Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The sun was still very low, its golden rays barely penetrating the high, eastern castle wall. Although it was very early in the morning, a huge crowd had gathered around the large square beyond the palace walls. From here, the crowd of people dressed in various linen and silk clothes melted into a colorful, noisy mass. One of the most important squares in the city was in a deplorable state, as most of the buildings that surrounded it had burned down and were currently surrounded by wooden scaffolding for repairs. Only this scaffolding held some of them together. But the significance of the square and its place in the world of the people had not changed. The knights placed a wooden, latticed podium in the center. Between it and the castle wall, a higher one, with a heavy, arm rested chair on it. On this high podium, the flags of the kingdom were waving in the wind. The king would stand here when he announced what he wanted.
Ron had just woken up to the noises, and he saw that the others were too. Luna and Hermione stood in front of the window, wrapped in blankets. Harry was still sleeping, as he had been for the past three days. Draco had come to his senses yesterday, but he still hadn't fully recovered, so if he had fallen asleep, not even a cannon could have woken him. And even if he was awake... he was very silent. None of them had dared to tell him what was happening to his father. And Ron somehow felt that Draco wasn't expecting anything good. But the healers forbade disturbing the boy for the sake of his recovery.
Ron struggled to his feet. The past few days had brought results, but they couldn't move until Harry came to, and that would give Voldemort a huge advantage if he was really going where they thought he was going based on the information they had found.
The city of the Guildless was a fascinating place, despite the darkness and the smell of smoke. Like a cross between an underground Diagon and Knockturn Alley. The many, many steam engines and buildings similar to London created an interesting, different kind of fantasy atmosphere than the surface medieval city. The illuminated signboards and street lamps made the grotesque; slightly messy city look like a painting. The knights organized a detachment the day after the victory and went down there. Ron and Hermione, of course, went with them, as they had agreed. The expected battle did not happen. The Guildless had escaped with all their loot and left empty buildings and a half-burned pub behind them. This was Baelin's first target, because he said it was Sed's headquarters. Ron and Hermione did not ask him about it, because they were occupied with their own goals and the fear that the outlaws might have emptied their library as well. Fortunately, this was not the case and they soon realized why.
The city was not completely deserted. There were many eccentrics living here, and the small town of Sed provided them with a livelihood. These people fully cooperated with the knights. Especially when they heard of King Jundar's plans. Since most of the surface city had become uninhabitable, the young king wanted to officially make the underground city part of the kingdom and populate it. The locals almost danced for joy, because this meant that their shops and services would not die out, but could flourish with new customers. Of course, there were those who quietly packed up their small businesses and disappeared at this news, but most stayed and were ready to help. Hermione and Ron soon found out how valuable this was.
The Guildless Library was a huge, cylindrical metal building sunk into the cave wall. Hermione winced slightly when she looked at it from the outside, because it looked like a rusty, dark gray grain silo, not a library. There were dark metal tiles on the pointed top of the cylinder, but they were chipped and obscured by the occasional falling rocks from the cave ceiling. But as they entered, Hermione's eyes lit up, while Ron felt his stomach churn. The huge, cylindrical building was filled with shelves from the inside, about four stories high. Metal stairs and railings ran around it, and everything was packed. Occasionally, flickering wall lights provided a little bit of twilight, but the ceiling disappeared into darkness. And the selection was quite... colorful. Ron couldn't see any system in it. The air was filled with the smell of old paper and ink. Candle wax and a light smoke as candlesticks in the middle of a huge round metal table provided light for anyone who wanted to read.
“Okay... where the hell do we start...?” - Ron's voice trembled a little at the thought of the suffering he saw in his future.
“Ron, do you see this?!” - Hermione almost jumped and her eyes sparkled.
“Unfortunately, yes.” - the boy groaned.
“What could be in here, do you think? This rivals the Hogwarts library, if these are all magic books!”
“Y-yes and I see a few things we shouldn't touch.”
Ron really saw a book, wrapped in strong chains, and it was shaking. Its thick gray leather cover was torn in places, as if something had scratched it. But Hermione didn't even hear him. She hurried to the table, hoping they could start from the books lying there. Although Ron thought it was too nice to think, that Voldemort might have left his readings out on the open.
Then he jumped out from the cover of the metal stairs. A scary, bald old man with a long white beard. A hooked, bony nose, a multi-layered, copper-framed monocle. In his neck, over his simple gray robes, he carried many keys on chains. In his hand was a broom, which he intended to attack them with. Hermione screamed in fright, while Ron conjured one of his swords. The red magic light painted the library's twilight eerily and the old man fell back in fright. But he fought determinedly from the ground as well. Ron and Hermione almost laughed, it was so comical.
“Get out of here, you thieves!” - he shrieked. – “You won’t mess up my life's work! I'll fight if I have to! I'm a powerful wizard! I'll turn you all into toads!”
Ron and Hermione looked at each other, as they didn't see a staff with the old man, unless you counted his broom as one. When he realized that he wasn't being hurt, and there is just a young couple standing in front of him, he calmed down. He adjusted his slightly steamy monocle.
“Oh... you don't look like thieves.” - he remarked, then he lowered his head in fear and crawled back from Ron's sword. – “What a pleasure to have other wizards in my humble abode! Hehe...”
“We're sorry. We didn't mean to scare you, sir.” - Hermione kindly offered him a helping hand. – “Are you the librarian?”
“Yes!”
The old man jumped to his feet as if nothing was wrong and bowed deeply, despite his shaky knees. Hermione couldn't help but smile at him as his long, bony hands spread out like some cartoon character's, and his bow was also comical like that. There was only one thing about him that was frightening and striking. The veins on his long arms were black under his skin, all the way to his elbows. It was as if some kind of disease had entered his body from the tips of his fingers and was creeping up his arms with the blood. Hermione's pity grew as the old man's appearance revealed more and more details about his character.
"The mighty and infinitely knowledgeable Nerricus at your service, my young friends!"
"Do you live here alone?" – Ron asked, grimacing slightly, because... the old man smell suggested exactly that.
He pulled himself up proudly, struggling with his bent back and pounding his chest with one bony, black hand. The many keys jingled sharply and echoed in the chimney of the metal walls.
“This wonderful library is my life's work, my son.” - he laughed and spun around with his arms outstretched. – “If I told you the adventurous journey these books took to get here, we could sit here for centuries! Hehe! And even we wizards don't have that much time! Hehehe!”
“Please tell me he is not a crazy, old dark wizard!” - Ron groaned to Hermione.
“Ron... he doesn't have a staff.” - Hermione whispered, rolling her eyes.
“Oh! But I'm a wizard! Very wise and very dangerous!” - the old man insisted, then felt ashamed and scratched the back of his bald head. – “But... well... hehehe... in my youth I was too enthusiastic about the dark arts and so... the Guild... uh... exiled me. They burned my staff. To this day... I miss it.”
Hermione felt so sorry for him, even if he had once been a dark wizard. They had seen what happened when a wizard's staff here was damaged. If it was destroyed... the wizard could die from it. The fact that Nerricus was alive showed some kind of stubborn will to live. Perhaps it was only his collection that kept him alive. He proved this by the way life had returned to his gray-blue eyes and his slightly toothless grin had returned.
“But!” - he tapped the ground with the end of his broom as if it were his new staff. – “A wizard born is a wizard forever! Nothing proves that better than my collection! Look!”
He hurried around and grabbed a few books. He waved them in the air like an eager child who wants to show off his toys and brag about them.
“Only a highly skilled wizard knows the value of these texts. Ha! Those nosy upstarts in Camelot can only be wishing for something like my little ones! Mr. Sed understood that. He gave me many wonderful texts for my help.”
“Mr. Nerricus…”
“Master Nerricus, my dear!” - the old man drew himself up proudly. - I have earned my title. Burn my staff, those big-nosed gnomes! I am a master. They cannot take that away from me.”
“I-I'm sorry. I didn't know.”
Hermione felt the need to speak to him as if he were a grandfather. A slightly deranged, enthusiastic grandfather.
“We really need your help, Master Nerricus. A dark wizard was here a few days ago. You must remember him, for he has a non-human face.”
The old wizard's monocle had fallen from his hooked nose. His hand trembled as he reached for it, and only after several clumsy attempts could he fit it back over his nose.
“Oh! Are you enemies of that horrible barbarian? Because that hideous figure certainly doesn't have any friends. Turn me into a tiny flea, if he has!”
“’Barbarian’?”
“Yes! He came here a few days ago. He didn't bring me any payment. Can you imagine?! He forced me with a terrible spell to hand over my darlings to him! He treated me like a servant!”
Nerricus jumped up and down in annoyance, waving his hands as if he were reporting some unheard-of scandal. Ron and Hermione nodded together, saying that so far this undoubtedly refers to Voldemort.
“But he was a scary creature.” - Nerricus calmed down and folded his arms around himself, a little fearfully. – “But no matter how great a wizard I am, I'm smart enough not to start with a demon-faced, emotionless man. I've dealt with such people in my youth. I can tell when someone loses their humanity after too much experimentations. He would have killed me; I have no doubt about that.”
Now that he had been able to talk about his grievance, he seemed to be feeling better. He regained his proud, bouncy style.
“What a terrible man! In my time, we dark wizards had manners and etiquette towards each other. What a shame what young people have sunk to!”
“Well…” - Ron tried to speak tactfully. – “We would be interested in what he was doing here. Do you remember what books he was interested in? Did you hear anything?”
“Of course. But! This library has rules, my young friends. And I will not break them, because then chaos would reign here and all my treasures would be scattered. If you want something, you have to pay for it. And by enriching the library. I will not tolerate another abomination like that dark bastard!”
“What?” - Ron raised an eyebrow.
“A book, Ron.” - Hermione whispered. – “He wants a new book.”
Nerricus held out his black, bony hand with closed eyes, his nose slightly upturned, and a meaningful hum.
“Good! Because we have no money.”
Hermione reached into her small bag. Ron could see the pain behind her eyes. She was attached to all her books. Giving them to a strange, old wizard was a difficult decision. But Nerricus had apparently taken good care of his collection. Hermione understood his fondness and wanted to give him something that the old wizard could really love and appreciate. And her eyes lit up when she realized which one she would be happy to part with and which Nerricus would find exciting.
Ron was a little frightened and stepped back from the girl as a furry, locked book emerged from the bag. Nerricus's eyes lit up like a child's at Christmas.
“By Merlin's beard...! Is that a living book?”
“Um... be careful with it!” - Ron stepped back again.
As the old wizard took it, the "Monster Book of Monsters" growled and began to pry open the lock. Its small black eyes stared at Nerricus bloodthirsty.
“’Monster Book of Monsters’ by Edwardus Lima. Hmm... I've never heard of him.”
That didn't bother him. In fact. It only made him more enthusiastic. A new book by a new author. And what a rare, interesting specimen. Like a living animal.
“It likes to have its spine stroked. Otherwise, it bites!” – Hermione giggled as she handed it over. – “It has descriptions of magical creatures in it.”
They were surprised by how kindly Nerricus approached the sullen monster book. He scratched its spine, and it purred and went limp in his grip. The wizard removed the straps. Ron then took another step back. Hermione slapped him disapprovingly on the back, telling him not to be a coward.
Nerricus stroked the book's eyes and spine like a house cat, and he got exactly the same reactions from it.
“There's no way I'm going to put you tied up on a shelf!” - the old wizard enthused and rubbed his face against the book's furry cover. – “Don't worry, you'll be in good hands with me! Good girl! What does it eat? Does it eat anything?”
“Um... it bites, but we haven't seen it eat yet.” - Ron rolled his eyes.
The book seemed to want to demonstrate its bad nature, growling and trying to bite. Nerricus pulled his head away just in time. Hermione put her hand over her mouth, not wanting the old wizard to get hurt and change his mind. But Nerricus just laughed and put the book down in a cushioned chair, where it closed its eyes, snoring, and fell asleep. Judging by Nerricus' smile, he could never have imagined a more perfect companion. It really was that perfect. The old hermit living in the library and his living, furry book as a pet. Ron could already see the old man thinking about where to make a little den for his new friend. He was really ready to treat the enchanted book like a living thing for the rest of his life. This Monster Book will probably have the best life of all of its editions.
“Oh, what perfect company! Better than any human being.” - he turned to them. – “My dear young friends, you have changed the remaining days of this old wizard forever. My entire library is at your disposal for as long as you want. And I would love to see you again anytime. Especially if you bring such beauties.”
He hurried away and returned with a tower of books. As he staggered with them, the tops almost fell off. Ron and Hermione rushed to his aid, and soon the large metal table was filled with open books.
“These were mainly what interested him. He started with runes and ancient language books. He wanted to translate something. That was what he spent most of his time on, because he relied only on hearing. He didn't know how to write down, what he wanted to translate.”
“By hearing... translating...” - Hermione murmured. – “Maybe he wanted to decipher what the voice said?”
“What voice?”
“When the spell brought us through, there was some speech. A man's voice. But it spoke in an unknown language. And that really was a good point from which to begin his research.”
“Well, if he had asked politely, I'd translate it for him.”
They both looked at the proudly smiling old man at the same time. Ron didn't deny that he would be very grateful if he didn't have to spend hours trying to translate from dictionaries.
“But he wasn't polite. He wasn't even well-mannered!” – Nerricus fumed. - "A silent, solitary man, but he was frighteningly smart. I was surprised at how fast he was progressing. He must have been a formidable student. I feel sorry for his masters. That's why I didn't offer my help."
Hermione tried to repeat the words they had heard in that empty space as they crossed the distance between the two worlds. Ron tried to correct her occasionally, but Hermione rewarded him with her usual angry glare. Nerricus scratched his beard.
"’Wizard who... come? Enter?’ Hmmm…" – Nerricus mused. "Yes, that makes more sense! So: ’Wizard, who enter here from the world of my birth; Find me and your purpose shall be heard!’"
“A wizard who came here from another world...”
“Oh! Merlin, the First Wizard? Ha! Now I understand why those old storybooks were needed. Just a moment!”
Nerricus disappeared to search again. But while he was there, Ron and Hermione looked at each other with recognition. The girl's eyes were sparkling.
“Wait a minute...” - Ron rolled his eyes. – “The spell that brought us here was Merlin's? I mean... the real Merlin's?”
“Why wouldn't Merlin be real? Everyone keeps mentioning him.”
That had always been a question for Hermione. Merlin was definitely a real wizard who had existed. Yet modern wizards spoke of his name as if he were just a fairy tale character. An archetype around whom legends had been woven.
“Yes, but not like that! Merlin didn't exist. He was just a fairy tale.”
“If King Arthur existed and these people claim he brought them here, why shouldn't Merlin be real?” - Hermione looked at Ron, almost shocked. – “Does everyone back home really believe that? That he was just a fairy tale?”
“Well... he has no tangible works and most of his stories are things that even muggles know. That's why most wizards wrote him off as just a fairy tale.”
Nerricus returned with another handful of books. They were history books and fairy tales. About the founding of the twelve kingdoms. About King Arthur. And about Merlin.
They were here for hours. While they were reading, Nerricus set about creating that particular nook for his new pet.
The books told of how Merlin laid the foundations of the Mages' Guild. How he had originally wanted to found a school where young wizards from Avalon could study. But his plans disappeared with him one day, and he never returned. The Mages' Guild eventually took control and created their own training and rules without him.
"He wanted to build his own school, but he never finished it." – Ron muttered.
"From what I've read so far, he was much more interested in solving the mystery of the Mist and establishing a connection with his homeland. I think he planned to build the school after Avalon was open to all wizards in the world."
"So maybe he succeeded? He disappeared because he returned to England and couldn't come back here?"
"If that's true, then I can see why Voldemort would follow that line. If Merlin found a way to get back to England, then that way is still here and can be used again. The only question is why the Guild doesn't know about it and how it got lost."
Hermione began to take notes from several books. As if she had discovered some common thread. Ron was reading another story about Merlin's first students and how King Arthur had laid down the first laws of the Guild for cooperation between wizards and muggles. So that wizards would never feel like they had to hide and were not part of his kingdom. Soon, many children flocked, all with magic in their blood, and the first students began to teach the new generation. The Mages' Guild was born, becoming a ray of hope against supernatural forces for the people settling in Avalon.
They spent a whole day here. No one bothered them. The knights did come in and Nerricus hid from them very much, but at their request, they left him alone. Obviously, if he's a convicted dark wizard, he wouldn't be happy if the Mages' Guild suddenly found him and took his collection. They wanted to talk to Master Talos about this somehow, so that he would not report him. Finally, at the end of the day, Hermione and he summed up what they had learned. That all documents point to an official book, which is Merlin's personal work and one of which must be kept in every kingdom's Mages' Guild. So, there were twelve copies in total, supposedly written by Merlin himself. Like some kind of guidebooks. Hermione's eyes lit up because they had found what they were looking for.
The next day they hurried to the Guild. They didn't sleep much because they were excited. They were greeted by great destruction. Merrin and Voldemort's battle had caused great damage. Several books had burned. They both prayed that theirs wouldn't. And the found it. Everything had come together. They both waited with hopeful, shining eyes for the pages of Merlin's book to be revealed. And then came the terrible disappointment and the final blow delivered by their enemy.
And now they were here. On the morning of the third day, drums beat outside and people shouted as King Jundar was about to pronounce judgment on the man who had ruined his kingdom. The young king was already seated in his high dais in his armchair, signaling to the knights that he was ready. A horse-drawn carriage rolled out onto the drawbridge, a metal cage on top. As it stopped at the edge of the square and the knights opened it, Lucius emerged in chains. Ron knew it had been his father's dream to see him like this, but... not quite in these circumstances. Lucius' wounds were tended to; the blood washed from his face and hair. He couldn't shave himself, so his stubble framed his face unkemptly. His hair was also in a terrible state. It always made him such a pitiful sight. But he raised his head and closed his eyes with such anger, as if he were about to enter some very smelly, disgusting place that he considered beneath his dignity. Even though people were screaming, he didn't hear them. He walked onto the small wooden platform as if he didn't mind and was angry that they were wasting his time. He decided to put on this mask. Ron didn't deny that he found it terrifying that someone could play himself like that. He could only guess what kind of real feelings simmered behind Lucius's practiced, haughty mask. This man had worn two… or more faces all his life.
Once he had been a cruel Death Eater who had no qualms about killing other wizards and torturing Muggles. With fire and other spells.
Second, he was a Ministry representative. A wealthy wizard who commanded respect and was proud of his long-standing family name.
And third… he was Draco's father, who came home to him, played with him, listened to him, and loved him.
Ron couldn't imagine how someone could juggle these three roles all their lives. It must have been maddening, that was for sure. Which one did Lucius really love? Which one did he consider his true self and not a role? The Death Eater, the noble wizard, or Draco's father?
King Jundar rose from his chair and looked down at the wizard - who stood handcuffed and waiting haughtily on the podium – with as much contempt as he dared to express his immense desire for revenge towards him. Lucius raised an eyebrow almost impatiently, his impudence infuriating the young king.
"Lucius Malfoy." – he began. - "You have caused immeasurable suffering to the people of this kingdom. You poisoned our water to kill my people. You set fire to our city to cause even more death. You used evil magic to trick me and my knights into breaking our oaths and turning against our own people. Your actions have caused untold pain and suffering."
Lucius did not flinch. Nothing King Jundar said moved him for a moment. Although Ron could see that he was not proud. Perhaps because he had been caught.
King Jundar saw this and became even more determined to say what he was about to say. He became certain of his decision and… Ron began to suspect something was wrong.
“According to the laws of the Council of the Round Table, the Mages' Guild demanded that you would be handed over to them. But I, as King of Gaheris, have decided that your sentence must be carried out here. You have caused the people of this kingdom unforgivable pain.”
The people cheered, which only made the young king more determined. He did not care if he broke the laws of a covenant if he had to satisfy his own thirst for revenge and that of his people. The young boy's voice rose with an unbecoming cruelty.
“Tomorrow at dawn, according to the ancient laws, as a dark wizard who caused deaths, you will be burned at the stake. There, where you stand now. As King of Gaheris, I hereby sentence you to death.”
Cheers filled the square. The people celebrated their young king as a hero. Up here in the room, they were frozen in silence. Even Hermione, who wouldn't have minded Lucius being punished. But... burning at the stake? That was a terribly cruel death! Ron didn't dare think about it. Even Dad would be horrified and he could imagine him protesting, no matter how much he didn’t like Lucius Malfoy.
The condemned man himself stared straight ahead as if he had frozen. Perhaps he hadn't even understood King Jundar's words? Lucius stood there with his head bowed like a statue. He didn't tremble. He didn't start begging or crying. Something else was going on inside him.
And the people cheering in the square heard him in horror as he burst into wild laughter.
Ron felt his stomach clench at the terrible sound. Lucius started laughing madly, and it made him fall to his knees on the platform. The people whispered in horror as the terrible, dark wizard mocked their king. Lucius suffocated under the cover of his flowing, blond hair and laughed heartily at his sentence.
"Take him away!" – King Jundar beckoned.
The knights grabbed him by his chains to lock him back in the cage on the wagon, but Lucius tore himself free from their grasp and roared at the crowd as if laughing at them.
“Filthy animals! To Hell with you! Do you think you scared me?! You can’t!! I'm not afraid of anything anymore!! I will gladly burn on your damned pyre! I will gladly be a martyr to my cause! Because I know that my master will kill every last one of your kind! Long live the Dark Lord and death to the impure mongrels without magic!! Death to the half-bloods and the traitorous wizards who protect you! You will all die!! Every last one of you!! Hahaha!!”
His laughter echoed throughout the square and many screamed in terror, as if they were afraid that he had cursed them. The knights could barely drag him back into the cage. Lucius laughed maniacally and cursed as loudly as he could.
And Ron… heard a thud behind them. Something heavy fell to the carpet.
Draco got out of bed. Ron didn't know how long he had been standing behind them. He may have listened to the terrible verdict all the way through. Ron was too frozen to feel his presence. But now the blond boy with the bandaged chest fell to the ground, unconscious. They all rushed to help him back to bed, but it was hard, the way he had abandoned himself in his unconsciousness.
And from outside, his father's crazy laughter could still be heard.

~~~

To Harry, it was as if he had just closed his eyes. Like when you're really tired and you lay your head on the pillow, and when you open it again, it's morning. And you don't remember anything. There were no dreams or small waking moments. He didn't dream about Tom's atrocities, or his own terrible memories. Harry couldn't remember the last time he had closed his eyes with such peace.
He woke up in a sunny room. He heard Hermione and Ron's voices, discussing something intensely. He didn't understand what yet. The voices sounded distant and muffled. And then, as he turned his head to the side... Luna smiled at him from beside his bed.
"Hi Harry!" – she smiled.
Ron and Hermione immediately fell silent and jumped beside his bed as if they couldn't believe he was awake. Harry fumbled for his glasses; everything was too blurry. Luna took it from a nightstand and carefully placed it on his nose. Harry adjusted it himself. The lens was no longer cracked. Hermione must have fixed it.
“Hello…” - he groaned.
“How are you? Are you in pain?” - Hermione asked.
“No…” - Harry sat up awkwardly. – “It's just… as if I didn’t move for too long.”
“You scared the crap out of us!” - Ron tried to poke him playfully. – “Next time, warn us before you burst into flames and become scary!”
It was really strange that he didn't feel any pain. Everything about him was just heavy. He could barely move. He looked for his staff with his eyes. He saw it leaning against the wall next to his bed in the morning sunlight. The Phoenix stared at him harmlessly. Harry could feel an immense tiredness radiating from it too, and the soft, humming feeling was like the wand was asleep.
“H... how long have I been asleep? Where are we?”
Instead of answering, Hermione hugged him tightly, crying. Ron clutched his shoulder. Harry groaned again, because Hermione was almost strangling him.
“Don't kill me... please...”
“You won't do that again!” - she ordered. – “You won't duel Voldemort alone again! Understand?!”
“Understand! Understand! Please, let go!”
“What do you remember?” - Ron asked carefully.
Indeed. Harry had to strain his brain because everything was clear only until he fought Tom. How he fell. How... people attacked him. After that, everything became blurry. He only remembered heat and a few... images. Tom burning and being devoured by Nagini. Ron reaching out to save him. And... Lucius. Kneeling on the cobblestones of the street between the burning houses, screaming through his tears to him to kill him.
“I didn't hurt anyone, did I?” - he asked almost desperately.
“Everyone is accounted for except Voldemort. No one has seen him since. But the Death Eaters have left, so something is happening on that side.”
“He didn't die.” - Harry remembered this clearly. – “the phoenix... was very angry, so I know. He ran away.”
Harry realized, as he looked at his friends, that much more time had passed than he felt. A very bad feeling was stirring in his heart.
“For how many days had I been unconscious?”
