17
Ch. 1 A Most Unexpected Day
June 27, 1994
Three days after arriving back at the Dursley's, Harry was stalking quietly behind, a rather, oblivious, plump wizard. Breaking off upon enter the Leaky Cauldron, he made his way out onto Diagon Alley. Enveloped beneath his family cloak Harry's movement went unnoticed as he made his way to Gringotts. Memories of events leading up to his escape resurfaced along his short route. Chuckling to himself at the events of the last month which had been nothing short of a hectic.
**FLASHBACK**
Just short of two day after rescuing Sirius, Harry could be found walking along the Black Lake, Hedwig perched on his shoulder as they shared his breakfast. Both enjoying as much freedom as they could before imprisonment back within the Dursley household. During their one-sided conversation and walk the pair came upon a pack of Acromantulas attacking what he could only describe as a baby tiger.
"Hedwig go get Hagrid." Harry stated softly as to not alert the attacking horde. At that she took off.
Immediately he moving to action, brandishing his wand and attaching the spiders, "INCENDIO… INCENDIO… STUPIFY. BOMBARDA! BOMBARDA!"
Repeatedly attacking, working to drive off the spiders. The surprise of and ferocity of his unrelenting attack coupled with the appearance of a larger tiger saw the vermin quickly retreat. Noticing the spiders giving up, Harry encircled him and the two beasts in a ring of fire. The younger male cub having been bitten multiple times was succumbing the venom of their bite. Trembling at the struggle he was witnessing Harry kneeled next to the beast.
"Please don't . Please." he turned to the larger tiger, "I'm sorry is I…I don't know what to d…ddo." He exclaimed with tears blooming in his eyes. Harry was startled by a voice screaming in his head as the large beast next to him responded.
"Hold out your arm!"
Shocked and still looking at the massive beast it stated again:
"HOLD OUT YOUR ARM NOW!" At that Harry outstretched his arm. The tiger raked a claw along his wrist, opening his skin. Blood flowing.
"Cover his wounds with your blood Young One." Harry quickly did as he was told. The effect was immediate. The air became thick with a brilliant blue hue surrounding both him and the young cub as he worked, smearing his blood upon the wounds. A moment after covering each wounded area, the color faded into them and their wounds healed, to Harry's amazement.
"Thank you Young One for saving me." The young cub stated as it slowly stood on shaking legs
"No need to thank me cub," Harry said hugging the animal. "I just wanted to help. By the way, what are you? I have never seen one of your kind?"
Jumping in at this question the elder tigress said, "We are Nundu, Young One. I am Cheptalel mother to my young one here, and, in a way, mother to you now as well."
"WHAT! How is that possible?" Harry Exclaimed
"Patience, Young One. It is due to how you needed to save him. You and Awendo are now blood bonded, and both of you shall experience growth together. While not truly a familiar bond, you each will glean strength and magics from each other."
"This is amazing. If I can talk to him how can I talk with you?"
"It was your plea to save my young cub that allowed me to assist you, and your bond that allows its continuation. For that I am eternally grateful Young One."Cheptalel said
"I am glad I was able to save your Awendo, Cheptalel. Please call me Harry."
At this the young Nundu, Awendo, jumped in stating, "You are more special than you know, Harry. We were called here by Mother Magic to offer you a gift. Now in your presence, I can also see that you have a true familiar begging to contact you, but a block has been placed on the connection. Can I free it for you? As my gift to you."
Pausing to think at what this could mean. Mentally shrugging, Harry easily could see the benefit of another friend & companion.
"Please do Awendo!" Harry replied with glee. At this Awendo came forward instructing Harry to lay on his back in the center of a simple pentagram Harry magically carved into the ground. Once prone the young Nundu circled around Harry counterclockwise as if it was searching for a source of the block. On the 4th pass an explosion of electricity came from within Harry. At the blocks release, one word, a name, swelled to the forefront of his thoughts and escaped his lips.
"Guatauva!" At this a Regal Thunderbird appeared above Harry.
"Finally, Master you have called me back. I have missed you greatly. Why did you send me away?"
"Guatauva I would never send you away," Harry stated tearing up once more. "I didn't even know that I had a familiar. Awendo broke a block that had been placed upon our bond. Please forgive me!"
"Of course, you are forgiven, Young Master. I have missed you these 11+ years. You used to have me call you Harry. Is that still your wish Young Master?"
"Yes. Please call me Harry. I only wish to be your friend and possibly for you to guide me if you wish." If the familiar could smile at Harry's words he would.
"I would be honored to be your friend once more, Harry. You also use to call me 'Tauva."
"Great to have you back 'Tauva."
Cutting into the reunion, Cheptalel, to gain Harry's attention, dropped a fang into his lap stating:
"This is my gift to you Young One. A symbol of Nundu respect for you and a small token for you saving my cub. May it assist you on your path. A fang, of mine, willingly given. 'Tauva will know what to do."
"I am honored Chep. Can I call you that?" Harry said through his crooked grin. At this the Nundu pounced on him and licked his face.
"Maybe Young One, maybe. But I must take my leave. Awendo will be here to assist you along your path."
With that Harry stood up and bowed to the noble creature. He then took out a box from his school bag and placed the Nundu Fang within it. Before he could close the box 'Tauva landed on his shoulder and shook his tail dropping 2 tail feathers into the box as well.
Harry looked at him inquisitively. "These will be needed this summer, Harry. We have much to discuss. Your current wand chose you due to something that is attempting to bend & pervert the will of your magic. Something not of you, but currently affecting you none the less. It should never have been your wand." 'Tauva answered his questioning look.
"Thank you for this beautiful gift, 'Tauva. What do you mean it shouldn…" Harry stated while closing the box but was quickly silenced by Hagrid approaching.
