Chapter 18
In Blacks Castle Arcturus, Cassiopeia, and Sirius were in the sitting room having a talk with Yumi Sakai. The dueling master had arrived a few minutes ago to deliver her report about her student. She even showed them the crystal that recorded the meeting about him. After thirty minutes of listening to the teachers report about Hadrian, the pride in the two elder Blacks faces could be visibly seen. Especially, Cassiopeia the woman was positively proud of her nephew progress. Arcturus was also pleased and started commenting on how far the boy had come since he first met him.
"That boy is definitely something exceptional" Cassiopeia spoke "I can't be any more proud of him if I tried!" The pride in her voice was noticeable.
"I never knew you were capable of giving a compliment Cassie!" Arcturus replied with a smirk.
"That's more than whatever I got from you." Sirius said "I'm pretty shocked that you were able to care for someone" he snickered.
Cassiopeia huffed at both of them.
"Believe what you want" she said to the both of them with a frown "and unlike you Sirius he won't be a man child! Hadrian actually strives to be the best he can be, rather than waste time playing around or trying to get into a woman's pants."
Sirius looked offended at what she said. "Well excuse me for enjoying life a little bit" he casually said.
"And where did that get you!" She narrowed her eyes at her nephew. "You were betrayed and sent to Azkaban. And lost the chance to get to know your godson. The one you swore to protect."
Those words cut like a knife. Cassiopeia and Sirius had a tense relationship especially while he was younger. The woman was hard to please, Sirius and Regulus both thought the woman never smiled and didn't like anyone. Not even his parents would stand up to her, hell the woman was dangerous and not one to get on the wrong side of. Out of all the people in his family he only cared for a few.
Sirius was about to retort but Arcturus put his foot down, "enough you two" he said in a booming voice. "You both can argue later but now we are listening to the report about Hadrian."
They both sat down and continued glaring at each other. "Is there anything else" he asked the dueling master.
Sakai gave a nod. "You should know that Dumbledore wants to keep the boy where he is rather than move him up to the next year" her voice was laced with disdain.
"Despite what he may believe he doesn't have a say in the matter. That decision belongs to the boy guardians and the staff in Japan" she continued.
"Thank you, Master Sakai" Arcturus said dismissively.
"I'll make sure the headmaster gets the recording by morning" the Black Patriarch gave a nod, and she took her leave.
Sirius was the first to break the silence "are we sure Hadrian will be elevated to the next year." He couldn't help but feel proud of his godson, obviously he took after Lily rather than James.
"It will be his choice to make" Arcturus said with a shrug "I will say this! That boy is ambitious and wants to rise and be the best he can be."
"I don't know why you two are concerned." Cassie said, "Hadrian wants to prove himself and him being elevated to the upper years will benefit him greatly."
"I love and care for him and he is one of the only few members of this family that is not a disappointment." She continued.
Sirius snorted "speaking of family. I still can't believe you invited the Malfoy over" he looked at his grandfather.
Arcturus massaged his temples, while he didn't like the idea of Lucius being in his house. Hadrian asked him to give Draco a chance to prove himself. Against his better judgment he agreed to give Malfoy spawn a chance. Narcissa may have married Lucius and had the whelp but she was still a daughter of the family.
"What's done is done! The only reason they are coming here is because of Hadrian" he explained. "Regardless of what I think the Malfoys will be here on the 20th and you will conduct yourself in a civilized manner. Understand!" he threatened.
Sirius was still scared of his grandfather. While he may have had to endure his mother punishments. His grandfather ire made hers seem like kittens. "Fine" he muttered.
"Sirius" he looked at him "I don't like it any more than you do. Believe me I much rather end the Malfoy line permanently. However, Hadrian convinced me to give them a chance. Blood is thicker than water!"
The younger man didn't know what to think Hadrian wanted to give Lucius son a chance. If that wasn't enough, he was sorted into gryffindor but opted to spend time with some of the slytherins. That was still something he couldn't wrap his head around.
Cassiopeia saw her nephew was deep in thought no doubt his mind was on Hadrian. She knew what he thought about slytherins, as he refused to see past a simple house rivalry. While she understood that Orion and Walburga didn't help the matter he would soon need to learn to let it go. Hadrian had friends in slytherin and based on what she seen they didn't have any hidden agendas or desires to use him. She partly blamed Dumbledore for fueling the anger and hatred between the two houses. Dorea was in slytherin and Charlus was in gryffindor and they made it work. Hell, the elder Potter and Arcturus were like brothers.
Taking a look at the clock on the wall they saw that it was time for them to go. "Arcturus it's time." Her brother gave a nod. She then turned to Sirius "it's time to meet your godson!"
Sirius hopped to his feet and was about to head to the floo network, but she halted him. "Sirius before we go you are going to need to accept a few things. And act like an adult" there was danger in her voice.
Sirius sucked in a breath and gave a nod. Arcturus was the first to be engulfed by the green flames, then it was Cassie, and last was Sirius. He was immediately transported to Potter castle where he was met by the Stevenson family. After greeting them he looked in the direction of the dining room, where he saw the boy who he had not seen since the trial. Standing next to him was the last person he had ever wanted to see Severus Snape or Snivellus as what he and his friends use to call him.
Sirius face morphed into one of pure hatred "what are you doing here Snivellus? You're not welcome here?"
Severus sneered at him "you are about as intelligent as ever Black." He was mentally enjoying watch the man get angry. "As to why I am here. Hadrian wanted me present!"
Sirius looked at his godson "Harry I don't know what he's told you but it's a lie."
Severus narrowed his eyes at him "that's rich coming from you. Weren't you the one who abandoned to that oaf Hagrid."
That seemed to do it as Sirius marched toward him but was knocked to the ground by a great white tiger. His eyes opened wide with fear as he thought the tiger was going to kill him. The roar of the apex predator made him almost shit himself.
"Alright Byakko he gets the picture! Get off him" Hadrian said.
Byakko gave the human one last look and a growl before getting off him and trotting back to Hadrian. "They're some people that want to talk to you." He said to the man as he got up from the ground.
