When Harry returns to the castle, he immediately searches for Cedric, Viktor, and Fleur. They are thankfully all in the Great Hall, so he just simply invites them to the ROR. To which, they all agree.
''Is something wrong, Harry? You look a little agitated.'' Cedric says, sounding genuinely concerned.
''Well, I talked to a friend of mine about the first task, and I think we have missed something,'' Harry tells them while rubbing his hand through his hair.
''What have we missed?'' Fleur asks. ''Well, if we look back to other tournaments, the first task always is to retrieve a clue about the second task. With me so far?'' Harry replies, and he receives three nods.
''Okay, so, according to Viktor, two of the Dragons are female. What probably means-''
''Nesting mothers, we need to retrieve a clue from the eggs,'' Viktor says while rubbing the bridge of his nose.
''Yeah, that's what I'm thinking.'' Harry's shoulders sag with the statement. Ever since his talk with Sirius, he couldn't get it out of his mind. He really doesn't know yet how he will do it. But maybe the others have some ideas.
''Do you think you will get extra points if you do something extra daring?'' Fleur asks them.
''Probably,'' Harry replies with a nod. ''But, to be honest, I'm just going to be in and out of there as soon as possible. Daring be dammed.'' Harry tells them, making the others chuckle.
''Your Gryffindor self is turning in his grave.'' Cedric teases, making Harry wink at him. Harry misses the blush that spreads all over Cedric's face.
''So, do you have any idea about how you're going to trick the Dragon?'' Fleur asks, looking at the others in question.
''Maybe something to draw his attention away, but how I'm not sure,'' Cedric replies, lost in thoughts.
''Find its weak spot, then the Dragon is distracted too,'' Viktor tells them with a shrug.
''Why don't you fly to distract it? Maybe lure it away like that?'' Harry proposes, making Viktor raise his eyebrows at Harry.
''I didn't think of that.''
Harry just shrugs in response. He thinks it will be a good idea for Viktor. If Harry was still in Gryffindor, he would probably do it too. But right now, he needs another idea.
''I think I will charm it,'' Fleur says with confidence, and Harry smiles at her.
''I'm not sure what I'm going to do,'' Harry muses. They keep talking for a little while longer, and at the end of it, Harry has a rough idea of what he is going to do with the Dragon.
The next day Harry goes to the library to meet with Hermione, who seems agitated and is lost in a book.
Harry takes a seat next to her and waits until she notices him. She doesn't.
''Mione.'' He says, and she practically falls off her chair if Harry hadn't been there to catch her. ''Easy does it.'' He says, amused, while she is scowling at him.
''Don't scare me, Harry James Potter-'' Hermione says, ''-Peverell,'' Harry adds just to be a little shit, only to be whacked on the back of his head by Hermione's piece of parchment. Harry can't help but laugh, only to be silenced by Madam Pince.
He calms down slowly and sees Hermione looking at him with a glare. ''What have I done?'' He finally sighs when she keeps glaring at him.
''Did you tell Malfoy to be nice to me?'' Hermione rushes out before looking around her frantically to check if no one heard her asking that. Harry frowns in response.
''I told him that if he bullies you, he will get cursed, but I didn't ask him to be nice,'' Harry tells her honestly and feels a little confused. He hadn't had any problems with the Malfoy heir since his speech in the common room, so he put the teen out of his head. But maybe he needs to pay a little more attention.
Harry narrows his eyes when Hermione keeps fidgeting. ''What did he do?''
Hermione rubs her forehead before looking a little wary at Harry. ''He is- I never expected to say this, but he's nice to me. Just after you were sorted in Slytherin, he ignored me, which was fine, I was actually glad, but then we got paired up during Potions, and we got into a discussion, and he suddenly realized I was right, and he was wrong, and at first he was mad, I could see it! I was waiting to get hexed or something, but then he calmed down and smiled! He smiled at me, Harry!'' Hermione rambles while looking at Harry with wide eyes. Harry narrows his eyes even more.
''Did he do anything else?''
''Well, he talks to me, which is really weird- but not - unpleasant,'' Hermione adds, looking a little confused herself.
Harry doesn't like it. He doesn't like it at all. ''Not unpleasant?''
''No, he's pretty clever, he's actually second in all classes, just behind me, only in Potions he's mostly better-'' Hermione says, and she smiles a little while looking away.
''Mione-''
Hermione's eyes snap back to Harry, and she blushes, making Harry's eyebrows touch his hairline.
''Do you like Malfoy?''
Hermione scoffs, and Harry snorts. ''No, of course not, it's just - a little weird, but not entirely-''
''Unpleasant?'' Harry finishes for her with a smirk, and she nods in response.
''It's okay if you like him, but let him sweat a little and hex him a little when he apologizes,'' Harry says nonchalantly—making Hermione laugh before she muffles it quickly when she receives a glare from Madam Pince.
''I will remember that, actually, a lot of the Slytherin's are actually nicer since you're in their house. What did you do?''
''Told them that they weren't any better than Hitler or Lord Voldemort,'' Harry tells her with a shrug, making Hermione's eyes go wide, and her mouth opens in shock.
''Oh, my Godric! Harry! You can't just compare them to two of the evilest people that have ever lived!'' She replies indignantly.
''What they were doing was similar, most of them agreed with the madman that was Voldemort, I wasn't going to accept that. So I did something about it. Believe me, it's not a cure, but it's a step in the right direction.'' Harry tells her with a shrug.
Hermione shakes her head in exasperation and asks Harry how his Magical Theory and Alchemy classes are going. Harry finally tells her also about his meeting with Sirius, and Hermione is glad that Sirius is safe now and that Dobby is there to take care of him.
''Are you paying Dobby, Harry?'' She asks suddenly, making Harry blink at her.
''Yes, but only because I insisted, he was happy if he could bond with me,'' Harry tells her. Making Hermione frown at him.
''It's awful that they're practically slaves! We should do something about that.'' She gets a faraway look in her eyes, and Harry grabs her hand to get her attention back.
''Please don't; house-elves need the bond they have with wizards. Otherwise, they will die. They live on the magical bond with their Master, Dobby is the odd one out because he accepts pay, but other elves will recoil in shock if someone would offer that.''
''But-''
''But the Malfoy's were being abusive to Dobby, yes, that's correct, but the house-elves at Hogwarts are perfectly fine. Dobby worked here for a while before he became my personal elf.''
''There are house-elves at Hogwarts?'' Hermione asks with wide eyes. Harry nods. ''They are the ones that clean your clothes, clean up the castle, cook the food, there is a little army of them in Hogwarts, and they're happy.''
''How can you be sure?'' She asks, and Harry sighs. ''Come on. I'll take you to the kitchens. Then you can see it for yourself and ask what they want, okay?''
