JK Rowling Owns Harry Potter

FASA Owns the Earthdawn Game, Elianar Messias, Sperethiel, Lightbearers, Books of Harrow, etc. a wonderful world setting.

Note: All conversations in France are in French unless otherwise specified. I may start with Bonjour or oui, but that is the true limit of my knowledge of the most beautiful language on earth. Sorry.

I am designating anything in parcel tongue with §"Italic script"§

-CS-

Conversations

Potter House

Yvoire, France

Before 5AM

Harry slept fitfully. He had planned to visit the incarnation of his parents in his mindscape, but that is not where he ended up. He was in an ancient library, sipping tea with the original Master of Death, Elianar Messias. They were speaking in a language Harry had never really mastered, Sperethiel. The ancient language of Wyrmwood. Harry knew this is one of the skills imparted on the Master of Death, but he never saw the need to embrace it as it is a dead language. Apparently, that was no longer an option.

The ancient spirit spoke first. "Descendant, I see you have grown. How long has it been young Peverell? A century, perhaps?"

"It has been only a year, Ancestor. You asked me to develop myself before I contacted you again."

"You have come far in a year. In truth, I assumed you would settle down and try your hand at a traditional family. I thought you might live a normal life for a while, before contacting me."

"Master Messias, I did not contact you… And my plans for a normal life fell apart. My chosen spouse wanted more than I could give her." Seeing his mentor waiting, Harry knew he was expected to continue. "She wanted me to settle down and have a normal job. To stay in London and stop traveling to defend our world. She also wanted to live on her own and pursue other dreams beyond a home and family."

"I see. She wanted you to support her for a few years but you wished to continue as the Master of Death, Keeper of the Books of Harrow and the Champion of the Lightbearers. In truth, I had wondered if you would take a lifetime off from that, but I am impressed that you did not. It is your dedication that must have called to me. I had expected it to be the death of your wife and children that brought you back."

Now Harry was confused. Was he supposed to be an ancient man before he took up the mantle again? Remembering the tale of the three brothers, he couldn't help but think of his ancestor who, at the end of his life, greeted Death as an old friend and equal. Is this what Messias meant? Is Messias the actual version of 'Death' in the tale?

"People are dying and there are so few that can stand up to the Horrors. I have a responsibility to help prevent the coming of new Dark Lords and Horror Spawn. If I can work out a way to have a family, I will. But not now."

"And yet, you have a child. Perhaps even two? You have a woman you call mother. There is a man you call brother and his wife you call sister. I can see in your heart that you are surrounded by family and opportunity."

Harry just chuckled. "Funny how life can give you a family right when it takes one away."

At that, Elianar Messias' eyes blazed. "You had a woman that you wanted but she wanted something else. MOVE ON descendant! Find your heart and embrace it. You are the last of my line and unless you continue, you will be the last 'Master of Death'! If you don't want to find a spouse, at least find a mate. Being a hermit is not healthy. Now, I am going to unlock a bit of your pattern." Harry felt a subtle shift deep inside his pattern. A sudden influx... of something.

Elianar Messias continued advising him. "You are already a Master of Nethermancy. My other descendants also were accomplished Enchanters, Weaponsmiths, Warriors and Wizards. You have independently learned much of what they could teach you, but you can expect to learn more. Take a year and absorb what is given. Possibly more. Find a new mate and a new family, you will need their support."

"Master Messias, before you depart, I have a Horror sighting to deal with. I suspect Bonecrown the Usurper may be crossing over. I also have a family friend to help with a blood curse. One very similar to the Scythian curse. Have you any advice?"

"Yes, I do. You had best get busy young Peverell. The Horrors will not contain themselves…" Elianar Messias was grinning mischievously. "We will talk again when you are ready."

Harry woke suddenly. His heart was hammering and his hands were shaking. He saw Catherine at the foot of his bed staring at him. Not creepy at all. His familiar was also looking at him.

Harry sat up and, using occlumency, filed that dream away for future reference and review. He knew from personal experience that he never forgot a dream with Elianar Messias, but it was a good habit to save important dreams before they were forgotten.

Selene spoke up as he finished his occlumency exercises. §"Harry, let's go back to sleep."§

Harry smiled and stroked Selene's neck. §"I think your sisters are already asleep… You should join them, I'll be outside."§

He then kissed Selene on the top of her head and cast a mild warming spell on the bed. Harry quietly dressed, noting that Catherine was no longer there. As he walked outside, he noted the guardian statue he had retrieved from the vault last night after his guests left. Andromeda helped place it. It was a seven foot tall woman reaching to the sky. Pretty. Examining its pattern, powerful too.

Walking out, he made for the ley line intersect and sat cross legged. He cleared a bit of soil and vomited in the shallow hole. Out came an acorn. The very acorn he had swallowed years ago when he first contacted Oak Heart. He felt connected to the acorn. Using his bare hands, he covered it up and tilled the soil. He also pumped a bit of magic into the earth to enrich and purify it. He ended the ritual with a sliced palm as he placed blood over the earth he had enriched. Summoning the nested owls, Harry made eye contact and commanded them to guard the acorn and the tree that would emerge. They understood. All night flyers understood the commands of the Master of Death. Especially owls.

Next Harry reached out and commanded the wards to do the same. He was looking forward to beefing these wards up, but they were still moderately impressive. Finally, he reached out and let the statue know the emerging tree was a part of his family and should also be protected. Intent and magic.

While meditating, Harry mentally reached out to the elements. He considered Earth, Air, Water and Fire. He bound them together with a massive oak tree. The roots traveled into the earth. Deriving nutrients, but also providing stability and resistance to erosion. The limbs reached up into the sky, feasting on sunlight and air. Absorbing all that the sky had to offer. The roots absorbed the life giving water that fell from the sky. Then the limbs that fall are sacrificed to the element of fire. Feeding the element that gives warmth. A single name now rings out in his mind and spirit.

"Oak Heart, giver of life and binder of the elements. Bless this acorn that it may sprout and grow."

Slowly, Harry felt the presence of this ancient spirit of wood. The one that aided him when he needed help. The one that bonded to him and rebuilt his pattern while purifying its own of ancient corruption. The Elder Elemental that his bonded rose fed and purified from his very blood. The elemental is pure and strong. Ancient and powerful.

With the sound of deep wood and rustling leaves, Oak Heart spoke to Harry. "My Acorn. I see you are well. Your roots have grown. Your spirit soars. You honor me with this new life."

