Harry Potter and the Forces of Darkness
Chapter 9: Training
The Headmaster of Hogwarts Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore was relaxing in his office popping lemon drops in his mouth like popcorn completely ignoring the stormy weather and foreboding dark clouds outside. Thunder and rain pelted to the ground like machine fire the weak assault of their onslaught bothering him in no way shape or form. It was only when one of the machines in his office that had stopped whirling and exploded that it grabbed his attention to reality.
Before he could respond another machine exploded into cinders forcing the old coot to form a shield then another and another until he was forced to flee from his room and have Fawkes teleport him to the Great Hall in its golden flames. After recovering from his shock, he formulated on what had happened. Harry Potter was missing.
Over the next couple of days, he had put schooling preparations in charge of Professor McGonagall who had been slightly reluctant but had compiled after seeing the Headmasters disappointed twinkling eyes. From there he had used begun his search after entering his office which had somehow been reduced to a swamp of odd parts of wizard machinery and paperwork he realised they were all destroyed; the brats location, health, tracker on his magical core and even his home had been entirely erased. He had tried the Point Me spell, but it only resulted in spinning endlessly around his hand, he had tried to use his core to connect with Harrys but when he decided it was like there was nothing there but a bone-chilling fog which rebuffed sending the manipulating old goat crashing into the wall with so much force it created a small crater. After a few minutes of silent debate, the choice was clear to conduct this the old-fashioned way.
He needed to find Harry Potter.
Fastening up a purple cloak Dumbledore apparated to Privet Drive only to gasp at the sheer force of madness that laid before him. Privet Drive has utterly demolished the houses were on fire, people were running in confused panic at the carnage and madness around them, and storm clouds sizzled with twisted rage above. The home of Number Four was gone no that wasn't right it didn't even exist anymore it was practically buried under heavy looking tombs of rock and concrete. Dumbledore tried to levitate the house from its grave but accepted a sort of invisible slash on his cheek making him bleed profusely his eyes lost of its twinkle caught the opposite residence of his spy Arabella Figg he strode forwards intending on bleeding the Squib dry of information It became apparent that the instant he got inside of the house the more a ghastly smell assaulted his nose until his eyes trapped upon a horror that would have made Death Eaters retch.
Arabella Figg or at least what was left of her was currently hanging in midair her body had numerous chunks of flesh removed dried blood woven over hollow eyes and pasty disgusting flesh. She was nearly bald tufts of hair ripped from her scalp the most easily spotted accomplishes were her cats that were busy playing tug of war with what Dumbledore could only think was here dribbling chin. Behind her written in blood stretched across the vast pictures of the once alive Figgs cats was what purely shook Dumbledore his core making him twitch violently
"GUESS WHO"
And right at the bottom of the words was a lightning bolt which was faintly smoking in the wall blue flames dripping on the floor melting away the at the furry carpet.
Luse, Shendu and the rest of the Demon Sorcerors were currently looking with great amusement at the befuddlement and confusion that was drowning the proclaimed "Greatest Wizard of the Century" through a conjured looking glass that could breach the Human Worlds plane. As he turned on his heel muttering words of delusion under his breath before apparating signalling the cue for the Demons including Luse to roar in loud laughter.
"Did you see the look on that billy goats face brother Dai" Tchang Zu shouted in uncontrollable humour nonchalantly creating lightning bolts that practically vaporised any poor rocks that had been in his vicinity. The other demons were luckily able to avoid them returning their counter with murderous glares. "I swear it is like the human race has forgotten to the onslaught."
Hsi Wu (who was lazily dodging the arcs thunderbolts) chuckled humourlessly nearly silenced in comparison at his older brothers boisterous attitude. "I am sure that most barely even remember our existence my dear brother Tchag Zu our last conquest did end about oh my - when had that been sister Po."
"About nine centuries ago" Po kong grunted rustily as she was currently resting atop of a slab the poor floating piece of earth barely containing her weight. Luse who had perched himself on the edge of a rock with his legs playfully dangling over the edge giggled silently thinking that the chairs that occupied his whale cousin for years were terrible.
Speaking of which...
In the distance of the "space", the Dursleys were all hunched together clutching on to one another in the void of space their bodies shivering from the humongous forms of demons around them. The rock they were standing upon was rather small especially for all three at once several pieces of rubble occasionally crumbling away. Vernon Dursleys famous tomato blemished face had vanished immediately replaced with a face white as satin sheets piggy eyes darting to the snarling faces of the creatures around him to the innocent smile of his freaky nephew. Petunia Dursley had her head bowed to the floor not once having it raised her usual "mightier than thou" attitude wiped away. Dudley just shivering furiously, tear stains streaked his fat cheeks and his blonde hair frazzled together the three broke whimpers that echoed around the Netherworld.
