AN: Just to tell you all that my main language is not English, but please give me feedback and what I need to improve, thank you!
Disclaimer: This work of Fanfiction based on Harry Potter universe. All recognizable characters, plots and settings are exclusive property of J. K. Rowling. I don't own anything just my OC's
Pairings: Harry X The Black Sisters
AN2: Someone asked if Harry would keep secret about being a half-blood. Only for a while, he has to hide to no catch the uninvited attention of Dumbledore and Voldemort. The only thing he is going to hide is hem being a time-traveler, the only ones that will know are the older Potters and Arcturus.
AN3: Sorry for those who like Ted… I also like him… don't kill me, please.
AN4: IF ANYONE WANT TO BETA THIS FIC, PLEASE SEND ME A PM. THE ONE WHO VOLUNTEERED FIRST SIMPLY DISAPPEARED FOR SOME REASON, I JUST HOPE HE'S ALRIGHT. SO IF YOU WANT TO HELP, JUST PM.
AN5: Sorry again for the English.
AN6: This chapter was a timeskip and the next one will be also timeskip.
Warning: I know she's a squib (you'll know who I'm talking about when you read it) but I gave her magic for the sake of plot and well is just a minor change, it's not like she will be a major character.
Chapter 7 – Time passes and the war starts
It was finally time to go back to Hogwarts, last semester and the final two periods to start, it was almost spring and the freezing cold was changing to a more pleasant weather. Currently Harry was sitting alone in a compartment in the train to Hogwarts waiting for it to depart. He was scribing in a notebook, with the objective to write a journal, for some reason he though he needed to do it. While doing lazy movements with a pen in his new journal his thoughts traveled to the events of this holidays.
Christmas was... well, one of, if not the best Christmas of his life. It was fun, heartwarming, filled with company and gifts. But this was not specifically where his mind was, Harry mind traveled to Christmas news... The rise of Voldemort. Tom Riddle acted and announced his existence to world, while it was shocking for him, people on the streets seemed to just shrug it off about the attempt of another Dark Lord's ascension. And this worried him greatly.
In the news, unfortunately, even with Dorea's warning Noah Newviti was found dead with his pregnant wife. A message was delivered with them, exclusively to the pure-bloods. The message said Newviti was the one who killed the Slytherin students for no reason, and that the pure-bloods should stand together and purge the 'impures' from the world. At least, Bellatrix should be safe for now and proved that they were still trying to get the Black House to their side.
This meant one thing for Harry, the war had started. When he got go discuss this with his parents they told him they would help more actively, with Harry in Hogwarts there was still not much to do, so Charlus would contact some of his old war buddies. Easing things, Harry decided he would have to wait at least, to his second year to start his plans, meanwhile he would start knowing more students of all Houses and maybe befriend them, he knew that soon he would need trustworthy people.
Harry was grateful for his parent's support, after Dorea discovered his actions towards the Knights and Bellatrix involvement, they had like three hours of discussion, it was more like his mother was chastising him, really. But she also was showing her thanks and relief, about him and Bellatrix being safe. They also talked in more details about the meeting with the Blacks, and he told everything to her, don't get him wrong he was not a rat, but with one of Dorea's looks he told her all the details, even Walburga's Cruciatus. Not that he wanted to hide it or anything like that he just didn't want his mother get her hands dirty with a banshee like that.
And to say Dorea was pissed, Harry never saw her face distort that way, it gave him chills in the spine.
Another thing was... Bellatrix, since that day she came to his house every day, it was not that he trusted her, he definitely didn't, for now. But he talked to Dorea and she said to give it a chance, she was a broken girl, crazy, she needed something to get hold to. So he set up a schedule to train her in Occlumency, he was not teaching her spells yet, one, trust, and two her mind and emotions were too wild inside her, it was like his younger self, but with much more... madness.
But still she came to his house and would sit near him, just look through what he was doing. Eventually she asked him questions, made her commentaries and shared all of her thoughts to whatever he was doing. There were some days he just sat down reading while stared intently at him. It was too much for him.
And while the girl was ecstatic of spending time with him, he needed, while in Hogwarts, for her not follow him around like a lost puppy, so they talked, saying that for the rest of the first year she should act normal, and just keep eyes and ears on information and her own safety, even with Newviti's supposed murders. She while smiling, nodded and gave her affirmative answer like his words were law.
Harry was impressed with Bellatrix wits and intelligence during the 'training', she learned fast. In five days only, she read the three books he gave her, while the Occlumency ones where the more complicated ones to understand, she also proved to be marveled with the destruction muggles could do. Seeing her excitement to learn he provided her with mastery in transfiguration and the continuation on the mind arts. Harry could tell one thing about her, she was an excellent student.
While he didn't mind her company that much he could very well get annoyed sometimes with her calling him, Lord, Master, Sir, and some other variations that he didn't remembered. But the point is, she forgets to use his name, and she still insisted she couldn't call him by name, it was disrespectful, and he need the utmost respect of everyone, especially her. He couldn't go to Hogwarts with a third year Black House student calling him Master.
Another person that come to treat him like a hero was James, while differently from Bellatrix, that saw him as a Master, James had now a Hero complex towards him. Harry found it amusing, James kept telling him he wanted to be just like him, and while he just flew on a broom, showed some simple spells and told him some funny stories, he came to admire him. It was something innocent, but still funny.
And the last piece of information he got was a letter from Lord Black saying they would stay neutral for now, while not satisfied, Harry could understand. Surprisingly no one asked about Bellatrix.
Sighing he looked at his journal, hoping this time he at least could get some sleep during the travel.
Andromeda Black was happy, for a lot of reasons actually. First was, the classes coming back, she finally could see her friends again, especially Harry, she wanted to show him her development on her skills. The second, was that she could be a little bit away from the tension that her family was going through, and although there was tension, she could say that this Christmas was one of the best that she has had so far.
It all started before Christmas, for some reason, her mother, father, and even grandfather started to be more... present and thoughtful in their lives. In general, they look like companions besides their parents.
But still there was some suspicious things happening, one was Bellatrix, the other was after the Blacks got back from the minister's ball, it seemed her aunt made something that displeased Lord Black. And when they got home that night, from her room she could hear her aunt's screams of agony. She had to thank Harry for teaching her a silencing charm.
Christmas was... strange. Firstly, her uncle Alphard and great-uncle Marius and his wife came to spend Christmas with them. It seems no one complained about that. Great-uncle Marius is a squib, so she thought at least her aunt and grandfather would protest or at least say something. But they just smiled and greeted them politely. Marius wife, that Andromeda didn't know personally, seemed to be a little nervous, but was very polite towards them. Marius seemed like a sheep among wolves.
Uncle Alphard, the quiet one, greeted everybody in shock, she heard him comment to her father that it seemed he was not in the Black House. She giggled at that. Her uncle Alphard was a funny guy even being very quiet. Also he didn't have a wife, what surprised her, because in her eyes Alphard was a really handsome man, but it seemed his introvert personality didn't provide him a wife yet.