Upon his arrival, Hagrid was in awe of what lay in front of him. Here was Harry conversing with a Nundu cub and a Thunderbird, surrounded by a ring of dwindling fire and appendages of what he could only assume were Arogog's children. He couldn't believe it. Slowly Hagrid approached with Hedwig quickly found his voice:
"Blimey 'arry ya don't do anything by half, do ya"
"Er..Hello Hagrid. Everything is ok now. I er.. saved Awendo here from some of the acromantula. They were trying to kill him."
"I'm sorry that you had to do that 'Arry. They've been growing more vicious by the day since your 'venture into the forest last year. So how do you know these two?"
"Well um.. it turns out 'Tauva is my familiar. We bonded back when I was a baby but then someone put a block on our bond before it could cement. Awendo and I, it seems, are bonded through blood due to the method I had to use to save him from the acromantula venom. Please though Hagrid, I would like to keep this quiet until the time is right." Harry paused for a second looking between the two beasts then gained a sly grin "'Tauva and Awendo have agreed that if you keep this quiet you can use them occasionally for Care of magical Creatures."
At this Hagrid immediately brightened up. "Mums the word, 'Arry. Your secret is safe with me."
"Thank you, Hagrid. Can Awendo stay with you near the hut while I'm away on holiday?"
"Of 'ourse, 'Arry. Also, that was a right good thing you did for Buckbeak." Bellowing a laugh at Harry's expression he continued, "Yes, I know it was you and 'Ermione. I owe ya both."
"Don't mention it Hagrid." And with that they departed ways. Once further away 'Tauva swooped down in front of Harry stating to him:
"Harry please stare into my eyes. I wish to complete our bonding process before the one who blocked it last time sees me with you. He is here and if the bond was blocked again it would break and kill me and probably severely maim you."
Immediately complying, Harry stared back into 'Tauva's eyes becoming lost in the similar shade of green staring back at him. Within a moment he felt a strong tether snap into place, the strongest rope removed of slack. Immediately, warmth passed between them. The current ever increasing. As he gazed into his familiar's silver speckled eyes 'Tauva's colors changed. Shifting from gleaming gold to a body covered in raven black feathers with wings of white tipped, blue feathers.
"Thank you for your continuous gifts, my friend," Harry exclaimed "They mean a great deal to me."
"Your welcome Harry. Now before we make it to the castle, and you see your 'friends' I need to tell you that we must head to Wolfe Wands before June's end for the crafter to replace your wand. We will go there immediately after we stop at Gringotts to have them fix the other issues I can sense about you."
At this pronouncement Harry silently listened to his plan and how this would work. As soon as they reached the main entry 'Tauva pulsed away leaving Harry till he reached the train.
**END FLASHBACK**
At the entrance to Gringotts Harry removed the invisibility cloak and walked up to the teller he recognized, quietly waiting for Griphook to finish sorting through his previous client's paperwork and money. Once Griphook looked up Harry said after a courteous bow,
"Good Morning Griphook. May your gold flow freely and your blades never dull. I have an appointment at 8am with Ragnok the Potter Family Estate & Bank/Clan Manager. Can you let him know that I have arrived and am ready to meet him at his earliest convenience?"
Griphook's quick recovery from this did not go unnoticed by Harry as he made a mental note to thank 'Tauva. "You honor me Mr. Potter. May your gold flow freely and your blades never dull. I will go inform him of your arrival. Please wait for me to return."
"Thank you Griphook." This earned another surprised expression from the goblin as he immediately went to grab Ragnok. Within a few minutes they both approached Harry.
"Mr. Potter thank you for coming. I have been trying to reach you for the past 12 years. We have much to discuss. Mainly whether you are even worth my time." Ragnok snarled at him.
Slightly taken aback but recovering quickly Harry politely bowed deep replying, "Master Ragnok, may your gold flow freely and your blades never dull. Thank you for taking time out of your busy day to see me. My apologies for not answering your summons these past years. I unfortunately have never received any correspondence from Gringotts at all in the past. Can this be explained?"
Ragnok immediately called for a curse breaker and set to checking Harry's person. After a short effort the goblin curse breaker nodded and retreated from the room. Ragnok started again, "It seems Mr. Potter you have a mail ward placed upon you, various tracking spell and a spell tracker on your wand. Do we have your permission to remove them? This is most irregular."
"Yes, please but let's place the tracking charms on a toy that I can place in my relative's home. I am sure that a specific someone is tracking me, but have yet to gather proof… I am sure you have much that you need to discuss with me. Again, my sincere apologies for not responding to the correspondence. If you could please call me Harry, Master Ragnok."
"Very well Harry, please follow me." At this Ragnok led him through the corridors into his office
"Our first order of business will be and inheritance test to validate you are Harry Potter. Is that agreeable?"
"Very much so Ragnok." With that Ragnok took out a sheet of parchment and a silver blade. Handing it to Harry he stated the parchment needed 3 drops of blood. Slicing open his finger, allowing the blood to pool on the parchment. Flaring with a golden hue words appeared on the sheet, reading:
Harry James Potter
Father: James Charlus Potter
Mother: Lily Aurora Potter (nee Evans)
Godfather: Sirius Orion Black (Godfather & Blood Adopted Father)
Godmother: Alice Longbottom (nee Fortescue)
Lordships & Heirships:
The Most Ancient and Noble House of Potter (Blood/Magic)
The Most Ancient and Noble House of Peverell (Blood/Magic)
The Most Ancient and Noble House of Emrys (Trials of Proof for Blood & Magic)
The Most Ancient and Noble House of Black (Blood/Magic)
To say Harry was surprised would be an understatement, but the look on Ragnok's face almost had Harry out of his seat on the ground from laughter. He was lucky to keep it to only a small grin.
"What is troubling you Master Ragnok?"
