Shoutout to Arkhan12 who caught an error in the first chapter. Thanks for the review!
July 24, 1991
Zabini Chateau
Abraxas Malfoy and Gellert Grindelwald stepped forward and admired the wide Italian countryside. The pair walked forward until they reached the gates of a large chateau. A guard approached them.
"Halt! Identify yourselves and the purpose of your visit."
Grindelwald replied, "I am Gellert Grindelwald and my companion here is Abraxas Malfoy. We are here to see where the loyalties of Don Zabini lie."
The guard scowled. "Grindelwald is dead and Malfoy is hospitalized. Do you take me for a fool?" The guard signaled and several more guards surrounded them and pulled out their wands.
"You two will be taken to our holding area for trespassing.", sneered the guard.
Grindelwald smiled maliciously. "I offer you one chance to stand down and to go confirm my identity with Don Zabini, otherwise I will kill you all."
The guards began to laugh. "You may look like Grindelwald, but even he would not be stupid enough to attack 15 members of the Zabini guard."
Grindelwald looked to Abraxas. "It appears that the people have forgotten my powers. They will need to be reminded."
With that Grindelwald waved his wand and trapped everyone into a circle of blue flames. Grindelwald gestured to Abraxas and said, "Right this way my friend." The two walked out of the flames and did not look back.
The guards cast spells after them, but the fire absorbed the spells. Without looking back, Grindelwald twirled his wand and the flames suddenly surged towards the guards. Grindelwald and Abraxas chuckled as they continued their walk towards the large house. Only loud screams were heard as the guards found themselves reduced to ashes. As they went along, many others tried to stop the pair from advancing. They all died rather quickly.
At last they arrived to a large room where an old black man lounged on a large chair. He was tall and had a regal face. He smirked when he saw the duo enter the room. He made a hand signal and everyone in the room left.
"Lord Grindelwald, was it necessary to slaughter my guards? You could have just sent a letter.", laughed the dangerous looking man.
Grindelwald looked to the man and smiled. "Don Zabini, I must say, I did give them a fair warning."
Don Zabini stood and walked over to the two wizards. "Why have the two of you come here? I do say you both look better than what I would have expected from a dead man and an ailing one."
Grindelwald replied clichély, "The reports of my death were greatly exaggerated. As for Abraxas here, I merely brewed his cure and he seems to be fine. And as for why we are here, I have come to see whether or not you will stand by me when I make my return."
Don Zabini studied the two wizards before replying. "Lord Grindelwald, when I joined your side last time, we were both young men at the height of our powers. We are now both old men. What has changed, that gives you such confidence that we will emerge victorious this time?"
Grindelwald acknowledged the man with a nod of his head. "It is indeed true that we are all older and dare I say weaker than we were almost 45 years ago. However, I believe the future is brighter than ever. I believe I am correct in saying that you have a grandson attending Hogwarts this year?"
Don Zabini nodded his head in affirmative.
Grindelwald continued, "Abraxas here also has a grandson attending Hogwarts this year as well. I myself have acquired an heir whom I believe will be far more powerful than I ever was."
Don Zabini raised his eyebrows at the statement. "I was unaware that you had any family Grindelwald. Tell me, who is your heir?"
Grindelwald smirked proudly, "Harry Potter."
Don Zabini's face shown with surprise. He then began laughing very loudly. "Very well-done Lord Grindelwald. The boy-who-lived as the heir to the greatest dark lord of all time. I must say that was not the answer I was expecting."
Grindelwald and Abraxas laughed as well. "Yes, old Albus will be quite surprised when he realizes that I have taken Harry as my heir. There is no doubt that he is trying to get him under his control again as we speak."
The three then grew serious as Grindelwald began speaking again. "Don Zabini, you swore an undying oath of allegiance to me and our cause. I call upon your service once more. Will you stand with me? I assure you the future is in good hands and we will guide them to victory."
Don Zabini looked at his hands before responding. "I have always believed in the cause I joined. Lord Grindelwald, I rejoin the inner circle and renew my pledge to the Alliance."
All three wizards began smiling as the tension left the room. Don Zabini called for a servant and pulled out an expensive bottle of champagne. "I believe that this calls for a celebration."
The three conjured glasses and raised a toast to the future.
August 1, 1991
Draco's Room
Harry and Draco sat at a table playing chess.
Draco made a move and asked a question to Harry. "Harry what do you plan on doing once we get to Hogwarts?"
