Chapter 36
The weeks leading up to Hadrian's O.W.L.s had come sooner than expected. Dumbledore announced that end-of-the-year exams were canceled for all years except for the fifth and seventh years. Many of them were happy save for the ones who had to take their O.W.L.s and NEWTs. Harry was in the company of Sirius and Cassiopeia and just arrived at the main I.C.W. building. Harry may have worked through the O.W.L. syllabus for the classes he was supposed to test in, but he was still pretty nervous. Arriving on the floor, he did the last time they checked in with the receptionist and were told to wait by the chairs. Just as they were about to sit down, Miwa arrived in the company of her mother and uncle. The two greeted each other warmly.
"How are you feeling?" she asked him.
"Nervous and want to get this over with," he said casually.
She narrowed her eyes at him. "I was talking about the battle you had in the chamber, idiot."
Harry gave a light chuckled. "That potion worked a treat, and I have no lasting injuries," he replied. "However, I'm going to be in for it when I get home."
Miwa eased up "you are not alone! When I get home, I'm grounded for the next four weeks."
"I'm sorry I got you involved."
"Don't be," she waved it off, "remember the pact we made years ago. To always push each other to be our best and that we would always be there for each other."
"I'm just glad you're alright," she added with a soft smile.
Harry was about to say more, but they saw that the Head Examiner: Yasmine Quinn, had come with two of her employees.
"Glad you two could make it," she drawled, to which they rolled their eyes. "Today, the both of you will be doing your O.W.L. exams. I hope the both of you have studied and prepared for what we have in store for you."
Harry and Miwa turned their heads to each other and gave determined nods. "We're ready," they said in unison.
"Then follow us" she whirled around and took them to the designated rooms. Coming to their destinations. "Same rules as last time. I trust you two remember." Without waiting for any confirmation, she directed them to their different testing rooms; mouthing "good luck" to each other, they went into the rooms.
Harry walked into the room and took a seat in the second row. Taking his things out, one of the proctors gave him the rundown on what he was doing for the day, and after speaking, he handed the boy his first exam, which was arithmancy. When December came, he was given the time slot and told to begin. The questions were quite simple in his opinion as he expected more of a challenge, though he had a feeling he would get his wish when the practical exams started. When he finished his 90th question, he raised his hand and for one of the proctors to come and get his exam.
When lunch came, he had already completed the written parts for Alchemy and Herbology. Feeling a bit drained, he met with Miwa, and the two went to the cafeteria for lunch. Grabbing their meals, they took a seat at one of the tables with their guardians. "You ready to get these O.W.L.s out of the way?" he asked.
"You know it," she took a sip of her pumpkin juice. "Let's just hope that we score high enough. What exams do you have for the day?"
"Arithmancy, Alchemy, and Herbology," he replied. "What about you?"
She took another sip of her drink and spoke, "Healing, Charms, and History. Oh, and there is something you should know."
Harry took a bite of his sandwich, swallowing it, and leaned closer. For her to speak.
"The people in our class are pretty steamed with what happened and what you've been forced to go through this year. That's not to say that the teachers were any happier and demanded to know why no one did anything about the basilisk. After they saw the news, both Professor Yoshi and Professor Yamamoto were incensed and looked ready to go to Hogwarts and tear Dumbledore a new one," she said.
Harry was completely shocked at what she said. Shaking his head, he responded, "well, that's good. Mahoutokoro is widely known for its loyalty, amongst other things. Also, you should know that Dumbledore now has restrictions on him."
That caught her attention "what do you mean by restrictions?"
Harry explained how his uncles, the commander, and his lawyer told Dumbledore about how he could no longer speak to him or his sister without one of their guardians present. He also said Arcturus punched him in the face twice and ripped off his beard. Miwa was positively laughing and wished she could have been there to see it in person.
Harry took one last bite of his sandwich and stood up. "Come on, we better get the rest of the exams over with for the day." She got up, and they went back to their testing rooms with the adults behind them.
They had spent the next five days doing their O.W.L. exams and were completely drained both mentally and magically. All of the questions they had to answer and spells they had to performed drained them and left them exhausted. The most interesting exams in Harry's case were transfiguration, ancient runes, and the dueling. The proctors were highly impressed with his abilities, and he was asked to transform into his animagus form, which made the examiners clap in amazement. His duel was against a third-year Auror trainee, which in Harry's opinion was not all that challenging to him as the person's skills in combat were about average at best. In Miwa's case, the most interesting exams were potions, arithmancy, and dueling. She managed to identify all of her potions by just taking in their different smells. As for her dueling exam, she had to also fight a third-year Auror trainee and was mostly disappointed in her opponent.
Both of them summarized that they were from Magical Britain, which would explain their poor performance. When they made it to the lobby, where the adults were, they were relieved to see that they were sitting and drinking some coffee. When Karai saw them, she let the others know that they were done. All of them got up from where they were sitting and went to them.
Miss. Quinn took a few minutes to speak with them. "You two will receive your scores at the end of July. Based on what I've seen from the both of you, I have to say that I am impressed."
Harry and Miwa let out a breath of relief.
"Well done, you two," was all she said, then left them with their guardians.
Arcturus took a moment to speak. "I trust you two are happy that your exams are over with" he raised an eyebrow.
The kids gave the nod. "Then come along. It's time to head back." He and the others headed toward the elevator after pressing a button for the ground floor. The ride was silent, and when they exited, the adults led them outside to where the apparition point was and apparated them back to Potter Castle.
Arriving at the entrance, Harry unlocked the door and let them in. They were greeted by a group of house elves who informed them that dinner was being prepared. The two immediately went to the couches and crashed headfirst into the pillows. Relieved that they now had some downtime and no longer had exams. Sirius, of course, snickered at them, only to sober up when Arcturus shot stinging hex and sent a death glare at him.
"It amazes me that you can laugh at how they feel," he pointed to the kids on the couch. "I seem to remember you getting only 8 O.W.L.s, which could have been higher if you actually took the time to prepare for." He kept his eyes narrowed at his grandson and spoke in a disappointed voice.
"Hey, I passed my exams, didn't I" Sirius held his hands up.
Arcturus let out an exasperated breath. "How about you take a page from your godson and actually do the required work to obtain your goals."
Sirius wanted to retort but thought better and just left the room to go head into the dining room. An hour later, they were told that dinner was ready. The elves had prepared a variety of Mediterranean dishes, and they engaged in different conversations. Harry and Miwa talked about how their a high chance of their guardians forbidding them from entering the Dueling tournament this year. Both were looking forward to it this year as it would be a good way to test how far they had come from the placement exams in March. The adults were speaking about the footage that was released to the public. Arcturus explained that Hadrian had no desire to accept any awards from the British ministry of magic and would rather accept it from the I.C.W. The others couldn't help but agree as the ministry in magical Britain was far from popular, especially with the other nations.
