Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter or its characters.
AN: Ginny won't play any significant role in the story, I don't even plan on her having the diary. Harry won't be greatly influenced by any feelings that carried over to him from original Harry. Saying that, she won't be bashed either. As for this bitch/slut I spoke of in the previous chapter, no it is not Ginny. As to who it is, you'll have to wait and see. Enjoy the new chapter of playing with the timeline. Harry will go to Knockturn alley this chapter or the next, I'm not sure how detailed I'm going to go, he has left it for so long because he hasn't needed a second wand. With his wandless skills and the wards there has been no need to go and get it.
Harry turned dramatically slowly with a guilty look on his face in the direction of the voice. In a group standing there was red faced Hannah Abbott, Susan Bones and Daphne Greengrass, the latter with a deep scowl making her much cuter. It was obvious that it was Susan who had shouted, not that he didn't already know from the tone of voice, the beast was about to make its appearance again.
Katie stood with narrowed eyes and her hands on her hips, oddly enough that made Harry very uneasy, but he didn't outwardly show it. Everyone around the girls was trying hard not to snicker, laugh or scowl at Harry. Naturally Seamus, Dean, Tracey and Astoria had no qualms about it and were laughing loudly. Harry noticed the Patil twins, the Weasleys, Hermione, Lavender and the other two chasers had various emotions flickering over their faces, the most prominent being amused, confused to annoyed. "Huh guess I'm late, was hoping to see your reactions when you first arrived"
Harry beamed as his eyes left the three to the source of their rage. He noticed the others now looking where he was, a few curses were heard along with his name. A fact that didn't go unnoticed by him. Now he understood Neville's smile, the boy probably pinned it all on him. Well it was all his doing, so he couldn't blame him. He had gone to Jean and asked where he could get a number of banners made. The beautiful woman had offered to do so herself with her time off. Harry insisted on paying her a decent amount for it and she reluctantly agreed, after he promised to try and visit her more during the coming school year.
He gave her some memories of each person he wanted on the banner and gave her a very detailed description of what he wanted. The banners weren't an average birthday one by any means. Harry and Neville stood side by side, arms around each other's shoulders beaming proudly, wearing shirts with the number 12, nothing suspicious about it at all, unless you looked behind the birthday boys of course.
Behind stood all the guests confirmed to be attending smiling too, again not too suspicious. Unless you looked closely at what certain girls were wearing. Susan, Daphne and Katie had shirts with Harry's smiling face, with words underneath 'Husband material'. All other girls he did purely for fun, but some of the reactions like Hannah's made him curious. He had paired certain girls to the right of certain guys. The shirts had 'You can have Potter, I have someone better'. Her image was to the right of Neville, Angelina right of George, Alicia to Fred, Lavender to Seamus and Parvarti to Dean. He would have done Hermione to Ron... but for some reason he didn't want to, mainly because he couldn't fathom that being anything but an insult to Hermione.
"Calm down ladies, you know it's only the truth" He said this while looking at Hannah, her eyes widened and looked away quickly. Oh, the boy who lived never saw that one coming, sure he thought Hannah and Neville were alike. Looking to Neville who looked at Hannah with a blush he realized, to find out they like each other literally.
Suddenly the truth hit Harry making him let out an audible groan, those feelings of other Harry obviously are more then he gives them credit for. He had linked the two together since he met them, who does that? Actually, now that he thought about it, did all of those he paired off end up together in the other Harry's life? He teased Hermione and Ron about dating, had seen subtle flirting between the chasers and beaters. He never would have seen the last two pairings, but who knows what the future holds.
Thinking quickly to justify his groan, Harry said "Astoria I thought I asked you to try and be as beautiful as your sister, I see you aren't quite at her level yet" Astoria stuck her tongue out at him, turning to Daphne he saw her face was still red but her scowl had deepened.
With a sigh he walked over and gave all the girls hugs and shook the guys hands, Susan tried to avoid the kiss he went to give her, all that did was provoke a kiss attack from Harry that had her squealing, eventually causing him to stop. Daphne didn't respond to him kissing her cheek, he tried again and nothing. Giving her the same treatment as Susan, she eventually snapped at him to get him to stop, which he did after another minute and her trying to break free. Katie shocked him by kissing his cheek before he had the chance, something that had her smiling quite proudly afterwards. She also whispered in a seductive tone "So, am I actually getting one of those shirts Harry?" That actually had a blush form on him.
