Chapter 32
Over in Japan at Mahoutokoro, many of the students and teachers were in awe. Many of them saw the way Potter duel and were highly impressed. Save for the first through third years; they were forbidden from watching the duel as they were so young. The ones that did get to see it were feeling a mixture of emotions. They had witnessed the duels Potter had with the two adults and the Smith boy; many were loudly applauding him as he dueled the way any of them would have. Out of all of them, the most surprised was Miwa.
Having spent most of her time with Hadrian since they were kids, she could only guess what he was going through at the moment. From what she saw, it was clear that he was going to spare Lord Morrison, yes he had brutalized him and had a good reason to, but when the fool tried to get him with the killing curse, he spun around blew his head off. She could only imagine how shook up he felt as he had just killed someone violently. However, she could be sure of one thing: Harry was Harry, and she knew he would be carrying the pain within himself for a while. He did what he had to do to survive, not because he liked it. That is what separated him from the other murdering psychopaths.
"That was amazing," one of her classmates exclaimed. Turning her head, she saw who it was a boy with brown hair and lime green eyes. "Potter fought just like a warrior. He really is one of us!"
Many of the others agreed with him and began speaking about how powerful and skilled Potter was and wondered what he would be like when he would be fully grown. Miwa, of course, just shook her head at them. They saw a person who broke his opponents with excessive force; what she saw was her friend who fought for the honor of his family and the freedom of another girl. Harry sent her a letter about his duel to be with Smith; even know the boy had attacked him. He didn't just fight for himself but for the freedom of a girl who was being forced into a marriage contract.
Miwa was disgusted when she heard about another person being forced into such things. She was aware that he was almost forced into one and would rather have died a horrible, agonizing death than ever be put in a contract. Her parents told her that she could marry anyone she so wished and that they would never sign a marriage contract. To the Kawada family, marriage contracts were dishonorable, and anyone who resorted to them had no honor.
Harry was one of the most important people to her in the world, he might be her rival, but he was also the brother she never had. Before school even started, she didn't have any friends, as many other kids were afraid of her. Then she met him the first day of class; whenever they would get into it, they did it, intending to outdo one another. Eventually, they became best friends, brother, and sister. They shared many similarities and did a lot under the pretense of siblings. When the day came that he had to leave, she was upset and hurt that her only friend was leaving, but he told her that he would always be there for her should she need him. She said the same.
Miwa knew that he would be in pain after his duels and got a determined look on her face. She would try to help him cheer up. With that thought in mind, she left the room where the others were and went back to her own quarters.
(0^0)
Back in Hogwarts many of the students were shaken by what they had seen in the last two days. Potter had dueled all his opponents and left the first two in agonizing pain, he had also killed Morrison. Many of them whom came from the grey and dark families were shocked to their cores by what they had seen. Potter was honorable, ruthless, powerful, and brutal toward his enemies; the way he destroyed them was both terrifying and amazing. However, they never would have expected him to actually kill someone.
A number of them were aware of what Lord Morrison was courtesy of their parents who had either informed them when they were younger or having personally met him in public. It may have been true that Morrison was not popular with most people they never would have guessed to see this outcome.
The members of the light and neutral factions were terrified of Hadrian. And had a right to be so as they now knew what he was capable of when pushed to far. After witnessing his duels, they silently made a vow not to antagonize him and to let him be, even the house of gryffindor realized that it was wrong to accuse him without proof. Hopefully, Potter would come back to them as soon as they apologized to him.
(0^0)
In the nest of Ravenclaw, the students were chattering about the events.
"Damn, Potter was relentless," Michael Corner said. "I knew he was brutal, but I would never have expected things to go this far."
"You really think that Corner," Padma said from her seat next to Lisa Turpin at one of the tables.
Everyone turned to face her. "What are you on about?" her housemate asked.
"Think about it from his point of view," she began "ever since people started being petrified and it was discovered that he was a parseltongue, the students at Hogwarts have made his life here a living hell. One minute he was glorified, the next minute he was victimized, most of the people who attacked him came from this house," she said, looking at the people who had helped Morrison to try and prosecute him. Some of them were ashamed others just looked away.
"This went on for months until finally he had enough and went to press and the Wizengamot to prove that he was innocent. That alone takes much courage, and based on what I have seen," she turned to look at her entire house. "I do not blame him for his ire! I blame most of the students here for pushing him to this point."
"But how were we supposed to know things would escalate this bad?" one of the third-year girls asked. Over by the fire, Marietta Edgecombe was sitting next to Cho Chang and her other friends "besides, are not you being biased? He fought on your behalf to get you out of a contract with Smith?"
Some of the eagles were talking about the duel Potter had with Smith and what the prize was.
Padma just looked at the older girl with a neutral expression on her face "that is pretty rich coming from you, Edgecombe. Weren't you one of the idiots whom Morrison called out when he attempted to prosecute him?"
Marietta blushed with indignant at the accusation. Padma followed up with, "if anybody is being biased, it was you against him. His dueling on my behalf was because I never wanted to be put into a betrothal contract, least of all with Smith" she shuddered involuntarily. "My sister and I discussed the matter with him, and he agreed that he would help me out of the contract. He can have me for anything he wants, but I doubt he will; he is not that type of person!"
"How do you know that?" one of Edgecombe's friends snakingly asked.
"Because he sent me a recording of him giving me a magical vow that he would never ask anything unethical of my family or me," she responded.
"Prove it," the girl said.
Padma got up from her seat and went up to her room; after a few minutes of going through her trunk, she pulled out the recording crystal she had got from him and returned to where everyone was waiting.
"Here is your proof" she activated the crystal and played the memory.
The entire common room witnessed that Potter had indeed given the magical vow saying that if he won, she would not ask anything unethical of her or her family.
When it ended, Padma retrieved the crystal and looked at the older girl "happy now," she smirked. The older girl just crossed her arms around her chest and started grumbling to herself.
One of the seventh years stood up, "all right, so we have proven that Potter just wants to be left alone. I trust that many of us here will now be leaving him alone" he looked around the room and saw some people agreeing with him. "As to the people who aided Morrison in attacking Potter, you all now know the consequences set by Lord Black. I hope your families can pay what he demanded from all of you."
