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 16
July 14, 1994, flashed across the screen. Harry was stirring a bowl of oatmeal half-heartedly, wincing with every movement. His shoulders were slumped, his hair unkempt, and he appeared to have not slept at all. Dobby dropped off a glass of orange juice and Harry mumbled a thanks that had the excitable house-elf in happy tears.
Harry heard the floo flare and didn't bother looking up since it hurt too much to do so. His prediction that summer was going to be long was accurate, although he'd left out painful. Tonks was putting him through the wringer on the auror drills and Harry both loved and hated her for it.
He loved it because it made him feel, well, strong and confident. He hated her because it hurt like hell and half the time he couldn't find a comfortable position to sleep in because he was so sore. Additionally, Harry had discovered that it was possible to be so tired that one could not sleep. Take last night, for instance, Harry had laid in bed wide awake, his body tingling with exhaustion while sleep evaded him.
To say it was frustrating would be an understatement, and Harry was determined to revolt if Tonks rounded the corner and demanded more training today. It was supposed to be an off day, and Harry didn't give a damn if Tonks decided to alter the schedule again because she forgot to check her planner. He was not doing any training today.
"Morning, Squirt!" Tonks called as she plopped down at the table.
Harry muttered something incoherent, continuing to weakly stir his oatmeal while debating if he wanted to attempt to pick up the spoon.
"You are aware it's a training day, right?" Tonks teased.
"Off day," Harry grunted.
Tonks leveled her wand at Harry. "It's only an off day when I say it is, Squirt," she cautioned. "Don't make me do something drastic to get you moving."
With a monumental effort, Harry raised his head and leveled a glare at Tonks. "It's an off day, Tonks. I don't care what you do. Hopefully, whatever you decide will put me to sleep."
Tonks raised an eyebrow and appeared to contemplate something. After a minute or so of silence, she took a deep breath. "Why are you not eating, Squirt?"
Harry attempted to lift his spoon which fell from his weakened grip and clambered to the table, spattering chunks of oatmeal across the table. He didn't bother reaching for the spoon, instead he just flinched and sighed heavily while doing his best to not move.
"Hurts to move," Harry admitted softly.
"Ah," understanding flashed across Tonks' face. "Well, we can't have that, can we? Apparently, I've been working you too hard. Sorry about that, Squirt. You know it's for your own good though, right?"
Harry offered a grimace. "I know."
Dobby came by and hummed as he cleaned up the splattered oatmeal while replacing Harry's spoon. The elf was about to move away when Tonks stopped him.
"Dobby, can you please make, uh, the Great Harry Potter Sir some eggs and sausage? He needs protein."
"Dobby can do for Miss Nymph!" Dobby exclaimed and popped away.
Harry snorted into his oatmeal, sending more of it onto the table.
"Was it you?" Tonks deadpanned to Harry.
"Nah, that would be Sirius," Harry replied.
"I'll deal with him later," Tonks assured grimly before rolling her eyes. "Okay, Squirt, this is ridiculous. You need to eat to recover. Do I need to feed you or something?"
Harry nodded once. "Yeah, I think so. I can't really move."
Tonks blinked. "How did you get down here then?"
"Dobby."
Immediately, Dobby appeared. "The Great Harry Potter Sir has summoned Dobby! What can Dobby do?"
Tonks stifled a giggle.
"Uh, sorry, Dobby," Harry muttered. "I didn't mean to call you."
Dobby's ears lowered in disappointment.
"Actually, I spilled some more oatmeal," Harry indicated with a slight head movement.
"Dobby can fix!" Dobby snapped his fingers and the oatmeal vanished. "Dobby will go back to cooking Harry Potter's food!"
"Thank you, Dobby," Harry offered a smile.
"Dobby is unworthy!" Dobby wailed while sobbing happily.
"You know," Tonks managed through her giggles. "That elf really grows on you."
"He's a good friend," Harry agreed.
Tonks playfully sighed and stood, moving to sit beside her protégé. She reached across and grabbed his spoon, loading it with a healthy bite of oatmeal.
"Don't read too much into this, Squirt," Tonks teased. "This is strictly me helping because you're too soft to gut it out. Any feelings I have for you are strictly platonic, got it?"
"Right," Harry smirked. "Not to worry, Tonks. I'm sort of spoken for." He added almost as an afterthought, "At least I think I am."
"She'll come around," Tonks encouraged warmly. "You're a good kid, Harry. She would be a fool not to."
Harry accepted the offered spoonful of oatmeal gratefully and chewed slowly. It felt good to eat and the warmth of the oatmeal spread through his system, bringing him a tiny bit of recovery.
"Besides, there's always the younger sister, what's her name again? Astoria?"
Harry choked and spluttered, coughing heavily.
"Don't even joke about that!" Harry managed to gasp out.
"Okay, okay," Tonks held out her hands in surrender before tapping him on the nose with the spoon. "I just meant that you seem to have a really good rapport with the younger sister. Are you sure there's nothing there?"
"In another life, there could have been," Harry admitted softly. "I don't see Astoria that way though."
"Got it," Tonks mock saluted and fed Harry another bite.
"Thanks, Tonks," Harry muttered.
"Don't talk with your mouth full," Tonks scolded teasingly.
