In the dimly lit diner, Harry and Artemis sat across from Leto, the clink of silverware against plates punctuating their conversation. Leto's piercing gaze locked onto Harry as she reached into her tattered satchel and pulled out a small, frayed bag. Gingerly, she opened it to reveal a bounty of glimmering drachmae.
"Harry, I know you never had your birthday celebrated by those mortals," Leto said softly. "But fear not, for this year is different."
Trembling hands reached for the treasure trove of coins. Harry's eyes widened in gratitude as he spoke through tears.
"Thank you, Grandmother," he whispered.
Artemis looked at Harry intently, as if trying to read his thoughts. Tears welled up in the corners of Harry's eyes from Leto's Gift, and he felt Artemis' gaze upon him.
"Earlier today I confronted Amelia, your father's twin, and asked her why she didn't take you in when my mortal shell and your father died," said Artemis.
Harry braced himself for what was coming next. "And what did she say?" he asked.
"Dumbledore refused to give you to her," Artemis said softly. "He said you were living an extremely spoiled life with your Aunt Petunia."
At this, Harry's eyes began to glow silver and outside the diner, the trees shook violently as if echoing his anger. "Spoiled? Spoiled?!" he spat out, barely able to contain his rage. "I never even saw him until my first day of school! How the fuck could he possibly have known how I was being treated?! Where the Fuck was, he when I was sleeping inside a cupboard under the stairs, starving, and mistreated?"
Artemis reached across the table, placing a comforting hand on Harry's. "I know, Harry. I can't change the past, but I promise you, you are with family now. Dumbledore's perception of your life with the Dursleys was egregiously wrong."
Leto stared Harry down, her steel blue eyes burning with intensity as she said, "Harry James Potter, you will not curse in front of me or your mother again. Do you understand? You may only be 12 years old, but you will show us the respect we deserve."
"Sorry Grandmother, Sorry Mum," mumbled Harry.
"Continuing on, " said Artemis, "I have arranged for you to be placed under the care of your Aunt Amelia Bones, she swore an oath that she will treat you like family, allow you to go to camp half blood, so we will not have a repeat of the Dursley's, and not separate you from Daphne,"
"Splitting them will be impossible even if someone tried," said Leto, "I know Artemis this is not your domain, but it sorta in a roundabout way is mine, they are essentially two halves of a whole if one dies so will the other, since they are two halves of a whole they will subconsciously seek each other out,"
"Harry, this is important for you to understand," Leto continued. "You and Daphne share a connection that transcends the mortal world. The Fates have woven your threads together in a way that is both rare and dangerous. What I mean by 'dangerous' is that your lives are bound. The risks one of you takes, the other will inherently share."
Harry looked confused but also intrigued. "So, we're like...soulmates? I know we have a Soul Union but Lord Greengrass didn't know much about it, "
Leto sighed. "The term 'soulmates' is a simplification, but in a manner of speaking, yes. A Soul Union is not to be taken lightly. The very fabric of your beings is intertwined. This is why it's crucial for you both to train and to grow stronger together. Only then will you be able to face the challenges that lie ahead."
Artemis chimed in, "And this is where your Aunt Amelia and Camp Half-Blood come into play. Under Amelia's care, you'll have the mortal realm's protection, and in Camp Half-Blood, you'll learn about the magical and divine aspects of your heritage."
Harry nodded, trying to take in all the information. "What about Hogwarts? Do I leave it behind?"
Artemis glanced at Leto, who nodded. "No, you don't have to abandon that part of your life. But given the recent revelations, your time there might need to be limited or at least supplemented with other forms of education and training. Hogwarts has its own problems, as you are well aware."
Harry's mind immediately flashed to the troubles he had faced during his first year, including the life-threatening challenges put in place to protect the Sorcerer's Stone. The notion that Dumbledore, the headmaster of the school, had been misinformed—or worse, lying—about his upbringing churned his stomach. The thought of returning to Hogwarts while knowing this made him uneasy.
Harry clenched his fist, trying to contain his emotions. "Is there anything else I need to know? About this Soul Union, about Amelia, about anything?"
