A/N:
I thank you for taking this ride with me. Now you will get a lot of Black politics throughout this story and that of Longbottom and so forth. This story is not to cover, although I will hit the point JK did in Sorcerer's Stone. Rather it is to show the reactions of those outside Harry and how the child of Sirius can affect this world massively.
Ultimately it is a Harry Potter story for a reason but I take great pride in building the world around the story. This is a story to show the developing friendship and kinship of Alphard/Harry/Neville. Thank you for reading me babble on, enjoy the story.
On my twitter page Bigblue2289 is the family trees for my new characters and the canon characters and if you see an "*" by a name then that person is an OC, if that person is bold than they are alive, if not they are dead. OCs in major families will branch off of real families and family members established in JK canon. My OC families will not flood the story but fill in the gaps of the story.
The family tree will be posted tonight around 5 pm.
Chapter 1
September 1, 1991
The table erupted into loud applause as Slytherin rang from the hat's mouth once again. Parkinson like a sheep running to her herder for safety immediately found the seat next to his cousin. Both first years had smug looks on their faces showing the headaches he had in store for the next term.
He had already flipped through the third year runes book wondering if this year would actually posses a challenge, finishing in the top place for his class along with learning to be an heir for the past two years had been surprisingly easy for him. The key he had learned was to learn how to bullshit a good paper which he learned from Dora, learn the spells before the summer before the year from Vega, and just use common sense which he his Uncle Ted taught him.
Behind him at the 'claws table, Marietta and Cho gossiped a little louder than their fathers wanted about political moves to go against House Black with lower lords seeing blood in the water.
Bored he looked down at the Daily Prophet and saw a picture of himself in dress robes walking out of the courthouse with both uncle and house advocate, Ted Tonks. Placing an elegant hand on his shoulder was the always lovely Andromeda Tonks.
Cleared, Arrogant and Very Rich
The Noble House of Black has stood at the peak of wizarding politics since Queen Elizabeth I used them as her personal fighting force against the invading Spanish. Now 500 years later a 13-year-old sits as future Blackest of the Black, Heir Alphard Black (13).
Now unless you have been living under a rock the end of the last term and this summer for Hogwarts has been a busy one for the once second heir of the house. Former Blackest of the Black Lord Arcturus Black II (90) sadly died of heart complications on March 15th having just survived his brother Pollux Black (78) the year prior.
The trend of ill fates does not end here for this ancient family though. Lady Cassiopeia Black (77) who carried the title Social Liaison for House Black for the past 30 years is said to be suffering from acute memory loss and failing health. Our on the scene reporter tried to sneak an interview, sadly the woman forgot she was apart of the Black family.
One member of the older generation though is alive and healthy. Callidora Longbottom nee' Black (77) is alive and well supporting the progressive push by current Lady Regent Andromeda Tonks nee' Black. As our readers may know Lady Callidora is the aunt of Auror Frank Longbottom who now resides alongside his wife in a magical coma.
Now you did not read this article to hear about the history of this ancient and noble family, you came for the new news. The last pieces of evidence were pushed through last Saturday in court and before the whole of Wizengamot the charges pushed forward by Lord Lucius Malfoy (38) were dismissed clearing young Alphard the Second Heir of any involvement in the death of his cousin and previous First Heir, Cygnus Black (17). The investigation by both Aurors and St. Mungo's has found that indeed the initial reports are correct that Cygnus contracted dragon pox while on vacation with his betrothed Alicia Nott(18).
With the verdict, Alphard using his guardian, Lady Andromeda Tonks nee' Black as his regent has already arranged a complete renovation on many of the properties within the Black lands, including 6 manors, 3 towns, and two docks. For those who do not know the lands near the muggle establishment of Hastings has been controlled by Black since Sirius Comtes (later changed to Black) was a lead magical lord of William the Conqueror. At the Battle of Hastings Comtes (Black) went against the anglo lords Potrea (Potter), Boneas (Bones), and Longbottom. Even the founders of Hogwarts lent their wands to the defense. Still, under the strength of the magical Norman lords, Hastings fell, including Godric Gryffindor's eldest grandson, Godric the Bold.
While all this is interesting what does this have to do with 1991? Well, it seems that the usually secluded House Black who has been an anti-European trade for as long as we can remember is now reaching out to their French homeland, Spain, Denmark, and even Morroco to use their docks to trade goods. While the rates must be agreed upon at the MoM, not all are for the recent outreach such as Lord Malfoy, Nott, even Diggory. House of Black members such as Lady Callidora Longbottom nee' Black though has another view on the progressive push.
"The move is simply to push the family into the new direction and out of the 17th century that our previous head of houses has kept us in. No more will we stand by in the past while the world passes us by. That backward step ends with First Heir Alphard, we of House Black shall lead Magical England into the future while still respecting many of the traditions of old, we do not look to spit on the past in the same token.