"Harry this is unprecedented. The Emrys' Lordship has never been claimed, nor has an heir been named since the passing of Merlin and his wife. Their sons were unable to pass a single one of the heirship trials even as blood relatives. Almost all, prior to yourself, were not eligible for inheritance test. Most peculiar…" Master Ragnok trailed off to a whisper.
"We shall continue this meeting of ours after your visit The Emrys' Vault. If the trials accept you as their Heir you will be emancipated and elevated to its Lordship as per The Emrys Family Tradition. This will allow you to claim all of your lordships as Lord Potter, Peverell, Emrys today. You will remain the Heir of Black due to the innocence of Lord Sirius Black and him still being among the living." Ragnok finished with a twisted grin as he stood up leading Harry to the carts into the mines.
Traveling along the rail, delving deeper into the bank than Harry had ever seen, he witnesses various dragons and dangerous beasts that guarded the caverns that created the band vaults. They came upon a waterfall so quickly Harry has no chance to react, but when they came out on the other side, he was completely dry. Giving Ragnok an inquisitive look Ragnok explained,
"That is a part of the thief's downfall along with all of our dangerous beasts that protect the vault corridors. The moment we passed through that all enchantments and curses or hexes you placed on yourself or me would be rendered inert, the cart would immediate pull you over and drop you into a holding station while someone comes to end your life."
"That is amazing, is that a potion of some sort or is it a ward of some kind?
"Interestingly it is both, but also much more. Our Goblin and wizard curse breakers discovered it in Persia many eons ago."
"Brilliant. I'll have to look into that. It sounds like an interesting job."
"It is quite the most interesting field of work. I will have one of our leading Curse-Breakers contact you and teach you some if time permits this summer or the next. If you wish?"
"Really?! Yes, that would be agreeable!"
As quickly as the conversation ended their cart came to a halt in front of Vault 7. Both of them stepping out Ragnok informed him that he would first have to offer the vault payment in blood while handing him a silver blade. "After that we know not what trials await you Harry. May you succeed."
Harry quickly walked up to the vault door taking notice of the coat of arms. Upon the center a silver-white owl perched upon a sword ran through an anvil and stone. Top left an open tome, Top right three sets of 7 runes (each set with a different color), Bottom left the tree of life, and bottom right housed an eye atop a pyramid. Along the bottom the family moto, Fàs tro ghaol. Turning to his left to approach the sacrificial bowl he thought to himself, 'How similar that seems.'
At the bowl he quickly sliced his palm open and allowed the blood to drain into the vessel. As the vessel filled a silver white light started to radiate out from the owl's eyes. During what seemed like eternity Harry waited thinking nothing was to happen. That exact instant the bowl burned the same color, the vault door opened, and Harry's hand was healed. In his head he heard 'Come, my Grandson, through trials of blood you have been accepted. The final trials await you.' With the voices prodding Harry entered the vault. Once inside the doors closed behind him as he looked around. Noticing an elevated platform Harry calmly approached and climbed to the top of the pedestal. He noticed a tome with the name Emrys on it, and two pairs of vials on the table. Suddenly a voice spoke to him.
"Who are you?" Slightly startled at this but recovering quickly Harry stated:
"I am Harry James Potter. Son of James Charlus Potter and Lily Aurora Potter nee Evans. Heir to the Most Ancient and Noble House of Potter, Peverell, Black by blood and magic."
"Why are you here?" Stated a ghostly vestige of the pervious Lord Emrys
"To face the trials designated by the Most Ancient and Noble House of Emrys as it designated through my inheritance."
"Why then, do you not list my Noble House as your heirship as well?"
"I have not passed all of your trials Lord Emrys. Until that time and day, I have no right to the honor of claiming the Heirship or Lordship of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Emrys."
"Clever boy, Harry. Lastly, what is your desire?"
Harry couldn't answer this question quick enough, "Toknowtheloveofmyownfamily.."
"Come again?" Lord Emrys stated through a chuckle.
Harry shut his eyes through a deep breath and stated with confidence, "The love I have ever experienced, I am unable to remember my Lord. My greatest desire in life is to grow in the knowledge & love of one's family."
At his statement Harry was engulfed in a hug by the now fully corporal previous Lord Emrys. Quickly, he stiffened at the embrace. A calming presence enveloped him at the sound of the man's voice. Relaxing into the hug of a distant relative. "You are safe my Heir. You have succeeded in passing the trials I set forth, and the Emrys Family Magic will welcome you completely with the final Trial of Magic. First though, we must provide you with a gift or two before you take up the Lordship Ring of our Noble House."
"Thank you, Sir."
"Oi! None of that Sir shite. Call me Grandpa, or Papa Merlin."
"Alright S... Papa Merlin. What are these gifts you want to give me first?"
"Well First Son lets remove that piece of tar you have in head. Things stealing all your magic and obstructing its proper flow. Probably why that of yours is behaving so irregularly." And without warning Merlin placed the palm of his hand onto Harry's Head and ripped out a tar like piece that glowed with a fowl black and blood red aura. Harry almost passing out from the shear pain of its removal collapsed onto his knees. Conjuring a perfect diamond, shoving the violent piece of tar into it, Merlin handed it to Harry as he lifted him back to his feet. "Here keep hold of that for me. Riddle, what an mockery you have made of yourself, tisk..tisk."
"What did Voldemort do?"
"That!" Merlin exclaimed, waving to the now tar-colored diamond. "Is an abomination Tom Riddle created, what is called a Horcrux. That is a piece of his bastardized soul. I would hazard a guess that he created it accidentally. After we finish the trials of magic and you're recognized as my heir & the new Lord Emrys, I want you to take that to Ragnok. He will know what to do with it." Merlin paused for a moment to gain Harry's nod.
"Now I want you to lie down on this bed behind us. I am going to remove as much of the pain of your robbed childhood that you are burdened with as I am able, my son. It will not remove the memories but the pain and suffering that has scared your soul and magic will be healed. Think of it as a smoothing out of the jagged, piercing edges contained in those memories. I plan to also implant all of the knowledge of how to become a master of Legilimens & Occlumency. While the knowledge will be there, but you must seek it. Must learn & develop it yourself."
