Chapter 67
The judges gave their individual points on how they viewed the boy's performance, and many of them were startled by what they saw. Arcturus, Hayato, and Giichi swelled with pride as Harry's skills became more polished and refined. Alastor let out a booming laugh as there was no doubt that Potter was just like his grandfather, mixed with Arcturus's ruthlessness. Hell, the lad had more brains and power than half the Auror corps. It would be like looking at a younger version of his former mentors whenever he saw him. There would be no doubt about it, but when Potter had his magical maturity, he would be a force to be reconned with as he was a cunning and pragmatic warrior.
Albus was beside himself with concern as he witnessed Harry's power. As an expert of the arcane branches of magic, he knew about some of the spells used as they were dangerous if fallen into the wrong hands. However, that said, some of the spells he knew nothing about, and it irked him to no end. After returning, Albus learned that Harry had repeatedly gone to chamber secrets and spent most of his time there. This would not bold well for his future plans as he couldn't allow Harry to become too powerful the greater good demanded it. He would need to get his hands on the books, scrolls, and other items before Harry had the chance to use them himself. The items in the chamber of secrets should only be exclusive to him as he was meant to be the greatest wizard in the world. Harry was meant to be his champion of the light. His puppet. Something had to be done as it was only a matter of time before Tom returned.
Meanwhile, the Masters were having their own discussion behind some privacy wards. "I'm speechless. I never would have thought this could be possible," one of them said, still trying to wrap his mind around what he saw. "A fourteen-year-old was able to defeat four masters and achieve a level of power that is difficult for even us to obtain."
"I know what you mean, David," a companion of his comment. "To think that someone at such a young age could use Magical Instinct. Every time they fended him off, he responded with an even faster, harder, and sharper strike. It's never been done, let alone heard of before. Are we sure the boy is even human?"
"Harry is indeed human," Giichi came into the conversation with a proud grin on his face. "That said, I've had a chance to observe him. The power he exhibited was spectacular, but it was only a small portion of the level. As adept as Harry is in battle, I doubt he'd be able to achieve it again. More likely, the only reason he was able to reach this level was that he was backed into a corner and that his fighting spirit took control."
"Whatever the case is, the fact remains that he has completely drained his magic and exhausted his body," he continued. "For those who have not properly trained in Magical Instinct, will damage the person's body. But, given Harry's resilient nature, I'm sure that won't make the slightest difference in his case."
On the outside, Bagman was conversing with the others. "Remind me never to get that boy mad," was all he said before leaving to go change his trousers.
"I'll say, with that much power charged up, forget the people on the pitch he would have been able to destroy the entire castle," Percy fearfully stated while surveying the pitch as it was completely destroyed. He was dragged out of his thoughts when he heard someone groaning.
"Ooh, I can feel my arm smoking," Babbling said as Septima tried cooling her black smoking arm. She tried to regain control of the wards but, in doing so, got hit with some burns that scorched her right arm.
Back on the quidditch pitch, Harry was being escorted to the tent by Blaise and Adrian. He had a massive hangover, and his body felt like it was on fire, though not in a good way. On top of that, he felt like he was seeing double.
"Hang on, we got you," Blaise supported Harry's weight on his right while Adrian was on his left. The two of them were practically carrying him to the tent as Harry's legs were too weak to support him. Walking past the healers from St. Mungo as they were escorting the injured Aurors and Elites off the pitch. Saying they would be sore would be an understatement as Harry maimed them as they had a substantial amount of broken bones, lost some blood, were severely burnt from the fire and electricity, and had a few internal injuries. Arriving in the tent, Blaise called Madam Pomfrey, "a little help here would be nice."
"Potter, you stupid boy. What have you done to yourself?" Then, quickly ushered them to one of the open beds and ran some diagnostic charms on him. After a couple minutes, the matron groaned. "I swear you are going to drive me into an early grave young man."
Harry laughed a bit despite feeling the sharp pain in his head and body. "Madam Pomfrey, relax. Isn't this what you live for? Treating injured students? Besides, if I didn't get injured every now and then, you wouldn't know what to do with yourself." His quip made Adrian and Blaise chuckle, but they reigned it in when she gave them a scathing look.
She then looked at her patient. "I assure you, Mr. Potter, that I can find something to do to occupy my time. Merlin knows I'm going to need a vacation." She shoved a vial of headache potion in his hands "drink," ordering him.
Doing as he was told; Harry immediately downed the contents and lay his head on the pillow. "Maybe, you should have a bed reserved for me in the hospital wing from now on." He added another joke.
His irate girlfriend came in and lightly bopped him on the head as she was not amused by his joke. "Thank you, Ms. Greengrass," Pomfrey gave the blonde girl a small smile before looking back at Harry. "Young man, please rein in your cheek."
"What am I going to do with you?" Daphne shook her head.
"Hopefully, stop hitting me," he mumbled.
"What was that?" shooting him a death glare.
"Nothing."
Blaise leaned into Adrian "see if he can still make jokes like that, then he'll be fine." Harry showed his middle finger causing the both of them to snicker.
"Harry, how could you," Cedric cried out. The sixth-year Hufflepuff came over. "You destroyed the Quidditch pitch," a mock of horror washed over his face.
All Harry did was casually shrug his shoulders. "Calm down. The pitch will be restored to its "former glory" in about two or three days." He then downed another potion Pomfrey handed him and was instantly fast asleep.
Poppy made a mental note to stock up on healing potions as she had a feeling they would be needed by the time this tournament was over. She continued working on Potter, but the process proved more challenging than she thought. His entire body was set ablaze, not to mention he had some internal injuries. "Merlin, help this boy and me," she muttered to herself.
After some time, the other champions either accomplished or dropout of their duels, albeit with several injuries. Poppy was eventually forced to turn the boy's medical care to a healer from the ICW when the process became too much. Thus she went to treat the others. A few minutes later, Albus and the other judges entered the tent, sporting different expressions. Behind them were the parents/guardians of the champions, Amelia and the Dueling Masters.
Bagman delivered everyone's scores and announced that the final task would take place after dinner on June 24th. He then looked at the unconscious form of Harry Potter. "Why is Mr. Potter asleep? This is vital for the final task. Healer Morgan, wake him up at once."
"I would advise against that as this boy obtained a substantial amount of internal injuries, some of his bones are shattered, and his magical core is currently running on its reserves." He continued after a moment. "In all my years as a healer, I have never seen anything like this before."
"How long will he be out?" Arcturus asked.
The healers visibly gulped at seeing the look on Lord Black's face. "A couple of days at the most. Though I would highly recommend, he would be allowed to rest." Arcturus grunted in approval.
Nakao walked forward and looked down at his protege. "To be able to release that amount of power at such a young age, I can see that I made the right choice in taking him to be my apprentice."
A woman snorted. "In the past, you often protested against the notion of taking someone under your wing. What changed your mind about this one?" She skeptically asked.
"I have my reasons," was all he said.
Amelia then spoke, "I have to check on my Aurors," the distaste in her voice was subtle. "To think that a couple of school children were able to beat them is humiliating." Then turning to the other champions. "You all fought well against them," she complimented before leaving.
While the adults continued talking, Bagman grunted, "will someone please explain as to why Mr. Potter is not being arrested? The rules authorization of lethal force may have been allowed, but he killed seven of his opponents. This would certainly yield severe consequences."
"I would have to agree with Ludo," Albus stroked his beard, "as Harry did use excessive force and some questionable spells to defeat his opponents."
"Are you insane?" Everyone turned to Daphne with surprised expressions. "Harry may have killed them, but he had a reason for it. The people he killed are responsible for why his aunt is dead. So far as I'm concerned, they brought this upon themselves."
Albus was startled by what she said. "Ms. Greengrass, what Harry did was execute them without a hint of remorse. While they may have been responsible for the damage done in Ireland, they should have been taken to Azkaban and given a chance to learn from their actions. Instead, Harry robbed them of the chance to reform. That and he used dark magic."
