Greater Inheritance
Chapter 2: Sole Survivor
Harry didn't worry too much about researching his family history over the next few days and so instead, immersed himself in all his homework. The day after his conversation with Snape, he had finished his transfiguration essay and had Professor McGonagall check it over. Her reaction was similar to Professor Snape's in that at first she did not believe it was his work until she had cast a few spells of her own for authenticity, then proceeded to congratulate him on his fine work, gave him full marks, and offered the option of an extra credit assignment. Deciding that it would be even more of a challenge to have two extra credit assignments, he accepted and was given the verdict of it being ready in a few days.
Harry had then moved on to his charms work which involved a revision of the all the charms they had previously worked on, which was quickly completed, and also to write down any spells they had heard and wanted to learn. Professor Flitwick had personally tested Harry as they made their way through five years of charms, all of which Harry remembered the incantation, wand movement, name and purpose of each charm. Professor Flitwick had been very impressed and had opted to spend some time with Harry where he would be able to teach him some further useful spells that would not be in the curriculum, however nothing of the Dark Arts variety of course.
This year, Harry had opted to drop Divination and had taken up Arithmancy after discussing it with Professor Vector (via owl), and having showed quite an aptitude for it, once he had the basic principles explained. To him, it seemed like another form of algebra from muggle High School. Professor Vector arranged with him that when he returned to Hogwarts that he would be willing to spend some free time with Harry to bring him up to speed on the subject.
For Herbology, Care of Magical Creatures and DADA, he had no homework as Professor Sprout had forgotten, Hagrid didn't have the heart to set holiday homework, and of course the last DADA teacher wasn't around long enough to assign them anything. At present, Professor Dumbledore was still searching for a teacher to fill the DADA position anyway, so Harry was stuck in the subject until a replacement was found.
The biggest surprise however came at breakfast time at the end of his second week of holidays at Hogwarts. A grand black owl swooped elegantly and land carefully on the table in front of Harry, holding its leg out, to which was attached a letter. Harry quickly removed its load and gave it a piece of bacon before it took flight again. Harry glanced around the table, as the three professors knew who the owl belonged to and all looked curiously back at him. Turning back to the letter, he turned it over and revealed a crest pressed into green wax of a three headed snake with two wands crossed before it. Harry didn't recognise it, so he just opened the letter and read.
Potter.
Severus tells me that you are willing to put our past aside and call a truce. Is this true? Because I for one am finding it hard to believe that you have spoken to him in a conversation. Something I didn't believe was still in your capacity, after spending so much time with the Weasel. If this is true, I would like to register my interest in calling a truce, as I believe it would be beneficiary to the both of us as we may then divert our energies away from quarrelling and towards our studies. I hope to hear from you soon with your opinion in this matter.
Sincerely D. Malfoy
"What did you tell him?" Harry glared at Snape.
"Merely that we had talked and that you were interested in calling a truce."
"And my inheritance?" He hoped that Malfoy was not doing this just because of his heritage, or climbing the social ladder, as it were.
"Nothing. Only those here at this table know of your heritage, along with your Grandparents of course." Snape reassured.
"It is your decision to whom you tell, but keep in mind, that we do not want this to become public knowledge yet." Dumbledore put forward his two cents.
Folding the letter back up, Harry returned to his breakfast as he thought about the possibilities the letter represented. Draco was willing to call a truce which meant the main problem of coming to associate with Draco Malfoy had already been solved. Soon after breakfast was over, Harry again made his way to the library to write his reply to Malfoy's letter.
Malfoy.
I was unaware that you were in contact with Professor Snape, hence your letter came as quite a shock. However, it is true, I have spoken with Snape and I am willing to put aside our differences and call a truce. And yes, amazingly enough, it is still within my capacity to take part in a conversation, no thanks to Mr Weasley. I am glad to hear you are interested and I hope that we will be able to find some common ground. Nothing would surprise me now: after the conversation with Snape, I'm still getting over the shock. Thankyou for taking the time to write. I appreciate it, and also your truce consideration.
Sincerely H. Potter
Concentrating his thoughts on Hedwig, a moment later she was tapping on the window nearest him. Standing, he made his way over to her and attached the letter to her leg and told her it was to be sent to Draco Malfoy. The owl gave a look after he mentioned this.
"I know Hedwig." Harry replied to the unspoken question; in all truth, he didn't have an answer either.
