Chapter 17
Pretty soon everyone found themselves in the main sitting room. Everyone was sitting on a couch except for Severus who was waving over his wand over Astoria to make sure that she didn't have any residual traces of the blood curse. When he stopped to get the results, it showed that the curse was nowhere inside of her. Giving a nod to Cyrus indicating that she would be perfectly fine he went t go sit next to his son who was drinking a lot of water.
Cyrus got up from his seat and looked from his daughters to Severus then to Hadrian. "Mr. Potter thank you for saving my daughter from that curse. I had feared that the curse would have taken affect one day. But you were able to cure her on behalf of the House of Greengrass you have or gratitude" he said with a bow.
"I am just glad she is alright, Lord Greengrass!" he replied. "May I ask you some question about the curse?"
Slowly giving him a nod. Harry began "how did your daughter come into contact with something as dangerous as that?"
The older man sucked in a breath "that curse was a blood curse" he admitted much to Harry surprise as it made his eyes widen. "It has been in my family for the last six hundred years; my uncle had it before Astoria. When I heard that she was to be the next victim, I didn't know what to do. She's already been to a few healers none of them could do anything" he said while looking at the ground.
"So," he continued "I called Severus to see if he could help. He brewed a potion to keep it at bay, but it was only temporary."
"Why didn't you just ask someone to perform a purification curse? He said enquiring "it would have been more useful than asking healers to do it."
He was about to speak again but Severus beat him to it "you have to understand that certain subjects are exclusive to different types of places. The most people are able to do is basic enchantments and advanced curse breaking" he said in a silk voice.
"Be that as it may why does it stop people from looking outside of their countries for answers? He asked not really liking how closed-minded people can be.
Jack spoke up "that would be the ICW fault as most of the representatives choose not to help people outside of their native lands. As you no doubt know some countries don't get along with Britain. And things have only gotten worse since Dumbledore became the Supreme Mugwump."
"In other words, its people like Dumbledore who either impede things from getting done or preventing problems from arising" Harry summarized.
Cyrus let out a chuckle "that about summarizes it" he said. "Your pretty sharp for your age. How is it that you're a gryffindor and not a ravenclaw or slytherin?"
"It doesn't matter what house I'm in" he said with a shrug "anyone can have a lot of intelligence. It's just a matter of how they use it."
"Very true!" Roxanne commented "when I was in school, I was sorted into slytherin."
Harry turned to her "well that would explain how Daphne is tied for first place in her year" he said while giving a grin to Daphne who was slightly blushing. "Call it an assumption but I can tell that you are incredibly smart and a brilliant witch! No doubt it where Daphne got it along with her beauty" He complimented.
"Mr. Potter, please stop flirting with my wife and Daphne is not allowed to date until she's 21" Cyrus firmly said pretending to be angry.
Daphne's cheeks reddened even more "Dad" she said in embarrassment.
Harry was snickering mentally thinking that reading his mom old romance novels was a good thing. "What can I say a woman who possess beauty and brains is a nice touch. Any man would do anything for to be with one like sapphire there" he pointed to Daphne who was red.
"Sapphire" the other three Greengrasses said in unison. Though Astoria was snickering at that.
Daphne glared at him even though she secretly liked the nickname. "You're just going to keep calling me that are you?" she asked in with irritation, but it sounded more like it was forced.
A smile appeared on his face "it's better than ice queen and besides with eyes like yours how could I not call you that" he teased making her face turn more red. That made Astoria and her mother giggle as no one had ever made Daphne blush this much before.
"And forgive me for saying this but isn't it your job to compliment your wife" he said with a smirk.
That brought Roxanne attention to her husband "he is right Cyrus" she acknowledged. "I am your wife after all." Her eyes bore into his own that made him squirm a bit.
Rather than risk saying something he cleared his throat and composed himself before turning to Severus who looked like he was enjoying the show. "Anyway, how is it possible that you became his guardian Severus?" he asked trying to change the subject. "I thought he was being raised by Jack or the Blacks."
Jack spoke in a serious tone "that's the story we expect you to stick with! The short version is that while me and Sarah maybe his guardians on the outside. Severus is his adoptive father! That was the agreement."
Daphne spoke up "I'm not following how is it that Professor Snape is his father, yet it says that he lives with your family. And is no one going to explain the fact that Takashi can talk"
The four occupants looked at each other. Harry was the first to speak "dad I don't know if I'm comfortable with them knowing. At least not now!"
"I understand Hadrian." Severus started looking from him to Cyrus and Roxanne "do your daughters know occlumency?"
"They know the basics" Roxanne confirmed. "Why do you ask?"
"Because Albus has a knack for going into the minds of students" he said it as if he swallowed a sour lemon. "he has already tried to look into Hadrian's mind before."
"WHAT" everyone shouted, even Jack looked pissed.
"Why did you not say anything?" he asked him
Harry would have spoken, but Severus beat him to it "even if we brought it to court it would prove useless as he didn't use a wand. Even with Dumbledore removed from his positions he still has a lot of influence. If we accused him of reading Hadrian mind without proof."
"It would make Hadrian look bad and it would make Dumbledore look good" Cyrus finished. While he was angry, he couldn't deny that it was for the best as the goat always seemed to get away with a lot of things. That trial he attended showed that Dumbledore was willing to bend some of the laws. Then an idea formed in his head.
"What if we all gave a magical vow saying that we would not say anything without your permissions" he suggested.
Hadrian looked at the adults sitting next to him with a questioning look, after a few moments they silently agreed. "The vow would be a good start, but they will need to make their occlumency shields stronger" he said in a firm voice.
Cyrus immediately nodded. "Severus would it be possible for you to teach occlumency to Daphne while at school?"
"You didn't even have to ask" he replied "We will start tomorrow after dinner Miss Greengrass" he said while looking at her. She gave him a nod.
Within the next few minutes all of the Greengrasses gave a magical vow (Astoria had to use her mother wand to give the oath). Harry was partly satisfied magical vows were good but there were ways around them. Looking at his dad and his uncle for assurance, they both gave a nod which made him relax a bit.