The floo suddenly flared again while Tonks was halfway to Harry with his third bite. The spoon collided with his cheek, smearing oatmeal over his face, while the two stared at the entry to the living room.
"Were you expecting anyone, Squirt?"
"No," Harry shook his head, further smearing oatmeal over his face. "You?"
Tonks had her wand out faster than Harry could blink and was about to stand when Andromeda entered.
"Mum?" Tonks questioned in surprise.
"Really, Dora," Andromeda huffed. "Don't play with your food!"
Tonks scrunched her nose up in confusion, "I wasn't…" She trailed off before shaking her head. "Oh, I was feeding the Squirt here because he's too sore to move right now. You startled us with your sudden arrival." She moved the spoon and what was left on it to Harry's mouth, which he accepted without protest.
Andromeda waved her wand in Harry's direction and the excess oatmeal vanished from his cheek.
"Hi, Aunt Andi," Harry greeted. "What brings you here this morning?"
Andromeda took a seat across from the two and requested tea from Dobby who stopped by to see who their third guest was. "I was hoping you two could tell me," she admitted. "Sirius called an urgent family meeting. Ted should be here shortly also."
As if on cue, the floo flared once more and Ted stumbled in, breathing heavily. "Is everything okay? Sirius said it was an emergency!"
"Fine, dear," Andromeda intoned and patted the empty seat beside her. "Come sit and enjoy some tea."
Ted frowned and sat down heavily. Dobby appeared and Ted ordered tea before observing Harry and Tonks with a raised eyebrow.
"Can't move," Harry informed over a mouthful of oatmeal.
"Don't talk with your mouth full, dear," Andromeda chided.
"Where is Sirius?" Ted looked around in confusion.
The sound of thundering footsteps on the stairs answered and Sirius appeared, pale-faced and gasping for air. He took a shaky seat at the table and rubbed a hand across his eyes as he waited for Dobby to appear. He ordered a strong tea and appeared to gather himself.
"Sirius?" Harry called tentatively.
"You okay, mutt?" Tonks questioned.
"Yes- no-" Sirius growled. "I don't know."
"Maybe start from the beginning?" Ted sipped his tea calmly.
"Harry and I have been going through the Black family library to find all we can on Blood Curses," Sirius began and paused briefly to thank Dobby for the tea. "I stumbled across a book that provided some troubling revelations."
Andromeda frowned. "I like to believe that I know the Black family library fairly well, considering I was the Heiress apparent for House Black before my banishment. There is, to my memory, very little regarding blood curses and most of it is obscure at best."
"Correct, Andi," Sirius sighed as he took a calming sip of tea. "I'm not talking about blood curses though."
"Well, what is it then?" Harry asked.
"Andi, do you remember how we discovered a 'parasite' affixed to Harry's scar?"
Andromeda blanched.
"Yeah," Sirius nodded grimly. "I was combing through the books on soul magic, hoping to find something there on blood curses, and stumbled across an ancient text I hadn't noticed before." He opened a thick tome to a bookmarked page and spun it, sliding it across the table to Andromeda who furrowed her brow thoughtfully and began to read.
Several minutes passed in silence before Andromeda let out a gasp and clasped her hand across her mouth, her eyes widening in shock. She wordlessly passed the book to Ted who had a similar reaction. Ted glanced over at Sirius who gave a firm nod.
"Harry deserves to know."
Ignoring his soreness, Harry leaned against Tonks' shoulder and read alongside her. Minutes passed before he looked up with a blank, lifeless, expression.
"What does it mean?" Harry questioned.
Sirius opened his mouth to respond but all that came out was a strangled gurgle. He looked pleadingly to Andromeda who nodded subtly.
"It means that your scar does not house a parasite, as we originally thought," Andromeda explained. "In a sense, it is still parasitic in nature as it is actively feeding off your core, but not for the reasons I initially surmised."
"Then what is it?" Harry pressed.
"A horcrux," Andromeda revealed. "A literal piece of Voldemort's soul has latched on to yours through the cursed scar."
"The killing curse does not leave a mark, pup," Sirius reminded him. "Why is it that you have that scar then?"
"Wait," Harry held out his hands a moment and took a deep breath, his entire body trembling violently. Tonks wrapped an arm around him and held him firmly to steady him. "You're saying that when the killing curse rebounded, it split Voldemort's soul and some of it latched on to me?"
"Right in one, pup," Sirius flinched.
"Then that means…" Harry trailed off in horror.
"He was going to use your murder to create another horcrux," Ted whispered in shock.
"But what would have been the horcrux?" Tonks asked with a shiver.
"The snake," Sirius replied. "Remember the memory we saw from Harry's encounter with the dementors? Voldemort had a big snake with him. That must have been what he intended to be the horcrux."
"So, the diary was a horcrux," Harry mumbled in realization. "He made more than one."
"Then Quirrell was the main soul piece," Andromeda agreed. "Which means Voldemort is likely in wraith form and recovering."
"Which could take years, if we use his original defeat as a barometer," Tonks chimed in.
"That would be correct, but there's a new factor involved that changes the equation," Sirius growled and slammed his fist on the table, rattling the cutlery Dobby was placing down as he prepared to serve breakfast.
"Pettigrew," Ted nodded somberly. "You really believe he's gone back to Voldemort?"
