Chapter Seven
"NNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOO!" shouted Harry, eyes snapping open as he violently woke from his nightmare, drenched in a cold sweat. He could feel his heartbeat in his ears and he had tears running down his cheeks. His breathing was fast and shallow.
Dobby popped next to the bed.
"Master, what's wrong?" the elf asked, and Harry waved his hand, signaling that everything was fine.
"I don't believe you, Harry," replied the elf, crossing his arms. "Which one was it?"
"Christmas Day, 2006," Harry replied, sitting on the bed, his voice ragged and sorrowful. Dobby lowered his head in regret. "And Christmas Day, 2012."
"Both?!" sighed Dobby.
"I hate Christmas..." Harry whispered, clenching his fist in a ball, his eyes unfocused and staring into the void. "I'll kill them. I'll destroy all they hold dear, crush them, and take everything from them. I'll break them, torture them, and only then will I kill them," he hissed, more to himself than to Dobby. Dobby made no sound, he just stood there, understanding his master's anger, sharing it. "They took everything from me."
"I'll help you, but it's still too soon. It's your own plan," replied Dobby, seeing his master's glare.
"I'm tired, Dobby. I'm tired of pretending. I have to hold myself back in classes when I look at the two of them, lest I kill them on site. Almost more than I want Daphne back, I want to rip Oberon apart and gut Titania like the pig she is. They took them away from me, both of them..."
Dobby didn't reply, listening to his master's rant.
"Why, Dobby?" Harry asked, hiding his face in his hands, sobbing. Dobby walked to Harry and put his hand on his shoulder, snapping his fingers. A table with a bottle of firewhisky and a glass appeared next to them. The bottle floated and filled the glass to the top before settling again on the table.
"Drink up," said Dobby, giving Harry the full glass. Harry drank half of it and lowered his head again.
"I know," Dobby said, "Just give the orders and I will bring them here, in chains. No one would ever find their bodies again." Harry looked at Dobby, seeing his determined look and the loyalty beneath it. "However, you had a plan that you wanted to follow in order to destroy them completely. I believe your words were..."
"Death would be too easy for them," replied Harry, and Dobby nodded. Harry sighed, "I hate those dreams."
"I can imagine," was the elf's reply.
"Thanks, Dobby," replied Harry raising his glass in a cheers. Harry rose from the bed and went to the desk.
"Do you require anything else?"
"No, thank you," Harry replied, and Dobby popped away. Harry sat at the desk, supporting his head on his knuckles, thinking. With a sigh, he picked up his wand and removed a memory from his head, placing it in the basin. Harry took a deep breath as he shed a tear and went into the Pensieve.
Daphne walked into the Great Hall with Tracey. Millie and Pansy had stayed to sleep a little longer, and so did the boys. Not that they minded, they still had two hours until they could leave for Hogsmeade.
To the girls' surprise, they found Harry already at the table. There were students from other years sitting in groups at the table, but Harry was alone, quietly buttering a piece of toast.
"Couldn't sleep with excitement?" started Tracey, making Daphne groan. To the girl's surprise, Harry's only reply was a glare that disappeared within moments.
"Nightmares," he replied, focusing on the toast again.
"What about?" asked Tracey, picking up some toast herself. Daphne only looked at Harry, noticing his dark eyes and his tired frame.
"Death," replied Harry, shocking both girls. Tracey actually gaped at him while Daphne shook her head. There was something clearly wrong with him.
"Aren't you a joy to be around, today?" said Daphne, drinking from her cup, drawing his attention. "Are you a seer?"
"No."
"Then why are you so concerned about your dreams when they mean nothing?" the blonde asked, looking at him. He sighed.
"But they do," he replied enigmatically, and sighed.
"Do you need to talk?" asked Daphne, looking at him. He looked into the sapphires that were her eyes and shook his head.
"Probably..." he admitted, looking at her raised eyebrow. Tracey was also curious. "Not today, though. Good morning to you too, by the way," he said, focusing on his food.
The two girls respected his wishes and let the conversation die there.
"By the way, Daphne, this is for you," said Harry, taking a folded page of parchment from his pocket and giving it to Daphne. Curious, she took it, ignoring Tracey's inquisitive smirk and opened the page, seeing diagrams of wand movements, an incantation, and several instructions.
"What is this?" she asked, looking at the spell. "Translation and copying spell?"
"Like you suggested yesterday, that's the spell to add the diaries to the book. Learn it if you want and then call for Dobby. He'll be available during the afternoon, and he has orders to take you into the Chamber should you ever want to. I'll give you one warning only, there are locked containers in there and they are that way for a reason. Otherwise, have fun," he said in a serious tone, his eyes focused on hers as she returned his gaze. His guilty feelings were magnified, as he remembered those same eyes looking at him in desperation. He had to leave. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to walk for a bit. Enjoy your breakfast."
Had Harry noticed as he was standing, he would have seen a surprised Daphne looking at him, as well as a confused Tracey.
"What chamber?" asked Tracey, and both Daphne and Harry looked at her at the same time, realizing what Harry had said. Harry snorted.
"Chamber of Secrets. Where I've slept and trained since Halloween," replied Harry in a defeated tone, knowing Tracey wouldn't rest until she had an answer.
Tracey gaped, looking at Daphne.
"You knew this?" Tracey asked, looking at her best friend, who nodded. "Merlin..."
"See you later then," said Harry with a hint of amusement in the voice.
"If you mean to ask if the monster of the Chamber is real..." started Daphne, looking at Tracey. "It was. The rumour that Harry killed a basilisk is true. He showed me the memory, and no, I won't talk about it. If you want to know, ask him."
"But...fine," replied Tracey with a sigh. "But why did he take you there?"
Daphne shrugged.
"I hinted that I wanted to see Slytherin's library, and he decided to take me there the night after," replied Daphne. She missed the look of realization dawning on Tracey's face.
"As in a date?" Daphne glared at Tracey, who chuckled in amusement. "Fine, I'll stop," Tracey said, predicting what Daphne would say.
Daphne huffed and went back to her breakfast.
"So, that book you've being reading..." started Tracey.
"It's actually a frame with several of Salazar Slytherin's diaries. Harry has a way to translate them from Parseltongue and share them with me," Daphne replied, and Tracey could almost say she had seen the tiniest blush on her friend.
"That... That's amazing. But...why?" gasped Tracey, and Daphne shrugged.
"I don't know," she admitted, watching Harry leave through the Great Hall doors. She was actually concerned about him. "He said he had dreams about death, right? What do you think that means?"
"Since when do you care?" asked a curious Tracey, who was also hopeful for some information she could use for the bet.
"Since he's my good friend," admitted Daphne without a second thought. Tracey grinned.
"Mistletoe. That's what these two need as a push," thought Tracey, already plotting.
"I have no idea, but again, out of all of us you're the closest to him." To her surprise, Daphne didn't even try to deny it.
"I know he remembers the night his parents were murdered," whispered Daphne, making sure only Tracey heard. Tracey was shocked.
"He remembers his mother begging to spare his life, a green light, and You-Know-Who laughing. Last year, when everyone was mocking him for passing out because of the dementors, he was reliving that moment over and over again."
Tracey was even more shocked, and was feeling quite bad about her actions the previous year. She had her own laughs about that particular subject as well.
"However, I'm more concerned with the desperation I saw in his eyes," admitted Daphne, looking at Tracey who clearly could see the blonde's sadness.
"Why don't you go after him?" asked Tracey, half serious, half teasing. To her surprise, Daphne shook her head.
"Let him be," she said in an unconvincing tone, nibbling her toast, "I'll talk to him in Hogsmeade."
Tracey smirked. She wasn't convinced at all.
The Ice Queen liked and cared for Harry.
She was definitely going to get the mistletoe.
Harry walked out of the main doors and onto the grounds. He felt the morning cold on his skin and breathed hard the cold air. In front of him he could see the entire Hogwarts grounds covered in white. After casting a quick Warming Charm on himself, he started to walk in the direction of the lake at a very slow pace. As he was walking, he saw smoke rising from Hagrid's hut. The half-giant was already up, apparently. For a moment he considered visiting, but decided he needed to be alone for a while.
He saw the Beauxbatons carriage, its residents likely still asleep since there were no signs of movement, along with the Durmstrang ship, which was anchored at the lake shore. Harry managed to see some movement at the ship, so in order to avoid meeting people he redirected his route further away from the ship.
