The Forgotten Heiress

by stardancer10

Everyone knew that Harry Potter was The Boy Who Lived, but they didn't know he had a twin sister. Hazel Roselyn Potter was the lost and forgotten twin of Harry. Only when she misses her sorting did the world become aware that there even was another Potter child. In a twist of fate it the machinations of her father James and Albus Dumbledore that sought to remove her existence.

2. Chapter 2

The Olde Ways of the Pureblood society in the British Enclaves had rigorous rules, rites, and rituals; all of which dictated specific venues and attendance requirements. When a House's War Council was called, all of the cadet branches and each blood relative must attend. Allies from across political lines also attended. Depending on the reason behind the War Council, additional families were courted in hopes to gain additional backing.

A War Council was exactly what it sounded like. For one to be assembled a grievous and heinous crime against a family member must occur. They often resulted in Blood Feuds and the ruining of the offending House. One such case is that of the Malfoys vs. the Weasley family two centuries prior. When a Weasley ran off and married the betrothed of a Malfoy, a War Council had been called, thus the fall of House Weasley had begun.

The Black House was now calling its War Council. Heiress Hazel Potter had been abused in the most heinous of ways. A magical child, especially one with such a strong magical core was to be cherished. House Black and its Magics were seething and baying for blood. There would be retribution.

Sirius had opened the family's ancient ancestral home, the Blackmore Estate. Built on the ancient ruins of their elemental and druidic ancestors' dwelling, Blackmore Estate was bursting with magic making it nearly sentient. The wards here were volatile and imposing, and nothing like anyone else had ever seen or experienced.

Specialized portkeys had been provided to the attending members of the War Council. Lord Sirius Black stood leaning against the mantle of the imposing fireplace in the antechamber where the attendees would arrive. Beside him Remus Lupin, acting Regent for House Potter waited, his eyes flashing amber with his building rage.

Severus Snape arrived shortly followed by Lord Ian Rowle. Madam Bones, acting Regent of House Bones arrived, nodding to the others. Madam Longbottom popped into view and took her place beside Amelia. One after another people were entering the antechamber, standing against the walls waiting. Members of House Black began arriving, waiting silently for their Lord to address them.

When the last portkey arrived Sirius straightened and began chanting in Latin. The fire in the fireplace rose and sparks burst forth, swirling around the room. The wards answered the call, dropping Lucius Malfoy and several others to their knees. The atmosphere in the room became nearly suffocating as he continued to chant, calling his House Magic.

"You have been called here to answer the call of House Black," Sirius intoned, his eyes glowing eerily. "This War Council is to protect it's Heiress, Hazel Potter and seek retribution for the attacks on her person. She is ours to protect and ours to keep. Magical blood has been spilt and those responsible will pay in kind."

"Aye!" was the answering call.

"Those found prostrate at the moment will have a chance to explain," Sirius told the room. "As the betrothed and bonded to Heir Rowle, Heiress Potter-Black will have the additional protection of House Rowle. House Black welcomes House Rowle to its fold and embraces the magical betrothal in remembrance of an alliance from days of old. United our Houses will ensure the safety of Hazel and any other of its members in need of sanctuary."

"So mote it be," the room intoned reverently.

"Come," Sirius said with a cold smile. "Let us convene in the War Council Hall."

The group followed Lord Black out of the room and into a large circular room. The table was round and the wall sconces ignited, bursting with sparking flames. One by one the members of the War Council took a seat at the table. Sirius sat in the Lord's chair with Remus at his right and Lord Rowle to his left.

Taking the silver chalice and ceremonial athame, Sirius faced the room. He watched several people shift uncomfortably and gave a wolfish grin. Here and now there would be several that would answer for their actions.

"Blood of my blood

Magic of mine

I invoke these rites

As old as time

Judgement and retribution

I seek the truth

To find a resolution

To protect the youth

I call on the Magics

Of mine House

To invoke War Council

Protecting the Heiress of my House

With this Council

Retribution be swift

Protecting our future

Magic's own gifts

With these words

I summons thee

As I will it

So mote it be."

Slicing his palm, he let his blood fall into the chalice, passing both to Lord Rowle. Magic boomed and the ancient manor shook. Flames ignited in the chalice before going out abruptly. Lightning arced in the sky outside as a storm suddenly swept in off the sea. A raven flew into the room, landing on Sirius's shoulder.

