Chapter 2

Heir Potter Black

With Harry's decision made, Arcturus and Cassiopeia knew it was time to make the necessary arrangements. The confirmation of an heir was not a simple matter; it required a ritual, one recognized by the magical world at large.

"Harry," Cassiopeia started one evening after dinner, "We need to discuss the next step. To officially become the heir, there is a ritual we need to perform at Gringotts, the wizarding bank."

Harry's eyes widened at her words. "A ritual? What is a ritual?"

Arcturus nodded, "Yes, Harry. Ritual is an ancient magical procedure. It connects you to the family magic and recognizes you as the future head of the family. But don't worry, it doesn't hurt."

Harry nodded, looking thoughtful. "Why do we have to go to this Gringotts?"

"Because "Gringotts is the safest place to perform the ritual. It is guarded by goblins, who are excellent with magical contracts and rituals." Cassiopeia confirmed.

Harry nodded thoughtfully. "And after the ritual, I'll be the official heir?"

"Yes, Harry," Arcturus confirmed, "You will be recognized as the official heir of the Potter and Black families."

"Okay," Harry said, his determination shining through, "I'm ready."

And so, plans were made for their trip to Gringotts. Harry, though nervous about the upcoming ritual, was excited to see more of the magical world and to take his first big step as the heir of House Black. As for Arcturus and Cassiopeia, they couldn't have been prouder of the brave, young boy who was proving to be every bit the heir that the Black family needed.

The day of the visit to Gringotts arrived quickly. Arcturus, Cassiopeia, and Harry, all under glamour charms to protect their identities, apparated to Diagon Alley early in the morning.

Harry's eyes widened in amazement as he took in the sights and sounds of the magical alley, from the shops filled with magical artifacts to witches and wizards bustling about their day.

However, their destination lay further down the cobbled street. The white, towering structure of Gringotts stood imposingly at the end of the alley, intimidating to those unfamiliar with it. A pair of goblin statues guarded its large bronze doors. This was Gringotts, the wizarding bank.

Inside, the vast marble hall was filled with goblins busy behind a long counter, writing in large ledgers, weighing coins in brass scales, and examining precious stones.

Arcturus led the way to a counter, where a goblin was seated. "We are here to see Griphook, the Black family's account manager," he said in a respectful yet firm tone.

The goblin scrutinized them for a moment before nodding and leading them through a maze of hallways to a large, ornately decorated office. Inside sat Griphook, a goblin with a particularly shrewd gaze.

"Greetings, Lord Black, Lady Black, in glamor charms?" he acknowledged Arcturus, Cassiopeia with a nod, his sharp eyes then turning to Harry. "And who might this be?"

Arcturus gestured towards Harry. "This is Harry Potter, my great-nephew. We are here today to perform the ritual to recognize him as the heir of House Black."

A flicker of surprise passed through Griphook's eyes, but it was quickly replaced by a calculating look. He leaned back in his chair, studying Harry intently. After a moment, he gave a sharp nod.

"Very well. I will arrange for the ritual room. It will take some time. In the meantime, feel free to rest in the waiting lounge."

Arcturus and Cassiopeia nodded at him, and they withdrew from the office with Harry. After a short while, Griphook led them to a grand, circular room deep within Gringotts. The air in the room was heavy with ancient magic, and in the center, there stood a raised platform with a bowl-shaped pedestal.

"Is this where we'll have to do the ritual?" Harry asked, his voice echoing slightly in the large chamber.

"Yes, Harry," Arcturus replied, patting his shoulder gently. "This is a special room that's been used for family rituals like ours for centuries."

Griphook cleared his throat, drawing their attention. "The ritual is straightforward. It involves the blood of the existing head of the family and the intended heir and the family magic judges them. The ritual confirms the blood relation and the willingness of both parties to accept their roles."