Harry grinned at this and cheekily stated, "Oh I'm not a half bad seeker Papa. I'll be up for that challenge." This earned him a bellowing laugh from Merlin.
"Right you are Harry. I'm going to enjoy watching some of your matches while we heal you. Now come on pip pip…" At that he led Harry over to the bed. Harry laid down. Merlin instructed him to relax and calm himself and close his eyes. As soon as this occurred Harry was reliving every moment. Every day, all of his life's moments in reverse. When it appeared as if his history would go on forever it stopped, Merlin embraced him once more.
"I am sorry my child. So very sorry you have had to struggle like you have. Your parents, I'm sure, are so proud of you. As am I." Papa Merlin whispered to him. Once the embrace finished Merlin looked at his young Heir and was surprised to see a small smile.
"I can remember them telling me that they love me Pa." He stated as he broke down. "T..tthank you for this gift. It's as if I'm light as a feather, or I've been reborn. This is wonderful what you have gifted me Grandpa."
"You are most welcome Harry. Now we have two more vials to give you before the magic starts. The first is a Nutritive, Strengthening, and Healing potion that will quickly remedy much if not all the damage that was done to you through your abuse. It will over the next 3 hours restore you to the body you should have had without all your struggles. It might also have some…Interesting effects, but you'll see about that later." Merlin said through a chuckle,
"The second potion is a long duration learning potion. It will last long enough for your brain to become malleable to the growth in knowledge that is common within our house and the Potters. My hope is that it will also allow you to unlearn some of your more 'ingrained' habits." A scowl had been adopted across Merlin's features, Harry tensing at the reaction. Noting Harrys worry, Merlin continued on, "I'm sorry son. My anger is not for you. Those muggles you were imprisoned with have done you no favors, but we will fix it starting with this. That said, all I ask of you is your word that you will never return to hiding your skills or stunt your learning. You constantly keep yourself back because you do not wish to upset your friends only works to hinder yourself in the end. If they cannot handle you truly at your best how can you expect them to handle the lows, Son?"
Pondering his Grandfathers words Harry finally replied, "Thank you Papa. I give you my word that I will always do my best for you, and for family. Also how are we blood related?"
"Through your mothers' side. Our daughter married into the Evansons, and from there the line dwindled due to them wishing to maintain 'purity'. After their line lost all magical heirs, magic slowly worked to rebuilt itself, concentrating the family magics, eventually culminating in you, Son. Enough talk for now, lie down take your nutritive potion."
Compiling, once Harry took the nutritive potion, he immediately falling asleep waking from one of the most restorative slumbers he could remember. "Oi your gonna have to beat the women off you with a stick, grandson. That worked wonders for you." Merlin had resized all of Harrys clothing and conjured a mirror for Harry to see the progress. While Harry would still consider himself lean & of a thin wiry stature, he could easily tell he was 4-5inches taller standing close to 5'5" tall with him beginning to broaden out at the shoulders, his normally unruly hair was tamped down by its increased length that he had allowed to grow out slightly. His face had a slight softening to it due to the filling in of his features with a good showing of facial hair starting to come in and had a good bit of color to it as if he had spent many summers outside. He also realized that he didn't need his glasses any longer, swiftly ditching them.
Harry looked at Merlin, shrugged his shoulders and took the last potion. He really didn't realize just how effective it would be till he started revising the next day. Turning to Merlin he asked, "Am I ready for your trials of magic Pa?"
"You'll make me right proud. You already have son. You remember the words Ragnok instructed you in?" At Harrys nod Merlin handed him the ring.
I, Harry James Potter, Claim right of Lordship for The Most Ancient and Noble House of Emrys. May my magics be its magics and its mine. May the House of Emrys judge me worthy. So Mote it Be.
As soon as Harry finished the oath sliding the ring onto his left index finger, the magic jumped out judging each other and slowly proving their worth. Aura matching aura, magic accepting magic. In an instant it was over. Merlin walked over to Harry carrying a book that he handed to him. "This is our family Grimoire. In it contains all the History, Magic and Rituals of Emrys. It is enchanted to never let you learn something that is beyond your comprehension or that slightly challenges you, so it will consistently expand with your progress, both in power and knowledge," Merlin paused to allow this statement to sink in before he continued,
"Now, as I have spent the last of my reserves on projecting myself here to take you through the trials I must depart. To come see me whenever and train simply grasp the ring with your right hand and state 'Home to Avalon'. I will look forward to continuing our training. Enjoy the gold also."
"Thank you, Pa. I'll be visiting, you shortly once my business is completed." Cocking his head to the side as he glanced around the cavern he asked, "What Gold, Pa?"
With a simple smirk gracing his face, Merlin simply departed the chamber, leaving a vast cavern of gold. Exiting the door, he informed Ragnok that he had passed all trials & claimed his lordship and asked for a bag for money. Quickly filling it with a couple thousand galleons Harry and Ragnok quickly departed for the surface once back in Ragnok's office they started to work on the rest of their agenda:
"Lord Emrys while waiting for you to compete your trials I took the time to grab the rest of your lordship & heir rings from your other vaults. Once we complete this process you will have access to all of your family vaults other than the Black Family Vault which you will gain upon passing of the lordship to yourself. Please start with your Peverell Ring, then Potter, and Finally the Heir Ring of Black." As Ragnok stated this he passed Harry the ornate ebony ring box. Inside he found the three rings mentioned.
Harry took the Peverell ring from the box and gave his oath:
I, Harry James Potter, Claim right of Lordship for The Most Ancient and Noble House of Peverell. May my magics be its magics and its mine. May the House of Peverell judge me worthy. So Mote it Be.