"So, it's been decided that Harry would be accepting the award from the I.C.W. From Arata Yoshi," Arcturus spoke in a business voice. "I also made it clear that no one from the Daily Prophet was to be there or write about it."
"What's so bad about the Daily prophet here?" Karai asked
Sirius snorted. "They only print lies and spread wild stories," he said with disgust. "The worst is Rita Skeeter. That woman is a journal columnist and couldn't write the truth even if she tried. This is why she, in particular, is absolutely forbidden from saying anything about the ceremony. I swear the look on her face was priceless when grandfather here flashed a restraining order in front of her face barring her from attending" he then started chuckling. Rita Skeeter was one of the most obnoxious reporters that he had ever met in his life and was very close to laughing his arse off when Arcturus told him about the meeting he had with her and her boss.
Karai then turned her attention to the kids who were still talking. "Harry," she said, getting his attention, "since you slew a basilisk, you know what that means."
"Yes, Aunt Karai, I am aware of what the laws are, and I have already decided on what I wanted," he said.
Sirius was the next to speak, "would you care to tell us what it is you want?" He had been wondering what Harry wanted for a prize.
"Sorry, Sirius, but no" he shook his head. "You will just have to be patient and wait until the day of the ceremony."
"Damn," Sirius muttered under his breath. Harry, of course, heard it and mentally laughed. He enjoyed making his godfather think about things.
After dinner was made, they all retired for the night.
(0^0)
The next few weeks, we're very peaceful. Miwa and her mother went back to Japan, and Hadrian had returned to Hogwarts. Things had finally returned to normal; the students had left him alone, and the teachers had given him a wide birth. Pomona Sprout apologized for how she had treated him during the year, and many of the students began speaking about him in a positive light. Harry ignored it and proceeded onward with his classes, spent time with his friends, and continued training. To him, the most interesting thing was that Dumbledore was red in the face and looked like he had been drunk for several days. He would often snicker when he saw the goat without his beard.
While the others completed their exams, he would often sit under a tree near the black lake and play his guitar with Byakko and Suzaku. Both of the gods were consuming a large supply of fish. The warm grass and soft melody he played helped him relax and calm his nerves. Especially since he was sure that he would not play as much when he got home. Knowing his guardians, more importantly, his dad, he would not get off lightly after going into the Chamber alone. Severus made it perfectly clear that he was forbidden from attending any Hogsmeade visit for the rest of the year and promised that this was only the beginning of his punishments. He even said how he was tempted to not let Harry compete in the dueling circuit this year. Harry just remained quiet the rest of the time and kept his head down.
Earlier this morning, he received a letter from the I.C.W. informing him of when the ceremony was going to occur. Harry took the letter to Severus to let him see it. His dad said he would inform the others and that he would also be attending the ceremony in disguise. Though he neglected to say what his disguise would be.
As he continued playing his guitar, his senses told him that someone was coming from behind him. He had a feeling about who it was and continued playing. The familiar presence took a seat next to him, and he allowed himself to grow a smile on his face as he saw Iroh go over to where Byakko and Suzaku were. The hellhound barked happily at seeing his friend again; when he met Suzaku, the phoenix became one of his favorite playmates. Suzaku was extremely happy to see the hellhound and trilled a beautiful melody.
Harry finished his little melody and leaned his head against the tree. "Did you enjoy that?" he asked.
"It was amazing. You can really play," Daphne said, "I just came to see how you were doing."
Harry just chuckled. "Don't worry so much. I'm doing fine, just waiting for school to be over with for the year. Do you have anything planned for the summer?"
Daphne thought for a few minutes. "Complete the summer homework the teacher will assign us and enter the dueling tournament with you and Blaise. Other than that, just relax. What about you?"
"Well, assuming my family doesn't kill me, I will be attending the I.C.W. award ceremony on the 1st of July and hopefully attend the tournament. However, I'm just looking forward to some relaxation," he calmly said.
She just giggled "no one ever said good deeds, never go unpunished," she commented. "My father sent me a letter saying that the minister was rather furious on how you refused to receive any awards from the ministry. Truthfully, I agree with you as this way you can stick it to him and his followers, who tried to prosecute you."
Harry hummed in acknowledgment.
"Also, you should be careful," she warned. "After the recording was released, most of the people in magical Britain began a riot and wondered if the minister should step down. He will do anything he can to get you on his side."
"Fudge is a fool if he believes that I will ever be his poster boy," Harry commented. "In my opinion, he is nothing more than a spineless power-hungry idiot. This blow severely damaged his and the ministry reputation, and I imagine he will do anything to get back in the good public graces."
Their companions came from the edge of the lake and sat near them. Byakko rested his head on Harry's legs while Suzaku flew to his left side and nuzzled against his face. Iroh trotted over to Daphne and sat on his hind legs. When they were all seated, Suzaku started trilling another melody that was more beautiful than Fawkes.
As Daphne was petting Iroh, she looked back at the Vermilion bird and wondered what Harry would name him. "So, what are you going to name him?" she indicated to his trilling friend.
"Hmm, good question" he started to ponder about a nickname for him. "How about… Kai," he suggested.
Suzaku had to think for a few minutes about the new nickname. Then he trilled happily.
Harry chuckled once again. "I will take that as a yes."
They spent the next few hours sitting by the lake, enjoying the nice soothing waves. Harry occasionally played his guitar. Daphne loved the music he was able to produce, which, combined with Kai's trilling, made it all the better. Eventually, it came time for them to head in for dinner, Harry put the guitar in his left watch, and they walked into the great hall and sat at their individual tables as today was the last day of school. Daphne walked over to the Slytherin table where her friends were while Harry sat next to the three quidditch chasers.
The elves brought Takashi and Kai some food, which they accepted and began eating. Harry was still his antisocial self but started coming out of his shell and speaking with his fellow teammates. So far, no one had decided to bother him, probably because his two companions were near him, which he enjoyed. Throughout dinner, there was much chatter about what the students would be doing during their summers. Soon the plates and food vanished, and the prefects were ordered to escort their houses back to their common rooms.
When no one was looking, Harry and the other slipped away and went to the room of requirement to get ready for bed. Harry slept the rest of the night peacefully, knowing that he would soon be back home.
(0^0)
The next morning Daphne got up, showered, and dressed for the day. All of her things had been packed the day before, thus making her ready for the trip back home. As she exited the dorm she occupied with Tracey, she went to Professor Snape's office to get her results. Arriving at the door, she was about to knock but heard "come in, Miss. Greengrass" the voice of her head house was heard, and she opened the door to see that he was sitting at his desk.
"Um, professor, I came to get my end-of-the-year grades," she said in a respectful voice.
Severus got up from his desk with a piece of parchment in his hands; walking toward her, he spoke, "I must say congratulations, Miss. Greengrass. Your scores have made you eligible to advance you to the Fourth year," he said in a neutral voice and handed her the results.