Harry began telling them the events on how he escaped the Dursley house thanks to Byakko and how he arrived at Potter Castle. He explained how Severus became his adopted father, how he met Jack and his family, meeting with the Blacks. How Dumbledore and Molly Weasley tried to forge a marriage contract between him and Ginevra. Later explaining why, he was in Japan to get away from the old codger. He told them how the old man and his entourage tried to get him transferred to Hogwarts.
To say they were shocked was an underestimate as they didn't know what to think. They were mostly sad and angered at what they had been told, including Cyrus as he now understood why Severus never said anything. Now it would probably be a good idea to make sure his family was protected; he didn't want that old bastard anywhere near his girls.
He decided to speak up "Severus! Jack would you two follow me and Roxanne to the lord's study for a few minutes."
Both men got up and left to go into the study leaving the kids and Byakko alone. When they were out of earshot Daphne was the first to speak "aside from what happened how is it possible your true familiar can talk?"
The question was intended for Harry, but he looked at Byakko who spoke "I am not your average tiger little girl. I am one of the four heavenly beast that rules over the magical world."
Both of the girl's eyes went wide and they were pale "Y-you're a g-god" Astoria stammered.
"That he is!" Harry confirmed.
Byakko was chuckling at them "relax you two if I wanted to attack you then I would have by now." He assured them.
The girls seemed to relax a bit; Astoria slowly approached him "would it be okay if I pet you?" she asked shakingly
The god looked to be thinking for a minute then gave his response. "Well at least you asked" he said as he remembered the other students who pet him without permission. "Go on!"
Astoria slowly reached her hand out to gently pet him. To her surprise he was incredibly soft. "Oh my god your fur is so soft" she commented.
Daphne watched as her sister and Byakko engage in a conversation. The god began telling her stories about the ancient mother. She half listened but drew her attention back to Hadrian.
"Do Blaise and Tracy know about this?" she slowly asked while looking at him
Harry met her gaze "out of the two only Blaise knows" he confirmed.
"Some how that explains a lot" she said with a shrug "you to have known each other for a long time" she casually said.
"Was any of it true?" she continued while looking at him. "What you told me?"
Harry gave a nod. "Everything I've told you was the truth! I just had to be careful with what I said around you."
She looked a bit sad and angry at what he said to her "I would never…" she started.
"It's not you that I have a problem with" he assured. "You may not know this but the walls at Hogwarts have ears! Hence, I have to be careful with what I reveal. Because anybody could be listening in especially Dumbledore or the rumor mill."
Daphne understood where he was coming from as the rumor mill at Hogwarts was well-known. And the headmaster could be listening in at any point or time. She received a letter from Tracy earlier today explaining how they had a meeting with Professors McGonagall, Flitwick, and Snape; about Granger and Weasley complaints about them. The two went as far as to cast the notice me not charm on themselves to follow him.
Deciding how to proceed she pulled out of her thoughts and looked at him "I am upset that you didn't tell me, but I understand as it would be bad if someone found out about personal life. She started "from what I've seen you're a mystery and a private person."
Byakko stepped in "she hit the nail on the head when describing you" he said with a chuckle. Harry gave him a scathing look, he wanted to rebuke but it was true.
"I appreciate you understanding" he said turning back to her. "However, I can say the same about you, seeing as how you always wear a cold mask all the time" he pointed out.
She was about to reply but he held a hand up "I know why you do it slytherin common room rules say you can't complain and have to show a tough exterior." He said with a grin "that said it doesn't mean you can't speak out and have your own opinions about things. If your house refuses to speak up, then how will the outside world know what is really going on" he casually said but his tone had a touch of firm in it.
Daphne wanted to say something, but she considered his words. After a few moments of thinking she realized he had a point if they wouldn't stand up and speak up. Then no one would! "Even if we speak out then people will still retaliate against us and see us as the bad guys" she pointed out.
Harry sucked in a breath "that's because they were ill prepared and hardly had any proof to support their claims!" he replied. "They also have very little support as they are divided but if they stand together then they can make a difference!"
"That's an interesting plan" came an unexpected voice. The kids and Byakko looked and saw that the adults have returned.
"How long have you all been standing there?" Daphne asked
Harry responded "they've been their since you mentioned the part about facing retaliation" he calmly said looking at his father.
"Back to what you were talking about" Cyrus began "you are correct if more people stood up. Then some matters could be solved! I take it you have a plan" he enquired.
Hadrian looked at him as Byakko went to go sit next to his legs "working on one!"
"Care to share with the rest of us" Severus asked in his silk voice.
"All in due time dad! The only thing I will say is that it will be a surprise" he said with a dark chuckle.
"Cryptic" was all Roxanne said in an amused tone and resumed her seat next to Astoria.
Jack decided to speak "Hadrian it's time to go back to Hogwarts!" he said in a firm voice.
The boy got up from his seat with Byakko and thanked the Greengrasses for keeping the situation quiet he was about to take another step out but spun back towards them.
"Did you forget something Mr. Potter" Roxanne asked.
"Please either Harry or Hadrian! Mr. Potter makes me sound old" he replied. "And yes, I should have done this before" he cleared his throat and looked at Astoria. Mr and Mrs Greengrass were wondering what he was going to do but the others had a feeling they knew.
"Astoria Roxanne Greengrass, I Hadrian James Potter hereby release you from any life debts you may owe me, so mote be it." The girl was enveloped in a white light signifying that she didn't owe him anything. With that done he and Jack left the room to go head back to Hogwarts, leaving the girl's parents shocked. Severus and Daphne shook their heads in amusement.
Roxanne seemed to regain her voice and looked at Severus "did he just cancel a life debt, Astoria owed him?" she asked with wide eyes
"That's my son" Severus said with pride in his voice.
Cyrus looked at him "he could have asked for anything out of her why would he cancel it? Not that I'm complaining!" he admitted feeling relieved.