Daphne clicked her tongue. "You are an arrogant, self-righteous hypocrite," she bit back, much to everyone's surprise. "How many people did you kill in your life? How many did you let die in the war against Grindelwald and Voldemort?" Then, ignoring the gasps, she resumed. "Don't go preaching about morality when your hands are undoubtedly stained with more blood. You act so high and mighty it's sickening."
"Every time you mess up or have a hand in causing destruction, you make some bullshit excuse that it's all for the greater good. Tell me how it felt after being one of the three people responsible for taking your sister's life. Would you subject her to the same pain and anguish you made others feel?"
Albus looked like he'd been run over by the Hogwarts express multiple times as the topic of his late sister's death hit home. The Greengrass girl might be fifteen, but she has quite the venomous tongue. However, everything he did was for the greater good. The death of his sister was hard and caused a lot of heartache for him, but he was sure that Arianna understood and forgave him for his actions.
"The girl is absolutely correct," one of the master's spoke, breaking him out of his thoughts. "The duelists who attacked Mr. Potter's family broke the rules of the guild and were bounty hunters who killed innocents. As such, they were no longer considered members, and the boy was well within his rights to exact vengeance upon them. We even signed the necessary forms," handing the forms to Dumbledore.
After reading the documents, Albus sighed as he was indeed correct. "It is as you say," he conceded, "they were marked for death."
"The Minister will not like this," Percy pompously said, puffing his chest up. "Potter needs to be locked up as he is too dangerous to be left unchecked."
Not liking what the pompous git said, Daphne got in his face just as Emily and the others walked in. They apparently heard what he said and were less than happy. Daphne may have been shorter than him, but the ice-cold look in her eyes made him back away as he felt her magic. Then, in a swift motion, she grabbed him by the collar of his robes and pulled him close.
"Listen to me, Weasel. I don't give a shit about what makes Fudge happy or not. He is nothing but a pathetic excuse for a wizard who only got where he is because of a corrupt Ministry," the dangerous tone in her voice made him pale, and everyone else could only stare with wide eyes. "And you are nothing more than a useless 'yes man.' Here's what's going to happen, so you better listen well. You're going to go back to that miserable job of yours and stay out of Harry's way. If anything happens to him and I find out that you had a hand in it, then I promise you that you will regret your actions for the rest of your short life." The look she gave him was so terrifying that it nearly made him pee himself.
Percy had never seen anything more terrifying, and he lived in the same house as his mother. However, this was different as he'd heard rumors about Greengrass being an Ice Queen. The House of Greengrass was not something he wanted to anger as they would tear him apart. Disputing the girl's claim would be a foolish and costly mistake.
Daphne threw him on the ground and gave a death glare that made his blood freeze. "You had best learn your place. Now get out!"
Percy got to his feet and rushed out of the tent.
Arcturus gave the girl a rarified smile as he was impressed with how she dealt with the useless sack of shit. Indeed he could see why Harry liked her so much. She was powerful, protective, intelligent, stuck to her beliefs, and intelligent. Were if Dorea here, she'd be enamored with the girl. She would also be able to keep him in line. Without a doubt, Hadrian chose right!
While the adults continued talking about the events, Dumbledore called for one of the house-elves and requested that Harry and Healer Morgan be taken to the hospital wing. The elf complied and took them to the hospital wing. When they were gone, he requested an audience with Harry and Lord Black on May 4th. Old Arcturus gave him a piercing look before agreeing.
(0^0)
Two days had gone by since the third task, and the students couldn't stop talking about it. Daphne would often visit the hospital wing to check in on Harry's progress. The healer and Madam Pomfrey had done their job and ensured that Harry was alright. However, it was only after dinner when Daphne and the others came in to see him fully conscious, with Pomfrey checking him over.
"Mr. Potter, you will be staying the night," she firmly stated, pushing him back in the bed when he tried getting up.
"I've been stuck in this same bed for two days straight. At least let me stretch my legs," he argued.
"Honestly, you are just as bad as your father was, never knowing when to sit still," letting out an annoyed breath. "Do you not comprehend what you did during your duel against those brutes? The amount of magic you released would have been enough to destroy the pitch, this school, and everything in a hundred miles. Plus, your magical core was so drained that it ran on fumes." She scolded him for his recklessness. "How your core was able to replenish itself so quickly is beyond me as it would normally take up to about a week."
Rolling his eyes, he obliged. "Fine, I'll stay for the rest of the night. But come morning, I'm out," he stubbornly said.
"Why are you Potters so stubborn," shaking her head, she called one of the elves from the kitchen and had it bring some food. When the elf returned with a tray, she returned to her office muttering about how stubborn her patient was.
"Hey, guys, what's up?"
Emily was the first to react by jumping on his bed and wrapping her arms around his neck. "Easy, Shizuku. You think you can maybe hug me a little more gently?"
"You have got to be the most daring and terrifying bastard I have ever met in my life," Blaise gave a wry grin. "How are you doing, man?"
"All things considered, I'm all right," shrugging his shoulders. The next moment Daphne threw her arms around him when Emily got up. "Hey, Sapphire, you alright?"
She let go to look him directly in the eyes. "Am I alright? Am I alright? Is that all you have to say after worrying me like that?" placing her hands on her hips. "You scared me to death with what you did out there."
"That shit was pretty cool if you ask me," Aaron commented but backed away when she gave him a murderous glare. "I'll shut up, now."
Daphne turned back to her boyfriend. "Where did you even learn how to do that anyway?"
"Honestly, I don't know," he answered truthfully. "That's the first time something like that has ever happened. During the heat of the battle, I shut my brain off and allowed my instincts to take over."
"Oh, come on," Adrian exclaimed. "You're telling us that you did all that and you don't even know-how. That was both exhilarating and scary at the same time."
"Think what you want, but it's the truth as I don't know what that level of power was. One minute I'm fighting those arseholes, then the next, my mind is gone."
Daphne inwardly groaned. "I swear you Potters are all nuts."
A grin appeared on his face. "Sapphire, you should know that we Potters are full of surprises. That's just how we are." His expression then became serious, "so new subject. What are the news for the last tournament?"
They filled him in on what the judges had planned and that Dumbledore has requested another meeting with him on the fourth. Harry had a feeling he knew what the old man wanted to talk about but found he couldn't care. They talked adamantly for an hour with him then left for their dorms, leaving only Harry and Daphne in the wing. The latter chastised him for his reckless actions and how much he worried her. Harry was both scared and touched by her protectiveness of him.
"Love, I promise I didn't mean to worry you."
"I swear I don't know what to do with you sometimes."
"Well, I got a few ideas," he said suggestively.
"Oh no, you don't. You are not getting off that easily," Daphne knew what he was thinking. "For the next three nights, you will be sleeping alone on the couch."
"Ah, man."
"Also, there will be no kissing or cuddling on the couch for the duration of the time." She got up and left while at the same time swaying her hips a bit.
"Damn, that girl is going to be the death of me," Harry muttered to himself as his teenage hormones activated. Daphne sure had a nice ass. "Three days of punishment will be torture."
(0^0)
Three days had come and gone for Harry. Madam Pomfrey declared that he was free to leave on the first day and warned him about getting injured again as she was prepared to have a bed reserved for him. Madam Hooch was also incensed with him for destroying the Quidditch pitch and lectured him for a good long hour. Finally came Daphne's punishment, as she was serious about her punishment. Being forced on the couch was a nightmare and very uncomfortable as he would always wake up stiff and sore. It didn't help that his animal companions found it amusing. Dayvee was the worst amongst them as she continued making cracks about him being whipped. The only thing that stopped her was Harry threatening to make her slip and fall again.
During the midday of Wednesday, Harry was sitting on his knees and listening to the gods as they explained the power he unleashed. "The power you released during the task demands a martial mastery of the person's magical core, spirit, and instincts. It is immensely difficult to achieve, let alone master even for the highest-ranking mages," Naga lectured. "For those who accidentally used it without training in it properly often leaves consequences. Hence why you were out cold. You remember what the healers said about your injuries, correct?" Harry nodded. "Normally, after someone reaches this level of power, they either die or lose their magic. But it appears that your body has learned from the experience of fighting in that form. Merely feeling that level of power was enough to push you to new heights. I never thought it was possible. You're a true prodigy like few I've ever seen."
