A/N: Howdy everyone! Check out the HAPHNE discord #fanart for the illustrations from my wife. As always, thank you to those who review, favorite, follow and PM! See you next week!
Disclaimer: I own nothing. Just happy to be here!
Chapter 17
September 1, 1994 flashed across the screen. Harry was standing in the living room of 12 Grimmauld Place surrounded by his family and giving last-minute hugs before heading to King's Cross Station with Tonks.
"Remember, pup, I'm just a mirror call away," Sirius grinned and clapped Harry on the shoulder. "Any time you need me, I'm there."
Harry swallowed back the emotions threatening to spill over. He loved Hogwarts, but he hated leaving the family he'd come to love and appreciate. "I know, Sirius. Thank you. It means the world to me."
"Remember to keep up with your Occlumency training," Andromeda stated while giving Harry a strong hug. "And do take care of yourself dear."
"I will, Aunt Andi. Promise," Harry returned the hug.
"I'm hoping to get the Potter will unsealed by Christmas," Ted clapped Harry on the shoulder and pulled him in for a one-armed hug. "It's still slow going, but we're making progress."
"Thanks, Uncle Ted," Harry smiled and turned to Tonks. "You ready?"
"Whenever you are, Squirt," Tonks winked.
Harry turned and cast in the floo powder, giving a final wave and smile before vanishing in a flash of green flames. He arrived at King's Cross and quickly moved out of the way as Tonks stumbled out after him with a series of curses.
"Language, Dora!" Harry teased with a chuckle as he helped her to her feet.
"Shut up," Tonks groused. "Why do I have to be so clumsy?"
"It's part of your charm!" Harry laughed.
"Yeah yeah," Tonks shoved Harry playfully. "Listen, Squirt. Take care of yourself and keep your eyes open, yeah? You remember our motto-"
"Constant Vigilance!" Harry interrupted. "It'll be fun to meet Mad-Eye with how much you complain about him."
"He's an evil bastard," Tonks said grimly. "But he's the best auror the Ministry has ever seen. Just take care to avoid trying to hide anything around him. The man can sniff out deception better than anyone."
Harry nodded. "Right. I'll be careful."
The two shared a quick hug and Tonks ruffled Harry's hair playfully. Harry opened his mouth to say something when a sudden thought struck him. "Er, Tonks?"
"Yeah?"
"You did take care of the Privet Drive stuff this year, right?"
Tonks blinked.
"Damn it!" She swore and tripped on her way back to the floo while Harry's laughter followed her.
"Love you, Nym!" Harry shouted playfully right as Tonks vanished with an indignant squawk. "I'll pay for that one later, I'm sure…" Harry muttered to himself as he boarded the Express and found an empty compartment where he could settle in while he waited for Astoria.
There was a small part of Harry that really hoped Astoria would have managed to convince Daphne to drop her animosity so things could return to normal. When Astoria trudged in looking pale and wan, Harry felt his stomach drop. Astoria slumped into the seat next to Harry with a sigh and a heavy cough that had Harry looking at her in alarm.
"Tori?"
"I'm okay," Astoria assured through another cough, "just a bad day."
"I take it you didn't have any progress with Daphne?" Harry tried to keep the hope out of his voice and failed miserably.
"No," Astoria coughed again. "She's being a stubborn bitch." Astoria paused and winced. "Sorry. I've been really frustrated with her recently and the blood curse acting up isn't helping anything."
"Look, Tori," Harry said gently. "You don't have to worry about this, okay? It'll work out. Don't stress too much over it."
"But it's my fault!" Astoria wailed and buried her face into her hands.
Harry scrambled to get silencing and locking wards on the door so they could have their privacy. He pulled Astoria in for a hug while she sobbed and coughed heavily into his chest.
"It's not your fault, Tori," Harry soothed. "You don't have to carry this burden."
"Had I not slipped up at Christmas," Astoria protested in a warbly voice, "then you and Daphne wouldn't be fighting!"
"You don't know that," Harry countered. "In fact, I think this dispute was inevitable. I made a promise to you, and Daphne is asking me to disregard it. I can't do that, Tori."
Astoria sniffled and coughed weakly before pulling away and wiping her nose with her arm. Harry cast a quick Scourgify to remove the blood and tears from himself and Astoria.
"I still feel terrible," Astoria grumbled and wiped her eyes which were still leaking tears.
"Then we need to talk about something that will make you feel better," Harry smiled encouragingly. "I did say I'd teach you the Patronus this year, didn't I?"
Astoria gasped and clapped excitedly. "That's right! You did!" She threw herself forward and brutally hugged Harry. "I can't wait! Thank you, Harry!"
Harry gently patted Astoria on the back and stiffened when he looked out the compartment door window to see Daphne glaring at him from the other side. Her stormy expression darkened, and she appeared to hesitate briefly before disappearing. Harry suppressed a sigh and focused on the chattering Astoria who was explaining how much fun she was going to have once she could summon a corporeal Patronus on her own.
-GU-
Harry sat in the Great Hall with Astoria at the Gryffindor table with his heart in his shoes as Daphne entered the Great Hall arm-in-arm with Theodore Nott. Sure, Harry knew this was all part of the agreement Daphne had with her father, but it still hurt far more than he cared to admit. At least Astoria was there gripping his hand reassuringly while Dumbledore prepared to reveal the Triwizard Tournament.