"I know he has," Sirius said. "Peter won't risk his hide at Hogwarts any further now that he knows we know about him. He'll be looking for his master and doing what he can to revive him."
"Which means we can expect to see old Moldyshorts sooner rather than later," Tonks frowned and looked at Harry who was pale as death.
"I want it out," Harry whispered and gave a haunted look to his family. "Please. I want it out. How do we get rid of it?"
"We're working on that, pup," Sirius assured. "All of our resources will be allocated to finding more information about the destruction of horcruxes. I don't think a basilisk fang is going to do us much good here, since you're a living object."
"I don't want to die," Harry sniffled.
"You're not going to die, kiddo," Sirius promised savagely. "We're going to figure this out as a family and get that piece of Voldemort out of you. Then you're going to live a long and happy life with Daphne. Understand?"
Harry nodded and managed to slowly raise his arm to wipe his nose.
"It's safe to assume that Harry and Voldemort are linked," Andromeda stated clinically. "Which means we should assume that they will continue to encounter one another."
Dobby arrived and began setting large platters of food out while everyone began preparing plates. Tonks prepared Harry's and he gave her a thankful watery smile. She patted his head comfortingly and ruffled his hair.
"You know I'm not going to let anything happen to you, Squirt," she promised fondly. "I enjoy torturing you too much."
"Thanks, Tonks."
"I agree with Andi," Sirius said around a mouthful of eggs while gesturing at Andromeda with his fork. "We need to plan for the worst this year, and with the Triwizard Tournament occurring it's probably wise to assume that Harry will be entered somehow."
"What about the age limit?" Harry asked.
"Won't matter," Tonks shook her head. "There are far too many ways to circumvent that. Short of having a posted guard around the clock, we can't plan for every contingency."
"And something tells me that Dumbledore won't allow a guard around the clock," Ted added.
"Then we prepare as if Harry's already entered," Sirius slapped his fist into his open palm. "We need ideas, people. Every advantage we can possibly gather. We only have…" He trailed off and did some quick mental math, "Forty-eight days until Harry returns to Hogwarts."
"I'll do some sleuthing at the Ministry," Tonks offered. "See if I can figure out what the first task will be. If I remember my history well enough, the first task usually involves a class five magical creature and a recovery operation."
"Right in one," Sirius nodded. "See if you can find out what creatures it will be."
"Start with international imports, Dora," Ted instructed. "That will be the safest and most inconspicuous place to look."
"Sure, dad," Tonks grinned.
"I'll put pressure on Gringotts to resolve the heritage and will issues," Ted offered. "We need to know if there are advantages Harry could exploit with the additional Lordships, and if we can get access to the Potter vault so Harry can review and learn his family magic."
"Excellent," Sirius clapped his hands. "I also want you to speak with the Goblins about harvesting the basilisk in the Chamber of Secrets. Basilisk hide is second to none in magical resistance, and if we could make some combat robes out of it Harry would be in great shape."
"That shouldn't be a problem," Ted assured. "It's been quite some time since a basilisk was on the market. Harry will need to revisit the Chamber, however, so he can use the portkey on the carcass."
"No problem," Harry said. "I can visit any time I desire, although I'm not too fond of that place."
"Understandable," Ted offered a strained smile.
"Nymph, we need to pivot Harry's training," Sirius stated. "I want Harry to start learning as much Black family magic as possible. All of the nastiest, darkest, ugliest spells we've got."
"Do you really think that wise, Sirius?" Andromeda questioned.
"Harry needs to survive, Andi," Sirius challenged. "Just because our family heritage is centered around the Dark Arts does not mean that practicing them in self-defense makes you the next Dark Lord. This is to ensure Harry is capable of fending off attacks. What better way to do that than to employ the full arsenal of the Black family magic?"
"Fair enough," Andromeda acquiesced. "Then I will also aid in teaching Harry this magic, as well as some basic healing spells to ensure he can perform battlefield medicine, even if on a rudimentary level. We'll also begin advanced Occlumency. Although I'll need to visit your mindscape to see your progress, Harry."
"I look forward to it, Aunt Andi," Harry smiled kindly.
"And all free time will be devoted to searching the underbelly of the Wizarding World for information on horcruxes," Sirius finished. "We need answers as quickly as possible."
"Agreed," the table chorused.
There was a fluttering sound from the living room and Hedwig darted in with a hoot, landing on the table before Harry with a letter attached to her leg. Harry raised an eyebrow and looked around the room.
"Did you give anyone your address, Harry?" Sirius questioned incredulously.
"No," Harry waved his wand and ran some diagnostic spells alongside Tonks.
"Looks clear to me," Tonks shrugged. "Who is it from?"
Harry's eyebrows disappeared into his hair. "Astoria."
"Daphne's sister, yes?" Andromeda clarified.
Harry nodded and opened the letter.
Harry,
I wrote you a letter then realized that I had no idea where you lived. Daphne wasn't very helpful and refused to give me your address for some reason. She's still royally pissed by the way (more on that later). At any rate, I was going to send this letter to the local Owlery and have it addressed to Hedwig in hopes that it could somehow chain to deliver to you…
Then I realized that Hedwig probably was with you. Duh.