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A little under a week passed as Harry exhausted all his homework and extra credit assignments to the point where he could do little more on them. Now, thoroughly bored he'd taken to researching a little more on his family history. He'd written to Hermione a day ago and told her some bits and pieces that he'd discovered. What surprised him though, was that he received an owl as he woke from Ron in her stead.
Stay away from Hermione, Potter.
R.
"Friendly indeed." Harry thought as again he screwed up the letter and chucked it the fireplace. "Goodbye Mr Weasley."
Harry had had enough of the continual crap he had taken from the youngest male Weasley. This time he'd be forgetting about him altogether. However, he wasn't sure about Hermione. She annoyed him with her constant lecturing, and he wasn't too sure how she'd take to being usurped as the greater genius of the seventh year Gryffindors. It didn't matter to him. If they abandoned him, so be it. It would mean the more time he could research and learn more defence magic in the ongoing battle against the mentally disturbed, Darth Vader gone too far. And hopefully a way to defeat him for a more permanent timeframe. All in good time. was Harry's usual response to anything to do with Voldemort.
The letter was not the only surprise of the day, and it seemed to tie in with the early owl from the Weasel. It came at breakfast time, as again, he sat to eat with only Snape and Dumbledore. Taking up some toast he opened the Daily Prophet that he'd just received. Taking a look at the front page, he immediately glared at Dumbledore. The old man was taken aback by the death glare aimed in his direction.
Turning back to article on the front page labelled "Boy Who Lived Heir to Deceased Potter's", Harry read on to discover that the ruling Patriarchs of the Potter Family had died over night, and in their will it was said that he was to be their sole heir, inheriting the entire family fortune, business and properties.
BOY WHO LIVED HEIR TO DECEASED POTTER'S
Due to the unfortunate deaths of the Potter patriarchs, it
has been announced by the family's lawyers that the Boy Who Lived –
Harry Potter – is the heir to the Potter family.
In a confusing set of circumstances which has only recently
come to light, Harry Potter is in fact the grandson of the most
powerful family in Europe, and will come to inherit all Potter
estates, business dealings and fortune.
This means that Phantom James Potter, who has been alleged to
have been living in Poulnabrone Castle, County Meath, has been a hoax
and instead been dead for the past 17 years, due to the attack made on
the Potter family by the Dark Lord, leading to his loss of power.
In the letter released by the family's lawyers, it has been
explained that the hoax first began when James started his schooling.
The family had announced that their only son and heir would receive
tutoring in his magical studies, when in fact James had decided that
he'd rather attend a school.
Whilst attending Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry,
he professed to be from a wizarding family in Manchester. The family
kept up the pretence that James was studying at the family Manor and
simply wanted privacy.
It was when James married Lily Evans, a muggleborn, that the
Potter's disassociated themselves from their son, however they
continued to recognise James and any offspring produced to be
legitimate heirs.
And so it was that the newest Potter family was murdered,
leaving Harry alive to live with his muggle relatives, due to the
Potter senior's decision of disassociation. It is unknown if the Boy
Who Lived is aware of his relationship to the deceased Potter
patriarchs.
Adele
Blabereth.
Skipping the part about where Dumbledore once again left out or kept secret more information from Harry, (and that it wasn't "Its about time I told you- "but "They're on death row so you should probably know-"as the way he introduced this most recent secret) Harry cut straight to the chase. "So what do I need to do to take care of all of this?"
"I'm so sorry that it came out this way my dear boy," Dumbledore started apologising, having opened his own copy of the newspaper and discovered the source of Harry's anger.
'Professor. What needs to be done?" Harry replied shortly.
"The necessary paperwork and such should have arrived by now. Come to my office after your toast."
"I'd like to take care of this now, if it's all the same to you. I don't feel much like eating at present." Harry stood and waited for the professor to join him.
With a deep sigh, Dumbledore rose and led Harry to his office upon which was a fairly thick folder. Taking a seat in one of the chairs facing Dumbledore's, Harry waited a few moments as the headmaster looked at him solemnly before slowly opening the folder and explaining the contents, then each document and what he was signing.
An hour later, and now thoroughly bored, Harry had signed over everything to his name and had a basic idea of what that everything was.
"Thankyou very much for taking care of this Harry." Dumbledore collected the documents together and placed them back in the folder.
Harry blinked.
"Now. The next question is, now that you have a choice, would you like to remain at Hogwarts for the remainder of the holidays, or would you like to investigate what you have come to inherit?"
"I think I might have a look at what's been left to me."
Dumbledore's face fell further. "As you wish. Tomorrow a portkey shall be set up to take you where you want. Which manor will you be seeing?"
