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A special note goes out to all of you did review. Thank you for your encouragement as it really has kept me going with this fic.
The young wizards and witches were greeted by the sight of the biggest and hairiest man they had ever seen, who was calling in a booming voice, "Firs' years! Firs' years over here!" They looked at one another and made their way over to the humongous dark, haired man whose bushy beard and eyebrows made him look much like a muggle burglar in a ski mask. The big man almost bounced with excitement as he saw the group, "Well I'll be kippered! Harry Potter, I've not seen yeh since yer was a wee baby, an' 'ere yeh are comin' ter Hogwarts! I'm Reubus Hagrid, Keeper of Keys 'ere at Hogwarts. Yeh look just like yer da' with yer mum's eyes. Finer folks yeh could never find! Nearly broke my 'eart when I found yeh that night!"
Harry was in awe of how scary this man appeared, but how gentle a soul he seemed to be. Harry answered, "Well, Mr. Hagrid I have very little memory of that night other than a scream, some eerie laughter and two flashes of green light. I am touched that you remember my parents and me so fondly. I look forward to meeting with you privately in the future, so we may discuss such things."
The big man blushed and clapped Harry on the shoulder hard enough to nearly push Harry off-balance. This guy is extremely powerful! Hagrid responded, "Jus' call me 'Agrid. An' I'd be 'onored ter 'ave yer fer a visit. I'd talk som'ore, but we need ta get yeh an' yer friends into the boats or yer miss the feast. No more 'en four ta a boat."
Harry, Hermione, Daphne and surprisingly Susan went in one boat while Neville, Hannah and a set of twin witches who looked to be from India in the other. Harry sat in between Hermione and Daphne. He was holding Hermione's hand while Daphne was snuggled against him as the cool breeze coming of the lake was a bit stiff. Susan simply looked nervous, but after Harry smiled at her, she loosened up and began adding to the conversation.
Harry was distracted as he felt a strange vibrating sensation in side his head and a buzzing noise as if a million people were all whispering and murmuring in his ears. The sensation passed after a few moments, and Harry looked about, only Hermione had noticed the look in his eyes that told her something had happened, but Harry squeezed her hand gently in reassurance telling her that nothing was wrong.
It was actually funny to see the last boat filled with Malfoy and his two goons, while an angry looking Ron Weasely was forced to get in with them. Harry could hear Malfoy and Ron bickering and silently banished a wave of water at the two, who coughed and sputtered as the cold lake water crashed over their heads. Hermione and the other witches sniggered as the annoying brats began shivering as the cold breeze off the lake hit their soaking wet bodies. Hermione raised an eyebrow at Harry in an inquiring manner to which he simply shrugged.
The first years looked at the breath-taking sight before them as they approached the magical castle. The bastions were glowing in the twilight upon the horizon, and the whole area teemed with an almost tangible feel of powerful ancient magic. I t was like a scene from some muggle fairy tale, but for Harry it felt oddly comforting, like home, something he had never felt before. Harry could almost feel the energy calling to his blood, welcoming him as if he were some sort of prodigal son, returning home from a long exile.
He quickly examined his mental senses and noticed that his core was tapped into some kind of energy source that was causing it to swell and grow both in size and durability. He felt like he could easily take on an army of giants. Dormant abilities were infused with magic, as his very cells were reinforced with magic. He knew at that moment that he could outrun and outmaneuver any living creature. He gained added muscular density and felt his physique ripple as muscle mass quietly bulked until he was sure he could lift many times his own weight and not break a sweat.
All of this happened in the course of the blink of an eye, so the other students were completely unaware of the metamorphosis taking place beside them. While Harry was distracted, the boats had reached their destination and the young pre-teens were beckoned ashore. While waiting for someone to arrive and take charge, the groups began discussing things amongst themselves. Harry, who was still holding hands with both Hermione and Daphne, had gathered with Neville, Hannah and the twin girls from their boat. "Neville, Hannah, how was your boat ride?"
Neville answered, "Pleasant. Oh, guys these are Pavarti and Padma Patil, they are twins and their family is from India. Their dad is an important trade officer from the Indian Ministry. He is permanently stationed here in England, so they were born here. Ladies, this is my friend, Lord Harry Potter and his friends Hermione Granger, Daphne Greengrass and Susan Bones, whose Aunt is the Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, and Hannah's and my best friend."
