Harry Potter and the Odyssey of the Arcane

by I await a guardian

Euphemia and Fleamont survived the 1978-1979 Dragon Pox Epidemic. Events change, a sacrifice is exchanged and a different Harry negotiates the perils of Magical Britain as he seeks out the deeper mysteries of the occult. Hogwarts AU, NonBWL Harry. Rated M for themes and language.

5. Admitted Reservations

1991 August 1st, summer. Level Two. Department of Magical Law Enforcement, Ministry of Magic.

"Ah. Good." Lily said, taking in the sign of the Administrative Registration Department.

Lily continued speaking. "Boys, Ophelia stay close, we just have some paperwork to get done."

Harry nodded. He was mostly taking in the magical government since their arrival at the ministry; it was curious to the boy that a whole society could be hidden around a veil of secrecy.

"It's been a while since we were last here, Lils." James then spoke up looking a little sheepish.

Lily gave James a stern look, "I don't think you fancied a sentence in Azkaban."

James gave Lily a grim nod. With the publicity the Potter's gained after the events of Godric's Hollow, James bit the bullet and registered as an animagus shortly after, fearing the backlash of the media if the truth came out.

"Hello?" A woman said, looking up from her desk blinking in surprise as she saw the Potter family.

"Hello." Lily replied, "We're here to apply for magical guardianship as well as have muggle adoption documentation created."

The woman, shrugging off her surprise at seeing the Potters, gave an incline of her head at this and asked professionally. "Can you demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that either the mother or father of the child wished for you to attain guardianship before their deaths?"

Lily nodded and answered. "I can give a magical oath that the mother knowingly wished for me to become the godmother."

The woman at the desk considered this slowly. "That will suffice. A magical oath of intent will need to be spoken then to assume guardianship."

Lily waved her off. "That's fine."

The woman then stood up and gestured. "Follow me then."

The group had passed a few busy but mostly empty desks before they came to a halt.

"Margaret." The woman who'd been escorting them called.

"Yes?" The woman in question looked up from the desk she'd been diligently working at.

The woman who'd been at the front desk replied. "Documents need to be drawn up for two muggle adoptions from an orphanage as well as a magical guardianship document after a confirmation of an oath."

Margaret simply nodded and voiced. "Just give me a moment to grab the required necessities."

The ruffle of papers could be heard as she stood up and searched through various folders and binders.

"Ah. Here it is." Margaret said finally, two slips of paper resting on her desk, the other being passed to the woman from the front desk.

"Good." The woman from the front desk replied before turning to James and Lily. "It should be noted that all oaths that assume a magical guardian must be overseen by the head of the DMLE as a witness."

James spoke up. "You don't have to do this Lily. If Marlene's intent was misinterpreted you could very well lose your magic."

Lily sighed and tried reassuring him. "James, it'll be fine Marlene was very specific when she told me the news I was to be Ophelia's godmother. As long as I acknowledge the statement and don't outright state it in the wording then I will not lose my magic."

James didn't seem to like it but nodded his head. "Very well."

"Follow me then." The unnamed woman said before she continued." After the oath, Maragaret will draw up the adoption documents upon our return."

James was understandably nervous when they headed through the Auror Office, lots of inquisitive glances were being met his way.

It was no secret that shortly after the war James had retired from the office, preferring instead alongside Lily to travel the world on Albus Dumbledore's advice and seek out the mystery of Eric's reflection of the Killing Curse. James himself had meant to return to the Auror office after his son's started Hogwarts. However, due to Eric's unprecedented fame, he had instead capitalized on marketing his son's image alongside Lily. The various royalties from The Boy Who Livedbook series, brand sponsorships, and public appearances meant the Potter vaults had filled quite substantially as they travelled due to magical nations around the world demanding to see the enigma. With the addition of Charlus tiring of playing dirty politics and appointing James as the Potter proxy within the Wizengamot, there'd been no reason for him to return to his job as an Auror.

Thankfully no one had approached the man in question preferring instead to maintain the idle looks of curiosity. It was Claymore however who broke the silence instinctively dropping to the floor.

Clank! The tell-tale clunk of wood sounding against the ground could be heard behind them.

Years of living with one of Britain's most paranoid men had left Claymore to become indoctrinated in the art of detection. Every growl, bark, and yell was a subtle overture towards caution.

Eric and Antonius upon seeing Claymore's reaction had desperately tried to get away as a barrage spellfire erupted behind them. Ophelia and Harry however weren't so lucky, staring instead in bewilderment at Claymore's spontaneous reaction.

Eric in desperation knowing what was to come tried to dive to the side as a knockback jinx came hurtling in. The attempt was in vain however as the spell clipped his shoulder and further propelled him into a desk.

Antonius in his mad scurry to escape was caught by an oncoming leglocker, the boy having less than a second for his mask of indifference to falling into shock before his body hit the ground.

Ophelia and Harry however bore the worst of it. The girl only had a few seconds to blink before it was light's out as a stunning spell caught her.

Harry's face became increasingly alarmed upon seeing Ophelia collapse motionless to the floor, only having a few seconds to search for the source of chaos as a spell smacked into his back, thick conjured ropes beginning to bind around him before he was completely restrained.

"Constant vigilance!" Mad-Eye Moody crowed in success.

"Alastor," Lily said in a disapproving tone, already casting the counter charm for the leg locker and then methodically vanishing the bindings and enervating Ophelia.

Alastor Moody just gave a grunt and walked over to the rising Claymore and slapped him on the back. "That's the spirit kid."

Claymore gave a smile at that.

Whilst Ophelia was still groggy from waking up and Antonius disgruntled. Harry inside was seething when the bindings were released, the events of the day since Diagon too much. Giving a snarl he reached within himself and summoned the peg leg hoping to rip it off the blasted man's body.

Harry however found himself unprepared when Moody's form came sailing towards him, His bulk knocking him off his feet and leaving him sprawling across the ground.

Harry gave a slight groan and glared up at Alastor Moody who was looking at him with an appraising eye.

"Impressive bit of wandless magic lad." The gruff veteran Auror said standing over him as he continued. "Points for awareness too, targeting the weak spots. A good bit of thinking that. Best to remember the leg is unsummonable next time though aye?"

The last word was grounded off in a warning.

Harry stared at Moody's extended hand with vehement dislike but took it nonetheless allowing himself to be pulled up.

"Alastor," Lily said, speaking up. "I didn't expect you here."

Moody grunted and turned to Lily to speak. "Ever since you reclaimed custody of Claymore I've been coming in more and more. I'm semi-retired and usually just pop in to inspect the recruits to see if they're up to scratch."

Lily nodded as Moody continued.

"This is the girl then?" Moody gestured towards Ophelia.

"Yes," Lily said. "I forget Dumbledore keeps you in the loop, we're just about to see Amelia."

Moody looked inquisitively at Ophelia and spoke. "Your father was a good man before he lost his way. Damn fine Auror too, not some up jumped pureblood cunt like most of them. Make sure to remember that."

"Alastor!" Lily exclaimed.

"What?" Moody growled. "The girl needs the cold truth, she'll spend half her life making up for her father's actions regardless her mother was Marlene."

"I know." Lily sighed. "Just go easy on her please, she'll have a hard time adjusting as it is."

The gruff Auror nodded at Lily's concern.

Ophelia was watching curiously, remaining largely ignored as they discussed her but before she could butt in and say she didn't need to be coddled like some child the conversation already cleared up.

"Best see Amelia," Moody said and continued. "I'll visit the Manor a couple of times to give the girl and boys a little training before Hogwarts."

"You know you're welcome anytime Alastor." Lily smiled sweetly. "You've raised Claymore for most of his life."

"Damn straight I have!" Moody said with a crooked smile and then hobbled over and ruffled Claymore's hair. "I'll see you later, kid. Remember constant vigilance!"

With that, the gruff Auror waved them off before turning and heading back down the hallway.

"Who was that?" Ophelia asked curiously.

"Alastor Moody, Infamous Dark Wizard catcher," James said dismissively. "Now come on, let's go see Amelia."

Harry's first impression of the Head of the DMLE was practicality. Her office was sparse with a few portraits decorating the walls, simple twin cabinets surrounding the sides, and a desk centred in the middle with the sole purpose of functionality.

"Amelia," Lily said warmly.

The red-headed woman looked up from behind her desk placing her quill back in her inkpot and smiled.

"Lily, James, what brings you here?" Amelia asked curiously.

The unnamed woman however spoke up. "An oath of declaration of intent is needed for an adoption and a magical guardianship."

Amelia nodded and waved her off. "Thank you, Tabitha, just wait and I'll handle it from here." The red-haired woman continued in a questioning tone. "You're adopting Lily?

"Yes," Lily replied. "We'll be adopting Ophelia."

Amelia took in Ophelia and hesitated before speaking. "It seems unbelievable but she looks remarkably like Marlene with the curly brown hair." Amelia paused thoughtfully for a second and continued. "She looks like someone else who I can't just put my finger on."

"I know it seems unbelievable," Lily said slowly. " But Marlene was her mother nonetheless."

Lily watched Amelia blink in surprise as she continued. "Dumbledore told us this surprising truth after he managed to hear the story from an orphanage caretaker that Marlene managed to escape Mckinnon Manor and was taken to a muggle hospital but died shortly after from the injuries she sustained during childbirth.

Lily then sighed. "It's tragic, Marlene might be alive today if she was taken to Saint Mungos rather than the muggle hospital. Fiendfyre burns don't heal non-magically."

Amelia took this revelation in before voicing. "And her father?"

"Sirius Black," Lily said hesitantly. "It was well known they were close during the war. The pregnancy was also known by a few, I was supposed to be the godmother but after Marlene's supposed death there seemed no point in giving away the information. Some things were better left to the past."

Amelia nodded grimly and sighed. "I'll need an oath that Marlene acknowledged you to be the godmother, Lily."

Amelia was now rubbing her temples feeling a major headache oncoming. "The girl poses a major shift in the Wizengamot with the Black and Mckinnon seats. I just can't let you in good conscience take the girl without an oath that this was Marlene's wish. The Malfoy's and the Gamps will be vying to get their claws into the girl if I can't give testimony that Marlene's wish has been acknowledged."

"That's fine," Lily said unconcerned. "I was expecting that would be the case."

The two women failed to realise Ophelia was openly glaring at them, the startling truth of her the same as Harry being viewed as some chess piece didn't sit well with the girl.

Amelia then spoke again. "An unbreakable vow won't be necessary. Just a magical oath for declaration of intent and Tabitha can sign off on the documentation so that myself as the Head of the DMLE can vouch they were present as a witness."