Leto took a deep breath and leaned closer, locking eyes with Harry. "There is much you must learn, but for now, understand this: you and Daphne are greater together than apart. The power you hold is not just in your magical prowess but in your unity. Stand by each other, learn from one another, and protect each other at all costs. There are forces, both mortal and divine, who would seek to sever that bond for their own gain."
"Your path will be fraught with challenges, Harry," Artemis added, "but remember, you are no longer alone. Not only do you have Daphne, but you also have a family now, a family that will stand by you."
Harry felt a warmth spread through him, contrasting sharply with the cold he had felt for so many years living with the Dursleys. For the first time, he realized he had something he had yearned for all his life: a family that cared for him.
"Thank you, Grandmother, Mum," Harry choked out, his eyes misty. "I don't know what to say."
Artemis and Leto exchanged glances, and for a brief moment, Harry saw a flicker of immense relief and love in their eyes.
"You don't have to say anything, Harry," Leto said, her voice tinged with emotion. "Just know that you're home, and this time, it's where you belong."
Artemis waved goodbye to the waitress and then stepped outside. With a few quick flicks of her wrist, a bright light illuminated the street and the air filled with the sharp smell of the forest. She grabbed Harry's arm and pulled him close, and before he could even blink, they were in front of Bones Manor.
Artemis rapped her knuckles against the heavy wooden door, and it creaked open to reveal the child-like figure of Susan. "Ms. Artemis and you must be Harry," she said in a low voice, stepping aside to let them in.
"Is Amelia Bones here?" Artemis asked, her gaze flicking around the foyer of the manor.
"I am right here," came Amelia's voice from behind them, and she moved into view. "I unfortunately don't have his room ready as I was expecting him tomorrow I will have the elves speed it up,"
Artemis glanced between the two of them before nodding, sternness in her silver eyes. "I leave Harry in your custody," she said gruffly, "And remember my warning and your oath. I may be a goddess but Harry is still my son who has had a hard life, don't force me to unleash my wrath upon you."
Amelia bobbed a quick curtsy. "I do, Lady Artemis," she said before turning to her family.
Harry stood awkwardly in the doorway, his small frame dwarfed by his aunt and cousin. His voice shook as he addressed them. "Um, hello Aunt Amelia and Susan," he muttered nervously, eyes darting between them. He shifted his weight from foot to foot and continued: "Mum said I will be staying here from now on, I hope I am not a burden to you."
Susan stepped forward, her eyes softening as she took in the nervous figure of her cousin. She looked younger than her age but held an air of maturity about her. "Hello, Harry," she replied gently, offering a small smile. "We're family, and you're always welcome here."
Amelia approached him with a gentle smile, placing a reassuring hand on Harry's shoulder. "You're not a burden, Harry. We're glad to have you here. It will be an adjustment for all of us, but we'll get through it together." She then glanced back at Artemis, nodding her head in acknowledgment of the significant responsibility placed upon her.
Artemis looked down at Harry, her face softening for a brief moment. She placed a hand on his cheek, "You'll be safe here, my son," she whispered, so only he could hear. "Learn, grow, and find happiness. I'll always be watching over you." She gave him a small kiss on his forehead before turning to Amelia. "Remember my words, Amelia Bones nee Potter."
With that, the goddess disappeared, leaving a faint shimmering trail in her wake.
A heavy silence settled in the room. The grandeur of the manor, with its towering ceilings, ornate decorations, and dark wood furnishings, felt intimidating to young Harry. But it was the people within it, his newfound family, that held his attention.
Susan cleared her throat, breaking the quiet. "Let's get you settled, Harry. We'll show you your room, and perhaps we can get to know each other a little better over some tea?" she suggested.
Harry nodded, feeling slightly more at ease. "Thank you," he whispered, grateful for Susan's attempt at making him feel welcome.
Amelia watched the two children, her own heart heavy with the weight of her promise. Protecting Harry, the son of a goddess, was no small task, but she was determined to make him feel at home and safe within her manor's walls.
The room seemed to breathe a sigh of relief as Susan led Harry through the corridor, away from the spot where a goddess had just stood. Amelia trailed behind them, her thoughts swirling like a storm. As they walked, the rich tapestries and paintings that adorned the walls seemed to silently acknowledge the gravity of the situation—here was the son of Artemis, within the domain of mere mortals.