Harry answered as he greeted each of the twins in formal fashion, causing them each to blush furiously, a curious feat to see in ladies which darker complexions, "Ladies, it is both an honor and a privilege to make your acquaintances. Call me Harry, as my friends do. You may have read some things about me in a few books, and though some people label me famous, you will find I am just a bloke trying to learn more about being a wizard."
Hermione and Daphne gave each witch a look as they saw the love struck glint in the young twins' eyes. Padma seemed to be the more reserved of the two witches. "Well, Harry you seem to be surrounding yourself with quite a following. How did you all meet?"
Harry responded, "'Mione and I went to primary school together, and I met Daphne earlier this summer when I almost tackled her while not paying attention to my surroundings. Neville, Hannah and Susan shared a compartment with us on the Express, and that is how we all met."
Pavarti grinned and responded, "W-O-W! So there is such thing as true gentleman left on this backwards island."
Just then a dark robed man with a beak-like nose, beady eyes and greasy black hair came into the courtyard with a slightly drier Malfoy in tow. Malfoy pointed and stated, pointing at Harry "There he is Professor Snape! He is the one who attacked me on the Express!"
Snape sneered as he yelled, "What is the meaning of attacking another student, Potter! I would take points, but you have yet be sorted so that will be two weeks detention!"
Harry simply responded after releasing Hermione's and Daphne's hands, "First of all, Professor, you shall address me as Lord Potter, as I am the Head of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Potter. Second, Mr. Malfoy opened the door to our compartment, and insulted my companions, before pulling his wand and attempting to use it on me. I defended myself by neutralizing his two goons and finally himself. If that is what you mean by 'attacking' I am within my rights as Lord Potter to seek redress as I see fit for Mr. Malfoy's breech of etiquette as a matter of honor. Should you seek to interfere I will be forced to deal with you in a like manner."
Snape's face turned purple as he shouted, "Just like your father, an arrogant puffed up brat!" Before he could say another word, Harry had closed the gap between them and seized the Professor's wrist in a most painful manner, shoving him to the ground and wrenching his arm behind his back, while placing a foot to the side of his face. "You will never insult the memory of my father in this manner again, unless you wish to die a most painful death! You do not know me or what I have been through since the death of my parents! How dare you make assumptions as if you know me? You are unfit to even think about my parents. Now you will apologize to me for your slight or I will be forced to school you further! Now apologize!"
Snape grunted, his obvious pain laden in his voice, "My apologies, my Lord. I believe I was mistaken in my anger as Mr. Malfoy is my godson, so if you did attack him, I was honor-bound to act. I should have verified his account of the event before acting. It is a mistake I assure you I will not make again."
Harry released his hold on the Professor and helped him to his feet again. As Harry turned to walk away, Snape pulled his wand, but before he could fire a spell, Harry supn back around and released a shuriken, splitting the wand in half, before it returned to its hidden place. Harry then produced his wand and held it to Snape's temple. He smelled the odor of urine which told him the man had lost control of his bodily functions in response to Harry's actions. Harry looked at the cowering Professor with a look of disdain, "You are a coward and a bully, sir. You were bested by me in accordance to my right to address interference in matters of House honor, and you chose to attempt to attack me from behind, as I walked away. I declare you and your House as enemies of the House of Potter and all of its allies, until your cowardly actions have been redressed to our satisfaction. Do not cross me again! Do not speak to me unless it is within the confines of your duties as a Professor. Furthermore, you are placed on notice that all actions such as detentions and house point deductions shall be subject to review by an independent impartial entity so you will not be able to abuse your position to seek retribution against me and my companions."
The assembled mass of students stood in shock at the sight of an eleven year old Harry Potter seething in rage after physically putting an adult in his place. The Purebloods in the group recognized Harry's actions as a perfectly appropriate response to the situation which had unfolded before them, as did most of the half bloods. The muggle born students simply stared at him in awe. What shocked everyone the most is that Harry had dealt with the matter without using a hint of magic.