So, I was really upset and trying to figure out a way to contact you when Hedwig shows up! I don't know if you knew, or if she knew, or however she found me, but I am really grateful! Give her a pound of bacon for me! She earned it!
My actual letter is attached. I wrote this one quickly so you didn't worry about how I found Hedwig, or rather how she found me.
With love,
Astoria
"At least she explained how she found Hedwig," Harry chuckled and passed the cover letter around.
Sirius grinned when he read it. "I like her."
"Astoria's great," Harry nodded with a smile while he unfurled the second letter.
Harry,
I hope this letter finds you well and enjoying your summer. Mine hasn't been so bad, outside of the fact that I'm not allowed to do much because of my 'sickness'. Ugh. I swear, Daffy makes life way too difficult sometimes. She's like a wet blanket! Moreso now that you've become involved…
On that note, I haven't made much headway with her. She's being a stubborn arse (pardon the language). In fact, I think I've only made her madder since we last talked. I promise I'm really trying here, Harry, but Daffy can be unbelievably stubborn sometimes. Especially when it involves me.
But you have my word, I'll keep trying to patch things up. We'll definitely talk more on the Express!
Hope all is well at your end! Write back to me! It's dreadfully boring when all I do is torment my sister…
With love,
Tori
Harry gave a wistful sigh and fed Hedwig some bacon while he offered the letter around. Andromeda was the first to speak up.
"Daphne will come around, dear, just give it time."
"I hope so," Harry muttered.
"I have something that will cheer you up," Tonks offered with a sly grin.
Harry just stared at her.
"More training! We're going to push even harder to get you through the auror course! Also, I'm going to teach you to apparate. I have a feeling you'll need to know how."
"But you can't apparate on school grounds," Harry countered. "Haven't you read Hogwarts: A History?"
"You can once you step outside the wards," Tonks waved off Harry's concerns. "You'll need to learn eventually. Might as well be early. Mum will help too in case you get splinched."
"Just let me know when, Dora," Andromeda smiled.
"I better write a return letter to Astoria now then," Harry grunted. "I'm guessing I'm going to be far too busy to do so later."
"Probably a good idea, pup," Sirius laughed.
-GU-
Shocked silence filled the great hall as the screen faded. A pale-faced Astoria looked over at her stricken older sister.
"Harry has a piece of Voldemort's soul inside of his scar?" Astoria whispered.
"Circe!" Daphne breathed. "On top of everything else he was carrying that burden."
"I never knew, Daffy," Astoria tentatively grabbed Daphne's hand. "I swear he never told me anything like that."
Daphne didn't answer, instead staring at the staff table intently.
"Daph?"
"I think Dumbledore knew," Daphne hissed.
"What?!"
"Hush!" Daphne commanded.
"B-but," Astoria spluttered, "why would you think that?"
"I've been watching his facial expressions. Sometimes it's very subtle, but I'm convinced, just like Harry has been in the memories, that Dumbledore knows far more than he's telling or wants others to know. When the horcrux discussion happened in the memory, Dumbledore flinched and went through several emotions: fear, shock, and anger."
"Damn, Daffy," Astoria mumbled. "You would make a mean auror."
"Language, Tori," Daphne scolded. "And don't call me that!"
"Anything else you've noticed?" Astoria ignored the chastening from her older sister.
"Yes," Daphne nodded grimly. "I think the Professors are planning to apprehend Dumbledore."
"…You're serious?"
"Babbling and Vector visited every table during the break," Daphne pointed out. "They were laying rune schemes, very carefully, but I couldn't tell what they were for. If you recall, a couple hours ago McGonagall told Dumbledore to keep his wand ready. I think she means to follow through with that threat."
"Merlin's saggy balls!" Astoria swore. "It's going to be pandemonium! Most don't really think about it, but Hogwarts houses some of the most talented instructors in all of Britain. Each of the Professors are capable of extraordinary magic!"
"Hence the rune schemes," Daphne agreed. "They're waiting for a trigger, I think."
"Any ideas?
Daphne shook her head, "Not yet."
Astoria trembled and sidled closer to her older sister.
"Don't worry, Tori, I'll protect you," Daphne promised.
Astoria bit her lower lip and nodded, coughing lightly.
-GU-
The screen flashed July 29, 1994, and Harry was enjoying breakfast at the table with Sirius when the floo flared. Harry noticed Sirius's nonchalance and didn't bother drawing his wand, instead eating his breakfast slowly. His body was adapting well to the increased workload, and Andromeda had shown mercy by providing some muscle recovery potions.
"Morning, Ted," Sirius called as Ted Tonks entered and plopped down at the dining table.
"Harry, Sirius," Ted greeted with a smile while Dobby placed a fresh cup of tea, just how Ted normally took it, on the table. "Thank you, Dobby," Ted called after the house elf.
"Not that we mind you here, but what's the occasion?" Sirius questioned.
"Gringotts has called for us," Ted smiled over the rim of his teacup. "They've finally made enough progress on the heritage test."
"Excellent!" Sirius stood excitedly. "This is great news! There is no telling what advantages we're about to gain!"
"Will it matter though?" Harry asked. "At best I'll be labeled Heir until I come of age."
"True," Ted agreed. "But much like you found with House Potter, Heirs sometimes have access to resources and knowledge that can be used without emancipation. We'll navigate the waters together, as a family, Harry."