Susan opened the door to a cozy bedroom, furnished with a simple wooden bed covered in quilted blankets, a desk, and a small bookshelf filled with an assortment of novels and academic texts. The window overlooked a small garden, and sunlight streamed through, casting dappled shadows on the carpet.
"This is your room," Susan announced, gesturing for him to enter.
Harry walked in and glanced around, his eyes widening slightly as he took it all in. "It's beautiful," he said softly, touched by the thoughtfulness that had gone into preparing the space for him. It was worlds apart from the life he had known.
Susan beamed. "I'm glad you like it. We wanted to make sure you'd be comfortable here."
Amelia, who had been standing silently at the doorway, finally spoke. "We'll let you get settled. Dinner is at seven, and we usually gather in the drawing room half an hour before. You're welcome to join us for tea beforehand if you'd like."
Harry nodded, looking grateful but still somewhat overwhelmed. "Thank you, Aunt Amelia, Susan. I appreciate it."
As Amelia and Susan retreated down the hallway, the latter leaned in to whisper, "He's so timid, isn't he? It's hard to believe he's the son of Artemis."
Amelia sighed. "He's had a difficult life. Artemis wasn't exaggerating. But that makes our role all the more important. We need to make sure he feels safe and loved here."
Meanwhile, Harry carefully unpacked a small bag of belongings, placing a framed photo of his mother on the bedside table. He then took a deep breath and sat down on the edge of the bed, allowing himself a moment to absorb everything. A new home, a family that seemed kind, and the looming presence of his celestial mother all converged in his thoughts, forming a complex tapestry of emotions he had yet to unravel.
A small, ornate mirror on his desk caught his eye, and as he looked into it, he thought he saw a shimmer of silver light flash across the glass. Harry felt a warmth envelop him, as though a protective cloak had been draped over his shoulders.
"I'll always be watching over you," he remembered his mother's words, and for the first time in a long while, Harry felt like maybe—just maybe—he could begin to build a life here.
Downstairs, Amelia sat in her study, pensively flipping through an old tome on mythical lore. She knew the world of gods and goddesses was fraught with dangers and intrigues that mortal minds could hardly fathom. As she pondered, her gaze fell on an old family photograph. It depicted her when she was pregnant with Susan, Edgar her late husband, a pregnant Lily, and her brother James all smiling. "I will protect him, James, I promise you that,"
Harry stepped into the drawing room and spotted his Aunt Amelia sitting in an armchair sipping tea. Beside her, Susan was absorbed in a large book with gold-embossed lettering.
"Aunt Amy," said Harry, his voice tinged with anxiety.
Amelia put down her cup. "What is it, dear?"
"Um, I have a slight problem," said Harry, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. "See, I don't have any clothes besides what I am wearing and a couple of T-shirts for camp half-blood which I can't wear for obvious reasons."
Amelia nodded in understanding as she closed her eyes in thought for a moment before opening them again. "Susan put the grimoire away," she said decisively, "we are going to Hillcross Alley."
Susan obediently snapped the book shut and placed it on the coffee table next to her chair. "Okay mum," she said brightly.
Harry raised an eyebrow. "Hillcross Alley? Never heard of it."
Amelia smiled. "It's like Diagon Alley in London, only this one is in Cardiff. Same concept, different location".
Harry's eyes widened as he looked at Susan entering the room in her casual day clothes. "Is there a Gringotts location there, I need to get my heir ring and family Grimoire," he said urgently.
Amelia waved her wand and muttered "Tempus" under her breath. "It's only 1:30 p.m, we have time," she declared with assurance. She motioned to the grand staircase of their manor. "Susan, change of plans! We need to go to Diagon Alley. Why don't you have your heir ring?"
Harry replied sheepishly, "I didn't know about it until Duke Greengrass mentioned it, in fact, that was the first time I was told about my family... and that was in June."
Amelia stroked her chin thoughtfully before replying, "Well then, more things Dumbledore will have to answer for."
Harry swallowed hard, the mention of Dumbledore reminding him of the constant mystery surrounding his life. The room was filled with a heavy silence for a moment. Aunt Amelia's expression hardened as if remembering all the ways Dumbledore had manipulated events in the wizarding world.