Hermione was completely blown away by Harry's violent reaction, but even more so at the unprofessionalism of Professor Snape as member of the faculty. While she may not agree with the extreme to which her best friend had taken the situation, she could not fault Harry's logic nor could she fault his right to defend himself. He does have a point…and he does look rather delicious standing over his opponent with such an air of authority…
Daphne just found herself falling even deeper for Harry Potter as she saw him holding the adult wizard in check, power radiating from Harry's body as he delivered the last statement to Professor Snape. Oh this boy is SO going to be my future husband!
Most of the young witches in the crowd were thinking similar thoughts as Daphne and Hermione. Susan was thinking how powerful he would become if he was capable of such feats as an unsorted first year. The Patil twins were calculating how they might be able to get close to Harry and stay close so that he might consider one of them or even both as a potential mate. Even Hannah, who was crushing hard on Neville, was tempted to think about Harry in a different light after witnessing the events in the courtyard.
Just then, a middle aged woman dressed in traditional robes came into the courtyard and upon seeing the scene before her, "What is the meaning of this? Severus, why are you being pinned against a tree by a young first year student? Young man, you will lower your wand, immediately or face expulsion!"
Harry did not even flinch as he simply responded, "With all due respect, Madam, this is a matter of family Honor between myself and this despicable coward and does not concern you. He dishonored the memory of James Potter in my presence and as Lord Potter, I used my right to chastise him for such a slight. Then after issuing the apology he owed to me, he attempted to dishonorably attack me from behind without warning, so I destroyed his wand and have declared a state of war between his house and mine, as is my right according to the Most Ancient and Noble laws. I will only lower my wand if you will take him into your custody and accept responsibility for his conduct."
Oh bloody hell! I know there was bad blood between Severus and James, but for Severus to act in such a manner is inexcusable behavior for a member of the faculty at this school! What am I to do, now? Young Harry is absolutely within his rights to have responded like he has…Minerva McGonagall was shocked at the response she received to her command, at first she bristled at the young boy's rebuke, but then she paled as he revealed his identity. Harry Potter had indeed come to Hogwarts, and he was not someone to reckon with!
Professor McGonagall responded, "Be that as it may Lord Potter, I am Professor McGonagall, Deputy Headmistress and Head of Gryffindor House. I take full custody and responsibility of Professor Snape, who shall be explaining his actions to the Headmaster tonight. Let us go inside so we can have you lot sorted and begin our festivities. I will expect you to meet me at the faculty table after the feast so that we may discuss this incident with the Headmaster, Lord Potter. You may bring any other students that you feel might help to better explain your account, as I am certain Professor Snape's account will definitely be one-sided." She pointed at the greasy man, "Before you even open your mouth, you had better think your actions through as I may not be able to talk Lord Potter out of his rights another time tonight, Severus! Oh, and for Merlin's sake, use a cleaning charm on your robes, they smell like an outhouse!"
She turned and addressed the students, "we will soon enter the Great Hall of Hogwarts where you will be selected and sorted into one of our four prestigious houses. Hufflepuffs are those who value loyalty and diligence, Ravenclaws are those who are wise and intelligent, seeking out knowledge eagerly to rise to the occasion, Slyrtherins are those who delight in cunning and admire ambition, whilst the Gryffindors are those who value honor and bravery, boldly upholding the rights of others. Your houses will be like your family here at Hogwarts, so trust your housemates and learn from them. Take pride in your house and strive for excellence so that you can bring honor to it! Now let us take our place amongst these hallowed halls!" She opened the grand doors and the students followed her inside, still muttering about the scene they had witnessed between Harry and the Professor.
-oOo00oOo-
Hermione almost began bouncing in excitement as she exclaimed, "This is so exciting! I read in Hogwarts: A History that the Sorting Ceremony is a tradition that the Founder's themselves put into place. I wonder into which of the houses we'll be sorted."
Harry laughed heartily as he added, "I don't really care as long as we end up together."
Hermione blushed and Daphne chimed in, "Well, my parents were Slytherin, but I certainly would not mind as long as I get to be in the same house as Harry."
Hermione shot her a look while responding, "Well, I highly doubt Harry will be a Slytherin, he has always been brave and heroic, so I would bet he'll end up in Gryffindor. Of course he's always been more intelligent than he lets on, so Ravenclaw is a possibility, also."
As the students walked into the Great Hall they were amazed by the sight of the ceiling which Hermione informed them was charmed to mimic the sky outside as she had read in Hogwarts: A History. There in the center of the dais was an strange hat, which began to move as it sang,
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!