The supper was delicious, as always. But it was not the food that surprised her, but the calm and pleasant family moment. Everyone was smiling, even if some were fake, and they all were engaging in light conversation, except, her grandfather Pollux, grandmother Irma, aunt Walburga and her sister Bellatrix. While the first three were smiling falsely, her older sister was giving all of them the Bellatrix like smile. The mocking scary one. Why she was smiling like that, Andromeda didn't knew."
At least the rest of the family, was actually acting like a family. The one leading them was Lord Black, followed soon after by her uncle Orion and her father Cygnus. Lord Black asked questions and engaged in different talks and subjects during dinner. For a moment she thought about the perfect family.
During the discussions, she came to know more about Marius and his wife. She was a muggleborn witch, her name was Esther. With Marius, they had a son and a daughter. The son was also a squib, he was in university and the daughter attended to a minor magical school, instead of Hogwarts.
But what made her frown was at the end of supper, before they could go to the living room and go through the rest of the Christmas night together and open the presents. Her great-uncle Arcturus at the head of the table informed, that a new Dark Lord raised and they should stay together like supposedly family would. In conclusion, Arcturus decided the family should unite and trust only themselves.
She looked around to see her family's expression and caught some frowning, others shocked, surprised and even a face that showed... realization? And well, her older sister's face... she was grinning madly.
But the bad news that brought equally bad emotions, evaporated when they were in the living room. They started to opening presents, she could see lot of different and cool things.
When came her turn, like happened to Davis, her family started to praising her about her skills and dedication, while she wanted to say it was all because o Harry's teachings, the praises and additional presents made her mouth stay shut and just smile.
The gifts she received, varied from trinkets and books to beautiful dresses and garments, she was happy to receive them, although she wasn't much of a girl in dresses. Narcissa would love though, she even promised her younger sister she could try one of her new dresses. Although Narcissa was smaller in height and body , Andromeda knew it would fit in her sister.
But that night suddenly an owl arrived her house, it was a beautiful white owl and it carries a little box, seemingly addressed to her.
Flashback:
Andromeda was thanking everybody for their respective gifts, when she sat down. A giddy Narcissa, was in motion to get up to have her turn, but a white owl landed near the window making her stop. Marius who was the closest, opened the window and let the owl come inside. And the owl carried a little box.
Marius reached for the box who was labeled Andromeda's name, but didn't informed who was from. "It's for you young Andromeda." Her great uncle Marius said reaching the box towards her.
She looked at the box a little and then glanced towards the faces staring at her. She could see surprised and curious faces. Or in Walburga's case, suspicion.
She grabbed the box and tried to look for a identification tag.
"Who's it from, Andi?" Her younger sister asked.
She shrugged. "I don't actually know."
"It must be her boyfriend." Sirius opened his mouth just to be shut by a smack on the head, from his father.
But still the comment brought silence to the room while everyone stared at her. "Is it true Andromeda?" Her father asked suspiciously. She blushed a little at the thought of receiving a boyfriend's gift.
Putting these thoughts aside, her red face dissipated immediately and she glared strongly at Cygnus. "No. I don't have a boyfriend."
Cygnus seemed satisfied with the answer but still her cousin was annoying. "But, I bet she wanted to have one. A boyfriend I mean" Thankfully, her uncle smacked him in the head again.
C'mon dear, open it." Melania urged her softly, she was a very curious woman, especially with surprise gifts.
Andromeda slowly opened it up to reveal a necklace. It was a beautiful silver black necklace with a... Thestral head design." Now she knew who this necklace came from. Harry told her about Thestrals, that they were incredible and beautiful creatures, even if a little skeletal, but definitely fascinating. The tale behind them, was that, they only could be seen, if you saw death. But what brought her attention the most was the green emerald in the Thestral eye.
She ran her fingers through it, and a involuntary smile appeared on her face. "It seems you know who gifted you this necklace." For the first time for the whole night her older sister spoke. That's was not a problem, but the way she voiced her comment with envy, extreme envy, made it a problem.
Andromeda ignored Bellatrix, but her family started to pestering her about it, while staring at the necklace, she whispered. "Harry." Her whisper echoed through the living room.
When Andromeda heard gasps, she looked at her family to see shock, realization, surprise, confusion, anger, annoyance and pure envy. While her family seemed know something about Harry, her sister kept looking at the necklace as if it belonged to her
"How do you know that boy?" Her aunt for the first time in a whole time, yelled.
Andromeda pondered a little and answers simply. "We are best friends, same year. He's a Slytherin remember?" Andromeda in one of her letters mentioned Harry but it seemed they dismiss it.
"No we didn't forgot, but how you two became friends." Her father inquired suspiciously with narrowed eyes.
Frowning, she thought about his question. Andromeda actually didn't know why she approached Harry. If she could be realistic to herself, maybe it was curiosity? So she explained. "After his stunt on Slytherin common room, I was curious and went to talk to him, it just happened naturally, I think."
Cygnus frowned, but it was Arcturus who spoke. "But to give you something expensive like this…" He trailed off
She glanced at the necklace before answering. "Well, I don't know why he would spend so much in this, but a know the reason why the Thestral. He told me about the Thestrals and I got carried away and very fascinated."
Her father curious asked. "You're interested in skeletal horses? Why? And how he knows about them so much?"
"Well, he told me stories and showed me some books." That was her explanation, what it was very true, that was her reason. "And he knows that much, because he can see Thestrals."
As soon as she finished Marius's wife gasped. "He can see the creatures? And you said he was your age?"
Andromeda nodded in confirmation. In a horrified awe expression, the wife continued. "But he's just a boy." Andromeda then, heard a lot of snorts in the room. "Shouldn't only people who saw death, actually see them?"
"Well for what Harry told me it isn't necessary see death, apparently the Thestrals choose to whom they appear." Andromeda told them while nodding. Satisfied with her own explanation.
The woman not convinced shrank back to her sit and looked thoughtful. "Even so..." She trailed off.
While Andromeda talked she looked around and saw the previous expressions fade and change to annoyance and curiosity, even her older sister leaned forward and seemed to be listening intently. When she finished, Andromeda saw Bellatrix nod to herself satisfied with something.
The rest of the night was eventual, they still inquired her about Harry Potter, but it was minor things. Questions like, how he behaves himself and how he treats her. They were surprised when she told them, he was the one teaching her and he was a very good friend.
That night after all the presents she went to sleep thinking about her holidays and the boy who gave her the best present of her life, until now.
Bellatrix wanted to rush and meet her Lord, but he ordered her to stay low and keep up appearances, he said that he needed to stay anonymous and hidden for now. Just until the start of the second year, apparently he had some plans. Dutifully she nodded and remind herself it would not be long until she could be near him.
Meanwhile he said, she should keep her eyes and ears open to any information or anomaly when in Hogwarts, he also reminded her not to let her guard down even in the castle. She like a loyal servant she was, Bellatrix would do what was ordered of her, after all he was worried about her. But indeed, even if he didn't gave the order she would do the same, the supposed Newviti's attack and murders, showed that they were not after her for now, instead they were trying to gain even more allies and maybe convince her house to join them.
She walked through the train compartments with a complaining Andromeda behind her, she loved her sister very much, but her jealousy and envy were still great. She passed through students and open compartments in her way to the one she always goes to. Normally with her, the Slytherins like the Lestrange would be with her, but to keep up appearances she would risk it and see if they already knew about her being an enemy.
