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Chapter 20 -- The Will Reading
The last few days have been a whirl wind for Harry and his friends. More so for Harry then any other, for he was training longer and longer in his time delay trunk without telling the others. In between training sessions, there were many strategy meetings regarding various objectives. Harry had so much on his plate at the moment that even with a time delay trunk, he still didn't have the time to get to everything. He was feeling the pressure and it seemed like everyone was tugging at him one way or the other.
First there was Remus, Apparently he found a few Werewolf acquaintances who were very interested in some cure testing. When he said a few, he was lying. It was more like a bunch, in fact over twenty Werewolf's were interested in some regards, most even willing to do the testing for free. Then there was another forty or so that wanted updates to how the testing was going. This worked perfectly for Harry, this was a win-win situation. On one side he was eliminating some of the Werewolf threat and on the other side, he was gaining possible allies, I mean after all, he was doing the impossible, curing what couldn't be cured, sometimes people tend to be very devoted to you when you do something like that for them. He would never take advantage though, but if they wanted to fight, you bet your ass he was going to welcome them with open arms.
Then there was Neville, He wanted to go back and do some more digging at the Bubblegum Factory. Not to mention wanting to train with me every waking moment, but Harry couldn't blame him for that. Harry felt a lot closer to Neville then he ever felt with anyone, even Hermione. Neville was just easy to bounce off ideas and he never judged, just gave honest feedback. But sometimes Harry felt like Neville was just sticking through this whole mess with him because he felt he owed Harry something. Harry knew that was crazy thinking that, but he couldn't help himself.
Then there was Jennifer and Krista, who want me to take a tour of Biggsby. They were ever pushing me into attending their school with them in the fall. Harry figured it couldn't hurt to at least take a tour, but he wasn't sure he wanted to attend the same school as the girls. Harry had been re-thinking his relationships with girls lately. They seemed to be rather loyal, and average fighters but showed promise of being powerful, but sometimes they were rather clingy. Really who am I to complain when you have two beautiful girls clinging to you, but lately Harry hadn't really had that kind of attractiveness with either girl. At first he was very attracted to them, but after everything, they seemed almost like sisters now, at least that's how it felt. Only time will see with those two.
Neville said it was stupid of me to buy them those necklaces, especially when he found out how much I spent on them, and maybe it was, I still don't care. For one I was on a emotional high, so to speak. I have never felt so free as I did on that day, and besides, after showing Neville my last Gringott's statement, he understood better. Of course it was a lot of money, but for me it was nothing more then a drop in the bucket. Harry had been thinking lately though, maybe a gesture like that sends the wrong message.
Then of course there were the Twins and their business venture. Some of the ideas Harry had given the dynamic duo, have already started to blossom. They were also bugging Harry about having him introduce them as close personal friends of his to Whiplock at Gringotts. Harry understood the reasoning in that request, with the type of respect the Goblin nation was showing Lord Potter at the moment, a personal recognition right now would make anyone important coming from me. Harry also liked that he could use them to deliver messages to Gringott's with their shop located just down the Alley. Harry was a little worried that the Twins would do something to harm the relationship he had with the Goblins right now. He couldn't explain it, but of everything he was involved with, his relationship with the Goblins seemed to be the most important to maintain. He needed to have a sit down with the Twins, maybe after the will reading Harry thought.
So as you could see that Harry was being stretched rather thin, and with Sirius' will reading in two days, he just needed some time to himself. He sent Jennifer and Krista home and told them that he would give them a call after the reading. Then he told Neville that if he wanted to get a jump on investigating the Factory that he should, but if he could wait until after the will reading that he would help him. Luna of course knew exactly how Harry felt and left before anyone, kissing Harry on the cheek as well as Neville before heading out the door. Harry could have sworn she lingered longer on Neville's cheek then his, he would have to ask Neville what's up there later. Once everyone was gone, Harry turned the defensive wards on high surrounding Privet Drive, then told Dobby and Winky to take the next two days off. Of course they would not agree so Harry had to order them to do no chores and to stay in their Compartment unless he specifically called for them or he or any of his companions were in danger. They reluctantly agreed.
After sending Remus to return to the Werewolf's with his message to them, and sending the Twins on a rather large supply mission, that finally left Harry completely alone for the next two days, well not completely, he still had Hedwig and Alissa to take care of. Harry was going to spend the next two days entirely in his trunk on full time delay, that worked out to a little over three month's of training, practicing, and exercising. Harry spent a good chunk of that time in his Library compartment researching and studying. He also spent a lot of time creating and detailing a very ingenious plan. He was still missing certain information but he had guesses and with that he began to prepare. If everything went to plan, this was the best possible scenario Harry could think of to possibly survive this upcoming war.
