Runaway.html

Supper was very good. Harry enjoyed it even though he had to deal with still another new utensil. When he started to go to his rooms, Lucius stopped him.

“Remember that I said you were to be with Draco and me for family hour?”

Harry nodded. “Yes, sir. I thought I'd go up and get a sketch book and a pencil. I want to draw tonight while Draco reads. Draco is going to read, isn't he?”

Lucius smiled. “Yes, I believe he was going to read from Beadle the Bard. I know you have not heard any of the stories. That is, unless the new sheet music I have acquired has arrived. Then Draco and I will assay to play it.” He nodded in the direction of the stairs. “Why don't you have an elf bring you something, instead of going up all those stairs. Mimsey should be available.”

“I know she is but even she can't get art stuff for me. I never know what I really want until I see it. I'll be back in just a few minutes. I promise.”

Lucius just said, “See that you do.” then went into the library.

Harry was constantly surprised at the number of rooms available that seemed to fill the same function. He had no idea why one room was appropriated at one time while another was not. He gave it up with a shrug, he was probably going to rely on Mimsey to get him to the right room for the rest of the summer.

He reached his rooms and entered; only to find Mimsey right there with several books in her hands and some pencils. She smiled.

“The studio here is up another floor. Here.” She handed him the books.

Harry grinned at her. “It is a bit hard to remember that I have a whole studio full of stuff. I used to have to hide even a bit of a sketch. My uncle would whip the hell out of me for anything he saw as unnatural. Thanks.” Harry looked down at the books so he missed Mimsey's furious look.

Harry picked his book and some pencils, found a sharpener and an eraser in with the pencils and decided to take the whole pouch of pencils with him.

“Thanks, Mimsey. Will you put out a jogging suit for me, and my trainers? I want to get a head start on my exercises tomorrow. I'm not skipping anything again.”

“You is running off more food than you is eating. You is too skinny. Eat more.” And with that and a sharp nod, Mimsey popped out to wherever it was that house elves went when they weren't working. Harry grinned at the space she'd vacated for a moment then went back downstairs.

Harry peeked into the library where he expected to find his family, he grinned at that thought, but they weren't there. He walked along the wide hall peeking into rooms. He found Lucius and Draco in a large room with every instrument you could name either ranged along one wall or in cases behind them. Draco held a flute while Lucius was sitting at something that looked like a piano but didn't sound much like one.

Harry looked around to find a place to sit. His first step into the room brought his presence to Lucius' notice.

“Harry. There you are. The sheet music arrived. I hope you don't mind putting off the reading?” Harry smiled and shook his head. “Do you play an instrument?”

Harry snorted. “Dursley spend money on music lessons for me? No, the twat didn't even let me play the radio. But I love music. I'll just sit over here and listen.”

“Very well. Would you like to learn?” Lucius considered quickly what instrument Harry might like to play.

“Not really. I'd rather concentrate on my art and my training. After I wack Voldie, maybe.”

Lucius winced at this but Draco snickered rather loudly.

Lucius just pointed to some sheet music and said, “We will practice that, Sonata in G for Flute and Harpsichord by Amaldi. It's new. Just published.”

“But he died in ... 1634?” Draco's brow wrinkled in puzzlement.

“Yes, he did. But some of his works were found in an attic. His family cleaned out for some reason and found them in a letter box. They published them rather quietly, but I managed to get hold of a portfolio.”

“Are they planning to have an introductory concert?” Draco managed to look both eager and dignified.

Lucius nodded his approval. “They are. I will acquire tickets.”

Harry bit his lip, he loved music and dancing. He was keeping up his dancing as part of his exercise routine. He wanted to go to the concert, but he was sure that Lucius would forget to get him a ticket unless he said something, but he so wanted Lucius to remember him on his own.

Lucius noticed and gave Draco a speaking look. “Harry, where do you like to sit? Front, back, or middle?”

Harry's face lit up like a sunrise. “I don't know. I've never been to a concert. Wherever you like.”

“Very well. I'll see if I can't get box seats. I do like a box, the acoustics are better and it is much more comfortable.” He smiled at a beaming Harry then turned to Draco. “Practice.” And pointed to their places.

Draco sat down in a chair and picked up his flute from the holder on his music stand. Lucius seated himself on the small bench in front of his instrument and touched a key.

Harry cocked his head, the piano wasn't a piano at all. He wasn't sure what it was but it was obviously a plucked instrument instead of a hammered one. He liked the more delicate sound very much.

Lucius worried as he started to play. He'd insisted that Harry join them but now he and Draco were going to be playing together, leaving Harry to his own devices. He was going to have to find some way to include Harry. Then he lost himself in the intricacies of the music.

Draco gave Harry one sideways glance, saw that he was already unfolding his book and dove into the music too.

Harry watched for a moment then moved around, using his hands to frame his picture until he was satisfied with his position. He settled on a chair an elf provided him with and began to sketch.

Harry sketched and Draco and Lucius played. Lucius would stop Draco to go over a passage several times, or Draco would do the same. They worked well until they got near the end of the piece then they bogged down. Draco had to turn the page right in the middle of a difficult passage and he just couldn't manage it fast enough.

Harry had listened to their conversation, hoping to learn something so he spoke up. “I'll turn the page for you if you'd like.”

Draco smiled at him in thanks then said, “I don't know why they make the pages so big. If they were smaller, the turn might be in a different place. Even so, it would be easier to turn a smaller page and I probably could manage it.”

Lucius nodded. “It's always a problem. I have no idea why they make them so big either. But, portfolio was the only size available and I wanted it.”

Harry opened his mouth then closed it again. He knew why portfolio was this big but he was sure neither Lucius nor Draco would appreciate him butting into the conversation.

But Lucius had a different idea. “Harry, if you know, please tell us.”