The party ended up being a very fun time for the freshly turned 12 year old. Although the fact he had never been to a party before might have played a part in it. It was very much like the Quidditch parties at Hogwarts, but the food was better, the girls were in clothing that weren't robes that Harry couldn't help but appreciate. The fact his favourite Slytherins and Hufflepuffs pleased him too. The dancing was okay, he made an effort to dance with all the girls. Even the fangirl, uh Ginny managed to keep her hands to herself. He would have to see about the more, better looking witches, to start wearing, tighter, muggle clothing as much as possible at Hogwarts. He wondered if he should have a muggle clothing day or something, get the house elves to remove all clothing but tight muggle style. With the number of fangirls around he was sure it would be possible to do with a few hints, so maybe a direct approach would be better. After all, everyone in school robes, on days without classes... why?
However Merlin's words kept coming up to the forefront of his mind. He had thought very carefully on what Merlin told him. Harry was certain now that other Harrys had been used before, if Merlin couldn't see the future of this world, how could he have predicted what would happen later on. The identify of the mystery person also made Harry curious, was the enemy from this world or from another? Was it linked to him or to Merlin? Did he know this person now or would it be some time until she was met?
On that note was Merlin really who he said he was, or someone else entirely? Maybe just using the ancient wizard's persona and image? If the being was as old as he claimed, knowing what has been, is and will be, makes it not that far of a stretch to take on someone's image and persona. He was told he couldn't turn more than one girl, now he essentially could make an army. Why did Merlin lie to him at the beginning, did another Harry turn many girls straight away and get killed or something? The way he worded any Harry turns, not being able to turn others made him curious, like one of the girls would make their own army if given the option.
Harry knew his training would have to take a drastic change to account for Merlin's warning. Maybe get some training for the girls. IF he had to be honest with himself, he had strong feelings for all three of them, even Tracey stirred the fun side in him, she would be good fun, in certain aspects. Slowly he was seeing how loyal they were becoming to him as well, Daphne might be the most trustworthy but the others also were rising the ranks quickly. Even Neville Harry believed to be a strong worthy ally if trained up and had more confidence. The fact most happened to be heir's to their families was also a major plus for him.
Something that really confused him was Ron and Hermione, why would the original Harry become so close to the possibly lowest influential people he could ally himself too. Surely others would have extended their hand of friendship too him. Even the other muggleborn students had a lot of influence in the muggle world. But the Grangers were merely well off financially but didn't hold any real power. The Weasleys were, well simply put, the lowest influential family in the wizarding world.
They both also had their families, whereas there were many students, like Harry, Susan and Neville being prime examples. That had lost their parents and family during the war, yet other Harry, if the hints Merlin had given during his training. 'See through lies and deception Harry', 'Be wary of those you first meet in the wizarding world', 'If you don't trust or like someone, keep them neutral rather then make them an enemy. Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.' These feelings he got, hinted at who he might have gotten close too.
Harry had caught Ginny looking at him with a blush throughout the party. She was literally a tomato when he danced with her. If his assumptions on the other Harry were correct, he would have been drawn to Ginny at some point, she did look somewhat like his mother from the photos. If other Harry remained as isolated as his theory seemed to insinuate. Then it would be likely Harry would have married someone safe that he was familiar with. Being as socially retarded as he was before Merlin's training, the only two that would have fit this description, was Hermione, being disliked for how she was and her muggleborn status, or Ginny, his first friend's little sister. Given that Harry felt Ron would be drawn together somehow, made him realize he would have not interfered. Thus they would end up together, hinting other Harry married Ginny.
Sure she appeared to be cute now, he could see she would probably be a stunner in a few years. Not as beautiful as Daphne, but with Hagrid's statement of Slytherin, Ron's opinions on the snake house, other Harry probably thought all Slytherin's were evil and ugly hags. Daphne and Tracey included despite Harry not being ever able to see them like that. Actually with Ron's views on all other houses, he wouldn't have been close to any of the other girls from the other houses. But what was odd, was the feelings towards Ginny from other Harry. It was like an attraction to a good looking girl, not one of love. If he was married, likely for years, why would other Harry simply be attracted to his wife? Wouldn't a deep love be the emotion he should have? For someone deprived of love, wouldn't Harry want that feeling to the woman he would spend the rest of his life with?
It completely confused Harry, was there something he was missing, a piece of the puzzle he didn't have that would make everything make sense? Harry had only known the girls for a year, yet he could see the vast difference he felt for say Susan, in comparison to Hannah. A massive difference in how he felt for the two, platonic love for Hannah to a far more personal one in Susan. Why would other Harry give up a chance at true love, to settle for Ginny?
"You seem lost Harry" The voice brought a smile to his face, if anyone had learned to read him easily despite his neutral looks was the queen of masks. Thinking of what he should tell the curious blonde he looked at the banner again.