Daphne viewed her scores and breathed a sigh of relief. Her grades were outstanding, and she had been promoted to a different year. "Thank you, sir. I promise you that I won't let you down."
Severus held a ghost of a smile. "No, do not let yourself down. You have earned this."
She gave him a nod and left the room, missing her head of house chuckle in amusement.
Just as Daphne walked into the great hall, her name was called "Greengrass," making her turn around. There she saw the arrogant miss. Know-it-all Granger was coming up to her. "I couldn't help but notice that you were not on the ranking list," she said in a confident voice. "I managed to get first place; where did you rank at?" she asked in a smug tone.
"I've been elevated to fourth years," she drawled, giving her usual trademark icy stare.
Hermione suddenly narrowed her eyes at the girl. "That's a lie! There is no way that they would allow you to skip ahead."
Daphne smirked and held up her transcript. "Read it!"
The bushy-haired girl yanked it out of her hands and skimmed over the results. What she read shocked her to her core. "What" she exclaimed, drawing a bit of attention from the other students. "How is this possible? Why would the professors advance you and not me?" she asked in an irritated voice. Again, she had failed to beat the blonde girl, but not only that, Greengrass was being promoted and not her.
Daphne rolled her eyes and snatched her results out of Granger's hands and walked away. There she saw Harry sitting at the Gryffindor table. Walking up to him, they greeted each other and engaged in a conversation "so you've been promoted to fourth year. Impressive!" he said.
Daphne flipped her hair "well, I try," she casually said. "Thanks for the help," she whispered.
Harry gave her a genuine smile "anytime sapphire," he responded with the nickname he gave her. "You looking forward to Hogsmede next year?"
Granger cut in, "this is not possible" before she could reply, they turned their heads and saw Granger coming near them with a sour expression on her face. "There is no way that you would be promoted without anyone helping you" she pointed her finger at Harry accusingly.
"Granger, we had already danced this dance last year," Harry drawled "you really are an arrogant, narcissistic girl," he casually said.
Hermione ignored what he said and replied, "you used your status to get her grades changed. That's the only way she could have been promoted," she accused.
"Oh, bravo, you caught me," he spoke in a sarcastic voice and began to clap his hands together "it's not like I had to complete my own O.W.L. exams that I spent most of the year revising for. Auror, take me away" he held out his hands in front of her.
He continued clapping his hands "now, Granger, how about you use some actual intelligence instead of acting like a spoiled brat. The only thing Daphne and I did was studied together, which is not against the rules. Just because you can regurgitate everything out of a book doesn't make you smart; it makes you an arrogant know-it-all with a good memory."
"Evidently, your parents forgot to teach you about how to reign in your arrogance. Not surprising anyway, as the people in this school can barely stand to be anywhere near you without having to suffer your overbearing attitude. Now, how about you go bother someone who actually wants to hear you complain" he said dismissively.
Hermione began shaking in anger at what he just said. "I can't believe you! Just because you slew a basilisk, you think you can talk to" she didn't get to finish as Harry put a powerful silencing charm on her.
Harry then turned to Daphne "let's be honest. I should have done this a long time ago."
"I'm not complaining," Daphne said with a sly smile. "Though it does quiet things down around here," she jokingly said as Granger stomped away.
Those around them were laughing as well, mainly the other Slytherins. Who nodded in appreciation of what he did to Granger. Pretty soon, the rest of the students started piling in, and everyone went to their house tables for breakfast. This was probably one of the most fun days Harry ever had. Looking down at the end of the table, he saw that Granger was glaring daggers at him; evidently, she couldn't find anyone to remove the silencing charm. Some of the seventh years tried, and it had taken well over 30 minutes for her to regain her voice.
Hermione was about to speak, but all the plates vanished, and everyone saw that Dumbledore had risen from his seat and was about to give his annual end-of-the-year speech. The older man looked like he had seen better days, and that was putting it lightly as his eyes were red and had bags under his eyes. Harry could only assume that he had either had some very unpleasant dreams or had been drunk again. Silently he voted for both categories. Seeing the headmaster suffer made him smile.
Some of the students were having a hard time not laughing at the beardless headmaster. A few failed, and their laughter could be heard. Dumbledore announced that another year was gone and handed out this year's Quidditch and House cup. The Gryffindors won the quidditch cup again, while the Slytherins won the house cup. The two houses either booed or cheered at who won the two cups. When it was concluded, he clapped his hands, and the banner changed to Slytherin green and silver, much to his dismay.
Having that completed, Dumbledore sent them to the train where they could be taken home. Harry wasted no time leaving the great hall and went to the train station in Hogsmeade; his friends were right behind him and as soon as they arrived at the train. They immediately found a compartment where Daphne put up some silencing and locking wards.
"Summer vacation" here we come," Tracey happily exclaimed.
"I better enjoy my last few minutes of freedom," Harry chimed in, "because when I get home, I'm toast."
"Good luck, buddy," Blaise said with a smile. "Oh, and we saw what you did to Granger. Nice work," he commented."
Harry shrugged his shoulders "she was getting on my nerves," he casually said.
Adrian came in. "I think that is her specialty. Getting on people's nerves!"
Tracey, Nicole, Blaise, and Adrian agreed.
"One would think her parents would have told her how to behave," Nicole said.
At that moment, they heard someone knock on the door. Turning their heads, they saw Ulrich and his sister Lilith standing behind the door. Daphne took her wand out and undid the wards to allow them in.
"Hey guys," Ulrich said, "how are you all doing?"
"Pretty fine," Harry said, "And what about you two?"
"We're good," Lilith replied with a smile on her face, "just glad to be going back home."
"I hear you," Aaron came in. "I'm going to go home and relax now that school is over," he said in a comfortable voice.
Nicole smirked at her brother "don't forget that you need to complete your summer homework," she reminded him.
"I didn't hear that" he plugged his ears. Nicole shook her head at him and looked back at the two siblings by the entrance "so what do you two have planned for the summer?"
"I'm going to spend some time with Bianca," he said in a cheerful voice "with any luck, I spend some time with her before I get my NEWT results."
Lilith was the next to speak, "I swear you, and she has been spending too much time together. Don't forget that you are now the head of the family.
"Thanks, Lil," Ulrich said. "I will surely remind you of the same thing when you get your first boyfriend," he casually said, making her blush a bit.
The others just laughed. Harry composed himself and asked, "so what do you want to do once you get your results?"
"Going to try and get a job in the Department of Mysteries. Hopefully, they take me," he solemnly said.
"They are stupid not to take you," Lilith commented "you worked exceedingly hard for them. Honestly, they are stupid to turn you down."
The others agreed with her, and Ulrich responded by kissing her on her head, "thanks, sis. Anyway, we just came to have a brief conversation with you all and see how everyone was doing. Now, if you excuse me, I need to take this little one, back to her carriage" with that they were gone.