"Poulnabrone, in Meath, Ireland, Sir." Harry had lightened up a little at the idea of going somewhere new.
Dumbledore nodded. "I will have the portkey ready for you tomorrow morning. You have today to settle anything here at Hogwarts. However, because you are still under age, I will need to send someone to accompany you, as there will only be house elves at the manor. Is there anyone you would prefer to accompany you?"
"Who's not too busy?"
"Only the people staying here are those who might be available?"
"Snape or McGonagall." Harry confirmed. Dumbledore only nodded. "I'll ask them at lunch."
The 'meeting' finished shortly after with Dumbledore looking sadly as Harry left for his room. Taking a look around at the empty dormitory, four beds untouched since the end of term, his tidily made. Dragging out his trunk, he started to refold and repack anything already inside, then moved on to his wardrobe and pulled out his robes and other clothes and packed all this away. He then moved on to drawers and pulled out his few possessions. Looking around he picked up the few things remaining from his desk and stacked his books away. With one last glance he realised he was ready to go now, yet he still had half an hour till lunch.
Taking out a book Professor Vector had suggested he read, he made his way to the Great Hall and sat to read for a while until the professors arrived.
Time passed quickly and the first to arrive was Professor Snape. Placing the book aside, Harry took in his menacing form and considered whether he preferred to take Snape or McGonagall to Meath. Taking his chances, Harry opened his mouth to speak.
"Yes Potter. I will accompany you."
"Thankyou Professor." Harry smirked 'that was easy'.
"You're welcome. Besides. It would be good to get a change of scenery."
Not knowing what to say, Harry said nothing. Soon Dumbledore and McGonagall arrived and all was quiet until McGonagall spoke.
"Now, are you sure you will be alright with Severus? I really wish I could go with you instead, but circumstances don't permit it. If there's anything, anything at all, don't hesitate to contact us, we will come as soon as possible. Okay. I know you're a strong young man, but don't get into trouble. And listen to Severus, he won't lead you astray. An-"
"Professor. Don't worry. I'll be fine. I'll listen to Professor Snape and I won't get into any trouble." Harry attempted to assure her.
"Oh, I don't like you going off to this new place with only Severus. You should go with someone you're comfortable with."
"Well. I will be needing to pack. Afternoon everyone." Snape nodded to everyone and took his leave.
Now alone with McGonagall and Dumbledore, the Deputy Headmistress was about to restart her tirade.
"How are you so sure you'll be alright with Severus. You've found the man intolerable for most of the time you've known him.
"I don't mind Professor Snape. We've managed to get past the history with my dad, and he thinks I'm good at potions so he's happy for someone else to talk about it to."
"Even so." She harrumphed. "Contact us if there's anything. Please."
"Yes Professor." Harry sighed, rolling his eyes. "Um. I'm going to finish packing." Harry made an excuse. "I'll see you at dinner."
Harry quickly strode from the Great Hall. It was then that the teachers remaining finally saw Harry. He'd grown whilst in their presence at Hogwarts. Now he stood at a good 5'9". He'd filled out more due to his extra quidditch practices he'd put himself through whilst the Pitch was empty and the morning runs. He even carried himself with a greater air of confidence.
The Boy Who Lived had changed right in front of them. And no one had noticed.
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The next morning, Harry took his last run around the grounds of Hogwarts then got ready for the day ahead. Everything was packed in his trunk and he took one last look around the room to make sure he had everything. Leaving the trunk there, he made his way down for a very early breakfast straight from the kitchens then made his way up to Dumbledore's office.
Once inside, he found the office empty and so decided to take a seat and wait for the aging Professor. Looking around the room, he found Fawkes waking up as he chirped at seeing Harry. Looking up around the sleeping portraits, he noticed the old fraying Sorting Hat sitting in the window.
"Still wondering, Potter?"
"Perhaps."
"Try me on. You've changed since I saw you at the end of last term."
Out of curiosity, Harry stood and reached up to the hat. Pulling it down from its resting place, he placed it over his head, covering his eyes.
"My goodness. If I had to sort you now, I really wouldn't be sure." Harry rolled his eyes as he waited with arms crossed for the hat to make his assessment. "You still want to be in Gryffindor, to keep the world from the Dark Lord; but I would make a fair argument of putting you in Slytherin. Nope. I'm sure. Despite your desire to stay in Gryffindor I'm choosing Slytherin."
"That's nice." Harry rolled his eyes again and took the hat off his head to see Dumbledore before him, trying to smile, but the twinkle was gone.