Sirius froze with the arrival of the raven. His family's totem was a raven, proudly shown on their coat of arms. Not many outside of his House knew the significance however, but he had a feeling they would before the day was out.

With a caw, the raven took to flight before landing in the center of the table and transforming into Morgana Le Fay. Her dark black hair had feathers throughout it as it hung in wavy curls down her back. Her blood red lips, full and pouty, formed into a dark smile. It was, however, her eyes that captivated them. They were of the same silvery gray as the House Black was known for.

"Greetings House Black," her sensual voice rang out in the room. "Magic has blessed this Council as such, I have deemed it worthy. House Black, named for my ancestors and kin, it is time to remind the British Enclaves of its might. Lord Black you are charged with bringing ours to its former glory. Weed the vines as needed and bring in the new blood that is necessary to bring forth a more powerful bloodline."

"Your will, my lady." Sirius bowed his head reverently.

"Know this," Morgana said, looking around the room. "Magic is failing and leaving many of the families because of their so-called blood status. New blood is needed to continue the lines, to invigorate them. Those that fail to do so will breed themselves out."

Sirius sat back, watching with wide eyes. He could see the wheels turning in several people's heads and knew that the word of Morgana La Fay would hold weight. To ignore the warning, especially at a War Council would be a slight that neither she nor Magic would ignore. The future, he mused, would be that much more interesting.

"Your Heiress is mine," Morgana said firmly. "Her grievances are mine and I shall have my pound of flesh. Heiress Hazel Potter-Black will help lead our world to new heights. Even now she has brought many to this table simply by existing and surviving. Aye, she is mine and her enemies are mine. So mote it be."

With a flash of lighting, Morgana La Fay leapt, turning into a raven, and disappearing into the night. The room was left in stunned silence. There were shivers of fear down the spines of many. Both Magic and Morgana La Fay just blessed the Council and put Heiress Hazel Potter-Black under their protection. The darker families were sitting at attention and knew that they would be changing loyalties without protest. The lighter families were a bit weary, but knew that the blessings given would protect an innocent.

Lord Rowle sat stunned beside Lord Black. He was reeling with what had just occurred but knew that his House had a boon in having Hazel becoming a future member. Turning he stood facing Lord Black. Clasping his forearm in his own, he gripped him in an old warrior's greeting.

"Our Houses will face this together," Lord Rowle said firmly. "Your enemies are mine, as are your grievances and battles. House Rowle will stand with the house of our Heir's betrothed and protect her as its own. She is the hope of our future and to be our Lady. We honor her and pledge to protect her from any and all that would do her harm. So mote it be."

The answering boom of thunder coincided with the flash of magic between the pair. Several others stood giving their own pledges. Those that had been found prostrate in the antechamber were each given the opportunity to explain. Many had found themselves reluctant followers of the self styled Dark Lord. Their fathers had offered their services and most of them were not given a choice, but to join.

As such, the truth of the Dark Lord, his intentions and his actions were laid bare. Horcurxes! The bastard son of a near squib and a muggle had made Horcruxes. Amelia Bones was standing attention and demanded all information regarding this. Lord Malfoy offered everything that he knew, vowing to make sure that the Dark Lord could not rise. With the invoking of Magic, his words rang true.

"Now for the final part of this council." Sirius said hoarsely, hardly believing the threat they were facing. "It is time for House Black to have their own private Council as it is now House business. I thank you for your assistance and coming in our time of need House Black will remember this day and the alliances made.

The rest of the Council left, their portkeys activating. Many of them would be aiding Madam Bones in hunting down the Horcruxes. Lord Malfoy offered to bring in a journal that had been entrusted to his late father. He also mentioned something that had been given to the LeStranges. It was a start, but they had a long way to go.

Lord Black sat wearily, feeling older than his young thirty years of age. Lord Rowle looked no better beside him. Remus Lupin looked to be struggling not to allow his werewolf alter ego to surface. The remaining members of House Black sat quietly, waiting for their Lord.

"Effective immediately, House Black weeds Bellatrix LeStrange, nee Black from its vine. We find that she is unfit to be of our blood and of our magics." Sirius said harshly. "As such we deem the magical contract with House LeStrange null and void and evoke the clauses of it by right and cause. No magical children were born, and House Lestrange has been found unworthy of our former daughter. All monies and properties are claimed as our own, so mote it be."

