Harry Potter and the Deep Freeze

The Second Grand Auction

Harry stood in the Nigrum Anima building, the magical research center attached to the sanctuary's lookout tower. His eyes scanned the shelves of artifacts and items collected from the Black Tower and various other ventures. Draco and Luna stood beside him, both offering their thoughts as he considered what to contribute to the Ministry's auction.

"We need something that's both practical and symbolic," Harry said, his arms crossed.

"Symbolic, eh?" Draco said, smirking. "Why not auction off a piece of yourself? That seems to be what everyone's after these days."

"Not helping, Draco," Luna said lightly, her eyes fixed on a glowing crystal in one of the display cases. "What about this, Harry? A Shadowsteel Shield? It's strong, rare, and represents protection. Perfect for a sanctuary leader to bid on."

Harry walked over and studied the black shield with streaks of silver light pulsing across its surface. It had been forged from Shadowsteel Crystal, one of the rarest materials in the Black Tower.

"I like it," Harry said, lifting the shield. "It's practical, valuable, and unique. It'll stand out."

"Finally, a decision," Draco said with mock relief. "Now let's get going before you change your mind."

Arriving at the Ministry

The Ministry of Magic's Atrium was alive with energy. The large, gilded space had been transformed for the auction, with enchanted banners displaying the event's name in shimmering letters. Rows of chairs faced a raised platform where the auctioneer stood, and magical displays showcased the items up for bid.

Harry, Draco, Luna, and Neville arrived together, the Shadowsteel Shield levitating beside them under a protective charm. Ministry officials greeted them warmly, directing them to their assigned seats near the front.

"Quite the crowd," Neville remarked, glancing around. Leaders from sanctuaries across the globe filled the room, each accompanied by members of their delegations.

"Big events always draw big players," Draco said, scanning the room. "Let's hope they don't turn it into a circus."

Harry smiled faintly but said nothing, his focus already on the auction.

The Auction Begins

The auctioneer, a lively wizard in bright robes, stepped onto the platform and addressed the crowd. "Welcome, everyone, to the Second Grand Auction hosted by the Ministry of Magic! Tonight, we have an array of unique and valuable items, all offered by the finest sanctuaries and individuals in the magical world."

He gestured to the first item, a glowing amulet enchanted with healing magic. "Let's begin with this beautiful piece, generously contributed by the Scandinavian sanctuary."

Bidding began immediately, with paddles raising as sanctuary leaders and representatives placed their bids. The room buzzed with excitement as item after item was presented: enchanted weapons, rare potions, and magical artifacts, each one eliciting eager responses from the audience.

The Shadowsteel Shield

When it was Harry's turn, the Shadowsteel Shield floated to the platform, its black surface gleaming under the enchanted lights. Gasps rippled through the crowd as the shield's pulsing silver veins caught the light.

"Our next item is from the sanctuary of Harry Potter," the auctioneer announced. "This is a Shadowsteel Shield, forged from one of the rarest materials discovered in the Black Tower. It's nearly indestructible and offers unparalleled magical protection. Shall we start the bidding at 500 Galleons?"

The room erupted with paddles being raised, the bids climbing rapidly. Natalia Ivanova from the Amazon sanctuary leaned forward, her expression intent as she called out her bid.

"800 Galleons," Natalia said, her voice cutting through the noise.

"900!" came a call from Amara Diop.

The bids climbed higher until the shield finally sold for 1,500 Galleons, with Zhang Yi securing it for his sanctuary.

"Congratulations, Master Zhang!" the auctioneer declared.

The Ministry's Enchanted Rocks

Later in the evening, the Ministry presented its unique offering: the enchanted rocks rumored to contain rare gems. A small crate of rough, unpolished stones was levitated onto the platform.

"These enchanted rocks," the auctioneer explained, "are harvested from deep beneath the Department of Mysteries. Within them are precious gems, including jade, opal, and moonstone. Let's start the bidding at 300 Galleons."

Harry's curiosity piqued as the bidding began. Gems like jade and opal could have significant uses in both magical crafting and trade.

"500 Galleons," he called out, raising his paddle.

"600!" shouted Natalia.

Harry smirked. "750!"

The bids continued, the price climbing steadily until it reached 1,200 Galleons.

"Going once... going twice... sold to Harry Potter!" the auctioneer exclaimed.

Harry's Acquisition

As the crate of enchanted rocks was levitated over to him, Harry inspected the stones closely. Each one glimmered faintly with hidden magic, promising untold potential.

"These will be useful," Neville said, leaning over to examine them.

Draco raised an eyebrow. "Useful for what, exactly? Jewelry? Or are you planning to trade them for something better?"

"Maybe both," Harry said with a grin. "But first, we'll see what's really inside them."

A Successful Night

As the auction wound down, Harry felt a sense of satisfaction. The Shadowsteel Shield had fetched an excellent price, and the enchanted rocks promised new opportunities for the sanctuary.

More than that, the event had strengthened the bonds between the sanctuaries, fostering a spirit of collaboration and trust. As Harry and his team prepared to return to the sanctuary, he couldn't help but feel that this was just one more step toward the unity they were building together.