The Express arrived at King's Cross to the welcome of a number of Aurors, which was actually a relief to Harry. Other than the DMLE presence, the station was its usual chaos. Still, there was an undertone that those who were familiar with the summer holidays would know was not the usual. Harry gathered his and Hermione's shrunken trunks into a simple bag, while she kept a tight hold on Crookshanks' carrier. He had once again allowed Hedwig to fly on ahead, much to his familiar's pleasure. They said goodbye to their friends and promised to be in touch in a week or so when plans for the summer firmed up some. Then they carefully made their way through the crowds, keeping a hand inside their pockets and ready to grab their wands. Rather than make their way through the magical barrier, they went to the edge of the magical platform and found a loo. Now that they could apparate, they had informed the Grangers not to bother with London traffic. As soon as they were in an alcove out of immediate sight, they each apparated to the Grangers' backyard.
Hermione and Harry landed moments later in the welcome confines of the fenced, manicured backyard that they knew so well. Jean and Neil were sitting in nearby chairs and stood immediately to come greet them. As soon as hugs were exchanged, the disgusted feline who was making his displeasure known was released from his confines and Crookshanks bolted across the yard. For the first time Harry let out a breath and felt like he could relax as Neil stepped over toward the grill.
"So Hermione, come and get a drink and tell us about the troubles you alluded to in your last letter. You mentioned that your hunt went well, but there were complications?"
Hermione sighed and traded a couple of mental comments with Harry, but he was fine to let her lead. By the time dinner was ready, the Grangers were apprised of the last few weeks of happenings. Everything from horcrux hunting and forest fires to school exams was covered.
"Well you two have certainly had an eventful school year. So, obviously Voldemort is your focus when he is found. As much as I hate to say that. Until then, what is the plan? Do you plan to keep training?"
"Some. Honestly, I would like a bit of a break. Also, we need to start looking at the Potter properties. You and Neil have been great Jean and I know we're family, but I need to look at what my family left me. I especially want to see about Druimoor. It's my ancestral home, but it hasn't had any house elves or other magic in it for years. I know Gringotts has had it maintained, so it must be at least in decent shape, but I probably need to go talk to them. My account manager can tell me how to get there as well. I checked a map and it's about three and a half hours from here. So, we need to visit Gringotts in a couple of days."
"So, you'll stay here to start the summer and then maybe go to Druimoor if it's in habitable condition?"
"Perhaps, but if we do, we'd want you to come. At least on the weekends when you don't have the practice to run. And all this depends on Voldemort. I'm sorry Jean, I wish we had more definite plans."
"That's fine, I understand. What I don't understand is this Jean bit. What happened to mum?"
Harry blushed and looked at his feet.
"Sorry, I sort of forgot. Its new to me mum, but it does feel good. Dad, do you mind…mind that?"
"Of course not Harry. Just because we haven't seen you for months doesn't change anything. You are married to my daughter. As for the summer, we'll see how it goes."
The rest of the evening went well and, after watching a brief, stupid game show on the telly, Hermione declared she was tired and everyone retired early.
The following day was spent quietly at home for the Potters, a rare treat that was welcome after the recent madness with exams. Harry still itched to be doing more, but he knew that the relaxation was good for his mental wellbeing and had to admit that the following day's meditation went smoother as he was able to more easily slip into his calm center of focus.
After their one day break, the Potters resumed their training on their second morning home. That afternoon though was planned for their trip to Gringotts to talk to Silverstaff, who had responded to Harry's owl and set an appointment for two in the afternoon. Both of them were happy to have trained in apparition, being able to move themselves around quickly and efficiently as they apparated to Diagon. Still, they traveled with disillusion charms and wands out, wary due to the current security concerns.
As the Potters quickly walked through the Alley to the bank, two people made passing glances at them, and Hermione knew that those people had devices to look past their charms. Harry's cloak would have been better coverage, but was more cumbersome. The charms did well enough, especially since Diagon was not nearly as crowded as it once had been. Both the people who spotted them didn't move closer, so they were able to pass by quickly, although they remained on guard. When they stepped in the bank and had goblin guards at their backs, both felt relieved.
Minutes after stepping inside the bank, the Potters were shown to Silverstaff's office.
"Good afternoon Lord and Lady Potter. Please have a seat. How may I and Gringotts help you today?"
"Hello honorable Silverstaff. May your vaults overflow. We are here to inquire after the Potter properties, specifically Druimoor. We would like to visit, and possibly stay there, but are unsure of the condition, or how to reach it."