“This is the third day. And it's morning.” - Ron tried to cheer him up a little. – “We have some things to report! You slept through some important events.”
Harry's eyes then wandered around the room, and he noticed that the bed opposite him was unmade and Draco's things were lying on it. The boy himself was nowhere to be found.
“Sirius is with him. Don't worry!” - Ron knew what he was thinking.
“Is he okay?”
“There will be a few scars on his back, but he will remain. That's not his biggest problem right now.” - Ron didn't know how to say anything.
“Talk to me! What happened?”
Finally, they all sat down on his bed and told him what they had been up to in the past few days. What had happened after the battle. About Merrin's death, and how much it had broken Master Talos. Harry didn't deny that this had only fueled the anger in his heart. Tom had already killed someone. This was his failure too. They should have gone after him to the Guildless City right from the start and not walk into Lucius' trap! Merrin would still be alive then. Meanwhile, Hermione and Ron also told him about the Guildless library and the research they had done on Merlin's case.
“So, Merlin made it back to England, and his spell might still be here, right?”
“Yes, and it seems he left behind a guide on how other wizards can find him.” - Hermione explained. – “But I find it a bit suspicious that the Guild hasn't done any research on it. There are, in theory, eleven more such books in the Mages' Guilds of the kingdoms.”
Harry took the small leather-bound book that Hermione handed to him. A green crest was embossed on the brown leather cover. It reminded Harry eerily of something. A sword was piercing a rune-engraved stone, and those strange, three-pointed leaves were falling around it. And the blade of the sword is embraced by a thick snake, as if to protect it. In the light that filtered through, the texture of the skin cast interesting shadows, as if the snake were real, and if Harry tilted his head to the side, it might even pretend to move. And Harry's heart sank as the familiar, cold feeling returned. He didn't want to... but he wanted to know now.
"Open!" – he whispered.
He could see it in his companions' eyes that it had happened. And the book's clasp snapped open. Old pages fluttered between Harry's fingers, still legible in black ink. Merlin's own handwriting, perhaps?
"Exactly..." – Ron smiled uncomfortably. - "That's how I opened it, too. I still remember you speaking Parseltongue."
"So, you can still do it." – Luna smiled as if that was a good thing.
Harry didn't answer. He hoped the ability had gone. It felt like a tiny piece of Tom was still inside him. Because this ability comes from him. Like everything bad in his life. And even though it might be useful, it was scary to see his friends not know what he was saying. He had never heard himself speak that language. He only knew from the reactions that it was scary. And the fact that it was necessary to open the book also brought unpleasant thoughts to Harry's mind. Did Merlin speak Parseltongue too? The symbolism of the crest was very telling. If the sword in the stone was what Harry thought it was, it was not at all reassuring to see the snake embracing it. Had Merlin been a dark wizard? Harry felt the thought poison another of his childhood dreams. Merlin was the greatest, most famous wizard. Even muggles knew his name and wrote stories, books, and films about him. The thought of falling into yet another twisted, historical lie was sickening. But he soon found something that worried him more. Several pages had been torn out of the book. Harry didn't have to guess who it was.
“He took the pages that could help.”
“Unfortunately, yes.”
Harry made up his mind. Precious days were already being wasted because of him. He threw the blanket aside and tried to climb out of bed.
“We have to go after him! We have to follow him somehow!” - he couldn't get up.
His legs felt like lead, and he had to fall back onto his pillow. His friends laid him back down. Luna pulled the blanket back over him. It would take time for him to get back on his feet.
“Don't move yet! You're not ready.” - the blonde girl pleaded.
“Master Talos promised to try to get the Guild to help us go after him. They'll send someone from Camelot. One of the leaders of the Council. It will depend on him whether we get the help or if they want to handle this themselves.”
“Great!”
Harry was really happy. Finally, some good news! If they finally get the full support of the Mages’ Guild, they'll have a much better chance of going after Tom. But as the others were not enthusiastic, he realized that there was something else he didn't know.
“Or... not great? What else don't I know?”
“The Councilor is mainly coming to arrest Master Talos.”
“What? Why?!”
“The Guild wants to punish him.” - Ron grimaced. – “Apparently, there are also very important people here who know everything better from afar. This matter of an entire kingdom in ruins and foreign dark wizards running wild in their world has angered them quite a bit. Merrin's death doesn't improve the situation either. The Guild wants blood. An eye for an eye.”
“We can't let this go!”
“Harry... we're strangers.” - Hermione hushed sadly. – “We're not members of the Guild. We don’t have any influence. We can be happy if the Councilor who comes here listens to us and takes us seriously. They are primarily interested in their own affairs, not in some other, inaccessible magical world.”
Harry sighed angrily. Of course. People will be people everywhere. They are interested in their own power and in maintaining this power. So that their world order remains and is not threatened by anything. Just like the Ministry at home. Harry didn't understand why he had waited any longer. Maybe because this seemed like a fairy-tale magical kingdom, so he thought everything would be just like in a fairy tale.
“They only care about us and Voldemort's case because we caused a big commotion. And there are people back in Camelot who really want Master Talos' head for some reason. And we haven't even talked about King Jundar's sentence today...”
Harry looked at them questioningly. What kind of sentence? Jundar just can’t blame Talos for it all! Or Endre's death really hurts him so much that he's ready to take out his anger on anyone? The rage and helplessness that Harry knew so well. He felt sorry for King Jundar.
"Lucius." – Ron replied. - "He was caught after he ran away from you. Voldemort left him here to his fate."
“Which, according to King Jundar's verdict, is death by fire.”
Harry felt himself turn a little pale. Are we talking about the same Lucius Malfoy? Draco's father? What do they mean... death by fire?
"You're not serious. Like a medieval witch burning?"
"Talos was very upset." – Hermione said. - "As was the Guild, when Talos wrote this urgently in a second letter to the arriving Councilor. Making a public spectacle of a wizard's death is supposedly very taboo around here. The Guild takes it as an open insult. But King Jundar wants revenge, and nothing will stop him. He won't listen to Master Talos. We hope, the arriving wizards, can bring the king to his senses.
“Some very powerful wizard is said to be coming here. Talos frowned heavily as he read the letter. The Guild is so angry that it looks like they're bringing in the big guns.” - Ron frowned. – “That was actually what Draco was most happy about. He hopes they'll scare King Jundar enough to call off the execution.”
Harry only now realized that his gaze had wandered back to the empty bed. God... poor Draco! So that's why he's not here now. He learned what fate was destined for his father.
Luna ran off to get Master Talos. He allegedly asked to be told when Harry recovered. The three of them were left. Like the good old days.
“So, you were searching without me.” - Harry smiled.
“We didn't have much choice. You were knocked out.” - Ron rolled his eyes and his gaze wandered to Harry's staff. – “This thing really isn't funny. Talos was scared of it for a reason.”
“He told me that because the figure was shaped like a legendary animal, it is more capricious than a normal staff. To be careful, because the phoenix was immortal and would be scared if it were to face death. That it might go mad.”
Harry still didn't remember exactly what had happened. All he knew was that he was close to that particular madness. The phoenix was truly angry and terrified and ready to burn anyone who had caused it that terrible feeling. But somehow, when he made it understand that it was not alone and had nothing to fear, since death was only a quick dream... the spell calmed down and bent to his will.
“You definitely need more concentration and control over your emotions.” - Hermione tried to explain it like a lesson to dispel the fear. – “It seems more independent than any other staves.”
“You're not telling!” - Ron rolled his eyes. – “It literally transformed Harry and took control of his body.”
“It didn't mean anything bad.” - Harry explained. – “It was just scared. It did everything to protect me.”
“Yes, but it only protects you as its master. You're connected so it has no choice.” - Hermione worried. – “I'm just afraid that it might influence you when you use it. You might not even notice...”
“It's not some alien entity; it's part of me. It doesn't mean anything bad, I assure you. It just... got angry. It didn't understand the pain. I had to make it understand.”
Harry took the staff. The handle slid smoothly into his palm and he felt somehow stronger immediately. He felt like he could finally get out of bed. It was so light and the fire magic flowed through his veins like a pleasant summer breeze. The others watched with delight as he managed to sit up on the edge of the bed. The staff seemed to understand him better than before. Harry felt that the bond between them was strong and that he could trust it. Ron and Hermione looked at each other. Harry truly knew all too well the fear and pain that death brought. More than anyone his age should. Perhaps there really was no other wizard in the world who could control this staff like this.
Then the door opened and the familiar, brown-haired, bespectacled old wizard in the purple robes appeared, led by Luna. Talos's eyes were even more wrinkled with fatigue. He dragged himself with difficulty with his staff. But his smile became calm and kind as he saw Harry sitting on the edge of his bed. In his free hand he carried a potion bottle, with an orange liquid sloshing around in it.
"Ah! Young Master Harry! I'm glad to see you're feeling better. Here!" – he handed over the potion. - "It'll help restore strength to your limbs. After such a long, restorative sleep, it's essential."
As he took it in his palm, Harry sighed in relief, for the bottle was lukewarm. It rolled down his throat so pleasantly, like a thicker, more fragrant drink. It had the flavor of apple and cinnamon, like Mrs. Weasley's Christmas tea. It perked him up. Perhaps there was a little caffeine in it, too.
"You've used up the last drop of your manna. No wonder you've been asleep for three days."
"Master Talos... I heard what happened."
The old wizard frowned and bowed his head in shame. He gripped the handle of his staff a little tighter, but Harry saw no fear in him.
"Merrin was right. I've been out of the loop for too long. I shouldn't have thought I could handle this situation the way I did when I was younger." – he sighed. - "Whether you believe it or not, I'm glad to be here. The Guild's punishment may bring some relief. But it won't absolve me of the responsibility for losing Merrin's future, which I promised him.”
But before anyone could say anything to express further sympathy or support, Talos straightened up.
"What I can do is guarantee your future. I've written to the Guild about your actions, and I won't let them leave you without support."
This was the moment Draco sneaked in, as if he didn't want to be noticed. He retreated into Master Talos' shadow as if he were entering a strange place where he was not welcome. Harry was worried. In the past few days, they had managed to bring Draco back from the dark side. And Harry was glad to have him as part of their team. Why was he now withdrawing as if he were not welcome?
“Draco!”
He flinched, as if he had not expected Harry to speak to him. His blue eyes widened in fear and surprise as their gazes met. Sirius then appeared from behind Draco and jumped onto the bed, barking, to lick his face. Harry playfully stroked him and ruffled his fur. He would have stood up, but he could not. Fortunately, Draco appreciated the effort and made an evil little smile.
“Old man.” - he chuckled.
“Ha-ha.” - Harry smiled broadly. – “I'm glad you're okay too.”
He suddenly realized that Harry was worried about him. It was as if he were ashamed of himself, for his voice sank back from teasing to somber.
“Don't worry... it's hard to get rid of my kind. I grew up among criminals.”
It wasn't just Harry who was caught off guard by the dark mood. Draco was very upset, and not just because he was in pain. He still had a bandage on his chest under his clothes and was struggling to drag himself along. But he could see that his behavior was causing trouble, so he tried to salvage the situation somehow.
“And look at you! You've been here quite comfortably! The great and famous Harry Potter has been sleeping for three days!”
“Draco... as for your father, I—"
“The wizards who arrive will take care of him.” - Draco frowned again. – “Right, Master Talos?”
It was clear that Master Talos had promised him that he would save his father. That he would do everything he could. Harry only hoped that the old wizard hadn't made a promise in vain, because then he would be ashamed of himself again.
“The Councilor who comes here is not an easy case. Unfortunately, I have a personal matter with him that could overshadow our efforts. But don't worry! I won't give up without a fight.”
“What do we need to know about him? Who is he?”
Hermione hoped that if Talos knew enough about the Councilor, maybe they could defend themselves. They couldn't let Talos take the fate of their entire team on his shoulders after all this, in light of his trial.
“The head of a powerful clan, and one of the strongest pillars of the Council. A bit too... conservative young man, who, despite his big name, has no luck in life. He tries to compensate for this with his aspirations on the Council.” - Talos leaned closer. – “Very important: don't let him scare you! If you give him this advantage, he won't take you seriously. Be firm and you can earn his respect!”
“So, this is a pure-blood wizard?”
Draco couldn't help it; it came out of his mouth. From the silence of the others and their fixed gazes on him, he realized that his bad habits had returned. He shouldn't introduce the wizards of Avalon to the prejudices about purebloods from home. But Talos seemed interested in the topic. The silence of the young people didn't escape his attention, but he took it as a sign.
“I've been meaning to ask you about this, son, because your father keeps throwing similar adjectives at me when I try to question him. What does this whole thing about ‘pureblood’ and ‘mudblood’ mean? I understand that he means it as an insult. But it would be important if I had to introduce him to the Council delegates. In case he was to address them with these adjectives too.”
Oh my. Harry had a mental image of Lucius not holding his tongue in front of a delegation of wizards and them being offended by the unfamiliar adjectives. Talos obviously wanted to clear up any possible misunderstandings, since he had already promised Draco that he would save his father.
They all looked at each other, unsure which one could say it better. Finally, Hermione, the most frequent victim of this prejudice, took it upon herself.
“’Mudblood’ is indeed an insult. A slur. It's used to shame a wizard or witch who is the child of non-magical parents. Who has no wizards in their family.”
“But why?”
Talos's question was innocent. Harry realized that this whole concept of dirty wizard blood might be foreign to Avalon. Here, wizards live side by side with Muggles. There are no boundaries or hiding. Perhaps wizards live better, but so far, the Guild hasn't seemed to hinder marriages, and even those Guildless haven't mocked them with such slurs.
“Because ‘pure-blood’ wizards are proud of having no non-magical family for centuries.” – Draco took over.
“And these families are wealthy. They are influential.” – Harry explained.
“Over those centuries, a little gold accumulates.” – Ron noted.
Draco was not ashamed of being one of them. Harry could hear in his voice that he was proud that his family was so old. It was just that he was bothered by the contrast between himself and the group again. And Talos noticed.
“So. If I understand correctly. There are rich, long-established families in England who want to distinguish themselves from ordinary wizards. And they are denigrated with these words.”
“Well… yes.” – Ron shrugged.
“And let me guess: Voldemort gathers his followers by proclaiming that only ‘pure-blood’ wizards will be able to prevail under his rule.”
Talos really understood it. Harry was impressed by how well he understood the thinking of the Death Eaters and their Dark Lord. His experience as an Inquisitor must have helped.
“Is there any chance that his views... will find a foothold here?” - he asked fearfully.
All that's missing is for Tom to infect this world with his hatred. He had already ruined enough people with it. But as he had thought before: people will always be people. And Talos's gloom only confirmed Harry.
“I'd be lying if I said no.” - he replied. – “Conflicts arise from living together. It's human nature. He may find new followers along the way.”
“We've figured out what he's looking for.” - Harry showed him the little book.
“Wait... you opened it?”
Talos was astonished. Harry and Hermione looked at each other, suddenly realizing why the Guild hadn't researched this topic. Perhaps speaking Parseltongue was a rarity here too.
“You have to speak to it in Parseltongue. You said you knew wizards who could.”
“Yes, but none of them dedicate their lives to talking to ancient books.” - Talos took it in his hand. – “It's been in my library for so many years, but it's always been a mystery. Tell me! What was in it?”
That's when he found the torn pages and... understood the connection.
“Merlin knew the way home. But Voldemort took those parts of the book. We don't know where he's going.” - Hermione answered the unspoken question.
Talos was leafing through the ancient book and it seemed as if a shadow of recognition had crossed his face. Harry began to suspect that Talos might have figured something out. But for some reason he hadn't shared it with them yet. He turned his attention to what he could do for them right now.
“Then your only chance is to follow him.” - Talos came to the same decision. – “And that will fit in with the Guild's plans. We just really need to make sure you get their support. Those who replace me are good people. I trust I can get them on your side.”
It hit Harry then. Talos will no longer be the leader of the Guild here. Obviously, if he is arrested, someone will take his place here.
“Don't worry! I know them. They won't leave you without help. I'm glad they are getting my Guild. And while we're at it! It's time to go and meet them.” - Talos perked up as he looked out the window at the sun filtering in. – “Come on! Harry? How are you holding up, my son?”
Harry stood up in surprise. That potion had helped a lot. He was sure of himself and even felt fresh.
As they left the room, the castle was very quiet. The servants were now calmly doing their jobs and not running around aimlessly. The people who were recovering here had all moved into their rooms or left because they were feeling better. They didn't make much of a fuss as they walked out of the castle across the drawbridge. The city was becoming less of a sorry sight as the rebuilding work began and the sun shone kindly on the working people. The square in front of the Guild, however, was suspiciously empty. Harry noticed a few knights, who were diverting any people who might be wandering by. Talos had stopped them here, on the wide stone path between the Guild and the square.
“One last thing!” - Talos asked. – “I deliberately didn't mention your family names. And please, don't speak up! It wouldn't be good if any questions arose. Especially in the case of young Draco.”
They all understood. Although Draco moved away shyly, Harry and Ron firmly held him so that he wouldn't sneak anywhere. Liked it or not, he was with them.
The wait was long. And they didn't really know what they were waiting for. Harry even began to wonder how the wizards would arrive. Talos had talked about some teleport crystals that were used in emergencies. Could they see one in action? Is this case so important that the Guild would use one? They had never seen the local wizards travel with fireplaces, or were there any among them who could disappear from one place to another with their own magic.
Talos then looked up at the sky.
“Ah! It's been a while since I've seen Blarion.” - Talos laughed. – “He grew.”
The air rumbled with the heavy rustling of wings and... a scream that was eerily familiar to Harry echoed. He felt like he was going to get goosebumps. As they looked up at the overcast sky… the creature had just emerged from the clouds. A horn blared on the walls. Hearing the dragon’s scream, the knights grew nervous.
A horntail. Harry didn’t think he would ever see a dragon like this again. He didn’t want to. The notoriously bloodthirsty creature’s spiked appearance from head to tail made its aggressive nature obvious. It flew fast. Its huge, black leather wings beat rhythmically. As it circled the city in search of a landing spot, they could see the figures sitting on its back. This specimen was large enough to carry three adults. It was wearing a beautiful, leather-crafted saddle with a harness attached to the dragon's body, and its passengers were held securely by leather straps. The staves pointed up at the sky as if they were extra spikes on the creature's back.
The flying reptile landed gracefully but with a heavy thud on the square in front of the Mages' Guild. It hissed and growled, as if to announce its arrival. It stared at them. Especially Harry, who was looking at the dragon as if he were seeing an old, unpleasant acquaintance. As the creature lowered its head and rested its chest on the stones, the people were able to dismount on its back.
The man in the front saddle held the dragon's reins. Harry didn't know whether to admire or fear him for being able to ride a horntail. He wore black armor with sharp scales all over his body. A dark red cloak with white fur flowed from his shoulders. A fair-skinned man with a noble face and a straight nose. His long, blond hair was not as pale and silver as a Malfoy's. It was golden blonde, in sharp contrast to his black robes. A similar black metal headband held the long hair back to keep it from detracting from his serious, statuesque expression. His staff was dark wood, with a dragon spreading its wings at the end, of course. As he approached them with determined steps... he was not cheerful.
“Grandmaster Merixus.” - Talos nodded respectfully.
“Talos.” - a curt nod.
Harry immediately felt that he would not like this man. The contemptuous look combined with the princely appearance reminded him too much of Lucius. And Harry had a hard time seeing those he respected treated unworthily. Merixus's eyes were golden. It made him a frightening sight, and his gaze somehow so unnatural. But Harry was sure that his eye color was natural and not a vanity born of magic.
"It's been a while since I last saw you. How is your brother?" – Talos asked, chattering.
Merixus was somehow very annoyed that Talos would ask such a mundane question. Harry didn't understand why he looked as if he was about to explode. The golden-blond wizard took a deep breath. He was having a hard time hiding his anger. As if he was very angry with Master Talos for some reason.
"He still wanders the kingdoms like a vagabond, instead of sitting at my side in the Council and supporting me."
"I'm glad to hear that." – Talos smiled innocently. - "What do we owe you for being sent?"
"We can't waste the teleport crystals, and the fastest way to get to this godforsaken kingdom is on dragonback. That's why. And I felt it was my personal duty to represent the Council in this matter.
"You couldn't pass up this opportunity, could you, Merix?" – Talos frowned.
The wizard tried to suppress a satisfied smile that finally dissipated his anger. He didn't want to appear completely diabolical, especially not in front of strangers. But for some reason, the prospect of Talos in his grasp filled him with incredible satisfaction. He couldn't command some deep grievance that justified his anger in his heart.
"For years you have ignored the Council's orders and thought that just by twisting words cleverly you would escape accountability? Well, now is the day of judgment, Talos! You have finally caused enough of a catastrophe for the Council to open their eyes. I will make an example of you, if necessary. And who knows!" – his face darkened now with some deep hatred. – “Maybe my brother will finally come to his senses when he sees where your behavior is leading.”
“This is too serious a matter to take personally, Merix.” - Talos warned. – “Your brother is an adult. He can decide his own fate.”
“He has a duty to his clan. From which YOU diverted him. And he took Ignissa with him! Do you know how important it would be for her to be safe?! She will soon be twenty! She must return to Vivianne, or our clan will suffer a great loss.”
As if he understood what they were talking about, Blarion, the dragon in the background growled. A hissing, rasping sound left his open, toothy mouth and his spines vibrated. Talos frowned, as if he was really worried about what was being read on his head. As if he had really realized some great mistake he had made, causing difficulties for others. Merixus successfully wounded him, which only whipped up his anger even more. He raised his head with an angry hiss and pointed a finger at Master Talos.
“I will do everything I can to ensure that your trial has the greatest resonance in all of Avalon! I came to represent the will of the Council.”
"So, you've finally turned them against me." – said Talos sadly.
"I will not request your exile." – Merixus stated seriously. - "We respect your years of service and loyalty to the Guild. But you will be punished. Tomorrow you will fly with me to Camelot for your trial."
"I see..." – Talos lowered his head.
"Stop!"
The other two wizards slid down from the dragon's saddle and came running to Talos' side. One of them was a dark-skinned, silver-haired woman. She might have been in her fifties or sixties. Her face was a little wrinkled, but still beautiful. Her round nose and face made her friendly. Her eyes sparkled blue. She wore her long locks in a braid that reached her waist. Her cloak was light blue, matching her eye color. Underneath, she wore a long-sleeved white dress, the edges of which were decorated with gold-embroidered floral patterns. A brown leather belt with a silver buckle secured the dress at her waist and several silver talismans hung from it. Her staff was woven from white wood and depicted a swan. The lady hugged Talos protectively, like an old friend.
On the other side, a middle-aged man with red hair and a beard arrived, wearing a green cloak, the hood of which he wore to protect himself from the cold. The thought crossed Harry's mind that he might even be a relative of Ron, for he looked an awful lot like the Weasleys, with his freckled face. He wore the standard Guild equipment of breastplate and dragonskin robes. His staff was a normal, dark wood, and depicted an owl sitting on a crescent moon.
Both of them were clearly on Talos' side, which Merixus clearly condemned.
“Talos! Our sincere condolences!” – the woman whispered sweetly, her eyes filled with tears. – “Losing Merrin is a tragedy. None of you deserved this.”
“Thank you, Adella.”
“We will do everything we can to ensure that his killer is punished.” – came a firm, pleasantly deep voice from the red-haired man. – “Right, Merixus? Because that’s why we came.”
The blond man rolled his eyes resignedly as his colleagues stared meaningfully and waited for an answer.
“As Master Gavin says.” – he replied resignedly. – “As soon as we get the chance, I want to interrogate this ‘Lucius’. We need all the information we can get to capture the lich and his dark followers.”
“You won’t have an easy time with him.” – Talos replied grimly. – “Defeat has taken its toll on his mind. As has the way his dark master left him here to die.”
“We must stop King Jundar.” – Merixus finally seemed to be angry at someone other than Talos. - “We acknowledge the pain of the people of Gaheris, but we will not let a wizard’s death be a spectacle. It would be a political disaster in Camelot. And it would do no harm if the only source we have with inside information about the lich would still be alive.”
He struck that typical, official tone, as if he didn’t quite believe what he was saying, but he had to say it. He was obviously interested in the political side of things and in preserving a valuable trump card against the new threat. The pain of the people of Gaheris was too distant for a man who hadn’t been here and perhaps didn’t imagine himself on their level in life.
“The news that wizards from beyond the Mist were destroying an entire kingdom upset the Council, to say the least.” – Gavin’s tone made it clear that this was more than just a minor annoyance. – “They want to know as much as possible about them.”
“Then let me introduce you to some of them!”
Talos held out an arm and motioned for them to come closer. Harry stepped forward, not wrongly expecting the sight of his staff to startle the wizards. Merixus looked particularly troubled. Was his staff also considered “legendary”? According to Talos, if the end of a staff formed a magical creature, it was considered dangerous. A dragon was obviously as dangerous as a phoenix.