Susan's eyes darted between her mother and Harry, feeling the tension. "Alright," she chimed in, eager to break the silence, "so are we going to Hillcross or Diagon Alley?"
Amelia sighed, "Diagon Alley first. We need to get Harry's heir ring. Afterward, we can visit Hillcross Alley to get him some clothes. We might as well make a day out of it."
Harry nodded gratefully. "Thanks, Aunt Amy. I didn't expect all of this when I came here today."
Amelia gave a soft smile, patting him on the arm. "You're family, Harry. And family looks out for one another."
Susan, ever the vibrant spirit, jumped up from her seat, her enthusiasm contagious. "Let's go then! A day of magical shopping sounds exciting! Plus, Harry, you'll finally get to see some of the wizarding world outside of Hogwarts."
Amelia laughed her earlier anger at Dumbledore momentarily forgotten. "Yes, it's about time our Harry got a real taste of the world."
Amelia looked at Harry intently and said, "Harry, have you ever travelled by Floo powder before?"
"Yes," he replied. "I used it to get from Camp Half-Blood to Greengrass Manor."
Aunt Amy checked her watch anxiously. "Good! I need you to say Diagon Alley clearly when you use the floo this time, alright Harry?"
"Understood Aunt Amy," he nodded in agreement. She ruffled his hair fondly and patted him on the shoulder.
Harry reached for a handful of shimmering Floo powder and stepped into the fireplace. He watched as the green flames licked up around his body, swirling and twirling until finally he was sucked in. Suddenly, Harry fell out of the chimney with a thump and sprawled on the floor. Amelia and Susan followed shortly afterwards, and when they saw Harry lying awkwardly on the ground, Susan couldn't contain her laughter.
"Susan enough," said Amelia sternly. "Harry I guess I will have to teach you how to land on your feet when using the floo," she continued with an amused smile.
"I take it we are in the leaky caldron?" asked Harry, rubbing his bruised backside.
"That is correct Harry," said Susan, biting her lip to hide her grin.
"Follow us," said Amelia, gently pulling Harry to his feet.
Amelia, Harry, and Susan emerged from the caldron and trudged down the street to Gringotts.
Harry straightened his shoulders as he approached the teller's window. "Hello," he said. "I'd like to go to the potter vaults."
Amelia stepped in beside him. "And we want to speak with the Potter Account manager," she added firmly.
The goblin raised a questioning eyebrow and shifted in its seat. "Do you have the key?" it asked.
Harry shook his head sadly. "Dumbledore never gave it to me," he replied.
Amelia's jaw tightened as she declared, "And that is another thing Dumbledore will have to answer for."
The teller nodded solemnly and waved her towards the back of the building. "I'll get you the Potter account manager who can create a new key that'll destroy your old one," they said as they scratched at their temple. "This way, please."
The trio followed the goblin through the winding corridors of Gringotts, their footsteps echoing off the marble floors. The deeper they went, the more opulent the architecture became. Ornate chandeliers hung above, and elaborate statues lined the hallways, their gleaming eyes seeming to follow the visitors. Every so often, they'd pass by a heavily guarded vault door, reminding Harry of the immense wealth and secrets that Gringotts held.
Eventually, they were led to a grand office with a massive oak desk at its center. Behind the desk sat another goblin, this one older and with a certain air of authority. He wore a gold embroidered vest and had several rings adorned with precious gems on his fingers.
"You are the Potters?" he inquired, his voice gravelly but not unkind.
"Yes, I am Harry Potter, and this is my aunt Amelia Bones nee Potter, and her daughter Susan" Harry replied, gesturing to his companion.
The goblin leaned forward, appraising Harry with a keen gaze. "I'm Grizzlehook, the Potter family's account manager for over a century."
Amelia cleared her throat. "We've come to sort out the situation with the Potter vault key."
Grizzlehook sighed deeply. "Yes, it's unfortunate that the original key is missing. However, creating a new key is not a simple procedure. It involves verifying your identity and ensuring that the older key can't be misused."
Harry felt a rush of gratitude towards Amelia, who had taken charge of the situation so effortlessly. "Thank you for helping me with this," he whispered to her.
She gave him a reassuring smile. "Anything for family, Harry."
After an hour of filling out paperwork, proving Harry's identity through various magical means, and ensuring the old key's deactivation, a brand-new gleaming gold key was handed to Harry. It was intricately designed, with the Potter family crest at its bow.
