14. A favour.
“Does it hurt terribly, Draco?” Pansy Parkinson’s voice cut through the air, catching Harry’s attention. He paused and spotted Draco sitting at the Slytherin table with the other third years, his arm wrapped in a bandage and sling. Harry lowered his head slightly to listen in.
“It comes and goes. Still, I consider myself lucky. Madam Pomfrey said another minute or two and I could’ve lost my arm,” Draco replied, his tone oddly calm.
Harry tried to listen in more, but at that moment, Hermione and Ron appeared, dropping their books onto the table with a thud.
“Did you hear about what happened to Malfoy?” Hermione asked, glancing at Harry.
“I was trying to-” Harry began, but Hermione interrupted him.
“Apparently, he was practicing with the Slytherin team for Quidditch, and the whole team got attacked by those horrible Dementors. Thankfully, Professor Snape was watching them, but a seventh-year hit Draco with a spell by accident-”
“Stripped almost all of his skin off his arm. It was nasty,” Ron added, looking a little pale but also almost vindicated that it had happened to Draco.
“That’s... Merlin,” Harry muttered. “How is he even-”
“I say the git deserved it,” Ron interrupted. “All that talk about the Dementors not being so bad. Plus, if you’re lucky, they’ll have to replace him on the team. Maybe they’ll put Goyle on as Seeker.” Ron snickered, but Harry frowned, disturbed by how much Ron seemed to be enjoying Draco’s misfortune.
“That’s not funny,” Harry said seriously. “Malfoy could’ve literally died. He could’ve lost his arm.”
Hermione hummed in agreement but didn’t say much more.
“I hear Draco’s father is furious. Maybe they’ll cancel Quidditch-” Hermione began, but Oliver Wood, seated further up the table, gasped loudly.
“They better not!” Oliver snapped. “Not after last year!”
“Last year?” Lyra’s voice rang out as she approached, Siri trotting happily at her side. She slipped next to Harry, who scooted over to make space for her. “Is this the thing with the snake?” she asked curiously as Siri greeted the others and helped himself to some stray food from the table.
“No, Malfoy got hurt and-” Harry began, but was cut off once more.
“He’s been sighted! He’s been sighted!” Seamus’s voice echoed as he rushed in, clutching a newspaper.
“Who?” Ron and Lyra asked in unison, pausing to glare at one another before looking back at Seamus.
“Sirius Black!” Seamus announced, his eyes wide. Instantly, Harry and the others crowded around, peering over his shoulder at the newspaper. Lyra leaned over to get a closer look, and Hermione yanked the paper closer to her chest.
“Dufftown? That’s not far from here,” Hermione fretted. Harry leaned in, his gaze fixed on the blurry image of the supposed ‘Sirius Black.’
“You don’t think he’d come to Hogwarts, do you?” Neville asked nervously, gently petting Siri, who had nudged his head onto the table to get a closer look.
“He’d have to get past the Dementors,” someone suggested.
“Dementors? He’s already slipped past them once,” Seamus pointed out. “Who's to say he won’t do it again?” Harry’s eyes narrowed as he studied the photo. He pointed to the image and shook his head.
“That’s not him. Sirius Black has black hair, and all the reports say he’s at least six feet tall. That guy’s no taller than five and a half feet. Max.”
“What?” Seamus and Hermione chorused, both peering at the photo, now squinting in confusion.
“Oh, it’s from Rita Skeeter,” Seamus sighed, a note of irritation in his voice. “Never mind. It’s probably just more of her garbage.”
“Black could be anywhere, though,” muttered Thad Toft, a fourth-year, shaking his head. “It’s like trying to catch smoke with your bare hands.”
Lyra looked up at Harry, her usual fire replaced with genuine worry.
“What if he does come here?” she asked quietly.
Harry tried to reassure her, though the words felt hollow in his throat. “He won’t,” he said, though deep down, he wasn’t so sure. After all, no one knew where Sirius Black was.
⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
Spend Time Together
Just as you would spend time with a loved one to nurture your bond, the same care and attention should be applied to your familiar. Quality time is essential to strengthening the connection you share, and it allows both of you to grow in trust, understanding, and companionship. The more intentional and present you are in your interactions, the more deeply your bond will flourish.
Daily Rituals: One of the most effective ways to nurture your relationship with your familiar is through daily or weekly routines that you both share. Rituals help create a sense of consistency, safety, and trust, which is vital for building a lasting connection. These rituals don’t have to be complex or time-consuming; what matters most is that they are regular and intentional. For example, you might choose to meditate together each morning or evening, allowing you both to attune to each other’s energy and harmonize your intentions. A shared practice of meditation not only strengthens the connection but also helps both you and your familiar align spiritually, creating a deep sense of shared peace.
If your familiar is attuned to magic or the mystical arts, consider practicing spells, rituals, or energy work together. This can be a powerful way to bond, as you both collaborate in performing an action that holds deep significance. Whether you are casting a protection spell or working with the elements, these shared magical experiences allow for an exchange of energies that fosters mutual growth and understanding.
Taking walks or exploring the natural world together can also be a grounding daily or weekly ritual. Whether it’s simply walking through the woods, strolling by a body of water, or wandering through your neighborhood, these moments of connection with nature are essential for grounding both you and your familiar. The rhythm of walking together strengthens the bond, and the shared experience of being present in nature helps you both relax and open up to each other. Even the simplest routine helps establish a space of mutual comfort and respect.
Play and Exploration: Play is not just for animals. Familiars, regardless of their form or nature, benefit from activities that stimulate their minds, spirits, or even their bodies. Play is an essential part of the bonding process, as it encourages both fun and learning, allowing your familiar to express their personality and showcase their abilities in a safe and joyful environment. This might look different depending on the nature of your familiar.
For example, a familiar with an animalistic form-such as a dog, cat, or even a lizard-may enjoy physical games, like fetch, chase, or hide-and-seek. These playful activities not only give your familiar an outlet for their energy but also promote trust and cooperation. The act of engaging in a playful task with you allows them to experience joy, and this shared joy strengthens your emotional connection.
On the other hand, a familiar of a more ethereal or spiritual nature may prefer activities that engage their intellect or magical abilities. If your familiar is an elemental spirit, a game that involves manipulation of energy-such as a playful contest of light or air-can be both fun and empowering. Similarly, if your familiar has more of a mental or mystical presence, playing intellectual games like problem-solving or riddles can help sharpen their focus while deepening your bond.
Exploration is another fantastic form of play and engagement. Take the time to explore new areas together-whether it’s a magical landscape, a hidden forest grove, or even just a new neighborhood or part of your home. Exploration fosters a sense of curiosity and adventure, allowing both you and your familiar to experience new environments while learning from each other. Exploring together opens doors to new experiences and helps you both grow more attuned to each other’s boundaries, preferences, and abilities.
Lastly, if your familiar is closely linked to magic or rituals, you might engage in a shared magical task or project. Whether it’s crafting potions, studying ancient texts, or creating an enchanted space, working together on a magical project can be an incredibly bonding experience. It allows you to learn from one another, exchange knowledge, and develop a shared sense of purpose.
In summary, spending quality time with your familiar, whether through daily rituals, playful activities, or joint explorations, is an essential part of building a strong, trusting, and enriching bond. Through routine rituals and playful engagement, you create a space for both of you to grow, communicate, and share moments of joy. These experiences are not only fun and fulfilling but also deepen the emotional, spiritual, and even magical connection you share, ensuring that your bond remains strong and enduring.
⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
Lyra placed her book down, feeling the weight of the day press on her shoulders as she sighed, casting a glance at Sirius, who was basking in the warmth of the fireplace in the corner of the library. His large, black form contrasted against the flickering orange glow, and she couldn’t help but notice how he seemed completely at ease, unlike the nervous first-years who had scattered at his presence. It was just the two of them now, alone in their little alcove, a space that had once been shared with others but was now their private retreat.
