Chapter Nine
Disclaimer: I don't own any of the characters nor the scenery which you could recognise, the only thing I take credit for is the plot.
Pairings: None for this chapter.
Warnings: DarkHarry, Dumbledore, Hermione and Weasley bashing (excluding Bill, Charlie, Fred and George).
Word Count: 7,276
Date Rewritten: 07/02/2021
Doors being thrown open draws the groups attention to a larger than usual Goblin, muscles protruding from his uniform as he walks through the office and sits behind the large ornate desk. He eyes the wizards critically bridging his hand under his chin.
"Ah, Mister Potter. I was wondering when I would be seeing you. We here at Gringotts have been trying to contact you since your eleventh birthday. I was surprised by your inability to attend your parents will readings though it is safe to say that we accepted your proxy in this case and will allow for them to stand in your place."
Aldwyn sits taller in his seat, hands folding into his lap as he gazes levelly at the goblin his intimidation all but disappearing at the information he is being given.
"I apologise to inform you Nagnok but there seems to be a major infraction happening here as it would have been quite impossible for me to authorize a proxy to attend my parents will readings; to listen to and accept not only my vaults but my family assets as I have never been informed of any such readings. It seems to me that you have been misinformed in this case."
Nagnok's face drops into an expression that Aldwyn can only describe as deep malice and rage, an evil smirk shaping his features as he stares Aldwyn down. His small wrinkled hands slam down on the hollow desk causing the small child to jump back.
"I apologise Mister Potter. I find it most curious as to how you have never received ant of our past correspondence. This would, however, explain why you have never responded to our proposals for an arranged meeting. We had assumed that your Magical Guardian, Albus Dumbledore would have informed you."
Nagnok's gaze turns thoughtful as he scratches his chin deep in thought. The shocked silence which fills the room stretches out, tensions rising as the four wizards exchange concerned glances. Aldwyn shifts in his seat sighing in despair.
"We have been led to believe, Nagnok, that Albus Dumbledore is not Mister Potter's legal magical guardian as his parent's wills have never been read as you have just stated which indicates that no one know just who the Late Potter's appointed as their child's guardian…"
Severus points out, his silky voice collected yet his eyes flash with concealed fury at the Headmaster manipulating Aldwyn's life to such an extent. He glances down at Aldwyn and can feel his heart going out for the eleven-year-old.
"Yes, yes you are indeed correct Mister Snape. I will assign my best Goblins to this matter and see that it is rectified by the end of the week. This is a major discretion on our side, Mister Potter and we deeply apologise. If you and your companions are agreeable, I will be able to read the wills of the Late Lord and Lady Potter this morning?"
"I thought you said that there is a will reading scheduled?"
"Yes that is correct, however, as the main beneficiary and with possibly transgressions against you through this Bank we are able to reveal the will readings for you now and still hold the reading for others involved at a later date."
Aldwyn nods his head in understanding, a small smile stretching across his lips as he thinks of hearing his parent's wills. He glances up at Severus and Marvolo grinning when they both nod down at him showing their consent in the matter.
"Alright Nagnok, thank you. Will we be able to save their Will readings until the end of our meeting today? There is a lot we need to discuss."
Nagnok steeples his fingers once again, eyes roaming over the four wizards in front of him and he forces back a shiver at the magical power he can feel crackling in the air at their barely concealed fury at the information they had received so far. He cringes inwardly wondering just how many transgressions have been made against Mister Potter and if he is going to have an office left afterwards.
"It was also one of the reasons we are here today Ragnok. Aldwyn… Harry here does not know who hi Magical guardian is. He has never received any of his monthly bank statements nor any form of communication with the bank. We were hoping that you could help… clear the air so to speak."
Even with the mounting tension around the rom Aldwyn is impressed with Lucius' ability to hold himself with such an air of supremacy as he speaks to the Goblin. His smooth voice is clear and concise, getting his point across in as little wording as he can manage. Aldwyn wonders if the Malfoy Lord would mind teaching him how to do it in the future.
The Goblin's eyes narrow once more, glancing around at the grim expressions on the wizards faces before he sighs. Clicking his fingers, Nagnok ignores the small flinch from Aldwyn for the time being as a large folder shoots across the room landing neatly on the wooden desk. He flicks through the pages, Aldwyn's eyes widen as he catches sight of the rows and rows of numbers.
"It seems Mister Riddle…"
Nagnok pauses momentarily, glancing between Aldwyn, Marvolo and Severus before settling back on Marvolo. With an eyebrow raised.