Then he looked above the fireplace to see the portraits of his parents, Sirius followed his gaze and was speechless at what he saw. The pictures of James and Lily the two people he thought he would never see again.
"Lil…ly, Ja…mes" he stammered as he said their names. "I…I don't know…" he could barely form any words. "We are very disappointed in you Sirius" came James the disappointment on his face and voice could be seen and heard.
"When Harry was born, we named you his godfather" Lily started. "Even though you were a man child we had hoped that you would protect him. Why did you give him up so easily?"
"I was irrational and heartbroken when I heard the both of you were dead. Consumed by anger and sadness!" He stated. "I intended to comeback once I dealt with Pettigrew, but the cowardly shit fled through the sewers and I was sent to Azkaban."
"We were already aware of that padfoot. What we want to know is why did you not fight harder to get custody of Hadrian?" James looked at his friend with a mixture of emotions.
"If I had the chance to redo anything I would" the shame on his face was sounded.
James regarded him for a few minutes, yes, he was angry and disappointed with Sirius, but he also knew that he would do anything to protect his son. "Lucky for you I believe you! But that decision is not mine to make. If you want a relationship with Hadrian, then you will have to do it through Severus."
"Why do I have to do it through Snivellus?" he asked.
He watched as James eyes hardened "Sirius his name is Severus! You need to get over what happened at Hogwarts. Because half the things we did were uncalled for and unjustified. Especially after your little prank with the shrinking shack. You would have gotten him, and Remus killed with that with your little stunt."
Lily picked up where he left off "some of the pranks you four would pull were cruel and wrong. Not once did you ask your victims how they felt. Yes, some of the people we went to school with were bad but never gave you the right to bully and torture them the way you did."
"As to why you have to do it through Severus" she continued. "Me and James have decided that he would be Hadrian's adoptive father. And he has done a brilliant job in raising him along with Jack and his family."
Sirius grumbled under his breath "what was that" Lily snapped at him.
"Nothing" he said in fear. She maybe dead but even then, she still terrified him. "I will attempt to find some common ground with sni… Snape."
"It's a start! Hadrian said. He then turned to Severus "dad I take it your aware of what happened on the grounds as I was leaving the school."
Severus looked at him with his narrowed black eyes "indeed I am. While I am not happy Minerva has no rights to trying to keep you there."
"What happened on the grounds" Jack asked.
Harry explained on how he and his friends were leaving but were stopped by McGonagall. The woman said that the headmaster wanted Hadrian to stay at school over the break, but he refused stating that he would be going home. The two exchanged some words as neither were willing to back down and Harry said if she wanted him to stay. He said if she was going to make him stay then she had better be ready to fight.
The adults were having mixed emotions his birth parents and Sirius were shocked that Harry would threaten Minerva if she forced him to stay. Not even James and Sirius were that bold or daring. The elder Blacks were looking at the boy with pride, the boy didn't back down and warned Minerva off with a threat. The Stevenson's to were shocked but they had a mixture of anger on their faces only they couldn't decide who they were to direct it at. Severus to was unhappy but the glee in his eyes were partly giving him away.
The next moment a booming laugh was heard everyone turned to Arcturus "you really are my blood aren't you. While I don't like the way you handled it, you did well in not backing down from Minerva."
"I mean what I said to her." The steel in his voice was heard as he continued "no one tells me how to live my life or dictates how I spend my time. You taught me that!"
A smile appeared on his face "that I did" he confirmed. His thoughts drew back to him and Charlus when they were younger. He had a feeling that the boy would prove to be an excellent lord when the time came.
"Did anything else happen before you came home?" Cassie asked.
Harry took out the recording crystal and was about to activate it, but he turned to Emily. "I'm going to have to put you under the ear buzzing spell for a few minutes" he said.
"What! Why?" She asked. "There are somethings said in the recording that you are not supposed to hear" he replied.
Emily wanted to say something but thought against it. Whatever happened was probably not for her to listen to, grudgingly she agreed. Harry flicked his wand out and casted the spell on her.
Activating the crystal, he pointed it to the wall where the others were. Everyone saw the crystals form a screen and watched the altercation between the occupants of the compartment and the gryffindors. After watching the recording Harry removed the spell from Emily and told them about the eventual meeting, they would have with Dumbledore. He explained how the others would be in attendance and told them about the plans they made.
"You are a slytherin" Sirius said.
"Just because I was put in gryffindor does not mean I don't possess the traits of other houses" harry commented. "Bucky can you come here?" he called out.
With a pop the head elf popped in front of him "young Hadrian sir. What can Bucky do for you?"
Hadrian took a knee "do we have anymore crystals left?" The elf responded with a nod "yes sir our total is 29 left."
"Would you bring me 3 of them? I need to make some copies!"
"Right away sir" and with a pop the elf was gone. Only to return a few minutes later, with what he asked. "Here you are sir" handing the recordings to him.
Harry took the crystals and pocketed them. Looking down at the head elf the guy looked tired. "Bucky why don't you take the night and tomorrow off!" he gave a smile.
"Hadrian sir is to kind, Bucky thanks you!" The aged elf snapped his fingers and popped away.
Harry stood up straight and went into the dining room, followed by the others. Harry took his seat at the head table with Severus and Emily on his sides. When everyone was seated the elves brought the food in and everyone began eating, Byakko was given some well done beef. While the adults were talking Harry and Emily were chatting away.
Emily said that things were dull at school and that Miwa was bored without him there. She didn't even have any competition in school anymore since he left. Harry resolved himself to contact her later to let her know that she would have to be ready as he didn't plan on losing the exam in March. Emily had risen to second place her year, while Harry couldn't be at school, with her it didn't stop him from helping her.
Severus turned his attention to Hadrian and explained how the teachers wanted to move him to the next year. Harry immediately agreed, as he wanted to prove that he could go the distance and make a name for himself. However, he would have to wait until after the placement test to see if he were ready.