Shedu who had been coiled around his son's shoulders rose and drifted silently towards the Dursleys his eyes practically blazed in silent loathing. "So..."
Receiving nothing but silence Shendu continued his voice dripping sizzling venom from his enlarged fangs. "My son...my heir...a Demon Sorceror no less was stripped of knowledge of his inheritance, lineage and strength to be placed in the care of you mongrels. Now-
Birth must have granted the man-child called Vernon Dursley some godly new form of stupidity. "MONGROLS HOW DARE YOU YOU FILTHY CREATURES I BET YOUR ONE OF THOSE FREAKS ARNT YOU." Vernon bellowed his chest was wheezing and that ridiculous moustache slapping about uselessly.
Luse expected the demon sorcerers to be wild and tear them apart like savages, but their correct reaction shocked him a little. They laughed.
It started small at first the only one choosing to remain silent was Shendu whose ruby crusted eyes were for the first time shadowed over flecks of fire rapidly retreating. Each of them started a small chirp of a chuckle until they all burst into full-blown laughter igniting Tchang Zu once more. Po Kong laughed that her enormous belly ruptured on itself causing her boulder for a bed to crack weakly under the pressure, Hsi Wu was mid-air cackling madly even falling in a dramatic crash landing next to Luse gingerly leaning on him for support, not that Luse minded, of course, these people were his real family he had no reason to be afraid or nervous around any of them.
Xiao Fung huffed a massive amount of "hot air" disguised as a laugh, Tso Lan was silent, but they could tell he was laughing from the bug like rattling from his mouth. Bai Tza was one of the only two not laughing along with Dai Gui the both of them growling menacingly with bright ruby eyes.
The Dursleys were shivering from the frosty humour resonating around them their visible shivering crumbling more and more of the not so stable rock. After a while, it was Petunia that managed to find her voice before her stuttering husband she turned to her "nephew" his innocent smile met her weak glare and a quivering pointed finger.
"Boy you will release us from this freaky place and send us back, or I swear that you'll-" Petunias pathetic excuse of an order was cut off as in a blink her whole arm was incinerated by blue flames scorching the sleeves of her ugly floral dress and reducing her pale skin to smoky brown. Her banshee-like sequels were met with Vernon's roars of anger, Dudley's whimpers and the Demons continuous laughter. Only this time Shendu joined in returning to his place on Luses shoulders beaming at him with evident pride.
"Your first combustion breath. Dear hellfire if only Lily were alive to see this, you are a natural child." Shendu beamed attempting to hug Luse struggling due to the lack of present arms but only succeeding in nuzzling his head.
Luse chuckled nervously scratching his cheek anxiously. "It was nothing I did it just before the ritual, but I didn't have much control back then. Now with complete control of my core, it works so much more easily."
Hsi Wu who had managed to calm down just a little shook his head while waving his hand dismissively. "Don't be so modest dear nephew it took all of us many years to adapt to our natural abilities. Why I believe that the first time your father met your mother, he was drooling embers for weeks" Hsi Wu reminisced soon caught cackling again while Shendu flicked his tail at the Sky Demons head which just harmlessly passed through his head.
"You knew my mum," Luse asked curiously
"But of course young one" spoke Bai Tza who slithered down on the rock on Luses left ignoring Hsi Wus sniggering on the opposite side. "In all my time alive she was the only mortal women that accepted us, her unwavering kindness and knowledge managed to gain the respect of all of us." Nods were gathered from the others were acknowledged from Luse.
"The only flower in this world I would allow to bloom" Dai Gui grunted casting a sickening smile to Petunia.
"Such a good cook" Po Kong supplied smacking her lips at the phantom taste. Hsi Wu once again calmed down sitting upright and extended one of his wings to Luse indicating with a clawed finger to a crescent scar showing just lightly.
"Your mother healed that after I was caught in an accident while flying in, nothing too serious although her temper while healing me was more damage than any demons screeching" (not so subtly nudging his head to Bai Tza and Po Kong.) Hsi Wu bowed to Luse his eyes glued to the ground. "She saved my life because of that, but she was murdered before I was able to repay her if you allow me I shall repay her by helping you nephew Luse demon in arms."