Arcturus went to stand near the pedestal. He made a small cut on his palm with a silver dagger provided by Griphook, letting several drops of his blood fall into the bowl-shaped depression.

Then, it was Harry's turn. Cassiopeia held his hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "Just a tiny prick, Harry. It won't hurt much."

Harry nodded, extending his hand. He barely flinched when Cassiopeia made a small cut, allowing drops of his blood to join Arcturus'. The moment his blood touched the pedestal, the room began to hum with magic.

Griphook started chanting in an ancient language. The words echoed through the room, wrapping them in a feeling of age-old power and purpose. The pedestal began to glow, and the blood in the bowl shimmered.

Then, there was a pause. Arcturus spoke, his voice resonating, " I, Arcturus Black, Head of House Black, willingly name Harry James Potter as my heir."

There was a moment of silence before Harry's clear voice echoed in the room, " I, Harry James Potter, accept my role as the heir of House Black."

The glow from the pedestal burst into a bright light, enveloping Harry and Arcturus for a moment before it gradually receded. The magic in the room settled, leaving a sense of calm and completion.

The ritual was done.

Harry looked up at Arcturus, who smiled down at him, pride shining in his eyes. "Congratulations, Harry. You're now officially the heir of House Black."

Back in Griphook's office, Arcturus cleared his throat, drawing the goblin's attention. "There's another matter we need to discuss, Griphook. We'd like to know who manages the Potter family's accounts."

Griphook's keen eyes settled on Harry before returning to Arcturus. "I am the account manager for the Potter family as well," he said.

Harry looked surprised. "You are? But I thought you are just the Black family..."

Arcturus intervened, "It's not uncommon, Harry. The goblins often assign one account manager to look after the financial matters of related families. As you are now the last of the Potters and the heir to the Blacks, it's convenient that Griphook here manages both accounts."

Griphook nodded in agreement. "That is correct. Now, Master Potter-Black, if there are any financial matters you wish to discuss or if you have any queries regarding your accounts, feel free to ask."

Harry looked a bit overwhelmed but nodded. "Okay. Thank you, Griphook."

Arcturus then asked him a question "Griphook, I have a question about the Potter's," he began, his tone serious. "It came to our attention that Dumbledore sealed their will. Do you know why that might be?"

Griphook's eyes narrowed, and he drummed his long fingers on the desk. "That is a curious matter," he conceded. "The Potters did have a will, and it was entrusted to us here at Gringotts. However, Dumbledore, as the executor, sealed the will shortly after their death."

Arcturus frowned. "Can it be unsealed?"

Griphook gave a sharp nod. "Yes, it can. Now that Harry is officially recognized as the heir to both the Potter and Black families, he has the right to request the unsealing of his parents' will. This is especially so if he believes the sealing to be unjust."

Arcturus turned to look at Harry, who had been quietly listening. "Harry, would you like to unseal your parents' will?"

Harry nodded, his green eyes steady. "Yes. I want to know what my parents wanted for me."

Griphook seemed satisfied with Harry's resolve. "Very well. We will need to prepare the necessary documents for the unsealing. It will take a few days as the will was sealed for 6 years."

With the decision made, they left Gringotts, the air filled with a sense of anticipation. Unsealing the Potter's will would finally unveil James and Lily's true wishes for their son, shedding light on a past that had been obscured for too long.

Back at Hogwarts, inside Dumbledore's office, things were not as serene as usual. Dumbledore was sitting at his desk, pouring over an old tome, when an odd noise filled the room. He looked up, startled, just as several instruments on his shelves sparked, sputtered, and went dead. The usually peaceful atmosphere was shattered, leaving Dumbledore in a state of bewilderment.

He stood up, approaching the now silent instruments. They were the ones monitoring Harry Potter's safety, wards, and location, by Harry's blood all of which were tied to his residence at Privet Drive.

Bewildered, Dumbledore examined the instruments closely. His enchantments were robust, they shouldn't have failed. A sense of foreboding washed over him. This wasn't an accidental malfunction; it signified a significant shift.