I am happy to report that this branch of Longbottom and Black will once again be reunited in a most spectacular project. Angela's House of the Arts, we will shine the spotlight on those talented wizards and witches of all background honoring Angela Black nee' Carrow who fought against her family's dark past to become a beacon of hope."
You heard it here first, The woman who fought against her own elder twin siblings against the Dark Lord only to be betrayed by her husband Sirius Black will be honored by their son.
Does Alphard deserve the benefit of the doubt since it was his father who betrayed the Potters or shall he fake us out like Sirius did all those years ago and be yet another dark wizard? Stay informed and follow this story with our future developments.
Rita Skeeter
For more about Sirius' betrayal, page 2
Angela Black's horrific death, page 6
Further progressive actions by new regent, page 9
The split in House Longbottom, what it means for First Heir Neville, page 13
He went to read on how accurate the reports were since Rita was surprisingly spot on with the initial article when a name that shook him to his core was announced. Harry Potter.
The only one to clap was one from his table, the first year Davis girl with her blond hair and pretty features now clapped like she had for everyone else. You could see the look of annoyance on the face of Snape and nearly every Slytherin. The new King of Slytherin Marcus Flint already looked to be planning to make her life a living hell.
Looking up he saw a scrawny boy that looked like a starving version of his Uncle James. He fought back tears seeing the green eyes of his Aunt Lily walking up to the stool. His cheeks were gaunt and the clothes seemed to hang on him like a rain poncho. Waving to the Hufflepuff table his cousin and current left hand snuck over.
The sixth-year and grandson of Lady Callidora, Bartholomew Longbottom slinked over leaning closer to his future lord. Many including the first year Theo Nott sneered seeing the tall handsome and once school dueling champion Bart. Draco who his father had tried to get installed as new heir looked over with pure hatred at his cousin.
"Send out your agents and find out what happened to Harry, my godbrother looks to grown up in a hovel."
Bart nodded and now ran back to his table to think of his list of agents. Albus stood at the head table eyeing the child who could be the most dangerous Black in history or the most revolutionary one with great interest.
The table of lions exploded when they heard that the savior would be spending the next seven years with them. There were light claps from the 'claws and the 'puffs but Alphard now stood up and started clapping some of the claps died down as all eyes were on him.
Harry found a seat between the Weasley twins was confused on who had even stolen his attention. Both Fred and George now whispered into Harry's ears and Alphard's will… heart seemed to break seeing a look of confusion turn into one of anger, finally, that look of anger turned into one of hatred.
Draco meanwhile turned his attention to the Davis girl who was finally done clapping and talking excitedly with her friend since childhood, Daphne Greengrass. Greengrass saw the looks of hatred their way and knew she was in for a long seven years.
"Is all you do is talk half-blood? If you do not shut up I will send my cousin after you once I become Lord Black." Draco proclaimed arrogantly.
"Ah Prince Draco himself. Tell me how quickly do you think your mother will age one I remove her from House Black? I did not kill Cygnus but I would look away if something was to happen to you."
Marcus now stood up with a sneer having been promised a large boon with the crowning of Draco as Lord Black.
"Do you think you have fooled us as you fooled the politicians Alphard? It is only a matter of time before the truth comes out as you being the murderer."
He grew incensed now seeing Alphard gather his things up and just laugh.
"Was it not Nott that he was with when he died? Maybe I will have Aunt Andi look into the possible involvement of Theodore Nott Sr."
Tension filled the hall as eyes went between Theo Jr and Alphard. Harry and the ones new to the world now looked utterly confused.
"Please both of you sit down, I assure you, Mr. Flint, that we at the Wizengamot looked at all the evidence and assure you it was simply ill luck that Cygnus contracted the pox. Please sit down both of you before points are taken off."
Marcus grunted in anger towards the headmaster but sat down regardless. Alphard though grabbed his stuff and walked out of the hall towards the seventh floor. A prefect tried to chase after him but with a basic disillusionment spell, he disappeared.
Storming into the office that once housed the politics class for seventy years he sat at the far desk for the teacher that looked out upon the Black Lake. The dust was a thick foot on all the bookshelves but not even those with their boyfriend or girlfriend stopped in here due to the old professor that haunted it. Next, to Moaning Myrtle, Lady Ursula was the most avoided ghost in all the castle. The former wife of Headmaster of Hogwarts and House of Black member Phineas Nigellus sat in the corner quietly reading of one her books. The former and last teacher of the political class was reading about how King Arthur tried to merge his muggle world with that of the magical one of Merlin and failed. In anger, he sent an overpowered blasting spell at the bookshelf which blew it into a thousand bits.
