Disclaimer: All rights to the Harry Potter universe belong to Jk, not me. :(
Warnings: slash FWxHPxGW, OCCness, only loosely adheres to canon, some facts changed/ Fred and George are in their second year when Harry first goes to Hogwarts. Creature fic! And other stuff that might happen in M-rated fanfiction.
Timeline differences: Lucius, Severus, and the Marauders' where all in the same year at Hogwarts. Narcissa is a year older.
"Now Severus." Nikodemus said as they stood outside the door. "I want you to play nice."
The potions master huffed. Honestly, he had no intentions of frightening the boy to death.
Nikodemus chuckled and rapped the door smartly in warning before heading in. Severus went to follow but found himself paused in the doorway as he caught sight of Harry.
For a brief moment he could see James in the boy, and felt the answering swell of anger that bloomed in his chest whenever he thought of the man, but then Harry raised his eyes and peered at him from under a messy black fringe and Severus felt his vitriol leave him completely.
James Potter had never had such wide eyes filled with a mixture of desperate longing and doubt. He had never looked so small and pale. So insecure.
Those eyes were Lily's, despite the addition of slitted pupils, and they were filled with emotions that should be alien to a child that age. And he knew what had caused it. His onyx eyes narrowed as a different sort of fury filled him. Why had Dumbledore, for surely it must have been him, left a child in such a place?
He pulled himself abruptly from his thoughts when he noticed his more than likely intimidating appearance and posture were making Harry nervous. The boy was biting his lip and twisting his…tail rather anxiously. With practiced ease he pushed his warring thoughts and emotions away to deal with later and softened his expression.
His glare returned almost immediately when Nikodemus had the audacity to snicker.
"And what, pray tell, do you find so amusing Nik?"
"Oh nothing, nothing at all." The man said while attempting to hide his grin with his hand. Severus was normally so cold, so aloof. What with his slytherin masks and the services he had been forced to perform in the war. Seeing so many expressions cross the snarky wizard's face was truly an experience to treasure. Not to mention extremely funny.
"Quite." Severus drawled and then huffed when a snicker came from Harry. Really? What was wrong with them?
Nik then composed himself and introduced the two. "Harry, this is Severus Snape. Severus, Harry and the lazy feline in the floor is Leila." Leila then flicked her tail in her friend's direction before sitting up to face Severus. She stared at him appraisingly with inky black eyes before inclining her head a fraction in apparent acceptance.
"Nice to meet you sir." Harry said quietly, drawing his attention away from the Shadow Panther.
"Nice to meet you as well Harry." He replied a little fascinated by the child's twitching black ears.
The child beamed at him.
The three then took their seats, Nikodemus and Severus moving to claim the armchairs as Harry reclined against Leila on the floor, still fidgeting with his tail.
A few moments of awkward silence passed that Nikodemus seemed to thoroughly enjoy before, surprisingly, Harry broke the ice.
"Master Nik said you knew my mother sir. Do you think, maybe, you could tell me a bit about her?" And he turned bright, pleading eyes in Severus' direction.
"Of course Harry. What would you like to know?"
"What did she look like? Was she nice? What did she like to do? What…"
"Hold on. Let's start with that." He said with a tiny quirk in the corner of his lips.
Harry blushed and nodded.
They then spent the next hour speaking of Lily and Harry had never been more enthralled. This was his mother he was hearing about. He was finally able to put a picture and a personality to the woman he had feint memories in dreams of.
Nikodemus meanwhile spent the time watching the two indulgently. Taking in Harry's reactions to the stories Severus was telling him and enjoying the unusual side to the normally snarky potions master. It had been a brilliant idea to include Severus in this.
It was only when a brief lull came in the conversation, both Severus and Harry lost in their own thoughts, that Nikodemus deemed it time to move on to other matters.
"Severus, perhaps you could take the time to share with Harry the finer points of what will occur when he takes the adoption potion?"
"Very well." Severus said as Harry looked at him expectantly. "But first, are you sure that Harry won't have any adverse reactions to the potion due to his recent changes?"
"Of course." Nikodemus scoffed, insulted that the man thought him so careless. "All of the ingredients in the Sanguis Ascio Potion are perfectly safe for my little one's new physiology."
"Good. I have however, added valerian root and dragonfly wings to my version."
Nikodemus was thoughtful for a moment. "To put the drinker to sleep? Very smart idea Severus, less stressful for everyone that way and the drinker can escape the pain the initial changes cause. Yes, it should be fine. How long will he be out?"