(0^0)
In the dungeons of Slytherin, the council has called an emergency session.
The four council members looked around and saw that everyone was in their seats and ready to begin. Moon got up from his seat and addressed them "you all are probably wondering why it is you are here" he looked around. "This emergency session today is to discuss the events that had occurred the last two days. I speak of the duels Hadrian Potter had."
"Why do we have to discuss Potter at the assembly? He is not even a member of our house," Flint said, demanding to know.
"Evidently, you have forgotten what happened at the trial, Flint," Ulrich responded in a condescending voice. "Now sit down," he ordered, "you are already in enough trouble as it is."
The troll boy sat back down in his seat.
"Now, there will be no more interruptions," he said in an authoritative voice. He looked around, daring anyone to contradict him. "Based on what happened at the wizengamot, we saw how he is and what the results were when he was pushed."
"Many of you here have attacked him without proof, although you had no real evidence against him and are now going to pay the price. Whatever possessed you all to go after him, I will never know, but it ends here and now. The other council members and I agree with this and have voted that Potter is left unharmed. The same goes for his sister when she comes here next year."
Nicole Vaisey stood up from her chair while he sat back down. "What happened at the wizengamot was an embarrassment! I seem to recall last year that we agreed to give him some civility should he be able to give us a chance to voice ourselves."
One of the fifth years raised his hand "what is it, Derrick?" she asked.
"I know that we agreed to be civil with him, but has there really been any changes between Slytherin and the other houses?"
Some of the Slytherin was seen discussing that very point before her brother Aaron spoke up "there have indeed been some changes," he spoke in a firm voice.
You have to be blind not to have noticed it," he continued "haven't you noticed that we are not being antagonized as much by the other houses? The Gryffindors may still attack and try to get us in trouble most of the time, but the number of attacks has decreased rather significantly!"
Many of them had to agree that there has been less hostility coming from the gryffindors. While they wish that it could have been completely gone it was better than no changes at all.
"So, it is agreed that we leave, Potter alone" one of the council members suggested.
By a majority vote they agreed to leave him be.
(0^0)
In the lair of badgers many of the hufflepuffs were shaking with nervousness and it was visibly clear that they were shaken by the duels.
"Those duels were something else" Cedric said shakingly.
One of the sixth years responded with "that's an understatement! Potter killed Morrison, brutalized Umbridge, and broke Smith. He is going to get locked up I can already tell."
"You sound so sure Sterndale" Susan said. The strawberry blonde girl glared at the older boy "in case you haven't been paying attention. Hadrian was more than within his rights to do what he did to them. Yeah he killed Morrison, but he gave him the chance to live first. It was only after Morrison tried to fire an unforgiveable at him when his back was turned did he kill him."
"Also, need I remind you that your family still have to pay the money it owes, Lord Black, evidently you and your parents are too happy kissing Fudge's arse to see what's happening" she said.
Sterndale scowled at her. "Be careful Bones" he pointed a finger at her "don't make accusations without proof to back them up."
Hannah stepped in "oh, please Sterndale everyone knows that your parents are Fudge loyalist. Y'all will happily do whatever, the twat says without a second thought. You also seem to have forgotten who it is your dealing with."
"Oh yeah!" he replied "it's not like either of you can do anything to my family. Black may be forcing my parents to pay what he wants but Potter can't do anything."
"You should watch what you say" Susan intervened "and Harry can do something to your family" her and Hannah shared a knowing look. "Since he is the last of the House of Potter he is granted certain privileges. Lord Black may have demanded compensation from you, but that was because you attacked his nephew."
"Harry maybe his nephew, but he is still a member of the House of Potter and can demand anything from your family should he wish it" Hannah concluded.
"That's a lie" the boy snorted.
"No" one of the seventh years spoke up "they are indeed correct!"
The sixth year turned to the seventh year "What do you know about that Wynch? You are maybe a Lord but it's only of a noble house."
"I may be a member of a noble house, but I know about family charters, you simpleton!" he sneered at him. "Now, Sterndale, I know you are the worst in your year so I will say this as simply as I could. You are very fortunate that you were not the one that had to duel him. If you were then that would have been a one-sided fight."
"If you don't pay whatever compensation, Lord black wants and leave Potter alone then your time in Hogwarts will be very unpleasant" he continued.
"I'm not scared of Potter or the Blacks" he said defiantly.
Wynch just shook his head in disappointment. "You should be!"
(0^0)
In the den of Gryffindors the majority of the house was bewildered.
Many were loudly applauding Hadrian performance in the duel. Ron was beside himself and declared that Potter was a dark wizard in training because of the way he dueled. A few of the students agreed with him but they were drowned out, but the others.
Ginny had heard how powerful, Harry was. Oh, how she couldn't wait to be with him. From the rumors that had been going on about him and the letters her brothers sent home were pure gold to her. According to them Harry was a prodigy at magic and highly smart in his academics. When she saw him at Flourish and Botts she felt like she was going to hit cloud nine, he was tall for his age, had messy hair but tamed hair, and his eyes. Those beautiful emerald eyes of his made him all the more dreamy in her opinion.
Her mother had told her that she was able to get a marriage contract between the both of them, because Dumbledore was his guardian. She couldn't wait to marry him when he was older. Then she would be Ginevra Molly Potter, Lady of the Most Ancient and Noble House of the Potter. All the girls will be so jealous of her.
The only problem was how she was going to get him to fall in love with her. From what Ron letters said he preferred to spend time with the slytherins and other members from the other houses except for the members of his own house. She didn't want to believe it but when she saw that Greengrass girl her body froze. The girl was named the Ice Queen of Slytherin.
Ginny soon learned why she was given that name as the look in that girls eyes was enough to freeze anyone. It also, bothered her to no end that Harry! Her Harry preferred to spend time with someone from the dark faction. She would need to do something to get him to notice her. It was her destiny and birth right to be on his arm as his future wife.
(0^0)
Meanwhile, at Potter Castle, the family's young scion was in the training room with his partner meditating. The others were downstairs talking about how they would help Hadrian come to terms with what happened at the duel.