"So you're a Slytherin at heart now." Dumbledore said uneasily.
"Snape'll be pleased." Harry took a seat again before Dumbledore's desk.
"Why would I be pleased?" The unmistakeable voice of Snape said from the doorway.
"Harry belongs in Slytherin."
"The Hat resorted him?!" Snape looked surprised as he glanced between the two.
"It has."
"What's it got to do with the price of chips? I'm in Gryffindor already." Harry stared boredly between the two men.
"Not any more."
"Another change of scenery. Fantastic." Harry's face was blank of all emotion. "I'll pick up my Slytherin robes next time I'm in Diagon Alley."
"Very well, Harry. I take it you are ready to leave."
"The only reason I'm here." Harry sighed again.
"And you Severus?"
"Indeed."
"Here is the portkey then." Dumbledore produced a large golden key from his robes. "It will activate once both of you are touching it.' He explained.
"And our luggage?" Harry looked to Dumbledore.
"Master, Tilin will take care of that." Said a small squeaky voice from behind him. Harry turned, but had to look down to find the source. Standing before him in a plain black uniform of what looked like a length of material that had been made into a pair of shorts, and on top of this was a black poncho with the Potter Crest on the front. The elf looked very formal in his dark black uniform, as he stood with his hands behind his back and looked up at Harry like a muggle butler awaiting orders.
"Thankyou. So are we done now?" Harry looked around to make sure it was.
"Shall we?" Snape held out the key for Harry to touch and be transported. Harry nodded his head to Dumbledore and took held of the top of the key.
He felt the familiar tug behind his naval as colours whirled past him as he twirled through the vortex after the key. After what seemed like half an hour of tumbling his way after the portkey, he landed on his feet in front of a grand set of golden gates that towered over three metres above him. Snape however was not so lucky as he fell forward and clung to the gate for support. Snape stood up again once he'd regained balance.
"Welcome back." Harry commented once he was upright. Snape merely sneered. Catching movement out of the corner of his eye, Harry turned to the fence and watched as one of the gates was easily swung open. This was done by yet another house elf attired in much the same manner as Tilin had been, in the black shorts and poncho with the Potter crest. Just beyond the elf a carriage waited that was pulled by a majestic black Pegasus.
"The carriage will take you up to the Manor, Master." The house elf sounded a lot gruffer than any elf Harry had met before, but this could be attributed to what could be age as he looked a lot wrinklier and had white hairs sprouting from his head.
"Thankyou...?" Harry prompted.
"Djin. Master." The house elf looked up almost happily.
"Thankyou Djin." Harry walked through the parted gates, leaving Snape to follow as he made his way to the carriage, where the door opened itself and allowed the two men to enter. Once the door was closed, the Pegasus immediately started trotting up the long driveway.
Looking out the windows Harry found the driveway to be lined with a grand old forest that partially came to meet over the road, creating a shallow canopy that let streaks of sunlight to filter through in places. Ten minutes later, they left the forest and rounded a great water feature that served as a sort of round about as they came upon an enormous yet elegant castle of the purest of white that was slowly being covered by well tended ivy.
They finally came to a stop outside a grand set of oak doors and again, the door to the carriage swung open of its own accord and allowed Harry and Snape to get out. The door closed again and the Pegasus drew the carriage off to the right around the corner of the grand mansion. Now the grand oak door opened up to reveal a lavish foyer mainly made from various kinds of timber. There was a high, sweeping raked ceiling and sparse furniture on the surrounding walls and a wooden floor with a light polish. Straight ahead from the doorway to the grand room was a flight of sweeping stairs that led up. To the left of these stairs was what looked like a hall that led further into the manor, whilst to the right was more stairs that led downwards. On the left from the front door was a large corridor that led away to what was probably one wing of the house, whilst on the right was another wing. In general, it looked like a medieval castle of the 12th century inside, yet 16th century outside.
As Harry walked further into the foyer, his footsteps echoing on the floorboards, he found the house elf from Dumbledore's office standing before him. He waited patiently for Harry to finish he's looking before talking.
"Master. My name be Tilin. I am the head house elf of the Potter Estates."
"Nice to meet you Tilin."
"Master's belongings have been taken to the Master Chambers. Your guest's belongings are in the Guest Chambers. Would you be liking to see your rooms?" Tilin spoke well for a house elf, by what he had to go by anyway with Dobby and Winky.
"This is Professor Severus Snape." Harry introduced the Potions Master to the elf.
"Mr Snape." Tilin inclined his head.
"And yes. I would like to take a look around. We can start with the guest rooms."