Hundreds of miles away on an island in the middle of the sea there was a wail followed by two hoarse screams. In the morning the guards would go to check the prisoners and find that House LeStrange had been ended. None of its members would be found to have any traces of magic in them. All properties and monies would pass to House Black.

Sirius called for Nib, the head elf of Blackmore Estate. He told his elf to have the goblins search the LeStrange vaults for a class nine dark artifact that House Black just became aware of. Nib popped away while those at the table waited in silence.

Narcissa Malfoy looked down at her hands. They were trembling in fear and rage. This was not the future she had wanted for herself. While she had come to care for Lucius, she had never wanted to marry the strutting peacock. Over time he had been poisoning her son, her only child against her. Before returning to Malfoy Manor, she would speak with Sirius about returning to her House and bringing her son with her. Lucius broken their own marriage contract by denying her any more children. They should have had at least two more children, one to be and Heir of House Black, and another to be Heir of House Rosier, her parents respective Houses.

As if sensing her thoughts, Lucius tensed and looked towards his wife. He knew that he had gambled and would lose much for his actions. Giving the information he knew was as much for self-preservation as it was to redeem himself. However, he knew that Narcissa would have just cause if she had Black evoke the clauses of his own marriage contract. His future at the moment looked bleak at best.

Sirius stood, watching the cadet members of House Black. Looking towards Andromeda Tonks, nee Black, he knew that he would bring the Tonks family officially into the fold. Marius Black, even as a squib, would also be brought back. It was time for their House to stand together.

In the end he did bring Andromeda Tonks and her family back into the family as well as Marius and two other squibs that had been cast out. House Black grew by several members that day, even if it has lost three. By the looks of things, it would be losing one or two more depending on the meeting with Narcissa.

"Lord Black," Narcissa said softly. "I wish to have an audience with you at your earliest convenience."

"We can sit and meet now, 'Cissa." Sirius replied tiredly. "What can House Black do for its Daughter?" he asked formally.

"I am unsure if I wish to remain married to the man my father gave me to," she said emotionally. "Ours was never a love match and he would not have been my first choice. I married him because my father said I must do so. The clauses of our contract have not been met and he has turned my son and only child into his clone."

"I see," Sirius said, steepling his fingers. "What is it you wish to do, cousin? We can call the contract null and void and bring you and your son back to our House. You also have the option of forcing the clauses on him, however you appear to not want anything to do with him."

"I once dreamed of being a Healer," she whispered. "However, I am little more than a trophy wife to a man that I can barely tolerate most days. I adore my son, but I fear Lucius had poisoned his mind."

Sirius sat back and took a deep breath. "Would you and your child take a vow of loyalty and fealty to House Black?" he finally asked. "If you do, I will call the marriage null and void and seek reparations for the slight."

"I will make such a vow," she said emotionally. "I will have Draco make the same vow, but he will need tutelage in the ways of House Black. I was banned from his instruction after he turned five."

"Another slight to our House," Sirius murmured. "Very well, bring Draco here and call your personal elf to pack both of your things. You will live here with the rest of the House when they are in residence. I will expect that he be instructed of his place within our family."

"Of course, my lord." She said standing and bowing to her cousin. "Thank you, cousin. I will go to Hogwarts and return with my son."

Lord Sirius Black sat in the Lord's chair staring at the grains in the wood of the ancient table. Rumor had it, the round table was fashioned after this table. He felt Remus nudge him and glanced at his friend.

"We will need to discuss the lines of succession of House Potter," Remus reminded him. "Hazel is the Heiress by right and birth, however it would leave things very awkward and strained between herself and Harry."

Sirius nodded in agreement, but was unsure how to resolve the issue. He knew that House Potter had several other Houses that it had inherited and absorbed over the centuries. In actuality, Hazel was the Heiress for Potter, Gryffindor, and Perevell. Harry it turned out was Heir to Slytherin and Guant by right of conquest, thus proving his defeat of the Dark Lord. That meant that there were three Houses that needed to be figured out.

"Well, I would need to discuss this with Hazel," Sirius said tiredly. "However, if we let Harry inherit the Lordship of House Potter, but had her inherit the remaining two Houses as well as House Black, it would be an even split between them. Perhaps that would be enough of a balance for Harry to not throw a fit?"