Arcturus was beside himself as he knew the boy would make a fantastic successor when the time comes. He continued to demonstrate everything the Black and Potter family stood for honor, the will to do what's needed to be done, ruthlessness, loyalty and possessed the needed resolve. Those thoughts in mind Hadrian was still a child and was aware that the battle with Morrison shook him up. The boy was a warrior, not a killer. Cassie had reamed him when she saw the state the boy was in.
When the floo activated, they saw that Severus had come from Hogwarts. Part of Arcturus was dreading having the man here; Severus was not happy that Harry got put in a duel with a death eater and was even more so when he felt the emotional state of the boy.
"Where is he?" Severus asked in a firm voice.
Arcturus was about to respond, but Sirius beat him to it "he's in the training room with Byakko."
Severus gave him a curt nod and headed up the stairs.
Severus had been sensing his son's emotions through their bond and was far from happy. Hadrian was a strong-willed boy, even more than most of the other kids his age, but still a child. He could always tell what his son was feeling. That duel he had with that swine Morrison had shaken him to his core; even after Harry brutalized him, he wanted to let him live. Morrison couldn't live with his own failure of losing to a twelve-year-old and tried to attack him when his back was turned, and it forced Harry to execute him.
If Morrison was alive right now, he gratefully killed the bastard for the state he put the boy in. As Severus arrived on the floor where the training room was, he walked through the hallway. The closer he got, the more he was able to feel his son's emotions. Coming to the door, he opened it and walked in to see Harry was on the floor meditating with Byakko lying next to him.
When the god noticed him come in, he got up and talked to him.
"How is he?" Severus asked.
"So far, he is fine," Byakko replied. He turned to his partner, "he is in a meditative trance. Though I cannot get anything out of him, perhaps you will have better luck."
Severus looked from the tiger to Harry, then walked to him. Taking his wand out, he conjured a chair for himself; sitting in it, he closed his eyes and attempted to reach him through their link.
The mind arts were both an amazing and dangerous branch of magic. Obscure it might be, but it was handy after years of training in the art.
Entering the boy's Mindspace, he saw a giant castle that looked very much like Potter castle. In front of the gates, he saw the astral form of his sister trying to get in. He carefully walked up to her "Emily; you won't be able to get in!" he said, getting her attention.
When the girl turned around, she had tears in her eyes. She immediately ran to him in embraced him in a hug. Severus soothingly rubbed her head. "How is it looking?"
Emily looked up at him "he won't let me in. He's completely closed off!"
"Right now, he is in pain!" Severus said. "I will try to help him out of it, but I will need your help." He watched her give a determined nod, then looked back to the closed gates. "Harry, I know you can sense our presence! We can help you. Just let us in."
The gates didn't move, but Severus was not going to give up. "Hadrian, I'm going to be able to help you if you don't let me. So, I'm going to repeat this: Let us in!" This time the gates opened slightly.
Pushing the gates open, the two rushed to the main door; opening it, they walked into the foyer, which was very similar to the one in Potter manor. But still no, Hadrian!
"Where is he?" Emily asked worriedly.
Severus used their bond to find Hadrian's location, and after a few minutes, he found the boy in the library. "Follow me," he said to the girl. They ascended the stairs to the wing where the library was located. After walking for ten minutes, they arrived at the door. Emily tried to open it but found that it wouldn't budge.
Severus was about to say something, but letters made of fire materialized before them. To enter, you must answer two questions: What is a person's most valued aspect, something that can never be broken no matter how hard their enemies tries?
Emily needed to have Emily ponder the question. "A person's spirit! she answered.
The words then morphed into the next question: What is the strongest magic source on the planet? What is the drive that people need to keep moving forward?
Emily didn't know this answer and looked to Severus.
Severus had to really think about this answer. After spending a few minutes thinking, he got his answer. "Their wills and resolves!" he answered.
The letters vanished, and the doors opened; both Severus and Emily had to cover their eyes as there was a bright light. When it started to dim, they saw Harry cradled by the fire, looking distraught.
Emily would have moved forward, but Severus placed a hand on her shoulder and held her back; giving her a look, he carefully stepped forward. Getting close enough to Harry, he tried to extend his hand out. "Hadrian!" he said calmly.
When Harry didn't move, Severus called out again, "Harry, my beloved son. I know you're in pain, but I'm here to help."
"I'm a monster for what I did," the boy said in a low voice.
"You are not a monster," Severus retorted. "You did the honorable thing when you tried to spare him."
"He still died," Harry replied. "You two should not be near a monster like me!"
Emily rushed to him and put her arms around his shoulders. There she sensed his pain "you're not a monster. Your, my brother! I will always be here for you, and I will never leave you."
"My son hear my voice," Severus said as he approached them. "You did what was right rather than what was easy. That's the difference between you and him. You do what needs to be done for the weak. Morrison was one of the few monsters on this planet that helped destroy families and brought innocents to their knees."
He then knelt and put an arm around them and transferred his inner warmth "the pain you feel only makes you human. Use this pain to make you strong and to be better than your enemies!"
The two allowed their warmth's to envelop him until he eventually calmed down and felt at peace, then fell asleep.
"Emily," he said softly, "had back into your own mindscape. I will take care of things from here."
The little girl shook her head violently. "I won't leave him. Not like this!"
"Emily, I will take care of it from here," Severus said. "I promise I'll keep you updated. Should there be any changes, now go!"
It was clear that she didn't want to but seeing the sincerity in his eyes and sensing that her brother was healing, she reluctantly agreed and withdrew.
"If you need me, Harry, I will always be here for you" she kissed him on his temples then left his mind.
Soon, Severus's turn to leave; awakening back into the room, he found that Harry was asleep on the floor. Keeping the link active, he picked him up and exited the chamber, with Byakko following behind. Their destination was the master bedroom. When they arrived, Severus gently placed him on the bed and pulled the covers over him. Going to the bookshelf, he scanned for a book to read to the boy.
Harry may be asleep, but he can still hear what is going on. Looking at the third shelf, he found the book he was looking for; pulling it out, he went back to his son and noticed that Byakko was lying protectively next to him.
