Yo,

I'm back with the next chapter of Destined Saviour. Thank you for your continued love and support. The Update schedule of Destined Saviour is on Saturday every alternative week with Change in Winds. I'm sorry for the delay this week as I went out with friends and didn't have the energy to push through. So the next update of the story will be 9th September. As always, hope you share your feedback with me.

"Talking"

'Thinking'

"Familiar/ Ghosts /Goblins" talking.

'Familiar/ Ghosts/ Goblins' thinking.

'Parseltongue, Will/Memories, Portraits'

"Spell" is being used.

Enjoy.

Destined Saviour

Chapter 6

Ink and Blood

1st July 1994

Harry and Sirius returned to Grimmauld place without an incident and though Sirius half expected his mother's threats to greet them, she didn't. Her portrait curtains are still closed and it seems she didn't even notice them walk in.

Though an oddity, Sirius didn't complain. "So Harry, how about we eat our dinner and start your training tomorrow?" Sirius asked and Naruto gave him a nod. Noticing how Harry is still using his metamorphmagus abilities, Sirius asked, unable to stop himself.

"Why didn't you tell me you are a metamorphmagus?" He asked and got a perplexed look at that, Naruto tilting his head in confusion. The cuteness of it made Sirius flabbergasted as he can't believe Harry could be this adorable.

"Y-you don't know what your ability is called?" He stammered, emphasising on his body and that seems to have rung a bell in Naruto's mind.

"Uh, I -. I don't, ok! No one told me and I only discovered it recently." Naruto said in exasperation. Sirius felt bad asking it now and is about to reassure Harry when a pop interrupted them.

Kreacher appeared all sweaty in front of them with a letter in hand. "Blood Traitor Master, Master Harry," he greeted with a bow, his eyes widening a bit as he took Naruto's appearance and handed the letter to Sirius. Before Sirius could open and read it, Kreacher turned to Naruto.

"Master Harry has a letter," Kreacher said, appearing with the 2nd letter that came with Sirius's one. Both of them can see the large Hogwarts crest on the envelope and curiously opened it.

'Dear Mr Potter,

I hope this letter finds you in good health. I write to you regarding your recent academic performance at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

You have indeed shown considerable talent in your studies this year, as reflected in the results of your exams. You have achieved an 'Exceeds Expectations'(E) in most of your subjects, which is no small feat and a testament to your hard work and dedication.

I praise your hard work and dedication in DADA and congratulate you on achieving Outstanding(O+). Though I must express my disappointment in your performance in Divination, in which you are Dreadful (D).

However, I am particularly concerned about your performance in Potions. Though 'Acceptable' (A) is certainly not a failing grade, it is unlike you to get anything but Exceeds Expectation (E). Given your remarkable potential and past performance in the subject, your recent grade suggests a divergence from your usual level of excellence.

At Hogwarts, we strongly believe in the holistic development of our students, but this does not mean neglecting one subject for others. Every subject carries equal importance in shaping a well-rounded wizard.

I urge you, Mr Potter, to reflect upon this. I have seen you overcome much adversity, and this is no different. It is simply a hurdle to be conquered. Remember, greatness is not measured by success alone but also by how we react and adapt to challenges.

Professor Snape is a demanding teacher, but he is also fair and just. (Naruto and Sirius rolled their eyes at this). He has always been clear that the path to excellence in Potions requires rigorous study and unyielding commitment. I advise you to engage in additional study, seek help where needed, and show him your dedication to the subject.

Coming to your recent request at Hogwarts, we encourage our students to explore their interests and nurture their skills, and I must say I'm pleased with your choice

Ancient Runes is a challenging subject, steeped in magical history and ancient knowledge, that can provide a solid foundation for many advanced magical studies. Your performance in it, despite the last-minute switch, indicates that you not only have an aptitude but a genuine interest in the subject. I applaud you for this accomplishment. You achieved Exceeds Expectations (E) in the subject even though you haven't been taught the necessary foundational concepts.