"Very well," Lily said, holding up her wand and continuing. "I Lily Marie Potter, swear on my magic that in acknowledgment of Marlene Mckinnon's wish for me to become the godmother of her child, Ophelia Black do claim magical guardianship over the girl till she becomes of age as a circumstance of Marlene Mckinnon's untimely death. So mote it be.

"Lumos." Lilly then said. A fine white light enveloping her before it sprinkled away.

"Well, that appears to be in order," Amelia said before turning to Tabitha and continued speaking. "The document, please. Best get it signed off."

A couple of neat scribbles were signed on the Magical Guardianship document by Amelia as a witness before Tabitha picked up the document seemingly satisfied.

Amelia then eyed James pointedly. "I trust James that you'll be able to set aside your grudge to ensure the girl is raised without scorn or neglect?"

James simply nodded and said neutrally. "She's Marlene's daughter I'll make sure to remember that fact and raise the girl as best as I can so she can't repeat her father's actions."

It was evident that James meant the last part truthfully.

"Good," Amelia said happily that she'd ensured James's word on the matter. "I'll see you on the platform to wave off Susan."

Lily smiled. "It's been a pleasure, Amelia. We'll see you then."

Lily and James then quickly ushered the boys and Ophelia back to the Administrative Registration Department, seemingly keen to leave the ministry as soon as possible.

They'd told Harry and Ophelia that the last thing that they wanted was an up-and-coming politician named Cornelius Fudge to be notified of their presence. The man they'd been told was constantly seeking the praise of Eric to further his limelight in the public.

"Over here." Came the call of Margaret still seated at her desk.

Tabitha informed Margaret as they approached her desk. "Everything went well, I'll need to go sort the filing of the magical guardianship document while you handle the muggle documents."

"Very well," Margaret said

Tabitha then said her goodbye and hurried off.

Margaret watching the form of Tabitha disappearing from the department voiced up.

"Do you just require the two muggle documents and the filing of the magical guardianship record in the ministry?"

"Yes." Lily replied, "that will be all."

Margaret nodded and responded politely. "Just a moment then I'll need their full names, however."

Lily hummed in thought. "My son's name is Hadrian James Potter however I'm not sure what Ophelia's is. Her last name will be Black, however.

Margaret tried to reply that a middle name would be needed for the document but Ophelia broke in.

"Callidora," Ophelia said quietly. "My middle name is Callidora."

Ophelia didn't respond further; she was still disgruntled that the whole world she knew was blasted off its hinges. The girl was quite sure if it wasn't for Harry's comforting presence she would've reacted quite badly to today's event.

"Excellent," Margaret said satisfied. "A few minutes if you please."

Minutes later Margaret spoke up. "The documents are finalised and should serve you in gaining custody of Ophelia and Hadrian from the orphanage."

"Thank you," Lily said in appreciation

Margaret simply waved them off as they left the Administrative Registration Department.

"Now. Harry, Ophelia." Lily said in a gentle voice as they walked down a corridor within the ministry. "Could you tell me the location and name of the Orphanage?"

"Wool's Orphanage," Harry said simply. "It's in Lambeth."

"Alright." Lily tried sweetly. "Why don't we head there now so we can give you a large bedroom in the manor tonight." The two in question were still too silent for the mother's liking. It worried her that they didn't bother to speak unless spoken to.

Lily's nerves only increased as they exited the ministry. She finally gave a pleading look to James but he simply shrugged.

It became more and more apparent to the mother that the two would make no effort to connect with the family.

1991 August 1st, summer.

Wool's orphanage.

"Well, this is it," Harry said, gesturing to the bleak orphanage. "Wool's a charming place isn't it?"

The uneasiness in James and Lily was plain to see as they looked up at the austere building of Wools. The atmosphere was gloomy, filled with a silent plea of despair.

Lily and James grimly nodded. It was a stark reminder to the couple that Harry's childhood wasn't the bright, cheery one they thought it to be.

"You grew up here," Antonius said in shock. His nose was wrinkled back in disgust as he took in the ugly brick pillars stretching up into the sky.

Harry simply shrugged and spoke. "Wool's has character to it. Doesn't bother to coddle you as most parents would. It teaches you the necessity of independence. How your hand won't be held all your life, that in the end, it's up to you."

"That's very astute Harry," Lily said slowly. The orphanage wasn't how she imagined it to be.

"You grow up fast," Harry said mostly ignoring his mother and continued. "Shall we get this over with?"

"Yes. That would be for the best." James said tentatively.

Harry nodded and pressed the doorbell at the gate.

"Harry, Ophelia?" Mrs. Cole said emerging from the front door. "Who would these people be? I thought you would be returning with Mr. Hagrid?"

Harry sighed. He truly liked the old caretaker. She was practically his grandmother, the stony woman had a heart of gold. Stern when she had to be but easily crumbling when she could help make any orphan more comfortable.

"There was a change in plans," Harry said steadily, eying the elderly matron. "Mr. Hagrid appeared to know my parents. We met them on the shopping trip, Ophelia we found out is my mother's goddaughter."

Harry tried to give Mrs. Cole a soft reassuring smile as he continued speaking. "Small world isn't it?"

"Oh." Came the startle of Mrs. Cole as she then carefully spoke. "Professor Dumbledore mentioned he knew your parents. I just didn't think they'd collect you, he said that with you being raised with your brother it would be too difficult."

"It's fine," Harry said as sincerely as he could. He knew Mrs. Cole would be thrilled with him leaving for the wider world but the matron would often have some heartache as one of her wards had left after years of building a connection with them.

Mrs. Cole sighed. "Follow me. I guess we have some discussions to finalise."

There was an uncomfortable silence within the sitting room while Mrs. Cole inspected the documents. Harry and Ophelia had disappeared to pack their few belongings and say their goodbyes to Mrs. Baker and Wilson.

James and Lily remained seated upon the sofa while they waited. Eric could be seen slouching against a corner seemingly not happy about the wait, while Antonius on the other hand preferred to just stand at the doorway and peer into the corridor aghast that his brother could grow up in a place so plebeian. Claymore however seemed content as he sat cross-legged in front of Lily and James not fazed about the events of the day.

"Is that everything?" Lily asked upon seeing Harry and Ophelia return with backpacks.

The two nodded in confirmation. In truth, there wasn't much. Mostly their clothes, Ophelia's wooden horse and a few books Harry had accumulated through the last couple of years.

Lily tried to reply but Mrs. Cole spoke up. "Everything appears to be in order. I just have a few questions."

Mrs. Cole continued. "Whilst your background check has passed and your place of residency supplied. I'm concerned whether this is what Harry and Ophelia truly want, due to the fact no custody was claimed, they have the choice to stay in the orphanage and remain wards of the crown. I just want to make sure that they're comfortable with this decision."

Harry sighed, the encouraging looks from his parents didn't help. He knew however it was better to not show any resistance, his parents would take him either way.

"I'll be fine Mrs. Cole, you have my gratitude for all you have done," Harry said earnestly.

Ophelia then spoke up. "I'll be fine as well. You do not need to worry."

"Oh very well." Mrs. Cole said before reaching out. "Come here you two."

Harry and Ophelia hesitantly stepped into the hug and allowed Mrs. Cole to envelop them.

Mrs. Cole gave Harry a warm smile and whispered. "I've taken great joy in raising you, Harry. You've exceeded my expectations and I couldn't be prouder of the boy you've become."

Pleased at seeing Harry's genuine smile Mrs. Cole then turned to Ophelia taking in the girl who was looking questioningly at her and sighed.

"I know we've had our differences, Ophelia. You're headstrong and rebellious at the best of times but you're also loyal to a fault. I can see that with your friendship with Harry. You've grown up so much from that little girl who liked to pick fights." Mrs. Cole expressed kindly and then paused, giving the two a reassuring smile, and continued.

"I truly believe you, along with Harry, can do something truly special. You'll go far, I just know it. All you have to remember is that the answer to all your problems is in here." Mrs. Cole said, tapping a single finger along the side of her head.

Mrs. Cole then gave them a strained smile.

"Now go along now, the both of you. There's only so much heartache an old lady can take."

"Thank you for everything," Harry whispered.

With that James and Lily gave their gratitude to Mrs. Cole and ushered them out of the building.

Both Harry and Ophelia paused somewhat fondly to take in the familiar black gates of their childhood home for what may be the last time.

The towering form of the Orphanage vanishing as a resonating crack could be heard.

1991 August 1st, summer.

Potter Manor, John O'Groats in Caithness, Scotland.

Harry groaned as he and Ophelia reappeared alongside his mother outside a stately home.

Whilst Harry was disgruntled with the odd sensation of twisting and turning through the air, he was curious however at the method of travel. It was startlingly similar to the one he'd accidentally used when He and Ophelia escaped the museum.

Ophelia, Harry noticed, didn't seem as intrigued. Her audible grumbling was quite evident as she expressed her distaste for the unfamiliar form of travel both of them had to endure.

"Ah. Here we are." Lily said. "Welcome Harry and Ophelia to the ancestral home of the Potters."

It was an impressive residence, to say the least. Set on a sprawling acreage with a long, rutted driveway leading towards the handsome three-story aristocratic home. High-toned and classical fountains could be seen spouting streams of water, while a lush and shadowy old-growth forest surrounded the largely unencumbered house.

Manor was the right word Harry surmised, taking in the white-walled estate with its triumphal arches showcasing transparent shuttered windows and its lofty brass-bound oaken door.

Another crack could be heard as James appeared alongside Antonius, Claymore, and Eric.

James spoke up. "I don't like side apparating with so many Lily, two is fine but three is stretching it."

Lily sighed. "It was just for the day James, once we write them into the floo address, side apparition won't be necessary."

James nodded thoughtfully at that and replied. "It'll make things easier, very well let's go see the old man."

A resonating knock from James could be heard upon the oaken door before he took a step back and waited for a few moments in silence.

Harry and Ophelia were slightly startled when the door swung open.

A small creature with large bat-like ears and bulging eyes appeared at the centre of the doorway.

"Hello Gawain," James said smiling.

The strange creature gave a bow and spoke in a squeaky voice.

"Master James, Mistress Lily. How can the ever-loyal Gawain be serving you?"

Lily responded. "If you could have Charlus update the ward scheme to include Ophelia Black as a resident then it would be appreciated."

The creature inclined its head and disappeared with a pop.

"What was that?" Ophelia asked curiously.

"A House-elf," Lily said. "They form symbiotic bonds with their masters who exchange a portion of their magic for casual work or services."

"Useful," Ophelia muttered, clearly liking the idea of no longer having to do assigned chores.

A pop broke off the conversation as Gawain returned. "Master Charlus will be waiting for you in the foyer. Mrs. Black has been added to the ward scheme and granted permission to enter the manor."

"Thank you, Gawain," James said.

"Gawain simply does as is commanded." A long spindly arm then gestured for them to follow.