After dinner Harry and Emily went into the dueling room. The latter wanted to show her brother what she had learned thus far. An hour past and Harry couldn't have been more happier than seeing her use of magic. She may have not been as skilled with transfiguration as he was, she was skilled in charms. He in turn showed her the patronus charm and let the dragon roam around for a while, then explained what was required to make it into a solid. And how certain instruments can have different effects on it.
To demonstrate he asked the elves for a piccolo and a piano set. Emily listened to her brother play the instruments and watched how they effected the patronus charm. She was positively giddy and tried it herself with the piano she watched the patronus change and was amazed.
"That was amazing!" she exclaimed. "Can you teach me how to do the spell?" she was bouncing on her feet.
Harry thought for a moment "we'll see during the summer alright" he replied. "Be warned the spell is taxing" he cautioned her.
She jumped on him in a hug "thank you! thank you!" she then let go.
"How about we go to bed for the night!" he suggested. She gave a nod "will you play me some music so I can sleep?"
He affectionately rubbed her head "of course Shizuku!" he said with a smile. "Come on!"
They went to her room she used whenever she slept over. When they got to the room Hadrian let her go in to get changed into her pajamas. Waiting for five minutes she let him in. Her pajamas were cute in Harry's opinion. They showed little dolphins jumping out of the water. He watched her get under the covers. "Piccolo or guitar?"
"Guitar" she responded.
Brandishing his wand, he transfigured the flute into a guitar, going into the nightstand he pulled out a pick. Taking a breath, he started playing a melody that she loved. As he continued playing, she grew more sleepy until eventually she was asleep.
Harry watched her sleep peacefully 'night princess' he muttered, placing the guitar next to the wall he exited the room. Slowly closing the door shut he went to go to the master bedroom. Entering the room, he quickly changed into his own pajamas and saw that Byakko was already a sleep at the end of the bed. Getting under the covers he immediately went to bed.
(0^0)
At the far the East the staff of Mahoutokoro were gathered for their own meeting to discuss the recent developments. The clock read that it was eleven o'clock in the morning, first was Class- A the teachers were talking about how some of the students should either remain or be downgraded to other class. Headmaster Yoshi sat and added his own view on things Class- A was the most demanding class as it was the highest class at the school. When they finally got to a certain raven-haired boy did a few let out a collection of breaths. The boy may have attended school with them for the first few years of his education, but he quickly proved that he belonged with them.
Yoshi pulled out a file that was delivered to him earlier this morning and the crystal he received from Professor Sakai sister. Tapping it with his wand he watched the recording transfer to the crystals on the wall, allowing everyone in the room to see and hear what the teachers at Hogwarts say about the boy. After watching the recording some were sporting superior looks, while other looked with grins on their faces.
The headmaster passed out the exam reports to the teachers so they can view where the boy stood. The staff was shocked at the boy's results as they were exceedingly high debated amongst themselves until the deputy headmaster spoke "it would appear that we have two students that we might have to elevate to the next level. Miwa Kawada and Hadrian Potter!"
A severe looking woman was first to respond, "you may be right their results are higher than what the academic scores should be."
Next spoke a bald middle-aged man "there is no question that the curriculum they are taking now is hindering them. I even received a request for the next years syllabus, but I think that they are above even that."
"However, advanced they might be what they demonstrated in class is exceptional, but I want us to be sure." A woman who had grey hair and gold eyes spoke. The woman was named Lilith Asami, many of the staff members considered her to be one of the harshest and strictest teachers to ever teach in school history.
"I suggest we wait and see how they perform in the placement exams in March!" she continued.
"Are we all in agreement with this" Arata asked. The staff answered in agreement with this. "Alright give them the next year syllabus. We will soon see if they are ready to move forward." His voice was firm as he said it.
Hayato took his moment to speak "as the head of Class- A I will have the progress reports sent out to the students within the next few days."
Yoshi gave him a nod. Then proceeded with the meeting.
(0^0)
Before long December 20th came quickly and Harry was dressed in a white button up shirt, black trousers, a charcoal tie, and some silk robes with his family crest. He even changed his hair to its natural state. While he may have inherited his dad hair, he at least was able to keep it tamed. Checking himself over in the mirror he made sure that he looked like a proper heir. After checking everything he put on a pair of dragon hide boots.
He then went to the main room where the floo network was. Grabbing a pinch of powder, he stepped in the fireplace and said "Black Castle" dropping the powder he was enveloped in green flames and transported away. Arriving at the castle he stepped out of the floo network and dusted the soot off his robes.
Looking forward he saw Arcturus, Cassie, and Sirius talking on the couch. From what he heard Dumbledore had been trying to get in touch with Sirius, but the latter wasn't in the mood to deal with him. Arcturus looked at his nephew "ahh Hadrian you're a half hour early, good."
Hadrian greeted them and took a seat next to Cassie. "What's going on?" he asked while looking at them. He had a feeling he knew what they were talking about, but he wanted to confirm it.
Sirius was the one to speak "Dumbledore has been trying to get in contact with me" he said bitterly. After everything he did for the man, he had the nerve to sentence him to Azkaban without a trial. What really pissed him off was that the headmaster put his godson with Petunia and her family.
Harry raised an eyebrow "and what does he want?"
Cassie spoke "the wrinkled old fool is hoping to get back into his good graces" she responded. "If I had to take a guess, I say that he thinks we accepted Sirius back into the family and he wants to capitalize on it."
"Like hell that's happening" Sirius declared. "After everything I did for him, he abandons me like a toy. Not to mention that I had already been casted out thanks to my mother." The anger and bitterness in his voice could be heard as he was thinking of way, he could get back at him.
"Calm yourself boy" Cassie glared at him. "It won't be long before Dumbledore ask for a meeting with you. But before that I'm going to get your occlumency shields back up!"
"I will not entertain that man, after what he did to me" he hotly retorted.
Arcturus grunted "it seems like you're learning not to be as trusting" he commented. "To bad it only took you being sent to Azkaban to realize it."