“Let me introduce the saviors of the kingdom. Masters Harry, Ronald, Hermione, Draco and Luna.”
He intentionally did not say their last names, as he had said beforehand. They all bowed their heads appropriately as their names were called.
“So that’s them.” - Merixus looked at them, then returned the bow. – “On behalf of the Mages’ Guild, I greet you! I am Grand Master Merixus, one of the leaders of the Council. My companions are Masters Adella and Gavin.”
“Greetings!” – Harry was a little at a loss for words, but he bowed properly.
“How young they are!” – Adella put her hand to her mouth. – “But their mana reveals that they have had a lot of struggle and hardship behind them.”
“We don’t want to cause any trouble, so I’ll get to the point.” – Harry tried to cut through the unpleasant circles. – “We want to get home. Please help! We’re hoping that the Mages’ Guild has some kind of specialist who can recognize the magic that brought us here.”
All eyes were on Master Merixus, who sighed and closed his eyes as if wondering how to communicate a difficult fact to a child. Finally, he wasn’t showing his hostile side, but genuine pity. Harry could have compared it to the times when adults kept secrets from them. When Mrs. Weasley locked the doors at the meetings of the Order of the Phoenix. When Remus reassured him that everything was under control and that Harry should just focus on his studies and his own safety.
“We will definitely find an opportunity today, young Harry, to talk about this.” - he began. – “But unfortunately, the rules of etiquette require that we first appear before the king. In the meantime, I ask you to wait for us at the Guild building! And get ready!”
“For what?” - Hermione asked cautiously.
“Since you have heroically stood up for this kingdom, the Guild Council has allowed you to take the exams and officially become members of the Guild, and enjoy all its benefits. And the exams will take place today, because we are short on time. So, get ready!”
Everyone turned pale at once. Especially Hermione. They don't have a day to prepare for an exam and they have no idea what it covers. Harry himself was scared and the well-known nervous lump gathered in his throat. But a small alarm bell rang in his head. It was an honor to be a member of the Guild, but… they were going home, right? What was the point?
“You have time, because I doubt the king will grant our request easily. From Talos' stories, I suspect you know your way around the building.”
Talos seemed to be terribly glad that he didn't have to bargain for this opportunity, because that was exactly what he had hoped for. He grabbed Harry's shoulder, reassuringly. Everything was going according to plan, but Harry suddenly began to worry about what exactly his plan was.
“You will find everything.” - he reassured them. – “It's not very hidden, because Merrin used those books. And Miss Hermione is already familiar with our library.”
“Let's go!” - Merixus turned.
“Wait! Let me go with you!”
Everyone was surprised by Draco's firm request and his raised voice. Merixus and his companions raised their eyebrows in question.
“What is this, young man?” - he asked.
“I just...”
Draco realized desperately that he couldn't tell him why he wanted to hear how the wizards planned to free his father. If they found out that he is his son... there was no telling how they would react. Master Talos had asked that their family names not be mentioned for a reason. Fortunately, he was the one who came to his aid.
“The boy is curious.” - he put his arm around Draco as he pulled him to his side. – “He's interested in how the Guild works. He is inspired by my stories from my time as an Inquisitor.”
“Obviously, you didn't share with him everything!” - Merixus's eyes widened dangerously, as if he feared this possibility.
Since Talos only smiled innocently, the Grand Master closed his eyes and waved his hand in submission.
“It's okay. Your presence is no obstacle, if you're so curious.” - then he added warningly. – “But you won't have time to prepare for your exam.”
“I'm stronger than you think. I will pass.” - Draco declared defiantly.
“For your own sake, I hope so.”
Draco clearly didn't like the style, but he was used to it. He had dealt with worse characters, compared to whom Merixus was very kind and polite. The golden-blonde wizard stopped by the dragon resting in the middle of the square and... said something to it as he stroked its neck. Harry didn't understand the words. Maybe that's what it felt like when the others heard him speak Parseltongue. This too, was an interesting language. With firm, raspy sounds in the words. And the dragon's eyes gleamed with intelligence as he took wing with a gust of wind and flew north towards the mountains that towered above the city.
Harry watched anxiously as Draco followed Talos and the wizards. A bad feeling gripped him. Draco wasn't quite himself and he seemed to be planning something. He had never been good at hiding it when he was up to something. He hadn't inherited that trait from his parents. Fortunately, Sirius followed him like a shadow. For some reason, Harry was sure that if Draco sank too low, the dog would pull him back and watch over him.
"Harry, come on! Every minute counts!" – Hermione almost dragged him. - "We need to know what to expect and we don't have time!"
"She's terrified that she won't be able to study for an exam." – Ron reported with a chuckle.
"We don't know what they expect of us! And it depends on this whether they let us chase Voldemort, so pull yourselves together!”
True. Harry didn't deny that this was one of the reasons he was nervous. What kind of exam does the Guild put its graduates through? And is there anything as deadly as anything they went through at Hogwarts?

~~~

The knights standing guard in the throne room were doubled. Draco pulled the blue hood of his cloak over his eyes, still afraid that someone would recognize him. Fortunately, the wizards had not yet met his father. But he would have to be careful after they did. He could not ask for Master Talos' mask back. The Guild representatives would notice much more that they were facing an unknown, probably imposter inquisitor.
King Jundar was not sitting on his throne, but was talking to Baelin about something, when he was informed that he had guests. The young king's tired but determined gaze turned towards the entrance at the same time as the knight commander. The deep voice of the knight standing at the door was ringing in the room as he announced them.
“I hereby announce Merixus, of Clan Myrddin, Master Mage of the Council of the Mages' Guild, Lord of Vivianne. Archmage Adella, from the kingdom of Kay, and Archmage Gavin, from the kingdom of Lamorak.”
Merixus' presence clearly terrified King Jundar. And from the terror, anger and stubborn determination were born, because he obviously knew exactly that the Mages' Guild had brought the big guns against him. And he didn't want anything to deter him from his revenge. He was like a child who is angry because his parents are trying with all their might to distract him from something he wants. He was ready to fight.
“King Jundar.” - the wizards bowed. – “We greet you.”
And there was a great silence. And Draco, who had spent too much time with his father not to recognize this tactic. Merixus made exactly the same head. That high-set nose and expressionless face. As if he was waiting for something and annoyed that it wasn't happening and that his precious time was being wasted. And apparently Jundar understood this, because anger began to show on his face.
“How dare you?”
Merixus was also visibly surprised. The king did not stay behind the polite frame, but decided to show the whites of his teeth. Shocking boldness from a fifteen-year-old boy.
“For years, the Mages' Guild has been sweeping my request to provide a larger branch for my kingdom under the table. You have never honored me with a personal meeting. But now that I am sentencing an evil wizard to death, you have immediately appeared to save him.”
Adella and Gavin both looked worriedly at Merixus, who didn’t flinch. The only sign of his displeasure was a furrowed brow. And this was again the kind of displeasure that nobles reserved for those who robbed them of their precious time.
“Your Majesty is the victim of a terrible tragedy, so we forgive your words,” – he began measuredly.
“How gallant of you, esteemed master!”
“I think we described our intentions and the reasons for them quite clearly in our letter. Of course, we are prepared to provide greater security for the people of Gaheris. Master Adella and Master Gavin came with me for exactly that reason. The two of them will take over the Gaheris Mages’ Guild from Master Talos. Their students will also arrive in a few weeks.”
The two wizards bowed and Jundar’s angry face softened a little in shame. This was not how he should have greeted his new Archmages. And Merixus took advantage of his hesitation, as a ruthless negotiator should.
“We will do everything we can to compensate and strengthen the kingdom of Gaheris. I do not believe that we should continue our cooperation in such a hostile tone. Nor do I believe that Your Majesty saw no other way than to bypass us and start making secret agreements with the McAllen Works.”
Everyone in the room looked at the tall, blond man in shock. King Jundar in particular looked like he had been caught doing something. Merixus was the only one who stood with his head held high, his pride wounded.
“Jundar.” - Talos stepped up the stairs to speak to the king on his own level. – “is this true?”
“I had to take steps. So that my people would feel safe.”
“And you chose this?”
“We need tangible, spectacular change!” - Jundar argued. – “The McAllen Works’ offer is exactly what we need. Safer machinery. Better equipment. And making the Knights’ work easier.”
“You didn’t want to change the city so radically.” – Talos reminded him.
“Well, the city is in ruins, right? I say it’s fate that the rebuilding will bring progress. Mr. McAllen’s military developments are also extremely promising. I will make the city safer with them.”
The wizards who stood at the steps looked at each other worriedly. Merixus looked properly offended as his nose wrinkled.
“Jundar. The neighboring kingdoms will be scared.”
“I will negotiate with Kings Edoran and Zanak. They are also open to listening to Mr. McAllen. There will be no secret arms race or threats. I am playing with clean cards.”
Then they heard the creaking of wheels and the neighing of horses outside. But somehow the sound was so strange. It was as if the horses were neighing into a microphone. It was distorted. Of all those in the throne room, only Jundar looked calmly towards the window.
“And I believe the one with whom all these negotiations will begin has arrived. So” - Jundar clapped his hands together, as if to end the hearing. – “if you have nothing else to say, Master Merixus.”
“As a matter of fact, I have.” - the blond man's voice sounded offended, but decisive, so that the stone hall echoed. – “The Guild considers the hunt for the lich Voldemort and his minions a personal matter. We want to track them down to avenge Master Merrin's death. And for this we need Lucius Malfoy. As the Master Mage of the Guild, I demand that you hand him over to us so that I can take him to Camelot for questioning tomorrow!”
Jundar turned angrily and walked to the window. His cloak fluttered. As if to express the anger of the boy who wore it.
“And what fate would you have for him in Camelot?”
“We will imprison him, of course. And interrogate him. According to Master Talos, this man was one of the lich's confidants. Everything that's in his mind could be key to catching this monster before more people fall victim to it.”
Merixus had woven his words well. After this, if Jundar says no, he will be responsible for all of Voldemort's future victims here in Avalon. The young king recognized this. And it upset him greatly.
“So, the Guild rejects the ancient laws. If a wizard or witch uses their magic for evil purposes and harms people, then they must be burned at the stake. The law was written specifically against people like this warlock. He has caused unimaginable harm and loss. The pyre is even a merciful judgment for him!”
“Jundar. No witch burning has been held in any kingdom for centuries. And that suits the Guild very well. People are not afraid of wizards. They accept their presence in everyday life, without doubt or suspicion. This execution sends a serious message. Please reconsider your sentence!”
Jundar could no longer look Talos in the eye. He turned back to the window. Everyone waited tensely. Merixus also understood that he should not nullify Talos's influence on the king by intervening. Jundar, however, hardened his heart.
“I will allow you to question him here. But he will still burn tomorrow morning. My people want to end this horror and only his death can bring peace. I could not look them in the eye if the culprit just walked away.” - he looked back at them somehow... cruelly. – “I do not care what state he burns in. You take what you can from him, as Master Merixus sees fit. You have until morning.”
Then a dazzling phenomenon appeared in the doorway. Draco left his mouth slightly open, staring at the beautiful lady walking down the red carpet. A tall, thin beauty, like a model walking on a fashion show. She could have been in her thirties. An expensive, long-skirted dress made of golden, metallic fabric, fitted her figure, decorated with white ruffles fastened with black cords at the edges. At her neck were rows of expensive, white pearls, at least four. It all fell beautifully on her chest. Her long, brown hair, decorated with black and gold feathers, was tied into a bun made of intricate braids. She left only a few unruly strands to fall on her shoulders and back. A white fur cloak covered her left side, hiding that hand. On the other side, gold and white pearl bracelets lined the long, flared sleeves of her dress. Her white skin was beautifully made up. Her thin, green right eye was drawn with black eyeliner, a small black beauty spot painted in the corner. But her other, left eye remained hidden by her falling hair, and Draco's heart sank as he realized why. It was not a natural eyeball. A prosthetic eye made of bronze-like metal turned towards them, with red lights in the center replacing the pupil. The lady's face on that side seemed to be injured. Even that much makeup couldn't hide the scars, which perhaps indicated the reason for the loss of her left eye. The beautiful woman entered the throne room airily and bowed appropriately.
“I hereby introduce Lady Ivenna Moray, Countess of Ravenhold, representative of the McAllen Works.”
Lady Moray walked past them with long, slow steps, in her expensive, high-heeled gold shoes. She glanced at them, but her beautiful face remained serene and smiling. She paid them only a moment's attention. She continued her way unflinchingly towards the throne. King Jundar hurried to greet her and as the lady offered her hand, he appropriately leaned in to imitate a hand kiss.
“Lady Ivenna. We are very pleased to see you. Welcome! I hope the sudden journey has not been too tiring!”
“On the contrary, King Jundar. I gladly accepted the challenge. And I see I'm not the only one who has come to appear before you.”
She looked specifically at Master Merixus as she said this. Draco didn't deny that the woman's beauty was tinged with an unpleasant sense of horror by her prosthetic eye. The red light seemed to grow stronger for a moment as Lady Ivenna smiled, then turned back to the king.
"Mr. McAllen begs your pardon, Your Majesty, but unfortunately he could not tear himself away from his ongoing business so quickly. He trusts that Your Majesty understands how seriously he takes this agreement, that he has sent me to lay the foundations. Darius has asked me to assure Your Majesty that within a week he will close all other matters and devote all his resources to the rebuilding of Gaheris. He is coming here in person to see how he can build this city better and more beautiful for your people. He wants nothing without Your Majesty and him personally discussing the plans. I have come only to present to Your Majesty the contract that establishes the agreement."
"Of course we will." – Jundar looked at the wizards. - "As Grand Master Merixus and his entourage explained whatever else they might want."
Merixus stepped forward. He and Lady Ivenna seemed to be weighing the balance of power between them for a few moments. Until finally Merixus bowed appropriately, took Ivenna's hand and breathed a fitting, distant kiss on it.
“Lady Moray. It's always a pleasure to see you.”
“Is it really Master Merixus?” - the lady smiled.
“If you honor us with your presence, it is a cause for attention.” - Draco sensed that there was more behind this than an outside observer might think. – “We did not expect that we would have to endure another aggressiveness from Mr. McAllen in the shadow of such a tragic event.”
“People are tired of putting their lives in the hands of high-and-mighty wizards, when with the right tools, even a man from the lowest ranks can do anything.” - it sounded like advertising, but Lady Ivenna meant it very seriously. – “And we can see where it leads when wizards do what they please without hindrance.”
Draco watched uncomfortably as these words really touched King Jundar's heart. Until now, he had never thought that the king, whose words now decided everything, was a Muggle. A non-magical boy had his father's life in his hands, who had lost his mentor. His own father figure. And it pained him that he had been helpless against wizards. Such a text was exactly what could give him hope, and the lady apparently knew this very well. As the king sided with Lady Ivenna, Talos returned to Draco, seeing that he was worried.
“Master Talos… what is going on here?” - he whispered to the old wizard.
“The war of machines and magic.”
Merixus also saw that they had lost the king's trust, but he did not want to leave completely defeated.
“These are all worthy goals. The Guild never intended to prevent the non-magical people from prevailing. It is just that yours and your patron’s goals are too mysterious for us, which is something the Council is very concerned about. And you do not give us much reason to trust, Lady Ivenna.” – he continued in a slightly too personal tone. – “How is the health of the last Lord Moray?”
“Oh…” – a theatrically sad face. – “My poor husband is no longer with us. I always told him that hunting was a dangerous hobby. But he did not listen to me. He fell from the saddle of his horse. They could not save his life.”
“Poor Lady Ivenna. Losing your third husband too! If you wish to use the services of the Guild to see if you are cursed, we will be happy to help.”
King Jundar may have heard such rumors, but it still made him frown uncomfortably. He may have known whose side he was on at the moment, but he chose this path for the sake of his people. Draco just rolled his eyes. So, the seductive, wealthy lady is a black widow. Why isn't he surprised?
"I hear I'm not the only widow out of the two of us," – Lady Ivenna remarked. - "My deepest condolences, Master Merixus. Your wife was such a lovely lady. What a shame she tried to do the impossible for her love for you."
It was strange. Draco had never expected to see the proud, hot-tempered Merixus suddenly so sad and uncertain. Suddenly... human. His face darkened like that of someone who was struck by terrible grief. Talos looked up at him in surprise, as if he knew Merixus's wife and the news of her death was news to him at that moment. The blond wizard saw the way he looked at him and shook his head, saying that he wouldn't explain it here. Talos understood, but he was still shaken.
“If Your Majesty so desires our departure, we will.” - even his voice sounded different, not nearly as threatening. – “We will begin the interrogation, if time is so pressing.”
King Jundar nodded and released them, devoting all his attention to Lady Ivenna. The lady's eyes sparkled triumphantly as the wizards departed.
As they finally got out of sight and earshot of every knight and courtier, Talos hurried to Merixus's side, who did everything he could to avoid catching up with him, but to no avail.
“What is all this Merix?!” - he asked loudly. – “Where is Tyrella?”
“This is none of your business, Talos.” - the blond wizard's voice trembled with anguish.
“Her father and I studied together! He is my old friend! I was glad when you two got married! What happened?! Does Tyvan know about this?!”
“Of course he does!! He buried her!”
Merixus's voice thundered through the stone corridors as he spun to face Talos. Draco saw tears in his eyes for the first time since they had met. Long seconds passed as Talos let Merixus decide for himself whether to initiate him. The blond wizard shook his head and slowly continued his way through the palace corridors.
"Tyrella… tried the Rite." – Merixus didn't look back as he spoke. – “She thought… she would succeed. It’s been two years ago.”
“She was a powerful witch. Why couldn't she? Any dragon—"
"She wanted Malicion."
Talos stopped as if struck by lightning. Merixus didn't stop him, so he had to get over the shock quickly. Draco just couldn't make sense of what he was hearing. All he could deduce from that was that Merixus's wife had tried to perform some spell, failed, and died. Tragic… but unfortunately it happens. Draco had never heard a story like this.
“Tyrella thought she would be strong enough for him to accept as his mistress.” - Merixus hardened his heart. – “She failed.”
“No matter how little it means, please accept my condolences!” - Talos nodded sadly.
It really mattered little, because that was all they had left. Merixus said nothing more about it and everyone else remained silent. So... his wife might have tried to tame a dragon like him, but she had failed. It's not a nice death for someone you love.
They were heading down the prison stairs when Talos signaled Draco to stay behind. He couldn't be present for the interrogation, he could only listen and observe. This bothered Draco, but he understood how unpredictable everything would be. It would be revealed who he is and maybe he would also be put in prison. And then all hope of their family being together again would truly be lost. Because that was Draco's true goal.
They had to get home. Together. To Mother.
While he hid behind the door, where he could see the cells through the gaps near the hinges, Talos signaled to the other wizards to let him go ahead and announce them. Merixus grimaced at this, but Talos said it was necessary. Draco watched him walk over to one of the bars. And then he saw him. He could barely restrain Sirius from rushing towards him.
Father looked just as broken in the darkness of the cell. As he had when he had come home from Azkaban. His expensive clothes were torn; his stubble gave him a sort of unkempt, hopeless aura. Talos said something to him, and Father stood up. Draco didn't fail to notice that his hands were shaking as he clasped them behind his back. He did his best to hide it, wanting to stand before his interrogators with as much pride as he could muster.
Finally, Talos gestured toward the door for his companions to come in. As Merixus and his companion entered, father's eyes lit up with interest. The golden-blond wizard radiated clear authority. For a leader who has great power. Draco was starting to hope that maybe Dad would be less obnoxious in light of this.
"So, he would be the infamous Lucius. The 'Warlock of Gaheris’." – Merixus looked the man behind the bars with a superior look.
Father controlled his trembling and used all his strength to stand, proud, straight-backed, chin up, as the head of a noble wizarding family should when receiving strangers.
"Lucius Abraxas Malfoy." – He bowed with a nobility that did not match father's sad appearance. - "Who am I lucky to meet?"
"Even his name is devilish." – Merixus remarked.
He was obviously referring to the biblical devil, Lucifer. Followers of King Arthur would surely be familiar with these religious stories. Draco's heart sank a little that he had never thought of that. Father's name had always commanded respect and Draco, in his little, spoiled, perfect world, had never thought of the fact that both of his father's names were demonic, as if his grandparents had deliberately intended him to be a dark wizard.
Father smiled proudly as he lifted his head, as if this was perfectly normal and natural for him.
"What can I say now? My dear, lord-father never hid what he thought of me."
"Lucius. I present Grand Master Merixus, one of the leaders of the Council of the Mages' Guild." – Talos introduced quickly, trying to prevent a bad start. - "And I present his companions, Master Adella of the Kingdom of Kay and Master Gavin of the Kingdom of Lamorak."
Father stepped to the bars, but he did not lower his raised chin so that he could look down on Master Merixus as he would any wizard of low rank. Draco almost chuckled a little from behind the wall, seeing the two cocky, blond wizards looking at each other in exactly the same way. Proudly, chin raised. Superior. Merixus was visibly frowning at the fact that a convict in prison would dare to behave like that towards him.
“Well. A proper, noble-born wizard?” - then Father added wickedly. – “Not a half-blood like you and your little dead apprentice, Talos?”
Draco shuddered, thinking he would have laughed at that a long time ago. But knowing Master Talos and knowing how deeply Merrin's death had shaken him, making a joke about it sounded truly diabolical. Adella and Gavin were starting to look just as bloodthirsty for the insult. Making fun of a guild member's death was clearly not a good idea. Draco almost begged his father to drop his mask of the evil little dark wizard and be honest. These wizards were his best chance.
“What does he mean by that?”
Merixus found it hard to bear that there was a man who looked so much like him on the other side of the bars. And he obviously didn't understand his father's reservations about blood-purity any more than Master Talos had before.
“Lucius and his circle of friends believe that a wizard born of non-magical people is not a true wizard.” - Talos explained. – “That they are inferior to one whose family has been wizards for generations.”
“You obviously understand, Master Merixus.” - Father's voice was dangerously cheerful. – “How refreshing it is to finally meet a wizard who shares the views of my Lord.”
Merixus did his best not to let anger show on his face. But the fact that the "lich's" follower thought that their views were similar bothered him. Not a little.
“Let's avoid misunderstandings, respected master!” - Father's voice was kind and polite. – “The Lord does not intend to stay in this world. He only wants to get home. In peace. Which cannot be done while a certain disruptive child lives.”
Draco's heart pounded in terror. Could Father really… be capable of making Harry's life miserable one last time from behind bars by turning the Mages’ Guild against him? He did not deny that a terrible, paralyzing fear vibrated in his blood. And his father's negotiating smile made his stomach clench.
“I have an offer.” – he continued. - “That will quickly and permanently save your world from further catastrophe. Hand Harry Potter and his friends over to the Dark Lord! Tell him how he can get home and your problems will disappear. Quickly and easily. And you can live your little insignificant lives in your magical Misty Prison. No one will ever be interested in coming back here.”
From the terrified looks on Adella and Gavin's faces, Draco could tell that they were very afraid that the words of the imprisoned dark wizard would find root in the Grand Master's heart. After all, he only wanted to solve the problem caused by the lich and return to his own troubles. Merixus slowly moved closer to the bars. Talos watched him unflinchingly.
“And what do you gain from this, Lucius?”
“I’ll have my revenge.” - Father's blue eyes flashed frighteningly as he filtered the words. – “I don't care about the execution. I don't mind. But Harry Potter took everything from me. Everything! My life, my honor, my... family. I have nothing left.”
He tilted his head proudly, but Draco saw the glint in the corner of his eye as he sucked back tears so he could negotiate firmly.
“My family's bloodline ends with me. If this is my fate, then I will depart as befits a noble wizard. My life has no meaning anymore. Only one thing matters. For that kid to feel the Malfoy family's revenge! MY revenge.”
Adella looked at Father with regret. Gavin frowned. They both realized that Father was ready to die. They would not be able to influence him. He was determined that he would die. Now they were only afraid that his words would actually convince the Grand Master. Talos paid more attention to that. Merixus walked to the bars. He frowned. He did not seem moved by Father's words, but he understood his purpose completely.
"We are indeed alike in this, Lucius." – Merixus said, leaning close. - "We both value revenge."
He enjoyed Father's momentary embarrassment, because he smiled. As superiorly as Father usually did. The balance of the trial was almost visibly tilted towards the Grand Master, which he relished in every way.
“Your ‘Dark Lord’ is an outlaw, a dark wizard with unnatural abilities. And he killed one of the wizards of the Guild. From now on, it's a matter of honor for us too. He dug his own grave. There is no way the Guild would negotiate with such a monster. Now that we have that cleared up, there is only one question left. How much do you want to save yourself?”
Merixus spread his arms. As if he had all the winning cards in his hand. His smile widened.