"Ah my great great great great grandson, it seems as if your grandmother here will have to console you once again. Nasty business the death of your cousin was but destroying the bookcase." She said lazily not even lifting her eyes. The elegant ghost who still wore the robes she had on when Grindelwald threw her from the tower finally lowered the book seeing him walk over to his favorite chair. Sitting down he looked out to see the sun starting to set.
"For the past two years I have plotted for this damn ring grandmother and now that I have it I am stuck with it. I do not want to carry on the legacy of Sirius Black, traitor and Death Eater." He tried to take off the heir ring but the magic fought him and shocked him painfully when it budget even a millimeter.
"The curse of the ring and legacy, you did not want it but now it is yours grandson. I did not want my husband to get involved in the war but regardless of my wants, I was still thrown from that very window you look out off by Gellert himself. Do not whine to me about wants, worry about realities of the world and what you can change." She chastised him floating over to him but softened her look seeing him look at the picture of him and his mother.
"Your agents are out there now finding the truth out about your mother, you are in an important position in our world where you can affect the futures of many for the better or worse. Do not squander it."
Sighing deeply he nodded and the two now sat in silence for the next two hours. He did not even look up hearing the door open and four sets of feet approach him. One stopped at the desk while three others now walked around the desk approaching him.
The daughter of Lucius and Narcissa was the first to reach him kneeling before him and kissing his ring before stepping back and bowing submissively. Lucretia Malfoy who had gained her mother's true beauty looked the spitting image of Black perfection much like her mother. The fifth-year now waited patiently while her sixth-year cousin and daughter of Rodolphus and Bellatrix matched her movements.
Vega Lestrange had adopted her mother's wild curly and black hair but under the serious look and impressive dueling skill inherited from her mother was a hardened soul who hated her parent's legacy. Every day it seemed everyone outside, sometimes inside her own house had decided to remind her of the psychopaths her parents were. She even had a Gryffindor friend in first year, before Jaime's parents made her end the friendship not wanting to be associated with a Lestrange.
The final person to step forward was Bart who followed his cousin's path. Behind Alphard was his cousin Dora who had never officially pledged herself to House Black now walked around kissing his cheek before sitting on the desk.
"Reactions?" He simply said and all four looked at each other seeing who would answer. Annoyed Lady Ursula put her book down.
"If heir Alphard request you speak someone better talk."
Vega stepped forward.
"Between the article in the daily and your outburst some may be coming around, not enough for you to be completely safe though heir Alphard. Lucretia and I would protect you publicly but you requested us to keep our vows from the public, even though I am sure they already know." Vega pleaded.
He nodded and waved her over which she complied. He grabbed her hand and kissed it causing her to smile. Lucretia had noticed her favorite cousin had started to become crazy devoted to their future lord over the past summer. This devotion was only matched by that of Bella to the Dark Lord.
"You still have so much to learn before you can become the Black enforcer cousin. If you two were to come out in public support your very lives would be in danger and it is my role as future Blackest of the Black to protect you." He released her hand and she fell back into line with her cousins. Dora was the one who noticed a troubled face over the cousin in power.
"Tell your big sister what is troubling you? If it is the girls in school have no fears I will beat them up for you."
Alphard laughed but Vega just glared at Dora hating the disrespect shown to him by her, she did not even stand amongst them.
"Did you see the look of hatred on my godbrother's face? Was I that much off a fool to think he would come and we would raise our houses together as brothers right away? If he was not in secure lockup I would have killed that cowardly excuse of a father I have." Alphard spat on the ground. "He was my brother that I was going to teach how to fly a broom."
Dora padded his shoulder.
"All we can do it chip away and hopefully these acts of kindness will allow him to see the truth. With us as your enforcers House Black will once again rule magical England."
He nodded and looked towards the three waiting.
"Did you secure our spy in each house Vega?"
"Of course Heir Black, Lavender Brown promises to keep us updated on anything lion related and House Brown receives the title noble house when you gain the power to do so. Lord Abbott has his daughter feeding information in return for her first girl to be married to your first son. Finally we have Terry Boot with the 'claws who wants to be your right hand man outside the Black family. Of course you know the rewards that come with that position. I know the prospect of being Lord Black was not in your mind but if I may say you are doing excellent." Vega said finishing with a curtsy.
Alphard listened to this playing with a galleon.
"I could have done Hufflepuff for you. I live in the damn…." Dora started but was stopped by Alphard kissing her hand.
"You are the sister I was not born with Dora, you are much more than me than a mere spy and you need to focus on your auror training. One day you will be the head of the DMLE and be the most powerful bitch in all England, House Black will smile upon you. Now I do want you to coordinate personally with Hannah though and her friend Susan is not to find out or else Hannah's sister will go missing. Make that clear. I will not have the niece of Madame Bones digging into my affairs and informing her aunt."