A broad-shouldered man could be seen standing at the opposite end of the foyer, the man in question was stroking his grey beard patiently.

"Uncle Charlus," James said warmly.

Charlus however ignored his nephew and instead locked cold hard eyes on Harry and Ophelia.

The gruff man then said sternly. "Harry, Ophelia, I welcome you to Potter manor and grant you all the hospitality needed as a resident. Make sure not to overstep your welcome."

Harry was slightly unnerved at his Great-Uncle's warning. While his tone was steely but reasonable, it was the eyes that made him hesitant. They seemed to cut right through him, giving the man an air of caution that he was not to be trifled with.

"It will be noted," Harry said in a straightforward voice.

The boy knew it wouldn't be wise to upset the man.

Even Ophelia seemed to register this as the brunette responded politely. "Yes, thank you, Lord Potter, for your hospitality."

Charlus gave an approving nod and turned to Lily speaking plainly. "You took longer than I expected."

"Yes," Lily said carefully. "The wands took quite a while and a couple of surprises occurred during the day."

Charlus however broke in abruptly. "Any news can be spoken at dinner in an hour or so when the House Elves finish up. I'll make sure to get these two comfortable in the meantime."

"Gawain." Charlus continued. "Escort Harry and Ophelia to the east wing of the house and make sure to appoint a bedroom each for them. Also while you're at it, give them a quick tour of the Manor so they know their bearings."

Gawain who'd been standing silently listening in on the discussion gave a bow. "It will be done, master."

"Very well. Now our introduction is done, I'll see you at dinner." The gruff man said with a dismissive wave and walked away.

"I'm sorry about that Harry," James said abashedly. "Charlus isn't one for small talk; he mostly just wants you to get to the point."

"It's fine," Harry replied. The boy was more concerned with the fact his father refused to acknowledge Ophelia.

However, before he could point it out. Lily voiced worriedly to Harry and Ophelia. "I know I was supposed to see you two settle in but with Gawain helping you I might as well write a letter to Professor Dumbledore about Eric's wand."

"We'll be fine Mrs. Potter," Ophelia said not seeming to care.

"Good." Lily smiled, giving a playful ruffle of Harry's hair. "I'll see you at dinner."

With Lily hurrying after Charlus up the Hallway no doubt to an office. James decided that Gawain could manage on his own and made an excuse about wanting to catch a quidditch report on the Falmouth Falcons.

Harry's brothers didn't care much about sticking around either and saw this as their queue to go their separate ways, following James to do their own thing, leaving Harry and Ophelia standing in the foyer with Gawain.

The House-elf spoke up eagerly.

"Follow me Mrs. Black, Master Potter. Gawain shall tell you all you need to know."

The raven-haired boy sighed, the day was beginning to become painstakingly long.

Harry and Ophelia silently followed Gawain through the foyer as he squeaked off an in-depth history lesson on Potter Manor.

"It should be noted Potter Manor was built in 1066 by Percival Potter with the permission of King Malcolm the third of Scotland. King Malcolm furthermore, granted an Earldom to Percival Potter, who became Percival, The Earl of Stinchcombe. Following the death of Malcolm in 1093 his successor, Donald the third of Scotland, unlike most kings before him, allowed Percival to remain on the land without paying the standard geld."

Gawain then cleared his throat and paused, his oversized head looking up to ensure Harry and Ophelia were listening before he continued.

"The geld continued to be collected until 1162, but it was eventually replaced with taxation. The later Scottish Monarchs decided as with Percival, to waive all taxation with the future Potter descendants as long as the ancestral manor's location stayed at the head of Scotland, allowing the Potters free from taxation as long as they safeguarded and protected the north from invaders."

Gawain again stopped, seemingly happy that both Harry and Ophelia were listening in, and then gestured for them to follow him up the grandiose central staircase.

"In 1603, James the sixth, King of Scotland, became also James the first, King of England and confirmed, by an act of Parliament, that the current owner of the manor and all of his descendants could remain on the site due to all of England, Scotland and Ireland being united."

The squeaky voice dropped off at the top of the staircase taking in a more serious tone.

"However, due to the Salem Witch Trials. The International Confederation of Wizards held a summit in 1692 to motion that the International Statute of Secrecy instituted in 1689 should prematurely be placed in full effect. Henry Potter the First, In accordance with the Statue of Secrecy relinquished the muggle title of Earl of Stinchcombe and raised the Muggle-Repelling wards permanently, to keep the manor hidden from muggle eyes."

Gawain then finished off. "As such, Queen Anne ratified in 1707 after the consolidation of Great Britain that the House of Potter and ancestral location of the manor would be pronounced extinct due to the disappearance of the line."

Gawain then gave an approving nod pleased that both Harry and Ophelia had intently listened.

Raising his head proudly. Gawain guided the two through a graceful carpeted hallway littered with Portraits, suits of armour, and chandeliers.

The House-elf spoke up.

"The Manor contains a Foyer, Entrance Hall, Great Hall, Dining Room, Solar, several Bed Chambers, Duelling Room. Basement Lab and Library."

Gawain swivelled around to better inform them, finger raised as he trailed off.

"The basement labs are to be left alone at all times due to the volatile potions brewing within. Only if you are with Mistress Lily or Master Charlus should you enter."

Gawain coughed and spoke again.

"The Potter Family library is filled with countless books regarding Magical and Alchemical practices, however, be warned that access is restricted to some of the more Dark and Exotic magic. A request must be permitted by the Lord of House Potter to access said books."

Harry and Ophelia acknowledged Gawain's cautionary warning and nodded for the House-Elf to continue.

"The East Wing Private Chambers contain bedrooms for guests of House Potter, whilst the West Wing Private Chambers contain bedrooms for members of the family. Due to this fact, all the family bedrooms have been taken up. Master Charlus has asked humble Gawain to escort you to your rooms in the East Wing."

Harry found it odd the House-elf referred to himself in the third person but chose to say nothing. Instead, watching as Gawain led the two of them further down the hallway to neighbouring bedrooms.

Both were equally attractive and elegant, accompanied by lavishly ornate wardrobes and drawers. For Harry who'd grown up with a simple dim bedroom, it was over-refined to the point he found the decor unnecessary.

Gawain, once they'd left their backpacks and shrunken trunks in their designated bedrooms, continued to showcase the manor. Guiding the two through various hallways that were attached to the central staircase.

The library, duelling room, and basement lab were by far the most interesting when Gawain allowed them to glance inside.

The library was well-stocked. Rows upon rows of wood panelled bookshelves could be seen housing large volumes of tomes, grimoires, and codexes. It was a place Harry affirmed in his mind to investigate further.

The duelling room was a wide room with a narrow platform running through it. On the far end were four upholstered dummies enchanted to return simulated spellfire. Overall Harry thought it was a simple exercise room that was efficient in its design.

The basement lab, Harry noticed, was another interesting addition to the manor. Cauldrons could be seen bubbling away while stirring rods floating above methodically oversaw the brewing of the concoctions.

Continuing their tour, Harry would've liked to have seen the Lord's office but Gawain resolutely told them Master Charlus was to not be disturbed.

Finally after the extensive tour Gawain, evidently satisfied, announced.

"Mrs. Black, Master Potter dinner shall be served shortly, follow faithful Gawain please."

Ascending the central staircase, Gawain directed them through another decadent hallway into a Dining room and ushered them inside before disappearing with a pop.

Harry noticed the Dining Room was perhaps the most elaborate room within the manor.

The ceiling above him was overwrought and gilded with a fanciful gold horseshoe motif, while a flickering fireplace was in the background with an animated painting mounted above it. Several more paintings and an ornate mirror were also attached to the walls. A few smaller coffee tables could be seen as well encircling the main table, holding decanters and various ornamental pieces of appropriate taste.

Further in. Beige upholstered chairs surrounded the antique, beautifully polished curves of the main table, lying outstretched upon a treacherously soft maroon carpet.

The table itself was laden with silver cutlery, porcelain plates, and fine crystal glasses. Elegantly shaped candle holders sat along with the table, two of them adjacent to a welcoming fruit bowl.

"Harry, Ophelia," Lily called, seated at the main table. "It's nice to see you've arrived, we were beginning to fear we'd have to come and collect you."

"We're sorry that we arrived a little late, Mrs. Potter there was so much to see," Ophelia replied hesitantly. The brunette was still becoming accustomed to her adoption.

"Yes," Harry added. "Gawain was very detailed."

"Hmm," Charlus said more to himself before speaking up. "Gawain can be very thorough in his duties, but it's no worry you're here now. Come take a seat."

A polite nod from Harry and Ophelia and the two found themselves seated opposite Charlus and Lily at the main table.

James, seated next to Lily, spoke up. "I suppose we can start now."

"Yes. We might as well." Charlus said indifferently before giving a loud clap of his hands.

Promptly, an array of dishes appeared along with the main table.

The Potters and Ophelia began serving themselves.

"The House-elves have been busy." Claymore said reaching for an assortment of greens and mustard-roasted potatoes.

"Most likely Gawain notified them that we have new residents," Eric muttered, extending his fork for a piece of roast beef.

"House-elves aside," Charlus said in his ever steadfast voice. "Why don't we discuss the events of today, you mentioned Lily, that there were a few odd occurrences.

"Yes," Lily said, politically swallowing as she placed her knife a fork down. "There were a few surprises with wands and inheritances."

Charlus gave a thoughtful stroke of his beard. "Are you saying Lucius's ponce of a son might have a chance to claim the Black Lordship?"

"No. No." Lily waved him off. "Ophelia, thankfully, claimed the heirship rings for the Mckinnon and Black Family's." The redhead paused hesitantly before she continued. "However, Harry took an inheritance test himself. The results were surprising." Lily trailed off.

Charlus raised an eyebrow at that.

James however raised his voice in disbelief. "I don't know how Charlus, it must be some act of god but Harry somehow managed to claim the Peverell heirship ring, the very ring that's been evading the Potters for centuries."

A momentary blink registered briefly on the man's impassive face before it was gone. Not much surprised the old war veteran, however, this surprise was certainly one for the books.

"This is good news," Charlus said evenly, masking his surprise. "I had hoped that Harry being born with black hair might be a good omen for the Potters, considering it's a trait that's only been registered a handful of times in the Potter family. It seems my hope has come true. The addition of the Peverell votes to the Potter-Longbottom alliance could change the balance of power within the Wizengamot towards the Progressives."

"Yes." James nodded in agreement. "I had the same thought."

Harry scowled at this and twisted nervously at the Peverell ring upon his hand. Surely if they thought he was going to hand over the Peverell votes they would at least add the Peverell name to the alliance?

Decidedly, Harry spoke up. "I do hope that you will add the Peverell name to the alliance."