The pair fell into a strained silence. Both knew that Harry had been doted on and was more than a little spoiled. They still loved the boy, but they also knew that it may be an uphill battle with him. His father and Dumbledore had not helped keeping his ego grounded.

"It's reasonable," Remus mused. "Plus, Hazel will gain additional duties as Lady Rowle. Apparently, Dumbledore made Harry his Heir as well, it was discovered this morning in the paperwork. There is still a lot to sort through, but I think it may be the best solution and approach."

Lord Rowle had left with Mrs. Tonks to check on their children who they had left watching over Hazel. The pair of Marauders were left to their thoughts as they waited for Narcissa Malfoy to return. Sirius had sensed when her elf had popped in with her and Draco's belongings, so he knew that she would be arriving soon.

An hour later, a belligerent Draco and a very emotional Narcissa arrived at Blackmore Estate. Lucius had been waiting for her at Hogwarts, hoping to appeal to her. At her refusal the man looked wrecked, but left without another word.

"We are here, my lord." Narcissa said softly. "I apologize for the delay."

"Are you well, cousin?" Sirius asked the trembling woman. "We can delay this until morning if needs be."

"No, that will not be necessary. I would rather have this done now," she murmured.

Reluctantly, Draco repeated his mother's vow of loyalty and fealty to House Black. He was shocked to feel the weight of House Black's magic thrum through him. He nearly wept when he felt the magics of House Malfoy leave him. He was now Draco Black, his parents' marriage was dissolved as the clauses and codices had not been followed.

"You are both welcome here," Sirius said, standing beside the pair. "You can return to school in the morning, Draco. Rest and let the Family Magic settle within you."

Thorfinn ran his hand over his face in exhaustion. His magic was wrapped tightly around his little betrothed resting in a magical coma in the hospital bed. Shifting to get more comfortable in the chair, he reached over to hold her tiny hand in his own. He swallowed thickly at how small and fragile she really was.

Hazel had pixie like features and a delicate build. Her hair was black and fell in unruly waves past her shoulders. Her injuries were healing well, but the healers were not sure how she would be mentally after having gone through so much trauma.

Lord Black had left him and Dora Tonks to stand guard over Hazel while he and his father left to attend the Black Family War Council. House Black was on the move and would wage war on those that had harmed its Heiress. There was a reason the Blacks were sought after by every faction. Their reputation for ruthlessness preceded them and their magical prowess was coveted.

Many Houses would fall in the aftermath of Hazel's plight. While Thorfinn wished to make the savages responsible for his little bond mate's condition bleed with his bare hands, her need for him trumped that thirst for battle and blood. He could feel her magic seeking his out and their bond strengthening and solidifying. He would not leave her side now, or ever.

"She's going to be alright," Dora whispered softly to him. "Hazel seems to be a strong girl and her magic is stronger still to have kept her alive as long as she has survived. She will heal and get better, and we will help her."

"Thank you," Thorfinn murmured in reply. "I fear that she will struggle to accept help and where she will be mentally. I just hope that we were in time before anything irreversible was done."

Hazel stirred and whimpered softly. Her hand tightened briefly on Thorfinn before she turned and nuzzled her face against it, seeking comfort. He scooted his chair closer and reached out cautiously to run his free hand through her hair in a soothing manner. Holding his breath he watched as she settled and sighed as her body relaxed.

"I'm right here, astin min," he murmured to her. "None shall ever harm you again, little one. You're safe and will remain so. Rest, elska. I will watch over you."

Nymphadora Tonks looked over to her younger classmate in astonishment. He was a large young man, broad in shoulder and very tall for his age. He truly looked like his Viking ancestors in appearance. However, he was such a gentle giant to those that he deemed worthy. She had seen him comforting and protecting younger students before at school, but witnessing him with Hazel in person was a sight.

"She is lucky to have you," Dora told him honestly. "I think that you will both be happy together and exactly what the other needs."

Thorfinn ducked his head, feeling the heat of his blush creep up his neck and face. It was not often that he let others see this side of him, but for Hazel he was sure that he would do just about anything. Within a few more weeks their magic would be fully in tune with one another. For her he would be her shield and sword, her safe harbor from those that would seek to harm or take advantage of. And for him, she would be his life mate and companion. One day when they were both older she would become his wife and mother to their children. She would be honored and protected.