Harry sat there quietly and responded after making a move. "I assume that Lucius has informed you of the social hierarchy within Slytherin?" Draco nodded in affirmation. Harry continued, "While it is unthinkable to rise to the "Head Serpent" as a first year, it is my goal to get a seat at the table as quickly as possible. All seven serpents are still at Hogwarts and dethroning one will likely be difficult. However, I am sure you and I will both have a seat by our fourth years."
Draco smiled in agreement. He made a move and said, "Check."
Harry shook his head in frustration and moved his king to safety. "Draco, I will also need your help in making alliances within Slytherin. That is technically my most important task at Hogwarts. Are there any heirs of powerful families we can befriend?"
Draco studied the board and moved a piece. He then replied, "There is actually a surprisingly large number of heirs entering Hogwarts this year. I am aware that the Zabini heir is entering Hogwarts this year, along with the Bones heiress, Greengrass heiress, Nott heir, and the Longbottom heir. I am on amicable terms with the Greengrass and Nott heirs. However, the Bones do not like the Malfoys, and the Longbottom heir is a joke."
Harry frowned. "What's wrong with the Longbottom heir?" He then moved a piece.
Draco looked carefully before making his move. He then replied, "The idiot is basically a squib and is scared of anything that moves."
Harry filed this information away for later. He then moved a piece as he spoke. "Draco when we get to Hogwarts, I will undoubtedly be scrutinized by Dumbledore. We will need to draw very little negative attention to ourselves. That means no insulting muggleborn and antagonizing other students."
Draco frowned at this. "Why do you restrict me like this? I know you hate muggles just like I do."
Harry shook his head and responded, "It is essential that we do not draw the suspicion or ire of Dumbledore. We will already be facing opposition from the older students; we will need the staff to be on our side. Can you restrain yourself Draco?"
Draco snorted and made a move. "Fine."
Harry smiled and moved his rook. "Good Draco. By the way that's checkmate."
Draco widened his eyes in surprise and Harry walked out the room.
August 7, 1991
Harry's Room
Harry woke up and saw a phoenix perched on a chair in his room. The phoenix dropped a letter at Harry's feet and fire-travelled out the manor. Harry opened the letter warily and began reading.
Dear Harry,
I realize that we have gotten off on the wrong foot, and for that I apologize. I am truly sorry for placing you with the Dursleys, I had no idea that they would have mistreated you in any form. I only wished for your safety and at the time that was the best decision. I do hope that I will receive your forgiveness one day.
Now Harry, I must implore of you that you reconsider staying with the Malfoys. It has come to my attention that dangerous wizards are after you. I believe that those same wizards are the ones that burned down Little Whinging. It would be ill-advised of you to stay with the Malfoy's and risk being kidnapped or killed. Out of respect for what you have gone through, I will not challenge your guardianship and will not force you to leave the Malfoys. However, I must stress the importance of finding a safer place to stay. I beg of you to reconsider and agree to come to the safe house that I have chosen and personally warded.
On another note, inside the envelope is the key to your trust account at Gringotts. I do hope you will spend wisely. Once again, I ask that you forgive an old man of his follies and decide to come with me. I truly have only your best interests in mind. I look forward to seeing you at Hogwarts on the first of September. I am always here if you need me.
Your Headmaster,
Albus Dumbledore.
Harry looked inside the envelope and indeed found a key. Harry read the letter once more and shook his head at the thought of actually leaving the Malfoys and going to Dumbledore.
"The man has finally lost it.", thought Harry.
He put on some robes and put the key in his pocket. Harry headed downstairs and sat down for breakfast with the Malfoys.
"Are you alright, Harry?", asked Narcissa at sight of Harry's face. Harry merely scoffed and summoned the letter from his room and handed it to the Malfoys. Narcissa got angry and exclaimed, "The nerve of the man!"
Lucius merely shook his head and said, "At least he said he would not challenge Harry's decision to stay with us. His allies must not be willing to back him up on that."
Draco laughed at that. "Father, we are going to Diagon today for our supplies, right?"
Lucius nodded in affirmation.
Draco whooped. They all dined quickly on their breakfast and flooed over to Diagon Alley.
When they arrived, Harry's eyes widened at the sight of all the magic going on. Draco tugged at Harry's arm and said, "Come on Harry, lets go get our gold from Gringotts."