"It's not so simple Harry." James sighed. "Many families vote in conjunction with the Potter-Longbottom alliance, however, none have an alliance agreement signed with the Potters or Longbottoms."

Charlus then mused. "If the boy did sign. The Potters would have the beginnings of a Great Alliance."

"It's a thought." Lily broke in. "However, Harry's inheritance brings the Potter Family onto the international scene."

"I wasn't aware that the Peverell's had any international alliances," Charlus said thoughtfully. "Every alliance with the Peverell's was broken off after the death of Antioch due to the man dying in a drunken bar fight and not delegating an heir."

"That's just the thing, Charlus," Lily said slowly. "The Peverell ring wasn't the only family Harry managed to claim."

Charlus remained pensive, contemplating what Lily said before he spoke. "It's possible that the Potters had an unclaimed lineage that slipped through our notice. The only ones I can think of are the Gryffindor and the Volant families, however."

"It's not them," Antonius said sullenly poking at his food disinterestedly. "My brother somehow managed to claim the Sayre Foundership."

Charlus nearly spluttered but carefully kept himself composed. It certainly wasn't some minor house as he'd thought. He'd been hopeful upon the news that the Potter's may grasp the Gryffindor and Volant heirships but the Founding House of Sayre was a welcome surprise. The House being claimed would be big news in the Magical Community worldwide. The Prophet would be spilling headlines for days if word got out that a member of the Potter Family had assumed both the Sayre Foundership and Peverell heirship, once the news broke internationally that the Sayre Foundership was claimed, the prestige of associating with the Founding House alone would draw a mad scramble to secure good faith with the Potters.

Charlus shook his head ruefully, the boy would certainly have eyes upon him now with the stigma and mystique associated with both Houses. Charlus just hoped the boy could play the game of politics, or it would swallow him whole.

"The Goblins will keep it quiet for now," Charlus said uneasily. "However what begs the question is how the bloodline of Isolt Sayre flows through the boy's veins. It is well noted in Nature's Nobility that the parents of Isolt, William Sayre, and Rionach Gaunt only conceived a single child. No magical family in Britain can attest to belonging to the Sayre line. Isolt herself sailed to the New World and founded the legendary school of Ilvermorny."

Charlus continued looking warily at Lily and trailed off. "I know for certain the Potters weren't related to the Sayre's which means…"

"Yes," Lily said apprehensively. "Harry confirmed the relation came from the matrilineal line, which means Isolt Sayre is my ancestor as well."

Charlus nodded. It was troubling to the older man, to say the least considering the history between the two. It would be an understatement to label the relationship between himself and Lily as tense.

It was common knowledge that the two had started their relationship in bad blood, Charlus himself initially vehemently reproaching the marriage of Lily and James. It wasn't that Charlus was a blood purist per se, It was just the man wanted a match for James that brought something to the table for the Potters, as most marriages between nobility followed this ideology.

However, after the death of his wife Dorea and his son Richmond in the raid upon Diagon Alley that instigated the war, Charlus had been alone, stewing over the deaths of his wife and son growing all the more bitter. Reluctantly, the isolation growing unbearable, Charlus had turned to his younger brother Fleamont and wife Euphemia for company. His stays at Potter Cottage became all the more frequent. Naturally, Lily and James would visit, creating quite the hostile atmosphere.

Eventually, after the births of the four boys, their vehement dislike turned into a grudging acceptance. This grudging acceptance had only grown due to the deaths of Fleamont and Euphemia. Their grudging relationship developed into a mutual one as both of them set aside their differences to focus on the remnants of the family that remained. Through the years, their mutual relationship eventually turned into a cordial one with Charlus raising James's son and designated heir Antonius. Lily and James, when finding time to pause their travels with Eric, would frequently pop in to check on Antonius at Potter Manor and visit Claymore. The two of them, however, were still too tentative much to their dismay to visit Harry due to his condition.

Charlus swallowed nervously, the stoic man had eventually caved in. During the last few years he now secretly held a certain fondness for the redhead who reminded him much of his wife, spirited and determined.

"It appears." Charlus said slowly, "That I owe you an apology, Lily."

The old man sighed and continued. "Years ago, I denounced your marriage with James claiming I'd play no part in it."

Charlus then swallowed. "However with the deaths of my wife and son, I desperately turned to my last family members to better cope with the grief. You, Monty, Mia, and James helped me through the darkest time of life, and yet..."

Charlus trailed off. "I never said thank you. Even with the deaths of my brother and his wife you gave me some small reprieve of comfort and perhaps even more importantly gave me a purpose. Allowing me to raise Antonius as my heir, gave me a reason to live."

Charlus then paused, staring at Lily directly. "It's well known we've never seen eye to eye because I was a petty man who held onto a fanciful hope of my nephew having a materialistic marriage. Eventually, I disregarded this notion after you both helped me and James through the deaths of Fleamont and Euphemia. I was thankful that James had a supportive wife."

Charlus then gulped. "I was wrong about you Lily and for that, I apologise. I always viewed you as a social climber clinging onto James for the name you could associate yourself with and after all this time, I've come to realise I was mistaken, you're a credit to yourself Lily for what you've done for the Potter family. Both James and I could have never raised the Potter name to such notoriety without your hard work. Yet only now I'm hit with this revelation, years after disregarding my hope for James to have a suitable match I find out through you the Potter family will elevate its prestige even more due to your relation with Isolt Sayre."

Charlus, moved by the words he'd spoken, finished gruffly. "I was wrong about you Lily and though no words can ever make up for the scorn I put you through, you have my deepest apology."

For a man who never thought much of small talk, It was a bombshell of an apology. James was beyond shocked, even Antonius, Claymore, and Eric knew the significance of Charlus's words.

Lily, however, was nearly in tears and smiled sweetly. "All is forgiven Charlus." Wrapping the grey-bearded man into a hug.

Charlus for a while allowed the hug to linger but eventually became fed up with the redhead coddling him and shrugged Lily off speaking up.

"So tell me about their wands."

Lily, still beaming, voiced up. "Why don't we allow the boys and Ophelia to have a chance to talk."

"Very well," Charlus said indifferently, the man was however curious to hear about their wands. A lot could be revealed about their personality from the components of a wand.

Lily gestured for Claymore to speak.

The boy quite happily revealed his wand from his pocket and said excitedly. "It's Cypress, nine and a half inches, unicorn hair."

Charlus nodded and smiled. "A fitting wand for a Potter true of birth."

The man however was internally grimacing. The wand was well-matched, cypress and unicorn hair spoke volumes of his noble character, however, owners of cypress wands were well known for being bold and self-sacrificing. The last thing Charlus wanted was to have to bury his Great-Nephew in an early grave. Seeing Claymore smiling, full of joy. The man didn't have the heart to tell the boy the stark news, Ollivander wisely didn't.

Charlus then turned to Antonius who proudly spoke up. "Black Walnut, Manticore mane ten and a half inches."

Charlus then looked at his heir appraisingly. Manticore mane was an uncommon wand ingredient. The combination of the two however indicated it was a duellist's wand.

Charlus gave a pleased nod. "A wand well suited for a duellist. It should serve you well as the heir of House Potter."

Antonius gave a nod, seemingly happy that his Great-Uncle approved of the wand.

It was a nervous Eric that Charlus turned to. Usually, the boy was proud and cocky with an arrogance that rivalled even James in his younger years.

Eric hesitantly voiced. "Holly, Phoenix feather eleven inches."

Before Charlus could reply Lily spoke up. "This is the wand that caused the most amount of concern. It's the brother wand of the Dark Lord's, I've already notified Dumbledore but it's most likely a coincidence."

"It's grim news," Charlus said. "But something easily managed."

Charlus's eyes found Ophelia's. "You can speak up girl, we're all family here."

Ophelia had been remarkably quiet during the discussion. Mostly eating and listening silently.

Ophelia slightly relieved she had something to say, voiced slowly. "Yew, eleven inches twinned feathers of Phoenix and augurey."

"An interesting combination but well-matched," Charlus said in acknowledgment.

Ophelia seemed delighted at the praise judging from the smirk on her lips, she was still hesitant, however.

It would make for a powerful wand, Charlus thought. The girl herself he realised would be a terror with a wand later in life. Lily had mentioned the girl bore the Eye of The Gracae.

Observing the girl further, the telltale sign of her stubborn temperament could be seen as she matched a glare James directed her. Charlus nodded. With her magical gift, the powerful wand she now held, and sufficient magical training, the girl would make for a harrowing enemy.

Finally shaking off his thoughts Charlus turned to the nephew he hadn't seen for over a decade. The boy was an interesting one, to say the least.

Harry realising his turn had come spoke swiftly. "Snakewood, Basilisk heartstring, eleven and three-quarter inches."

Charlus nodded and said in his steadfast voice.

"Certainly a powerful wand, unique as well. Do the wand proud."

Harry replied collectedly.

"If I am to make my wand proud, then it will be through actions, not words that attest to such a statement."

Charlus gazed curiously at the boy. He was a walking puzzle, the reclaimed son of the Potters was more of an enigma to Charlus than the Boy-Who-Lived. Lily had said rather proudly that Harry was a Runic. Possibly the only Runic alive currently if he believed her. However the boy made him nervous, the political and magical power the boy had been granted made him dangerous. The close friendship he'd struck up with the girl even more so. They were shaping up to be a potentially devastating duo.

Charlus resolved he'd keep the boy in the line for as long as he could with the Potter Family, It could be potentially destructive otherwise.

Charlus looked around the table. James's boys were proving to be an interesting bunch alongside the girl. He'd have to wait to see it all play out.

"Well," Charlus announced. "That seems to be dinner done, why won't we get ourselves ready for bed and work out the finer details tomorrow?"

A collective agreement could be heard before the Potters and Ophelia trudged out of the dining room to their designated bedrooms.

The House-elves were now the only ones left, scurrying around happily as they cleaned up.

Harry sighed as he flopped onto the cotton sheets of his bed staring up at the ceiling. The day had been a memorable one, to say the least.

1991, Late August. Potter Manor, John O'Groats in Caithness, Scotland.
Harry snarled as he twisted onto the pathway of a bludgeoning hex to dodge a stunner. The boy had no time to check the red welt forming as he continued his rotation behind an artificially raised wall.Harry, ignoring the pain, tried to recover from the small reprieve of spellfire. Gasping deep lungfuls of air as a consequence of the sudden exertion.

The sullen voice of Ophelia spoke up, she too was taking cover behind the same wall.

"I told you it would be a useless attempt."

Harry gritted his teeth but nodded all the same, the brunette was right.

Quickly thinking on the fly the boy formulated a plan.

"We'll wait for Antonius and Eric to bait the madman out, we go in for the flag then."