"I see. Well, let's discuss the other properties first. As you know, the cottage in Godric's Hollow has remained in stasis and unrepaired per the request of the Town Council as a memorial to your parents. Of course, the final decision is yours. If you wish, you could override that decision and have the cottage repaired. It has three bedrooms and one bathroom. The damage was extensive and would take at least a month to repair. Your property in France is land only. Finally, the Dedianos estate in Greece is on the island of Leros. It is listed to be on the western side of the island, a short distance outside of the city of Xirocampos. You own fifteen hectares on a bluff overlooking the Mediterranean with a walk that winds down to a small crescent of beach. Here is a floorplan of the house. It is in the style of a Roman villa with a central courtyard and includes plenty of space inside and out, as well as a swimming area in the large courtyard in the style of a Roman bath. The land has been in your family for several hundred years, but your great-grandfather Henry built the villa. He quite admired Roman architecture."
Harry looked over the floorplan and was impressed. The house had seven good size bedrooms, all with attached baths on a second floor. The first floor were all common spaces. All were arranged in a square around the massive courtyard that showed a series of flower beds, hot and cold pools, fountains, and outside dining areas.
"Wow, this is impressive, but how has it been maintained? How would I get there?"
"Gringotts is contracted to maintain it. In the past, House Potter had between eight and fourteen house elves that traveled between the family properties. Now we keep the interior of the house under stasis and the outside of the house has charms to slow the aging process. Then we hire maintenance with locals on the island. There is a portkey necklace available in your vault. I can have it brought here if you wish. I didn't before because you indicated you weren't ready yet."
"No, I wasn't. Hermione, what do you think? Greece sounds nice."
"Yes, but I think we need to focus closer to home for now. Silverstaff, what can you tell us about Druimoor?"
"Yes, Druimoor is your ancestral seat for the past 832 years. Of course, the current manor has only stood for 411 years. As you can probably surmise, Druimoor is a contraction of Druid Moor, as the site of the manor is closely situated to a conjunction of ley lines that was spiritually significant to the ancients of this isle. The total size of the land is 172 hectares, encompassing forest and farmland. The manor itself is 1580 square meters total, with fourteen bedrooms and four floors from basement to attic. The land also includes a number of utility buildings, as well as barns, workshops, and a garage. All are under stasis charms and Gringotts checks on the property on a monthly basis. The farmlands are mowed, but have been left fallow. The orchard is kept clear of grass, but the harvest is left to the animals and birds. The house remains fully furnished as it was the day your grandmother died, two months after her husband passed. Your father was in school and only returned briefly after. The elves who were left were quite old and passed on through the years."
Harry used his meditation techniques to calm himself. It was a lot to take in. The house was massive. And the idea that it had been sitting in stasis for so long. Hermione didn't say much, but her presence helped to calm and soothe him. Silverstaff seemed to understand that he needed a moment and had paused before continuing.
"As for how to visit the manor, I should have told you before, but you were adamant about waiting. Simply press your wand to your signet and say 'Druimoor'. Anyone who is touching you will portkey with you. When you are ready to leave, just say 'return' and you will return to the spot you left from. Here are floorplans and a map of the property. If you wish to visit, I can go with you to show you around if you wish?"
"Thank you Silverstaff, but we're not sure of our plans yet. We should be able to get around with the map."
"Of course. Might I recommend that you take brooms when you go. It is the best way to view the property overall. There are some older ones in storage at the manor, but they might be a bit slow. Do you plan on moving in soon?"
"Um, well, we still have to decide. We have to finish school yet."
"Well, if you do decide to in the future, you will need house elves. Gringotts can arrange for the purchase of them if you wish. I would say six at minimum for the size of the manor."
Harry grimaced, knowing that Hermione wasn't happy with the idea of hiring house elves. Still, a manor with fourteen bedrooms would need help.
We won't make the decision hastily love. Maybe we should talk to Dobby. Remember what he said about needing the castle's magic? Well, if Druimoor is at the center of ley lines, maybe it will be good for him and others also. And we would treat them well and pay them too. They don't have to be slaves.
Perhaps. We'll discuss it. We need to see the place first.
The mental dialogue was cut short as Silverstaff continued.
"Now, that is about it for the properties. Everything else is going well with the Potter holdings. Do you have any questions on the statements you've been receiving?"
Harry briefly checked with Hermione, but then they both assured Silverstaff that they had no further questions at the time. They both thanked him then he summoned an assistant to take them down to the vault. Once there, Hermione located the Dedianos amulet portkey exactly where Silverstaff had told them it was. It was actually a beautiful amulet on a gold chain and she happily put it on before joining her husband for the ride back to the main floor of the bank.
Once they were back in Diagon, the Potters stopped for ice cream and then apparated back home, arriving around half past three in the afternoon. It had been a monumental day and both of them still had thoughts churning over the wealth of information they had gathered.