She hoped not, it was Rodolphus who dragged her for the first time to that wretched place, so she had to stay alert.
While gracefully walking, like the proud and beautiful witch she was, she suddenly stopped and she froze in place. "Harry." Her sister called her Lord out loud.
Glancing back, she saw Andromeda smiling towards inside one of the compartments, she really wanted to go there and greet him to l, but instead she continued walking towards her destination. She would not fail him.
Reaching the compartment, she opened the door and standing there was the Lestrange brothers, Corban Yaxley from the sixth year, a witch named Esme La Rouge from her year, and another two that made her curse under her breath, Thorfinn Rowle and Augustus Rookwood.
From what she briefly heard before opening the door it seems Rowle is not so happy about his cousin being murdered by a half-blood, she smirked inwardly.
Everyone's heads snapped to her and she just stood there for a minute. "What?" She asked in annoyance.
After a while Rabastan waved his hand once. "Hey, Bella." Again, she remembered herself 'keep up the appearances, they have no right to call you that, but you will not fail your Lord'.
Raising a delicate eyebrow. "Hey, Rabakins. I hope you didn't kept thinking about my sister since that day."
The boy gaped, at the memory. Now she was teasing him because she knew one of his deepest secrets. "Shut up, Bella." Only her and his brother knew about it.
She just gave him predatory grin. But before she could say something more to amuse herself Rodolphus asked. "And what happened that night? You sure was angry.
She snorted. "It's not you Rodolphus, but other circumstances made me do that, and Lord Black already told my aunt to not act like Lady Black, she has no right." She needs to kept the appearances
Rodolphus grinned. "I could see that, I heard father talking to mother some days ago. It seems Lord Black send his apologies for thee outburst, and he assured your aunt was punished. My parents weren't very happy at first but, they could understand."
At the mention of the punishment, a wave of self-gratification passed through her body, the night after the party, she could hear from her room Walburga's screaming in agony. That night she heard for an hour Walburga's screams, for an hour she was filled with pleasure.
"You have no idea." She was still grinning, and it seemed her grin was making the others uncomfortable. After seeing that no one was going to say anything, she spoke. "Can I sit? Or you all need some privacy? I can leave and find another compartment." She said pointing her thumb above her shoulder.
"Oh no, you can sit. Did you heard what happened to Rowle's cousin?" Rabastan was the one start spitting out. Good it seems all was in order.
But it seemed the others were not bothered by it. So she nodded. "Well it was in the newspaper, it wasn't little thing, Rabakins."
He scratched his head at the mention of the newspaper. "Yes, I forgot. But it's still surprising that a lone half-blood kill four purebloods, just like that." Bellatrix would think the same if the circumstances were not different, but now she knew the truth, a malicious smile was on her face. Although the half-blood they were talking about was not the same as she was thinking, it was the same principle.
"That's why I'm telling you. The half-bloods, are starting to plan something against us, pure-bloods. They must have attacked Rowle's cousin, in group. We need to prepare and start to counterattack to show our superiority to them." Yaxley, enemy. That's what came to her mind.
"I agree. I will make them suffer for what they did to my cousin." The second year Thorfinn, said through bared teeth.
Bellatrix remembered the other Rowle, and she licked her lips. The noise he made when the cabinet fell on his head, made her shiver.
"Lord Voldemort said not to do anything for now." That was Yaxley remark.
"How do you know?" Rowle asked in mild annoyance.
"I heard father talking. The war started but is still in the early phases. We will soon show the world the power of blood." Yaxley declared.
Bellatrix snorted, as they spoke openly in her presence, her Lord already told her that, Voldemort would not come running and killing everyone, he still needed more followers. Although still in the political phase, Voldemort could act to corner some families like hers. If people didn't realize that Voldemort is the real deal, there would be many deaths.
"I can't wait to kill some 'bad bloods'." Esme Le Rouge, she was arrogant, snobbish and thought she was powerful. Bellatrix snorted again, the girl talks about killing, but if necessary, Bellatrix would doubt it. After all, she was still very much like her sister Narcissa.
With the train departing sound Yaxley got up and said to them. "Remember, if you need anything come to me. We need to be united and soon our Lord will revolutionize this world." And then he left.
Bellatrix wanted to sneer at him, but she held the burning desire and settled down on the compartment seat. The rest of the travel was made in light conversations, nothing important, some jokes here, other there till she fell asleep. So her thoughts where brought to her holidays. In the beginning, she could call it a shitty holiday, until being saved and given a new purpose. In the end, her holidays were very good.
Thinking about Christmas, her family finally decided to recognize her as an outcast, after a meeting she had with Lord Black. They called and told her she wasn't going to have more of the House benefits. She wasn't going to receive more monthly allowance, denied access to restrictive Blacks books and if she gets in trouble the Blacks were not allowed to help. Thinking about Christmas, her family finally decided to recognize her as an outcast, after a meeting she had with Lord Black. They called and told her she wasn't going to have more of the House benefits. She wasn't going to receive more monthly allowance, denied her access to restrictive Blacks books and if she gets in trouble the Blacks were not allowed to help anymore. They also said this Christmas, there were no gifts for her, if she wanted to partake in the activities, she could. Without her presents. Bellatrix didn't care all about that, the only thing she didn't want to lose, was her own name.
Bellatrix still held the Blacks as a great family, they were a line of wizard and witches that accomplished and showed they were powerful, because of their genetics. Yes, she learned about DNA. She was proud of being a Black, so not being dishonored was what she wanted. Although the adults were the ones she was pissed and angered, she didn't blame her sisters and as well cousins because of their sins. If they just could see the greatness her Lord was maybe she could forgive them
During the gifts opening she sat lazily in the far and darker corner of the room, Andromeda was smiling at the praises and presents that were gifted to her, she scowled when her sister said nothing about the grades she was getting was because of her Lord's teachings. But she decided to stay quiet and just watch. She was felling lonely that night, she would prefer to spend the Christmas with her Lord, but he was spending his Christmas with the Potters. Then it came, the owl, the damn fucking owl, bringing another gift to Andromeda, annoyance changed to envy, her sister was gifted by her Lord and it was a beautiful necklace.
Controlling her emotions, she started to listen Andromeda's telling that her Lord could see Thestrals, she marveled herself with that, again he impressed her greatly. But she gave a slight scowl when she remembered that, to see a Thestral you need to see death first, she saw death, why she couldn't see it? But apparently her Lord's said something about the creatures wanting to be seen, so she just shrugged.
Her jealousy towards her middle sister diminished when she remembered that she could spend more time with her Lord. Every day, she went to his house and did things together, besides been taught. She smiled happily when he praised her, for the dedication and intelligence she showed during classes. The art of Occlumency was difficult, she did not deny it, but with the praises she received, she boasted of being the most powerful witch alive, just for herself. For now.
In the train slowly closing her eyes she caught Rodolphus blushing while looking at her. It seems the young wizards wanted her to be his wife. Too bad for him, her heart, body and soul belong to her Master.