"Thanks, Uncle Ted," Harry smiled and nodded. Having a family made him feel warm and loved and he prayed it would never diminish or fade.
Harry and Sirius quickly finished their breakfast. Ted declined to eat but thanked Dobby for the offer nonetheless. The three made their way to the floo and were off to Gringotts in good spirits. They arrived in the waiting room and didn't bother sitting as Agnok greeted them fairly quickly.
"Lord Black, Heir Potter, Mister Tonks," Agnok greeted with a small bow. "If you will please follow me."
"Certainly," Ted grinned and motioned Harry forward, followed by Sirius.
They made their way down the hallways to Agnok's office where Sirius and Harry took seats at the desk while Ted stood between them. Agnok took his seat and straightened some papers on his desk before folding his hands and addressing the three.
"As you've been made aware, we have made progress on Heir Potter's heritage test," Agnok began.
"And?" Ted pressed.
"Before we reveal our discoveries, we believe it prudent to run a test lest we create further confusion. Our Curse Breakers have managed to remove the major ramifications of this test and, unfortunately, it will be required before we proceed further."
Ted pinched the bridge of his nose. "What is the test?"
In response, Agnok reached into a desk drawer and pulled out two small cases which he set atop the desk before grabbing the first and opening it to reveal a ring with a serpent crest that looked all too familiar.
Sirius sucked in a huge breath. "Is that?"
"Please save your questions," Agnok said. "Heir Potter, if you would."
Harry hesitated. "I just put it on?"
Agnok appeared unimpressed. "Yes."
"Go ahead, Harry," Ted placed a comforting hand on Harry's shoulder. "If the Goblin Curse Breakers were involved, you have nothing to fear. They are extremely efficient."
Agnok gave an appreciative nod and smirked in Ted's direction.
Harry tentatively reached forward and grabbed the ring, releasing a breath he didn't realize he was holding. He held out his right hand, the one already with two heirship rings, and placed the new ring on his ring finger. There was a bright flash and…nothing.
"Uh, is this good?" Harry wiggled his fingers.
"Fascinating," Agnok intoned. "One more test, if you will." He opened the second case to reveal another ring with a raven crest. "Please," Agnok added as an afterthought.
Harry glanced at Ted who gave him an encouraging nod. With more confidence, Harry reached forward and picked up the ring before sliding it on his pinky. There was another flash and no change or feeling. Harry looked from his hand to Agnok to see an expression of shock plastered on the Goblin's face.
"Amazing," Agnok stared at Harry in awe before clearing his throat and shaking his head. "Heir Potter, the rings please."
Harry removed the rings and placed them in Agnok's hand who then pressed a button under his desk to reveal a fully armored guard. The two spoke in hushed tones in their native tongue before the guard saluted and left.
"I have sent for the Curse Breakers to undo the suppression wards on these rings," Agnok informed the three. "Once done, you should have no issues with the family magic accepting you. Due to the ancient heritage of these Houses, we wanted to ensure you would not experience complications."
"Can we talk about what the hell this means now?" Sirius exploded.
"Those crests," Harry mused aloud. "They looked like the Slytherin and Ravenclaw crests."
"That's because they were, Harry," Ted said.
Harry's jaw dropped.
"How?" Sirius pointed at Harry.
"We asked the same," Agnok leaned back in his chair and chuckled. "You are an anomaly to be sure, Heir Potter. We here at Gringotts are thoroughly enjoying ourselves. The power you now command is unprecedented, and it will be fascinating to see how Britain is reshaped once you obtain emancipation."
"I take it the strictest precautions and securities are being taken with this recent revelation?" Ted challenged.
"Of course," Agnok's eyes flashed. "Client confidentiality is of the utmost importance to Gringotts."
"Is there still potential for Harry to have another Lordship?" Sirius asked shakily.
Agnok gave a pointed glance to Sirius. "Yes."
"Dear Merlin," Sirius shook his head in awe.
"Our sentiments exactly," Agnok nodded. "Although we are still reviewing. If what we believe is true, it has the power to create mass upheaval."
"Then take your time," Ted shuddered, not wanting to entertain what that could mean. If a nation as fearless as the Goblins believed it would cause 'mass upheaval' then it was probably better left untouched.
"We shall," Agnok assured as the door to his office opened and a guard returned the two rings to Agnok who placed them on the desk reverently for Harry. "Heir Potter, if you will allow the family magics to judge you."
Harry had several emotions running through him, most prominent among them, confusion, anxiety, and excitement. It was a weird combination that made his stomach rumble and his body erupt into goosebumps. Nevertheless, he reached out and grabbed the Slytherin ring and placed it on his ring finger once more.
There was a bright flash and Harry gasped as he felt the ancient magic of Salazar Slytherin's house judge him. A flash of pain resonated within his body and Harry hissed out, not realizing he was speaking Parseltongue, before the pain receded. He leaned back wearily, a thin sheen of sweat on his forehead.
"Harry?" Sirius questioned concernedly.
"I'm okay," Harry gasped. "That was…intense."
"Understandable, and you handled that well," Agnok nodded in approval. "Gather yourself, Heir Slytherin, and, when ready, place the last ring on your finger."