Severus conjured a chair wandless and took a seat. "I have your favorite book," he said to the sleeping form of Hadrian. The book was brown and titled 'The legend of the Mother of Magic'; taking his seat, Severus began reading.
After reading three chapters, Severus closed the book and placed it on the nightstand. Giving one last look at the boy, he saw that he was sleeping peacefully and could feel the turmoil inside fading away. "Rest now, Harry!" he got up and prepared to leave. "Byakko, please stay with him," he said, to which the god raised his head and gave a nod of assurance.
With that, Severus left and closed the door behind him. Letting out a long breath, he went back downstairs. When he arrived in the main sitting room, he saw Arcturus coming forward.
"Severus how is" the older man didn't get to finish as Severus nailed him in the face with a hard punch that broke his nose and cost him two of his teeth. Sirius looked positively, shocked at what he just saw.
"Do you not comprehend what you have done, Black?" Severus said in a deadly cold voice.
The elder Black repaired his nose and looked at the younger man while clearing the blood. "Harry! My son was so convinced that he was a monster that he retreated into himself. Not even his own sister could penetrate his mindscape and get him to open up."
"Right now, he is sleeping peacefully. If you make any move to wake him, then I will personally and with great pleasure tear you apart, myself" he gave the man one final death glare before heading to the floo network going back to Hogwarts.
"Fucking bastard" Arcturus cleared up the last of the blood.
"You had that coming," Sirius said, were if he in Severus shoes, he would do the same thing.
Arcturus whirled to his grandson "how do you figure that" the older man sent a stone-cold glare that made the boy pale slightly.
Taking a breath and responded, "take it from Hadrian's perspective. He was forced to fight in a duel with a low chance of survival; even after he brutalized him, he still tried to spare him. That was until Morrison tried to attack him from behind; only did he kill him. Hadrian may be a warrior, but he is no murderer, and what he did to Morrison and Umbridge was justified, but it still shook him up."
Sirius deflated a little "you may have forgotten, but he is still a child with his own mentality and emotions."
Arcturus was a proud man and would hardly ever admit that he was wrong. But after thinking for a few minutes about what his godson had said, no matter how much he hated it, the boy was right. Harry was not a soldier; he was a child! He momentarily thought that his actions were no different than Dumbledore's and that shocked him so much that he went as pale as a ghost.
"What have I done" he bowed his head in shame.
Were Charlus or Dorea alive and saw what he did, then they would not have been as kind. Charlus was one thing but his younger sister; she was a different story. The woman was dangerous when she was angered. He surely remembered the many spells she had used on him when he sometimes pushed her too far. Most of his scars and bruises came from her personally, and he remembered that she was not a
woman to cross when she was on the warpath.
"You will need to talk to talk to him and clear the air," Sirius said slowly.
Arcturus gave him a critical stare, "that just might be the most sensible thing you have ever said," then he left to go into the dining room, leaving a shocked Sirius who couldn't believe what he had just heard his grandfather say.
Later that day, Hadrian woke up from his sleep; he soon realized that he was in the master bedroom; next to him was his partner. He tried to get out of bed without waking him but heard him yawn.
"Young one are you alright?" he asked.
Hadrian was about to say he was fine but didn't get the chance to.
"If you say your fine! Then I will jump off this bed and drag you to the training room and put you through my displeasure," Byakko warned him critically. He knew that it was a low blow, but he had to get the boy to open u given Harry's reclusive nature.
Hadrian knew his partner would not go back on his word and replied, "I'm still a little shook up," he said solemnly.
Byakko stood up on the bed and walked in front of him. "Hadrian look at me," the boy raised his head, "what you did to those people was hard, yes. However, it was necessary. The pain you feel was because they forced you to do what you didn't want to do. That pain will make you stronger than anyone."
He continued with, "doing the right thing is never easy. Some will call it evil! But it is a necessary evil! So, others can have a future. That is what will make you different then the people you will have to fight."
Harry gave him a respectful bow and said, "thank you, Byakko."
"Now come, I believe the others are waiting in the dining hall" he hopped off the bed and led them out of the room. Byakko began to tell him about the other four gods that ruled over the magical world as they were walking. The Genbu was compromised over two beings, a snake, and a turtle; they ruled over the planet's water. Like him, he was the god of earth and held control over the land. Next, Suzaku, the immortal phoenix, controlled the air from the four corners of the globe. And last was Seiryu, the azure dragon. The ruler of fire!
Together, the four of them held the magical world's balance and were only second to the magical mother.
Byakko explained that he would tell him the rest of the story another time as they walked to the doors that led to the dining room. Opening the door, they found Arcturus Black sitting in one of the chairs with a glass of Firewhiskey.
"Uncle," Hadrian greeted him respectfully.
The aged man looked in the doorway and saw his nephew along with his partner. "Hadrian, Byakko," he replied with the same courtesy. "Hadrian, I owe an apology," he said, which surprised the boy for a moment "please have a seat."
Harry took the chair opposite the man.
(0^0)
Two days later, Harry was allowed to go back to school. Arriving in the middle of breakfast in professor Black office, he greeted her warmly and handed her the folders that contained all of the essays that he had to complete.
Cassie told him that she would deliver them to the professors to receive his grades, then sent him off. Harry had already eaten and just went to his first class, which was potions. Heading to the dungeons, he found himself on the opposite side of the door; giving a knock, he received a confirmation to come in.
Stepping into the room, he saw that Severus was sitting at his desk marking essays. While he was going, Hadrian took a seat at the workstation in front of the class and took out his equipment. While he was at home, his dad stopped by every day to check in on him, to make sure that he could recover from what happened.
Snape finished marking the essays and put them on his desk. "Mr. Potter," he said in a silk tone, "welcome back to school. I hope you are prepared for the lesson I have in-store today."
"I am glad you are alright," he sent through their link.
"I am ready, professor," he replied.
"I'm fine, Dad, I promise," he sent back through the link.
"What is on my agenda today, sir?" he asked in a respectful tone.
Severus eyed him critically for a minute "you will find out shortly," was his reply.