"The amount I added will merely provide good night's rest."
"Excellent."
Severus then turned to Harry. "The potion you will be taking is considered a dark potion and you would be wise to never mention it. Nikodemus will first add a drop of his blood to the potion, and then we will administer the potion to your bloodstream through a muggle syringe. After you take the potion you will fall asleep almost immediately. During the time you are unconscious your body will gain some of the characteristics of Nikodemus. Things like eye or hair color will be most notable while things like the structure of your bones will take time to manifest completely. Do you understand?"
Harry nodded.
"While you are undergoing the affects of the potion, Nikodemus and I will be filling out the appropriate papers to label you as his legal son and heir through both the muggle and magical ministries. After you awaken, you might feel a bit disoriented for a few days but that is perfectly normal. If you feel sick or weak though, you should tell Nikodemus immediately as it could mean the potion may have caused some unwanted side effects. Nik, your family has no history of illness or such correct?"
"No, we do however have a tendency towards slight insanity."
"Slight insanity indeed." Muttered Severus while Harry gave another giggle. "Have you thought about Harry's new name?"
"Yes, Leila and I discussed it while Harry was still unconscious from the experiment." At this both Harry and Severus looked at him expectantly but Nikodemus gave a grin and then chuckled when his lack of response drew scowls from both Harry and Severus.
Harry then turned to Leila with pleading eyes. The Shadow Panther merely snorted and drew her protesting cub back to tongue wash his hair.
After Nikodemus and Severus watched this with amusement for a few minutes the former said.
"Little one? Why don't you put on your shoes and I'll give both you and Severus a tour of the chateau before dinner."
Harry's eyes lit up and he struggled out of Leila's grasp. The large feline rumbled discontentedly but let him go. Harry then rushed to find his shoes as Nik turned to Severus and asked.
"Severus, my dear friend…" he began and Severus narrowed his eyes and held a hand up to quiet him.
"What do you want Nik?"
Said wizard pouted before continuing. "I was merely hoping you'd consent to being Harry's godfather. My line of work is rather dangerous and it wouldn't do to leave Harry with someone who isn't aware of his…peculiarities."
Severus was silent a few moments as he watched the young boy that was all that was left of his Lily scurry about trying to find his shoes before he replied.
"Fine."
"Excellent."
"Who do you have in mind for Godmother?"
"I was thinking maybe cousin Narcissa. She has a boy about Harry's age correct?"
"Yes. His name is Draco and I'm his godfather as well. I've already started to tutor him in potions and I must say he has a talent for the art."
"Will he make a good friend for Harry?"
"I think so. If his father allows it."
Nikodemus looked at him in question.
"Come on Nik, you know the man has always felt a tad uneasy around you, no matter how close you and Narcissa are."
"Well, that's only to be expected I guess."
"What did you do to him?"
Nikodemus chuckled softly. "Merely indulged a bit of his curiosity when he was a first year and I a fifth. Nothing more."
"I'm sure." Severus drawled as he faintly remembered Lucius returning to the common room one evening uncommonly pale.
At that moment Harry returned. "Sorry for taking so long."
"Not a problem little one. Leila," Nik asked. "Will you be joining us?"
"No. I believe I will have an early dinner so I may remain with Harry tonight". She said as she stood and stretched languidly before butting Harry affectionately on the chest. "Behave youngling." And then she disappeared into the shadows cast by one of the armchairs.
Harry gaped at the spot she vanished for a moment before turning to Nikodemus.
"Will I be able to do that sir?" he asked excitedly.
"Most likely. But remember you are not to try anything related to you new powers for the rest of the week."
"Yes sir." Harry replied, enthusiasm not curbed despite having to wait. Being a Shadow Panther was going to be wicked!
The trio then spent the next hour and a half exploring Château de Velius before Linny came to fetch them for supper. They had ended up in the two-story glass domed conservatory behind the main building and Harry found himself almost unwilling to leave the beautiful plant filled structure. Only his protesting stomach kept him from remaining. Well, that a stern glance from Severus. The older man had been very nice to him so far but Harry figured he wasn't a person he wanted to get on the bad side of.
"Do you think I could go back there tomorrow?" Harry asked Nikodemus as they walked towards the veranda where they would be having dinner.
"Of course. Though you should take either Leila or I with you. Some of the plants are a bit unfriendly to strangers. Now go wash up. There's a water closet three doors down and on your left. When you're done follow this hall and it will lead you to where we are."