"If I may ask something. When I was using that power, it felt like my body was operating on its own why is that? Also, how many others have reached that level before?"
Suzaku answered. "The reason is that that's how the level works. To use it properly, the person has to separate their conscious mind from their body. As you know, people constantly think about what methods might be useful for combat. Though, in the case of Magical Instinct, this would prove ineffective as you were trying to command your body while also dodging."
Harry was a bit confused, so Byakko stepped in. "What Suzaku is trying to say is that while your defensive skills and reaction speeds increased, your attacks weren't nearly as potent as they needed to be." He let that sink in then continued, "as for your other question, there were only six others who had managed to obtain this level. Though four of them died."
"Who were the other two?" Harry asked.
"The first would be your grandfather, Charlus Potter. He managed to reach some of the attacking aspects but never fully mastered them. The other would be your current dueling instructor, but he hasn't mastered the offensive aspects yet."
Harry was shocked to stillness. His grandfather managed to obtain and nearly master Magical Instinct. "Has anyone ever fully mastered it?"
Byakko looked at others and shared a silent discussion. "To our knowledge, only one person has ever mastered it, and I suspect you'll get a surprise out of it... Arthur Pendragon. The last ruler of magical Britain."
"Woah," was all Harry could say much to their amusements.
"Is there a way for me to reach the same level as my grandfather or King Arthur?"
"Possibly," Dayvee responded with a bit of skepticism, "keep in mind that it will be more difficult than anything you have ever experienced before, and there's a chance that you will never achieve the same level of mastery."
"Please teach me," Harry bowed his head to them.
The gods looked at him as if they were judging him. Then, after sharing a silent discussion, they agreed with one another. "Very well," they answered in unison. "The first thing we will need to do is ensure that your core and stamina don't decrease as fast."
"However, that will be for another time," Suzaku trilled, admiring the boy's determination. "For now, you should rest and get ready to perform those rituals."
"I understand," bowing his head, he got up to leave the room. Harry made his way to the great hall and wondered which ritual he should perform first? The first ritual would enhance his reflexes and healing factors and increase stamina. The second would strengthen his magical core, replenish it much quicker, and ensure it didn't drain as much. Unfortunately, most of the ingredients required were a right bitch to obtain, not to mention expensive. Luckily for him, he owned a company that had three ingredients, but the rest were a hassle. Those thoughts followed him all the way to the entrance of the great hall, where he ran into an irate Ronald Weasley.
"It must make you really happy being able to do whatever you want," the annoying ginger said.
"What are you talking about this time?" Harry drawled, not really in the mood to deal with this idiot.
"Stop acting like you don't know what I'm talking about," Ron shouted, attracting a small crowd. "You own all the companies that make the Quidditch brooms," pointing an accusing finger at him. That got the onlookers talking as they didn't know what to think about this topic.
"And what if I do own them?" Giving a stoic look, "those companies belong to the House of Potter and do not affect you or your family."
Ignoring what he said, Ron continued. "You selfish bastard. You can outfit the entire Gryffindor team with new brooms, and yet you refuse to lift a finger."
"You talk as if you are actually on the Quidditch team," narrowing his eyes. "Last I checked, you weren't and haven't been on the team in the four years you've been here. The only thing you do is sit on your lazy arse talking about the sport. As I've said before, I don't really care for Quidditch and much rather fly in the air."
"Are you insane? Quidditch is-"
"I don't give a damn, Weasel," Harry cut him off. "For someone who only lounges around doing the bare minimum, you sure talk a lot about a sport you don't even play. Maybe if you actually made an effort for something, then perhaps your magic wouldn't be so pathetic, and, unlike you, I actually worked to get where I am."
Ron's face was as red as his hair and was only a moment away from taking his wand out. "How dare you. Your nothing but a dark wizard."
"That is a baseless accusation," he retorted. "If you have any proof, then please share with the rest of us," beckoning him to finish.
"You used dark magic to kill those duelists during the task," Ron stated, hoping to turn everyone against Potter. "Only dark and evil wizards use dark magic."
"Ok, one Weasley, those arseholes used more dark magic that's not counting the number of killing curses they threw at me. Second, they attacked my family and killed my aunt," as his anger rose, so did his magic. "What I did to them was justified and in the name of my family honor. Not that I expect you to understand as you don't have any honor whatsoever. If you did, you would actually try to make a name for yourself and stop bitching like a five-year-old child."
"Your oldest brother Bill became Head Boy, a scholar, and became an accomplished curse breaker in Egypt. Your second brother Charlie" said the name in disgust, "was a Quidditch player that could have gone pro but chose to work with dragons in Romania. Percy got top grades, was made a prefect, later became Head Boy, then got a job as an arse kisser of the Ministry. The twins might be a pair of bullies who waste their time playing pranks and goofing off, but they're intelligent, from what I've heard. And then there's your sister Ginevra, the only girl born into a family with seven children. She stands out on her own. Do you know what they all do or did? They either worked for what they wanted or were trying to make the most of what they had to become their own people. Then finally, there is you, the youngest male. So, how about you explain what note-worthy thing you have done to separate yourself from them." Ron was stunned to stillness as he couldn't think of anything. Harry stepped forward and looked down at him. "Oh, what this silence? The only thing I see in front of me is an immature, pathetic weak-willed wizard who likes to take the easy way out. Look around you, Weasley. We're all tired of hearing you bitch and whine about the things you don't have."
The majority of the crowd muttered in agreement with him as they've grown tired of dealing with the youngest Weasley's constant tirade.
"Also, whenever I see you, I see a Gryffindor version of my cousin Draco. The two of you share many similarities that it's not even funny."
"I am nothing like that ferret," Ron protested.
"Aren't you? The two of you act like spoiled brats that run either the headmaster or father when something doesn't go your way. You are just sad. And you wonder why people don't want to be with you. It's the way you act as it's clear that you are incapable of realizing your faults and failure to grow up." As many of them applauded what he said, Harry walked around the redhead and into the great hall leaving the ginger utterly embarrassed and stewing in his anger.
From that point, Harry spent the day in the chamber of secrets with the gods and the founders. Having decided which ritual to perform, he drew the enchanted circle and prepared all the necessities. A moment later, Emily arrived to see how things were coming along.
"I'm nearly done," walking to the simmering cauldron, he poured the potion into a glass and downed it almost immediately. The bitter taste was worse than any other potion he had ever drank before.
"Good luck, Harry," Emily said. The gods and founders were watching to make sure that nothing bad happened.
Flashing her a quick smile. "All right, let's do this." Moving to the center of the circle, he began chanting in old Welsh. With every verse, the circle under him started to glow brighter. Next came the pain from the ritual as it felt like a hundred fiery knives were poking in his skin, and his body felt like it was being torn apart. It was worse than the cruciatus curse from two years ago.
"Are you sure we shouldn't do anything?" Emily's worry continued to increase as she heard him scream in pain. Byakko had to stop the girl was from moving forward.
"Youngling, I understand your feelings, but you mustn't interfere. If you try stopping the ritual, then the results can be catastrophic. Harry will be fine, I promise."
The ritual continued for a couple minutes before the light subsided, showing that it was finished. Harry ended up falling to his knees, panting heavily. He had never felt so much pain. His entire body felt like one big ache. On his watch, he saw that he only had 20% of his magic left at his watch.
"If that's what the first one felt like. I don't want to know how bad the other will be."
"Deep breath, child," Salazar looked at him. "That was only the beginning, as the next ritual will be a lot worse." Having performed it on himself all those years ago, he remembered the pain from it. "Take an hour to get your wits back, then perform the last one. Girl, go into the library and grab the potion's box." Emily did as she was told and went into the library.
It took a while, but she eventually found the box he was talking about and brought it out. Then walking over, she handed him a vial of purple potion and handed it to him. Harry could instantly tell that the potion was going to be foul. Sucking it up, he uncorked and drank it. True to what he thought, the potion tasted awful.