Not wasting any more time, Dumbledore conjured his phoenix patronus, quickly whispering a message for it to deliver to Arabella Figg, a member of the Order of the Phoenix who lived close to the Dursleys and was tasked with keeping a distant watch over Harry. If there was an issue, she would know.

Dumbledore paced his office anxiously, waiting for a response to the message he had sent to Arabella Figg. Soon enough, the green flames in his fireplace flared brightly and Arabella's face appeared in the fire.

"Dumbledore, I received your message," she began, her brow furrowed. "I haven't seen Harry in two months. The Dursleys left for a long vacation, and they've only just returned today."

Dumbledore's heart dropped at her words. "And Harry wasn't with them?"

Arabella shook her head. "No, Dumbledore. There's been no sign of him. I thought maybe they had sent him to a summer camp or something, considering they left him behind during their previous vacations."

Dumbledore's thoughts raced. If Harry had been gone for two months, that would explain why his instruments had stopped working. But where could he be? And more importantly, was he alive?

"Thank you, Arabella," Dumbledore said, his voice composed despite the turmoil inside him. "Of course, Dumbledore," Arabella replied.

Dumbledore, his mind racing with worry, spoke quickly, "Arabella, I'm going to floo into your home and head over to the Dursleys. I need to check on Harry."

Arabella looked surprised but nodded in understanding. "Of course, Dumbledore. You can come through right away."

Dumbledore thanked her and threw a handful of Floo Powder into the fireplace. Stepping into the bright green flames, he spoke clearly, "Arabella Figg's home."

In a whirl of heat and light, he arrived in Arabella's living room. She was there to greet him, her face creased with concern. She offered him a cup of tea, which he declined, intent on reaching the Dursleys as quickly as possible.

"Thank you, Arabella," he said, heading towards the door. "I'll be back shortly."

Stepping out into the night, Dumbledore made his way towards Number 4, Privet Drive, his heart heavy with apprehension. What would he find when he arrived? He only hoped that Harry was still at Dursleys, or his carefully laid plans won't work.

Dumbledore arrived at Number 4, Privet Drive to find the house dark and silent. He knocked lightly on the door, and after a few moments, a very disgruntled Vernon Dursley appeared, squinting against the light from the hallway.

"Dumbledore!" he spluttered, looking surprised and more than a little annoyed. "What are you doing here at this hour?"

"I'm here to inquire about Harry," Dumbledore stated, his blue eyes twinkling less brightly than usual.

Upon hearing Harry's name, Vernon seemed to pale. "Harry? I...I don't know what you're talking about."

Recognizing the deceit in Vernon's voice, Dumbledore decided to take matters into his own hands. With a swift movement of his wand and a quiet incantation, he delved into Vernon's mind using Legilimency.

Scenes of Harry's life at Privet Drive flashed before Dumbledore's eyes: Harry, thin and small, being bullied by Dudley; Harry locked in a small cupboard; Harry, doing all the household chores, being scolded and punished. But, curiously, there were no recent memories of Harry. It was as if Harry had been completely erased from Vernon's memory.

Baffled, Dumbledore broke the connection and moved onto Petunia and Dudley, but the results were the same. They had memories of mistreating Harry, but no memories of Harry's disappearance or his whereabouts.

Releasing his magic, he looked at the Dursleys, his expression unreadable. "Where is Harry?" he asked.

The Dursleys face paled and they exchanged a few glances. "We don't know what you're talking about," Vernon blustered. "There's no Harry here."

Dumbledore stared at them for a moment longer before turning to leave. "Very well," he said, his voice cool. "Should Harry return, let him know I am looking for him."

As Dumbledore left the Dursleys, he felt a chill of unease. Harry was somewhere out there, away from his wards. But where? And with whom?

