All Rights reserved for J.K. Rowling and Warner Media/Discovery. I do not own Harry Potter.

Book 1:

Journey of the Guardians

Chapter One

Guardians Revealed

Neville Longbottom looked calm, like all the other students in line. However, at that very moment, he was beyond nervous, beyond jittery, and felt on the verge of a panic attack. The poor eleven-year-old thought he was close to a breakdown. He did not think he belonged there. He did not think he was even a wizard. He barely performs the simplest of spells. His grandmother even had a fear that he was a squid.

Now here he was, just starting his first year at Hogwarts, and already his mind was conceiving the worst possible outcomes that would surely lead to his expulsion and his downfall. Neville admittedly always held these feelings, but indeed you would too if your parents were tortured into insanity and you were brought up by your overbearing and, frankly, quite threatening grandmother.

Professor McGonagall was currently calling up students, and Neville was growing increasingly anxious every time a new name was called up, knowing his turn would come soon. He just prayed they had placed him in Hufflepuff, which seemed like the most accessible house to join.

He watched as Hermione Granger walked over to the Ravenclaw table, which did not surprise Neville initially, though he was a bit disappointed. She was the only person who had been nice to him so far.

He was so lost in his thoughts that he missed Professor McGonagall's announcement. "Longbottom, Neville," the old teacher called.

Showing his nerves, Neville walked up and took a seat at the Hat, being well aware of the heavy breathing he was showing. McGonagall lowered the ancient Sorting Hat onto the Longbottom boy's head.

"Interesting, very, very interesting," said the Sorting Hat in Neville's mind.

"I wouldn't use that word to describe me," Neville replied.

"You doubt yourself, Mr. Longbottom. However, I must tell you that you are something I have been looking for, and for quite some time now. I must ask that you turn to the Headmaster, I will sort you momentarily," said the Hat.

"Headmaster, something strange has occurred, and I must ask that this boy wait until after the ceremony?" asked the Hat. "Do not worry young Longbottom, you are not in trouble. In fact, it may as well be the opposite."

At once, the Great Hall erupted with hushed conversations, none of which eased Neville's anxiety. Though there was one thing easing his nerves, his utter confusion about what was going on, and judging by the puzzled looks of the teachers, even Headmaster Dumbledore appeared to be deep in thought as to what was happening.

Even the older students appeared confounded by these events, as never in the history of Hogwarts has something like this happened before. The Prefects tried to calm the other students, but they too were curious, their heads moving back and forth between the boy and the teachers.

Looking down, Neville walked to the side of the teacher's table, not wishing to turn to the Hall, for he knew all eyes were currently on him, and he hoped that whatever was happening would not end with an owl to his grandmother. He thought, what would she say?

HP

Despite Potter's rejection of his friendship and this new spectacle that Longbottom was currently performing, Draco Malfoy was in an excellent mood. He was about to walk up and accept the first steps of greatness, the first steps of his destiny.

He was a boy of high class and even higher expectations, and he prided himself on such, as she should. He was a member of one of the oldest and most respected pure-blood families in the entirety of the Wizarding World of Britain. The Malfoy Family, of which he was also the heir. His lineage, on both sides of his parent no less, could be traced back even the beginnings of the world at large, all of which he was taught at a young age.

Now, he was about to sort and begin his destiny. He knew he would be sorted into Slytherin; it was not even a question. He knew he would be sorted once that Hat came to his head. He smiled as Pansy Parkinson, a close friend of his, walked by and gave him a grin. She, too, will no doubt be sorted into Slytherin, as she knew she would.

"Malfoy, Draco," called the old bat.

With pride and pride in his step, he could feel the glares from Potter and that Weasley boy. Not that it mattered. When he sat, he was surprised when the Hat touched his head and did not immediately place him in Slytherin.

"Again, like Longbottom, very interesting," the Hat said.

"I am not to be compared to that fat oaf," snapped Draco in his head.

"No, but you and him are on the same path, the same way to greatness. Like Mr. Longbottom, I must ask that you turn to the Headmaster," replied the Hat.