Immediately accepted by the family magics, the family totem came forth. An 8 foot tall, raven coated Thestral appeared next to him, rubbed its snout against Harry's head as he pet the majestic creature and then it disappeared. Shaking his head Harry repeated the process two more times. In the end the Owl & Thestral where joined by a Griffin & an Adder from the Potter and Black families. It unnerved him slightly to still be able to converse in parseltongue with the Black family totem. Ragnok noticing this asked what the issue was.
"It's no issue Ragnok I just thought once Pa removed this Horcrux from my being that that skill would have disappeared," Harry stated to him while handing over the now blacked diamond that was surrounded by a faint red glow. "Pa said you would know what to do with this. He also said that it was probably an accidental creation. Again, please call me Harry. I am no more important than you sir."
Agape in shock, Ragnok quickly snatched the horcrux off the table and ran to the door behind his desk. Leaving Harry in the room he soon returned still in shock he said, "Thank you for this. We will quickly see it destroyed. This is very telling. The Dark Lord must have created more if what you say is true. His soul having been quite unstable. Audits will be caried out, and those abominations found residing within th halls of our sovereign territory will quickly obliterated. The vermin who had the nerve to desecrate our halls with this filth will also have all of their vaults and valuables seized and handed over to you Harry."
"Thank you Ragnok. Please let me know if you discover any other objects within your halls. Counting the one I gave you I believe that makes two of them. I destroyed what I believed at the time to be a 'memory' of Riddle a year ago in the Chamber of Secrets after killing the basilisk. It was a diary that Lucius Malfoy planted on a girl. When stabbed with the fang it released a horrid black oil like substance. The same as when Pa tore that out of my head." Harry pause at this. Shivering slightly at the thought one was in his head. He would be keeping that information to himself. Continuing on, "Also, if there are any vaults that are seized, I wish to take their money to fund charities for the people that deserve compensation for the travesty that is that beast of a wizard."
"You are one interesting wizard Harry Potter. We shall see it done. Your comment about Mr. Malfoy planning the other item bares weight. The Dark Lord might have placed others in the care of his followers. We will start our search there… Returning to a previous comment of yours, you stated you killed the basilisk. We at Gringotts would like to discuss claiming and sale of the beast at a later date."
They then moved forward going through all of the various assets that Harry had come into. As he had taken up his various Lordships, he now had access to all of the assets. Realizing the mountain of work, it will take to run such a huge estate, Harry quickly stated he wished to have the Goblins continue to run it with him being informed. They had already done wonders in creating growth for the holdings, and he was more than happy to build profit with them.
Next came the properties that he currently owned, Potter Manor in Scotland, Potter Cottage in Godric's Hollow, a property in southern France and Italy, and one in South Africa. All this left Harry's head spinning with more questions than answers, but the most important to him was the line stating his parents' personal affects.
"Ragnok is it ok if we stop here, and head down to my family vault? I wish to claim some of my parents school items."
"I will have Griphook take you down while I organize the rest of your paperwork and prepare your parents will."
Once at his family vault, Harry quickly went to work finding his parents school trunks. He quickly discovered both of their school trunks and a third trunk next to it. Going through his parents' trunks first he found something he would prize more than anything, their journals and diaries from their lives. Along with this came all of their schoolbooks and notes from school. As he was looking through these prized possessions he quietly stated, "Thank you Mum Dad. I won't let you down." He moved all of his father's belongings into his mother's school trunk and had Griphook shrink it down for him.
The third trunk, he discovered upon opening, was a multi-compartment trunk. Inside it contained the entire Potter Family Library with desk and study space, an expanded wardrobe with both his parents' muggle and wizarding clothing, a potions lab, training chamber, a live in compartment with a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and sitting area, his dads auror and quidditch gear storage, and dueling area. Realizing how invaluable this trunk was he placed his mother's old trunk inside closed it and had this shrunk for him to pocket. Departing the vault, they returned to Ragnok's office.
Ragnok looked up as they entered, "I take it your trip was profitable."
"It was Ragnok. I never knew my parents left me anything. Thank you for protecting their personal items for me."
"This is now multiple times that you have mentioned that you did not know anything about your assets or status within our world. Has your magical guardian not told you anything?" Ragnok stated through a snarl.
Harry getting worked up as well, "Ragnok I didn't even know that I had a magical guardian. I was left on the front steps of those so called 'relatives' of mine at 15 months old. Who pray tell is my magical guardian?"
"Albus Dumbledore…" the Goblin rasped out, "He is also responsible for the sealing of your parents will."
"As I have claimed my majority, I wish the will to be unsealed." Harry stated to Ragnok who quickly broke the seal on the will and started to read:
30th of August, Year 1981
Last Will and Testament of Lily and James Potter:
We, Lily Aurora Potter (nee Evans) & James Charlus Potter, being of sound mind and judgement hereby make this, our last will and testament. All previously created wills are hence null and void.
Article 1. In the event of one of our passing before Harry reaches majority all valuables are to be left in the care of either of us. If I, James Charlus Potter, pass on before my beloved wife I bestow upon her to care for the Potter Lordship until Harry's age of majority.
Article 2. We name both Sirius Orion Black and Alice Longbottom as Sworn Godparents and magical guardians to Harry James Potter in the event of both our passing's if he has not reached age of majority.
Article 3. In the event that both Alice and Sirius are incapacitated or otherwise unable to care for Harry here is the list of individuals appropriate to care for Harry in our absence as his Magical Guardians:
Frank Longbottom
Amelia Bones
Minerva McGonagall
(In no terms should Harry ever go to my blood relatives Vernon and Petunia Dursley)
Article 4. The Fidelus Charm was cast over Potter Cottage by Albus Dumbledore with Peter Pettigrew serving as our secret keeper.