Days passed and still Hazel remained in her healing coma. She could hear the voices around her, but could not place them. She knew that she was safe and away from her cupboard. Her magic felt at peace, at ease wherever she was. She also felt the magic of another wrapping around her in a safe and warm cocoon. The deep soothing voice made her feel safe and cherished.

It was three weeks after her admission to the hospital that Thorfinn realized she would awaken soon. His magic and her alerted him to the fact that she would soon come to alertness and consciousness. Her healers were on standby as Thorfinn continued to read to her.

Over the past weeks he had spent countless hours at her side. He would do his schoolwork at her bedside and read to her. His choices ranged from her first-year books to wizarding novels or classics. He also talked to her about his family and himself. He told her of his hopes and dreams of their future.

Hazel began coming to consciousness and realized that she was in a warm and soft bed. She felt a larger, warm, calloused hand holding her own gently. Her mind tried to place it, place him. Whimpering slightly, her head throbbed, and the young man ran his hand over her brow gently, urging her to take it easy.

The healers bustled into the room and began to gently coax Hazel awake. They watched as she blinked her eyes, wincing at the lighting. They dimmed the lighting and spoke to her softly and gently. She unconsciously clutched Thorfinn's hand like a lifeline.

"Where am I?" her voice croaked out.

"You're at St. Mungo's Hospital," her head healer answered. "You were found locked in a cupboard in a bad way, but we've healed you. Can you tell us what you remember last?"

"There was a letter in the post," she replied shakily. "My uncle and aunt became belligerent reading that it was addressed to me. They tried to beat the freakishness out of me. After the house began filling with letters, it got worse and they left me to die."

"Thank you for telling us, dear." One of the nurses replied in a choked voice. "You're safe now and those responsible will be facing criminal charges for your treatment."

Hazel burst into tears and sobbed. Thorfinn, in a panic, sat on the edge of her bed and pulled her into his arms carefully. He murmured to her in the tongue of his ancestors. She cried in earnest, but clung to him, burrowing closer to his larger frame seeking shelter and comfort.

Thorfinn was hunched over, curling around her protectively. He felt their magic reach out for one another as they sought to comfort and assure one another subconsciously. His own eyes pricked with unshed tears as he felt her tremble.

"Easy, little one." He murmured to her. "You're safe, astin min. I've got you." His voice rumbled softly.

Lord Black entered the room and stopped seeing his goddaughter in the arms of her betrothed. She was clearly distraught and in distress, but Throfinn was calming and soothing her. Lord Rowle was not far behind him as the healers pulled him aside and began explaining to him in hushed voices what the next course of action would need to be.

Young Hazel would need several weeks of rest and additional nutrient potions before she would be cleared for any sort of magical practice. She would be able to be discharged to the care of Lord Black in a few days once they were certain of her physical and mental state. If her magical core was stable enough, she would be able to practice magic in a month's time. However, they strongly recommended that she be homeschooled and tutored privately to allow her to progress at her own pace.

"She will have all of that and more," Sirius assured them. "We already have several tutors under our employ for Heir Rowle and my cousin Dora. They have been learning at home during this trying time."

"I understand, Lord Black." The head healer replied quietly. "We need to assess her slowly over the next few days so as not to overwhelm her. Heir Rowle and Miss Tonks have been integral parts in her healing and recovery. We feel that young Hazel would benefit from their continued presence."

"Lord Black and I will come to an arrangement with Hogwarts to allow this," Lord Rowle replied. "This is House business and the healing and health of a young Heiress is at stake."

"Agreed," Sirius replied, looking over at Hazel relaxing in Thorfinn's arms.

"I shall leave you to speak with your Heir," the healer said formally to Sirius.

Sirius approached the hospital bed, waving off Thorfinn's wide eyed look. While not wholly appropriate, his actions were chaste and meant to comfort Hazel. Lord Rowle raised an eyebrow, smothering a smirk while looking at his large son gently cradling Hazel to his chest.

"Hello, little one." Sirius said softly. "I'm Sirius Black, your godfather, love. I've been searching for you for many years. We did not know what happened to you, but you are safe now. Once you're well enough you'll come home with me and you will be safe and loved."