“Um ... ok. I learned this from Johnny. The standard size sheet of paper at one time was 22 x 16, folded on the 22 that makes 16 x 11. Then they'd trim off the deckles after printing and that leaves 14 x 10, or portfolio.* If you gold leaf it, it's slightly smaller still.”

Lucius blinked. “Oh, all that is predicated by the size of the paper? But wizards don't use paper. Nasty stuff. Very gray.”

Harry blushed, hung his head and mumbled, “Sorry. I just ... never mind.”

Lucius reached out and cupped Harry's chin in one palm. “Harry, you are not to stifle discussion like that. Now ... I repeat. Wizards don't use paper, it's very grey. Continue the conversation from that point.”

Harry blinked. “Oh, well. Not all paper is gray now. Foolscap is but that's because it's only used for composition. I use it all the time. I write out my letter, or whatever; then, when I'm satisfied, I copy it onto parchment. Less waste of expensive materials, and don't tell me we can afford it. Just because you can, doesn't always mean you should.” He grinned for a moment.

“I see.” Lucius nodded, his eyes a bit distant as he thought.

Draco took up the thread by saying, “I've seen you use some sort of book with a wire on it. The paper has lines. Very handy. It's not gray.”

Lucius raised an eyebrow. “Paper with lines? Interesting.”

Harry caught on finally. “Oh! And here. I have some really good paper in this sketch book.” He offered the book, turned to a new page.

Lucius took it and fingered the paper curiously. “This is very nice.” He quickly flipped the book to the first page a glanced at Harry's sketch, intending to only see how this paper stuff took a mark. He paused at the sketch of him and Draco. “This is very good, Harry. Very good indeed. Draco, look.”

Draco took the book, much to Harry's embarrassment. “Oh! Harry, this is wonderful. Look, Father, he's caught the little fly-away bit that always gets in your eyes. And the folds of the bow on your braid. See?”

Lucius admitted that he did. “And, he's got the details of your flute perfectly. And he didn't try to draw you with your head turned enough to see your face, just the curve of your cheek.”

Draco grimaced slightly and retorted, “For which I'm forever grateful. The position of a proper embouchure is not complimentary.” his acid tone made Harry grin.

Lucius handed Harry back his sketchbook. “Here you are. I would like to see your book from time to time, but ... back to the music. I'd like to have this last bit perfected before we stop.”

Harry took back his book and put it on the seat of a chair. He moved the other chair to sit beside Draco. He couldn't even read music so he told Draco to nod when it was time for him to turn the page.

It didn't take them long to get the part worked out to suit both Draco and Lucius. Harry turning the page did the trick in two run throughs. Then Lucius wanted to play the whole piece through one time. Harry nodded his agreement even though he was on the verge of yawning.

Lucius noticed, of course, so he said, “One time through, Draco, then I believe Harry needs to go to bed. He seems about to yawn his head off.” His smile made Harry smile back then duck his head.

They did the run through, which seemed to please both Draco and Lucius. Harry liked it, but he was sure there had been a few mistakes. However, the part that had been a problem was smoothed by Harry's page turning so they all went to bed well satisfied with the evening.

.

Harry woke up, as he usually did, at about 6am. Mimsey had his first nutrition drink ready for him and his clothing had been put out the night before. He drank his drink, dressed and was ready to exercise.

Mimsey smiled to herself. She had what she thought was a great surprise for Harry.

“Mimsey has a surprise, close your eyes, please.” She held out her hand which Harry promptly grasped, closing his eyes as she'd requested.

He felt the pull of elven side-along apparation, which was much more pleasant than the wizarding version. Then Mimsey said, “Open eyes. See?”

Harry looked around. He was on a beach, facing the island. He could see the chateau in the near distance, probably about two miles away. But, when Mimsey pointed it out, he could also see a marker.

Mimsey began explaining. “The first marker is one-half mile from here to there and back. The next is three-quarters and the last, one mile. When you come back here, you could do your dancing in the sand because it is all standing up. Then Mimsey will set up a stage for you to do yoga on. Sand in your pants is not a good thing.”

Harry cracked up, causing Mimsey to give him a look. “Thank you very much, Mimsey. While I'm working out, could you go see Dobby? I'd like to find out how he's doing.”

“Yes, Mimsey will go. Should she take Dobby something?”

Harry thought for a moment. “I don't know of anything I could give him that he'd like. If you know, take it to him and tell him it's from me.” He grinned, before finishing, “Then come tell me what I gave him.” He sighed. “I wish he could come to my house party, that would be brilliant.”

Harry ran to the half-mile stake then rested a minute. He decided to go on to the three-quarter mile, as he'd been running almost two miles at Malfoy Manor without strain. But he'd gone two days without a run or exercising. He managed the mile without strain and headed back. He decided two rounds should do for the day.

When he finished his run, Mimsey met him with a glass of water. He usually had bottled so he looked at the glass for a moment.

“Mimsey is not liking those bottles, they is ... not good. You is drinking that nice water from the well. It is cleaner and better.” she just nodded and disappeared. Harry drank his water and grinned as the empty glass disappeared from his hand.

He turned his attention to his tai chi, speeding himself up to complete the series of exercises before breakfast. He'd been using the house-elf spell since Dobby had taught it to him. Lucius knew that he was speeding himself up, Harry distinctly remembered telling him that he used a spell to compress time.

Harry did his tai chi, the sand shifting under foot, then turned to his kata. He wished he had a better teacher than his memory, but realized that Lucius had dismissed all his tutors for a reason. He didn't realized that the reason was he was either their equal or better than they were. He missed Liu-sama.

Harry spent a bit of time cooling down with yoga, then settled to meditate. He was half way through his meditation when he heard a soft voice calling his name.