Harry and the Malfoys then headed into the large white building. Harry split off from the Malfoys and walked up to the nearest teller.
"What do you want wizard?", asked the goblin suspiciously.
Harry looked at the goblin and tried to remember his etiquette lessons on goblins. "May your gold fl-."
The goblin cut him off. "Shut the hell up and get to the point. What business do you have with Gringotts today?"
Harry looked at the goblin, taken aback, and then replied, "I am Harry Potter and I would like to visit my vaults."
The goblin grunted and asked, "Do you have a key?"
Harry pulled out his key and handed it to the grumpy teller.
"This is only for the trust vault."
Harry frowned. "I was living with muggles all my life and don't have a key."
The goblin looked at him skeptically. "And that's why you came with the Malfoys."
Harry sighed in frustration and said, "It's a long story. Can you just make me a new vault key?"
The goblin laughed. "I don't even know if you're Harry Potter. You certainly don't have a scar."
Harry rolled his eyes and was about to continue when Lucius stepped in on Harry's behalf.
"Goblin, this is Harry Potter. Just do a damn blood test and confirm it for yourself."
The goblin grumbled under his breath and said mockingly, "Right this way Mr. Potter."
They walked over to a different desk. The goblin handed Harry a golden bowl and a knife. "Three drops of blood into the bowl wizard."
Harry rolled his eyes and put three drops into the bowl. The goblin took the bowl behind the desk and returned with a piece of paper.
Harry James Potter
Son of James Potter and Lily Potter (nee Evans)
Entitled to the Potter vaults and title
Harry looked at the paper and said, "That's it?"
The goblin laughed maliciously, "What were you expecting wizard? Titles to all the founders and maybe even Merlin?"
Harry cursed the goblin under his breath and followed the goblin down to the Potter vaults.
"Now Mr. Potter", began the goblin. "Congratulations, you are quite wealthy by wizarding standards. Here is your vault key. I took the liberty of charging ten galleons for it." With that the goblin laughed and walked away. Harry entered the vault and collected several thousand galleons in a bottom-less bag and met back with the rest of the Malfoys.
As Harry walked with the Malfoys, Lucius spoke to Harry.
"Harry do not forget that goblins despise wizards. They are all backstabbing money-grubbers that only look after themselves. Save the etiquette for their King." Harry nodded in understanding and continued walking.
Harry and the Malfoys spent the rest of the day collecting books and school supplies. Harry and Draco both got fine acromantula silk robes and both bought dragonhide boots.
Lucius addressed the boys, "I believe that we only have wands left on our list. Let us go to Ollivanders."
They entered the dimly lighted store.
"Good morning Lord Malfoy. How may I be of service to you? I do believe that your wand is serving you well. Eighteen inches long. Quite whippy with a dragon heart string core. Good for charms."
Lucius nodded. "My wand is fine. It is my son who is in need of a wand."
Ollivander took Draco through the wand finding process until he ended up with, "10 inches long. Made of hawthorn with a nice unicorn hair core. Reasonably pliant. An excellent fit I do believe."
Ollivander was in the process of boxing the wand, when he noticed Harry for the first time.
"Mr. Potter! I did not see you there. Are you in need of a wand as well?"
Harry responded, "No sir. I went in my family vault today and found a wand that chose me."
Ollivander looked at him skeptically before nodding. "Of course, Mr. Potter. The wand does choose the wizard."
Ollivander then bowed them out of the store.
Draco nudged Harry, "That man creeps me out."
Harry agreed.
Harry then turned to Lucius and asked, "Excuse me Mr. Malfoy, would you mind if I stopped by Knockturn Alley for a bit? I have heard of it and would like to explore it myself."
Lucius nodded. "I believe you can adequately protect yourself Harry. Draco you will not be joining him." Draco pouted.
Lucius continued, "You and your mother will head home. I myself am needed in the ministry soon. Harry here is a portkey back to Malfoy Manor. The password for it is "purity"."
Harry took the portkey and nodded to the Malfoys. "I will see you all shortly." Harry then saw Draco's disappointed face. "Don't worry Draco I'll buy you a souvenir."
Draco scowled at Harry, and Harry went off into the alley. The alley was rather disappointing, and it did not contain the dark artifacts that he had hoped for. He explored for thirty minutes before he found Borgin and Burkes.
Borgin looked up as he saw a young boy walk into the store. "What do you want boy?", he asked greasily.