Returning to Arabella Figg's house, Dumbledore recounted his findings. "The Dursleys have no memory of where Harry might be. They do, however, have memories of treating him poorly."

Arabella looked startled and then, shamefaced, she sighed, "I had my suspicions, Dumbledore. They never treated the boy right, always making him do chores while Dudley lounged around. But I never thought it went as far as physical abuse."

Dumbledore nodded, with no regret in his eyes. "Yes, I knew that Petunia will not look after Harry as a son but not to this extent, I thought a few years of hardship will make the boy better."

"What! Why did you think so and where could he be?" Arabella wondered aloud.

"That, Arabella, is what I intend to find out," Dumbledore declared, his determination rekindled. "I'll head back to Hogwarts and try to locate him."

With a final nod of thanks to Arabella, Dumbledore stepped back into the fireplace, disappearing in a whirl of green flames. His mind raced with possibilities. If Harry was no longer at Privet Drive, where could he possibly be? And most importantly, his carefully laid plans are falling apart.

Back at Hogwarts, Dumbledore called an emergency meeting of the Order of the Phoenix. The room was tense, and the members of the Order watched Dumbledore expectantly.

"I have just returned from Privet Drive," Dumbledore began, his voice grave. "Harry is no longer there, and it seems he has not been for quite some time."

A murmur of surprise and alarm rippled through the room. Molly Weasley's hand flew to her mouth, and Arthur's arm tightened around her.

"Moreover," Dumbledore continued, "it appears that Harry was mistreated by the Dursleys."

At this, there was an uproar. McGonagall rose from her seat, her eyes flashing with anger. "I warned you, Albus! "I told you on the very day you left him on their doorstep that those people were the worst sort of Muggles! But you didn't listen, I would have gladly taken him and raised him, He was my Godson's son. You ruined everything." She yelled at him.

From the other side of the room, Severus Snape spoke up, his voice cold and bitter. "The only reason I agreed to work with you, Dumbledore, was to protect Lily and her son. You've failed in both."

Dumbledore met their anger without any regret. "I made decisions based on what I believed to be the best course of action at the time," he said. "And I stand by those decisions, difficult as they were. Everything I do, I do for the greater good."

"We should inform this to the ministry, they will help us in searching for the child but where is Harry now?" asked Kingsley Shacklebolt, his deep voice cutting through the tension.

"No, If the word went out that I had kept the wizarding world's savior with muggles and lost him, It will be my political suicide." Dumbledore admitted, "But I intend to find him. Harry is safe from Voldemort while he is with his blood relatives, but if he is elsewhere..."

His words hung in the air, and a heavy silence filled the room. Each member of the Order was left to wonder where their young charge might be and whether he was safe but Minerva and Snape are wondering whether they made the right decision in supporting Dumbledore till now.

Days passed, and One day in the quiet study of Grimmauld Place, Arcturus was perusing some letters that had arrived that morning via owls from Gringotts. Cassiopeia and Harry had gone for a walk, and he had taken the opportunity to attend to some correspondence.

The letter was from Griphook, the Black family's goblin manager, informing Arcturus that all necessary documents for the unsealing of the Potter will be ready and that they should come to Gringotts as soon as possible.

Gringotts Wizarding Bank

London Branch

Diagon Alley

London, England

20th January 1986,

Arcturus Black

12 Grimmauld Place

London, England

Greetings Lord Black,

I hope this letter finds you in good health. As the appointed manager of the Potter Black family estate and assets, I write to inform you of a significant development regarding the unsealing of the Potter family will.

After extensive research and careful examination of the archives, I am pleased to announce that the necessary documents to proceed with the unsealing of the Potter family will have been prepared. As you are well aware, the Potter estate holds valuable assets and vital information that should be rightfully passed on to their rightful heir, Mr. Harry Potter.

The documents in question include the key to the Potter family vault at Gringotts, the official Last Will and Testament of James and Lily Potter, and a comprehensive inventory of their assets. These materials have been meticulously compiled and authenticated, ensuring their legitimacy and adherence to wizarding law.