“There is no way back to your world. Your Lord is stuck here, facing the full might of the Guild. Thousands of wizards united in their thirst for vengeance. It's only a matter of time before the law comes down on him. In light of that, my offer to you is irresistible. I can arrange you to be taken to Camelot, where you will be the Guild's ‘guest’. If you provide valuable information to help the hunt for the lich, you will be pardoned in a few years. You seem like a smart guy, so I would even imagine you could get a position in the Guild. You could rise high in rank. And while you're alive, your ancestral family bloodline could very well be saved. If you're so sensitive about noble bloodlines, you can rest assured, because not one ancient wizarding clan lives in the Twelve Kingdoms. Work honorably and one of them might give you their daughter to marry! Within a few years, you could start a new family, have children, and all your sorrows would be a thing of the past. A new life, in a new world, full of possibilities. And who knows! Maybe within a few decades, the Malfoy name could rise as a new, influential clan.”
Draco could see how much this was upsetting his father. He couldn't imagine what was going through his mind right now. He was too attached to them. He and his mother were the only ones he had protected his whole life. Draco knew that his father would be incapable of starting over. He might pretend to be made of stone and practical... but he knew exactly that his father had a heart. Which was in a thousand pieces right now. And Merixus's offer was as if the Grand Master were trampling on these pieces.
But Father was not yet incapacitated. He leaned over the bars and whispered just as dangerously. Merixus leaned back a little from him, because from so close he could see a kind of crazy glint in his eyes.
“Tell me, Merixus... how big is YOUR family?”
The Grand Master didn't answer. He waited for Father to say what he was going to say. And Father's little half-smile returned.
“Are your parents still alive? Do you have siblings? Wife? Children?” - Father's voice became frightening. – “Imagine them all disappearing in an instant! The Dark Lord has only to walk into your home, and you will be left here, alone, the last herald of your clan. The bloodline of your ancient family” - Father snapped his fingers. – “gone.”
“Are you threatening me, Lucius Malfoy?
Draco saw Merixus's anger building up like fire in a dragon's throat. His yellow eyes glowed dangerously in the darkness of the dungeon. But Father was not afraid. He had nothing to lose, according to his beliefs, and he was determined to take revenge on Harry with his last breath. And he savored every word he said.
“Defend Harry Potter, and you can watch as the Dark Lord ravages your little world! He will kill every wizard and witch and muggle who dares to stand in his way. Or... you can contact him. You can apologize for the inconvenience Talos and his little kingdom have caused and hand over the boy and his friends to him. In that case, your world will remain untouched. The Lord will return home and everything will be as before. As if he had never been here. Think about it!”
“I see you don't want to take my offer.”
Neither wizard gained ground. Neither could force their plans on the other, for both were equally determined and stubborn. The tug of war of negotiation began to seem like a draw, as neither yielded to the other.
“My wife and my son. They were my family. The meaning of my life. I will not throw them away as if they had never existed. Never!” - tears welled up in Father's voice and he began to lose his self-control.
“Are you really going to accept this horrible death for that man?”
Merixus was surprised when Master Adella stepped between them and the bars. Father's eyes also sparkled in question, almost frightened, as he saw the old woman. Her voice was somehow so soft that your heart broke at the genuine kindness hidden in it.
“He left you here to die alone. That says everything about how much he reciprocates your loyalty. He threw you away like a used sword. A man like that won't change, no matter how many gifts you try to lay at his feet. Because I know that's what you hope for in your heart, right? That if you can get him to take that child, he'll forgive you. That's not going to happen.”
“Enough…”
“Please save yourself!” – Adella’s voice almost tore at the heartstrings. – “It’s not too late. You still have the whole long life that a wizard can live ahead of you. Cast out this man’s venom from your heart and be free! Maybe there is a way to return home to your wife—"
“Enough!!”
The walls echoed with Dad’s screams. Adella stepped back from the bars in terror, afraid that Dad would reach out in anger and grab her. The old witch’s eyes sparkled with pity as Dad’s real, madly angry face finally emerged. The Death Eater who couldn’t stand it when his faith was tested.
“I can never go home!! Do you understand?! NEVER! My wife will hate me! I don’t deserve to go home to her. Burn me! Come on! I’m not afraid! Hell has no more surprises in store for me! I killed my own child! What else do you think I'm capable of?!”
He finally burst out. His true feelings. Adella's kindness penetrated his mask and brought him to the surface. Dad laughed hysterically, as if Adella had told him some unimaginable joke.
“How am I supposed to go home like this, huh?” - Dad cried and held his head with one hand, laughing. – “How could I stand in front of my wife? How could I live?! I have no forgiveness! None! Everything is gone! And Death can't wait to catch me!”
Father clung to the bars and raised a finger to his mouth and looked around as if he wanted to whisper a great secret into Merixus' ear. The noble wizard leaned back in disgust.
“He’s here... He's here and watching me! Just like the Three Brothers in the fairy tale. He's waiting to take me away in the most painful, most terrible torment! Hahaha!! I'm cursed! Cursed!! Because I killed my only son! The meaning of my life! So, I am not afraid! I am not afraid!!”
Through his tears, his laughter twisted into a crazed grin and now he had earned the horror of all the wizards. Merixus frowned as if he were witnessing something very shocking. As a noble wizard who resembles him would completely surrender to madness.
“So, listen to the words of a dead man! Kill Harry Potter! Kill him and the nightmare will end! Because he is the curse! He is Death himself! As long as he lives, your world will not be safe!”
“He is crazy.” - the golden-haired wizard stepped back, grimacing. – “And I do not negotiate with madmen. I have heard enough.”
"We'll see who's crazy when your precious Guild is in ruins and you can all wail for your dead families like I do! Then you'll understand me completely, ‘Grand Master’ Merixus. Then we'll see who's crazy! I warned you."
Merixus turned away. His cloak fluttered in the torchlight and the entire delegation followed. Father's laughter haunted them for a long time as they turned into the corridor. Draco felt his hopes shatter. As the delegation of wizards walked past his hiding place, Draco could still hear what they were saying.
"I told you defeat had taken its toll on his mind." – Talos reminded Master Merixus.
"The monster's grip on his heart is too strong." – Adella whispered sadly. – “If he was able to get him to work for his plans rather than his own survival, even in the face of death… I don't even want to imagine what he could be capable of.”
“I hope you don’t even consider for a moment giving that child to the lich!” – Gavin warned.
“Do you think I’m stupid?” – Merixus snapped. - “I recognize a servant who has gone completely blind. We’ve learned that the creature is more cunning and clever than we thought. If he can manipulate and distort people like that, then we shouldn’t underestimate him. This interrogation has shown us that we need to take our hunt for him more seriously. Such a monster could wreak untold havoc in the Twelve Kingdoms.”
Master Adella still looked back regretfully as father collapsed back onto the cell bed and wrapped his arms around himself, crying and laughing alternately, as if he didn't know what he was really feeling.
“Do you still want to take him to Camelot?” - she whispered regretfully.
"He doesn’t have to speak from his own free will." – Merixus remarked, not looking back as he walked. - "We have ways of opening a mind and getting what we need from it."
Both of his companions stopped in shock and looked at him. Merixus was clearly equally troubled by this, but he resolved to resort to violent magic if necessary to solve the case.
“The Guild didn't used this on a human in centuries. The poor guy will go crazy!” - Gavin raised his voice indignantly.
“This man is already crazy.” - Merixus noted in a dispassionate tone, perhaps with a little regret. - "We will not cause further harm. And he'll live. Unlike the lich's victims, if we don't stop him as soon as possible.”
“Yes. He'll live, and he could spend this life tied up in a cell, because he's going crazy from that spell.”
“Healing magic is developing. They can bring him back to health enough to live a full life.” - Merixus raised his head, as if pronouncing judgment. – “The end justifies the means. The life of a sinner so that there won't be any more innocent victims.”
“And what will we become if we do this?” - Adella's otherwise kind, smooth voice rang dangerously. – “I will not rape a human mind with magic for information that we can get with scouts and inquisitors. It is clear that he does not know his master's future plans. Otherwise, he would not have left him here to die.”
The three wizards argued about this quite heatedly as they left. Gavin and Adella were not in favor of this form of interrogation at all, thank goodness. But Draco simply could not imagine the horror of perhaps having his father's mind hacked beyond recognition before actually executing him. King Jundar was unstoppable. He wanted revenge, after all.
No… he could not just walk away like this. His gaze met Master Talos's, who nodded faintly before following Merixus's team.
Draco stood in the cover of the wall for long moments. He did not know how to begin. He did not know what would happen. There was good intention in him, but also the anger that had built up over the past few days. And the anger that had been building up at home. Dad will be angry. But maybe... maybe he'll be so glad he didn't kill him that... he'll manage to bring him to a better understanding. When he finally made up his mind, he was shaking inside. As he stepped out from behind the wall and stepped in front of the barred door of the cell, Dad was sitting on the bed again, his head in his hands. He hadn’t seen him coming.
“Dad.”
At first, he couldn’t believe he was hearing his voice. He didn’t want to look up, and Draco could see that he was shaking.
“Don’t…” - Dad whimpered. – “I don’t want to hear him… please… stop…”
“Dad. I’m here. Look at me!”
He lifted his head and those dark-rimmed eyes were swimming with tears. He still didn’t want to believe he was seeing him. Although Draco was in too pitiful a state to be a vision. His bandages were visible. His blue robes were torn a little. The dragon skin protected him from the rest of the injuries. His hair was also messy because he hadn't looked in the mirror since he woke up. He hadn't had time. And he has already grown a small stubble.
Dad limped slowly to the bars, his hand shaking as he reached out.
“Draco... are you really... here?”
“Dad. I'm here.” - he took a deep breath. – “I've been healed.”
He flinched a little and sniffled as he swallowed his tears so he could speak firmly and reach Dad in the depths of his terrible despair.
“I couldn't come sooner. They can't find out I'm your son. Otherwise, I wouldn't have gotten here in the first place.”
He couldn't say more, because Dad reached through the bars with both hands as far as they would allow and closed his arms around him. He cried, almost wailing, and stroked Draco’s head and back as if he wanted to make sure at every moment that he was real.
He's alive and here in his arms.
“Draco…! You're alive… you're alive!! Forgive me! Forgive me!! I… I didn't mean to! I didn't know! If I had known, I would never… Never!! I would never hurt you! You know that right? You're my everything!”
“I know, Dad… I know.”
“I'm so sorry! I'm so sorry!!” - Dad cried. – “The things I said… they… they're not me. You… you know that right? They weren't meant for you. Please don't be angry! Please…”
Dad was shaking. His heart was pounding. As he gripped his clothes on his back in despair, he felt the bindings. He tried clumsily to contain his enthusiasm, stroking them more carefully.
“You're the only good thing in my life… you know that Draco, right? Right…? Do you know…?”
They stood like that for a long time. Dad stroked him, hugging him so tightly that he felt like he could lose him again at any moment. As if he wanted to take Draco home to their house immediately and lock all the doors so that he would be safe in his room. He always did this. Wherever they went together, Dad always kept him by his side and to an outside observer it might have seemed that he was very strict with him. If Draco did something he did not approve of, the walking stick would strike him cruelly to drive him back. Some thought Dad was abusing him. The way he spoke to him and pushed him with the walking stick, everyone's first reaction was to see a cruel, tyrannical father with his son. But Draco knew the truth. That was why he tolerated this mask of Dad with disdain. Because as soon as they got home and the door closed behind them... Dad did everything he could to appease him. He hugged him. He checked to see if he was okay, as if they were coming from some very dangerous place. Draco could eat as much candy as he wanted, and play as he wanted. And Dad was his partner in everything. As Draco grew older and began to be bothered by this behavior… he realized why Dad did it. Dad hurt people every day. He knew what was out there and how cruel the dark side of the wizarding world was. He always left the house as if he were going to battle. The perfect clothes, the perfect appearance were all because… Dad was afraid. And he had learned to hide his fear behind a confident smile and cruel words. Draco was his little treasure, which he wanted to hide from this dark side. The stern shoves and forceful words were fear. Because Dad was deeply afraid of losing him. And now it almost happened. Draco couldn't imagine how terrible Dad's relief would be now. He thought he was going to lose him. That all his protests were in vain. And the worst thing was that he had done it. With his own hands. He must have almost gone mad.
Draco forced himself because… if he let Dad make him so sensitive, he wouldn’t be able to say what was in his heart. He might get angry at him and this would be the last hug he would ever get from his father. It tore his heart to think about it. But he had to do it, otherwise he and his father would just drift forever. There would never be justice. But Dad was so… happy. He looked at him with more pride than ever through his tears.
“Look… have you grown?” - he laughed with teary eyes as he cupped Draco’s face in his hands. – “My son… is a real man now. A real wizard.”
A thin bark. Dad and he looked down at the same time and Draco was surprised that he didn't have to explain himself about the puppy. Dad didn't chase Sirius away with harsh words or kicks. He knew him.
“Sirius... you found my son for me.” - he bent down and stroked the dog's head. – “thank you...!”
“Wait... you know him? You named him ‘Sirius’?”
“It suits him, doesn't it?”
He meant it to be funny, but Draco couldn't laugh. He couldn't get out of his head, how it had affected Harry to hear the puppy is called that. And it was unpleasant to imagine that Dad might have given the innocent little creature the name with this very malicious intention. So, it was understandable why he had followed him. Draco felt a little sad.
He had followed Dad's scent and he looked just like him.
“Father.” - Draco forced his father to stop and look at him. – “Please! Tell the wizards everything! They’re trying to prevent King Jundar from executing you. You can still save yourself. Just tell them everything about Voldemort that will be useful to them, and maybe they'll take you out! Where did he go? How does he plan to get home? Please, Dad!”
Saying the Lord's name and asking him such things had brought Dad out of the pink cloud. He took a step back from the bars, as if shocked by what Draco was asking of him. Draco could almost see the battle going on in his mind, behind his eyes. On one hand, he loved him... on the other, he was absolutely loyal to the Cause and the Dark Lord. Draco could never understand why, when that evil man kept belittling and mocking Dad, putting him in situations where he was hurting himself with his blind loyalty. And Voldemort was very amused by that. Why is he still protecting this man?
Dad raised his head as defiantly as he always did when he wanted to scold him.
"I don't know. But if I knew, I wouldn't share it with scum like these. I didn't raise you to stoop to these people either!”
“Please, Dad! Leave your purity mania at home for once and see the whole picture!”
“Why did you fight on Potter’s side?” - Dad began to move beyond happiness at being alive and see the whole picture. – “Tell me you were just taking advantage of him, Draco! Tell me that my son was smart and cunning enough to save himself!”
He almost begged him. And Draco felt that... there was no other way. He couldn't say what was in his heart now that he was standing here in front of Dad. He didn't have the heart to take out on him the anger, disappointment, and doubt that had built up inside his heart, when his father was so happy to see him alive. He felt again that he was a coward and wants to run away. To run away from disappointing the father he loved. These words came easily. The child in him wanted to bend to his father's will. His desires. After all... that was normal, right? A Malfoy should think like that.
“I-I had no choice. I ended up here with them. There was no one else I could rely on. I knew that if I stay with Potter, you would find me sooner or later. I had to keep up with them and be useful, or they would abandon me in the first forest. You don't know how hard it was to put up with Hermi—Granger! You know I hate her!”
Dad wanted to believe him. Draco saw that he accepted everything without question. Because that was normal for him too. He wanted to believe that. But something still… didn't fit. And Dad's voice trembled almost pleadingly as he asked.
“Why… did you wear that mask?”
“Dad! We look similar. The first Guildless half-blood scum could tell, that I was your son. Do you know how hard it would have been if everyone I met recognized me? You didn't leave the locals with very positive feelings. I had no choice to move around freely. And" - Draco threw in a little of what he had learned from his father about flattery - "I thought you would like it. I wanted to be like you. You're not afraid of anything when you have your mask on."
Dad finally smiled. He was impressed by Draco's cunning and looked at him with even more pride.
"It suits you." – he tried to joke. - "My son, the fearsome, warrior wizard! Sedrovan was terrified to death when he saw you. Ha! That bastard deserved it!"
He hurried back to the bars, wrapped his arms around him and kissed his forehead. Draco's heart was about to burst with tension and pain. That Dad loved a fantasy. His cunning, Death Eater son, plotting to outwit their common enemy. And the temptation was so great to... just let it stay that way. Dad was here now. He didn't have to go with Harry if he didn't want to. Dad was his family.
“And to outwit Granger and Potter! Hehe... you're so smart!” - he ruffled Draco's hair playfully. – “I knew it! I knew you'd be strong when the time came!”
Draco just... hid in his arms. Even with the bars between them, Dad's embrace gave him security. And it felt so good that he finally praised him. It was such a good feeling that he was proud of him.
“And what magic you have! You're a demon on the battlefield to be feared. Haha! Dolohov can eat his sarcastic remarks if we meet face to face! Saying, that my son is not a real man! HA! You will show him! They will learn to fear you, Draco. And the Lord! Oh, how much respect you will receive! None of them are as strong as you. You will be the Lord's favorite.”
“Y-yes…” - Draco's voice was thin, like a small child's. – “You are right, father. Listen!”
He lowered his voice and motioned father closer than when they had hatched secret plans at home behind mother's back. And he knew that what he was about to say would make father even more proud of his cunning and planning skills.
“The wizards want to poison you. Their plan is that even if you don't reveal anything, your execution must still be prevented. Their ultimate plan is to poison the dinner. DO NOT eat any of it! And stay awake!”
“Can't I drink the wine either?” - father growled in disappointment.
“NO!” – Draco put his hand on his forehead. – “Just… pour it out somewhere and lie down! Pretend you’re asleep!”
“You’re right.” – Dad grimaced. – “They wouldn’t give good wine to prisoners.”
“I’ll come back for you at night.”
Now Draco reached through the bars and hugged Dad. He was so relieved. Draco felt it. For Dad, it was a miracle. He got his son back from the dead. His grin was wide. He stroked Draco’s head.
“I love you, son. Take care of yourself!” – he pinched his cheek. - "And remember: be cunning!"
“You taught me.” – Draco smiled, like a good accomplice should. – “I’ll be fine.”
As Draco turned away… he knew there was no going back. He had to do what he promised. His heart almost jumped out of his chest. His knees were shaking. As he walked up the stone steps of the prison, he had to stop for a moment. He leaned his back against the wall and put his hand over his mouth. He didn't know how he was going to do this. He was going to hurt so many people. And Harry…
What will he think of him?

~~~

Harry leaned his elbows on the desk and felt his eyes closing. But there's no way he should make Hermione angry with that. They had been sitting here for hours in the sunny library. Dust specks danced in the light filtering through the long, ceiling-high window. The library was in a sorry state, no one had come to tidy it up since the battle. Harry avoided the pool of blood dried by the door as they entered.
Merrin died here.
Harry could almost see the scene before his eyes, Tom sitting here at this table, perhaps in this very chair. Merrin entered the door and even if he had guessed who he was facing, he couldn't have prepared himself for the fate that awaited him.
"Harry!"
He opened his eyes in fright. Hermione stared at him, an open book in her hand, and knew he had fallen asleep while listening to her reading. He tried to look as convincing as he could. While Ron chuckled, Hermione just rolled her eyes with a smile.
"So," – she began. – “According to the structure of the Guild, once you are certified to have sufficient magical power – or ‘mana’ as they call it – at the age of eleven you must spend a year at the Guild headquarters in Camelot as an ‘Apprentice’. There you master the basics of your magic and learn to control it. A year later you are put to an exam to see how well you are able to control the power of your staff and your mana. If you fail, the exam can be repeated annually. If you pass, you will be given the rank of ‘Master’ and receive your Guild Badge, which will allow you to become a full member of the Guild.”
“Okay, so ... is this what is expected of us?” – Ron spread his hands. – “That we can control our magic? It's child's play.”
“There's more.” – Hermione wanted to finish. – “As a Master, you can apply to study under an Archmage. Archmages usually run the Guild’s branches throughout the kingdoms. If your teacher deems you ready, he or she will send you to Camelot for another, harder test. If you pass, you too will earn the rank of ‘Archmage’ and can apply for apprentices or an office in the Guild. If you want to rise even higher – say to the Council – you will have to earn an office in Camelot and prove yourself during the Council’s election period. Each kingdom is represented by a ‘Master Mage’ and three “Archmages.” The Master Mage’s mandate is for life. In the event of his or her death, the Council will choose a new person for the rank from among the three Archmages already elected and serving under him or her. The three Archmages are elected by all the wizards in the respected kingdom, and their mandates are also for life. Unless they are proven guilty of some very serious crime or dishonor. In which case the Council could strip them of their titles by invoking a vote amongst themselves.”
A fairly clear-cut ranking. And Harry suspected that they wouldn't be nominated for the rank of Archmage straight away. They'd have to take the basic exam to get their badge. It really did sound as simple as Ron said. During their time at Hogwarts, every class had been spent developing their magical powers in as many different ways as possible. The fact that it was now limited to what their staves could do only made things easier.
"I don't think they want to make us take the Archmage exam," – Harry said. - "Especially if we're going home anyway."
"Yeah. It sounds like it's just a formality so they can help us properly." – Ron argued. - "So don't worry! We can all control our magic, can't we?”
"We don't know how they're going to test this." – Hermione continued to turn the pages of the book in her hand with determination. – “We cannot go into this half-heartedly. Master Talos hoped for this opportunity, and who knows what he offered to the Guild to give it to us. We must do everything we can.”
"That's true."
Harry really thought about it uncomfortably. Talos said he didn't mind the punishment. But they didn't know what he wrote to the Council. He might have agreed to some more grievous punishment, just to get them into the Guild. They really can't take this for granted.
That’s when Luna entered the library. She was carrying apples, a still-steaming pie, and a bottle of juice, judging by the label. She closed the door behind her very quickly.
"What's up, Holy Lady Luna?" – Ron chuckled.
The girl blushed. Indeed. Luna had to face the fact that the townspeople considered her some kind of angel for her heroic deeds in healing. She couldn't go out anywhere without being thanked and showered with gifts. Poor thing had never been so popular. She was scared, but she welcomed it with a smile to not hurt feelings. She placed her current haul in front of them, as she had mainly gone out to get something to eat. The pie was starting to disappear very quickly, especially because of Ron. Harry took one of the apples in his hand, and he was surprised at how quickly it disappeared. Talos' potion was the only thing he had consumed since waking up. Luna's idea to help the learning with food was a lifesaver.
"I was asking questions." – she began.
"Was the sculptor a good source?" – Ron was still chuckling.
"Sculptor?" – Harry looked questioningly at the girl, who was trying to hide behind the curtain of her blond hair again.
"The Holy Lady Luna is getting her own statue from the townspeople, to commemorate her heroism." – the red-haired boy smiled.
“They won't leave me alone. I tried to politely decline.”
Harry didn't know whether to be happy about Luna's fame or to feel sorry for her, knowing what she was going through. But when you look at the big picture, Luna was the face the townspeople saw when they were healed and everything was back to normal. Their gratitude was natural. It was just that, like all human admiration, it could go to extremes.
“You saved a lot of people with the antidote. You did more than us. You deserve it.”
“Thanks Harry... but let's go before they finish that statue, okay?” - Luna asked shyly. – “The sculptor said there are some famous places along the Western Road that commemorate Merlin. Maybe Voldemort's goal is among them. He gave me a book.”
Hermione's eyes lit up and of course she was the one who pounced on the small, thin, blue-bound book. As she flipped through it, beautiful ink drawings and descriptions of them fluttered across the pages.
“We'll definitely look through it. As soon as we're done with the exam. It looks like an art book about statues and memorials. ‘The Hidden Art of the Twelve Kingdoms’ by Felixus Flamma. At first glance it looks like he traveled all over the kingdoms and drew everything he could. Very pretty work.”
“So, is this gift useful?” – Luna hoped, because she really had received too much.
“Why? The pie wasn't?” – Ron looked up with his mouth full.
“Leave some for us too!” – Hermione threw a few papers at him.
“I'm hungry!”
Harry also took the little blue book in his hand and leafed through it. Any clue that would lead them to the trail of Merlin's deeds was a treasure. Statues are erected in places where they want to remember some notable event. Perhaps Merlin cured the villagers of some plague, or chased away some magical creature, or... lived there for a while. Harry was mainly looking for something like that. And his eyes were drawn to a picture of a ruined castle, which also included a drawing about a statue. Merlin's face with closed eyes, as the braids of his long beard fell to the ground and surrounded a round well of sorts in the floor. Harry's heart pounded. Could that be... a pensive?! He had seen drawings of ancient versions while he was studying. In the old days, there weren't always bowls, but goblets, wells. He flipped through the pages. The description and the small map that marked the location of the statue called both the town and the castle “Tintagel.” It was a bit of a detour on the road leading west, but not a big one, even if they just had to stop for a rest in the nearby settlement. But they had to get there anyway. Maybe it held an important memory. Maybe it could help decipher Merlin's train of thoughts and bring them one step closer to what kind of magic he was working on and where. Now… Harry was curious.