"Heir Alphard, you do not want House Black to be dark. Is not threatening to kidnap a 5-year-old dark?" Lucretia asked pushing the black hair out of her eyes. A dark smile crossed his face.
"Do you think me dull minded Lucretia? I wish to take us out of the dark and employ some light tactics but I will never take us to the light. Both sides are filled with fools and this is the same foolishness your father will die over and Aunt Bella will be killed for if she does not kneel before me. I will do what I must to protect this family and if that means turning a little girl into basically an enslaved house-elf I will do it. Dora, I want you to stress her actions have consequences. Now Vega."
Vega looked towards her lord ready for the order. Known for her battle prowess she was receiving training all summer on how to complete the dark and dirty task for her lord without being caught.
"He may shun me but I want Harry Potter protected. I want you to coordinate with Lavender and give her training in private. My father's journal says the shrieking shack is a good place to meet up and even has a secret entrance from a portrait on the second floor. We will help my godbrother at anything he comes across because I do not trust the headmaster to prepare him for the world. The first thing is he will just find a book on his bed about customs and lordships in England. Make sure the Potter name is listed in whatever book he finds."
"If the Potter boy becomes the enemy…" Vega started but soon was holding her cheek on the ground looking up at her lord scared. His hand was still red from the slap as his face turned from anger to apologetic. Offering his hand she begrudgingly accepted it as both women dared not move knowing the spikes of anger Alphard had at times.
"I am sorry Vega and hope you accept my apology. That coward of a man called my father has made it so I can no longer visit Aunt Lily and her son now looks at me as if I was Voldemort himself. House Black has stood for years and that was after a war with the Potters. He will never know it was us but he will find help from us nonetheless. Let me heal that."
Placing his hand on her cheek the ring that had healing spells in it soon took out the redness in her pretty face and a small smile graced her thin lips.
"No apology is necessary, I was foolish to question you. You, of course, are right, we are Black, we are strong."
Smiling at her he moved to Lucretia who was unsure which Alphard she would be getting.
"I do not expect much from the claws but keep an eye out for them. Bart, I know House Chang is poor in China and House Edgecomb can barely pay their debts here. I want you to talk with Aunt Andi about keeping an eye on their wine business and ways to sabotage it slowly and over time. Now, what is the password?"
"Black Mamba. Now we should leave before anyone becomes suspicious." Vega said bowing before him and leaving with her cousin Lucretia who bowed as well. That just left Dora, Bart, and Alphard in the room looking out the window. They watched with great amusement as a couple of lions were caught by the make out tree by Filch. The old man Filch was now running across the grass attempting to catch up with the students and falling behind badly.
"I love my cousins Dora but you will always be my right hand. I will see the name Andromeda Tonks nee' Black and Nymphadora Tonks are respected in every circle in England. No more will House Black be the shunned sheep of our world. I will even let you kill Lucius when the time is right. The embarrassment he put on your mother at the party will not stand."
Dora who was not normally dark minded smiled evilly before the first time in her life fully submitted to her younger cousin. She knelt down and kissed his ring keeping her head down until she saw his hand.
"Now leave and tell me if anyone else tries to get handsy with you again. They will receive the wrath of House Black."
"I appreciate it cousin but I assure you with the training you paid for with Monsieur Delacour I will be able to protect myself from even Aunt Bellatrix. Now stay safe because if something happens to you I will be on the first plane to the states with my mother."
He nodded and turned towards Bart.
"I swear to you also we will find a cure for your Uncle Frank and Aunt Alice, with them healthy and Neville learning his true powerhouse Longbottom will once again be a house to be feared."
Bart had a look of pride thinking of the future of his house.
Bart and Dora chatted looking through some books about their training this term while the ghost of Cygnus haunted him in the seat. Aunt Cassiopeia had already lost her memory thankfully by the time news of Cygnus' death had reached the papers, mother and son would be reunited soon.
Soon all three scattered from the room towards their houses, Alphard trusting his magic followed a back route and did not even quiet his steps. Down one hall he passed by it looked as if the Weasley Twins were already being chased by Snape as they attempted to lay out first-day pranks.
Walking into the common room the elves had put up a fresh coat of green paint and it popped on the eyes as the giant squid swam by their mosaic window. Looking at the area most had gone to sleep except for a few excited first years. Prefect Alice Bulstrode had been pushing some of the rowdier first years to bed when he saw by the fireplace was the girl who clapped to loud and looked excited to be at Hogwarts. Walking over she did not look to be excited anymore as she was wiping some tears away and had red puffy eyes.
"What is the matter? If it is my face I assure you time will ease the pain."
The blond looked up and laughed slightly shaking her head.