To initiate the unsealing process, I kindly request your presence at Gringotts Wizarding Bank's London Branch on the 30th of January 1986, at 11:00 AM. We shall conduct the proceedings in one of our secure chambers, maintaining utmost confidentiality and security.

Rest assured, Gringotts is committed to upholding the integrity of the unsealing process and ensuring that the Potter family's wishes are honored. We understand the importance of this matter to both the Black and Potter families, and we shall endeavor to handle it with the utmost care and respect.

Please do not hesitate to contact me at the Gringotts London Branch if you have any questions or require further clarification. I look forward to our meeting and the opportunity to finalize this long-awaited process.

Yours faithfully,

Griphook

Potter Black Family Manager

Gringotts Wizarding Bank

Arcturus was relieved; finally, they would have access to James and Lily Potter's will, and hopefully, a clearer understanding of their wishes for Harry's future.

Placing the letter on his desk, he rose to his feet, preparing to inform Cassiopeia and Harry of the news. As he walked to the front door, he couldn't help but smile at the thought of Harry – so resilient and so curious about the magical world he was just beginning to explore.

As the door swung open, Cassiopeia and Harry entered, their faces flushed from the brisk walk. Cassiopeia was explaining something about magical plants to Harry, and Harry was listening with rapt attention, his eyes wide with fascination.

"Cassiopeia, Harry," Arcturus said, interrupting their conversation. "We've received a letter from Gringotts. The necessary documents for the unsealing of your parents' will, Harry, are ready. We'll be visiting Gringotts soon."

Harry looked up at Arcturus, his excitement apparent. "Will we finally know what my parents wanted for me?"

Arcturus nodded, smiling. "Yes, my boy, we will."

The next day, Arcturus, Cassiopeia, and Harry, dressed in robes fitting their status, made their way to Gringotts. Harry was quiet, his small hand firmly tucked in Cassiopeia's.

They were met by Griphook, who led them through the winding passages of the bank, deeper into the heart of Gringotts, to a private meeting room.

Griphook presented Harry with a thick stack of parchment - the Potter's will. Arcturus explained to Harry what the will meant and helped him read through the densely-worded document. Harry opened the Will with trembling hands.

LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF JAMES AND LILY POTTER

We, James Potter and Lily Potter (hereafter referred to as "we" or "us") being of sound mind and in the presence of witnesses, do hereby declare and establish this as our last will and testament, revoking any prior wills or codicils.

Article I: Guardianship of Harry Potter

We appoint Sirius Black as the Sworn godfather and legal guardian of our beloved son, Harry James Potter, in the event of our untimely demise. We have full confidence in Sirius's ability to provide Harry with love, care, and support, and to ensure his safety and well-being.

In case, Sirius Black is unable or unwilling to assume guardianship, we appoint Remus Lupin, Alice Longbottom, and Minerva McGonagall as co-guardians, jointly responsible for Harry's care and upbringing.

No other Gaurdian is valid except the above-mentioned and most certainly not Lilly's relatives. We allow Harry to be emancipated if he is not under the guardianship of the above people.

Article II: Secret Keeper and Executor

We appoint Peter Pettigrew as the Secret Keeper of the location of the Potter family home, intending to safeguard our home and family from potential harm. We trust in Peter's loyalty and discretion. If in any case we are betrayed it means that Peter betrayed us.

We hereby designate Albus Dumbledore as the executor of this will, to carry out the provisions herein and ensure its proper implementation. We believe in Dumbledore's wisdom and integrity to handle matters in Harry's best interest.

Article III: Marriage Contract

We acknowledge and respect the marriage contract between our son, Harry James Potter, and Daphne Greengrass, and express our approval of their union.

Harry and Daphne have to uphold the marriage contract, only then they shall be entitled to their inheritance and any properties held by the Potter family.