The students applauded as the hat finished its song, and Professor McGonagall called out the first name, "Abbott, Hannah!" Hannah walked up to the stage and placed the old hat upon her head, after which it extolled, HUFFLEPUFF!
As Professor McGonagall went down her list, the first year students began making their way to the appropriate table. Susan followed Hannah to Hufflepuff, while both Hermione and Daphne went to Gryffindor, along with Neville. Draco Malfoy and his stooges went to Slytherin, while the Patil twins were split, Padma went to Ravenclaw, while Pavarti went to Gryffindor. Padma seemed unhappy with this split, but she made her way to her new housemates without causing any scene, Then McGonagall called out, "Potter, Harry!" and all movement and conversation stopped as Harry approached the dais. He placed the hat on his head and it began mumbling to him, Ah, such excellent shielding…I've not seen the likes of it since Godric himself strode these halls…I can't get a good read…oh an illusion…Hmmm…such strength…Merlin himself would be challenged…A brilliantly keen mind, but such a devotion to friends, ambitions that would make Salazar pale in comparison, but such a brave soul…difficult to place…well I have no other choice but to declare…GRYFFINDOR!
The last word of the mutterings was shouted for all to hear, so the Gryffindors were all cheering, "We got Potter! We got Potter!" Malfoy shot a sneer at him as did Severus Snape. Harry dismounted the dais and took his place at the Gryffindor table. He found a seat between Daphne and Hermione across from two red headed twins, who seemed related to Ron. Ah, the infamous Weasely twins…
Harry politely smiled as he extended a hand in greeting, "Ah, the infamous Weasely twins, Fred and George, I presume? Lord Harry Potter, it is an honor to meet thise who are so dedicated to the art of prank warfare. I hear you also play as Beaters on the house Quidditch team, correct?"
The two laughed merrily as they responded in unison, "It seems our reputation has preceded us so well that even the Boy-Who-Lived has heard of us! Right good job!"
The one on the left replied, "Gred?"
The one on the right answered, "Yes, Forge?"
"A little birdie has told me that our young housemate handed both the demon spawn of Malfoy and the greasy haired git their collective arses today!"
"No! You don't say!"
"Why yes, I think that qualifies him as a candidate for the coveted apprentice prankster position, Gred!"
"If you're interested, Forge and I would be honored to teach you the ways of the prankster in exchange for your assistance in the execution of such mischevious and nefarious deeds."
Harry laughed as he followed the obnoxious banter, while the rest of the first years were sorted. Ron was sorted into Gryffindor as well, followed by the last student Blais Zabini who was sorted into Slytherin.
All conversation died as the Headmaster stood and addressed the students, "Welcome one and all to what I trust will be another wonderful year of excitement and wonderful learning at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As all of our first year students will soon find, we are all honored to welcome you into our ranks. May you find strength and a sense of family here at Hogwarts, as your families have done so for generations all the way back to our founding." The wise old professor smiled at the students as he extended his hand in the direction of the faculty table behind him and began to his left, "This is Professor Kettleburn our Professor of Care of Magical Creatures, followed by Professor Sinastra our professor of Astronomy and Professor Babbling our Professor of Ancient Runes. Next we have Professor Burbage our Professor of Muggle Studies, Professor Vector our Professor of Arithmancy, Professor Trelwaney our Professor of Divination and Madam Hooch our Flight Instructor and Quidditch Referee. To my right we have Professor McGonagall our Deputy Headmistress, Professor of Transfiguration and Head of Gryffindor House, Professor Flitwick our Head of Ravenclaw House and Professor of Charms, Professor Sprout our Head of Hufflepuff House and Professor of Herbology, Professor Snape our Head of Slytherin House and resident Potions Master Professor, Madam Pomfrey our resident Infirmary Mediwitch and Healer, Hagrid the Keeper of Keys and Mr. Filch our Groundskeeper. I am of course Professor Dumbledore, your Headmaster. I implore you all to heed the notices that the Forbidden Forest is indeed forbidden. Mr Filch wanted me to remind you that all spellcasting is forbidden in the hallways and that a list of banned items is posted in each common room, so please relinquish any items you may have to the prefects before the first day of class, or face detentions should you be caught with any of the items in question. The abandoned corridor on the third floor is also off-limits to students as a most gruesome death awaits any who seek to go there. That being said…Oddment, Blubber and Tweak!"
