Most Ardently Moments by Swift Knight This is a collection of
moments from the world of Most ardently Chapter 2 Tea Time
Treaties When Harry Potter operated onto the front stoop of
12 Grimole Place, he nearly lost his balance.
It was never easy operating under the invisibility cloak,
but it was highly necessary considering half a dozen auras
waited on the street to see if he would make an appearance.
A problem that he would have to solve at a later date as it was
not currently his primary concern.
Being placed on the undesirables list had caused him to re
evaluate his plans and push back his timeline, but the success of
today's mission meant he would finally be able to move forward
with his next endeavour. Eager to inform Ginny of the
good news, he pushed inside the entry hall, knocking over the
umbrella stand along the way. The noise alerted creature, who
appeared before him looking smug.
Master Potter has returned. The elves voice lacked his usual
displeasure at seeing Harry. Masters guests are waiting in
the library. My guests?
Harry asked in alarm. 12 Grenrall Place had been his
inheritance from his godfather, Sirius Black.
As the new master of the house, he had control over who came and
went, and he distinctly recalled warding the house against any
unwelcome visitors since he returned.
He knew for certain the elf was not referring to Ginny, whom
Creature called Harry's upon the introduction and confirmation
that the couple had yet to be married.
Harry had scolded the elf severely for using such a word
and attempted to dispel this notion, but Creature could not
be convinced, though he knew better than to directly insult
Ginny with name calling in front of him.
Instead, Creature had referred to her as.
Masters special friend. In the days since, which Harry
wasn't sure was any better. Creature was happy to serve them
tea while they waited. The elf informed him, as if that
explained the bizarre statement. If anything, it only led to more
confusion. Creature constantly had to be
reminded to serve tea or clean the house, Blaming his
forgetfulness on his old age rather than the fact that he had
no interest in serving Harry. He had contemplated freeing the
elf just to be rid of him, but his love for Sirius's memory
kept him from being able to offer Creature clothes.
Creature did not attempt to hide how much he despised Harry's
godfather, and after his death, the elf's hatred only seemed to
fester. If he were free, he would no
longer be obligated to keep his former masters private business
to himself. Not to mention the elf could do
irreparable damage to the living wizard involved as well.
Harry had never been bothered that his godfather loved another
wizard, one who was a werewolf at that.
But Remus Lupin had already been publicly shamed more than enough
for his condition, and a scandal of such magnitude could very
well ruin his betrothal and second chance at love with
Misnomphedora. Tonks Thoughts of betrothals and
engagements had his thoughts settling again on Ginny.
It crossed his mind to wonder where she was, but the chance
that she was currently trapped in the library with his
mysterious guests propelled the wizard into action.
Knowing that creature was unlikely to give him a direct
answer as to who currently occupied his sitting room, he
abandoned the elf to seek out and confront the intruders
himself. Drawing his wand, he'd made his
way to the library. Upon reaching the door, he took
a final deep breath before pushing it open.
Though nothing could have prepared him for who had taken
up residence in the room of the two Wizards waiting for him,
Harry could only focus on the one with whom he shared an
unwanted familiarity. Hello, Potter.
A familiar voice trolled, still possessing all the aristocratic
nature that never failed to grate Harry's nerves.
So nice of you to finally join us, Maufoi.
He spat back, pointing his wand at the ferret in front of him.
How did you get in? Malfoy seemed unfazed by the
action, appearing entirely at ease as he brought the Blacks
fine China up to his lips to sip his tea.
I do not think I need to remind you that black blood runs
through my veins. The wards would not keep out
their last living male descendant, no matter the effort
you expended in trying to change them.
Any hope Harry had of Draco Malfoy somehow becoming a better
person since they last spoke went flying out of the window
with the reminder that he was the last true Black family heir.
The hardest part was getting past the auras waiting to drag
you to Azkaban. Malfoy's companion added from
where he leaned casually against the fireplace.