Harry was in absolute love with his trunk, it was like a mini Hogwarts. He could learn a spell in the library and then walk down a hallway and into a dueling room and practice them. Only you had all the time in the world to master it. Harry was very glad he made the decision to spend every minute he had until the will reading in the trunk, so much has changed in the last three months for Harry. The biggest thing being his relationship with his two familiars. Alissa has grown so much, it seemed that living a life outside of a tank has agreed with her. What really amazed Harry was that he learned that Alissa could do magic. Harry figured it had something to do with the bond they shared, but he wasn't sure. She was getting rather good too, Harry wondered if Nagini could cast spells like Alissa, Harry had some pretty intense sparing sessions with Alissa and wondered if Tommy boy does the same thing.
Hedwig on the other hand could not perform magic, but she was fiercely intelligent, and Harry could communicate with her. He wasn't sure how, it felt like a form of Legilimency, but slightly different. He couldn't explain it and he didn't care, it was down right useful and she also spent some time in the dueling room with Harry and Alissa. Harry felt better knowing she could take care of herself when a random fight would break out.
Looking at the time, Harry knew he had to leave his fortress of solitude and make his way to Gringotts for the will reading. Coming out of his Trunk, Harry felt a little weird at first, he walked over to the security screen and noted a familiar orange blob that was on the screen, no doubt they were cloaked Order Members that were monitoring him twenty four seven since his confrontation with Dumbledore days ago. He had to smirk at how far away the Order members were, so far in fact they were not even on Privet Drive. But no matter, Harry's security camera's had the entire neighborhood screened. Harry wondered how the old Headmaster was going to react when finding out about his emancipation, well I will soon find out for that day is today.
Alissa slithered out of the Trunk and made her way out of the closet and onto Harry's large bed, while Hedwig flew out and landed on her perch. Harry followed them out of the closet and over to his table where a steaming hot breakfast was waiting for him with a few letters sitting beside his plate, One thing Harry missed while in the trunk was Winky's cooking. Harry wasn't complaining because he actually enjoyed cooking all his meals himself, it makes him feel normal. But Winky's cooking is just so damn delicious. sitting on the top was a rather thick letter from Whiplock. Taking a seat, Harry reached over towards the letter when he was surprised by a silent Dobby popping in right beside him.
"Dobby!" Harry said surprised and happy at the same time, "How have you been?"
"I am being good Master, You look different Master" asked Dobby rather surprised.
"Do I?" said Harry looking at himself
"Oh yes Master, you are taller, and stronger too, but what is really different is your magical aura sir." said a beaming Dobby
"That's a good thing I hope." smirked Harry
"Yes Master it is, will you be wanting me to accompany you to the will reading master? I know Whiplock has sent you portkey's so maybe yous not needing Dobby today?" said Dobby
"Yes, I think you should accompany me, but I want you to remain invisible unless I need you, I don't really want all the snoopers to get wind of it yet. Since we are arriving hours early to discuss certain things with Whiplock, I don't think we will run into any problems."
"Master, while you were away in your trunk, Whiplock sent his personal curse breakers to re-cast a majority of the wards not only surrounding Privet Drive, but also your room and Trunks. I am absolutely certain that no one and I mean NO ONE will gain access to your room while you are not present again." said Dobby
"That's great Dobby, I will make sure to thank him in person today." said Harry while wondering who his Order Guards were today while staring out the small bedroom window overlooking Privet Drive.
"Mundungus Fletcher and Hestia Jones Master" said Dobby
Harry looked at Dobby with a curious look, he didn't remember asking that question out loud, he had to dedicate some time into researching this bond he was experiencing with his House Elf's. Harry was getting tired of all these bonds to manage, it was very tiring. Why was it every time he meets someone or something new, they become bonded? Oh well, I guess that's the life of the Chosen One.
Harry finished Winky's amazing breakfast then turned his attention to the small stack of letters. Picking up the first one from Whiplock.
Lord Potter-Black, ( Harry )
I enclosed the two portkey's you suggested for the will reading of your Godfather today. Please take good care of these for they will deposit you within my private chambers and the second will return you to Privet Drive no matter where you are and I do mean anywhere, even down in the deepest dungeon of Gringotts. The activate phrase to leave is then name of my weapon. I received your message from Hedwig, and am looking forward to discussing it with you in detail upon your arrival, like we suggested, I recommend you use that portkey at the time we before mentioned. For I fear what happens to the unlucky individual that chooses to use that portkey other then who it was intended for. Worry not young Lord, whoever you choose to bring will not be harmed as long as you are touching the portkey with them. See you soon.