Article 5. Disbursement of funds upon both our passing:
200000 Galleons to Sirius and Alice for care of Harry and your unending friendship
100000 Galleons and the Wolfe's den in Hogsmeade to Remus Lupin for you to always be close to Harry and care for him.
100000 Galleons to Peter Pettigrew for your friendship and acceptance of being our secret keeper during this war.
(If we die at the hands of Lord Voldemort this action is null and void as you have betrayed us Peter. If this is the case immediately send copy of this will to Ministry of Magic, Department of Magical Law Enforcement ATTN: Amelia Bones)
100000 Galleons to Amelia Bones for your years of friendship and love. We know it doesn't replace the hurt but remember our love
To our son Harry James Potter, we leave all assets, properties, and titles to be bestowed upon him at age of Majority.
Closing notes:
Harry, our darling baby,
If we have not been there for you to witness you grow up please know you are cherished and loved more than you can ever know. You have made us the proudest parents even at a year old. You have filled our hearts with more love than we ever thought possible.
While this is a burden, we never wished for you we feel you deserve to know, Son. We went into hiding as a last attempt to protect you from Lord Voldemort. While we don't know the full prophecy, Dumbledore informed us that because part of it was heard Voldemort believes you might be the one to defeat him.
In all that you do we simply ask that you work to your fullest. That you love to your fullest, study to your fullest, and be honest and humble to your fullest. Remember son those who love us never truly leave us. We are in your heart Harry.
Love,
Mum and Dad
Signed:
Lily Aurora Potter & James Charlus Potter
Witnessed:
Sirius Orion Black
Alice Longbottom
Albus Dumbledore
Through the tears and the hurt all Harry could think is 'HE KNEW! Albus Bloody Dumbledore knew that this had all been stated in their will. And yet he hid this from the world. What is that Git playing at?' As he played through his life's events a puzzle started to piece together speaking one word, Manipulation. Manipulation of his parent's wishes, manipulation of his 'childhood', manipulation of his schooling. At that Harry went full stop, 'He's been testing me… He must have known about the horcrux that was in my head…'
He turned to Ragnok, stating through a feral grin, "Ragnok do you want to take part in crushing Albus Bloody Dumbledore? His manipulation end now!" At Ragnok's nodding Harry continued, "I wish everything to act as if this meeting never occurred. Mail duplicated and act as if still being 'diverted' to Albus, all records of his or anyone's interactions with my family assets to continue but for a record to be amassed of everything from the death of my parents to the moment we both crush this manipulative, simpleton of a wizard. Is there a way that I can transcribe all the events of my life at the Dursleys? I believe it would be most helpful in exposing his manipulations."
"This can easily accomplish all of this and will create a record for the exact moment we wish to hammer him with this trial. We will create a Banishing Box for you which all mail will past through to you. This will redirect all mail from you to us, we will copy it and send the originals to Albus. This will allow easy communication between us. Gringotts will sort it and send what is safe daily along with a record of exactly what mail came to you. At our next meeting we will show you how to remove copies of your memories as a part of the evidence we look to collect." At the end of the Goblin's statement Harry couldn't help smiling at the devious nature of Ragnok in front of him.
"That will be great Ragnok. I feel this is going to be of mutual benefit and growth for us both. I hope that I can continue to keep your wise council in the future. If there is nothing else for today, I would again thank you for your time and I hope we can meet again soon."
"Most Certainly my young Lord. I believe that we should plan a meeting after the world cup," At this Ragnok paused for a moment trying to decide if he should further help the young Lord. After a moment he began again, "I would also recommend that you also buy various books on Pureblood etiquette and familial histories. As you have taken up your lordships it will be important for you to understand how to deal with people in those circles. While you have done admirably with me various mistakes did occur. I hold none of this to you as it is due to your despicable 'Guardians' actions. Thank you for your time Harry. This has been a most interesting meeting. Let me retrieve your box. May your gold flow freely and your blades never dull."
"May your gold flow freely and your blades never dull Master Ragnok." Both, at this, bowed to each other.
After receiving the banishing box, he placed it and the warded, spelled toy rat within his new trunk that he promptly shrank as he exited the bank. Exiting, Harry departed for Knockturn Alley finding Wolfe Wands after quickly turning down the alley. Entering the establishment, he noted its empty state. Secure in his belief that he wasn't seen, he removed his invisibility cloak.
"Hello, Lord Potter. What brings you in here this fine day. You are certainly too old to be needing your first wand." Mr. Wolfe stated to him eyeing him curiously as he appeared from the back of the shop.
"Thank you for seeing me today Mr. Wolfe. While I don't need my first wand, I am in need of a new wand. During a conversation with my reconnected familiar he stated that my current wand had chosen me due to a way my magic was previously being affected. Now that the stain has been removed I…." Harry didn't get another word out as Mr. Wolfe snatched his wand out from him. Giving the tool a once over.
"I am sorry my Lord. This is despicable what has occurred with this wand. Due to how your magic was previously being bent, it is almost as if it is screaming in pain. What I can surmise is that only one of the foulest bits of dark magic could have forced this connection. I can see there recently was a drastic change in how your magic interacts. The wand is no longer a compete, bonded match. You must stop use of this wand immediately to save the core before the wood burns it through. I feel that it could still be of use to you. The Phoenix that gifted this feather much be quite taken with you. Also, please call me Sam."
"That's ok Mr… I mean Sam, Fawkes and I get along alright. That's nice that I might still be able to use the core. I have aslo brought two wand pieces that where freely given to me to see if they can be used in a new wand. Please call me Harry, if I am to call you Sam." Harry then unlocked the box from its warding with the password and handed it to the wand crafter.
"My word! A Nundu Fang and TWO Regal Thunderbird Tail Feathers."
"Yes sir. I wish to gift you one of the tail feathers to have as a small token of appreciation for crafting a new wand for me."