Daphne closed the door and reapplied the wards and added a misdirection ward to be disturbed. They spent the entire train ride back either playing poker, listening to music, or just chatting away. Weasley and Granger tried to find them, but they couldn't find them thanks to Daphne's misdirection ward. When they finally arrived at the train station, they removed the wards and left their carriages. Exiting the train, they went to their separate families. Harry immediately saw his aunt Sarah and Emily; the former spoke with Lady Greengrass and Lord Davis. Emily let out a squeal when she saw him approaching and raced to him, hugging him.
"There's my adorable sister" he hugged her back and moved the strand of hair from her face. He then leaned forward "we're going to be in for it, aren't we?" he asked in a hushed voice.
To which she sadly nodded, "better face the music."
The two siblings walked forward and saw their aunt/mother's look and could tell that she was not pleased. "Come along, you two, we are going to have a long talk!"
Harry and Emily looked at each other sheepishly as they knew they would get it when they got home. Just as they were about to leave, they're stopped by the Grangers, who did not look pleased.
"Mrs. Stevenson, I like a few words with you," Granger's father began.
"Can it wait? We have somewhere to be," she replied.
"It can't," he said in a firm voice. "I have received numerous letters from daughter saying that your adopted son," he glared at Harry, "has been bullying her since last year. As her father, I want to know why it is that you have not done anything about his behavior."
Sarah narrowed her eyes at him "well, that's not what I've been hearing" she then turned to Harry "were you bullying this girl?" she pointed to Granger.
"No," he answered. "In all honesty, I would rather be as far away from her as possible."
"Then can you explain why I have been getting letters of how you verbally assault her" he fixed a questioning glare at him?
Harry kept an expressionless face. "I will break this down, so keep up. Ever since the beginning of last year, your daughter's been acting like a harpy and badgered me to the point of leaving the common room. You and your wife forgot to teach her how to reign in her arrogance, and maybe she might be able to get some friends. The way she struts around the castle as if she's the only one who has the right answers is annoying everyone. That and her constant need to be in the first place; last year, she had a temper tantrum just because she did not get first place. Not only that, but she was also caught smuggling a baby dragon away from the gamekeeper's hut."
Hermione went pale at that memory. But Potter was not done "you might also want to know that she cannot go one week without annoying me or any of my friends without screeching like a harpy and acting as if she is all that. Which she isn't. I bet she hasn't even told you about the detentions she's got when she was at school."
"Our daughter is a well-behaved person," her mother came in "she has never gotten a detention a day in her life."
"Believe what you want," Daphne came in, "but it is the truth. You can even write to her head of the house and ask about your daughter's behavior because it is starting to get old. It's not bad enough that she tried to have Harry hand over his grimoire, but she had the nerve to insinuate that neither Takashi nor Iroh were allowed to be on school grounds."
"Who are Iroh and Takashi" she inquired.
"Our familiars," as she said that Iroh materialized out of her shadow and barked. Harry raised his shirt and let Takashi out of his tattoo form. "Now, how about you go try and reign in your know-it-all daughter and let us pass? We have things to do."
Her mother and friends were surprised by how she had just spoken to them and stormed off with her mother in tow.
"Dang," Harry said in surprise, "she might be the Ice Queen of Slytherin but knows how to throw a mean punch."
"Yep," the others agreed.
He then resumed, "just as Daphne said, 'reign in your know-it-all daughter.' Whether you believe us or not is your decision, but I suggest that you speak with either Professors Vector or McGonagall and ask what really happened." With that Harry and, the others left to go to different destinations.
The Grangers were in complete shock. Until Mrs. Granger looked down at her daughter, "I will be writing to your teachers later. Is anything that they said true?"
Hermione went paler if possible as she feared what her teachers would say.
When they left the Grangers, Sarah apparated both of her children to Potter Castle and walked through the main door's gates. Harry unlocked it, and they proceeded to go inside; arriving in the main room, they saw the three Blacks, Jack, and Severus on their feet with narrowed eyes aimed at them. Sucking in a breath, they proceeded forward till they were standing in front of them.
"Emily," her father spoke, "your room. Now," his voice indicated that he was not in the mood for any backtalk.
She briefly looked at Harry and mentally said 'good luck' before heading up the stairs to the room she occupied whenever she stayed at Potter Castle.
When she was out of earshot, Severus was the next to speak "sit down," he said in a cold voice.
Harry complied and sat in one of the couches. The look in Severus's eyes was not that of a professor but of a father that was not happy "all alright, you explain to me why you went into that chamber alone" his voice was laced with anger.
"I," Harry attempted to say but was cut off. "Silence," his dad said in a harsh voice.
"I don't even want to know what you were thinking when you went into that accursed place without any adult supervision. You are in big trouble, young man," Severus said in a harsh voice. "Never in all my years would I have expected you to act like a brainless Gryffindor. Yet you went into the Chamber of Secrets alone, knowing that a basilisk was in there. Mind explaining why you did not inform either myself or Jack?"
Harry swallowed a lump in his throat when he saw the look of rage on his father's face. This was going to be a long day, "I did want to tell you. However, I feared what the I.C.W. would do when they got wind of the situation. Their policy is to handle any and all threats to national security with extreme prejudice. Even though I was cleared of all charges at the wizengamot, I was still getting the stink eye," he stated. "Looking back on it, I was angry and behaved just like a foolish Gryffindor, while I'm not proud of my actions. I regret nothing, besides what would you have me do?"
"What would I have you do" Severus retorted angrily. "I'll tell you what you should have done" they spent the next two and a half hours angrily lecturing him on how he should have informed either of them to handle the matter themselves. Jack elaborated on how that basilisk had survived for over a thousand years old and was over 70 feet long, that Voldemort enchanted to make stronger. He proceeded to say how he was lucky to have brought those glasses to protect himself from its stare, explaining how it could have killed him. Arcturus came in and angrily spoke about the venom that could have killed him if Suzaku didn't cry into it and elaborated on how he refused to bury any more members of this family.
Harry couldn't help but feel warm inside as his uncle actually did care. Arcturus proceeded to speak, "while I understand your refusal to speak with anyone from the ministry, incompetent bastards," he said in disgust. "This should not have been handled by a twelve-year-old."
Harry was about to speak, but Severus cut him off "if you say you are nearly thirteen, then I will cut your tongue out" Harry immediately shut his mouth. Severus kept his black eyes on him, and they were laced with fire. "I expected better judgment from you. "You may be an exceptional wizard for your age, but you are still a child. I don't even want to think about what would have happened if you never came out of that Chamber. I am very disappointed in you."
Harry just lowered his head. "I'm sorry, dad. What's my sentence?"