Luse not being able to form words thought actions might be better served, he hugged Hsi Wu much to his shock until he quickly recovered wrapping his bony arms around the still small frame of his nephew. Shendu was stuck in the middle looking slightly uncomfortable at being squished in the middle but ignoring it and allowing the moment to last.
"WHAT A LOAD OF TOSH" Vernon snarled while rising wobbly to his feet.
Vernon Dursley now having to balance himself on one foot like a bunny due to the size of the rock was furiously training his eyes on Luse not noticing the scathing looks from the other demons or the looks from his own family who had the sense enough to stay silent during his ranting.
"THAT FREAK DESERVED TO DIE. CONSORTING HERSELF WITH THE LIKES OF DEMONS, SHE WAS A WITCH AN OUTRAGE AGAINST NATURE. I DEMAND THAT YOU RETURN ME AND MY FAMILY US NORMAL PEOPLE TO OUR HOME THIS INSTANT"
Silence practically deafened no more laughter echoed around him anymore. Luses eyes were coated in inky blackness only the faint glow of an eerie sun bore through. In an instant his body momentarily became a blur no longer sitting on the rock guarded by his demon family and in a flash was standing in front of Vernon hovering at his eye level, wings were outstretched blocking any form of escape, tail swishing menacingly with an ominous wind whipping up around him in waves.
Vernon didn't realise how it happened, but he was floating as well his stubby feet dangling only a few inches from the ground. Before he could try to strike the child, his arms quickly found themselves wound in an odd angle behind him his lungs were grinding ruthlessly together like sandpaper barely eliciting wisps of air. Xiao Fung raised an eyebrow in surprise seeing straight away the young demons tactics quite impressed with his ingenuity. Manipulating the wind around the man walrus, he was making it near impossible for him to breath correctly, and he pinned his arms by manipulating the gravity in different areas on a push and pull motion. Truly evil suited him.
Deciding to let Vernon ironically take a breather Luse released him dropping his past abuser on the rock in a massive heap on top of the other two. Vernon now at least four-times paler had his piggy eyes gangling in fear slithers of drool escaping his mouth. Luse took much love that face.
"Let's start with the basics Dursleys."Luse spat venomously. "One this is a prison there is no "exit", two this will be your new home you are all practically standing on your bed so I wouldn't squirm too much. The third is your family will be providing the service of being my training dummies you spent over a decade using me as a slave so think that reaping what you sow applies very much here. Do we understand each other? "
Their acceptance was three viciously bobbing heads the man now sputtering blood while the Petunia whimpered clutching her slightly smoking arm while he Dudlysimply sat there his pudgy facial expression mortified while he pissed his shorts. Turning around Luse was met with impressed grins flashing his fanged teeth. Shendu floated towards him resuming his place coiled around his shoulders continuing his nuzzling affections.
"Welcome home son. When you are ready, we shall begin your training."
Daphne Greengrass Heiress of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Greengrass rolled her eye in irritation once again ignoring yet another attempt by Draco Malfoy for a marriage contract to herself and her younger sister Astoria. The blonde pounce had already been declaring all week that his father would have it arranged this time next year with or without her answer. Proceeding to brag that she should be grateful that a Noble House with such prestige as he would bother to offer their most gracious offer.
Daphne was currently snuggled in the Manor library sofa her younger sister now soundly asleep coiled in her lap. Daphne chuckled silently stroking Astoria honey brown lock behind her ears. Daphne was moderately tall for an eight year old cute as a button. Blonde hair was reaching the small of her back adorning dazzling ocean blue eyes with a thin frame although looked closely one could see slight hints of muscle forming.
She along with the rest of her family were a neutral family having entirely stayed out of the last Wizarding War ignoring the pleading from the "Light Lord" Albus Dumbledore and his disappointed grandfather front to Adrian Greengrass and Lucy Greengrass her father and mother. Voldemort has been angered by their negligence but had decided to spare their lives out of the matter of "wasting pure magic blood" much to their fortune.
Unlike most other Purebloods the Greengrass with the title for being neutral had indulged themselves with the recent development of Muggles from technology, clothing attire and cultures. Adrian Greengrass owned his law firm having being passed down from parent to child as part of a Greengrass legacy. Lucy Greengrass was a Healer and counsellor at St Mungos Wizarding Hospital, she had been horrified that her oldest friends the Longbottoms had been attached to the edge of insanity by Bellatrix Lestrange she had begun regular visits to them occasionally running into their son Neville who she kept in company along with Agusta Longbottom much to her chagrin.
Daphne Greengrass was a most intelligent girl for her age her selective icy demeanour kept most boys away from her, especially for her sister's sake. While having a book propped on her knee avoiding hitting on Astoria's head her eyes were glazed over thinking about one certain boy.