Article IV: Our Godson

We bestow the honor of godson upon Neville Longbottom, recognizing his close friendship and bond with our son, Harry. We believe Neville to be a trusted and loyal companion to Harry.

Article V: Inheritance and Property

We bequeath all of our worldly possessions, including any magical artifacts, to our son, Harry James Potter, to be handed over upon him becoming the heir or upon the discretion of his guardians, as specified in Article I except the below-mentioned.

To our brother Sirius Black, We leave ten million galleons though he doesn't need them, we hope that he finds his better half and settles down along with our townhouse in London.

To our Dearest friend Remus Lupin or Moony, We leave ten million galleons, a lifelong supply of Wolfsbane Potion from when the will is opened and our manor in the forest of Dean.

To our Dearest Godmother Minerva, We leave five million galleons in hopes that you will spoil your grandson very much. Wink, Wink.

To our beloved godson little Neville, we bestow two million galleons in hopes that you and Harry grow up to be best brothers.

To my loyal and devoted friend, Severus, I leave one million galleons as a token of my gratitude for the sacrifices he made and the love he held for me. Additionally, I bequeath to him a collection of my childhood memories in the form of letters and photographs. May these tokens serve as a reminder of the friendship we once shared.

We entrust the responsibility of managing Harry's inheritance to Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Alice Longbottom, and Minerva McGonagall, collectively. They shall act in the best interest of Harry and ensure the preservation and growth of his assets.

Article VI: Magical Heirlooms

We hereby request that the Marauder's Map and any other magical heirlooms be passed down to Harry, as they hold significant sentimental value and connection to his father's legacy.

Article VII: Revocation of Prior Wills

We expressly revoke any and all prior wills, codicils, or testamentary dispositions made by us.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have set our hands and seals to this last will and testament on this 28 day of October, in the year 1980.

James Potter

Lily Potter

WITNESSES:

Frank Longbottom

Alice Longbottom

The will confirmed Sirius Black as Harry's godfather and that Peter Pettigrew was indeed the Potters' Secret Keeper. Surprisingly, it revealed that Albus Dumbledore was named as the will's executor, a fact that made Arcturus frown considering Dumbledore's previous actions regarding Sirius, He decided We have to prove that he is innocent.

Unexpectedly, the will also mentioned a betrothal contract between Harry and a girl named Daphne Greengrass. "Well, that's quite surprising," Arcturus mused, sharing a glance with Cassiopeia.

Harry, unfamiliar with the practice of arranged marriages, looked at Cassiopeia with wide eyes. She reassured him that they would discuss it later.

Furthermore, Neville Longbottom was named as the Potter's godson, and in a shocking reveal, it was stated that the Potter family vault was the largest in Gringotts, Harry was the sole heir, making him, at the tender age of six, one of the wealthiest individuals in the wizarding world.

"Quite the turn of events," Arcturus said, folding the will and handing it back to Harry. Harry nodded, his young mind whirling with the new information.

With the startling revelations of the will still fresh in their minds, Arcturus decided to dig deeper. He asked Griphook for a statement of the Potter vault to ensure everything was in order. The goblin, with a curt nod, left the room and returned shortly with a stack of parchment detailing the account history.

As Arcturus, Cassiopeia, and Harry reviewed the transactions, something peculiar caught Arcturus's eye: a withdrawal of five million galleons that could not be accounted for. Further investigation revealed that the withdrawal was approved by Albus Dumbledore, the executor of the Potter estate.

"That's not all," Griphook said, his voice hard. He handed them another document. "This is a betrothal contract arranged between Harry Potter and Ginevra Weasley. The signatory on the Potter side is, again, Albus Dumbledore, and on the Weasley side, Molly Weasley."