There was a chorus of excitable chatter at Dumbledore's proclamation followed by vehement protests when quidditch was announced as canceled. This was exacerbated further when the age limitation of the tournament was explained, to which Dumbledore had to yell to restore order.
Suddenly, the enchanted sky above turned stormy, and Harry frowned as the doors opened and in stomped Mad-Eye Moody who looked about as chewed up as you possibly could. Harry suppressed a shiver when the magical eye swiveled in Moody's socket until it rested on him.
"He looks mean," Astoria whispered with a quaver.
"That's Mad-Eye Moody," Harry informed. "The best auror the Ministry has ever seen."
"If that's what being an auror makes you look like, then count me out," Astoria returned.
Harry nodded thoughtfully. Something about Moody's entrance was bothering him, and he couldn't quite put his finger on it.
"You knew about the Tournament, didn't you?" Astoria poked Harry in the ribs, interrupting his contemplations.
"Huh?" Harry shook his head. "Oh, uh, yeah, I did." He admitted sheepishly and rubbed the back of his neck.
"How?" Astoria raised an eyebrow.
"McGonagall suspended me from quidditch this year, which I found odd because she would never willingly do something to hurt her chances of retaining the Quidditch Cup. I did some digging over the summer and discovered that Hogwarts was hosting the Triwizard Tournament," Harry shrugged.
"Huh," Astoria cocked her head to the side. "So, not much of a punishment then?"
Harry winced. "I also lost Hogsmeade privileges this year."
Astoria followed Harry's gaze to the Slytherin table where Daphne was sitting shoulder to shoulder with Nott.
"I don't think you'll miss Hogsmeade much this year, Harry," Astoria mumbled.
"I agree," Harry sighed and returned to his meal.
Harry and Astoria ate in silence, ignoring the general din of conversation around them, when Harry finally realized what had seemed off to him when Moody entered.
Why did the enchanted ceiling go stormy? Harry thought, his spoonful of pudding halfway to his mouth. I've never seen it do that before. Never heard of it doing that before. And I can't recall reading anything about it either.
Harry thought about mentioning it to Astoria but held his peace as she was thoroughly enjoying her dessert.
Something to ask Salazar when I find his portrait, Harry chuckled mentally. After all, who better to ask about Hogwarts than those who built it?
-GU-
September 2, 1994, displayed on the screen. Harry, with the hood of his cloak up and Marauder's Map in hand, made his way to the second-floor girl's bathroom. He approached the sink and hissed, "Open," in Parseltongue. The sink gave a groan and moved away. Harry called for stairs in Parseltongue and started his way down.
Minutes later, Harry was in the Chamber of Secrets once more. He shuddered as memories of the encounter with Tom Riddle and the basilisk assailed him. Clamping down on his mental shields, Harry thrust the dark thoughts and memories from him and set about his tasks. He approached the corpse of the basilisk and pulled the Gringotts portkey from his robes where he followed Agnok's instructions to the letter.
A bright flash of white caused Harry to shield his eyes and blink rapidly. When his vision cleared the corpse was gone, leaving Harry alone in the Chamber and unsure how he was going to find Salazar's portrait.
"Might as well start with the statue," Harry muttered aloud, his voice carrying in the large room.
It took about an hour, but Harry eventually found a recess in the statue that had a small snake in the center of a circle. Taking a chance, Harry pressed his heirship ring into the recess and was rewarded with a click. Ancient gears ground and Harry stepped back as a hidden door opened at the base of the statue off to Harry's right.
Harry took a calming breath and entered through the doorway, wincing as torches flared to life around him, illuminating an inner study that was covered in a thick layer of dust. On the wall across from the doorway was a covered portrait which Harry tentatively approached.
With a shaky hand, Harry removed the covering to reveal what he could only assume was a sleeping Salazar Slytherin who stirred as the torchlight illuminated his portrait. Salazar's eyes opened and he curiously observed Harry who was doing much the same. A minute went by in silence.
Harry found himself surprised by the ancient and monkey-like man with a long thin white beard that appeared to fall out of view. Salazar Slytherin looked very much like his statue on the Chamber of Secrets.
"Interesting," Salazar muttered, while rubbing his chin. "You have her eyes."
Harry blinked. "My mother's?" he blurted.
Salazar snorted. "No, boy, Rowena's."
So, the Evans bloodline inherited Rowena Ravenclaw's unique eyes? Harry wondered.
"Oh," Harry replied.
"No use gawking about," Salazar said crisply. "To have gained access to this hallowed ground you must be my Heir."
Harry nodded numbly.
"Your name?"
"Harry Potter."
"You do not carry the Slytherin name?" Salazar raised an eyebrow before demanding, "Why?"
"Well," Harry hesitated. "A lot has changed since your time."
Salazar appeared unimpressed. "Enough for you be ashamed to be associated with Salazar Slytherin, Greatest of Hogwarts Four?"
"I'm not sure how people would react to a Gryffindor being the Heir of Slytherin," Harry offered sheepishly.
"What?!" Salazar roared. "My Heir was sorted into House Gryffindor?"
"To be fair, I only found out I was Heir Slytherin recently," Harry said defensively.
Salazar pulled at his beard in frustration. "I'm sure Godric will have plenty to say regarding the irony of this travesty. At least tell me your blood is pure, boy."
Harry winced. "Not particularly. I'm technically a half-blood."
The portrait gawked, speechless.