Harry Potter
How was it that a single boy no older than one had managed to survive a curse practically designed to kill the target on contact not only to be without a trace of death but redirecting the curse sending the Dark Lord to flee. In truth, there wasn't one.
Her curiosity ha manifested itself inside so much that she has scoured through every single book in her library on the theories of wizarding children from their potential, cores, and natural abilities yet she had always come up empty nothing detailing any power to trump over an Unforgivable. Astoria liked to tease the girl sending her older sister into a rare frenzy of cherry red blushing. It wasn't a secret that she had a liking to the boy hoping even to meet him one day. Unlike other fangirls, she wasn't in the least interested talking to The Boy Who Lived or Harry Potter Heir of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter. She wanted to talk to just Harry, a boy that had lost his parents as was god knows where.
Ripping her out of her thoughts a tawny brown owl glided itself through the open window circling the siblings dropping a letter landing comically onto Astoria head making the younger girl grumble in protest and making Daphne stifled a giggle. After getting a few treats and bowl of water, the owl took its leave through the window. Astoria deciding she was done pretending to be asleep no longer rose up from her sisters lap yawning softly cutely rubbing her sapphire blue eyes matching her sisters.
"Don't tell me that from that meanie Draco again Daph," Astoria grumbled patting her dress while resolving the creases in her black silk dress.
Daphne turned the note around mentally sighing in relief that the crest wasn't from the Malfoys only to be replaced in confusion the seal of Gringgots. The Goblins were rather strict when it came to personal mail, so the words were for her and Astoria's eyes only, opening the letter she pulled the piece of parchment closer inclining her slightly enough for Astoria to take a peek over her shoulders.
Dear Daphne and Astoria Greengrass
It is very nice to finally introduce myself the two of you at least in letters. My actual name is Luse Hogwarts Peverall Black Lef Fay Guizu although in the wizarding world I am designated as "Harry Potter". The first order of business is the truth, contained in this letter is a small pouch containing vials of my childhood memories with valuable evidence directed to one Albus Dumbledore and his tiresome meddling. I want to request the services of your father Adrian Greengrass I know he is a famous lawyer, and gold or threats never sway his tongue.
The second order issue is that because of a certain Headmaster I was unable to be adopted by your family not even hearing of the marriage contract. I would first like to warn you that unlike the House of Malfoy I am not forcing you into anything you don't wish. You may decline the contract should you want to, however, I would like to meet the two of you in the future as I am also attending Hogwarts in three years.
I hope for us to be the greatest of friends or even possibly the happiest couple.
Best Wishes
Luse Guizu
The two sisters read the whole letter thrice over their adorable eyes skimming the sentences back and forth before turning to look at each other in shock. Jumping down from the comfy sofa they rushed through the double doors at the end of the room to their father's study to inform him of his latest client.
And a possible husband...
Luse was panting heavily sparing with Dai Gui wearing nothing but a pair of black cargo shorts while completely barefoot and shirtless. Titanic fists hammered down upon the eight-year-old who had started parrying in the case he had no time to dodge. His training with the eight demons had begun rather roughly, but they had all told him that even for him they wouldn't pull any punches. In terms of Dai Gui this was meant quite; literally, he might have escaped his fists, but their powerful backlash still scattered pieces of rubble and clots of dirt in his face. He countered back with a mighty king leaping in the air directed it into his Uncle Dais chest making him skid along the ground a few metres away the gravity was near non-existant, so anime styled jumps were enabled.
Shendu had devised the situation for training. Tso Lan and Xiao Fung who were known to be the most academic and intellectual of the group had volunteered to be Luses "tutors" in explaining demon characteristics, history and types of conquest even teaching him multiple languages such as French, German, Bulgarian, Chinese and Japanese and so much more. The two had praised him enough times for his quick mindset and adaptability to learning. Luse or "Harry" had always been a bright student in secret but tried keeping his talents hidden from being too high than Dudley and threatened by additional beatings or Hermione's jealousy at not being the teacher's pet.
Xiao Fung had started his lessons with him in manipulating the air. He soon found out that his abilities wouldn't be as strong as the others were but still was encouraged that the power of a Demon was never to be questioned. He practised breathing exercises and manipulating the air around his enemies as the Dursleys proved their worth all three were kneeling on the ground clutching their throats weakly gasping for air almost keeling over. All four elements were strong so much that in time they had developed sub-elements such as fire could be evolved into lightning or water into ice even earth could be used to manipulate metal. Air might not have extra power, but it made up for it by being the most substantial element.