"They all said this is not my home. I just want to learn magic and make friends but Draco said there is no room for someone like me."
She was surprised to get a genuine laugh from the older boy as he sat next to her on the ground.
"My dear cousin fills up any room with his ego alone so there is not much room for anyone else. He is nothing but a ponce idiot and anyone who follows him is equally as stupid. Now may I know the name of the beautiful lady I am speaking with?"
Tracey avoided his eyes as a light blush danced across her cheeks. Finally looking back at him she eyed him carefully seeing the groomed long hair, the robes that cost more than her entire wardrobe here and at home, and his delicate pure blood features. She noticed this but she also noticed he truly had kind eyes directed her way and hoped he was not like the rest.
"Tracey Davis, I am a half-blood but my father is a pureblood from a new house raised up by Lord Greengrass. Are you here to make fun of me? If you are please leave."
She flinched slightly as his soft hands moved the blond hair out of her eyes.
"I seek not to tease you but befriend you. My reputation of kin-slaying and line theft probably proceed me but other than my cousin Dora, Vega, Lucy and Bart I am all alone in this school. I know you probably want to show up the rest of your class in spellwork so how about I make a deal with you. I help you before your actual class on the spells and you get to embarrass my cousin and his followers."
Tracey looked up confused at young man wondering why the heir to the most powerful house in all England, the very house that had been Queen Elizabeth I personal fighting force against the Spanish in the 16th century was speaking with her.
"What do you want in return?" Tracey asked expecting anything at this point. A breath she was unaware that was being held back released when she heard "friendship".
"Like I said before I need a friend to vent to. Dora is graduating this year so I have a void to fill and wish for the void to be filled by you."
"Only if Daphne can join us."
Alphard nodded extending his hand which she shook. With tomorrow being Saturday at the insistence of Tracey she woke up Daphne up from her slumber and both girls learned the Lumos spell.
(Scene Change)
Monday morning came and alongside Ron, Neville, and Hermione they entered the great hall where a short professor was laughing alongside the tall counterpart of his head of house. Both looked to have a tall stack of papers in their hands. Weaving by a short stout girl with red hair he remembered as Susan Bones from Friday night the group of four made it the table where Fred or George was talking about their exploits in the Quidditch pitch at the Burrow.
Ron being the butt of the joke for this story yelled at him and Harry's eyes ventured across the hall to the Slytherin table where Malfoy was once again sneering at him but Alphard sat with two first-year girls. With both sitting on either side of them he was talking about something showing wand movements and both girls looked like they absorbed every word. He jumped nearly two feet when the hand of his head of house shook his shoulder.
"Please, Mr. Potter I hope you pay attention more in class than you did just now. Here is your schedule and behind it is a map of the school." She said in a heavy Scottish accent. Nodding he looked and saw his first class ever at Hogwarts was a double of charms with the Slytherins.
Neville and Harry talked with Hermione about schedules but it seemed Ron tried to cut of Neville anytime he went to speak. Neville being as shy as he did not fight back though and allowed Ron to take his spot. Harry started to feel annoyed for Neville as they were sent out of the room towards their first class.
Entering the room he looked around with amazement with clocks that he would later find out was charmed by masters of the field performed dances, fights, and even musical performances. On the base of one clock a wooden knight fought a dragon three times its height and on the top of the minute, it would land a blow to the dragon before retreating to its original spot.
"Ah, Mr. Potter I see you spotted my favorite one as well. At the top of the half an hour the dragon will land a blow and at the top of the hour, a winner will be determined. The fight and the outcome are always different. Now please take a seat so we can begin." Flitwick said kindly and a few people saw the knight in fact lung at the dragon.
Sitting between Neville and Ron the small professor went onto explain the basics of charms and their uses. The second half of class was going over the theory behind the Lumos charm. The dragon just had killed the knight when the professor clapped happily.
"Now that we have gone through the boring stuff we get to the magic. We will practice the spell for three days and it will be on the test on October 3rd along with a few other spells so practice it with the older students. I do not expect anyone to complete it but we have ten minutes so let us give it a try."
He dimmed the lights so people could still read their books but would still highlight the light from the wands. Harry reread the wand movements three more times when two bright lights emitted from the Slytherin side just before one from his side. Looking up Daphne Greengrass and Tracey both held their wands up with a bright light emitting from it. Daphne had a passive if not slightly pleased look while Tracey looked ecstatic. Looking over Hermione also got hers to light but if theirs was set on bright hers was set on dim.
"That is most excellent Ms. Davis and Greengrass. I did not expect such success this quick from either of you, I will keep my eye on both of you. Did you practice with a prefect?"
"No professor, Alphard Black sat with us last night teaching us. He even promised to teach us the levitation spell."