Sirius looked at his grandfather the look the old man was giving him made him think twice about talking. Arcturus decided to continue "you start occlumency training after Christmas" he ordered.
Sirius just grumbled a yes. The four resumed talking for the next few minutes until they heard a knock on the door. Arcturus called one of the house and had them open the door. The elf soon returned with the Malfoys following from behind. "Lord Black I thank you for inviting us to come today" Lucius said with a bow.
Lucius was surprised that Draco said that they would need to be early for the meeting with the Blacks. Perhaps his son was finally taking the proper initiative and acting like a proper heir.
"Lucius" Arcturus steel grey eyes bored into him. He really wanted nothing more but to end the sack of shit here and now but knew better as he the reason why they were here. He then looked at the boy who was standing next to him and was simply unimpressed. He had heard of Malfoy spawn and it made his stomach turn, the look he gave the boy made him pale as a ghost.
"I'm surprised you're here early" barely managing to hide his disgust at the boy.
Draco was having a hard time forming words as he was now scared of Lord Black. His parents had told him about the elder Blacks but now that he was seeing the man for the first time made him feel terrified.
Harry grunted turning Arcturus attention to him "I'm the reason they are here early, Uncle."
"Really" Arcturus said.
Harry continued "I figured that you would be pleased to see that Draco and his family were on time without delay. It would have been a disgraced if the heir to the Most Noble house to show up only five minutes before the allotted time."
Arcturus regarded him for a minute, then turned back to the Malfoy spawn "is this true boy?" the steel in his voice signified that he wanted an answer.
Draco regain some color "uh yes sir. Hadrian made it clear that I was to arrive twenty minutes early."
"Nice to see that one of the candidates is taking the proper initiative" he commented.
Sirius was the next to speak "Narcissa you look well. How have you been these past years?" Internally he was seething.
Her face was impassive "I am well cousin Sirius. I am truly sorry about what happened to you. It wasn't right!"
Sirius gave a casual shrug "it matters not I am free and that is what matter." He then went to go speak with Arcturus and Cassiopeia, leaving Hadrian with them.
Hadrian began by bringing his shields up "I'm glad you could make it Draco. How are you enjoying the holiday?"
"It's nice and it feel good to be back home. Rather than be at school" he replied.
Draco father walked forward and extended his hand "Mr. Potter it's a pleasure to finally meet you. Lucius Malfoy I'm sorry we never had a chance to speak after the wizengamot, but I had some pressing matter to attend to!"
Harry took his hand and shook it "the pleasure is all mind Lord Malfoy and think nothing of it as a lord of your stature I'm sure you have many obligation to uphold. I have heard many things about you from Draco as well."
"He mentioned that you were in the top 5 of your classes when you were in school. Very impressive!" he followed up.
Lucius was not one to refuse a compliment and puffed up "thank you Mr. Potter! It was a lot of hard work. Did Draco also mention that I became a prefect?"
Harry looked solemnly at him "I'm afraid not. Though I did here a few rumors about it. He confessed before turning to Narcissa "Lady Malfoy I must say you look enchanting tonight" he kissed her knuckle.
"Why thank you Mr. Potter, I say you look just as dashing today as well " she said while smiling. "Draco has spoken highly of you! How are you enjoying your time at Hogwarts?"
"Hogwarts is average at best" he added a sigh "but truthfully I prefer to be back in Mahoutokoro!"
Lucius looked at what he said with approval "yes Mahoutokoro is one of the best schools in the world. I originally wanted to send Draco to Durmstrang Institute but thanks to the ruling of the ICW and Narcissa not wanting Draco to be far away. I had to send him to Hogwarts."
"Really" Harry pretended to act surprised "Durmstrang is a good school but I can't help but feel that it's not up to standards."
"Will you elaborate on that" Lucius insisted. "Only that the school may look good but are the staff members qualified to teach? After all it would be bad if a school fails to live up to its expectations."
Lucius curled his lips "very true! A schools standards have to be good as they will in turn produce good witches and wizards."
"Speaking of school Draco once mentioned that you were familiar with Professor Snape and took him under your wing" Harry said.
Lucius gripped his cane a little and looked down at Draco with narrowed eyes. Looking back up "yes me and Severus have known each other for years" he confirmed. "I was in my fifth year when he was coming in. Sometimes I can't help but feel bad for him having to toll away at Hogwarts."
Harry face was expressionless "I can't say that I know him personally, from what I have observed he does tend to work hard. But having to protect his slytherins and endure Dumbledore constant dribble about the greater good. It a no wonder why he is so mad!"
Lucius eyes opened a bit as that piqued his interest "what do you mean?"
"Lord Malfoy surely you know about the constant rivalry between slytherin and gryffindor do you not" he asked with a raised eyebrow, to which the older man gave a nod. "While I understand the bitter hatred between the two houses it's not so hard to figure out that neither of them are perfect."
"Go on" Lucius said leaning in. Narcissa went to go talk with the others.
Harry continued "during my time at school I've noticed altercations between houses; on a few occasions gryffindors have attacked them without provocation and sometimes the slytherins have done the same. I have spoken to some of the students in slytherin and they have talked about how Dumbledore been bias when dealing with slytherins and gryffindors."
"Severus has mentioned that on a few occasions" he sighed. "None of us can even fathom what goes on in that old fools mind. Especially, after that troll incident, sending students to where the troll was supposed to be unthinkable."
Harry shook his head. "If that were the only problem. The defense professor is absolutely pathetic at his job. The fool stutters to much and is practically afraid of his own shadow."
"It's true father" Draco added "every class the fool stutters and it's hard to make sense of what he is teaching. The day the troll came into the castle that degenerate burst through the doors and after saying that the troll was inside, he passed out on the floor."
"What" Lucius was appalled at what he heard. "I will bring this up with the board of governors. The thought of an improper teacher is disastrous" he angrily said. If you excuse me, I have to go speak with the others why don't you two go relax for a while."