“Harry ... Harry. I need to talk to you. Harry.” It was all Lucius could do not to shake Harry but he knew better than to do that. Severus meditated and the one time he'd shaken him had been... unpleasant didn't exactly describe it. Lucius wasn't about to shake Harry.

Harry pulled himself out of his meditation carefully. “Sir? I'm sorry. What do you need?”

“Harry, Mimsey told me you were here on the beach, but I couldn't find you. I walked all the way to the marker then apparated back. You are here now. What is going on?”

Harry looked a bit blank as he stood up, brushing a sprinkling of sand off his rear. “I'm not sure what you're asking. I ran, did tai chi, kata, tai chi and yoga. I was just meditating.”

Lucius shook his head. “I started here, walked all the way to the far marker and apparated back. I never saw you. Where were you and how did you get back here so quickly?”

Harry gave Lucius a look that would have gained Draco a stinging hex. “I was ... oh, you probably didn't see me because I was moving. Remember when you came to my dojo that first time?” Lucius nodded, remembrance striking him. “Well, I've learned to speed up quite a bit more since then. Practice I guess.”

Lucius felt a cold chill pass over him. “You've been using a house-elf spell to speed yourself up?” Harry nodded. “That is not good. If you speed yourself up too much, you burn calories at an astonishing rate.”

Harry frowned, “And, I've been doing the equivalent of ... four hours physical exercise in that time. I've managed to squeeze four hours into about an hour. How bad is that?”

“Not bad, as in, making you ill. But you burn up about half again the calories you would if you weren't using the spell. No wonder you are not putting on any weight. I think Draco is going to have to do something about strengthening that nutrient potion some more.” Lucius sighed and rubbed his face. “I don't suppose that you might consider slowing down on the exercise?”

Harry thought about that. “I think I have to say no. In fact, I need to add some things.”

Lucius started to say something, then just took Harry's arm and side-alonged him back to the chateau. He sent Harry to shower and change before sitting down to eat. He returned to his quarters to take a very mild calming draught, he was still a bit shaky from the effects of being unable to find Harry for almost twenty minutes.

.

Draco met them in the dining room, already seated at a table full of food.

Harry groaned, “Merlin, I'm starved. Where are those potions so I can eat.”

Draco pointed to the sideboard. “There. Freshly brewed this morning. I got up before you did. I don't see how you can be starved in an hour or so.”

Lucius poured himself some tea. “Because he's been speeding himself up. He's using a house-elf spell called 'Triple Time' or Trinus Tempus. But in Harry's case he has managed to cram four hours in to just over one.”

Draco paled. “Oh, well. Oh. And that ... Harry, you're supposed to have the potions as soon after waking as possible. And here, you have been going four hours before taking them. No wonder... and ...” He trailed off, nibbling at a piece of toast as he thought.

Lucius just ate in silence while he waited for Draco to speak again, so Harry did the same.

Draco finally looked up and announced, “You are to come to my quarters for your potions before you exercise.”

Harry started to speak but a pointed glare from Lucius had him chewing and swallowing first. “You'll have to be up at the crack of dawn. I get up at 6 am. Perhaps you could give them to Mimsey the night before?”

Lucius and Draco both looked horrified. Draco finally managed, “You'd trust her with potions?”

Harry sipped his tea then shrugged. “Sure. Why not? She likes me.”

Lucius started to say something then stabbed a bit of ham rather forcefully.

Draco, however, looked thoughtful. His new elf seemed unafraid of him and he, Draco, hadn't had reason to reprimand it yet. He resolved to be as nice to it, him, as he could be. He bit his lip, trying to remember his name. Gerard! Yes, Draco thought, I have to remember that. With this taken care of, he returned to his breakfast, satisfied.

As they finished eating a flurry of owls showed up, flying in windows and the French doors which led to the patio. Harry looked up with interest as they decorously dropped their burdens in the middle of the table just within reach of Lucius. He motioned and elves appeared to tend to the birds who had lined up on a rail that was obviously for their use.

“Well, let us see who has replied and what that reply is.” It didn't take him long to open all the replies. He smiled and announced, “It seems that we shall be having a very nice house party. Mrs. Weasley has replied that Ronald will be coming, as will Mr. Longbottom. Miss Granger has, however, refused. Too bad. But that means that there will be a waltzing party. Draco, would you like to invite someone? I apologise, I should have asked earlier.”

Draco thought for a moment. “I should invite Vince and Greg. And Pansy, Daphne and Mildred. But that still doesn't make up the numbers. We're still long on males.”

Lucius shook his head. “Madam will be bringing professional escorts.”

Harry remarked mildly, “Did Frankie and Johnny answer?”

Lucius shook his head. “No, so I think we shouldn't rely on them. I am sorry.”

Just then one last owl flew in. It looked a bit fussed, as if it had a bad flight. The letter it dropped carried Frankie's distinctive handwriting and Harry grinned.

Lucius picked it up, then motioned to a hovering elf. “See that this poor fellow has a nice treat and a good rest. He looks like he ran into some bad weather.”

Harry wanted to grab the letter and read it himself, but that would have been the in the worst possible taste. He waited, fiddling with his fork.

“If you are going to eat with that please do so, otherwise put it down.” Lucius didn't look up from the letter, but Harry hastily dropped the fork. Lucius finished reading the letter then smiled. “They say that they both want to visit us. They are packing even as we speak. I'll send a servant for them after lunch as they have requested.”

Harry sighed softly then said, “Please make sure that whoever you send is nice to them.”

“I will. I would go myself, but I don't feel that I should return to Britain just yet. Nor should you. Do you have any idea when you will feel safe?”

“I feel safe now. But I'm not giving Dumbledork a chance to nag at me. That sad, sorrowful expression makes me want to puke. And, I swear, if he calls me 'my boy' in that condescending tone too many more times, I'll hex him.”