Harry sighed when he reached the shore and picked a stone, throwing it into the lake. He tried to focus on the morning sounds: the few birds that could endure the Scottish winter chirping, the sound of the waves crushing the shore of the lake, the occasional roar that was heard from the Forbidden Forest, but it was to no avail.
Occlumency helped, of course. He had sorted the memories of his nightmare already but was still agitated. He had dreamt about the two worst events of his life, ghosts that had accompanied him for years, yet he had never wanted to get rid of...
Yet, it was the first time he had dreamt about those events since his return to the past, and the first time in years that he had dreamt about the two events together. The one that ruined his life and made him walk the first steps into the darkness, and the one that saw him fully embracing the Dark. For freedom. For justice. For vengeance.
Harry twisted his fingers in the cold morning air, picking up another stone and throwing it into the water.
"I know what I need to do," Harry thought to himself, seeing the ripples caused by the stone.
Kill Voldemort, preferably with witnesses around. That would give him more credibility, should he need it. That was why the plan was to kill Voldemort during the duel in the graveyard, after casting a Monitoring Charm on himself to make sure Hogwarts could see the duel. Several other preparations needed to be made beforehand, including collecting the Horcruxes. He was still missing the ring, the cup, and the snake.
Destroy Oberon and Titania, take everything from them like they did to him and only then, when they were broken, kill them. Those bastards had been even worse than Voldemort. However, Harry wasn't concerned about the Wizarding World anymore.
He cared mostly about his main goal, the reason he had come back in time…
Make sure Daphne lives, preferably as the Lady Potter. Make her fall in love with him again without the use of spells or potions and be happy with her for a long time.
He was tired, and all he needed was some rest with the one he needed the most.
The woman that made him a better man.
The woman that gave him hope.
The woman that taught him.
The woman that stood by him.
The woman he stood by.
The woman he loved.
The woman he married.
The mother of his child...
The woman he would crush the world for, and for whom he had actually crushed the laws of magic and nature.
Nothing would stand between them again, that he swore. He would make her fall in love with him again. And if he failed to make her fall in love with him, then as long as she was happy, he would be fine with it.
He snorted, thinking of his reasoning. Of course he wouldn't be happy without her.
However, Daphne was right. There was no reason to dwell on his nightmares. He had a second chance. All he could do was to make sure everything would be fine this time.
"Can I help you?" asked Harry, feeling the approaching aura.
"Ah, Harry Potter, da?" asked a male voice. Harry turned towards the voice and saw none other than Viktor Krum.
"I am. To what do I owe the pleasure, Mr. Krum?" asked Harry politely. He was happy to see his old friend, the Quidditch superstar that would rise to the position of Prime Minister of Bulgaria in his fifties, proud husband of a supermodel, and father of a boy and two girls who would give him several grandchildren.
"I vould like to introduce myself, da?" asked Krum in his horrible English, extending his hand, which Harry gladly took.
"You honour me, Mr. Krum," replied Harry with a smirk.
"You poverful vizard. Your task vas good, da? I vould like to ask you to...fight?" Krum hesitated, unsure about the proper words. Harry smirked, knowing what Krum wanted.
"You wish to practice with me?" asked Harry, showing a bit of surprise, earning a nod from Krum.
"Da," Krum replied, "Vat you say?"
"I would enjoy that," replied Harry with a nod. Krum nodded as well. "I know just the place too, when do you want to do it?"
"Vat about today after dinner?" asked Krum, and Harry considered it.
"How about before?" proposed Harry, to which Krum nodded. "Let's agree around six o'clock?" With a thought, Krum nodded again, and Harry called for Dobby.
"This is Dobby, my personal house-elf," explained Harry, seeing the surprised and curious look on Krum's face. "When you are ready, please call him to let me know and I'll join you. I shall accompany you into the room we can use. Do you agree?"
"Dobbie?" asked Krum, failing only the last syllable. He tried again and managed to say it correctly.
"Da, is good. I vill enjoy our fight," said Krum with a grin. "I vas going for eat. Vould you join?" asked Krum, and Harry considered his options: to brood or to make alliances.
"Lead the way."
~BREAK~
Daphne and Tracey had already been joined by Theo, Millie, and Blaise. Millie said that Pansy was still asleep, much like the other boys. Several other students had already come to the Great Hall for breakfast, mainly Slytherins, Ravenclaws, and Durmstrang.
They were having a nice conversation when they heard someone squeak. Theo looked to the Great Hall doors, his eyebrows raising when he saw Harry walking alongside Krum, apparently engaged in a friendly conversation about Quidditch. The two champions sat near the other Durmstrang students and continued their conversation, after a nod from Harry to his friends.
"Uh, you don't see that every day," commented Millie, looking at the two.
"Aren't they supposed to be rivals?" asked someone.
"That means that they can't be friends?" replied another.
Daphne looked at Harry and saw that he seemed to be better. Her eyes crossed his and he smiled at her. She hid a smile and went back to her breakfast, while Krum was telling some story about some game.
"You know, I have no idea about Delacour, but three of the champions are Seekers," said Blaise with a calculating look.
"So?" asked Tracey.
"Nothing, that was just it," replied Blaise, noticing how Millie chuckled.
"We should put Krum and Harry on brooms against each other," said Theo, looking at the two. "Diggory is good, but he only won against Potter last year because of the dementors."
"Speaking of Quidditch, who wants to see Harry as our Seeker next year?" asked Tracey. Truth was, many had already talked about the team for the next year. As far as they were concerned, Potter HAD to join the team.
It was unanimous.
They only had to make sure Malfoy would step down peacefully.
The rumour mill was already working. By noon, everyone would know that Harry had breakfast with Krum, and many would be jealous. After a quick goodbye and a reminder to call Dobby around six o'clock, Harry went back to his friends.
"You're happier," was Daphne's sole comment.
"Believe it or not, it's your fault," replied Harry with a smirk, confusing everyone. Then, out of nowhere, he leaned in and kissed Daphne on the cheek. "Thank you," he said, sitting next to her.
Daphne was astonished and a little flustered, while the Theo and Blaise were gaping and Tracey was grinning, thinking again about mistletoe and a certain bet. Millie was looking at Daphne's blush and found herself amused.
"It was nice knowing you, Potter," mocked Theo while Blaise was still gawking. He really should be used to Harry's Gryffindorish ways by now. Daphne recovered and just glared at Harry, who looked back at her with a smirk.
"I won't take it back," he said, and Daphne huffed, turning away from him. Only Millie and Tracey saw her hiding the smirk. "I'll be meeting Krum before dinner and Dobby will be required around six o'clock for a few moments but that's it. He'll still be available to help you if you want."
"Sure," replied Daphne, looking at him again, ignoring the smirks and whispers "Meeting Krum for what?"
"He decided to invite me for some dueling practice, and I accepted," replied Harry, noticing how everyone was looking at him. Daphne was amused.
"Really?" she asked, jabbing him with her finger. "Try not to harm him too much, will you? You don't need to be accused of attempting to get rid of your competition."
"If you insist...but don't worry," he replied with a smirk, "Durmstrang students actually showed me some respect. I have nothing against them."
"Good," Daphne said, "About your meeting today..."
"What meeting?" asked Blaise, curious, as were the others that heard him.
"None of your business," replied Harry quietly, making Daphne smirk and the others huff.
"What time do you need to be there?" asked Daphne.
"We set everything for after lunch..." replied Harry.
"Whole afternoon?" she asked, making Harry smirk.
"If I didn't know any better, I'd say you're upset I won't be around," he said, making her glare at him and their friends chuckle. "Luckily, I know better."
"Good. Don't be an ass, Potter," she admonished him, rolling her eyes.
"What do you need?" he asked seriously.
"I just wanted to have you around, just in case I fail the spell," she replied, shying away from his eyes. It was true... Part of it, at least. She noticed Tracey snickering, as did Millie.
"That's the closest we've come to hearing her admit she wants to go on a date with him," mumbled Millie, and Tracey nodded with a grin. The boys were snickering. Harry was just thoughtful.
"Do you want to do it now?" he asked. There was no smile and no deception. His offer was genuine.
"I'll help you, and then we can go down together and meet them…" Harry waved at their friends, who were snickering like schoolgirls. Oh, wait, two of them were schoolgirls. "…at Hogsmeade, and do our shopping for the ball, and maybe have lunch. The offer will stand, though, just in case you want to spend the afternoon doing something other than be in Hogsmeade."
"You don't mind?" she asked, her eyes beaming, making him smile.