Divination, on the other hand, is a subject that is not for everyone, requiring a particular type of insight and intuition. I understand if it didn't resonate with you, and I'm glad you found the courage to pursue another course that might better suit your capabilities

After considering your performance in both subjects, I approve your request to switch from Divination to Ancient Runes. However, such decisions should not be taken lightly, Mr Potter. The elective courses you choose shape your education and influence your future path. It is essential to think these decisions through thoroughly and discuss them with your professors, advisors, or prefects, who can provide valuable insights and guidance before you take them.

As you prepare for your fourth year at Hogwarts, I urge you to remember this advice. Continue to explore your interests, but also respect the structure that Hogwarts' curriculum offers. There is wisdom in it.

(A personal note)

Harry, you have shown us time and again your strength and determination, and I do not doubt that you'll make the best of your time at Hogwarts. I eagerly anticipate witnessing your continued academic growth and magical discovery in the upcoming year.

Stay safe, and remember, help will always be given at Hogwarts to those who ask for it.

Best Regards,

Professor Minerva McGonagall,
Deputy Headmistress,
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.'

Harry and Sirius finished reading the letter. Both of them had a matching grin and laughed for a few minutes at Harry's successful prank on the school.

As their laughter subsided, Sirius's eyes turned to the other letter Kreacher left on the table. It's from Andromeda, he understood and unfurled it to read.

With barely suppressed anxiety, he started reading the letter, Andromeda's elegant handwriting danced across the page, and as he began to read, her voice seemed to echo in his mind.

'Dearest Sirius,

Your letter reached me in both surprise and nostalgia. Kreacher bringing that letter is another surprise for me. Seeing the elf reminded me of the days I had been part of the family and the old days when things were simple. Though our paths have diverged, and our family bonds have been strained, I cannot ignore the plea in your words nor the innocence in your eyes that I remember so well.

I am well aware of your situation and the unjustified actions of the Ministry. The years have not dulled my memory of the spirited boy who fought against our family's dark legacy. It is that spirit, that conviction, that drives me to pen this response.

Sirius, I will stand with you in the Wizengamot. I will be your voice, your defender, and your family. We will face the shadows of our past together, and we will emerge into the light that awaits.

Know that I do this not out of obligation but out of belief in you and the love that once bound us as family. Time and circumstance have not severed that connection.

With heartfelt sincerity,
Andromeda Tonks.'

Tears welled in Sirius' eyes as he finished reading the letter. The weight of the years, the bitterness of betrayal, and the loneliness of his existence seemed momentarily lifted.

Andromeda's words are not merely an acceptance of his request; they are an embrace, a rekindling of family warmth he hadn't felt in over a decade. Her agreement to stand by him is more than a legal commitment; it is an emotional bond, re-forged in the crucible of their shared history.

At that moment, Sirius felt a surge of hope, not just for his impending trial but for the possibility of healing, of reconnecting with a part of his family that he thought was lost forever.

Sirius' eyes returned to the letter, catching a postscript that he had initially overlooked in his overwhelmed emotion. His heart skipped a beat as he read Andromeda's additional words.

'P.S. Sirius, I believe it is long overdue for us to meet in person and talk, not just as attorney and client, but as family. I will come to Grimmauld Place tomorrow. Let us face our past and look to the future together. - Andy'

A shiver of anticipation ran down Sirius' spine. The thought of seeing Andromeda again, after all the years and all the pain, is both thrilling and terrifying. She is a link to his past, a reminder of who he once was, and a symbol of a future that could be different.

He can almost see her, standing in the drawing room, her eyes filled with the same determination that had always marked her as different from the rest of the Black family. They would talk, reminisce, argue, and perhaps even laugh. They would rebuild what had been broken.

The meeting will not be easy. Some wounds needed healing, truths that needed facing, and a shared history that needed reconciling. But in Andromeda's words, Sirius found the courage to take that step.

Harry, who is sitting beside Sirius in the dimly lit room watched his godfather's face as he read Andromeda's letter. He felt an unfamiliar yet profound connection to the moment.

Though he is a stranger to the family dynamics of the Blacks, being recently accepted and made an Heir to the House, he watched the transformation in Sirius's eyes, the way they softened as he read Andromeda's words, the tear that escaped and trailed down his cheek.

Naruto's heart ached with empathy, and the shinobi inside him admired the strength and vulnerability Sirius displayed. He understood the pain of loneliness, the longing for family, and the courage it took to trust again.