Severus narrowed his eyes at him "me and the others have discussed this matter and have reached an agreement," he said in a firm voice. "For starters, you are grounded till the 29th of July, meaning no communicating with friends for the time. No magic whatsoever, no playing your instruments. You will be cleaning both the Potter and Black family dungeons without magic. Am I clear!"
"Yessir," Harry replied.
"Right," he started, "hand over your wands and watches" he held his hand out. The boy handed over both his wand and watches, and Severus put them in his robes.
"Be glad I am not taking you out of the Dueling tournament," Severus added. What he did next surprised Harry; he was engulfed in a hug. "I'm glad you're alive, my son" Harry recovered and returned the hug.
Severus then let go and looked down at him. "I hope you don't think I like punishing you. I'm just glad you are ok" Harry gave him a nod. "You may be an advanced boy, but you are still my son, and I want to see you thrive. You're part of the only few members I have left in this world. He then took a breath "now head to your room. I'll send dinner up."
Harry got up and went to the stairs before he could take a step further. He turned to the adults, "what about Dobby. How are you going to get him free?"
Arcturus spoke, "Leave that to me. Though I cannot fathom as to why you want to free him after what he did," he sucked in a breath, "I will get him free."
"Thank you, uncle," Harry said, then climbed the stairs to his room.
When Harry was out of earshot, Severus rubbed his eyes. "So, this is what fatherhood is like," he drawled. "That boy is going to turn me grey."
Sirius barked out laughing, "welcome to the world of being a parent, Severus. Personally, I thought you handled that situation well."
"As much as I hate agreeing with him, he is right," Cassie added her two knuts, which surprised her nephew "that said. Harry is a very special child; cold, antisocial, and stubborn even more than Arcturus was; he is very intelligent, immensely brave, and has the heart and spirit of pushing forward. That is what separates him from others," she said with approval.
Severus had to grudgingly agree with her. Harry was a very gifted child with lots of potentials. When the time is right, he will become a great wizard and even better man.
Jack and Sarah said their peace and went to go speak with Emily.
(0^0)
The days leading up to the award ceremony were dreadful, in the sibling's opinion. While Harry was grounded until the 29th of July, Emily was punished until the 18th. Even then, Harry got the worse of the punishments. He was purposefully sure that his dad and the others enchanted the dungeons to make them filthy the next day. Along with that, he had received a large number of letters from the populace. According to Arcturus, the house-elves who had arrived were being viewed who inspected them for tracking charms or things inappropriate. A few letters were burnt for those reasons alone, while others were stored in an unused room in the castle. Along with the letters, several marriage contacts came ranging from Magical Britain to India, Japan, Macusa, and China. His father and Arcturus were aware of what he thought about marriage contracts and set them on fire.
Jack, Arcturus, and Severus vowed to never put him in a contract like this. Harry also declared that he would rather be dead than be locked in a marriage with someone that wasn't his choice. That earned a light chuckle from Arcturus. The older man was aware of what the boy thought about this sort of thing, especially after almost being forced into one by Dumbledore. He made a vow years ago to never sign any contracts for any family members, and he is damned if he ever went back on his word. Arcturus might be a cold and ruthless bastard, among other things, but he always kept his word and instilled that in the others as well. An example of that would be how he got that house-elf Dobby free.
For reasons, he didn't want to go into his great-nephew wanted that elf free, despite his reservations. But he word that he would have him set free. So, Arcturus called a few of the Potter and Black family house-elves and had them infiltrate Malfoy manor to bring the elf to him. When they returned a few hours, Arcturus explained how Hadrian desired the elf to be free and told him how he could get it. Needless, to say the elf was overjoyed with the information as he preached how great Harry Potter was. Resisting the urge to shut the elf up, the Black patriarch let him sing his nephew praises then explained what the elf was supposed to do. He said that whenever Lucius's son threw clothes around the room, he could catch one and let one of his parents see it.
From what he heard, that is exactly what happened, and the Malfoy spawn received a tongue lashing courtesy of his father. Arcturus took great pleasure in making Lucius' life miserable. He had released some information regarding the French boot lickers shadier activities to three different magical governments. The whole ordeal resulted in the loss of a large amount of money, along with a great amount of influence he worked so hard to gain. That swine should never have been allowed to marry into his family as he was unworthy.
When the former Malfoy elf came to them again. He requested to belong to Harry, but he declined to say that he already had enough house elves in his castle and gave them to Sirius. From what Harry had heard, his godfather had been occupying Number 12 Grimmauld Place, and he hated it with a passion, even when Kreacher was still alive. The former and latter despised each other to a high degree. Sirius's mood only changed when Harry recommended that he change the whole house around since he was now its owner. It also helped that Sirius now had four other house-elves. Kreacher was one, Dobby was the second, and Arcturus gave him two more. Harry had never officially met Kreacher before but heard how from Sirius how the old elf was.
Harry was getting ready for the award ceremony scheduled to happen at the main I.C.W. building and occur at 7:30 later that evening. After a grueling workout courtesy of Byakko and Suzaku, Harry was worn out. The two gods had intensified his training, and after negotiating with Severus and Jack about the matter, it was agreed that his training will increase just so long as they didn't drain him completely. Severus took to supervising along with Arcturus and Cassiopeia. Emily would often join in from time to time, and while her training wasn't as difficult as her brother's, it still wore her out. The two siblings were walking down the stairs wearing their family robes with their crest's on. When they made it to the ground floor, they saw the adults waiting for them. Severus told Hadrian through their mental link that he would be arriving early.
Arcturus was the first to speak, "ready to get this over with?" he asked Hadrian.
"I am, sir," he replied.
"Then let's go" they all exited the castle, and the adults apparated them to the main I.C.W. building. When they arrived, the paparazzi went into a frenzy and started taking pictures, that and the long line of people were trying to get near them. But were being kept at bay by the security guards.
True to what his uncle said, Harry didn't see any of the Daily Prophet members, only the people from the International press and Japan's media. Harry and Emily were thankful for, mainly Harry, as he had no love for them. As they proceeded forward, Harry could hear what the crowds were saying due to his enhanced hearing.
"Oh my god, is that Hadrian Potter! He is so handsome."
"Hard to imagine that he actually went toe to toe with a basilisk and slew it. To think a twelve-year-old could hold his own against a grown basilisk."
"I wonder if he is single!"
"Harry please look over here!"
"I wonder if I can get a date with him!"
"Just how talented is he?"
"I want his autograph!"
"Hadrian, will you marry me and have my kids!"
Among other things were said, and it mostly sent a shiver down Emily's spine as she didn't want anyone to take her brother away. Harry sensed her uneasiness and held her hand.
"Believe me, I don't like some of their comments either. Just try and drown them out" he sent through the mental link.
Emily gave a small smile. "I don't like what they're saying about you!"
He mentally chuckled "you're not the only one."