"Why do all potions taste like shit," he complained as he drank the last of it.
"Just be glad that I actually made a potion to counteract the effects of the ritual." Salazar reprimanded his heir. "Now, stop your bellyaching and get some rest."
Rowena shot him an irritating glare and then gave Harry a gentle smile. "Go relax for a little while, and when you're ready, we'll do the next ritual. But, fair warning, you will be out for a while, and I would advise you not to use any magic for a while, so be prepared."
Heading her warning, Harry sat on the ground with his legs crossed and began meditating. Meanwhile, Emily started preparing the next ritual for him while he was doing that. Salazar's and Genbu's instructed her to put the items in their proper places. She still couldn't believe that he was actually two rituals on the same day.
Sensing his sister's uneasiness, Harry opened his eyes and placed an arm around her. "There's no need to worry, Em. This is for the best. But, no matter what happens, I promise to never forget you, nor will I forsake my humanity."
"Promise?" She looked into his eyes.
"I promise," vowing as he looked longingly at his sister. No matter what, Harry would do everything in his power to ensure the safety of the magical world, his family, and the people he had grown to care for, even if that meant paying the ultimate price! Dumbledore and Voldemort were roadblocks that needed to be removed from the magical world. The two were locked in a never-ending war and would undoubtedly bring chaos and destruction with them. Pushing those thoughts away, the young raven-haired boy got an idea. "Hey Shizuku, before I leave, what do you say that we have some fun away from Hogwarts? Just the two of us?"
Emily slowly nodded her head and clung to his left arm. They may not have been blood relatives, but she would go anywhere with him. Harry was the best brother ever! Despite his cold, stoic exterior, he had a warm interior that burned protectively like an everlasting flame.
The two stayed where they were, talking about different things. Mostly about the future and what fate may have in store for them. After an hour passed, Harry started drawing a different enchanted circle while Emily prepared the items. While she was doing that, he started taking his clothes off until he was left in his boxers. He needed to have matrixes drawn on his body for the second ritual to work. Emily took a deep breath and began drawing the matrixes on him. She only hoped that all went well. It took about five minutes before most of his body was covered with different matrixes.
Byakko, Suzaku, and Genbu came over, "it's time, Hadrian. Are you prepared?"
"I am Kai," Harry walked to the center of the circle as Dayvee and Naga escorted Emily a safe distance away.
"Now let's begin," Byakko and Suzaku began chanting in Ancient Roman, the circle beneath the boy manifested dark purple ropes that wrapped around him, and the matrixes started glowing red.
The pain he was feeling was far worse than the first ritual, as it felt like his body was being ripped apart piece by piece. Harry's screams of agony echoed throughout the chamber as the more Byakko and Suzaku chanted, the more pain he felt. Over in a secluded spot in the chamber, Emily found it hard to remain where she was as she wanted them to stop. Unfortunately, though, the Genbu wouldn't let her. The same could be said for three of the four founders, as they didn't like what was happening. Only Salazar stayed stoic on the outside but on the inside, he reeled with guilt as he remembered the pain of using this ritual on Godric and himself.
The entire process took fifteen minutes, with Harry's screams continuing to fill the chamber until finally, he passed out on the ground. Emily raced forward to check his pulse, exhaling a bit when she found that he was still alive. "Merlin be praised," she exclaimed, "he's still breathing."
"That's good to hear." Salazar looked at the two. "Now, if you'd please levitate your brother to the bed. He'll be out for a couple days."
With a wave, Emily took her wand, levitated Harry off the ground, and took him into the private quarters. She gently brought him down on the bed and quickly scanned him. The ritual was more than what either of them had expected as Harry appeared to grow again. Now he was 6'2. Reaching for the blanket, she pulled it over his body.
"Goodnight, Harry."
(0^0)
In the staff room, the professors were in the middle of wrapping up a meeting about the students, the series of events that have taken place this school year, and what to expect for next year. After delivering their grades and reports, Nakao, Robinson, Marchbanks, and Sakai had vacated the room.
"All right, that should do it," Dumbledore was exhausted and ready to crawl into bed. "Does anyone have anything to address before we retire for the evening?"
"I do," Septima announced. "Then, by all means, Septima, the floor is yours," Albus beckoned for her to speak.
"These last few months have been an utter disgrace," she stated bluntly, to which some of her colleagues had to agree. "It has become painfully clear that the students are not adhering to the rules of this castle. Casting unforgivables, stealing from fellow students and professors, ganging up on those who can't fight back, attempting to sexually assault a minor, and the constant bullying. All these actions should have been addressed years ago."
"I agree with Septima," Filius got to his feet as he knew where she was going with this. "Some of the events around the school should never have happened, let alone tolerated. Especially not by the older students. I propose that there needs to be some immediate changes around here. Starting with the positions of Prefects, Head Boy, and Head Girl."
"What do you propose?" Albus looked warily at the half-goblin. "Don't get me wrong, I do believe that some areas need to be improved... but I believe that we should discuss them before taking action."
The Arithmancy professor felt like this was a long time coming. "I will get straight to the point then. In recent years the students nominated to be Prefects, Head Boy, and Head Girl have overstepped and abused the authority of their roles. This year alone is a prime example as they knew about the bullying of Ms. Lovegood and participated in torturing the poor girl. As such, I feel like we should implement a three-strike rule on them. The first strike will garner them a month of detention. A second strike will be a three-week suspension from school. Then, finally, their last strike will result in them losing their badges, which they can never get back the following year and will be unable to become either Head Boy or Head Girl."
The professors started talking about the new rules, and after discussing them, they all agreed.
"Very, well, as of now, the three-strike rule will be immediately pulled into motion," Albus felt like he was going to need a headache potion tonight.
"Good, now we can proceed," Septima began. "I would also like for us to address the nominations for the candidates as they have already been chosen. It falls to their head of houses to deal with them. However, despite some of my reservations, other candidates would have made a fine choice. Instead of having a boy and girl as a Prefect, we should have either two girls or two boys per year. This way, if there aren't any potential candidates from their section, we can have more than one male or female for that year. They would also have to have and maintain an overall grade average of Exceeds Expectations."
Most of the professors agreed with the notions as they had merits. After sharing nods of approval, the proposition was approved.
The meeting continued on for an hour, with new requirements for Prefects, Head Boy, and Head Girl coming into fruition. But unfortunately, this would be a long night for some of them as a new set of rules and regulations were made and will be enacted at the beginning of next year.
(0^0)
Meanwhile, in another location on the far side of Great Britain stood another house currently occupied by the deformed baby-like form of Voldemort sitting in front of the fire surrounded by his death eaters. They evacuated the old Riddle manor when it was discovered that Alastor Moody was being impersonated by Barty junior. The Dark Lord was impressed with what Harry did to his young Barty as he found the boy to be of greater interest than previously thought. Potter would certainly make a fantastic apprentice and tool to use against Dumbledore. For as long as he could remember, the old wizard had been the bane of his existence. He would sometimes imagine subjecting Dumbledore to the most heinous and vicious forms of torture known to man. Dumbledore thought he knew what pain and suffering were, but he didn't have a clue. Lord Voldemort would be sure to teach him its bitter taste just like he taught him all those years ago.
Him a wizard of his caliber! It was he who pushed the boundaries of magic, dabbled into magics that were thought to have been lost to time. He was the descendant of Salazar Slytherin. The greatest of the four founders of Hogwarts. At his fingertips, his magic could destroy entire civilizations. Whole communities once tremble at the mention of his name. But, once he got his body back and regained his lost magic, he would show the magical world why they should fear him. And when the time is right, he will finally kill Albus Dumbledore. The old man will die by his hands and his hands alone.
Peering down, he saw Bellatrix kneel before him. "My Lord, I bring you news," she said. "Speak, Bella," he commanded. "According to our moles in the Ministry, the third task has been completed with Potter emerging victorious," she explained. "All eighteen of them have been defeated, with seven of them dead."