"Daddy" Daphne started bringing her parents and sister attention to her "he did the same thing for Granger after the Halloween feast!" she pointed out. "I have only known him for a couple of months, and he doesn't seem the type of person who likes having people owe him."
"What happened after the Halloween feast" his eyes narrowed at her.
"Long story short: A troll got into the school, Granger was crying in the girl's bathroom and would have been injured or killed if Harry didn't kill the troll" she simply said
"What!" both her parents exclaimed
"Ok we really need to have a conversation" Roxanne said while looking at her oldest daughter and Severus.
Cyrus stepped in "that will be discussed later" he said "back to our discussion. Cameron should be brought into this! Severus we've known him for a long time; he and his family are trustworthy" he stated.
Severus thought about it for a few minutes Cameron Davis was indeed a friend of theirs and he had no doubt that he and his wife were trustworthy. Their daughter and Hadrian got along well but it was not his call to make. If they were to be involved. Facing them "I will consult Hadrian and the others, about the matter! Don't hold your breath as I don't know what they will decide."
"Fair enough" Cyrus said.
(0^0)
Four days later it was December 8th, Harry and Blaise soon found themselves eating lunch at the slytherins table with the girls. So far everything seemed alright Harry informed Blaise that Daphne and her family knew that Severus was his father. They've agreed to stay quiet on the matter and were debating about bringing the Davis's into the group. Due to his reclusive nature Harry didn't trust so easily, that said Tracy was a good person and maybe it would be a good idea to bring her into the circle. The matter would be discussed later today.
Daphne on the other hand had begun learning occlumency lessons from Severus. The process was not that difficult to her as she already knew the basics of the art. The more she spent time around him or Hadrian the more she began seeing them as enigmas. Mainly the latter as he was shrouded with mystery. He never once acted like the typical gryffindor others thought he was. If anything, he preferred to stay out of the spotlight not that she wasn't already aware of this, but others soon found that he wasn't like the other lions.
As she kept on pondering about him, she heard a flap of wings approach looking up she saw a brown owl approaching with a letter attached to its leg. It landed near Hadrian extending it leg to him, he untied it and gave the creature some food.
The envelope had the seal of the Black family on it, Hadrian opened it and pulled and saw that it was a letter from Lord Black. After reading the content he gave a nod in understanding, looking down the table he was scanning for his cousin. There he spotted him near the end of the table sitting next to Nott and Parkinson. He got up from his seat and made his way to them.
When he got to the end of the table, he tapped he addressed him "Draco" bringing the blond boy attention to him.
"Hadrian" he said with a nod.
"There is a matter we need to discuss…"
He would have finished but Parkinson cut in "anything you can say to him, you can say to us Potter." She crossed her arms at him.
Harry just ignored her and leaned down to whisper something in Draco ear. Pulling back, he saw the boy go instantly pale as he seemed scared. Getting up from his seat he looked at him "let's go" he said it with fear in his voice.
Pansy was confused as to what Potter had just whispered as it seemed to make her beloved Draco scared "Draco where are…" she tried to ask.
"It's a family matter Pansy" was all he said before he and Hadrian swept out of the great hall.
Rounding the corner and making sure that they wouldn't be overheard Draco took a breath "are you absolutely sure that Lord Black wants to meet with us on the 20th ?"
Instead of replying Hadrian handed him the letter, which he took. Reading over its Draco went possibly even more pale and possibly a bit angry "why does Lord Black want to meet with us?"
Harry leaned against the wall "if I had to ascertain a guess it would be to discuss which one of us is to be the next heir to the House of Black." He said pretending to wonder about the subject.
Draco was immediately angry "I'm the heir to the house of Black" he declared "my father…"
"That's not for him to decide as he is a Malfoy" Harry explained "he may have married a daughter of the house, but you overlooked something. I also have Black blood in me courtesy of my grandmother. So, we're in the same boat here. Whether we like it or not it not our call to decide who should be the next head of house." The firmness in his voice and the fire in his eyes was proof that he spoke the truth.
Draco was still angry but rather than say something he might regret knew what his father would do to him. Taking a breath "how do we proceed from here?" he asked
Harry being the taller of the two looked down at him for a moment "I suggest we go and be about twenty minutes early. It would be in our best interest to not piss him or his sister off. I'm pretty sure your mother told you how they can be!"
Draco gave a nod as both his parents told him how dangerous the two older Blacks could be. "Then I will see you on the 20th at the allotted time!"
Harry narrowed his eyes at him "remember what I said be their early. That way you can make a good impression" he said in an ice voice.
"I will right to my parents and let them know" he replied a bit scared of his cousin tone. With that he headed back to his common room.
Harry walked back into the great hall to go talk with his friends for a while before lunch ended. The four continued to talk to each other but all things came to an end when the bell rang signaling that lunch was over. As they were leaving for their next class Harry tapped Daphne arm. She looked at him for a second as he leaned in. "Come to the seventh floor after astronomy class!"
"Why?" she asked.
"I have something I want to show you!" he replied. "Trust me you will be surprised with what I have to show you" he then walked off to his own class leaving the girl to wonder with what he wanted to show her.
Daphne and her friends in slytherin went to their classes for the day listening to the professors teach but her mind drifted off to what happened back at home. She found out a lot professor Snape was Hadrian adoptive father, the white monarch chose to be his true familiar, and he saved her sister by using a special ritual; that was something she was positive was not covered anywhere in the west.
Her last class for the day was astronomy. She was glad that she took a nap as she would have been far to tired to deal with the class. After covering the lesson for the day Professor Sinistra released them Daphne told Tracy and Blaise she meets them in the common room. The two shared a look and went back to the dungeons.
Daphne went to the seventh floor and found it was deserted, taking her wand out she casted a quick tempus charm. It showed that it was a half hour past twelve. Wondering what Harry wanted her to see; she felt something being poked in her back that startled her.
"You're here good" Harry appeared behind her. She narrowed her eyes at him.