Lucius choked on his water, while Draco had to bite his lip to keep from laughing his head off.

Lucius finally managed, “Dumble ... never mind. Please do not hex him. You're not powerful enough to get away with it.”

Harry muttered mutinously, “Not yet, but I have to be sometime.” He sighed, finished his breakfast and asked to be excused. Lucius nodded so Harry went back up stairs to work on his Herbology extra credit.

Mimsey met him at the door to his rooms and nodded. “You is wanting your studio?”

“Yes, please. And, Mimsey?” The elf looked up at him curiously. “If Master Lucius calls you, please go. Unless you're waiting on me. Ok?”

Mimsey frowned. “Mimsey is your elf. Master Malfoy is ... not a nice man.”

“I know. You're my elf, but what if something is wrong with me and he needs you to help? And, if we try really hard, we might be able to make him nicer, you see?”

Mimsey gave him a very doubtful look, but agreed to at least respond to see what was wanted.

Harry stepped into the studio and smiled, it was almost exactly like the one in Malfoy Manor and all his things were exactly where he expected them to be.

He realized that he had finished all his studies except for the orchid he wanted to paint. He had never realized where vanilla came from until Frankie told him it came from an orchid, it was the seed pod. He rummaged in one drawer to see if his references were there, but they weren't anywhere to be seen. He sighed.

“Damnit. Mimsey?” Mimsey popped in. “I had some pictures of plants somewhere. Can you find them for me? I need the vanilla orchid, I forget the latin.”

“Mimsey will look.” There was a draft and Mimsey disappeared. Harry shifted too so he could watch her.

Mimsey looked over her shoulder to see that Harry had shifted into Trinus Tempus and had a fit. “Master Harry, stop that at once! It is not good for wizards to use house-elf magic. Not good. No! You must not.”

Harry slowed himself down then asked, “But Mimsey, why not? It's really helpful. I can get all my exercising done. And Dobby taught me. He wouldn't have taught me if it would hurt me, would he?”

Mimsey shook her head, ears flapping. “It is ... it is using energy at the same pace as it would if you was slow. No wonder you is so skinny. Stop it at once. Mimsey will tell Master Lucius.” She folded her arms over her flat chest and nodded once, in a 'so there' gesture that made Harry grin.

“He knows. And ... um ... could you teach me more magic. I'd really like to learn an ironing charm or spell and one to keep my knees and butt clean when I go out to sketch. And one to make my hair easier to comb and one to dust and make the bed and clean pots and keep my hands clean when I use pastels and ...”

Mimsey clapped her hands over her ears. “Enough, enough. Mimsey will teach you. But one at a time. There is spells you should know and spells that only an elf can do. But Mimsey will try. Not now, you is doing homework. Now, work.” She flapped her hand and returned to finding the references for Harry while Harry got out his paints and paper.

Mimsey found his references in a folder that looked enough like the bottom of the drawer that Harry had missed it. He settled down to think, 'orchid'. He spent the next hour working on his painting.

.

Lunch was interesting as Lucius had evidently had a visit from Mimsey and was in a bit of a snit. Draco looked puzzled about something but Harry couldn't be concerned about that while Lucius was lecturing him on the proper place of house-elves.

Harry picked at his vegetable lasagne, disliking the rather slimy mouth feel of the eggplant.

“Harrison, do not pick at your food. Eat it. You need the nourishment.” Lucius' acidic drawl was the last straw for some reason.

Harry slammed his fork down on the table and snarled, “Damnit! You eat it. I hate fucking aubergines. Slimy bloody things. And I can't fucking eat with you snarking me to death either.” With that Harry fled the room.

Draco sat with his mouth open, fork half way there.

Lucius sighed and rubbed his face. “Draco, either eat that or put it down.” Draco put his fork down. “thank you. Now what do I do?”

Draco didn't think anything of Lucius asking his advice with Harry. He actually knew Harry better than Lucius did. “Well, first off, I have something to say. My new elf is very nice. Eager to please and trying very hard. I smiled at him and he was so pleased he nearly wiggled like a puppy. I do not know how we got into the habit of being cruel to them, but I'm not going to be mean to mine anymore. I like the service way too much. As to Harry. He never seems to take well to lecturing, something Granger never seems to get through her head. He resents it. If you have something to say to him, say it once, ask him to repeat it back to you in his own words then drop it. If he gets it wrong, explain again, using simpler words and anecdotal examples. He's really smart so do not treat him like a fool.”

Lucius tugged his braid, a habit he'd gotten into. “Fine. I have to send for his friends. Would you like to get ... Mr's. James and Thomas? I'll send for Mr. Weasley. Augusta has made arrangements for Mr. Longbottom to come via floo.”

“I would be glad to fetch them. Portkey?” Lucius nodded. “Fine. Now, go apologise to Harry and make up. And do not give me that sour face. You started it and as you are the adult, you have to end it. Harry will sulk like a fiend until you do.”

“I never realised that he had such a temper. He is usually so ... reserved.”

Draco smirked at his father. “That was not a display of temper, mild ire, at best. He remains very calm until he has been pushed to the very edge; then ... I am truly frightened that he might tear down Hogwarts if Dumbledore annoys him enough. Now ... portkey?”

Lucius shuddered, spelled a piece of old silver into the two way portkey, and went to find Harry, thanking Merlin that Draco's guests weren't coming until tomorrow.

Lucius found Harry in the grand ballroom of all places. “Harry, I ... I am absolutely no good at apologies.” He sighed and took Harry gently by one shoulder. He tugged gently to turn him around. “So ... I am sorry I nagged you, especially at table. I usually do not do that, you know.”