That night Harry cooked chicken curry to surprise the Grangers when they got home from the practice, which they were quite appreciative of. The main topic of discussion at dinner was the Potter properties and they were equally stunned at the size of the manor when Hermione gave her parents the general statistics. Once they had finished eating, Neil took the cleanup duties and then they all gathered around to look over the manor floor plans, as well as the overall details for manor grounds. After reviewing everything thoroughly, both couples decided to wait a couple of days until the weekend and then go together to look in person. While Harry was curious, he had waited a year, he could wait a bit longer.
The next couple of days were spent with the Potters keeping busy working on their summer homework assignments, as well as keeping up with the drills that Tonks had given them. They also traded owls with their friends and everyone seemed to be settling into a boring summer routine.
Unfortunately, the Death Eaters were anything but bored and the Prophet brought bad news usually every other day. While muggle targets remained a favorite, the Potters received a scare three days after arriving home when the Prophet brought the news of an attack on the home of Varinius and Lucinda Brown. Varinius was a neutral voice in the Wizengamot who had voted in favor of a recent increase in Auror funding and the attack seemed to be payback for that vote. Thankfully, Lucinda was away during the attack, but Varinius was listed as gravely injured. His age was given as seventy-one, so the Potters were unsure what his relation was to Lavender, but pureblood England was too closely related for their not to be a relation and they worried for their fellow Gryffindor. Hermione quickly sent Hedwig off with a note to express their concern and offer any help possible. The following day, Lavender replied with her thanks. Her grandfather was doing better, but would be in the hospital for a couple of weeks. He had been quite cheered though to see Lord and Lady Potter send their well wishes.
For Harry especially the attack on the Browns only chafed him more as he practiced harder and wished to do more. The day after the attack, he sent Hedwig to Tonks to schedule a training session. He had been talking to Sirius on the mirror and he had offered Grimmauld's basement whenever they wanted. Tonks replied the same day and scheduled a training session for Saturday late afternoon at four. Hermione quickly drafted letters for all their friends and sealed them with the House Potter signet before sending Hedwig off on a loop to visit each of their friends and allies. If Harry worried that they were working her too much, he needn't have as Hedwig was happy with her regular flights.
Soon enough Saturday arrived and everyone in the Granger house was awake by eight. After a quick breakfast, they all gathered in the living room and Hermione explained briefly what to expect from the portkey. Then she took hold of Harry's hand while Jean and Neil each placed a hand on his shoulders. Harry then took his wand and tapped it to his signet while saying 'Druimoor'.
The group landed with a bit of a stumble, but everyone managed to stay upright as they stood and then looked around what was obviously a large receiving hall. The ceiling was at least six meters above them and the floor was inlaid with the Potter crest. The walls were primarily lined in a fine grain white granite with carved columns of a blue stone done in fine detail. On one wall was a large fireplace, also carved from the same bluish stone. On the other wall was a massive tapestry with an intricate tracery detail. When Harry stepped closer, he saw that it was his family tree. Looking toward the end, he smiled to see both his and Hermione's names. The room wasn't overly large so Hermione pulled out her map and they decided where to go to first.
"Well this is the magical arrivals hall, the central foyer should be just through this door to our left. The main staircase is there and we can access the rest of the house from that point."
Harry nodded and let his wife take the lead as both he and Hermione held their wands and made their way through the double walnut doors into the main part of the house. Although they felt they were most likely safe, it didn't hurt to remain prepared.
When they reached the central receiving hall, both couples were awestruck at the sweeping three story expanse of space with the curling staircase that greeted a reception hall that was twice the size as the entire first floor of the Grangers' house. The front doors of the manor were solid oak and they stepped outside for a minute to look on the beautiful expansive lawn before ducking back inside.
Once they were back in the main hall, Hermione took in the amazing carved stone details that were everywhere, especially in the inlaid detail in the floor. Then there was the carved details in the stairs, which displayed a plethora of flora and fauna. Still, there was much to see and Harry had left her in charge of the map. Shaking herself out of her daze, Hermione went to a massive side table and spread the map for everyone to see so that they could orient themselves and discuss where to go next.
"Alright, this space is stunning, but we have a lot to see. The first floor are the common spaces. I suggest we work east to west. Here on the east side we have the ladies' parlor and office, then the library on the back corner of the house and extending up to the second floor. If we then wrap around the center of the floor, we can cover the central ball room and formal dining room. The back appears to be an entire glass conservatory with a family dining area. We can then circle to the kitchens on the western side corner and then come around the western side where the largest formal living room and game room, as well as the lord's formal office. That will then loop us back here. I guess then we go to the second floor. Mostly a lot of guest suites on the west and children's and nanny rooms on the east. Should be fairly repetitive. There are some classrooms near the eastern corner where the library extends up to that level. The third floor is listed as storage and overflow guest space, with half the floor designated for elf quarters. I want to see that and see where the Potters kept their elves. I know that Gringotts said the Potters were known for treating them well, but I am curious. The basement is primarily storage on one side, with the other side listed as pools, gym, and a training arena."