Then there was a knock on the door, and they all looked up as Master Adella poked her head in through the opening, smiling. Her silvery gray hair glinted in the light.
“Hello, younglings! Are you ready?”
She didn't seem to be worried about them. It was as if she was inviting them on some exciting trip. Or maybe she just didn't want them to get excited and that's why she smiled. Harry was grateful to her because she really didn't want to overstress the matter.
“Are you back already, Master Adella?” - he asked, interested.
“Please! Just Adella. We don't have to worry about ranks.” - the lady beckoned. – “Come!”
Master Adella led them out of the Guild cheerfully. She didn't seem at all worried about them. And she liked seeing how much they had learned. As Hermione continued to flip through the book, the old witch chuckled.
"Don't worry! From what Talos has told me about your abilities, I think you'll pass the exam without a problem. And I can see that you're very skilled. Perhaps there's training for young wizards in that other world too?"
"Master Talos didn't tell you?" – asked Ron.
"Poor thing didn't have much of a chance. All he could say in his letter was that you came from England, from beyond the Mist, and were trained wizards at such a young age. You make me very curious! Tell me! What's the Guild like in England? Are there many wizards there too?"
"Well, yes. There are many wizards all over the world. But we're strictly hidden from non-magical people."
“Oh… that's a strange.” – Adella looked sad. – “All those ordinary people, never get to see magic?”
“There is a law. The Ministry made it to protect wizards, because the number of incidents was too high. For every muggle who enthusiastically accepts magic, there are ten others who would kill wizards with fire and iron. The danger is too great according to the Ministry and they strictly enforce this law because of that. Also… people would want to use magic to solve every problem. Wizard would be hunted.”
“Oh, poor things!” – Adella's eyes really sparkled with pity. – “So, this… ‘Ministry’ is similar to the Guild? Is there a Council in it that makes laws?”
“Yes. And they make sure that every child who turns eleven and proves to be a wizard goes to their country's wizarding school. We study there for seven years. After that, we choose any career we want. The school in England is called Hogwarts. An ancient castle in a wooded mountain area with a lake.”
“It sounds beautiful.” - Adella smiled at them. – “I can tell from your words that it's a good school. You love it.”
Hermione blushed in admiration and smiled. Harry didn't deny that mentioning Hogwarts filled him with nostalgia again.
“Well, yes... in seven years, your fellow students will be your family.” - Harry said.
“Everyone knows everyone.” - Luna continued. – “And the castle is full of secrets.”
“And there's a Great Hall where everyone always gets together to eat. There are huge feasts.”
“And let's not forget that the curriculum is tough too.” - Hermione pointed out.
Adella smiled at their enthusiasm. Harry saw that her doubts about their ability to pass their exams were completely dispelled.
“Then that's why you're so well educated. A castle that focuses solely on teaching young wizards the secrets of magic and preparing them for anything, for seven years. Unfortunately, that's not how the Guild designed its system, and for centuries we've stuck with what we have now. There were those who fought for a unified school like yours. But there's always debate about which kingdom it should be built in, so as not to offend the others. And some people think it would be dangerous if the future generations of the Guild were all gathered in one place, where they're vulnerable. There should be protection. A fixed curriculum. Wizards who agree to teach so many children.”
“Everyone is comfortable the way it is now.” - Harry stated.
“Exactly.” - Adella seemed to be ashamed of a secret desire. – “Not that some of us wouldn't agree to teach children. They'd be sweet when they first discover their abilities.”
Harry smiled. Adella would obviously be happy to teach. Seeing so many young wizards blossom at such an age would surely be heartwarming for her.
They reached the square in front of the Guild. But they didn't stop. Harry began to worry about Draco. The boy didn't appear for a very long time, and he didn't have a chance to join in the learning either. Fortunately, a big stone fell from his heart when he saw a fluttering blue cloak running towards them.
“Well! I see you're all here.” - Adella smiled.
“Thank goodness!” - Harry sighed.
Draco said nothing, just lowered his head and joined them as he walked. To Harry, his silence said more than it should have. So King Jundar wasn't going to let Lucius go.
“Draco…”
“Let's just get through this stupid exam, okay?!” – the blond boy hissed nervously and wanted to end the conversation with that.
It was as if his mind was elsewhere and being dragged out was irritating him terribly. Harry didn't need to be shown Draco's worst side. He just thought they were over this already. The others noticed the change in tone too. Hermione got nervous and Ron suppressed a grimace. If anyone, he was somehow starting to accept Draco as a comrade. If the blond boy denied this in any way… he would regret the consequences forever. Even Sirius followed Draco a little cautiously, making whining sounds as if he was worried too. Harry had already realized that the puppy understood human emotions very well. If he was worried too, then something was seriously wrong.
They left the safety of the wall and Harry was surprised at how refreshing the early autumn forest felt. They hadn't expected to be out of town. Everyone enjoyed the fresh air and the rustling of the plants. It was cooler and a gentle breeze was blowing through the leaves of the trees. They turned off the stone path at one point and followed a path paved with small rune stones into the trees.
“Don't be scared!” - Adella said. – “Master Talos recommended the place and it's really better not to conduct these exams within the city. If we can, we hold all such exams under the open sky. There are many mystical focal points in the forests of Avalon. Rune circles and dolmens that amplify the flow of natural magic. It will help you, believe me!”
Interestingly, it was Luna who started asking Master Adella about this, and it kept the old witch occupied for the rest of the way. Luna was interested in the natural flow of magic and the details of these places. Harry took this chance and hurried to Draco's side, who was completely unfazed by it all. He didn't even hear Master Adella's words; he just followed her steps. He squirmed uncomfortably and Harry saw the same bored, slightly disgusted look on his face as when they had to go to outdoor lessons. Draco loved being able to comfortably put his butt down and do anything other than a lesson. He could see that he wasn't taking it all seriously, because his mind was on something else, more disturbing. And that wasn't practical right now.
“Draco—"
“What do you want?!” - the boy almost shouted.
Everyone raised their heads a little at his tone. Hermione's hair stood on end. Harry, however, didn't get caught up in this. Draco hadn't shouted on purpose, and Harry gave him the silence he needed to notice himself. He didn't apologize; he just lowered his eyes.
“The exam tests our control over our magic.” - he whispered to Draco. – “How well we can control it.”
“Huh... child's play.” - Draco shrugged.
“I told you!” - Ron came from behind them.
“The point is, whatever's bothering you, shut it out now and pay attention, okay? It'll be fine.”
“Potter... I'm the child of a pure-blood wizarding family. I've been surrounded by magic since I was a baby. I can control it! I'm not that pathetic!”
Harry was a little shocked that Draco was calling him by his family name again. Something was very wrong. Maybe... Lucius had said something to him?
That's when they arrived. In a small clearing among the trees, a huge, flat, white stone slab stretched out. On its edges, standing stones in the four cardinal directions, with runes on them, which probably marked those directions. In the middle, a roughly carved, round stone altar. Merixus, Talos, and Gavin were waiting for them next to it. This round stone shrine was about as big as a classroom. Harry felt eerily like they are on Runes Class. The small, black box, which stood out so much from the white stone on which it sat, did not escape his attention. It was held closed by dark metal chains and a padlock. Harry searched with his eyes and saw that the key was in Master Gavin's hand. It must have belonged to the chest, for it was a very black and rough-looking key. But Adella, with the same smile, motioned for them to stand around, as if there was no danger. There was another small chest; Harry noticed it. Talos was holding this one as he stood next to Gavin. A small, brown chest with gold straps. Merixus did not wear that terrible, conceited smile either, but rather seemed genuinely curious and very much awaited the outcome. Harry was surprised that he actually saw him as a respected leader now and not the cocky, superior wizard he was.
“Younglings!” - he began solemnly. – “Gather around the stone! In the name of the Mages' Guild, I welcome you to your Master's exams. Complete it and you will become a full member of the Guild. You will be able to hold office and represent us throughout the Twelve Kingdoms. All members of the Guild will recognize your rank and will be there to assist you in your work.”
“Master Merixus...” - Harry still felt a pang in his heart and he did not want to disappoint. – “Is this really necessary? We did not plan to stay here forever...”
“Young Harry, let me clear up a misunderstanding before we go any further!” - Merixus interrupted, and as if ashamed, he lowered his head. – “You cannot get home. There is no spell that can pass through the Mist. Whether you like it or not, you must accept the fact that you are now part of our world and that our laws apply to you as wizards. Pass this exam and you will receive everything the Guild can offer its members. Freedom, provisions, and travel. I hope we understand each other.”
“Perfectly, sir.”
He understood. Merixus wants to help them in his own cold way, but without destroying the system that is the meaning of his life. Forcing wizards who have fallen here from a mysterious, alien world into his own rules helps him to manage the situation. He did not say a word that they could not find a way home. It's about freedom and travel, for which they will have all the official permission and means.
Harry looked around at his companions. Draco reluctantly pulled away. Ron and Hermione were a little scared, but ready to stand by him. To follow him into the fire, as always. Luna was downright enthusiastic. Her smile was wide and she even bounced a little on her heels excitedly.
“Okay. We're ready.”
Merixus stepped aside and extended his hand, inviting them to step around the stone. As they did, Master Gavin walked over to the black box. Harry was paying close attention. The box didn't move or give any sign that there was anything living or dangerous inside. As Master Gavin opened it, he stepped back from it, beyond the circle of stones. They all stared blankly at the eerily glowing red crystal.
“Touch it with your staves!” - Merixus instructed them.
It hadn't escaped Harry's attention that all the adults were now outside the circle of stones. Adella and Gavin had their staves ready. Now the old witch was also watching and hoped that she would not have to intervene.
There was no reason not to obey. As he approached the stone, Harry felt a kind of repulsion. His staff refused to touch it. His hand trembled as he tried to hold it. He glanced questioningly at Master Talos, who was standing outside the circle with the small gold-studded box in his hand. The old wizard closed his eyes and nodded that everything was fine. Harry gripped his staff tighter and when he felt the phoenix's forehead touch the stone... For a moment, a force vibrated through him, from the tip of the staff. It was as if he had suddenly come into contact with everything around him. He could feel in that one moment, every blade of grass in the clearing. The leaves of the trees. The tiny insects that lived among them. The birds that jumped in fright. The forest animals, as they lifted their heads because they felt his eyes on them. The people hurrying through the streets of the kingdom. Travelers in the distance. For a moment, he had traveled farther across this continent than he would ever be able to on foot. He saw a distant, snow-covered kingdom, where a storm was raging and people in dark clothes were hurrying to shelter. Sleds were plowing the white snow, the road becoming invisible beneath it. As he glided westward, he saw white towers. Colorful houses in a seaside town. Ships were sailing and colorfully dressed people were bustling as life went on in a fragrant, spice-scented market. Harry's gaze darted curiously, like a soaring bird. He wanted to see more. Everything. In the distance, blue, green, and red flags fluttered from the white towers of a vast city. Huge, domed buildings, verdant parks, a thick castle wall that enclosed it all, and on the other side, to the west, the blue line of a sea.
And then he felt that terrible repulsion. It was as if a rope were looping around his waist and pulling him back. He fell, and the landscapes, the living creatures, and everything around him blurred into darkness. And he felt something terrible, hot, staring at the back of his head. Something that could see right through him.
How dare you, Harry Potter?
The voice was as angry and measured as Professor Snape's disparaging remarks. As if the black-haired man in his black robes were standing behind him, about to catch him doing something he thought was illegal.
You don't belong here. With your blood stained with darkness. With a fate that has nothing to do with this world. How dare you bring your curse here, Harry Potter? This place is sacred. Your very presence here is disrespectful.
The voice became angry. It no longer resembled the professor's. It was filled with anger that Snape would never have dared to scream out into the world like that.
Have you forgotten what you are, Harry Potter? You are a fraud. A cheat. Everything special about you is stolen power. You would be nothing if Tom Riddle hadn't attacked you that night. All your abilities came from him. From the Horcrux. Now that he's gone, what do you think you are? An ordinary boy still playing the Chosen One.
Harry saw it then. Himself. As if he were looking into a mirror. A dim, ancient, dusty mirror. Mist surrounded him in the dark nothingness, and the other Harry raised his head with angry pride as he looked at him. And there was something strange about him. His presence was like a rock blocking the way. Harry could feel his weight, and how it kept him from… something.
Who are you to think you are worthy of legendary magic? You didn't even know you were a wizard until you were eleven. Your parents were nobodies who died and left you alone in the world. You are unworthy of your fame. You are not a legendary wizard. You are not strong, but you are not even smart. So why? What did you do to deserve your life, Harry Potter? Your fame is false. Your victories are just blind luck and the plans of others. You can't do anything on your own.
“You're right. But I don't mind. I don't mind that I'm not alone.”
The other Harry looked at him questioningly. And he took a step towards him.
“Did you seriously expect me to be scared? If you were really ME, you would know how I feel. Yes. I'm not strong. I'm not smart. And it's true, I often won not through my own merit.”
He's long since passed these questions. Doesn't he deserve his power? Maybe. Can they only win because Dumbledore paved the way for them? Partly. Does it bother him that his powers are from Tom? Yes, but he's learned to accept that feeling. These powers will always feel foreign, because they're not part of him. But they're his. And he's going to use them. Because he's going to show that no magic is inherently evil. It's up to the wizard to use them for good. And he's going to use Tom's dark powers, which he accidentally bestowed upon him.
“The point is that I fight. That I am there for those who need me. And I will not let anyone else be as alone as I was.”
He felt the weight lift. He felt the flow of magic return, infusing him with the strength to move forward confidently and without fear.
“Call me weak! Call me conceited and undeserving! You will not be the first and you will not be the last. But I do not care. The only people who matter are the ones I love. The ones who are my family. As long as I can protect them, I do not care about anything.”
And the phoenix staff appeared in his hand. The fire lit up the dark space and the other Harry vanished into nothingness like smoke. The weight was gone and he was completely in control of the magic that flowed through his staff. The phoenix screamed in triumph and Harry felt himself being carried away by its enthusiasm. But he couldn't let it. He allowed it to be happy and spread its wings. But he pulled it back slightly. And the spell understood who was in command.
“It's time to go. We have a lot of work to do. I can count on you, right?”
And as Harry opened his eyes, a warm, pleasant breeze passed through his body, and his wand felt as light as ever. The spell pulsed in perfect harmony and he lifted it from the red stone, which pulsed rhythmically, a little ominously.
He found himself facing awestruck, slightly frightened eyes on the edge of the stone shrine. Adella's smile was wide. Gavin scratched his head, as if he couldn't believe what he was seeing. Talos just smiled, as wise as ever. And Merixus was stunned. His golden eyes stared at Harry as if he were witnessing some impossible spell.
"I've never seen anyone master a phoenix staff so quickly," – he muttered to Talos. - "Who is this boy?"
"Exactly that." – Talos' smile never wavered. - "Just a boy."
As Harry looked around, the others began to come to their senses. Luna must have been sitting on the edge of the stone circle with Master Adella for some time, because she smiled at him as if she had been waiting for him and was not surprised that Harry had succeeded. Ron and Hermione opened their eyes at the same time. Harry could see by the ease that settled over them that they too had successfully overcome the obstacle. Although he wondered what they had seen.
The one who had not opened his eyes was Draco. Harry wanted to take his shoulder, but Talos and Merixus both reached out to stop him. And from the expressions on their faces, Harry understood that it would not be a good idea for him to touch the boy now. Master Gavin shifted anxiously, as if he wanted to intervene, just waiting for permission. Draco was shaking, as if he was trying to hold back anger and fear. Harry could imagine what he might have to face.
“Draco.” – he whispered, and no one stopped him. – “No matter what you see, you can overcome it. You helped drive the Death Eaters out of this kingdom. You faced Voldemort and didn’t run. Whatever lies ahead of you now, you have nothing to fear.”
His words had an effect, because Draco’s suffering face hardened and his brows furrowed in determination. The trembling in his staff-holding hand also eased.
He wasn’t relieved like the others. But Harry and the masters felt that he had succeeded. He was just upset by what he saw. He was confronted with a part of himself that he didn’t want to see. Harry could have compared his embarrassed look to Dudley’s after the Dementor attack. His cousin never hurt him again. In fact, he tried to help him somehow, awkwardly, so that his parents wouldn’t notice. Harry realized that maybe Draco wasn't dealing with anything related to Death Eaters or Tom. The way he pulled away from him, his mouth curling in shame, said it all.
But before Harry could speak, Merixus tapped his wand on the ground and spoke in a solemn voice.
"Younglings! The test is complete. In the name of the Mages' Guild, you have all earned the rank of ‘Master’. From this day forward, you are all members of the Guild."
He beckoned them closer, and from the small chest held by Master Talos, their Badges emerged. A small golden shield ornament with a three-pointed leaf in the center and a large letter G. Merixus pinned it on their cloaks above their hearts. Meanwhile, Masters Gavin and Adella locked the red crystal back into its chest.
"Well, that was the quickest test I've ever seen." – Gavin whistled.
“I told you they’d be alright.” – Adella nudged him.
As they closed the chest, the pulsation of magic in the clearing subsided. Harry didn’t feel anything special for a few moments later. The wind blew lightly and the birds chirped, but that feeling of connection was gone.
“It’s scary, though.” – Gavin whispered. – “I think they could easily pass the Archmage Exam and not flinch. This is… not normal for children this young.”
“Gavin? Aren’t you scared of a few well-trained little kids?”
“I’m careful. What if the other wizards from beyond the Mist are like this? If it came to a fight, they might—"
Adella hushed him, and Harry didn’t even hear what they were saying anymore, because Talos and Merixus invited them to follow them back to the city. Adella and Gavin stayed behind long enough to dispel the effects of the crystal. Harry could see Adella concentrating and the threads of the spell wrapping around her. It didn't seem like she was going to find anything, so the two masters soon caught up with them as they turned onto the wide stone path back to the city.
"What exactly is a red crystal?” – Hermione wondered. - "We've only seen blue ones so far."
"It's rare. That's why we keep it locked up." – Master Gavin pointed to the chest.
He didn't seem to want to explain. Harry thought his conversation with Master Adella had something to do with it. He was afraid to share too much information with them. But Harry and his team were already members of the Guild. Adella and, interestingly, Merixus disapproved of keeping information from them.
“If a blue crystal grows too large, because it's in a place that's a chaotic focus of magical energies, it changes color after a while," – Adella explained. – “And it will be unpredictable. It will disrupt the laws of magic. It will create things that do not belong in the real world. And it can be dangerous. Going near it requires great caution from wizards. It is definitely not recommended for the inexperienced. Especially when we are talking about a large crystal. This is just a small thing here.”
“There are those who specialize in this. To collect such crystals.” – said Merixus. – “They can be safely stored, sealed with the necessary protective runes. But of course, not in one place. That is strictly forbidden. One or two such chests will pass, but certainly not dozens.”
“Maybe they sense each other?” – Luna asked unexpectedly.
“An expert could explain this better.” – Merixus waved a little carelessly. – “Some say they are anomalies. Some say they are a manifestation of the will of magic. The point is that the Guild collects them because they can be deadly to ordinary people.”
“If you can’t handle the wave of magic that attacks you when you go near it, bad things can happen.” – Gavin pursed his lips reluctantly, as he perhaps imagined such a case. – “And it makes no distinction between wizards and non-magical people. To it, a person is a person, no matter the kind.”
Harry could picture an unsuspecting man finding such a crystal by chance, lost in the forest and seeking shelter. A man who was not a wizard and did not know what he was seeing. Perhaps he would even think of it as a precious stone and touch it. Harry couldn't imagine what it would do to a non-magical person. He could feel the flow of magic and know what to do with it. An ordinary person would not see anything, and perhaps therefore the magic would treat them as an alien factor. As an enemy.
When they got back to the Guild, they did not go inside the building. They went to the courtyard, where the carts that looked like little wooden houses were waiting. The woolly, antler-bearing creature was still grazing in the stable and growled pleasantly when it saw them. Merixus solemnly ordered a halt in front of one of the carts. Harry saw nothing special about it. It was like a medieval caravan. A small blue-tiled wooden house, on wheels, with friendly round windows on the sides and runes carved into the door. From the small smiles between Adella and Talos, Harry sensed that some surprise awaited them. The others were also restless, but Merixus had done his best to make the occasion serious and significant, so he waited until everyone had calmed down. That measured look reminded him so much of a teacher again.
"So," – he began. - "As new members of the Guild, and as a band of wizards traveling together, we have decided that you will need a Wizard's Cart. And fortunately, every Guild branch in a capital city has a few of them, in case a team that wanders in needs one."
"Let's not forget that they need a name!" – Adella pointed out excitedly.
"Name?" – they all turned to the old witch in unison.
"That's right, Adella! I was just about to get to that." – Merixus was offended at being interrupted. – “the Wizard's Cart won't accept you as a team until you choose a name. So, decide! And when you have one, put your hands on it!”
Harry turned back to the others. Everyone was a little shy and of course everyone's creativity was failing them.
“Will others know this name?” - Harry asked timidly.
"Of course. We have to register you as members of the Guild and put the cart in the band's name. If any irreparable damage is done, the Guild will know that you are entitled to repairs or replacement.”
Harry turned back. He hadn't had an idea since.
“Chudley Cannons?” - Ron chuckled.
“NO!” - everyone shouted in unison.
“Merlin, that's a lame team!” - Draco grimaced.
“Okay, then YOU say better!” - Ron challenged, grinning.
"I'm not naming ourselves after a Quidditch team!" – Draco tried to disguise his words as disgust. - "It’s none of my business anyway..."
"It’s yours too!" - Hermione warned.
Harry thought. And he had the feeling that he needed something familiar, something that would mean something to them, and perhaps send a message to the Death Eaters.
"We need something that would mean something to us." – he muttered.
"Something that would make the Death Eaters fear us." – Draco hissed bloodthirsty.
"Something cool." – Ron said proudly.
“If it helps” - Adella tried to interject – “Most bands are named after something. A legendary animal or thing. There's ‘Band of the Dragon’, ‘Band of the River’. The ‘Band of the Silver Shield’ is very famous. You might meet their fans, because they like to announce themselves with great fanfare. They're demon slayers, so people are crazy about them.”
“So ‘Band of Something’?”
Harry knew what he wanted by now. And he hoped the others thought so too, because he got a lot of telling looks. Ron and Hermione knew. He didn't even have to ask. Luna guessed it and whispered it to Draco. The blond boy was surprised for a moment. He never thought he'd ever be part of something called that. But finally, he nodded too, because he saw that they were just waiting for him.
Harry placed his hand on the rune on the door. Merixus signaled for the others to do the same, for the cart would be theirs to share. And Harry spoke the name.
“Band of the Phoenix.”
They all felt the cart accept them as a new member of the family. Magic permeated the wood and the tiles... and the cart began to change. The wood creaked and stretched, and new windows appeared, popping and cracking. The roof lengthened, and a small tower grew beside a long chimney. As Harry recognized the shapes, he felt a terrible excitement and a feeling similar to returning home. The windows of the cart were not the same. The small tower was slanted. Here and there, new rooms seemed to want to grow from the main building, as if they had been hastily added to it.
The shape of the cart began to resemble the Burrow.
And when it was finished, the door opened before them of its own accord.
Merixus bowed and held out an arm for them to enter. Finally, he allowed himself to show his good will in sending the young wizards on their way. It was as if they had returned home. The carriage seemed to read their thoughts, for walls and furniture appeared that meant home to each of them. To the right was a living room with two armchairs and a fireplace. Harry did not fail to notice that they were green velvet armchairs. And the wooden paneled walls also reminded of a rich house. Draco didn't dare to show that he found his regular seat in this carriage. To the left was a long table pushed against the wall, with benches on the sides. As if it were just a small Great Hall flown here from Hogwarts. The walls were made of stone. A long, red runner on the table. A kitchen, a storeroom, a small alchemy laboratory. A wooden staircase built into the wall led to a second floor, where Harry saw a row of curtained sleeping compartments. A heavy oak door on the right wall, which led down a long staircase to the bottom of the cart, and... ended in two barred cells.
“If necessary.” – Master Talos answered the unspoken question. - “Each cart is equipped with everything a team of wizards needs to travel. If you ever want to catch lawbreakers—a task expected of Guild wizards—that can be done too.”
Harry closed the heavy oak door, and they returned to their exploration. The storeroom was a long, spacious room, with four rows of wooden shelves. It didn’t match the cart’s external dimensions, but Harry began to realize that they were dealing with a very familiar charm.
“Capacious Extremis!” – Hermione whispered. - “An Expansion Charm.”