Harry sighed and allowed himself to be turned. “I know. I think that was what made me so angry. You know my stomach is ... unpredictable and that I really hate being nagged. It bothered me, a lot. So ...” He took a deep breath. “I'm sorry I yelled at you. Pax?”

Lucius hugged Harry, who hugged right back. “Yes. Pax.”

Lucius straightened Harry's robes then his own. “Now, let us essay. En avant.”

Harry laughed and agreed, “Ahead.”

They made it to the room that Lucius told Harry was called the Pi�ce d'arriv�e just in time to see Neville step out of the floo. Harry sighed, even Neville could manage to floo without falling out of the fireplace covered in soot and clinkers.

“Neville, welcome.” Harry hurried over to give Neville a quick hug. Neville hugged back then went to greet Lucius, to whom he bowed politely, thanking him for hosting him. He also gave Draco a slight bow, but refrained from speaking to him.

Then he turned back to Harry. “Harry, I've been really worried about you. What's going on?”

Harry smiled and said, “I'll tell you when everyone is here. I don't want to repeat myself a dozen times. Ok?”

Neville nodded, “Ok, fine. I'll wait, but who all is coming?”

Harry smiled happily. “Frankie and Johnny, you, Ron, and some of Draco's friends. Crabbe and Goyle, Parkinson, Greengrass and Bulstrode. And Madam is bringing dancing partners for all of us, day after tomorrow.”

Neville smiled happily. He loved to dance. His experience at the Christmas Ball during the Tri-Wizard Tournament had been his first and best ball so far. “Wonderful. I love dancing.”

Harry mock scowled at him. “Fine. Evil boy.” Neville just grinned.

There was a sharp smack and Frankie and Johnny were standing in the middle of a circle inlaid in the floor.

Harry squealed like a girl, something he would deny later, and grabbed Johnny. “Johnny, man, am I glad to see you. And Frankie...” He turned to hug him too. “let me look at you both.”

Frankie and Johnny pulled away and posed for Harry, making him laugh. Lucius had to smile at the two men as they mugged for Harry. Draco found himself a bit envious that they could make Harry laugh so quickly.

There was another rush of noise and Ron appeared, holding a house-elf's hand. The elf cringed then scurried away.

Ron nodded politely to Neville but walked up to Lucius to say, “Mr. Malfoy, thank you for inviting me to your house party. I'm sure I'll enjoy it.” He grinned a bit cheekily. “Especially if you play another game of chess with me.” Harry and Neville both groaned. Lucius just nodded his agreement.

It didn't take long for Lucius to show everyone to their assigned rooms and make sure that their luggage, brought to the ch�teau by house-elves, was unpacked.
Frankie and Johnny were both in awe. Frankie sighed as he plopped down in the easy chair at the foot of his bed. “Did you see? Man, it was all I could do not to gape like a rube. Beautiful.”

“Fairy castle, in deed. Love, we have to be careful not to embarrass Harry. This Lucius character is a real toff. His blood is so blue you could use it for ink.”

Frankie wrinkled his nose. “And ... yuck. Did not need that mental picture. Well, let’s see what we're wearing to dinner.”

There was a pop that made both of them jump. Mimsey was there with robes for both of them.

“Hello, you is my Master Harry's good friends. These is robes for you. Mimsey will be helping you to dress. Dinner will be early today, due to the guests. You is resting here.” She magicked the robes into the closet. “Master Harry will be here soon to see you. He is with Masters Neville and Ron now.” She smiled at them and popped out again.

.

After she got caught up with her work, Mimsey went to Hogwarts to see Dobby. She'd promised Harry on the beach and now she had time.

“Dobby. Mimsey is here to see you.”

Dobby turned from where he was cleaning pots and smiled at her. “Dobby is glad to see Mimsey. Is Master Harry well?”

Mimsey nodded. “He is well. We is having a house party and all his friends are there. I is wanting to ask you something.”

Dobby just nodded, “In a moment. Dobby is making tea. And there is cakes.”

Mimsey literally licked her lips, she loved cake. Dobby hurriedly made tea and put two slices of cake on plates. He was in disgrace, but no one would refuse him any food he wanted. He set the cake, teapot, cups and other things on a small table and sat down. Mimsey took the other chair and waited while Dobby checked the tea.

“Not brewed yet. You is telling Dobby what you is thinking?”

“Yes. Mimsey loves Harry Potter. She is very unhappy that she cannot come to Hoggywartses with him. But Dobby is here. Will Dobby come see Mimsey, like Mimsey has Dobby? To tell her about Master Harry?”

“Of course, when Dobby is off house arrest. That will not be until next year.” Mimsey's ears drooped. “Dobby is sorry. But there is no reason that Mimsey cannot visit and Dobby will be happy to see her.”

Mimsey frowned. “Well, ok. But ... Dobby is to take care of Master Harry. Hoggywartses will not allow personal house-elves. Stupid place. But Dobby is here and already in disgrace. Dobby?”

Dobby was grinning. “Dobby is free house-elf and will do as he pleases. Especially as no wizard had listened to him. He will do what he can to keep Harry Potter safe and happy. And clean. Those others he is with is just nasty. Thingses thrown all over, dust everywhere. Bookses and papers. Feh!” Dobby wrinkled his nose in disgust. “Now, no more of this. Tea is ready. We eat cake.”

Mimsey took the cup of tea with a nod. She knew that Dobby had learned a lot here at Hogwarts. He wasn't as impetuous as he used to be. He'd take good care of her Harry.

.

Madam took the letter from the huge owl that Lucius favoured and read. She bit at her lip for a moment, having no idea what kind of partner a gay muggle might want. She decided to just match up male/female and leave it go at that. She settled to make her list wondering if Lucius had lost his mind, inviting muggles to his home.

.