Harry barely spared him look, before browsing the shelves for books. He picked out a book called Obscure Curses and their Counters and a book called Parselmagic: An Overview.
Harry took the books to Borgin and asked with his best pureblood façade, "How much for the books Borgin."
Borgin looked at the boy in surprise and then responded, "500 galleons for both books. I don't understand why you want that book however. Its written in a language that no one can read."
Harry's eyebrows rose then stopped as he composed himself. He read the title again and noticed that it was indeed written in Parseltongue. "Mr. Borgin, I am not a fool. I will pay 50 galleons and no more than that."
Borgin grumbled and took the 50 galleons from Harry. Harry then took the books and walked out of the store. "Purity!"
Harry reappeared in the living room of Malfoy Manor and promptly fell over. Draco entered the room. "Well Harry? What you get me?"
Harry smiled and handed him the book on curses. "It won't hurt for you to know some curses before you go to Hogwarts."
Draco puffed out his chest and replied arrogantly, "My father has already shown me some powerful curses with his wand. Nobody will dare cross wands with me."
Harry rolled his eyes and smiled in amusement. "Would you like to duel me then Draco?"
Draco accepted without hesitation. "This is a mistake Harry, I know you're a cool guy and all, but you can't beat a pureblood in a duel."
Harry smiled and bowed to Draco. Draco bowed back and launched his curse first. "Stupefy!"
Harry redirected the spell at Draco, and the duel ended as quickly as it started. Harry revived Draco and began rolling on the floor laughing. Draco scowled and picked himself off the floor.
Harry looked at Draco and said, "Let that be a lesson to you Draco. Blood matters, but power matters more."
"Truer words have not been spoken.", said Gellert Grindelwald as he walking into the room.
Harry's face lit up and greeted Grindelwald enthusiastically. "Where have you been sir?"
Grindelwald replied, "Draco's grandfather and I have been going around the world reconnecting with old friends. We met first with Don Zabini and ended with a little visit to MACUSA. I believe our old allies are all willing to stand with us again. Now Harry, Draco, when you get to Hogwarts, I expect the both of you to become friends with young Zabini. I expect that you three will be the future of our movement."
Harry and Draco nodded earnestly.
The duo could not wait for September to come.
Later that evening
Abraxas's study
Lucius, Abraxas, and Grindelwald sat in Abraxas's private study.
"Lucius how do our preparations in the Wizengamot go?", asked Grindelwald.
"The dark faction is currently split right now. Those I have sworn to secrecy are willing to join our cause. However, many are unwilling to disobey the Dark Lord. I myself feel uneasy and whenever I promote our cause I can almost feel the Dark Mark burn."
Grindelwald frowned at this. "Give me your arm."
Lucius thrust his arm out towards the powerful wizard.
Grindelwald examined the mark carefully and moved his wand in many complex maneuvers. "My, my, this is quite the piece of magic.", whispered Grindelwald. "This mark works as a direct bond to Voldemort. It can only be undone by a Parselmouth."
Lucius frowned at this.
Grindelwald asked Lucius, "Lucius, you have not sworn an oath to me or the movement. I will remove the mark, if you take an oath pledging your eternal loyalty to me and our cause."
Lucius thought for a second and raised his wand. "Lord Grindelwald I do swear my life and loyalty to you and our cause."
Lucius then asked Grindelwald, "Lord Grindelwald how will you remove the mark?"
Grindelwald smiled, "Do not doubt me Lucius. I know many arcane magics."
With that Grindelwald winked at Abraxas, then cut off Lucius's arm with a well-placed curse.
Lucius howled in pain and watched as blood gushed over the table. Grindelwald then waved his wand several times and the blood reentered the limb, and his arm regrew. Lucius gaped in amazement.
"A quick lesson for you Lucius. Many do not know this, but most dark magic comes directly from the art of healing. For example, all of the unforgivable curses originate from the healing community. The killing curse to end lives humanely. The imperious curse to prevent the patient from feeling pain or use natural resistances against medicine. Even the cruciatus curse was for healing, a way for one's dead nerves to be jolted alive. I have studied the dark arts extensively and by extension also learned many healing arts as well. Feats like this are quite easy for a man like me. Never doubt me again Lucius."
Lucius bowed his head multiple times whispering his thanks.
"Now Lucius continue your report.", said Grindelwald.