Chapter 2: Sole Survivor
Harry didn't worry too much about researching his family history over the next few days and so instead, immersed himself in all his homework. The day after his conversation with Snape, he had finished his transfiguration essay and had Professor McGonagall check it over. Her reaction was similar to Professor Snape's in that at first she did not believe it was his work until she had cast a few spells of her own for authenticity, then proceeded to congratulate him on his fine work, gave him full marks, and offered the option of an extra credit assignment. Deciding that it would be even more of a challenge to have two extra credit assignments, he accepted and was given the verdict of it being ready in a few days.
Harry had then moved on to his charms work which involved a revision of the all the charms they had previously worked on, which was quickly completed, and also to write down any spells they had heard and wanted to learn. Professor Flitwick had personally tested Harry as they made their way through five years of charms, all of which Harry remembered the incantation, wand movement, name and purpose of each charm. Professor Flitwick had been very impressed and had opted to spend some time with Harry where he would be able to teach him some further useful spells that would not be in the curriculum, however nothing of the Dark Arts variety of course.
This year, Harry had opted to drop Divination and had taken up Arithmancy after discussing it with Professor Vector (via owl), and having showed quite an aptitude for it, once he had the basic principles explained. To him, it seemed like another form of algebra from muggle High School. Professor Vector arranged with him that when he returned to Hogwarts that he would be willing to spend some free time with Harry to bring him up to speed on the subject.
For Herbology, Care of Magical Creatures and DADA, he had no homework as Professor Sprout had forgotten, Hagrid didn't have the heart to set holiday homework, and of course the last DADA teacher wasn't around long enough to assign them anything. At present, Professor Dumbledore was still searching for a teacher to fill the DADA position anyway, so Harry was stuck in the subject until a replacement was found.
The biggest surprise however came at breakfast time at the end of his second week of holidays at Hogwarts. A grand black owl swooped elegantly and land carefully on the table in front of Harry, holding its leg out, to which was attached a letter. Harry quickly removed its load and gave it a piece of bacon before it took flight again. Harry glanced around the table, as the three professors knew who the owl belonged to and all looked curiously back at him. Turning back to the letter, he turned it over and revealed a crest pressed into green wax of a three headed snake with two wands crossed before it. Harry didn't recognise it, so he just opened the letter and read.
Potter.
Severus tells me that you are willing to put our past aside and call a truce. Is this true? Because I for one am finding it hard to believe that you have spoken to him in a conversation. Something I didn't believe was still in your capacity, after spending so much time with the Weasel. If this is true, I would like to register my interest in calling a truce, as I believe it would be beneficiary to the both of us as we may then divert our energies away from quarrelling and towards our studies. I hope to hear from you soon with your opinion in this matter.
Sincerely D. Malfoy
"What did you tell him?" Harry glared at Snape.
"Merely that we had talked and that you were interested in calling a truce."
"And my inheritance?" He hoped that Malfoy was not doing this just because of his heritage, or climbing the social ladder, as it were.
"Nothing. Only those here at this table know of your heritage, along with your Grandparents of course." Snape reassured.
"It is your decision to whom you tell, but keep in mind, that we do not want this to become public knowledge yet." Dumbledore put forward his two cents.
Folding the letter back up, Harry returned to his breakfast as he thought about the possibilities the letter represented. Draco was willing to call a truce which meant the main problem of coming to associate with Draco Malfoy had already been solved. Soon after breakfast was over, Harry again made his way to the library to write his reply to Malfoy's letter.
Malfoy.
I was unaware that you were in contact with Professor Snape, hence your letter came as quite a shock. However, it is true, I have spoken with Snape and I am willing to put aside our differences and call a truce. And yes, amazingly enough, it is still within my capacity to take part in a conversation, no thanks to Mr Weasley. I am glad to hear you are interested and I hope that we will be able to find some common ground. Nothing would surprise me now: after the conversation with Snape, I'm still getting over the shock. Thankyou for taking the time to write. I appreciate it, and also your truce consideration.
Sincerely H. Potter
Concentrating his thoughts on Hedwig, a moment later she was tapping on the window nearest him. Standing, he made his way over to her and attached the letter to her leg and told her it was to be sent to Draco Malfoy. The owl gave a look after he mentioned this.
"I know Hedwig." Harry replied to the unspoken question; in all truth, he didn't have an answer either.
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A little under a week passed as Harry exhausted all his homework and extra credit assignments to the point where he could do little more on them. Now, thoroughly bored he'd taken to researching a little more on his family history. He'd written to Hermione a day ago and told her some bits and pieces that he'd discovered. What surprised him though, was that he received an owl as he woke from Ron in her stead.