Ophelia frowned but didn't voice her disapproval. The girl thought it was as good a plan as any. It was needless to say, that it would be better if Antonius, Claymore, or Eric got caught in the spellfire than them.

Harry and Ophelia then set off swerving through the makeshift barriers in search of a better position.

Harry growled at the oncoming barrage of spellfire being directed at them. The two had been caught out in the open during their ducking and dodging. The boy in his annoyance quickly snapped out a Pavise Charm to deflect the oncoming barrage.

An oblong shield shimmered out in front of Harry grounding the assorted spells before he swiftly turned and followed Ophelia behind another barrier.

The Pavise Charm was a useful spell Harry had learned out of necessity during his stay at Potter Manor. Whilst a costly spell in terms of magical output, the spell had given Harry the ability to protect himself from the more devastating barrages of spells.

Glancing around the barrier Harry took in his surroundings and sighed, they didn't look promising.

Courtesy of one Alastor Moody, the duelling room had been turned into a warzone. Barriers lay scattered throughout the room for cover, heavy-duty bean bags could be seen stacked atop each other to act as a refuge and along the cross-section of the room, a trench had been installed to allow for a hasty retreat.

Mad-Eye Moody stood in the thick of it all barking out spells with sadistic pleasure as the veteran Auror diminished any hope the five had of capturing the flag.

'Tough love.' The peg-legged man called it. Alastor had vocally voiced his good conscience wouldn't allow them to turn into a bunch of 'Nancy Boys.'

Harry scowled. Nursing his injured shoulder, he knew the feeling all too well. The slightly unhinged Auror was a firm subscriber to the 'No Pain, No Gain' philosophy.

This time, however, Harry vowed he'd rip away the damned flag from the blasted man's whizzing eye and relish in his victory.

"This time, Ophelia. The flag will be ours." Harry's voice said, filled with conviction he rose from his crouched position behind the wall.

Ophelia smirked. She held a special dislike for the veteran Auror who'd seemed to make it his life mission to tear the poor girl away from the comforting warmth of her bed for these early morning training sessions.

The two broke out into a sprint, passing Claymore who was huddled in the trench returning spellfire.

Safely behind another wall, Harry took in the form of Antonius and Eric working in tandem trying to catch the crazy Auror off guard.

'Perfect.' Harry thought. Moody was distracted on three different fronts, now was the time to launch an assault and claim the flag.

"Ophelia," Harry ordered. "Cover me."

In a moment of athleticism, Harry sprung from behind the wall and charged towards his goal, hurtling over bean bags as he ran, wand flicking up a cacophony of distracting spells to better vex the already slightly frazzled Auror.

Ophelia, true to form, followed through with a volley of Disarming Charms, Impediment Jinxes, and Stinging Hexes.

The veteran Auror scowled a Stinging hex slipped through.

A satisfied grin formed upon Harry's face at the Aurors disgruntlement, the brunette being woken up too many times for her liking had a lot of motivation to make the Stinging hex hurt.

Moody, however, at this point hadn't been idle. The Auror, whilst a little battered from the onslaught had managed to deflect, shield and return all the spells directed at him.

The final Stinging Hex that clipped the gruff Auror was the only one he'd allowed to make contact in order to complete his spell chain of Bludgeoning Hexes.

Harry grimaced as the stakes got raised.

Mad-eye Moody blasted off like a live Confringo! Spellfire returned with vicious intent as Bludgeoning Hexes sailed across the room.

Determined for his mad dash to succeed. Harry quickly cast a Reparo on a broken-down wall ahead of him, the mending charm seamlessly repairing the wall and intercepting the Bludgeoning Hex headed his way.

Hope surged through the boy, only a few metres were between him and his prize.

The flag soared valiantly upon its stand.

Harry in his haste, practically flew along the ground. The flag just ahead of him as he barreled through the final few metres in mere moments towards his awaited destination.

'Success.' The boy thought, hand clasping around the wooden grooves of the flagpole. All he had to do now was exit the room.

Swiftly spinning around with the flag flapping behind his back, Harry bolted through the duelling room, leaping over crumbling walls and ducking and swerving like a man possessed.

However, unknown to the boy, the whizzing eye of Mad-eye Moody locked onto its target.

The white flapping flag was getting away.

Moody, having already dealt with Harry's brothers and Ophelia. Stared down the escaping boy.

"Can't have that." The Veteran Auror muttered to himself as he unleashed a stream of Stunning Spells.

The red spells honed in.

Jubilation shot through Harry. He could almost taste the victory upon the air as he dashed through the simulated battlefield.

Twenty-Two times Harry had entered this damned room and twenty-two times he had come out second best. Today however would be different, today, triumph would be his.

'Just a couple more seconds.' Harry thought, urging himself forward, he could see the light of the adjoining Hallway. The realization hit him. He was gonna make it, excitement bubbling up inside him and then, just as victory seemed an absolute certainty. Blackness engulfed him.

"Constant vigilance!" Mad-Eye Moody hounded as he Rennervated Harry.

Harry groaned, dearly wishing he could give the veteran Auror a taste of his own medicine. He'd been so close, the doorway now looking treacherously at him.

"You lot might as well get ready for breakfast." The bark of Moody came.

Moody then continued in his usual gruff. "Not a bad attempt, I'll see you kiddos for a repeat tomorrow, make sure you're up nice and early."

Ophelia gave a glare at the veteran Auror as he stomped away, the last part was directed at her.

The brunette, still grumbling over the injustice of having to get up at the crack of dawn, sighed and walked over to the prone form of Harry. His arms were outstretched upon the floor, reluctant to get up.

The girl offered a hand, which he gladly took.

No words of encouragement were spoken after they left the room, both of them knew where they'd made an error. The two just walked in silence following the slumping postures of Antonius, Claymore, and Eric.

Harry willingly allowed the cascade of hot water to ease away the knots and tension in his back. The everlasting warmth of the shower was one of the few luxuries he enjoyed within Potter Manor.

At Wool's, the showers were brief and devoid of any warmth. However here within the sanctuary of his shower, he had time to recollect over the previous events of the day.

Harry glanced back at the latest bruise adorning the corner of his shoulder. Moody's morning training sessions were often brutal and while they were demoralizing in every loss suffered, they'd turned out to be quite beneficial.

Harry had been eager upon his arrival at the Manor to delve through the Library's multitude of shelves in search of promising magic. The addition of the frequent battering from the veteran Auror during their morning sessions had only promoted his hunger. He'd had to restrain himself though upon realising the complexity of the texts within the Library were still well beyond his capability.

As a consequence, Harry had taken a new approach. Choosing instead of wading helplessly through complex material, he would instead start at the ground level like everyone else.

During his month stay, Harry had taken to rifling through his school books and a few supplementary ones to better understand the magical theory.

Ophelia, curious, had also joined in upon questioning Harry why he'd been going through his school books so early. Learning she wouldn't be able to cast the spells she wanted without learning the theory behind the spell had been quite the revelation for the girl. The Brunette grudgingly, as a result, joined Harry in an amicable company to better prepare themselves for the first year of Hogwarts.

Thankfully their effort had paid off and now their repertoire of spells had sufficiently increased to the point that during their morning training sessions the two had some capability to defend themselves from the spell flinging veteran Auror.

Harry gave a loud sigh as the warmth of the water began to soothe his aching body, rolling his shoulders and twisting his neck side to side to ease the stress before he continued his train of thought.

Aside from the regular beatdowns by Moody and the study sessions to better equip himself for the morning onslaught. Not much had happened during his stay at Potter Manor. Mealtimes were roughly the same and his relationship with his Family was still tentative at best.

Claymore and his mother did try, but their conversations however were awkward without exactly much to say beyond personal interests.

His other brothers, Antonius and Eric remained civil during their encounters or cordial over a game of exploding snap, Antonius for the most part remained his indifferent self, while Eric was still arrogant but had eventually stopped snubbing Harry at every turn.

A pattern had emerged within the household. Charlus would remain blunt as ever, while Claymore and Lily would try to form some discussion. James would remain hesitant around him not knowing what to say, while at the same time he would remain petty and exchange sharp glares with Ophelia. Harry supposed it was nice that Eric and Antonius simply didn't care and left him alone for the most part.

There'd been a few heated discussions; however, Lily had returned from Gringotts with documents from the Goblins drawn up to sign over the proxy seats of the Peverell and Sayre Families. Harry had initially refused. His parents were at a loss why but Harry felt the need to clamp down on his political power.

It had taken the careful argument from Charlus that Harry could always reclaim both seats upon his age of majority that led him to eventually cave in.

Grudgingly, Harry taking the blood quill offered had signed over the Peverell proxy within the Wizengamot to James as he already managed the Potter Proxy and then added another signature so Lily could manage the Sayre proxy within the Magical Congress.

His mother had reasoned during the school year she could explore potential avenues and partnerships for the Potters in Magical North America.

The Prophet had a field day as soon as the proxies were confirmed by the Wizengamot and Magical Congress. The Prophet, giving a detailed history of the Houses and offering the Potters their adulation on the resurgence of two Houses that were considered quite pertinent in wizarding lore.

The international papers however spent a week's worth of speculation on Lily's heritage, one reporter going so far as to trace Lily's lineage to the eldest daughter squib of Isolt Sayre, Martha Steward the Second.

The Potters, however, decided delicately that the Black and Mckinnon families would remain unseated.

Ophelia's adoption had sparked quite the controversy and frenzy within The Prophet.

The Prophet gave multiple conjectures on the matter. A writer named Rita Skeeter postulated the Potters were in collusion with the Ministry to claim the Black and Mckinnon seats. While another article of hers theorised that the Potters were trying to redeem the 'Dark Daughter of the Blacks' and bring her to the light.

When the information was released to the public, the newspaper's headline about Ophelia's adoption saw a surge of incoming letters congratulating the couple for taking on the 'burden' of Ophelia. Other letters however had alluded to the viewpoint that raising Ophelia within the Potter Household would allow for the girl to justly develop Progressive aligned values. A couple of letters bluntly said it was a way for the misdeeds of the Black family to pay penance for their actions.

Wisely the Potters had let the matter slide deciding they'd investigate the matter in a couple of years.

Finally feeling well soaked, Harry stepped outside the shower, towel wrapped around his waist, sufficiently relaxed. He was becoming more and more excited as the days passed on. Hogwarts was approaching in a couple of days.

September 1st. Kings Cross, platform nine and three-quarters.

"I can't believe it, James!" Lily gushed. "My boys are growing up, already Hogwarts age. They'll be married before you know it."

James raised an eyebrow at the mother of four who was wiping away a false tear from her face. It seemed her emotions were getting to her.

"I know Lily." James sighed. "But we best get along. We arrived late to avoid getting swarmed by the crowd."

"Oh. Alright, James." Lily said reluctantly.