Harry snorted. "Heir Slytherin. How ironic. Considering everyone accused me of that during my second year at Hogwarts. Who would have thought I actually was the Heir of Slytherin?"
"Yeah, that's great, kiddo," Sirius said absently. "But how? I don't understand?"
"We will explain," Agnok assured, "once Heir Slytherin has finished."
Harry took a steadying breath and reached out, plucking the ring from the desk and placing it on his pinky finger. There was another bright flash and Harry grasped his head as he felt a sharp pain in his brain. He groaned and fell forward only to be caught by Ted who pulled him back to his chair.
Spots swam across Harry's vision as he tried to get his bearings once more. He was sweating profusely and trembling. Harry slammed down on his Occlumency shields and did his best to regain control. A few minutes later he was much more composed, but still breathing rather heavily.
"Excellent," Agnok praised. "Well done, Heir Ravenclaw."
"Okay, enough," Sirius practically shouted. "What the bloody hell is going on here?"
"I too would like to know," Ted shook his head with a disbelieving expression.
"Me…too…" Harry panted.
"You okay, pup?" Sirius asked.
"Yeah," Harry gave a grimace. "The magic of Slytherin and Ravenclaw is, um, overwhelming."
"Merlin's soggy underpants," Sirius mumbled. "That's probably an understatement coming from you."
Agnok reached into a desk drawer and pulled out a heritage chart listing the various families Harry had ties to. The three leaned over the desk to get a better look as the Potter Account Manager began explaining the recent discoveries.
"From what we have surmised, Salazar Slytherin, in his later years, married Rowena Ravenclaw in secret and the two had a single lovechild that was lost to history. Moreso because we believe she was a Squib."
Sirius and Ted blinked while Harry just stared, not realizing the significance.
"This happened after Salazar's wife was killed by muggles then?" Ted questioned.
"Yes," Agnok nodded. "That was verified through ancient death records."
"And how does this trace to Harry?" Sirius asked.
"It appears that the squib line carried on and, through various marriages, eventually blended with the Evans line," Agnok revealed.
"Lily Evans?" Sirius clarified.
"Indeed."
"Bloody hell," Sirius slumped back into his chair. "That explains why she was always considered the brightest witch of her age. She was a descendant of Rowena Ravenclaw herself! Not to mention the power she wielded when stirred to anger. She had Slytherin blood in her!"
"But why did mum not claim the rings?" Harry questioned. "Surely she did a heritage test too?"
"The squib lines do not always have enough magic in them to activate ancient heirships," Agnok revealed. "Your mother was a true muggleborn and therefore the test did not register these lines."
"What makes Harry different then?" Ted interjected.
"The Potter family is an ancient line with centuries of magic. Heir Potter is also directly tied to the Black family, another ancient line, through his grandmother Dorea Potter nee Black. This combination, coupled with the substantial magic that Lily Potter gathered up to her death, allowed for the heritage test to recognize the Ravenclaw and Slytherin lines in Heir Potter."
"What does this mean?" Harry's voice was suddenly small.
"As Lord you will have control over Hogwarts," Agnok revealed. "As Heir, the school will likely feel more sentient to you and protect you as best it can."
"Damn," Sirius whistled.
"As far as assets go, we can provide a listing of the properties, although there are only two: Castle Ravenclaw and Castle Slytherin. We would advise against entering these until proper research has been performed. They have not been accessed in centuries and there is no telling what ancient protections are on them."
"And where would one begin researching such a thing?" Ted asked.
"A Founder's Portrait would be the best way," Agnok shrugged. "If you can locate them."
"You mean they are hidden in Hogwarts?" Harry raised an eyebrow.
"Indeed and based on your discovery of the Chamber of Secrets I would imagine Slytherin's portrait would be there somewhere, now accessible with you as the formal heir," Agnok replied.
"Something to investigate when I go down there again," Harry nodded and rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Maybe Salazar will have some advice on where Rowena's portrait is?"
"More than likely," Sirius grinned. "Excited?"
"To meet two of the founders of Hogwarts?" Harry asked incredulously. "Of course I'm excited!"
"I don't suppose you have a listing of the contents of the vaults that we could review…" Ted trailed off as Agnok passed him a paper which provoked a whistle of approval from Ted. "Well, Harry, you are set for life, as well as your great great great…" He chuckled. "You get the point. Grandchildren."
Agnok produced another paper. "This is the agreement for the harvesting of the basilisk, if you'd like to review and approve."
Ted took it and spent a few minutes pouring over it before giving a nod and setting the contract before Harry. Agnok provided a blood quill and Harry signed it without even wincing. Satisfied, Agnok rolled up the paper and it vanished in a flash. The Account Manager then reached into a desk drawer and pulled out an old shoe.
"The portkey," Agnok explained. "Just place it on the basilisk, place your wand on the portkey, and incant 'Gringotts' to activate it."
Harry nodded and pocketed the portkey.
"I believe that concludes our business for the time being," Agnok stood and gave a low bow to Harry. "We will advise you of our further findings to your heritage test, Heir Potter."
"Thank you, Agnok," Harry reached out his hand which Agnok shook.
The three then turned and made their way back to the waiting room and the floo where they returned to 12 Grimmauld Place in silence. A word was not spoken until they had sat back at the dining table while Dobby bustled about to make them fresh tea and snacks. Sirius decided to sum the entire meeting up with a single word.