Lucius continued, "I doubt that many of the factions in the Wizengamot will join until you make your move into the public eye again. However out plan to get Sirius Black out of Azkaban is moving smoothly. At this rate we should have his trial ready by next year."
Grindelwald nodded. "I expected as much. Abraxas onto another topic, do you believe that the children are ready for Hogwarts?"
Abraxas replied, "Draco is far behind Harry, but should be near the top overall in the first year. Harry as you already know, will be the best student by far. Politically, I am pleased to say Draco's attitude has changed drastically thanks to Harry, and will undoubtedly no longer isolate others due to his attitude. Our family's connection with the Notts, Crabbes, Goyles, Greengrass, and now the Zabinis will prove to be very useful in the future."
Grindelwald looked thoughtful. "Harry will undoubtedly be the most powerful first year by far. I have personally taught him many powerful arts. My hope is that Draco and the Zabini boy will be able to act as good advisories to him. Harry will have to create a strong base if we are to overthrow Dumbledore on his own turf. When Voldemort returns, this task will be doubly difficult and even more crucial."
Lucius enquired of Grindelwald, "Sir, why do we rely on mere children for our goals? Would it not be more efficient to convince the current members of the Wizengamot?"
Grindelwald shook his head, "No Lucius. Men are not easily swayed or convinced in their opinions. However, children are impressionable and easily manipulated. I will not lie; Harry and his friends are ultimately pawns in our game. They are crucial, but pawns nonetheless. Do not fret Lucius, your child will be in no danger."
Lucius merely nodded and appeared to be in deep thought.
Abraxas raised a point, "Gellert, when do you believe Voldemort will return?"
Grindelwald took a sip of wine before responding. "Voldemort, will return in a couple of years."
Both Malfoys looked shocked at this.
Grindelwald continued before they could interrupt. "Voldemort will undoubtedly want to take control of Harry Potter. That much I know is a fact. I am also aware of the rumors that Voldemort is in Albania. He will undoubtedly return very soon. We must be very wary of Voldemort and be prepared for whatever he comes up with. Voldemort is extremely cunning, and magically is more powerful than me or Albus. What sets apart is our magical knowledge and creativity. I have no qualms about dueling Voldemort, but he is still a dangerous adversary. We must be on our guard at all times."
Both Malfoys nodded in agreement.
Grindelwald then stood and spoke to the pair, "Now gentlemen, I must be off. Vinda and Queenie are currently on missions for me and will likely report back very soon. Good night to you both."
Abraxas and Lucius were left at the table, both with many things on their minds.
September 1, 1991
The month passed by very quickly. Draco and Harry both prepared for the upcoming year appropriately. Lucius personally coached both Draco and Harry on the Slytherin hierarchy and the politics associated with it. Grindelwald continued to train Harry in various branches of magic. Draco continued to fly around on the pitch. When the day arrived, both boys were quite excited.
"Wake up Harry!", shouted Draco as he bounced into Harry's room.
Harry cursed Draco loudly and profanely as he blearily rubbed the sleep from his eyes. He had packed his things the night before and was ready to go. He put on his robes and headed downstairs.
"Good morning Harry!", greeted Narcissa.
Harry said his greetings and watched as the Malfoy parents fussed over Draco.
Harry watched amused, as Narcissa hounded Draco and mothered him quite severely.
Grindelwald went to Harry and then led him into a quieter room.
"Harry, are you ready to go to Hogwarts?", asked Grindelwald.
"Yes sir!", responded Harry enthusiastically.
"Good. Remember it is crucial to be on good terms with as many people as possible. However, do not forget to remind everyone around you of your power. You are superior in every way to them all."
Harry smiled at the praise. "I won't let you down sir."
"I know you will not. Now, let us go with the Malfoys to King's Cross, it will not do for us to be late."
Grindelwald put several charms on his face and changed his appearance. Then they all went to Platform 9 and ¾.
The platform was packed with many people. Lucius sneered in disgust at the sight of several unruly muggleborns. Narcissa on the other hand was hugging Draco to death.
"I will miss you my little dragon!"
Draco reddened with embarrassment and quickly got away. He then quickly hugged his mother one more time, nodded towards his father and jumped onto the train.
Harry was going over last-minute instructions with Grindelwald when the train whistle blew signaling that the train would leave in five minutes. He nodded at Grindelwald, smiled at the Malfoys and joined Draco on the train.
Harry quickly caught up to Draco. "Where should we sit Draco?"
