A/N: I do not own Harry Potter or the Advent of the Archmage. They are owned by J.K. Rowling and Mo Xiang respectively.
"I just remembered… How did Link graduate?"
It was late into the evening. The trio had fun with all kinds of magical and mundane activities, like movies, broom races, and a walk through the park. Here they are relaxing with a cup of tea and a few finger foods prepared by Greg.
"Well, Professor Dumbledore offered Link to take his OWLs last year, which he passed with flying colours. Then this year he took his NEWTs, and he took 10 of them, he didn't want to waste his time with divination and muggle studies. Look at them" said Rose as she handed a copy of Link's results. "It's a good thing I took his advice and only took Care of Magical Creatures and Ancient Runes. I heard divination was… frivolous let's say"
"Wait, how do you have that?" interjected Link "I thought I gave it to my parents."
"Secret" she winked in amusement.
Sirius took the results and looked them over.
N.E.W.T. results for student Link Granger:
Defence Against the Dark Arts: O+
Transfiguration: O+
Charms: O+
Potions: O+
Herbology: O
Astronomy: O
History of Magic: O
Care for Magical Creatures: O
Ancient Runes: O+
Arithmancy: O+
Divination: N/A
Muggle Studies: N/A
Grading System:
O: Outstanding (Pass with distinction)
EE: Exceeds Expectations (Pass and allowed to attend N.E.W.T.s)
A: Acceptable (Pass)
P: Poor (Fail with possible appeal)
D: Dreadful (Fail with no appeal)
T: Troll (Fail with distinction)
(A/N: sorry, I was lazy here. It is the same grades as his OWLs)
Congratulations Student Link Granger on the successful completion of your wizarding education. For Masteries please inquire more with your professors or with the Magical Ministry of Education. Thank you.
Sirius could do nothing but stare at the incredible score. He did better than anyone he knew.
"Congratulations Link. It turns out we have a certified genius in the room"
It was decrepit. Abandoned.
He never thought that he would come back here. But it was one of his more secure safe houses.
It was a mansion that would have been the envy of the neighbourhood. It occupied prime real estate, atop a hill overlooking the muggle village below. Three stories high, with a most unique architecture.
It stands, though barely, with a few holes along the walls. Its roof is rotten and falling apart. The green paint is slowly peeling off, adding to its run-down look. Even the windows were not spared the effects of the passage of time, though one or two of them were due to kids throwing things as part of a dare.
The only thing to survive was the intricate designs sprawled along the walls. It was overly decorated to the point of being gaudy. That may be what its previous tenants wanted. To show off their wealth. Only they could afford the best craftsman, stone mason, and gardener. Once upon a time, the landlords would boast to any that would lend them an ear, and considering their noble status, quite a few ears were eager. Their gardens were splendid. Enough to be comparable to Versaille, though that part is an exaggeration on their part.
Despite the apparent attempt to overdo the gaudiness in the mansion, it still maintained a beauty particular to it, especially when the sun shines on it, right at dusk. The view is immaculate.
One of the reasons the manor was able to remain in such conditions and hasn't deteriorated even further is due to the old caretaker, Frank Bryce. He was an older gentleman that has stayed true to his job despite the death of his previous employers. Loyalty was a word that would resonate well with this man's description.
Unfortunately, that loyalty spelt his demise. Voldemort, still as a spirit trapped in a snake, was escorted here with his two lieutenants. Rookwood stayed with him, while his partner, Rowle, combed through the premise. Coming across the old man, he quickly disposed of him before he could do anything more than be startled at his presence.
That brings us to the current scene. Both wizards were kneeling before their lord as he rested.
"You have done well, Rookwood. Rowle" he whispered. It was truly a chore to speak. He has remained a spirit for so long that he is running out of magic to maintain a connection for so long. "I need a body. This form is a bit cumbersome."
"Of course my lord, what do you have in mind"
"I know of a ritual… one that would allow me to gain a body much greater than what I was before. I would be able to overtake Dumbledore. Nothing would be able to stand in my way. I would truly become the most powerful wizard in history"
The words excited them. The two Death Eaters were hanging onto his words as though they were a lifeline. Finally… they will prosper once more. The wizarding world will become pure. Not just Britain, but the whole magical world. After that, it is only a matter of time before they and their brethren take over the muggle world as well.
Their Lord will bring them to where they truly belong. At the top of the world, with Voldemort ruling as the King.
Their excitement knew no bounds, the more they thought about it, the more they got excited. They were practically vibrating as they looked at the Dark Lord.
"How may we assist you, my Lord?"
"There are a few things I would require. Most of which are easily available. You should be able to acquire them. The most important one is something we need to create an opportunity to get."