"This is a most extraordinary gift my boy. Thank you for this." The Crafter stated reverently then continued, "Let us head to the back and start the crafting process." As they entered the back of the shop Harry noticed all variations of wood and cores. Many more than he ever saw in Olivander's shop.
Sam then turned to him and started in, "Alright which is your dominate hand?" Harry answered, "It would be my right, but I am Ambidextrous."
"Intriguing" Sam then laid out an assortment of wood and instructed Harry how to use his magic to call forth wood or woods that react to his call.
"Since you are ambidextrous, I want you to call out with both hands outstretched. Start whenever you are ready." He said with a smile.
Harry gave him an odd look, shrugged and then closed his eyes. Focusing on his magic allowing it to flow freely he felt after some time the warmth Sam had mentioned. Acting on instinct he reached out to the warmth and immediately a different block of wood landed in each of his hands.
"Marvelous simply marvelous. Blocks of Yew and Lignum Vitae quite a pair you have their Mr. Potter. Your wand will be a most interesting craft for sure. This should be all I need I will have it ready in 3 hours."
Harry thanked him and was leaving when an empty jar flew over, slamming into his hands. Sam noticing this gasped. "Can you see what is in that jar Harry?"
"No S… Sam. What is it?"
"Curious, Most Curious…That is the hair of a Thestral. You are only able to see them if you have witnessed death. It seems you will have a most interesting wand Harry. Intriguing that it reacts to your magic, but you cannot see it. Hidden talents not allowed to be shown… or surface yet, perhaps. Due to the nature and volatility of the cores I feel we will require a vial of your blood. It may help bind them more strongly together. I think seven drops will do."
Harry immediately supplying the required blood and went on his way being asked to return in an hour.
Leaving the wand shop Harry immediately headed to the Olivanders. Harry did not want Dumbledore to know he had a second, untraceable wand, so he knew he needed this core to be able to continue working for him or replaced all together. Upon entering the shop, he was immediately started by Olivander:
"Mr. Potter what can I do for you. No issues with your wand I hope." The wand maker commented from behind Harry
"Hello, Mr. Olivander, unfortunately that is exactly why I am here. After I fully connected with my familiar something about the wand seems off. It still feels warm, but the wood is aggravating to my hand." At this Olivander eyed him up closely.
"You do seem different from before Mr. Potter. Like a weight has been lifted from you and a discovery has been made. This might explain the change. Let me look at your wand, if you please." At this Harry handed over the Holly and Phoenix wand and waited as Olivander disappeared into the back.
Several minutes later he reemerged from the back of his shop motioning for Harry to follow him.
"Mr. Potter I do not know why this sudden change in your wand's connection to you occurred, but I feel that from your statement we can still spare the phoenix feather and just need to find a more suitable wood for you. Please run your hands over these woods and look for one to have a strong pull on your magic."
As Harry went down the line, he had a hunch as to which wood would choose him but was surprised at the magics choice. He also noted a worry in Olivander's eyes, "Most interesting Elder wood. This shall be a most peculiar wand you have Mr. Potter… Many things in motion." The Wandmaker paused, composing himself.
"Fate…, it seems, desires your preparation." As Harry was being led out Olivander stated that it would be ready in half an hour. Asking for Olivander to help him with a couple glamor charms Harry left his shop for the Leaky Cauldron and had a quick lunch. After lunch he returned to Olivander's paid for the wand and quickly departed for Mr. Wolfe's.
Entering the store Harry called out for Sam who immediately replied from the back, "Impeccable timing you have Harry. I just completed your wand and I must say if it wasn't for you purchasing this wand, I would horde it as a keepsake and heirloom. This has to be one of the most complex wands I've created to date." As he finished, he handed Harry the Violet colored velvet box. As Harry opened the box, he gawked at what he could only describe as the most beautiful item he had ever seen. The wand had an almost chocolate hue to the shaft, richly marbled with a bright ivory and a grip matching the color of ivory. He could hardly pay attention to Mr. Wolfe as he described the wand:
"11¼" long, grip of Yew with a shaft constructed of Lignum Vitae, and marbling of Nundu Fang throughout. Core of Regal Thunderbird Tail Feather & Thestral Hair with your blood as a binder. Unbending, dynamic, almost playful your wand there. While it will most certainly be confident in all branches of magic, I feel it may take an exceptional liking towards protective warding, battle magics, transfiguration and spell crafting, though. If I where you Mr. Potter I would highly recommend you revise each of your last years of studies in Charms, Defense, and Transfiguration. While every aspect of your wand specifically chose or was gifted to you, I can see it will not except mediocrity. To master this wand will require effort. As such I will not place a tracking charm on this wand as you will need to be ready come the start of your year."
At this Harry gulped staring at his new wand thinking, 'I will not let us down'. Turning back to Mr. Wolfe, "Thank you Sam. What is spell crafting though?"
"Spell Crafting is an advanced branch of magic that combines arithmaic & runic formulas to create new hexes, jinxes, charms, wards and transfiguration. This is a branch of magic that is above NEWT standards and normally it is recommended to have a mastery in at least 2 branches of magic. I would recommend that you drop that joke of a class Divinations. Even a muggle could see you don't have the sight."
At that comment Harry couldn't hold back from his cheeks reddening and releasing a small laugh, " Err.. Thank you I will take care that at once. Can I get 2 wand holsters? Also, if you have any books on wand lore and crafting, I would happily buy a few. What would the total cost be?"
"250 Galleons for the wand & holsters, and I'll throw in all of my books for an additional 100."
Harry handed Sam the money, thanked him again and quickly departed. Realizing his list of work growing by the minute Harry quickly set off for Flourish & Blotts again to purchase the schoolbooks on Runes & Arithmancy, 3 books on etiquette and family ancestry's each, and a book on basic spell crafting. An hour later he departed the bookstore after quickly resizing his family trunk placing his purchase in there and re-shrunk it. Realizing the time and not wishing to incur his Uncle Vernon's wrath Harry departed Diagon Alley called the knight bus and departed for home.