Stay away from Hermione, Potter.
R.
"Friendly indeed." Harry thought as again he screwed up the letter and chucked it the fireplace. "Goodbye Mr Weasley."
Harry had had enough of the continual crap he had taken from the youngest male Weasley. This time he'd be forgetting about him altogether. However, he wasn't sure about Hermione. She annoyed him with her constant lecturing, and he wasn't too sure how she'd take to being usurped as the greater genius of the seventh year Gryffindors. It didn't matter to him. If they abandoned him, so be it. It would mean the more time he could research and learn more defence magic in the ongoing battle against the mentally disturbed, Darth Vader gone too far. And hopefully a way to defeat him for a more permanent timeframe. All in good time. was Harry's usual response to anything to do with Voldemort.
The letter was not the only surprise of the day, and it seemed to tie in with the early owl from the Weasel. It came at breakfast time, as again, he sat to eat with only Snape and Dumbledore. Taking up some toast he opened the Daily Prophet that he'd just received. Taking a look at the front page, he immediately glared at Dumbledore. The old man was taken aback by the death glare aimed in his direction.
Turning back to article on the front page labelled "Boy Who Lived Heir to Deceased Potter's", Harry read on to discover that the ruling Patriarchs of the Potter Family had died over night, and in their will it was said that he was to be their sole heir, inheriting the entire family fortune, business and properties.
BOY WHO LIVED HEIR TO DECEASED POTTER'S
Due to the unfortunate deaths of the Potter patriarchs, it
has been announced by the family's lawyers that the Boy Who Lived –
Harry Potter – is the heir to the Potter family.
In a confusing set of circumstances which has only recently
come to light, Harry Potter is in fact the grandson of the most
powerful family in Europe, and will come to inherit all Potter
estates, business dealings and fortune.
This means that Phantom James Potter, who has been alleged to
have been living in Poulnabrone Castle, County Meath, has been a hoax
and instead been dead for the past 17 years, due to the attack made on
the Potter family by the Dark Lord, leading to his loss of power.
In the letter released by the family's lawyers, it has been
explained that the hoax first began when James started his schooling.
The family had announced that their only son and heir would receive
tutoring in his magical studies, when in fact James had decided that
he'd rather attend a school.
Whilst attending Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry,
he professed to be from a wizarding family in Manchester. The family
kept up the pretence that James was studying at the family Manor and
simply wanted privacy.
It was when James married Lily Evans, a muggleborn, that the
Potter's disassociated themselves from their son, however they
continued to recognise James and any offspring produced to be
legitimate heirs.
And so it was that the newest Potter family was murdered,
leaving Harry alive to live with his muggle relatives, due to the
Potter senior's decision of disassociation. It is unknown if the Boy
Who Lived is aware of his relationship to the deceased Potter
patriarchs.
Adele
Blabereth.
Skipping the part about where Dumbledore once again left out or kept secret more information from Harry, (and that it wasn't "Its about time I told you- "but "They're on death row so you should probably know-"as the way he introduced this most recent secret) Harry cut straight to the chase. "So what do I need to do to take care of all of this?"
"I'm so sorry that it came out this way my dear boy," Dumbledore started apologising, having opened his own copy of the newspaper and discovered the source of Harry's anger.
'Professor. What needs to be done?" Harry replied shortly.
"The necessary paperwork and such should have arrived by now. Come to my office after your toast."
"I'd like to take care of this now, if it's all the same to you. I don't feel much like eating at present." Harry stood and waited for the professor to join him.
With a deep sigh, Dumbledore rose and led Harry to his office upon which was a fairly thick folder. Taking a seat in one of the chairs facing Dumbledore's, Harry waited a few moments as the headmaster looked at him solemnly before slowly opening the folder and explaining the contents, then each document and what he was signing.
An hour later, and now thoroughly bored, Harry had signed over everything to his name and had a basic idea of what that everything was.
"Thankyou very much for taking care of this Harry." Dumbledore collected the documents together and placed them back in the folder.
Harry blinked.
"Now. The next question is, now that you have a choice, would you like to remain at Hogwarts for the remainder of the holidays, or would you like to investigate what you have come to inherit?"
"I think I might have a look at what's been left to me."
Dumbledore's face fell further. "As you wish. Tomorrow a portkey shall be set up to take you where you want. Which manor will you be seeing?"