"Headmaster, once again, I must ask that this student waits along with Mr. Longbottom," Draco's blood boiled at this statement. He was ready to rage, to demand when the Hat spoke again. "Calm yourself, Mr. Malfoy. You are in no trouble. On the contrary, you may be in a position not many have been in."

With that, Draco calmed and marched to where Neville was standing. Now the Great Hall was all bursting with conversation. While the teachers and Prefects tried to calm it, they appeared to be weighing what was happening. It was not until Professor McGonagall called for the next student that the masses began to quiet, though none of their eyes left the two boys.

As Draco huffed and puffed, all he could think was…My father will hear about this.

HP

"Potter, Harry," called out Professor McGonagall.

Once Harry's name was called, the entire Hall grew quiet, as every eye was fixed on him, every head turned in his direction. He was once again the center of attention. He could not help but feel that his self-consciousness was beginning to tamper with his utter amazement and enjoyment of this world.

It was such a great and welcoming contrast to the torturous and dull life on Private Drive, away from the cruelty of the Dursleys and all their tedious normalcies. So far, every aspect of the Wizarding World had been a wonder to Harry, well, almost every aspect. The fact that he was famous for something that he did not even remember doing and something that resulted in him becoming an orphan.

Harry decided to ignore them as he walked up to the stand where Professor McGonagall was holding the Sorting Hat, waiting for him. Within seconds, the Hat was atop his head, and an unnatural quietness fell over the Great Hall as everyone watched in excitement.

"Intriguing, I do believe this is an evening to be remembered," the Hat said.

"Not Slytherin, please not Slytherin," thought Harry.

"No, not Slytherin indeed. But something else. You are a mix of something I have not seen in a while, and like Mr. Longbottom, like Mr. Malfoy, you hold a path to something greater. Something unseen," said the Hat. "Follow Mr. Longbottom and Mr. Malfoy's lead and turn to your Headmaster."

"Headmaster Dumbledore, the same persecute as the other two boys. Do no fear, I will make my decision in due time," the Hat told Dumbledore.

Now, the Hall had erupted in unmasked and unsilenced chatter and discussion. The Prefects and the teachers did not even attempt to silence this, as they were just as stunned. Ron's older brother, Percy, looked like he was just hit with a bludger. Professor Dumbledore tried to restrict the other teachers from asking him questions, while Professor McGonagall looked dumbfounded.

Harry briefly turned to Ron, giving the redheaded boy a look that said he was just as confused as him. Harry walked over to the other two boys. Malfoy gave Harry the nastiest of glares before turning his gaze away, while Neville gave a friendly little wave.

Even when the next student was called up, most eyes were still on Harry, and most of the Hall was still chatting about theories. Maybe the Dursleys were right, Harry thought. Maybe I do draw too much attention.

HP

Ron Weasley knew much riding on him at Hogwarts. Despite what some would say, he was not stupid, just too self-conscious for his good. His brothers had been Prefects, Head Boys, and Quidditch stars. Even Ginny benefited from being the only girl. At times, Ron felt like he was invisible. But not with Harry.

Ron felt joy that not only did the Harry Potter sit with him, but he even showed Ron something he never had, friendship. He felt like someone with Harry did not seem invisible to the Boy Who Lived. This meant the world to Ron. However, now this happened. Ron was worried. What if Harry was sorted into a different house, or worse, sorted into Slytherin? Would this new friendship survive if he was sorted into the den of snakes?

All these questions rattled around in his head as his name was called. "Weasley, Ronald," called out McGonagall.

He walked up, looking to Harry, who gave him a reassuring look, along with Neville, while Malfoy just glared. When Professor McGonagall lowered the Hat, Ron began to get nervous.

"I knew I would find the fourth soon, and another Weasley no less. You question yourself, though there is great untapped potential in you, like your brothers," the Hat said to Ron.

"Like my brothers," sputtered Ron.

"Yes, and no. For you are about to become something your brothers were never. Something Hogwarts has not seen in its entire existence. Like before, turn to your Headmaster. But do nor treat, you will be sorted soon," said the Hat.

"Have Mr. Weasley stand with the other three, as I have an announcement to make. Trust me, all will be revealed in due time," the Hat told Dumbledore.