Hermione beams and nods before putting her stuff away to follow Harry to the kitchens.
The last weeks leading up to the first task are gone with a blink of an eye. Harry goes to his classes, does his homework with Hermione or his friends at Slytherin. He can almost call every seventh year his friend, which is something he hadn't expect. And he sees Cedric, Fleur, and Viktor every other night, where they practice spells together.
He and Cedric are becoming closer, and Harry really likes the Hufflepuff champion. He sees him as one of his closest friends since returning from Death's realm.
On the morning of the task, Harry is being called from the Slytherin table by Snape.
''Potter-Peverell, there are - some people for you.'' He tells Harry, making Harry get up quickly before following Snape's billowing robes.
When he enters the room, he sees the people who are waiting for him. He immediately recognizes who they are, even if they are in glamors.
He beams at his visitors before turning to Snape, who is watching their interaction like a hawk. ''Thank you, Professor Snape.'' A clear dismissal and Snape knows it, he glares at Harry but leaves the room.
''You guys!'' Harry exclaims when the door closes before flying into Death's arms for a hug. Death hugs him back just as hard before he releases him, and Harry turns to Lady Magic, who is beaming at him.
''Little one! I have missed you,'' Lady Magic tells him when he is in her arms.
''Missed you too, but I'm pretty sure you know exactly what has happened the last couple of weeks,'' Harry says with a raised eyebrow.
She scoffs and pushes his hair out of his face in a motherly gesture. ''As if I trust anyone here to take care of you.'' She tells him seriously, making Harry smile at her.
''Are you ready for the task?'' Death asks, and Harry nods.
''Yes, but I'm not telling you. I want you to be surprised.''
Death rolls his eyes, ''course, you do.'' He mumbles, but Harry hears it nonetheless.
They talk for a little while until it's time for Harry to get ready. They leave the room and start walking towards where the task will take place. Harry sees big stands and a couple of tents. When they reach the tents, Lady kisses his cheek, and Death claps him on the shoulder.
''Good luck, little one.''
''Thank you-'' Harry then sees Dumbledore looking at them, and he fidgets a little. Death notices and glances in the direction where Dumbledore is watching them intently.
''Don't worry about us. He can't do anything to us.'' Death whispers, and Harry purses his lips and nods. He knows that Dumbledore is no match against two deities, but they mean so much to Harry that he's still a little concerned.
''I know,'' Harry mumbles, and he gives them a little smile. Lady kisses his forehead now and winks at him before they turn around to go look for a seat on the stands. Harry quickly shuffles inside where the other champions are and starts talking with Cedric, who seems just as nervous as Harry feels.
It doesn't take long for the judges and the headmasters to come in. Bagman holds a bag, and he starts explaining what is going to happen and what is expected of them. Fleur takes out a small Dragon first, the Green Welsh, with a two around its neck. Then Cedric draws the Swedish short-snout, which means that he will go first, then Viktor draws the Chinese fireball, meaning he will go as third, leaving Harry the Hungarian Horntail. Much to his dismay.
''Bugger.'' He whispers under his breath when the headmasters and judges leave the tent again. He knows the Hungarian Horntail is the most vicious. So he really hopes his plan will work.
Cedric makes his way to Harry's side again. He seems to calm down when Harry is near him, and Harry can't help but feel the same sentiment.
''Are you ready?'' Cedric asks him. Harry snorts. ''Not even a little bit.''
Cedric scrunches up his nose, looking cute while doing so. Harry shakes his head. It's not the right time to think of Cedric as attractive.
The cannon sounds, signaling Cedric that it's time for him to go. Cedric takes a step towards the exit before turning and clapping Harry on the shoulder. Harry gives Cedric an encouraging smile, and before he knows it, Cedric pulls him in a tight hug.
Harry is shocked for a moment before he returns the embrace, only to startle when he hears a shutter of a camera and sees a flash.
They both release each other, and Harry glares at Rita Skeeter and the photographer who ruined the moment.
''Ah! To be young and in love!'' Rita says in a simpering tone. Harry takes a step forward to give them a piece of his mind, only to stop because of Cedric's hand on his arm. ''She's not worth it, remember?'' Cedric whispers before smiling a last time at Harry and hurrying out of the tent for his task.
Harry glares at Rita, who just smirks at Harry. Her quill is writing away on a piece of parchment. ''Harry, why don't you give us that interview? You still have some time to kill.''
Harry just opens his mouth when Snape comes in and glares at the photographer and Rita. ''Miss Skeeter, I believe that you weren't allowed in the champions' tent?'' He says with a scowl, and Harry smirks at Rita and her minion.
Rita doesn't seem deterred. ''Severus, I can call you Severus, right?'' She says while blinking her eyes rapidly. Snape just sneers. ''You cannot.''
Rita pouts, and Harry represses a snort. ''Leave. I will not ask again.'' Snape says, and Rita seems to understand not to protest because she only huffs before quickly leaving the tent with her minion on her heels.
''Thank you, sir,'' Harry says when she's gone. Snape just sneers at him, which Harry expected before he and his robes leave the tent too.
It doesn't take long before Harry hears cheers and hears another cannon, signaling that Fleur needs to get ready for her task. He thinks Cedric did a good job if he heard the cheers correctly, but he will know for sure after his own task.
Fleur takes longer with her task, but finally, he also hears cheering for her. Viktor walks out of the tent with just a nod at Harry, and now is the time that Harry gets really nervous.
He starts pacing the tent and listens to the cheers of the audience. Merlin, they are going crazy. Harry had expected that because of Viktor's flying skills. Then the cannon shoots again, and it's Harry's turn.
Harry takes a deep breath and walks out into the arena they have set up.
Harry doesn't hear the audience anymore, and he walks around the arena until he sees the nest of eggs with the Horntail guarding them.
''Accio golden egg!'' Harry shouts, but the egg doesn't move at all. ''Bugger.'' He says. Harry then sees that the Horntail has spotted him, and the big beast growls. ''Double bugger.''
''Get away! My eggs! My eggs! Kill you!'' Harry hears the hissing and his eyes widen.
He hadn't expected to understand the Dragons! But thank fuck. Harry quickly climbs onto a big boulder, so he can see the Dragon better.
''I'm not going to hurt you or your eggs!'' Harry hisses back while raising his hands in a placating manner.
''Get away! Not hurt eggs!'' The Dragon hisses again, and Harry sees smoke rising from her nostrils.
''Please! I'm not going to hurt you. I just need the shiny egg. It's fake, and it's not yours.'' Harry tries, but clearly, it is the wrong thing to say because the Dragon roars.
''MINE!''
She then fires a fireball at Harry, too fast for him to dodge and even too fast for him to erupt a shield. The ball hits him straight in the chest, and Harry stumbles backward, his body is engulfed in flames, but they don't hurt. Thankful for his fireproof clothing, he sighs. This is not how he wanted anyone to know that he's fireproof since his stint in Death's realm.