Arcturus was leaving the Wizengamot building, looking sour and taking heavy steps. He grumbled about the difficulties of being a Lord and the stupid decisions he had to made. During the session, they discussed Voldemort's rise for the third time and how they should respond to it. Like all the bastards they are, they rejected Riddle's existence and simply ignored the dangers at their doors, or in some cases, waiting for their dear Lord to attack.
The fun part, was Dumbledore, the old goat was too funny with his manipulations. Dumbledore expected all this to happen, only a little later, but he still knew all of this. In the first Wizengamot session, he could see distress on the mighty Albus Dumbledore, never seen before, even with Grindelwald. Which also alarmed him, if Dumbledore seemed worry, so should he.
But fortunately, he was already preparing the Blacks for the war, Arcturus didn't want to run, or get out of the country, this just would show their House as House of cowards. And he didn't want that, he also had enough with Bellatrix taunts already.
Speaking of the young Black witch, by observing her expressions, Arcturus could tell Potter was also making his moves regarding Riddle's announcement.
He also had enough of the girl behavior, so he though in a way to restrict Bellatrix access to their recourse and privileges without making her hate them, more than she already hates.
Bellatrix, was a hard girl to deal with. She's moved by expectations and ideals. When her ideal pure-blood powerful life was shattered beyond her eyes, she blamed them and cringed to the only one who could provide her not only with power but knowledge. And Potter had all.
She was partially right, though. Even he was educated that way, but not so extremely like Bellatrix were. She was raised like a soldier by Pollux, and now she has turned against him.
A lot of the Blacks were afraid her. His great-niece was not to be taken lightly, she still couldn't defeat Cygnus, Orion or him in a duel, but maybe in year or two, she would, even more with Potter's help.
Her rascal and disrespectful attitude needed to be dealt with, so at the beginning of Christmas day, he called her for a serious conversation.
Flashback:
Arcturus was in his office currently waiting Bellatrix to arrive. With him stood his son Orion and Nephew Cygnus their respective wives, Alphard, Marius and his wife. Pollux was dealing with some business, Irma... she was acting strange, Cassiopeia was taking care of her shop and his wife was with the rest of the kids.
Arcturus gave a brief explanation to the newcomers the reasons for the meeting and what he decided to do. They didn't could believe him, but Arcturus wanted to unite his family, firstly there would not have any more secrets between them. He still had to talk to Marius and see if the man wanted to be reinstated in the family, probably after some convincing, he would. Arcturus knew Marius was a good man, and even being disowned Marius smile to him, like any other in his family, sometimes even more warmly.
They were chatting about the circumstances when a knock on the door made them stop abruptly, before he could give permission to enter, the door opened reveling Bellatrix, not even greeting them, she just stood there on her feet in front of him.
Arcturus had to control himself, she really was stepping up in his boundaries. "At least ask permission to enter."
She smirked. "No." Arcturus heard a snort, it was Alphard. Suprisingly even the quiet Black seems to voice her attitude in some way. "So why I'm here?" She asked in bored tone.
Arcturus looked at Marius and Alphard and with a silent nodded he told them to pay attention. "Are you going continue acting like this? Disrespecting us?" He already knew the answer, but Arcturus actually wanted to Marius and Alphard see it with their own eyes.
The grin faded a little of her face. "I'm treating you like you all deserve, the one and only I respect is my Lord." Ever since that fateful day, she started to talk about Potter like he was Merlin reincarnated. She kept bold and more bold on her statements.
"Why Bellatrix? Why have you to be like this?" Druella jolted to her feet and grabbed her daughter shoulders. When he was home with , mother and daughter, he noticed the tensions between them were high, and he could see fear in Druella's eyes. But it seemed she was more brave today. Maybe because they were with her?
Bellatrix scowled. "I already told you didn't I, mother?" He could hear Bellatrix click her tongue in annoyance
Marius very curious asked. "Aren't you afraid to be punished?"
Bellatrix chuckled darkly. "Not at all, they can go on and do everything they want." Then she stopped and her eyes darkened. When she spoke again her voice was hollow off emotions, it was empty and cold. But what gave chills in Arcturus spine was how true she made it sound. "But if any of you harm me and let me alive, I will come back and kill every last one of you."
He actually was grateful for no be the only one to shiver. Swallowing noises echoed in the room. Druella holding her daughter shoulders shook it slightly. "And you, a Black will lower yourself just to do what Po..., your Lor..., he says?" The first pause was her daughters cold glare and the second was Arcturus's. "Don't you see daughter, you're just a slave."
Bellatrix looked at her mother's terrified eyes. "I'm not a slave, mother." It was low and menacing.
Before Druella could say anything else, Bellatrix slowly removed her mother's hands from her shoulder and with a tone akin to proud Bellatrix said. "I'm not anyone's slave. I'm my Lord's slave." She gave emphases when saying Lord.
Druella stammered and stuttered for some time before her indignant answer came in a yell. "That's the same!"
Then Bellatrix started to laugh hysterically and after a minute she spoke between laughs. "No, it's not. Being your slave, never. Being Voldemort's slave, never" They flinched at that. Then she suddenly stopped and a dreamy voice came out of her mouth. "Now my Lord is truthful, powerful, cunning, smart, skilled, must I go on? No. Then you can see the difference and why I'm his loyal slave." She finished with ushered breath and flushed face. Arcturus glanced to the new comers and saw them wide eyed and gaping.
Druella was going to continue the argument but Lord Black stopped. "That's enough. Sit down Druella." Druella only say after a emotionless Cygnus pulled her back to her seat.
Arcturus sighed and started to explain to Bellatrix the reason for this meeting. During the conversation she was stoically looking at him, it seemed she didn't give a fuck, maybe she didn't. But he saw her relax a little when saying she still would bear Black name. This was a positive sign to Arcturus, maybe they can make amends. He felt responsible for all the Blacks, Bellatrix included. But still that mocking grin plastered on her face, pisses him to no end.
When he finished she asked. "Is that all?"
He nodded. "Yes, you're dissm... " The door closed. Letting a heavy sigh he looked at the newcomers. "Now you see what I was talking about?"
None of the Black males said anything, instead was Marius wife. "She needs a psychiatrist." She commented.
Marius just nodded slowly.
"What's a psychiatrist?" Orion asked curiously. They all ignored him.
"It seems my niece is a little... lost and crazy." Alphard commented with a scowl.
Marius sighed. "I can see that personality a lot in Pollux."
Arcturus nodded. "Yes, but we all have fault in this, even Potter. He's to dawn smart, the funny thing it was all unintentional."
"How so?" Alphard seemed curious.
"Well... " Then Arcturus told them again the meeting with young Potter.
"That's... quite the tale you have there, uncle." Alphard seemed impressed. "And you said he's just eleven?"
Arcturus nodded. "But we can't blame him for Bellatrix behavior, he saved her and put those ideas on her head. I'm not saying he's wrong but... it's hard to see the boy as innocent, though." There was a pause to see if anyone would speak. "I think she will only stop hating us, if we bow to the boy. And I don't to do that. Not until he proved himself in this life." The last sentence no one heard.
Leaning on his chair he looked to all of them. "Anyone want to say something else, an advice, a comment, anything?" He was hoping someone has a solution to all his problems.