"Thank you Grandfather Oak Heart. In truth, my magic directed me here. The tree I have been carrying has been ready for planting for a very long time."

"No, Acorn, not so long. You must learn patience. Years are but moments to beings such as us. Spirits of light and life. Embracers of the forest. Binders of the elements."

Harry had always been called 'Acorn' by Oak Heart. Ever since they 'rebuilt' each other. "It is good to be near you again. I have missed you."

At that Oak Heart laughed. It sounded more like a rustling of leaves. Harry could feel the love and affection from the ancient elemental. "Acorn, I have never truly left you. Our roots are intertwined and bound together. I simply slumbered. I have dreamed and thought of you. Heed my advice. Take on an apprentice, teach the truth to the multitude of young seeds and sprouts. The world is out of balance."

"I have been considering taking on new pupils, I just have not had time."

"Time is not something that you should horde, Acorn. Remember, years are but moments. I sense that you are ready to teach. You have a tremendous life ahead of you. Share what you know. Cherish the children you have taken in. Honor the balance. Ignore not Fire, Earth, Water, and Air. They all must stay in balance even if you have most affinity to Wood. Teach it all."

"My children?" Harry now wondered if this was Catherine. Hopefully Ginny had not failed to use 'the potion'… Didn't Elianar say something like that also?

Answering Harry's question, "Your godson and your spirit child. She is your responsibility until she moves on. She did not force the bond, Acorn. It was your magic that invited her to bond with you. Much like the rose that is forever a part of you."

Oak Heart continued, "Be a forest. Let your roots intertwine with and embrace the roots of those around you. Embrace your current family and your ancient family, I sense they are close. They are eager to meet you. Tell them you are my acorn and they are tasked with nurturing you into becoming a seedling worthy of your legacy."

"My ancient family..?" Now Harry was confused. He was the last Potter. He already knew all the Blacks that were left. Could this be the Dursleys? They weren't ancient…

"Good bye young Acorn. Heed what I have shared. I leave with you a gift. You know what to do with it."

Harry slowly emerged from his meditation. In the place of where he planted an acorn, a young sapling now was present. On one skinny branch was a singe acorn. Normally, a tree would have to be older before it began producing acorns, but Harry knew who this was from. He took the acorn, removed the cap and rubbed off any sharp points. He then swallowed it whole. He probably should have gotten a glass of water, but he was in the moment. It went down a little rough, but it went down.

He could feel the tree. It was his acorn. It resonated with his magic and Oak Heart's. It was fed from his blood ritual and earth cleansing. It had received a boost from the ley line intersect, Harry's magic, and Oak Hearts blessing. This tree would be magnificent and the center of his property.

Harry considered the conversation. It was the second confusing discussion in the same night. Well, not night anymore. It was nearly eight AM and he had to get Andromeda and Teddy to the international portkey site. So much to consider.

"Catherine, would you like to travel with me?" Harry asked while holding out his hand. She appeared beside him and took his hand while smiling at him. Not being physical, it was more of a tingling feeling where their hands overlapped. He smiled and took in her look of happiness. So unlike how he first saw her in the catacombs.

"Where are we going? Someplace fun I hope?" she asked.

"We are going to Paris to see Andromeda and Teddy off. They are going to London."

"Can I go to London someday? I have never been there before." Her ghostly eyes were alight with wonder and excitement.

"Absolutely."

As they came in, Pipsey was feeding Andromeda and Teddy. She was whipping up an omelet for Harry, having heard him coming up the stairs. Harry sat down and saw a steaming cup of Earl Grey waiting for him. Herrod's no.42 blend. Teddy ran over to Catherine and they went into the main room to talk and play. Andromeda watched them carefully for a few minutes.

Andromeda then looked at Harry and noted he had not slept well. "Productive morning, Harry? You look tired."

"I spent the night talking to ancient spirits and elder elementals. I can't say I slept well." Pausing and considering, he added, "I enjoyed last night. It was… natural. By the way, I have a present for you. I was saving it for Christmas, but given Teddy calling me Dad, I think now is better. Honestly, I doubt I could make you wait any longer. Kreacher!"

A brief pause, then Kreacher appeared. Pipsey looked annoyed. "Master calls?"

"Yes Kreacher, can you bring the gifts for Lady Black I had set in the vault? The paintings?"

"Yes, Master. Lady Black will be most pleased." He then disaparated away with a 'pop'.

"Harry, what have you done?" Andromeda raised one eye brow and looked amused. She knew Harry had spent a lot of time and money about two months ago on something right before leaving for Malta.

Mum, I want you to consider moving into Grimmauld place. You can have the master suite and decorate it to your liking. Just consider it. You are the Lady Back and Grimmauld place is your birth right. If you are willing to relocate, it will be a good fit. I can move into one of the other rooms. Maybe Sirius' room. I just need full access to the ritual room and shared access to the most of the house. Especially the library. The master suite would be all yours. Along with any other room or rooms you may want for yourself.

At that point, Kreacher reappeared with two picture frames. One contained a painting of Ted Tonks, the other had 'Tonks' (aka, Nymphadora) and Remus. Andromeda was just looking at them. Lost in thought.

Harry rested his hand gently on Andromeda's and said, "I know we can never really replace the ones we loved and lost, but perhaps this will help Teddy know he had parents that loved him. I want to be his dad, but I want him to always know Remus and Tonks."

He then tapped his wand to the first frame and slowly Ted began to move. He settled into a quiet sleep as all new paintings do. He repeated the process with the other painting. He then hung two empty paintings in the main room.

"The first two are yours. They are the 'master' paintings. The second two empty frames are attuned to the first two so they can visit other locations. As long as the master frames are near a ley line, they should be active."

"Harry, how did you do this? It shouldn't be possible. Paintings can't be animated after a witch or wizard passes on…" Andromeda was stunned. She just stared.

"Well, I am the Master of Death. That counts for something. It was tricky, but I was able to pull a bit of who they were from the 'æther' and draw their knowledge and a good bit of their personalities in the paintings. They should wake in a few days." The resurrection stone was of immense help here.

"Thank you Harry. Edward will know something of his parents and his grandfather. I can't thank you enough." Andromeda pulled him into a hug. She never dreamed this would be possible.

It was then that he heard his banishing Box chime. He had a letter from Hermione and the local paper. Opening the letter first, it read 'Machu Picchu'. Followed by a need for Hermione to meet and discuss what he really wanted. The letter went on to say she did not like being manipulated and he better have a good reason for this. Oh Joy.