"Just thinking of my role in the future Daphne, as you are the heir to your house you probably understand. As I'm sure you've figured out, I'm the last of the Potter line, you know of the Gryffindor title too. I'm also the heir to house Black"
Daphne's eyes didn't show surprise and he had to laugh "Yeah I figured that would have gotten around the pureblood community quickly, once Narcissa found out. Anyway, since the public knows Potter held two titles, that means they know I hold three now. Hell maybe even the boy who lived will be a title in itself. To claim each title would mean eventually –"
Daphne interrupted him "We were raised as the heirs to our houses Harry, your situation isn't the first in our world, nor will it be the last. To gain the power of all those titles will require you to marry a girl for each title to produce an heir for you. Do you really think we would allow each other the freedoms with you if we wanted you to ourselves?"
Harry looked up to see Katie smiling at him from across the room. He saw Susan laughing about something with Hannah and the Gryffindor first year girls, they were eyeing the first year Gryffindor males while doing so. Harry just realized he had created fangirls for the guys unintentionally if those looks he was seeing were any suggestion. "If we were bothered, as you said at the ball, we would have gotten quite angry or pleased at some of your... antics. Vice versa, we have tested you. Our society is patriarchal, we aren't just looking for a powerful partner, but due to our statuses as heirs to our own houses, we also need to find someone who will treat us as equals. With me, Susan and Katie I assume not having siblings. Basically means whoever we marry, our family money and power will essentially combine with our husbands. My sister can marry whomever she wishes, I have to choose very carefully. We would have each been raised to not just become a trophy or heir maker to our husbands"
Daphne perked up and smacked him playfully in the chest "I need a man worthy of taking on my families future, my first born son will not only carry my husband's titles, but Greengrass too"
Daphne sent him a cheeky grin "You told us you tested us with your little antics. Well Mr Potter we have tried to take control of certain actions you take too. Discipline you which would not be tolerated by an average pureblood male. My demands for information for example, if I attempted that with a normal pureblood boy, he would try and put me in my place. Telling you off for doing something annoying, instead Harry, you take it like a challenge or game rather than an insult. I may not have talked to those two, but they would know your role in the future if you take your titles. Like me they are the heirs to their families. I sometimes forget you were raised as a muggle, multiple wives aren't frowned upon, they are uncommon yes, as usually a Lord has mitresses on the side. With the fact we can produce powerful contraceptive charms and potions, there are no children born from such unions. Very rare is it to see a powerful Lord with multiple women by his side treated equally."
Harry was genuinely surprised by the words he was hearing, sure the idea had crossed his mind, but to hear it directly from Daphne's mouth. He was about to speak and she put a finger to his mouth. The intimate action caused a blush to appear at the same time a smirk formed on Daphne's face. "I will say this, if someday you wished to seriously consider pursuing me or one of them. Don't expect us to just submit to you, but don't expect any of us three to be insulted, angry or upset at the idea of having to share you. We were raised with that possibility in mind, especially as we are heirs. As that shirt said, keep it up and you might just be husband material to us. But don't go thinking you have a chance with me yet Potter"
She said with a wider smile, she then kissed him on the cheek startling him "Oh something has been making me curious for some time. Those little tricks of yours, can they be taught? If you were to teach me, you just might rise up to that position that's in your fantasy" Her eyes went to the banner with a innocent look on her face, blue eyes sparkling with mischief.
Harry had been expecting such a question long ago and had set up a story long ago to state he could not. But Merlin's recent revelations had drastically altered that answer. Should he turn her and the other two, but if magical creatures could sense him, they would likely sense her and the others too. Wouldn't that put them in unnecessary danger? But wouldn't they be in more danger associating with him, these enemies, if they appear would surely target those close to him, as a means to control or hurt him.
Harry was seriously troubled, he wanted to keep them safe, but how could he be around them all the time now knowing they could be in danger for being with him. Turning them would plant a bigger target on their backs. There was also the method of turning them that he now mysteriously knew. Harry was sure Merlin never told him, but the memory of the conversation was at the forefront of his mind.
He didn't think either him or the girls were ready for that. Then he suddenly wondered whether Merlin was being truthful of that being the only way to turn them. It could be why the old being wanted him to stick to one woman at the end of the day. Having your partner drink your blood, have sex to connect mind (the blood) and body (sex being a main role in soul magic). Marriage bonds are activated only after the ceremony, when the happy couple must consummate their love to connect the body part of the spell.
It is also why Magical marriages don't have a divorce option, there is no way to break the spell other then death. Marriage to another truly is til death do us part once they have had sex, the last time to back out is before this. As such unhappy couples get other partners on the side, with magic protecting them from diseases and contraception's preventing pregnancy. The other issue is they can't cheat on their partner, they can only have sex with another if their partner approves. Unfortunately rape is against their choice, so they survive with the pain of the event if it ever happened, also if someone tried to force a marriage bond, it wouldn't work as the unwilling participant's magic wouldn't allow for the union. Harry figured his immortality would prevent his death if he were to cheat but he wouldn't do so anyway.