At hearing that, Voldemort coldly laughed. "Eighteen duelists defeated by a fourteen-year-old boy. Well, I wish I could have been there to see it for myself." Oh, what he would have given to see the battle for himself. "Tell me, Bella, who were the people that fought Potter."
"There were eleven high-ranking Aurors along with three elites and four dueling masters." In truth, when one of their moles at the Ministry told her what happened, she thought they were lying and was close to torturing them with the cruciatus curse. But they showed her the memory of what happened, and she was astounded. "The seven members from the Duelist Guild Potter killed apparently irked the ire of the House of Black, and that was why they died."
"Really, now!" Her master began to ponder what they could have done to provoke Lord Black in such a way. Arcturus Black was not a fool as he would never allow something this extreme to happen without good reasons. What could have pushed him so far?
Over in the corner, Dolohov stood next to the wall and silently prayed that Bellatrix wouldn't find out about what happened in Ireland. There were three people he would never dare challenge, and she was one of them. Bellatrix was one of the most powerful and psychotic witches to be born in the wizarding world. The Dark Lord personally trained Severus and her to be his most elite team of death eaters. Bellatrix was his righthand, while Severus was his advisor. That said, he wasn't a slouch when it came to magic as he was an exceedingly powerful and gifted duelist in his own rights. The Dark Lord himself even acknowledged his power during the first war.
He was, however, brought out of his thoughts when his master spoke. "Bella, you and Rudolphus will speak to some of our moles in the Ministry, tell them to be prepared for the final task. There are to be no mistakes as Potter is needed for my rebirth. He is to be transported at the rendezvous point once he comes into contact with the trophy."
"We understand, my lord. There will be no mistakes," she assured, kissing his robes with her husband doing the same, and the two left.
"All of you except for Rabastan, Dolohov, Rockwood leave me." The three he told to remain bowed to kiss his robes. "I have an assignment for the three of you... as the time is drawing closer to the final task. We must be ready. If Potter's track record is anything to go by then, he will truly be my greatest triumph. But before the evening of that day, I want him to know the power at my disposal. Send word to our allies in Russia, Ukraine, and Africa, tell them that they are to arrive here by the end of next week."
"Yes, milord," they all said at once, kissing his robes then leaving to gather their allies.
"The rest of you will leave me for the night. I need time to think," the remaining death eaters followed his order and left the room. Voldemort was soon in deep thought over how one boy could achieve so much power at such a young age. To think that one boy could defeat four dueling masters was nothing other than impressive! According to Bellatrix's report, the boy's current dueling instructor Nakao. That name sounded so familiar, yet he couldn't place it. He would need to find out who the person was.
(0^0)
The next couple of days went by without any difficulties, with the students from all three schools talking about the third task. More notably, the level of powers and skills Harry possessed as it left them utterly speechless. They watched him take on eleven high-ranking Aurors and seven former members from the Duelist Guild. According to the rumors in the Ministry, Amelia Black and Rufus Scrimgeour were upset after learning that their Aurors were beaten by school children. Scrimgeour had called them an embarrassment and was close to firing them on the spot. Though Amelia was in charge of the Aurors, she made the entire department practice battle tactics, combat spells, etc.
Severus had checked on Harry's health to make sure he was alright the day after the boy performed the rituals and was relieved to learn he was just out cold. Emily explained what happened and why Harry was unconscious. While Severus was not initially happy with the rituals chosen, he couldn't deny that they were necessary. He would only hope that it would be enough for the boy to survive.
When the last classes for the day ended, Daphne went to find a secure place where she could transform into her phoenix form and ice herself into the chamber of secrets. Although that was easier said than done, the halls were crowded. Slipping away would prove difficult. As she walked through the sea of students, her senses alerted her that someone sent a death glare her way and had harmful intent. Thanks to her training with Harry, she could tell whether or not people were hidden and if their intentions were malicious. The magical aura approaching was familiar, and she let out a breath of annoyance.
"What do you want, Weasley?" Ginny stopped dead in her tracks, not knowing how Greengrass knew it was her. She wasn't even alone as her friends stood behind.
Daphne turned around to look down at the redhead with an expressionless mask. Ginny was momentarily frozen as she looked into the Slytherin's cold blue eyes; quickly regaining herself, she stood her ground. "Listen up, Greengrass, I have tolerated you being around my Harry long enough, and that ends now," she pointedly stated. The people who heard decided to listen in as they figured something was about to happen. "What exactly is your relationship with him anyway?"
Narrowing her eyes, Daphne responded, "my relationship with him is my own business, and it doesn't concern you."
"It is my concern," Ginny retorted rather loudly. "There's a marriage contract between him and me, ergo that means he is my future husband. So you need to back off as there is no way that I'll have him associate with a filthy bitch like you."
"That'll be ten points from Gryffindor for inappropriate name-calling," Daphne began flexing her magic. She was very tempted to curse the youngest Weasley but held herself back. "As for your statement about there being a contract between the two of you, then you're wrong. His guardians would never sign a contract like that. Also, if Harry and I want to spend time together, then we can, as you have no control over either of us."
"Oh, you think so," Ginny challengingly replied. "Well, that's where you are wrong as my mother and Professor Dumbledore signed a marriage contract between myself and him. And since he was Harry's guardian for a while, that means he has the right to do what's best for him." She had a look of superiority plastered on her face. "So as the future Mrs. Potter, I'm telling you to stay away from my husband as he will not be spending time with you."
The students started whispering about what was going on. Potter and Weasley were betrothed to one another? When did that even happen? Did Potter even know about the contract? Questions after Questions were asked as they started trading theories. However, it stopped when someone spoke.
"You really are stupid, aren't you?" Through the crowd, Emily came into view looking unhappy. "If you think my brother is going to marry you, then you have another thing coming. While Harry will have to marry someone in the future, it will be his choice. Nobody. I repeat, nobody will dictate that matter. Not your mother. Not Dumbledore." There was no way in hell that she was going to have this redheaded gold digger as her sister-in-law. "As for your statement, the marriage contract between you and him. Well, here's some news, princess. The contract was voided, and Harry personally ripped the contract in half."
Tears started to well up in Ginny's eyes as she felt her heartbreaking. "No, your lying," she said in an almost broken voice. "The contract is still valid. My mother and Dumbledore promised that I would be-"
"They lied," Emily coolly replied, not caring how to hurt the older girl was. "Let me give you a little tip about the charter for the House of Potter. Only the head of the family has the right authorization for a contract, and neither Harry's father nor grandfather signed it. Do you know what that means? It means that your mother and Dumbledore attempted line-theft."
That got the people talking; quite a handful heard about Harry accusing Dumbledore of putting him in a marriage contract. But most of them didn't know that he tried to lock him in a betrothal contract. So now it made more sense why Harry harbored so much anger towards Professor Dumbledore.
"No, no, no," Ginny took a couple steps back. Then, tears started streaming down her face.
Emily continued as she would not cut the girl any slack. Her tolerance for the Weasley girl and all others like her began growing dinner with each passing moment. "I will make this simple for you," the cold venom in her voice sent shivers down some of the student's spines. "My brother is everything to me! And I will be damned if I let a gold digger like you worm your way into his life. Up until now, I have been more than lenient with you. But, if you do anything to him, I will make sure you lose everything!" She then turned to address everyone else. "All right, you lot, listen up. If any of you bitches or gold diggers want to enter a romantic relationship with Harry, then you need to have my approval." She ignored the comments being thrown her way and the fact that Daphne took ten-point for her use of language. "Shut it," she shouted, silencing them. "You people sicken me. One day you celebrate him. The next day you ostracize him and try to bully him into submission. You're all a bunch of spineless bastards who need to grow the fuck up! Harry has sacrificed more than enough for your ungrateful arses. If the ICW didn't vote to send children back to their homelands, he would have been back in Japan. As far as I am concerned, he never should have left. Having to put up with you ungrateful idiots is a punishment."
The students felt like they'd been hit with a couple bludgeoning spells as they looked miserable. Most of them had to agree as they took Harry for granted with how they've treated him over the years.