James nodded and spoke up. "Do you boys remember how to get through the barrier?"

"Yes, dad," Eric said in a tired voice. "It's simple. We walk straight through the barrier."

"Good," James said, giving a grin. "Best show us how it's done then?"

Eric matched James's grin before breaking into a heavy run and disappeared through the wall.

"Alright. Lily said. "Who's next?"

Claymore gave an eager grin, stepping forward and then passing through the barrier in a run much the same as Eric.

Antonius, not to be outdone, simply strolled towards the barrier in the same indifferent manner he always had, passing through seamlessly.

Ophelia, now curious, walked forward after Antonius, however, instead of passing through the barrier she stopped directly before it and spoke.

"I can see the magic humming, much like Potter Manor."

Lily smiled at the girl and said sweetly. "It's just the concealment wards honey, why don't you take a look on the other side?"

Ophelia turned to the redhead and gave a casual shrug before she too stepped across the barrier.

"Go along now Harry," Lily said, speaking up. "No need to be hesitant."

Harry ignored her. He wasn't hesitant per se, It was just the allure of the barrier. While he couldn't see the barrier like Ophelia. He could almost sense the magic, feel it distinctly. It felt old and generational.

Giving his mother a polite nod, Harry turned. Hands in his pockets and walked towards the barrier not flinching in the slightest as he passed through.

The barrier seemed to envelop him before its hold loosened and the bright light of the platform appeared before him.

The bustle of people could be seen, hugging and waving off their children as a scarlet steam engine loomed overhead.

A sign overhead read 'Hogwarts' Express, eleven o'clock.'

Turning back towards the barrier Harry saw the wrought-iron archway where the barrier had been.

The words Platform Nine and Three-quarters were etched upon it.

"Boys," Lily called as she stepped through the barrier. "Come give your mother a hug."

Antonius, Claymore, and Eric seemed to have no issues with this and allowed Lily to envelop them.

Reluctantly, Harry stepped forward and allowed himself to be wrapped into the hug. She was his mother after all.

Finally, Lily released her sons and gave them a stern stare.

"I expect a letter. What house you're sorted in. All the details about your adventures at Hogwarts."

"But mum," Eric whined. "We don't have an owl."

Lily sighed. "Your father and I didn't see the point of you bringing Hermes to Hogwarts. He's a family owl anyway, a school owl will suffice."

Lily continued. "Not owning an owl is no excuse not to write a letter."

Eric just nodded. Accepting he wouldn't be able to get out of writing a letter.

James then broke in and said. "I expect to hear that there have been no fights or arguments between you four during your school year. Your brothers, no matter what house you're sorted in."

"Very well. I will try my best." Antonius said with distaste.

"I'll be fine, dad. No need to worry about me." Claymore added in offhandedly.

Eric scowled but muttered, "yes dad."

Harry, however, remained quiet, choosing not to say anything on the matter; he rarely got involved with his brothers during his stay anyway.

"Good," James said in acknowledgment. The man, pleased with their response then gave a ruffle to Claymore's hair.

Lily, now teary-eyed, spoke up. "We'll see the five of you at Yule." The redhead mother continued. "You best be off, I won't let you go otherwise."

Harry instinctively froze up when James put a hand on his pack.

"Be well son." His father said. "Have fun with your brothers and the girl."

Harry swallowed nervously and nodded. It was most likely the best goodbye he would get from his father.

After a couple more hugs and goodbyes the four boys and Ophelia separated from Lily and James and made their way towards the Hogwarts Express.

"Let's go find a compartment." Claymore said excitedly. Beckoning his brothers and Ophelia forward in his exuberance to get on the train.

As the five began searching for an empty compartment a voice spoke up.

"Well, I'd be damned Fred. Look at the ickle firsties."

"They seem to be getting more and more confused every year don't they?" Another voice replied in agreement.

"You're right George, they do seem a little lost. Maybe we should help the precious things?"

Antonius, annoyed, spoke up at their gawking. "We can seat ourselves just fine. Thank you."

It was evidently the wrong thing to say as a voice broke in.

"Would you look at the firstie trying to act diplomatic, Fred? Seems we got a proper one."

"Why, you're right George!" The voice exclaimed. "I bet Ronniekins could learn a thing or two from a boy of such refined manners."

"Splendid idea brother mine." The voice chorused in agreement.

Antonius practically growled as he was scooped up by redhead number two.

Harry watched curiously as his brother was being manhandled by what seemed to be ginger twins. Fred and George he presumed.

However, there was some pause for concern as Antonius seemed to be disappearing further and further down the carriage.

"We best go get him," Claymore spoke up. "He'll be impossible to deal with otherwise."

The party of four hurried after the redhead menaces.

Swiftly catching up to the troublesome duo, the yell of Antonius was quite evident.

"Unhand me you bloody rascals," Antonius said in a futile effort.

The two gingers ignored the boy and continued tugging him along.

The sliding of a compartment door being opened could be seen by one of them before the other quite literally threw Antonius inside.

"Oh, Ronniekins." A mocking voice came. "We brought you etiquette lessons."

"Yes." A voice chipped in. "Maybe you'll learn to chew your food with your mouth closed."

"It's so uncivilised." The other twin agreed jestingly.

"Utter pricks." The now embarrassed redhead boy said curling his fist, face red in anger.

His complaints didn't seem to register though.

One of the gingers then turned to the groaning form of Antonius upon the floor.

"We expect results firstie! Don't let us down!"

With that the two gingers barrelled off further down the carriage and into another, laughing as they went leaving a thoroughly annoyed Antoninus and irate 'Ronniekins'.

"Are you okay?" Claymore said cautiously as he watched Antonius pick himself up off the compartment floor.

"Do I look okay?" Antonius said, spitting off in a grouchy voice. "Who the bloody hell were they anyway?"

"My brothers, Fred and George." The redhead said morosely. "They're a nightmare to live with."

"That I can understand," Antonius said sourly before he continued. "Who are you anyway?"

The redhead boy shuffled nervously.

"Ron Weasley." The boy said hesitantly, holding out his hand.

Antonius gave it a clasp and spoke formally. "Antonius Potter, heir of House Potter."

"Wow." Ron blurted out. "Are you really the brother of the Boy-Who-Lived?"

Antonius rolled his eyes and gestured to Eric. "Why don't you ask him yourself."

Ron's eyes almost bulged as he stuttered excitedly and pointed at Eric's T-shaped forehead. "Have you really, well you know, got the scar."

Eric happily pulled back his hair to show off the scar and spoke. "Yes, that's me. The Boy-Who-Lived, wizard extraordinaire."

Ron then trailed off, "so that's where You-Know-Who..."

"Yes," Eric said proudly. "That's where I vanquished him."

"Cool," Ron said eagerly.

Ophelia then broke in, nose slightly wrinkling as she looked at Ron curiously. "Did you know you have a smudge of dirt on your nose?"

"Ah. No?" The redhead replied quickly, seeming embarrassed as he tried to rub it off.

Claymore then spoke up. "Dirty noses and introductions aside, why don't we all take a seat?"

"Alright," Ron said as the five new occupants began finding seats in the compartment.

"Who are you guys anyway?."

The redhead was pointing to Claymore, Harry, and Ophelia.

"I'm Claymore Potter." The boy gestured to himself before pointing towards Harry and Ophelia.

"That's Harry, my brother, and Ophelia Black. My mother's god-daughter."

Harry inclined his head towards the boy politely, already not thinking much of him before he turned to stare out the window.

During the discussion, he'd taken a seat in the far corner of the compartment next to Ophelia.

Ron gave a blink hearing Ophelia's last name and seemed reserved before speaking.

"I heard from the Prophet that the Potters adopted a Black, my mum said it was peculiar."

Eric then chimed in. "Harry wouldn't leave the orphanage without Ophelia, so mum being her godmother decided to just adopt her."

Ron nodded, seeming puzzled. "Your brother was in an orphanage?"

Eric shrugged. "My brother had a magical leaching, was supposed to end up with my aunt but she dumped him at an orphanage."

Eric then smirked. "My mum almost crucified my aunt when she found out."

Harry, slightly annoyed with Eric telling his life story, spoke up. "I can talk for myself, Eric."

"Yeah. Yeah." Eric said, waving him off.

Harry didn't bother replying, his brother liked to do the talking for others.

Ron then piped up glancing at his trunk sitting on the top of the compartment.

"So where are your trunks?"

"In our pockets," Antonius said simply. "They've been shrunk down with featherlight charms added. A finite should reverse it."

"Neat," Ron said enviously, the boy had been stuck lugging his trunk to the compartment.

"So," Eric said, perking up. "What quidditch team do you follow?"

Ron suddenly puffed up proudly. "The Chudley Cannons, been a supporter all my life."

"The Cannons?" Eric asked, astonished that someone would follow the team before saying smugly. "I'm a Falmouth Falcons supporter just like my dad."

Harry tried to ignore the following conversation. The two boys had begun an extensive conversation on the merits of the Chudley Cannons. Ron, quite bullheadedly argued that the Cannons would see a rise from the bottom of the table, as Gordon Horton, apparently was one of the best upcoming keepers in the League. Eric, however, vehemently disagreed. Arguing that Ragmar Dorkins was potentially the worst manager the League had ever seen and that the Cannons would continue to sit at ninth on the table.

The conversation continued for quite some time.

Around Half past twelve, there was a knock on the door before a dimpled woman holding a trolley slid back the compartment door and said, "Anything off the cart, dears?"

Ron simply pulled out a sandwich and waved the trolley lady off.

Antonius, however, asked. "Do we want anything?"

Claymore gave a nod. "I'm a bit peckish, Pumpkin Pasties, Cauldron Cakes, and Chocolate Frogs sound good to me."

"Now you mention it," Eric said, fishing for a couple of Galleons in his pocket. "I could do with something to eat."

Eric put down two Galleons on the compartment table.

"Harry, Ophelia?" Antonious asked questioningly.

Ophelia shrugged. "I'll go with a Pasty."

Harry glanced up, he'd been quite contentedly watching the train carry them out of London. The urban sprawl had given way to fields of cows and sheep as they flicked past at speed.

"I'd rather have a sandwich," Harry said disinterestedly

Ron perked up at that. "I'll trade you." The boy was offering his sandwich quite eagerly.

Harry considered it for a second before agreeing. "He can have my share then."

Antonius, unfazed at Harry's decision, spoke up politely to the cart lady. "Five Chocolate frogs, Pumpkin Pasties, and Cauldron Cakes please."

The cart lady quickly placed the order down on the table.

"Eric." Antonius continued nonchalantly. "Be a dear and pay the lady."

Eric gave a sharp stare at Antonius but rummaged for a couple more Galleons and handed them over nonetheless. He'd meant to pay for himself but Antonius had baited him out.