"Of course not. Come on, go get the book. Do you want to go by the scenic route or the express route?" Daphne looked at him, narrowing her eyes.
"Right, because the sightseeing is beautiful indeed," she said sarcastically, making Harry smirk.
"Dobby," Harry called, and the house-elf popped next to him, snapping his fingers. At once, the book used by Harry and Daphne to translate Slytherin's journals appeared in the elf's hands, much to Harry's surprise. "Or Dobby can just summon it. I didn't know you could do that. Incidentally, how did you get to Daphne's things without her permission?"
"I'm a house-elf and she accepted to be my mistress, or at least never opposed it," the elf said matter-of-factly. "You wanted the book, didn't you?" Dobby asked, turning to Daphne and noticing the curious looks on the other Slytherins' faces.
"SHE'S WHAT?" shouted Tracey, attracting the attention of pretty much everyone in the vicinity.
"Please, Tracey, speak louder, not everyone heard you the first time," replied Harry while Daphne snorted.
"Thank you, Dobby," said Daphne, ignoring Tracey's outburst and deciding to tease Harry, "Glad to see that you're more practical than your master."
"Right..." Harry mumbled, hiding some chuckles. "Dobby, take us to the Chamber."
"As you wish," replied Dobby, holding the arm of both Harry and Daphne, who was also holding the book. The trio popped from the Great Hall, leaving everyone flabbergasted.
"But...but..." attempted a Ravenclaw.
"Mistress?" asked Tracey, looking at her friends, who were as lost as she was.
"What the hell is going on?" asked Theo. No one knew.
After laughing at their friends' faces, Harry instructed Daphne on the spell. Daphne got it on the seventh try and was able to copy several diaries. After making the copies, they decided to go to Hogsmeade and join their friends.
"I wonder if there is a secret path from the Chamber into the Slytherin common room," Daphne said, while picking up the book.
"It may be possible," replied a thoughtful Harry, shrugging. "But it's probably very well hidden. It is a secret chamber, after all."
Daphne shrugged.
"Do you want to leave the book here and come and get it later?" asked Harry, noticing the book.
"You'll really allow me to come here? Alone?" she asked, lifting a perfect eyebrow.
"Yes Daphne, should you want to, feel free to call Dobby and tell him to bring you here. You're welcome anytime, as long as you're alone and don't attempt to open anything that's locked," said Harry to a smiling Daphne.
"Well, if you insist..." she said in a mock sigh, leaving the book on the desk, next to the Pensieve.
"Now, how do you want to get to Hogsmeade? Walking, taking one of the last carriages, Dobby's help, or secret passages?" asked Harry, getting Daphne's attention.
"What secret passages?" she asked, making Harry chuckle.
"It's a passage beneath a one-eyed witch statue by the stairs to the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, which leads to the cellar of Honeydukes," he explained, noticing Daphne's frown.
"And how did you find it?" she asked, narrowing her eyes.
"I have my ways," he replied. In truth, he didn't remember anymore. Probably the Weasley twins after giving him the map...probably.
Daphne shook her head. That was a Slytherin's response.
"Let's go with Dobby and take care of everything we need before you have to leave," she said, looking at Harry, who was looking back at her with his arms crossed.
"I'll be safe, if that's your concern."
"How about telling me more than that?" she said defiantly. "Not that I care who you meet but..."
"My remaining family who said they would stay at my side," sighed Harry, knowing she wouldn't rest until she had an answer. Daphne looked at him.
"Your remaining family?" she asked, thinking about what she knew. She remembered their conversation about his godfather. "You're meeting Sirius Black?" she asked, hiding the apprehension in her voice.
"And Professor Lupin from last year. It will be safe," he replied, walking to her side and caressing her shoulder. She looked at him.
"Are you sure?" he nodded.
"Fine, then, I'll trust you."
"Thank you," he replied, asking for her hand, which she gave him. "Do..." Dobby popped in even before Harry finished calling for him, making Daphne smirk. "Any place in particular?" Daphne shook her head.
"Hogsmeade entrance it is, then," replied Harry and the three popped away from the Chamber of Secrets. They reappeared at the entrance of the village. Dobby popped away again and Harry, who was still holding Daphne's hand, turned to her.
"Where do you want to go?" he asked.
"I need writing supplies, so, Scrivenshafts. Do you have your robes ready?" she asked, turning to him.
"I do. Silver and black," he replied, walking beside her. Neither attempted to drop the other's hand.
"Good," she replied, "I don't really need accessories, but maybe we should just check."
"Fine by me," he replied.
They walked through the village and saw several students running their errands. Many noticed them holding hands, and several rumours began anew. They didn't mind and just ignored them, focusing on their conversation. They went to Scrivenshafts first and bought several rolls of parchment and new inkwells and quills. After Daphne enchanted Harry's to be unbreakable he no longer needed to buy new ones, as long as the charm remained. He never even considered it. The Dark Lord Potter had stopped using quills decades before, favouring calligraphy pens instead.
After leaving Scrivenshafts, Harry called Dobby and gave him the bags, which he promptly took back to the Chamber so Daphne could sort them later during her visit.
"Practical indeed," she commented, after he explained his reasoning to her. Why carry the things all day, even with the help of charms, when they had Dobby?
Passing by Zonko's, they met Tracey, Theo, Blaise, and Millie, who were obviously surprised to see them. The four had clearly bought something at Zonko's, and if their behaviour was any indication, they were the target.
"How's your date?" asked Theo, clearly wanting to distract them.
"Good," replied Daphne with a sigh. Why bother attempting to correct them? Besides, it was practically a date, two friends going out, walking together, and running errands while having a good time... "Do you want something from Zonko's?"
"Not really," Harry replied, shrugging, "I'd rather pass by the apothecary, but maybe I should owl order the supplies?" he asked for an opinion, to which Daphne nodded.
"Very well, then," replied Daphne, turning to the other four. "What are you going to do?"
"Well, I was thinking about checking accessories for our robes," replied Tracey with a grin. Theo just nodded with a sigh, while Millie shrugged after being questioned by Blaise, insisting only on buying writing supplies.
"Harry!" they heard from behind them. Harry immediately recognized the voice, and while he didn't turn, the others did, seeing Granger, Longbottom, and the four Weasleys: the twins, the pig and Weaselette.
"That's Mr. Potter to you," he replied in a cold, hateful tone. Daphne noticed that he squeezed her hand harder, without hurting her.
"Harry, mate, why don't you leave the snakes and come with us for some fun?" said the pig, instantly putting his foot in his mouth. Harry didn't even reply, he simply turned back to them, his aura flaring and his eyes burning with eldritch green flames.
"Just leave," said Daphne in a cold tone, squeezing Harry's hand harder, attempting to calm him. No good would come from hurting them. She noticed how Harry started to move his right arm, where he had his wand holstered. "Your company is unwanted."
"Shut it, snake. We know you gave him a love potion!" shrieked Weaselette, drawing her wand on Daphne. That was the mistake Harry was waiting for. His wand appeared in his hand, and with nothing but a wave, the wands of the six dorks were on the ground in front of him.
"To be honest, I want nothing more than to crush you where you stand," said Harry, still with the cold tone. "But since I'm having a good time, I won't even waste my time with you. Dobby!"
The elf popped in front of him, glaring at the six dorks.
"Please, Harry,"
"We just"
"want to…"
"ENOUGH!" shouted Harry, attracting the attention of everyone around them. "First of all, that twin speech? Not as amusing as you think it is. I find it offensive. Second of all, something I've being wanting to tell you for some time... Your idols, the Marauders?" The twins perked up immediately.
"Had you not turned your backs on me, you could have met the two remaining members, how does that sound?" Harry asked with a vicious grin, clearly taunting the twin demons of Gryffindor, who were now frozen, horrorstruck.
"Uh, I think he broke them," mumbled Millie, noticing the twins gaping.
"Who are the Marauders?" asked Theo, and Blaise shrugged.
"Now, Dobby, take these six wands and give them to Professor Snape," instructed Harry, triggering loud complaints from the four remaining dorks. The pig even attempted to assault him but was immediately stunned. "Tell him that they bothered us, that they drew their wands first, and it's better for him to keep their wands until they go to him to collect them."
"You can't do that!" shouted Granger, only to see a wand pointing at her while Dobby grinned and popped away with the wands.