Jack opened the door and allowed them in. A few photographers and reporters were flashing cameras and shouting questions. Luckily, the guards were holding them away, making it to the elevator shaft. Jack pressed the button for level 11, where the main conference room was located. The elevator took them down to the bottom floor. Arriving at their stop, they were relieved to see that only a select few people they knew were there. Stepping out of the elevator, they saw that Alexander Taymore was with a few others; the one standing to his left was a man who appeared to be in his late twenties, had dark brown hair, yellow eyes, and completely devoid of any emotions. Harry immediately knew it was his dad's disguise. The other person was Headmaster Arata Yoshi.
"Welcome, everyone," Alex greeted them. Then looked at Hadrian "here's the man of the hour."
"Hello commander, it's nice to see you again" he returned the gesture. Then turned to his headmaster, "Professor Yoshi, I appreciate you coming today" he gave a respectful bow.
The headmaster just chuckled, "drop the formalities, Mr. Potter, we're not in school. And I would not have missed this occasion."
"Shall we" he gestured for them to go through the guarded doors. Taymore led them through the door, where they saw the representatives taking their seats. The press was waiting by the wall and looked ready to snap some pictures and fire off a question. They were recording crystals all throughout the room, capturing everything. In the visitor section, the seats were completely filled.
The entire family waited by the room entrance while Taymore, Jack, and the others went to take their positions. In front of them was the current Supreme Mugwump: Babied Akingbade. Since Dumbledore was removed, a man from Uganda was removed, people have been trying to find someone to replace him. It was eventually decided that Mr. Akingbade would take the job, which was surprisingly a good move. Though he may have been young compared to magical standards, he was well-respected by his nation and many others.
Arata went to go stand behind him and whisper something before he could address everyone. The two talked for a moment appeared to have agreed on something. Walking up to the podium, he sent a nod to Commander Taymore and had him release a cannon fire from his wand to quiet everyone down. When the room was silent, he sucked in a breath and spoke in his African accent.
"Welcome everyone and thank you for attending today's session at the I.C.W. Tonight, we are here to celebrate a young man who was accused of attacking the students at the school he was forced to attend and despite everything. He was able to not only find the real culprit behind the crimes he was accused of, but he also managed to save the girl in question's life and possibly the entire student body. Having shown an impressive amount of bravery in the face of adversity and unselfishness makes this person a symbol to his people and the magical community he comes from. With me right now is Arata Yoshi, Headmaster of the school he attended before the I.C.W. ruling to send him back to his native land." He stepped away and clapped his hands with everyone the following suit.
Yoshi stepped forward and spoke, "for those of you who have been keeping up with the news reports should be of no surprise why one of my students has chosen to accept the most prestigious award our world has to offer. As it is widely known, Mahoutokoro hardly takes children who are not native to our region. It has been a privilege to accept this boy as one of our own. Only those who are strong-willed, disciplined, brave, and ambitious earn the right to be given an Order of Merlin 1st class. Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Hadrian James Potter" he whirled around to Harry, motioning him to come forward.
As Harry walked forward, thunderous claps from the people were heard, and the photographers took pictures after pictures. By the stands, one of the I.C.W. members was walking forward with a blue feathered metal box followed by a few more of her colleagues. When they stood before them, she opened the box revealing a "handsome" gold medal with a green ribbon. Everyone quieted down when the Supreme Mugwump cleared his throat.
Arata took the medal out of the box and spoke as Harry bowed his head slightly. "Money could never by the honor of what you have earned tonight" he put the medal around Harry's neck. "You have made your family and your nation proud." Harry raised his head and read what was on the medallion. The title Order of Merlin was at the top, his name in the middle and 1st class on the bottom. He then shook hands with Yoshi and the Supreme Mugwump.
The latter stepped forward, "Mr. Potter, by the laws of the I.C.W., you are entitled to one wish. What is it that you desire?"
Harry stepped forward and replied, "I like to start off by saying thanks to Misters Akingbade and Yoshi for bestowing our world's highest award." The people were listening with interest to what he was saying.
"My actions in the Chamber of Secrets may have been foolish and should have reported it to people who have experience dealing with creatures of such magnitude. That said, I do not regret my actions as I stand by them. I was well aware of the risk and consequences and accepted them, knowing that I had a low chance of coming back alive. But I did it so another innocent soul could be spared and to prevent the return of Tom Riddle" the true name man who killed various members of his family and countless others was used and not the anagram he designed.
"That monsters and his psychopaths destroyed hundreds of families. Have slaughtered innocents in their quest for power and dominance. As a result, families have been ripped apart, and several kids were made orphans. I was a result of that war, which cost me everything that night. That was until I met my new family" he turned his head around and looked at the people by the corner.
"My only desire is for a place to be built for those who have suffered and lost everything. And others who are abandoned and are alone just because they have been blessed with magic others have not. They deserve a chance to have futures. Ones that they can be proud of and have their own families" when he concluded, another round of thunderous claps came from the people. Harry heard his family clapping. The loudest was his sister and disguised father.
Akingbade looked at him. "Mr. Potter, is this what you wish for?"
"It is, sir," Harry replied in a firm voice.
He gave the boy an approving smile then turned to the others "then by the authority granted to me by the nations of the magical world. I, Babied Norris Akingbade, Supreme Mugwump of the I.C.W., hereby order that an orphanage is built to house all magical children. Who have been either lost their families or cast aside by the people in the muggle world. I also order the Aurors of their sovereign land to help track them down and try to help them the best way they can."
The clapping got louder. Harry gave them both respectful bows then went back to his family with a big smile on his face. One of his goals will soon become a reality. The ones who have suffered and lost everything need to feel hope again and have families that care for them. Walking over to his family, they either hugged him or patted him on the back.
(0^0)
Over at Hogwarts, Dumbledore let out a primal scream in frustration. Things were not going the way they should. He failed to get Harry on his side; he was so sure that the brat would come to him for his guidance after the school turned against him. But no! The brat proved himself innocent, killed a basilisk, and defeated Tom's sixteen-year-old self. He waited patiently for the brat to come to him. That way, he can demonstrate his power and be declared the one who protected the students. Albus could have used the publicity to reclaim his positions as Chief Warlock and Supreme Mugwump, but they were denied. If that weren't bad enough, he couldn't even view what happened in the Chamber before the information was released to the public. Commander Taymore and a few others effectively placed restrictions on him. Now he couldn't speak to the brat alone without one of his guardians present.
Albus read over the documents Mrs. Schwarber gave him and found out that he could not do anything to contest it. This was bad. Very bad! He couldn't even go to the ceremony as he had been barred and forbidden from attending. After hearing what the boy wished for, it was almost enough to make him cry. That would only impede his work to manipulate the orphaned children and had no knowledge of the magical world. Now that the current Supreme Mugwump had ordered it, there was nothing he could do to stop the Aurors from doing what he said.