Your Friend,
W.
Harry opened the thick envelope and out came two small golden coins. On the face of one was Gringotts Bank and on the other, a picture of the Potter Crest. Harry gave both coins to Dobby to hold for him until he showered and got dressed.
Fifteen minutes later, Harry was all cleaned up and dressed to impress, looking the part of the pureblood patriarch of two noble and powerful houses. Harry then picked up his cell phone and dialed the Twins, well George to be exact.
'Hello?"
"Hey George, It's Harry, I was wondering if you guys were planning on attending Sirius' will reading today? I know your Father has an invite, but I wasn't sure about the rest of the family?" said Harry
"Actually, The whole Family was going to attend, but the Headmaster voted against it, but of course he suggested that Ron and Hermione should attend for moral support for you, Ha! What a bunch of crap heh?" said George
" Great, well are you guys doing anything today, because I wouldn't mind if you both attended with me. We have some business to attend to and I was hoping to do so after the will reading. This would also be a good time to introduce you two with the Branch Manager, but if you have other plans, I understand." said Harry
" No,no,no, we don't have any other plans and we would love to join you, for REAL moral support and all. When do we need to be ready?"
"In about ten minutes, sorry about the short notice, I'm slowly returning to reality. Are you sure you guys want to come with me, I don't want to put a wedge between you and your family?" asked Harry
"Non sense Harry, besides, if we had to choose between standing by your side or our family's traditions, well that's a no brainer. We choose your side mate!" said George as Fred yelled "Yeah" in the background.
"Thanks guys, I'll have Dobby pick you guys up in ten minutes, get ready fast okay." asked Harry
"Will do, see you soon mate" and with that George Hung up the phone.
Harry gathered up some of his notes and waited for the Twins to get ready. He still had about fifteen minutes until eight in the morning, that was the time Whiplock had mentioned they should meet at Gringotts.
After Dobby returned with the Twins, Harry waited until eight on the dot, then all four of them touched the golden coin and Harry whispered the code word that nobody could hear properly before they were swept away and abruptly landing in Whiplock's private office.
"Ahhh Harry, always on time, it's good to see you aga….. Oh my apologies Lord Potter-Black, I didn't realize you had guests, please forgive me for my rudeness in front of your colleagues." said Whiplock, standing up from his office chair and walking around to bow down in front of Harry as the Twins just stared blankly at what they were witnessing. The all mighty Head of the Goblin Nation in all of London, bowing down to a teenage wizard.
"Don't be silly Whiplock, please rise and I gave you specific permission to call me by my given name, make no apologies for ever calling me Harry, if onlookers are offended, who cares, it only matters what You and I think, so please rise and let me properly introduce you to two of my closest friends." said Harry as Whiplock rose with a toothy grin.
The twins were still bewildered and were staring with slightly open mouths but only George was drooling.
"Mister Weasley and Mister Weasley, it is good to finally meet you in person, how's business?" asked Whiplock
After a few seconds of silence, Harry elbowed the Twins and they snapped back to reality.
"No sir, the Honor is ours" said Fred as George continued
"Harry speaks very highly of you sir, and Harry."
"Speaks very highly of hardly anyone."
"So if you need anything."
"don't hesitate to call"
"Fred and George Weasley anytime" the Twins said in unison.
Whiplock looked over to Harry who was trying not to laugh.
"Don't worry Whiplock, they do that to everyone, it can get quite annoying at times." said Harry as he gave the Twins a stern looked who instantly sobered up with sorrow looks.
"Sorry Harry" they said in unison again
Whiplock simply chuckled before getting right to business and addressing Harry.
"Is it safe to assume that I can discuss some of our business in front of your colleagues?"
"Yes you can, I trust them but they are not aware of my last few correspondences' but we may talk freely." answered Harry
"Understood, now Dobby, you might as well join us, I know you are here." after Dobby re-materialized, Whiplock continued. "It appears the last two days have suited you well young Harry and you were correct, the property that you spoke of is perfect for what you have envisioned. When I mentioned what you told me to the Goblin council, you could hear a pin drop it grew so silent. It appears they are very interested it your findings. I have the best team from our Scotland Branch investigating but so far they have come up empty I'm afraid." said Whiplock as Harry's smile grew larger
"Why do I get the feeling that this is not bad news for you young Lordship?" Whiplock asked curiously.
"Because it isn't, from the information I came across, no one, and I mean no one will be able to find that manor that isn't a Potter. If your best team can not find it, then it is perfect for what I need."