"Listen," Harry scratched the back of his head nervously. "How about we start over and I, um, attempt to catch you up on events? If it helps, I'm just as surprised as you about being Heir Slytherin."
Salazar gave a stiff nod, "This is acceptable."
-GU-
"Holy shite," Astoria gasped. "He actually found the portrait of Salazar Slytherin!"
"And Salazar commented that his eyes were like Rowena's," Daphne said distantly.
Astoria noted Daphne seemed distracted and poked her older sister in the ribs. "What's wrong, Daffy?"
"I don't want to see what's coming," Daphne admitted timidly.
Astoria flinched as if struck. "I know."
Daphne sniffled and swiped at her eyes.
"Daph…" Astoria hesitated. "That wasn't you. You know that, right?"
"I remember what happens next, Tori," Daphne's voice was strained.
Astoria exhaled softly and didn't comment further. She had been there for the first task and knew exactly what Daphne was referring to.
-GU-
"Fascinating," Salazar said several hours later after Harry had answered the exhaustive amount of questioning on the current political climate. He'd been most interested in Voldemort who was championing the ideals Salazar himself had espoused. "It is sad that Serena perished in such a way. She was a wonderful familiar."
Harry grunted but didn't bother offering condolences. The basilisk had tried to kill Daphne and he regretted nothing in his defense of her.
"I also find it curious that Serena recognized you as a true speaker," Salazar continued. "In all my dealings with her, never once did she say the same to me."
"What is a true speaker?" Harry questioned as he sat cross-legged on the floor.
"I asked the same when Serena explained the deeper nuances of parseltongue," Salazar replied. "Essentially, it is a higher form of parseltongue."
Harry thought for a moment. "Like a different dialect?"
"In a sense, yes," Salazar nodded.
"And what advantages does this carry?"
"Serena was rather reserved in her response to my own questioning," Salazar stated. "My own personal belief is being a true speaker allows you to communicate with creatures that are pseudo serpents."
"Like dragons?" Harry sat a little straighter.
"Perhaps," Salazar stroked his beard thoughtfully. "The mystery, my young Heir, is how you are a true speaker when I am not."
Harry shrugged and decided to change subjects. "I don't suppose you know where Rowena's portrait is?"
Salazar smiled fondly at the name. "She can be found in her personal study, located in what she dubbed the 'Room of Requirement'. A marvel of enchantment."
"Wait…" Harry paused and held out his hands. "You've been in her personal study?"
Salazar appeared confused. "Yes? Does this surprise you?"
"Did she know the location of the Chamber of Secrets?"
Salazar barked out a short laugh. "Of course she did! Merlin's beard, boy, we were married. She knew all my secrets."
"Can you tell me where the Room of Requirement is?" Harry stood and dusted off the back of his robes.
"On one condition," Salazar replied. "You must place me in her study once there."
Harry grinned. "Deal."
-GU-
September 3, 1994, flashed across the screen. Harry stood in the Room of Requirement, in Rowena Ravenclaw's personal study. Dobby appeared with a crack! with Salazar's portrait floating beside him. Dobby levitated Salazar to the wall and affixed the portrait next to Rowena's.
"Sal, I must say this is a surprise!" Rowena smirked.
"Thank you, Dobby," Harry smiled down at his friend who wailed in joy before popping away.
"Surprised is one way of describing it," Salazar grumbled. "My good name dragged through the proverbial quagmire of history! You won't believe how they've twisted my ideals, Row! And my baby Serena was killed by my own Heir!"
"Serena was still alive?" Rowena raised an eyebrow. "Pray tell how your familiar lived such a long life, Sal…" She trailed off dangerously.
Salazar had the decency to appear abashed. "I-It's not what you think!"
Rowena snorted before turning to Harry. "And this must be Heir Ravenclaw! He has my eyes, doesn't he, Sal?"
Salazar muttered something incomprehensible.
"What was that?" Rowena called sharply.
"I said, 'Yes he does, my love!'" Salazar deferred.
Harry blinked and tried to process the portrait of Rowena, who looked like an older, more regal, version of his own mother. Auburn hair, emerald green eyes, and the ability to cow Salazar Slytherin himself. Based on all the stories Sirius had told Harry of his mum, Harry wasn't surprised.
"And what is your name, dearie?" Rowena questioned.
"Harry Potter," Harry's voice broke and he cleared his throat.
"I look forward to knowing you better," Rowena gestured graciously. "However, I have not spoken to my husband in centuries and would appreciate some time with him. You understand, don't you, my Heir?"
"Y-yeah."
Harry turned away and pulled out his mirror from his pocket before calling Sirius who answered almost immediately.
"All right, pup?" Sirius asked as his smiling face came into view.
"I found them," Harry said in a weak voice.
"Them?"
Harry nodded. "Salazar and Rowena."
-GU-
September 7, 1994, appeared on the screen. Harry stood nervously in Rowena's study, shuffling from foot to foot.
"You're sure this is secure?" Harry asked for the fifth time.
"Merlin's beard, boy!" Salazar snarked. "Sirius Black will not trigger any detections placed on the school."
"This room exists within its own unique space," Rowena reminded.
"What good does it do us to harm our own heir?" Salazar challenged Harry. "All we can do as portraits is advise. We need to meet those who are supporting you in your fight against this so-called Dark Lord."
"No harm will come to our family, Harry," Rowena promised.
"Okay," Harry acknowledged. "What's the location?"
"Wit beyond measure," Rowena revealed.