Grizzlehook looked up at them, a hint of emotion showing in his usually stoic eyes. "Your parents were good clients. They would be proud of you, young Potter."
Amelia stood before Grizzlehook, the family goblin banker. She wore a stern expression as she spoke, "Grizzlehook, can you do an audit of the Potter vaults? We need a record of everything that was removed from the Vault since October 31st, 1980."
Harry spoke up from beside Amelia. "And can you take us to the Family Vault, as we need to remove two... no three items from there? My Heir Ring, the family Grimoire, and a set of Betrothal rings."
Amelia's eyebrows furrowed as she questioned, "Betrothal rings? Aren't you only 12? A bit too young to be thinking of that, don't you think?"
Harry replied nonchalantly, "It's to hide my soul union as a betrothal. That was actually the suggestion of Grandfather Charlus and Grandmother Dorea." His statement left Amelia speechless as she murmured in disbelief, "That actually makes way too much sense. That is also something they would say."
The goblin raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by the unfolding family dynamics. "Soul union? That is a rare and powerful bond. The items you've mentioned are, of course, in the vault. We can guide you there."
Grizzlehook called for another goblin to lead them down to the family vault while he remained to work on the audit. As they ventured further into the cavernous depths of Gringotts, Susan spoke up, her voice echoing slightly. "Mum, what's a soul union? I know Ms. Artemis mentioned it earlier but I am still confused about what it is."
Amelia sighed. "It's a magical bond between two souls, binding them together for all eternity. It's rarer than the rarest of magical creatures and is said to be the purest form of love and understanding."
Harry looked down, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the weight of the bond he shared. "I didn't choose it, you know. It just... happened."
Amelia put an arm around Harry's shoulders. "These things, they're beyond our understanding sometimes. But remember, Harry, while it may be unexpected, it is not a burden. It's a gift, one that most wizards and witches can only dream of."
They reached the Potter family vault, the door is large and imposing with the Potter crest emblazoned on it. As they entered, the chill of the underground cave was replaced by a warm, inviting atmosphere. It was as if the vault itself recognized its owners and greeted them.
In the center of the vault was a pedestal where the family Grimoire rested, its leather binding worn from generations of use. Next to it lay the Heir Ring, its silver band adorned with a single emerald with the Potter crest on it. But the Betrothal rings were a little harder to find. They were in a smaller box on a shelf, nestled among other priceless heirlooms.
Harry picked up the rings, examining them. They were simple, yet elegant, with intertwining designs symbolizing unity and love. "I suppose these will serve their purpose," he murmured.
Amelia chuckled softly, "Well, Harry, it seems your grandparents' portraits had quite a sense of humour. But they always had your best interests at heart. Remember that."
The trio walked out of the Vault, its heavy iron door creaking shut behind them. Amelia turned to the goblin and asked, "Now can you take us to the Potter Trust Vault?"
The goblin nodded. "Certainly, Madam Bones. Follow me."
The trust vault, as opposed to the main family vault, was used to manage the daily financial affairs of the Potter family. It wasn't as grand or filled with artifacts, but it had a significant amount of gold and valuables meant for immediate use.
As they walked, Susan looked around, clearly in awe of the maze of tunnels and the other vaults they passed. "How many vaults are there in Gringotts?" she asked, her voice tinged with wonder.
"Thousands," replied the goblin, not breaking his stride. "Gringotts has been the primary bank for the magical world for centuries. We manage the finances of many ancient and noble families, as well as new wealth."
They arrived at the trust vault, which was smaller than the family vault but still impressive. The door opened to reveal a vast treasure trove of gold Galleons, silver Sickles, and bronze Knuts. There were also several trunks and boxes, each labelled for different expenditures like 'Hogwarts tuition' and 'Property maintenance'.
Harry looked around, his eyes wide. "This is...a lot."
Amelia smiled, "This is the result of prudent investments and wise management by our ancestors, Harry. It's now our responsibility to make sure we continue that legacy."
They quickly handled their business in the trust vault, withdrawing funds needed for their current expenses. Amelia took this opportunity to educate Harry on the basics of managing his inheritance, while Susan curiously examined some of the labelled trunks.