He waves his hand over his body to extinguish the flames, and he glares at the Dragon. ''That was not very nice.''
The Dragon seems shocked and quickly bows in front of Harry. ''You special. Tested by fire and became king.'' The Dragon tells Harry, making Harry frown.
''King?''
''Dragon king, take what you want.''
The Hungarian Horntail seems devastated that Harry is going to take an egg, so Harry talks to her again. ''The egg isn't yours. It's fake. I will take care of it.''
''Thank you, Dragon king.''
Harry then carefully darts forwards to take the golden egg. He sees the Horntail trembling and can't help but feel bad, so he walks slowly closer and places a hand on the trembling snout of the Dragon. She opens her eyes and watches Harry intently.
''I will not harm you or your little ones. The men that will come to retrieve you also mean no harm. They just want to help you to your original habitat.''
The Dragon's eyes widen before she nods. ''I'm grateful. I'm in your debt.''
''No, you're not. Be safe.'' He tells her firmly before turning and exiting the arena. As soon as he steps out of the arena, he's assaulted by the cheers and yells of the audience.
Snape meets him and guides him towards the medical tent. ''I don't know what you did, Potter-'' Snape sneers in a whisper. ''-but it won't surprise me if your name is again plastered all over the Prophet tomorrow.''
Harry sighs. ''I already expected as much.''
As soon as Harry enters the tent, Cedric is upon him, checking him for injuries frantically. ''Are you okay?! The announcer said that a fireball hit you!''
Harry groaned. ''I'm fine, I'm fine, the clothes I'm wearing are fireproof.'' It's not an actual lie, but also not the whole truth. He just hopes that everyone believes it.
Before Cedric can reply, he's pushed aside by an irate-looking Madam Pomphrey. Cedric blushes but keeps hovering around Harry, much to his amusement.
''Honestly, Dragons! It's a school for children, for Godric's sake.'' She mumbles while casting several diagnostic charms over Harry.
Harry just keeps standing still, not wanting the ire from the healer aimed at him. A couple of moments later, she seems to agree he's fine and pushes him to the nearest bed with strict instructions to stay there until she has cleared him for leave, which is odd because there is nothing wrong with him.
She herself bustles towards Fleur, who seems to have a healing potion on her arm where she has been burned. Harry waves at her, and she smiles back, but Harry can see that she is still in pain.
Cedric takes a seat next to him with a wry grin, and Harry bumps his shoulder. ''So, how did you do it?''
Cedric gives him a thankful smile and starts telling Harry how he got the egg, and Harry really wants to see the dog Cedric had conjured.
Then the judges come in to give their points to the champions.
''For miss Delacour, we've decided on 35 points, for an excellent sleeping charm, mister Diggory receives 40 points for outstanding work of transfiguration. For mister Krum and Potter-Peverell, we have decided on 45 points each. For mister Krum because of a powerful summoning charm and the exciting chase that followed on your broom. For mister Potter because of the danger you've been in and the work you did with calming of the Dragon.'' Crouch explains to them in a monotone voice. Harry thinks that Crouch looks even worse than a couple of weeks ago.
''Harry! How did you do it?'' Bagman then asks excitedly. Harry rolls his eyes at Cedric before turning to Bagman.
''I talked to her.'' He deadpans, making all the judges just blink at him.
Harry lets out a sigh. ''I'm a Parselmouth. Dragons are related to snakes, I didn't think it would work, but it did. It almost was as if speaking to someone with a heavy accent.'' Harry explains with a shrug. Trying to seem unbothered. But he sees the narrowing of Dumbledore's eyes, who is watching him intently.
The judges are in a heated discussion, but Harry really doesn't care. He wants to go and get something to eat. ''Can we go now?'' It startles the judges, and they let them leave.
Harry walks back to the castle with Viktor and Cedric. Fleur was herded away by Madame Maxime to go to their quarters so she could make a quiet recovery.
''Did you guys already opened the egg?'' Harry asks curiously.
Viktor nodded. ''I did, but I only heard screeching. It hurt my ears.'' He explains with a wince.
They agree to leave the eggs until Fleur has joined them and when they're in the ROR for another training/meeting.
''Oi! Malfoy!'' Harry yells when he finally sees the Slytherin fourth year all by himself walking back to their dorms.
Malfoy looks around, and when his eyes meet Harry's, he pales a little.
''Walk with me,'' Harry then tells him with a cold smirk. Malfoy gulps but listens and follows Harry to an empty classroom.
Inside, Harry throws up a couple of silencing charms and wards so nobody will enter the classroom after them.
He then turns to Malfoy, who is watching everything with a wary expression. ''What is it, Potter?''
Harry looks the Malfoy heir up and down and narrows his eyes. ''What are you doing with Hermione?'' He then asks, and it seems to surprise Malfoy.
''I don't know what you're talking about.'' He replies, but Harry sees Malfoy's eyes dart around the room, looking for an escape.
''I think you do, so tell me, what are you planning?''
At this, Malfoy looks confused. ''Planning? I'm not planning anything, Potter.''
Harry scoffs and strolls towards Malfoy, making him take a step back.
''What are you doing then? I saw you in the library with her. For the last couple of years, you haven't done anything but bully her, and now you're actually nice to her? Why?'' Harry pushes, looking at Malfoy's face carefully for a response.
What Harry didn't expect was for Malfoy to duck his head while his whole face turned red. He then mumbles something Harry doesn't understand.
''What was that?''
''I said, I like her. She's smart, and she can be so passionate about some things, it's hard not to be pulled in by it,'' Malfoy admits, and Harry takes a step back.
''Seriously? Are you only seeing this now? After four years of calling her names and being awful to her?'' Harry asks indignantly.
Malfoy groans and does something Harry has never seen the blonde one do. He rubs his hands through his hair furiously, making it stand up.
''I know! I know! I am trying to apologize to her, but the words just won't come, so I just keep asking for her help with classes so she will talk to me! How pathetic!'' Malfoy says, and Harry sags a little, seeing how lost the teen seems.
''You actually like her? Like-like her?'' Harry couldn't help but ask, feeling a little amused when Malfoy glares at him. ''Yes, Potter, I like her. What should I do?''
Harry sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose.
''Just tell her straight up that you're sorry-'' Harry held up his hand when it seemed like Malfoy would interrupt him, and Malfoy fell silent again. ''-She's a Gryffindor. She will listen to you and accept your apology if you seem sincere enough. It also takes guts to say it, so another win.'' Harry tells him with a little confusion. It feels still a little weird to be civil to Malfoy, but he seems to be telling the truth.