The local French newspaper was in Andromeda's hands. She looked pale and horrified. Handing the paper to Harry, He knew something was happening. Something bad. The headlines were stunning. It referenced a horrific scene found in the catacombs. The "Horrible Festin de Monstres". Or in English, The Horrible Feast of Monsters. The victims belonged to old families. Prominent, but not publicly recognized citizens. Relatively unknown members of well-known families.

"My god, Harry. It's happening again…"

"Mum, I want you and Teddy back in London ASAP. Please don't stay in France any longer." Then Harry got angry. He slammed his fist down on the table. "I warned them! Now 'they' know the ministry is on to them – they'll be near impossible to track down. Why did the French Aurors go down there without me? How could they be so stupid as to bring the press?"

Harry was mentioned as well. A separate editorial article went on to say Harry Potter tried to warn the ministry and they laughed at him. A few of the reporters overheard conversations amongst the Aurors where Harry was mocked and made fun of. The article draws parallels with the way Britain mocked him after Voldemort returned.

Harry pulled a note out of his desk and wrote a letter to Mme. Bellamy. It opened with "How could you be so stupid?" He continued along that path ending with – "are you ready to talk yet?" He also wrote a note to the Flamels – he needed to know the full prophesy. He requested to meet tomorrow morning.

Damn! Putting both letters in the Banishing Box, he decided he would be taking a trip as well. He raised the wards and 'upped' them to lethal levels. He decided to let the girls pour over the article and give their feedback while he was getting ready. He donned his Basilisk hide armor, two pistols in astral pockets. His Iklwa short spear on his back, Elder and Phoenix wands in wrist sheaths with his blackthorn wand in his boot. On his hip was his Gringotts issued kukri knife. He loaded the girls in his dragon hide backpack layered over his Iklwa and escorted Andromeda and Teddy out. Catherine was with them as well, but out of sight. They would meet Daphne at the international portkey departure point.

Harry needed advice. Was the French ministry compromised? How could this leak out? Who could he trust? He only knew one person to go to… that meant returning to Hogwarts.

-CS-

International Portkey Departure and Arrival Sites

Paris and London

Harry and Daphne

9:00 AM

Arriving in Paris, Harry attracted a bit of attention. He was not on the departure list, but he was able to push through as Andromeda's departure appointment was listed as "The Black Family" departure. He was the head of the family, so he skated through. They did not want him to leave. No doubt, Mme. Bellamy would be spinning in her chair when she heard he had departed. GOOD!

Soon he had said his goodbyes to Andromeda and Teddy. Andromeda had agreed to consider moving back in to Grimmauld place. The house she was in now was not the same one she had lived in with Ted and Nymphadora… That one was destroyed in the war. Harry guessed she was just nervous about uprooting Teddy. The paintings would help. He knew magical paintings needed to be near ley lines and there were none in her current home. He'd respect her wishes, but he hoped she would move into the family home. He knew Kreacher felt the same way.

Looking at Daphne, Harry said, "I need to get a little Intel at Hogwarts. Can we follow up on any of the details of the last week after you meet with your family? I have to move quick if I am going to be on time tonight. I really don't want to go to the Beauxbaton event with everything happening. I'd skip it, but Gabby wouldn't have an escort. I can't do that to her."

Seeing him looking tense, she realized he was nervous about something. "Harry, do you want me to go with you to Hogwarts?"

She immediately noted the relief in his eyes. Harry smiled and said, "YES. I struggle with going back to that place. We can apparate in and get it done. Talk on the way."

As Daphne watched him, It all clicked into place. The bullying, the ridicule, the betrayals… It's all tied to Hogwarts. Daphne's memories were good and bad, but she suspected Harry's were mostly bad. Horrible in fact. She remembered the Yule Ball and what had happened. No wonder he refused to back out on Gabrielle.

"Let me freshen up, then we'll see about a portkey to Hogsmeade. It's a bit far to apparate. At least, for me it is." From what she had seen of Harry in recent weeks, she suspected he could cover the distance with ease.

"Thank you, Daphne." He really didn't want to do this alone.

-CS-

Ginny, Katie, and Fay's Flat

10AM

Fay Dunbar looked at the paper. My god, here she was worried about playing quidditch and people are being killed. Why had she given up on her plans to be an Auror? Maybe the whole thing with Voldemort put her off base for a while. She had been accepted to the Auror academy, but had deferred it. Technically, she could still get in as the deferment was for two years. The next class began September twelfth…

Katie and Ginny joined her. They were all in shock. The write up on what had been found in the catacombs was horrific. Even Voldemort never engaged in cannibalism. At least, they didn't think he did.

Katie started the conversation. "Knut for your thoughts Fay."

"I'm thinking that I should be doing something."

Ginny looked at her and winced. "You are just rattled. It'll be fine in the morning. Harry will take care of this. I know he will. He suspected there was something happening, that's why he's there. This is what he does best." She couldn't hide the slight tremble in her voice though.

Katie spoke up, "I sure hope so, Ginny. I pray he's able to." Thinking a minute, she adds, "So, we sit in a comfortable flat, eating and drinking and having fun. Harry is out there fighting and protecting us. Again. At least this time we didn't shat all over him first."

Fay nodded, "Tell me about it. I should be helping. It's not like I'm really all that great at quidditch. I should be out there."

Ginny just looked at her hands. 'Please be safe Harry. Please don't die.' She looked up and with a shaky voice said, "I need to get some air. I need to see my parents. I'll be back soon." Ginny stepped out and apparated away.

Fay spoke up "just the two of us. Good. Katie, I need to ask you something… Am I really good enough to play professional quidditch?"

Katie had been waiting for this. Dreading it. "Honestly, no. You could be, but you aren't quite there. You are so close, but you seem to be holding back. You have not really committed." Seeing Fay deflate, she adds, "Hey, I was the same way. I loved quidditch, but my calling was healing. Now I get to be a part of both… The question is, do you really want this? Is it your calling?"

"No, Katie. I don't think it is. I think I'm called to be an Auror. Maybe I just got a little side tracked. I'm considering exercising my option on the Auror deferment I was given. If I do, I'll join the Sept 15 class. I hope Gwenog understands."

"If that is your calling, who cares if she understands." Katie added with a smirk. "We are Gryffindors, right?"

Fay laughed and nods at that.

"Katie, can I ask you a question? A personal one?"

"You can ask, but I may not answer."

"How do you feel knowing Harry is out there? Fighting the good fight. Risking his life… I remember how you used to light up when he was around. Why did you never go for it with him?"