"Oh, but he can," said a new voice, Pansy's, who was arriving with Draco, Vince, and Greg. "He's defending himself and he's reporting you to a teacher, fearing for his and our safety," she said again, forcing Draco and his two bodyguards to stand with the other Slytherins. To everyone that was seeing this from the outside, especially those from Slytherin house, it became clear that the fourth year Slytherins were making a statement.
The ten Slytherins stood together with Harry in the center, who still hadn't let go of Daphne's hand.
"Again, leave before I lose my patience."
"Bu-But H-H-Harry, I-I r-really need to t-talk..." attempted Longbottom, earning a cold glare.
"Oh, piss off, Longbottom. There is nothing you can say that I want to hear."
"HARRY JAMES POTTER, YOU WILL..." Granger never finished because she was silenced with a wave of Harry's wand.
"Harry, please, this is not you!" said Weaselette in tears, "We just want you to come back, to be friends again."
"No," was Harry's reply and Daphne actually smirked, along with the other Slytherins. "Why go back to jackals when I am at home among the snakes?"
"You don't mean that," Weaselette said, "Gryffindor is much better than Slytherin."
The Slytherins snorted.
"I believe my housemates have expressed my feelings on that matter."
"They are all Death Eaters in training," she shouted again, supported by Granger's silent rant. "They will turn you over to You-Know-Who if he ever comes back. You need us!" People gasped, and Harry glared at the girl. The Slytherins looked at Harry in shock, as if he had answers.
"If that happens, someone will die," Harry said enigmatically and with a low tone, making his magic flare around him. The Slytherins stepped back in fear of his rage, except for Daphne. Instead, she attempted to calm Harry by squeezing his hand and his arm. She found herself enveloped by Harry's magic, but for some reason she felt his magic as protective instead of angry and oppressive. Considering the dorks' reactions, the concluded that she was the only one.
"Besides, what do you know?" asked Harry with a vicious grin. "All you did last time was be stupid and almost kill yourself by writing your innermost desires in an enchanted diary. Your brother? Couldn't even help by keeping his wand in his hands, and because of him Lockhart almost killed us all. He didn't do anything helpful at all, I had to save you all by myself. The only one that was remotely useful was Granger by finding out about the basilisk, but that's it. So tell me, why do I need you?"
To everyone seeing the drama unfolding, the question they were all thinking at that moment was, "What is he talking about?" Daphne remembered the memory he showed her about the Chamber of Secrets and knew exactly what he was talking about. However, everyone was looking at them. It was time to go.
"Harry, I'm getting bored. I know it is amusing putting the dorks in their place, but we still have a couple of things to do," said Daphne, regaining his attention. "Besides, we may end up cursing them and I'm not interested in getting a detention for this. Besides, there are too many witnesses."
"Listen to your girlfriend, Harry," replied Pansy, smirking, probably because of her own taunt. She couldn't help but grin when she noticed the angered look Weaselette gave her.
"SHE'S NOT HIS GIRLFRIEND!" shouted the youngest Weasley, her face getting redder.
"Please, what would YOU know?" asked Millie with a grin, shared by all the Slytherins.
"Shall we go, then?" asked Harry, and Daphne nodded, leaving the dorks alone and gaping, as the others surrounding them also started to leave. No one offered to end the Stunner on the pig. The Slytherin fourth years followed Harry and Daphne, who decided to share her opinions with Harry.
"Weaselette has a crush on you," she said.
"Tough luck," was his reply, making Daphne smirk.
"What were you talking about, Harry?" asked Millie, and Harry looked to Daphne, as if asking for her opinion. She nodded.
"Two years ago, when the Chamber was opened, Weaselette was possessed by an artefact, a diary containing an echo of a memory of the Heir. While possessing her, he opened the Chamber and released the basilisk upon the school. All the petrifications, which were accidental, mind you, since the Heir wanted to kill muggleborns, were her fault," he said, seeing the affronted looks on their faces.
"Of course, her involvement was swept under the rug. Dumbledore, no doubt. Granger was able to deduce it was a basilisk before she was petrified. She had ripped a page from a book, and I found it in her hand. I was able to find the Chamber, and with Weasley's help persuaded Lockhart to go and save Weaselette. They fucked up and I didn't," he replied in a serious tone. "That's all you'll hear for now. Call a house assembly if you want and I'll speak among my peers, though I'd rather you didn't," he said.
Tracey was shocked. She looked at Daphne and noticed she was the only one that wasn't.
"Daphne?" she asked, and the blonde nodded.
"Harry showed me," she whispered, everyone looking at her. "I know it's hard to believe, but..."
"Hey..." he said in a soft tone. "It's fine, really. Now, how about we finish our shopping and grab some lunch?" Harry proposed, receiving several shocked nods in return. Daphne smirked and led the way with Harry, followed by the other Slytherins. No one noticed the trio of eyes looking at them.
Daphne bought no other accessories, nor did she tell Harry to buy anything. They just talked for a while, before leaving the others to take a walk.
They talked about homework, magic, and their families. Harry told her the truth about his relatives, and after hearing the story she wanted to murder them. He told her with a grin to get in line, and she smirked. As they walked, Daphne saw her sister looking at them, sporting a huge grin. She knew she would have questions to answer later on. They also saw the Beauxbatons and Durmstrang students wandering around the town. They'd had a fun morning, and it was now lunch hour.
"Tell me one thing, do you want to go into the Three Broomsticks to have lunch or do you want to have a picnic outside?" Harry asked, and Daphne tilted her head to him.
"It's cold and everything is covered in snow," she said, stating a fact. You just needed to look around to see the snow.
"Magic," he said, shrugging. She saw that infuriating smirk he used when he wanted to show her something amazing, arousing her curiosity.
"Picnic, then," she replied, and saw his eyes beaming. She knew she wouldn't be disappointed.
"Dobby!" he called, and Dobby popped in next to them.
"Everything is prepared," the elf said, asking for their hands. The trio popped away from Hogsmeade, appearing again in what Daphne perceived to be a snowless clearing by the lakeside. The forest was behind her, and she could see Hogwarts on the other shore. She looked around and saw that the snowless clearing was only a couple of meters wide. She also noticed that where the ground was clear, the air was also warmer. Then Dobby popped away again, leaving the two alone to appreciate the view.
"This place is beautiful," she said, turning to Harry, who was looking at her with a soft smile. "How did you find it?"
"Flying around," he replied with a smile. And it was one of our secret spots throughout our sixth and our final years. "Do you like it?"
"I do," she said. A pop sounded again, and Dobby appeared with a basket and a wide blanket. He snapped his fingers and the blanket stretched across the ground. Then with a second snap, the contents of the basket rose out of it and placed themselves on the blanket. Roasted meats, salads, bread for sandwiches, desserts, pumpkin juice, and butterbeer.
"Have a seat," invited Harry as Dobby popped away again. Daphne sat with her back to the forest, looking out at the lake. Harry sat by her side. Both removed their scarves and their heavier robes since the place was charmed to be warmer.
They talked, they ate, they laughed. Daphne asked how he and Dobby had met, and Harry told her how a hyperactive house-elf appeared in his bedroom one night during the summer before their second year. He told her about the pudding incident, and she laughed. Her eyes became wide as he told her about the barrier to Platform Nine and Three-Quarters, and she scolded him when he told her he had flown to Hogwarts with Weasley in a flying car.
Then he told her about the Quidditch game when Dobby enchanted a Bludger, hoping to injure him enough that he'd be forced to go home. Daphne actually called Dobby, wanting to curse him. Luckily for the house-elf, he ducked behind Harry, who was laughing. After explaining everything, Dobby himself told Daphne how Harry had freed him from the Malfoys and once again, Daphne laughed.
It was music to Harry's ears.
Dobby packed the basket when they were finished and left them again.
"Harry, what is your greatest fear?" she asked, leaning her head on his shoulder.
"Losing everything I love again," he replied, looking to the grey sky. "What about yours?"
"To be a trophy, and not being allowed to live my life," she replied, unsure of the meaning of his words. She suspected he meant his family. He leaned his head on hers.
"Only a fool would consider keeping you as a trophy. You have so much to offer," he mumbled, and felt her stiffen for a moment.
"How do you know?" she whispered, not moving at all.
"You're a smart, intelligent, and cunning witch who I am more than sure can give the smartest Ravenclaw a competition for first place. You're compassionate, even if you don't show it. You are powerful, you're growing even more powerful, and I'm sure you can be great in time."
She remained silent for several moments.
"Thank you," she said.