He looked at one a one. Everyone silent, even Walbuga. He actually couldn't blame her after the party that day he severely punished her, he just didn't cast her out because she begged him. "Then this meeting is adjourned, and please let's have a good Christmas!" When everyone got out of the room he took a sip of an alcoholic drink that he was preserving for moments like this one and gave a long and stressful sigh.
Flashback end:
Invite Alphard, Marius and his wife to Christmas was very surprising to his family, but allowing them to partake in family business so easily, surprised even himself. But Arcturus instinct were yelling at him saying it was the right choice. When Marius was disowned, he never resented the Blacks. He knew about his 'inability' regarding magic, but still he was a very intelligent man and knew a lot about the magical as well muggle world.
If Arcturus was surprised with himself by the early statement, imagine when he asked Marius and his wife to bear the name Black. Marius was skeptical at first but after some attempts he agreed to it, making Pollux furious, the man glared at him, called him a disgrace, but soon he cut of his little wings, just like he did with Walburga.
There was still three members for him to contact, the three daughters of his namesake Arcturus Black II. Callidora, Cedrella and Charis. But he was sure the three of them hold their loyalty towards their husbands and new family, mainly Cedrella, the witch despised them.
Callidora Longbottom, was the oldest sister and a strong-willed woman, if Arcturus could measure, she would only lose him to Dorea
The middle sister, Cedrella Weasley hated them even more then Bellatrix, acutally her hate couldn't even be compared to Cedrella's, and that's why he needed change his house ways. Cedrella was married to Septimus Weasley and had three sons. Altough Cedrella hated and would never come back to them, Arcturus also would never join the Weasley's for personal reasons, he could put with Potters and Longbottoms but never with Weasleys.
The last one of the sisters is Charis Crouch the youngest. She was married to Caspar Crouch and had three children, two daughters and a son. She would probably the easiest to talk to, after all she was still very loyal to the Blacks.
And the last, would be his daughter Lucretia Prewitt, married to a decent man named Ignatius Prewitt, but they had no children. Arcturus send her an owl inviting them for Christmas, but she denied saying she had plans already. But promised next Christmas she would attend.
Remembering his daughter brought a smile to his face, she always was a sweet girl, Melania was the one to convince him let her marry with a Prewitt, and he thank her for that.
This holidays he also formally send a letter to Potter boy saying they were going to stay neutral for now, and surprising for him he received an answer, saying he would convince him in the future. Arcturus could imagine the possibilities if he accepted Potter's proposal, and if he allied himself with the Light families. The Potters had a lot of allies and many of them were his cousin's families, his objective actually aligns to Potter's ones, he could unite the Blacks again.
He remembered on the letter, Potter said something that made him snort. The Blacks and the Potters, the Dark and the alight unite turning into Gray.
Maybe he should've accepted, only the future would tell.
The travel to Hogwarts was quiet, Harry along with Andromeda, David, Tarou and even Xeno were passed the time talking to each other, apparently, like Luna, Xeno had the best of the best holidays one could have, filled with adventures and magical creatures.
Tarou seemed to traveled back to Japan, he said about going to study more about his family's magic, he was vague while telliing them, just that involved rituals. But, overall he seemed happy and more relaxed.
David spent his time with his grandmother, and the old lady was ecstatic with his results at Hogwarts, he even apologized to Harry for bragging about being a genius to her. Harry just laughed and said it was ok.
Andromeda kept asking him about the day he was with the Blacks, but Harry wouldn't involve Andromeda in this. Actually, when came to matters like what happened he wouldn't try and involve other kids on this, Bellatrix was an exception, she just got involved because of his anger and the situation she was in. He would never let anyone be raped, even if it was Bellatrix in a situation like that.
After Andromeda stopped pestering him about the reasons he came to her house, she told that was one of the best holidays she had, the Black's seemed more united. Only, the girl who turned into his follower seemed not so friendly with them.
As for him, he told them about his Christmas and his time with his family. Eventually, they talked about Voldemort and while they were doubting and said the media was exaggerating, Harry told them to stay with their eyes open and this wasn't a matter to be taken lightly or joke it about.
Harry would not involve them in the 'stronger willed' situations, but this didn't mean he could prepare them and give them a choice for them to follow. And that was his plan after this year, he need start to build his foundation and reputation in Hogwarts, he needed allies, and people that he could trust. Harry decided to start next year seemly because, his reputation was very low.
He needed to gather friends and try to influence others. Of course, he wouldn't manipulate them, maybe he would stay hidden for a while, but he would be truthful about the choices they were making and the path they were choosing.
The really big problem was the older students, while they would be the better choices, they would not never follow a eleven year old kid. Maybe with some time they would, but he didn't have that.
And the last reason was he still was elaborating a plan to debut himself as Lord of the Gray. He talked and brainstormed ideas with Carlus and Dorea, and he came to a decision he needed no only be the highest in Slytherin hierarchy, but all of the houses as well. He was planning to be the king of the castle.
But for now he would just wait and see how things play out, Bellatrix was still in the dark about his plans, but she knew he was planning something and she seemed excited about it.
"Harry?" Andromeda snapped her fingers in front of him.
He shook his head while blinking and finally realizing he was seated in Hogwarts Great Hall, on the filled with delicious food Slytherin table. "What?"
Andromeda gave a sigh. "You actually came here lost in thoughts, not even looking where you were going. If wasn't for me, you'd be downing on the river."
He gave her an exaggerated grateful look. "Andi, I can't live without you. You're my savior."
She blinked one, then twice in the third she blushed all shades of red. "Shut up." She muttered while David roared in laugher.
Harry smiled again. "Sorry, I was working out some things in my head. Can you repeat?" He lowered his head
The blush vanished. "Can you pass me the bread?" She asked.
He searched for the bread, who was near him and with a swift movement he grabbed and handed to her. But when he moved to hand it to her something caught his eye. It was a third year Slytherin girl, he saw her two or three times over his time at Hogwarts and for some reason he could no point a finger at who it was, but he recognized her from somewhere.
But this time realization hit him like a storm. He wanted to laugh at himself for his stupidity, the girl looked so alike with her older self, that he only could call himself blind.
Then he connected the dots, he came across whilst in the two first periods, that Hogwarts have a secret newspaper, no not a newspaper, it was more like a gossip magazine. The Professors didn't knew about that, and Harry was impressed with who did the spells was very skilled in concealing it with charms.
Now while looking at the girl, Harry recognized her, it all fitted together. He should've expected this. Rita Skeeter sat some meters away from him, scribing a book.
He hated the woman one time, and now was time to get her back for all the trouble she put him in. Don't get him wrong he would not gonna hurt her, but definitely would use her to make his plans easier. More like a mutual benefit.
He would make her life hard, but she would get what whatever she wanted from it. He still had to consider that she wrote about him, saying Harry was an evil dark wizard who would kill for the pettiest of things. Part of his reputation was because of her.
While he had a light conversation with his friends, ideas ran through his mind. He needed a plan, but when his eyes landed on a certain crazy girl, he decided what to do. Incite fear on Skeeter, he would bring the gossip girl into submission and Bellatrix was perfect for that.
"Andromeda." He called.
"Yes, Harry?" She said after munching and swallowing her food.
"Can you pass a massage to your sister?" He asked while whispering.