"Oh boy." Katie settled back, with a tender smile she shared her thoughts, "I remember him in first year. So tiny and vulnerable. I took him under my wing and he was like a little brother. I think I let him in my heart even back then. So brave and vulnerable. Little fella."

Katie's smile faded as she continued. "Then in his second year… that Heir of Slytherin crap. I had my chance to stand up for him when Alicia hexed him, but I didn't. I was afraid of going against Alicia and Angelina. When McGonagall asked about it, Angelina and Alicia lied. I just stayed quiet. So did the rest of the team. Alicia actually got points awarded for it. I think Harry even got detention for getting hexed."

Fay nodded as she recalled what happened. "Right! That's when she hexed him with boils on his… yeah... ouch. Hey, didn't he put them both in the hospital after that. Some kind of weird spear that wrapped them in thorns… That was wicked. Messed up the common room."

"Yeah. But I was a coward. He quit the team and basically told us all to catch our own snitch. It cost us the house cup, I'm sure. Well, it would have if the last game wasn't cancelled."

Katie kept moving forward. "Third year was good. We became friends again, but Hermione and Ginny were always in the way of anything more. And that Damn Ron hated anyone getting close to him. Such a possessive bastard. After the previous year, I just didn't have the courage to force myself in. I decided we're just team mates… that's enough. He's younger than me and I thought I needed an older boy… what a crock of crap."

Fay looked up when Ron was mentioned. "Hey, Ron may have been a lazy GIT at times, but he is an amazing Auror. Relentless."

Katie ignored that comment. "Do we even need to discuss his fourth year? The tournament? I didn't do anything directly, but I also never stood up for him." Now Katie was looking really down.

Fay shook her head. "You were one of the few people who DID stand up for him. You argued in his favor against his being censored. You beat the snot out of Cho Chang at the Yule Ball. You were one of the very few on his side. Hell, look at what Abbott did. She really put it to him! Seriously, she should have gone to Azkaban. Using a dangerous spell on the heir to an ancient and most noble house!"

"Yeah, Fay, I remember that. No one ever came forward and snitched or confessed. The staff must have covered it up. Susan may have talked her aunt into looking the other way. Who knows? And he wasn't the heir of the Black family yet. Potter house is Noble, but not Ancient. Still, she got away with it. How do you think that made him feel?" Pausing a moment, Katie added, "You do know Hannah did not intend for that to happen – right? It was a malicious and nasty attack, but not intended to be so dangerous. Rumor had it she was horrified once she knew what her spell did."

"Yeah. Well, now she is in line to be the primary healer at Hogwarts. How about those apples? Just seems wrong." Thinking a moment, Fay added, "Did anyone ever get Harry a mind healer? I sure hope so. He probably has tons of trust issues."

Katie shrugged her shoulders and shook her head, "Doubtful." Continuing the overview, "Fifth year came and we all thought he was a broken wizard. A near squib according to the Daily Prophet. I had hoped he would come back and take the 'wandless studies' program Dumbledore had offered, but he just walked away. He hated us all. Can you blame him?"

Fay nodded and smirked, "Wasn't that the year his god father was killed? The goblins and Aurors still talk about his encounter with Malfoy at Sirius' will reading. Malfoy Senior went to St. Mungo's and Junior had his ass handed to him. Don't forget what he did to Umbridge! Totally bad ass. How do you go from having your core shredded to being able to do that?"

"You know, Fay, I saw him the day he went to Gringotts. For the will reading. He was with Professor Lupin, his hulking cousin, and his aunt. He looked good. But he was still so angry. He at least tried to be nice to me, but I knew he didn't want to see anyone from school. And as for Umbridge, not possible. He beat us to the common room. He couldn't have done it. Then he came to take his OWLs, covered in those thorns. It was shocking to see him like that. We never did find out what caused them."

Fay shared her theory. "Best guess was Lucius Malfoy cursed him. Constant pain. And he became so bitter. I know, we had it coming, but the angst was hard to be around. The more people tried to apologize, the angrier he became. And I know he took care of Umbridge. i just KNOW it. No idea how..."

Katie nodded to that. "Forget Umbridge. He came back covered in Thorns and McGonagall advised us to steer clear until he was no longer suffering and in pain. I wish I had ignored her and reached out… Only Ginny really made the effort. Hermione too, I suppose."

Then his sixth year came. You-Know-Who was out killing people. Harry was so emotionally withdrawn. When the thorns healed up, he seemed closer to normal. Still, he refused to re-join Gryffindor." Katie then had a laugh, "The things he did to Theo Nott… I almost felt sorry for the little snake."

Fay held up a finger and smiled. "Never proven. Just like Umbridge! Snape never proved any of Theo's woes were Harry's doing. But we all knew. Being in his year, I had a front row seat. Glorious. He had lawyers too, so no one could touch him without the risk of lawsuits. And as the next Lord Black… even the staff had to be careful." Growing serious again, Fay added, "That's when we started to notice he had glowing eyes. I think most of us were kind of afraid of him. The eyes didn't help. The people who weren't afraid of him, were afraid of his lawyers."

At that, Katie shrugged. "He was dating Ginny by that point. His sixth year was my last year. I graduated and got into a training program at St. Mungo's. I heard he was engaged to Ginny after the war and that was that. So, nothing ever happened."

Fay looked at her friend. "Katie, he's not dating Ginny now."

"Ginny's not the issue, Fay. Not completely. I mean, there is a girlfriend code... But this goes beyond that. I don't know if I could be with a guy who hunts Dark Wizards."

—CS—

Hogsmeade

Harry and Daphne Arrive at Apparition Point

9:20 AM

A quick portkey later and Harry and Daphne were in Hogsmeade, familiar in tow. In Hogsmeade, Harry purchased an eight by twelve foot carpet. It was thick and durable, nothing too fancy. Afterward, Harry walked by the Hogshead Inn and saw it was in stasis. It looked like hell, but it was serviceable. On a whim, he led Daphne around to the back of the property, away from prying eyes, and called out "Frankie!"

A small and scared little elf appeared. "Is yous Frankie's new master?"

"Yes, Frankie. My name is Harry. I wanted to meet you and assure you that everything would be OK."

Looking at the sad little fellow, Harry wanted to take more time to assure him, but time was not something he could afford. "I'd like to remain anonymous for a while, so please don't tell anyone. Pipsey!"

Pipsey appeared. "Master Harry is... meeting new elf?"