"You are the boy's current guardian?"
Marvolo inclines his head, looking at the goblin with eyes shining bright. He turns to look down at his Son, his expression softening as he watches the boy looking around the room curiously not paying much attention to the meeting as of yet.
"We are going to be performing an ancient blood adoption ritual later on."
"It seems that there have been some major misconducts happening here. We deeply apologise for these inconveniences this will bring you. Mister Albus Dumbledore is recorded as Harr- Aldwyn's current magical guardian and has been informing us of Mister Potter's consent for him to have complete control over his accounts and family assets."
Aldwyn huffs and crosses his arms over his chest as he glares at the Goblin across from him putting all his hurt, confusion and anger into his expression.
"I did no such thing! I thought I only had one vault until Lord Malfoy informed me that it was merely my trust fund. Yet that is what I was told when I came here for the first-time last summer. I didn't know anything about any of this. Not my heritage; not my accounts; not my family vaults, assets or inheritance. None of this."
Nagnok offers Aldwyn a sympathetic, or as sympathetic as a Goblin can look, at the young child. A child who is unimaginably unfortunate thus far in his short life. He glances from Aldwyn to the equally as angered adults around the room and knows that this child's fortune is about to change for the better.
"I truly apologise Mister Potter. Here is a copy of your bank statement dating back to your Parents passing, please read through them carefully and inform me of any… repercussions you wish to infringe."
The glint shining in his beady eyes and the evil smirk on his face should have made Aldwyn cringe in fear, but he feels elation spark in his chest as a sense of vindictiveness begins to spread through his veins. Slowly Aldwyn reaches forward and picks up the pile of parchment holding the records of his vault outcomes. He holds them up so that his Father came read them over his shoulder at the same time.
Transfer to Dumbledore Family Vault:
P. Month – 836g 12s 20k
P. Year – 10040g 16s 11k
Transfers from Gringotts to the Muggle accounts of the Dursley's:
P. Month – 351g 6s 25k
P. Year – 4216g 14s 21k
Transfer to the Vaults of Mr & Mrs Weasley:
P. Month – 100g 6s 23k
P. Year – 1204g 13s 26k
Transfer to Ron Weasley's Trust vault:
P. Month – 30g 2s 1k
P. Year – 361g 7s 16k
Transfer to the Trust Fund Vault of Hermione Granger:
P. Month – 30g 2s 1k
P. Year – 361g 7s 16k
Transfer to Ginevra Weasley's Trust Fund:
P. Month – 20g 1s 10k
P. Year – 240g 16s 11k
Single Withdrawal of 4216g 14s 21k, August 1991
Total Withdrawn per month:
1,368g 14s 22k
Total Withdrawal per Year:
16426g 8s 14k
Total Withdrawal since activation (10 years 9 months)
180801g 11s 11k
Marvolo and Aldwyn glance at each other, shock and disgust shaping their features at the substantial withdrawals from the Potter family accounts dating all the way back to October 1981, feeling their anger reaching new heights as their magic saturates the air. As soon as he reaches the end of the statements, Aldwyn hands the sheets of parchment to Severus who soon finds the reason behind their reaction. He watches warily as Aldwyn stands from his seat throwing his hands up into the air before slamming them down onto the desk.
"He has been stealing! That good for nothing old coot has been stealing from my family vaults. Why would he do that? What have I ever done to him for him to do this to me?"
Aldwyn flops back down into his chair, boy sagging hopelessly as he stares blankly ahead, eyes gleaming with tears until Severus voice washes over him.
"Nothing Aldwyn. You have done absolutely nothing wrong; nothing to deserve this and I do not want you to think otherwise. Albus Dumbledore is nothing more than a manipulating old codger who doesn't care for anything but furthering his own agenda."
Aldwyn looks down at his hands, fingers knotting together as he closes his eyes and taking a deep breath his voice comes out strained, a quiet whisper.
"But I'm just a child. I've done nothing wrong, have I?"
Aldwyn's eyes begin to water involuntarily as he reopens his eyes turning his gaze towards his Father and then his Potions professor. His expression showing defeat, confusion and hurt making the older wizards' hearts clench painfully in their chests wishing they could wipe such emotions away in an instance.
"We know, Snakelet. Severus is right, you have done nothing wrong. Nothing at all. You are such a good boy, my sweet Little Snakelet."