Andromeda frowned. "I can. But, how do you know my sister?"
Smoothly he answered. "I have to deliver something to her that mom asked me to." He hated to lie, but it was only for now.
Andromeda narrowed her eyes, searching for deception or something akin to it, after a minute she smiled. "Sure, what's the message."
Spouting a thoughtful look. "If I remember, Mom said the Black and White shall turn Gray. Tomorrow after classes." Seeing her 'what the heck' expression he lifted his hands defensively. "Don't look at me like that it was mom's code. I have to deliver something private and Bellatrix and mom made some code because of it." He scowled to himself.
Andromeda narrowed her eyes again, but one more time she relented. "Ok, I will pass it to her after the supper." Then his friend started to eat again, delicately.
He could have done this more smoothly, but he couldn't just go to Bellatrix and talk to her, and Andromeda was the perfect messenger. He also could think a better 'message' but it was in the heat of the moment.
A day later, Bellatrix was waiting expectantly, at the meeting place. Andromeda came to her and said her Lord wanted to talk to her. She also inquired what Harry wanted with her, Bellatrix wanted to say it wasn't her business, but said, but made a lame excuse. Now she was waiting patiently for him to arrive, she made sure to not be followed, and why her Lord wanted to meet in the ladies bathroom she didn't know. But it was not any bathroom, it was the moaning Myrtle bathroom.
Bellatrix was ignoring the ghost, for ten minutes straight until the she-ghost gave up and settled down still stubbornly murmuring. Harry was the one who told her to meet him in this place, it would be their secret meeting place for a while.
After some time, the bathroom door opened showing her Lord, in his all greatness, wearing the Slytherin attire. "Bellatrix." He greeted.
In a swiftly motion she bowed just to hear a groan. "My Lord."
"Harry, Bellatrix." He remembered her.
"Harry..." She likes it how his name tasted in her mouth. Not only that, every time she said his name, she was rewarded with his smile. "Harry, I know you told me about the bathroom and all but, why here?" Then she motioned to the ghost. "She's annoying." Bellatrix received an exasperated 'hey!' back.
He waved dissmissvely. "Myrtle is cool" Myrtle beamed at the 'praise'. "Hey Myrtle. " he said while waving.
"Hey Harry." She greeted back cheerfully. Her Lord informed her that he made 'friends' with Myrtle. Her Lord was sure that she wouldn't spill any of his secrets, she was not very convinced, but if her Lord said then she should trust him.
"But this is just temporary, and Myrtle here is like the guardian of this place. Students are afraid of her, so they stay away from this bathroom." It was true, she heard a lot stories about her, but her Lord told the truthful one about Moaning Myrtle, it was quite the tragedy.
"So, why not make this place permanent?" She tilted her head.
"Hm, it's to small, and there is a better place that is unavailable for now. And there's something here, that maybe, just maybe I will tell you about." She frowned, what could be here in the bathroom with a ghost? But she nodded, the prospect of her Lord telling his secrets, brought happiness to her.
"Let's start why I called you here." She straightened herself and nodded paying him undivided attention. "I have an assignment for you... of sorts." Her eyes gleamed, yes she could be useful. She didn't respond verbally but her attention to him was all the answer he needed.
"Do you know Rita Skeeter from your class?" He asked while smiling playfully.
She crossed her arms in a thoughtful expression. "The gossip freak?"
His smile widened. "The same. I want you to follow her."
She frowned. "Follow her, why?" She would never question him, she was trying to understand his plans.
Her Lord scratched his chin trying to gather his thoughts. "Imagine you are wolf, and she's the sheep." Just this simple quote made her shiver, she was already liking it where this was going. "For my plans to get in motion I need her... to collaborate with us, willingly." She just kept listening. "The sheep walks around in its comfort zone, without anything to worry about. But then there's the wolf, the mighty wolf is patient, the wolf looks predatorily towards its prey and start to spread fear in the sheep's mind." She started breathing heavily. "I want you to start spread fear in Skeeter's mind, follow her every chance you get, keep looking at her like you will tear her apart, trail her like a wolf, but let her breath, don't stay on her neck. Then when the time comes, she will do what we want." Yes, her Lord always impressed her, Bellatrix was thinking the rest of her third year would be boring, but now, she was not so sure of that.
While her thoughts of her amazing Master runned through her head, she forgot about it and bowed. "Yes, my Lord." She dutifully said just to receive a throat clearing sound back. She paled, she couldn't forget that, if others were hearing. "Forgive me, Harry."
Even, failing him, her Lord just smiled. "It's fine. Just remember, to keep the appearances."
"Certainly." Bellatrix was a very determined witch now. "I'll wait some minutes before exiting." She proposed.
"That's fine. Remember Bellatrix, be the wolf." The only response she gave him back was a smirk, the most predatory and bloodthirsty smirk she could give.
The two periods passed like a bullet train, Harry' plans were already in motion, he decided to improve his reputation and try to make friends, but proved to be very hard, while the Slytherins avoided him, for obvious reasons. As for the rest of the students was because about him being a Slytherin. Skeeter's gossips didn't help either, but seeing her squirm and all paranoid, amused him to no end.
As he instructed Bellatrix to do, she followed the girl 'unintentionally' everywhere while looking predatorily at her, it even disturbed him. There was even a day when Skeeter decided to confront Bellatrix in the Great Hall.
Flashback:
Harry was chatting with his friends when he heard a loud bang, it seemed the only difference between Skeeter and her older version, was that the gossip girl had friends. Skeeter and another two girls got up and walked towards the grinning Bellatrix.
He watched her smirk got very wide when Skeeter suddenly got up and started to walk towards her.
Then the argument started. "Why don't you mind your own business? You keep following me around and staring at me like I am some kind of prey." Skeeter yelled at her face.
Bellatrix raised a delicate eyebrow. "Following you, I don't know what you talking about." She then glanced towards her table buddies and continued. "Why would I follow a useless dimwit like you. You're just a bug, if anyone is following anyone here, that would be you."
Bellatrix buddies started to laugh. Skeeter taking offense she pointed a finger at her. "Is that so? So explain why everywhere I go you simply show up and keep staring at me." While this was happening the Professors where stil distractef by their own conversation.
Skeeter two friends nodded. "Yeah, we saw her stare at Rita like she was some piece of meat. We already told Professor Slughorn by the way." One of them said accusingly.
Rodolphus who was with Bellatrix frowned. "Aren't you three a little paranoid, you three also keep following others to expose them and now you came here pointing your fingers at Bella."
Bellatrix snorted mockingly soon after. "Like I said, I would not waste my ime with you, you're just a bug." Then her tone changed to a menacing one. "Go back to your hole, you insect, before I make you." The three visibly shivered, one of them tried to say something but fortunately Skeeter grabbed her hand and walked back to her sit with a pale face.
This proved one thing Skeeter was terrified. One point for the gray.
Flashback end:
Harry also a second meeting with Bellatrix, but this one was a lot more… depressing, at least for her, Harry frowned when learned what happened.
Flashback:
One of the few things Bellatrix came to appreciate in Hogwarts was the Defense Against the Dark Arts class, the lessons were not exactly what she wanted but it sufficed her needs. Today was DADA class and they were making a line, Slytherins and Gryffindors were lining to face… a Boggart. Yes, a Boggart. When she heard say this for the first time she scoffed, she was not afraid of anything.