Once done, they made their way back to Grizzlehook's office. The older goblin was waiting for them with a ledger in hand. "I've completed the audit. There were a few discrepancies, but they've been rectified. The Potter vaults are now in perfect order."
Amelia nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, Grizzlehook. Your assistance has been invaluable."
The goblin gave a slight bow. "It has been my honour to serve the Potter family. Should you need any further assistance, do not hesitate to contact me."
As the trio exited Gringotts, the weight of the day's events settled on Harry's shoulders.
Harry looked up at his aunt with wide, eager eyes. "We're going to Hillcross Alley next?" he asked excitedly.
"Yes," Amelia nodded. "We need to get you sorted for robes and muggle clothes. We'll also use the floo system, so when we reach it, I'll show you how to use it properly."
"Yes, Aunt Amy," Harry said obediently.
Harry, Susan, and Amelia stepped out of the chilly Gringotts lobby and into the bright sunshine. Just as they started down Diagon Alley, a large, calloused hand clamped around Harry's upper arm from behind.
Amelia whipped out her wand as she spun around to see who had grabbed her nephew. A tall figure in a black cloak scowled at them. "You're coming with me Potter," he growled. "Dumbledore is very upset you ran away."
"Release my nephew immediately," Amelia said sternly, her voice low and dangerous. "Or I will charge you with kidnapping."
The man hesitated for a split second, gauging the fury in Amelia's eyes. Harry felt the grip on his arm loosen slightly, but the stranger didn't let go. Susan, wide-eyed but determined, took a defensive stance next to her mother.
"It's just a boy," the man sneered, seemingly addressing a group of onlookers who had started to gather around them. "What harm can he do?"
Amelia's voice was cold and steely. "My nephew might be a child, but I am Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. I won't give you another warning."
There was a sudden commotion as several members of the Magical Law Enforcement Patrol, recognizable by their distinct blue robes, appeared on the scene, and wands were drawn. "Is there a problem here, Madam Bones?" one of them inquired, eyeing the man apprehensively.
"This man is attempting to kidnap my nephew," Amelia replied, gesturing towards the cloaked figure. The patrol members immediately aimed their wands at him.
The man let out an annoyed huff, releasing Harry. "Dumbledore will hear of this," he spat, shooting a hateful glare at Amelia.
She raised an eyebrow. "Make sure he does. And remind him that no one, not even him, is above the law." The cloaked man growled in frustration before Disapparating away in a swirl of darkness.
The gathered crowd murmured amongst themselves, but at a pointed look from Amelia, they quickly dispersed, returning to their shopping. The patrol members nodded at Amelia before returning to their duties.
Amelia took a deep breath, her anger dissipating, replaced by concern. She knelt down to Harry's level, inspecting his arm. "Are you alright, Harry?"
Harry rubbed his arm, nodding. "I'm fine, Aunt Amy. Just a bit shaken."
Susan, still pale from the confrontation, moved closer, wrapping an arm around Harry in a comforting gesture. "That was really brave, Harry."
He managed a weak smile. "Thanks, Susan. I wasn't brave, just... surprised."
Amelia stood up, her expression thoughtful. "We need to be careful, Harry. Clearly, there are some who don't want you away from Dumbledore's influence. We must always be on our guard."
Harry nodded, determination flaring in his eyes. "I won't let them take me away from you, Aunt Amy. I promise."
She smiled gently, ruffling his hair. "Come on. Let's get those robes and clothes. We have a long day ahead."
Harry, Susan, and Amelia stood in front of the soot-covered chimney of the Leaky Cauldron. Amelia pulled a pouch of glittery green powder from her pocket. "This is how you properly use the Floo system. You grab a bit of powder, toss it into the mouth of the chimney, and then say clearly where you want to go. The flames will start spinning, and when they stop, step inside the chimney and yell your destination again."
"I think I understand, Aunt Amy," said Harry.
Amelia nodded to Susan. "Go ahead and show him how it's done."
"Okay mum," said Susan as grabbed a pinch of powder from the pouch and threw it into the open mouth of the chimney. Green flames suddenly emerged as she yelled "Hillcross Alley!" When the flames stopped spinning, Susan stepped into the fireplace before disappearing with a flash of green flames.