Neil shook his head and whistled.
"Well, I guess it's good we wore our trainers. We've got some walking to do."
The rest agreed and Harry let Hermione lead on the path she had chosen. The house was a bit eerie, but he felt a low level of magic that told him enough wards were still in place that he wasn't worried and he was able to relax for a bit. It took about forty minutes before they reached the other side of the first floor and entered the lord's office. Harry felt a pull toward the crest on the back wall and stepped over to it. He noticed a spot in the carved wood where his signet would fit and wondered if he should.
Go ahead love. The magic must be compelling you for a reason.
"Mum, dad, Harry is being pulled by the house magic toward the crest. Let's step back a bit."
Harry pressed his signet into the crest and watched as it swung open to reveal what looked like a small safe behind. Then a number of panels on the walls around the room swung open to reveal portraits. Harry looked into the safe and pulled out several books, as well as an ancient looking quill. Then he turned to sit at the desk with the items. As he did, one of the portraits of a man in ancient looking colonial dress smiled down at him.
"Excellent, another Lord Potter takes his seat. Welcome, I am Lord Ralston Potter."
"Indeed, welcome. I am Fleamont. What year is it and who might you be?"
"I believe I might know. Harry is that you?"
Harry looked around in shock and then looked at the last portrait that had spoken. It was his father.
"D…Dad?"
"Ha! It is you! Everyone, meet Lord Harry James Potter. How old are you now son?"
"Fifteen."
"Fifteen? And already a lord? James, when did you pass?"
"Um, everyone, it's great to meet you all, but that's a long story. The blame lies with a dark lord who named himself Voldemort. I'm afraid I don't have a lot of time today. I do need to introduce someone very important. A year ago I soul bonded with my best friend. This is Lady Hermione Jean Potter."
Harry pulled Hermione over to be introduced to the six portraits of past Potters in the room. There had been other portraits around the house as they toured, but all had been sleeping. He wondered if all would be awake now.
"A soul bond you say? Well, that certainly answers some of the questions. Welcome my lady!"
"Congratulations son. I wish your mother and I could have met your lady. Now then, who else have you brought with you?"
"These are Hermione's parents, Drs. Neil and Jean Granger. They are non-magical. Although Hermione is muggleborn, she is the smartest witch in our year, and Professor McGonagall says the smartest in the last fifty years."
James chuckled.
"Of course, a brilliant muggleborn. You are a true Potter. Now son, I know you have a lot to do. What are your plans for today?"
"We're just here to look around the manor. It's been looked after by Gringotts for years. All the elves are gone and it's been in stasis. Honestly, we've been staying with the Grangers and we're still in school, so we probably don't need a large home for now. This is the first time I've been here though and I wanted to see the place."
Fleamont huffed and shook his head.
"Stasis? And no elves? It's amazing the place is still standing. Especially with a dark lord on the loose. Look Harry, do you understand why manors have elves?"
"I think so, to cook, clean, and take care of the place."
"Well yes, partially. It really is a testament to the goblins that they have kept the place going without elves, because there is much more to a magical home. Druimoor has ancient wards that help to power the modern wards. Go ahead and sit back down and open the top right drawer of the desk. Once open, reach in and press the button on the underside."
Harry did as told and was amazed when the top of the desk folded back and what appeared to be a map of his entire property lit up on the desk. All the portraits appeared to stretch to look at the map. Several clucked and his father was looking dismayed. He noticed several areas in orange and the manor itself was yellow. He guessed it wasn't good.
"As I thought, the wards are dangerously low. You can start to help them, but the wards need constant magical power to drive them. Witches and wizards provide some, but elves have a unique magic that feeds wards in ways that we cannot. In conjunction, elves also need the unique magic that wizards and witches have. Think of it as two types of magic that need to live symbiotically. One cannot survive without the other. The elves live with us and we give them some of ours and they give us some of theirs. Our wards get powered and they get powered personally for their very lives."
Harry rubbed his face and looked at his wife. This challenged all her ideas on elf equality. He could see a range of emotions flitting across her face and knew she wanted to speak. She was having a hard time keeping silent and he gestured for her to speak up.
"But the elves are treated horribly. They're slaves! That's not right!"
"I see that you have the viewpoint of your upbringing Lady Potter. True enough, some elves are badly treated and that is a crime. It is no different than someone who mistreats their horse or gods forbid a child. Those people need to be dealt with. If elves are treated as they should, they are valued family members. Yes, they work hard, but no more than they desire and they are given all that they need. An elf from a strong magical family can live for well on two hundred years."
That bit of information shocked everyone into silence and Fleamont continued.
"So Lord Potter, even if you do not return to the manor full time, please see to the situation and stay here for some time this summer. And please hire some elves. The land needs the magic rebuilt, especially if a dark lord is coming. Now then, James please instruct your son on the ward book."