"Yes, Pipsey. This is Frankie, he was the elf of a good friend and a great wizard. He will be my new Hogsmeade elf. Can you help him get settled and tell him a bit about me? Also, I don't want anyone to know about me yet. Big secret for now. It'll be a surprise."

Reading the scene well, Pipsey smiled. "Pipsey will be a good friend to Frankie. Come now, let's get you settled." And they disappeared with a double 'pop'." Harry knew Frankie needed someone to comfort him and Pipsey was a sweetheart.

They then proceeded to walk up to Hogwarts. Harry was very quiet. His familiar had her heads out of the backpack and was looking around. It was a very pretty day. Daphne was touched at how Harry had comforted his new elf. Not many wizards would even make the effort to soothe a house elf. The more she came to know Harry, the more she respected him. Hmmm. She was wearing heels. This was going to be a rough walk.

—CS—

Hogwarts

A Short Walk Later

Mr. Filch slid open a small opening after Harry knocked very loudly for about five minutes. He appeared to be both surprised to see them and more than a little scared of Harry. Daphne noted that Harry had zero warmth when it came to Filch. He was all business. Filch had said to wait at the door while he fetched the headmaster, but Harry calmly said, "You will escort us to the headmaster or I'll rip this door off its hinges and make my own way." His eyes were glowing bright green.

As they opened the doors, Hagrid was the first to see him. He stood up and waved. "HARRY!" He boomed out. Harry could only smile and awkwardly wave back. He missed that lovable giant.

Approaching the staff, Filch apologized to McGonagall and said Harry had insisted. He appeared to be scared to death. It's not like Harry had threatened him. Had he? Harry realized three things.

There were students in the great hall. Not expected, it's only August eighth. And there were only a small number of students there. All of them older.

Harry was suddenly the center of attention. He had apparently interrupted some kind of student orientation. The students were too old for this to be a muggle-born orientation. Some kind of Prefect orientation maybe? He vaguely recognized a few of the students that were much younger than him while he was in school. The ones he remembered were all go-getters.

Minerva did not look happy. She never liked being surprised or interrupted. Harry then realized he was armed to the tooth and had a runespoor head on each side of his face with Selene casually scanning the entire room from about a foot over his head. He began to realize that maybe he was partially to blame for always being in the spotlight.

His familiar immediately picked up on the scene and quickly gave advice.

Hecate started with §"Don't answer any questions that make you look bad. Just ignore them. Act like she never even asked the question. If she pushes, declare the conversation a waste of precious time. Declare it without venom. You may need these people."§

Artemis kicked up with a bit of her strategic advice. §"She'll be fishing for information. Trying to assert authority in front of the staff and the students. Give her none, but take none away. Neutrality is the key here. You are setting a tone for future interactions. Remember, you are the biggest snake in the room. You don't have anything to prove."§

Selene wrapped up with a little wry humor. §"Would it kill her to polish her shoes and put on a little makeup?"§ Harry needed that! He almost broke into laughter.

Harry approached the staff table and took a deep breath. "Please excuse my interruption. I was not aware students were attending so early." Looking directly at Minerva McGonagall, he added, "I need to speak with Dumbledore rather urgently."

"Well, Mr. Potter. It is good to see you. You look… ready for action."

Harry realized she was now fishing. Artemis and Hecate had warned him. He just stayed silent.

Annoyed that he did not bite, Minerva pursed her lips and politely said, "Well, had you given us notice I'm sure we could have arranged a meeting. Unfortunately, we are in the middle of prefect orientation. Come back tomorrow and I'll arrange a meeting."

Filius and Pamona gasped at the dismissal. Hagrid just shook his head. Bless them.

Harry kept his voice low, "Headmistress, I don't have time to spare." Harry then handed her the daily Prophet he picked up in London. It had the same headline as the French paper, just in English. "As you can see, I'm on the clock."

Minerva gave him a solid look. He appeared to have had very little sleep. His gaze was focused, but obviously adrenaline fueled. He looked like a man about to engage in battle. Her pride and confidence wavered as she saw Lily and James' son. The student she had failed so miserably. The student who shared no real warmth with her at all.

"Professor, people are DYING in France. They are being eaten and their heads are put on display. Please don't draw this out."

Daphne noted the stunned silence as McGonagall read the paper and looked at Harry. Well, she was on the clock too. Daphne was wearing stylish shoes that were not suitable for the long walk from Hogsmeade she had undertaken. Her feet were killing her, enough stalling. "Headmistress, Mr. Potter has taken up the title of Lord Slytherin and as a descendant of a founder, is entitled to audience with all headmasters upon request. Past or present. Perhaps a short recess?"

That shocked McGonagall out of her stupor. "Lord Slytherin? Well, I see you have been busy. We will take a two hour recess. Prefects, please return to your common rooms and begin the inspections and preparations."

Daphne's bombshell about Harry's new title shook the room. The students were all whispering amongst themselves. The staff was in shock. Harry's eyes were glowing and he was barely containing his magic amidst the chaos.

"Harry, I'll be in the Slytherin common room. Come find me when you are done." He just nodded. The girls had a bit of an argument, but two out of three voted to go with Daphne. They slithered out of the backpack and followed her along. Harry noted that his familiar was at least eight or nine feet long now. Maybe more. Kind of large for a runespoor. He recently had to add 'feather light' and expanding charms to the backpack he took her around in. Daphne smiled at the girls with only Hecate looking back at Harry. She hissed, §"Take notes and tell me everything, Harry!"§ as she was led away.

Walking beside Minerva was a silent affair. Neither spoke. As they approached her office, she broke the silence.

"Mr. Potter, have you had time to reflect on the invitation to teach? I hope you will consider a position here." She seemed sincere in her request. Harry knew how close she was to his parents. He just struggled to get past the way she had failed him so many times. Oak Heart was advising him to share... to teach...

"Perhaps after I deal with this issue in France. I have a different 'issue' in South America to deal with in the spring. Can we discuss over the holidays? Also, Bill and I would like to remove the curse on the DADA position. No charge of course. I'm pretty sure we can break it."

"That would be appreciated. I do hope you will give Hogwarts another chance. I know your first time here was filled with strife." Harry knew what she was really saying. She hoped he would give HER a second chance. He just nodded his head. She gave the password and they began to climb the stairs into her office. Into Albus' old office.

"If you did return, perhaps you could head the Gryffindor house. I have been splitting my focus and doing a poor job as a head of house."

"Professor, if I returned, I would have to be the Slytherin head of house. It's a required part of my title." He knew how pathetic this sounded. But it was honest.