Molly Weasley sat at her kitchen table and worried. Dumbledore had asked that Ron be allowed to go to the house party in France. In fact, he'd been more than insistent. He had practically ordered them to let Ron go. She didn't like it. She was well aware that she and Arthur were viewed as Dumbledore supporters to the hilt, but he was getting very odd and she wasn't happy.

She finished her tea and started to wash up. As she did so she used her brains, she did have them, and started doing some planning of her own. First, she was having words with Arthur. They'd played cat's paw long enough. She wasn't having any more of this, 'it's for Harry's own good', drivel. That boy needed to be removed from the Dursleys permanently. And she had it in mind to do it, Dumbledore or no.

Letting Ron go to the house party was the first step. She had to regain Ron's trust. Her insistence that Dumbledore was only working for Harry's best interests had alienated him just enough that he wouldn't tell her anything unless she dragged it out of him. She had to regain his full trust, make sure of exactly what she was doing then do what was actually best for Harry. No matter who he wound up with.

She sighed, dried her hands and eyes and settled to knit and finish her think.

.

Albus Dumbledore was not a happy wizard. A feeling that was becoming more and more familiar as days went on. He'd found out from Arthur Weasley that Ron had been invited to a house party at Le Ch�teau Malfoy. Along with Neville Longbottom, Hermione Granger and several Death Eater's children. He had advised the Grangers that it wasn't a good idea to allow Hermione to go to France at this time.

He had to figure out what Malfoy's agenda was and quickly. Who knew what dark influences Malfoy was subjecting the boy to.

He had to get Harry back to the protections of the blood wards and under his thumb again. That boy would ruin everything. He had plans in the works for years and he couldn't afford for Harry to ruin them. And, he was sure, avoid doing his duty to the Wizarding World. He should understand that his small sacrifice, an unpleasant but safe childhood, was for the greater good.

He sucked on a muggle sweet and sulked.

.

Harry spent an hour visiting with Ron and Neville then made his excuses, mainly that they both should take an hour to settle in before getting ready for dinner. He summoned a house-elf for each of them, to take them to their rooms and then show them around. He was a bit surprised to find that the elves seemed to be happy to serve his friends. He had no idea that Mimsey had actually threatened bodily harm to the elf stupid enough to be rude to 'her' Harry's friends.

Harry tapped at the door to the suite that Frankie and Johnny were sharing and poked his head in.

“Hi! Can I come in?”

He knew he was welcome, but it was nice to hear Johnny say, “Sure, it's your house, castle, what the hell. Come in.”

Harry entered the lounge area of the suite where Frankie was sprawled across the divan and Johnny was seated in a wing back chair with his feet on a poof. He took the other wing back and sighed.

“I really missed you two. But ... it's really nice to have a family of my own, finally.”

Johnny, ever blunt, said, “How does he treat you? Really, now, no bull.”

Harry nodded. “Ok, no bull. Really well.”

Harry went on to explain about his contract and how Lucius had taken over his finances, making sure that all his properties were well maintained and stopping the embezzlement of funds from his accounts.

They spent the next two hours catching up. Harry left to get ready for dinner with a light heart and a bounce in his step.

Mimsey met him at the door to his quarters with the information that Dobby was fine, couldn't come to see him because he was still on restriction, and that they were working on a way to annoy Dumbledore into a fit, just because. Harry had to laugh at that one. He wasn't best pleased with Dumbledore either. Nor Snape for that matter.

He settled on the edge of his bed to look at the robes for dinner. He finally decided on the dark moss green set that Draco had helped him pick. And his formal cloak, he'd need it as there was a small fireworks display after dinner and it was still too chilly at night to do without.

He smiled at Mimsey, “Thank you, Madam Mimsey. I'll take a bath now and put on a house robe. Is my Dealing with Dark Creatures book handy? I'll read up on that until dinner time. I'm not going to fall behind on my studies because of a dumb house party.”

Mimsey nodded. “Mimsey will find it and put it on the table by your chair in the outer room. It is a retiring chamber, not a lounge.” She gave him a stern look and left.

Harry just laughed and got into the tub. It was very nice to feel cared for.

After a leisurely bath, Harry put on trousers, socks, a singlet and his house robe. He found his book exactly where he expected it to be and settled to read. He was feeling good.

.

Lucius looked at his house-elf, it had been assigned to him by the Head House-elf of Malfoy Manor after Dobby had been freed. He still remembered his fury and near disastrous actions in the corridor after. He shuddered, he knew better than to lose his temper, it always made him stupid. He was glad Harry chose to ignore such foolishness and move past it.

This elf was sullen, dirty in the extreme and as helpfully unhelpful as it could manage.

“Leave me! Tell the Head of this house that I want to speak to it ... him, or her. Go!”

The elf popped out loudly. Lucius paced.

The Head of the ch�teau came into the room from the hall. Lucius had missed the faint pop of his arrival.

“Sir? How may this elf serve?”

“I need a new personal elf. That one is just beyond manageable. My new elf must be clean in person, quiet and polite. Willing and truthful. See to it.” Lucius watched the elf as he thought, his face squinching up in a rather amusing fashion.

“Ah. You needs a young one. Untrained so that you may train it as you wish.” He snapped his fingers and announced, “Trovy, you is wanted.”

The elf that appeared was young, clean and bright eyed. “Trovy is here. What is wanted?”

Lucius cleared his throat. He was going to take Harry's advice and start as he intended to go on. “I am Lucius Malfoy. You will be my elf from now on. Be aware that I have an uncertain temper, which I have allowed sway much too often. I intend to change my ways, you will be well treated, as long as you do not attempt to infuriate me by half service. Do you understand?”

“Trovy thinks so.” He bowed his head a bit, looking up at Lucius through his lashes.