“If that’s how you know it, young lady,” – Talos smiled. - “Each cart is a whole house inside, without being visible from the outside. It will confuse the enemy.”
“The Guild will provide you with all the supplies for the time being, but later you will have to buy them yourself.” - Merixus noted.
“Um... we don't have any money.” - Ron was worried.
“Who said that being a member of the Guild equals living for free, Master Ronald?” - the blond wizard held his nose high. – “When you reach a town, it is your duty to see if the locals need the Guild's services and if your team has the necessary skills to carry out the task.”
“The notice boards are at the local branches and are all supervised by a wizard. They will help.” - Adella reassured them.
“We don't have time to work.” - Draco grimaced in shock.
“Well, you will have to, if you don't want to starve to death on the road in a few weeks.” - Merixus was strict. – “the Guild only gives free supplies in emergencies. Do not abuse this, as it is recorded by law!”
Hermione and Luna immediately set about making a list of what they might need. Master Gavin offered to help. Harry was prepared to get lost in the packing.
"One more thing." – Merixus grabbed his shoulder.
He called Harry into the living room. A square, red and yellow patterned rug stretched between the armchairs and the dining area. Merixus lifted it and Harry saw a trapdoor that didn't want to blend in with the new look of the cart. It was metal, lined with runes, with a heavy, round handle. Merixus groaned a little as he opened it. Blue light filled a small room with metal walls. And inside was a blue crystal the size of a man.
"This will protect you on the road. The crystal is large enough to shelter the cart and a clearing around it. But I suggest you stop for the night. The protective zone may be blurred while moving. That's the rule.”
“Could there be anything else wrong with it?” - Harry wanted to be careful with these crystals, because sometimes they behaved very strangely.
“It rests in a safe socket. The engineers of the chariot take great care of this. It accepts it as its ‘cave’. If you see it growing branches and starting to outgrow its place a little, it means that it feels good. But be sure to report it in the first city. There will be no quick change, so you will have time. The Guild engineers will professionally remove the excess.”
“So, it’s like a slow-growing plant?” - Luna appeared next to the Master Mage's shoulder, which made him flinch.
“Yes... that's an apt analogy.” - Merixus wondered.
“Keeps the nargles away too?”
Merixus's eyes widened in question.
“The what, miss?” - he asked back, then seeing Luna's expectant, blue eyes, he tried to give a diplomatic answer. – “Of course, it keeps all harmful creatures away. No need to worry!”
“Then the wackspurs can't come here either, right?”
Merixus was now confused. It was an interesting sight to see the adult man in black armor and a red cloak, not knowing what to say to a tiny girl in a pink cloak. Harry would have laughed out loud that Luna had successfully confused the Council's Master Mage as well. Finally, he just smiled and waved his hand for Merixus not to answer. The blonde wizard glanced down at the small, blonde girl in confusion, who seemed to have assumed the answer to her question was "yes" because she left cheerfully.
“Just keep an eye on it, okay? If someone looks at it every night and notes if they see a change, that's enough.”
Harry decided to take on this task himself. After all... the safety of the others was his responsibility. Hermione handed out quickly written lists to everyone of what to take to the warehouse. As Harry stepped out into the Guild yard, the difference in space was a bit dizzying. As he looked back, he saw a small, deformed, ragged cottage-wagon, but he could also see the inside through the door.
But as he walked through the yard, Harry noticed that one of the wagon spaces was empty. And he could have sworn that when they had been here during the battle, every space here had been taken. That blank space was left ominously at the end of the line, as if it were a warning.
And then he saw Draco look behind him before he entered the Guildhall. He wasn't packing. He had stuffed Hermione's list carelessly into his pocket, and Harry was sure he didn't intend to pay any more attention to it. He looked too much like he is up to something.
Harry frowned. He had known him for too long. He grabbed Ron's arm to signal him.

~~~

He had a plan. Draco climbed the stairs inside the Guild until he reached the alchemy lab. They had left everything scattered here, but he would have what he wanted. The others would be busy packing anyway. He took a deep breath. He should have paid more attention to Potions now. He felt his hands shaking as he reached for the ingredients. Just one thing to mess up and... he didn't dare think about it.
“Flobberworm Mucus… lavender… Valerian sprigs and…”
He tried to imagine himself in the classroom. Snape had never given him any trouble. He had always let him do his thing and never questioned him. Now Draco felt terrible about it. He had skipped something important again with money and his father's influence. The only reason Snape hadn't failed him was because his father had asked him to. And now here he was! He needed what he had learned in Potions, but knowing there were no consequences, he hadn't pushed himself to get good grades. And he couldn't snoop on anyone. He couldn't ask Hermione or anyone else in the group. They couldn't find out what he was up to.
As the cauldron bubbled and neared the boiling point needed for the potion, Draco couldn't get the events of the exam out of his mind. He saw himself, from the outside, as others saw him. An insufferable kid, cocky and constantly dissatisfied with everything. A loudmouthed, mean boy who, despite all his big, brave words, was the first to run. Used to getting everything from his father and mother and never being in real danger his whole life. He would be given a huge house, a bottomless Gringotts vault, and a name that promised success and respect in his future. No matter what he would do, money would never run out and he could have lived his whole life without ever lifting his butt off his favorite couch. But because of the events of the past two years… he had changed. There was indeed a real danger in his life. He had come to know fear and what it was like when tomorrow was uncertain. He had experienced what it was like when all his acquaintances and friends, who believed the same as him, did not help him. Because he was surrounded by people who fed the illusion of his inviolable life, and as soon as something penetrated this illusion, these “friends” would run away.
He wanted friends who would not run away. And he realized that this had to be earned. He could not buy it with money or with his father’s influence. That's why he has to do it. He finally understood that scene when they were eleven years old and Harry did not accept his friendship. It was disgusting to think about what he could have seen him for then. Is it any wonder he didn't want to be his friend? No.
And Draco's heart was against losing what he had finally gained after all these years. Harry had stood up for him. And the others had accepted it. Didn’t... he always wanted this? And now he was forced to betray that trust. Because of his father again. Draco really didn't know whether to be angry with his father or sorry. He wanted to save him, because he couldn't bear to watch him die. How could he? But at the same time, he wanted to scold him and slap him. How far would he go for that monster? Would he be willing to give up mother and him if Voldemort wanted him to?
The potion turned blue as the last ingredient was added. Just as it should be. A faint lavender scent wafted through the lab as Draco turned off the heater under the cauldron. He began searching for a bottle. He didn't know yet how he would get his father to drink it. But that was the only way he could drag him out of prison unnoticed and put him on the car. That was his plan. He would hide Dad in the warehouse until they left town and… somehow try to explain it later, when they couldn't send him back. In the meantime, a Sleeping Potion would knock him out for quite some time. Dad can't sleep for long anyway, can he?
"You're not sleeping well, Draco? Or are you using that potion for something else?"
He didn't know why he did it. His heart skipped a beat; he was so scared. Harry's voice was the last thing he wanted to hear now, caught in the middle of his plan. Why? Why couldn't he be as careful and cunning as Dad? Why could Harry see through it right away?
But the next moment it was too late. He jumped up from his chair in fright and the blue spell passed Harry's ear, blasting a hole in the Guild’s wall. And Harry stood there, not wanting to believe that he had attacked him.
It was too late.
And Ron was there to protect his friend, as always. Draco's immediate attack on Harry had only added fuel to the fire.
"So that's how we stand." Draco felt himself slipping back into his old thoughts too easily. "You're turning on me NOW!!
He didn't think. He fell back into his old ways and before Harry or Ron could speak, he fired another spell at them. The boys jumped in different directions and Draco was ready to duel with two opponents. He knew that Ron was the one he should fear the most, so he aimed at him. The red-haired boy summoned his shield to absorb the blue spells. Draco also followed Harry's movements, who wanted to get behind him with quick steps. But when he wanted to turn towards him, Ron's shield flew forward and made a big splash on the blue protective shell. Draco fell backwards, and then... Ron came running over and punched him in the nose. Draco found himself sitting on the floor, and Harry took his staff.
“What the hell is wrong with you?!” – Ron snapped. – “Are you completely stupid?! After everything we've done together, you're attacking us?!”
Ron's anger was genuine. The thought of Draco turning on him again infuriated him. But they just didn't understand! He had to do something! They would do the same if it were their parents!
"I won't let my father die!" – Draco blurted out. – “Never! You won't stop me!"
He couldn't help it. As he said it, his mouth curled and it was very difficult for him to swallow the tears that were coming.
"I know what he's doing! I always knew! I know he's a Death Eater and he hurts people. But... but he's just my dad. I can't leave him here. No..."
Harry and Ron looked at each other, and then Draco realized... they hadn't really meant to hurt him. They wouldn't just punch him in the nose then. And Harry extended his hand towards him. Ron lowered his staff too.
"Draco, calm down! No one wants you to let your father die."
He didn't want to believe it. But Harry was honest. There was no hint of lie or deception in his voice. He sincerely extended his hand to him and Draco, although cautious, agreed to stand up. But what Harry said next cut him even more deeply to the heart.
“We'll help you, if you ask.”
“What...?” – he thought he was hearing wrong.
“Yeah. We just didn't really know how to do it.” – Ron shrugged. – “The wizards from Camelot are watching us all the time. We were hoping they would really save your father, but now it's clear that they can't defeat King Jundar. If you have a plan, we're in it.”
“Why would you help? My father is your enemy. He wants to kill you.”
“Look... your father is a scoundrel, but we're not that cruel to let him burn at the stake here.” – Ron rolled his eyes. – “That... would be very disturbing. That's for Voldemort-like people, not for conceited, unpleasant people like your dad.”
"You're part of the team. We're not leaving you alone." – Harry said firmly. – “We'll figure it out. We'll make sure he doesn't come up with anything stupid. But he's coming with us.”
"Hermione won't be happy." – Ron pointed out.
"We have no choice. If he's sent to Camelot, God knows how they'll interrogate him, or what kind of prison they’ll put him in. We'll all go back to where we came from. That's the right thing to do."
Draco almost cried. He'd never had any friends who stuck by him like that. He was the only one who stayed by their side when he shouldn't have. And he expected that now. That he'd be left alone again when he was really in trouble. Crabbe and Goyle had slowly moved away and started hanging out with other people in fifth year. In sixth year, he'd avoided them because... he didn't want to hang out with people who reminded him of that terrible mission. They might even start praising him, telling him how jealous they are and how lucky he was. No! He wasn't! That was when he realized how alone he was. All his friends had come from Death Eater families. They would have checked him out all the time and told their parents. He had started hanging out with Pansy and Blaise because they didn't care. They had tried to support him in their own strange, reserved way by not talking about it. But neither of them would have risked their lives and their futures to protect him. That wasn't a Slytherin trait. And it was one of the things he envied Harry so much. Because no matter what the Daily Prophet said, or the gossiping students, or what mortal danger lurked, Harry's friends would always come back to him and protect him to the last drop of their blood. Draco's heart couldn't understand that at the time. He had everything. Why couldn't he make friends like Harry? Or... father? No one ever says no to a father. Why him? Why does everyone hate him in the end?
Because you're evil. Because you're made to be a Death Eater.
The voice he had heard during the exam came back to him, making it hurt more. Because he had heard it. That no matter what he did, he couldn't wash away what he had grown up with. And he could never truly be a member of the Band of the Phoenix. Because... because he didn't belong with them. They had been enemies all their lives, and he had done too much wrong. He clutched his arm involuntarily, where the Mark was under his clothes.
“You can't forgive me, just like that! I don't deserve it. Harry... you definitely can't! What my father did. What I did! I was terrible to you...”
“Draco, you've had enough of a taste of what I've had to see from Voldemort. Think about it! How evil do you think your little teasing and your father's scheming are in light of this?”
He felt ashamed. Really... what did he think? What was he compared to the Dark Lord and to the terrible attempts he'd made to kill Harry over the years? Both him and Dad. Nothing. Just inconveniences. Harry must be really bored with them.
"Did you seriously think that after all this, we'd just leave you alone?" – Harry spread his arms wide.
“Tell us what the plan is and we're going with you!” – Ron declared.
“Thank you. But I have a better chance alone. Dad won't do what he needs to do if he sees you. I have to take care of this. And if I get caught… you didn't know anything, okay? You trusted me and I betrayed you to save my father.”
"No way." – Harry flatly rejected it. – “If anything happens, we'll come for you. I don't care how. Do you understand?"
"I understand.”
For once Draco didn't roll his eyes, didn't pout his lips in boredom, because... Harry's serious concern was justified, and he couldn't help but accept it honestly.
“I'm sorry, children, but there really are too many of us like this.”
They all flinched and turned in the direction of the old voice. Master Talos stood in front of the lab door as if he had been there all along. Draco sighed. The old wizard wants to be sure and came here to check on him. Just like Snape.
“Master Talos. So, you're helping Draco.” - Harry recognized the situation.
“I'll make sure you all get out of here safely. That's my duty.” - smile. – “And young Master Draco can be persuasive if he really wants something.”
The old wizard motioned for them to follow, but raised his finger to his mouth to keep it quiet. The lights in the building were beginning to turn pink and tired orange as the afternoon wore on. The boys followed the old wizard as he climbed the stairs until the four of them reached the library doors. The sounds of nervous conversation murmured from the room through the cracks in the door. After getting Hermione and Luna on their way to packing, the Camelot wizards took over the library to have some private discussion, which by the sounds of it was starting to get heated. As they neared the door, Draco finally understood something of what they were saying.
“There can be no victims.” – Gavin said sternly. – “People would be very outraged in light of their suffering so far. It would cause at least as much damage as the execution. And suspicion would immediately fall on us.”
"It will fall on us anyway." – Merixus argued. – “We communicated our intention to the king very clearly. From now on, if he obstructs us, he will openly declare war on the Guild. He certainly does not want that.”
“We are talking about a teenage boy with an army, driven by a desire for revenge.” - Adella's voice was worried. – “This is no longer about the stability of his kingdom. He wants to defy those he holds responsible for the death of his mentor.”
Draco understood. The wizards are still working on bringing out his father and are forced to come up with a very similar plan to his, due to the time constraints. But they do not like it. If they break into the prison and drag him away, everyone will know about it. They obviously do not want that. He looked worriedly at the old wizard, who patted him on the shoulder reassuringly. Talos signaled them to remain quiet behind him and wait for him outside. Then he knocked slowly. The conversation immediately fell silent inside, and Merixus's voice signaled that anyone who wanted could come in. When Talos entered, Draco saw that they were all listening anxiously, as if wondering if Talos was eavesdropping.
"Let me handle this!" – he said calmly. – “We will prevent the execution and the suspicion will not fall on the Guild."
Gavin and Adella looked at Merixus with wide eyes, but the blond wizard was not enthusiastic. He was staring at Talos as if he wanted to see through some deception.
"You, Talos? Alone?" – Merixus raised an eyebrow suspiciously.
"I have known King Jundar for as long as he has lived. He will not execute Lucius Malfoy tomorrow morning, I swear to you."
"And HOW do you intend to achieve that?"
"The goal and purpose of the plan depends on you not knowing about it. Stay here and make sure that there are witnesses to see you! Order dinner! Or something for the children! The point is that impartial eyes see that you are here and busy. The rest is my business.”
“So, you are circumventing the law again.”
As he said this, Merixus raised his head as if about to pronounce judgment on someone. His voice hissed with anger. But Talos did not flinch.
“I did not say that at all.”
“You do not have to say it! I know you, Talos!” – Merixus pointed at him as if he were catching a very hateful person in the act of committing a crime. – “I allowed you to take part in the youngling’s exam because I understand that a bond of friendship has developed between you and your presence reassures them. But we will stop here with your involvement! I will not give my blessing to your renegade plans!”
All three of the boys backed away a little, startled, as the dragon's eyes at the end of Merixus's staff glowed red, and for a moment, what sounded like a crackling fire could be heard quietly within the walls of the room. Draco didn't know how Master Talos could stand still, calm, in front of the visibly angrier Master Mage, who seemed like he will turn into a dragon. And Draco swore that indeed, the pupils in Merixus' golden eyes narrowed into a thin line. His blonde hair fluttered as if imitating the wings of a dragon as it is spreading them to express anger and scare away his enemies.
“I don't need your blessing, really. The result will speak for itself.” – Talos bowed. – “So, I'll get to work! Good night, my friends!”
“Talos!! I won't let you do any more harm!!”
He stood up from the table too late and pointed at him accusingly. Talos had already stepped out the door and joined the boys. He motioned for them to follow, but Draco looked back. Merixus started to follow, but his companions held him back before his rage could do any harm. There was no fight. Just glances that everyone accepted. Merixus pursed his lips and it seemed to cause him immense discomfort to close his eyes and accept his defeat. As if there was more to Talos' disobedience than the Master Mage's annoyance. The reason for the enmity between the two of them was still unknown, and it didn't look like the Guild wizards would tell them. There was no time for that.
"You two prepare the carriage!" – Talos ordered. – “You pack, you have dinner, but you must be seen to be here! Especially you, Master Harry."
They all understood. Talos wanted to avoid any possible suspicion. The king's knights would immediately pursue them if they suspected that they had rescued father. They can't keep looking behind their backs while they have to follow Voldemort.
"Draco. Are you sure you'll be okay?" – Harry asked.
"I'll handle it, Harry. My father wouldn't cooperate if you were there."
"I understand that, but even then... you'll be alone."
"He'll have a smooth way. I'll take care of him.” – Talos said. – “I'll bring him back to you.”
It was a good feeling, that Harry didn't want to let him go. Nor did Ron, for that matter. But Master Talos had promised to take care of him. And Draco followed the old wizard.

~~~

“Draco is alive… Draco is alive… Draco is alive! I didn't hurt him…”
Many times. He had to repeat it so many times that he wouldn't believe it was all just a dream. Draco was standing here. He was here in his arms. He was talking to him. He's trying to free him.
And what are you going to do next? Everyone wants you dead. And the Lord has abandoned you. You're alone.
“I-I don't know…”
Lucius paced up and down in the tiny cell. The lack of space was maddening. The darkness. The constant torchlight, so he wouldn't know how much time was passing outside. He didn't show it to the wizards who were questioning him. But the fear was gnawing at his heart. If he couldn't escape… he would be burned. Oh, how poetic, wasn't it, you evil world? Lucius Malfoy, who loved to burn his enemies, dies by fire himself. The joke was sickening. To imagine what it must feel like to be consumed by flames… was paralyzing. He heard people screaming in the fire. People he knew. A slow, horrible death. If you're conscious the whole time, it's even more horrible. No living person can comprehend or imagine this. That's why he trembled inside. The horrifying screams began to echo in his memories, and he feared that he too would experience the terrible pain that caused those sounds.
He really didn't know how to proceed from here. He had resigned himself to dying, but life had thrown him another evil turn. He would get Draco back, but... how to proceed? He didn't know where the Lord had gone. He hadn't lied to the foreign wizards about that.
Alone in the wilderness, without a destination, with knights hunting you. How long will you last? How long will you be able to protect him?
“Shut up!!”
How long will it take you to lose him again, because you are weak? Because you cannot cast spells. Because you are useless, as the Lord said.
He could not shut out the terrible voice, which had grown stronger. His despair and pain had given it complete power, and even though he had Draco back… the power of the voice over his heart remained. There was only one way to defeat it. If he could distract it.
“We’ll follow Potter. We’ll wait for the right opportunity, and we’ll attack him!” – planning always helped. – “If we give him to the Lord, he will take us back. We can go home with him. Yes! That's it.”
How? How would you take care of Draco in a strange world? The journey is long, and you want to walk. The food will run out. There is nowhere to sleep. And your money is gone. You are nothing. A penniless, magicless man, alone with his child on the road, with the law after him. Have you ever thought about how hellish it will be?
“No... I can't...”
How will you survive without money, Lucius Malfoy? Your everything is gone. Everything! Without your money, you are nothing!
“I must!! For... for the Lord! For the Cause! S-sacrifices must be made. Sacrifices...”
He felt his own body screaming and protesting, rebelling against his loyalty. He was already hungry. He was already tired. And yet nothing was too much! Nothing! He had sacrificed his entire life for the Lord. He could not turn back now. He had to sacrifice everything. Everything. He would starve if he had to. He would walk across this damned world if he had to. But he would carry out his plan. He would regain his honor. He could still... he could still return. As long as he lived, he could return and everything would be as it was.
And you're going to drag Draco with you?
“Draco is strong! He's MY son! I'll take care of him! I'll… take care of him. I promised.”
He had to clasp his hands together because he was shaking so violently. He hadn't had a proper drink in days. His nausea was unbearable, and because of that he barely ate. He was pacing the tiny interior of the cell again as if he were very cold. He rubbed his hands and wrapped his arms around himself. He sat down on the bed because… because he was struggling again not to collapse from the shaking. He couldn't lie down. Then he would fall asleep. Then he wouldn't see Draco coming. He had to stay awake. Awake…
Then he heard a soft bang. Then another. Something clicked. Metal jingled. And there was silence. Lucius hurried curiously to the bars and grabbed them. Maybe now. Draco was coming now. It was a good thing he hadn't laid down. The door clicked and slowly opened. The sound of heels was breaking the silence. A slow, rhythmic noise that warranted a leisurely walk.
Lucius was surprised when the newcomer appeared through the doorway. A tall, thin woman. Long, brown hair, tied in elaborate braids with a black feathered hair ornament. Gold and white patterned clothing that hugged her figure and the expensive material gleamed in the torchlight. A white fur coat is over her left shoulder, hiding her hand under it. She had a beautiful face, the left side of which was covered with long, untied locks. Expensive makeup, and judging by the scents, expensive floral perfume. With the one eye that Lucius could see through the braid, she studied him curiously there, behind the bars.
"So, you are Lucius Malfoy, the infamous Warlock?" – an evil, charming smile.
He glanced at the woman suspiciously and did not answer. He tried to raise his chin as proudly as his terrible appearance and pitiful situation would allow. And the woman seemed to understand something, because her eyes sparkled with recognition.
“What a surprise! I expected a broken, terrible looking man. And here I got a nobleman locked in a cage! With a slightly damaged stance, it's true. But a nobleman is still a nobleman. You can't hide something like that. Especially men. It's written on your face. In your eyes. In that well-practiced, contemptuous look.”
“Who are you?”
The woman bowed gracefully, and as that lock of hair flew away from her face, Lucius couldn't maintain his proud, insensitive face for a moment. The red-glowing, metal prosthetic eye and the ugly scars that could lead to the loss of the real one were terrifying. The woman, who had seemed harmless and interesting until then, suddenly began to feel dangerous. Such terrible pain and the disfigurement of your beauty must shatter the mind.
“Lady Ivenna Moray.” – she introduced herself. – “Very—
“Let's stop the show!” - Lucius interrupted rudely, so that he could at least exercise a little control over the conversation. – “What do you want? Do you want to question me in the name of Jundar or the Guild? I've already told you that I won't reveal anything. If necessary, I will take my Lord's secrets to the grave.”
Lady Moray was not offended by his interruption and did not flinch. She just smiled. Lucius didn't want to, but a little respect for her awakened in him. He is dealing with another "player." He recognizes it. The smile is a safe line of defense. Calmness is a weapon. It shows that you are in control of the situation and that makes your opponents start guessing. An invulnerable mask behind which your true self is hidden. What an interesting woman.
“I'm not on anyone's side. At least, not on the ones you believe.” - she made a theatrically innocent face. – “I'm just a harmless woman who is curious. Is that such a big crime?”
A rich lady coming to the dungeon as a spectacle? He didn't think King Jundar's knights would be so careless about security. Or Lady Moray had convinced them very well.
“They said the Warlock is a handsome, charming man. Just like Lucifer, after whom he was named. According to the tales, he was the most beautiful angel until he was banished to Hell. It would have been a sin not to satisfy my curiosity as a woman, wouldn't it?”
Lucius realized then. Not a staff anywhere. This woman is magicless. Worthless. Muggle. He was almost grateful that his interest had faded, like a candle being blown out. He turned his back on the bars.
“I don't negotiate with Muggles. Go away!”
“I'm not a fan of wizards either.” – the woman's voice was just as smiling and cheerful, but she slowly touched the injured part of her face. – “A wizard did this to me when I was a little girl. Simple people saved me. Knights who killed him.”
“Too bad he didn't finish the job!”
“Come on, Mr. Malfoy! Is it appropriate to speak to a lady like that? We've already begun to understand each other so well.”
What does this woman want? Lucius drummed a finger on his arm anxiously. He didn't know when Draco would arrive to free him. It wouldn't be good if she were a witness. Although what can a Muggle woman do? It will be easy to kill her.
“Maybe you're waiting for your rescuers and that's why you don't have the patience to listen to me?”