"I see. Well, that is unfortunate. I'm sorry to hear that. Still, I know you can do amazing things here. If you will give us a chance." She said with a gentle smile. She then took her leave and left him alone in the office.

Entering the office Harry had a sudden sense of Déjà Vu. It seemed like an eternity since the last time he had been here. The office as a whole was much more organized than before. It was a reflection of the current headmaster and her desire for order and organization. Harry realized that he preferred the old look it had under Dumbledore. Cluttered and messy. He approached the paintings.

"Well, look who decides to pay us a visit." The voice was loathsome and mocking. Full of condescension and disdain. Snape.

"Silence, fool. You are addressing the current Lord Black and you will show him the proper respect." A little support from Phineas Nigellus Black, a previous headmaster. Harry had talked a few times with the painting at Grimmauld place.

"I will do no such th…" Harry cast a quick 'Silencio' charm on the painting.

"Deatheater, I have heard enough from you to last a lifetime. Thank you Phineas."

Harry sat down and looked at Dumbledore's painting. Albus' eyes were twinkling. "Albus. I have a dark lord problem I hope you can help me with." Harry cast a simple spell that ensured only the two of them could hear each other. When did he get so paranoid?

Over the next hour, Harry shared what he had seen in France. His concern that the French ministry had been compromised. Pain over not knowing who to trust. He talked about finding out the ministry had been stealing his mana – Dumbledore swore he knew nothing of that. Harry also shared his failures. His relationship with Ginny fell apart. He needed help in running the three families and had to enlist Daphne. He shared his horror that he was now officially 'Lord Slytherin'. How he apparently adopted Catherine and wants to do right by her. And on and on. It just came out in a continuous stream. He was still angry at Dumbledore, why was it so easy to confide in him?

Albus listened. He then shared his own failures. There were many. He talked about why he formed the Order of the Phoenix and how much harder it is to fight a war where the enemy is not openly aggressive in the beginning. When it starts out political. How using subtlety is harder than direct force. How much easier it was to fight Grindlewald than Voldemort where he did not know where the enemies really were.

He advised Harry to deal with the issue quickly. To have lawyers on hand with iron clad loyalty contracts. He confessed that his mistake was in trying to play above the game instead of within it. His eccentric persona worked against him when he needed to be taken seriously. His lack of legal leverage allowed the Malfoys, the Notts, the Lestranges, and so many others to out maneuver him. He warned Harry about trusting the French ministry, they would avoid anything that seemed to undermine their authority. The DMA likely was better, but he had trusted the DoM and Rookwood was passing on info. Basically, until Harry knew more, he should be cautious who he trusted. Harry came to understand Albus a little better. The man struggled with Voldemort and had been betrayed repeatedly. Hence the order of the Phoenix. But there was betrayal there, too.

When Harry had heard enough to be overwhelmed, Albus simply said, "Lets pick up here next time. Find Nicolas Flamel, he can advise you on this rising force. It does bear a resemblance to the Jacobin uprising."

"Thank you Albus. This has been… therapeutic." The painting just smiled.

"We'll talk again soon, Harry. Now, go and save France. Save the Greengrass family. Find a witch that doesn't mind a few 'shadows' you may cast. Love both Teddy and Catherine as the children you always wanted. But most of all, find time to be happy, Harry."

As Harry walked down the stairs, he realized that he did feel better. This was a good visit. He expected it be so much worse. Seeing McGonagall, he smiled and thanked her for letting him meet with Albus.

"Mr. Potter, I know I have made mistakes, but perhaps we can start over again." Minerva then realized that she had said this very thing the summer before his third year. He accepted it then. She failed him once more in his fourth year. After which, he told her in no uncertain terms where she could stick any other offers to 'start over'. She braced for his response.

"Well, if we might be working together, it would help to start fresh." He said half joking. "Can you tell me about the state of the school? I just found out I'm kind of 'well off' and would like to help. You know I'm related to a founder…"

Minerva actually teared up. Harry hated these awkward and emotional scenes. Dammit, what had he said this time? It's so much easier to be an angry teenager.

"Harry?" Said a voice he recognized.

Harry looked over and saw Neville approaching. Thank goodness. A distraction. Neville was filthy. Obviously he'd been working in the greenhouses.

With a huge grin, Neville exclaimed, "I heard you were here! Why didn't you tell me?" It was then that Neville realized Harry was wearing armor and sporting weapons. At a school. Oh, my.

"Neville! Well, I had a sudden problem in France and needed to do a little research. No real warning. But hey I may be here more often. I'd say it'll be like old times, but the old times kind of sucked." Minerva noticed the relaxed mood between the two. "On that note, I need to get Daphne and head back to France. What I wouldn't give for a pint and a good night's sleep..."

"You decided to come here? That's great news. I can't wait to tell Hannah." Harry twitched at that, but recovered quickly. Neville picked up on it. He knew Hannah had done something in Harry's fourth year, but had no idea what. She flat out refused to discuss it, so it must have been bad. Hell, if Harry could forgive Draco Malfoy, he sure as hell can forgive Hannah! Future discussions.

"We'll catch up soon, Nev. Looking forward to the New Year's party!" They shook hands and Neville went to take a much needed shower.

"Well, off to the Slytherin Common room." When Minerva started to give directions, he hastily added, "No worries, I can find it. I snuck in there during my second year. Walk with me?" They both laughed at that. Well, Harry laughed...

"You mostly favor your mother, but sometimes you are all James." Shifting to Harry's earlier question, "The school is having difficulty. Inter-house rivalry is very high. Many students were orphaned in the war. Muggleborn students are still treated poorly. We have our challenges. I considered making Neville the Gryffindor head of house, but he is so mild. He seems to excel in times of peace and in times of outright war. But thats not the normal state of realty. Most of the time we are somewhere in between. He's like his mother in that way. Very affable."

"Professor, would you consider Bill Weasley? He would be amazing as a head of Gryffindor house. And seeing the two of us interacting would do wonders for inter-house rivalry. Give it a thought. By the way, if I am able to teach, I'll cover my own salary, so maybe we can expand into an introduction to curse breaking for NEWT students. Or a course on economics. The only condition would be we'd occasionally be called away for DoM or ICW business. And the summers are when we look for 'trouble'."

"I believe he earned his Curse Breaking Mastery. He would be an excellent choice… Do you think he would agree?"

"Maybe. We are kind of apprenticing each other. And he does have a small child. Actually, we both do. I have two in fact!" Harry enjoyed the shocked look on Minerva's face. He'd let her wonder. Ha!