Perhaps we should still let them if we can't come to an amicable
arrangement. The threat was obvious as the
second wizard spoke. Harry still refused to look at
him, his eyes remaining on Malfoy's stoic frame, knowing
that it was the wizard in front of him who was in charge of how
this encounter would play out. I didn't realise you'd recruited
new muscle to protect you, Malfoy.
Harry goaded. What happened to those imbeciles
who followed you around Hogwarts?
At least this one looks like you can read.
Careful, Potter. Malfoy warned.
I am merely assisting Mr. Pruitt and his brother in resolving
this family matter, and you are in more than enough trouble as
it is with them and the Weasleys.
The mention of the name Pruitt alongside Malfoy's comment about
this being a family matter allowed Harry to guess who the
mysterious stranger was. You're Ginny's cousin George.
The word slipped out as his eyes settled on the ginger wizard
before him. Actually, I'm his twin brother,
Fred. You can tell us apart because I
am the more handsome 1. Though honestly, even our dear
aunt can't seem to get it right. The wizard's eyes twinkled with
mischief as he spoke. I'm a bit offended that you
guess George first. I guess I know who Ginny's
favorite is now. Harry's initial impression of
Mr. Fred Pruitt was that he reminded him of his late
godfather. Unlike Malfoy, who prided
himself on being a proper gentleman, Mr. Pruitt's
demeanour showed a propensity for troublemaking that Harry
couldn't help but feel the kindred tug towards.
After all, it had been part of the reason he'd fallen for
Ginny. Apologies, she may have
mentioned you as well. He felt his ears grow hot at his
mistake and then looked around the room.
Where is she, Miss Weasley? Malfoy reclaimed.
The room's attention. Has been returned to the care of
her cousin and his wife while we conclude our business here.
The announcement struck him like a bludger to the chest.
He'd been so close and now the risk he had taken this morning
seemed to have been for nothing thanks to the wizard gloating in
front of him. I have no business I wish to
conduct with you, Malfoy. Malfoy raised a brow.
Well isn't that surprising, Potter.
But sit down anyway and let us handle this like gentlemen.
I think you will find it worth your time.
No, I've already been robbed of my inheritance once before and
now you attempt to deny me any chance of happiness?
That The blonde wizard side finally setting down his teacup
and reaching into his jacket pocket to pull out a set of
papers is the wrong I am trying to correct.
Malfoy held out a stack of documents, Harry eyeing them
sceptically. What are those?
The transfer of the Black Family Wisengemot seat, as well as the
lands and deeds it is entitled to collect from.
All that is required is your signature.
He stared at Malfoy, dumbfounded.
It was everything Harry had ever hoped to hear, and he couldn't
believe a word of it. You would never give me that
seat willingly. He reminded the room.
This is a trick. No trick, Potter.
Malfoy tossed the papers in his direction.
Miss Weasley is the daughter of a gentleman with a seat on the
Wisengemot, so it stands to reason that she should be
married to a Wizard of similar standing.
Harry's eyes skimmed the first page after catching the
parchment, confirming its validity, but it failed to
convey what had led to Malfoy's change of heart.
Harry certainly did not believe that the wizard was concerned
that the youngest Weasley daughter secured a good match on
the marriage Mart. I don't need a seat to be twice
the wizard you are, Malfoy. He placed the papers to the
side. And I won't be signing anything
until you explain the catch. The catch is quite simple,
Potter, that even you can keep up.
In order for the seat to be claimed, you are required to
marry Miss Geneva Weasley within the week.
I'm not sure if you are aware, Malfoy, but I am a wanted wizard
at the moment. How do you expect me to elope
with Ginny if you prevent me from being with her?
Harry shot back. I suspect you would rather offer
me an impossible task and see me arrested and shift off to
Azkaban before I can fulfil it. Malfoy waved his hand
dismissively. The auras will be gone within
the hour and your name is already in the process of being
removed from the undesirables list.
It cannot be that easy, Malfoy. At this the unwelcome Wizards
expression finally showed some agitation.
Oh believe me Potter, it was no way easy.