"Poulnabrone, in Meath, Ireland, Sir." Harry had lightened up a little at the idea of going somewhere new.
Dumbledore nodded. "I will have the portkey ready for you tomorrow morning. You have today to settle anything here at Hogwarts. However, because you are still under age, I will need to send someone to accompany you, as there will only be house elves at the manor. Is there anyone you would prefer to accompany you?"
"Who's not too busy?"
"Only the people staying here are those who might be available?"
"Snape or McGonagall." Harry confirmed. Dumbledore only nodded. "I'll ask them at lunch."
The 'meeting' finished shortly after with Dumbledore looking sadly as Harry left for his room. Taking a look around at the empty dormitory, four beds untouched since the end of term, his tidily made. Dragging out his trunk, he started to refold and repack anything already inside, then moved on to his wardrobe and pulled out his robes and other clothes and packed all this away. He then moved on to drawers and pulled out his few possessions. Looking around he picked up the few things remaining from his desk and stacked his books away. With one last glance he realised he was ready to go now, yet he still had half an hour till lunch.
Taking out a book Professor Vector had suggested he read, he made his way to the Great Hall and sat to read for a while until the professors arrived.
Time passed quickly and the first to arrive was Professor Snape. Placing the book aside, Harry took in his menacing form and considered whether he preferred to take Snape or McGonagall to Meath. Taking his chances, Harry opened his mouth to speak.
"Yes Potter. I will accompany you."
"Thankyou Professor." Harry smirked 'that was easy'.
"You're welcome. Besides. It would be good to get a change of scenery."
Not knowing what to say, Harry said nothing. Soon Dumbledore and McGonagall arrived and all was quiet until McGonagall spoke.
"Now, are you sure you will be alright with Severus? I really wish I could go with you instead, but circumstances don't permit it. If there's anything, anything at all, don't hesitate to contact us, we will come as soon as possible. Okay. I know you're a strong young man, but don't get into trouble. And listen to Severus, he won't lead you astray. An-"
"Professor. Don't worry. I'll be fine. I'll listen to Professor Snape and I won't get into any trouble." Harry attempted to assure her.
"Oh, I don't like you going off to this new place with only Severus. You should go with someone you're comfortable with."
"Well. I will be needing to pack. Afternoon everyone." Snape nodded to everyone and took his leave.
Now alone with McGonagall and Dumbledore, the Deputy Headmistress was about to restart her tirade.
"How are you so sure you'll be alright with Severus. You've found the man intolerable for most of the time you've known him.
"I don't mind Professor Snape. We've managed to get past the history with my dad, and he thinks I'm good at potions so he's happy for someone else to talk about it to."
"Even so." She harrumphed. "Contact us if there's anything. Please."
"Yes Professor." Harry sighed, rolling his eyes. "Um. I'm going to finish packing." Harry made an excuse. "I'll see you at dinner."
Harry quickly strode from the Great Hall. It was then that the teachers remaining finally saw Harry. He'd grown whilst in their presence at Hogwarts. Now he stood at a good 5'9". He'd filled out more due to his extra quidditch practices he'd put himself through whilst the Pitch was empty and the morning runs. He even carried himself with a greater air of confidence.
The Boy Who Lived had changed right in front of them. And no one had noticed.
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!
The next morning, Harry took his last run around the grounds of Hogwarts then got ready for the day ahead. Everything was packed in his trunk and he took one last look around the room to make sure he had everything. Leaving the trunk there, he made his way down for a very early breakfast straight from the kitchens then made his way up to Dumbledore's office.
Once inside, he found the office empty and so decided to take a seat and wait for the aging Professor. Looking around the room, he found Fawkes waking up as he chirped at seeing Harry. Looking up around the sleeping portraits, he noticed the old fraying Sorting Hat sitting in the window.
"Still wondering, Potter?"
"Perhaps."
"Try me on. You've changed since I saw you at the end of last term."
Out of curiosity, Harry stood and reached up to the hat. Pulling it down from its resting place, he placed it over his head, covering his eyes.
"My goodness. If I had to sort you now, I really wouldn't be sure." Harry rolled his eyes as he waited with arms crossed for the hat to make his assessment. "You still want to be in Gryffindor, to keep the world from the Dark Lord; but I would make a fair argument of putting you in Slytherin. Nope. I'm sure. Despite your desire to stay in Gryffindor I'm choosing Slytherin."
"That's nice." Harry rolled his eyes again and took the hat off his head to see Dumbledore before him, trying to smile, but the twinkle was gone.
"So you're a Slytherin at heart now." Dumbledore said uneasily.