Ten minutes later, the bell rang, signaling that breakfast was over. It didn't take long before many of the other students started filing into the classroom. Some of the students were afraid of him as they watched his duel, but not Nicole, as she didn't hesitate and took a seat next to him and greeted him warmly.
When everyone was seated, Severus addressed them by criticizing the essays most handed in and handing them back. Delivering the last of the essays to a pair of Gryffindors, he made sure to let them know how displeased he was by saying that if they answered the questions on their exams as they did on the essays he assigned, then they would have no hope of making it to NEWT year.
The pair consisted of boys who attacked; Harry and Severus were not going to be lenient with them. Just because he couldn't openly acknowledge that he was the boy's father did not mean that he would let them suffer his displeasure. When he was done, he waved his hand to the board, and the potion along with the rules appeared on it. Telling them to get to work, he went back to his desk and walked over to Hadrian's station.
"Mr. Potter, you are to brew the wolfsbane potion" he then placed the instructions in front of him "get to work" he sneered at him to maintain his appearance.
Knowing about the potion, Harry was aware that it would take about a week to finish. Putting his dragonhide gloves on, he set off to work on his potion.
Spending the next hour and fifteen minutes working on the potion, he did all he could for the time being and raised his hand to signal Snape. The grouchy man arrived in front of him and inspected the potion before him. Finding nothing wrong, he sneered at the boy.
"It would seem that your time away has not impeded your potions performances, Mr. Potter," he drawled. "Your assignment is to write me a four-parchment essay on what the purpose of the wolfsbane potion is and how it can be improved" he spun around and went to the front of the room.
"Time is up," he stopped everyone from moving forward in their potions, "bottle up your potions with your names on it and place it on my desk for grading. Hopefully, there was an improvement, though I doubt it" he then gave them their homework and sent them off.
Harry went to his other classes for the day until it was time for lunch. Some of the students who believed him were glad to see that he was back; however, it was only a small bunch, the others were scared that he would harm them. So, he made it a point to ignore them. As he was approaching the great hall, he was in the company of his three Slytherin friends. He and Blaise exchanged a brother hug, which the other two gave him as well. The last was Daphne, as she had been worried about him.
A week before his duels, the fabled Ice Queen had sent him a howler. Merlin, the girl, was angry when she heard he would face a former death eater and definitely let him know that she was livid with him. Her anger was so large that he couldn't hear for about three days. Man, she had a set of lungs on her. It didn't help that Sirius was rolling on the floor laughing about it.
On the receiving end of many of his mother howlers when he was a kid, he knew what it was like and was happy that it happened to someone else rather than him. He only stopped when Arcturus sent a few stinging hexes at his rear to sober him up. That, however, didn't stop him from making jokes or snide comments.
The four friends arrived in the great hall and went to sit at the Ravenclaw table where they sat next to Padma and were soon joined by the Puecy, the Vaisey siblings, Susan and Hannah. Over at the Slytherin table, Ulrich and Lilith waved at him and mouthed 'welcome back' and 'good to see you.' Fifteen minutes into lunch, an eagle owl came swooping down in front of Harry and extended its leg. Harry untied the letter and gave the winged creature some owl treats and water before sending it off.
Looking at the letter, he saw the seal of Gringotts's and opened it. Opening it, he saw that it was a confirmation letter from Griphook letting him know that all the money he won from the deceased Lord Morrison has been transferred to him along with all of the businesses the man owned. Access to the money was his to-do as he pleased when he finished stuffed it into his robes and was sporting a big grin on his face with his eyes dancing.
Blaise noticed his expression "what made you so happy all of a sudden?" he said half-jokingly.
Harry turned his head to meet the other boy. "I just got a confirmation letter from my account manager telling me that all of Morrison's assets were now mine to do with as I see fit," he said with a grin.
"How much did you win?" Aaron asked. That earned a slap in the back of his head courtesy of his sister.
"That is not for you to know," she scolded her brother.
"I just wanted to know how much he won from that swine," he complained to her.
Seeing that Nicole was about to hit him again, Harry stepped in "alright Nicole. I think he got the message," he said before she could hit her brother again.
She just glared at him instead, while Aaron muttered an apology to Harry. On the other hand, Adrian was enjoying his friend's discomfort and was laughing in his seat.
"I won't say how much I got," Harry began, "but I do have plans for it," he justified.
"Any chance we can get you to share" Tracey came in. Harry just looked at the brunette with a smile and replied, "patience, Tracey," he added a chuckle.
Harry watched as she muttered to herself; deciding that he was done having fun with her, he decided to give her a little help. "If it means that much to you, I will tell you two of them."
That perked the girl up, and she, along with the rest, leaned in with interest. "For starters, I plan on building a library in Diagon Alley. Flourish and Botts is nice and all, but it's not completely accessible to most, and people don't have a quiet area to relax," he explained.
"I see," Daphne said, "you want to build a place for the students so they can go over the summer to complete their assignments and give provide them with a place they can relax," she said with amazement in her voice.
Harry gave her a nod. "Second, I plan on donating some of the money here to hopefully improve the workspaces around here and hopefully get new furniture for our common rooms."
The other stared in astonishment at what he intended to do with his winnings.
Nicole was the first to recover after shaking her head "would you like any help with the library part?" she asked.
"I wouldn't object," he replied, "but what would your uncle think about you helping me? I don't want you or Aaron to get in trouble with him."
"No need to worry," Aaron came in with a big smile on his face, "that bastard is dead! And just because I can't believe it, I'll repeat it. That bastard is dead! Hallelujah!" he pumped his fist in the air.
Harry had a sneaky feeling that his uncle had something to do with that part but decided not to say anything and keep an expressionless face.
"So, don't worry," Aaron assured him. "If we ask our dad, he might be able to help out. The only thing is that he will need to meet with one of your guardians."
"I'll place a call home and see what can be arranged," he said with a small smile on his face. "Alright, a new subject who whose the new Deputy headmaster now that McGonagall has been removed?"
Padma was the one to respond, "oh, that's right, you weren't here. You will be happy to know that it will be Professor Vector!" she said with a smile on her face.
"Seriously?" Harry asked in surprise.