"What is it, my Lord? Whatever it may be we will get it."
"The blood of my enemy. Only two people are allowed to be called my acknowledged enemies. Dumbledore..."
That had them reeling. Getting anywhere near that man would have them imprisoned before they could even think of a spell. Even their Lord was wary of Dumbledore.
"...and Rose Potter"
That… that they could do. They breathed a sigh of relief at the decrease in difficulty. That did not sit well with the former Riddle.
"FOOLS! Do not take this task lightly. You might be able to take Potter if she were alone, but she is at Hogwarts most of the year. To get close to her you will have to get through the wards of Hogwarts."
That had them feeling a little green again.
"Rookwood, take a day. Roam the streets of Diagon Alley and the Ministry. Find me everything that might prove even remotely useful. We will discuss the plan further tomorrow. Now leave. I wish to rest"
""Yes, My Lord""
The two knelt once more in deference as they left the room. Rowle stayed by the door in vigilance, whereas Rookwood apparated to London to start his mission. Their future depends on the success of the coming few days.
The next morning Rowle and Rookwood were kneeling once more before the spirit of Voldemort. The Dark Lord was in a good mood. He at least still has some capable people to do his bidding. He does miss having the full capabilities of his Death Eaters and his Inner Circle.
"Interesting. The fools at the Ministry believe they can revive the Tri-wizard competition. This would be an excellent opportunity to weaken their peaceful stability. It could discredit their international standing. It would be a powerful blow to Dumbledore. But I believe the best bit of news you've got for me is the Quidditch World cup that is to happen at the End of August."
"Of course, My Lord. I will gather the crew from back then. I'm sure they would be delighted to serve you once more and strike fear in the hearts of the blood traitors" rushed Rowle, eager for a bit of chaos.
"No, I do not wish for anyone to see me in my current form. Only you two are trustworthy enough to be aware of my existence."
The abhorrent immortal rolled his non-existent eyes at the sight of his followers preen in jubilation from the slightest form of trust and compliment from him; as they should. A person of his stature is far above anything their feeble minds can advocate. Still, in his weakened state, he could only defend himself for a short while, the more there are the higher the risk he faces. They may adore him, but it is fear that keeps them in line. He will not be caught in a moment of weakness in front of these pests.
"This should be more discrete. Let us not give our enemies any reason to suspect my return just yet. Once I regain a body. That is when we strike. But for now, perhaps it is best to plan to kidnap Potter. When we have her in our custody, we could accelerate our plans."
Rookwood crawled closer to his Lord, being the more strategically inclined of the two Death Eaters present, he thought to increase his standing, as well as his worth to Voldemort.
"My Lord, the Potter brat is sure to be protected. Especially in such an open event. I heard that Sirius Black is free once more and is now always with her outside of Hogwarts."
"Black? A powerful opponent, of course, a man of his lineage would be worthy of my circle. But he is one of the Light's staunchest supporters. Hmmm…"
"Perhaps, if it pleases you, my Lord, I could cause a distraction at the end of the game. While everyone is watching the match, I could jinx certain areas to explode in a fiery blast. To detonate on command. At just the right moment, as everyone sleeps, I could make my way with Potter in the confusion."
"There is a major flaw in your plan Rookwood. We cannot know when the match will end. Furthermore, I just said that I don't want anything that could lead to suspicion."
"Apologies, My Lord" he bowed in deference once more.
"What if we simply invite her for a walk as a friend from her house in Hogwarts? We could poly juice one of us, lead her away then, boom we won" said Rowle.
"Excellent, that is much easier to accomplish. Observe them during the event. If you see anyone with whom she interacts and is on friendly terms, take a hair from them. We don't need to kill them. It will make the investigation all the more difficult, the fewer the interactions we have."
Nodding in satisfaction, Voldemort believed this could work. Though he did not forget to add a word of caution.
"Though, you must be on your guard. One of the children she spends time with. There is a boy. I heard he was a genius. Keep your wits about you should he interfere with the plan."
"Yes, My Lord"
Although the two treated his words as Law, he could still see the reluctance to accept his words. After all, how much trouble would a fourteen-year-old brat be? Surely as two grown adults, veterans of the previous war, with decades worth of experience in magic, they could take down two children, regardless of how talented they are.
Nevertheless, he did not feel the need to repeat himself. Even he didn't believe they would lose to the boy. Their last encounter had been a result of him being severely weakened, and underestimating his opponent.
"One last thing. Who was it that told you about me?"
"My Lord?"
"How did you find out that I was alive, and my location?"
Rookwood spoke up:
"We are not certain. He stayed hidden the entire time. I think he was a guy, his voice was a bit muffled. He was covered, and he wore a mask. He told us that if we wanted to serve you, we were to apparate to a certain location. We thought he was someone you sent, My Lord, so that we may be of service."