He still needed to find someone to take the post of Defense Against the Dark Arts, professor. Then all of a sudden, a name appeared in his head. This person will no doubt be able to help influence the boy. He was not done yet.
(0^0)
Early the next morning, a boy with raven hair and green eyes woke up. Though there was admittedly a problem, he didn't sleep very well. Before he woke up, Harry had a dream about the four founders of Hogwarts, each holding different items. The items in question were the Sword of Godric Gryffindor, a cup that belonged to Helga Hufflepuff, a locket with a serpent on it in the form of an S that belonged to Salazar Slytherin, and finally a diadem with an eagle and a blue diamond on it, that belonged to Rowena Ravenclaw. He didn't know why he dreamt of them, but the three latter items held a significant part of his dream. The dream was so vague. What he saw next was Tom performing a dangerous ritual. Deciding to talk with Severus about it later, he changed out of his pajamas and put on a pair of black track pants and a white V-neck shirt on and left the room. As he descended down the stairs, the images kept popping up in his mind. It was like they were trying to tell him something. Shaking out of his thoughts, he went outside to go start his morning workout routine. Which consisted of a seven-mile run around the property, followed by honing his Krav Maga and Ninjitsu skills. Next was his elemental training. Then a series of ab crunches and upside down pushups and ending with a five-mile run. That was only the morning routine. His session in the evening before dinner was much more intense.
Harry spent the next four hours completing his workout regimen. Finally returning inside, his body was drenched in sweat, and he was panting from the exertion. Going to grab a shower and a change of clothes, came back down 20 minutes later, and found the others eating breakfast at the table. Saying good morning to everyone, he took a seat near Severus and ate in complete silence. When breakfast was over, he asked his dad to hang back for a few minutes to talk about the dream he had.
Once, everyone was gone. Severus put a strong silencing charm on the door, then turned his attention to Harry.
"What is it that you needed to discuss with me?"
"Dad," Harry began, "I had a dream last night" he then explained what his dream was about and how the four founders held different items. He explained how he saw Riddle performing some ritual on the locket, diadem, and cup. Severus's eyes went wide when Harry explained how the images were constantly popping in his head "it was all so vague."
Severus had paled considerably "damnit," he gritted his teeth as he knew what this meant. Mentally cursing the barriers for falling apart and flooding his mind with memories of the Dark lord. "I curse the day; that bastard transferred those memories to you."
"I thought the memories were locked away," Harry said. "Why are they returning?"
Severus took a breath. "I don't know! They should have held. The only thing I can think of is whatever happened in that Chamber must have weakened the shields" he then took out his wand and waved it over Harry's head.
After scanning the mental shields, he put he got some results that were less than satisfactory. "I was afraid of that," he gritted through his teeth.
"They're weakening, aren't they" it was not a question.
"Unfortunately, yes," Severus replied, not happy. He then rolled up his left sleeve and saw that the dark mark was still visible but a bit red.
Severus had spent hours diagnosing the mark after the fiasco with the Chamber of secrets and was shocked at what he found.
"Dad," Harry said nervously, seeing the look on his father's face.
"Hold on," he silenced him and raised his watch, turning it a few clicks to the right. "Arcturus, you are needed. Now!"
"This had better be good" Arcturus's voice was heard over the communicator. Severus turned off his communicator and pocketed his, and not a few minutes later, Arcturus came into the room.
Severus didn't give him a chance to speak and informed him about the mental shields he put on Harry were completely gone. Meaning that the memories the Dark lord transferred to Harry were coming back, "Harry had a dream about the items that belonged to the founders and what he did to some of them."
Arcturus eyes were set ablaze. It was true then that bastard created one of those abominations. Just how many were there? Severus also showed him his dark mark and explained what he discovered about it, much to Black's ire which only increased.
"What do you want to do now?" he asked the younger man.
"What I'd like to do is get Hadrian out of Magical Britain and back to Japan. But" he didn't get much further.
"O.I.," Harry said, bringing their attention to him, "are you two going to keep talking about me like this, or can I get some information here?"
Arcturus looked back at Severus "he has a right to know," he said. "Whether you or I like it or not, we both know how he is, and keeping him out of the loop will be trouble."
Severus grumbled he knew far better than anyone about his son's thirst for knowledge and his inquisitive nature. Weighing his options. He settled for telling the boy everything. "Get Byakko and Suzaku in here. They're somethings that we need to discuss."
Harry was about to ask what was going on, but the look his father was giving him indicated he was serious. So, he let out a breath and sent a mental message to the gods, telling them to come immediately. Not a minute later, the two were flamed inside the dining room via Suzaku being a phoenix. Byakko came over and rubbed against him.
"What is it, young one?" he looked at his partner. "I don't know. Dad said he has something that we need to discuss," Harry replied.
Byakko turned his head. "Severus, what is it?" he tentatively asked.
The man just sucked in a breath "the shields I put on Harry's mind to keep the Dark lord's memories away are gone. That duel in the Chamber must have destroyed the bindings, and the memories are returning."
Byakko didn't like where this was going. "But that is not what concerns you is it?"
"No," he said gravely. He then showed the red mark on his arm and explained what he found after experimenting with it. Then talked about how he would want to send Harry away; he said, "me and Arcturus have decided that he knew the truth about that diary and his scar."
The tiger let out a sad sigh. "I had prayed this day would never come."
Harry sensed the inner turmoil his partner was going through. "What's this about the scar I had and the diary?"
"What is the last thing you remember when I brought you here years ago?" Byakko asked.
"Just that Vernon tossing me into a cupboard after stabbing me with a rod and asking you for help," he answered.
"Yes, when I brought you to Potter Castle. You were close to death; I had the elves use their own brand of magic to heal you. But when they did, a dark fragment emerged from your car. We destroyed it, and you were cleansed of that abomination."
Harry didn't remember any of what happened that night he was brought here. Then his mind remembered what Voldemort said in the Chamber about his diary, and he paled, "there was a Horcrux in my scar," he said, barely audible.
Byakko gave the nod. "Believe me when I say I wanted to tell you, but you were too young at the time. Your father and I have discussed this lengthy, trying to find the best way to tell you."
Harry looked at his dad, who bowed his head in sadness "dad, I do not blame you for not telling me. You were only trying to protect me from the truth" Severus embraced him, which he reciprocated.
They let go, and Harry scratched behind Byakko's head.
"What exactly is a Horcrux?" he asked them.
Suzaku trilled unhappily, "that abomination is the foulest creation to have ever been brought into the magical world. It involves forcefully tearing apart the person's soul and encasing it in an object. In a sense, you become as close to being immortal but at a curse. Creating it is a supreme act of evil and goes against the Law's of Magic and is considered the greatest insult to the Magical Mother" he said with disgust.
"How many did he create?" Harry asked.