As they walked to the Slytherin dorms, they slowly relaxed and discussed next year. Harry discussed teaching options including Ancient Magical History, Principals in Elemental Magic, and possibly taking on an apprentice if anyone stood out. No promises on that though. He discussed the possibility of sponsoring an orphanage for magical children. Something in Hogsmeade. Might be worth putting on the grounds of the shrieking shack. Harry said he would speak to Andromeda about it. Finally, he brought up the need to teach economics in the Wizarding world and the need to buy products from the magical community. Minerva seemed to think it was common knowledge, but Harry insisted that it was NOT.

The conversation eventually turned to quidditch and a discussion around the state of the school brooms. The brooms purchased in Harrys third year were going strong. But it would be nice to have brooms dedicated to quidditch. Harry liked the idea of leveling the playing field by having the entire quidditch teams play on the same brooms. This almost happened in Harry's third year, but Lucius Malfoy monkey-wrenched the plan. Harry now suggested Clean Sweep 11's for the chasers and a Nimbus 2001 for each team seeker. Harry remembered how Ron's CS11 was fast and nimble. On par with the Nimbus 2000. Maybe a tad more stable, but ever so slightly less acceleration. Almost no one would or could notice the difference in performance. They also discussed the possibility of a just released Comet 360 for the Keepers. Apparently it is not significantly faster than the C290s, but it has been demonstrated to be insanely responsive and maneuverable. Perfect for a keeper.

Minerva brought up the merits of playing under amateur rules where the snitch was only worth 75 points. That made the chasers more important. Professional snitches are harder to catch, so the 150 makes sense given how long those games can last. School games use the amateur snitch, but not amateur scoring. This is due to legacy rules and tradition… Basically, quidditch at Hogwarts pre-dates amateur rules. Harry always thought the seeker getting 150 points seemed a bit ridiculous in school games that only last a few hours. He often wondered if the chasers ever felt overshadowed. Minerva then discussed the possibility of Harry being a flying instructor and quidditch coach, apparently Madame Hooch was ready to retire. In spite of himself, Harry was getting excited.

When they finally arrived at the Slytherin entrance, Minerva gave the password and Harry entered while Minerva went to meet with her staff.

Daphne had apparently been talking about Harry's new title as Lord Slytherin. Harry settled into a chair and fielded questions. He mentioned that he was considering returning as a teacher and head of Slytherin house. That got their full attention. Daphne was beaming at that. A few students raised concerns that he was a Gryffindor.

He reminded them how in his last few years, he was not really a Gryffindor. He was given a 'Declaration of Eiectio' by Gryffindor house in his fourth year and declared himself a Gringotts student, he was home schooled in his fifth year, and he refused to be a part of any house in his sixth year. His seventh year was spent wandering around Britain and in constant combat. Fortunately, he had to take his NEWTs before his sixth year in South America.

Harry talked about the need to heal and mend fences. He talked about how the sorting hat had wanted him in Slytherin, but he had met and instantly hated Draco Malfoy, so he asked to go anywhere else. He also mentioned that Draco is now one of his most trusted friends. That got a laugh.

One of the students asked him if he would have an issue representing children from families that supported you-know-who. Harry stressed the need to move forward. He discussed how Tom Riddle was a half-blood who lost his mind dealing with forces that should not be dealt with. That real change comes through understanding and communication rather than murder and violence.

He added, "Forget blood purity. The last guy who spouted that crap was the son of a muggle and a near-squib but had everyone convinced he was the purest of the pure. Traditions are what matter. Traditions and a drive to be the best." Most of the kids seemed to agree, a few seemed skeptical. "Look, you know I am a Slytherin descendant. Did you know it is through my supposedly 'muggle-born' mother? Full family magic, too." At that he spoke a bit of parcel tongue to his familiar.

One of the kids asked why he was in armor and carrying weapons. He responded with the same thing he said to McGonagall, "I'm on the clock. Have any of you read the paper this morning?" They all just looked at him. They'd read it. "Ms. Greengrass and I have to get back to London. I have dinner plans and a Dark Wizard to hunt down. She has an empire to help run."

-CS-

Harry said his goodbyes to the staff. Hagrid put him in a full body hug. Neville agreed to visit him in Yvoire after things settled down. They were all invited if they could make it. Filius and Pamona wished him well. Minerva invited him to the sorting celebration. Assuming he was finished with his business in France. A few other goodbyes and Harry unrolled his carpet. He cracked his knuckles and began weaving astral threads to it.

Filius was beside himself with excitement. Minerva figured out what was happening and looked on in concern. After about a minute, the carpet started to rise. "Don't worry, Professor, this is not a magic carpet, it's a normal carpet with a charm attached. Huge difference. Not quite illegal. And it sure beats walking." He helped a hesitant Daphne onto the carpet behind him. She looked relieved not have to make the walk to Hogsmeade. Harry applied a sticking charm to them both, cinched up his backpack to keep the Girls safe. He called out to Catherine and she appeared in front of him. The staff just looked on in amazement. Catherine waved at them.

He slowly took off. Rising about 75 yards in the air, he circled the castle slowly, then they evened out and shot off like a bullet toward Hogsmeade. Daphne grabbed him tight and made a sound that was somewhere between a scream and a laugh. Harry noted that Catherine was screaming and laughing along with Daphne. Harry laughed so hard he couldn't breathe. Then he heard Daphne scream out "Faster! Make it go faster!" Catherine did the same.

About halfway there, he disillusioned the ride so no one would report them. Harry really did not want to deal with Andromeda's disapproval. They deserved to have a little fun. He also decided Daphne and Catherine needed to experience a little more speed. He had woven enough magic onto this carpet that it was almost as fast as a broom. It would last for a few hours. Definitely long enough for them to zip around Hogsmeade a couple of times. If only every day could be this much fun.

And if Daphne had to hold him tighter, so be it. Not really a problem...

—CS—

Delacour Mansion

5:00 PM

Gabrielle was preparing for her 'presentation' at the Beauxbaton Gardens event. It would signal France and Europe that she was ready to be a leader in their society. She knew her father had arranged for an ambassador to escort her and serve as sponsor. He was apparently a respected gentleman who supposedly possessed enough magical ability to resist the allure. He was a friend of the family and she knew he would likely behave appropriately.

She decided to dress down a bit to ensure her escort did not get the wrong impression. She went with a more natural look with minimal makeup. A simple shirt under her robes to ensure against wandering eyes. Having an Allure meant it was her responsibility to set the tone of personal expectations. Her mum had drilled that into her at a young age. That meant dressing down and being a perfect lady.