Draco seethed at those words.
"Well ten points to both of you and twenty points to Mr Black for wonderful mentorship. 5 points for a valiant effort Ms Granger. Simple spells like these even get the best of the most powerful wizards when they begin, work on it and yours will be just as bright."
Hermione was angry at being upstaged in class but understood he was right now determined to find her own tutor. By the end of class Ron had a dim flashing light while Harry had gone even brighter than the girls earning him 10 points. Neville had been the surprise though. While it could have been brighter Neville still held his wand out with a smile on his face and his wand lit. Draco who had started to call him squib much to the lion's delight only got a dim light.
"Thank you for a wonderful first lesson kids and I am sure we will learn lots this year. Now off you go." Flitwick shooed them out of the classroom.
The week went about much the same, hearing the Brown girl talk with Percy about finding a tutor for potions before their first class both he and Neville had dragged the twins to an empty potions lab and there they learned how to cut, mince, and even learned how to make basic potions. All the twins required for their services was tasting one treat each, the boys had blue tongues for the month but it was worth it.
After two weeks with Harry being better at the spells and Neville being better at the papers, the godbrothers started to grow close. Ron tried to join in but became bored when they talked about classes.
Finally escaping the studying session Harry let out a loud yawn climbing up the steps to his dorm. The beds were comfortable and he finally felt full for the first time in a long time yesterday, life was starting to look up. Then the image popped back into his head. Hermione heard the story of that fateful Halloween night along with Harry had taken it upon herself to dig through the Daily Prophet archives from then finding the frightening photo of Sirius Black surrounds by dead bodies just laughing.
That same cupid face now sat across from him every meal. Every time he would glance at the table where he would see Sirius Black laughing madly. Not even looking he plopped on the bed, he let out a loud yelp feeling the corner of a book dig into his back though.
Lifting up the covers there was a thick tome that read Pureblood Politics and Trees. There was not even a note that came with it. He spent the rest of his Tuesday afternoon reading it. Reading the customs chapter Harry now knew why Draco had such a disdain for him after he refused the initial handshake.
Taking the book down to dinner that night he did not even consider eating and ignored Ron talking about the Cauldrons. Hermione looking oversaw the book that was clearly not of school text and sat next to Harry pulling it to herself in excitement. Harry was a combination of confused and annoyed.
She attempted to read it but there were no coherent sentences, only strange blurry lines. She now feverishly started flipping through it until in a move that shocked everyone at the table, Neville snatched the book and gave it back to Harry.
"Do not bother trying to read it and be careful, that book cost more than your tuition for all seven years here." Neville now said and Harry confused opened it up to the Bones family tree and saw the words clearly. Ron peering over his shoulder saw the same as Hermione.
"I can't read it either, professor I think this is a dark book." Ron now yelled and a clearly annoyed Professor McGonagall came over while Neville just rubbed his temple.
"It is not dark you nitwit, it can only be read by those part of either ancient or noble family. The Weasleys are old but they were stripped of that status 200 years ago." Ron looked offended while McGonagall now looked at it nodding.
"Fifteen points to Mr. Longbottom for that insightful comment but minus five for the name calling. Mr. Longbottom is quite correct, I cannot read it but stamp on it is the Potter crest. Enjoy the read, Mr. Potter." She now left for her table.
"Well Harry tells me what it says and we can inscribe it." A gasp from all those who could read it filled the hall.
"Harry will most certainly not do that. Every person that can read that book is because our ancestors have sacrificed their lives to become something in this country. Reading that book is a privilege, not a basic right." Neville now said offended. A few of the upperclassmen actually looked quite impressed while Harry not wanting to get involved in a new blood versus pure blood fight just put the book back on his lap and finally ate his dinner.
He could not get to his dorm room and bed quick enough with both Ron and Hermione both pestering him on the contents of the book. Harry knew they did not mean any ill intent but regardless it bothered him. Neville tried to help him but it was only with the dismissal sending them to bed that he found relief.
The next day passing by him was none other than Alphard Black who looked wanting to walk up to him but a look of shame almost passed his face, it spoke of guilt, none that graced the face of his father on any of the newspapers some ten years ago.
"Filthy snake, dark wizards the lot of them. Especially that one. Quote me Harry one day he will be the most dangerous wizard in all of England." Ron said watching the Black heir be joined up by his little snakelets as Daphne and Tracey had been called now.
"It is said all Blacks are born with the evil inside them, probably the first spell he learned was the killing spell." Ron now shrugged his shoulders causing a few lions to verbally agree. Katie Bell though looked ready to blast the redhead away and watched her crush walk down the stairs towards the dungeons.