With great unease, Ron walked over to Harry, Draco, and Neville, just as puzzled as they were. Draco avoided the other three, while Neville, Ron, and Harry stayed close. You wanted a little attention, Ron thought. Now you got it.

HP

Once the last student, Blaise Zabini, was sorted, Professor Dumbledore turned to the Sorting Hat. The Hall fell into a massive silence, with very few noises being heard as everyone looked to Dumbledore. The Hat was placed on the stool. As McGonagall took her seat, she was too glued to the Hat.

"Great, Sorting Hat, you have made this quite the memorable evening," said Dumbledore.

"Indeed. You have all noticed that four of these students remain unsorted. I shall answer why? I have been here for eons, centuries since the days of the founders. Most of you have heard the old tales, the age legends that have been passed since Hogwarts inception, well now, I will declare one legend true," the Hat spoke to the entire crowd.

Something uneased everyone. Dumbledore looked taken aback, but at the same time, he appeared as if he had a feeling about what the Sorting Hat was about to say but still could not believe it.

"I hereby declare the Guardians of Hogwarts decided. Harry Potter is the Guardian of Gryffindor. Ronald Weasley is the Guardian of Ravenclaw. Neville Longbottom is the Guardian of Hufflepuff. And Draco Malfoy is the Guardian of Slytherin," declared the Sorting Hat.

Gasps, shocks, and soon overwhelming shouts of cheers echoed throughout the Hall at this declaration. Not a single person was not stunned by this development. Professor Dumbledore had a tear at what he had just seen. McGonagall could not believe it. Never in her life did she think such a thing could exist. Professor Snape ignored the other teachers and smugly looked at Draco and clapped. Professor Flitwick was beaming at the four and openly crying. Hagrid and Professor Sprout were cheering the loudest, acting like sports fans. Professor Quirrell was once again stuttering.

Draco gave a smug grin, sticking his head up high. Ron looked the happiest he had ever been. Neville was trying to make sense of all this. While Harry, poor Harry, had no idea what was happening. After a moment, Dumbledore silenced the crowd.

"Now, this is unexpected. Now, I ask the guardians to please be seated in their selected tables, and everyone, dig in," Dumbledore said.

At once, Harry was ushered away to the Gryffindor table, where he was soon engulfed by countless students, all hammering to ask him a question.

"Did you know you'd be a guardian?" asked Seamus Finnigan.

"Who's gonna be in your coven?" asked Parvati Patil dreamily.

"Ah, what is going on?" asked Dean Thomas, the only question Harry asked himself.

"Give the lad some space," commanded Percy Weasley.

However, this did not stop there, and Harry looked to see if the other three were just as overwhelmed as he was. Draco was relishing his newfound popularity. Sitting at the head of the Slytherin table as everyone approached, he seemed to enjoy the attention he was getting. Ron, too relished but was humbler about it. Percy, Fred, and George had abandoned their tables to pat their brother on the back, and even Hermione seemed drawn to the boy. Neville was just as overwhelmed as Harry but had a lingering expression of confusion like he was waiting for the Sorting Hat to announce it had made a mistake on his part.

At the teacher's table, Professor Dumbledore turned to McGonagall, a somber expression on his face. "Minerva," he asked.

"Yes, Albus," she answered.

"After dinner, collect Severus, Filius, Pomona, and yourself and take young Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Mr. Malfoy, and Mr. Longbottom to my Office. I think we should discuss the events of today in full detail," he told her, never losing his twinkle, though she knew she was an order.

Professor McGonagall nodded as she returned to her meal. Dumbledore had expected much fanfare about Harry coming to Hogwarts, but this was beyond his brilliant expectations. Surly, the press would get a hold of this, and considering who one of the Guardian's father was, he could not imagine it be long. He should discuss matters with the boys before anything happens.

HP

Harry was glad when the dinner was over for multiple reasons, though there were two main ones. First, he was growing tired of all the attention and questions he was receiving. Though as he was escorted out of the Great Hall by four professors, along with his fellow Guardians. The second was that he still had so many questions, mainly what was a Guardian and why was everyone making such a big deal?

He wondered if the others had these questions, though judging by the superior expression on Draco's face and the excited expression on Ron's, they appeared to be enjoying this. Neville just looked nervous, staring down as he walked.