The trolley lady, satisfied, handed back a few Sickles, and soon the six within the compartment were snacking away at their goods.

Harry in particular found himself enjoying the corned beef sandwich Ron had given him. It was tasteful with its addition of mustard and sprouts. Quite a mean little sandwich he thought in all honesty. The mustard had a bite to it.

The countryside was now rapidly shifting as Harry continued watching. The golden lustre of fields had disappeared and now babbling brooks and evergreen forests could be seen in the surroundings. Dark green hills on the horizon.

Another knock on the door of their compartment occurred sometime later and a round-faced boy asked sheepishly.

"Sorry," He said, "But have you seen a toad at all?"

"Blimey," Claymore exclaimed. "Neville, how have you been?"

"Quite well," Neville said shyly. "My Gran was relieved I got my Hogwarts letter."

"Yeah." Claymore knowingly. "Good thing too, your Gran is a cranky one."

"I know," Neville said glumly. "If I lose Trevor she won't let me forget it."

Claymore thought for a second returning to the starting conversation. "Try someone from an older year for a summoning charm, it's the best advice I can give."

The slightly miserable boy brightened up. "Yes, I might as well try. Well, if you see him…"

Neville gave a wave as he left.

"You know him?" Ophelia asked curiously.

"Neville?" Claymore said as he continued. "Mad-eye used to take me to Longbottom Hall from time to time."

"That's right," Antonius said in remembrance. "Charlus wanted to introduce me to the Longbottom heir, but rumours of his magical capability meant he'd reconsidered. Told me to wait till Hogwarts to meet the boy and see what I thought of him myself."

Claymore tried to reply but Ron broke in.

"Don't know why he's so bothered," Ron said. "If I'd brought a toad I'd lose it as quickly as I could. Mind you, I brought Scabbers, so I can't talk."

Ron then gestured to a fat rat dozing on his lap.

Eric tried to give a reassuring smile but the rat wasn't much to look at.

Half an hour passed before a girl then spoke up from the now open compartment door.

"Excuse me, but have you seen a toad?" The girl continued. "I promised I'd help a boy look for it."

"I'm guessing you mean Neville?" Eric said helpfully. "We sent him off to search for an older year to do a summoning charm."

"Hmm." The girl said thoughtfully. "Summoning charms, I can't say I know it. I've only tried a few simple spells just for practice. Nobody in my family apart from me can do magic."

"I'm Hermione Granger, by the way."

The girl who said holding out her hand to Eric who shook it and replied.

"Eric Potter."

"Are you really?" Said Hermione. "I know all about you, of course. I read all about you in Modern Magical History and The Rise and Fall of the Dark Art's and Great Wizarding Events of the Twentieth Century."

The girl continued. "You and your grandparents are national heroes. I had to reread the chapter on The Last Stand Of Godric's Hollow. It was simply unbelievable."

"Yeah," Eric admitted smugly. "It was pretty badass wasn't it?"

Hermione nodded albeit a bit distastefully at Eric's language. "I'm glad you agree. Anyway, who are your friends?"

Eric then gestured to each of them as he spoke. "This is Ron Weasley, we just met him.

The redhead boy held up a hand nervously as Eric continued.

"These are my Brothers, however, Antonius, Harry, and Claymore. The girl is my mother's god-daughter Ophelia."

"It's a pleasure to meet you," Hermione said, smiling, holding out her hand for them to shake.

Once Hermione finished shaking all their hands, she asked curiously.

"Are you all first years as well?"

Eric decided to continue speaking for them. "Yeah we're all first years, mom had quadruplets which was a surprise. Ron and Ophelia are first years as well."

"Oh that's really rare isn't it?" Hermione said, looking surprised Eric had three other brothers all the same age.

"Yep," Eric said, popping the p. "Mom had super twins."

"Well," Hermione said nervously, realising she still had a toad to look for. "I expect we'll be at Hogwarts soon and I promised Neville I'd search for his toad."

With that, the bushy-haired girl waved goodbye and stormed off.

"A little too exuberant isn't she?" Antonius said with disdain.

Eric shrugged. "She seemed alright to me."

Harry didn't bother to speak up.

Personally, Harry felt he would've liked to use that Langlock spell his mother seemed fond of using on his father when he started complaining. The girl didn't stop talking and practically dominated the conversation with Eric not giving a chance for anyone else to speak.

The conversation seemed to die off after a while within the compartment.

The comforting clickety-clack of the train along the tracks eventually settled into the compartment.

Eric and Ron still maintained hushed discussions about quidditch while the rest seemed content to listen in. Ophelia had briefly slept away on Harry's shoulder before he shrugged her off, his arm becoming too numb.

The comforting peace was disturbed when three boys entered.

The middle one Harry immediately recognised as the boy from Madam Malkin's. He was now staring at them with interest.

"So it's true then." The pale-haired boy said in his snide tone. "The boy-who-lived has come to Hogwarts."

"It appears so," Eric said, carefully looking at the other two boys beside him, both of them seemed to look like bodyguards.

"Oh, this is Crabbe and this is Goyle." The pale boy gestured carelessly and continued.

"My name's Malfoy, Draco Malfoy. Heir apparent to the Most Noble House of Malfoy, I hope you remember the fact."

Draco tried to sound imposing but Antonius wasn't having it.

"Then you should remember you're talking to your betters." Antonius sneered.

Antonius then looked at Draco with derision. "I am Antonius Potter, Heir of the Most Noble and Most Ancient House of Potter. Do not attempt to pull rank with your fancy title."

The heir of House Potter continued. "My Uncle Charlus told me all about the Malfoy's. Piss poor french farmers who arrived with the Conqueror as immigrants. You would do well to be respectful. The Potters were old long before Armand was handed his meager estate."

Draco scowled, cheeks tinged with pink at the insult and rebutted."What's a bit of old money compared to the money my family has now that trumps yours?"

"Prestige," Antonius said simply.

Draco however ignored him, Ophelia catching his eye.

"You." The pale-haired boy said, pointing to Ophelia recognising her from the shop.

"You're the quidditch prodigy."

"Am I?" Ophelia said cryptically, taking the pale-haired boy in and giving a smirk. It was clear to the girl the game was still afoot. The brunette continued evasively. "We'll just have to wait and see."

"I suppose we will," Draco said slowly.

An awkward silence followed when Ophelia just nodded and declined to reply.

Draco, not really having much more to say, tried to remain his pompous self while he began to feel a little uncomfortable under the gaze of Antonius and Ophelia. Antonius' dislike was evident. Not wanting to damage his impression even more. Draco said his goodbye and swiftly disappeared.

"Damn Malfoy's." Ron's dark grumble could be heard.

"Yes," Antonius replied in agreement. "I'm surprised he had the gall to approach us after his father supported you-know-who."

Eric, who didn't know about the last part, turned red.

Claymore also grimaced but seemed more informed than Eric like Antonius.

"Nothing we can do about it now. We're almost arriving anyway, best get our robes on."

The group seemed to nod in agreement.

Robes now on. Harry peered out of the window. The sky had darkened considerably to a deep blue, it seemed they were getting close as the train began slowing down.

A voice then echoed later on throughout the train. "We will be reaching Hogwarts shortly, please leave your luggage on the train, it will be taken to the school separately."

"I guess we better leave our trunks," Claymore said, pulling a small box from his pocket and tapping with his wand. 'Finite'.

The trunk rapidly enlarged before the rest except Ron followed suit.

Finally arriving at the station. The occupants of the carriage joined the crowded corridor of the disembarking train.

The Large form of Hagrid could be seen booming. "Firs' years! Firs' years over here? Mind yer step, now Firs' years follow me!"

Ron. Harry's brothers and Ophelia followed the Half-giant, first-years soon swarming around him.

It seemed to Harry they were taking a scenic tour as the man led them down a narrow path, rather than the carriages the older years were climbing into.

A great black lake appeared before him in the darkness as they trailed down a narrow rocky pathway. A castle could also be seen mounted on a hill, shining like a beacon above the dark ripples of the water

'Hogwarts.' Harry surmised, it was an impressive sight.

Now at the fringes of the Lake, boats sitting idly waiting. Hagrid called.

"No more'n four to a boat."

Harry's brothers began forming sorry looks to Ron and Ophelia. Harry however waved them off.

"It's fine," Harry spoke up. "You take Ron. I'll go with Ophelia."

"Very well," Antonius said not caring that Harry chose to stay with Ophelia before they left the two to find a boat.

Harry and Ophelia eventually found a boat at the far corner of the lake that was unoccupied.

Climbing in. The two waited for the boat to set sail.

"Do you mind?" A soft voice said hesitantly.

Harry blinked. It was the girl from Madam Malkins, icy tips of hair gleaming in the moonlight.

"Sure," Harry said, shrugging.

The girl gave him a polite smile and climbed in.

Seeing everyone was now settled into a boat. Hagrid shouted from the boat he was standing on. "Right then forward!"

The boats without assistance all moved at once, crossing the waters of the somber subterranean lake.

It was a truly beautiful sight as they glided across the placid and glassy waters of the lake, the castle towering above them as if carved from ivory. Definitive and homing.

"Wow," Ophelia whispered. Moved as well at the scene before her.

Harry nodded in agreement. Even the girl from Malkins next to him was in awe of the sight.

"Heads down." Came Hagrids yell as the boats reached the cliff face.

The boats continued through a narrow crevice before beaching themselves upon a stony shore.

After they'd disembarked and left the shore. Harry noticed they seemed to be underneath the castle as Hagrid guided them along a dark tunnel before clambering up a passageway filled with stairs.

Eventually, the flights of stone stairs dropped off at the top. A large, oak front door now appeared before them as they emerged from the passageway.

Hagrid lumbering towards the entrance raised his oversized fist and knocked three times upon the castle door.

1991. September 1st, Hogwarts Great Hall.

The door swung outwards. As a stern-looking black-haired witch looked speculatively at them.

"The firs' years, Professor McGonagall." Hagrid voiced.

The stern witch replied. "Thank you, Hagrid. I will handle them from here."

Professor McGonagall gave a cough speaking up.

"Welcome to Hogwarts, the banquet will begin shortly after the sorting ceremony."

Professor McGonagall then launched into a lecture about the history of the four houses of Hogwarts, expected etiquette, and how she expected their designated house to become their family throughout their education.

Seemingly finished. Professor McGonagall then announced.

"I shall return shortly to collect you, please wait quietly until then."

Nervous murmuring followed as upcoming first years tentatively voiced their thoughts on what the sorting would be.

"Now, form a line," Professor McGonagall said, speaking up upon her return and then voiced. "Follow me please."

Harry felt slightly nervous as he followed the stern professor through the double doors into the Great Hall.