When Sirius's eyes fell on the postscript, the promise of a meeting and reconciliation, Harry felt a surge of happiness for his godfather. He saw it as a chance for healing, a step towards a future filled with hope and love.

He reached over, placing a reassuring hand on Sirius's shoulder. Though the gesture is simple, it is filled with the warmth and understanding that only someone who had walked a similar path could offer.

"Sirius," Harry began, his voice gentle, "this is a good thing, isn't it? A chance to reconnect with someone who cares for you. You deserve that."

Sirius looked up, his eyes meeting Harry's, and in them, Harry saw a reflection of his own longing, his own search for belonging. "Yes," Sirius whispered, "it is a good thing. A very good thing."

Harry's smile is sincere, and the bond between them deepened in that shared moment of hope and acceptance. They both understood the value of family in their own ways and had their fair share of experiences.

If not for that, Naruto wouldn't have left Mizuki alone without killing. He wouldn't have forgiven Jiji for his deception and lies over the years about his Jinchuriki status and if not for his forgiving nature, he would have long ago flipped on Kakashi for not teaching him anything but Tree Walking.

Sirius trusted few people, but he trusted them with his life. He didn't expect Peter to be traitorous nor Remus to be ignorant of Harry's situation and James to die on him. And most of all, he didn't think he would ever get himself imprisoned in Azkaban for a crime he didn't commit. Yet here he is, trying his best to care for Harry and thinking of giving his ticket to release a chance to be free.

If not for his strong mind, caring nature and love he had for Harry, he would have long gone on his warpath on Pettigrew and killed the rat. He would have gone with it after his 2nd failed attempt in Hogwarts, but remembering Harry, he changed his mind, prioritising to care for his Godson and now magical son.

The moment of silence got dragged as the 2 wizards got lost in their thoughts. After many minutes of silence, Kreacher appeared with many weird-looking knives and Sirius saw Harry walk up to the elf and try them. Surprised by the whole scene, he watched curiously as Harry threw one of the knives towards a table.

It wooshed passed them at high speeds and hit the table, off to the side, from Harry's disappointed sigh, he understood that's not where he is aiming. "Thanks, Kreacher. I'll take them from here. I'm going to bed, Sirius. Good night." Harry said, levitating the knives with his wand as he walked to his room.

Sirius's eyes transfixed on Kreacher as he once again saw Harry in admiration. Deciding to get some clarity, he called the elf to his side. "Kreacher, come here," with an inaudible curse under his breath, Kreacher walked towards Sirius, standing a few feet away from the Black Lord.

As he saw the elf stand, not moving any closer, he spoke, "Kreacher," he began, his voice filled with curiosity. "I want to ask you something. You've been exhibiting a peculiar interest in Harry. I can't help but notice." He said slowly, waiting for Kreacher's reaction.

The house-elf paused, his sunken, bead-like eyes narrowed as he observed Sirius from beneath his ragged cloth hat. "Does Blood Traitor Master find it displeasing?" He asked, his voice raspy and edged with a longstanding bitterness.

"No, not displeased," Sirius clarified, leaning back in his chair. "Just unexpected. I see how you act around Harry. It's not the same way you act with... well, with me, for instance."

A derisive snort escaped Kreacher's lips. However, instead of the expected retort, he tightened his grip on the teapot's handle. "Young Master Harry... His magic is different," Kreacher rasped, his gaze wandering off into the distance, as though he can see something beyond the room's confines. "It's potent... extraordinary. It speaks to Kreacher. It demands loyalty. And Kreacher... Kreacher is drawn to it."

Sirius quirked an eyebrow, the corners of his mouth twitching into a smile. He found himself intrigued. "So, you're saying Harry's magic compels you? Charms you?"

"Charms, compels... whatever Blood Traitor Master wishes to call it," Kreacher retorted gruffly. He then looked Sirius directly in the eyes and added, "Kreacher can feel it. It's like a beacon, a siren's call. It resonates with something within Kreacher. It feels... right. Its strong and comforting aura makes Kreacher at ease. Kreacher be willing to do anything for the Young Master." He spoke with passion. Sirius is taken aback by the passion in the old elf's voice.