As Amelia signalled Harry to go next, she watched as he grabbed a handful of powder from the bowl and threw it into the flames. The fire engulfed him in an emerald green blaze, and his frame quickly dissolved into ash. A few moments later, Harry stumbled out of the hearth, barely able to take in the towering buildings and quaint cobblestone streets that surrounded him.
Suddenly he felt a hand on his shoulder, causing him to flinch. He whirled around to face Amelia, who was smiling down at him warmly.
"Welcome Harry, to Hillcross Alley," she said, her voice gentle. She gestured with her hand for them both to start walking. "Now let's get an idea of which shops we need to see first."
Harry's eyes darted around the alley, trying to take in the new surroundings. Hillcross Alley was narrower than Diagon Alley. Shops were lined side-by-side, each front boasting large, clear windows displaying a variety of magical products: from shimmering robes to bottled potions, and from enchanted jewellery to peculiar creatures.
A nearby sign read "Balthazar's Broomsticks," displaying a fine collection of brooms that hovered slightly above their stands. Beside it was "Luna's Luminary," a shop that seemed to glow with a soft light, probably selling magical lamps and candles.
Harry felt a mixture of excitement and anxiety. "So many shops," he murmured, looking around. "Where do we begin?"
Amelia ran her eyes over Harry's outfit, taking in the ragged jeans and too-small faded T-shirt. "We need to get you a new wardrobe. I doubt you'll appreciate being forced to wear Susan's clothes because you have nothing," she said pointedly.
Susan stifled a giggle, imagining Harry in one of her floral dresses. "Although that would be funny to see Mum," she said, but Harry just shot her a glare.
Amelia raised an eyebrow, playfully challenging her daughter. "As much as I'd love to see that as well, it's probably best for everyone if we stick to appropriate attire." She paused, pointing to a store a few steps away with a sign that read "Thistle Threads". The display showcased a range of elegant wizarding robes and comfortable-looking daily wear. "Harry, what exactly do you need?"
"I need Muggle clothes, Griffindor Hogwarts uniform, everyday wear, and I am not sure but I do need clothes for formal events," said Harry.
Amelia nodded, taking note. "Thistle Threads should have your daily and formal wear covered. As for your Muggle clothes and Gryffindor uniform, we'll have to visit other stores."
They approached the store, the door giving a friendly chime as they entered. The interior of Thistle Threads was bathed in a soft golden light, and the smell of fresh fabric and the sound of hushed conversations filled the air. The walls were lined with shelves, each displaying clothing sorted by style and occasion. There was a special section for formal wear, showcasing tailored suits, intricately designed robes, and elegant shoes. The casual section had trousers, shirts, tunics, and other daily wear.
An elderly witch with a silver bun and wearing a soft lavender robe approached them, her eyes twinkling behind half-moon spectacles. "Ah, Lady Bones. A pleasure as always. And who is this young man with you?" she asked, eyeing Harry with a knowing smile.
"This is Harry Potter," Amelia replied, "he's here for a complete wardrobe."
The witch's eyes widened in recognition. "The Harry Potter?" she whispered, leaning in conspiratorially. Harry merely gave an awkward nod.
"Well, Mr. Potter, you're in the right place. I'm Madam Marsh, and I've been tailoring outfits for generations. Now, let's get started, shall we?"
The next few hours passed in a flurry of activity. Harry tried on a series of robes, tunics, trousers, and shoes, with Madam Marsh making sure everything was the perfect fit, occasionally waving her wand to make alterations. Amelia and Susan offered their opinions, suggesting colours that would look good on him and pointing out styles that were popular among young wizards.
Once Harry was satisfied with his selections at Thistle Threads, the trio ventured back into Hillcross Alley. Susan, with a playful smirk, remarked, "No need for my floral dresses then?"
Harry rolled his eyes, "Thankfully, no."
"Are you sure I am pretty sure they will fit you just fine," said Susan.
"No," said Harry.
"then maybe one of my skirts will fit you," said Susan.
"Susan, No," said Harry
Susan chuckled, clearly enjoying the banter and Harry's discomfort. "I'm only teasing, Harry. You're good to go now. Unless you'd like to accessorize with a nice floral hat?"
