Chapter Text
Several years after the battle of Hogwarts, the wizarding society of Great Britain was getting back to normal. With the Dark Lord dead, Death eaters and their associates punished, the wizarding world has begun its slow, stumbling recovery. For the first time in generations, Britain’s magical society had a real chance to achieve an uneasy, fragile state; peace.
For a while, it seemed as though the worst was behind them.
And then, the creatures came.
No one could say exactly when it started. Reports trickled in, as isolated incidents at first; strange sightings, territorial disputes between magical creatures, small magical disturbances. Soon, it became impossible to ignore. Beings of Slavic origin had begun crossing into Britain in alarming numbers. Rusalky, Upiri, Leshy, Domovoi, Vodyanoys, Navky, and other beings that even seasoned magizoologists knew little about, were seeking refuge far from their homelands.
The Ministry of Magic was hardly prepared to deal with an influx of foreign magical beings with unknown powers.
The Ministry, already stretched thin trying to maintain the delicate post-war balance, needed a solution. They needed people who understood magical law, who could mediate between clashing cultures, who could find a way to make this work before things spiralled into chaos.
So, they started a project, called rather idealistically, United by Magic, because in the true Ministry of Magic fashion, they tried to mask fear and pretend everything was under control. They assigned aurors, legislators, a curse breaker, a ward expert, hired magizoologists, mythologists, linguists and translators.
Now, what they needed was a strong face of the project, a leader, someone deeply invested in well-being of magical creatures, someone who understood legislature, someone hard-working with experience with conflict resolution.
They needed Hermione Granger.
They also, inexplicably, needed someone else.
And that was where it all began.
Narcissa paced nervously around her dressing room, absently biting her lip as she scrutinized her reflection. She was dressed in one of her finest gowns, a beautiful silk creation in a shade of deep emerald green that shimmered in the light. Even in this, she couldn’t help but feel anxious.
Draco, watching her with a worried expression, sighed. "You're going to do great, Mother," he said, trying to encourage her. "Just be yourself and show them how amazing and skilled you are."
Narcissa offered him a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Draco." She took a deep breath, then exhaled sharply. "But I have no idea what to wear. I don't own anything suitable for an office job."
Draco chuckled, shaking his head as he stepped closer. "That’s what’s bothering you? Well, this," he gestured to the gown, "won't work for an office job. You need something less ballroom-y. More professional."
Narcissa sighed, gesturing dramatically to her wardrobe. "But I don't have anything like that!"
Draco put his arm around his mother's shoulders, trying to calm her down. "What about that grey suit? You know, the one with the pinstripes?"
Her brows furrowed in thought before recognition dawned. "Oh, yes, I do have that. But it's…" 'from the time of war, when stress had made me half my current size,' "it’s so old, I doubt it even fits anymore."
"Let's at least try it on then," Draco insisted with an easy smile. "You will get this job, mother. After everything we’ve been through, I won’t accept seeing you wasting another day locked in this mausoleum. You are too talented for that, and it's time the world sees it."
A wave of emotion washed over Narcissa as she listened to her son's words. But the anxiety remained.
She had bought the suit when Lucius was first imprisoned in Azkaban, and she had been forced to step into his role as the head of the Malfoy family. Negotiating contracts, maintaining business relationships, even dealing with some muggle businessmen. She had done what was necessary to ensure the family’s survival. Narcissa had always been skilled at negotiation and diplomacy, but that wasn’t always enough.
So, with the help of Draco, she had acquired the suit and other appropriate attire for such situations. The suit had been a tool, a shield, a uniform she had worn when she needed to be taken seriously.
Lucius had returned before long, reclaiming his position, and the suit had been tucked away, forgotten.
Now, she found it again and slipped it on. It was a bit snug, pulling slightly in places it hadn’t before, but it still fit well enough.
"See? Much better," Draco gave her an approving nod.
Narcissa turned to the mirror, frowning. "I liked the dress better. This is incredibly uncomfortable and unflattering."
Draco laughed at her dramatic pout. "You are beautiful in everything, mother, but this is about more than that, and you know it. If we want a different life, there are more changes we have to make."
She exhaled slowly. "I know. But is this necessary? I won’t get used to this. This isn’t me. I don’t have to become them to be with them, do I?"
Draco hesitated before nodding. "You should be yourself. But was this," he gestured to the luxurious robes draped over her chair, "was this really you? You don’t have to hide your intelligence anymore. You can be more than a pretty face in a gown." He quickly held up a hand before she could protest. "No offence. Those were your words."