Malfoy looks wary but still nods. ''Thank you, Potter.'' It seems to be paining Malfoy even to thank Harry, but Harry takes it nonetheless.
When they start to leave, Harry stops Malfoy one more time. ''The original warning still stands, Malfoy, hurt her, and I hurt you.'' He then leaves the room quickly, trying to billow his robes like Snape, but now knowing if he succeeds.
''Did you threaten Draco?''
''Define threaten?''
''You told him that if he hurts me, that you would hurt him.''
''Huh, did he apologize?''
''He did.''
''Then yes, I did threaten him.''
Hermione leans down to where Harry is sitting to plant a kiss on his cheek. ''You're taking your role as brother very seriously.''
''They want us to open the ball! Can you believe it? Can you thank Lady for the dance lessons? Because I will never hear the end of it if I thank her for them.'' Harry says to Death, who is watching his chosen child with amusement while Harry is pacing the ground in front of him.
''Who are you going to take to the ball?'' Death asks casually, chuckling when Harry groans dramatically.
''I don't know! Most of the girls are too starstruck to consider, and the blokes don't know that I'm interested in guys. I can't ask Hermione, because she already has a date! And she won't tell me who! And Izzy and Septima are going together, so I also can't ask them to go as friends-''
''Why don't you ask a guy you like then?'' Death proposes casually.
Harry frowns. ''I don't like a guy?''
''Do you not? Who is this Fred and George I hear about? Or Cedric?''
At that, Harry blushes scarlet before glaring at Death. ''I do not like them, well, I like them, but as friends.''
''Are you sure?''
Harry groans at that, and Death laughs, loving the fact that he can tease his child like this.
''Yes, I'm sure,'' Harry says with a scowl.
''Okay, if you say so,''
Harry grumbles but leaves it be. They talk for another hour before Harry needs to go back to the castle. Otherwise, he will be late for curfew.
When he's walking through the corridors, his mind keeps going back to the Yule Ball. He really doesn't know who to ask for it. He's just turning a corner towards the Slytherin dorms when he bumps into someone. The crash sends them both to the ground, and Harry groans when he sits up.
''Oi! What- Oh, hi Cedric, you okay?'' Harry says when he sees he just crashed into the Hufflepuff.
Cedric looks up at Harry with a bashful smile and a blush on his cheeks. He accepts the hand Harry is holding out to him and stands with Harry's help.
''Yeah, I'm fine. I was actually just looking for you, but your Slyt-your friends didn't know where you were.'' He says while scratching the back of his head.
''Oh, well-'' Harry looks around and doesn't see or sense anyone near, and he really likes Cedric as a friend, so he leans closer to tell him his secret. ''-I was talking with my adoptive father.''
Cedric's eyes widen before he gives Harry a big smile. ''That's awesome. I wish that I could talk to my father more.''
Cedric gets a wistful look on his face, and Harry waits for him to get out of it. When Cedric looks back at Harry, his eyes widen a bit, and he blushes again.
''So-uh, I wanted-''
''Why did you came looking for me, Cedric?'' Harry asks with a smirk.
Cedric hesitates but seems to find his resolve. ''Would you like to go to the Yule Ball with me?''
Harry blinks a couple of times, not expecting the invite. ''Aren't you going with Cho Chang? I thought you two were together?'' Harry asks. He had a crush on Cho back in his third year, and he thought that Hermione had told him that she was dating Cedric.
Cedric's eyes widen. ''No, well, we were, but we broke up in the summer. She's actually dating someone in Ravenclaw now,''
''Ah, okay,''
''So-?'' Cedric is shifting a little, and Harry suddenly remembers that he hasn't answered yet.
''Oh! Yeah, I will go with you. I don't know if I'm a good date though, I never had a date before,'' Harry tells Cedric honestly. There wasn't really an opportunity to date in Death's realm. The thought alone sends a shudder through Harry.
At this, Cedric perks up and gives Harry a grin. ''I'm sure it will be alright. I'm really excited now. I can't wait for the Ball!'' Cedric replies, almost hopping on his spot. Harry chuckles. Cedric looks a little like a Golden retriever now.
''Me too. I'm going to my dorm now. I'm glad you asked me. I really didn't know who to take. Have a nice night, Cedric,'' Harry says, ''Bye, Harry,'' He hears Cedric say before he makes his way down to the Slytherin dorms.
Inside the common room, he walks to Izzy and falls down on the couch next to her. She immediately shifts her feet into Harry's lap, and he rolls her eyes.
''Cedric asked me to the Yule Ball,'' Is the only thing he says, and Izzy gasps.
''OH MY GOD! YES!'' Harry cringes from her outburst and raises an eyebrow in question at her.
''I was hoping you would say yes to him! Oh! Do you have robes? If you do, show them, I need to approve them and decide what we can do to make you even more prettier!''
''Prettier?'' Harry mumbles. He then yelps when Izzy points her wand at Harry's face. ''Izzy!''
''Sit still, Harry, I need to check if this spell will make your eyes even more pop out,''
Harry decides it's time to run.
Harry is watching warily when Professor Moody again won't meet his eyes. It's like the man is hiding something, and Harry knows/feels something is wrong, but he can't put his finger on it. He could ask Death if he knows what is going on, but somehow it feels like cheating.
So he just watches the man ignore him for the most part. In the first month -when Harry was still a wee little fourth year- the man had tried to talk to him on several occasions, but since his return from Death's realm, the man won't look at him. He doesn't even give Harry the chance to answer during his classes, which is pretty shitty because it's Harry's best subject.
But Harry keeps an eye on Moody, how the man sometimes almost panics when his flask is not in the spot he had placed it. (Harry may have had a hand in testing that fact). How Moody sometimes has a tick, but the tick isn't often enough, or at least it seems like he's trying to suppress it. Which is entirely possible, but Moody doesn't seem like the type to feel ashamed of something like a tick.
And how his lessons are all over the place, this could be because the man has been an Auror his whole life and not a teacher.
But Harry isn't completely sure. It's all a little fishy.
It could be that Moody is just an alcoholic, but Harry isn't entirely convinced about that.
It's at least something to keep an eye on.
The weeks have flown by, and Harry is standing in his dorm room feeling utterly uncomfortable in his dress robes.
''Looking good, Harry,'' Norbert Nott tells him with a smirk. Harry rolls his eyes at his friend. Harry then sees Norbert spell the inside of his dress robes so a flask with firewhiskey can be smuggled inside.
''I feel ridiculous,'' Harry grumbles. His entire robes are black, with green stitching and a green tie, something Lady Magic had prepared for him when he went back to Hogwarts. He looks good in it, but he still feels ridiculous. In Death's realm, he was used to dressing impeccably, but never in robes. It was always more mundane-looking clothes. A three-piece suit was something he was used to, not robes that reached the floor. Harry hopes he won't trip over them.