Harry nodded and sprinted off.
"I noticed several varieties of near extinct specimens. You wouldn't be open to letting me harvest a few samples would you Nik? It would be such a shame to let such a treasure go to waste."Severus inquired once Harry was gone.
"I think we can reach an arrangement. Perhaps in exchange for some tutoring for Harry? Maybe even some help with a few of my experiments?"
Severus cast a sidelong glance in Nik's direction. "What kind of lessons. And what experiments?"
"Potions of course. Both practical and theory, not just the bare drivel that you are forced to teach in Hogwarts. Also the theory behind occlumency and leglimency, although he will have no need to learn it."
"No need? Then he had inherited the impenetrable mind of a Shadow Panther?"
"Yes. Although as his mother, Leila has a slight connection to his mind and Harry likewise with hers."
"What of the experiments?"
"I am always in need of potions Severus and you brew them so much better than I. Not to mention my time will be more severely limited now that I have the little one to look after."
"That would be acceptable, although I will have limited time during the school year. Perhaps eventually I can do combined lessons with both Draco and Harry?"
"That would be a wonderful idea. I believe I will give you more permanent access to this estate, within limits of course. You will need only announce yourself before you arrive. I trust no meddling fools will be made aware of what occurs here?"
"Of course Nikodemus. Not everything that happens in my life in reported to Albus. Since the war has ended I've quite enjoyed my relative freedom from both his shackles and the Dark Lord's."
Nikodemus gave an understanding smile. "I can imagine. However Severus, I should warn you that the Dark Lord is not truly gone."
At this Severus froze. "What do you mean!" He whispered harshly.
"I can't give you specifics, as it would be unsafe to do so. The Dark Lord would be most displeased to find out anyone knew this particular little secret. But I can promise he is not dead. Not really."
After taking a moment to observe Severus' ashen face he went on cheerfully. "Luckily Harry brought along with him a bargaining piece and if it is played right things will only get better once He returns. I believe the only one you will truly need to fear is Dumbledore. That man won't take losing well."
"What does this have to do with Harry and why are you so certain Dumbledore will fail? Besides I thought you were neutral in regards to the war?" Severus asked with narrowed eyes.
"Oh I am neutral. I just dislike Dumbledore and his methods. If old Tommy gets his head on straight I believe he could instigate some good changes and despite what Dumbledore may believe he is not the most powerful wizard alive. Nor is he all-knowing. His lack of humility will be his downfall. As for Harry, let's just say something interesting occurred that Halloween night."
Things went silent once they reached their destination. Both wizards seated themselves at the round table laden with various Mediterranean delights. Nikodemus began a quiet conversation with Linny, something about feeding schedules, as Severus let the weight of what Nik had to say sink in.
He was worried, justifiably so. While he had come to realize his defection to the light had been a mistake, he didn't feel as if he could rightfully support the man who killed Lily. And the Dark Lord did not look upon traitors kindly. Not to mention he had no desire to be manipulated by both sides again. He was content with his lot in life, well mostly, and the start of another war would put him back into the position of spy, whether he wanted it or no. Dumbledore had too many strings attached to him. Severus felt a scowl form on his face. Curse meddlesome old men who thought they were omnipotent!
But Nik had said things would only get better. Though 'better' could be left to interpretation. He let out a soft sigh. He would just have to see how things progressed. There wasn't really another option.
It was only a few minutes later that Harry arrived, green eyes wide at the sight of food so exotic and plentiful. He hesitantly took the seat in between Nikodemus and Severus after sending a small smile in Linny's direction.
"So little one, what would you like to try first?" Nikodemus asked.
Harry nibbled on his bottom lip as he surveyed the contents of the table.
"I can have anything I want?" He asked.
"Of course."
"What's that sir?" He asked pointing at some kind of meat.
"Roast lamb with garlic and oregano. Very tasty."
"I think I'll have some of that. It smells really good."
Nik nodded and filled his plate for him, making sure to include a good portion of the tomato and cucumber salad. Harry wrinkled his nose a bit but accepted the plate when Nik raised his eyebrow.
Nikodemus then dished up some Moussaka for himself, while Severus chose the Greek roasted chicken.
Once they were finished with the main course, (and Harry's nose had been correct, the lamb was delicious!) Linny then brought out some pineapple gelato, which was apparently Nikodemus' favorite dessert. Harry thought the man had wonderful taste.
Harry sat quietly while the two older wizards conversed. Listening in to some of the more interesting subjects while the rest of the time he let his attention wander to all of the new things he had learned today. Especially what he had learned about his mother.