He turned to the four Heads of Houses escorting them. The only person smugger than Draco was Snape, who looked at the Malfoy boy with great self-satisfaction, which was a contrast to the looks he gave Harry, Ron, and Neville. Harry could not tell, but he thought he saw the Potions Master glare at him a few times. Professors Sprout and Flitwick could not contain their happiness, while Harry caught McGonagall giving him curious looks of thought.

Harry did not ask or say anything since McGonagall had told him Dumbledore would explain everything once they reached the Headmaster's Office. Finally, they approached a large Gargoyle, with McGonagall stepping forward.

"Sherbet Lemon," she said, and the Gargoyle stepped back, allowing them in.

When they all entered the Office, moving portraits of the previous Headmasters and Headmistresses of Hogwarts stood. Each portrait looked on at the four Guardians with keen interest.

"Ah, a son of the House of Black. I am not surprised, my linage has always produced fine examples of society," boasted Phineas Nigellus Black, boosting Draco's already enlarged ego.

"And a Potter, no less. Certainly the Sorting Hat favored the strong bloodlines," said Armando Dippet.

Harry ignored him. His gaze fell on the Headmaster, sitting on his desk next to an extraordinary yet beautiful bird sitting on a porch. Dumbledore turned his gaze to the four supposed guardians.

"How long will this take, I would like to see the suite," interrupted Draco.

Harry and Ron rolled their eyes at this response. However, it ended up being Professor Snape, who responded.

"Young Draco," Professor Snape said sternly, "you are now a Guardian, and as such, are required to respect the Headmaster."

Uncharacteristically, Draco sputtered at first before silencing and resigning himself. Harry and Ron both looked impressed. At the same time, Dumbledore seemed to find amusement in the situation.

"I cannot fault Mr. Malfoy, as even I would be very eager to see the suites that have gone unoccupied for centuries. However, a bit of explaining is in order as judging by young Mr. Potter's expression, he is a bit confused by the matter," Dumbledore looked a bit taken aback by these words, which made Harry look down. "It is not your fault, Mr. Potter. I might have to have a few words with you relatives later on. But now, to explanations."

"Most can tell you, that Hogwarts was founded by four great witches and wizards, for which the four houses are named. Godric Gryffindor. Helga Hufflepuff. Rowena Ravenclaw. And Salazar Slytherin. However, what most forget, is how much they put into this school. The Four Founders used much of their magic to form this school, thus giving the school life."

"Headmaster, are you saying Hogwarts is alive?" asked Harry.

"In a way, yes and no. Hogwarts, as well as other magical schools, stands out as one of most powerful and magical places on earth. So of course, some have tried to calm this castle and its magic. Therefore, the Founders took steps to safeguard their most beloved creation. They enchanted the castle to seek out four guardians to protect Hogwarts," said Dumbledore. "These guardians would be engrained with much of the magic of Hogwarts, which would grow as the guardians did. To secure they did not become overwhelmed by the magic, these guardians would be allowed a coven of witches to allow the magic to flow between the covens."

"For generations, centuries, long past the days of the Founders, Hogwarts waited for the Guardians to be chosen, to the point many believed it to be a myth. Until now. You four have been chosen," Professor Dumbledore said proudly.

"Sir, I cannot be a guardian. I am just…." Dumbledore stopped Harry.

"Just Harry. Hagrid told me about that. You have much potential in you; fear not, you will have help along the way. After all, what good is a school that cannot teach," joked Dumbledore?

"Today is Friday, which means you have the weekend off. In three days, we will begin your training. You will be allowed to attend special classes that will work towards your grades, and we will be bringing in specialists to help you train," said McGonagall to the four.

The fact that there would be teachers and support calmed a tiny percentage of Harry's nerves, but still, all this was a lot to take in, especially for an eleven-year-old who had spent all of his life stuck in a cupboard. However, when Harry turned, he was at least happy to see he was not alone in these thoughts. Both Ron and Neville appear nervous, while even Draco was wondering what work he would face now.

"Any other questions?" asked Professor Flitwick.

"Sir, what is a coven?" asked Harry.

