It's All Just Temporary with a Bit of Necromancy

Chapter 31: Again, Potter

"Or at least students of all backgrounds like you wish," Sylvia clarified.

"Alright," Harry sighed, eyes closed and already dreading the next Wizengamot meeting. He'd have to talk with Marvolo, maybe he would have an idea, otherwise, Harry would just need to stock up on pepper-up potions and practice his glamour charms. "Let's just work on getting this drafted and plan for the presentation. I'll worry about the meeting later."

The adults seemed content to push forward and Harry ignored their concerned looks. The next hour of discussing the proper wording of the legislation Harry let wash over him. His mind turning over the upcoming prospect of dealing with the Wizengamot and convincing them that his school was a great idea while being magically, mentally, and physically exhausted.

Finally, the group broke for lunch and Harry led the way to the grand dining room. Luckily it was close to the sitting room. So after a quick trip down a hallway where his guests politely and discretely gawked at everything they saw, they were seated in the dining room and Kreacher and Dobby were enthusiastically serving them soup and sandwiches.

"Will this be the manor you choose to host your Faction Ball?" Sylvia asked as she dipped her spoon into the cheesy potato soup that Harry had been told was called Locro de Papa. Marvolo had served it a few weeks ago and Harry found he really enjoyed it.

"Yes, that is my plan. My elves are eagerly cleaning the manor for the arrival of so many guests."

The conversation drifted after that, everyone breaking into smaller conversations. Again, Harry let it wash over him. Small talk wasn't his strength, though he knew how important it was based on Marvolo constantly stressing it. But Harry just focused on eating and watching the others talk. Attention was off of him and he relaxed into the freedom of that moment.

The quiet words of Sylvia and Augusta caught his attention though. "It seems you and I will be seeing more of each other, Sylvia."

"Yes, it certainly does. Hannah seemed thrilled in her letters. Would you and Neville enjoy visiting the manor for tea once the break begins?"

Augusta nodded, taking a bite of food. "Yes, that sounds wonderful. The invitation is of course extended to you as well. It is so nice to see my grandson branching out. I was growing worried for him but Hannah is a sweet girl, a good match I must say."

Harry blinked. "Wait, Hannah and Neville?" And then flushed at his rude interruption. The two women looked up at him and while Augusta tutted at him disapprovingly, Sylvia granted him a smile.

"Yes, it appears, young Mr. Longbottom asked to begin courting my daughter."

A giddy smile broke across Harry's face. Oh, he couldn't wait to see Neville now. The immense teasing that he could do seemed limitless. The very fact that Harry had to find out that Neville was in a relationship from his grandmother would fuel teasing alone for months. But aside from that Harry felt proud of his friend for chasing what he wished for. Harry wholeheartedly supported the whole thing.

"Well, I'm glad for both of them. Neville is a great guy, one of the best I know. Hannah would be hard-pressed to find a better man."

Augusta sat straighter, her lips thin and tight but the pride was evident in the old woman's stern countenance.

***

"Again, Potter," Pucey said.

Harry scowled but did as asked. Montague turned the music back on and Harry took Hestia's hand as they began the steps of the standard waltz once more. With all of the balls looming ominously on the horizon, Harry had requested the help of his guard in teaching him how to dance. He was not going to relive the horror of the Triwizard Tournament Yule Ball. Now, however, he was starting to regret it. Pucey and the Carrow twins were slave drivers in terms of dancing.