Amelia interjected, "Enough teasing, you two. We've got a few more shops to visit, and the day isn't getting any longer."
Harry sighed in relief. "What's next?"
"We need to pick up your Gryffindor uniform and some Muggle clothing for you. 'Pippin's Patterns' just around the corner specializes in school uniforms. And for Muggle attire, 'Mundane Wares' should do the trick," Amelia said, leading the way.
As they approached 'Pippin's Patterns', Harry was amazed at the window display that showed moving mannequins wearing different house uniforms and demonstrating the flexibility of the fabric by performing various spells. Inside, walls were lined with uniforms for all four houses at Hogwarts, each section marked by a house banner. The Gryffindor area was vibrant, with rich crimson and gold fabrics shining under the lights.
After getting measured and fitted for the uniform, they headed to 'Mundane Wares'. The shop was quite different from the rest, exuding a sense of simplicity. It had jeans, shirts, jackets, and other basic attire, mimicking Muggle fashion.
While trying on a pair of jeans, Harry looked at himself in the mirror. He realized how much he had grown, both physically and emotionally. The reflection staring back was no longer the undernourished boy from the cupboard under the stairs but a young wizard, ready to face the world.
Harry stood there, a brand new duffle bag in each hand, filled with clothes bought by Amelia and Susan. He smiled shyly at both of them, his eyes wide with gratitude.
"I don't know how to thank you enough," he said sincerely.
Amelia smiled warmly, her wrinkles deepening as her lips curled into a smile. "It was our pleasure, Harry. You've been through enough for one person. Let's get something to eat before we head back home. I have some questions for you."
The 12-year-old girl perked up at the mention of food. "Mum, are we eating at Bones Manor or here?" She pointed around Hillcross Alley, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
"Let's eat here first," replied Amelia without hesitation.
"Um Aunt Amy," asked Harry. "I don't want to embarrass you or anything, but I was not taught proper eating etiquette, is eating in a restaurant a good idea."
Taking a deep breath Amelia mumbled, "Dumbledore will pay," before turning to Harry, "Don't worry Harry, I will show you and besides, no one should be judged on their eating habits, especially not after everything you've been through. And remember, everyone has to start somewhere."
Harry nodded, feeling reassured. He truly felt that with Amelia and Susan by his side, he could navigate through any unfamiliar territory. They walked through Hillcross Alley, passing by various eateries that offered different magical delicacies, from bubbling potions to floating pastries.
Susan pointed to a cozy-looking place with a sign that read, 'Enchanted Eats'. "How about this place? They serve the best Dragon Dumplings in the city!"
Amelia nodded in agreement. "A fine choice, Susan. And they are known for their casual and friendly environment, perfect for our evening."
Once inside, they were guided to a table by a cheerful waiter. The ambiance was warm, with floating candles casting a gentle glow across the wooden interiors. Each table had a miniature enchanted waterfall, providing a soft, soothing background sound.
Harry hesitated for a moment as he took his seat, looking at the multiple forks, knives, and spoons arranged around his plate. Amelia, noticing his apprehension, gently guided him. "Start from the outside and work your way in, Harry. And remember, it's just a meal. Enjoy yourself."
Susan smiled in understanding before chipping in with her two cents worth. "Yes, Harry! And don't be shy about asking questions either! For example, what is that thing over there?" She pointed to a mysterious object that looked like a lid and had several prongs sticking out of it.
Amelia chuckled softly before answering. "That is a fish slice- it's used to hold down food while you cut it so that it doesn't slip away on the plate!"
Harry nodded enthusiastically as he tucked into his dragon dumplings and tried out the new utensils. Susan chatted away happily about the upcoming school year and all of the magical creatures she had encountered while Amelia kept an eye on Harry throughout dinner and made sure he was comfortable with all the same manners as everyone else in the restaurant.
AN: In this chapter, you start to see a glimpse of Harry's Power, and also a glimpse of Harry's Fatal flaw.
Also in this chapter, you have a bit of foreshadowing, I will let you all spot it.
This is the length I will try to keep my chapters keep in mind some chapters will be longer and some shorter.
Please read and review I read and try to reply to every review.
Now in regards to last chapter, Artemis did not transform into her true form at the end she simply teleported away, I will rewrite the end to make it a bit clearer.