"For a sister, you seem pretty invested in your brother's life." The voice belonged to one of the few people in the castle she loathed.
"And what if I am, Edgecombe. He's my brother."
"Adoptive brother, Stevenson. Besides, I'm not all convinced that you only see him as an older brother." She and Cho came forward, with the latter looking directly at Daphne with a lot of anger. "You spend an unhealthy amount of time with him."
"It's normal for siblings to spend time with each other," Emily spoke as if it was obvious, "and I am allowed to see my brother whenever I please."
"Sounds like you have a brother complex," Edgecombe looked imperiously at her. "You just want him for yourself."
Emily looked at her as if she'd grown a second head. "Are you seriously that stupid Edgecombe! I spend time with my brother because I want to, not because of some stupid infatuation."
Daphne quickly chipped in, "unlike the two of you who prostrated yourselves like a pair of cheap hookers. I know you are not the smartest Ravenclaw Chang, but even you can see that you were going too far. Especially with the way you treated Diggory. You used him to make Harry jealous, and once he was yours, then you would have ditched Cedric. That is what you do; you use people to achieve your own ends, either using them or bullying them. That is one of the reasons why he dumped you! And you finally got a taste of your own medicine. For what you've been doing to others happened to you. So tell me, how did that feel?"
Cho's face was red with rage as her eyes welled up with tears. A few students nodded in agreement as they were either burned by the Ravenclaw girl or subjected to her bullying.
"You are nothing but a filthy whore who spreads her legs for anybody," Cho fired back. "The only reason why someone like Potter would want to spend time with you is if you've been using the imperius curse or have been dosing him with a love potion. Then again, I wouldn't be surprised, given who your uncle was. A death eater!" Those closed gasped. "You are nothing but a disgrace to your House, you and that pathetic shite you call a sister. I'll be sure to deal with that chick when the time is right!"
Daphne pulled the girl by her collar and looked directly into her eyes. The power radiating from came off in waves as the fire in her blue eyes burned with righteous anger. "If you attack her, then I'll ruin what's left of your family. Believe this, we Greengrasses do not respond well to threats against the members from our House."
The surrounding students were having difficulty breathing and tried to back away as they felt the pressure of Daphne's magic. They certainly didn't like how things were progressing as things were about to get heated.
She threw the girl back where Chang would have fallen if not for Marietta.
"If you didn't dose Potter, then prove it," Marietta challenged. "Swear on your magic that you haven't cursed or blackmailed him."
"I hope you know the consequences if I do make the vow!"
"We don't care!"
A cold-evil smirk appeared on Daphne's face. Then, flickering her wand out, she spoke. "I, Daphne Roxane Greengrass, the oldest daughter and heiress to the Most Ancient and Noble House of Greengrass, hereby swear on my magic that I have never used the imperius curse on Harry Potter, nor have I ever dosed him with love potions or ever blackmailed him. So mote it be." A blinding white aura surrounded her, showing that the vow had occurred. Then with a quick jab of her wand, she released a jet stream of water into the air, but with a slash of her wand, she changed its trajectory to hit Chang and Edgecombe. "Would you look at that? I still have my magic."
The two soaked girls couldn't believe what had just happened. Not only did Greengrass give a well-detailed vow, but she also altered the trajectory of her spell. "How did you do that?" Chang demanded.
"Not your concern," Daphne dismissed. "Cho Chang, Marietta Edgecombe, the two of you have slandered the honor of the House of Greengrass both in this school and through media coverage with your deceitful words." The two froze at what she said. Many of the other heirs already knew what was about to happen, and it wasn't going to be pretty. "Oh, you didn't think I knew about that well too late. You've challenged the honor of my family and threatened to attack my sister, a daughter of the House of Greengrass. By right of honor, I challenge the two of you to an honor duel. Do you accept?"
"What, you can't do that," Cho shouted.
"Actually, she can." Roxanne strolled in with Filius, Septima, and Severus in tow. "Don't even try to act innocent as we heard everything," she shut them up before they could say anything. "The two of you have repeatedly attacked my family with your slanderous words and have threatened my youngest daughter. Therefore, as per the charter of the Most Ancient Houses, she is well within her rights to issue a challenge."
"But she is only an heiress," Marietta cried.
"True. However, I am Lady Greengrass, and therefore I can authorize a challenge against the two of you. Now, the two of you can either give a public apology or duel. The choice is yours!"
Cho and Marietta looked at each other and nodded. "We will duel," they arrogantly said in unison.
"Then your parents will be immediately notified of what has happened. Finally, the duel will take place in eight days on the quidditch pitch at 7 o'clock in the evening." Murmur rang throughout the halls as the students discussed what had just happened. "The rest of you go back to your common rooms."
The students grumbled but complied nonetheless and went back to their common rooms.
Daphne, however, went to find an unused classroom, quickly transformed into a phoenix, and iced herself into Salazar Slytherin's private quarters. Upon arrival, she morphed back into human form and walked toward the bed Harry was sleeping in. Just as she was about to conjure a chair, she heard a familiar groan.
"What hit me," Harry rubbed his tired eyes. Then suddenly, a familiar scent enveloped his nose as a pair of arms wrapped around his neck. "Hey, Sapphire. How long have I been out?"
"A couple days. You reckless idiot."
"Sorry if I worried you, but maybe you could hug me a little more gently," he said with a slight chuckle. When Daphne pulled back a bit, he examined his new body and the magic flowing through his veins. "The rituals were a success."
"I don't know what I'm going to do with you," Daphne moaned in relief. Finally, he was awake again. "You're just too much sometimes."
"That's how we Potters are," grinning at his girlfriend while raising his left hand to brush a strand of hair from her face. "I have missed you, though."
Exhaling a bit, she leaned forward to give him a soft, sweet kiss. "You and I are going to have a talk later. There's a lot you've missed."
"But for now?" he looked questioningly at her.
A mischievous grin appeared on her face as she jumped on his lap, straddling him. "For now, I want to enjoy a couple minutes with my boyfriend before the others arrive."
"I like the way you're thinking, Ms. Greengrass," recapturing her lips with his, the two began snogging. Ever since that night when he got back from his mission, their makeout sessions became a lot more heated. Though they never went past the point of no return, that said, they been spicing things up.
The two continued making out with their hands wandering each other's bodies for several minutes. Daphne moaned in his mouth when she felt one of his hands grab her left boob and the other grab a handful of her rear. She wiggled her bum when his thing started hardening. "Well... I can... see that another," she moaned as he started attacking her neck, "part of you... missed me."
"What can... I say your quite insatiable," leaving her neck, he went back to her lips.
Daphne giggled when he started attacking her neck again. "Harry as much as... I would like... to continue. You need to take a shower," giving him a soft kiss, she hopped off his lap.
He briefly stumbled after trying to get out of bed. Scanning his body, he saw that the rituals also enhanced his height. Daphne morphed into a phoenix and iced the both of them to the room of requirement. Checking her watch, she saw that it was almost dinner time. When she turned her attention away, she found that Harry was gone. It never occurred to her that the rituals would make him grow taller. A sickening feeling crept into her mind as she knew the other girls would be even more enamored with him. Part of her wanted to scream that he was her boyfriend and off the market. Then, shaking her and pushing those thoughts aside, she straightened out her robes.
Daphne mentally asked the room for a mirror to ensure that nothing was on her neck. The room gave her a handheld mirror to scan her neck, only to find two hickeys on the side of her neck. While she would have let them stay, people would start asking where they came from? Flicking her wand out, she cast concealment charms on them. Finding a seat on the couch, she stared into the fire, imagining what things would be like once Dumbledore and Voldemort were out of the picture.
Most of her thoughts were about her future with Harry as she briefly imagined the day they would get married. Then, her father would escort her to the altar, where Harry would be waiting with his trademark grin, Blaise by his side as his best man. Tracey would be her Maid of Honour. When the Minister (anybody but Fudge) finished announcing the union between the two and told them to kiss, they would lean towards each other and... Daphne's face was completely scarlet.