Voldemort narrowed his eyes (Though he doesn't have any (A/N: Yooohohohohoh. Props to anyone that gets it)) in thought. Pondering on this new conundrum.
Rose woke up at around 9 am this Sunday. It's been a month since Link and she came by Sirius' newly refurbished old home. Honestly, she can't help but smile every time she thinks about how she doesn't need to stay at her relatives' house any more. First the Grangers, and now Sirius.
Her life had never looked as good as it does now, except for when her parents were still alive.
Her new room was huge. There is also her private bathroom. She could fit the Dursley's entire top floor in here with room to spare. Honestly, she doesn't know what to do with this much space. She also has to walk 'half a mile' just to be able to relieve herself. It's without a doubt cumbersome. Though, she can't help but appreciate it nonetheless.
She took her time taking a shower and then dressed up in her casual clothing. Isn't that neat? She still doesn't know how to act when she remembers she has so many different outfits. It's been 2 years now, since the end of her first year, yet she still feels awed every time. The Dursleys really did a number on her.
The moment she stepped foot in the Kitchen, she squeaked in surprise as a veritable army of people shouted:
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY"
She was wide-eyed as she stared at all her friends from Hogwarts, the Grangers, and Mooney. There was Lavender, the Patil twins, Ron, Neville, Ginny, Luna, Draco and Link.
She couldn't believe it. This is the first time she celebrated with so many people. Usually, it was just her, until two years ago when the Grangers brought her into their fold. Now, she has all her friends present.
She couldn't help but tear up a little, as she grinned a million-watt smile. Sirius stepped forward.
"You didn't think that we won't throw you a party on your birthday?"
"... I didn't expect something so grand."
"Well, I wanted to do it. So I had Link tell me about your friend group. We sent invites, got food and presents"
"You got me presents too?"
"Of course, who do you take me for?" he did look offended at the mere thought that she would celebrate her birthday without any presents. He was an awesome uncle.
Everyone was pooling around her while they were talking. Each of them hugged her tightly as they wished her a happy birthday once more.
Life is great now. She can't wish for anything better.
That night, only a few remained from the Party. It was a great day. There were the Grangers, Mooney, Sirius and her.
"Thank you again, Sirius. This meant a lot"
"Bah! Don't mention it. I have twelve years to make up for after all."
"You don't have to worry about that. I know it wasn't your fault."
Mooney had a small stab of pain at that. Sirius may have been forced away. He had no such excuse. He was simply a deadbeat in this situation.
Rose noticed his shift in mood and was quick to remedy the situation.
"None of that Mooney. We already spoke about this. You made a mistake, now move on and be here. That's all I want. For you to be there for me."
He was startled that she addressed him so quickly, but then he beamed a genuine smile.
"You are the best parts of your parents, you know that?" he started, and like always, any time her parents were mentioned Rose hyperfocused on the information. Like a thirsty man in the desert grasping at any semblance of water presented to him.
Link smiled softly as he enjoyed the cosy setting. His friend is encapsulated by yet another story of her parents, eyes shining with happiness at the thought of getting closer to the people she would have loved to call her family.
While enjoying the company, he found himself thinking about the map he finally created. Sirius had been none the wiser as he explained the phenomenon of the map. He was able to recreate it. Though he used a less powerful version for his own. The reason the Marauder's Map was able to detail every name, shortcut, secret room and others, was because they somehow managed to get the enchantments tapped into the ward scheme of the great castle.
Of course, that's impossible on the scale he wishes to make the map. He wants it to capture the entirety of the United Kingdom. That presents a few problems, chief among them is that there are no ward schemes that massive. Even if there were the massive amount of info dump the map would receive might just cause the parchment to destroy itself. After all, there is a massive difference between a few hundred people and millions. Even if the muggles don't register due to their lack of magic, there are still upwards of a million mages, not counting the magical creatures and beings.
There is also the fact that he has no use for so much useless data. It serves nothing to him. He simply needs the direction of the different soul shards, and how many there are in total.
Finally, there aren't that many magical places that can resonate with magic to create a detailed map. That's why a simplified version would suit his needs greatly. He took a vague map of the country and started his task.
Once the enchantments were in place, he used a bit of soul magic to integrate the soul shards into the piece of parchment. When that bit was done, with a massive introduction of magic from yours truly, 7 lights started appearing on the map.
Four were congregated at their location, which were the Diary, Rose's and the tiara. But then what was the fourth? He should have a look around the house tonight.
Two were grouped between the north of England and the south of Scotland.
Finally, the last one is in London. Maybe Diagon Alley? Or is it at any of the Wizarding families living in London like the Black family?