Tso Lan had trained him midair the two of them just mindlessly floating legs crossed eyes closed focusing on his core and unlocked magiks. The Moon Demon had made sure that there were not any lingering traces of blocks or illness attached to his nephew before proceeding to the training regime, Tso Lan had taught him that by centring in his core he could use the tiniest trace of it to levitate himself from the ground at will even use it to distort gravity in other directions instead of just forcing his emotions such as his brief rage at the Dursleys to get it triggered. Occulemency and Legilimency were also constructed into his memory Tso Lan had not been happy that Snape's only training had been to "clear your mind". Luse formed what was described to him as a "mindscape" a sort of home for his Occulemancy that acted as a mental barrier against outside forces which so far were approved if the attempts from his family meant anything.
Legillimancy had been slightly tricky since it was a brand new art to him. He figured that there wasn't any use than going in with only a defensive mechanism for after measures. The Dursleys had been perfect specimens he would start roughly painfully drilling into their heads exploiting memories of the beatings, ridiculing his mother. Even a deal made with Dumbledore to be paid monthly for beating and nearly starving him to death promising false lies that he would soon be killed and they would be able to lavish in his family's stolen riches.
A day in the Shadowrealm had been a suitable punishment...
Tchang Zu and Dai Gui were his malicious combat instructors teaching him the standard hand to hand combat watching mortals that had evolved. Demons didn't hate all mortals only those with the "intelligence to move forward and to think with a unique perception". Dai Gui had been his usual training partner manipulating the rocks forming boulders as punching bags increasing the size and density of the next one each passing day until finally, Luse punched a goliath boulder with so much force it was demolished with four punches. He earned a chuckle from Dai Gui that sounded like gurgling pebbles. After that, they had moved onto to sparring each other and Dai Gui instructing him on earth manipulation
"Think of the ground around you like an imaginary mistress hatchling." Dai Gui grunted effortlessly levitation a chunk of rock. "She will try and fight back but it is you that must be dominant side make her bend to your will, and Mother Nature shall oblige. You are like the earth itself unmovable and unwavering.
After the lesson with "taming the ground," he had managed to control it forcing his will into what he wanted ranging from hurling rocks like beach balls to morphing them like tangible gaurdians ready to defend him wherever he walked. In four weeks, the ground created pathways wherever he decided to tread even when he walked over the edge of a floating rock, the rocks just formed pathways underneath his feet. Tchang Zu had agreed to spar to regarding weapons who had managed to stash them shrunken down on his belt before he had been banished ranging from the start a broadsword, bow and arrow, boa staff and a spear. Luse found that the spear was much more his weapon and his adaptability had helped him win a tie with the Lightning Demon must to his shock. While he could emit lightning from his body, he had trouble making it into an offensive weapon until Tchang Zu had supplied the idea to use a weapon as a conduit even lending Luse the staff in the meantime to practice.
It took months for the Dursleys shivered forms to heal.
Bai Tza and Po Kong being the only female Demons of the group didn't take long for them to break their cold demeanours around him gushing endlessly on his natural look making him nervously scratch behind his neck. The two taught him a different variation of magic called Chi a form of magic that was dismissed by the Wizards today because it was deemed "unstable and dark" or at least that was the way the ministry had detailed it into words. Carving runes along the edges of weapons would give them unique properties. They taught him much, but they had advised to him that he should find another teacher to that delves into the more darker influences if he might be interested.
Chi in more detailed manner was a vital enrgy force that flowed through every living thing from people to even plants and animals. The people of the Wizarding Word were so biased and bigotted they would never understand the power they could grasp. Light wizards such as most civillians, Dumbledors followers and the Aurors would naturally use Light magic while a family such as the Malfoys, Voldemort and dark wizards use dark magic. If one was strong enough a user would be able to balance themselves and use both sides. However wizards were completely ignornt and paid no attention to the third branch of maic. The path of the Grey.
Bai Tza taught him that as her nephew her powers granted him domain in the water any form of creature to see his mark would realise him her blood. She let the secret to him that she had been the former Queen of her underwater domain that Muggles had called Atlantis. Luse in practice developed small gills around his neck his tail and wings were formed to be the most effective when swimming which hed have to test once he made it to the Human World again. Po Kong was not having such a strong attribute as the others made up for it with near physical invulnerability not even magic made much of a dent the only requirement to be sound of mind. Luse had allowed the Dursleys to strike him in an hour, and if they didn't manage one bruise, then they would be condoned to this place forever. A fruitless effort to say the least.