Not needing to be told twice Harry and Draco sat on the couch while Lucius went to go talk with the others. The two talked for a while but in reality, it was more of a one sided conversation with Draco doing most of the talking. Hadrian either tuned him out or gave occasional responses.
That was until Bruck the head elf for the Blacks announced that the last guests have arrived. It came as a shock to the Malfoys as they assumed no one else would be coming. The returned with three people close behind. The woman looked almost like Narcissa but older and with brown hair. To her left was a man with light blond hair and dark brown eyes. The last was a girl who apparently had bubble gum hair along with dark eyes.
Sirius was the first to speak "Andromeda is that really you" he said with a warm smile on his face and gave her a hug. "It's good to see you again Siri" she replied as she returned the hug.
He then looked at Edward and greeted him the same way before turning to the daughter "Merlin's Nymphadora is it really you? The last time I saw you, you were running around in your underwear making a nuisance of yourself" he pulled her into a hug which she returned.
"It's good to see you as well Sirius" she said "And it's just Tonks now" she said in a firm voice.
Sirius was about to say more but a voice from behind beat him to it "Andi what are you doing here?"
Andromeda looked behind her cousin and saw her younger sister "Cissy you look well" she replied with cold in her voice while using the nickname she used when they were children. "As to why I'm here I don't know I received a letter from grandfather telling me to come along with Ted and Nymphadora!"
Everyone looked at Arcturus. Cassiopeia was the first to address her brother "Arcturus why are they here?" She pointed at the Tonks "Andromeda was casted out!"
Andromeda spoke "we will be on our way!" As she and her family turned around to leave her grandfather spoke.
"You will remain here as you are family little girl!" The cold steel in his voice made them turn around. "We will be eating in the dining room, you three will not leave until I have said what I wanted to say" the glare he sent them made the three shiver.
Andromeda knew her grandfather was not to be disobeyed and motioned for her family to go the dining room. When they got near the entrance Arcturus stopped them "your Theodore correct?" the disdain was in his voice when he asked.
The man froze as his wife grandfather eyes bore into him "yes sir" he nervously replied.
"To you it's Lord Black. Got it boy!" He said to the man who nodded. Nymphadora did not like the way the old man was talking to her parents and was about to put her foot down. "Not now Nymphadora!" Her mother said to which she mumbled something incoherent.
Arcturus turned his gaze at her "the daughter" he said looking at her unimpressed. "A metamorphmagus a dominant trait of the Blacks. Why do you use your abilities so liberally?"
Nymphadora gulped before speaking "I like trying new looks" she replied.
"Bullshit" he growled "you like to stand out because you think it's what other people want. Have some self respect for fuck sake. I'm pretty sure this is not your natural state, now transform back!" The command he gave her made the girl shiver and she immediately transformed her hair blonde and her eyes to match her dad's.
"That's better" he swept into the dining room and took a seat at the end of the table. Harry pulled out a chair that was on Arcturus left for Cassiopeia which she gladly accepted. This was standard practice for the ancient families in the old days. The Black's were among the few old families that held on to this practice. When she was seated harry took a seat next to her followed by Sirius, then the Tonks. On the opposite side of them were the Malfoys.
Dinner was a silent affair for the most part it was only until dessert was brought out did Draco decide to talk "I can't believe we have to eat with the disgrace of the House of Black" he said lowly. But Arcturus heard him.
"Did you just say something boy" he asked in a menacing tone that made him shiver.
Draco was about to say more but Lucius gave his arm a squeeze "be quiet Draco" Lucius whispered in a dangerous tone. Effectively shutting him up.
Andromeda looked from her sister son to her grandfather "not that I am complaining but why were we invited. After I was casted out of the family, I never thought I would be welcome?"
Arcturus turned to incredulously "who the hell told you that you were casted out." He said in a booming voice that startled the others.
"What but I thought my parents disowned…" she would have continued but her grandfather spoke up.
He narrowed his eyes at her "Andromeda you were never casted out! Your parents never had the authority to do so. The right to decide if you were to be casted out lies with me. No one else!"
Arcturus turned to his grandson "the same could be said for you Sirius. You may have been a disappointment but the right to expel you laid with me. That bitch you called a mother never had a say in the matter."
Both Sirius and Andromeda were sporting expressions of disbelief, anger, sadness, and confusion. They were never casted out. Narcissa looked at her sister, while she indeed thought that Andromeda was casted out because of her husband. Deep down she still loved her.
So many things were going through Cassiopeia mind at the moment the fact that her niece and nephew were never casted out. And the fact that her brother kept that from her all these years irked her. "It never crossed your mind to tell me that they were never disowned!" she said while looking at him.
Arcturus looked at his sister his eyes met her in a silent, but nerve wracking stare off. "Old age is apparently catching up with you! Evidently you forgot that I am the head of this family. And what I say goes!"
They glared at each other for another minute before Cassie broke the silence "we will be having a discussion later Arcturus!" she added with a cold glare.
Arcturus rubbed his temples as he had a feeling, he knew what she was going to say. Even though he was the head of the family sometimes it felt like she was in charge instead of him. This was going to be a long night, he thought!
When they were done with desserts and the dishes were cleared. Light conversations could be heard. Giving them a while longer to speak to one another Arcturus addressed everyone. "The reason we are gathered today is to discuss the next possible candidate for the heir to the family."
Everyone sat up straight, Arcturus continued "Malfoy why do you believe that your son should be the heir?"
Lucius took that as his que and stood up "Lord Black as you know me and Narcissa have been married for years and have added Draco to the line. As he is a descendant of your house through his mother it should be unanimous that he should be your heir" he said with a bow before sitting down.
Arcturus regarded him for a moment before turning to Sirius "Sirius as you are Potter godfather why do you think he should be the heir?"
Before Sirius could speak Hadrian stood up "Lord Black if I may. I would like to defend myself in this!" he requested.
The older Black looked at him for a moment then gave a curt nod. "As you know I am your younger sister Dorea grandson. Not only that her son James Potter my late father carried not only the Potter blood but blood of the Blacks as well. And as you said before Sirius was never disowned by the family."