Harry looked down at his mirror. "You get that Sirius?"
"We're on our way, pup," Sirius called before the mirror connection ended.
There was a green flash from the hearth and Sirius, Andromeda, Ted, and Tonks appeared. Tonks promptly tripped upon exiting the floo and sprawled into the plush rug with an oomph!
"Hi guys," Harry greeted weakly. "Um, this is Grandpa Salazar and Grandma Rowena," he gestured at the wall where the two portraits sat.
"Holy shite!" Tonks swore as she scrambled to her feet.
"Language, Dora!" Andromeda scolded before muttering her own curse under her breath.
"Really, mum?" Tonks deadpanned.
Rowena cleared her throat pointedly.
"Oh, uh, right," Harry remembered his manners. "This is Sirius Black, Ted Tonks, his wife Andromeda Tonks nee Black, and their daughter…" Harry hesitated and glanced over at Tonks who rolled her eyes and made a shooing motion. "Nymphadora Tonks."
"Dora or Tonks, if you please," Tonks called while her hair morphed from bubblegum pink to a bright orange.
"A Metamorphmagus!" Salazar exclaimed. "Remarkable! I only ever knew one in all my travels. And so fluid too!"
Tonks actually blushed under the praise and hastily stammered a thanks.
"Please sit, dears," Rowena gestured at the plush couches in the study. "We have much to discuss."
"Did you bring him?" Salazar questioned the group.
"Oh, right," Sirius snapped his fingers. "Dobby!"
Dobby appeared with a portrait floating beside him.
"One Arcturus Black as requested," Sirius smiled and leaned back casually. Harry marveled at how at ease Sirius always appeared, as if speaking to two of the four founders of Hogwarts was the same as talking to an old friend.
"Ah, so my wayward grandson has finally decided to grace me with his presence?" Arcturus snarked at Sirius. "I still say I was drugged the day I decided to…"
"Grandpa," Sirius attempted.
"…make you my heir. Do I get any thanks? No! All I get…"
"Grandpa," Sirius tried again.
"…is ignored! And after all I've done for you too! Well, I've had enough! Banishment! That's what…"
"Grandpa!" Sirius shouted.
"What?!" Arcturus demanded.
Sirius stood and spun the portrait of his grandpa to face Rowena and Salazar. There was a gasp of air, and Arcturus Black, Lord of the Black family at the height of its power, opened and closed his mouth like a fish."
"Close your gob!" Salazar snapped before eyeballing Sirius. "This is one of those, er, Wizengamot Lords?"
"Quite so, Papa Sal!" Sirius stated cheekily.
Rowena giggled behind her hand as Salazar balked at being addressed so informally. "Oh, I like him. He's got a roguish charm about him, doesn't he, Sal?"
Salazar harrumphed and frowned at the portrait of Arcturus. "We have some questions about the travesties we've heard regarding Wizarding politics. We're assured that you're the person to speak with."
Arcturus puffed out his chest proudly. "I am indeed, Lord Slytherin! Why I led the Black family for-"
"That's lovely, dear," Rowena interrupted. "Please explain the structure of the Wizengamot…"
-GU-
"Whoa," Astoria said as the Great Hall erupted into a cacophony of voices at the revelation that Sirius Black was in Hogwarts during fourth year.
"Hmm," Daphne cocked her head to the side in thought.
"What?"
"Harry has not revealed any information about Salazar or Rowena's beliefs. Have you noticed that?" Daphne turned to Astoria and gestured at the blank screen that was preparing to display another memory. "Harry's been purposefully hiding the opinions of the founders."
"I'm not tracking, Daffy," Astoria scratched her head.
Daphne nodded. "An example then," she said. "Harry spoke with Salazar about Voldemort, but we weren't shown Salazar's thoughts on Voldemort himself. We don't actually know if Salazar Slytherin is a Pureblood supremacist, do we?"
Astoria shook her head.
"In fact, Salazar merely seemed surprised that Harry wasn't a pureblood. He had a greater reaction to learning Harry was sorted into Gryffindor," Daphne continued.
"Oh," Astoria nodded. "But why would Harry hide their beliefs?"
"That's the question, isn't it?" Daphne mused aloud.
"Maybe because Salazar is everything we're told?" Astoria wondered.
Daphne hummed softly in thought as the screen began to shift once more.
-GU-
September 25, 1994, appeared on the screen. Harry was walking on the third floor alongside Astoria, who was staring at him with a critical expression.
"Everything okay, Harry?"
"All good, Tori," Harry assured.
"You look tired," Astoria observed.
"Feel great," Harry offered a smile.
Astoria frowned. "You're dragging your feet."
Harry stumbled and righted himself before sighing heavily. "Okay, yes, I'm tired. I haven't been sleeping much."
"Why not?" Astoria rounded on Harry and poked him in the stomach.
Because I've got the entire personal libraries of Salazar Slytherin and Rowena Ravenclaw at my disposal, a Godfather who's practically moved into the Room of Requirement, and the stress of knowing I'm going to likely be the fourth Champion in a three-participant tournament, Harry thought blandly.
"Daphne," Harry said aloud. It was somewhat true.
"Oh, Harry," Astoria said gently while shaking her head slowly. "It's going to work out, right?"
Harry stiffened and stared down the hallway.
"Uh, Harry?" Astoria waved her hand in front of his face. "You there?"
Astoria turned to follow Harry's eyes and gasped softly.