He snarked. Expensive, most certainly, but
then again you have always been willing to throw away galleons.
I had to bribe multiple Ministry officials and agreed to fund
Aura Shakoport's campaign for Minister against Fudge to make
this happen for you. As far as the Wizarding world
will be aware, your notice of withdrawal from service was
improperly filed by a clerk and the Ministry was targeting you
as an innocent man. A stretch, but one Miss Skeeter
has assured me she can twist in our favour.
I never asked you to do any of that.
Harry shouted before collapsing into the chair across the desk
from Malfoy. The last thing Harry wanted to
be was indebted to Malfoy. He had been quite happy to have
seen so little of the wizard since leaving Hogwarts and
wished for that absence to continue.
I didn't do it for you. The wizard offered him reply,
his voice taking on a softer quality, as if whoever Malfoy
had done this for was someone the wizard valued above himself.
An impossible possibility. Mr. Fred Pruitt cleared his
throat at the wizard. Stand off.
As entertaining as this emotional exchange was, I came
with one specific task in mind, Mr. Potter.
I will not leave without assurance in my cousin's
betrothal and imminent marriage. Of course I intend to marry
Ginny. Harry confessed, alarmed at the
wizard requiring such assurances.
I have been putting my affairs in order this week and only just
collected my mother's ring from my vaulting Gringotts this
morning. You delayed your elopement all
this time because of the absence of a wedding ring?
Malvoy sneer returned. Merlin Potter, I knew you could
be reckless and even short sighted, but this is beyond the
pale. I did not believe a few days
would do any harm. Harry defended.
No harm. Miss Granger collapsed upon
hearing her sister had gone missing after running off with
you To see her in such a state, worried for her sister and her
future. I can assure you that you've
caused a great deal of harm. You already ruined one Weasley
girl. You cannot be allowed to destroy
the futures of all of her sisters with your poor
judgement. Why were you with the Weasleys
when they received the news of our elopement?
Harry could not help but enquire.
He was fairly confident the Weasleys, especially their ward
Miss Hermione Granger, were not fond of Malfoy.
I had no desire to ruin any of them as you so claim, and I am
insulted by such a statement. I have not touched Ginny in any
way. You are implying I am a
gentleman, Malfoy. The pair had occupied different
rooms since their arrival at Grimwold at Harry's insistence,
despite Ginny's protest. His godfather may have been a
rebel, but disrespecting a witch in such a way would have gone
against everything serious had taught him.
I made no claims to know the reactions of the rest of the
family, just Miss Grainger, He clarified she was visiting
Wiltshire with her Mughal relatives when news reached her
of the elopement's failure to take place.
As for your comments about you and Miss Weasley's relations
were the truth or falsehood in the eyes of the wizarding world,
you have ruined her reputation and her only hope of redemption
in any capacity is through matrimony.
His clarification about the Grangers visiting Malfoy Manor
left Harry even more befuddled than before.
Never had he heard of muggleborns visiting freely or
muggles being welcomed into a property while he had been
living there. Malfoy did not seem willing to
elaborate, choosing to plow forward into the logistics of
the wedding. Now, I've already gone to the
additional trouble of arranging for a special license from the
Ministry. You and Miss Weasley will be
married in the morning of the 5th of June, after which the
Wisengemot seat will be transferred to your ownership
and you and your new wife will take a port key to Ottery St.
Catchpole. As is customary.
You are entitled to a yearly expectation of 100 galleons from
Mr. Weasley for the duration of his life alongside her dowry,
which Mr. Pruitt has informed me is a modest 700 Galleons.
That is far too much. Harry protested, cutting off
Malfoy's speech. I refuse to accept such a sum
from the gentleman, especially now that I shall be able to live
off the income provided by the seat.
It is considered rude to refuse, Potter.
If you will not accept the dowry and the payments, Mr. Weasley
will be offended, thinking that you do not intend to use the
money for the good of his daughter.