Her fingers trailed over the pages of the book she’d been reading. The Familiar Bond book, a heavy tome filled with ancient texts and complicated rituals, had been her constant companion since she first realised what Sirius was to her. Despite the time they’d spent together, something felt... off. The connection she was supposed to be building with him wasn’t there-not yet. She’d read that the bond could take months, sometimes half a year, to fully form, but impatience gnawed at her. Could she speed it up? Was there something else she should be doing? She’d need to read more, but the pages all started to blur together as her thoughts wandered.
"Potter." A voice snapped her from her thoughts, sharp and cold, cutting through the quiet.
Draco Malfoy’s platinum blonde hair appeared first as he stepped into view from between two towering bookshelves. Daphne Greengrass followed closely behind, her eyes glinting with the usual calculated calm. Lyra didn’t move, watching the pair with mild interest. Sirius, sensing the new presence, immediately perked up, his stormy silver eyes gleaming as he weaved around the two, purposefully brushing up against them both before settling at Lyra’s feet with a low growl. The Grim was always a character, and she found herself growing more accustomed to his playful-yet terrifying-antics.
"Yes?" Lyra asked, keeping her voice neutral, although she couldn’t help but feel a hint of tension creep in. Draco’s eyes flickered to Sirius, a sharp intake of breath betraying his wariness as the massive creature regarded him with a lazy, critical stare. Draco’s lips twitched, but his voice remained composed.
“Saw what happened in the Great Hall this morning.” He lowered himself into one of the chairs opposite Lyra, grimacing slightly as his elbow brushed the rough wood of the chair's arm. "You sat with the Gryffindors," he continued, tone dripping with disapproval. "Instead of coming to the Slytherin table." Lyra met his gaze without flinching.
"I sat with my brother," she said evenly, her eyes shifting toward Daphne before resting back on Draco. "I wanted to ask him about something I’d read, but the chaos of the morning kind of ruined that."
"Understandable," Daphne interjected, her voice smooth like silk, cutting through Draco’s reprimand before he could say anything further. “It’s rare, though, to see a snake amongst the lions.” She offered Lyra a smile that was almost kind, but there was an underlying tension in her words. “I suppose looking for guidance from your older sibling on something personal isn’t to be judged.”
Lyra hummed in response, trying to suppress the tightness in her chest. It wasn’t that she cared what they thought-it was the game they played, the subtle jabs and veiled comments that ran like a quiet undercurrent beneath their conversation. She was growing well-versed in this dance, learning how to keep her tongue sharp and her words measured. Her usual bluntness had no place here, but a quiet, biting wit did. Draco arched an eyebrow at her silence, then cleared his throat, leaning back in his chair.
"Anyway, that's not why I came over." He met Lyra’s gaze with a calculating look, one that she was starting to recognize as his typical mode of operation. "Daphne mentioned she’d be giving you some lessons on how Slytherin works. I thought I’d offer you something a little... extra." Lyra’s curiosity piqued, she tilted her head slightly, her eyes narrowing as she weighed his words.
"How so?" Draco’s lips curved upward into a knowing smirk.
"My parents," he said slowly, his tone full of significance, "are well-connected. Both of them. They’ve been around this world for decades. My mother specifically could help you grow into the woman-and Lady-you need to be, once you come of age." He glanced at Daphne, who was now wearing a thin, disapproving frown, before continuing. "Books and reading can only take you so far. The Greengrasses are powerful in their own right, but they’ve already got two children to raise. My parents, on the other hand, would be happy to offer you their assistance."
Lyra’s pulse quickened as the implications of his words settled over her. She had read plenty of books about the politics and culture of the wizarding world, but to be taken under the wing of someone like Narcissa Malfoy? The opportunity would be invaluable. But there was always a catch, wasn’t there?
"I’m listening," she said slowly, her eyes never leaving his face.