Daphne was holding hands with Theodore Nott and walking straight toward them. She sent a sneer Harry's way and leaned her head on Nott's shoulder. As they passed, Nott raised his head and shot a mocking grin at Harry.
Harry's wand hand instinctively flexed and the urge to turn Nott into a paste nearly overtook him. He bitterly swallowed it down along with the bile that had arisen. Harry had some rather ugly spells at his disposal now, courtesy of the Black family. Not to mention the magic Rowena and Salazar were teaching him.
The sound of Astoria coughing heavily broke him from his reverie and he knelt down as she doubled over before collapsing to the ground.
"I'm *cough* so *cough* sorry, Harry," Astoria choked out.
"It's okay, Tori," Harry soothed desperately, recognizing signs of a bad episode. "Just breathe with me. We're okay."
Astoria nodded and took in a ragged breath, only to cough heavily and send blood into her hands.
"We're okay, Tori," Harry repeated comfortingly. "Breathe for me."
Astoria tried to take in another breath and looked panicked. Harry sprung into action immediately, pulling her into his arms easily and sprinting toward the hospital wing.
"Harry…" Astoria managed to cough out before she went limp in his arms.
-GU-
"You did good getting her here, Potter," Madam Pomfrey praised briskly. "She'll need to stay for a couple of days so I can monitor her."
"But she'll be okay?" Harry pressed.
"Yes," Pomfrey hesitated. "As okay as she can be, that is."
"Thank you, Madam Pomfrey," Harry sighed in relief.
"You'll need to step out for a bit," Pomfrey informed.
Harry nodded and exited the hospital. He made sure the way was clear and pulled the hood of his cloak up before making his way to the nearest abandoned classroom. As soon as he was inside, he cast a silencing charm on the room.
"Dobby!" Harry called and the house-elf appeared with a crack!
"The Great Harry Potter Sir calls Dobby!" Dobby jubilated. "How can Dobby help?"
"Please take me to Rowena's study."
Dobby snapped his fingers and the two appeared in the center of Rowena's study where Sirius, Andromeda, Ted and Tonks were speaking with the three portraits. Arcturus had been granted a spot on the wall next to Salazar, something he was quite proud of, much to the amusement of Sirius.
The conversation around Harry died immediately upon his arrival, but Harry didn't notice as his mind was focused on one thing.
"Grandpa Salazar, Grandma Rowena," Harry's voice was strained. "Please tell me you know how to break Blood Curses."
The two founders exchanged a glance and turned to regard Harry.
"You know someone who suffers from such a curse?" Salazar questioned.
"My best friend, Astoria," Harry nodded desperately. "She's getting worse. I have to cure her."
"There is no cure, dear," Rowena said sadly. "Blood Curses are some of the foulest magic ever conceived."
"The only way to break such a curse would be to have the caster rescind it," Salazar ran a hand through his beard.
"Since the act of casting a blood curse requires the death of the caster, it is impossible," Rowena nodded.
Harry felt as if his heart had been ripped out and he sank to his knees, exhausted. Andromeda stood and wrapped her arms around him gently.
"You need to rest, Harry," she soothed. "It feels as if you carry the weight of the world on your shoulders."
Harry swallowed thickly.
"Something happen with Daphne, pup?" Sirius questioned as he stood and gave Harry a hug.
"Daphne?" Rowena questioned.
"Harry's pretty bird. Potter family magic," Sirius quipped. "I'll explain what I know later."
"I can also advise somewhat," Arcturus offered. "I was dear friends with Charlus, after all."
Harry mumbled what had happened earlier in a defeated tone while everyone listened. When Harry explained how bad Astoria's episode was, they all could see how much it impacted him that the girl was ailing.
"Makes you wish the resurrection stone was real," Tonks said somberly.
"It's a fairy tale for a reason, Dora," Andromeda chided gently.
"Resurrection stone?" Harry looked up hopefully. "What's the story?"
"The Tale of the Three Brothers," Ted said gently. "I used to read it to Dora when she was a toddler."
"Legend has it the brothers were of the Peverell family," Arcturus chimed in. "Although few records of that family exist."
"Oh, they existed," Salazar chuckled grimly. "We remembered them as self-proclaimed Masters of Death."
The Black family, including Arcturus, stared at Salazar and Rowena in surprise.
"Emphasis on self-proclaimed," Rowena rolled her eyes. "There was never any proof to substantiate their claims."
"But I would very much like to hear this fairy tale," Salazar motioned at Ted. "Regale us with the tale of their folly. Let us see how closely history is remembered."
And so, Ted told the children's story of the three brothers to the room while Tonks smiled fondly at her father. Harry listened intently, his brain working in overdrive. Sirius also appeared contemplative.
"Surprisingly accurate," Salazar admitted begrudgingly. "There were three Peverell brothers: Antioch, Cadmus and Ignotus. Antioch, the first brother, was murdered after foolishly boasting about his wand's prowess. Cadmus, the second brother, did commit suicide, but the reasoning was unknown, and no note was left behind. It was assumed, however, that it was from grief over his dead wife. Ignotus, however, disappeared shortly after Cadmus died and was never heard from again."
"The Peverell family predates even our own," Rowena said as she indicated herself and Salazar. "What Sal is telling you is merely the histories as we were taught."
"But they were real people," Harry said, and his voice sounded as if his mind was far away.
"That is an immutable fact," Salazar confirmed.