Harry placed a few slabs of beef on his plate before asking, "'Mione, would you care for some beef?" Hermione nodded her head and Harry selected two medium slices before politely asking Daphne the same. Daphne also nodded in agreement after which Harry placed two slices on her plate. He then placed a scoop of roasted potatoes and green beans on each plate. He waited for the ladies to begin eating before following suit.
Ron was seated next to Seamus Finnegan and Dean Thomas, and had piled his plate into a mountain of food and was in the process of shoveling it all in at a record pace, food particles flying about as he rudely devoured his meal. Harry forced himself to look back at his own table as the sight was beginning to sicken him.
He took the ladies' glasses and filled them with a pitcher of pumpkin juice, before filling his own and taking a small sip. The beverage was surprisingly good and the ladies soon followed suit. Harry and the ladies begged off of desert and after the last plate was cleared, the prefects gathered the first year students by house and led them toward their respective towers.
Harry, Hermione, Daphne, Neville, Hannah, Susan, and the Patil Twins all met with Professor McGonagall and she led them to the Headmaster's office. She paused at the gargoyle before stating "Lemon Drops." The massive statue slid aside and the Headmaster spoke, "Enter."
The students followed Professor McGonagall up the stairs and into the Headmaster's office. The room was cluttered with several odd gadgets and trinkets, along with many magical portraits who were quietly chatting amongst themselves. There was a great stone fireplace and a large window opposite which overlooked the castle grounds. The Headmaster was seated at his desk, a large wing-backed chair behind him and a perch in the corner on which a giant bird rested. Harry was almost certain this bird was a phoenix. "Ah, Mr. Potter. I was hoping we could meet under better circumstances, but it has come to my attention that you engaged in a physical altercation with young Mr. Malfoy, Mr. Crabbe and Mr. Goyle upon the Hogwarts Express and after they reported you to Professor Snape, who tried to investigate the matter, you then attacked the Professor, citing Most Ancient and noble law as your justification. Please explain your actions."
Harry looked directly at the venerable Headmaster as he stated calmly, "First of all, Headmaster, I am to be addressed as Lord Potter, not Mr. Potter. Second, you are incorrect in your summation of the events. Mr. Malfoy, as I previously explained to Professor McGonagall, verbally insulted my companions without provocation and I dealt with him as I saw fit as is my right, since he drew his wand on me with intent of injury. I was with these other students when Professor Snape began shouting at me and made the grievous mistake of insulting the memory of my dead father and myself, to which I corrected him forcefully for making such a public slight upon the Most Ancient and Noble House of Potter and demanded an apology. He gave one, so I released him, turning to take my leave of him. The coward then declared himself an enemy by attempting to shoot some sort of spell at my back, so I took action to defend myself. I neutralized the threat and then drew my own wand, holding him at my mercy while delivering my declaration of house war in response to his cowardly actions. Professor McGonagall arrived and I explained the same account of the event to her. She took custody of Professor Snape and has vouched for his actions. I demand that Professor Severus Tobias Snape be placed under probation with his authority over myself and all students present and of my house be placed under protection of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Potter. I believe this man to be petty and cruel enough to bias himself against us in order to exact revenge for his subject humiliation. He shall not be allowed to punish anyone without an independent review of the situation in question requiring a Penseive review of the event to determine justification. I furthermore require the same for all grades prior to finalization of results."
The Headmaster drew himself tall and began, "Lord Potter, I am afraid I cannot meet those demands as they would severely undermine Professor Snape's authority and respect in his classroom."
Harry responded cutting Dumbldore off, "Headmaster, you have no choice but to honor my conditions as I am the owner of Hogwarts. You are Headmaster only as long as I believe you to be the best suited for this honorable post. If you refuse to comply, then you will find yourself dismissed and replaced.
You hired this disgrace of a wizard to teach the students, so you are directly responsible for his horrendous behavior. I will not tolerate such abuse of authority nor bullying of students. Whether it be by faculty or by other students, that is not acceptable treatment in the halls of academia. We are here to learn in a safe environment, not having to watch over our shoulders for dishonorable attacks or biased views."