Marvolo doesn't know what else to say, what else would offer comfort to a child who has lived through all these lies and manipulations that his Son had; situations without much love to receive only to have the first figure to show you what you have most craved for to be torn away from you. He doesn't know what else he can do to mend this fragile child besides love him.
Aldwyn's face sets in stone, his eyes burning with an ice-cold fury as he straightens himself up in his seat his back almost painfully straight as he gazes levelly at Nagnok causing the Goblin to swallow.
"I want it back. I want it all back. Every knut; no matter the means. If you must evict them, do it. Sell their belongings? I don't care. Just make sure that they return all my money and possessions to me. They had no right to take it and I am going to make their lives a living hell until they realise that!"
Aldwyn's voice is cold, devoid of all emotion as he Goblin smirks evilly nodding his head in agreement with the young child who had been so wrong. He did love when wizards become vindictive and vengeful against their own kind, it made for good business for them.
"I will add the highest interest I am able to for you Mister Potter, if you are agreeable."
"Of course, I will not allow that old coot nor the Weasley's to squander my family's monies for their own gain. Disgusting muggles loving blood traitors!"
Aldwyn smirks in response, resembling the Dark Lord as he does so much to the amusement of his Father, Severus and Lucius.
"And we will ensure that this is achieved, Snakelet. We will ensure that no one can connect Aldwyn Salazar with Harry Potter while still getting your money back. I promise you, Snakelet."
Aldwyn relaxes a little at his Father's voice, smiling up at the man he scratches the back of his neck sheepishly at the thought of trying to make Harry Potter disappear while still trying to receive his money back from the traitorous Gryffindors. Marvolo merely chuckles and ruffles Aldwyn's hair. Lucius glances over at Aldwyn lips upturning in a smirk as he watches the supposed 'Gryffindor Golden Boy'.
"A very Slytherin move as well, Mister Slytherin. I do believe that you have succeeded in bankrupting your fellow classmates' families."
Aldwyn turns towards the Malfoy Lord raising an eyebrow in question. Malfoy smirks down at the young child before he clears his throat to explain the extent of damage Aldwyn's demands would deliver to those who had wronged him.
"The highest rate of interest Gringotts can obtain and demand is 30% per month in which these transactions have been active, meaning a total of 10 years and 9 months. Now the Weasley's, as you know, are incredibly poor, as it is they are going to have trouble merely paying off their debt. However, with the 30% interest added per month, they alone will need to pay back 24,125g 5s and 2k."
Nagnok nods along gleefully, excited to be the Goblin aiding one of their wealthiest clients with such a huge upheaval. He quickly scribbles away on a piece of parchment already working on writing out the notifications of recall for the thieves.
"I will see to it personally, Mister Potter."
Aldwyn smiles gratefully over at the Malfoy Lord, feeling himself calming down at the information. He turns his gaze towards the Goblin and a shiver travels down the small creature's spine at the pure vindictive loathing he sees shining in the young wizard's eyes which seem to glow eerily similar to the Avada green of the killing curse.
"Won't Dumbledore and them lot find it really suspicious thought? I mean we don't just want Harry Potter to disappear, we want them to think he is dead, and so won't they find it strange that the bank is recalling the money back"
Marvolo shakes his head slowly, eyebrows furrowing in thought as he gains the attention of his Son. He pulls Aldwyn into his side, watching as Aldwyn burrows deeper with a small smile on his lips.
"Not at all, Son. We will simply write yourself a will and place it within your old bedroom at the muggles' residence. It will reference some of the abuse you have suffered through and how you innocently suspected that if it continued you would pass on. In it we will also write how you received notice from the bank claiming transactions on our accounts and you wrote back how you wished all money to return. To honour your parents."
Nodding his head to show he understands, Aldwyn looks up at his Father offering a small smile before a thoughtful expression crosses his features.
"Will someone help me write it? I don't want there to be any loopholes or anything, though I still want it to appear as if I have written it myself."
"Of course, my Son. If you are agreeable, then I am sure Lucius here would be willing to help you. He has, out of all my loyal followers, the most experience with such things."
Glancing over at Lucius Aldwyn smiles brightly, pulling away from his Father's embrace when Lucius bows his head in consent sending a small smile towards Aldwyn.
"It would be my pleasure to help the Dark Prince."
Aldwyn wrinkles his nose at the title, rolling his eyes at the pleased glint in his Father's eyes.
"Please no, I don't want everyone calling me the 'Dark Prince'."