"HOW are you just now finishing BOY!" Uncle Vernon Bellowed out.
"Sorry Uncle Vernon. 'Buildup of chores not done the past 8 months by anyone take time you arse.'" Harry stated. The last bit in his head.
"I'm sure you are. I'll make sure your list is just as long tomorrow. Too long you haven't earned your keep here Boy." Vernon stated with smug satisfaction
Harry simply replied, "Thank you Uncle Vernon. If we are done, I am going to head up to my room." Not waiting on a reply Harry darted up into his room and shut the door. Taking his new trunk out re sizing it Harry entered the library and study looking for the three family Grimoires. Eventually finding all three he sat down in the large wingback chair facing the large fireplace and went to opening each one. While originally a struggle he quickly learned a simple drop of blood unlocked each and bound them to him as a member of the family. Taking time to read each book carefully Harry started off by only reading about the family history of each line. It was amazing to hear about how each family came to be and live in areas of Britain.
The Potters had been originated from a noble class of mages that predated the Roman Republic. Helping to found the city. Claiming one of the seven hills and constructing the ancestral home of the Potters. A great many of the family held the ears of leaders constantly through the growth of the empire due to success in both business and war.
His family quickly came to dominate the trade of the Mediterranean due to their tactics. One theme that Harry quickly picked up on was that the Potters while ruthless in their conquest and business, never strove to be the "Head" of Governments. 'Shackled to the people' Aurelius Potter constantly preached to his heirs and the family during Octavian's acquiring of what would become his empire. They preferred instead to hold control in and through the shadows. Leading through whispers and prods. Eventually, seeing the writing on the walls, an opportunity to move the family to Britania was taken at the noticeable decline of the Empire. Already tied to the island through the Greengrass, Longbottoms, and Emrys families that dominated the island at the time, the Potters flourished. Over generations they would intermarry to many families that resided on the island including the strong Warmage clan of the Peverells many times over. The Peverells absorbed by the Potter family due to dwindling numbers.
If the Emrys where the hand of knowledge for the secluded island in what would be called Britania, the Peverell Family was the Hammer of its time. Warmages simple as that. Striving for 2 goals protection of family first and foremost and consumption of knowledge. If your family caused a blood feud with the Peverells you might as well give up your familial magic. The number of families desimated by them for not aligning with them was insurmountable.
Originating from Norway and Denmark. An area they quickly dominated. Over time as the numbers of magical families moved around, so too did the Peverells. Eventually settling on Britain's shores, becoming a house of great power within the country. Britania, as a whole, wasn't as accepting of their warlike tendencies. Slowly, through conflict and reduced numbers willing to carry the family name, it died out through its male line. The last daughter of Peverell married into the Potters and combined their familial magics together.
Harry found it interesting that the Peverells were one of the families that helped found the Transfiguration Mages Guild, Runes, and Charms Guild, but never shared the secrets containing the family rituals tied to a mage's growth. Both the Peverell's and the Potter's Grimoire adhered to the belief that a man should not start training as a Warmage or warmage spell casting until age of 15. With all the family rituals completed that lead to that point.
Looking at both books Harry was able to see that while he missed the original timing of these due to the old coot, he still had time to complete each of the familial rituals just after his 15th birthday. Four cleansed your body, mind, soul, and magic of any blocks or abnormalities, one helped you establish connection with your core and how to manipulate it to grow, another ritual worked to increase magical endurance (Reducing magic needed to perform spells, Increasing duration a mage could cast), and the last of the family rituals coved early maturation of one's magical core.
The Peverell Grimoire recommended that there be at least 10 months between the core manipulation ritual and the endurance ritual. Then for the mage to take 3 months to prepare for the maturation ritual. The first four rituals where to be completed every seven days starting on his 11th birthday. Frowning at this, 'I have a lot to catch up on. I will send for the necessary products I need to be ready for the 1st.'Harry quickly penned a letter to the apothecary asking for all products for the ritual but realized that Hedwig was already out on a long mission. "I hope Hedwig comes back soon I only have 4 days to prepare for these 4 rituals…" Harry stated to himself before being almost scared out of his shorts by Dobby, "Great Master Harry Potter Sir Dobbys cans be doing its." He cried out in glee.
"Dobby what are you doing here? Have you found work?"
At these questions Dobby's head sagged, "No Sirs Master Harry Potter Sirs. Nobodys wanting to hire Dobby. Dobby wants wages, but Dobbys needing Magics of a Master to be healthy"
"Well Dobby if you're looking for work, I'll hire you. I would never want you to be unhealthy because of me!"
"You wills, Harry Potter Sir?" As Harry nodded Dobby jumped into Harrys arms thanking him over and over.
"Harry Potter Sirs is the best master evers. Dobby is wantings to bond to Harry Potters instead."
"Why can't we do both Dobby? I'll pay you a galleon a week in allowance and 1 day off a week. How's that sound?"
"No Sirs, 2 galleons a month and 1 day off a month. Dobby wants to works for Master Harry Potter." At this Harry Agreed to Dobby and they quickly cemented the bond. After which he asked Dobby to head to Diagon Alley to purchase all that he needed for the rutuals and asked if Dobby could stock the kitchen in his trunk so he could have 3-4 meals a day.
"No worries Master Harry Potter Sirs. Dobbys taking cares of everything." Harry smiled at this, "You're a great friend Dobby. Thank you for being here for me."
After another round of crying from Dobby he left with a soft pop and Harry returned everything to his trunk, shrunk it down and pocketed it into his bed clothes, Harry did not want someone to find out that he had this trunk. As he turned in, he crossed his arms over his stomach happy with the progress that was being made. Just before he fell asleep, he softly said, "Home to Avalon."