"It's the truth," he replied softly, "I wouldn't lie to you."
"What is it you want from me?" she asked abruptly. Harry was silent for a moment.
"A partner in all things," was his simple reply. Harry felt her squeezing his hand. He looked at her as she raised her head and saw a tear falling down her face. Emerald looked into sapphire, and he leaned in. She let him, and their lips touched softly.
She felt his arm circling her while she embraced him around his neck. When their tongues met, however, she squeezed him harder, and their kiss became more intense. For him, it was hunger, desire and bliss, something he craved for decades and finally had once again. For her, it was joy, desire, and for some reason, completion. Somehow, she found herself sitting on him, cupping his face while kissing him, and didn't care. They stopped after some time, leaning their foreheads together.
"Harry, I..." she started but hesitated. She didn't know what to say. Luckily, he knew.
"Daphne, will you accept to be my girlfriend? If not now, then in the future?" he asked. She opened her eyes and saw his looking back her, hoping. She smiled softly.
"I..."
She was interrupted by the popping sound from Dobby. They both looked to the source of the sound and saw a surprised elf looking at them. The surprise gave turn to a grin and a nod of appreciation.
"I was just coming to tell you that it will soon be time for your meeting, but carry on..." the elf said, chuckling. Harry rolled his eyes and Daphne blushed while Dobby popped away, grinning.
"Git," was Harry's reply, turning back to an embarrassed Daphne. "You were saying?"
Daphne managed to keep her emotions in check.
"I want to," she whispered, and he nodded. Harry kissed her cheek.
"Then just be yourself," he whispered in her ear, and she hugged him tighter before sharing another kiss. Dobby appeared again moments later, this time making sure he didn't interrupt anything.
"Master, Mistress, I'm sorry but it's time," said Dobby, and Daphne rose from Harry.
"Is it just your godfather and uncle?" asked Daphne, and Harry nodded his head, holding her close to him. "When will you come back?"
"I won't lie to you, Daphne. I'm going to this meeting but afterwards, I... I'm going to go to Gringotts." Daphne raised an eyebrow, waiting for more. "I'm going to claim my lordship for House Potter."
"But... you can't do that until you're seventeen," she said, not understanding his plan. Harry chuckled.
"Unless, oh, let's say, the Ministry of Magic forced me to compete in an international event, approved by the ICW, specifically set for students that are of age. For that reason, I immediately became an emancipated minor, and therefore am able to claim the headship of my house," he replied with a smirk. Daphne was astonished and soon started to laugh.
"How many secrets do you have?" she asked him after exhausting her laughter.
"A couple others," he replied, caressing her face. She smiled.
"Then go, my future Lord Potter. Go meet your family, go claim your lordship, and then come back. You still have to practice with Krum later on," she taunted, and he smirked.
"I'd rather be persuaded to quickly come back to my beautiful, intelligent, and cunning girlfriend."
"Compliments won't get you anywhere, Potter," she said, a warm feeling in her chest. He smirked.
"Oh, too bad," and he kissed her again.
It was Dobby coughing that got them separated.
"Fine, you git, fine," complained Harry, still looking at a smirking Daphne. "Do you want to go back to Hogsmeade or do you want to go to Hogwarts?"
Daphne thought about it for a moment.
"Hogsmeade first. I'll call Dobby to take me to Hogwarts later," she replied, and he nodded. He held her hand again and Dobby grabbed the other.
"Hogsmeade, Dobby." Dobby nodded and popped away back into Hogsmeade. They appeared in an alley next to the Three Broomsticks.
"If you need, call Dobby," he told her.
"Don't worry, I'll be fine. Just be careful," she replied.
Daphne saw the both of them pop away again and smirked.
Harry Potter was a well of surprises.
And now he was her boyfriend.
She could already imagine the taunts from her housemates, especially her dormmates.
Oh Merlin...but, it looked like it would be worth it.
"So, how was it?" asked Dobby, after popping in front of the Shrieking Shack.
"Completion," replied Harry with a sigh.
"I'm happy for you, Harry," said Dobby with a smile.
"So am I, mate, so am I," he said, laughing. His shit-eating grin didn't leave him. "Make sure to be there if she needs you."
"Of course," the elf replied. "You know, I just realized something..."
"What?" asked Harry.
"Your dogfather is a dog Animagus and Lupin is a werewolf. They are supposed to have a good sense of smell, right?" asked Dobby, grinning.
"What are you...oh crap," replied Harry, after realizing that both Marauders would tease him relentlessly after smelling Daphne's odour on him. Dobby laughed and popped away, leaving Harry at the entrance of the shack.
He just shrugged.
Oh well...
~BREAK~
Harry entered the shack, closing the door behind him. He focused his magic and walked towards the living room, where he felt the magic of two beings. Suddenly, one of them had a surge and started to run at him. Harry smirked as he saw Padfoot come around the corridor and jump at him. Harry dodged the Grim and the dog fell on the ground, making Harry laugh. He jumped at Harry again, and Harry swiftly petrified the old dog, much to his chagrin.
"Hi there, Padfoot. Who's a good boy? Not you, that's for sure," asked Harry, scratching behind the Grim's ears, all the while fighting himself not to change Sirius back, hit him in the nose, then hug him.
Laughter came from behind them. Harry turned to him and saw Remus Lupin. A surge of sorrow hit Harry, remembering his godson, Teddy Lupin.
Not this time.
"Hi Moony," said Harry, steeling his emotions, levitating the dog and hugging Remus.
"Hey, cub, how are you?"
"Better, but I think Padfoot needs to be neutered." The dog whimpered and both laughed.
Harry removed the charm from Sirius, and he instantaneously changed to his human form.
"Damn pup, you have some good reflexes," said Sirius, hugging his godson.
"Quidditch and my new training partner," replied Harry, gaining the attention of both men.
"Really? And who would this training partner be?" asked Remus, while Sirius grinned.
"I am willing to bet that it's the Veela bird you mentioned."
"You would be wrong, then. Why would I waste my time with the Veela when I have much better than her?" replied Harry, and both men looked at him with surprised grins.
"Oh? And who would this amazing bird be?" asked Sirius.
"You'll find out," replied Harry, making Sirius pout and Remus laugh. Then, Sirius sniffed something on Harry.
"Remus..." he called, and Harry paled. Here it comes. Remus sniffed the air and grinned.
"My my, Mr. Potter, have you been in contact with a lovely young girl?" he asked.
"Yes," replied Harry, crossing his arms across his chest.
"And how long has this going on?" asked Sirius with a grin. Harry shrugged.
"Twenty minutes, give or take, maybe less," replied Harry, seeing the surprised looks on his uncles' faces.
"Uh... you work fast," said Sirius, earning a glare from Harry.
"Let's make one thing clear, Sirius, and you too, Remus. I like her. And I mean I really like her, got it? Whatever happened is only between me and her. All I will tell you is that she is all I ever wanted."
Sirius and Remus's eyes widened.
"Oh Merlin, we lost the pup. He's lost I tell you!" mock bawled Sirius.
"Well, he's his father's son, what would you expect?" asked Remus.
"What are you talking about?" asked Harry, almost sure he didn't care.
"Are you in love, cub?" asked Remus, and even Sirius became very interested in his answer.
Yes.
"Ask me again at a later date," replied Harry, making both older men laugh.
They went to the living room, and despite the need (according with Sirius) to give Harry "The Talk," he put it off until a later date because he lacked the firewhisky needed for such a bonding moment. Remus mentioned some diagrams of his that could be useful.
The saddest part was that Harry was reliving a moment from the summer before his fifth year, when he actually was dumb enough to ask the two older men about girls. Sirius produced a bottle of firewhisky and got Harry drunk while explaining the birds and the bees, and even used Remus's visual aids.
"So, cub, about all that has been happening to you..." started Remus, getting Harry's attention. Sirius looked seriously at Harry, and the Dark Lord-turned-teen started to tell them everything that had happened since Halloween.
Sirius and Remus were appalled by the behaviour of Gryffindor house, especially McGonagall's and Dumbledore's. They got even worse when Harry told them that he bonded with Dobby and the elf changed into something else, something more powerful. He told them about taking up residence in the Chamber of Secrets, in an old dorm chamber that Dobby cleaned, and how he had found several books and equipment there, which he had used to study and grow powerful, training hard and appearing only for classes.
The result was what happened at the first task...
Of course, it was all a lie, or at least part of it, but it was necessary. Remus actually had some questions on a couple of points, but he was pleased with the answers Harry gave.