How much longer is forever...
Hsi Wu had proved to be more like an older brother than an uncle. Spreading is new wings outwards Luse took to the "sky" gliding side by side with the smirking imp. He learned a trick with his given abilities that though they might not be as strong as their true masters, he could combine the talents he made something new making up for the missing power. Tso Lan's gravity manipulation along with Xiao Fung's wind creation made his flying effortless smoothly zooming faster than Sky demon whos expression was slack-jawed beating him to a friendly race.
Shendu he had talked to him than trained under. It was no problem to him mostly looking forward to knowing more about his birth father he had even told him how he had met his mother in the first place. While travelling through the wilderness in a spectral form, he had been rather tired and weakened without his talismans until he had dropped near the outskirts of the countryside in Britain. He revived by a small girl adorned with fiery red hair gazing at him in wonder with shining emerald green eyes, she had never been scared, or disgusted by his form unlike the younger sister who is Muggle was unable to see him and thought it was another of her sisters "freakishness".
Years past until Lily went to Hogwarts Shendu had been inside of her body the two were quick friends. She had, of course, scolded him for his evil deeds but quickly understood even at a young age the racial views of man and its discriminations appaled her.
"Don't worry Shenny" Shendu quoted his mothers words softly "even if the whole world hates you ill always be here. Were inseparable after all."
More time flew by until Lily morphed into a beautiful young lady her looks attracting many including one James Potter who strutted his arrogance around like a peacock. Annoyed at his advances and forming an idea. Shendu lept into James body and slowly morphed his persona, memories into his own until in the matter of days James Potter was a moderately kind and understanding teen. Lily thought the transformation was a good idea being able to talk was to face with Sundu whenever she liked in secret right under the interfering Headmasters eyes. It was in the sixth year that Lily confessed to James/Shendu with a kiss that shocked the demon beyond words managing to make him stutter stupidly earning a soft laugh from his Lilly flower. They were married, and Shendu still disguised himself with the facade of James Potter begrudgingly agreeing to go into hiding with Lily from the conquest of Voldemort. Usually, one mortal would be natural, but Lily had pleaded with him to come with her, and not possessing the Talismans only complicated matters further.
Eventually, Godric's Hollow was found by Voldemort who broke in the Demon Sorcerors on the other side of their prison were for the first time helpless and powerless only to watch. Shendu had fought Voldemort with all the power his mortal suit could take before the body was killed. Not having a body anymore Shendu pleaded to the Nursery to protect his it wasn't enough... Lily dropped to the ground dead, and the curse rebounded itself on the Dark Lord causing him into a wraith gliding away. Shendu swore on that day to himself to his Lilly and his son that if he ever got his body back, then he reign holy hellfire upon the mortal that dared to take his light away.
He would present him with real evil.
In the span of ten years (Shendu had stated that it would only take three years, but they had spent an additional 7 with extra training and getting familiar with one another) Luse Guizu stood strong his hands coiled behind his back a trait that he adopted while waiting patiently or to cause his enemies to lower their guard around him. The Demons embraced him one at a time each getting to know him in their period in a few years Luse completely adapted to their presence acknowledging them as his true kin. True to Shendus word time hadn't been a recipient in this dimension meaning that in the Human World everything had stayed as it had been the moment he left it.
He had earned his title of the Ninth Demon. He had made them proud or at least prouder.
The Dursleys were laid against rough stone far away from the gathering wholly forgotten. Vernon and Dudley Dursley who were infamous for a pudgy exterior were shadows to what they once were skelington like skin, and sunken eyes took place instead Petunia looking even bonier than before her dress from years ago were ragged barely covering her "private areas", they had lost so much weight after running away from they're demonic nephew and his family tormenting them and using for Luss most favourite game of all.
Dursley Hunting. They had been burned, clubbed, frozen by harsh winds, suffocated by conjured water, crushed, electrocuted even eaten by Po Kong who had spat them out complaining that they tasted rancid even with salt. And that had only been the first week.
Shensu had explained to him the procedure to release his family from the Netherworld. First was to retrieve the Pan Ku Box from a holy temple but it was warned he should aid himself with a human as hands of evil touch the box coundnt. The second phase was to work through the patterns of the box which would show him the locations of all Demon Gates which were sealed on the other side. Luse thought this through deciding on an alternate perspective.
"Dad" Luse began slowly, "you said that each Demon that was sealed in here would have his or her location and special object which the Eight Immortals used to imprison you all correct."
Shendu nodded "Correct."