"A cloak passed on to his son before he greeted Death as an old friend," Harry murmured as he fingered his invisibility cloak. "One that hides the wearer from even Death itself."
Harry turned to look at Sirius who had a dumbstruck expression on his face.
"Your soul signature is hidden," Sirius said in a voice barely above a whisper.
"It bypasses all wards," Harry nodded grimly.
"And it was left to you by James," Sirius finished. "Dear Merlin, pup…"
"A Deathly Hallow," Harry reverently removed the cloak from his neck where it shimmered into view, causing a round of exclamations.
"That only truly works for you," Sirius pointed out. "Just as it only ever truly worked for James."
"So, the Potters absorbed the line of Ignotus Peverell," Harry finished.
"Hmph, appears the Peverell's weren't as crazed as we thought, my love," Salazar grunted.
"Fascinating," Rowena was looking at the invisibility cloak intently. "I have so many questions! Spells we can use to understand how these items were crafted."
"Erm," Tonks raised her hand. "Weren't they made by Death himself?"
Salazar snorted. "It is far more likely that the Peverell family were secretly the greatest Enchanters to ever grace the earth."
"Hence the spells we can use to check," Rowena chimed in.
"Later," Sirius cut in with a sideways glance at Harry.
"I think we can assume which Lordship Gringotts has been in uproar over," Ted said softly. "And what they mean about potentially creating an upheaval in Britain."
There was an uneasy silence in the room for several moments.
"You made young Potter Heir Black, Sirius?" Arcturus raised an eyebrow at his grandson.
"Yeah, Gramps, I did," Sirius replied.
"Hmph. Maybe I didn't mess up when I made you Lord Black after all," Arcturus admitted.
Harry shook with barely contained glee as hope flooded his body.
"If the cloak is real, then the stone is real," Harry said. "We need to find the stone!" He looked up in excitement. "All of our resources should be put to finding the resurrection stone!"
"Slow down, pup," Sirius held out his hands. "I promise we'll do what we can to poke around for the stone, but we have other priorities right now."
Harry frowned. "Like what?"
"That horcrux in your scar," Sirius tapped Harry's forehead. "The current method for removal is unacceptable. We're still researching alternatives."
"What's the current method?" Harry pressed.
"Death," Salazar replied.
Harry blinked in confusion until Sirius firmly grabbed Harry by the shoulders.
"Not an option," Sirius emphasized each word.
Harry gulped and nodded. "But Astoria-"
"Will have to hold on a bit longer, pup," Sirius said sternly. "I understand she's your friend, but you are our priority." Sirius sighed heavily and pinched the bridge of his nose. "When is the last time you slept, kiddo? Like really slept?"
Harry shrugged and swayed unsteadily on his feet. "I…" He blinked several times in a futile attempt to clear his blurry vision. "I don't remember."
"Siri…" Andromeda paused when Sirius held up a halting hand.
"I thought so," Sirius whispered gently.
Sirius stood and placed a guiding hand on Harry's back while making his way to a suddenly formed door. Behind the door was a simple bedroom with a large bed that looked quite comfortable. Harry didn't protest when Sirius nudged him forward and sat in a chair that the room materialized next to the bed.
Harry stared at the ceiling unblinking, his breathing erratic as a maelstrom of emotion raged within. Sirius's calming voice broke through the chaos, centering Harry.
"Let it go, pup."
In response, Harry opened and closed his mouth several times. Each time, words seemed unable to form. Finally, a single tear fell from his eye, and he gave a shuddering sob.
"I'm scared, Sirius," Harry croaked.
"I'd be concerned if you weren't," Sirius said solemnly. "But we're going to get through this, pup. Together."
Harry lay quietly as silent tears continued to flow.
"I miss Daphne," Harry said in a voice so quiet that Sirius almost missed it.
Sirius nodded, almost as if he'd expected the conversation to turn toward Harry's love interest.
"Do you remember when you asked me if she was being vindictive?" Harry asked.
"I do."
"Today she was," Harry said dully.
Sirius leaned forward contemplatively while Harry continued to stare at the ceiling. Minutes passed in silence before Sirius finally inhaled to speak.
"Did I ever tell you about the first time James asked Lily out to Hogsmeade during our fourth year?"
Harry's lips quirked upward ever so slightly. "No."
Sirius chuckled and leaned back in his chair to get more comfortable. "Merlin, pup. It's a doozy." He sighed wistfully. "Anyways… James was infatuated with Lily the moment he laid eyes on her, as I've told you before. Your dad was talented, handsome, and too damn smart for his own good."
Sirius chuckled softly in remembrance.
"Of course, this came across as unrestrained arrogance," Sirius continued. "Your dad could be a right prat when he wanted to be. I was no better. Remus was always the one who kept us in line."
Sirius frowned.
"And before you go thinking that I was the bad influencer of the group, let me tell you that James was equally as responsible if not more so because of his lineage." Sirius's smiled briefly but it faltered. "I'm not proud of some of the things we did, pup. We gave Snivellus hell for years, and Lily hated us for it."
Harry watched Sirius put his hands behind his head.
"First and second year, Lily was cordial with us, and it was obvious James had an attraction to her, but she never acknowledged it. Merlin, kiddo, your mum was something. Beautiful, talented, smart, and wicked when roused to anger."
Harry smiled slightly.
"Third year James couldn't find his balls and ask Lily to Hogsmeade," Sirius snorted. "I made sure to give your dad hell for that. The great James Potter, scared to ask out a girl."