Daphne was a little annoyed with him at what he did "how did you do that" she asked
Harry smirked and showed her a cloak that made her eyes widen. "You have an invisibility cloak" she exclaimed.
"Shh" he put a finger over his mouth "come on I want to show you something" he led her to a wall, which she found odd on what was so cool about that. She then heard him mutter a password and a door appeared, which shocked her. "Close your eyes, this is going to be a surprise."
Daphne complied and closed her eyes. Harry led her into the room and after closing the door "you can open them now." He said softly in her ear.
Daphne gasped when she opened her eyes. She looked around and saw that she was on top of a cliff. Looking up into the starry night sky she saw a beautiful aroura that lasted for a couple minutes, then a set of wizarding fireworks went off into the sky. When they exploded, they formed 'Happy Birthday Daphne' in the air.
"Y-you did this for m-me" she choked on her words her eyes were teary. Ever since Daphne could remember she spent her birthday in the company of her parents, her sister, and sometimes with Tracy and her family.
"I remember you saying that your birthday was coming up and I figured that you would like a change of scenery" he said with a smile on his face. "Besides there is something else you have to see" he pointed to the sky.
She looked to the sky and saw the stars dancing, it was amazing. Daphne had only ever seen this happen once when she was little. "I wasn't sure if you would like… he was cut off when she tackled him to the ground in a hug.
Her face was in his chest, lifting her head up to meet his face "it amazing!" She wiped the tear from her eyes "thank you so much." Daphne smiled at him, moving from on top of him she sat next to him and continued to watch the stars dance.
Half an hour later, Harry transfigured the place back into his regular room. "I have a gift for you" he said as he went to the stairs that led to his room.
Daphne moved to a couch neat the fire "Harry you didn't have to! What you did already was more than enough."
He just grinned at her "just wait here. Trust me you'll like what I got you."
She wanted to say more but he already vacated up the stairs. Having gotten use to his antics she waited on the couch, a moment later Byakko came into the room. The white monarch went over to her and rubbed against her leg. It appeared that Byakko had grown fond of Daphne.
A few minutes later Harry came back downstairs with a package in his hands. He saw that Byakko had returned from his little outing, rubbing him on its head Byakko left to into the bedroom. "Happy birthday" he handed her the gift... She removed the wrapping paper to find a stylish dragon hide jacket with her name on stitched on the left.
She was startled as the jacket he got her was warm and she hadn't even put it on yet. Daphne tried the jacket on, it made her feel warm.
Reveling in the warmth of her new jacket, she looked at him. "I don't even know what to say" she muttered.
"Say nothing" Harry replied. "Don't ever change who you are." He smiled at her. "You should get some sleep we'll talk in the morning" she gave a nod. Harry directed her to another staircase that appeared in the room. They both went into their respective rooms form the night and fell asleep.
(0^0)
The days leading up to the day to go home for the yule holiday were alright except for a few minor problems. In Daphne's case they weren't bad she received a wand holster from her sister the latest design, a new pair of dragonhide shoes from her parents, Tracy gave her a beautiful pair of hairpins, Blaise had gifted her a book about advanced charms. The two were shocked when they heard what Harry gave her for her birthday. It didn't help that Tracy kept on making comments that made Daphne blush.
As it happened Harry and Blaise met in the room, where the other adults were waiting. After an hour of discussion, it was decided to include the Davis in their circle. From what he learned from his dad and the others Cameron Davis and his family never had an association with the dark lord or were sympathizers. Severus and Lord Greengrass even vouch for Lord Davis as he was an old friend of theirs from back in their school days.
Uncle Jack, Severus, and Lord Greengrass agreed to go handle the situation. The three had an audience with Cameron and his wife Isabella. The couple was initially weary of what they had heard but they agreed that it would be best if they allowed Tracy to be trained as well. After receiving a letter from her parents, Daphne, Blaise, and Hadrian took her to the special room where they explained the situation. Tracy was immediately onboard. Severus explained to them that he would be training her and Daphne in the mind arts to better protect her mind.
True to his dad's prediction Dumbledore called Harry into his office. The old fool tries to make him regret his actions by saying that Weasley and Granger were only looking after him. Harry just laughed at Dumbledore and told him to go mind his own business as the matter had already been dealt with. And proceeded to tell him that if he wanted to spend time with either of them, he will let them know. Followed by telling him to go talk to someone who wanted to speak to him like his brother. The look on Dumbledore face was priceless as Harry was certain that he hit a nerve, then walked out of the office.
According, to Severus Dumbledore was in a right mood as he found the headmaster drinking some Firewhiskey. Hearing Dumbledore was upset was music to his ears as this was only the beginning of what they had planned for him.
Now the day was here, the four friends were discussing about the ministry and ICW ball that was supposed to be held on the 29th. In Harry's opinion he didn't want to go but knew better as his uncle and aunt would be most displeased if he didn't attend. That aside it didn't look like his friends didn't want to attend either, so there was that. At least he would not be alone as the Stevenson's had to attend as well and the Kawada's. That was the only silver lighting in his opinion.
They continued talking about what they had planned for the holiday but were interrupted by a voice "Mr. Potter please stop!"
Harry turned around and saw his head of house coming toward him "professor" he said evenly "is there something you wanted?"
Minerva regarded him for a moment "I couldn't help but notice that you didn't put your name down to stay at Hogwarts over the holidays" she enquired.
"That's because I'm not. "I'm going back to see my family" he answered.
"The headmaster thinks that you should stay at school for the holiday. He thinks that you might enjoy what Hogwarts has to offer. Please follow me!" she said in a no-nonsense tone.
"No, I'm going home" was his only reply as he turned around and proceeded to be on his way with his friends.
Minerva was shocked no one had ever dared to refuse her before "Mr. Potter, the headmaster would like you to stay over the holidays. I believe that he wants to talk to you during the break."
Harry turned and looked her in the eyes "professor I don't care what that old fossil has to say. He is not my guardian and has no right deciding whether I should go or stay." His voice was cold as he had better things to do then stay near Dumbledore.