"Yes indeed. Son, please listen to your grandfather about the elves, it is critical. Now, the book you hold is the ward book. Use the quill to add or remove names of those allowed access to the manor. You may allow visitors to the grounds without adding them to the book, but the manor is sacred. Remember that if you are planning events. Sometimes it easier to plan them out on the grounds. Go ahead and check the book and remove anyone you do not want and add anyone you need to. You may want to add the Grangers. They can be here now since they are in your presence. If they left the room you were in, they were feel an overwhelming desire to leave."
Harry nodded and opened the thick book. There were some names he didn't know that he crossed off. Then he spotted one that sent a chill of rage through him and he slashed through Peter Pettigrew's name. Once he was done removing names, he added the Grangers, as well as his allies. With the ward book done, he turned and placed it back behind the crest in the wall. Then he turned back to the portraits.
"Thank you all. I know that we need to talk more later dad, but we still have a lot more to look around. Hermione and I need to talk about the issue with elves too."
"Actually Harry, while you were working on the ward book I was thinking on it. I guess I need to readjust my thinking. Maybe we should start with an elf we know. If he's interested."
"Dobby."
Before he could say anything else, Dobby appeared in front of them, looking quite surprised. Then he looked quite worried as he took in his surroundings.
"Master Lord Harry Potter sir has called for Dobby, but this is the manor! Ooh, but wards here are very weak. No wonders that Dobby was able to come. This be bad, very bad. Where be Lord Harry Potter sirs elveses?"
Harry shook his head at Dobby's grammar as he prepared an answer.
"Actually Dobby, the answer is part of the reason we were discussing calling you. I hadn't meant to summon you yet. I'm surprised you came all the way from Hogwarts. Do you work there during the summer too?"
"Some. There not be much to be doing now, but Dobby be needing magic since Dobby not be bonded. It be the best Dobby can do."
What do you think love, I know your stance on elf rights.
Yes, although it seems I have to adjust that in light of what your grandfather had taught us today. If Dobby wants to bond to House Potter, then go ahead. I suppose you may need more elves in the future with the way the wards look. I really want to see the elf quarters.
"Dobby, we've been discussing this and we understand better why the manor needs elves. Would you be interested in bonding to House Potter and coming to work here? We probably won't be at the manor a lot for a while since we still need to finish school."
"Dobby would be most pleased to work for such a fine family and fix the manor, but Dobby be worried! If just Dobby stays, the manor will hurt Dobby badly in a day or two. Other elveses be needed immediately or magic damage will be very bad."
"Hmm, I see. Well Gringotts did offer to arrange the sale of some elves. How does this sound Dobby, we need to finish our tour today. Tomorrow we'll go to Gringotts and then return here with the new elves. We'll call you back at that time and everyone can bond to the manor together and start working. Alright? You can also let the head elf at school know you're leaving."
"That will work Master Lord Harry Potter sir!"
Dobby popped out and Harry sighed.
"We will also be working on a shorter way to address us tomorrow as well.
"I'm quite pleased grandson that you're dealing with the elf situation and the wards. It will be good to have the manor back in shape shortly."
Harry nodded to Fleamont and then everyone stepped out of the lord's office. Another five minutes saw them finish the tour of the first floor and then ascend to the second floor. On the landing of the second floor were more portraits, but now all the house portraits were awake and Harry's ancestors were eager to talk to them. While Harry found them intriguing, it slowed the tour down. The one that Harry did stop at was a full size portrait of his parents. They looked impossibly young and very in love. He came to a halt and pulled Hermione close as James spoke first.
"Hello again Harry and Hermione. I decided to jump between my pictures. I warned your mum that you were in the manor. I didn't warn her that you were bringing your wife."
"No you didn't James Henry! Harry, can you please introduce us?"
"Um, mum, this is my wife, Lady Hermione Jean Potter. We soul bonded a year ago. We've been best friends since our first year at Hogwarts. To catch you up a bit, I'm fifteen now, almost sixteen. This is my first visit to the manor. Voldemort is back. You and dad were killed by him when I was fifteen months old. I survived when the killing curse backfired. Voldemort managed to survive because he had created horcruxes, splitting his soul and storing pieces in various containers. During my fourth year, he got a new body and came back, gathering his Death Eaters back to him. I was hurt during that. It was when I was in the hospital wing that I kissed Hermione and we soul bonded. We've been dealing with the horcruxes for a year so he's mortal now. We're left with finding him and killing his resurrected form as well as hunting down the Death Eaters now. I've been gathering allies to House Potter and working toward that goal since the prophecy says I have to be the one to finish him. That's a quick summary."
Lily shook her head as she held onto James.
"My poor boy. I never wanted any of that for you. When Albus told us the prophecy, I half hoped it was mad rantings, even though we agreed to go into hiding. I'm glad you've found your soul mate at least. Who else is standing behind you?"