"You never had that problem?" Harry questioned.
"Nah," Sirius shook his head. "In fact, it was my success with the fairer sex that motivated your dad to get off his arse and ask your mum out. I'll have you know I got to second base with quite a few-"
"Please," Harry interrupted. "I'm assuming you're trying to make me feel better, not make me sick."
"Oh, right," Sirius winked. "Sorry, pup. I forget your sensitive disposition can't handle such salacious details."
Harry scowled and muttered something unintelligible as he began to roll over in the bed, causing Sirius to laugh.
"Wait! I'm getting to the point!" Sirius promised. "Fourth year begins, and your dad finally has the courage to approach your mum. In our infinite wisdom, we'd played a particularly nasty prank on Snivellus the previous day."
"Brilliant," Harry deadpanned.
Sirius winced. "Not our finest moment," he admitted, chagrined. "So, James asks Lily out, and she flat out refuses. Your poor dad looked like he'd been struck with dragon pox. It took him a few seconds to register that he, James Potter, had been rejected before he nodded numbly and walked away."
Sirius snorted mirthfully and slapped his knee. "That weekend, at Hogsmeade, we spotted Lily on the arm of Frank Longbottom. He was a year older than us, and Lily had never really shown any real interest in him. James was beside himself. We found out years later that Lily only went with Frank to spite James."
Harry cocked his head to the side and stared incredulously at Sirius.
"Wow. You really suck at this."
Something happened in that moment that Harry would never forget. Sirius Black, the man who never seemed to be rattled by any situation, blushed.
"Merlin, kiddo, I'm pants at this stuff," Sirius admitted sheepishly. "I have no clue what the hell I'm doing. Plus, I'm not really father material, you know?" Sirius looked up at the ceiling as if speaking to the ghosts of the past. "This is why I said to make Remus Godfather, Lily!"
Suddenly, Harry laughed. A deep, healing, heavy laugh that doubled him over and caused happy tears to flow. Sirius sat, mouth agape, in shock.
"Maybe don't tell me a story that parallels my own experience," Harry offered through his laughter.
Sirius rolled his eyes.
"Wait," Harry gasped and pointed. "Are you blushing?"
"Oi! Shut up, runt!" Sirius folded his arms defensively across his chest while Harry cackled.
"No, really," Harry barked out. "What was your thinking when you were telling me that story?"
"Well- I-," Sirius spluttered. "I was trying to…"
"Depress me?" Harry snickered.
"Oh, that is it!" Sirius roared and launched himself onto the bed while Harry continued to laugh.
The two wrestled around for several minutes until they pulled apart and lay side by side panting for air, both still shaking with mirth. They didn't speak for several minutes as they relaxed.
"You know," Harry finally broke the silence. "You're not as bad at being a dad as you think, Sirius."
"Heh," Sirius rolled to his side and sat up on his elbow. "Listen, pup, it's all going to work out. James and Lily had tons of ups and downs, but James always knew that she was the one. I saw it in your memories, I see it when you mention her name or think about her. I swear there are times I can't tell you and James apart because you're so much like him."
"I hope you're right," Harry whispered.
Sirius playfully pushed Harry. "I know I am. Because you're a Potter."
Harry frowned and grit his teeth in frustration. "I don't even know what that means, Sirius. Apparently, I am also a Slytherin, Ravenclaw."
"Don't forget you're also a Black," Sirius quipped. "Grandma Dorea's blood runs through your veins, kiddo."
"I don't have the first inclination of what being a Potter entails; our history, our magic, our lineage. How can I possibly understand what it means to be a Slytherin and a Ravenclaw?" Harry asked before adding, "And a Black!"
"Maybe I can help you there," Sirius lay back and ruffled Harry's hair. "Your insatiable desire to learn, your love of books and magic, and your natural ability to analyze and process data are all traits of your Ravenclaw heritage. Your natural cunning, desire to follow your own path, and refusal to crumble under duress are all traits of your Slytherin heritage."
Harry hesitated and gave a slight nod. "I guess…"
"Your natural talent with Charms, Dark Arts, and Dueling are all traits of your Black heritage. It's why our family magic has embraced you so readily, pup. You are a Black, in every facet," Sirius pointed out.
"But doesn't madness run in the family?" Harry questioned.
"Bah," Sirius shooed away the concern. "Madness runs in every family, pup. There are always a few barmy family members. Now, they may not be as crazed as dear Bellatrix, but I think she's a special kind of mad."
"What about Potters?" Harry whispered.
"Potters are noble, loyal, and love far fiercer than any persons I've ever encountered," Sirius replied immediately. "And I'm not talking about the Potter family magic stuff."
Harry turned toward Sirius, a desperate look in his eye, begging for more details.
"They gave me a family, when my own didn't want me," Sirius continued in a voice thick with emotion. "Your dad defended my decision to his parents. Charlus, who never backed down from anything, acquiesced. Looking back, I think my grandpa Arcturus was fonder of me than I realized."
"You left your family?"
"They never wanted me," Sirius nodded. "I was the white sheep of the Black family. Proud of it, too. The Potters gave me a home filled with love and support when I needed it most. They scoffed at the political ramifications and consequences of their decision and instead doubled down. After that, I called your grandparents mum and dad until the day they died."
Harry stared down at his hands, thinking.