There is little risk involved and gives the couple a sense of happiness, it was actually quite common from what Merlin had told him. Since many marriages are to create alliances between houses, get favour from a powerful lord or similar, it means many marry out of duty of their house, not out of love. Was this the part of the puzzle that he was missing, was Ginny pregnant with other Harry's child? With the naivety of Harry and the fangirl he was currently seeing, he could see himself falling for that trap once.
"Harry I was just joking, don't go so serious" Harry snapped out of his thoughts to see a concerned Daphne looking at him.
With a sigh he ran a hand through his messy black hair. "Sorry Daphne, it's not that I can't. It's that I'm not sure if it's wise to teach you, especially at our ages. Magical creatures like the Goblins, house elves, Fawkes, Norbert, those Centaurs in the forest. They all can sense a difference in me to other wizards. What if other races aren't neutral or potential allies to me? What if they wish me harm, if I taught you and the others, I'd basically be putting you in harm's way."
Harry suddenly blushed and Daphne raised her eyebrow, her curiosity getting the better of her. "Also to teach you requires a soul ritual to be performed. Nothing serious, it's just to link you to me in a sense, my abilities become yours. Not all, but I won't explain that until the time is right"
Daphne turned bright red after her brows furrowed together in concentration for a moment. It was obvious she suddenly remembered what exactly is involved for a soul ritual to be successful. "Yes, that time won't be for a long long time, if ever Potter. Don't get any ideas"
Harry held up his hands in a surrender manner. "Just in my dreams Daphne, what I can't help it" Her eyes practically bugged out at the bold statement with a deep blush. After all, what boy admits you are in their dreams after stating what they just did, in such a blunt manner?
"Oh my gawd, he just asked you out didn't he" Astoria exclaimed loudly from across the room. All noise suddenly stopped and they snapped to attention in his direction. Daphne turned redder with either rage or embarrassment, he was thinking the former from the glare that Astoria was suddenly getting.
Harry saw the surprise on Susan and Katie's faces, knowing what was possibly going through their heads Harry stated "No I did not ask her out, I just made the simple statement I dream, certain things happening between us. Not just her either" He winked at Katie and Susan each and they blushed at the insinuation, also the fact Harry winked at them in front of everyone there.
Daphne smacked him lightly in the chest for revealing that to the room, she didn't seem that upset by it though. At least her sister's statement was currently all on her mind. She stood, feeling suddenly bolder after their little talk, he retaliated, by smacking her ass lightly. At least he thought it was light but the noise made was louder than expected. He looked at his hand realizing his increase in strength would take a while to get used to like the first time. Mouths dropped open all around at the bold move. Daphne slowly towards him and Harry chuckled nervously "Uh, I didn't mean to do it that hard I swear, it is a very nice bum though"
Her eyes were icy cold that made him suddenly nervous. "It is better than my dreams" Harry attempted, her eyes unnerving him. They somehow grew colder and he realized it was probably the wrong thing to say. Instead of digging himself a further hole he slowly stood, inching away from her.
She didn't move just kept glaring at him, curious he starting inching towards her again. The glare intensified the closer he got to her. Everyone watched with wide eyes when he was within an arm's reach, he moved his finger slowly towards her. All eyes followed the finger as it slowly inched closer to Daphne and poked her, in a breast. "Holy shit he's got a death wish" Neville shouted.
Everyone, even Daphne, temporarily forgetting Harry just sort of touched one of her breasts slightly, turned towards the boy in surprise. Neville blushed at the sudden attention, but impressively did not crawl into a self made hole like Harry had seen before. He stood up confidently, he then calmly walked over to Hannah, leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. "Wow, I think I know why Harry does it" Then reality set in at what he had just done, his knees felt weak, he felt the eyes of everyone looking at him, it proved to be too much for the poor boy, he fainted with a smile on his face, missing the deep blush now adorning Hannah's face from the action he took.
"Harry, what in Merlin's name did you do to him?" Daphne stated, turning towards him with a look of pure shock on her face. Everyone else also turned to him as well. Ron looking like the only one confused and sent Neville an odd look. Harry noticed Ginny currently glaring at Daphne when she thought no one could see her.