Minerva nostrils flared. "Mr. potter that will be ten points from gryffindor house! While I understand you don't like the headmaster, you will show him respect."
"Whatever" he rolled his eyes at her. "Tell me where the headmaster is if he wanted me to stay here then why didn't he come himself."
She narrowed his eyes at him "Professor Dumbledore had to leave to go to a meeting in Italy and won't be back till later."
Harry scoffed at her "well seeing as he not here to tell me that personally. I'll be leaving, not that he has the power to keep me here. When he gets back you can tell him to go bugger himself and that I have better things to do then waste my time talking to him about the greater good."
Minerva was completely shocked at what he said, "that will be another ten points from gryffindor, and you will be staying here over the break Mr. Potter." Her own voice was cold now.
Harry narrowed his eyes at her "professor the only way you're getting me to stay here is if you force me. And that is not likely to happen not without a fight" he showed the fire in his eyes. The other students were watching as they didn't know what was going to happen, some gasped at what he said even the gryffindors.
"You would use magic against me" she replied in a sharp voice.
"If you force my hand then yes, I'll have to" Harry was not going to back down. "So, what's it going to be professor!"
The two stared at each other for a few minute, trying to see which one would crack first. Both were channeling them magics much to the amazement of the students who fell to the ground gasping for air at the pressure they were feeling from the both of them.
They continued staring at each other, but Minerva saw that it was affecting the other students and with great reluctance stopped. "This not over Mr. Potter, when you get back, we will be having a talk when you return." She whirled around and headed back in the castle.
Harry sneered at her. "Fucking bitch" he muttered so she couldn't hear but it didn't stop the other students from staring at him with awe and shock. Some gasped at what he just called her.
No one dared to say anything not after what they just witnessed. Harry Potter stood up to Professor McGonagall and called her a bitch. Not even the slytherins would dare speak to her that way. In fact, they were actually impressed with the way he handled her along the members of the other houses. Harry ignored the stares and whispers and proceeded to head to the train with the others.
The gang found a compartment and placed their trunks on the racks via levitation charm (Harry of course did it silently) taking a seat next to the window. Blaise was about to close the door but was stopped by Susan and Hannah. The two hufflepuffs asked if they could sit with them. They received a nod from everyone and took their seats. Harry flicked his wand out closed the door and put up a strong locking charm on it along with a silencing charm on it so they could have some quiet.
Returning the wand to its holster, he reached up into his trunk and pulled out an ancient black hardcover book. Resuming his seat, he turned to a section of using battle transfiguration for elites. While he was reading his grimoire, the others began talking amongst themselves save for Daphne who casted occasional glances at him. She may have gotten use to some of his antics, but it didn't stop her from being curious about him.
After a few hour of riding Tracy looked to see that Granger and Weasley were trying to get into the compartment. The latter tried to open the door, but it wouldn't budge and after a few more attempts Granger tried. They watched as the female gryffindor become red in the face which was amusing to them. Granger pulled out her wand and tried an unlocking spell to no avail. Harry was positive the locking charm wouldn't last and after the eighth time the door finally unlocked.
The moment the door began to slide open Harry discreetly took out a recording crystal and activated it. The device levitated next to his knees. "You're not allowed to lock the door! I will be reporting this to the prefects" Granger said in her usual bossy tone..
Harry snorted. "Whatever" was all he said before turning a page in his book.
Granger turned her glare at him "How could you threaten Professor McGonagall with a dual Harry! You're going to be in big trouble when we get back! If Professor Dumbledore says you have to stay at Hogwarts, then you should have. What's that book your reading just because you're not taking the classes at Hogwarts doesn't mean you can read whatever you want. You should give it to either professors McGonagall or Dumbledore so they could make sure it safe!" she said so fast her cheeks were pink and she tried to catch her breath.
Daphne was getting annoyed with Granger constant bossy attitude "apparently you still haven't learned your lesson from Halloween Granger as your bossy attitude was part of the reason why you were in the stall crying" she snapped at the girl. "If you read the rules students are allowed to go home during the holidays and the headmaster has no rights to keep them, they're unless the parent or guardian wants them to remain. Now how about you go bother someone, we were enjoying our time long before you and Weasley showed up!" the cold in her voice was noticed by the other occupants in the room.
"Shut up you filthy cunt! Don't talk to Hermione that way" Weasley shouted at her. Then the boy turned to Harry "I can't believe you would want to stay with a bunch of filthy snakes Harry! Their dark wizards in training."
Harry closed his book "don't call Daphne a cunt Weasley. She is a far better magic user than you could ever hope to be. If there was a brain in that skull of yours then you would know that not all slytherins are dark as you say" his voice was cold and the fire in his eyes made Weasley pale a little.
He looked Granger in the eyes "as for you Granger I don't give a fuck what Dumbledore says!" Hermione said "language…" but it was all she was able to say as Harry talked over her " how I choose to spend my yule holiday is my choice not his! As for this book it's my family grimoire! By rights it's my property and I will not be giving it to any members of the staff."
"What's a family grimoire and why won't you give it to the professors?" Granger asked as she raised her own voice.
Susan was the one to respond "a family grimoire is something that many of the old families have and they can only be read by those of family blood or if they give the person permission. By all rights it's his property and the adults have no rights taking it from him" she explained
"Why does it matter that only members of blood family get to read it? A book is a book!" Granger said in a superior voice.
"Not in the wizarding world" Susan shook her head. "A grimoire is one of the most sacred things to different families. It allows them to read books that are back home, giving them access to family histories, family magics, and certain documents."
"What" Granger screeched "you all have access to magics that others don't you can't do that."
"Actually, we can Granger!" Daphne spoke. "My family has a grimoire and I'm allowed to look at it whenever I so please. Because it's from my family it makes it my property." She put more bite into some of her words.
"I have a family grimoire, that I sometimes read" Susan commented.
Hermione was mad "there is no way this can be legal!" She exclaimed.
Susan scoffed at her "it's fair and its legal Granger deal with it."