He sees Norbert roll his eyes in the mirror and sends a stinging hex his way word and wandlessly. Nott yelps, and Harry smirks.
''Bloody bastard, be glad I haven't let Izzy inside.''
Harry grimaces. He had avoided Izzy ever since she tried to spell him with makeup. ''I'll be in your debt.''
''You're such a drama queen,'' Bludgeon says from his spot on the bed. Harry just flips him off and decides that he can't improve his hair any further.
He checks his watch and sees that he needs to make his way to the Great Hall. They agreed with all the champions to meet in front of the Great Hall before they needed to make their entrance.
Harry is actually looking forward to the Ball, excited to have fun with his friends.
When Harry reaches the Slytherin common room, he doesn't see any of the girls except for Septima, so he makes her way over to her.
''You're looking nice,'' Harry tells her with a smile. ''You too, be careful. Izzy still wants to put that charm on you.''
''Ah, thanks for the heads up. Should I run?'' He says with amusement. At that moment, a hand clasps his shoulder. ''Of course not, Harry,'' Izzy purrs in his ear, making Harry scowl at her.
''Izzy, please don't.''
''But Harry! You will be a fashion icon! Everybody will look at you,''
''I don't want to be a bloody icon! And everyone is already looking at me.''
Izzy scrunches up her nose. ''Fine, have it your way then, but!'' She says while waving her hands frantically. ''I do want to put it on you, not tonight, but soon, deal?''
Harry sighs, already knowing he will not get out of this. ''Fine. But leave me alone for tonight,'' He says while pointing at her, she smirks at him, and he already regrets his choice.
They wait for a few minutes, and when they're complete, they walk to the Great Hall together, where Harry says his goodbye for the moment.
He is still ruffling his cuff when he hears Cedric. ''Hey Harry, you look amazing!'' He says with a beaming smile. Harry looks Cedric up and down and is again reminded how hot Cedric is. Too bad Harry only sees Cedric as a friend, but still.
''Hi Cedric, you're looking good too,'' Harry tells Cedric honestly, making the Hufflepuff blush.
''Thank you,''
They are soon joined by Viktor, who has a girl with him from Slytherin that Harry doesn't personally know but seems nice enough. Fleur pecks Harry's cheek when she joins them and has a Ravenclaw seventh year with her that is in most of Harry's classes. He only doesn't remember the name.
The champions and their dates are chatting a little until it's time for them to enter the Hall, something about making an entrance that has Harry almost gagging.
''Harry!'' Harry turns around at the sound of his name and is happy to see Hermione walk up to them. She is looking stunning in a periwinkle dress, she told him all about it, so it's probably the only reason he knows the exact color of her dress. Her hair is nicely done, and she's blushing while dragging her date with her.
''Mione! And - holy shit-''
Hermione immediately whacks him on the arm. ''Be nice. Draco has been the perfect gentlemen.'' She warns him, but she's beaming while she does it. So Harry can't really be mad at all. Malfoy is smiling and looking at Hermione with something in his eyes, and Harry is not going to delve further into that.
Harry sighs and pulls Hermione into a hug, ''You're looking stunning,'' He then meets Draco's eyes and makes an 'I'm watching you' gesture while Hermione can't see it. Malfoy just rolls his eyes but nods that he understands. Good.
He lets them go and is curious about how Gryffindor is reacting to Hermione having Draco as her date. The rivalry between the two houses has improved in the last couple of months since Harry has been sorted into Slytherin, but there are still many bridges to pass.
''She's your best friend, right?'' Cedric asks him, and Harry flushes when he notices how close the Hufflepuff is.
''Yes, she's like a sister to me.''
Cedric hums and holds out his arm for Harry to take when McGonagall is coming to collect them. Harry rolls his eyes but smiles nonetheless.
Cedric and Harry have a lot of fun. They dance, talk, and joke with their friends. Fred and George act hurt that Harry hasn't asked them for a date, and Cedric rolls his eyes with Harry at their antics, especially when they do the act a couple of moments later with McGonagall.
Who blushes and threatens with detention but doesn't follow up on it.
''Do you want to take a walk through the gardens?'' Cedric asks, looking a little flushed from the dancing.
''Sure,'' Harry readily agrees, and they walk outside together. They walk pretty close together, and their shoulders brush while walking.
''I've had a great time tonight,'' Cedric tells Harry, and Harry smiles back at the guy.
''Me too,'' He answers honestly. ''Harry-'' Cedric stops walking, and Harry turns towards him. ''Yes?''
Cedric bites his lips and leans in. Harry is startled for a moment but doesn't pull back when Cedric's lips brush his.
The kiss is soft and sweet, and Harry is disappointed that he doesn't feel a thing. Bugger.
He pulls back, and Cedric is smiling at him, and Harry hates it for a moment because he really doesn't want to hurt Cedric.
''Cedric-''
''Ah, that doesn't sound good,'' Cedric immediately says while ducking his head.
''You were the perfect first date and first kiss, but I just- I'm sorry,''
''No! No, don't be, you are being honest, and that's something I'm grateful for. I hope I didn't ruin everything by kissing you.'' Cedric looks genuinely worried, and Harry shakes his head.
''Of course not. I really would like it if we could stay friends.'' Harry tells Cedric honestly and replies with a nod and a smile, even if the smile seems a little strained. Harry hopes that they can go back to being friends.
They make their way back inside, and when Harry notices a bug on Cedric's shoulder, he brushes it away.
The next day Harry is walking towards Hogsmead in the early morning so he can apparate to the Peverell home where he knows Sirius and Remus are waiting for him. He's quite excited to see them again. He hasn't seen Remus since the end of third year, which seems ages ago.
He has written to the werewolf and animagus a couple of times, and Dobby has kept him posted on them, but to see them again will be better. He only hopes they will be okay with his plans.
Harry has decided that he needs help with most of the plans he has in mind, and Death agrees. Unfortunately, Death can't interfere anymore. Lady Fate would have his hind if he did anything more in the next decade after adopting Harry and raising/training him for three years.
So Sirius and Remus are in for a surprise with all Harry's plans. He just hopes they won't run away screaming.
As soon as he leaves the wards of Hogwarts, he apparates to the Peverell manor.
''Master Harry Potter, sir! You've returned!''
Harry chuckles at Dobby. ''I told you I would be here today, didn't I?''
Dobby nods frantically, and his ears bounce with his head. ''Does Master Harry wants breakfast?''
Harry thinks about it for a moment. ''Are Sirius and Remus up yet?''
Dobby nods again. ''Oh yes, Mister Godwoofy and Mister Moony are eating in the dining room.''
''Then I will join them,'' Harry says and starts walking towards the dining room. He's practically running in his enthusiasm, but he tries to contain it at least a little bit.