Harry let out a simple shrug "I became his friend, all Neville needed was confidence, I honestly can't believe he just did that." Harry then turned to the still shell shocked Hannah and he whispered loudly "I think he likes you Hannah, I can give him that memory of that time when the beast was after me"
Now everyone looked curious at the odd statement, wondering what this beast was. But the look of shock on Hannah's face that was even redder and the look of rage now making its way onto Susan's face at the beast comment, stopped Harry from doing something stupid. With Neville gone he had no back up after scanning the crowd. Well he might be able to hide behind Katie, but she would probably take the girls side on this.
"You're all barmy" Everyone now turned to Ron who was shaking his head in disbelief. The boy smartly did not continue to rant thankfully. Just turned and went back to his spot, slowly the others did too.
Daphne turned to him and whispered quietly "That one I'll let go Potter, since you did seem genuinely surprised at how hard it was. But touch either area again, there will be payback" Harry got a cheeky grin at the way it was worded, it sounded like an empty threat. Daphne saw the grin he was sure but she didn't react to it. It was almost like she wanted him to do it again... but why was she so angry before if that was the case? Was it another test or something?
Neville awoke a short time later, looked around and saw the beet red Hannah over him. Before the blush came back to his own face, remembering what he did. He tried stuttering out something but she simply kissed his cheek, muttered "Now we're even" before running off. Neville touched his cheek with a deep red blush and a dumb look on his face.
Harry noticing the boy was again awake walked over and clapped him on the back, holding back much more and was satisfied by the strength involved. "I am so proud of you Neville, it brought tears to my eyes." Harry stated dramatically, before he whispered "Thanks too bro, Daphne looked close to sending a Diffindo to my manhood, if you get my meaning" Harry really thought she might too, considering she would think it would regenerate back.
The boy paled and nodded showing he did indeed understand completely, why he took the risk he did in the first place, he still couldn't believe he had kissed Hannah. If he didn't have her kiss him back he would be sure it was all a dream.
The rest of the party passed by quickly, the guys praising the two boys moves. The twins actually asked Harry for some tips to how to approach their crushes, in response he had shouted "Hey chaser 2 and 3, beaters like you" Both girls had looked wide eyed at the twins, looked at the banner before getting blushes and looking away.
The twins looked livid until Katie went to them and there was a furious quiet debate going on. Angelina dragged Alicia with her before she stated "Prove it, you're taking us to Hogsmeade this term" Before they went walking off again with a deep blush on their faces.
The twins looked at the walking forms before staring at Harry in shook "How did –" "You know that would work?" Fred started before George finished.
Harry looked at them before pointing to Daphne and Tracey, then to Susan and Hannah, finally to Katie and the chasers. "You've seen how I work, it has yet to fail me. Act, don't think boys. I've seen the light flirting, if you just asked them out it would have been fine. But you two decided to think too much" Looking around as if a secret was about to be told he whispered "If you're worried about money, it's on me, let me know how much you need"
Fred and George couldn't believe their luck. They saw the pure sincerity in Harry's eyes and couldn't help but believe every word he stated. They both looped an arm around him praising the young wizard loudly. Getting curious glances from the rest of the guests.
Soon enough it was time for people to start leaving, Angelina and Alicia were the first to leave. Thanked Harry and Neville with a kiss to each cheek simultaneously. The Weasleys left next, Ginny and Ron looked like they wanted to linger. But one by one they entered the flames to return home after he promised he would visit the Weasley home. Harry couldn't see himself staying over though, he would drop by closer to September first, he had the feeling he wouldn't get the booklist until he went there.
One by one the rest left, leaving only the Hufflepuffs, Slytherins, Harry counted Astoria in this group, he was certain she would be there, the cunning little 10 year old, Hermione, Katie and Neville. Thinking briefly Harry stated "Guys, come into Diagon in the morning, I'm going to help show Hermione and her parents around. Maybe even go and see Muggle London after, say 8am?"
Neville agreed a little too quickly, causing everyone to eye him curiously. But they all agreed to meet him and Hermione in the morning. Especially when Susan stated "Can we go to the movies again Harry?" Then she got extremely excited when he nodded and started ranting about some of the things she saw the last time Harry took her out there, both Daphne and Katie eyed Harry briefly when that was mentioned but said nothing.
PWTT
Early the following morning Harry headed down the stairs of the Leaky Cauldron to see the Grangers already up and talking. Walking over he stated "Well I see now where Hermione gets it from, Not too many people are up the same time as me on a normal day"
David laughed at the comment "It should be us who say that about you Harry. Hermione tells us we are expecting a few people, all born in the wizarding world?" Harry nodded, after all he was supposed to be muggle raised too, the others would know much more than him. It would make more sense to have them showing the group around.
Susan was the first to arrive, surprisingly with Amelia in tow "Amelia, curious of the muggle world too?"