Draco leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with a hint of triumph. "The price is simple," he said, almost as if rehearsing it. "A favour. That’s all I ask."
"A favour?" Lyra repeated, her brow furrowing slightly. Her voice dropped, careful and measured. "And what kind of Favour would that be?" Draco’s gaze never wavered.
"A small one. Nothing you can’t handle," he assured her, though his smile didn’t quite reach his eyes. “You’ll just owe me for it. A small debt, nothing to worry about. My mother would be happy to help you, Lyra. She would mould you into the Lady your bloodline deserves.”
Lyra's heart raced as she considered his offer. She had the knowledge, yes, but the proper guidance from someone with Narcissa's experience could make all the difference. But something about the way Draco presented it, so casually, like a transaction, unsettled her. There was no such thing as a free gift.
"You’re offering this to me," she said, her voice cold, "and not my brother?" Draco’s eyes flickered.
"Your brother has refused my help multiple times," he replied, his voice taking on an almost bored tone. "He doesn’t get along with my father. I’m offering this to you, Lyra. You’re the one who’s willing to learn."
A part of her resented how true that was, how much easier it was to extend an olive branch to her while ignoring Harry. But there was more to this than just an offer of help-it was a game, and she couldn’t let herself be swept up in it without understanding the stakes.
"And the favour?" Lyra pressed, eyes narrowing. "What’s the catch?" Draco leaned back in his chair, unbothered by her scepticism. .
"It’s simple. A favour. One day, when I ask, you’ll owe me. That’s all."
Sirius, sensing the tension, huffed quietly from his spot on the floor and rested his head on Lyra’s lap, his heavy head resting against her. She stroked his fur absently, feeling the weight of the decision pressing down on her. This offer would open doors for her-doors she couldn’t access alone. But what price would she pay for it in the end?
Finally, she exhaled and gave him a sharp nod.
"Alright, Draco. Teach me how to be a proper Slytherin, a Lady. And we’ll see where it takes us."
A small, almost predatory smile crossed Draco’s lips as he extended his hand toward her. Daphne, looking relieved that Lyra hadn’t accepted outright, gave a small sigh and leaned back in her chair, but Lyra didn’t miss the flicker of uncertainty in her eyes.
As she shook Draco’s hand, a quiet voice echoed in the back of her mind
Hopefully, I won’t regret this.
⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
Dear Mother and Father,
Thank you for your swift action in sending the Dicto-quill so quickly. It has been an absolute boon, making note-taking and communicating with you both much easier since my unfortunate run-in with those horrid dementors. As I’m sure you’re aware, their presence has cast a dark shadow over the school, and I find myself grateful for any tool that helps me keep up with my studies and maintain a sense of normalcy. School, as ever, is as dull and tedious as always. I must admit, I find myself growing weary of the endless rounds of parchment and ink, with few subjects that truly capture my attention. However, I find myself especially grateful for this quill in Professor Binns' class. The blasted ghost nearly charms us all to sleep with his endless droning on about history-one can only endure so much of his monotonous recitations of ancient battles and long-forgotten kings before one’s mind begins to wander.
On a more pressing matter, has there been any movement on the issue of the dementors at the school? They’ve had to cancel Quidditch practice for all four houses, and I fear that one of the two extracurricular activities the school offers may soon be abandoned entirely. Quidditch, of course, is something I hold in high regard-perhaps more than most would admit-so it is deeply frustrating to see our precious time on the pitch squandered by these creatures. I am, as you know, not a gobstones player, and it would be most distasteful if our best sport were to be wiped from the schedule. Surely, this matter must be addressed soon. The students cannot be expected to endure this for much longer.