He hears them talking and opens the door quickly, they fall silent, and Sirius is up and running at Harry as soon as he recognizes his godson.
''Pup!'' He exclaims while pulling Harry in a strong hug. Harry feels that he has gained weight, and he looks a lot healthier than the last time Harry had seen him.
Harry hears Remus chuckling, and after Harry is released by Sirius, he walks over to the werewolf. Remus eyes him warily for a moment, not that Harry can blame him. The last time they had seen each other, Remus almost maimed him.
''Nice to see you again, Professor Lupin.'' Remus looks him up and down, and there is a little sadness in his eyes when he responds. ''I'm not your Professor anymore Harry, you can call me Remus.''
Harry nods and gives the man a hand. He hopes that their relationship will be good enough at some point to hug the man. But they have only known each other through letters and during the time Remus was teaching. So they aren't there yet.
Harry sits down, and Dobby gives him a plate with food. Just when Harry takes the first bite Sirius starts talking. ''So Harry, you're a real heartbreaker, aren't ya-'' Harry looks confused at Sirius who is wiggling his eyebrows in an outrageous manner.
''What are you talking about?''
Remus then grimaces and hands over the Prophet.
Harry Potter declines love from another champion!
By Rita Skeeter
Harry groans when he reads the headline and starts the article. He hasn't seen anyone because he left that early in the morning, but this is not something he wanted to deal with this holiday. He pushes it to the back burner for now, he has more important things to deal with than a crazy reporter. She will get what's coming to her. He is curious about how she heard exactly what had been said. And he feels pretty angry that she outed him to the wizarding world like this.
''I can't fucking believe that she wrote about this, but it's not important now, it didn't felt right to string Cedric along. So I told him the truth, I just think of Cedric as a friend and nothing more.''
Sirius pouted, but Remus nodded at him. ''It's very good of you to tell him that immediately.'' Sirius sighs but agrees eventually. Grumbling about how he can't even tease his godson now. Harry just chuckled at that and tried to forget the article for now. They then talk about the first task and Harry's lessons, and Sirius and Remus seem comfortable in the Peverell manor. Harry is glad for it because he wants to keep living here when his school year ends.
''Remus, could you go with me to Gringotts today?''
Remus frowns for a moment but still nods. ''Of course, why do you need to go there?''
Harry gets a mischievous glint in his eyes, and Sirius is hopping in his seat with excitement.
''To claim my lordships, of course.'' Harry tries his best to sound like a ponce before he snorts and ruins it. Making the other two laugh as well.
They talk for another couple of moments before Harry asks Remus to join him. Sirius looks sad at the fact that Harry is leaving this soon.
''Padfoot, I will be back soon. I need to talk to both of you later.''
Harry felt a little nervous about his promised talk, and he could see from the troubled looks he received from both of the men that they could feel it. But thankfully, they didn't say anything about it.
Remus and Harry made their way through the floo to Diagon Alley. Harry quickly put a glamor on himself, not wanting to be recognized. Remus was already used to blend in and not get attention, so they moved quickly through the busy shopping alley without being noticed.
When they entered Gringotts, Harry felt his glamor fall away. He was a little annoyed about the magic that caused it. But Harry could understand the extra precautions.
He walked to one of the tellers and waited to be addressed. Remus was just a step away from him but let him deal on his own, but Harry knew he would be ready to step in if needed.
''Yes?'' Came the rasping voice of the teller in front of Harry and Harry drew himself up more upright, looking the Goblin straight in the eye.
''Greetings, master Goblin. May your gold ever flow,'' Harry said, and he waited until the shocked Goblin responded. The Goblin gave Harry a wicked grin after just a couple of moments. ''Greetings, master wizard, may your pockets never be empty, how can I help you today?'' The Goblin responded, and if Harry had looked at Remus, he had seen the wide eyes and respect that was shining in his eyes.
''I would like to speak to the Goblin who holds the Potter and Peverell accounts.''
The Goblin nodded and scribbled something down before the note went up in flames. ''Follow me, heir Potter-Peverell.''
Harry waved Remus to follow him, and the werewolf followed at a sedate pace. Knowing that, he probably wouldn't be allowed inside the chamber.
But Harry surprised him again. When the Goblin waiting for them raised an eyebrow at Remus, he was ready to step back out, but Harry put a hand on his arm before speaking. ''I trust and want Remus Lupin here for this.''
''As you wish heir Potter-Peverell. My name is Gobblyrock. I have been the Peverell account manager for quite some time. Because the Peverell house is older than the Potters, you have your appointment with me. I can also oversee the Potter accounts.''
''Well met, master Gobblyrock, my name is Harry James Potter-Peverell, as you probably already knew. I'm fine with you overseeing the Potter accounts as well.'' Harry replied easily.
''What can Gringotts do for you today, heir Potter-Peverell?''
''I want to gain the lordships I have a right to. I have been in Death's realm for about three years. Because of that, I am of age.''
''I have heard about the-'' there was a slight pause, and Harry smirked. ''-peculiar circumstances around your person. Nevertheless-'' The Goblin then procured an empty parchment with a knife and dotted line before handing it to Harry. ''-we require three drops of blood for you to gain your lordship titles. With this test, you will get information about your titles, abilities, and possible ailments or bounds on your person. Do you agree to do this?''
''I agree,'' Harry replied, already knowing that this test was needed. He sliced his finger with the knife and dropped exactly three drops on the dotted line. The cut healed itself as soon as three drops had left his body.
Harry held the parchment where letters started to appear.
Harry James Potter - Peverell - Black
Born 31 July 1980, -
Age 17 by time magic in Death's realm
Harry chuckled at that, it was a very basic description of what happened to him, but he couldn't say he minded.
Son to James Fleamont Potter, born 27 March 1960, died 31 October 1981 and Lily June Potter Née Evans, born 30 January 1960, died 31 October 1981.
Godson to Sirius Orion Black, born 3 November 1959, -
Adopted son of Lord Death, born before time, cannot die.
Titles:
Heir to the Noble house of Potter
Heir to the Most Noble and Ancient House of Peverell
Heir to the Most Noble and Ancient House of Black
Budding Master of Death
Named Dragon King by Hungarian Horntail
At this, Harry snorted, of course, they also documented that he was named Dragon king by the Dragon in the task, and it did amuse him. He didn't know he was also heir to the Black house. Probably because of Sirius, but he should talk to him about that later. The Master of Death thing was already known to him, but he was a little apprehensive about sharing this already with Remus. He wanted to tell Sirius and Remus at the same time, but this was proof of what he would become.