"Believe it, man," Adrian said with a smile on his face, "about time we get someone who can actually do the job right."
The others just started laughing at his jab at the former deputy headmistress. That was until professors Babbling and Flitwick approached them.
"Ah, Mr. Potter, it's good to have you back," the tiny professor said with a smile on his face.
Harry turned his head to them "thank you, sir," he replied with the same courtesy, then turned to the ancient runes professor "professor, I trust you are well."
"I am," the woman said with a smile on her face. "I must say your duels with Morrison and Umbridge were amazing and frightening at the same time. You handled the both of them exceptionally well," she praised.
"Exceptionally well," Filius started bouncing on his feet. "Mr. Potter was brilliant, and his use of spells was beautifully executed. Marvelous! Certainly, marvelous dear boy. You dueled just like a warrior; then again, it shouldn't surprise me given your heritage."
Babbling decided to cut in, "Mr. Potter, would you please come by the classroom after you finished with the rest of your classes for the day? I like to discuss how far along you are when it comes to ancient runes." She then turned to Daphne "Miss. Greengrass you to I have something I wish to discuss with you."
Daphne replied, "I'll be there, professor."
Harry thought for a moment, then replied, "of course, professor."
With that, the two professors left to return to their classrooms to get ready for the incoming students. The group of friends continued to talk for a few more minutes until they got up and went to their separate classes.
When classes finished for the day, Harry and Daphne met on the floor where the ancient runes classroom was located. She knocked on the door, and after receiving confirmation to come in, Harry opened the door and playfully said, "after you milady," he gave a mock bow.
Daphne briefly giggled before replying, "why thank you, kind sir" she then walked in with him behind her only to see an amused Burbage Babbling. The woman flicked her wand and closed the door.
"You wanted to see us, professor?" Daphne asked.
"Yes," the woman responded, "you first miss. Greengrass. As you no doubt aware many of your professors are considering advancing you. Should you perform well enough on your end-of-the-year exams? I will tell you now that my professors Vector and Kettleburn will be testing you at the end of the year to see if you are capable."
"Thank you, Professor," Daphne said, "and don't worry, I will be ready for them.
The ancient runes professor gave a light chuckle, "I do not doubt that you will perform to the best of your abilities."
She then turned to Harry, "now! Mr. Potter, your reason for being here is because I looked into the project you and I discussed a few weeks back. Tell me have you made any progress?"
"I have indeed, professor," Harry confirmed with a grin marring his features; putting his bag on the floor, he pulled out some ofudas (talisman papers), an ink bottle, and a quill. He then inscribed different runic clusters on each paper. "Professor, hold onto your robes because what I am about to show you will have you amazed."
"I will be the judge of that," she pretended to sound stern even though she was intrigued.
Harry held a smirk on his face as he finished writing the last of the clusters. "Alright, I'm ready. Professor, for me to show you, then I am going to need your assistance," he said.
The professor got up from her seat with an idea of what he was going to ask, "what do you require of me?"
"I need you to fire a stunning spell at me," he replied.
Babbling raised a delicate eyebrow "are you sure, Mr. Potter?"
"I am," he said in a definite voice.
"Alright on the count of three," she conceded. The boy in front of her did not have his wand drawn, only the pieces of paper in his hand. "1... 2… 3 Stupefy" she sent the scarlet spell at him.
As the spell approached, Harry muttered in the ancient roman language, put a little magic into the talisman, and threw it in front of him. The talisman glowed, then transformed into a shield that absorbed the spell.
Harry then threw another talisman at her that had her bounded in chains.
"What do you think, professor," he asked the shocked professor who was gaping like a fish.
The professor regained her wits and just stared at him in amazement "first off, would you mind" she indicated to the chains that were binding her. Harry threw another talisman that vanished the chains off her. "Second, that was spectacular. What were those papers that you threw to block and bound me?"
"Those are called talismans, professor," he answered. "Remember what I said about people using runic clusters in ancient times?" She gave him a nod. "Well, that is what I did! I just inscribed the ancient forms of a binding and shielding clusters on the talismans."
"Just because something is ancient doesn't mean that it is obsolete" he clicked his tongue.
Daphne soon came in, "but I heard you mutter something in a different language, not to mention shield seemed stronger than what it is supposed to be."
Turning his head from the professor to her, "that's because I said it in the Roman language as for the shield being stronger. The reason why is because ancient magic is far more powerful than the standard ones we use in this day and age."
"How many versions are their" Professor Babbling was in awe, "and why did you say it in the roman language?"
"So far, there are a few that I am aware of," he responded, "as for saying it roman language, you obviously don't know about my family heritage," he smirked.
"I also found something else that you might be interested in," he added with a smile now on his face.
The other two were waiting for him to speak, but he didn't; it was as if he was playing with them. Waiting for a few minutes, Daphne's inquisitiveness got the better of her.
"Oh, for the love of Merlin!" she exclaimed. "Will you just show us!" His suspense was driving her up a wall.
He just gave a light laugh "alright," he said, taking his wand out and putting the talismans back in his bag. "Professor, I move if I were you," he warned, and she moved out of the way.
Harry then waved his wand in an intricate form that the professor didn't know then fired a low-powered blasting spell at the brick wall. When the spell impacted the wall, it left a big hole. He then followed up by firing the same spell again at the other side and added a cluster to it to increase the potency and power. This time there was an even bigger hole in the wall.
When he turned his head, he saw that the expression on the professor's face, and it was comical in his opinion. She was so shocked that her mouth was wide open, and her eyes bulged heavily. Walking over to her, he closed her mouth and clapped his hands to bring her back to reality.
Professor Babbling was snapped out of her shock and looked at him with a mixture of astonishment and bewilderment. "That was amazing, Mr. Potter. Well done. Though I would have appreciated it if you didn't destroy my classroom," she reprimanded him, but it was only half-heartedly.
She then waved her own wand and said, "reparo maxima," watching the wall magically repair itself. "That was truly an exemplary level of magic you demonstrated, young man," she said while turning her head to him.
"I say that the level you've just shown is that of a NEWT caliber in Japan," she praised. "Take 55 well-earned points."