The Headmaster allowed his aura to flare as his anger increased in response to Harry's statements. Harry simply looked in the eye and did the same. He silent reached for his blades preparing to fight if need be. The Headmaster roared out in response, "How dare you speak to me in such a manner, young man! I am Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster of this school, Chief Warlock of the Wizegamot, Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards and recipient of the Order of Merlin First Class for my defeat of the Dark Lord Grindlewald! I am the most powerful man in this country, young man and you had better show me some respect!"
Harry simply responded as he began to glow as a bright green nimbus shone around him, "Respect is earned, Headmaster, and while you may hold those titles and have accomplished much in your lifetime, consider this- I managed to survive a curse that no one else ever has, and I did so as mere baby. I am now able to use a wand, and actively manipulate the magic around me. True, you may have more experience and a more in-depth repertoire of spells to choose from, but I am much younger, much faster and certainly much more physically strong than you are. You might be able fire some spells, but are willing to gamble that I cannot close the distance between us and take that wand from your hand before you can hit me with one? Plus, in doing so, you will have declared war on my House, which would allow me to kill you within the confines of the law. Are you so old that you are prepared to die over your wounded pride or will you bow to the wisdom that your age implies and see I am not seeking to insult you, but rather to enlist your aid in ensuring a fair and just environment for us all to learn to become witches and wizards who will be able to stand up for what is just and what is right? I sense a darkness coming to this land soon, and I wish us all to be able to defend against it and survive! Can you say the same, Headmaster or will you have to be set aside so that someone who does can help us become what will be needed in the future?"
With that, Dumbldore relaxed his aura and his shoulders drooped in shame that he had been called out by a mere child. His wounded pride had almost led him to attack a student. Harry was right.
Dumbledore responded, "You are correct and I humbly apologize for the slight I have dealt you in discounting your suggestion because of your age. Thank you for reminding me of my primary responsibility as a leader, to give my charges the tools to realize his or her potential and let them help defend their loved ones from the forces of darkness. I will grant your demands as I am able."
The rest of the students were again dumbstruck by Harry's display of power. Albus Dumbledore was the only man that Lord Voldemort feared, and Harry had matched him without backing down. Harry was definitely not someone to mess around with!
-oOo00oOo-
Harry was given his own rooms at Gryffindor tower as an emancipated Lord. His suite had its own loo, shower and common room with a few extra guest rooms, and a decadent master suite. Hermione and Daphne immediately decided to move into the guest rooms as Harry had placed them under his House protection making them in essence members of his family and entitling them to stay in his suite. Professor McGonagall made sure to stress that even as an emancipated Lord, that she expected her charges to behave as modesty and decorum demanded, but she was certain that they were too young for any serious measures to be needed as of yet. She knew the young ladies might have designs on the young wizard, but that harry was still too young for any problems to occur, as wizards tended to not be so mindful of witches until about third year at the earliest.
Harry woke early and made his way to the lake, running its path a few times before the witches found him. Hermione saw him running and called out, "Harry? Why didn't you tell us you were going to exercise this morning? May we join you?"
Harry slowed down a bit and responded, "Why certainly, ladies! Let's go!" The witches ran with Harry, but he soon left them a bit behind, though Hermione kept closer to him than any of the others as she had long since been running as a part of her training regimen. Harry warmed down and then stretched a bit before starting his kata. He moved with a silent grace that sent the witches blushing as his muscles rippled and bunched while he executed the moves with precision.
Hermione was able to mimic him, as she too had been training in martial arts for years. Daphne was also surprisingly quick to learn, and she too moved with ease through the kata. The Patils had also joined them and performed their own style of kata, native to India. They were soon joined by Neville, Susan and Hannah. Neville struggled awkwardly at first, but Harry helped him with the basics and soon he was moving with some proficiency, though Harry thought he might need some more practice to become any good at kata. The other two witches had no problem learning to perform the kata, as dancing was a regular part of Pureblood culture. The group headed back to shower, change and meet up for breakfast. Harry asked Neville quietly, "Hey Nev? Would you care to learn some further self defense techniques? I think you have some potential and would be willing to help you train. I could find the time a few evenings before dinner."
Neville grinned, "Sure! I wouldn't mind. Would you mind if we included everyone, because I think we could all use a little training. You may want to even include the Weasely twins, as they seem to get along well with all of us."