"Wow."
-GU-
"Holy shite," Astoria exclaimed softly. "That's how Harry is controlling Hogwarts."
Daphne nodded dumbly.
"And because he's Lord Potter-Black that means he's also Lord Slytherin and Lord Ravenclaw," Astoria continued.
"Four Lordships," Daphne intoned.
"Maybe five," Astoria reminded. "Gringotts said there was one more they were investigating."
"Unbelievable," Daphne groaned in frustration.
"Daph, it's going to be okay," Astoria assured. "You'll see."
Daphne didn't respond, instead she studied the staff table, taking in the various faces stricken with shock. Dumbledore especially appeared pale and wan, which gave Daphne pause. Was it the realization that Harry truly did have control over Hogwarts now? Or was it something deeper?
"That explains the basilisk," Daphne mumbled. "I guess he got Sasha from Castle Slytherin."
"It also explains why Harry seems to retain information and learn faster than most," Astoria pointed out. "Being a Ravenclaw by blood would definitely have something to do with that."
"And his innate cunning," Daphne agreed softly, "like how he tricked Dumbledore by implicating Snape."
The two sisters sat in silence for a moment before Daphne flopped back on the bed in exasperation.
"Four Lordships," she grumbled. "This sucks, Tori."
"It does," Astoria agreed. "But it's going to be okay."
"How in Morgana's name do you keep such unflagging faith?"
"Because it's Harry, Daph," Astoria shrugged. "I know you can't remember because of what father did, but it's just a natural feeling you get from being around Harry."
"What do you mean?" Daphne sat up on her elbows.
"He makes you feel like he can do anything," Astoria attempted to explain. "And he makes you feel safe. I know he'll figure out how to break my blood curse."
Daphne blinked. "How?"
"Because he promised he would," Astoria said simply.
Daphne sighed. "How do you know it's going to be okay with us?"
"Because Harry loves you, Daffy," Astoria grinned.
-GU-
August 1, 1994, appeared on the screen. The Black family sat at the dining table eating lunch. Tonks gave Harry a playful shove and winked at him.
"I still can't believe you're Heir Slytherin and Ravenclaw! Don't expect me to call you anything other than Squirt though!"
Harry snorted. "At this rate I'll likely be Heir Hufflepuff too. Then what?"
"You're still Squirt to me," Tonks shrugged and bit into her sandwich with gusto.
"Behave, Dora," Andromeda called automatically. "I, for one, find it fascinating. You are a very unique Wizard, Harry."
"Thanks, Aunt Andi," Harry grinned sheepishly.
"Our plans haven't changed," Sirius pointed out after swallowing his bite of sandwich. "Well, much," he added. "Harry is still going to the Chamber of Secrets, as planned, but now he has a secondary task of finding Salazar's portrait."
"And then finding out where Rowena's is," Harry added. "I'm not even sure what to ask Salazar if I find him."
"When you find him," Ted corrected with a grin.
"Yes, positive thoughts, Harry," Andromeda chided.
Harry fidgeted nervously which did not go unnoticed by his family.
"What's on your mind, pup?" Sirius questioned.
Harry nervously ran a hand through his hair. "Um, is there any chance this can be used to garner a courtship with Daphne?"
"Your Heirships you mean?" Sirius asked.
Harry nodded.
Sirius sat back thoughtfully. "Potentially," he admitted. "But I'm not sure if it's wise to reveal this yet. It has the power to shake the foundations of British government, pup. While I understand your desire to court your pretty bird, I'm not sure if that is the way to go about it."
"You're already on a path to courtship," Andromeda added. "Granted, Daphne is the one going through the requirements laid out by her father, but it seems as if she has intent to see it through."
"Let it play out, Squirt," Tonks agreed. "Daphne doesn't sound like a Lady who will be impressed with multiple Lordships. She likes you for you, right?"
Harry nodded. "I guess. I just don't like this."
"And no one blames you for that, pup," Sirius assured. "But this isn't the way to use your Lordships, okay?"
"Yeah," Harry frowned. "You're right. I still don't like it."
"Any news on the first task?" Sirius asked Tonks.
"Dragons," Tonks replied with a wince.
"Come again?" Sirius coughed.
"Dragons, that's the first task," Tonks repeated. "All of them nesting mothers. Safe to assume the champions will have to procure an egg from them."
"Our government is daft," Ted shook his head in dismay. "Real, live, big and angry dragons for a student competition?"
"Rumor is every safety precaution is being taken," Tonks rolled her eyes.
The table all chuckled grimly.
"I've heard that before," Harry groused. "We adding dragon fighting to the schedule then?"
"May as well," Sirius said weakly. "Although you're really not supposed to fight dragons… They don't take well to that."
"Yeah, these creatures take multiple handlers to subdue," Tonks nodded. "You won't have much success outside of a conjunctivitis curse to the eyes."
"Which will just piss the thing off," Harry nudged Tonks with his elbow. "Let's pass on that strategy."
"A bit of a longshot," Andromeda piped up, "but aren't dragons technically serpents with wings?"
Sirius blinked. "Er, yeah, maybe?"
"You think I can talk to dragons?" Harry asked in surprise. "That'd be a nice use of Parseltongue."