Sirius was just amazed and concerned.
"But how did you fly? Without a broom?" asked Sirius.
"Falling from the broom was an accident. Concerning flying, I'd been working on wandless magic for some time, and had read that Salazar liked to levitate himself to amaze the students… I tried to do the same," said Harry, lying through his teeth. It wouldn't do to let them know that he levitated himself by using a controlled wandless Levitation Charm. They seemed to accept it and were even more amazed. Of course, the Compulsion Charms Harry used to make them believe what he said also helped. Even to Harry, parts of the story seemed farfetched.
Then he told them about the aftermath and the two men laughed. They even snarled, recognizing that the lions deserved it and that they should even be called the house of the rats.
"And now, you're a snake?" asked Remus.
"A proud snake, thank you," replied Harry with steel in his voice. "Just so you know, had I not met Malfoy or Weasley I would've been a Slytherin from day one."
"I'm not trying to be insulting, cub, it's just that..."
"It's hard to believe, yet the proof is right here in front of us," completed Sirius. Harry sighed.
"I know you have reasons to be distrustful, but it's not so bad. I was accepted by the house and they already seem to like me as one of their own. I have friends, more friends than before, and with more quality than those backstabbing idiots. I am allowed to be myself without fear of hurting their feelings, and..." Harry shrugged. "It's my new home and I'm accepted. To the rest of the school, I am the Boy-Who-Lived and a Dark Wizard in training. In Slytherin, I'm just another fourth year, powerful and cunning, sure, but still only a fourth year."
Sirius and Remus nodded.
"What about Snivellus?" asked Remus, making Harry chuckle.
"I don't think he's gotten over the shock of me being in his house yet." The three laughed.
"So, considering your story, do you actually need us for anything?" asked Remus, half mocking, half apprehensive. Harry understood their doubts.
"Moony, I've been using the Chamber since my second year, after killing the basilisk. I read the books and practiced the spells on my own, when I had the time. I'm pretty good, but I'm not perfect."
"What basilisk?" asked both Sirius and Remus, leading to a full report of Harry's first three years in Hogwarts.
"Damn, pup, that's...hard," replied Sirius, not knowing what to say.
"Do you need anything?" asked Remus again and Harry, who had predicted that question, gave him a list. Remus opened it and read it.
"Clay, silver powder, an assortment of ingredients... What the hell is all this for?" asked Remus, and Harry smirked.
"The clay is for pottery; I'm thinking in starting a new hobby. Ingredients are for potions, of course, and the silver is for permanent rune engravings in surfaces."
"You're starting a..." mumbled Sirius, who thought it sounded like the craziest thing ever.
"A Potter pottery?" asked Remus, wanting to laugh, but highly confused.
Harry sighed. Apparently, he wasn't that much of a joker.
"I read a book on enchanting, and I am interested in trying. The clay is for enchanting tiles, for example."
"Oh... I didn't know you knew runes," replied Remus.
"No offence, Remus, but there's a lot you don't know about me," replied Harry, seeing the regret on Moony's face. "But I don't blame you."
"That's true," mumbled Sirius, "Do you need help for your second task?"
"Well, besides the Bubblehead Charm and gillyweed, are there any more ways to remain underwater for long periods of time?"
"You already know what the second task is?" asked a surprised Remus, and Harry nodded.
"They are going to take what I would miss the most and place it under the lake. I have one hour to retrieve it."
"That's crazy!" said Sirius, appalled.
"That's the organization," refuted Harry.
"I can only think of human transfiguration..." replied Remus.
"I see. What about a reverse Summoning Charm that would take me to my target instead of the opposite?"
"Well, you have the Point Me spell... It's supposed to provide a direction to your target."
"Teach me," asked Harry, and the three men spent a couple of minutes talking and teaching the spell.
"Point Me at Sirius Black," said Harry, and a red arrow appeared on his wand, pointing at Sirius.
"Well done, pup," praised Sirius.
"Do you need anything else?"
"Actually, yes," replied Harry, taking a parchment from his pocket. "I solemnly swear that I am up to no good."
Sirius whistled.
"Damn, it has been years since I last saw that," said the Animagus, and Harry smirked.
"I want to place an alarm that warns me when anyone unusual appears at Hogwarts." Both men looked at the teen. "What, who exactly do you think would put my name in the cup? It had to be someone from the outside, at least according to Professor Moody." It was a lie; all he really wanted was to learn how to do it.
"PROFESSOR Moody?" asked Sirius, wanting to laugh, "Mad-Eye is your professor?"
"Yeah, scary guy but quite knowledgeable. Almost as good as you at teaching, Moony."
"Aw, pup, thanks. But we never made such a feature," Remus said, regretful.
"Oh, well, I had to try," replied Harry with a nod before and clearing the map and putting it back in his pocket.
"I have to hurry; I have a practice duel with Viktor Krum at six. Do you fine gents want to come with me to Gringotts to claim my lordship?"
After some explaining, Harry called Dobby, and after the Marauders' initial surprise over Dobby's appearance, Sirius turned into his Animagus form and the three left for Gringotts. Dobby took them to an alley next to the goblin bank and quickly stiffened.
"Master, Mistress calls," Dobby said, and Harry smirked, telling him to go.
"Mistress, huh?" asked Remus, while Padfoot was looking at him curiously.
"One day, she might be. Meanwhile, if Dobby likes to call her Mistress, I won't oppose it if she doesn't.
"It sounds that you already learned the first rule of marriage," joked Remus.
"I would think that keeping your woman happy is a rule for a happy existence, period," mumbled Harry, and both Remus and Padfoot laughed.
The three walked to a teller.
"What do you wish, wizard?" asked the goblin on the other side.
"May your gold flow and your enemies be crushed. My name is Harry Potter, heir to House Potter. I wish to perform an inheritance test, claim the headship of House Potter, and have a meeting with my account manager," explained Harry, gaining the attention of the teller, Remus, and Padfoot - the goblin most of all.
"Very well, Heir Potter. May your gold flow and your enemies be crushed. You shall be escorted to Grimjaw at once." The teller rang a bell and a young goblin appeared to escort the trio into a personal office.
"Harry, how did you learn how to deal with goblins?" asked Remus, curious.
"I read some of Salazar's interactions with their kind. I was curious after discovering that the goblins were a warrior race turned bankers," replied Harry. Remus took it as true.
"We are still a warrior race, Mr. Potter," their guide, who introduced him as Swiftlock replied, hearing their conversation. "We still train our army, but instead of open war we focus on the protection of our domain and the riches of your kind."
"Ah, thank you, Swiftlock," replied Harry, remembering very well the type of might that the Goblin army hid in Gringotts' caves. They were taken into the office of a goblin dressed in a sharp suit. The goblin waved at them to sit and crossed his hands on the desk.
"I am account manager Grimjaw and I welcome you, Heir Potter, to my office," the goblin said in a polite tone.
"Thank you, account manager Grimjaw. May your enemies be crushed, your gold flow, and our joint ventures grow steadily and profitably. I am Harry Potter, heir of the House Potter, and these are my uncle Remus Lupin, and my godfather Sirius Black, who is an Animagus."
Remus and Sirius sent looks of betrayal at Harry, who focused on the goblin.
"I understand that my godfather is innocent of any crimes according to Gringotts laws, and therefore request asylum for him."
"Of course, Heir Potter. The vault of Peter Pettigrew is still active, and that alone casts doubt upon your Ministry's decisions regarding Heir Black," the goblin said, drawing the attention of the older wizards.
"What do you mean Heir Black?" asked Sirius, after turning back into his human form.
"You are the heir of Orion Arcturus Black, former lord of the Black family," Grimjaw replied matter-of-factly.
"But I was disowned by my mother," replied Sirius.
"The former Lady Black never had the power to disown you, Heir Black," replied the goblin, as Sirius started to laugh. "I assume you wish to claim your lordship?"
"No, I wouldn't just now. First, I'd like to stand trial and be declared innocent," replied Sirius, making Remus nod and Grimjaw think. "The Potter will can prove my innocence."
"Unfortunately, Heir Black, the Potters' will was sealed by order of your Wizengamot and Albus Dumbledore."
"Why?" was Harry's only question.
"It is unknown, Heir Potter. However, Mr. Dumbledore, acting as your magical guardian, gave instructions to Gringotts to make the Potter estate grow and have it well managed until you'd be ready to claim your headship."