"Oh, excuse me. This is Drs. Neil and Jean Granger, Hermione's parents. They're dentists. Which you'll understand mum since you were muggleborn as well. Hermione is the smartest witch in our year. Actually the smartest in at least fifty years if not longer."
"Beautiful, smart, and muggleborn. That's how us Potter men like them. Well son, I know we have a lot more questions, but you still have to look around the rest of the manor."
"Yes dad. We'll be back tomorrow with the elves. We probably will stay a few days sometime during the summer to help the wards as well. We have to decide. I'll bring Sirius by as well. I'll set up chair and some pints and he can talk for a few hours."
"Yep, sounds like Padfoot. Take care son."
The tour continued around the second floor, which was mostly bedroom suites, as well as the second floor extension to the library. After that they moved up to the third floor. Here the area that Hermione was most interested in was the half of the floor that was reserved for the elves. The space they found was under some eaves with about a meter and a half head clearance, meaning they had to stoop. For elves though it was a perfect height. Within the space were corridors laid out with good size living rooms, a large galley kitchen, family bedrooms, bathrooms, and dorm bedrooms for younger elves. The space was decorated colorfully and was wonderfully homey. Although Harry's back was cricked by the end of the tour of the space, he and Hermione were reassured that they could comfortably accommodate up to twenty elves. He didn't plan on hiring that many, but the space was available.
Last on the tour for the day was the basement, half of which was storage areas, including a root cellar, a wine cellar, a crockery, and other essentials to the kitchen. There were also large general storage rooms that stored a large selection of extra tables and chairs for various functions. Much of it was shrunken, but even with shrinking spells, there was a limit. The other half of the cellar was a shock when they walked into what appeared to be a Roman bath with beautiful elaborate tile and a selection of hot and cold baths. Or at least that's what the various pipes designated. Everything was currently drained and in stasis, but it was easy to see that it wouldn't take much to get the baths and a massive lap pool functional once again. Next to that then was a large workout room with a range of equipment. Then there were two professional dueling rooms lined in Ironbelly hide over the thick granite walls that combined with the magical dummies were designed to take a beating. Harry was thrilled when he saw the setup. It would be a great place to train, as just one of the rooms was twice the size of the training room at Grimmauld.
With the basement tour done it was almost two in the afternoon and everyone was tired and hungry as they gathered around Harry to return portkey back to the Grangers. They hadn't looked around the outside of the manor, but figured that could wait until the next day. While Hermione and Neil fixed lunch, Harry went to send a note to Silverstaff to request a meeting the following morning to purchase elves. He knew it was Sunday, but hoped his account manager could arrange it.
After eating lunch with the Grangers and relaxing a bit, the Potters apparated to Grimmauld Place a bit before four in the afternoon. They went early so that they could talk to Sirius about the manor. When they brought up the subject of elves, he was dismayed that he seemed to have failed in his godfatherly duties. The problem was that the use of house elves was so ingrained in pureblood society that he didn't even think to explain it. He was excited though when he heard that James and Lily had a portrait. He hadn't realized that they had managed to get one painted and he was excited for a chance to see his friends in a way.
Training with Tonks went well, but the training room at Grimmauld was a bit cramped after they had been spoiled by the Room of Requirement. When Harry explained what he had available at Druimoor, everyone readily agreed to meet the following Wednesday at Druimoor when Tonks had a night off. Since Harry had put them all in the ward book, he would just need to key them to the floo, which Sirius would help him do the day of. The afternoon session wrapped up with everyone excited to see Harry's ancestral home in just a few days.
With their later appointment the next morning, the Granger house had a bit of a lie-in until half past eight before then enjoying a leisurely breakfast of scones and fruit. The Grangers had seen the manor the day before and had discussed if they wanted to come along, but had decided that they had their own business to attend to. It was important that Hermione and Harry handle some of their own without the parents tagging along. So, at a quarter until the hour, the Potters apparated to Diagon and then cautiously made their way to Gringotts.
When they entered the bank a single goblin greeted them at the side entrance due to the fact that it was a Sunday and they were there solely because of the Potter account and the fact that they had an appointment. They were led to Sliverstaff's office directly and their account manager did not waste time.
"Good morning Lord and Lady Potter. I take it you have been to visit Druimoor and now have seen the need for the acquisition of elves?"
"Yes Silverstaff. Truthfully, being muggle raised, the idea of the near slave status that many elves work under was difficult for me to swallow. I now understand that this is a perversion perpetrated by certain families. The elf quarters at Druimoor seemed quite sufficient. I was wondering if I may also set up an account as part of the house accounts for use by the elves?"