Draco looked around before pointing ahead. "I ordered Crabbe and Goyle to save us a compartment."
The two walked ahead and entered the compartment.
Crabbe and Goyle nodded to Draco and Harry, and put their trunks into the overhang.
Harry whispered to Draco, "What's the deal with these two?"
Draco whispered back, "Their fathers owe my father a debt. It is being repaid by them being by bodyguards. They're not very bright, but will be good muscle."
Harry nodded in agreement and continued chatting with Draco.
After a few minutes, they heard a knock at the door. The door opened to show two girls, a blonde and a brunette, both wearing robes of fine quality.
"Heir Malfoy, may we sit here.", asked the blonde pretentiously.
Draco rolled his eyes and replied, "Get in here Daphne."
Both girls entered laughing and had Crabbe and Goyle put their luggage away.
Daphne Greengrass and Tracy Davis both took seats across from Harry and Draco. "Draco, will you introduce me to your friend here."
Draco smiled and responded, "Of course. Girls meet Harry Potter. Harry meet Daphne and Tracy. Daphne is the heiress to the Greengrass title and Tracy is her cousin. She's also a menace."
Tracy smacked Draco and asked Harry incredulously, "Are you actually Harry Potter?"
Harry smiled graciously and replied, "Yes. I believe that is indeed my name."
Daphne looked at Harry curiously. "How does the boy-who-lived end up being all chummy with Draco Malfoy."
Harry leaned forward and explained to the girls how his house burned down and that Lucius had saved him from some evil muggles.
Tracy frowned. "So, do you hate muggles? I though you of all people would advocate for muggles and muggleborn."
Harry scowled and thought back to a discussion with Grindelwald.
Flashback
Grindelwald sat with Harry at a table
"Harry do you hate muggles?", asked Grindelwald.
Harry thought for a moment before responding, "No sir. I believe that there are good muggles and bad muggles."
Grindelwald then posed another question, "Harry what makes a muggle good or bad?"
Harry frowned and then replied uncertainly, "Some muggles are kind while others are mean."
Grindelwald then said, "Harry, how many good muggles have you met in your life?"
Harry frowned further before replying, "None sir."
Grindelwald paused before asking another question. "Harry, are muggles our equals?"
Harry sat very quietly before responding, "I am not sure sir."
Grindelwald stood and replied, "Then let me tell you Harry. Muggles are not our equals. Muggles are also not good overall. You see Harry, muggles are very selfish creatures. They only look out for themselves. Think Harry. When you were growing up it should have been evident to all of the muggles that you were being mistreated by the Dursleys, but how many of them said anything to you. Did they offer you help?"
Harry shook his head.
"Exactly. They have no care beyond themselves. On top of that they fear the unknown. The Dursleys knew you were a wizard and so they chose to beat you and mistreat you. This is why we cannot coexist with muggles."
Harry took this all in before asking Grindelwald, "So what should we do about them sir?"
Grindelwald responded, "Muggles should not be running our world. Time and time again they have proven to be greedy and very dangerous. Harry, I believe that muggles should be at the feet of us wizards. They should not be able to oppress anymore. They should be put in their rightful places."
Harry listened to Grindelwald's fiery speech. He thought carefully at the many times he was scorned and bullied. He looked at Grindelwald and then asked, "How can I help you do that?"
Flashback ends
"Tracy, Daphne, what are your thoughts on muggles and blood purity", asked Harry.
Daphne answered first. "I think blood purity overall is stupid. Tracy here is a half-blood, but she's still my best friend. So, in other words I don't care if you're a pureblood, half-blood, or a muggleborn."
"But what about muggles?", asked Harry.
Daphne sneered. "Muggles have many good ideas and have gone far for a people with no magic. However, I don't like them very much overall."
Tracy nodded in agreement. "My mom is a witch and she fell for a muggle. The second my "dad" found out that she had magic, he left immediately."
Harry looked at her sympathetically. "I understand and agree with both of your opinions. I too have not had a pleasant experience with muggles and therefore dislike them. I have a more moderate view than Draco over here, but overall, I believe that our world and the muggle world should remain very far apart."
Everyone in the compartment nodded in agreement. Then another knock was heard at the door.
Harry opened it and saw Blaise Zabini.
"Harry Potter?", asked Blaise.
"The one and only.", responded Harry with a smile.
Blaise entered, and Harry introduced him to everyone in the compartment.