Lucius decided to give this being kind to the elf thing a try. “What is it?”

“May Trovy have a uniform? Like Mimsey has ... only trousers? Please?”

Lucius thought about that for a moment, decided that a uniform might help him to remember not to kick the silly creature and said, “Yes, you may wear a uniform. Remember, though, that it belongs to me. Black trousers, white shirt, ascot tie in Malfoy colors, black vest with gold buttons. Do you require shoes?”

“OH, please, sir, yes ,sir. It is a very great honour to be allowed shoes.” Trovy nearly bounced in place from sheer delight.

“Very well. You will see that Trovy know what he is supposed to do.” Both elves bowed and left, leaving Lucius to pick out his robes himself, which did not please him. He knew that he wasn't going to be pleased tonight, no matter what and set himself to endure.

.

Neville was wondering exactly what was up, so he went to see Ron. Ron was in the middle of gaping at his bathroom, which was about half the size of the prefect's room at Hogwarts. In other words, it was huge.

“Ron, can we talk?”

Ron led the way to his retiring room and pointed to a chair. “Sit down. Relax. I wonder if it would be ok to ask for tea?”

Neville, more familiar with the functioning of a pureblood household, just called, “Service.”

An elf popped in.

Ron took over, as they were in his rooms. “Would it be ok for you to bring us some tea? I don't want to inconvenience the house.”

The elf smiled. “No inconvenience. English tea?”

“Please.” Ron looked at the elf's beaming smile feeling a bit sad for the creature.

It didn't take long for it to return with a tray holding a tea set and a plate of cake.

Neville had been biting his lip while they waited, it wouldn't do to be caught discussing the motives of their host, not even by a house-elf.

Ron poured tea and handed Neville a plate containing a slice of cake and some whipped cream, which he'd found in a covered pot on the tray.

“Ok, Nev, what's got your bits in a knot.”

Neville sighed. “What, exactly, is going on? Gran said for me to come and do the pretty, but she doesn't like Malfoy.”

Ron sipped his tea then asked, “Do you have a guardianship contract?”

“Yes, Gran insisted. It's with her and we signed it when I was six.” Ron frowned. “I know, but it's the only contract that an under age wizard can legally sign. And her lawyers went around and around about it. They explained it to me, asked me hundreds of questions and nearly bored me to tears with it. Why?”

“You ever read it yourself?” Ron waited for the answer, holding himself very still.

“Yes, the lawyers came back about two ... three years ago and went over it again. It's really a very good one.”

“Good, so you understand about the concept of a family contract then.” Neville nodded. So, Harry's got a contract with Malfoy. A really, really good one. Fosterage, rule of thumb and a prohibition against looting his vaults. Malfoy is treating him like a prince. And I think he really means it. Also the bastard nearly beat me a chess. Harry's fallen into a honey pot. I just hope no one messes it up for him.”

Neville thought for a moment. Having grown up in a Traditionalist Pureblood family he knew more about what was going on than Ron did. Ron's family were pureblood but not particularly traditional.

“Well, that's really good. He's Malfoy's foster? With a contract. Sweet.”

Ron nodded, took a bite of cake then mumbled around it, “That's what I thought. Dumbledore ... I don't trust him anymore. He can't see the trees for the forest. His greater good is a pile of codswallop.”

“I wonder. Gran has always said that he was a great general and a good man. But she also made me promise to tell her if he ever asked me to do something for him. I don't think she trusts him as much as she lets on she does.”

“Mum and Dad trust him too much. If Dumbledore says it, it must be true. I think I like a little more evidence than, 'I said so.'”

Neville nodded and returned to his tea. They finished their tea and cake in companionable silence.

“Well, thanks for the tea and cake. Now, I've got to go get ready for dinner. That elf will have my hide if I'm late. She said that she was helping all five of us and expected not to have to argue with me about anything. Very bossy elf.”

Ron sighed unhappily. “I'll look like a freak. Mum gave me Dad's second best dress robes to wear. Better than my aunt's old robes that I had for the Tri-Wizard Ball but still.” Ron sighed again.

Neville grimaced in sympathy but didn't know what to say. He decided that nothing was best so he thanked Ron for the tea again and returned to his rooms.

Once there he got his robes out of the press, where they'd been hung to remove the packing wrinkles, smoothed them and hung them on a hook on the back of the closet door. Then he went to take a bath.

Back in Ron's quarters, Ron was pacing unhappily. He hated being poor, not because of the lack of money but because of the lack of respect. He hated wearing cast-offs and hand-me-downs. He liked looking nice, but every stitch of clothing he owned was handed down from Percy, one of the twins, or his father. Nothing fit quite right and everything had its stain or mended tear. He really didn't think he was asking too much just to have a set of robes that no one had worn before him. But his Mum spent most of the clothing budget on Ginny. He really didn't think it was fair. Just one set of new robes for him wasn't much to ask for.

He sighed again, hung his second hand, ill-fitting robes on a silent butler and went to take a bath. He intended to spend quite some time in it.

.

Frankie and Johnny both looked at the robes that a house-elf had put out for them. It had said that it would return to help them an hour before dinner was served. Neither one of them thought that robes were a good idea. Frankie helped Johnny try his set on.

“I don't think so. I feel like I'm about to step on the hem any second. And these sleeves are just impossible.”

Frankie nodded, saying, “I just hope Harry isn't disappointed. But you're right, we'll just make fools of ourselves.”

“Maybe we could get in touch with Harry somehow?” Johnny started for the door, hoping to find Harry's rooms.

“No, don't go wandering around, despite the tour we'll be lost in an instant. Um ...” He cleared his throat. “Service, please.”

A house-elf appeared and bowed slightly. It eyed the two for a moment then said, “What is you wanting? I is happy to help the friends of Master Harry Potter.”