"Contingency plan only," Sirius offered. "You can ask Papa Slytherin about that one, pup."
Harry laughed at the nickname for Slytherin. "Yeah, okay. I'll make sure that's the first question I ask."
"So, Harry is going to just politely ask a nesting dragon mother if he can have her egg?" Ted deadpanned. "I'm struggling to see the wisdom in this."
"Like I said, contingency plan only," Sirius repeated. "Assuming the dragon is restrained, which it will have to be to protect the spectators, all we really need to do is remove its visibility, hearing, and smell. Andi, any spells come to mind?"
"Several," Andromeda nodded, "although I am unsure of their potency or efficiency against dragons. Are you certain this is a wise usage of our current resources and remaining time, Siri? Harry is not guaranteed to be a champion, after all."
"True," Sirius leaned forward and placed his hands on the table. "And this may be paranoia on my part, but I truly believe this link Harry and Voldemort share through the horcrux in Harry's scar has them fated, if you will, to meet."
"It's also uncanny how every Halloween something happens," Harry pointed out. "Troll first year, which was Quirrell possessed by Voldemort, basilisk second year, which was Lockhart possessed by Voldemort through the diary, and Sirius breaking into Hogwarts and failing to catch Peter third year."
"Right," Sirius winced. "See? Every year something happens. Peter is one of the chief servants to Voldemort and has now fled back to his master's side."
"And it just so happens the choosing ceremony for the Goblet of Fire happens on…" Tonks paused for dramatic effect.
"Halloween," Andromeda cut in.
"Aw, mum!" Tonks complained. "You ruined it!"
"Behave, Dora," Andromeda scolded playfully. "The poor boy has enough drama surrounding him without your added antics!"
"Yes, mum," Tonks rolled her eyes and huffed.
"Well, that settles it then," Harry chuckled. "I'll be the fourth champion in the Triwizard Tournament."
"That just sounds dumb," Tonks mused aloud. "How can that even happen if it's a Triwizard Tournament?"
"It'll happen," Harry assured. "Someone will be the actual Hogwarts champion, and I'll still manage to be forced to complete… Because it's Halloween, it has to happen."
"What methods do you think Dumbledore will take to prevent such an occurrence?" Andromeda questioned.
Sirius scoffed. "Knowing the old goat? Likely something idiotic like an age line. As if those can't be beaten. He'll probably spout some cock and bull about how it's a Dumbledore age line which somehow makes it better and stronger than anyone else's."
Harry blinked. "But an age line is just a ward, yeah?"
"Right in one, pup," Sirius grunted.
"Age line," Ted mumbled and then gasped as a realization hit him. "Age line!"
"Yes, dear," Andromeda patted Ted on the hand. "We've established that."
"No!" Ted gushed in excitement. "Don't you see? We want Harry to be entered!"
"Uh, why?" Harry called.
"Because only those of age can participate," Ted explained. "Legal, emancipated adults. If you're entered and the Goblet accepts your entry then that means you will be declared, by magic itself, a legal, emancipated adult. Which means…"
"You'll be able to obtain your Lordships," Sirius finished.
"And never see the Dursley's again," Harry whispered with hope.
"You'll also be able to use your political sway and Lordships to get Sirius a fair trial," Ted continued. "As Lord Potter-Slytherin-Ravenclaw and Heir Black, you will have massive sway in the Wizengamot and, by petitioning the current Lord Black to receive a fair trial, no one can accuse you of going after his Lordship."
"That's assuming the politicians will willingly allow a fourteen-year-old to sit on the Wizengamot," Tonks pointed out. "You know as well as I do that a third of those currently in seats are Death Eaters."
"It will certainly make it difficult to get seated," Ted agreed with his daughter. "But it's worth a risk. With enough money and subtlety, we can push it through. Fudge will be the linchpin though."
"Dead in the water then," Sirius huffed. "Everyone knows Malfoy has the Minister in his pocket."
"And fills said Minister with plenty of gold," Tonks nodded. "It's why the DMLE has been gouged so heavily recently. We can barely field the current aurors based on budget cuts."
"So, just to confirm, we actually want me to be entered in the Triwizard Tournament?" Harry asked.
"Yes and no," Sirius laughed. "We won't take any steps to enter you, nor should you. Ideally, you spend a nice quiet year safe and sound amongst the spectators."
"But should you be entered, we will capitalize on the event," Ted assured. "Obtaining your Lordships will change everything."
"It'll obviously have to happen summer of fourth year," Sirius clarified. "There's unfortunately no feasible way to smuggle you out of Hogwarts without Dumbledore knowing. Even with apparation."
"Not to mention the Goblet of Fire presents a binding contract tied directly to your magic," Ted reminded. "Leaving the grounds could potentially provoke the device to see that as a dereliction of duty per the contract and forcibly tear your magic away."
"Yeah, we don't want that," Harry gulped.
"Which is why I will work diligently in the background with Gringotts to ensure you are able to assume your Lordships the moment you exit the Hogwarts Express," Ted promised.
"And it will be me, Ted and Dora to greet you should that occur," Andromeda promised.
"No more Dursley's," Tonks added. "Ever."
Harry smiled a genuine smile. "Hell, I'll face a dragon for that!"