She huffed but smiled. "None taken." Then, more quietly, "but it’s more than that, Dragon. What am I even doing? What can I offer them?"
"You are a strong and capable woman," he said without hesitation. "And we are trying to not be dependent on father. You are perfect for this job. You love magical beings, you love all sorts of creatures, just don’t forget you’re not hiding it anymore. Let’s at least show them what they want to see until they get the chance to see how brilliant you are. Then, you can go back to being your beautiful princess-y self." He nudged her playfully.
Her lips quirking slightly. "You’re insufferable."
"You love me."
"I do." She smoothed the lapels of the suit and straightened her posture. "Alright, then. I am ready, I think."
Draco grinned. "Let’s see. So, Miss Black," he said in a mock-serious tone, clasping his hands behind his back, "tell me, why do you think you’re the right person to help solve the Eastern European magical beast immigration problem?"
Narcissa rolled her eyes but played along. "Well, Mr. Malfoy, I believe I am uniquely suited to this role due to my extensive experience dealing with difficult creatures."
Draco smirked. "Ah, yes, I remember your stunning and intelligent son." His teasing softened into something more sincere. "As difficult as it was, you certainly managed to put him on the right path."
She allowed herself a small, proud smile. "Yes, well, that was just a small taste of my expertise." She tried on different shoes, while Draco pretended to look at a clipboard.
"Alright, next question." He cleared his throat theatrically. "How would you go about easing tensions between British and Slavic magical creatures?"
Narcissa leaned forward, expression thoughtful. "Well, I think the key is finding a way to peacefully coexist with the Slavic creatures and also ensure that they have everything they need to thrive. Where possible and necessary, we must create separate habitats. It's a delicate balance, but I'm confident that I'm up for the task."
Draco nodded in approval. "Very good, very good. And what about protecting our own land from any unintended consequences of their arrival?"
"A valid concern, but with proper planning and finding means of communication, we can work with the Slavic creatures, not against them. We have to find a solution that benefits everyone. We need to remember that they're not invaders, they're refugees. And as magical beings ourselves, we have a responsibility to help them."
Draco called over his shoulder, "Amanda? Cancel all the other interviews! We’ve got our woman! You can start with the lasagna to celebrate!"
Narcissa laughed. "Oh, I see how it is. You're just buttering me up, so I’ll make you dinner, aren't you?"
Draco grinned. "Hey, you said that."
She shook her head, still laughing. "You're lucky you're my son, or I might not be so forgiving."
Draco pulled her into a tight hug. "You are prepared. I honestly think you’re the perfect person for this. I know you'll do great," he murmured. "They’ll love you. I promise."
Merlin, she hoped he was right.
Let’s hope the real interview would go at least half as smoothly.
"So, Mrs. Malfoy… you are here because…?" The short, round man with a moustache rearranged the papers on his desk, feigning disinterest.
"I am here to interview for a position with United by magic," Narcissa stated. "Specifically, in the field of legislation." She kept her tone controlled, though the man’s intentional delay tested her patience.
"Right, of course." He offered a slow, insincere smile. "Apologies."
'Right, as if that wasn’t entirely on purpose. He’s ridiculous.' She saw exactly what he thought of her. 'Spoiled, bored housewife playing at politics.' He hadn’t expected her to actually show up. To him, the idea of a pureblood woman genuinely caring about cooperation between Slavic and British magical beings and creatures was laughable. He had already decided she was here for attention. When, in truth, attention was the last thing she sought these days.
The second interviewer, a woman, stepped in. "Mrs. Malfoy, if you could tell us, why this project interests you? How would you approach these challenges?" She gestured for Narcissa to speak. Right. At least this one appeared professional.
"The topic of cooperation between wizards and magical creatures is obviously very attractive in these times, and it's crucial to not make mistake while approaching this," Narcissa began. "I have always been fascinated by other cultures, and since I am fluent in multiple languages, from simple and high elvish to mermish, and many creature dialects, I believe I would be a valuable asset to this project. Additionally-"
"As much as we appreciate your… abilities," the mustached man interrupted, his tone dripping with condescension, "this project is too important. We must be strategic about who represents it. I am afraid we can’t afford any …controversy."
"Controversy?" Narcissa’s practiced smile tightened.
"Marvin, we’ve talked about this," the woman reprimanded him. Then, turning back to Narcissa, she continued more delicately. "I apologise, Mrs. Malfoy. My colleague isn’t wrong, exactly. There will be those who find it… complicated. You, in a project supposed to bring equality, given your connections to… well…" 'Death eaters.'