Cassiopeia opened the scroll,

Marriage Contract between Harry James Potter and Ginevra Molly Weasley

This Marriage Contract

is hereby established between Harry James Potter, hereinafter referred to as "Harry," and Ginevra Molly Weasley, hereinafter referred to as "Ginny," under the arrangement and consent of Albus Dumbledore and Molly Weasley, acting as representatives and legal guardians for the parties involved.

Article I: Purpose and Intent

This Contract aims to unite the most ancient and noble family of Potter and the noble family of Weasley, fostering a strong alliance and ensuring the continuation of their esteemed magical bloodlines.

Article II: Marriage Union

This Marriage Union is a decision taken by both of their magical guardians.

Harry Potter and Ginny Weasley shall be joined in matrimony as soon as they both reach the legal age of marriage as per the laws of the wizarding world.

Article III: Rights and Obligations

Both parties shall respect and uphold the traditions and values of their respective families and endeavor to maintain harmony between the two families.

Article IV: Children and Heirs

Harry and Ginny shall bear and raise children in a loving and nurturing environment to the best of their ability.

In the event of no natural heirs being born of this marriage, both parties shall actively consider the adoption of a suitable heir to ensure the continuity of their families' names and values.

Article V: Financial Arrangements

All existing and future assets, properties, and wealth belonging to both parties shall be merged.

Both parties shall agree to contribute to the welfare and upbringing of their family and heirs, ensuring that all needs are met.

Article VI: Amendments and Modifications

No amendments or modifications to this Contract shall be made without the express written consent of the legal guardians, Albus Dumbledore and Molly Weasley.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereby affix their signatures and seals to this Marriage Contract on this 04 day of November 1981.

Signed by

Albus Dumbledore

Molly Weasley

This revelation hit harder. Arcturus clenched his jaw and his eyes narrowed. "That old fool," he muttered under his breath. The Black family was known for their cunning and determination, and Arcturus was no exception. With a renewed resolve, he turned to Griphook. "I want a full audit of the Potter accounts, Griphook. And also, initiate the process to nullify this illicit contract. Dumbledore had no right to sign it."

The goblin grinned, a menacing sight, revealing rows of sharp teeth. "It will be my pleasure, Master Black."

As they prepared to leave Griphook's office, Harry tugged gently on Cassiopeia's sleeve. He looked up at her, his green eyes filled with a mix of hope and uncertainty.

"Aunt Cassy," he began, his voice barely more than a whisper, "Until Sirius can... well until he can be my guardian... would you and Aunt Cassiopeia be okay with... I mean, could you..." Harry fumbled with his words, not sure how to phrase his request.

"Are you asking us to be your guardians, Harry?" Cassiopeia stepped in, her voice gentle.

Harry looked up at her, biting his lower lip, and nodded. "Yes, please. If you want to, of course."

His question hung in the air, filling the room with a poignant silence. Cassiopeia looked down at Harry, her eyes softening. She crouched down to his level, meeting his gaze. "Of course, Harry. We would be honored."

Arcturus, hearing their conversation, gave a small nod of agreement. "Your parents entrusted Sirius with their most precious treasure, Harry. We will guard you with our lives until Sirius can take up his rightful place."

Harry beamed up at them, a sense of relief washing over him. He had found a place where he belonged, where he was wanted. Griphook, witnessing the exchange, gave a rare, small smile.

Griphook then produced a parchment and quickly scribbled down their agreement, presenting it to Arcturus and Cassiopeia. They each took a blood quill from the goblin's desk and signed the parchment, making their guardianship of Harry official.

Outside Gringotts, the wizarding world remained ignorant of the imminent storm. But inside, a young boy was finding his family, a legacy was being reclaimed, and the scales of power were on the cusp of a monumental shift.

To be continued...

Please Review

A/N: Hey guys, It's me again. So, Here's the next of House Black and its Glory. Please suggest to me any of your ideas that you would like to see in this story and for all the reviews, thank you.

In the next chapter, Remus, the Marriage contract, and Dumbledore