The stern woman narrowed her eyes at the grin on Harry's face. That grin she had seen so many times on James's face just before something embarrassing would happen. But maybe her paranoia was starting to get the better of her. Ignoring his statement she turned to the muggle parents "Amelia Bones, Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement at the Ministry of Magic. I just thought I should warn you of my nieces and likely the other pureblood children's, excitement, about your world once they enter it. I hope she or the others won't be an embarrassment today. I have notified the obliviator team and they will be on standby while the group is in muggle London."
The parents were very intimidated realizing they were speaking to the boss of the law enforcers of the magical world. David was the first to recover "Uh yes Ma'am. David Granger and this is my wife Lousie."
Louise took over after letting out a sigh at the serious tone in her husband's voice "I'm sure they will be fine but uh, what are Obliviators?"
Before Amelia could reply Hermione perked up and went into textbook mode "The magical world is kept hidden away from the muggle world. As such, if evidence of magic is performed in the muggle world, a team of trained specialists called Obliviators are sent out, to provide damage control. Think of it like a bomb squad mum, stopping the knowledge of the magical world from spreading out. Don't worry no one is hurt"
Harry snorted at the description and got a mild glare from Hermione. Amelia nodded at the statement, it was a little simplified but it was basically what they need to do. She didn't need to scare the muggleborn parents. Turning to her niece Amelia stated "No scenes dear" Susan rolled her eyes before pulling Harry aside and wanting to know what they were going to do. Amelia nodded to the Grangers once more before vanishing back through the floo.
Harry was glad Hermione had the sense not to go into how Obliviators did the damage control. He could see the backlash of such knowledge to a muggle. After all, what if a magical committed a crime in the muggle world? They could just wipe any witnesses memories clean and no one would know what they did. It would add a major uproar if evidence of magic was revealed to the magical world, knowing people are out there that can alter, control or destroy your mind. It would pretty much guarantee a war between the worlds with that knowledge alone, or another action taken like the old days, Witch hunts.
The others started to appear one after the other and soon the entire group had arrived. All but Astoria "Mother said Astoria would stand in the way of fate..." Daphne stated with narrowed eyes. Harry got the hint and laughed, after all Rosaline Greengrass pretty much named him her son in law already.
Tracey walked up and ran her hand under his shirt over Harry's bare toned chest "What about me Miss Greengrass" The brunette stated with a cheeky smile adorning her face. Daphne snorted while David, Louise and Hermione looked at the brunette girl wide eyed. The older two had never heard of such behaviour from children. David thought they were acting more like 15-16 year olds, if it was caused by magic, why wasn't his daughter like them?
Harry noticed the reaction and calmly replied "Purebloods are raised like old nobility David. Think of it like a princess finding a suitable husband that would bring honour and pride to the family, but multiply the importance many times as they are all the heir's to their houses. The girls are trained from young to form alliances, search for potential husbands and as Tracey is attempting, seduction of powerful lords. I am one such candidate, these lovely young ladies around me also happen to be the heirs to their houses. As such you will see flirting and actions that you will likely only expect to see from your daughter, uh say age 16 -18"
Both parents eyes widened and looked at all the innocent looking girls in an entirely new light. David said incredulously, misreading Harry's explanation "You mean you are courting all these women?" Harry burst into laughter at the simple question while all the girls blushed.
Taking a few deep breaths to steady him Harry responded "Merlin no, I said potential partners, just being friends gives each of us a powerful ally to the future. For example, our society is patriarchal in how its run. Your daughter is not only female, but also muggleborn, think of that term like a commoner to the eyes of nobility in the muggle world. Opportunities for her without a powerful lord backing her will be hard to find, even if she proves she is smarter than every pureblood at Hogwarts."
All three Grangers were wide eyed at this new information. Harry could see Hermione's mind racing through the information to try and think up something to counter his statement. Harry actually wondered whether someone notified her of this in other Harry's life. It would explain why she became so close to the naive young Heir. "What about your Aunt Susan?"
Susan, who was ignoring most of the conversation perked up at hearing her name. "Auntie is a pureblood so her status in our world is already high. She also proved herself in the war, she earned her place in the government. Even for her it was difficult, many powerful men insisted she take on the role when the war ended"
"War?" Louise gasped. Too much information was being shared so Harry decided to cut the conversation short. "Yes there was a war that ended 11 years ago. This world is no different from any your own in that regard. Selfish/greedy/power hungry individuals fighting for more power but we're getting off track, let's check out Diagon and head into Muggle London"
The Grangers seemed to want to know more, Harry could see where Hermione got it from. However they wisely kept silent to mull over the information that they were given. The group walked through various shops, explaining some of the magical objects they passed by, the fascination on the elder Grangers brought a smile to Harry's face. Hannah being Half blood helped Harry explain muggle equivalents to certain items. They got ice cream that Harry shouted the group, well Neville insisted on getting one himself, that he gave to Hannah. Making him flustered from the teasing Harry gave him for the little gesture.