Arcturus narrowed his eyes silently telling him to continue "if I am to be their heir then I will restore our House to its former glory. The people will learn to fear and respect us and know that we are not to be crossed. Anyone who dares come after our house will be utterly punished!" Then resumed his seat.
He said it with such venom that made Sirius and the Tonks freeze. Cassiopeia looked with a smile on her face, while Arcturus had a glint in his eyes for a moment but vanished quickly.
"Hm" Arcturus looked to be thinking for a moment then turned to the Malfoy heir "and what do you have to say?"
"Lord Black your House will require a new Lord when the time comes!" Lucius began "it would be pointless to consider someone who is unsuited for the throne. As such the House of Black will need someone strong to continue the line of this great family" Lucius held his charisma to the highest he could.
Arcturus looked between Potter and Malfoy silently deliberating the matter, even though he already made his choice. He had to make sure to be a few steps ahead.
"Me and Cassiopeia will discuss this in the study!" he stated. "The rest of you will stay in here until we return." The cold steel in his voice made sure that no one would say anything.
He and Cassiopeia left the room and headed to the Lord's study.
(0^0)
The two elder Blacks went into the Lord's study that was located on third floor in the east wing of the castle. Stepping into the room Arcturus closed the door as soon as his sister walked in, he took out his wand and added a variety silencing, privacy, and anti eaves dropping wards. When he was done, he turned to his sister and saw that she was crossed between pissed and disappointed.
"I can't believe you" she all but shouted. Arcturus had an idea this was only the start, better to deal with it now then later. "Arcturus you know how I feel about the Malfoys! I can't believe that you would even consider giving their brat a chance at being Lord over this family. Hadrian is much more qualified for that title than that disrespectful brat."
She paused and took a breath "and what was that business about Andromeda and Sirius never being disowned! How could you keep that from me?" She was pissed and Arcturus knew that he better say something.
So, he put his foot down "settle down Cassie, everything is going as planned" she narrowed her grey eyes at him. He continued "did you honestly believe that I would entertain Malfoy by even considering that useless spawn of an heir of this house" he raised an eyebrow and grinned.
"Explain" she demanded.
"Give me some credit Cassie" he tried to conceal his amusement "you already know who I chose to be the heir to this family."
She widened her eyes in realization "you planned this evening!" she exclaimed.
He chuckled at her "no dear sister! Someone else did I just helped."
"Hadrian" her voice was full of surprised at the fact that it was her nephew plan. "What is that boy up to" she was pondering what that boy was thinking.
Arcturus went to his desk and pulled out one of the shelves. He grabbed the letter Hadrian sent him and handed to her. She grabbed the paper and read what the boy wrote. What she read made her shift between disbelief, too pleased, then unreadable. "That sly little bastard! He was acting the entire evening."
Arcturus grinned at her "we can thank Severus for that. He taught that boy how to keep an unreadable face when talking to people" he commented.
"What is that boy up to I wonder" she said to herself. Hadrian was proving to be more cunning the more she interacted with him. Her eyes widened as the boy was acting like a true Black. She couldn't decide whether she wanted to hug or curse the brat for not informing her of the plan.
"I'll have him inform you of what he planned" he assured her. "If it makes you feel better Sirius doesn't even know."
Cassie scoffed "that boy is going to turn me grey sooner than later." Arcturus nodded in agreement. "Now what about Sirius and Andromeda disownment. You have some explaining to do!" She pointed out.
Arcturus was about to retort but she spoke above him "we will discuss that later when everyone has left."
The man took a breath and braced himself for the inquisition he was going to face. "Now how are you going to proceed from here."
"I have an idea. I just need you to follow along" he gave a cryptic smile.
Cassie let out a breath and shook her head "merlin save me!" she said as they left the study.
(0^0)
They went back to the dining room where everyone was. It instantly became silent as they entered making it to the end of the table, he oversaw everyone with his sister standing next to him.
"Heirs Potter and Malfoy Stand" he demanded.
Both boys stood up and faced him. "Lucius like you said I am going to need someone strong to be my successor for the Black throne." The Malfoy patriarch sighed internally at the fact that the elder Black took his words into consideration.
Arcturus continued in a business tone "me and Cassiopeia have considered both candidates and have decided to issue a series of tests to see who is are worthy!"
He watched as everyone started talking amongst themselves then stopped to look back at him. "You two" he indicated to Draco and Hadrian "will be tested in your academics, how you represent this house, your dueling skills, and magic will decide who is to be the heir. You will have until July 1st, 1994 to prove which one of you is worthy. Is this understood!" the last part was said in a booming voice.
"Yes sir" both of them said in unison.
They sat back down in their chairs.
Taking a breath Harry looked at his aunt and uncle "Lord Black I will be receiving my progress report in a few days."
Arcturus looked at him with narrowed eyes "I expect to see it when it arrives." The look he gave his nephew all but said that he had better see his grades.
Lucius cleared his throat bringing the attention to him "Mr. Potter what did you mean when you said you will be getting your progress report? I don't recall Hogwarts ever giving them out!" he pointed out.
"At the end of each semester I receive progress report indicating where I am in my academics" Harry replied. "It's mainly to see what I will end up with at the end of the year."
Lucius raised an eyebrow "that's surprising. Hogwarts only shows the yearly rankings and gives the students their grades at the end of the year."
Hadrian looked surprised on the outside, but he knew about that as his dad already told him. "Lord Malfoy don't you find that strange as you don't know what kind of grades Draco is making until the end? I mean you are paying for his schooling and therefore have a right to know what his grades are."
He let that sink in as he saw that Malfoy was thinking. Internally he was snickering "I know it's not my place to say this, but I can't help that something is wrong!"
"What do you mean" Lucius was curious as to what the boy was getting at.
"I don't pretend to know about your expectations for Draco, but I can only assume that they are high, yes" he looked at the man who gave a nod ."And I'm sure you want nothing more than to give your son the tile of Lord Malfoy when he becomes of age. But the question is would you know if he's ready? Will be it be based off his exam scores he gets at the end of the year or will be based on how he carries his family name?"