It was nice to know he had his mother's eyes and nose. Severus had promised to bring a picture by next time he visited so he could see what she looked like. He also said that she was smart and kind and had the sharpest wit of any in their school year. His mother was best in potions and charms and had often come in at the top of her class in these subjects! Severus had also told him of all the mischief she used to get into before coming to school and how her dream when she was little had been to meet a unicorn.
She had cried the first time she saw one.
Her new dream after that was to become a master of charms and create toys for wizarding children. She had given Severus a prototype for his birthday in his fourth year, a green dragon that was charmed to fly about and puff out multicolored fake flames. It could only fly in circles though and sometimes the fake flames turned out to be real!
She had never gotten to accomplish her dream completely though, because of the war and starting a family.
Harry yawned and pulled his feet onto his chair and rested his chin on his knees. The warm air felt really nice. He wondered what his new dream would be, now that he'd gotten a family, odd as it was.
Both Nikodemus and Severus stopped their discussion when they saw Harry curl up on himself sleepily, tail wrapping around his pulled up legs and ears drooping rather adorably. They shared an amused look before Nikodemus said.
"Little one, are you ready to head back to your room and take the potion?"
Harry looked up and stretched a bit before saying though another yawn. "Yes sir."
A short while later found Harry dressed in his pajamas, sitting on his bed looking a bit nervous at the syringe in Severus' hand. Leila was on his bed as well, sitting on the opposite side. Nikodemus had already supplied a drop of his blood for the potion and they were only waiting for Harry to be ready.
Harry bit his lip, a sharp little canine protruding. He knew Severus said he wouldn't feel any pain but he was still a bit nervous. "I'm ready." He finally said.
Severus raised his brow but nodded, moving closer to administer the potion.
"Sir?" Harry said to Nikodemus as Severus gripped his wrist. "Will you tell me now what my new name is going to be?"
Nikodemus smiled. "Alright little one. Your new name will be Raevyn Namir Velius. Do you like it?"
"I think so. It's nicer than Harry anyway." Nikodemus chuckled.
"I'm glad you approve." And then Severus gently pushed the needle into his skin and Harry, soon to be Raevyn, slipped into the world of unconsciousness.
Answers to questions –Possible Spoiler alerts!
ejwjoy asked: is tommyboy (voldy) making any appearances soon? and does Nikodemus rlly care about harry?
Tom will be making an appearance, most likely during Harry's first year with Quirell. As for Nikodemus caring about Harry, well right now it's more of a vested interest in one of his creations. That and he finds Harry himself interesting. But he will eventually care for Harry as a parent does a child.
Socdel asked: is it only going to be shadows? no more experimentation with other wild magic?
If you mean the creation of another elemental wizard? Then most likely no, but that could change. Finding another child that could survive the experiment would be very difficult, not to mention Nik will be more focused on seeing how Harry develops. That doesn't mean Nik will stop his experiments though. So you can expect more if those in the future.
Zana20 asked: I wonder if you can give history, where from Severus knows Nikodemus. How old Nikodemus, is he DE, or Voldemort could not control him, so left him alone?. Does blood adoption and DNA merging will make Harry pureblooded? Like his Muggle-born part from his mother will be oblitirated?
I've dropped a few facts and hints about Nik in this chapter and I'll be revealing more as the story goes on. But no, Nikodemus was never a DE, although he did know Tom and that's all I'll say for now. As for the blood adoption, I've never thought about it though I really should have. His mother's blood is still there but it has been diluted both due to the experiment and blood adoption so I guess maybe…second or third generation pureblood? Any thoughts?
(I've read 'Black Phoenix' and I love it! Especially your Tom and Hermione. You've both done an awesome job. Keep up the good work.)
LamboIsAnIdiot asked: Will there be twincest?
I can't wait till the twins come into the story! About twincest, I have no problem with it but it won't be in this story, Harry will be between them. They might kiss or something to turn Harry on but beyond that…
Anywho that was the last of the questions. Thank you to everyone who reviewed! Your kind comments and suggestions have made me feel wonderful!
Now this is a bit in the future but I would like some help in deciding whether to give Harry his phoenix feather wand or giving him a custom one. I could go either way. Also suggestions for the core and wood would be welcomed too. I can't seem to get the polls to work so if you could cast your vote in a comment or review it would be appreciated. I'll leave the voting open until the chapter before Harry gets his wand. Thanks!