As the day wore on, the Grangers were starting to feel out of place, especially with some of the discussions taking place. Some of the topics made no sense to them, so when the time came to venture into muggle London. David and Louise stated they were leaving, curious Harry looked over to Hermione who seemed torn. Having a feeling what was going through her head he went up and whispered "I would suggest you go home and think over what you've learnt, learn more about the wizarding world."
The girl nodded, gave Harry a hug, once more startling him to the point he forgot to hug back, then caught up with her parents to head back home. "You know that she will probably think you will be the one to aid her you know" Katie stated walking up to his side.
Harry shook his head "Maybe to help her name a bit in the future. But she knows she can't get to the same level as you girls. But she will likely ask for help in finding a worthy person that might be able to help her out." Katie eyed him when he stated worthy, for a muggleborn, surely any halfblood or pureblood would be worthy to a degree.
Harry couldn't help but laugh at the girls and Neville's faces as they ventured through various shops. Unlike Susan they weren't loudly exclaiming things embarrassing. But he could see the utter fascination passing through Daphne's mask. The shock when Neville walked past a camcorder hooked up to a TV. Tracey staring dumbly at a cartoon currently playing, obviously trying to work out what magic it was. Susan looking through VHS tapes with passion in her eyes.
After a while the novelty wore off though, especially when people starting paying attention to the group. So Harry gathered them one by one and left to the cinema. Unfortunately he was outnumbered and he and Neville had to sit through the animation movie Aladdin. Harry saw that Neville's curiosity overwrote his boyhood instincts, instincts that should have hated it in his opinion. That or it might have been the fact Hannah sat next to him that had the smile on his face throughout most of the movie.
Realizing the time they made their way back to the Leaky Cauldron and Harry agreed to come by the Greengrass residence for the night. It seemed that was Rosaline's goal from Daphne's tone. After watching the others leave Harry stopped Daphne from going through. "Not yet, let's go somewhere else first"
The fact Harry waited until the rest were gone peaked the young blonde's curiosity, flickering her hair over her shoulder she stated "Fine, where to Harry?"
He guided her outside and through the archway to a corner away from the many eyes. Pulled out his invisibility cloak and through it over the two, wrapping it around the two of them, putting his arm around her waist, he began to steer her. Right towards the entrance to Knockturn alley "Why exactly are we heading where I think we are?"
Harry looked at her and his eyes glowed in annoyance as he pondered her question. He had been meaning to do this for a while. But the Dursleys and his friends had distracted him enough to forget it. Just the thought of those bastards caused his rage to grow "Harry, eyes glowing means you're pretty upset. Talk to me please"
He didn't say anything for a minute before guiding her to an alcove, giving him a good vantage point to stop being overheard. Extending his senses he winced, the noises were louder and in greater numbers. Focusing carefully he cut each excess noise out until he felt it was covering the area around him. Opening his eyes he saw the concern on Daphne's face. "Don't look at me like that beautiful, you'll make me feel bad. I came here to get a second wand, more suited to me and without that pesky Ministry tracker. Since we uh, can't give you some of my gifts due to uh, you know. I want to get every advantage we can. Starting with a wand perfectly matched to you"
Daphne watched him very carefully before stating "Okay, I can see whatever is bothering you is bad. I am here if you want to talk about it Harry. As for the wand, fine, Father said he was going to take me and Blaise later in the month, only if I invite him. I had no intention too so this could work out well." She chose not to comment on the part of the abilities.
Harry felt something stir inside him at the thought of the boy continuing to make advances on the girl his arm was currently around. She felt his arm tighten around her and she muttered "Oh calm down, I can handle that little fool. Don't you go trying to be my personal knight Potter. You aren't at that level yet."
The yet part made him grin despite trying not to. "My relatives tried to attack me yesterday. I retaliated" Harry suddenly stated, unsure as to why exactly he told her.
She gasped and seemed to check him over for a moment "Are you alright, did they hurt you?" Harry laughed and she blushed, realizing her mistake. "No of course not, I hope you at least put them in their place"
He let out a deep sigh "Its hard Daphne. They have made me feel worthless and pathetic my whole life. These abilities then came to me, changing me to be able to fight back. I have the urge to want them to suffer for every minute I suffered from them. That would mean me killing them. The thing I'm scared of though, is I don't care if they die. What does that make me? When I thought Quirrell killed you, I wanted to make him suffer before I killed him. Why?"