"Well normally the elves just draw on the house accounts. Druimoor will need a bit to get back in shape. I would say a house account of three thousand galleons a month should be more than sufficient. This should allow the elves to take care of the maintenance that Gringotts has been handling, as long as you purchase elves with those skills. You can designate what the elves use the funds for from that. If you wish some personal use, that can be specified."
"Fine, I'd like to establish a house account of three thousand galleons. I also need to modify the existing maintenance account that Gringotts has. I do appreciate the work that has been done to maintain the manor in stasis."
Silverstaff nodded and produced the forms. It took only a couple of minutes and the paperwork was complete.
"Now my lord, how many elves and what specialties do you need?"
"My lady and I discussed this last night. We need manor maintenance and cleaning primarily, as well as grounds maintenance. We want to get the orchard cleaned up and would like to have the fruit harvested rather than leave it to the birds and let it rot. The elves can use what they need and we'll take some for us and friends. The rest can be donated. As for the fields, we don't plan on opening those up for a few years. The elves may need to plant some vegetables for their own use and we wouldn't mind a few, but the plots would be minimal. A cook would be handy, but we won't be hosting lavish banquets for a while. I have one free elf already who is skilled in general maintenance and cleaning. With where the wards are at, I think we need another seven elves. That will give us eight total."
"Excellent. A sound plan. Please follow me then. Gringotts keeps a number of young elves that work here and train in the skills you mentioned."
The Potters followed their account manager out of the office and through the winding back corridors of the bank. Soon they reached a broad expanse of stone stairs and began to wind down. The climb was long but after continuing down what must have been several stories, Silverstaff veered down a long simple hallway and began to lead them through a maze of additional corridors until they came to a grey door that they stepped through. On the other side of the door was a large dorm like room with rows of beds and small wardrobes. The center of the room had long trestle tables where groups of elves were busy either eating or working on projects. Seeing they had visitors, all of the elves quickly gathered and lined up, grinning. Silverstaff took the lead as he greeted the elves.
"Good morning elves! This is Lord and Lady Potter. Their manor is currently in stasis without any staff. They have one other elf they are going to bond with later today, but they need an additional seven staff to join them at Druimoor. For the skill level they need, I want only those individuals who are twelve years of age or older to step forward. Please introduce yourself and state your skills."
The group of elves thinned by at least two-thirds, which Harry was glad for as it would make the choosing process easier. Then the remaining elves introduced themselves as requested. Hermione was thankfully making mental notes and they conversed mentally as the introductions moved along. Once everyone was done, Harry thanked them and then leaned in to have a more obvious conference with his wife. Soon they had made their decision and picked the seven individuals that they thought would suit their needs. When they were picked, the elves were so happy they were practically bouncing with joy. Silverstaff then stepped aside with Harry.
"Now Lord Potter, the elves are priced by age as that indicates the amount of training they've received. The total value of all the elves you've selected is 32,400 galleons. I have the draft slip here that will need your signature."
Harry just managed to avoid looking shocked. He supposed that considering how long he would have the elves that it was a deal, but the cost up front was steep. Dobby was quite the bargain. He signed the draft slip and the transaction was done.
"Thank you Lord Potter. Now, if you wish, I will escort you and your elves to a central portkey and apparition point. From there you can take them directly to Druimoor."
Harry agreed and turned to see that Hermione was now surrounded by their seven new family members, most of whom carried small bags of personal items and were ready to follow their new lord. The group all left and followed Silverstaff back out the twisting corridors of Gringotts until they reached the point where they could portkey. Hermione took Harry's hand and then all the elves gathered around to touch him as Harry activated the portkey and they were all on their way.
As soon as they reached the manor, the elves looked around in awe. Then the oldest, Giley, looked as if he were about to cry. Harry knew from Silverstaff that he was twenty-eight and had been sold back to Gringotts to clear some debts. He was skilled in managing a small homestead that was a secondary house and it was Harry's plan to put him in charge of the elves. Now he wondered what the problem was.
"Giley, what's the matter?"
"Sorry my lord, but I can feel the wards and they is bad. We have much work to do."
"Ah well, that is why you are here. First though, we are one short. Dobby!"
Dobby popped in and was bouncy with excitement. Then he looked around at the other elves and calmed himself. Harry immediately took charge.
"Dobby, are you ready to join House Potter?"
"Yes Master Lord Harry Potter sir!"
"Alright, first rule for all Potter elves. I am Harry, or Lord Harry if you must. Hermione?"
"Same for me. Hermione or Lady Hermione if you must. Nothing more."
"Now Silverstaff explained the bonding process to bond you to House Potter and the manor. The manor was secondary as I understand. I will go in order of seniority. Giley will be lead elf for the manor. Dobby will be his second. The rest please line up by age."
The elves all lined up as requested and Harry went down the line, placing his hand on each head so that his signet touched each as he called forth a bit of house magic as he stated the binding oath. The oath was quite basic and before long he had eight bonded house elves.