Harry noticed Ron blush, while Dumbledore seemed amused. "A coven is a group of witches and wizards who join together to form a link between their magic. A coven usually consists of one wizard and six witches, or one witch and six wizards. The relationship between them can vary, but usually it is romantic. Some confuse it for a harem, but it is a different entity," explained Dumbledore.

Harry went wide-eyed and, after a moment of shock. He decided to push that aside for now.

"But, you have plenty of time to decide this. However, I must warn you," Dumbledore's expression grew dire. "You will face scrutiny, not just from those outside the castle, but inside as well. Tomorrow, I will hold a dinner between myself, your new teachers, and your families. I will also be notifying your families tonight, no doubt the press will get a hold of this soon. Tomorrow, I will explain further the role of Guardians. However, after today, I must implore you all to get some need rest. Your heads of Houses will escort you to the Guardian Towers."

"We're not sleeping in our Common Rooms?" asked Harry.

"No, apparently being a Guardian has its perks. The Founders created four separate rooms for each of you. Now, do get some rest," said Professor Dumbledore with a twinkle in his eyes.

HP

Outside the Office, the four guardians were escorted by their Heads of House to a tower not far from the Headmaster's Office. The tower was broad, with four floors for a different Guardian. Draco was at the bottom, Neville on the second, Ron on the third floor, and Harry was at the top. Before departing, all four turned to each other.

"Well, it seems despite your rejection of my offer for friendship, we will be spending much more time together," said Draco smugly.

"Unfortunately, it would appear so," said Harry bluntly.

"Enjoy," Draco replied in false pleasantries, not wishing to say much in the presence of teachers.

Draco entered his quarters and was followed by Professor Snape. Neville and Ron said their goodnights to Harry one by one before Professor McGonagall escorted him to his suite. Once the doors opened, Harry's jaw dropped.

The room was a far cry from the cramp. Harry got a bit of satisfaction thinking of the jealous stares the Dursleys would give him if they saw this suite. Wide, with three separate rooms. A bathroom with a shower and sink. A living area with a couch, fireplace, and table. And a bedroom with a large four-poster king bed, a nightstand, and a window with a night sky view. Harry was amazed.

"Don't think of it as special treatment, there is a lot of responsibility that come with being a Guardian," said McGonagall sternly.

"I understand," said Harry.

"Luckily you'll have help along the way. I know this seems overwhelming, but I am just as surprised as you and I swear I will help you," McGonagall said affectionately.

"Thank you. One thing, professor?" asked Harry.

"Yes?"

"Are the Dursleys actual coming. Because I doubt they'd want to," said Harry.

"I was just about to talk with Professor Dumbledore about your relatives. Is there anything to tell me?" asked McGonagall.

"No, professor," he replied.

"Then, enjoy your night," she said.

Harry nodded his head, and with that, she departed. He turned to the room at large. Looking to the side, he saw his trunk and Hedwig's cage. Releasing the snowy owl, she flew across the room. Deciding to push his troubles till the next day, Harry fell into the bed, never knowing comfort like this.

HP

In Professor Dumbledore's Office, he was interrupted in his thoughts by a knock on the door. Without an order, in walked Professor McGonagall. When she approached, she appeared stern and concerned. Dumbledore knew what this was about and admittingly had been dreading this conversation, not out of fear from his Deputy Headmistress, but out of the folly of his mistake.

"I trust you read what the first letter addressed to Mr. Potter was," said Dumbledore gravely.

"The Cupboard Under the Stairs," said McGonagall bitterly.

"I trust you are unwilling to allow Mr. Potter to return to Privet Drive."

"Of course," she said determinedly.

"Good, because thanks to the announcement today, he won't. He, along with Mr. Weasley, Mr. Longbottom, and Mr. Malfoy are allowed to stay at the castle and be protected by these walls magic," replied Dumbledore happily. "Though, they will still be offered to attend the dinner tomorrow, which thankfully the other guests will discuss."

As if on cue, Professor Sprout, Professor Snape, and Professor Flitwick entered and all formed around the Headmaster's desk. When they saw the determined nature etched on Dumbledore's face, they knew this was serious and what it pertained to.