"That we do not know" Arcturus replied "however, after scanning that diary, I discovered that the bastard created more than one. You said you had a dream about him tampering with three of the founder's most prized possessions, correct?"
Harry slowly gave the nod.
"However, many he made. The fact remains that as long as these Horcruxes are around, that bastard will never truly die," he continued.
"What is going to happen now?" Harry asked.
"We're going to the hall of prophecies," Severus said. "Do you recall that prophecy I told you about years ago?"
"Yes, you said he only knew the first two lines."
Severus gave him a nod "you're going to need to know the full contents and destroy the recording. This way, if the Dark Lord shall get his body back, he can't get his hands on it."
Harry looked at everyone in the room. "Will you all go with me?"
Everyone gave him a nod. Severus spoke, "there is no way I'm letting you go alone."
"But there is a problem," Harry pointed out. "Dumbledore and Voldemort both have people within the ministry, and you're a familiar face to them.
Arcturus grunted, bringing attention to him. "I'll give Amelia a call and have her meet us in her office" he whirled out of the room with the others in tow. Harry lifted his shirt and allowed Byakko and Suzaku to assume their tattoo forms.
When they arrived in the main sitting room, Amelia's head was in the fireplace "alright, I understand the situation. Come through my office." One by one, they used the floo to go to her office.
Arriving in the office, they saw that she was in her Law Enforcement robes, wearing a serious visage. She was already aware that Severus was Harry's adoptive father and gave a magical vow of silence. To ensure that she didn't say anything outside of them. Her niece Susan was not included as Amelia had refused to tell her anything.
"Director Croaker will be here shortly; you might want to disguise yourself," she said to Severus. He immediately took out his wand and performed some human transfiguration on himself to make him look like her father. Amelia gave him a nod of approval.
Then a knock on the door was heard. "Come in, Saul" the Head of the Department of Mysteries walked in. "We need you to escort us to the Hall of Prophecy, so Mr. Potter can view a recording made about him years ago."
Saul heard the seriousness in her voice and agreed. He led them out of the Department of Law Enforcement and to the elevator. Once everyone was in, he pressed for level 9, and the elevator took them down. When they arrived on the floor, the atmosphere was dreadful and slightly cold, just like in the Wizengamot. Croaker led them to the door in the distance and pressed a series of runes on it to let them into the room of prophecies. Opening the door, they were mesmerized by what they saw: high as a church and full of nothing but towering shelves covered in small, dusty glass orbs. They glimmered dully in the light issuing from more candle brackets set at intervals along the shelves. Like those in the circular room behind them, their flames were burning blue. The room was very cold.
The adults lit their wands to emit some more light. Croaker closed the door, which disappeared and led them through the vast collection of orbs. The deeper they went into the room, the colder it became. "Here we are, row 97. Only those of who the prophecies are about can remove them from the shelves."
Harry walked forward and read the yellowish label affixed to the shelf right beneath the orb. In spidery writing was written date of some eleven years previously, and below that:
S.P.T. to A.P.W.B.D. Dark Lord and (?)Harry Potter
Reaching forward, he picked the orb up from its resting place.
The Head of the Unspeakable spoke once more, "merely tap it with your wand to listen to it. I have to get back to work. When you are done, send for me, and I will escort you all out" was all he said before he started to leave. Only to be stopped by Amelia.
"I need a magical vow saying that you will not reveal we were here nor what has been taken.
Saul gave her a curt nod and performed a magical vow saying that he will not reveal who or why they were here today. Then left the room.
Arcturus and the disguised Severus erected some privacy and anti-eavesdropping wards around so no one can listen in on them. Arcturus had Amelia wait outside the wards and told her to wait until they were done. She understood and waited for them to finish listening. Severus reached into his pocket and gave Hadrian his wand back. Harry took it, tapped the orb, and the foggy face of Sybil Trelawney appeared and started reciting the contents:
"The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches... Born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies... and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not... and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives...The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies..."
Harry's eyes opened wide, and he went ghostly pale. At the moment, he was completely shell-shocked and was about to stumble back. Severus quickly grabbed him and gave him a little shake to bring him back. He didn't look any better at what he heard, and Arcturus was seething. The initials were clearly Dumbledore's and that supposed fraud of a Divination teacher Trelawney.
"Let's get out of here," Arcturus scowled.
Harry gave the prophecy to Severus for safekeeping. Arcturus undid the wards and signaled Amelia that they were ready to depart.
She saw the look on Hadrian's face and knew whatever they heard must've been truly shocking. Complying with what Lord Black said, she told them to wait while she went to go get Croaker. Harry got over his shock and placed an expressionless mask on his face. Five minutes later, Amelia returned with her colleague, and they were led out of the room and back to Amelia's office. Thanking her for her help, they flooed back to Potter Castle.
Stepping out of the floo, Harry handed his wand back to Severus, which he grabbed and put back in his robes.
Severus threw the orb against the wall destroying it and vanished the glass. "We need to create a fake, so Dumbledore doesn't know that the prophecy was taken, but that will take time."
Arcturus narrowed his silver eyes "how long do you need?"
"Probably" Severus had to think for a minute, "three weeks at most" was his answer.
"Check! Get on it" Arcturus said.
Harry was about to leave and go start cleaning the dungeon around Potter Castle but was stopped by his uncle "where are you going?" He turned around and responded, "to go clean the dungeons, it's still part of my punishment."
"You are granted a reprieve for the day," Severus said. "You can have your guitar back if you want, but just for the day."
Harry gave him a slow nod and went up the stairs to go think.
"Damn" Severus cursed to himself. "This situation is getting out of control. It might be time to call a meeting."
Arcturus gave the nod, knowing what he was talking about.
A/N: Book 2 has ended! Harry is grounded by his guardians along with Emily though she got a lesser sentence. He received an Order of Merlin from the ICW and voiced his wish per international law dictates. Dumbledore is in a right state at being not only barred from attending but that Harry was continuing to impede his efforts to manipulate people who didn't grow up in the magical world. Selfish goat fucking bastard!
They learn that Voldemort created more than one horcrux but are unaware about how many he actually created. Harry learns the full contents of the prophecy and is shaken by what he heard. He has to either kill the Dark lord or be killed by him. Talk about a natural disaster putting a child in that mess. In my honest opinion I believe Harry should have known about the prophecy before his second year began. But no Dumbledore kept quiet and intends to sacrifice Harry for the greater good. The senile old man only cares about completing his plans no matter who get's hurt or killed. Sacrificing an innocent child's life to end his own creation is all kinds of wrong. He did the same thing with his ex-lover. In his quest for power, he disregarded the lives of others and got them killed along with his own sister. Now he is trying to good through Harry, not cool. Using a child to fix the mistakes you created is fucked up.
What is everyone else's opinion on the matter?
Next Chapter: Harry meets with a variety of people to discuss both Dumbledore and Voldemort.