"I think it is rather fitting. The Dark Lord and his Son. The Dark Prince."
Marvolo chuckles at Aldwyn's groan though he spies a tiny pleased smile tugging at the corners of Aldwyn's lips and he knows that he doesn't really mind the name.
"Does this mean that Severus is going to be the Dark Queen or just your Dark Consort?"
Aldwyn laughs at the twin blushes coating his Father's and Severus cheeks at his question. He widens his eyes and forces himself to look as innocent as possibly as he glances between Severus and Marvolo watching as they glance from him to each other and back again. He giggles when his Father tickles his side.
"Cheeky brat."
Nagnok's raspy voice breaks through the domestic scene startling Aldwyn who had forgotten about the Goblin's presence momentarily. He subconsciously grips Marvolo's robes tightly before forcing himself to relax.
"Was there anything else I could do for you today?"
"Yes, Aldwyn would like to have a copy of all his inheritance, properties and such. Plus, if possible, Severus and I would like to claim our Lordships."
Marvolo places a secure arm around Aldwyn's shoulders offering a gentle smile to his Son when he feels the tension leaving Aldwyn's frame. Nagnok looks from Marvolo to Severus, eyeing them carefully before he nods his head in concession. He knew that the Prince ring had been long awaiting its Heir to show and claim it, and even longer for the Slytherin Ring.
"Of course, Mister Riddle, Mister Snape. I will return with the requested items shortly."
Nagnok makes his way towards the doors of his office but before he can reach for the handle Marvolo's voice halts him in his tracks.
"I request the Slytherin Consort ring as well if you will."
A short nod is the only answer he receives before Nagnok turns and leaves the room. Returning a few moments later with another folder which he hands straight over to Aldwyn. He places seven small boxes on the desk carefully before turning to Severus first. He gestures for the man to come forward.
"Now Mister Snape, all you need to do is allow three drops of blood to fall onto your ring and then place it on your finger."
Inclining his head, Severus picks up the small silver knife offered and pricks his finger watching as the blood gather on the tip before he drops the allocated number of droplets onto the small black gemstone. The stones soak up the blood and they begin to glow before dimming back down. Severus slipes the cool metal onto his finger and smirks when it shrinks down to fit his slim digit.
"Congratulations, Lord Prince. You are now head of the House of Prince. Will you be leaving your name as it is or changing it?"
"Changing it. I no longer wish to have anything to do with the name Snape. It has never been anything to do with me and I would rather not have anything associating myself to that name any longer."
Is the immediate reply to which Nagnok nods his head already knowing that the wizard was going to change his name. He smiles in such a way that shivers travel down Aldwyn's spine and he reaches a hand over to grip Severus' hand.
"Very well, you are now legally Lord Severus Tobias Prince."
Settling back against his chair, Severus pulls Aldwyn into his side, dragging a hand through his raven locks as Marvolo moves forward in order to claim his own Lordship. Aldwyn cuddles into his side, sighing as he leans into the potion master's ministrations.
"Alright Mister Riddle because of the Ancient Houses holding special abilities, I must ask if you have an Heir in which can speak Parseltongue. Otherwise the ritual to give this gift to you chosen Heir will be excruciating for the recipient."
Marvolo looks at the goblin for a few seconds, his mind whirling with the implications this could mean for his little boy. Terrified that in order for his family magics to accept Aldwyn he would have to deliberately and knowingly inflict more pain upon his Son. He reluctantly begins to shake his head when a small voice speaks from Severus side.
"Yes."
Turning to stare at Aldwyn in awed surprise, Marvolo inwardly sighs both in relief and exasperation. Would his child ever stop surprising him?
*I didn't know you could speak Parseltongue.*
Aldwyn shrugs his shoulders nonchalantly as he looks at his Father a small grin on his face as he answers.
*Neither did I. Nagini told me when she came to me with your message. I always thought that all wizards could understand snakes or that the snakes were just speaking English.*
Aldwyn sends a sheepish smile to his Father who chuckles slightly leaning back to ruffle the boy's hair, love radiating off him in waves for his Son who is still cuddled into Severus side who is looking down at the child in awe.
*Nagini never told me this.*
Marvolo looks thoughtful for a few moments, neither of the two speakers paying much attention to the growing fascination within the room as their conversation continues.