"Interesting," whispered Harry. "However, we come with news. By forcing me to compete in the Triwizard Tournament, the Ministry of Magic has recognized me as an adult. Would this be suitable to allow me to claim my headship of House Potter?"
"It is, indeed, Heir Potter," replied Grimjaw, "In fact, I sent you letters in the name of Gringotts concerning that specific fact. It was a surprise when the letters were sent back, unlike the normal statements."
"I have experienced some troubles with owl post, and I assume that you sent the statements not to me, but to my guardian?"
"Indeed."
"There you have it," replied Harry, "I do believe that I need to have a good conversation with Dumbledore about him being my magical guardian and managing my finances. What has he done, actually?"
"Albus Dumbledore gave instructions to manage the Potter estate and make it grow. Only the head of house can know more."
"Very well, in that case, I'd like to withstand the inheritance ritual," replied Harry, to which Grimjaw nodded.
"Hey Moony, is just it me or do you find it creepy seeing Harry acting like this?" mumbled Sirius.
"Cold and calculating? Knowing exactly what to say and do?" replied the werewolf, "Yeah, I do."
"Good, I thought it was just me," replied Sirius as Grimjaw produced a basin covered in runes and a steel ritual knife, which also had several runes along the blade.
"The procedure is simple. All you need to do is to use the knife to draw blood and drop it into the basin. Magic will do the rest." Harry nodded and squeezed his palm on the blade, drawing blood. He pushed the blade, revealing the blood-covered steel as the blood flowed from his wound into the basin.
Grimjaw was in awe of the boy. He hadn't even flinched. Sirius and Remus, however, were appalled.
"Harry! What do you think you're doing?" asked Sirius, "A few drops would've been enough."
"Don't worry," was Harry's reply. The basin started to glow golden as the blood was absorbed, and a parchment appeared on top of it. Grimjaw took it and read it.
Name: Harry James Potter
Age: 14
Father: James Charlus Potter
Mother: Lily Mary Potter
Heir of House Potter by blood from father's side
Possible Heir of House Slytherin from mother's side
"What do you mean possible Heir of House Slytherin?" asked Sirius, after recovering from his shock.
"It is not well known, but Salazar Slytherin locked his vaults and hid the key in a secret place. He informed his heirs that only a true descendant of his would be able to uncover his secret and claim the mantle of lord of the house. It was a sort of a test of cunning, according to him."
"A secret I didn't uncover last time," Harry thought to himself.
"But, how? Lily was a descendant of Slytherin? I mean, she wasn't even a Parselmouth..."
Grimjaw scoffed.
"You wizards..." the goblin said with a scowl. "Not all magical abilities pass from parent to child. We at Gringotts knew that Mrs. Potter was a descendant of squibs from Slytherin and Gaunt lines. We also have the documents concerning it. While Mrs. Potter was able to maintain a functional magical core, not all abilities of her line were active. The added magic and blood of the Potter line was able to awaken some of these abilities into Heir Potter."
"But Lily was a powerful witch," said Remus. Sirius looked to Harry and saw him looking pensive.
"Harry, what do you have to say?"
"Did my mother know?" he asked, and Grimjaw nodded.
"She did, but she ordered the information to be declared a secret of House Potter. I don't believe the former Lord Potter, your father, ever knew."
"I see," replied Harry. "Was Lord Voldemort, previously known as Tom Riddle, ever able to claim the House Slytherin lordship?"
"He was not," was Grimjaw's reply, and Harry nodded.
"In that case, I'd like to claim my Potter lordship and I'd like to see my parents' will."
"As you wish, Lord Potter." Grimjaw produced several forms for Harry to sign and ordered a goblin to retrieve the Potter will and ring, which was done within moments.
"With your permission, I would read the will," said Grimjaw, to which Harry nodded.
This is the last will of James Charlus Potter, Lord of House Potter and Lily Mary Potter, Lady of House Potter
Should this be read, then we are dead. Considering that this will was made the day after going under the Fidelius Charm, then that means that Sirius's plan failed, and somehow, Voldemort captured our good friend Peter Pettigrew, who was Sirius's suggestion to be our secret keeper.
We're sorry, Petey.
Should our son Harry James Potter have survived, we leave ten thousand galleons to Sirius Black and the guardianship of our son Harry James Potter, as well as ten thousand galleons to Remus Lupin. Ten thousand galleons are to be given to the Auror Corps, and five thousand to the vigilante group known as Order of the Phoenix. Everything else is to go to our son Harry.
Harry, we love you very much. We hope you have a long and happy life. Please, eat healthy, including all your greens, cherish your true friends, study hard, and be happy. We wish you all the best. Whatever you do, know we are proud of you and we will be watching you. If your bouts of accidental magic are any indication, you will be a powerful wizard. We added a set of memories to the Potter vault, including some of our most treasured moments with you. We'd like you to have something of us.
This is not a goodbye, son. We'll meet again, one day.
We are very proud of you, and we love you very much.
Should our son have died with us, I, James Charlus Potter name Sirius Orion Black and Remus John Lupin as heirs of house Potter. Let them do whatever they will with the estate.
Goodbye friends.
It was a pleasure to run with you.
This is not a goodbye. One day, the Marauders will run again.
Lead long and happy lives and bring down those bastards for us, will you?
Sirius, Remus, you and Pete were the brothers I always wanted. We'll be waiting for you on the other side.
Farewell, friends. See you one day.
James Potter
Lily Potter
Witnessed by Account Manager Grimjaw
Sirius Orion Black
Grimjaw folded the parchment and saw Harry sitting with his eyes closed. Sirius was wiping his tears and Remus was solemnly looking at the ground.
"Account Manager Grimjaw, would you please send a copy of that will to the head of the DMLE, to make sure my godfather has a trial?"
"It shall be done, Heir Potter," nodded Grimjaw, making a copy of the will.
"Why did they only add you as a possible guardian?" Harry asked Sirius, who shrugged.
"I was to go under Fidelius as well. Maybe they expected me to survive." Harry accepted the answer and turned to Remus.
"I'm a werewolf, Harry, I wouldn't be allowed to be your guardian," the man replied, and Harry sighed. Stupid bigoted rules.
"And my lordship?" asked Harry to Grimjaw, who extended the ring box to him. Harry opened it and saw a golden ring with a red stone, upon which was the coat of arms for House Potter. He was instructed to place it on his finger, which he did, causing him to be enveloped by a golden light. After a few moments, the golden glow disappeared, and the ring adjusted to his finger.
"Congratulations, from this moment forward you are Lord Potter. Allow me to be the first one to congratulate you, my lord."
"Thank you, account manager Grimjaw," said Harry, earning claps on his shoulders from his uncles in support. "I trust the director of the DMLE will know how to deal with the will and my godfather?"
"Gringotts will push its resources to see it done. Heir Black shall be contacted as soon as possible," Grimjaw explained, closing his files. "If there is nothing else?"
"I'd like a statement of my estate and a couple of words in private," replied Harry, surprising his uncles.
"Of course, Lord Potter. When Mr. Lupin and Heir Black leave this room they shall be escorted to the lobby, where they can wait for you as you conclude your business."
"I hope you don't mind..." said Harry, turning to both men.
"Harry, are you sure you don't need help?" asked Sirius, earning a surprised look from Harry and Remus.
"And how would you help me Sirius?" asked Harry with a chuckle. "Besides, that's what we are paying Grimjaw for, isn't it?"
Grimjaw nodded.
"Of course, time is money, and I earn a fee for every one of my clients' successful business ventures."
"See?" asked Harry, and Sirius shook his head.
"You're scary, kid," said Sirius with a chuckle. "We'll be waiting outside. Go on." Sirius turned back into his dog form as Remus chuckled, giving Harry some advice. Then they left, leaving Harry and Grimjaw alone in the office.
Grimjaw started to go over the money in the vaults, which was more than Harry expected to spend in a lifetime, the properties, especially Potter Manor which had been in lockdown since the death of his grandparents, and his business stock. The goblins had taken Dumbledore's request to make the Potter estate grow seriously.
Maybe Harry should thank Dumbledore.
"Is there anything else I can do to be of service, Lord Potter?"
"Indeed, there is," replied Harry, lifting his eyes from the parchment he was reading and giving it back to Grimjaw, who made copies for Harry to read at a later date. With steel in his eyes, the same resolve that moved many of his past actions as the Dark Lord Potter, Harry looked at the expectant goblin. It was time to start another piece of his plan, not concerning Voldemort at all, but partially concerning Oberon and Titania. He was not about to wait almost ten years...