"But Harry, how am I to prepare it if my people can not even find it?" asked Whiplock.
"I will take care of that, from what I gathered, the location is near the coastline where the Callanish Stones are. I will investigate the Island tomorrow, just have your men be prepared to deliver the goods to that location, I will give them final coordinates once I find it myself." declared Harry
"As you wish Harry, I will have it done. Are you certain you can find it? From what information I have, and mind you there is very little information about the island on a whole, but it is written that a very powerful and very Old World Castle once existed on the Isle of Lewis, but most are just old legends, unless?" pondered Whiplock
"That's what I am hoping, from the old journal I found in the Potter Library, the Castle has not had inhabitants since the early eleventh century. All the research I have done on the Island of Lewis tells me that very few people actually live on the Isle, and according to the records and deeds that were located inside the journal, I believe that the Potter Head of house, indeed owns the entire island." declared Harry as Fred and George's jaws hit the floor again as Harry passed over some papers to Whiplock.
"Amazing, absolutely amazing! …..You are correct Harry but this is very old magic, I am certain that you must be the first Potter to come across this knowledge for a very long time. Your father's, father's, father's, father's, father still probably had no idea about any of this." said Whiplock
Hearing the Branch Manager say that made the Twins and Harry laugh. Bringing the Twins back to reality.
"That is what is most curious, don't you agree Harry?" asked Whiplock
"What is most curious Sir?" asked Harry
"If this castle has been lost for so many years, why has it been discovered now, especially when the information was so accessible in the Potter vaults for all those same years?" asked Whiplock
Harry never thought of it that way but Whiplock was correct, why hadn't any other Potter heads ever found that journal? Why did it seem like that book was calling his name that day, like it was meant for him? So many questions but one thing is for certain, Harry was going to that Island and find some of those answers himself.
"You bring up some valid concerns Lord Whiplock, but I am certain that I will be safe on the Isle of Lewis, but just in case I will bring some allies with me. Now moving on, Have you informed the Goblins of my request?" Harry asked
"I have and they understand what is appropriate demeanor for the entirety of today. No need to worry, they will not fail you, we owe you that at the very least. Now, come and let us have a seat so I can explain in better detail how the proceedings will unfold at the reading. As you will soon discover, Gringotts is still closed to general public, and will remain so until further notice. We are making an exception for this will reading only because it is concerning you young Lordship." and with that Whiplock led Harry, the Twins, and Dobby to a small comfortable lounging area in the corner of his office.
"First, let me thank you for beefing up the wards surrounding my muggle residence, hopefully I won't be spending much more time there if everything goes according to plan." said Harry
"After your story of how the Headmaster was snooping around your master bedroom, I wanted to make sure our favorite wizard stays protected." smiled Whiplock
The next two hours were spent going over what Whiplock thought would happen and how everyone will react to different information. Harry found out some information he was not aware of, like certain people attending the reading that he thought would never. He wondered if Bellatrix would dare show up, he knew she was crazy and thought she was unstoppable, but Harry was going to prove that wrong the next time he laid eyes on her.
It was finally time, everyone who was supposed to attend was in a small room just down the hallway. According to Whiplock, once a will reading has begun, it must finish. He wanted Harry to wait until it was announced and begun, before entering. He assured Harry that it would be quite the show and prompted Harry to check the Headmaster's facial expression upon entering. He wanted to view it over and over in Harry's pensieve.
The Twins for the most part were trying to keep Harry calm but it wasn't working very well. It wasn't like he was freaking out or anything, but a hundred different things could go wrong. He had to stick to the pureblood handbook and go stone-faced, even if he wanted to stand up and shout and scream and reign down spell fire at some of the possible attendees. Not to mention the possibility of hearing Sirius' voice again, it was sure to bring back nightmares of that sorrowful day he fell through the veil.
The Two Goblin Guards informed Harry that it was time to enter. Harry stood up as did the Twins and after a few hand claps to pump each other up a bit, the three wizards strolled out the side room and down the hallway towards the reading.
FIFTEEN MINUTES EARLIER, Will Reading Room:
Two Goblin Guards escorted two teens into the room and to their seats. The room had three long tables, stretching from one end to the other. Near the back of the room was another long table with snacks and drinks galore. At the end of the long snack table was an easel, sitting on the easel was a rather large portrait of Sirius. Ron figured it was Muggle made because the picture wasn't moving. After making his initial scan of the room, Ron turned towards Hermione.
"Look, were early and no one is hardly here yet, just like I said it would be." said Ron Weasley with a I told you so attitude
"It doesn't matter, I told you it's a sign of respect to show up early, something you would know absolutely nothing about!" returned Hermione Granger
"Hey!, I can be respectful."