"Ah does our new favorite chaser sister want the big bad snake to take her into the snogging closet?" Fred now wrapped his arms around her but moved out of the way when Vega Lestrange pushed her way through the group. Neville had he been a stronger wizard would have given the girl words, instead, he promised to train hard and one day bring vengeance for his parents.
"Like any decent pureblood, Black at that would go for some silly mudblood. Next thing they will demand a vote in the House of High Lords." Draco said laughing walking by them. Using the crowd noise as cover Harry casted a spell at the blonde haired ponce and snuck out with a group of Hufflepuffs. Harry did not see it but the spell he had learned just two days prior had worked perfectly and Draco now spat out slugs, one after another.
The teachers now looked at the Weasley twins who were now struck dumb while the lions and even some snakes congratulated them. Tired of holding in the smile he now burst out laughing and looked around him seeing Susan Bones and Hannah Abbott looking at him querly.
"Ah Susan, I am glad I ran into you."
She put on an "oh" face and the group of three now splintered off and walked a little slower.
"Well, I was reading the pureblood politics book and came across lordships. Apparently, Potter is a big deal in Magical England and even carries votes in government. How does one find out more?"
The slightly chubby redhead looked at him as if he was an alien that just crash landed.
"You are telling me that you do not even know about your lordship? Oh lord, auntie is going to be pissed." Susan now rubbed her head. "All I know for certain since each house changes is that you must be 16 before you can become Lord Potter like me becoming Lady Bones or Neville becoming Lord Longbottom. Until then a regent takes care of your household, finances, and votes. Auntie is mine, Neville's grandmother is his, and…. I believe the headmaster votes for you."
Harry now had his head turned to look astounded and stopped dead in his tracks. Looking at a beautiful scenery painting of a meadow with shepherd he caught his breath.
"I read though Black is set to take House Black next year and he will only be 14. I also read all the stuff his aunt does for the community and his house. I want… I don't know, want to make sure people are helped."
Susan smiled at him liking the boy more and more now before diverting the troupe to a gargoyle on the other end of the school. Harry jumped seeing the gargoyle come alive.
"I do not know the password but we must see the headmaster immediately," Susan said with confidence. The gargoyle just smiles and never moved before turning back to its solid form. The three jumped hearing a voice.
"I believe the password is Cadbury Egg, such a sweet treat. Very good wandwork I must say, Mr. Potter, leaving others to take your detentions is awfully Slytherin of you." Albus said with a raised eyebrow. The gargoyle did, in fact, move now showing a grand staircase going up. Harry tried to look innocent as he pushed the three children forward.
They entered the office and many of the headmasters now were asleep but Phineas glared at the headmaster who he blamed for the death of his wife and first heir.
"Ah the great Albus Dumbledore once again graces us with his presence. Tell me does the school still hunt my grandson down as kinslayer?" He spat ignoring the children. Albus kept a graceful smile though.
"I assure you Phineas, Alphard is most definitely a Black, strong headed and cunning. Now tell me Ms. Bones how may I be of assistance?" Albus asked taking a seat, with a wave of his wand a third chair appeared before them and they all sat down.
"Well, Harry came up to me and asked about his lordship and what is being done with his house. I well… to be honest, auntie keeps me out of the loop on well everything so I can not help him the slightest. I was wondering if you could fill him in?"
Hannah was the only one with the training by Vega to see a quick shocked look on his face before turning it into a friendly smile.
"I would be happy to, I must ask you two to leave though since it will not be right to share his information out in the open. If he chooses to share it later fine, but we will let him make that decision."
The girls rose from the seat and wished Harry a goodnight before leaving the office.
"Smart girl that one, she is most like her mother. Now, what is it you wish to know Mr. Potter." He asked with a twinkle in his eye. Harry now strained his face trying to think of something.
"Well…. I read that Andromeda Tonks opened up a soup kitchen in Diagon Alley. I don't know… do we help people?"
"Ah, you read the book. Your family is very old and very noble, also very limited on funds. Your grandfather personally put in his fortune to stop Voldemort, that was a costly expense. You hear about Black a lot because they held back funding from the Dark Lord and also invested over the years. Your father was a great man but a great lord he did not have the chance to become yet."
Harry nodded and now assumed the massive vault of gold was all that was left.
"What we can do though is start investing right now. I have your vote and I make sure it helps people but cannot invest your money without approval by you. Do you want me to start investing? I am most unwise in these matters but I know someone we can hire to help us."
Harry nodded feeling excited about getting involved.
"Can I meet him? I trust you headmaster but I also trusted Dudley with five pounds I found once, he ran to Uncle Vernon saying I stole it from him when I took it back. Oh also is there any way to stop by my vault so I can pick up some books?"
"Of course dear boy, now I will call you when I have arranged a solicitor for you and someone to help with finances. As to the vault meet me by the gargoyle at 6 pm tomorrow dear boy, I have business there anyway. You have a bright future ahead of you Mr. Potter, now off to bed."