"Lemon Drop," offered Dumbledore. When no one took, he began. "Yes, well, you all know what this is about. In celebrating the discovery of Hogwarts Guardians, we have forgotten about some of the dyer aspects of this discovery."

"Such as the fact they are still young boys," said Professor Sprout.

"Yes, young boys who can make mistakes. Luckily we will provide them with enough guidance," said Dumbledore indeed.

"Mr. Malfoy will need it, since his father had already gotten his hands on him, despite his mother's best efforts," explained Snape.

"Not to mention Mr. Weasley and Mr. Longbottom's lack of confidence," added Flitwick.

"We have dealt with worse, and usually they turn out good results. The teachers I have assigned along with yourself have already been sent owls, and a few have already responded quite enthusiastically," replied Dumbledore.

"How will they be affected when their magic begins to merge?" asked Professor McGonagall, as this question weighed on her mind.

Professor Dumbledore gave a noticeable sigh. "Unfortunately, everything we are running on is theory and speculation. I wish I had a better answer for you, but at the moment, we can only play this thing by ear."

Professor McGonagall had to resign herself. A large part of her wished to argue with the aged Headmaster, but despite Dumbledore's many cryptic ways, she knew he was truthful, as even the older portraits were lost in this subject.

"I am worried about the scrutiny. Look at the reaction from the students, now imagine the reaction from the press, or the Ministry," cautioned Sprout.

Professor Dumbledore's face grew concerned. "Yes, especially considering who one of the Guardian's father is. Lucius has already been informed, and he has requested that several Ministry officials be welcomed to the dinner, Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge included."

"Who else?" asked Professor McGonagall worried.

"Madame Bones, Crouch, Rufus Scrimgeour, and Dolores Umbridge," replied Professor Dumbledore, already dreading any interaction with that woman.

"Oh god, at least tell the parents reaction was decent?" asked Snape.

"I have already received word from Madame Longbottom, Arthur and Molly, as well as Lucius and Narcissa and they seemed happy, though we'll see the full extends of their feeling tomorrow. As for Mr. Potters' family," answered Professor Dumbledore, though she seemed to question the word family, "me and Minerva will visit them early tomorrow morning and discuss the matter further."

McGonagall nodded, a slight grin forming from what she would say to the Dursleys and, if the moment felt right, what punishment she would inflict upon them. Nothing to serve, though they would deserve it.

"What about the coven?" asked Snape.

"Yes, their coven is already registered, just waiting a signature from myself and lets be thankfully they are young, though there is nothing to stop any witch from joining, regardless of the age."

"Age?" spat Professor McGonagall.

"Yes, coven members are seen as adults by the Wizarding World, therefore any age could join. Again, let us cross that bridge when we arrive," said Dumbledore.

"Regardless. I'd like to have their mail checked in case any witch gets some idea," suggested McGonagall.

"Understandable. Anything else?" asked Dumbledore to the room at large. "Good, then I think, after today, we are all deserving of much needed rest."

Little did a single person in Hogwarts know how much this news would spread and what impacts their world would be beholden to. At the moment, the Daily Prophet was scrambling to make news of the Guardian's front page at the morning paper. The Minister for Magic was learning all he could on these four boys.

One thing was sure in these uncertain times. Tomorrow, the Wizarding World would change forever.

Notes:

This story came from two places. The first is a dare from a mate to write a good story based on his selected fanfiction tropes—the second being my desire to push myself as a writer, entering new terrain.

The idea behind the Guardians is simple. The Founders infused much of their magic into Hogwarts and had the Hat seek out Guardians whose magic would fuse with the school's magic, increasing their powers. The Guardians would only be sought out when a dark threat grows. These Guardians all have covens to share the magic so as not to overload.

Yes, this is kind of a harem fic, but I think of it more as a Harry/Multi, Ron/Multi, Neville/Multi, and Draco/Multi fic, as I want a coven to be different from a harem. Any suggestions are open, but I can tell you that Ginny will join Harry's coven and Hermione will join Ron's.

NO BASHING! Seriously, I will never understand the sheer hatred some fans have for the Weasleys. I will make Molly supportive of these to prove a point.

I understand a lot of this is build-up, but I stand by this. I hope you enjoy it.