“Um ... we have a slight problem. Neither of us is comfortable in these robes, we're going to have a sleeve in the gravy or something, sure as anything. So we need to ask Harry if he minds us not wearing them. We're really grateful for the thought but not a good idea when all's said and done.”

The elf smiled at Frankie, the muggle was very nice. “So sorry. You is writing a note,” He pointed to a small desk. “And Fibber is taking it to Master Harry.”

Frankie sat down at the desk and wrote his note, handling the quill with commendable skill. He handed it to Fibber with a thank you. Fibber popped out, making them grin at each other.

Fibber appeared in about five minutes with a return note, written on the back of theirs. It said, “Don't worry about it, just wear Armani and pretend nothing's different. Because it isn't. I thought you'd like robes but if you don't, you don't. Hugs, Harry.”

Fibber just waited until they were through reading the note then said, “Fibber will take the robes away. Will you be needing help to dress?”

“No thanks. We usually help each other.” Johnny nodded to the elf and offered him a smile. “Um.. might be a stupid question but we don't know. Do we tip you?”

Fibber looked startled. “Tip? Tip how? Has Fibber offended in some way?”

Frankie hurried to reassure the elf. “You don't have tipping? Not tip over or upside down. A tip is money that you give to someone who had served you in some way.”

“Oh, no, no one is tipping elveses. But thanking you all the same.” With that Fibber left again to return below stairs and tell the other elves that the muggles were very nice but a bit strange.

.

Dinner was called and the party gathered in the dining room. Lucius looked the group over, taking note of everything.

He noticed that neither Frankie nor Johnny had worn the robes they'd been offered but their suits were elegant, perfectly tailored and most acceptable.

Draco and Harry were wearing semi-formal robes, as was appropriate with matching cloaks, folded back over both shoulders to show the linings, spelled to match the robes.

Neville Longbottom looked every inch the pureblood he was, his youthful awkwardness had faded into a self-effacing but confidant manner that was very nice.

Ronald Weasley, however, was a mess. He was wearing robes that had been spelled with a tailoring charm, but still didn't quite fit properly. And they were shiny on the seat and cuffs. He held his head up and managed to look comfortable and confident. Lucius glanced at Harry and saw that he was looking at Ron, his expression slightly sad. Lucius decided that Ron was getting at least two sets of robes so that Harry wouldn't be upset by the mockery of Draco's bunch.

Dinner was served as soon as they were all seated. Lucius was pleased to see that Harry's muggle friends knew which utensil to use, or they were watching him, he didn't know or care which. He was just pleased that they had good manners.

He was also very surprised to realize that Ron knew how to go on. He dabbled his fingers in the finger bowl and dried them on his serviette without glancing around. He also took butter with the serving knife and put it on his bread plate without a pause. Obviously, Draco was mistaken about his manners.

Harry and Draco however couldn't help exchanging awed glances.

Ron tore his roll into small pieces then caught Harry's eye. “I do have good manners. Mum taught me.” He grinned. “I just don't want to wear them out.”

Draco nearly choked on his water, while Harry had to bite his tongue to keep from roaring in laughter. Lucius had overheard this and snorted quietly to himself. Young Weasley was much smarter than he let on. He decided that it had to be the result of being the youngest of such a large family.

The meal progressed, as all meals do, with conversation and one reprimand. Lucius had to remind Harry not to talk across the table. Harry apologized without being sullen and the meal concluded with Lucius inviting everyone out onto the veranda to see fireworks.

“They're very pretty. All the way from England.” He caught Ron's eye. “From some odd place called Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes.”

Ron grinned at him without rancour and they settled to watch. Everyone 'ooo'ed and 'aaaah'ed at all the appropriate places and clapped their hands.

When the fireworks were over, Lucius announced an open bar, with fire-whiskey for the adults only and the group broke up into smaller groups to get better acquainted.

Lucius shamelessly manoeuvred things so that Frankie was grouped with Neville and Draco, while Harry was left to the tender mercies of Johnny. He and Draco were near the doors with Ron, who glanced around then turned to him.

“Sir, what do you want? I'm not accusing you of anything, you understand, but ... chess has given me an eye for manoeuvring.”

Lucius smiled in what he hoped was a reassuring way. “I just wanted to have a word with you, without Harry overhearing. I'm sending you to a small shop with Draco. You will not argue with me, nor make a scene.” Ron looked a bit startled. “Nothing bad will happen to you, I give my oath. But you can't attend a house party wearing ragged robes. I am not attempting to shame or humiliate you, you understand. In fact, that is exactly what I wish to avoid. Draco's clique is arriving tomorrow. If you give them any reason to upset Harry by deriding you, I shall be most displeased. Therefore, Draco is taking you to the shop I mentioned and having you measured for two sets of day robes and one set of semi-formal one's. No argument. I don't care about your feelings, only Harry's.”

Ron thought about this for a moment then decided not to be offended. “Ok, that's fine. I have always wanted new robes, just once. You see? So, here's the deal. I'll take the robes and be glad of them, as long as you don't rub Mum and Dad's noses in it. They're going to go spare as it is.”

“Fine. Draco, you should hurry a bit. We do not want Harry to ... er ... rumble the cheat.” Draco rolled his eyes at this use of century old slang. “Roll your eyes in that vulgar fashion again and you will regret it. Now ... go, before Harry figures out something is going on.”

Ron nodded. “Ok, I'm ready. But not rubbing anyone's nose in this goes for Draco too. Or else, it's no go.”

Draco said flatly, “I'd never do anything to upset Harry. And that would do it for sure. Come along.”

Ron just took Draco's hand and let himself be port keyed to the shop.

.

*I learned this in 1976, when I was working for the State of Missouri in their printing office. This was told to me by one of the job bosses.

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