Fear gripped Lucius' heart. The woman's voice was stiff cheerful and he knew that tone all too well. It meant that she was fully aware of her situation and wasn't afraid. Because she had a plan that made her confident.
“You're a refreshing change. In this world, wizards hide behind the protection of their Guild and wear a nice, helpful masks. Finally, someone who embraces their true self! That he despises people without magic and thinks we are defenseless against him. That he can do anything.”
If she were a witch, she would have his full attention now. Her tone made Lucius feel threatened.
"You and your 'Dark Lord' have done much good for our cause. For decades, there has been no wizard in this world who can show people that it is foolish to blindly trust you. Your execution will be a wonderful spectacle that will start a change. That is why I have come to thank you."
He felt like a trapped animal. His victims should feel this, not him! And especially not in front of a Muggle woman! And yet this woman stood there, as he always did, when someone foolishly pushed forward his plans and he couldn't help but rub it in their face.
You will be defeated by a Muggle woman! Hahaha!
“I know that the wizards want to save you. Whatever they're planning, they have to do it tonight, or it'll be too late.”
Ivenna turned her back and walked with airy steps to the opposite wall, to where Lucius’s useless staff was chained, and leaned her back against the wall like a waiting, noble lady.
“And I'm patient, Lucius. I'll wait for them.” - she stroked the peacock's neck with one hand at the end of the staff.
“What could a Muggle woman like you do?” - Lucius snapped, holding the bars.
“Oh, I'm not revealing all my cards, my dear! You'll have to push yourself harder for that.”
She believed in this completely. Lucius then began to pay more attention to the invisible hand under her fur coat. She must have some kind of weapon, otherwise she wouldn't be so confident. That red-glowing artificial eye watched him frighteningly from the shadows cast by the torches.
Perhaps he should approach this woman differently. He had decided too quickly that she wasn't worthy of his attention, even though she was just another human mind. If she's a witch, if not. He swallowed a bitter lump, feeling how humiliating and difficult it was for him to cross this imaginary barrier. To talk to a Muggle like a witch.
“So, you thirst for revenge against wizards. That one who hurt you caused so much pain?”
“Do you want to know about me, dear Lucius?” – Ivenna laughed sweetly. – “Okay! Let's play! Yes. That wizard changed my life forever. He killed my mother, and he disfigured me for life. I don’t need to tell you how many men are lining up to ask for the hand of a girl with a deformed face, right? No matter how big her dowry is.”
Indeed. Lucius didn’t deny that this part of noble marriages was familiar to him. There were pure-blood families back home whose daughters weren’t exactly… pretty. But blood ties bind and they had to be married off, so that the family’s bloodline could be built on more pillars. And of course, to the right boy, who was also from a good family. He had also been approached by a few of his acquaintances to make a marriage contract between Draco and their daughters. Lucius… knew that he should have to accept one, no matter how much he loved Draco. But for some reason he didn’t. He hoped that Draco would be as lucky as he was. There were many pure-blood girls of his age in Slytherin. He would choose one for himself. He trusted that he would choose the right one. His son is smart.
“But I see your fate has turned for the better.” - he looked at Ivenna's expensive clothes.
“Yes. Finally, my father convinced a nobleman to marry me. That's how I became Lady Moray. My husband was delightful. Handsome. Blonde. Like you.” - Ivenna's smile turned sinister. – “He loved to drink too.”
Lucius felt himself unable to control his gaze as Ivenna swung a small flask in her hand, which she took from the small bag hanging under her fur coat. The cap was a small cup, which the lady removed and filled for him. He didn't know why he didn't think. He reached for the cup as if his life depended on it. Every cunning thought or plan seemed to be hidden under a terrible desire. He hadn't had anything since he was locked up here and his body... trembled from the feeling. As the bittersweet liquid finally rolled down his throat, the trembling eased and a pleasant warmth spread through his chest. Ivenna had brought a very good drink.
“He didn't even notice the poison in the glass either.”
Lucius coughed in horror. He downed the drink, and it was too late to be scared. Merlin... did he just drink something that a hostile, Muggle woman offered him?! Has he completely lost his mind?!
Seeing his horror, and as he put his hand to his mouth, Ivenna laughed sweetly.
“Hahaha! You should see your face!” - she laughed and clapped her hands. – “Don't worry! I won't poison you. It won't do me any good if you die here quietly, in your cell, my dear.”
“Damn you...” - Lucius wiped his mouth with his sleeve.
“Now I'm having fun with you, wizard.” – she stated with a dark smile. – “How does it feel to be helpless? How does it feel to have your life at the mercy of someone else?”
The glass clinked sharply against the stones of the wall as Lucius threw it at the woman.
“You don’t know who you’re dealing with! You’ll regret this!” – he missed.
Lady Ivenna didn’t flinch. Then she began to giggle like a rich woman at a party.
“Oh, men are men, wizards or not.” – she laughed. – “All men are driven by the same desire. Power, possession and the fulfillment of your fantasies. And that’s what I’ve become good at, dear Lucius.”
Her eyes sparkled frighteningly, both the fake and the real. Her smile turned sinister.
“I can see you.” – she whispered. – “A cunning but weak man, hiding his fear behind hateful words. It would be so easy to wrap you around my fingers and you wouldn’t even notice.”
Lucius's hurt rage was about to explode. That a Muggle woman could arouse any interest in him?! Never! But something held him back. Because Ivenna had told him things that were truly terrifyingly true, and that hid deep in his heart. The shame that a Muggle woman could get under his skin was too crippling.
“You grew up in fear, didn't you?” – Ivenna's voice became mockingly regretful. – “Maybe you were left alone with your father too. The elder Mr. Malfoy was cruel. He always ordered you to do what he told you. That's why, when little Lucius grew up, he needed an older man to tell him what to do and think. It was easy for the Dark Lord to win your heart.”
“How dare you?!”
“Oh, yes! You see, you don't even have to answer. It's all written on your face and in your eyes. You have no secrets from me.” – Ivenna smiled. – “Little boys like that crave security. Someone to replace their mother. Someone who creates a warm home where you can hide at the end of the day after you've conquered the world with curses and perfect performances. Have you found yourself a wife who will give you all of that? Or did she find you? A rich boy desperately seeking love, with whom she can live carefree as long as she fulfills his fantasies.”
He had to turn away because every word he said was like a knife cutting into his heart. Because… it confirmed the doubts that had surfaced in him since he was brought into this terrible world.
Even a Muggle woman could see through Narcissa better than you!
It's a tactic… yes! She doesn't really see anything, she just guesses. He knows it too, because he's used it more than once. But it was so terrible to experience it from the other side. Because… it really hit a lot of things. And his heart ached. This Muggle woman embarrassed him.
You deserve it! You've become weak. As the Lord said. As your father said.
Enough! He can cut back. He slowly stepped back to the bars and smiled. If Ivenna wants to play like that, fine. Let’s play! He has venomous fangs too.
“Then let me guess! Is little Ivenna scared too? Is that why all this gold and expensive jewelry is needed? Did that ugly, evil wizard scare her and make her realize that the world is a dangerous and evil place? But her father ordered her to get married and leave her safe little room. He gave her to a man she never loved. Who perhaps hurt and humiliated her. Who treated her like an object and never took her brilliant mind seriously. After all, Ivenna is just a woman! Women are stupid. Politics is men's game. She has no business there. Let her sit nicely at home! Sew something beautiful, smile and have lots of children so that there is a reason to keep her! But that's not how you imagined your life. It hurt that your husband underestimated your abilities. And how easily that hand holding the poison tips over the appropriate cup, doesn't it? And suddenly you are a very rich widow, with all your husband's power in your hands, because you are strong enough to keep it. And if you’d done it once… why not try again? How many unfortunates were already consumed by your web, Lady Ivenna?”
He had hit the mark too. The smile faded a little, but an immense satisfaction had taken its place. They understood each other. It was as if they were in the middle of an exciting game of chess, both enjoying the thrill of discovering their opponent’s every weakness. As well as the fact that they don't have an easy time with each other. It was refreshing to be up against a worthy opponent. Lucius couldn’t remember the last time he had felt challenged by a verbal duel like this. There are too many airheads at the Ministry who just want a comfortable desk and a carefree, boring life. They have no ambition. They are as easy to push back as frightened mice for a cat. For a Muggle woman to finally give him a worthy challenge was… shameful to them.
“I would have enjoyed fighting you, Mr. Malfoy.” – Ivenna smiled. – “You give me so much opportunity, and yet… you gain just as much ground. You could be a formidable opponent in your own country. Your Dark Lord made a terrible mistake by casting you aside.”
She raised a finger to her chin, as if puzzling.
“This whole kingdom is a good example of the kind of man he is. All we have to do is string together the evidence. A powerful, cruel man. He knows how to subjugate people with intimidation or promises. But he is arrogant and short-sighted when he is carried away by his emotions. He makes mistakes when provoked. I will note this in case my client becomes so desperate as to involve him in his plans.”
Lucius swallowed the curse that had risen in his heart at hearing the Lord's disparagement. His opponent is a good reader. He can't put more ammunition in her hands.
"And whose cause are you using your voice for, Lady Moray? Because I doubt a noble lady of your caliber would come down to such a place if it were merely personal curiosity or a desire for revenge."
"We are both soldiers, Lucius, using our voices for our cause. It's a shame we won't have the chance to measure each other in real combat. It might have been a challenge to break a little monstrous wizard like you. But the game is over. And your curtain will fall if I have my way."
A kind of satisfaction flickered in both her good and prosthetic eyes. She stepped away from the wall and walked over to the bars. Making sure Lucius couldn't reach for her, but close enough for her to see him clearly.
"You are alone." – she whispered in a voice that was almost seductive, but very ominous. – “In a maddeningly small cage. And with each passing moment, as the sun rises, death creeps closer. It must be a terrible feeling. How helpless you are without your precious magic. You walk around to keep the panic from taking over completely, but you know you can't escape. And you can almost feel the flames on your skin.”
“What do you want?!” – Lucius shouted at her in a raised voice.
“This is the moment I live for. To see wizards realize that they are helpless, little people, without their precious magic. That you would be nothing without it.” - she looked at his rich but ragged clothes. – “Perhaps your wealth gives you some value, Lucius. But what would you be without your magic? Have you ever thought about it? How would you live? What for? Do you have any talent at all? And if not, how dare you place yourself above the people who actually create value? The ones who built this castle. The ones who made your clothes. Or mine. Without whom there would be no food on your table, or cleanliness in your surely huge house.”
A few years ago, he would have laughed at her and turned away proudly. He didn't have to think about such things. He was a wealthy wizard and Ministry representative. He could buy anything and all his problems would disappear with a wave of his hand. And Dobby was there for all the other menial jobs.
But she's right, isn't she? What are you without your magic?
“How dare you lecture me?” – Lucius also took out that disgusted, contemptuous look. – “A woman who would be nothing without her husband's wealth! Why do you stay alive? Hm? What use are you besides your honeyed voice and your cunning little mind?”
“Hmm... you're turning the question around. That's a good tactic so you don't have to answer.” – Ivenna smiled approvingly. – “You don't disappoint my expectations. Until the very last moment, no wizard can believe that he will die. You think that with your unnatural, distorted power you can defeat death.”
With an evil smile, she leaned closer and whispered.
"It will be an incredible satisfaction to see your face when you realize that this is your last moment. When reality hits you and you realize that you are only a fragile, defenseless human. Triumph. For MY cause."
Then they heard the door open above. The heavy doors clanged and rattled in the silence. Lucius began to notice that it was really... too quiet. Don't the knights up there ask questions? What are they doing? Lady Ivenna's eyes were bright with action, and she looked up unwaveringly. Then she glanced at him and raised a finger to her lips in a whisper, signaling him to be quiet.
"Our guests have arrived." – she smiled. – “Unfortunately, our game is over.”
The woman backed away from the bars and returned to the shadows. Lucius's heart pounded in terror. He didn't know what she was up to, but if the one he was hoping for arrived…
“Draco! Stay there!” – he shouted.
His son saw the red light in the darkness as he came down the stairs. There was a metallic, clicking sound in the silence. Gears and kickers clicked, and metal slid over each other, making a rattling sound. A frightening, bone-piercing sound that tingled with its unnaturalness. And Lucius saw Ivenna raise the hand that had been hidden by the fur. Metal gleamed in the torchlight. A hand extended palm up, on which was… armor? Lucius couldn't see, because a deafening bang and Draco's scream tore through the silence.
Lucius screamed helplessly and clung to the bars as Draco fell backwards and lay on his back, whimpering and crying. He made hurt sounds that made Lucius' mind explode. He screamed madly and reached through the bars. Ivenna lowered the hand that couldn't be seen because of the fur and walked over to the boy who was whimpering on the ground. Draco turned to the side where the injury had hit him. The blue cloak covered him. As if he wanted to curl up in pain, like a crying child. NO! He can't lose him... he's got him back just now!!
“Hm… just one little boy? And not even an Archmage? Oh, those cowardly worms!”
“You damned Muggle slut!! Don't touch my son!!”
“Your child Lucius?” – Ivenna's eyes sparkled with the unexpected opportunity, and her smile became wide, frightening. – “Oh, I understand everything now. Poor little monster! He came to save his daddy.”
She stood over Draco and examined him as if he were some interesting object.
"Where has the Guild sunk to, to have children do the dirty work again? What a handsome little boy!" – Ivenna looked back at him, foaming at the mouth, clinging to the bars. – “A love-child, Lucius? It could only be that he's this pretty. You must have been very much in love with your wife when you had this little boy. Girls would poison each other just to have him ask for their hand in marriage."
An idea flashed in her frightening, red-glowing eyes. Lucius could barely see through the terrible anger, but he felt that he would be terrified of her otherwise. Of a Muggle woman holding his son in her hands right now, and he was helpless again.
"You must love him very much, don't you, Lucius? A man who was abused as a child becomes very sensitive when he has a child of his own."
She reached out again, with her hand hidden under her fur coat, and… Lucius could now clearly see that she was not wearing armor. That arm there was not a flesh-and-blood one, but a prosthetic one that moved with the same dexterity as a real one. It was made of the same bronze-like metal as her eyes, and similar, hair-thin streaks of red light ran along the plates. And as she extended it forward, palm up, the plates opened and a long barrel slid out, aiming at Draco on the ground. Lucius turned white. That arm there… was a Muggle firearm. At least as fast as a Killing Curse and… more painful if the Muggle had the time and opportunity to use it. And Ivenna's opportunity couldn't be clearer, as she waited patiently for it.
Don’t…
“Don’t…! Please…!”
The voice screamed in his head. Lucius tried desperately to block it out.
Are you begging to a muggle?!!
“My son…!”
He can’t lose him again. He doesn’t care about his own pride or status. Draco… is in trouble. If he has to kneel in the dirt again… he doesn’t care! His life doesn’t matter. Draco matters.
And the voice reluctantly admitted that for once he was right.
Ivenna looked at him with wide, satisfied eyes.
“A wizard begging me? This whole evening has been worth it.” – her cheerful voice had turned dark and murderous. – “One less little freak."
“NO!!!”
The deafening boom rang out again in the dungeon. But at the same moment, Draco turned on his back, revealing the staff he had been holding in his other hand, which he had been holding under his cloak. The bullet rang sharply as it bounced off Draco’s spell and slammed into the wall. Ivenna was visibly frightened and jumped back to get a better position. She aimed and fired three times before Draco could fully recover. Lucius watched, slightly impressed, as his son parried all three shots with his magical shield, each one hitting the walls. The blue spell rang and crackled like a thin sheet of metal as the bullets bounced off it, sparking. Oh, those dueling lessons were not in vain! Draco is terrifying!
He will watch over you, not the other way around.
Ivenna's pretty face was set in an angry sneer. She must have realized that Draco's magic could very dangerously block her weapon. Lucius then began to worry that his son wouldn't attack. It was true... Draco had never hurt anyone with his spells before. His heart ached with fear at how much of a disadvantage this was now, because this woman really wanted to kill him. This intention could decide the duel. But to his great surprise, Draco didn't hesitate any longer. Perhaps that momentary hesitation was because his opponent was a pretty woman. The blue spell sizzled through the air and hit Ivenna's hip. The woman cried out in pain and fell to her knees. But there was no blood anywhere. Under the burning clothes, Lucius saw the same metal gleaming. Ivenna wore thin plate armor all over her body, so beautifully and smoothly crafted that it lay flat on her and was invisible under her clothes. Shots rang out and the shield clanged as blows exchanged blows. Ivenna's clothes were damaged in a few more places, but her armor protected her from mortal wounds. Like a duelist, she threw her long fur coat off her shoulders and devoted her full attention to wearing down Draco's strength. Lucius didn't know how many bullets she had left, but it had clearly become her tactic to keep Draco under constant pressure. And his son realized that he couldn't play by her rules any longer. Draco suddenly moved towards her. Ivenna backed away, not knowing what the boy wanted. The shots kept bouncing off the shield, and Lucius didn't fail to notice that the eyes of the little ferret figure at the end of his son's staff were shining more and more sharply. Just as Draco was only half a meter away from the woman, the shield exploded and a strong shockwave slammed Ivenna against the wall. She couldn't stand up, and Draco took advantage of this. He hurriedly found the key, which he had probably obtained upstairs, and opened the cell door. Lucius immediately took him in his arms and felt him all over.
“Where are you hurt?! What did she do to you?! Show me!”
“Dad, it's okay! It hit the breastplate. I'm not hurt.”
He never thought he would be grateful to the Mages' Guild. The breastplate Draco got from them absorbed that shot. Lucius saw a deep dent near his son's heart, with a small, round metal ball wedged in it. If Draco had only been in the suit he left home in, he would be dead by now.
The Mages' Guild saved your son's life.
“Let's hurry! The knights must have heard all that noise!”
“Not quite…” – Draco looked scared. – “You'll see. But let's really hurry!”
As they rushed towards the stairs… Ivenna struggled to her knees. She staggered, but she used all her last strength to hold up her metal arm for another shot. Closing her good eye, she aimed with the red-glowing prosthetic, which made her a frightening, demonic figure in the dark shadow where she had fallen. But all Lucius saw at that moment was a tiny, black speck gliding down the stairs at lightning speed. The next moment, Ivenna screamed.
“Sirius!!” – Draco shouted.
The small, black dog snarled at the woman and caught her metal hand. Ivenna struggled furiously, but the little dog was stronger than she thought. He tugged on the prosthesis, causing the straps securing it to Ivenna's body to snap and Sirius ran free with his prize. He yanked it like any dog would with a captured prey and finally threw it far away.
“No!! You damned little mongrel!!”
“Sirius!! Come on!! Quick!” – Draco waved.
All three of them ran up the stairs, leaving behind a cursing, crawling lady who seemed to have forgotten her role, screaming foul curses into the silence of the prison, unintentionally showing her true upbringing.
“Where would we be without you?” – Lucius took the little puppy in his arms and stroked him admiringly. – “You are worth more than any human.”
Draco smiled as he watched how much the puppy loved him and how much he enjoyed the praise he was receiving. He nestled into Lucius' arms as if he were in the most perfect place in the world. On the way up, Lucius realized why he hadn't heard the knights ask questions or move. Both were lying on the ground, having been placed on guard at the entrance to the prison. One had been shot in the eye, the other up under the breastplate. Ivenna knew how to get close and at what angle to shoot to kill instantly. She knew their armor, too, it seemed.
He was surprised to see pity gleam in Draco's eyes, and a kind of fear.
"Is something wrong, Draco?"
"They shouldn't have died." – Draco whispered. – “This is wrong..."
"They're just Muggles, my son. Don't bother with them!"
For a moment, Draco looked at him with such irritation. Like when he had to scold him and during his rebellious teenage years, the boy had a hard time taking it. But Lucius wasn’t bothered. Draco would soften. This was just a momentary discontent. He was the parent here. His son will listen to him.
As they crept out through the huge, heavy, double doors, the castle was unusually quiet. A small alarm bell rang in Lucius's head, wondering where the other knights were. There was no way King Jundar would leave only two guards on the night of the execution. Not least because of the presence of the Camelot wizards. They had made it quite clear that they didn't want the spectacle to happen and were ready for anything. Draco, however, didn't flinch.
As they reached the lower level of the palace and the courtyard came into view, his son continued his journey with sure steps into the palace. Nowhere… no one. Lucius was starting to get very suspicious. No servants, no knights. As if someone had been cleaning in front of them. They passed a single knight, who was sleeping leaning on his spear, and didn’t wake up to see them hurrying by. And Draco remained unwavering and purposeful throughout. Lucius began to wonder if Draco was just being brave and proud, or if his son knew something he wasn’t telling. Then they passed the first window that looked out over the city, and Lucius could see why the palace could be empty. A column of smoke shot up into the air as something burned in the city square, where his sentence had been pronounced three days ago.
“Is this your work?” – he asked, looking at his son.
“We had to divert attention. Fire is perfectly adequate for this, isn’t it?”
“Hehe! You’re my son.” – he ruffled his hair in praise.
Draco smiled, but for some reason he received it so tensely. It's like he's not happy to be praised and touched. Lucius didn't understand and he was starting to feel really bad. Draco thrives when he's proud of him. His mouth should be up to his ears and his nose high up.
Watch out! Something's wrong.
Yes, something's not right. But Draco will definitely tell him when the time comes. He never keeps secrets from him. He tells him everything. He never had to ask.
The kitchen was familiar when they opened it, but in the twilight of the night it seemed empty and lifeless. The sweet cakes and deliciously steaming breads were gone. His stomach growled hungrily at the thought. As they entered behind the swinging door, a long row of stoves and ovens greeted them in a very crowded, long stone room. At the end of the wall was a trapdoor made of black metal with a handle. Draco opened it. A narrow hole was revealed, only big enough for a thin man to fit through. A metal chimney slid down into the darkness.
Lucius stopped short, because the smell of rotting food wafted from the hole.
"Oh no..." – he backed away.
"It leads to the sewers. Jump!"
“You don't think that I will—"
“Father! Execution? Burning at the stake? Rings any bells?” – Draco shouted angrily, pointing at the hole. – “Inside! Now! Because I won't leave you here. Is that clear?!”
Lucius listened reluctantly and walked over to the opening. As he sat into it and pulled his legs in, he turned back at his son with a warning look.
"We'll talk about that tone later, son!"
"Of course, of course!"
Draco pushed his back and Lucius's cry echoed sharply as he slid down the hole. This was not designed for humans. He scraped his elbows and his clothes were torn again in several places. The stench was unbearable, and he could feel the filth covering him, rubbing against the walls. He arrived into a slimy, stinking heap. Water was trickling somewhere and rats were fleeing, screeching. He barely managed to scramble away in time to avoid being hit by the arriving Draco. His son scooped Sirius into his arms and they arrived together. It was the dog who didn't let himself be disturbed, but chased away a few of the more daring rats with his small teeth. They sat in complete darkness in the middle of a garbage heap in a stinking, stone-walled chamber. Green algae colored the stones and everything smelled of rotting food. So did they. As his eyes adjusted to the darkness, Lucius could make out the continuation of the tunnel. Draco scrambled to his feet with purpose and searched in his pockets. He took out a piece of paper, apparently relieved that it didn't get dirty. As he unfolded it, Lucius saw a moving magical map with people's names moving all over the city. He only had time to see their names floating next to each other in the tunnel. Draco closed the page very quickly when he saw that he was looking at it too.
"This way!" – he stood up and started towards the tunnel.
They walked for a long time in the dark stone tunnels until they finally came to water. A long canal flowed out of the city, opposite their intended direction. Draco then put on that cutely confident face, because he could be reassured about the direction even without the strange map. But something wouldn't let Lucius rest.
"Where did you get that map?"
“Hermi... I stole it from Granger. She made it. We used it to find our way around until we got here. It shows everyone.”
“It's quite useful. Give it to me! I'll—"
“It'd better stay with me.”
Watch out…!
“Draco Lucius Malfoy!”
He stopped and put his hands on his hips. He had to. He had to show authority, because he was starting to feel more and more that his son wasn't being honest. He couldn't hide it from him. Draco looked up at him with round eyes, as he always did when he wanted to look very innocent. Sirius also whimpered and, interestingly, hid behind Draco's legs.
“Give me the map!”
“It'll stay with me, Dad.” – Draco declared.
“Alright! Now tell me what's going on here!” – Lucius squinted and pointed at him. – “You're not telling me something and don't you dare lie to me, son! You know what happens then.”
“Dad! Yes! I lied. That's how I got here. That's what you taught me, right?” – as if Draco was angry. – “We Malfoys, we lie. We cheat. We trick people. We'll take advantage of whoever we can and then move on. And that's how we stay alive.”
Draco was so upset that his eyes were shining with tears. Lucius felt his heart breaking and unable to hold on any longer. Draco knew how to affect him. And he couldn't help but... it hurt that Draco thought like that. Their family's history wasn't just about villainy. They were great wizards who had earned their wealth and their important place in society. That Draco thought it was all based on deceit and lies... it hurt.