As for my housemates, my previous concerns regarding Lyra Potter’s place within Slytherin may have been for naught. While I initially feared that her presence might be more of a hindrance than a help, she has proven to be rather quick-witted and astute in her studies. It seems she is far more capable than I had anticipated. Though, I must confess, she remains a bit unpolished-her mannerisms, her speech, and her approach to certain matters still leave much to be desired. However, Greengrass and I have extended a helping hand to her, and I believe that under our guidance, she may begin to refine herself in the right ways. I also feel she would benefit greatly from Mother’s expertise on more womanly matters. As much as I respect Greengrass, there are certain aspects of refinement that a young woman must learn from another of her kind, and I believe she needs your wisdom in this regard. Greengrass and I can only offer so much assistance in these areas.
A few days ago, a rather exciting event took place when young Potter tore into most of the first-year Slytherins. It was both surprising and entertaining to witness her stand up to the others, giving them a rather well-deserved piece of her mind about their treatment of her and the other new students. It was, I must admit, quite amusing to watch. However, despite her bold words, little has come of it for now-most of the other first years seem to have taken a step back, perhaps too frightened to respond. But I do not believe this will be the end of it. I suspect that should any further incidents occur, she may very well challenge one of them to a duel, perhaps to solidify her place as the leader of her year.
On the topic of Lyra’s relationships, I can report that she does not get along well with her older brother’s friends. The Mudblood, Granger, is tolerated, though I do not believe they have formed any sort of meaningful bond. However, the Weasel-that one-has earned her genuine disdain. I find myself curious to see how this dynamic will develop as time goes on. Granger has already attempted to ‘check’ young Potter’s homework, though she was met with outright refusal. If this continues, it will not be long before a rift grows between brother and sister. It will be interesting to watch their interactions unfold, especially as we approach Yule. Perhaps their familial bond will hold, but I suspect there will be strain before long.
As for the elder Potter, Harry, there has been a noticeable shift this year. He no longer responds to my words in the same way he once did. Gone is the eagerness to sneer at Slytherins and engage in pointless quarrels. His reactions have become more... restrained. One has to wonder if this change is due to his younger sister’s placement in our house or if there is something else at play-perhaps a deeper shift in his character, though it’s difficult to say. Either way, I have not offered him any assistance this year, nor do I plan to. His transformation, whatever the cause, has left me somewhat wary, and I prefer to keep my distance for now.
Lastly, I must warn you both that should I be permitted to invite young Lyra to our home for the holidays, I must inform you that she has a Grim Familiar. The creature is boisterous and energetic, though I must admit it has a rather... protective nature when it comes to Lyra and Harry. While I am sure it means no harm, I would advise that Mother take precautions, particularly in ensuring that the rooms she does not wish to be dirtied are properly warded. I can already foresee the mess it could cause if it’s left to its own devices.
Sincerely,
Your son, Heir to the Ancient and Noble House of Malfoy,
Draco Malfoy.
⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
Narcissa’s fingers lingered on the edge of the letter, the parchment cool under her touch as she reread the carefully penned words. The fire crackled in the hearth, casting flickering shadows across the room, and Lucius continued his slow, deliberate pacing. His tall figure cut an imposing silhouette, the dim light catching the sharp lines of his face as he scowled at the contents of the letter.
“I thought his writing about Harry Potter was something we’d grown out of,” Lucius muttered darkly, his voice heavy with disdain. “But I see he’s simply moved his sights onto Potter's sister.”
Narcissa’s lips quirked ever so slightly as she regarded her husband. She didn’t share his ire, though she could understand it. The wizarding world had long known the Potters for their blood-traitor tendencies, and Harry’s continued involvement in the fight against the Dark Lord was a stain that could never be erased from their family’s honour. But she wasn’t one to react impulsively. She took a moment to hum softly, the familiar sound that often signaled her careful consideration.
"My dear," she began, her voice calm and smooth like velvet, "he's simply taking advantage of the situation. The Potter name is still a mark of recognition, after all." She paused, letting her words settle. "Imagine how our Lord would react to our son bringing one of the Potter children to our side. It could be an opportunity, not just for the family, but for the future of the Dark Lord's cause." Lucius stopped pacing and turned to face her, eyes narrowing in thought.
“An opportunity?” he echoed, his scepticism. evident. “For a Potter?” Narcissa’s serene gaze met his, her brow lifted ever so slightly as if she was already several steps ahead.