He mum had tried to convince her to wear her hair down, but she decided to go with a more conservative look. She wore her hair up and had only a simple and tight necklace to ensure her date kept his eyes on her eyes.

Her sister suddenly came into her room. Fleur told Gabrielle that her date had arrived and was meeting with their Father. Fleur tried to get Gabrielle to let her hair down and add a little make-up, but her sister was adamantly against looking like anything other than a conservative and proper young lady.

Her mother covertly placed a bit of perfume on Gabrielle's wrists and instructed her to straighten her escort's bow tie. Gabrielle just glared. She did not appreciate having perfume applied without her consent and she had no desire to straighten his tie. That would just lead him on! She slapped away the preening hands and began marching down the stairs. Then, she heard a voice she had not heard for some time.

In the mirror at the bottom of the stairs, she saw a reflection of Harry Potter talking to her father. He was in stylish dress robes and holding a corsage! She turned around and shot up the stairs before he saw her. Her mum and Fleur tricked her!

Bill saw her shoot upstairs, he just smiled. Fleur was a mischievous woman.

Thirty minutes later, Harry was greeted by a stunningly gorgeous young lady. Long silvery hair flowing behind her. Stylish dress robes that made him suddenly realize she was, in fact, nearly eighteen and he had to force his eyes to stay up. The fancy necklace she was wearing did not help one bit as it plunged down and led his eyes to her… look up! Eye contact! Respect!

"Hi Gabby. You look AMAZING. Oh, I brought you something…" He handed her the corsage Pipsey had made of white roses. My god she looked great. Makeup was perfect. Everything was… wow.

"Harry! They didn't tell me you would be my escort! You look amazing, too. So handsome!" Harry helped her with her corsage and attempted to make a little small talk. He was a bit tongue tied and it showed. Gabby noted that he was amazed at how she looked, his eyes were too clear for this to be the allure, but his response was exactly what she wanted. For about six years.

She smiled and reached up to adjust his bow tie saying, "Here, let me help you…" as she straightened his tie, Harry picked up the subtle scent of her perfume. Damn, he thought he had his tie on straight. Still, it felt nice to have her fix it. Smelled nice too. How did he never notice how attractive she was? OK, still a student. Control. Control. She then attached a boutonnière to his lapel. Fleur must have given it to her – a perfect match for the corsage. Pipsey...!

"Thanks, Gabby. You remember Hecate, Selene, and Artemis. They'll be staying with Victoire. Oh, I brought you a gift, I hope you like it." He handed her a slim box containing the bracelet he had enchanted for her. She opened it and was stunned. It was gorgeous. "I thought the blue Sapphires would match your eyes. I put a few enchantments on it, but we can review that later."

At that point, Harry remembered Colin. "I hope you don't mind, but I brought my friend Colin. He has agreed to take a few pictures so we'll always have something to remember tonight by." Introductions were made. Colin took a few photos of the whole family. Harry was photographed with Gabby. Only three or four times did Harry have to snap Colin out of a staring trance caused by the allure. Three beautiful women with Veela blood… Poor Colin. Even Bill was showing a bit of effort in resisting.

Selene gave compliments to both Fleur and Gabby. Especially Gabby who apparently went all out. Harry had never seen the youngest Delacour where she wasn't dressed conservatively. Wow. Selene was mercilessly teasing Harry, knowing that no one else could understand her. OMG.

Harry was now glad Fleur made him leave the extra weapons at the house. 'Two wands ONLY', Fleur had insisted. 'And no armor! No spears! No Daggers! No Pistols!' He fought her on the kukri knife saying it was ceremonial, bit she pointed out a stubborn little blood stain near the handle. So there he was. In a very stylish set of dress robes with only two wands and no backup weapons. Harry knew he looked good. Did he look good enough to have a Delacour on his arm? Maybe. Probably not.

Ok, time to head out. Sometimes you just gotta leave the armor behind.

What could go wrong?

—CS—

Somewhere in Paris

A Tall man steps up to a podium. He is surrounded by dozens of men and women. The podium is formed from a column of human heads with a human rib cage on top that was transfigured to be flat. The man raised his hands and the crowd became quiet.

His eyes are solid black. They collected the light and reflected nothing. He is covered in faces from his head to his feet. The faces on his flesh are animated. Eyes searching, mouths moving, teeth biting. Hungry for flesh. Many of his followers have faces tattooed on themselves in an effort to match him.

"My faithful followers. No longer will the purebloods, the elites, and the wealthy control our fate. They believe we are less than they purport to be. We shall lead our people with reason and compassion. We shall control our enemies with terror. Our rights will no longer be denied! They call us mudbloods and treat us like we are the dregs of their oppressive and corrupt society. A society of excess and opulence which we have been excluded from. Tonight, the wheels will be set in motion. The sweetest of the herd will be gathered. We will mark them, collect them, then we shall feast on them. The oppressors will be usurped and we will devour their flesh." The cheers and applause were intense.

—CS—

More to come.

Read and Review if you liked.

A/N

This chapter turned out a bit longer than I expected, so I did not get to the Beauxbaton Garden event. That will be up next. Along with the DMA, DoM, and a few bad guys. Harry is moving past his break up and other opportunities will present themselves at the end of the story. A few votes for a Daphne pair up... maybe. lots of options. He will not be settling down though. No soul bonds or sudden marriage proposals. Too much to do.

The scene where Daphne has sore feet and was tired of waiting was straight from personal observations. When people's feet hurt, they tend to lose patience fast.

I originally planned to put Harry in Beauxbatons, doing a bit of teaching between adventures, but Hogwarts is so much better defined. So, back to Hogwarts. Not in this story, but maybe the next.

The event with Hannah will be touched on in both this story and the prequel. It will be summarized in this story and detailed in the prequel. The movie did a great job of showing Hannah and Ernie bullying Harry during the goblet of fire. The way they blocked him and held the 'Potter Stinks' badges up in his face – good inspiration. I only recently found out that the characters were Hannah and Ernie... More of Harry's history in this AU will be further detailed out in the prequel, 'Harry Potter and the Dance of Death'. He had a rough time at Hogwarts and the Horcrux in his scar made it significantly worse than in Canon.

Coming soon:

The Beauxbaton Garden Event

Harry has a Heart to Heart with Catherine

Padma pays a visit to the DMA.

The Wizard Charity Auction.

The opening of a massive can of 'Whoop-Ass'