"Yeah sure Ron, this coming from the man who still hasn't learned to not talk with food in his mouth." said Hermione
As Ron pouted because he was obviously losing a battle of wits against Hermione, they were interrupted by the Goblin Guards escorting more guests, Tonks and Remus.
"Where is Harry, weren't you two supposed escort him here with the Headmaster?" asked Hermione
"We were, but we could not get close enough to the house to even knock on the door. The Headmaster was absolutely furious, I don't think I have ever seen a ward he could not pass. But he could barely put one foot on Privet Drive before he was cast away." said Tonks as Remus turned away to hide his smirk before wiping it off his face before someone saw.
"Bloody Hell, you mean we came all the way here for nothing, Harry's not even attending?" said Ron
"Oh Grow up Ronald! Show some bloody respect for Sirius, what is this keeping you away from? Sitting on your lazy ass doing nothing?" spat Hermione finally losing it with the wizard known as Ron
Remus was proud of Hermione if not a little shocked. This was the first time she had rebuked Ron in public in quite some time and it appeared the youngest Weasley male was not to happy about it either. Remus was about to change the subject to save Hermione from a Weasley argument when they were interrupted by Dubledore, flashy as ever wearing bright purple robes with sparkling white moons that ran all across them.
The Goblin Guards that were stationed inside the room, sneered as the Headmaster entered the room. Albus made his way over to Remus as Ron used the distraction to pull Hermione aside and off towards the back of the room closer to the food. Remus watched closely as the two teens walked away, using his Werewolf senses, Remus tried to listen in to what Ron was saying to Hermione until he was distracted by the Headmaster's statement.
"I am upset that I couldn't have a chat with Harry, but it was a quick fix to the solution. I was worried how he was going to react to my suggestion that he stay at Privet Drive today, it is just to much of a risk to have him here. It will be best if I just took care of things, being his Magical Guardian and all." smiled Dumbledore
"Headmaster, you can't be serious? It is rumored that Harry will be named the Black Heir, and as such, it not only his right to attend but also wizard law, not to mention knowing how Harry cared for Sirius, it would destroy him to miss this, to say goodbye." Remus stated in shock to how the Headmaster seemed to not even be listening.
"I am aware of that Remus, but there is too much at stake, and besides, I am sure that Harry will not be named Heir to the Black line, my informant has confirmed that young Draco will be named the new Heir." said the Headmaster and right on cue, Draco Malfoy strolled into the will reading room like he owned the place, with classic sneer in place.
With Narcissa right behind him. He strolled over to the first row of tables and sat down, dead center of the front row.
Ron and Hermione were making their way back to the second row, Hermione looked somewhat dazed as Ron was carrying a small plate loaded with various foods and a slight smirk on his face, until he spotted Malfoy sitting dead center in the row in front of him.
"What are you doing in here ferret boy!" sneered Ron
"I thought this room reeked of the needy, meager, and pitiably underprivileged, now it is clear why, A Weasley and a Mudblood……….figures" said Draco with an emotionless tone.
"You should be careful mini Death Eater, and I do mean mini, your not surrounded by Teachers and your Goons like usual. Instead you only have your Death Eater Whore of a Mother, who we all know, is only good at pleasing no prick scum like your Father and anyone else who wants a turn." spat Ron as Draco stood up quickly pulling his wand as he rose. Ron was completely caught off guard as Draco unleashed a purple colored spell, aimed right for Ron's chest.
Hermione watched the action unfold almost as if it were happening in slow motion. Her Brain was telling her to pull her wand and cast a reflective shield, but for some reason, it seemed her body would not react to what her brain was telling it to do. For a split second Hermione felt like maybe someone got her with a body bind curse or something. Using every inch of her magical power that she could, Hermione closed her eyes and focused on her intent, to move her arm and cast a Protego. Hermione opened her eyes and couldn't believe what she was seeing. Malfoy's spell was frozen, hovering mere inches away from Ron's chest. Ron and Malfoy were frozen as well, when suddenly Draco and Ron, flew across the room to the front, and both were shackled to separate chairs before anyone knew what had happened.
A Large Goblin Guard yelled as he entered the room. "There will be no spell casting while in this room. Penalty for breaking this rule, will be dealt with swiftly the Goblin way. Those two will remain shackled for the duration of the will reading, witch will start in five minutes." then the large Goblin Guard turned and exited the room.
Suddenly Hermione could move again, waving her arms around weirdly, she stood up and paced around the room towards the back, near the food table. She began to mumble to herself while she was trying to figure something out. Meanwhile the Will Reading Room was more crowded as more attendees arrived.