Arcturus was laughing in the inside at what the boy said. He was being facetious and having Malfoy on. Making a mental note to thank Severus when he saw him again.
Lucius eyes widened in realization "your right" he admitted. "I need to see it for myself."
"Indeed, make sure that your expectations are met" Hadrian commented.
Lucius looked at his son "Draco I want to see your syllabus for this semester in your classes!"
"Yes father" he said. Internally he was worried that his grades would be enough to placate him. He already knew that he would be punished if he didn't meet his father standards.
Lucius turned back to "thank you for bringing this to my attention Mr. Potter and you are correct. I have to be certain that Draco is prepared to be a lord. My father did the same for me when I was your age! I will try to convince the Department of W.E.A that they will have to send out progress notices."
He then turned to the Black patriarch "Lord Black I thank you for allowing me and my family to come tonight. If you don't mind, we have to be on our way. I have a meeting tomorrow with the Board of governors in the morning."
Arcturus gave a nod. "Narcissa, Draco shall we go!"
The other two Malfoys got up and made their way to leave. Narcissa stopped as she neared the door and turned to her sister.
"Goodnight Andi. Be well!" was all she said before she left with her family.
Andromeda silently said goodbye and wished her sister the best. She didn't say it, but she was a little bit sad at she didn't get to have more time with her. Despite everything she still considered her a sister. Theodore put a comfortable arm around her, while Nymphadora held her hand.
"Mom I think its time to head home for the night." She said to her mother.
Andromeda gave her a nod, then turned to her aunt and grandfather "we will be going to. Thank you for having us."
Cassiopeia was the one to speak "goodnight Andromeda! Nymphadora" she turned to her husband "Theodore" her voice was laced with disdain.
"Miss Black" he said with ice in his voice and said goodbye to everyone else. Andromeda and Nymphadora also said their goodbyes and gave Sirius a warm hug and made him promise to come by soon. He happily agreed and lead them out of the castle.
Later that night Sirius wished everyone goodnight and headed to his room. Arcturus, Cassiopeia, and Hadrian headed to the drawing room. Cassiopeia drew her wand and casted a series of wards to ensure some privacy.
Turning her head, she gave Hadrian a smile "Hadrian is there anything you want to tell me? Like when were you going to inform me about tonight" her voice may have been nice, but he could tell that he better give an answer.
He looked at his uncle for support, but the man smirked at him and said "don't look at me. You already knew it was going to be like this. After all this will be good practice for you" He started snickering.
Hadrian started cursing the old man under his breath. Turning back to his aunt he was thought of how this was going to go. This could either end very good for him or it would end badly. Taking a chance, he thought it would be best to come clean with her.
Hadrian told her that he need the Malfoys to think he was on their side and the reason why he didn't tell her was because her reaction helped him achieve the goal for tonight. He admitted that he didn't know about Andromeda or Sirius still being a part of the family.
Cassiopeia let out a groan "you really are Dorea grandson. Just as cunning and always planning a few steps ahead" she commented.
Harry chuckled at her "I will let her know you said that" he said with a cheeky smile.
"So, you were being facetious the entire evening" she leaned into him.
"For the most part" he admitted "but I really did mean what I said about restoring our family to its former glory and about the expectations of becoming a Lord."
She eyed him critically "keep going."
"Cassie I'm sure you know that being a lord is not something that should just be handed on a silver platter. It is earned!" his tone was serious. "If the title is just given away then how can anyone prove that they are qualified? From what I saw at the wizengamot most of them are a bunch of spineless assholes with no sets of balls or ambitions!"
She just laughed in agreement "you really are our blood. You might have been born a Potter, but you would have made the perfect Black."
He reveled at the praise he got from her.
Her expression changed to a serious one "now what about Quirrell. I assume you are ready to deal with that shit and the bastard who harmed the family."
Harry got a wicked smile on his face "leave it to me" he responded before turning to his uncle "do you have what I asked.
Arcturus flicked his wand out and summoned a box. He presented it to Hadrian and opened it, Hadrian looked at the two vials with a nod. "Be careful Hadrian and remember give that bastard a couple of hits from the both of us" he looked at his sister.
Harry's face became expressionless "I will" he closed the box. "That bastard is already as good as dead time to make it so."
Grabbing the box from him he turned around and was about to leave but was pulled in a hug. Looking up he saw Cassie holding him.
"Get the job done and get out of their quickly" she said in a firm voice, but Harry could tell that she was worried about him. He returned the hug and let go "I will be fine aunt Cassie" he replied and watched her disable the wards then he left the room.
When he was gone, she looked at her brother "if anything happens to him. I will hold you responsible" she warned him. Arcturus gave her a nod, knowing that she will make him sorry should anything happen to the boy. "Now you have some explaining to do!" Her eyes said that she wanted answers.
Arcturus took a breath as this was going to be a long night for him."
(0^0)
Hadrian flooed to the special room at Hogwarts to see that his father and Byakko were waiting near the fire.
"It went well I take it" Byakko indicated to the box in his hands.
"Everything went as planned" he said to his partner. Then turned to Severus "is everything in place?" he asked.
Severus got to his feet "it is Albus and some of the other teachers are gone" he confirmed. "The only staff members here are Filch, Minerva, Quirrell, Filius, and Septima. As for the students they are all back in their common rooms!"
"Most fathers would be concerned with what their children are getting into at school" he added.
Hadrian chuckled "well it's a good thing that you're not like most fathers" he retorted.
Severus narrowed his eyes at him "this is not a game Hadrian!" his voice indicated that this was not the time to play games.
"I know but the humor helps me feel better. Do you have the map?" he asked.
Severus was not happy and wanted to kill the bastards himself, but his son had other plans. Hadrian somehow convinced him that he would be the one to kill them. Letting out a breath he pulled the parchment out of his robes and handed it to him.