Harry gave her a respectful nod "thank you, professor."
"Well then, I believe that is all; you two may leave," she dismissed them.
Harry and Daphne left the room and headed to the room of requirement. Taking the moving stairs, they walked up to the seventh floor; as they were walking, Daphne began asking him about talismans "why doesn't anyone use talismans in conjunction with their wands?
"It's because the art that I used is an ancient variety before wands were ever invented. After wands were invented, the whole reason for using them became obsolete to most, and they got lazy," he explained.
"What do you mean," she asked as they continued to walk the hallway.
"Talismans along with other things with runic clusters often deal with the ancient varieties of magic and are much more complex," he said. "The main reason why no one bothers to do them anymore is that they lack the discipline and resolve to understand and control them."
"That's amazing," she said as they got to the door. Harry gave the password, and they were allowed in. Walking forward, they saw Byakko and Iroh sleeping next to the fire. Daphne was amazed at how much her familiar had grown in just a few short months.
After she got him, she immediately looked into different books to provide the best care for him.
While she went to sit on the couch that materialized, Harry activated the crystals and called Sirius and Griphook. Waiting a few minutes, Griphook was the first to respond, followed soon by Sirius, "hello pup do you need something?"
"Hello, Sirius, and good battle to you, Griphook," he greeted them warmly "good battle to you, Griphook. I'm sorry for calling you when you're busy but I have a few things I like for the both of you to do with the money I got from Morrison."
That piqued Griphook's interest as the boy was able to fill him and his superior king Ragnok with many galleons, and it now looked like he was about to bring in more money. It also helped that he had grown to like him and treated him and his kind with respect and saw them more than mere accountants. "How may I be of service?"
Harry spoke with a confident voice, "my first order of business is that I would like to invest the Three Broomstick's in Hogsmeade. The owner is Madam Rosmerta. I trust you've heard of her before?"
Sirius suddenly grew a smile on his face as he definitely knew the woman from when he was still in Hogwarts and remembered her to be quite attractive. Griphook indeed knew the woman in question "yes, I am familiar with Madam Rosmerta and her establishment. How much would you like to invest?"
"I want to invest 422,000 galleons; in exchange, I want 43% of entire ownership, and I want her to hire employees. So that it is not just her who is working alone. Last, I want her to renovate the entire place; if she requires more money for it, then let Sirius know so he could negotiate with her about how much more I will need to provide."
Griphook was wearing a big smile, and it was possible to see his pointed teeth. "Anything else, you can trouble me for" his eyes were dancing with glee.
"Next, I want you to look into some open spaces in Diagon alley. I want to create an open space where people could go relax and do their summer homework or to go and have a place to be themselves," he explained.
"A library," Sirius said. "How big do you want it?"
"Two stories high and add a basement so they could have a place to recline" he then explained what else he was going to put in the library, from a few places where they can go get something to eat or drink to adding some soft music, and a few private sitting rooms so they won't be disturbed. "You might also want to talk to Xavier Vaisey, I spoke to his children at lunch, and Aaron mentioned that his dad might be interested in helping."
"Hey, Harry, you could talk to my dad about it," Daphne said, bringing the attention to her. "My dad might be able to help if you ask him.
"I'll speak to them," Sirius said
Harry gave him a nod. "Last, I want you to talk to the board of governors about providing the school with new equipment like new furniture for the different common rooms, classroom workstations, and a recreation room for the students to use in their free time."
"That is pretty demanding, Mr. Potter," Griphook commented. "However, I will see what I can do. Mr. Black, are you able to come to Gringotts's tomorrow?"
"Of course," Sirius replied, "how does nine in the morning sound?"
"That is perfectly acceptable," he said to the human "will there anything else you require. Hadrian?"
"No, that's all for the time being," Hadrian said. "Let's see how much money I have leftover before any further action is taken."
Griphook just chuckled "you really do have a strong business sense for one that is so young. I'll speak about this more with Mr. Black. Well, if that is all, then I will be signing off as you two know time is money," he said then signed off.
"I'll see you later pup, I have a dinner date with Amelia, and I have to look my best," he wiggled his eyebrows. "Daphne do me a favor and keep an eye on Harry; he has a knack for getting in trouble."
Harry blushed a bit while Daphne was giggling, "you crusty old" he didn't get to finish as Sirius cut off the communications.
"Damn fleabag infested mutt," he muttered.
"He's not entirely wrong," Daphne chimed in. Harry just shook his head and sat down next to her. She then draped her legs across his lap, "but I have to admit that I never expected you to use your winnings like this."
He just leaned back in his seat. "I want to help improve certain areas. Like many of his death eater buddies that escaped Azkaban, Morrison only cares about themselves, and not trying to lift a finger to improve the world is bad. This way, the people can have a little hope and enjoyment in their lives."
"You continue to amaze me, you know," she said, giving him a small smile.
"What do you mean" he turned his eyes to meet hers.
"You may act all cold and anti-social, but you are actually concerned about others and wish to protect the weak, regardless of the consequences," she replied. "That's a rare quality only a few witches and wizards have; most just seek power for their own selfish reasons without looking at the consequences."
"I am just me," he said casually, shrugging his shoulders.
"So, do you have any other ideas of what you want to do with the money you've earned?" she asked.
Harry began thinking of what else he could use the bastard's money for. After spending a few minutes thinking, he suddenly got an idea. "I may have one more idea, but it's not concrete," he admitted.
"Can I get a hint at what you're thinking?" she asked.
"Nope, sorry," he said cheekily.
Daphne suddenly got a smile on her face "oh really," her smile turned slightly devilish. The next moment she pounced on him and started tickling the poor boy.
"Daphne, please," he struggled to say through his laughter, "stop" she just kept on tickling him, not relenting.
Daphne, of course, was having fun with him "will you tell me now" she kept on tickling him.
"Never woman," he just kept on laughing. She just resumed her assault "tell me, and I will stop," she bargained.
Harry couldn't tell if she was serious or not but decided to turn the table and flipped her over so that she was the one who was lying on her back, struggling against his tickle attack. "How does it feel to be on the receiving end" he continued to tickle her.