"Hey, I'm done," upon hearing his voice, she jumped to her feet as he entered the room.
"Um, Daphne, why is your face so red?"
"I just have a lot on my mind, is all," she waved off his question. "Anyway, let's go. It's time for dinner." Without wasting a breath, she immediately walked to the door with Harry following behind.
Predictably as they entered the Great Hall, several of the students (mostly the females) stared at Harry. Some were looking at him like he was a supermodel as their eyes shined brightly. Then, a handful of them, including the youngest Weasley, began undressing him with their eyes as they liked what they were seeing. The worst of them came from Ravenclaw table, i.e., Cho Chang, who was practically oozing with lustful intentions. Daphne didn't want to be one of those possessive girlfriends who hardly gave their boyfriends any space. But the way Chang and Weasley were looking at him like he was a piece of meat made it hard for her to resist the urge to curse them right on the spot. If that wasn't bad enough, several of the boys, especially the ones from Durmstrang and Hogwarts, were actively staring at her.
Ignoring them, they took a seat at the Hufflepuff table with their friends and engaged in a conversation while they ate. They talked about the upcoming duel Daphne versus Cho Chang and Marietta Edgecombe throughout the rest of dinner. Harry was taken back and stared at her with wide eyes as he was surprised. Daphne explained the reasons why she would have to duel the two. Those two sluts were not going to get off easy as they not only accused her of using the imperius curse on Harry. But they also made slanderous remarks against her family, spread rumors about her, and threatened to go after Astoria. They will soon learn to fear the House of Greengrass! And more importantly her!
(0^0)
The eight days slowly passed with only a few notable events. When the time came for Harry's meeting with Dumbledore, he met his uncle in the old man's office. In his infinite amount of wisdom, Dumbledore tried to make Harry feel bad for killing those seven duelists to no avail as the boy only laughed in his face. When he asked where the boy found those spells and where he was, Harry brushed it off, saying it was his business. Harry's cold, expressionless attitude irritated Dumbledore on the inside. Dumbledore accused the boy of visiting the chamber of secrets multiple times, only for Harry to shrug his shoulders. The old man said that Harry should not be anywhere near the chamber without supervision and tried to get the boy to take him down there so he could "inspect" the place. Harry was no fool as he had a feeling what the headmaster was after and told him no.
Dumbledore tried a few more, but Harry would not budge on the topic and told him to go fuck himself. Arcturus enjoyed the show as he watched the old self-important goat fucker cringe at being denied something important. Seeing that he wouldn't get anywhere, Albus told Harry that he was forbidden from entering the chamber until he took him there. As he would be placing a series of wards on the entrance. Again, Harry shrugged his shoulders and told Dumbledore that it was his classic. Only doing things that benefitted him, no matter who got hurt or killed in the process.
The conversation then shifted to the remnants of the basilisk pieces as Dumbledore asked why the school (secretly meant him) didn't receive a percentage of the beast's hide. Harry told him that they may have been under Hogwarts school, but he was the one who slayed it. Therefore the beast belonged to him. The twinkle missing from Dumbledore's eyes and the anger on his face was almost amusing. Before the end of the meeting, Dumbledore told Harry that he would be keeping a closer eye on him and that he would one day thank him for everything he did. Harry showed him a finger before leaving with his uncle muttering manipulative bastard.
As the days continued, Harry continued training his friends in the art of dueling. Apparently, they've taken what he said to heart and began developing new styles. Surprisingly Neville and Luna began showing a lot of improvement. Luna's style revolved around creativity, unpredictability, and speed. Neville may have been a novice who was more of a power type, but Harry worked with him to show that power wasn't everything. He needed to strategize and be more efficient. Finally, after days of training, Neville understood what Harry was talking about, not being so earnest in battle. In short, the young Longbottom heir was developing rather nicely as he stopped acting on his impulses. What shocked everyone the most was that the two of them had finally gotten together. Apparently, Neville finally got up the courage and asked her out.
Daphne, Nicole, and Emily continued to be at the top as they developed new combat styles. That and Harry began teaching them how to manipulate magic, though the three of them were still at the beginner's level. So far, they could only manipulate its trajectory, nothing extravagant, but it was a remarkable achievement, nonetheless. Harry silently acknowledged how far they've come in their limited time as their styles were more thoughtful and energy-efficient. In addition to their new styles, Daphne and Emily decided to work on a third style. Daphne's second style became more balanced as it was more thoughtful in combat. Her defenses were nearly superb, and her wand work was elegant and focused not on power but on turning her weaknesses into strengths and economy of movement. However, the style had one major flaw: it didn't completely seal a person's victory. While thoughtful in its approach, the style lacked the need to apply a finishing blow. Emily's second mirrored her first, though instead of becoming more thoughtfully balanced used feints and rapid switches to confuse her opponents. As for the third style, they were still working on them as they were only in theory.
Speaking of his sister, he kept his promise and two days before he had to leave for the Citadel, took her to Magical Italy. Emily enjoyed the attractions, especially the shopping district. The two did have to wear glamor charms so nobody would recognize them; other than that, Emily loved the place. They even ran into Sakura, who was also vacationing in Italy during her singing off-season. The singer invited the two to her home for dinner after showing who they really were. Emily almost fainted when Sakura asked if she wanted to sing a duet with her. After the two sang a song from her second album, Sakura and Emily took a picture, and after that, Harry took his sister back to Hogwarts.
The remaining days' Daphne continued training hard in manipulating her magic; following Harry's example and reviewing his notes, she could already change the trajectory and the level of power of her spells. She had only started changing them in mid-air. However, she couldn't get anything above a simple stunner. So instead of letting it get her down, she focused on strengthening her magic and improving her new combat styles. The night before Harry had to leave, he explained the rituals he used and offered them to her so she could use them. After giving it, some thought, Daphne nodded her head, and he wrote down the items she would need and how to recite the chants. Daphne then decided that it would be best to do them at home as Dumbledore would undoubtedly be keeping an eye on her.
The conversation with him was still fresh in Daphne's mind as she reclined on the couch, reading through her grimoire. All of the items she needed had been gathered and were currently in a secure spot at Greengrass Manor. Looking at her watch, she saw that it was forty minutes till six. Then closing her book, she walked up the stairs to her shared bedroom with Harry to her closet and pulled out a black dueling uniform with her family crest. The uniform was one of the new models designed by Harry's company. Normally, getting them would have been frowned upon, but her father had worked in the ICW for years and managed to order several of them. Quickly changing out of her day clothes, she put the uniform on. She couldn't explain it, but the uniform was warm, and it felt like Harry was standing next to her. After putting her hair in a ponytail, she briefly checked herself over and took a deep breath.
Daphne was now ready. Today would be the day she would demonstrate her resolve and prove why no one should underestimate her family. Then, quickly morphing into a phoenix, she iced out of the room and transported herself to the quidditch pitch. Upon arrival, she checked her surroundings to see if anyone was nearby. After confirming no one was present except for her, she morphed back into a human and went to stand by the entrance.
Thirty minutes later, the students from the three separate schools, the professors, the Minister of Magic, some of his officials, and her parents arrived. Spying the other side of the pitch, she saw Edgecombe and Chang talking with their parents near the entrance. Of course, she could see further away than the average witch or wizard, thanks to her phoenix form. The two ravens were torn between arrogance and uncertainty from the looks on their faces. Throwing her senses, she felt her mother, father, and sister approaching. Cyrus stared at his oldest daughter with pride as she was no longer the baby he held all those years ago. She was becoming a strong, independent woman. The four shared some words before Fudge signaled it was time to start. Daphne walked to the center of the pitch to wait for Edgecombe, who was approached with the arrogance that would rival Malfoy Sr. Fudge explained why the two were dueling and the rules. "Killing and use of the unforgivables are forbidden. The duel will only end when one of the duelists either concedes defeat, and it's accepted by the other party or if they are incapacitated."
"I'm going to show everyone who you really are," Marietta sneered. "By the time I'm done with you, Potter will forget about you, and your family will be forgotten and exposed as Dark wizards and witches."