Harry laughed as he thought of the twins antics from the feast, "You know, that is a great idea! I'll ask them if they would care to join us tonight. We'll meet here in this field for an hour or so after classes. 'Mione has been training in self defense for a few years, so she can help me teach the witches. Once you have mastered unarmed techniques, I can teach you how to use weapons and integrate them into your styles. You, my friend will probably make one hell of a sword and staff man. We'll see about the others as time goes on." We can also help each other with the practical parts of spellwork."
Neville was pleased he had come up with a great idea and even more pleased that Harry was impressed with the suggestion and saw him as a friend. Neville simply told him, "Alright Professor Potter, let's go hit the showers, because all of this exercising has worked up an appetite. If we don't hurry, Ron might beat us to breakfast and then there might not be anything left!"
-oOo00oOo-
Classes were easy for Harry as he had mastered all of his spellwork, so he finished each assignment and then began helping those around him. Hermione seemed to get everything right the first time with Daphne right behind her, so the two witches soon joined Harry in instructing their peers. Ron Weasely made a few nasty comments to Hermione, but one look from Harry was enough to shut him up in most cases.
Potions proved to be a problem for Harry as Professor Snape was still unhappy with the events from before the sorting. He swept into the room the first day, "I don't expect you will really understand the beauty of the softly simmering cauldron with its shimmering fumes, the delicate power of liquids that creep through human veins, bewitching the mind, ensnaring the senses...I can teach you how to bottle fame, brew glory and even put a stopper in death. Put your wands away as there will be no silly wand waving in my class."
He looked around the room and sneered as he made eye contact with Harry, "Ah, Lord Potter, our resident celebrity. Can you tell me what would happen if I added powdered root of asphodel into an infusion of wormwood?"
Harry responded with confidence, "A sticky mess unless one used the proper techniques to simmer and combine the two ingredients with a few stabilizers, then one would have a sleep potion so powerful it is called 'Draught of the Living Death.' Though I am remiss to understand why you would want to quiz me on that particular potion as it is not covered in the first year text, therefore it would be difficult for the average first year to answer it correctly. I only know of it because I had an excellent tutor in potions and plus I've read my mother's journals. She claimed there was only one student in her entire year that could touch her prowess in that subject, and he still was only second best to her. I believe if my memory serves me, did you not mention that you knew my parents, sir? Were you in the same year as they were?"
Snape paled and trembled in anger before exploding, "Yes, Lily Evans was better than I at Potions while in school, but I studied and gained my Mastery after perfecting my technique to become far superior. Twenty points from Gryffindor for your insolence, Lord Potter!"
Harry simply responded, "No. That will not be possible as your deduction was unjustly applied after you tried to ask me questions beyond the standard knowledge of a first year potions student, and then get angry with me for being able to answer it intelligently. I suggest that you return to the material we need to cover at present Professor as I believe the boil removing curse is a good starting point for a first year student. I did however wish to ask you why you never assigned all first years to purchase and read the text Magical Substances and Their Reactions to You?" It is rather difficult to understand how certain ingredients interact with one another and what to do in the event of a mishap. I would think that assigning that particular book would serve us all much better. I have enough copies for all of us to read, so any of you who are interested can see me at lunch today."
Snape again turned blue and began bordering on an epileptic fit before responding, "Fine! Make the bloody potion! Instruction are on the board! If you do not produce an adequate specimen you will not receive credit for the assignment and will have to write a one foot essay on how you would correct your mistake and why it went wrong. Well? BEGIN!"
Harry and company had read the book in question, and they diligently gathered the ingredients and followed the instructions. Harry carefully pointed out that Neville needed to wait until l the mixture was at a boil before adding the last ingredients. Neville grinned sheepishly as he mouthed thanks to Harry. The potion was completed and they poured the samples into the vials and brought them to Professor Snape, who tried his best to find something wrong with the samples, but was forced to admit that the students had achieved an excellent example, so he gave full marks to the group, before telling them to clean their stations and then leave.
Potions class had Professor Snape slowly admiring Harry's skills and his ability to teach others to perform better. He was impressed and actually gave points to Gryffindor, a few times.