Can't I ask for less? He negotiated, unwilling to
burden the wizard when he could now afford to support his wife's
happiness. Ginny's dowry has been set aside
for years, and Mr. Weasley will insist on paying it.
However, if my uncle agrees to pay 50 galleons, my brother and
I shall contribute the other half for the stipend.
Mr. Pruitt supplied, though it did not make Harry feel any
better. I shall leave that up to you and
your brother to communicate with Mr. Weasley.
Malfoy agreed on Harry's behalf. And there is one last thing.
Harry braced himself for the catch he had known was coming,
and he held his breath for the final shoe to drop.
The Weasleys cannot know of my involvement.
My voice expression grew determined.
Tell them that your solicitor uncovered information that
forced me to concede the seat to you.
But for all our sakes, my involvement must remain a
secret. I require your word, Potter,
that you will not disclose it. The Pruitt's have already agreed
to keep the matter between us. Of everything Harry had come to
expect from Malfoy over the years, humility was not among
his common traits. As a matter of fact, his pride
should not allow for such a selfless act.
It would have been more likely that Malfoy would have expected
a public declaration of Harry Sanks rather than a quiet
transfer of the deed that made it appear as if he had been
defeated. The action was unsettling, and
Harry still found that there was something he was missing.
Why, Malfoy? He questioned.
You already had the seat and didn't need to concede it For me
to marry Ginny. So long as I possess it, I am
unworthy. Malfoy's answer brought the room
to silence. Not even Mr. Pruitt found an
appropriate response. Harry concluded that whatever
ambition now drove Malfoy had grown stronger than the wizard's
animosity towards him. You have my word, Malfoy.
Malfoy nodded in response while he theorized what in the wizard
had changed. Creature reappeared before them,
bowing low to Malfoy and ignoring Harry completely.
Would. Master Malfoy, like more tea.
Creature asked, hope colouring his question.
No, thank you for your hospitality, Creature, but we
must be going. Malfoy shook his head as he
stood, Mr. Pruitt stepping forward to join him.
Creature looked visibly disappointed.
Safe travels then Mr. Malfoy, and do wish Miss Nasi so well.
Seeing the mutual respect apparent between Malfoy and
Creature caused an uncomfortable feeling to bubble up in his
chest. It took a moment for Harry to
recognise it as guilt. Despite Lucius's cruelty towards
the house cells at Malfoy Manor, even Harry knew that Malfoy was
incapable of the same mistreatment and wondered if the
elves had secretly celebrated after the patriarch's death.
Potter. Malfoy said, breaking Harry from
his thoughts. You should know that you will be
unable to leave the house due to the changes I have made to the
wards. Until Mr. Pruitt and I returned
to collect you for the wedding. You're trapping me in my own
house. His disbelief that the absurdity
could not be hidden. Yes.
The wizard answered, but his voice did not convey any emotion
that made Harry think he was gloating.
If anything, Malfoy seemed pained by the entire ordeal.
Harry briefly contemplated sneaking out just to spite him,
but quickly dismissed the notion.
Throughout their years together, Malfoy's motives had always been
driven by the expectation of what it meant to be a gentleman
on the Wisengemot. While Harry perceived the seat
to be his right, he had neglected the responsibility of
such a position, just as he had seen Sirius do.
His godfather's carelessness had meant that it had taken him to
this point to be afforded the opportunity that should have
been his from the beginning. If Harry wanted to do right by
Jinny and by the family he hoped to foster, he could not allow
himself to make the same mistakes.
Very well. Harry agreed, rising to see the
Wizards out. I shall see you on the 5th,
Malvoy. After all the years, Harry had
not forgotten the start of the feud between them and the
handshake he himself had once refused.
Malvoy's eyes narrowed as Harry replicated the gesture to his
former childhood rival. The wizard's expression was
pensive as he debated whether to accept, but ultimately stepped
forward to grasp Harry's outstretched hand.
A truce, even if neither of them was willing to put it into
words. Congratulations on your
engagement, Potter. Harry thought Malfoy might have
actually meant it.