The hall was encompassed by thousands of floating candles, ushering a glow into the vast expanse of the hall.

Hundreds of faces stared up at them from four tables running vertically down the hall.

No. Harry thought, noticing that while some stared curiously at them, most were now looking curiously at a hat that stood on a stool. It was an odd-looking thing, frayed and battered beyond belief.

The hat then twitched as its brim opened like a mouth and began to sing.

"Oh, you may not think I'm pretty,

But don't judge on what you see,

I'll eat myself if you can find

A smarter hat than me.

You can keep your bowlers black,

Your top hats sleek and tall,

For I'm the Hogwarts Sorting Hat

And I can cap them all.

There's nothing hidden in your head

The Sorting Hat can't see,

So try me on and I will tell you

Where you ought to be.

You might belong in Gryffindor,

Where dwell the brave at heart,

Their daring, nerve, and chivalry

Set Gryffindors apart;

You might belong in Hufflepuff,

Where they are just and loyal,

Those patient Hufflepuffs are true

And unafraid of toil;

Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw,

if you've a ready mind,

Where those of wit and learning,

Will always find their kind;

Or perhaps in Slytherin

You'll make your real friends,

Those cunning folks use any means

To achieve their ends.

So put me on! Don't be afraid!

And don't get in a flap!

You're in safe hands (though I have none)

For I'm a Thinking Cap!

Applause rang out through the Great Hall before Professor McGonagall stepped forward holding a long roll of parchment.

"When I call your name, you will put on the hat and sit on the stool to be sorted," she said.

"Abbott, Hannah!"

A pink-faced girl with blonde pigtails stumbled out of line, put on the hat, which fell right down over her eyes, and sat down. A moment's pause.

"HUFFLEPUFF!" shouted the hat.

"Black, Ophelia."

The atmosphere immediately darkened as her last name was spoken. Harry swallowed, watching Ophelia step up towards the stool hesitantly before placing the hat upon her head. The next few moments seemed to stretch on before the hat shouted.

"SLYTHERIN"

The occupants of the Hall didn't react. Seemingly accepting there would be no other House the girl could be placed in. Ophelia was pure Slytherin material to them.

Harry watched as Ophelia placed the hat back upon the seat. Giving him a rueful smile before she headed towards the Slytherin table. Its occupants cautiously shuffled to the sides around her.

"Bones, Susan!" The call came next.

"HUFFLEPUFF!" shouted the hat again, and Susan scuttled off to sit next to Hannah.

"Boot, Terry!" "RAVENCLAW!"

The table second from the left clapped this time; several Ravenclaws stood up to shake hands with Terry as he joined them.

Names started spilling from McGonagall. Brocklehurst, Bulstrode, Finch-Fletchley, each person going to the house they were sorted in. Neville and Hermione, Harry noted, ended up in Gryffindor. Malfoy, ever so smug, ended up in Slytherin before the names continued.

Before finally. "Potter, Antonius."

Whispers broke out as Antonius stepped forward and confidently placed the hat on his head.

"RAVENCLAW!" The Hat announced.

The Gryffindor table sighed as Antonius went to join the Eagles. They were expecting a Potter to follow through the tradition of being a Gryffindor.

"Potter, Claymore."

Professor McGonagall said. Cutting off the disappointment.

Claymore excitedly strode towards the stool to place the Hat on his head.

The Gryffindor's waited expectantly for Claymore to get sorted into the house of the Lions, only to get snubbed once again as the Hat yelled.

"HUFFLEPUFF!"

A depressed moan escaped the Gryffindor's as the PotterPuff excitedly raced off to greet the badgers.

"Potter, Eric!" McGonagall then said loudly.

Harry heard the excited voices.

"Potter, did she say?"

"The Eric Potter?"

Britain's favoured son stepped forward to be sorted. Giving a wave to the Hall before he placed the Hat upon his head.

Harry watched his brother carefully as he sat under the hat. He appeared to be arguing with the Hat, however, but then the shout came.

"GRYFFINDOR!"

The roar from the Gryffindor table was deafening. Claps erupting from the table. The Weasley twins all the while yelling. "We got Potter! We got Potter!"

Eric approaching the Gryffindor table was swamped by a rush of hands eager to greet the celebrity.

Once the cheers quieted. McGonagall called out "Potter, Hadrian."

Harry calmly striding up to the stool, took the hat and placed it upon his head.

"Hmm," a small voice said in his ear. "Difficult. Very difficult. A thirst for knowledge I see but also a desire to mark yourself within the pages of history. You have a drive to succeed boy, one I've rarely seen but where to put you? Hufflepuff? No, you'd roast them alive due to their coddling. Gryffindor is certainly not an option. You'd turn the House of the brave into a demolition zone due to their incessant stupidity. Ravenclaw or Slytherin seems to be the question."

The hat then asked. "What do you truly desire, Mr. Potter?"

Harry thought for a second. "To chase my potential and achieve it like anyone else."

The Hat spoke carefully. "Hmm. Ravenclaw could give you the keys to academia but Slytherin could pave the way to greatness, tricky, tricky. My decision will only go so far, the choice is up to you. It's all in your head you know?"

Harry gave a look to Ophelia at the Slytherin table and sighed. She seemed so alone with everyone keeping their distance. Finally, Harry made up his mind. Ophelia needed him.

"Slytherin would be best."

"Very well. Your loyalty is commendable. " The hat intoned internally. "We shall see what comes from it."

"SLYTHERIN!" The hat announced loudly to the startlement of the Hall and then turmoil ensued.

Screams of protest could be heard throughout the Hall from both the Slytherins and Gryffindors. The idea that a child of the 'lightest' house within Britain would be sorted into Slytherin was unthinkable.

Harry however ignored the protest and glares. Calmly walking over towards the Slytherin today and taking a seat next to Ophelia.

"There hasn't been a Potter in Slytherin since the time of Merlin." A shocked Gryffindor yelled standing up in outrage.

The headmaster finally had enough. "Silence," Dumbledore shouted out, voice magically enhanced. "The sorting hat has made its decision."

The protests quickly died out.

Harry, now seated, sighed. Ophelia suddenly clutched onto his hand tightly for reassurance. The brunette seemingly relaxed upon the contact. Relieved she now knew Harry hadn't abandoned her for a different house.

"Thank you," Ophelia whispered.

Harry then realised how afraid Ophelia had been. She wouldn't have voiced it if he'd been sorted into another house. But her fear would've lingered that she was losing her only childhood friend.

"I made a promise to never abandon you." Harry said with assurance "I intend to keep it."

A slight smile touched the girl's lips as the two turned to watch the sorting resume.

There didn't seem to be many left as Dean Thomas went to Gryffindor. A couple more names were then spoken. Each going to their assigned houses.

Harry noticed Ron Weasley being called forth, the boy gingerly placing the hat on his head and then promptly the Hat called Gryffindor.

The elated Ron Weasly upon hearing the news raced to the Gryffindor table to shuffle beside Eric who gave him a welcoming punch to the arm.

The second last name upon the roll was then spoken. If Ophelia's name caused some hostility. It had nothing on the next girl.

"Riddle, Delphini." McGonagall said hesitantly, eying the girl with apprehension.

A thud could be heard as Neville Longbottom at the Gryffindor table fainted upon hearing the name.

The girl in question seemed unfazed as she strode up to be sorted.

The tension in the room became almost palpable. Fear gripped the Hall in a vice-like grip as hushed whispers erupted forth.

The atmosphere only thickened when the girl appeared to be a hat stall.

Harry didn't see the big deal. That was until he heard a girl he remembered by the name of Tracey Davis speaking up to an older boy asking what he knew about the girl.

The words Harry heard were troubling, to say the least.

"That's Delpini Riddle," The older boy pointed hesitantly at the girl. "Her story is well known in the pureblood circles."

The boy gave a grim look towards Tracey and said heedfully. "Her Mother was Bellatrix Lestrange, the left hand of the Dark Lord. The other girl over there." The older boy said, pointing to Ophelia. "Her father was Sirius Black his right hand. It's bad news that both of them are together in the same year at Hogwarts."

"SLYTHERIN." The Hat eventually announced.

Delpini almost seemed repentant as she walked towards the table of the snakes, Ignoring the cautious glances of the Slytherins and glares of the other houses, sliding down the far end of the table as far as possible. Allowing a good deal of space between herself and the ever so hesitant Slytherins. Even Draco now refrained from approaching her due to the reaction.

The older boy continued in a whisper. "Bellatrix was renowned during the war for her sadism and brutality. Some attribute her insanity to the Black madness but Bellatrix the Mistress of The Dark held a special fondness for torture. It would be her undoing, however. The story goes that Bellatrix debased herself a little too much in her sadistic pleasures. The madwoman couldn't help herself when an especially handsome muggle caught her eye. Bellatrix lost sight of reason, delving into her vices and nine months later Delpini popped out. No one knew about Delpini's birth either, not till after the war. Bellatrix herself being imprisoned in Azkaban for the torture of the Longbottoms meant she'd left the custody of Delpini in the hands of Euphemia Rowle. However, Euphemia, not wanting to deal with the repercussions, handed the bastard child of Bellatrix over to the ministry.

The boy then finished. "Lucius Malfoy after pleading the imperius at trial and being found innocent took the girl in as his ward, she was his wife's niece after all. Delpini has been living behind the protections of the Malfoy Manor's wards ever since, reviled by the wizarding public for her mother's actions. Her father is presumed tortured to death.

Harry had been so enraptured in the story that he'd missed the sorting of Blaise Zabini who was now sitting at the Slytherin table. Ophelia he'd noticed had heard the story as well, the little tidbits of family history leaving her scowling.

Albus Dumbledore then got to his feet. Rising from his golden throne and beginning to beam at the students, his arms opened wide as if nothing could have pleased him more than to see them all there before him being friendly with each other.

Harry seemed to doubt that the image he presented, however, if the general attitudes towards Ophelia and Delpini were indications of the atmosphere around Hogwarts. It would be a hostile place indeed.

"Welcome," Dumbledore said. "Welcome to a new year at Hogwarts! Before we begin our banquet, I would like to say a few words. And here they are Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak!

Yes. Harry thought. The new year to say the least would be most interesting. All he had to do was wait and see what was to come.

I await a guardian: We finally progress to the much awaited Hogwarts. It's been a hurdle to arrive here I must say but I'm pleased with the character arc of Harry so far. To all those lovely people who have left a review, you have my gratitude. To the viewers who tune in for the journey across the pages, I hope to see many more reviews in the future. All of you have my deepest regards for coming this far.

A side note: Updates will be methodical according to the story progression. Whether weekly, bi-weekly or monthly will depend on the chapter and its plot outline. This fanfic will not have premature updates if the chapter isn't up to satisfying standards.