"And by Eight I'm assuming that also includes you which means that there is an Eighth portal. But since you were imprisoned here in your astral body, they never sent your physical form through which means that your entrance would still be unlocked in the Human World.
Shendu cackled at his son's intellect. "Where might you be going with this son."
Luse pondered. "Wouldnt you be able to keep the portal open long enough to let all of the Clan through. It does save all the time for them to wait plus by sealing the door afterwards, it would stop anybody from sending you all back if I were to leave the Pan Ku Box on the other side. Without the Pan Ku Box which would be our there's no point in having a cage without the lock and key."
"True child that is possible" Tso Lan started his grin sparkled lightly only to be shot down as fast as it appeared. "But the Eighth Door holds a finite amount of energy it cant be opened for very long. It would require a considerable amount of magical power."
Luse blinked till his eyes gleamed in its resolve. "Then use me as the battery."
The Clan stood all at once thunder echoed around them while the Dursleys ebbed away in terror "WE FORBID IT"
Luse frowned softly at them all as though they didn't see the bigger more obvious picture. "Think about it my core is more than big enough to allow all of you through and by sealing it back up again, you would be free for good. But the century-old creatures feverishly shook each of their heads
"You would be holding back a splinter in time and space its force could tear your body apart" Bai Tza snapped sputtering trickles of sea water. "You are a strong little one, but we won't let you harm yourself." Even though she could never replace his mother, Bai Tza had treated Luse like her son raising him alongside her brothers and sisters also going as far as to apologise to Shendu for her earlier scornful remarks and atitd as par the favour of her favourite nephew. He knew that her pride had been damaged in that conversation, but his grateful smile had been worth it in her eyes.
However, Luse could hold his ground for much longer. "And what stay here for another few centuries I won't allow that either. This method would save you time its what you have trained me for."
The Clan looked at each other in confused contemplation Luses idea would save them more time, but there was also the possibility of The Eight Immortals steeping in again. They had not been seen since they were placed in here, but at least they not confirmed to be lost to the winds either never leaving a trace of their existence from what they could gather. Finally, it was taken into a vote. The Eight Door method was made with the promise that if things were going downhill too much that Luse would cut off the connection and try it their way. It struck the Demons as humorous that a decade ago they would have had no problems with sacrificing one of their own for this and now they would give life for him It seemed that even demons could love. Acknowledging no reply of comebacks or other warning Luse sighed that he could make his argument have merit.
"Ok, I'll go to the Human World and get started with opening it up if it doesn't work ill send a Shadowkhan to deliver a message to you that it got screwed up."
"Language young man" Po Kong scolded softly
"Heh sorry, Auntie Po" Luse chuckled nervously before opening a bloody red portal just about to step through before a clawed hand grabbed his shoulder hauling him back.
Hsi Wu sniggered loudly "You think that we would forget." The Sky Demon outstretched his wings flashing his nephew a toothy grin
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY" The Demons boomed nearly sending the Dursleys down the cliffs again. His Shadowkhan appeared out of thin air bowed to him which by now he was used to presenting to him a large sticky chocolate cake with the words "Happy Birthday Luse" written handsomely in the centre. Luse smiled softly and even hugged the Shadowkhan that awkwardly patted him on the head.
Shendu shot multiple fireballs in the air along with a blast of thunder from Tchang Zu and torrents of water from Bai Tza to work as fireworks. The Demons explained that the Shadowkhan had "obtained" items from the other side for him as per instructions. Bai Tza and Po Kong had presented him with a midnight black trench coat reaching a few inches below his waist lined on the brim with stormy grey linings and red tiger fur around the collar with the Kanji symbol for "Devil" emblazed on the back. It fit him perfectly letting he made sure to cast a Size Adjusting charm to enlarge it when he got bigger.
Hsi Wu had presented him with a dirty pornographic book that said would help him claim sposes in the future. After innocently showing it to the rest especially the current women it had taken many long minutes of ultimate ass chewing and beatings to be seen as a fit punishment. Luse had accepted the gift, however, promising his pervy uncle he would put it to good use.
Tso Lan and Xiao Fung had not surprised him book which could magically change into any book that has had in his possession whether in his vaults or his homes. This "Any book" was portable able to be shrunk to pebble size in his pocket also as a bonus they have hexed it to appear as invisible to anybody trying to read it that doesn't have his permission. A useful weapon to use against Granger.