"Why didn't my parents want me?" she asked softly. "I don't understand."

"I will explain it all to you, I promise." Sirius replied. "However, right now we want to focus on you healing and feeling better. I will tell you everything eventually, but for now as hard as it may be I'm asking you to trust me. Those responsible are still being prosecuted and your mother is in the process of being healed as well."

"Aunt Petunia said no one wanted me," Hazel said, looking down at her hands. "She said that I was left on their doorstep and they were forced to take me in."

"I don't want you to think about or believe anything that vindictive cow said to you," Sirius said firmly. "You are loved and cherished by those in this room and many others. I promise you that you will never know such abuse and hardship again, love."

"Why do I feel so safe with you?" she whispered, finally looking up at Thorfinn. "I don't understand."

"Let's start by letting you know that you're a witch and magic is real," Sirius said, saving the panicked looking Thorfinn. "The letters you were receiving were your acceptance letters to Hogwarts, a school for witches and wizards to learn magic."

Hazel trembled slightly, but she felt Thorfinn run a hand over her hair and down her back in a soothing gesture. She felt warm and safe in his arms where she would normally not want to be touched at all. Magic, she had magic and she was pretty certain that her magic and the boy holding her had magic that got along well.

"Okay," she replied in a shaky whisper. "Magic and I'm a witch, got it."

"Some families are old," Sirius explained. "Far older than others, much like the nobility and monarchy of England. Our society is very patriarchal and has many old customs. These customs are considered to be sacred. One of these customs are betrothal contracts between families. Some of them are ancient and only activated when the right parameters are met. House Rowle has an open contract with both Houses Potter and Black. You, little love and Throfinn, meet those parameters."

"I'm not sure I understand," she said softly.

"When you are older," Sirius stuttered a bit, fumbling over the words, "you and Thorfinn will someday marry to meet the requirements of the contracts. It will not be right away, you will both have time to meet your age of majority and seek whatever fields of study or employment you wish. We will not push for it to occur immediately, but you will eventually need to marry one another. It is our hope that your marriage will eventually be one of love and mutual respect and understanding."

Hazel turned wide eyed to look up at the larger boy. He was closer to a man than a boy, but he was still young. He peered down at her uncertainly, vulnerably. She offered him a shaky smile and nodded carefully.

"We can work on being friends first, astin min." Thorfinn assured her. "You are still very young, and need to heal. Some day when we are both older we can see our relationship become one that is more, but for now we are friends first, and always I hope."

Hazel smiled, "I've never had a friend before."

The week passed by quickly and Hazel was released to the care of Lord Black. They moved to the family's country estate where she was introduced to the rest of the large family and the cadet branches. The family was rallying behind their Lord and Heiress and out for blood from those that had treated the young girl so poorly.

Thorfinn and Dora returned to Hogwarts for classes during the day but floo'd home in the evenings and most weekends to continue their interactions with Hazel. Interim Headmistress McGonagall allowed for their departure as did the Board of Governors as it was House business.

The rumors around Hogwarts were swirling like mad. No one was sure what to believe. Hazel Potter was the talk of the school until Thorfinn Rowle unleashed his fury on one unsuspecting muggleborn that was disparaging the young heiress, blaming her for the fall of Dumbledore. The young man was brought to the hospital wing and then that night at dinner it was explained that Heiress Potter-Black was the betrothed of Heir Rowle and any slight against her was a slight against him.

The Purebloods and half-bloods acted accordingly and warned their muggleborn counterparts of the ramifications of further gossip. Many muggleborns did not understand the custom or how it was still in practice. It seemed archaic to them. It was one of the reasons that Purebloods and muggleborns did not get along.

Ancient customs were sacred to the Purebloods. Many families had ancient betrothal contracts waiting to be enacted. It was a way to strengthen ties between families and assure promising futures to their heirs. Many acknowledged that the practice was falling out of practice and favor, but a decrease in population and more muggleborns were part of that.

Theirs was a patriarchal society that was somewhat feudal in many aspects. Not everyone agreed with everything, in fact more and more people were following more modern customs. However, many of the conservative or traditional still practiced the Olde ways.