"I'd like to hire the Goblin Nation to retrieve information concerning a group of wizards and witches. I do not wish to know the names of the members of this group, I require only to know the location of their meetings and their safehouses."
Grimjaw looked at Harry with a pensive look.
"This service will cost you..." the goblin started.
"I understand, of course, I expected nothing less," replied Harry. The goblin nodded.
"Should you tell me what you wish, I will pass this information forward."
"Very well," replied Harry, leaning back in his chair and folding his hands. "I wish to know the location of the meetings of the group known as the 'Followers of Rhassel'Thoth' and the location of their leader Varrard'Thoth."
For the first time in several centuries, a goblin paled in fear before a wizard.
~Hogwarts, later that evening~
He wanted to meet Daphne, but he was already late. Dobby popped him directly to the seventh floor, and he summoned the Room of Requirement with the shape of the dueling room he had used all those years ago to train the DA, which he still used with Daphne every now and then.
He waited for Krum to summon Dobby, then knelt on the floor and started meditating on the happenings of the day.
Grimjaw had been appalled that Harry was searching for the 'Followers of Rhassel'Thoth'. He wanted answers but he received none. All he got was an order of five Goblin warrior squads for a time when the Goblin Nation found him the group. That alone helped to ease the goblin's heart, but he still knew nothing about why the recently elevated Lord Potter would search for a group that worshipped one of the most powerful and dangerous necromancers of the ancient world as a god. Even if the wizards had forgotten history, the Goblin Nation hadn't.
He had made a quick trip to the Potter vault to pick up an item he needed for the Yule Ball and went back up. After meeting up with Sirius and Remus, they went back to Hogsmeade and said their goodbyes, promising to keep Harry informed of any happenings concerning Sirius. By then it was almost six o'clock and Harry had to be in Hogwarts for his duel with Krum.
At five past six, there was a knock on the door.
"Enter," said Harry and the door opened, revealing a shocked Viktor Krum. "Ah, Mr. Krum, welcome. I've been expecting you."
"Vhen you said you knew place, I thought ov classroom," the Bulgarian said in awe, looking around the room.
Harry chuckled.
"This room isn't well known but it can take almost any shape desired. This is a shape I have used before for dueling and training."
"It is good, da?"
After some small talk, Harry and Viktor took their positions after agreeing on only non-lethal curses. Dark curses were allowed if they weren't lethal. Krum was surprised, although he suspected that Potter wasn't as Light as everyone thought him to be... if the rag the British called a paper was anything to be believed, at least.
They began their practice, trading spells easily at the beginning, testing each other as well as their reflexes. Then Krum decided to start raising the bar, and the pace of the fight increased. Both were doing their best to dodge, raising shields only as a last resort. Not that they knew it at the time, but they both had similar views on dueling. Why waste magic if we're fit enough and quick enough to avoid spells altogether? Harry remembered to propose some physical training to Daphne as well.
Harry had to hold something back. Even though his teenager self's core wasn't completely merged with the core that came back with him, he still had more available power. He was beyond Krum in terms of power and knew he had to be careful.
Krum was having fun. He had been a dueling champion in Bulgaria and was also Durmstrang's dueling champion. He had beaten everyone at the institute and had longed for some new challenges to help him grow. He had heard the stories of the Boy-Who-Lived, who had defeated a most dangerous Dark Lord at age one by rebounding the Killing Curse. He didn't believe such stories, of course, but was curious about what type of man Harry Potter was.
The younger man hadn't disappointed.
He didn't believe that Potter had put his name in the cup and had found it disgusting that the population of Hogwarts had made him a pariah. Even the students from Beauxbatons had insulted the boy, sneering at him. After the first task and all of Potter's announcements Viktor could now laugh, and with him all of Durmstrang. The boy played all of them and buried them in their own stupidity.
The boy was good, and if he didn't focus on the duel at hand, he would lose.
They kept going at it for almost an hour, with no clear winner. Both of them had stopped trying to just beat or overpower the other, instead working through the exercises each had proposed for dodging and spell chains. Both had fun, and it was soon time to go down for dinner.
"I think I need shover," said Krum as he sat on the floor sweating, making Harry laugh. He just pointed at a wall where a door had just appeared.
"Another trait of the room that is most useful," replied Harry.
"Vhat about clothes?" asked the Bulgarian.
"Dobby can clean them while you're in the shower," replied Harry and Viktor nodded, doing just that. Harry willed another bathroom for himself and took his own shower, feeling the warm water on his tired muscles. Having the power to overpower an enemy is one thing, but dodging is an entirely different skill. If Durmstrang was good at one thing, it was teaching dueling and dueling techniques.
Harry dressed in the new clothes Dobby had brought for him and waited for Krum. He willed a chair and a table with a book on Dark curses into existence and spent his time reading while he waited for Krum. When Krum finally came out of the shower dressed in his cleaned clothes, they walked back to the Great Hall.
"Dere are rumours, da? Dat you kill teacher on virst year, basilisk second, and vaced dementors last?"
"All true, unfortunately."
"You should be at Durmstrang," scoffed Krum, "Better teaching and no danger."
"Had you made the offer before my resorting, I might have taken it," replied Harry, even though it was a lie. He saw Viktor looking at him out of the corner of his eye. "But I have a very good reason to stay."
"Girl?" asked Viktor, to which Harry nodded. "I vunderstand."
They reached the Great Hall as they were having a discussion on curses and turned towards the Slytherin table. Many gasped. They had heard the rumours at breakfast and had discarded them, but seeing Krum and Potter together as friends, that was a surprise. The two boys shook hands and Viktor joined the Durmstrang students while Harry joined his friends.
"Good evening," he said, being saluted by the others. He kissed Daphne on the cheek, and she mumbled something. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing," she replied, avoiding looking at him.
"She's been like that since she came to dinner half an hour ago," replied Millie, "What did you do to her?"
"I did nothing," replied Harry, not looking at anyone else but Daphne. He tried to hold her hand, but she violently snatched her hand away from his.
"Don't," she hissed, her voice filled with anger. Harry saw anger and betrayal in her eyes and felt his own heart breaking.
"Daphne, please, what's wrong..." he didn't say anything else because she slapped him, hard. The entire population of the Great Hall stopped their doings immediately, turning towards the Slytherin table to see the source of the slap echoing around the hall.
"Do you need to ask? You said you wanted a partner. You said you wouldn't lie to me, yet you've done nothing BUT lie, haven't you?" hissed Daphne. "How am I to trust you if you've never told me the truth?"
Everyone was appalled, looking at the drama between the two snakes everyone thought would be dating soon.
"What are you talking about?" asked Harry, receiving another slap from Daphne, this time harder. She looked even more betrayed.
"I saw the memory in the Pensieve, you bastard," she said with tears in her eyes, pushing him away and leaving the table. "Don't you even dare speak to me unless it's to tell me the truth."
She walked towards the exit, ignoring the looks everyone was giving her. Harry sat there shocked, as if he had been paralyzed. In his mind he repeated her words, "I saw the memory in the Pensieve, you bastard," reminding him of what he had done that very morning:
~Flashback~
Harry sat at the desk, supporting his head on his knuckles, thinking. With a sigh, he picked up his wand and removed a memory from his head, placing it in the basin. Harry took a deep breath while shedding a tear and went into the Pensieve.
~End of flashback~
He had never taken the memory out of the Pensieve. He left it there and had completely forgotten about it. The memory was one of his most happy moments, but one that brought him sorrow all the same, and yet... He made a stupid mistake by leaving the memory unprotected; a huge mistake that may cost him his plan and his Daphne.
"What the hell did you do, Potter?" asked Tracey, getting up to run after Daphne.
Anger surged in Harry, and he put his fist against the table.
"None of your business," he said, fading away from the table and appearing three feet in front of Daphne, who was still making her way towards the Great Hall doors.
Everyone gasped at the sight of Harry Potter sort-of apparating inside Hogwarts. It was nothing like house-elf apparition and should be impossible; it said so in Hogwarts: A History. Everyone was astonished, including the teachers, but none more than Daphne, whose eyes widened as she looked into the flaring emeralds that were Harry Potter's eyes.
"But...how?" she mumbled.
Instead of replying, he grabbed her around her waist and pulled her against himself, looking into her eyes and seeing the shock and hurt behind them. They both faded away from the Great Hall.
The confusion had only begun.