At least there are only three locations he has to look through. That simplifies matters. He should start his search tomorrow. Rose will need to get her school supplies tomorrow. I'll verify my conjecture at the same time. Finding the one here is only a matter of time.
But the fact there are two congregated in the north, one of which is constantly moving about. That should be where the real Voldemort is at. He will narrow the search in the coming weeks before going to Hogwarts. It shouldn't take long. He'd discussed this with his Parents previously, he is still going to Hogwarts for the sole purpose of gaining a few Masteries in some key subjects. Namely Charms, Potions, DADA, Arithmancy and Ancient Runes.
"I have some exciting news to share with everyone present." started Sirius, practically vibrating in excitement. "I managed to score a VIP booth for the upcoming Quidditch World Cup. It's next Thursday, the 18th of the month. I hope we can all attend"
Everyone perked up at that. Clearly interested. Though Dan and Emma were also disappointed.
"Ah, Thursday? I have surgery planned for that day"
"I have a few appointments scheduled as well"
Needless to say, that dampened their joy. But they were quick to thank Sirius, even if he was upset. They had managed to cultivate a friendship this past year.
"Fine, but let me tell you. You are missing out. Tell 'em, Mooney. Of course, we couldn't go to a World cup match because of the war. But I remember going when we were in our second year. The four of us and James' parents. Your grandparents took all of us to Japan for the match. It was incredible. It was Nigeria vs Brazil (A/N: Totally made up). We set up camp a full 3 days before the game. Just enjoying the country and the vibe. The last thing we were able to do peacefully, unfortunately."
"Let's not forget the various games organised by the hosts. Honestly one of the best experiences I've ever had." added Remus with a small smile as he reminisced on the good times.
That got Rose very excited.
"Can we invite everyone that was here in the morning?"
"I'm sure most are going already. You'll just have to find them there"
She nodded enthusiastically.
That is one aspect he appreciated with Rose. She may have matured a lot due to the Wizengamot. But she is not always so serious. She has her moments of childish glee and eagerness.
It wasn't until a while later that Emma thought it was late enough.
"Alright, that's enough for today. Time for bed. We have a busy day tomorrow. It's best to prepare food for a few days as well. Since you will be camping for the World cup."
There was some whining about it being too early, But there was no arguing with a mother.
Link was wandering around the Alley in search of the soul fragment container. The map was not accurate. But it was enough to know the general direction. His conjecture was proven correct. It was near. At least he was sure it was not in Knockturn alley, as when he approached the darker alley, the lights were in the opposite direction.
His best guess was the bank. But that was the worst-case scenario. He had no idea what the container looked like. Nor did he know who would have it. He can't very well force the bank to open up every single vault to search for an item they are sceptical even exists, all at the word of a child. A genius perhaps, but a child nonetheless. This would require further thought.
He rejoined his group, Rose talking with their friends that had joined them. All discussing the Quidditch game. They were divided on the teams that are playing. Ireland has the better team, but Bulgaria has Brom, the youngest Professional seeker in history. He was incredible with a broom. Ron was a major Brom fan.
Link understood the appeal. The sport was interesting. It's areal, it's fast-paced, and it keeps you on your toes. The skill needed to dexterously manoeuvre through the air in a 3-dimensional expanse. They could go up, down, left, right or diagonally.
It was the day before the match. The four of them agreed that it's best to go there at night so they don't have to wake up so early. It was best to pitch up their tents near their friends. More fun that way.
They gathered at the Black Manor, prepping their next 7 meals. They stocked enough for 3 days. But if the game takes longer than a day, Mooney will leave to get more food.
Fried Chicken, Burgers, Hotdogs. Junk food, basically. It's a lively event after all. although Emma was on the fence about the food, seeing as It's very unhealthy, she eventually caved to Sirius' bad influence.
While the adults were distracted, Link looked around for the fourth soul shard. It took less than a few minutes to sense faint traces of dark energy exuding from within one of the walls. The container seems to limit its energy output, explaining why it wasn't discovered during the renovation of the house. The amount of mana it leaked was so minuscule that one had to be mana sensitive to be even aware of its existence.
It was a Locket.
Greg was quick to pop in next to him.
"Be careful Master Link. Greg be sensing dark magic from that thing."
"I will, Greg. I will dispose of it soon."
Nodding in relief, Greg popped away not long after.
Later in the night, Link quickly transferred the soul to the map. He did not destroy any of the shards in the small chance it may alert Voldemort of his actions.
A/N: Hope you enjoy the chapter. I will try to post the next chapter in the next two weeks. I know this feels more like a filler, but I need to get this out of the way to start going off-canon. I hope this works out well.