The admission hung heavily in the air. Sirius let out a low whistle of appreciation, taking in the elf's words with newfound respect. He is not one for Magical theory or the best at anything other than Transfiguration and DADA, but he too understood that Harry's magic is not only formidable, but it also draws anyone towards him with its gentle and caring aura as Kreacher put it. Hearing it from Kreacher is just the cherry on top for Sirius. Maybe that's why he is feeling a lot more confident and positive about his whole situation. Sirius had suspected as much when he noticed the differences between the Harry who helped him in Hogwarts and the Harry living with me.

While that Harry is doubtful about things and shy to do things, this Harry is loud, cheerful and doesn't shy away from doing anything. He dared to say this Harry is unpredictable compared to the meek boy he met in Hogwarts. Everything about him screams confidence and maybe his plan of saving Harry from Dursleys is not a bad one after all. He cracked at that in silent laughter.

And now came the matter of Harry's magic. Emeric talked so highly about it when they left Harry to pick a wand for him. Sirius never heard the old wandmaker talk highly about anyone's magic like that, even his grandfather's and the man is regarded as the strongest Black.

Hearing it from Kreacher, a house-elf long sworn to his family, confirmed that Harry Potter is no ordinary wizard. And Sirius promised himself to help Harry as much as he could to make him into the best man he could be.

Harry James Potter-Black, Sirius reminisced about the newest branch of the Black Tapestry. Harry's face appeared with his bluish-green eyes and messy raven hair on the Black Family Tapestry as soon as he accepted the Black Heir ring branching off from Sirius.

His thoughts then shifted to his impending trial. Andy's support definitely relieved the Black Lord as he doesn't want to be imprisoned again. Not when he has Harry to care for. He promised himself to not abandon his Godson, now son, in any circumstance.

With the steel resolve of a war veteran, Sirius went to sleep, excitedly looking forward to training Harry and anxious for Andy's arrival.

2nd July 1994

Morning light streamed through the windows of Grimmauld Place as Harry started his rigorous routine. The intense physical training from his ninja life still coursed through him, and he found solace in the familiar movements.

However, the combination of his enhanced strength and the fragile foundation of the old and uncared Black family home soon led to an unforeseen mishap. During an intense leap, the floor beneath him gave way with a resounding crack, and he tumbled down, landing directly on the infamous portrait of Walburga Black.

The sound of splintering wood and tearing canvas echoed through the house, followed by a deathly silence. The incessant shrieking of Walburga Black is no more.

Stunned, Harry picked himself up from the debris, relatively unharmed, his heart pounding as he realised what happened. The once fearsome portrait lay in ruins, its menacing glare silenced forever.

The door burst open, and Sirius rushed in, his eyes wide with shock. "Harry! What happened?" he exclaimed, taking in the destruction.

"Sirius, I didn't mean to," Harry stammered, "I was just exercising, and then the floor—"

Sirius's eyes fell on the shattered remains of his mother's portrait, and much to Harry's surprise, a smile slowly spread across his face. "Well, I can't say I'll miss her screams," he chuckled.

Before they could discuss it further, the ragged figure of Kreacher appeared in the room, his eyes going wide as he saw the destroyed portrait. His initial shock, however, quickly turned into something else, something unexpected: satisfaction.

"Master Harry has done a great deed," Kreacher said, his voice tinged with reverence. "Kreacher is grateful."

Harry and Sirius exchanged surprised glances. The loyalty Kreacher had towards the portrait of Walburga Black had always been unshakable. The elf following all orders of the long-dead Lady Black.

"Kreacher?" Sirius asked, his voice soft. "You're not angry?"

"Kreacher sees Master Harry's strength and goodness," the house-elf replied, his eyes on Harry. "Kreacher knows Master Harry means well. The old Mistress's reign is over."

Silence fell over before Sirius's laughter broke it. Harry looked at Sirius and Kreacher in confusion before he threw the remains of the portrait and went back to his exercises.

As he exercised, Sirius clapped Harry on the back, his eyes twinkling. "You know, I never thought I'd see the day when that portrait would be gone. And Kreacher… well, that's another pleasant surprise. Seems like you're bringing about quite a change in this old house, Harry." He said ruffling Harry's raven locks.