Daphne cupped his cheek startling him with her sudden bout of affection. Her mask gone completely and looking at him with a look that caused an odd feeling to course through his very being, calming down the feeling trying to rush to the surface and overwhelm him with the past. "Don't you dare consider yourself dark or evil for thinking such thoughts Harry. You might not have told me exactly what your childhood was. But I understand the general gist of it, your statement right then makes me realize it was far worse than I thought. You wanted to kill your relatives and Quirrell in revenge, but you didn't Harry, you are better than that. Don't think of what ifs, if someone killed you I would want to do the same"
She blushed at the admittance and let go of his cheek looking away shyly. Harry inwardly began berating himself, how could he burden her with his problems? He never should have said anything, now she will feel pity for him. "I'm sorry Daphne. Come on let's get those wands hey?"
Her eyes snapped back to him, blush forgotten as she looked at him curiously "Idiot" She muttered under her breath as he began to lead them out of the alcove. Harry glanced around trying to figure out where the second wand shop was.
Harry was expecting to see something big and fancy, somewhat like Diagon Alley's shops. But Knockturn alley shops simply looked barren of friendliness and life itself. Old ugly hags were trying to sell random objects and possessions on the street. Hooded figures scattered throughout the alley hiding their faces from view. Harry had an uneasy feeling that someone was watching him but he shrugged it aside.
Gazing at all the shops he finally saw the shop he was hoping to find, at least he hoped it was. At the front on display was a wand. "Guess this is it" Harry muttered guiding the two to the door. If either had been paying attention they would have seen no one else could see the shop. They walked past like it didn't exist. Entering the shop they quickly realized they couldn't see, it was pitch black "Welcome Mr Potter, oh a much better choice in companion then last time too."
Harry tensed at the simple comment trying to locate the voice in the darkness while Daphne just looked confused. "I've never been here before Ma'am"
A harsh cackle echoed throughout the small store "No I guess you haven't. No matter, you are here now and are after a new wand I assume. Perhaps I can interest you in a few more options as well." The lights came on to see a very young looking woman with wavy black hair, olive skin with emerald green eyes gazing at the two of them. Harry's instincts were screaming that this woman was dangerous and to be extremely careful.
"Oh, a brain on you too, very interesting. Yes Mr Potter, I could kill you if I wished. However you are far more interesting than the others. I think I might stick around and keep an eye on you for longer." The woman smiled showing her fangs and her eyes darkened to pitch black.
"You're her?" The woman cackled again in glee "You know of her Harry? Oh this is indeed lovely, No I am not the one you seem to suggest. I don't care for life and death, the future or the past. I have immunity to magic's decisions, I travel freely where I choose. Lately the same place has been appearing. Others have disappointed me greatly, oh but I see potential in you. The darkness is there, ready to be unleashed, but you have something to fight for, will you be able to balance the two?"
The woman vanished but Harry saw her move extremely fast to Daphne and pry her from his grip. "Would the darkness unleash if I killed her like she did to another?" Harry snarled like an animal, his eyes glowed dangerously and the shop began to shake. The woman raised her eyebrows in surprise before letting Daphne go and gasping for breath. Harry moved quickly and checked her over.
"Odd, you seem to have some control already. Not only that but you did so to protect the girl. You are very interesting. I will keep a close eye on you. Now to the reason you are here. Come Mr Potter, let us get you your wand" Harry didn't move, held Daphne protectively in his arms, his eyes still glowing and tensed as if ready for a battle. The woman let out a sigh before growling "Listen child, I could kill you anytime I wish. I am not her. You think those others ceasing to exist were his doing. No they are her doing, she saw the threat and removed it. My interest in you is keeping her blind to you. DO as I say and I will continue to keep her in the dark, at the most until your foe goes to her and tells her of your, let's say threat level.
Harry was feeling very odd. It was like a feral, primal instinct had taken over him "Harry listen to her. She is obviously dangerous and doesn't seem to want to harm us, or I would be dead" Harry heard her voice but it seemed distant. But he listened to each word and felt himself returning to normal.
"Daphne are you alright?" Harry said, finally tearing his eyes from the odd woman. Daphne nodded seriously before looking back to the woman, mask forgotten and fear showing through.
"Oh I really like you, much more than any other. Now come Harry, I don't have all day. My collections are from many places, I'm sure we can find a suitable wand here" Harry checked Daphne over again and she cupped his cheek, forcing him to look into her eyes. He sighed as he saw the fear in those normally fearless blue eyes and did as the woman instructed.
"So, who are you?" The woman cackled again. "Hmm I wonder, I have long ago given up my true name. Hmm perhaps something familiar to you Harry considering who aids you, you may call me Morgana" Harry's eyes widened in shock at the information.