Harry, please," she laughed out loud. The two continued to laugh and have fun; unbeknownst to them, Byakko had woken up and enjoyed the show between his partner and his friend.
(0^0)
On the other side of the castle, Ron Weasley was walking with his dormmates, Seamus Finnegan and Dean Thomas. The three discussed chess and quidditch while wandering the empty corridors until Dean pointed to a shadow around the corner. "hey guys, look."
The three Gryffindors rushed went to see who was around the corner. Weasley was hoping that Potter had something to do with it as he didn't like him at all for all the trouble he had been causing him. It was bad enough that he got special treatment from the other teachers, but the prat ended up killing someone during the duels and greatly injured one of the other students. Ok, yes, Smith was a prat, but that was still no right to beat him up the way he did, not only that the Black had ended up calling in all the debts the Smith's owed him.
If that weren't enough, Potter had won all of lord Morrison's money and inherited all of his businesses, and Ron would bet that he would only spend the money on himself. The selfish prat.
As they rounded the corner, they saw two people lying motionless on the floor. One of which was Penelope Clearwater, the other was Hermione Granger. The three immediately rushed to their sides in an attempt to get them moved to the hospital wing. Seamus and Dean were slightly better than Ron at magic and levitated them to the medical wing. Ron, however, was stating how he bet Potter had something to do with it.
They entered the medical wing and found the matron speaking with Professor Dumbledore. The moment she saw them with the girls, she rushed over, "put them in the beds now," she indicated to the two beds in the corner.
Taking her wand out and scanning the two girls, she spoke, "these two have been petrified."
Dumbledore came into view "what happened, you three?" he asked the boys.
Seamus was the one to respond, "sir, we were walking the corridors when Dean spotted a shadow around the corner. We immediately rushed to see what was going on, then we happened across these two," he explained.
Before Dumbledore could say anything, Ron exclaimed, "this is Potter's doing. He's always hated Hermione and me, and now he's coming after us."
Madam Pomfrey had about had enough of people blaming Potter for the incidents going on through the school. She saw him give a vow at the wizengamot, saying that he had nothing to do with the attacks. "That is a bold accusation, Mr. Weasley," she said to him "do you have proof?"
"Proof?" Ron questioned her, "look at what he did to Hermione, and I am willing to bet that he had an accomplice."
Pomfrey looked at him with disgust "for starters, young man. Mr. Potter gave a magical vow saying that he had nothing to do with the attacks. Also, hasn't it ever occurred to you that maybe Mr. Potter was in the wrong place at the wrong time? Now leave my hospital wing. I need to talk to Severus and see if the potion is almost ready."
Ron then turned to Professor Dumbledore. "Professor, you cannot allow Potter to remain in school here. He is dangerous and should be kicked out before he could do any more damage," he pleaded with the headmaster.
Dumbledore's eyes twinkled. "Mr. Weasley, that will be enough from you. If you three don't have anything further to add about this, then please leave and rest assure that I will be having a word with Mr. Potter."
The three second-year Gryffindors left the hospital wing. Ron was sporting a big smile and was thinking of ways Dumbledore was going to punish Potter and sorely wished that he could be there to see it when he throws the book at him.
(0^0)
Back in the ROR Harry and Daphne were tired and panting after their little tickle battle courtesy of Byakko who let out a low growl getting their attention. The god laminated how he enjoyed the show, which caused the two to blush as they had forgotten that he was even here. Iroh got up from his place near Byakko and went to go jump on Daphne lap. Daphne petted his fur while Harry scratched behind his ear.
"So, harry are you planning to do with the money you won" she asked again.
Harry just let out a breath and rather risk another tickle fight he responded, "I want to try and build a magical orphanage." He then began to explain the reason why he wanted such thing built. Spending close to twenty-five minutes explaining he saw the surprised look on her face.
Snapping back into reality she said, "wow you go that far to help kids who were affected by the war."
"Not just them" Harry said "it would also be for those that are being mistreated by the muggles they live with, should they require sanctuary. As you know not every single muggle is going to be happy to have a magical child. While this is not true for most, some children are tortured, ostracized, or sent to facilities by their parents to figure out what's wrong with them."
Daphne soon got an insight to what is goal was and she had to agree with him. Most magical kids are treated as if they are the devils and are being hurt. What Harry was trying to do was save them as he too was an orphan after the war and sent to abusive relatives. She never would have believed that someone like him would ever exist.
"Anyway, enough of that" he said pulling her out of her thoughts "do you want to eat dinner in here or go to the great hall for the night?"
"Let's eat in here" she replied.
They then called some of the house elves and told them that they would be eating in the room for the night. The elves brought them food and delivered Byakko and Iroh some food as well.
A/N: The pain that harry went through after his duels was intense especially for a twelve year old. Harry may be a gifted child, but he was still a boy. In my professional opinion Severus was far to easy with Lord Black. The pain Harry was going through was something that I could only imagine; I'm just glad Severus and Emily were their to care for him as that is what he needs a family.
A while back I received a comment about how Byakko was like Master Splinter and I have to partly agree with that so kudos to whoever mentioned that in the review.
As for the talismans Harry demonstrated those will have a significant role throughout this story. The money Harry had won from Morrison will be put to good use that I can promise. Think about it Morrison and many of his friends escaped imprisonment because they bribed their ways out. They no nothing of loyalty nor do they have any honor. This way Harry can at least put the money he won from that swine to good use.
I know many of you are going to be happy that Hermione became petrified and while I understand that she is an arrogant insufferable know it all. She really doesn't deserve that, not in my opinion.
I have two questions for the viewers. I have already discussed with a few others, but I want to read everyone's opinion. First question: Do you all think that Dumbledore and Voldemort used rituals to make themselves strong? I mean think about it they have amazing power more so than the average wizard should. Before you all respond consider this their have been two magical rituals one when Tom was sixteen and created the horcruxes. Two a ritual was used to give him back his body in book 4. How much you want to bet that he didn't use any other rituals.
Second question: Do you all want a duel between Harry and Voldemort in book 2? If so then I may add a few surprises!
Next chapter: Harry ventures into the chamber of secrets and discovers a sixteen year old Voldemort.