It was finally time as the room filled with about ten huge Goblin Guards dressed heavily in silver armor, No one had seen such a sight in centuries. At least no Human until the recent Goblin separation of factions. After a few seconds as everyone collected themselves, three more Goblins entered the room, the one in front walked to the front of the room as a podium materialized right before him as the other two stepped to the side.
"I would like to thank all of you, except for these two obviously, for coming today to hear the last will and declarations of the last living heir of the most noble and pureblood Black family line, Sirius Orion Black." said the Goblin at the podium while motioning towards Ron and Draco with his arms as he spoke.
Hermione rushed back to her seat as the Goblin continued.
"As it is our custom, following regulations made long ago, no will reading can be read until all main benefactors' are present, we are still missing one Lord Harry James Potter." said the Goblin while looking around the room.
"Ahh yes, I understand your regulations Sir, but I am the Magical Guardian for one Harry James Potter, and am here on his behalf. So you may begin with the will reading." said a beaming and mad twinkling Albus Dumbledore.
"I am sorry School Teacher, but our records indicate no such thing." said the smirking Goblin Guard.
The Headmaster lost his twinkle as soon as he heard himself referred to as the "School Teacher" He was about to protest when the front door banged open and more silvered armored Goblins emerged into the room. Following them was the Branch Manager himself in all of London.
"Branch Manager Whiplock, what an honor it is that your gracing us with your presence today, is there anything something wrong or can we help you with something?" asked an as kissing Headmaster
Whiplock continued with the plan and bowed slightly, acknowledging the Headmaster's pitiful display of brown nosing before speaking.
"Thank you, but I am here to show my respect for the great warrior, Sirius Orion Black, and to see to it personally, that his last wishes are followed out completely." said Whiplock and right on cue the doors banged open again, and in walked, in order, Fred Weasley, Harry potter, and George Weasley.
Before Albus could even say a word, there was a wooosh of magic, and the three rows of tables got pushed backwards as a fourth row emerged right in front, where Fred lead Harry and his brother over and sat down right in front.
The Goblin at the podium stared Harry right in the eyes, the slightly bowed his head in respect, before speaking.
"Excellent, We may now begin the will reading of Sirius Orion Black." he declared while pulling out a small portrait and leaning it against the podium.
There were a few gasps as the realization hit that they were staring at the face of a happy looking Sirius Black. The portrait seemed to awaken with a wicked smirk as it scanned the room before finally settling down, looking straight at Harry potter before speaking.
"Thank you all for attending my final farewell party, I am hoping I went out in a blaze of glory, or with a few spring chickens if you know what I mean." winked Portrait Sirius before continuing.
" Before I get to the meat and potatoes of this shindig, there are a few minor things that must be dealt with immediately. First, to Narcissa Malfoy and Draco Malfoy, Based on you dealings with young Harry Potter over the years, leads me to believe there is no hope for you or your child Cissy. I can't ell you how much that pains me. I was always under the impression that you were hoodwinked into marrying that Malfoy Bastard and I heard a many disturbing things from your sister while I was vacationing at Azkaban. It was one of my top objectives since returning to the wizarding world, to follow up and do a little investigating into your situation. Unfortunately, it appears I ran out of time to do so."
Said Sirius while peering into the eyes of Narcissa, who was shockingly tearing up at hearing Sirius' words.
Draco was about to shout his opinion on the matter before he was cut off by the portrait.
" Draco, I only say this once but I know you are to damn stubborn to actually listen, but here it goes anyway. You claim to support the same ideals as The Dark Lord, but are you willing to become a slave to him, to be lower then a House Elf, to run his little errands and to his billing even if it harms the ones you love?" said Portrait Sirius as he paused to stare cautiously into the eyes of young Draco before continuing.
" So sad, to just throw your life away to please some crazy insane half blood who is barely even human anymore. I guess I just expected more out of you, the offspring of a very powerful pureblood Witch with Black blood flowing through her veins. I not only declare that Draco is NOT the named Heir to lead the Black Family name to greatness, and I award them absolutely nothing and leave their fate to the newly named Heir to do with as he pleases." declared Portrait Sirius
At hearing those words, Narcissa let out a few more tears as she bowed her head in shame. Draco was about to cause a commotion, but before he could, he, along with his mother were whisked away and out of the room as the portrait continued.