"Tough talk Edgecombe. Let's see if you can back it up."
The two took their stances, and just as Fudge told them to begin, Marietta sent a cutting curse which Daphne avoided by sidestepping to the left. Trying again, Edgecombe sent a chain of different spells at her opponents, who effortlessly dodged them.
Daphne could see right through Edgecombe's technique and spell work. It was simple and pathetic. Almost comical. She caught the last spell with her wand and sent it back with the blasting curse, followed by three piercing curses in rapid succession. Marietta could barely dodge the stunning spell Greengrass sent back, but when she conjured a shield against the blasting curse, it ripped through her shield like tissue paper. Then, before she could catch her bearing, the piercing curses hit her, leaving three holes in her body. One in her left shoulder, one in her hip, and the other in her right leg.
Daphne heard the girl scream in pain as blood leaked out of her exposed holes. "What's the matter, Edgecombe? Is that all you got?"
Marietta gritted her teeth at the younger girl's taunts. "I'm not done yet. Confringo!" The fiery orange spell rocketed towards Daphne, who batted it away like it was nothing.
Daphne's face showed no emotions as she bombarded the bitch with several spells designed to break the opponents should they make contact. Unfortunately, poor Edgecombe didn't know who she was dealing with as she could barely defend or dodge. Within three minutes, the girl had multiple deep cuts with blood flowing down various parts of her body. Some of her bones were destroyed. In addition, four ribs were shattered, and the bones in her left arm were destroyed.
Marietta's right eye stung as blood flowed down her face. "Wait, please, I surrender." She was starting to realize that picking a fight with Greengrass was a bad idea.
"Ms. Edgecombe has conceded the match," Fudge's voice rang out. "Do you accept her surrender, Ms. Greengrass?"
"I do not," narrowing her eyes at the frightened girl. "If you think you are getting off just because you have a couple injuries, then think again. I'm far from done with you." The cold venom in her voice scared Edgecombe.
"The match will continue," Fudge announced.
At hearing his words, the two continued, with Daphne quickly gaining the upper hand. The spells she employed were debilitating her opponent as Edgecombe could barely defend herself. Quickly firing a jet of hot water that soaked Edgecombe, she added the freezing spell entrapping the girl's left arm in ice.
Marietta screamed in pain as it felt like her arm was on fire. "This could have been avoided if you've left my family and me alone." Daphne started walking forward. "Too bad now. It's just you, me, and ice so cold it burns." Then, conjuring an ice whip, she had it wrap around the girl, making her skin turn blue. Using her magic to increase her strength, she picked the girl up and started spinning around, taking the girl for a ride before releasing her a fair distance.
As Edgecombe struggled to get back up, she quickly found herself on her backside with five new broken bones that spread throughout her body. Daphne then decided to end things with a powerful bolt of lightning from her wand that nailed her opponent, and after listening to the girl scream in agony for a couple minutes. She lifted the spell. By now, Edgecombe was twitching on the ground, completely burnt and defeated.
"The winner of the first match is Daphne Greengrass." After that announcement, the audience applauded the performance as a few healers came with a stretcher to get the broken girl to the infirmary.
Cho was a little shaken by what she'd just seen. Greengrass defeated her friend and made her suffer more pain than she ever thought was possible. The Slytherin girl wasn't even breathing hard. Not only that, but she manipulated the trajectory and added more power to her spells. How was that possible? She was somehow able to manipulate her magic, which was difficult for most adults to accomplish. The Minister announced that it was time for her to duel. Swallowing the lump in her throat Cho walked to the center of the field and took her stance.
Daphne could sense the magic Chang was emitting and noticed that it was slightly higher than Edgecombe's. But unfortunately for them, these idiots didn't know how to properly control their magic and keep it from leaking out.
When they got the green light, Daphne immediately fired a low-powered confringo. Cho ducked under it and used incarcerous, which Daphne twisted out of the way. After that, the duel intensified, Daphne began experimenting with her second combat style and using only a fraction of her real power. Nevertheless, she continued moving with the grace and elegance of a professional dancer to outmaneuver Chang. By doing this, she wasn't draining her body or her magic. To some, they would consider this running away, but it wasn't; this was all part of her strategy. Her natural flexibility allowed her to weave through her opponent's attacks with ease and retaliate with low to mid-powered spells.
Chang was starting to become frustrated as none of her attacks were working. Greengrass parried and sent back her attacks with minimum effort. On top of that, she felt like the snake was mocking her. In addition, to feeling humiliated, her body became littered with several cuts leaking blood. Finally, she thought she struck gold when she conjured a blindfold over her eyes, but it had no effect. The blindfold may have covered Daphne's eyes, but that didn't deter her as she expanded her senses to find, read, and anticipate Chang's attacks. Cho's brain could barely understand what was happening as her entire body felt like it was made of jelly. She screamed in pain when a knife and arrow impaled her left torso and behind her right shoulder.
As Cho removed the knife and arrow from her body, her fear grew with each passing second. She tried retaliating, but Greengrass's chain of spells came in more rapidly and before long had eight different holes in her body though nothing vital was hit, deeper cuts, and some broken bones. By now, she was utterly terrified. Cho tried to concede the match, but Daphne had none of it and kept breaking her. Finally, when a white-bluish spell hit her left torso, she immediately felt nothing but suddenly felt very cold.
A knowing smirk appeared on Daphne's face. "It seems like my curse is taking effect."
"What curse?" Cho tried applying the warming charm to her arm and legs, but they didn't work.
"That white-bluish spell that hit your exposed wound," gesturing to Chang's torso. "Its purpose is to freeze the inside of the opponent's body." The look of fear on Chang's face was therapeutic. "Oh, don't worry, it won't kill you, but it will make your blood run cold, turn your bones into ice and then shatter them."
Cho's skin started turning blue, and she was starting to see her breath. "What the matter Chang? Are you afraid of the cold?" Daphne mocked.
Cho cried out in pain as she felt some of her bones break. "Please make it stop, please," tears were running down her face.
"Maybe this will warm you up," using ignus pignus, the fire columns started rising from underneath until they surrounded the raven and engulfed her. After a moment, the flames subsided, revealing the burnt form of Cho Chang, who was crying on the ground.
Daphne removed the curse from Chang's body. "This is what happens when you come after my family. Behold the power of the Ice Queen." She quickly used a combination of water and freezing spells to freeze Chang in a block of ice.
Fudge announced that the duel was over and named Daphne the victor, and she left to be near her family. But, unknown to her, while the healers came to take the frozen Cho Chang away, Kingsley Shacklebolt had a big smile on his face.
"Not bad. Truly exceptional," the dark-skinned Auror thought. The girl had a lot of power. Her skills in martial magic were impressive. It would appear the rumors about the young Greengrass girl were true. Her skills and magical prowess in Battle Charms and Battle Transfiguration were commendable. He would say that her level was on par with the Elites and maybe one or two low-ranking Masters.
A/N: I apologize that this chapter was late. It's mainly because the professors at my University are piling homework assignments and exams on me. Anyway here's the next chapter as you can see after Harry used Magical Instinct it took a severe toll on his body. Also kudos to the person who said that Potters were like Saiyan's as that is what I was going towards. By the way SSB Vegito is a complete Badass!
Back to the point, Harry has performed two rituals enhancing his body, magic, and other trademarks he uses in a fight. Don't worry Daphne and Miwa will also be using the rituals. Speaking of Daphne how did you all like the beatdown she gave Chang and Edgecombe? I mean none of you can deny that they had it coming and needed a punch in the mouth.
The verbal beatdown he gave Ron was deserved as the fool hardly ever did anything to stand out on his own. He only did a minimum amount of work. I understand that having older siblings may have been hard and money may be tight for them but that's no excuse for him to take his unhappiness out on everyone else. The ginger was always to happy to complain about his problems and hardly ever strived for anything that could make him stand out. If he wanted money that badly then he should have gotten a part-time jo during the summer. He won't be rich but at least he'll have money.
Next Chapter: Getting permission! Facing the trials!