Abilities:
Parseltongue - since birth
Wandless magic - since birth
Wordless magic - since birth
Resistance of fire - obtained in Death's realm
Occlumency - learned
Legilimency - learned
Apparation - learned not yet licensed
Spell resistant against Imperius curse - learned
Spell resistant against Crucio curse - learned
Dark Magic - affinity
Master of Death powers - not unlocked yet
Harry grimaced. He asked Lady Magic to help him to be spell resistant against the Crucio curse. Apparently, you could learn to be resistant against it, but it was a torturous process. He did smirk at the 'not unlocked yet' part of his Master of Death powers. As if it was a game instead of his abilities.
Bounds or Ailments:
Bad eyesight - cured
Malnutrition - partially cured
Broken left arm - cured
Broken right arm - cured
Lost of bones in right arm - cured
Multiple wounds - cured
Cursed scar - not cured
Bound Magical core - cured in Death's realm
Bound Wandless magic - cured in Death's realm
Bound Wordless magic - cured in Death's realm
At that, Harry seethed. ''My Magical core was bound? Since when? And how?'' Death had never told him that his magic had been bound! How could he have practiced magic if his core had been bound? Granted, when he entered Death's realm, he found casting spells coming easier to him, especially wandless and wordless magic, and now he finally understood why. He felt like an idiot that he hadn't questioned it at the time.
Remus's eyes grew wide, and he snarled at that tidbit of information. The Goblin didn't seem shocked and just held out his hand for the parchment.
Harry watched the Goblin while he was reading through the document, and Harry almost cringed when he saw the Goblin look up in shock at Harry.
''Unfortunately, heir Potter-Peverell-Black, we do not know when or how your Magical core was bound, but if you had accidental magic since birth, it was probably only partially bound. Still, it's a class A offense and shouldn't go unpunished.'' Harry was glad that the Goblin didn't ask after his Master of Death title.
Harry decided then and there that he would ask Death about the bounds later. He just knew that Death would know more about it.
''Can I see it, Harry?'' Remus asked softly. Harry debated for a moment but agreed.
Remus read the document with wide eyes and swallowed a couple of times. ''I didn't know Sirius had named you his heir, but with no other Black's, it was probably unconscious as soon as the last Lord Black died.'' Remus mused. Then Remus's eyes snapped to Harry, a silent request in them which had Harry nodding. ''I did tell you that I wanted to talk to you later today, together with Padfoot.'' He whispered to Remus, and he replied with a curt nod.
Harry then turned back to the Goblin. ''I don't have to go by all those names, right? I was just getting used to Potter-Peverell.''
The Goblin seemed amused at that, as did Remus.
''You can decide as to how you are known.'' Came the simple reply.
Harry nodded. ''Okay, I don't want to claim lordship to the Black house, but I do want the lordships to Potter and Peverell. What do I need to do?''
At this, the Goblin scribbled something down, which caught flames as soon as he was done writing. ''The lordship rings will be brought to us. You only have to put them on, and if the rings deem you respectable, you will gain the lordship.''
''Oh, that's all?'' Harry agreed easily to that. That didn't sound too bad.
The Goblin smirked at him, and Harry almost rolled his eyes at the intimidation tactic. ''You will be tested as the rightful heir if they don't accept you, you will feel it.''
Harry did roll his eyes at this. ''I think I will be fine.'' The Goblin just shrugged, a couple of moments later, the door opened, and another Goblin entered with two boxes.
He set them in front of Harry, and Gobblyrock opened the first one. ''This is the Lord Peverell ring. Please place it on your right hand.'' The ring seemed way too big for Harry, but he still placed it on his right ring finger.
He was immediately enveloped with a golden glow and felt the magic course through his body. It felt warm and pleasant, and about a minute after, the ring shrank, so it sat comfortably on Harry's hand.
Gobblyrock seemed a little miffed but held out the other box towards Harry nonetheless. Harry vaguely recognized the emblem on the ring before he placed it above the Peverell ring. The magic that came out of the ring felt more sentimental and as a caress that brought tears to Harry's eyes. He wiped his eyes when the ring also shrank to suit Harry's finger. It felt a bit strange to have two rings on one finger as soon as Harry thought that the rings glowed and melted together, a perfect combination of the two lordship rings.
Harry puffed up with pride for wearing the lordship rings and now also the titles. It would help him a lot with his plans.
Gobblyrock then presented Harry with a list of the vaults he had inherited and the artifacts within those vaults, but Harry wasn't really interested. He already knew about the properties from his correspondence with the Goblins, and money didn't mean much to Harry.
Remus and Harry left the bank and apparated back to the Peverell manor. Remus went in search of Sirius while Harry waited in the library. He was getting his wits together, knowing that the next couple of hours would be hard.
He couldn't imagine doing it without them, and he really hoped that he could persuade them to his purpose, but only time could tell.
He felt a brush along his neck in reassurance and smiled to himself, glad that Death tried to comfort him even from another realm.
There was a knock on the door, and Harry turned towards it to see a hesitantly smiling Remus. Sirius was looking confused between Remus and Harry with a furrowed brow.
''Is it time?'' Remus asked, watching Harry with rapid attention.
''It is. Please have a seat.'' Harry then waved his hand, so there were three comfy chairs, Remus didn't seem really surprised, but Sirius was openly gaping.
''What is all this about?'' Sirius asked, clearly thinking there was something wrong.
''It's a long story, Sirius. Please, have a seat.'' Harry said again, and both men sat down on the conjured chairs.
Harry dropped himself in the third one.
''I don't really know where to start, but I think it's fair to start with my 'trip' to Death's realm.'' Harry started, and both men perked up, already interested in this story.
''Sirius, I already told you parts of my stay there, mostly what I learned and how my relationship with Death and Lady Magic was-'' Sirius nodded enthusiastically. ''-but there were some things I left out, mostly because you needed to be in a better headspace to hear it, and because I wanted to include you both in this. I am willing to trust you both, especially after I've done my whole story and you know my reasonings for some more disturbing parts-'' Sirius seemed ready to interrupt, but Remus laid a calming hand on his arm, silencing him.
''If you wish, we can make a vow to not reveal anything you will tell us. It seems important, and if it has anything to do with what I saw today-'' Remus stopped talking, but Harry knew what he meant, and he sounded sincere, making Harry smile at the man. ''Of course, pup, we would do anything,'' Sirius added with a beaming smile, the 'for you' was implied.
Harry debated it for a moment but nodded. ''It's not that I don't trust you two, but with a vow, you would also be safe from Legilimens attacks and Veritaserum.'' He told them before crafting the vow, which they both repeated. They were immediately surrounded by a powerful glow to which all three wizards needed to close their eyes.
''I will dive right in then. I loved living in Death's realm because he was the first adult that really tried to help me and supported me. I know that probably hurts to hear, but try seeing it from my side. I thought Sirius was an escaped mass murderer, and I only got to know you since summer through letters. And Remus was my professor, and you kept the relationship as professional as you could.'' Both men looked saddened but seemed to understand.