"Now, to my favorite Cousin, Nymphadora Tonks. I hope you grow to think for yourself as you get older and more powerful. I am aware of an alliance you have recently formed with a certain Wizard, I whole heartily give my blessings to this regard, and want nothing else then for you to be happy. I leave you with five million Galleons, not having to work for a living, I hope you leave the Ministry and begin living your life." said Sirius as Tonks smiled while wiping away the tears before she too was whisked away and out of the room.
The will reading continued for the next ten minutes as the room slowly started to empty until the only attendees left were Harry and the Twins, Dumbledore, Remus, and Ron and Hermione.
" Now, To unfinished business, Headmaster. I have always gave you the benefit of the doubt, I followed your orders at great personal risk mind you, for decades. It wasn't until recently that I saw the error of my ways. You manipulated the truth to meet your goals, I thought you were doing so to protect Harry, but I was wrong. You had other motives, motives I am sure you do not want discussed openly hear today." stated Sirius as the Headmaster visibly paled.
"one thing I am correcting here today, is you controlling Harry's life. After today, you will have no power over Harry. I will not lie to him and rest assured that he will be informed of everything that I have discovered before he leaves the bank today. Your fate will be left in young Harry's hands, and I agree with whatever he chooses. Whether that be to cut ties with you completely, or to press charges against you. I am sure Harry, that you will make the right decision. I am so disappointed in you Albus, and I know James and Lily will agree with me there. You have a lot to amend for Headmaster, just know that when your time comes, James, Lily, and I will be waiting for you in the after life. I leave you nothing as well, and here by ban you from all black properties from this day forth." commanded Sirius as Dumbledore turned to address Harry quickly, but he didn't even get one word out before he was whisked away and out of the room.
Ron and Hermione looked shocked as they looked at one another. The portrait began to address Remus next, Hermione used this distraction to try and get Harry's attention to no avail.
"Remus, Remus, Remus. Where has the time gone dear friend. We wasted so much time both being stubborn block heads. Rest assured Remus, you were and always will be, my best friend, my brother. I hold no grudges against you for the travesty that has become my life. I now know how Dumbledore manipulated you as he did with a lot of powerful wizards. I only hope that you can put aside those feelings of hate and bitterness to do what is right for Harry. Mooney, you are the only Marauder left, it is up to you to guide our young savior and to remain by his side no matter witch path he decides to take. I Leave you, Remus Lupin, ten million galleons and Number Twelve Grimmauld Place, but most importantly, I leave you Godfather responsibilities of one Harry James Potter, take care of each other you two, my favorite two people." Sirius beamed as both Harry and Remus were openly crying, as was Hermione and the Twins. Ron was to busy hoping that he would be left a small mountain of gold to be concerned with crying.
Remus handed Harry a small note before standing up and wiping away his tears. He smiled at Harry and gave one last look at the Portrait of Sirius before he too was whisked out of the room.
"Almost done. This was supposed to be the time where I let down my guard and talked freely with Harry and his loyal companions, unfortunately, this is not the case. It would appear that two of our numbers are not as loyal as they appear to be. To Ron and Hermione, after everything Harry has done for the both of you, I am absolutely disgusted how quickly you two turned your back on him at Dumbledore's suggestion. Ron I expected as much, for you have always been jealous of Harry, but Hermione? From you I expected better." scolded Sirius as Hermione bowed her head in shame as tears began to flow down her face. Ron on the other hand, his face grew beat red as he got angrier and angrier as the portrait continued his reprimand.
" If you could have only stuck with Harry a little bit longer, you would have been rewarded handsomely, I hope you get everything you deserve. I leave Ron Weasley ten galleons, to use to by yourself a clue. Hermione Granger, I leave you a family heirloom, hopefully this will help you see straight, I hope someday, Harry finds the strength to forgive you and trust you once more." declared Sirius as the Goblin behind the podium walked around and handed Hermione a black velvet jewelry box. Ron couldn't hold it in any longer and turned towards Harry to unleash a Weasley tirade. Unfortunately for him, he never got the chance as he was whisked away as Hermione slowly opened the Black Box as her tears flowed freely down her face. Inside was the most beautiful necklace she had ever seen. It was a gorgeous Goblin made silver necklace, adorned with jewels of all various sizes and shapes.
She quickly put it on while standing, expecting to be whisked off as well, but it didn't happen right away like it did with the others. Instead she began to feel light headed, then suddenly a bright white flash erupted through the will reading room, blinding nearly everyone. Harry and the Twins were not surprised, they had discussed this possible option with Whiplock before the Reading. The necklace simply confirmed their suspicions, Hermione was under a mild version of Imperious, that the necklace broke immediately, it had protected the Lady of the House of Black for centuries. Suddenly Hermione collapsed to the ground as the Silvered Armored Goblins rushed forward and conjured a stretcher, assuring Lord Potter that she would be taken care of, as they whisked her away, leaving only Harry, and the Twins, the only humans left in the room.