*I think she thought you already knew. She pretty much said the same thing you just did. I don't think she was very pleased to learn that you may have kept this from her. Though she was pleased to find out.*
Marvolo nods his head in understanding realising quite quickly that that did sound like something Nagini would do if she thought he had kept something from her. He turns away to speak to the Goblin catching Severus drawing Aldwyn into an embrace in his peripheral vision.
"Aldwyn is to be my Son and Heir. The adoption ritual, as I said, is to be scheduled for this evening and if not then early tomorrow morning. He has been blessed with such a gift."
"Very well, three drops of blood and the Slytherin Lordship ring will be yours. Mister Potter this is the Slytherin Heir ring if you would also claim it."
The room watches in silence as Marvolo and, after some silent prompting from Severus, Aldwyn let their blood soak into their rings, slipping them onto their fingers as the light fades and th e rings shrink down to fit their fingers. The family accepting them as magic saturates the air, swirling around the room in waves of silver and green.
Severus leans forwards as the magic settles down and heals Aldwyn's finger gently. Aldwyn watches in interest as the small cut on the tip of his finger closes instantly leaving no indication that it had been bleeding just seconds before. Thanking Severus, Aldwyn smiles softly, the expression being returned immediately.
"Congratulations, Lord Slytherin. Heir Slytherin. Once more I must ask if you would like to change your names or keep them as they are?"
Aldwyn exchanges a glance with his Father before they both turn towards the goblin, identical smirks stretching across their faces as they reply simultaneously dragging a chuckle from both Severus and Lucius who shake their heads in mock exasperation.
"Changing them."
"Alright, what would you like to change them to?"
"Marvolo Slytherin for myself and for my Son, Aldwyn Salazar Riddle Slytherin or just Slytherin. Which would you prefer Snakelet?"
"Just Slytherin. I want to see the look on old Dumbles face when my name gets called out in my sorting come September."
He pushes himself to his feet giving a dramatic 360 turn before bowing lowly with flair, smirking in true Slytherin fashion as he glances up at the adults.
"The Heir of Slytherin has returned to Hogwarts!"
Lucius, Severus and Marvolo smirk in return shaking their heads and smiling fondly at his antics. The teaching staff were going to have to keep on their toes if they wish to survive the year.
"Very well – they turn to face Nagnok – I congratulate you both. Lord Marvolo Slytherin. Heir Aldwyn Salazar Slytherin."
The room descends into silence as Aldwyn finally turns towards two of the ring boxes, his expression falling as he opens them up to reveal the bright red gems of the Potter Lordship and Heirship rings. He continues to stare down at the rings, eyes unseeing before he turns to face his Father.
"I have never really felt as if I were a Potter. I mean I didn't even know my name was Potter until I went to Muggle primary school. I didn't know James or Lily and have virtually no memories of them at all. Plus, I have a new family here, I would much prefer not to have that ring unless I may pass it to my future children."
Marvolo looks down at his child, a loving smile on his face as Nagnok nods his head in approval, picking up the two ring boxes carefully he snaps them closed and hands them to one of the guards standing near the door. Speaking in Gobbledegook before the guard disappears.
"Your rings will be placed back into the Potter Family Vault; all transactions besides your trust fund will be frozen from here on so no more transactions can take place. This will unfortunately mean that you will need to visit us here whenever you need to make a transaction."
Severus stands up from his seat, stretching his arms above his head as the others follow quickly, their muscles cramping after sitting for so long in one place. Nagnok watches them for a moment before picking up one of the last boxes from the table, he holds it out to Severus who eyes the box in confusion.
"This, Lord Prince is the Prince family Heirship ring. Do you wish to take it with you or would you rather it be kept in your Family Vault?"
Severus stares at the ring box for a moment before his Onyx eyes shift to Marvolo and them down to Aldwyn who is happily chattering to Lucius about his new Heir ring and, from what he can catch, questioning the Malfoy Lord about his inheritance folder now held in his arms. He flickers his gaze back to Marvolo who walks forward, dropping a kiss to Severus' cheek.
"It is yours to do with as you wish, Severus. However, if you are thinking what I believe you to be then you are all but securing yourself to me."
Severus can feel his cheeks heating up at the Dark Lord's silky words, his warm breath brushing against his ear and he feels a shiver stroking his spine. He glances back over at Aldwyn, a gentle smile shaping his lips before he returns to lock his gaze with Marvolo, slipping his hand into the other's.
"If you will have me then I couldn't think of anything better, Marvolo."
"Aldwyn will be thrilled, Sev. He is quite taken with you already."