Harry smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment and belonging. The destruction of the portrait became more than an accident; it is a symbol of transformation, for him, for Sirius, and for Grimmauld Place itself.

As the day rolled, the residents of Grimmauld Place completed their breakfast and as Sirius and Harry are about to delve into their 1st lesson of Occlumency, when Kreacher appeared in a pop in the study.

"Blood traitor master, Mistress Tonks has arrived and is requesting entrance." He said and Sirius rushed to the entrance of the house to greet his long separated cousin. His hand trembled slightly as he reached for the handle. With a deep breath, he opened the door.

Andromeda stood on the threshold, her posture regal but her eyes soft, filled with understanding and compassion. Time has touched her hair with streaks of silver, but the determination in her gaze is as fierce as ever.

"Sirius," she said, her voice filled with warmth as she stepped into the house.

"Andromeda," Sirius replied, his voice catching in his throat as he embraced his cousin. They stood there for a moment, a silent acknowledgement of all that had passed and all that was yet to come.

Finally, Sirius pulled away, gesturing towards Harry. "Andromeda, I'd like you to meet Harry. He's my godson and as of recently, my son as well." Sirius said with a mischievous grin. Andromeda got a suspicious look at that, but she pushed it to the side to greet the young man.

Harry extended his hand, his eyes meeting Andromeda's. "It's an honour to meet you," he said, his voice sincere.

Andromeda's eyes twinkled as she took his hand. "The pleasure is mine, young man. I've heard much about you."

They moved into the sitting room, the atmosphere growing more comfortable as they settled into plush chairs. Kreacher appeared with a tray of tea and biscuits, his demeanour respectful and his eyes still showing a newfound loyalty to Harry.

Over cups of steaming tea, they exchanged pleasantries, catching up on years of missed memories and shared experiences. Soon, afternoon rolled in without progress on any front as the cousins spent reminiscing everything that happened.

The afternoon's golden glow fell over the sitting room. The conversation shifted to lighter matters, yet an unspoken understanding lingered in the air. Realising things are not moving forward, as he couldn't bring up the courage to change the topic of discussion to his trial, Sirius decided to clear a few things. He has been thinking about this since he escaped.

He couldn't allow his favourite cousin to be a stranger to him any long and with resolve, Sirius's eyes met Andromeda's, and he cleared his throat, the weight of the moment settling upon him.

"Andromeda, there's something I've been meaning to do," he said, his voice filled with conviction. "It's long overdue, and I can't think of a more fitting time."

He rose from his chair, his posture resolute as he turned to face the ancient tapestry of the Black family tree. Andromeda followed his gaze, her expression a mix of curiosity and anticipation. Though she understood what is going to happen, she held her breath.

Sirius extended his hand, his new wand in hand, and the house's magic responded, a tangible energy filling the room as he spoke the words that would undo years of unjust separation.

"I, Sirius Orion Black, by the ancient unyielding power and authority vested in me as the Lord of Ancient and Noble House of Black, command the ethereal bonds of our family's magic to heed my call. I henceforth revoke the banishment of Andromeda Black-Tonks and her daughter, Nymphadora Tonks and welcome them back as the Daughters of House Black. Let the Family magic that govern our lineage recognize their rightful place among us." Sirius commanded in a confident tone and blackish-green magic swirled to life around him.

They shot to Harry, his Heir Ring revealing itself and an orange glow added to the mix and then reached Andromeda and another tendril shot to North, searching for the other mentioned member.

As the tendril reached her, Andromeda felt highly energised with the few silvers of her hair repairing themselves into the browns they used to be and her face gaining a charming glow to it.

The feeling is surreal to the Black daughter and she felt an intense connection to the ancient House and an insuppressible affection for Harry. It's as if the Family magic is compelling her to do anything for her yet she also can feel the warmth that's coming off him.

As a trained healer, she can feel magic to a deeper level as it helped her identify and diagnose her patients and from what she can feel, the Black Family magic anchored itself with Harry instead of Sirius, who is the Lord of the House. Before she can delve deep into her magic and get an in-depth understanding, a strong magical force hugged her, momentarily disorienting her.