“Do you think it was that easy?!” – Draco blurted out. – “No! And I can't get out of it, even now that you're finally here! So, forgive me and bear with the fact that I'm not as perfect a villain as you, okay?!”
“I understand... I understand!” - Lucius raised his hands in submission and tried to speak as kindly as he could. – “You were clever. I'm just worried about you, that's all! You understand, right?”
Draco turned his back on him angrily and hurried on. Oh, he knows how to make him feel guilty! He's a cunning little boy when he wants something. And he knows that if Lucius wants to make amends, he'll do anything for him. And in the end, what he's done works. He's a clever little boy. Maybe he should trust him. Who else can he trust but his own son?
Something's wrong.
He brushed the voice away. Yes. They're still in danger. They need to get out of town and follow Potter somehow. They need to find and spy on how he intends to go after the Lord. Draco might have figured that out already. His son is smart. He's proven it.
Moonlight broke the darkness of the tunnel as they reached the end of the sewers. A latticed opening yawned into the night, and the light of the full moon fell on litter, aquatic plants, and a paved path that led out through an open door on the right side of the lattice. Outside, the high wall of the canal and the sides of the houses that had been built along it could be seen. A stone staircase led up to street level.
Lucius felt his heart burst with excitement and pride.
"Come on, my son!" – he stepped out into the moonlight eagerly. – “Before we go after Potter, this filthy kingdom will dearly regret what they dared to do to us. Let's leave them something to remember, shall we?"
"You were right, Draco. You got here faster this way."
Lucius flinched as he turned back and saw a familiar figure standing in the moonlight shadow outside the latticed exit. Talos looked tired and small as he pulled the hood of his purple cloak over his head and his brown beard fell unkemptly over his chest. His round glasses gleamed like an extra pair of eyes. He stabbed his staff into the ground with his right hand. He stood there as if it were only natural that he would be standing at the exit of the city sewer in the middle of the night.
Lucius snarled determinedly.
"What a surprise!" – he grinned as he looked around and saw no sign of possible reinforcements. – “Master Talos alone like this? Not Potter's small team, nor that blond, pugnacious Merixus in his black armor? Too bad! I would have been interested in whether he could fight or if he just had a big mouth!"
Talos was silent. As if waiting for something.
Watch out...! Something is wrong.
"Perhaps you want to atone?" – Lucius sneered. – “Have you come alone, bravely to avenge your little student? Do you think this will earn you forgiveness from your dear Guild?”
“Draco. Your father is starting to test my patience.”
“Yes, I know.”
Lucius's heart skipped a beat. He froze, and turned questioningly to Draco, who was just standing there behind him, looking… sad. He was looking at the ground, as if he had done something bad and was afraid, he would punish him.
Watch out…!
“Draco… what's going on here? Come on! Let's kill this old man and get going! We have work to do.”
“Draco?” - Talos raised an eyebrow.
For a tense moment, no one moved. It was as if the whole world had frozen, waiting with bated breath for a fateful decision. Draco stood there, his head bowed. Talos stood behind him, calmly but raising an eyebrow with concern. Lucius stood there, not understanding what his smart, brave son was waiting for. And it happened so quickly. Lucius couldn't believe it. Draco looked up at him, his eyes gleaming with the determination of a warrior.
"I'm sorry, Father. But I'm doing this for you."
A bang. His head exploded in pain and he fell back. Talos caught him and locked him in his grip with a great force not fitting his age. He was so dizzy from the blow and the whole unexpected turn of events that he couldn't defend himself. Draco shoved the opening of a potion bottle into his mouth and forced him to swallow. A familiar taste... lavender... valerian... a Sleeping Potion? No... it couldn't be!! The last image he saw before his eyes closed was Draco, as...
As...
As Draco betrays you too...!
No... he couldn't believe it. For Draco to… lie to him?
Draco betrayed you too! Draco betrayed you too!
No... no... this is impossible! Impossible!
He had never lost consciousness with such a terrible heartbreak. And the voice in his head laughed sharply, mockingly, without pause, at the terrible twist of fate as Lucius fell into insensible darkness.
Your own son betrayed you! Hahahahaha!!

~~~

Harry watched the evening streets from the door. Everything was shrouded in a quiet blue. Only the golden balls of light from the street lamps painted the night in warm shades, like a neat little painting on a postcard. The courtyard of the Mages' Guild was empty. Only the lamps were burning on the upper floor of the building, where the wizards who had arrived from Camelot had settled in. Harry's heart was a little heavy that he couldn't be completely honest with them. Adella and Master Gavin were kind. And he wished he could ask Master Merixus how he had tamed a horntail. It was considered the most bloodthirsty of dragons, and this man stroked it like a pet. It would have been nice to know how.
Behind him, in the cart, the others were packing their supplies, or their own belongings from Hermione's bag. The girl herself was standing next to Harry in the doorway, and the boy could feel how tense she was.
“I don't like this.” – she declared.
“I know, but it's the right decision.”
It really is the right decision. It would be cruel and disgustingly careless to just leave someone they know here to burn at the stake. It's simply not possible. Especially not when Draco has given them his trust. Some people might think Lucius deserves it. He's done a lot of cruel things. But in Harry's eyes, he didn't deserve such a cruel death. It didn't seem fair for him to end in a place like this. Lucius belongs in their world. Leaving him here didn't feel right.
Then they appeared in the darkness. Talos and Draco were carrying a rough cloth bag together. It was obviously heavy. They were carrying it on their staves, like a stretcher, because they couldn't have carried it with both hands otherwise. Hermione hissed beside him like an angry cat.
"Here's the last of the supplies, children!" – Talos said loudly, as if he wanted to tell the whole town. – “Now you'll be fine all the way to Camelot!"
When they reached the door, the old wizard lowered his voice and winked.
"But you should still hit the towns I marked on the map. I have some friends there I haven't seen in a while. Give them my regards!"
"Thank you very much for everything, Talos." – Harry bowed.
"We can never repay you." – Draco looked up as he put down the heavy bag and placed his hand on it protectively.
"You don't have to. A good deed is its own reward. Look out for each other and get home safe!"
Ron came out to help carry the bag in. He and Draco carried it down the steps that led to the cart's basement. Hermione followed them the whole time with a bloodthirsty gaze like a hawk stalking its prey. She was very nervous. Even her hair stood up a little, which Harry was afraid of. Hermione was very dangerous when she was like this. Harry would even joke that he was more afraid of her than of Tom.
“So far, all we know is that the Death Eaters are heading west. Really get the towns I've marked on the way! The mages on duty at the local Guild Halls will be able to guide you if they stray from the paths leading west.”
“What if the Guild loses them?” – Harry asked worriedly.
“A company like that?” – Talos chuckled. – “I'd be surprised if they didn't display their hideous Mark in every town they visit. Don't underestimate the Guild's connections, my young friend! They won't be doing anything we don't know about.”
"Aren't you going to get in trouble for this, Master Talos?" – Hermione asked, dropping her sizzling, angry mask, perhaps sensing that she was scaring everyone with it.
She looked towards the inside of the cart, where Ron and Draco had already disappeared with the bag. But the old wizard didn't frown.
"What trouble? I did the Guild's bidding to the best of my ability." – he smiled innocently behind his moustache. – “And you do have a good trip! You look forward to an exciting little journey. Oh, when I crossed the kingdoms at such an age! What an adventure it was! I hope that even in the shadow of your mission you will take time to admire my homeland. There are many wonders here for young wizards who dare to seek.”
Talos kissed Hermione's hand, which finally made the girl smile. Then she disappeared inside the cart to see if Ron and Draco had put the "package" in the right place, leaving Harry alone with the master. And Harry saw the time had come to ask.
“What do you know about a place called ‘Tintagel’, Master Talos?”
“It's a couple of weeks' journey west of here. It's the last major town on the way to the great Border Mountains. They have a big church, because King Arthur himself is said to have lived nearby before Camelot was fully built. According to legends, the city got its name from the castle of his birth. And yes” – Talos's eyes glinted slyly as he realized why Harry might ask. – “Merlin lived there with him for a time.”
He must have known something else, because a sinister shadow passed over his face. But he didn't seem to want to share it with Harry, no matter what he thought.
“Take care, young Harry! Lean on your friends! Together you are stronger than anything on this earth.”
“Will we meet again, Master Talos?”
"I hope so, my son. I'm eager to know how your adventure ends. And what you'll discover. But now rest! Eat! You must leave in the morning before the king's knights barge in here and turn everything upside down. I've left them with work to do so they don't notice the escape too quickly, but let's not get too comfortable! Good night!"
The old wizard bowed, and Harry returned his bow. As he slowly walked back into the building, Harry was somehow sure that this was not the last time they would meet. There was something about Master Talos that made him feel that he was too important not to take part in this mission.
Harry closed the cart door and looked around. He tried to get used to the idea that this was home. Even though it wore a mask that made it familiar and warm, it was still a cart that will be jolting down the road for who knows how long. Hermione was busy trying to arrange the warehouse. Luna was working in the alchemy lab. Ron and Draco were still downstairs… securing the “dangerous shipment”. He went down to check on them. He almost bumped into Ron, who was trying to come up.
“Everything's okay. He's sleeping soundly. Draco made a nice potion. I'll help Hermione!”
“Go on! She’s getting lost in her own chaos.”
Harry chuckled as Ron climbed the stairs faster. When he got down to the dungeon level, he found Draco in the cell to the left, sitting on a small chair next to the bed. Lucius was fast asleep. Draco covered him with blanket and didn’t really want to move from his side. Maybe he was feeling guilty about the potion, or afraid he’d made it wrong.
“Hey!” – Harry gestured to make his presence known.
“I know. I’ll close the door in a minute. Just a little—”
“We’re in no hurry. The Sleeping Potion is long-lasting. He won't wake up for another eight hours if you haven't messed anything up.”
“‘Haha’... thanks!” – Draco wrapped his arms around himself nervously. – “He's going to hate me, Harry. He thinks I've betrayed him. But I haven't! I want to save him.”
“Well... he can't run back to the Dark Lord from here, so that's a good start. We'll figure out the rest somehow.”
It didn't reassure him. Draco was right to be worried. Harry was worried too, but he couldn't show it. All of Tom's followers were blinded and surrendered to him. Lucius will go crazy and they’ll have to watch him at all times to make sure he doesn't come up with something. It made the whole trip seem more unpleasant. But for some reason Harry hoped that maybe with Draco here, Lucius wouldn't dare try plans that were too open and too deadly. And yes. Tom's control can only be broken again by a feeling he cannot understand.
A father's love for his son.

~~~

Ivenna hissed as the alcohol-based wound cleanser touched her. She wrapped her wounds in white bandages. The palace guest room was comfortable and fortunately no one had seen her when she came back here. She sat on the edge of the bed, in her underwear, her hair undone from its uncomfortable braids. She systematically searched for any sore spots or open wounds. She would have her own doctors check her at home. For now, there was only time for first aid. In the morning, she will cover up her wounds with makeup and clothes. She groaned as she looked at the holes in the gold and white dress spread out next to her. She liked this dress. It would have been nice to wear it more than once.
She pulled her suitcase from under the bed and put it on top. When she opened it, it was not clothes, underwear and jewelry boxes, as a lady’s travel bag would have required. The inside of the bag was filled with tools, a soldering iron, and other gadgets. Ivenna took her battered prosthetic arm with great care and love and began to mend it by candlelight. A damned little mongrel dog! That's all it took to disturb her plans! To kill the wizards! That pompous, blond man and his little bastard kid!
She bit her lip painfully. Nothing was lost yet. If she mentioned to King Jundar tomorrow morning that she had seen the escape, she could incite him against the Guild wizards here. Oh, if only she could get Merixus to burn! What a blow it would be to Clan Myrrdin if one of its pillars collapsed. One of the vilest wizard families on the continent. They are descended from the monster from whom all magic in this land comes. Eradicating them would be a jewel in her legacy. But she is too small for that. Still too small. And Clan Myrrdin is a rich, influential family. Even if Merixus were to die, there are his younger brother and sister who can carry on the bloodline. She would gain nothing. Only other freaks would take over the clan's excessive influence. It was very difficult for her to stop herself from laughing in Merixus' face at his wife's stupid death.
A small pain stabbed her eye. Her metallic eye. Ivenna was a little scared when she lost that side of her vision while working. But she knew what was happening. Fortunately, the hand was in good enough condition to perform its function. The palm opened and the red lights formed the face of a long-haired, young man.
"Let me guess!" – he raised a hand to his forehead dramatically. – “You went down to the prison to be a hero and this is the result. You broke your very precious hand, which is one of my masterpieces. You know, how I feel when my favorite creations are damaged, right? And when someone damages my plans with stupid actions like this."
"I'll fix it. You know it's not an obstacle. And it wasn’t I who broke it. There was an unexpected obstacle. Something I hadn’t anticipated.”
The man’s expression turned troubled. The playful, friendly tone disappeared and he touched his fingers together in front of his mouth.
“Ivenna. I don’t want you to say anything. You weren’t there. You didn’t see anything. Do you understand?”
“What?” – her eyes widened in confusion. – “Why? This is a great opportunity to—"
“I sent you to negotiate.” – the young man’s voice cracked dangerously. – “You are an innocent lady who speaks beautifully and will be kind to the young, little king, so that he will trust us. You are not there to start murdering wizards to your heart’s content! That is not our profile now.”
“If you had met him, you would understand! A cocky bastard who thinks he's superior to us.”
“There are enough of those among the non-magical people we will have to deal with. – the friendly tone returned a little. – “I miss you from the negotiations. I like to see you trample them.”
“That’s what I wanted now too. I wanted to break him. To see him afraid.”
“And did it work?”
“No.” – Ivenna continued to work on the hand, as if as a distraction. – “He's too smart and too arrogant."
“Then let this be a good lesson! Don’t mess with the wizards from beyond the Mist! They could still be useful to us.”
Ivenna grimaced in annoyance and focused only on the assembly. Yes, the “Dark Lord” and the chaos he could leave behind were useful. But then there were those kids who had come under the protection of the Guild. Their existence upset her.
“Have you ever thought about what this means?” – she asked, not looking at the man’s face. – “There’s a whole other world out there and it’s full of wizards. Our goals here are not worth a speck of dust.”
“Ivenna. Our goals will grow. Trust me and follow my plans!”
She didn't answer. She broke one of her tools. It broke into the socket. The crack was deafening in the silence of the room. She cursed silently. Her interlocutor noticed her agitation, even though he was perhaps on the other side of the continent. His voice became worried. As if he wanted to know how to help her get better.
“How many wizards do you want to kill to finally calm down and be satisfied?”
“All of them.”
The answer was clear. Ivenna's healthy eye welled up with anger and determination as she finally looked up from her repairs at the man and hissed with complete faith.
“All of them in the whole world. So that not one remains and is not born. Ever.”
The man's face was understanding, but a sad smile was on it. For a few moments he watched in silence as Ivenna took out new gadgets to replace the broken one and continued working.
“Get some rest! You have a deal to close with the king tomorrow. And not a word about what happened in prison, do you understand? Not a single word!”
The man's image poked his left eye, as if as a signal, and Ivenna understood the threat.
“I'll watch you!”
“Of course.” – a resigned grimace.
“Ivenna. Calm down! We only lost a small battle today. Just a little extra spectacle. We're on track without it. And you'll still have plenty of time to satisfy your desire for revenge.”
“Goodnight, Darius!”
Ivenna didn't want to talk anymore. And her partner understood the signal. The image disappeared, and the red light went out. Her eye no longer stung from the energy that was circulating within it when these conversations happened.
She was disappointed and angry. It's true that she hadn't lost anything, but she still felt that way. They had escaped her. And this was somehow personal now. Lucius Malfoy was out there laughing at her. He laughs that he and his bastard little son took care of the magicless, useless woman. Ivenna couldn't continue the assembly. She hissed angrily and leaned on the bed. The only thing that calmed her down was that King Jundar would probably declare a manhunt for Lucius Malfoy. His image would be out in all the cities and he wouldn't have peace. Just like her. It finally filled her with malicious glee. It was funny to imagine that pompous wizard running and having to hide in dirty holes if he didn't want to be burned. He would know what it was like to be afraid and hungry and running for his life. And who knows! Maybe the next time they meet, he'll be so crushed by the experience that she'll have an easy time with him. And then she’ll kill his little bastard child, right before his eyes. Oh, how satisfying it will be to hear him scream!
That finally brightened Ivenna's heart and she calmly continued her repairs in the solitude of the guest room. She would only ever be able to kill one wizard at a time. But sooner or later, that number would count. One day, she would look back on it all and be satisfied that she had killed enough of them to count. And when there are only a very few of them left in Avalon... they will continue in that larger world.
Sooner or later… it will matter.

~~~

The sharp yellow rays of the rising sun filtered over the high castle wall as Merixus climbed the steps. The Band of the Phoenix had been sent on their way a few minutes ago. They had been given the big, furry animal from the stable to pull the cart. It was funny to see the youngsters shocked, but most of them welcomed the new member of their team with kind pets. Then they will name it. That was the way of it. Before they left, the young witch, Lady Hermione, presented Adella and Gavin with a map. Merixus did not deny that the spell she had cast had impressed him. If this young girl really did it, it's even a little scary. Breathing life into inanimate objects was a very exacting, precise magic. Not many magic staves can do that. And this girl had done it as if it were nothing.
Gavin's concerns—and the Council's—resounded in his mind. It was clear that the wizards from beyond the Mist were stronger than the Guild. Talos had told him about this school called Hogwarts and the seven years of training these children had received. According to them, wizards from England were not only stronger, but they also received more precise training. Bringing the ink on a map to life was nothing to them. Surviving a battle in which a young wizard from the Guild died was nothing to them. Taming a raging phoenix staff and waking up from the magical coma that followed was nothing to them. The Council needed to discuss this. If what they suspected was happening, then the Guild needed to be prepared. They became too comfortable and their system became backward. Even the new generation couldn't compete with these foreign wizards and witches. But for now, they could only deal with the problem at hand. Finding and destroying the Death Eaters and their dark master.
Before the Morganists caught wind of it.
Merixus frowned. They were in an invisible race to an unknown finish line. The enemy may already know about the new arrivals, and it would be very unfortunate, if they joined forces with them. Perhaps they were already planning how to contact the lich's company. Or they had already done so. Or, as Talos had predicted, the lich named Voldemort was too proud and superior to deign to ally himself with them. He had already had a bad experience with the Guildless. Merixus prayed that this would at least deter him from further dark alliances in Avalon.
The problem here was more tangible. King Jundar and his knights could come knocking at the door at any moment, and they would have unpleasant questions to answer. Talos's plan was good in that he really couldn't leave a trace. He set fire to the execution scenes prepared in the main square to distract the knights and make the escape unhindered. A single boy sneaked in and out with the target. A simple, quick, and clever plan. The only unexpected factor was Lady Moray. Young Draco had told Talos that he had to fight a rich lady in the prison who wanted to kill him with a gun. So Ivenna wanted to ensure the execution, as expected. And now it is not known what orders she will receive. Or what she decides herself. Young Draco wore his Guild Badge. Ivenna can tell King Jundar that the Guild rescued the hated dark wizard. That would cut them off forever in this kingdom. The only thing that can stop her is if she receives different instructions from her superiors.
As he reached the top of the wall, the sunlight blinded him. As far as the eye could see, forests of slightly yellow and green leaves stretched out. And in the light stood the old, brown-bearded wizard in his purple robes, leaning on his staff, looking out over the wilderness. Merixus did not deny that he found it a disgustingly perfect image. It did not fit Talos's true self. And as the old wizard looked towards the departing magecart, Merixus could not hide his suspicions.
“You are still cunning, you wicked old fox.”
Talos did not turn around. He looked tired. He had not slept for a long time. But his voice was cheerful.
“I see no problem with this. It is just a small, harmless deception. The Guild's wish is fulfilled. The execution will not happen. The new, young wizards are on our side. And for the first time in my life, I can fly on a dragon's back to my trial, thanks to your kindness. Everyone is happy.”
“And you set in motion your last great plan to make the trial irrelevant.”
He didn't answer, just continued to stare wearily at the forests bathed in the light of the rising sun. But Merixus wasn't fooled. This wizard he was talking to was not a harmless, kind old man. He might want to be. But he can't hide his true self. What happened here only proves that.
“Do you think that if they find it, your sentence will be overturned? That you can escape again? That something will change?!”
“Something will. And I will have some merit in it. I have become a part of something important in my old age. It was worth the risk.”
Merixus felt the anger begin to grow inside him again and the dragon growled deep in his staff. But he couldn't let it happen now. Talos will finally answer to the law. And all their suffering would finally be repaid.
“I should have known you were forging an escape path for yourself! Like when you came to this kingdom to ‘retire’! You escaped accountability.”
“I’ve been among dark wizards for too long.” - he seemed a little ashamed of himself. – “Something of them must have stuck with me. I thought coming here and taking an apprentice would… change me. I really wanted to. But old habits die slowly. And they reached back for me from the past.”
Talos held the metal mask in his hand. Merixus did not deny that bad memories pricked his heart when the old wizard held it up before himself in the bright light of dawn. The first rays of sunlight glinted on the silvery metal.
“Morgana’s cult is defeated. And what have we achieved with it? The Wizard King took their place. The Guildless are rampaging like criminals. And the McAllen Works are also preparing for something. There is always someone who craves power and goes to extremes. Just like Her…”
“Don’t you dare to suggest that the Morganists were better! They were crazy!”
“They believed in something. It was not completely their fault, that their original beliefs were corrupted by power-hungry individuals.”
“Of course… you didn’t manage to get out of your skin completely. But I wasn’t expecting it. You won’t escape the trial this time, “First Blade Talos”! – Merixus gritted his teeth angrily.
He used the title directly. The old wizard seemed to shrink as he heard it. But it didn’t break him.
“They called me that a long time ago. But just twist the knife inside me! You can’t inflict a wound that I haven’t inflicted on myself over the years. Our sins will catch up with us sooner or later, no matter how far we run from them.”
He closed his eyes. His face really did look so old and tired in the morning light.
“But I wasn’t lying. I have not lied about anything. I am not resisting. I welcome the trial. You have a right to do this, and I've been running from it for too long. I hope my punishment will bring peace not only to me, but to your family as well.”
Merixus’s heart grew heavy. Perhaps it was made even heavier by the fact that Talos was not evil to his core. Just one bad decision… that was all. A bad decision by a twenty-year-old young wizard.
“I ask only one thing.” – Talos did not look at him. – “Do not hurt Nerricus! Let him stay among his books and forget the past!”
“If you confess, I promise that Adella and Gavin will take care of him.” – Merixus nodded.
“Good. Too many lives have been ruined, too young.” – Talos’s eyes welled with tears and his old voice cracked with guilt. – “I had to hide him. Do you understand? And he was a good inside source near Sedrovan."
Merixus did not speak. Ever since the knights brought the Guildless City under the law of the kingdom, news has reached their ears of the old librarian, whose name... eerily resembles that of an old, feared dark wizard.
“We will consider his merits if he was indeed your informant. His name need not be mentioned in further reports.”
“Thank you.”
It was strange. You would expect that when you capture and bring to justice the person who wronged your family, it would be a comforting feeling. It would bring closure. But now Merixus felt only guilt. He saw an old man, with the ages past him, and everything he had fought for in his youth now history and irrelevant. Perhaps Talos truly regretted his actions, as his younger brother had said when he had studied under him. Whether he had truly wanted it or fate had forced him to do so would never be revealed.
The little cart lurched along the stone path through the trees. And for the first time since they had been here, Talos smiled genuinely.
“Do you think they are the key?” – Merixus asked.
“Merlin specifically left his path for wizards who carry the knowledge of his homeland. We are witnessing the work of fate, Merixus. One way or another, one of the great secrets of Avalon will be revealed. And our world will be changed forever.”
Merixus did not dare to dream so big. If nothing else, they have gained a few new young wizards, who are very skilled and can do a lot of good on their journey. They will be given every help. He has promised them that they will be regularly informed of the lich's movements and developments. They are members of the Guild now. They have a right to it. It will be not very inside information, but it won't be anything they wouldn’t already know about. And if Talos's crazy dreams come true and something truly changes, the Guild must prepare for it.
“An ancient magic is being fulfilled in our lives, Merixus. There is no wizard who would not live or die for such a chance! For his life to matter.” – Talos' smile grew tired and he closed his eyes. – “Now all our hopes travel west in a small, battered cart. And I trust that we have made the right decision.”

~~~

END OF PART 1

~~~

~ Thank you for reading! ~

~ The journey continues in Part 2: „The Road to Camelot” ~