"You do not mind? That I wish to make Aldwyn my Heir as well?"
"Not at all Severus, as long as you love him and care for him then I couldn't ask for anything more."
"He called me Papa earlier, back in the Leaky Cauldron. I think it was accidentally, but I can't begin to tell you how happy it made me, Marvolo. I am not trying to take your Son from you, I promise but I…"
"I know Severus. I know and it makes me exceedingly happy. Do you think you could…"
Severus startles when a hand cups the side of his face and he can't help but flush at the intensity in Marvolo's eyes. He is not ashamed to admit that his knees buckle a little at such an expression.
"I feel like he is my Son as well Marvolo. It is strange, I have never felt so proud or connected with a child before but Aldwyn is special."
"He really is Severus. Now, why don't we follow Nagnok to hear the Potter Wills with our Son."
Severus chokes out a laugh raising a hand to cover Marvolo's, pressing it against his cheek for a moment before he tilts his head to place a soft kiss to his palm. Pulling back minutely, Severus and Marvolo make their way towards Aldwyn, Marvolo slipping the Consort ring into his robe pocket, who is still chattering to Lucius who is chuckling.
"Alright Snakelet, let us go hear these Wills and then you can meet up with Draco and tell him all about your meetings."
Aldwyn spins around a large grin stretching his mouth before he catches sight of Severus and Marvolo's clasped hands, his eyes sparkle in merriment and a runs at the two adults wrapping his arms around their waist as they wrap their own around him in response.
"Let's go!"
Nagnok leads the group of four through the halls of Gringotts once more, the air turning solemn as they enter a fairly small room which reminds Aldwyn a little too much like the concession stands in the church Mrs Figg used to take him to whenever he was left with her. He shudders at the memories sliding closer to his Father and Severus who place comforting hands on his shoulders.
Nagnok gestures for them to take their seats while he instructs another Goblin to collect the Wills and James and Lily Potter. The Goblin is back within a few moments with two rolled up pieces of parchment clasped tightly in his clawed hands, each tied up with bright red ribbon. Aldwyn watches as the parchments are handed over to Nagnok before the stranger Goblin scurries back out of the room.
Aldwyn shifts in his seat between his Father and Severus, glancing around the room with nervous energy while Nagnok prepares for the last minute will reading. He brings out a small crystal looking ball and places in on the podium, the wills beneath it. Aldwyn swings his feet back and forth, hands clenching in his robes and jumps slightly when Nagnok finally clears his throat.
"We are gathered here today for the reading of the late Lord James Potter and Lady Lily Potter nee Evans' Will Readings. If there is anyone here who is not permitted, then I will kindly ask you to leave otherwise you will be escorted out."
Aldwyn looks around at Lucius, Severus and Marvolo relaxing a little when none of them move or are forcibly escorted out. He glances back up at Nagnok.
"Very well, we will begin. Firstly, the Will of Lord James Potter."
I, Lord James Fleamont Potter of the Most Noble House of Potter, of sound body and mind dub this my last Will and Testament.
I name Remus John Lupin as executioner to the Potter Manor, if it still stands and the small Villa house in Caster, along with 100000 Galleons to help you overcome the laws and to assist you with Moony. I name Sirius Orion Black a close trustee for 100000 Galleons in hopes that he will look after Moony for us, looks like I beat you to the grave mate! I leave my most sincerest apologies to one Severus Snape, I was a right git to you during our Hogwarts years and for that I am truly sorry, I was one of the reasons why your friendship with Lily ended and I hope you can find it somewhere in your heart to forgive me. There is also a collection of my Father's old Potion's notebooks for you Severus, I know how dedicated you are to your potions! I name Thomas Marvolo Riddle another close trustee of this will, I know we have never seen eye-to-eye, Tom but I would like to apologise for my narrow mindedness, I would like to let you know that Lily and I were considering aiding you in your cause but it seemed as if we were too late in the matter. I have enclosed a letter here for your eyes only, along with setting aside the contents of vault 59 which has close to 153,654,48 Galleons within.
Finally, to my precious Harry, my little boy. I am sorry that I have left you alone my Son, I am sorry that you must grow up without the love of your parents but believe me when I tell you that we both loved you dearly, My Son. You were our whole world. I leave the rest of the Potter fortune, properties and heirlooms to you, my Son and hope that you are happy. We would like to appoint the following guardians for Harry James Potter in case we depart too soon, he is to go to one Severus Tobias Snape, Lord and Lady Malfoy. Never is my Son to go to Petunia Dursley nee Evans. I fear she will not care for Harry as she should.