"So, Blaise, do you agree with me when I say an alliance between you, me and Draco would be beneficial?"
Blaise smiled. "Yes, my grandfather was quite insistent that I do that."
The two shook hands and an alliance was born. The compartment was filled with conversation and laughter as the Hogwarts Express raced towards Hogwarts.
After some time, the train arrived and they all got into their appropriate robes.
"Firs' Years over here!", shouted a large man.
They followed the large man down a path and reached a shore with tiny boats bobbing up and down.
"No more'n four to a boat!", cried the large man.
Harry, Blaise, Draco, and a new boy name Theodore shared a boat.
Harry watched as the boats began to glide over the Black Lake. He looked around and studied the other first years.
"Daphne and Tracy both seem nice and will make good allies in the future.", thought Harry to himself. He spent the boat ride watching the other boats when finally, they all arrived into the Great Hall.
A stern woman gathered them up and began to speak. ""Welcome to Hogwarts," said Professor McGonagall. "The start-of-term banquet will begin shortly, but before you take your seats in the Great Hall, you will be sorted into your Houses." She went on to describe the 4 houses and the sorting process. Not before long, they all entered the Great Hall and lined up to get sorted. A raggedy hat sat on a stool and to the surprise of many of the first-years sang a song about their sorting. Then the sorting truly began.
"Abbot, Hannah!"
"HUFFLEPUFF!", shouted the hat.
"Bones, Susan!"
"HUFFLEPUFF", shouted the hat again.
"Crabbe, Vincent!"
"SLYTHERIN!"
More students were sorted and Harry didn't notice any of them until Professor McGonagall shouted, "Davis, Tracy!"
She ran onto the stool and after a minute the hat cried, "SLYTHERIN!"
After her a muggle born named Hermione had a hatstall until the hat eventually cried, "GRYFFYNDOR!"
Not long after that Daphne Greengrass was called.
She walked elegantly to the stool and after a moment, the hat cried, "SLYTHERIN!" once more.
The sorting continued with Draco as expected going to Slytherin as well.
Finally, it was Harry's turn. Harry walked up to the stool amid all the whispering and pointing. Harry put on the hat and heard the Hat begin to talk to him. "Harry Potter, my, my I have been eagerly waiting your sorting."
As the Hat went through his memories it made the occasional comment. "Oh, you've met Grindelwald and Voldemort well that's interesting! Plenty of ambition and a need to prove yourself too, hmmm."
Harry felt concerned at this breach until the hat reassured him, "Oh I won't be sharing this with anyone Mr. Potter, do not worry."
Harry then told the hat, "Hat, we both know where I am to go, just put me in Slytherin."
"I suppose you are right. I expect great things from you Mr. Potter."
"SLYTHERIN!", cried the hat.
As Harry took off the hat, he looked up to the staff table. He noticed most of the staff looked shocked. Snape looked most surprised out of them all. A turban wearing man seemed not surprised, but curious. Harry looked up to Dumbledore and saw him give Harry a small nod. He then noticed that the hall had gone silent and everyone was merely staring. Then Draco began clapping, and the rest followed suit.
The rest of the sorting went by without hitch, and Harry soon had Blaise join him at Slytherin. The sorting wrapped up and Dumbledore stood and said a few words and began the feast. Harry sat between Draco and Blaise, and had Tracy and Daphne in front of him.
They enjoyed the meal and as the feast came to an end, Dumbledore stood again. "Ahem — just a few more words now that we are all fed and watered. I have a few start-of-term notices to give you. First years should note that the forest on the grounds is forbidden to all pupils. I have also been asked by Mr. Filch, the caretaker, to remind you all that no magic should be used between classes in the corridors. Quidditch trials will be held in the second week of the term. Anyone interested in playing for their House teams should contact Madam Hooch. And finally, I must tell you that this year, the third-floor corridor on the right-hand side is out of bounds to everyone who does not wish to die a very painful death."
Harry perked up at this. Grindelwald had warned him that Dumbledore had a flair for the theatrics, but this was most peculiar. Harry mentally reminded himself to visit the corridor in the future. He was then jolted out of his thinking by the sound of the entire school singing in a loud and off-key voice. Harry cringed throughout the entirety of the song and laughed at the expression that Draco had.
At last the welcoming feast concluded, and Harry and his friends made their way to the dungeons.
A/N: Please review. They encourage me to write faster :)