Harry now with a pep in his step basically skipped to his dorm room and found an easy sleep while Albus already saw greatness in the boy.
(Scene Change)
They sped walked down the hall past a few girls from Slytherin who rather give him an evil glare winked at him. The boy slowed down confused see the third year girl look over her shoulder before disappearing around the corner.
"Please Harry, it hurts so bad. Get her name later please." Neville moaned in pain feeling the arm start to turn numb. Snapping back to the world around him Harry sheepishly started walking down the hall. They reach the large oak doors and a line up of what looked to be thirty beds was evenly spaced alongside each wall.
The only occupants of the room was a first-year blond girl who laid on the bed looking utterly sick while the third year that haunted Harry's dreams sat bedside. He looked to be asleep in a chair with his feet propped up while the girl seemed to sleep off her sickness. Harry recognized her quickly as Davis.
"Ah, young Alphard has taken to the girl it seems. A seventh-year thought it funny to give her a broken broom to practice flying with, now it seems Slytherin is out a prefect. Now, what has happened to you, Mr. Longbottom? Your grandmother has spoken so highly of you I am surprised to see you here." Madam Pomfrey now looked at the arm starting to turn purple from the collision with the ground in DADA.
"Hannah Abbott accidentally hit Neville with the Knockback Jinx when he wasn't looking." He now looked back at the chair and only saw his parents killer sleeping in the chair. "I'll see you back in the dorm Neville," Harry said rushing out with the third year stirring.
Neville went to reason with his friend until the face that haunted nightmares now walked in. Vega Lestrange who was the spitting image of her mother now strode with a confident air to her. She did not even look his way passing by to speak with her cousin.
Taking a bed on the other side of the ward Neville now went into his happy place thinking about the greenhouse at Longbottom Estate while Madame Pompey administered the potions. Both boys had their own demons to deal with.
A/N:
I hope you all enjoyed the first chapter of my Gryff Harry. Ideally, I would love to have a seven book series for Harry joining each separate house but one house at a time. Have the idea and basically first year written for the Slytherin Harry but still blanking on the concept for Ravenclaw and 'puff. It must have a second character like the Alphard character that can be a secondary focus since I need as a writer to visualize myself as someone in that world who is important and still wanna keep Harry somewhat honest to the story. Would not be against a time travel story involving Harry going back to his father's first year but unsure how to set it up.
The last part I just wanted to show that Neville being in school with the daughter of Bellatrix Lestrange has much of the same feeling that Harry feels towards Alphard being the son of Sirius. Yes the twins told him the "truth" about Sirius according to the reports and from what we saw in the novels Harry does not kill but he does have a temper.
The OCs I will tell you who they are and the obscure canon characters as well, feel free to message me if you get confused, a way to improve the character or so on. Hell if you want to add something to the next year OC or storyline wise bring it up to me and I may shift the story around. That said if you are reading this than my current year is all written up, any suggestions will be for Harry's second, third, fourth year and so on.
The tree for Pollux Black may have a slight spoiler for next chapter on my twitter page so be warned. But posted are the family trees of Longbottom, Pollux, Dorea Black. More are to come but will be unveiled as they are needed in the story. Again highlighted means alive, not highlighted means dead, and a "*" by the first name means they are OC.
Well thank you for reading and message/review and I will get back to you.
Ric
"Gentlemen, you can't fight in here! This is a war room."
Dr. Strangelove, 1964
OCs
Alphard Black
Former second heir to House Black, now first with the death of cousin
Son of Sirius Black
Cygnus Black
Son of Cassiopeia Black
Died by dragon pox while on vacation with betrothed
Former first heir to House Black
Pollux Black (Canon)
Lord Arcturus' brother who died in 1990 according to canon
Lord Arcturus Black II (Canon)
Lord of House Black who died in 1990 in Canon
In here he died just late enough to survive First Heir Cygnus
Lady Callidora Longbottom nee' Black (Canon)
Never mentions relation to Neville but in my story will be the great-aunt of him
Cassiopeia Black (Canon)
Sister of Pollux who died in 1992 in canon
First Heir Cygnus' mother
Angela Black nee' Carrow
Wife of Sirius and younger sister of Carrow twins
Mother of Alphard who was brutally murdered as the war ended
Bartholomew Longbottom
Lady Callidora's grandson and Neville's cousin
Lady Ursula Black (Canon)
Former lady of Headmaster Phineas Black
A teacher at Hogwarts murdered by Grindelwald in my story
Lucretia Malfoy
The eldest child of Narcissa and Lucius
Fifth year in Harry's first
Vega Lestrange
Daughter of Bellatrix
Sixth year in Harry's first