Aldwyn stares up at Nagnok, tears streaming down his cheeks at the words from his Dad, he wipes them away shaking his head at the overwhelming feeling of belonging. Petunia and Vernon always used to tell him how his parents hated him, how he was unloved and abandoned. That Lily and James Potter were lazy, layabout drunks who tried to kill themselves in a car crash just to get away from him because he was a freak. He sniffles lightly, leaning into his Father's side when the man cards a gentle hand through his hair, and he can't help but melt when his chest warms.
He had a new family now, one who decided to take him in; who had wanted to call him their Son and he was so relieved because he was starting to see that everything Petunia and Vernon had told him over his years living with them, years he shouldn't have been subjected to, were not true. He was not a freak; he was not much of a burden and he was loved.
Aldwyn glances up at Marvolo and smiles at the stunned look on his Father's face. He clearly didn't expect to hear his own name coming up in the Will of James Potter, light wizard extraordinaire but then again, none of them had guessed that the Potters were thinking of deflecting either. Maybe if they had got that information to Lord Voldemort, they would have been alive now, living with their Son and he wouldn't have had to live with the Dursleys for 9 years.
"Well, that is an interesting twist. I would never have guessed that I would be named in the Will of Lord Potter, though this does put an interesting spin on things."
Severus and Lucius nods in silence both their eyes wide at the information they had just been presented with. Severus glances down at Aldwyn and shudders, he should have been the one to raise Harry, he should have been taking care of Aldwyn for the past 9 or so years but Dumbledore, for whatever reason disallowed him that chance. He could have stopped the harsh abuse if only he had known.
"I will have your belongings and concessions bought up after the will readings, if you would like Lord Slytherin, Lord Prince."
"Yes, that would be acceptable, thank you Nagnok."
Nagnok nods his head, clicking his fingers to call in two goblins who must have been stationed outside the doors as they come running in, there is another small conversation in Gobbledegook before they are exiting the room just as quickly. Nagnok turns to face the congregation and clears his throat.
"Alright now onto the Will reading of Lady Lily Potter nee Evans."
I, Lady Lily Jane Potter nee Evans of the Noble House of Potter, of sound body and mind declare this to be my last Will and Testament.
I name Remus John Lupin, known to few as Moony, trustee and leave the contents of Vault 56, there are many books in there for you Remus, I know you will make use of them all. I leave 5000 Galleons to Sirius Orion Black, keep an eye on Moony and Harry for me and try to keep yourself out of trouble. Though I am sure that is too much to ask. I leave my deepest and most sincere apologies to my best friend Severus Tobias Snape along with 1500000 Galleons, I am so sorry I left you my dearest Severus, you needed me and I turned my back on you I just hope you can find it in yourself to forgive me. I had also forgiven you many years ago. I name Thomas Marvolo Riddle a close trustee, I am sorry we had to disagree Tom, but we never wanted to, I am unsure if James has already mentioned but we were under compulsion potions and obliviated on more than one occasion. We wanted to help you with your cause, but Dumbledore stopped us on numerous occasions. As an apology for all we have put you through I leave you with the entire content of vault 57, I think there may be a few things in there that you will find useful.
Finally, to my precious little angel, Harry I hope you can forgive your Father and I for leaving you so early on, but I can promise you that we both love you deeply. I am currently watching you play on the floor with a miniature potions' cauldron designed for children, much to James' displeasure. Harry, my sweet boy I leave you everything else belonging to myself and I hope you can find happiness, my child. We would like to appoint the following guardians to Harry James Potter in case we depart too soon, He is to go to Severus Tobias Snape, Lord and Lady Malfoy. Never is my son to go to Petunia Dursley nee Evans as I fear she will not treat Harry as she should.
By the end of the reading, Aldwyn's shoulders are shaking with sobs, his tears trailing down his cheeks in quick succession and he collapses back against Marvolo, small hands clenching into the soft fabric of his Father's robes. Marvolo pulls his Son close to his side, gesturing for Severus who has silent tears trailing his own face, to join them. Aldwyn cuddles between the two warm bodies, burying himself in their embrace as he allows himself to cry for the parents he never knew, to lament the lose of a loving home and a caring family all of his own. He looks up at Severus and Marvolo, a small smile coming to his face when Marvolo gently whips a tear from Severus cheek.