As the class went by, she snickered at the ridiculous things these dimwits were afraid of. She could see normal things like snakes and spiders, but she also saw unicorns, cats, and even fluffy things, but the one that brought different feelings to her was herself, yeah she saw herself with her own eyes, Skeeter's worst fear was Bellatrix. Seeing the Boggart turn into her, only proved that Skeeter was not just uneasy or paranoid she was terrified of her, but her smirk faded when Skeeter casted the spell showing a Bellatrix using… pink. Yes, pink. This made Bellatrix grit her teeth, she would get Skeeter back for that.
Being the next in line she watched as Rodolphus stood facing the Boggart's cage, a wardrobe. She could see sweat running through the Lestrange Heir sweat face under the pressure of the moment that was making everyone reluctant about showing their worst fear. And the other thing that made them all nervous was that everyone knew what it would come out from the wardrobe. That's why Bellatrix was smiling, in her mind she didn't fear anything. Her thoughts were broken when suddenly out of the wardrobe came an old man, she could hear Rodulphus breath hitch, he just stood there facing the regal looking old man.
"Rodolphus, you're a disgrace to the Lestranges… Your father should never have sired you." The old man spoke sternly while slowly drawing his wand.
Rodolphus inhaled deeply aimed his wand and casted the spell. "Riddikulus"
Bellatrix didn't know who the old man was but seeing now the stern looking old man turning into old woman made her chuckle. "Who was that?" She asked the relieved boy.
"Grandfather, he was pretty scary." Rodolphus told her.
Nodding she stepped forward at the Professor instruction, the amused grin still was plastered in her face. Bellatrix stared at the wardrobe and nothing happened, even the Professor seemed intrigued. The students started to whisper to each other and her patience was starting to grow thin. Turning to the Professor she said. "I think this thing isn't working." The Professor open his mouth to say something but he closed when the wardrobe started to shake. The whispering noises died down and all the attention was on the wardrobe.
Bellatrix frowned, actually she was very curious to see what her worst fear, she even heard Rodolphus comment. "What a surprise, Bellatrix Black fears something after all." Her thoughts were the same.
Then it came, she wished her curiousness was tore from her, the Boggart turned into a thing that made her legs went weak, her hands started to shake and her mind started to beg for forgiveness. What came from the wardrobe to all in the room was a hooded figure, it stood tall, dignified and radiated authority, but also an evil and dark aura flowed through it. They couldn't see anything beyond the black hole that hide its face.
Bellatrix was also seeing the same, but with one little difference, a difference that only she could see. From the black hole she could see blazing green lights coming from the endless darkness that the hood created. She knew that shade of green. The cold piercing shade of green.
"You failed me, Bellatrix. You didn't only failed me, you betrayed me. You're weak like everyone else, you are the real dimwit here, Bellatrix. You are just a failure, you grew weak Bellatrix…" She was not registering what the figure was telling her anymore, the first words already made her heart almost stopped, she was hyperventilating. Bellatrix wanted to deny all that, and say it was not true, she would never betray, never fail, never grow weak. But the green lights, that she recognizes it, didn't let her.
Bellatrix could hear faint voices in the back ground but with the buzz in her eardrums she couldn't understand a word that was being spoked. She tried to glance but, something inside her, said to her she was indeed a failure and to accept the punishment, she felt herself grow weak, she felt anger, shame, disgust while her consciousness faded, Bellatrix felt all these emotions towards herself, she now knew her worst fears, it was not the figure in front of her that she knew it was her Lord Hadrian Potter, no, she was afraid of herself and her own foolishness, she was afraid of displeasing him and being thrown away, she was afraid of losing him. Before all went dark she renewed her vows silently to her Lord, she would serve him beyond imagination.
Flashback end:
When Bellatrix told him this, he could not stop but wonder, if she could be 'fixed', she was like a broken doll. But something inside him, or rather something that came from her told him, she was still completely sane.
In his plans to make more friends, he interacted more with the Prewitt Brothers. They remembered a lot Fred and George, but not so Marauder like. They were funny, but still responsible guys. Another one who, instead go to, came to him with a friendly demeanor was Edward Tonks. It all started when the flying lessons that the Slytherins were having with Gryffindors changed to the Hufflepuffs.
Like he promised Dorea he would no fly like a crazy professional Quidditch player, instead he just flew like a professional player. And this seemed to catch the boy's attention.
Flashback:
Harry landed grinning near to a stoic Andromeda and said. "Have I ever said that to fly is to be free?"
Andromeda now spouting an annoyed look. "Uhm, let me see, this the... congratulations, the hundredth time you say this." Then she smirked. "Perhaps you want a gift? Instead of just wanting praises for your abilities of show yourself off?"
Harry smirked back. "It would be nice, maybe the same kind I gifted to you on Christmas?"
Fortunately, a blushing Andromeda was saved by a voice. She surely would stutter if she had to answer Harry.
"That was amazing, you're very good at flying."
Harry turned around and saw a young Edward "Ted" Tonks coming towards them.
Harry smiled at him. "Thanks mate, I love flying."
The Hufflepuff boy nodded. "I can see that, but your skills certainly didn't come with just the love you feel for flying."
Harry smirked. "Of course not, is Potter genetics."
This seemed to surprise Ted, a pure-blood that knew something about science, and ignored all the blood thing. "Right. I'm Edward Tonks by the way, but you can call me Ted."
Harry shook the offered hand. "Nice to meet you, you can call me Harry." Then he looked at Andromeda. "And this is Andi."
Andromeda scowled at his introduction, so she jabbed Harry with her elbows and turned to Ted and smiled. "My name is Andromeda Black, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." Harry had an urge to groan at her formal greeting.
Ted blushed. "Yeah, hi." He surely seemed taken aback by her. Harry knew Ted realized just for the formal greetings that she was a pure-blood.
Seeing his reaction Harry quickly said. "Relax Ted, Andi is cool, she doesn't care about all this blood supremacy bullshit."
Furrowing his brows, he asked. "And how would you know that I'm bored about it?"
Harry shrugged. "Well, I don't know any Tonks family and I'm her best friend and a half-blood, and while you don't seem a bad person a can see you are very reluctant about us."
His eyes widened. "But aren't you a Potter?"
"Well, yeah. Although I like to say, blood don't define us. My family accepted me and so I'm Potter." Harry explained the quickly added. "But this is a secret." He winked secretively at Ted who nodded slowly.
Then Ted's head turned to Andromeda. "I'm Edward Tonks is nice to meet you Ms. Black."
Before Andromeda could gave him an answer Harry grabbed their hands made them shook it. "It's Andi, Ted. And Andi, this is Ted." Harry knew he was being forceful and rude but he didn't care.
The reactions were respectively, a scowling Andromeda, he could say it was because his rudeness. And a heavily blushing Ted. "Now let's be friends." Harry said before letting go of their hands.
Before any of them could speak the Professor shouted. "Hey you three, the class isn't over yet, so chop chop. And you mister Potter, just because you have some talent don't think you can be lazy during my classes. You need to be an example for the pother students"
The three of them looked at each other before going back to the lessons. "Yes, Professor."