Harry flicked his wand out pointed it to the map and muttered the password to activate it. He looked everywhere until he found the possessed Quirrell in his office. All of the other teachers and students were either in quarters or in their common rooms. He put the map and box of potions on the table and went up the stair to where his bedroom was.
Closing the door behind him, he went over to his trunk and placed a hand on it. Letting it scan him, he then muttered the password he placed on it disabling the security on it. Unlocking it he stepped into one of the multiple compartments in a special room that he designed himself. He went over to the restricted door, gave the password to allow him entry, the door opened revealing a few finely tailored battle uniforms.
Taking one out he stripped out of his clothes and put the uniform on. The whole uniform was midnight black with pads on the elbows and knees that had runes on them to make them feather light. The bracers and gloves were a good match for it as they were similar color. The combat uniform was entirely made of dragonhide and hydra hide stitched together along with a cooling charm in place. The upper part of the uniform had armor built into the uniform that helped the user resist foreign magics. Putting on his dragonhide boots he looked like someone who was ready for a fight.
Looking at the floor he found a box, taking a breath he opened it and found a black metal mask and a set of visor lens. Taking them out of the box he left the room and exited the trunk. Arriving back down to the room where the other were "has anything changed?" he asked while grabbing the potions out of box and put an unbreakable charm on them.
"Nothing has changed, he's been in the office the entire night" Byakko confirmed.
Hadrian gave a nod and put on the mask, the entire thing covered his entire head both front and back leaving only his eyes exposed. Grabbing the dark grey visor, he put them on. Even though they were a dark color on the outside he could see fine and the colors didn't change.
"I'll be back soon" his voice was deeper with the mask on, flicking his wand out he casted the disillusionment charm around himself and left the room. Harry stealthily made his way to Quirrell office, he was careful to avoid any of the pictures that were around as it would be bad if they sounded the alarms.
Silently making his way to office he used his special sight and saw that there was a proximity alarm on the door. If he took another step, he would have set it off, smirking under the mask he disabled the ward. He was sensing that the individuals were still inside. He opened the door silently and slipped inside no one was in the classroom and it was pitch black, which was good.
The charm was still holding but he decided to keep to the shadows. Slowly he heard the door to Quirrell office open and saw that the man was walking down the stair muttering about the number of essays he had to grade. His trademark stuttering was absent from when he spoke.
With his wand in his hand, he sent quick stunner and some binding rope when the fool made it to the ground the disillusionment charm melted off when he shot the spells. Quirrell didn't even have time to register what happened as he was bound and couldn't move. Harry kicked him over so that he was facing him, not wasting anytime he took out one of the vial that contained the poison and forced it down Quirrell mouth. The poison slowly killed him.
Now that Quirrell was dead, Harry pointed his wand at the figure and shrunk him. The body of Quirrell was now as short as a newborn kitten. His assignment was complete now he only had to get to the third floor. He casted the disillusionment charm on the both of them making them vanish, returning the wand to its holster Hadrian grabbed the man and took off to the third floor.
Making it to the staircase he watched it move toward the corridor and raced up to the door. He used the wand that didn't contain the trace and opened the door immediately and went in them to find a sleeping Cerberus. Harry dropped the body in the floor and with a wave of his wand the body was returned it to its usual height. He followed it up by removing the rope and his magical signature.
Carefully he ripped off the turban and saw the face of the bastard that killed his parent "your ass is mine you son of a bitch" he said in a low deep menacing voice. Silently enjoying Voldemort struggle with trying to remove the curse on him. Not giving him a moment to break free he started pounding the shit out of the bastard and sent some lightning at him.
Unfortunately, the spell wore off and Voldemort spoke "you dare attack me. Do you know who I am!" His voice was cold, and his eyes were laced with fury.
"You're my target" he took out the other vial and forced it down the bastard throat. The potion would wear off in a few days, but it was enough to make him suffer.
He applied the darker version of the notice me not charm to himself and sent three stinging hexes at the giant three headed dog. The Fluffy as it was named woke up looking very angry, it spotted the man in the floor and started tearing the body apart. Harry watched as the dog tore the body limb from limb, seeing that his job was done he left the room. He didn't see the wraith of Voldemort flying away.
Hadrian went back to the room where two of his favorite people were waiting. When he entered, they looked at him with questionable expressions on their faces.
"The job is done" he said while removing the mask.
Severus walked over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. Hadrian could mask his emotions in front of a lot of people, but Severus was not one of them. "I saw everything are you alright?"
Harry wanted to say that he was fine but that would be a lie. He just took a life, yes it was Quirrell's, but Voldemort was feeding off him like a parasite. "Can I have a dreamless sleeping draught?" He asked his father.
Severus pulled out the potion from his belt and gave it to him. Harry downed the contents immediately "go head back home for the night!"
He gave a nod. Byakko got up from the couch and walked with him to the floo. Powder in hand he said home and the two were instantly transported to Potter castle. Harry went straight to the master bedroom, quickly shedding the uniform he pulled out a set of pajamas from the closet and put them on.
Flopping onto the bed his mind was racing as it was trying to make sense of what he done. He would have to make sure that Emily didn't find out, so he reinforced his shields and tried to fall a sleep. Silently tears escaped his eyes at what he did until he finally passed out. Byakko rested near him sending a wave of comfort to him trying to ease him, his partner was in pain and he wanted to help him. He felt Severus presence as he was attempting to do the same thing.
A/N: I know many of you have been waiting to see the meeting between the Malfoys and Potters well it took me some time, but I got it done. I put Andromeda and her family in the story as I have a way of getting them involved in the story. As for the entire meeting according to one of my reviews Draco never stood a chance when getting the Lordship that honor belongs to Hadrian.
Harry covert mission attire was something I just pulled together from a movie I watched. Anyway, Quirrell is dead and Voldemort has fled. Harry feels a shook up after doing what he did, I mean who wouldn't his age. He just killed the bastard in a sense. Voldemort was feeding off of Quirrell like a parasite.
Next Chapter: Harry and his friends are back in Hogwarts for their meeting with their head of houses and a meeting with Dumbledore in his office.