''Death was like a father to me and told me a lot about what has happened the past years, and what is bound to happen unless I'm going to do something about it.'' He raised his hand when he saw that Sirius was starting to get worked up.
''Please, let me tell you everything. After you can scream and rage all you want, deal?''
Sirius deflated and sighed. ''Fine.''
Harry nodded and started talking again. ''Death told me about affinities, and I did the ritual, thinking I would be a Light wizard. But it turned out I was a Dark wizard, something I thought meant evil,''
''Oh- Harry,'' Sirius said with sympathetic eyes, and Harry smiled at him, knowing that Sirius could probably understand because of his family and knowledge about affinities.
''Yeah, I wasn't exactly ready to hear everything Death told me, but he kept trying until I was. Death then told me how I was bound to be Master of Death. I already have one of the hallows, the others I will earn in time. This was one of the reasons Death chose me as his child, he knew I was bound to be the Master of Death, and he refused for me to live a squib life. He then explained that being Master of Death, I would be a neutral party, between the light and dark, even with my own Dark affinity.''
''That's more the political side, of course. The reason there is a need for a neutral party is that the Light side is pushing the Dark side away. Because of this, there is an imbalance in the wizarding world. It's why there have been two wars in the last fifty years, the Dark witches and wizards are being repressed, and I need to be the one that makes sure they aren't afraid anymore to practice their affinity. The Light witches and wizards only think of the Dark affinity as evil and try to ban all the practice of Dark magic. Something that needs to be restored.''
Remus and Sirius were both listening with rapt attention.
''If I don't do anything, the wizarding world will die out, Britain will go first because of their prejudices, but soon the whole wizarding world will fall apart.''
Harry wiped his hands against his pants before continuing.
''To restore the balance, there also needs to be a Dark Lord because there is already a Light Lord.''
Sirius gasped. ''You aren't talking about Voldemort, are you?''
Harry tilted his head in a sort of mention, and Remus and Sirius seemed ready to jump up and declare him mentally insane.
''Please, listen, I have reasons-'' Harry held up his hands, and Remus put a hand on Sirius's arm again to calm him down. It worked rather well. Thank Godric that Remus was the voice of reason.
''Okay, Tom Riddle, aka Lord Voldemort, aka the Dark Lord, wasn't always as crazy. He was actually a really smart young man at some point, but when nobody listened to him because of Dumbledore, he kind of lost it. It also didn't help that he started hating muggles because of his time in a muggle orphanage, and it also didn't help that the first couple of years he was at Hogwarts, he was treated as a pariah because everybody assumed he was muggle-born. This is partially why he started a war. But also because he used very dark magic to split his soul, he made several Horcruxes.''
At this, Sirius gasped, but Remus looked lost. ''Can you split your soul?''
Harry and Sirius both nodded. Sirus had never quite looked this pale.
''It's one of the most awful magicks there is. You need to kill someone to do it. Because when you kill someone, there is a tear in your soul. You then use a ritual to bind a piece of your soul to an artifact. In other words-''
''You cannot die.'' Harry finished, and Sirius gave a grave nod. Remus now also seemed ready to be sick any moment.
''This is what the Dark Lord did, and with it, he split his mind. Tom Riddle seized to exist, and Lord Voldemort was born. He started the war, and I need to bring him back to Tom Riddle so he will be sane again to heal the world with me.''
He expected the outburst, really, he did, but he was still shocked by the sheer force of release of Sirius's magic.
Thankfully his own magic protected him and Remus, but the rest of the library was practically destroyed.
When the chaos ended, and all that remained was a panting Sirius, Harry was quick to react. He pushed the man down into a chair again and asked Dobby for some tea. Sirius grumbled but accepted the tea and manhandling.
''Harry, you can't be serious. You can't bring back Voldemort!'' Sirius said as soon as he had downed his tea.
Harry's features hardened. ''I can, and I will, with or without your help, but rather with. You see, I'm not bringing back Voldemort. I'm bringing back Tom Riddle. With him, we stand a chance to save the Wizarding world. Death agrees with me. Even if he's angry about the magic Voldemort used to gain immortality, he knows we need him. I didn't like the idea either, but it needs to be done. Even Lady Magic agrees. If there could be another Dark Lord, I would've taken that path, but it isn't possible.''
Sirius was looking at Harry with pain in his eyes, and when Harry looked at Remus, he expected the same, but he found a pensive expression.
''I know that he killed my mom and dad-'' Harry said in a whisper, but he met their eyes with fierce determination. ''-But he needs to go back to when he was Tom Riddle, and I have a way for that, I only need to find his Horcruxes and melt them together with him. I know I'm asking a lot of you, but please, it's for the - I can't believe I'm actually saying this, but - it's for the greater good.''
Ugh, he felt a little sick at that.
Sirius let out a hysterical laugh, and Harry could completely understand.
''Sirius, I think we should help Harry.''
Harry looked at Remus with a shocked expression, but Remus was looking at Sirius, who looked at Remus as if he had grown two extra heads.
''I'm sorry, the worry-wolf says what?'' Sirius snapped.
''I have read a lot the last couple of years-'' ''You already read a lot when we were at school,'' Sirius mumbled, but Remus ignored him. ''-and I've read the original ideas of Voldemort. It disgusted me that I agreed with some of them, but he was a big supporter of creature rights. With his proposals, I could get a job without being afraid of getting fired because of my monthly problem. And you're a Dark wizard yourself, Sirius. He could actually be good for the wizarding world if he isn't completely crazy because he ripped his soul to pieces.''
Harry snorted at that before looking sharply at Sirius, who had paled a little. ''You never told me you were a Dark wizard!''
Sirius looked a little annoyed at that, ''it's not really something I can just say, is it? Because of all the shit the Dark witches and wizards are getting, I wasn't exactly in the right spot to shout it from the rooftops.''
Harry grimaced because he was right. Sirius then sighed and gave Harry an apologetic smile.
''Are you sure you want to do this? And are you sure he will be reasonable?'' Remus asked.
''Yes, I am, he's needed, and I know I can bring him back sane, and so help me God, I will make sure he has an actual conscience when he comes back,'' Harry said fiercely, making Sirius snort and Remus chuckle.
Sirius and Remus then looked at each other before looking back at Harry.
''Well, Lord Potter-Peverell, where do we start?'' Sirius said with a smirk making Harry's shoulders sag with relief that they were going to help him, even if he could see that they were apprehensive about it.
''We're going on a trip to Little Hangleton,'' Harry replied with a smirk.
It was the Horcrux Harry could feel, and Harry was going to punch Tom Riddle when he had returned to his body for tainting Death's magic. Who on earth puts a Horcrux inside the fucking resurrection stone?