A Change of Feeling

The Conversation at Diagon Alley

Harry picked up a basket and got to work. Not many new books were needed, only in transfiguration and for DADA. Harry walked to the top floor of the store. There, books on Ancient Runes were kept. He also wanted to look at ways to hide or temporarily disable magic.

Harry had decided to make a Happy Blanket for R. Singulier, aka R. Lestrange. His own blanket was finished, but his magic came off in waves. It worked but was too flashy to send to Azkaban. For a moment, Harry felt guilty, actively thinking of ways to bypass Azkaban's security. Worse, he was thinking of helping a man who had tortured Neville's parents. He didn't want to think about how the timid boy would react. While Neville wasn't a close friend, Harry didn't want to hurt him either. But on the other hand, he was eager to give back to Lestrange. The man had helped Harry with the book and now Harry wanted to help him.

A hand on his shoulder pulled him out of his contemplation. He turned in alarm and looked into Lord Lestrange's eyes.

"So we meet again. These are not beginner books, young man. Are you interested in Ancient Runes?" Lord Lestrange spoke with a deep voice.

"Yes, very much so. I am looking for ways to activate the runes not immediately, but only at a chosen time. Or to hide the magic, that is also a possibility." Harry looked thoughtfully at the man. On a whim, Harry decided to reveal his plan.

"I have developed a blanket that wards off nightmares. The person under the blanket is surrounded by warmth and happiness. I have found a way to integrate my Patronus Charm into it. I hope it also works against Dementors." Harry let this information float between them for a moment. He regarded Lord Lestrange as an intelligent man and had no doubt that the man knew what Harry meant.

"I see," Lord Lestrange began. "The most ideal situation would therefore be that the blanket does not radiate magic at first, but then starts working on a more opportune moment. Perhaps through a spoken password or some action."

"Yes, exactly! I have already consulted several books, but I haven't been able to find an answer yet. I cannot consult the only person I know who knows more about this. It is intended as a gift for him." Harry shrugged. "I could have the blanket finished in two weeks. The next full moon is in then and then I can integrate the magic. But before that, I have to solve this problem first."

Lord Lestrange drew Harry towards him. He bowed his head and whispered in his ear: "The magic you talk about cannot be found in these books. Blocking magic, or linking magic to a person is considered 'Dark' by the current government. Are you sure you want to walk this path?"

"I have done a ritual to capture my Patronus in a thread. That is also seen as a 'Dark' act. I believe that dark magic does not have to be bad, that it is ultimately about the intention of the wizard. And if I want to help someone who is in an unworthy situation, the magic can't be bad, right?"

Lord Lestrange straightened up. He looked firmly at Harry. "Very well, I can procure the right book and give it to you in an hour. Would this be acceptable?"

Harry thought quickly.

"I have an appointment at one o'clock at 'The Golden Plate' with Lord and Heir Malfoy. I can make an appointment with you afterward."

Lord Lestrange gave a rare smile. "That won't be necessary. Lucius is an old friend of mine. It will be beneficial for me to join. Our interests are aligned, it is good for Lucius to see you as my ally." Lord Lestrange stepped back and prepared to leave. "I'll see you again at one o'clock. Until then, Heir Potter."

"Harry, call me Harry," said Harry quickly.

"Very well, call me Corvus." With that last word, Corvus turned and left Harry in the aisle.