Ron ears were red "I can't believe you Bones, you supposed to be a member of the light faction. You can't side with members of the dark faction! What would your aunt say if she found out you were whoring yourself around like a slut" that was all he was able to get out as he was tagged with a silencing charm courtesy of Hadrian. Daphne raised her own wand and muttered "depulso" the banishing charm she learned from Harry. The spell was only mid powered, but it was enough to get Granger and Weasley out of the compartment.
Harry waved his wand again, closing the door and put an even stronger variation locking charm on it along with another silencing charm. Hannah and Tracy were comforting Susan after what Weasley just called her. The poor girl was sobbing into her friend's arms.
Outside of the compartment Granger and Weasley roused to their feet and tried to enter the compartment again. Hermione tried the unlocking charms over and over again; her face was red as no matter what unlocking charms, she tried the door wouldn't open. So, the two just went to go back to their own compartment. While also trying to drown out everyone else's laughter at them.
Back in the compartment Harry deactivated the crystal and pocketed it in his robes. The girls were seething as they were attempting to cheer up Susan. Tracy was the first to speak "this is not going to go unanswered, those two are going to pay" she swore.
"Calm down Tracy" Harry said still a little bit mad himself.
The girl narrowed her eyes at him "Calm down! Calm down! Did you not hear what Weasley called her." She exclaimed pointing to Susan who was being consoled by Hannah who was now looking at him with a frown.
Harry narrowed his eyes at her "I heard him. And I'm not happy about it anymore than you are! However, we can't be rash and just go after them."
"Then what should we do just let them go" Hannah testily said.
"No" he said looking at her "we just have to be smart on how we go about dealing with this!"
"Is that a fact" she scoffed "then what would you suggest. Dumbledore will obviously side with them."
"Think Abbott! Granger and Weasley will know doubt tell those Dumbledore what happened but they will make us look like the bad guys! However, according to the charter if an altercation occurs then the students head of house must be present" he explained.
"I know what the charter says" she replied "but even if we do bring our head of houses; it would still be their words against ours. Seeing as how Dumbledore would favor the gryffindors then we have no chance. How will we account for that?"
Harry smirked at her "as it happens" he pulled out the crystal from his robes, showing them.
That shocked them as they realized what he was thinking. Daphne was the first to recover "is that a…"
"Recording crystal yes, it is!" Harry confirmed still smirking.
Blaise got over his shock and glared at him "you had that thing recording the conversation the entire time. Why didn't you say anything?"
Harry looked at him out of the corner of his eye "you really think I'm going to engage in a conversation with those two and not make sure I have some insurance" he raised an eyebrow.
Daphne released a breath "you ought to be the most slytherin gryffindor I ever met" she commented.
"That's what I've been saying" Blaise said.
"I take it you have a plan then?" Tracy asked with hope.
"This is what we need to do" he began "you guys will need to write a letter to your head of houses and tell them that they will need to be present during the eventual meeting. Point out the fact that their presence is required as the charter dictates. This way the meeting will be on equal footing! Once the meeting has begun, we show them the recording."
They all thought it was a good plan, but Hannah had a concern "what if Dumbledore lets them off easy?"
Harry was about to speak but Daphne beat him to it "then we take it to the board of governor and let them decide!"
Harry smiled at the idea and decided to add another contingency "we could even inform the international press" he suggested. "Blaise does your mom still have any contacts with them?"
A cryptic smile appeared on his face "yes she does!"
"Then we are all agreed?" Harry asked looking at them all. Everyone gave a nod in agreement.
"But wait their something we need to consider" Susan pointed out.
"What's up Sue?" Hannah asked.
"Consider this if we do show the professors the recording what's to stop it from getting lost?" she emphasized the last word.
Harry let out a dark chuckle "leave that to me!" he replied. "I can get a copy made."
"How? I don't think the crystals can be copied into another." The concern was evident in her voice.
Harry looked at her a bit amused "who do you think created them in the first place" he raised an eyebrow.
The occupants except for Blaise were hit with a realization "you created them!" Hannah exclaimed.
"Me and my sister created them" he corrected her. "We can make it happen."
Everyone gave a nod. Within the next hour the pulled up to the station. Grabbing their luggage, they the exited the train. After saying their goodbyes, Harry and his four friends went to go find their families. Harry sensed that someone was coming towards him and the next moment he was wrapped in a bone crushing hug. Reacting on instinct he broke free and nailed a punch at the person face and a kick to the stomach that knocked her to the ground. Looking at the ground he saw a rather plump looking women with red hair being helped by her children. If he had to take a guess, the women was Molly Weasley. Her nose was bleeding and face was as red as her hair at what the boy had did to her in public.
"I suggest you not try that again, less you risk having one of your bones broken" came a voice from behind her.
The person in question was his aunt Sarah, she walked around them and to Hadrian. "Hadrian it's ok no one is going to hurt you" she said gently.
Harry calmed down "sorry aunt Sarah" he said in with a little disappointment in his voice.
"It's fine Harry, I saw everything" she reassured him bringing his mood up. "Are you ready to head home?"
He gave a nod and followed her. They were interrupted by the same woman who was now smiling "Lady Stevenson a moment of your time please. My name is Molly Weasley and these are my children" she gestured to the kids behind her. "Harry dear it's so good to finally meet you Ron has said a lot about you in his letters. How was your first term at Hogwarts? Was it great? If you like you could come to the burrow so you and Ron could bond and become best friends." Molly was contacted by Albus Dumbledore to invite Harry over to her house so he could get away from the others. It would also serve as a chance for him to get to know Ginevra better. Molly was one of his more vocal supporters and never once questioned what he said or requested.
Harry kept his cold expressionless mask on "Mrs. Weasley I don't know if you are aware but hugging someone out of nowhere the way you did was an invasion of my personal space as you neglected to introduce yourself. As for what your son wrote about me in his letters, let me assure you that I am not his friend. And I will not be going to your house as I already have plans with my family. Now good day."