"A Potter will move mountains for those they love, pup," Sirius said softly. "They have unflinching loyalty and unflagging faith unless betrayed, and they are some of the most decent people I've ever had the pleasure to interact with."
Harry nodded and a small smile cracked across his expression.
"Get some rest, pup," Sirius rolled out of the bed. "Your family is here for you, always."
"Hey Sirius," Harry called as his Godfather stood at the doorway.
"Yeah?"
"Thanks."
"Any time, pup," Sirius glanced over his shoulder. "I love you, kiddo."
"I love you too…dad."
-GU-
October 31, 1994, flashed on the screen. Harry sat in the great hall with Astoria as everyone waited for the Goblet of Fire to declare the Triwizard Tournament Champions. Harry was tense and unable to keep the strain from his tone when speaking to his friend.
He looked down at Astoria who was practically vibrating with excitement and smiled. She was doing much better, despite his and Daphne's lack of improvement in their relationship. It had been several weeks, and Astoria had not had an episode.
"Who do you think is going to be picked?" Astoria questioned Harry.
Harry pushed his food around on his plate, his appetite having fled him.
"Harry?" Astoria poked him in the ribs.
"Hmm?" Harry turned to look at her.
Astoria moved to repeat the question but faltered and instead studied Harry with a critical eye. Harry fidgeted under her intense gaze. Suddenly, Astoria's eyes widened in surprise.
"Harry James Potter!" She hissed. "Did you enter your name into the Goblet of Fire?!"
"What?" Harry squawked. "No!"
"Then why are you acting as if you're going to be picked?" Astoria demanded in a harsh whisper.
"It's just a feeling," Harry attempted to explain. "Something bad always happens on Halloween. It's like it's cursed for me or something."
Astoria sniffed. "Well, you've been with me almost the entire time since the Goblet was activated. Granted, you could have slunk off after curfew, but I know you didn't."
"Really?" Harry raised an eyebrow, "How?"
"Because you told me you didn't put your name in," Astoria shrugged. "That's good enough for me."
Harry blinked. "Er, thank you, Tori. Th- That means a lot to me."
Astoria grinned and patted Harry's hand affectionately. "It'll be fine, Harry. So! Who do you think is going to be Hogwarts Champion?"
"My money's on Cedric," Harry offered. "He's a good bloke and the school really seems to like him."
"He's talented, too," Astoria agreed.
The two continued chattering until the time of the ceremony began. Harry almost breathed a sigh of relief when the third name came out of the Goblet and nothing else appeared to happen. Unfortunately, Halloween was determined to retain its streak of terrible events, and the Goblet suddenly flared once more.
Harry already knew, and his stomach dropped as Dumbledore snatched the piece of parchment from the air.
"Harry Potter!"
Son of a bitch, Harry thought grimly. Well, we knew this was coming. I daresay it was inevitable. On the bright side, Lordships, here I come!
Astoria stared in horror at Harry as the blood drained from her face. The great hall erupted into whispers which quickly escalated into jeers and murmurs. Harry only had eyes for Astoria whose breathing was becoming increasingly erratic.
"Tori," Harry gently grabbed Astoria by the shoulders and lowered himself so he could look her directly in the eyes. "It's okay. Just breathe for me."
"Cheater!" A distant voice yelled.
"Harry Potter!" Dumbledore called again.
Astoria clutched at Harry desperately, coughing heavily.
"We're okay," Harry whispered. "I promise, Tori. We're okay. Just breathe."
She nodded slowly and followed Harry's instructions, slowly getting her breathing under control and mitigating her cough. Satisfied, Harry stood and made his way down the aisle toward Dumbledore, whose eyes were twinkling madly. Every step was met with increasing hostility in the great hall, and Harry was reminded of his second year.
Harry glanced over to the Slytherin table and quickly picked out the golden blonde hair of Daphne Greengrass. She was sidled up to Theodore Nott and staring at Harry with what could only be described as disgust. There was a sharp pang in Harry's heart, and he quickly looked away before turning toward the Gryffindor table to ensure Astoria was okay.
His best friend was leaning against the table, propping herself up on her forearms, but appeared to have escaped another episode. Astoria gave Harry a weak thumbs up and grimace, which Harry returned, before making a shooing motion. Harry turned and stopped beside Dumbledore, who was looking out at the tables serenely.
"Through the door, Harry," Dumbledore gestured behind him.
Harry ground his teeth and gave a stiff nod before marching to the door and thrusting it open. He stepped into a small room where Cedric Diggory, Fleur Delacour, and Victor Krum stood speaking in hushed tones. All three turned to look at him in confusion as he stepped off to the side and leaned against the wall.
Dumbledore stepped in and a vigorous argument broke out shortly after. Through it all, Harry stared blankly and only spoke when spoken to. Their opinions, questions, and beliefs meant nothing to him. Harry and his family had predicted this would occur. They had prepared and were continuing to prepare for it.
After the date of the first task was declared by Barty Crouch and Ludo Bagman, Harry quickly departed without any fanfare and vanished beneath his invisibility cloak. He knew the school fallout was going to be bad, and so he made his way up to the Room of Requirement to inform Sirius he had been chosen.
Now we pivot to discovering who the hell entered me in this tournament, Harry thought grimly as he climbed the stairs to the seventh floor. And, more importantly, why they want me in it.
He paused outside the door to the Room of Requirement and smirked.
"They may regret entering me when it's all said and done," he whispered to himself.