He had a new family now.
"Looks like I was a potions enthusiast when I was little."
Severus chuckles, face flushed as he draws back from Marvolo and ruffles Aldwyn's hair, affection shining in his onyx eyes as they meet glittering emerald.
"It seems you were." Severus smile drops as he turns his gaze away. "I apologise if I quelled that passion during the last school year Aldwyn but if you would like I could help you this summer. We could brew some potions together?"
Uncertainty spreads through the potion's professor as Aldwyn considers his offer, Severus watches in trepidation while Marvolo merely watches the scene as a shy smile stretches across the young wizard's features.
"I would like that. I always liked potions, it reminded me of cooking in a way, and I do enjoy cooking and baking from time to time."
Marvolo grins down at his Son pulling both him and Severus back into his embrace, he drops a kiss on Aldwyn's cheek before pressing a chaste kiss to Severus' forehead.
Nagnok clears his throat, claws tapping on the podium to draw their attention back to the front of the meeting room. Severus and Aldwyn settle back into their seats with Marvolo's arm slipping around his Son's back so he could intertwine his fingers with Severus. They watch as Nagnok takes a small box of items from another Goblin, placing it on the podium he reaches into the box and draws out a pile of black notebooks and texts tied together with string.
"Lord Prince, these are the notebooks and journals or the Late Fleamont Potter which have been given to you through his Son, Lord James Potter."
The notebooks are handed to Severus who strokes his free hand down the covers reverently, he couldn't deny that Fleamont had been one of the greatest minds of his time when it came to potions creations and he couldn't wait to get home to begin reading such valued knowledge.
"Lord Slytherin, this is a letter written by the Late Lady Lily Potter alongside the key to your new vault. You will be able to visit this vault at any time or have its content moved to the main Slytherin Family vault if you prefer."
Marvolo takes the letter and vault key inclining his head in thanks as he does so.
"No, I think I will keep these vaults separate, at least for now Nagnok. Thank you."
"The rest of the trustees will be receiving their vaults and assets once we can agree on a set date for the will readings. Heir Slytherin, you will have access to your vaults and possessions as soon as you come of age on your 17th birthday. Until then your vaults will be inaccessible to all unless given your express permission."
"Thank you, Nagnok."
Aldwyn inclines his head, a small smile on his face as he glances from his Father who is looking down at the letter in thoughtful wonderance, to Severus who is still staring down a the pile of Potion notes, to Lucius who is watching them with a gentle expression on his face. Aldwyn smiles back at the man before carefully pushing himself up from his seat.
"This meeting is called to an end. I believe, after such an emotional day that Heir Slytherin is eager to return home. I thank you for your patronage, Lord Slytherin, Lord Snape, Lord Malfoy and Heir Slytherin."
"It has been a pleasure, Nagnok. Thank you."
Nagnok bows his head as Aldwyn smiles brightly at the creature, returning the gestures, before following his Father back out of the room and down the empty halls of Gringotts smiling as he spots Draco waiting for them by the double doors. Aldwyn skirts around the adults, running past his Father and jumping on his friend's back causing him to stumble forward a couple steps before managing to catch himself.
"Hey Dragon, how did your shopping trip go?"
Aldwyn links his hands just below Draco's chest, chin resting on the older boy's shoulder as he presses himself against the other's back.
"It was alright, pretty fun. Mother let me by a few things from the Quidditch store and I also restocked some of my potion ingredients so I can practice some more this summer. I bet it wasn't as fun as what went on during your meeting. You must tell me everything!"
Aldwyn releases Draco and begins to walk out of the bank a large smile stretching across his face as the adults follow behind their children. Aldwyn slips his hand into Draco's as they push open the doors of the Bank and step back out into the bustling street of Diagon Ally.
"Oh, it was pretty interesting."
Aldwyn says flippantly, flashing his right hand in front of Draco's face whose eyes widen slightly as he catches sight of the Slytherin crest adorning the other's slim finger. Taking a overly dramatic mock bow Draco glances up at Aldwyn a smirk dancing across his lips.
"Oh forgive me my rudeness, Great Heir-Lord Slytherin."
Rolling his eyes at Draco's antics, Aldwyn grabs his friend's hand once again as they continue to weave their way through the crowded streets, with the Adults following closely behind watching their antics with smiles of their own. Aldwyn sniffs, pushing his nose into the air.
"I will forgive your plight, Heir-Lord Malfoy."