Molly face was now purple, no one had ever spoken to her like that since she was a teenager. "Now you listen to me young man I am a mother of seven and you will show me some respect."
"I suggest you stop right their Mrs. Weasley" Sarah spoke "evidently you have forgotten but I am Hadrian's guardian. The way you came onto him was inappropriate and your lucky that he didn't do anything else." She looked at him "come on Harry lets go. Emily been home since yesterday."
Not needing to be told twice Harry immediately exited platform with her. Leaving a furious red-faced Mrs. Weasley. Finding a secluded place Sarah apparated them to Potter Castle. Entering through the main entrance of the castle Harry lifted his shirt up and released Byakko from his tattoo form. The tiger stretched his legs and went to go inside.
"Emily I'm home" he called out. The next moment the said girl came down the stair and jumped on him in a hug.
"You came back" she said still hugging him mentally talking with one another was one thing but physically seeing him was something different.
Harry put her down "I told you I would come back for the holidays! How have you been Shizuku" he gave her that nickname a few months ago. She apparently liked it as it coined her elemental ability to control water.
"I've been good, but I missed you" she admitted. "It's been kind of lonely in Japan without you" she said with a pout.
"Well, I'm all yours now" he smiled at her "what do you want to do?"
That made her perk up and she dragged him outside.
(0^0)
Back at Hogwarts in the headmaster office Albus was sitting at his desk drinking his second glass of Firewhiskey. His meeting in Italy was a headache ever since he lost his position as the supreme Mugwump his influence had dwindled considerably. If that weren't bad enough when he got back Minerva told him that the Potter boy was going home and even threatened to use magic against her if she attempted to make him stay. She also passed on the message he gave her. How dare that boy not heed his wisdom and do what he said. If that weren't bad enough, he just received a floo call from Molly Weasley. When he got back to Hogwarts, he placed a call to her and asked her to invite him over for the holiday.
That was a blunder on his part as the woman had no tact. She just jumped on him and lost her temper. Well, it looked like he would have to wait until the boy got back. Then he will be able to set him right! The greater good demanded it and he would have the boy be his weapon one way or another. Pouring himself another glass he took another sip of it and left to go to the staff room.
Before reaching the staff room he casted a sobering charm on himself and made sure his grandfather persona was in place. Opening the door, he saw that everyone was present and accounted for, even the other three teachers the boy had. "Sorry I'm late I had to handle a few things shall we begin."
Pomona Sprout was the first to speak. "Albus why are those three here" she pointed to the three non-professors.
"Pomona my dear these three are Mr. Potter teachers and since he is still taking courses from Mahoutokoro. Their presence is required" he explained. Headmaster Yoshi wrote to him and said that the boy professor will monitor his progress and report to him.
Seeing that no one else had anything they wanted to say he proceeded "now without further ado lets begin with the first years. Would anyone like to begin?" he asked.
"I would" Filius spoke up "this new batch of first years are truly impressive and I can safely say that a few show great promise" he squeaked.
Minerva was the next to speak "I would have to concur with Filius some of them show great skills others simply need a guiding hand."
Severus sneered. "Based on what I've seen this year we are housing another bunch of dunderheads. However, a few do exhibit some talents!"
"Thank you, Severus" Dumbledore said. Everyone was already use to how Severus was and simply left it at that.
The other professor gave their comments except for the other three who just stood next to the wall silently deliberating about their student.
Once everyone was done Dumbledore said the first name on the first year's roster "Abbott, Hannah."
Pomona spoke up as the girl was in her house "Mrs. Abbott has averaged between a high exceeds expectation and low outstanding in my subject" she said.
Minerva was the next to speak "the girl is averaging an exceeds expectation in transfiguration. While her theory is strong her practical needs a little more work. Other than that, she is a good student in my opinion."
They all proceeded to give their reports about Hannah and later went on till they got to the G's.
"Now Mrs. Granger" Dumbledore said with a little enthusiasm in his voice.
"Mrs. Granger is an excellent student in my class" Minerva started. "If I had to make an accurate guess, I think she would be one of the top three in her year. Though I do think that she would benefit by forming her own conclusions rather than rely on books."
"That insufferable know it all cannot go one class period without raising her hand to answer a question" came Severus. "And whenever she does answer a question right, she acts so smug about it, even when someone else give an answer she glares at them." The cold professor continued his report then it went became Filius turn when he finished.
"While I don't condone what Severus said he is right" he paused. "Mrs. Granger is indeed a good student in both theory and practical but her need to answer every question does tend to bother some of the other students."
The other professor spoke about the girl's progress and said she was neck in neck with Greengrass. Then it came to professor Sprout, she agreed that Mrs. Granger was an excellent student, but she needed to make her own conclusions.
Next was Daphne Greengrass. Severus was the first to speak "Mrs. Greengrass is the best student in my class. Her potions are always brewed correctly, and she always does her job. She has even made some improvements to some of the potions she's been given. My guess is that she's been spending time with Potter, surprisingly the brat is not as arrogant as his pathetic father."
Minerva gave him a frosty glare at the mention of one of her best students. While James did like to play pranks and quidditch he was still a good student. She wished Severus would let his anger go as the man was six feet under. Giving him one more frosty glare, she gave her report about the young slytherin girl.
The other teachers had nothing but positive to say about the girl and it could be argued that she would be ranked first place. They eventually made it to the L's here they discussed Neville Longbottom. It was decided that due to his grandmother breathing down his neck that the boy was scared of everything. Pomona said that he was best students in her class and noted that his skills with herbology compensated his potions grade.
Eventually they made it to the P's; Dumbledore could barely contain his eagerness, that eventually brought the three other teachers out of their discussion. Minerva was the first to speak "Mr. Potter is even better than his father when it came to transfiguration, his theory is very strong and whenever he does a spell they are done nonverbally. He has even said that he completed the syllabus assigned for his year and wrote to his headmaster to request the next years syllabus."
Dumbledore couldn't help but notice the sadness in her voice and she was looking down into her lap. "Is there anything else Minerva?"