"Thank you for your support for Sirius," Harry spoke as he hugged Andromeda. Sirius is surprised by it but feeling the care and gratitude in Harry's voice made him tear up. It took Andromeda a few minutes to settle her thoughts and she stared at Harry in awe, silently nodding her appreciation to his thanks.

The tapestry behind Sirius shimmered, and the names of Andromeda and Nymphadora Tonks were restored, no longer hidden by the stains of exclusion but shining with renewed significance, 'Edward Tonks' was also added beside Andromeda's name both of them branching to Nymphadora Tonks. Andromeda also noticed a new name branching off Sirius and her eyes widened in shock.

Tears welled in Andromeda's eyes as she reached for Sirius's hand, gratitude and acceptance radiating from her. "Thank you, Sirius," she whispered, her voice filled with emotion. "Thank you for giving us back our family."

Sirius pulled her into a hug, his own eyes misty. "No, Andy, thank you for reminding me what family truly means."

Harry watched the scene, feeling a profound sense of joy and completion. He really liked the woman. She accepted Sirius's request to meet in a heartbeat and her gratitude is also genuine. He can feel it. And restoration of Andromeda and Nymphadora to the Black family will also give him more family members to be with. That thought flamed the desire to protect them with his very being in Naruto. He also thanked the Kyuubi for giving him this great life and sending him to this world.

Kreacher, who stood to the side, seemed to understand the magnitude of the moment, his eyes shining with a newfound pride as he observed the reconciliation and the reunion of the blood.

"So you took him in?" Andromeda asked as the emotions settled, voicing the latest addition to the tapestry. Sirius gave a sheepish look at that.

"It was meant as a taunt to my mother. But things changed pretty fast and now I find myself as a member of Wizengomot and got a trial as any 'Honorary member' would." Sirius said emphasising on the honorary more than necessary.

"Speaking of Walburga, where is her portrait? I half expected to hear her beautiful voice to greet me as soon as I entered." Andromeda asked and Harry gave a sheepish look this time. The late Black Lady made her portrait before she died and had it at the entrance to greet the guests.

"I-um, kinda destroyed it in an accident this morning." Andromeda turned to Harry in surprise and Sirius chuckled in amusement at that.

Feeling uncomfortable with the topic, Harry walked out of the room, deciding to practise his Kunai throwing and left the adults to discuss the important matters.

"He is one lively kid," Andromeda said with a smile, reminiscing about her daughter's childhood.

"I know right! He is the whole reason for all this. Just to rub it on my mother's face I took the Oath of Black Lordship and got accepted and made Harry my Heir. I feel like he is a blessing to me." Sirius said passionately and Andromeda nodded, taking everything in.

She explained about her family as well, Nymphadora and Edward. What they are doing and finally the topic of Sirius's trial came up.

"What's your plan about the Trial, Sirius? How do you plan to prove your innocence?"

"I only see 1 option, to be honest. Veritaserum. Other than that, I don't have another option. At least it's better than pretending I was imperiused." Sirius said with a sigh.

"How about we discuss this with that Department head? Evelyn Rosier, right?" Andromeda suggested and Sirius got a thoughtful look at that.

"Sounds like a good idea. Though I'm not sure how she will respond to me now." Sirius said with a stupid grin.

"Oh come on! Is she one of the women you tried impressing?" Andromeda said in exasperation.

"Hehehe," Sirius gave a weak chuckle at that.

Andromeda started writing a letter to Evelyn, asking for her assistance and asking her to meet them in Central London at the weekend. She decided to deliver the letter in person to see whether all this is true or just an act by the Ministry.

"I'll take care of this and come back on Friday to discuss our next course of action. Don't do anything stupid in the meantime." Andromeda said standing up.

"Come on, Andy. I'm a complete gentleman." Sirius barked only for the Tonks matriarch to roll her eyes. With a last goodbye, she left the Black home.

After pondering for a few minutes on what to do, Sirius decided to duel with Harry and start his Occlumency training and went in search of the Raven-haired boy.

And Cut.

That's it for this Chapter, folks. Hope you all liked it. Tell me, what you think of the chapter and story in general.

Any suggestions are welcomed.

See y'all in the next chapter.

Black Infinity 1289,

Ja Ne.