You belong with me ~ Bartylus

Prologue

Barty

06/07/1977

Dear Reg,

I don't believe a word of your last letter. You're friends with James, who until last week was insufferable and arrogant? Everything is fine with Sirius?

You seem to forget that I was with you the first few days at Potter Manor. I expect my next letter to recount what's actually happening. You haven't talked with Sirius at all, have you?

I'm great, if we want to keep lying to each other.

No, as we expected, I hate it here. I'm bored to death, and not only that, but life is positively dreadful.

Nothing could make me like living in Berlin, not even mum's prayers.

Mum is happy, though. She smiles a lot, the city reminds her of a time past and fun and excitement. She took on the role of personal guide, she wants me to explore the city. She has many happy memories of both times she visited it, and you should see her light up as we walk around. The city reminds her of a time past and fun and excitement, and she tried to pass it on. Unsuccessfully, definitely unsuccessfully.

Berlin is peculiar. It's interesting and strange at the same time to see how society is not strictly divided between Muggles and Wizards, they coexist intertwined in a way I've never seen before.

That's probably why they asked for Father's help, even if I continue to be baffled as to why anyone would ask him specifically for help. As if he's capable of doing anything good.

He carries us around to those formal receptions and dinners, parading his perfect little family. I've become an exemplary son overnight.

But enough about my perfect life.

Tell me, how are the Potters? I'm glad they are being kind and welcoming. That, I believe.

Don't get too gloomy in my absence. I know it must be hard to go about your days without the sheer brilliance of my presence to light up your world but try.

Talk soon,

Barty

P.S. Tell Sirius that if he doesn't behave, mysterious mishaps could start to happen.

No, but seriously say hi from me and try to spend some time with him, please.

08/07/1977

Dear Evan,

I'm starting to see why mum likes Berlin. It's characteristic that there isn't a strict division between the Muggle and Wizarding parts of the city. Their societies are interdependent, it's incredible. Many more weird happenings and accidents occur, but it seems the Muggles don't even notice them, as if accustomed to it.

The city is cut in two. A high wall divides it because of some clashes over Muggle affairs of state. I, and most of the Wizarding population, reside in the West, and it's close to impossible to cross on the other side. The Wall is a constant presence, looming in the distance, impossible to forget. Most people here hate it, they've had enough of war and fight for freedom and reunification. Wizards too. The others were telling me that the Wizarding world isn't divided and that the diplomats of the respective countries are working around the clock, collaborating with the Muggle ministries to restore peace.

And you? How are you liking Los Angeles? How is the diplomatic tour going? Are you able to stand the diplomatic dinners better than I can?

Father, as you can imagine, is in his element, dragging us to dinners and receptions that are simply unbearable, filled with his hypocrisy. And if I dare make a comment on our routine, he lectures me on how I should consider this a great opportunity for my future and that I should be grateful, etc.