"Alright, excellent. That's the first step toward setting the manor right. I understand that my staying here some will help as well, so I will visit daily, mainly to train down in the basement. Your quarters are up on the third floor. Hermione will tell you what else needs to be done while the wards passively recharge."
"The first rule is that you are only to work ten hours a day. I prefer eight, but Silverstaff said that would be unheard of for elves. First priority are the training rooms in the basement. We need the pools functional as well as the workout rooms. Next, the main floor needs all the furniture uncovered and all the rooms cleaned. Work up from there. We don't plan on sleeping here or having overnight guests, so the second floor isn't a priority, although please see to the library as soon as possible. Today Harry and I will be looking around the outside of the manor and would like to have a picnic lunch. Besa you're our cook, so please do any food shopping that is necessary. That brings up the subject of household budget. There is a budget of 3000 galleons a month for the household. Use that as you need. If there is money left at the end of the month and you need something for yourselves please buy what you need or want. Friddy, you have sewing skills, please set aside time after the initial cleaning to purchase fabric and design uniforms for all the elves. Approve the design with myself and Lord Harry. These aren't clothes, they're uniforms. We're not giving them to you, we're only giving you the fabric. It's important that you project the proper image for House Potter. Any questions?"
None of the elves had any questions so Hermione and Harry apparated a couple of them up to the third floor. Once there, the others were able to use their elf skills to locate their master and mistress. All of the elves were amazed and overjoyed when they saw their quarters. They then insisted that they get busy on the list of items that Hermione had detailed. As all the elves popped out, Hermione and Harry were left alone.
Well, I guess that leaves us with our scheduled outside tour.
I guess. You still want to fly right?
It will be the fastest way.
I know. Just not too fast. And no tricks. Please.
Harry gave a mental chuckle over his wife's less than enthusiastic response to an aerial tour of their property. She had to admit that it was the best option to tour 172 hectares of land. They both apparated back downstairs and then walked out to the back terrace. The terrace was grand and sweeping and the view would probably be quite impressive once the gardens were pruned and trimmed back to their original glory. Harry reached into his robes and pulled out his shrunken broom. Once he restored it to its original size and climbed on, he coaxed Hermione on in front of him and then urged it gently up into the sky.
The day was a glorious late June day and really was perfect for a fly. Even Hermione made a mental comment about it and Harry swept east as he turned to look at the back of the manor. Then he swept and skirted the gardens, noting that he had some rather expansive rose gardens. There were also a half dozen greenhouses. Those should be investigated. He wondered if there was anything still alive in them.
This is the magical world love. More likely that something took over and started its own kingdom in one of the greenhouses.
Ugh. You're probably right. Maybe I should have Neville come over and take a peek.
Hermione agreed and then they were off and skirting some forest before circling around to the orchard. It appeared that they had at least four different kinds of fruit trees, but they were in obvious need of maintenance. Further on they saw the many acres of unused fields, as well as a half dozen cottages for field workers. On the far end of the property there was another expanse of woods with a peaceful lake hidden within and even a modest waterfall along a stream that fed into a lake, all within the manor grounds, which Harry could feel via the wards.
Circling back along the west side, there was a large stable and several barns. Then as they circled back toward the manor there were several more utility buildings, as well as what looked like a garage. In total, the aerial tour took a bit over two hours before they landed on the back veranda again. As they touched down, two elves greeted them and they were pleasantly surprised to see a patio table and chairs had apparently been found in storage.
The elves were quite prompt and soon they were being served a quite delicious lunch that was most welcome as the flight had worked up an appetite. As Harry's appetite was satisfied, his thoughts were a bit disturbed.
What is it love?
Just thinking that I shouldn't be this content. A wonderful flight with my lovely wife and now I sit here eating a delicious lunch at my manor, served by my elves. Meanwhile Voldemort is still who knows where planning more attacks.
I understand, but we can't do anything until we have more information. In the meantime we keep training so that we are ready. Maybe after we eat we see how the elves are coming along downstairs.
Harry nodded and gave a mental assent to that plan. He had seen the majority of his property and the elves were in place. He was visiting so that his magic added to the wards as well. The two different magics were doing what they could. He wouldn't feel safe allowing Hermione or anyone else to stay at the manor with the shape the wards were in, but they could visit during the days when the Grangers were working. He hoped the wards repaired quickly.
A few minutes later the Potters finished their lunch and thanked the elves, being sure to call Besa and thank her especially. Then they made their way to the basement. Once there they were thrilled to see that the pools were almost filled and the weight room and training rooms were cleaned up and ready for use. Although it was Sunday, they shed their over robes and practiced with the training dummies for an hour. Then they called Giley and Dobby and said goodbye for the day before returning to the Grangers so that they could spend some time with them before they returned to work for the week.