“Yes, my love,” she said, her tone unwavering. “And it’s not as if she’s beyond help. After all, I have the paperwork that confirms my cousin Sirius Legitimised both children with his blood.” She let the weight of her words sink in. She knew Lucius understood the gravity of what this meant.
Lucius’s expression shifted, his frown deepening as he processed the information. He crossed the room in two long strides, lowering himself into the chair beside her.
“Legitimised…” His voice trailed off, and the momentary quiet in the room felt thick with the implications of what Narcissa had just revealed.
The legitimacy ritual was a rare and significant act. It required careful planning and the right kind of blood-specifically, the blood of a Pure-blood wizard or witch from outside the immediate family. Sirius Black, though estranged from his own family, had been perfectly suited for such a task, as he had been a Pure-blood who was separated by enough generations to be considered outside of the Potter’s direct lineage. Lucius knew that. He had seen the paperwork himself, though it had never been discussed openly.
To have the Potters-both Harry and his sister-legitimised by Sirius meant that they were no longer bound by the constraints of their Muggle heritage. They were, in the eyes of the magical world, just as pure-blooded as anyone born into the ancient families.
This Legitimisation would allow both of the Potter children, should they choose to marry, to bring Pure-blood children into the world. And it’s not something that was sorely needed after the previous war.
Narcissa watched as Lucius fell into deep thought, his long fingers running through his platinum blonde hair. The silence in the room was thick, but not uncomfortable-just the calm before a decision would be made.
"Both Potters are under the care of Muggles, aren't they?" Lucius asked, breaking the quiet, his voice smooth and calculating. Narcissa nodded, recalling the letter they'd received a few days prior on the subject.
"Then it should take little persuasion to have Miss Potter placed in our care," he mused, a slight gleam of triumph flickering in his pale eyes.
"But what of her brother? Would they truly separate the Boy Who Lived from his sister? Would they allow it?" Narcissa questioned, her gaze fixed on her husband, watching his expression shift to one of contemplation.
"Perhaps we could ask to take the boy as well... but it may not be practical," Lucius admitted, frowning slightly. "Perhaps we push for him to be placed with that sister of yours, Andromeda. We could claim they are too dependent on one another, suggest the need for separation. A visit to a mind healer could help solidify the argument."
"One that we pay to give the assessment, of course." Narcissa's lips curled into a knowing smirk. Lucius gave a small nod, the idea settling in.
"Exactly. And then we can ensure it’s ruled best for the children to be separated. Harry Potter, with that blood traitor of a sister, and we take the girl-who, I believe, shows enough potential to be sorted into Slytherin. Dumbledore gets to keep his precious Light mascot, and we gain a possible inheritor of the Potter fortune. It’s a win for us, Narcissa."
"But you think Dumbledore will simply allow us to take Lyra so easily?" Narcissa raised an eyebrow, her voice filled with doubt. Lucius’ expression hardened slightly, but his tone remained confident.
"I believe he has little use for her. We hear everything about Harry-his life, his summer vacations, his every move. But Lyra is a shadow. Forgotten. If he does have any plans for her, I daresay they can’t come to fruition until she’s much older. Frankly, we'd be doing the old fool a favour." Narcissa considered this, her mind working over the possibilities.
"There is one issue," she muttered, her gaze turning colder. "We don't know where they went last summer, after the Minister placed them in Diagon Alley. Rumors say they ran off to some secondary location. We’ll need to be cautious, mindful that they could do the same thing again." Lucius straightened, his mind already shifting to the next phase.
"We’ll handle that when the time comes. For now, I'll write to Draco. He’ll extend an invitation for the girl to join us for Yule. We’ll have her evaluated over the holidays."
"It’s a good start." Narcissa’s lips curled into a satisfied smile.
"Indeed," Lucius said, his tone turning darker, his plans already set in motion. "It’s the perfect way to ensure everything falls into place."