An example of someone toeing the line on both camps was Lord Sirius black. He had taken the mantle of his lordship in order to make his goddaughter his heir and later to find her. He used his influence to try to balance between the more modern ways and pay homage to the Olde ways. He was raised a gentleman and to have care where females and children were concerned. However, he believed that a female child should and could be able to inherit the mantle of Head of House, hence making Hazel his Heir.

Thorfinn Rowle sat at the Slytherin table eating his breakfast, looking around the Great Hall. Glancing at the Gryffindor table, he saw the small figure of Harry Potter sitting quietly beside his two sidekicks. Snorting in disgust he looked back down at his plate having lost his appetite. He wanted to beat the little welp, but knew that no real blame lay at his feet.

"Alright there, Finn?" Marcus Flint asked him carefully.

"Aye," he replied gruffly.

"How is your betrothed?" the slightly younger and slightly smaller boy asked cautiously. "I hope that she is well. Please send her my regards and that of my family," Flint stuttered out formally.

Nodding, "She is well." Thorfinn replied in a measured tone. "She is settling in with House Black and taking to her lessons well. Her House business does not allow for her to attend Hogwarts at this time. She may actually continue her education either at home or choose to attend Beauxbatons."

"I thought all Potters attended Hogwarts?" a nasally voice slightly down the table interjected.

"Miss Parkinson," Thorfinn gritted out tersely. "You would do well to mind your manners and your own business. The affairs of my House and that of my betrothed have nothing to do with you. Should you fail to remember this a missive will be sent to House Parkinson from my Lord, father."

Pansy Parkinson paled dramatically and nodded. "I apologize, Heir Rowle."

Nodding, Thorfinn pushed back from the table to stand. He would not waste anymore time with those that he felt didn't deserve to even speak of Hazel. While still just a child she was already the center of his world and existence. He would do whatever he deemed necessary to protect her, his honor and that of his House dictated nothing less.

For Harry Potter, his entire world had turned upside down. He barely remembered having a sibling at all. His father had told him that he no longer had a sibling and that he was the Heir of House Potter. Finding out that he still had a sister and that she was Heiress to everything was a punch in the gut. Finding out that his mother had been controlled and potioned made him sick to his stomach. When he had been informed of what had happened to his sister he vomited.

How could his father and Dumbledore do that? He just did not understand. Sure, he would have loved to be Heir, but not at the cost of his sister or his mother's freedom. Everything about his life had been a lie!

Many people had distanced themselves from him in the fallout and fall from grace his face and Dumbledore had taken. Sure he was The Boy Who Lived, but his life was now a mess and he had no idea how to fix it. His mother was in the hospital, his father and Dumbledore arrested, his godfathers were busy. He did not know who to turn to.

Meanwhile at Blackmore Estate, Hazel was thriving. Andromeda Tonks and Narcissa Malfoy were tutoring her in the ways of being Heiress and Lady of the House. She was not only learning magic, but proper etiquette and decorum. She was learning the Olde ways and customs.

In the evenings she spent time doing homework or practicing her magic. Oftentimes Thorfinn and Dora would attend and spend time with her as well. She enjoyed both of their company and adored Finn. He was such a gentle giant and she knew that one day when they were older that they could have a very happy life together.

It would take her time, but she would catch up with her peers. She had a thirst for knowledge and wanted to prove herself. She was cautioned to take things easy and to take her time. She flourished under the gentle praise and tutelage of House Black.

Her only setback was the arrival of her mother Lily Potter to Blackmore. Hazel had fled to her suite of rooms and refused to leave for nearly a week upon the arrival of the redhead. Nothing anyone could say or do would make her leave.

Much to the dismay of her family, Thorfinn had entered her rooms unchaperoned and shut the door with a firm click. He had sat with her near her fire in one of the large, overstuffed chairs and held her as she wept. When Lord Black owled him in the Great Hall he had been dismissed from his classes for the day and fled to the nearest floo to get to her side.

"Elska," he murmured softly. "You mustn't carry on so, darling. You're safe and loved here. Yes, your mother is now here, but she too needs healing. From what we know she too was a victim. I'm not telling you to do anything one way or another. I'm only suggesting that you not close yourself off. Someday you may want to reconcile, but no one is going to force you."

Hazel nodded into his broad chest, breathing in his scent. Closing her eyes, she knew that he was right. Logically she knew that she was safe, but everything came back to her at once seeing her mother step through the floo. Lily Potter had turned and walked towards her quickly, triggering her flight response.