Flashback end:
After that day, Ted became friends with them and eventually, like Xeno they hung out sometimes. Although, Ted have some friends and Xeno was normally alone, this made the Ravenclaw boy kept more in touch than Ted.
Andromeda also scolded him for his rudeness and said what he did was very embarrassing for her. But Harry ignored her and said they would be friends in no time. Scoffing, she reminded Harry that he was always sure of things, and that impressed her. After some time, he showed her that he was right. After a few weeks Andromeda and Ted became friends.
Harry also decided to accept, the beaming Slughorn, his club proposals. For two reasons actually, one was regarding the hierarchy, with Slughorn he could get potions master's help to gain some advantage. The second, was a long term one, and he would deal with later.
McGonagall provided him, with some new books about the Animagus form and also gave him one or two unfair detentions because him calling her Minnie. But he knew the witch found it amusing and enjoyed his company.
Also in Hogwarts there was a gossip going around the Herbology Professor criticizing her tastes in clothing. The gossips and jokes about her, apparently were very harsh, Harry was told that the woman was wearing something ridiculous at the minister party. When he asked his friends Andromeda and David confirmed that the old woman looked like a walking rainbow.
Now regarding the Room of Requirement and the Diadem, he had two ways of dealing with this, the first and safest one was using Fiendfyre, but Harry was having problems in casting it, probably due his young body and magical development. He still couldn't cast spells like the Killing Curse, Cruciatus and Imperio, even the Patronus seemed not working.
The second and the dangerous one, was with a blade embodied with basilisk venom, and no fucking way he would face a basilisk again, one it was fucking dangerous, and two if he survived the basilisk, Dorea would surely make him regret his decision. With only this two options, Harry decided to wait. He still had time.
Edward Tonks was a loyal and friendly boy, like the sorting hat said he would strive in Hufflepuff. When he received the Hogwarts letter he stood gob smacked in front of his parents and sister. His parents actually, took the news quite well, and his younger sister just stared at him like he was some sort of super hero. When one of the Hogwarts Professors came to explain what Hogwarts is and about his special abilities he was very excited to see and know everything.
Arriving at Hogwarts, seeing ghosts, watch moving stairs, hear talking portraits a very old Headmaster, a Professor turning into cat, it was fucking awsome to him, but he liked crazy things. Then came the Quiddich. Ted was afraid at first of flying on a broom, but after some attempts he understood what needed to be done, and he discovered his new passion.
In the first two periods, Ted and the Hufflepuffs were taking flight lessons with the Ravenclaws and apparently first year students, at least, sucked in class. There was even a blond boy who went to the infirmary five times a week, in the start.
But in the last two periods, the Houses changed 'partners', the Hufflepuffs with the Slytherins. Ted heard rumors about them, they hate people like him, people who were born from muggles with magic. He heard some of his friends being bullied by them, so he kept his distance.
But one day, he saw something incredible, a first year flying like a professional, at least that what his friends were calling, Ted just found fucking amazing.
But the kid flying seemed to be very famous. Actually, infamous in Hogawrts. Beyond the rumors of him being a very evil dark wizard. Ted remembered the sorting day where everyone's expressions and utter silence, when 'a Potter' was sorted in Slytherin. At first he didn't understand, but his new friends explained to him.
Ted didn't believe in these rumors, or any of the bullshits, until he actually, he meets the person. When Potter landed he turned to his friends and with a straight face he said. "I'm going to talk with him."
"What? Are you crazy? One of his friends asked gaping.
"No, I'm serious. I don't believe this rumors." Ted said stoically.
"Alright mate, but if he curses you, or make some horrid dark ritual with you, don't blame us." Another said.
Ted deadpanned. "I don't know what more shocking, you saying he would do a dark ritual or that you wouldn't help me."
They all waved dismissively. "Yeah sure, mate. Go on." Then they got back flying.
Sighing he turned and started to walk towards Potter.
And Ted was right, Potter was nothing like the rumors. The guy was friendly and easygoing. But it was not him that caught his eye. When Harry Potter introduced him to Andromeda Black, he could easily say he found the best thing in Hogwarts, but he was not dumb or blind he saw the glances the girl was giving his new friend.
But maybe, just maybe he could direct those eyes to him.
Andromeda's semester proved themselves to be fun, she along Harry, Davis, Ito and even the Lovegood blond boy had a lot of ideas to turn their classes even better than before. Harry proposed to offer all the students help, the ones truly in need. If they truly were in need they would ignore the gossips and rumors about them and accept the help offer.
When Harry offered he said, 'those who want to improve will not condemn me or my friends because of a stupid rumor.' Well she knew about the rumor and they were quite true only a little exaggerated. But Harry was right, people didn't know how gentle, cool, helpful, friendly and cu... scratch the last one. So the ones who truly wanted help would ignore the rumors and try to know Harry first.
The first ones were the Prewett brothers, they came like a hurricane and it didn't surprise that Harry Potter caught them with easy, for her Harry was an amazing person.
Harry also seemed to befriend a Hufflepuff boy name Edward Tonks and for some reason he insisted she also befriended him, and she did Andromeda couldn't ignore her friend's request. And one more time Harry surprised her, like he said, Ted and her had befriend fast after some few weeks since they introduced themselves.
Ted was a great person, a very easy person to talk to and understand. He was funny and his presence seemed to lighten the mood, what confused her were his flushes. She didn't know why, but his flushes were constant when he was around her.
Ted, like Xeno started to hang out with them sometimes, but less than the Ravenclaw boy. Xeno was a good person, the big problem was that people thought he was some sort of freak so he was bullied constantly.
But one more time, Harry warmed her heart. He protected and helped Xeno from older Ravenclwas and offered their friendship to the boy. To say the truth, she also thought the boy was a little weird, while talking about some crazy magical creatures, but after Harry told her about Thestrals she was never doubted Xeno again.
The only thing that made her unsettled and suspicious was Harry asking to talk to Bellatrix. When she did the favor Harry asked her and tried to get information from Bellatrix she could see the annoyed look her older sister wore, although she didn't voice her displeasures.
Bellatrix changed for some reason that she didn't know why, although she was acting snobbish and as if the world was below her, more than before. This worried Andromeda more than it upset her. Her sister kept calling someone Lord and that worried her, she only hoped it wasn't that Voldemort person.
She was also victim of a lot of envious girls, she wasn't exactly bullied but shunned and ignored, they kept spreading rumors about Harry and her that made her angry. Her older sister even volunteered to deal with them to her, but she said it was okay and that she would deal with it. Harry also realized the girls behavior's towards her and he said to give time and that soon they would have a lot of friends, and she did just that.
When the school year finished, she just hoped to get back soon.
The first months of 1965 more than fifty Half-Bloods and almost a hundred muggle born witches and wizards had gone missing or where found dead, the wizarding world was still thinking Voldemort as a joke. Dumbledore started to move politically against Voldemort's followers and their acts of covering the evidences and misdirecting them. Dumbledore still was fighting to contain a beast that he let be unleashed upon the world.
AN: Again, my main language is not English, but please give me feedback and what I need to improve, thank you!