"Snape'll be pleased." Harry took a seat again before Dumbledore's desk.
"Why would I be pleased?" The unmistakeable voice of Snape said from the doorway.
"Harry belongs in Slytherin."
"The Hat resorted him?!" Snape looked surprised as he glanced between the two.
"It has."
"What's it got to do with the price of chips? I'm in Gryffindor already." Harry stared boredly between the two men.
"Not any more."
"Another change of scenery. Fantastic." Harry's face was blank of all emotion. "I'll pick up my Slytherin robes next time I'm in Diagon Alley."
"Very well, Harry. I take it you are ready to leave."
"The only reason I'm here." Harry sighed again.
"And you Severus?"
"Indeed."
"Here is the portkey then." Dumbledore produced a large golden key from his robes. "It will activate once both of you are touching it.' He explained.
"And our luggage?" Harry looked to Dumbledore.
"Master, Tilin will take care of that." Said a small squeaky voice from behind him. Harry turned, but had to look down to find the source. Standing before him in a plain black uniform of what looked like a length of material that had been made into a pair of shorts, and on top of this was a black poncho with the Potter Crest on the front. The elf looked very formal in his dark black uniform, as he stood with his hands behind his back and looked up at Harry like a muggle butler awaiting orders.
"Thankyou. So are we done now?" Harry looked around to make sure it was.
"Shall we?" Snape held out the key for Harry to touch and be transported. Harry nodded his head to Dumbledore and took held of the top of the key.
He felt the familiar tug behind his naval as colours whirled past him as he twirled through the vortex after the key. After what seemed like half an hour of tumbling his way after the portkey, he landed on his feet in front of a grand set of golden gates that towered over three metres above him. Snape however was not so lucky as he fell forward and clung to the gate for support. Snape stood up again once he'd regained balance.
"Welcome back." Harry commented once he was upright. Snape merely sneered. Catching movement out of the corner of his eye, Harry turned to the fence and watched as one of the gates was easily swung open. This was done by yet another house elf attired in much the same manner as Tilin had been, in the black shorts and poncho with the Potter crest. Just beyond the elf a carriage waited that was pulled by a majestic black Pegasus.
"The carriage will take you up to the Manor, Master." The house elf sounded a lot gruffer than any elf Harry had met before, but this could be attributed to what could be age as he looked a lot wrinklier and had white hairs sprouting from his head.
"Thankyou...?" Harry prompted.
"Djin. Master." The house elf looked up almost happily.
"Thankyou Djin." Harry walked through the parted gates, leaving Snape to follow as he made his way to the carriage, where the door opened itself and allowed the two men to enter. Once the door was closed, the Pegasus immediately started trotting up the long driveway.
Looking out the windows Harry found the driveway to be lined with a grand old forest that partially came to meet over the road, creating a shallow canopy that let streaks of sunlight to filter through in places. Ten minutes later, they left the forest and rounded a great water feature that served as a sort of round about as they came upon an enormous yet elegant castle of the purest of white that was slowly being covered by well tended ivy.
They finally came to a stop outside a grand set of oak doors and again, the door to the carriage swung open of its own accord and allowed Harry and Snape to get out. The door closed again and the Pegasus drew the carriage off to the right around the corner of the grand mansion. Now the grand oak door opened up to reveal a lavish foyer mainly made from various kinds of timber. There was a high, sweeping raked ceiling and sparse furniture on the surrounding walls and a wooden floor with a light polish. Straight ahead from the doorway to the grand room was a flight of sweeping stairs that led up. To the left of these stairs was what looked like a hall that led further into the manor, whilst to the right was more stairs that led downwards. On the left from the front door was a large corridor that led away to what was probably one wing of the house, whilst on the right was another wing. In general, it looked like a medieval castle of the 12th century inside, yet 16th century outside.
As Harry walked further into the foyer, his footsteps echoing on the floorboards, he found the house elf from Dumbledore's office standing before him. He waited patiently for Harry to finish he's looking before talking.
"Master. My name be Tilin. I am the head house elf of the Potter Estates."
"Nice to meet you Tilin."
"Master's belongings have been taken to the Master Chambers. Your guest's belongings are in the Guest Chambers. Would you be liking to see your rooms?" Tilin spoke well for a house elf, by what he had to go by anyway with Dobby and Winky.
"This is Professor Severus Snape." Harry introduced the Potions Master to the elf.
"Mr Snape." Tilin inclined his head.
"And yes. I would like to take a look around. We can start with the guest rooms."