"I don't know what to do, Finn." She whispered into the crook of his neck. "I don't think I can be around her yet. I know that she is just as much a victim, but I can't help how I feel."

"Easy, love." He murmured, kissing the crown of her head. "You are allowed to think and feel whatever you do. It will take time, but we have plenty to get there."

"Thank you," she said, lulling to sleep listening to the sound of his voice and the steady beat of his heart.

"Always, astin min. I will always be here for you," he promised.

Carefully he stood and walked to her bed. Tucking her in he left her room quietly. Lord Black was leaning against the wall across the hallway. Thorfinn met his hooded gaze and swallowed thickly. Though typically a genial man, Lord Black was right scary when he needed to be.

"She will need more time before she will feel comfortable enough to be around Ms. Potter," Thorfinn managed to say. "She fell asleep while we were talking and is now resting. She's overwhelmed with everything, but will be alright."

"You are lucky that I trust and respect you," Sirius said firmly. "Next time the door stays open, do you understand me?"

"I understand and apologize for the infraction," Thorfinn said, blushing hotly. "My main concern was comforting her and giving her privacy to voice her concerns."

"As I said I trust you, however it will not happen again," Sirius told him with blazing eyes. "Her honor dictates that she be afforded your respect and courtesy. If others were to find out you would impugn her honor by being in her sleeping quarters alone with the door closed."

Thorfinn looked down at the floor in shame. "I understand. It was not my intent at all, sir. She's still a child and so guarded. I just wanted her to be comfortable."

"You're lucky that there are monitoring charms," Sirius replied gruffly. "We will overlook this at this time, but I mean it, never again."

Thorfinn followed Sirius back down to the main level of the Manor to the large drawing room. They sat talking for a while before Hazel cautiously entered the room. She threw herself into Sirius' arms and hugged him before going to sit beside Thorfinn on the sofa.

"Feeling better?" Sirius asked her.

"Yes, I'm sorry that I acted so poorly," she replied softly. "You did tell me that she would be staying with us here, but I just was not expecting her to come towards me expecting to hug me. I'm not ready to be around her much less have an affectionate relationship with her. Logically I know that she was just as much of a victim, but I just can't yet."

"Agreed and understood, pup." Sirius said with a smile. "You do not have to do anything that you're not ready for. Your healer will be here tomorrow morning for a session with you. Please feel free to speak with Healer Brown regarding anything and everything."

"I will," she replied with a shaky smile.

They fell into easy conversation and were soon joined by several others of House Black. Thorfinn took his leave and made his way home for dinner that evening. He promised to check in with Hazel before bidding them good evening.

Time passed quickly for everyone. Slowly but surely, Hazel and her mother were healing. Tentatively Hazel spoke with Lily, but that was as far as she allowed their interactions. Physically, Hazel was on her way to being fully healed, however she would always been short in stature. Her healer cautioned that she would be lucky to reach over five foot in height. Mentally, she still had her demons, but was facing them as time went on.

Soon it was winter and Christmas and the Yule holiday were fast approaching. Thorfinn had a set of magical bangles crafted by the goblins for Hazel. They would be their first betrothal gift and were etched in intricate runes of protection. They were imbued with magic and would alert him if she were ever in danger or in need of him. It was a serious gift, but it would help protect her and solidify their bond.

Thorfinn intended to become a Curse Breaker and would most likely be out of the country for long spans of time before Hazel reached her majority. Only then would they be able to begin a formal courtship, but in the meantime, he meant to shower her with gifts and tokens that would hopefully show her of his intent and affection for her to keep.

Sirius was taking it upon himself to show her what it meant to truly have a family. He was going all out for the Holidays and showering her with gifts. He adored his goddaughter and if he had it his way, she would want for nothing.

The only setback or apprehension around the upcoming festivities was the arrival of Harry. Hazel was unsure of how to even interact with her twin. He had not known about her or what had happened to her so she could not find him at fault. She was going to give him the benefit of the doubt and go from there.

The arrival of Harry was a stressful day. The boy threw himself into his mother's waiting arms and then cautiously approached his godfathers. He looked over at the smaller girl who he now knew to be his twin sister. He gave her a shaky smile before introducing himself. The pair tentatively talked, causing the adults to give a sigh of relief.