Dai Gui and Tchang Zu had trained him as a warrior had stated it was only right he should be treated as such. Dai Gui was burying bitter remembrance the object that had trapped him presented Luse what looked like medieval armour ebony in colour significantly compensating his new coat. It was constructed in a type of berserker style form making could use to showcase his enhanced muscles, it adorned a perfectly on his body the material seemed to practically leech on his skin until to his amazement it turned to smog vanishing in thin air. The helmet covered his whole face with there only being a visor than let burn his beautiful golden eyes.
"It works like a defence mechanism." Dai Gui supplied as though predicting Luses question. "When commanded to the Armour shall reform itself on your need."
Tchang Zu who knelt to meet his gaze tossed him what looked like a large mound of shifting dark blue substance. Catching his befuddled look the Thunder demon chuckled at his nephew's expression explaining that nearly a century ago this strange thing had crashed to earth on what is now Hong Kong which fell to earth after the people dubbed it "Space Earth". It was still apart of the Earth and almost liquid reminding him of a Pensive he could use his inherited powers from Dai Gui to morph it into all forms of weapons in the case he used too much of his magic, for the time being, he twisted it to fit as an armband shaped like a snake. Luse thanked all of his family with hugs and the promise to see them all soon (Dai Gui and Tchang Zu somewhat looked uncomfortable) before meeting his last relative.
Shendu floated just next to the portal a dreamy look in his crimson eyes. "I know that your mother would be practically beaming if she saw you right now. You have no idea the amount of pride shed express to you if she were here. Probably wouldn't let you leave her sight" Shendu chuckled sadly before admonishing these buried emotions and turning his gaze to Luse who just stared back with a sad smile.
Clearing his spectral lungs Shendu went on "Come now child this is a day for celebration not mourning lord knows you have earned it. And since I know that you will be by yourself for at least a while I was hoping that I might present you with this little birthday present. I believe that you have a history with these creatures."
Shendu took a large breath before spewing a helpful of the cardinal blaze just at Luse's feet before that flames started to mould themselves and dissolving leaving behind what looked like a tiny imp-like creature its body structure was humanlike but it had zero facial feature no eyes or nose even a mouth. At least that's what it used to be before it sneezed and shifted in a plume of smoke transforming into a baby-sized spider to a fox with multiple tails and eventually a black mamba snake
(A/N: imagine Groot from Marvel with a silver body instead of wood with Slendermans facial look.)
"Wait is that a..." Luse started shocked
Shendu nodded "I believe wizards refer to them as a Boggart. It is one thing toward a creature away but to capture one is mighty tricky however the Shadowkhan cannot fear anything." The Boggart now still a snake slithered to pearch itself on his shoulder before gently licking him on the cheek its body glowed orange the growing aura could be seen trying to catch something.
"It wishes to make a familiar pact with you."
He had been tutored about this. Familiars were generally supernatural entities or just natural creatures that recognised the strength of a witch or wizard and would voluntarily make a pact similar to a magical contract with to protect or aid them in times of hostility. It hasn't been done for many years the only two managing such a thing had been Dumbledore and his connection with Fawkes and Voldemort and his soul link to Nagini. Gently stroking under the "snakes," chin Luse signalled his core and emitted his aura to clash with the boggarts wrapping itself around until the twisted auras eventually vanished in a fiery explosion of crimson sparks thus accepting the pact made. Happy the Boggart coiled tighter around its new master's shoulders strapping itself just right. Shendu approached Luse to eye level twisting his tail around his arm in what could only be described as a sort of handshake.
"We all hope to see you on the other side Luse. Walk tall my son" was Shendus last words before the portal sucked Luse in dragging him back to the Human World leaving behind the Demon Clan in dusty emotions of sadness and mighty expectations.
Yay, I'm done. Initially, I was going to go with a Changeling for Luses, but I thought that a Boggart would be a way better choice as I was always curious what its true for might be like.
Some of you might be wondering as to why I gave Luse armour even though he has near invulnerability. The reason for this is because I wanted it to be a more of boosters for his Nothingness abilities and for it to work like a conduit for him to help him control better. Anybody that has seen Lancelot's armour from the Fate/Stay anime it will look similar to this or the Lord Viles armour from Skulduggery Pleasant.
I was planning on doing it the long way, but I wanted to speed up the press and get on with the Talisman hunting. BTW He meets Jade while finding them is remaking all the scenes from the original episodes and moulding them into my image.
The hunt for them shall last roughly a year at the end ill be sending the two of them to Hogwarts where...the rest is for your imagination.
Any questions give me a message or send them through the reviews ill check them out and get back to you asap. If you have any idea
Thank you for reading and hope to see you again soon
Goodbye my little minions
JUDGE