'The woman is now thinking about death eaters. Will this ever end?' "I believe I have done enough to make my stance clear," Narcissa replied, voice firm.
And she had. Since the war, she had donated both time and money to charities supporting the victims of the war and their families. She had worked with organisations helping muggleborn witches and wizards and their families adjust to the magical world. She had even sold some of the Black family properties to fund these efforts. Mr. Potter himself had vouched for her, had spoken of the day she saved his life and, of course, helped win the war. But not all newspapers were interested in printing that story. No, people didn’t want to hear about supposed villains doing heroic things. Oh no. They wanted them all to rot in Azkaban.
The woman, perhaps scared of appearing prejudiced, suddenly straightened. "Of course!" she nearly shouted. "I’m so sorry, please, go on, Mrs. Malfoy."
"Thank you," Narcissa said coolly. "As I was saying, I have a particular aptitude for languages. My ability to communicate fluently with those from different cultural backgrounds, has proven quite valuable in many situations, and I am certain this ability will be crucial in this project. Apart from that, I have extensive experience in diplomacy and negotiation."
"Diplomacy?" Marvin cut in again, this time with a derisive chuckle. "You plan on approaching uncivilised creatures from Eastern Europe with diplomacy?"
'Unbelievable man.' "I believe that peaceful resolution requires an approach based on mutual respect," Narcissa said, keeping her voice level. "If we expect Slavic creatures to coexist with Britain’s magical community peacefully, treating them as lesser beings is hardly a solution. Open communication and a willingness to compromise are key. We must listen to the needs of both the Slavic creatures and the British magical community in order to find a solution that benefits everyone."
The interviewers exchanged glances, Marvin’s expression sour, while the woman’s held something closer to intrigue. Finally, the woman exhaled and turned to Narcissa with a thoughtful smile. "In the bigger picture, I can see how this could be beneficial. You are, after all, now the matriarch of the Black family. Having you as a visible part of this project could send a powerful message. I think it could show that we are serious about this, that this effort isn’t just the work of a few idealists, but of the entire wizarding community." She hesitated, then added, "I have to admit I am quite excited about the idea of having you in the centre of this project."
"Amanda…" the man groaned.
'Amanda? Really? I can’t wait to tell Draco.'
Amanda shot Marvin a pointed look before continuing. "I am certain it would be a mistake to turn you down. You could do nothing but benefit this project." She paused and Narcissa could see the wheels turning behind her eyes. Suddenly Amanda smiled widely in excitement. "Would you perhaps consider working with someone else on this?"
Narcissa’s brows furrowed in confusion. "I thought that was implied."
"No, of course, but I don’t mean just working with the team." She sifted through the papers on her desk, plucked out a particular CV, and tapped her fingers against it, considering the idea. "I must inform you that we already have a very skilled leader of United by magic. However, as my role is to assemble the best possible team… Would you be willing to share that position? Be a co-leader?"
'Oh, is that the CV of the other promising candidate?' Narcissa attempted to catch a glimpse of the name, not successfully. Well then. She had come here for a challenge, hadn’t she?
"Yes, I wouldn’t mind sharing that responsibility."
Amanda’s smile widened in genuine delight. "Wonderful. I think this could be a very good thing. I am sure you will be a great match that will show we take unity seriously. That we believe in collaboration not only in principle but in practice." She nearly bounced in her seat, excitement shining in her eyes.
Narcissa studied her for a moment, then gave a slight nod. 'Alright, I’ll trust her. This will be a good thing. Sure. Does this mean–' "Can I take it as…"
"Yes, welcome abroad, Mrs. Malfoy! I’m so glad you’ll be working for us! I mean, with us. I’m sorry, I’m rambling." Her cheeks turned pink.
Narcissa allowed herself a small, victorious smile. "Thank you very much, Miss–"
"Call me Amanda," the woman replied, offering her hand.
"Narcissa." She shook Amanda’s hand and smiled as wide as she possibly could, intentionally ignoring the man's annoyed murmuring. 'Is this really happening?'
She needed this job. Not for the money, of course, she had no intention of keeping her earnings for herself. But she had too much time on her hands. She couldn’t say she had many friends, and her only son had his own life now, a child, new fiancée. And she? She had the mansion. This cavernous, silent house. She had spent too many days wandering its halls, rearranging furniture, drinking wine, crying…
'No. Don’t think about that now. This will change now. You got the job. New beginning. A purpose. You start on Monday. This will be great. '