Minerva sighed. "That boy does not act at all like how I expected him to act. I half expected him to look like his father and have his mother's warmth. But he always seems cold and antisocial. He refuses to spend anymore time than necessary with the members of his own house."
She sucked in a breath "and I am pretty sure that he hates me!"
Filius felt bad for her but couldn't deny that Mr. potter held some resentment against her "well Minerva what did you expect leaving him with Petunia. After what you and Albus did I'm surprised that he can even stand to be in the same room as you."
Dumbledore massaged his temples "Filius please just get on with your report." He did not want another headache right now.
"Fine Albus! Mr. Potter is indeed an impressive student, like what Minerva said his work is exceedingly great. His spell work is done silently in my class and he helps some of the others with their work. He even requested the syllabus for next year! Lily would be so proud of him. He even demonstrated his project to me!" Filius said remembering what the boy showed him about the patronus charm.
Dumbledore was interested on what the boy project was. "Filius if I may ask what Mr. Potter showed you?" the twinkle in his eyes were shining.
"The boy performed the patronus charm!" he said much to everyone's shock. The patronus was an advanced piece of magic that most could even do.
"Filius are you sure the boy casted the patronus? Minerva asked "it is a very difficult spell to master. Don't get me wrong but I find it hard to believe that an eleven-year-old boy was able to cast the spell."
"Believe it Minerva" Filius retorted with a smile on his face. "The boy casted a solid patronus that took the form of a Hebridean dragon. Severus was there when he casted it."
Everyone looked at the potions master "it's the truth. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it myself. The brat even made some discoveries about it."
"What kind of discoveries" Dumbledore leaned in with interest. Filius explained how the boy called the patronus incomplete as it was supposed to be a solid and not a mist. He even said how the form was singing a melody and that certain instruments affect the casters patronus. Filius even requested a copy of the boy notes so he could send it to the international defense guild so they could view it "I have a feeling that it will be in their next issue" he bounced in his seat.
Next it came Severus turn, internally he was happy about his son progress. "While it's an agony to admit the boy shows prodigious talent when it comes to potions making. Apparently, Hayato did a good job in teaching him, his potions are always brewed correctly and more powerful than what I assign him" he sneered. "He even began making changes to certain potions making them more potent!" he said it like it pained him.
The other professor gave their reports about Mr. Potter and voiced that they should advance him. Then time came for the pseudo teachers to speak Master Sakai went ahead to give her report "speaking from me and Caleb we have judge him to be the best student we have ever had. The boy is capable of adapting to different situations and shows a high aptitude for battle magic."
"Mrs. Sakai if I may enquire what are you two teaching are the boy?" Dumbledore asked he was wearing his grandfather persona.
"I'm sorry Dumbledore but we can't say as we only report to the boy current headmaster and his guardians. However, I will say that he is advanced beyond his years" she said with pride in her voice. Caleb nodded in agreement.
"Come now my dear. I only wish to ensure the boy safety" Dumbledore said.
Caleb was the one to respond, "Professor Dumbledore it's not that simple we signed a contract; it stipulates that we can only discuss the boy combat status with his family and headmaster Yoshi."
Dumbledore was seething as he couldn't even know what the boy was being taught. He could not allow the boy to grow to strong as he needed him weak. Looking at the two masters he wanted to ban them from the school, but they weren't on his payroll and it would cause storm in the form of the Black's, Stevenson's, and the Japanese headmaster.
Last came Aart Marchbank who said that the boy was performing at a high rate when it came to alchemy. He to wanted to advance the boy to the next level.
With that done Filius spoke "so we're agreed that Mr. potter should be elevated to the next level."
Looking around he saw that many of the teachers were in agreement. That was until Dumbledore spoke up "that could be discussed at a later date Filius! However, I think we should keep the boy where he is it would not do good to ostracize him from his peers."
"Albus the boy is ready" Filius commented "we would only be hindering him if we keep him where he is."
"Be that as it may the boy needs to spend time with his friends. Putting him in a year above would cause an uproar amongst the students" Dumbledore said in his best grandfatherly voice.
Filius was about to speak but Minerva cut him off "Mr. Potter advancement to the next year will be decided later Filius!" Her voice was firm, but her heart wasn't in it as she couldn't get her mind off of the boy.
The diminutive professor sat back down. While the other professor collected their things "Professor Dumbledore I believe our presence is no longer required. If you don't mind, we will take our leave" Marchbank said.
Albus dismissed them and the three left the room.
As the masters made their way to the apparition point Aart stopped when they exited the gates. "So, we are agreed the boy should be advanced to the next level!" he said with gleam in his eyes.
"Yes, the boy has worked exceptionally hard to get where he is" Caleb commented before looking at his friend "Yumi do you have the recording?"
The witch pulled out the crystal from her robes and showed the two. "I'll deliver it to Lord Black and have him send it to my brother school."
"Good then let's go" Aart said and the three apparated to their separate destinations.
A/N: The Greengrasses now know that Severus is Harry father and have agreed to remain quiet. Tracy and her family have been brought into the fold and Severus will begin training her in the mind arts. Daphne had her birthday! McGonagall tried to stop Harry from getting on the train and leaving per Dumbledore orders. As you can see Harry was perfectly willing to fight back should he have to.
The crystal Harry used to record what Weasley and Granger said was needed as they will no doubt go run to Dumbledore. They also have a needed contingency plan should things go south. I like making Dumbledore life miserable and this is only the beginning of what I have in mind for him.
The teachers have agreed that they want to advance the boy to the next year. Dumbledore wants to keep Harry at where he is so he could have him as his pawn. In all the time Harry has fought Voldemort he mostly gotten lucky. I'm not denying that the boy is powerful in the book, but he needs more than what is offered in classes.
Next Chapter: Quirrell dies! Master Sakai will have a talk with the boy guardians, and it will be up to them and the staff at Mahoutokoro if they want to advance the boy. Also, to answer one of my reviews the meeting with the Black's will occur as well next chapter.