Halloween approached and the group had continued their patterns of morning exercise, to which Harry had also added some weight training for the wizards, to help with strength. Harry had moved on to weapons training, teaching Neville staff and blade, while teaching the Weasley twins the tonfas and the daggers, as the two were used to wielding Beater's bats.
He taught the ladies to use the sais, the daggers and chains. They proved to be adept students and soon he had them all training with the swords, although he taught both katana and rapier epee fencing, while the wizards studied saber fencing and katana. They still sparred in the evenings after classes mixing their martial arts techniques with their magical prowess. Harry had even found a special room. This room provided everything they needed to train for whatever session they were needing. They were all advanced in their spell knowledge.
Harry had of course progressed so far that no one knew what he was studying, while the twins helped him instruct everyone. They then began focusing on scenario training in teams and coordinating strategies. Hermione and the witches learned advanced healing and support spells and taught the wizards in turn.
Then during charms class, Hermione was trying to help Ron get the Levitation Charm correct, and he got belligerent again. This time he snapped at her and then after class he insulted her by loudly imitating her in a sarcastic manner, and she overheard his comments. She darted away in tears to which Ron just responded with cruel laughter until his two brothers, Neville and harry gave him a beating that he would likely never forget. It took Madam Pomfrey at least a week to re-grow Ron's testicles, as they were damaged beyond repair. Hermione was still missing from dinner that night, and Harry asked Daphne if she had seen her. Daphne said she had found her crying in the second floor girls' loo, and that she had dismissed any and all efforts to coax her out of the stalls.
Harry was concerned, so he immediately began to make his way to comfort her, but just as he stood up, Prof. Quirrell came into the Great Hall screaming, "TROLL! There's a troll in the dungeons! Just thought you should know!" Prof. Quirrell then faked passing out. Harry wanted to call him on it, but something told him he needed to find 'Mione and get her to safety first. Harry raced toward the loo, and got there just in time to see a huge ugly troll getting ready to swing its club at a cornered Hermione. Hermione was a strong witch, but an adult mountain troll was easily a bit more than she might be able to handle alone. Harry let his aura flare and cried out, "'Mione! Get over here! I'll take care of this overgrown sewer rat!" The troll paused in confusion and then turned to see Harry, in the confusion Hermione had rolled under the troll's legs and cast a highly powered Reducto at the creature's loin cloth before making her way to Harry's side. The spell was not enough to damage the troll's spell resistant hide, but the look on its face told the two that it was not happy! The troll bellowed in rage and started to come at them, before Harry produced his Glocks and unloaded what can only be equated to hellfire on the poor unsuspecting troll. The side arms quickly turned the loo into a charnel house as the .40 caliber rounds tore into the troll. The body pretty much disintegrated into a spray of bloody mist and chunks of quivering flesh that were strewn everywhere, leaving nothing but the spiked club behind. Hermione nearly retched at the sight before her and the stench was unbearable. Harry quickly banished the mess with a few Evanescos and a few air freshening charms, before repairing the damage and stowing his sidearms.
Hermione sobbed into his arms as he held her close and then concentrated on his ninjitsu shadow shifting. He disappeared with 'Mione in a cloud of smoke before rematerializing in his suite. He held her closely and whispered softly, "It's okay "Mione. You're safe. We're together. I've got you." He repeated this over and over again until the hysterical girl slipped into unconsciousness. Harry used another mental ability to project his spirit into another room finding Daphne and the rest of his group in his common room. He spoke to them telling them he had found Hermione, but she was exhausted from the stress and needed to have someone with her. Surprisingly Daphne volunteered. Harry emerged from the room looking like death warmed over. I don't know why he did it, or how, but before I sleep tonight, Quirrell is a fucking dead man!
Lord Harry Potter was going to make that sick fuck pay for putting his 'Mione through such a terrible ordeal!
AN: Sorry for the cliffie, but this seemed like a good place to stop.
7500 words. No beta. Hope I didn't leave or make too many mistakes! Enjoy!
Read and review! No flames please! How's that for Badass! Harry?
Next up Quirrell is going to get his, and Moldy will be revealed. The stone will be recovered by the group, who will contact the Flamels. They will teach Harry some new tricks, and reveal to Harry one of Dumble's darkest secrets….Quidditch tryouts were moved to November in this story so we will also get to see who does what with a broom…(pun intended?)