"Now Cub, Let me be serious for a minute…..wait I'm always Sirius" said the Portrait chuckling as Harry simply moaned, the Portrait continued,
"Sorry kiddo, I couldn't resist, one last time and all. Let's get the formality out of the way first, I Here by proclaim, Harry James Potter, my heir and new Head of the House of Black. Along with the title, I grant you the remaining gold, some forty million galleons as well as all the remaining Black properties not before mentioned." stated Portrait Sirius while the Goblin behind the podium, once again walked forward and placed a small black jewelry box on the table before Harry, then bowed extremely low to the ground, while slowly backing away.
Harry opened the box slowly, revealing the miraculous Black Heirloom Family Ring. He was trying to keep it together, but peering into the eyes of the Portrait of Sirius while holding the Black Family Ring and hearing Sirius' kind voice was just too much to take, Harry began to let out the tears he was so bravely attempting to hold in. Fred and George each put an arm around him to show support. Harry was a little embarrassed crying in front of the Twins, but at the moment he didn't care. He slipped on the Black Heirloom and instantly felt His Magical core react to it. The magic in the small room was felt by everyone, including the Goblins, who with everyone else gone, began to one by one, bow down at the feet of Harry as the portrait began to speak again.
"And last but defiantly not least, Fred and George Weasley. Thank you for always sticking beside Harry and for saving his arse more then once on the Quidditch pitch. You two have always chose the path that right, regardless how dangerous that path would become, and for that I reward you both. Fred and George Weasley, I leave you each two million galleons and my personal Marauder notebooks, copies of course, but useful nonetheless." smiled Portrait Sirius as the twins just stared open mouthed for a few seconds, completely lost for words.
The Twins finally came to when the Goblin Guard shoved a small box in front of them with a small pile of shrunken down books inside. This to them was worth far more then the Two million galleons that were being transferred into their Gringotts account. Harry was coming to grips with his new power obtained from the Black family ring as Portrait Sirius spoke up one final time.
"Harry, there has been so much pressure, so many expectations laid upon you, most even before you were born. Any normal wizard would have buckled under the pressure long ago, but not you, why is that Harry? I'll tell you why, because you are no normal wizard, far from it actually. I had a gut feeling that you are starting to figure out what I am referring too, unfortunately, I am forbidden to discuss it here, but I have put plans into motion, to make sure you will be aware when the time is appropriate. Until then Cub, just follow that miraculous heart of yours and you will never go wrong. Keep your friends close Harry, and your enemy's closer. I am so sorry that I have been taken from you, it isn't fair, I know. I only hope you can forgive an old dog, and know that I am never to far away, I live within you Harry. I am so proud of the man you have become and I know your parents are as well. Please don't feel sorry for old Padfoot, and don't mope around wasting your tears on me. Just know that I am now free Harry, free from all the pain and suffering of our world, not to mention reunited with James and Lily, I couldn't be happier. Here's to the new and improved, Lord Harry James Potter-Black, and I look forward to the day when we are reunited once again, just please make that day at least a hundred years into the future, okay. I love you Kiddo, always." and with that, Portrait Sirius smiled one last time, then walked right out of the frame of the painting.
Harry smiled while wiping away his tears that were falling down his cheeks. The Twins were also wiping away their tears as Whiplock moved forward to discuss a few things further with Harry.
"The Headmaster was absolutely furious that he was allowed to hear the entirety of the will reading, but he is now aware of your emancipation status as is the Ministry. Before you ask, Miss Granger is recouping from some rather nasty mind spells that have been cast upon her, I imagine she should be fine in a couple of days. I am not sure what she will remember when she awakes, you might be able to obtain some answers by entering her mindscape, but only do so with her blessing. If anyone is powerful enough to help her see her way back, it is you young Lordship." declared a beaming Whiplock as Harry nodded, he was about to speak before they were interrupted by two new silver armored Goblin Guards.
"Lord Whiplock Sir, This message came for you, it is of the greatest of importance." stated the Guard
Whiplock grabbed the note and opened it and read silently before exclaiming,
"Oh Bugger!"
"What is It Whiplock?" Harry asked
"Diagon Alley is under attack!" said Whiplock as the Twins let out a small gasp. Whiplock gave a few orders to his troops as Harry did the same thing with the Twins and Dobby before rushing forward and out of the will reading room, Wand held firmly in hand, with the Twins right behind him as Dobby popped off to deliver his message.