Yo,
Here is the next chapter of Destined Saviour. Hope you share your feedback with me on the story.
Before we dive into our newest chap, there is one thing I like to share-
I've made a new discord server where I'll keep on updating sneak peeks of the chapters, character designs, polls and where you can freely talk and ask things regarding my fics directly from me. I'm most active there:It's a relatively new server, so please show some love!
Link: discord . Gg / SPsSwAcq4b
Remove the spaces.
Name: Black Dawn
Without further ado, let's get started.
"Talking"
'Thinking'
"Familiar/ Ghosts /Goblins"talking.
'Familiar/ Ghosts/ Goblins' thinking.
'Parseltongue,Will/Memories, Portraits'
"Spell"is being used.
Enjoy.
Destined Saviour
Chapter 7
Surprises
2nd July 1994
Harry made his way to the basement of Grimmauld Place, his mind filled with thoughts of the training ahead. He doesn't want to be embarrassed anymore and also not disturb the emotional reunion between Sirius and Andromeda as he still can't feel completely bonded to the magical world.
In his mind, he is still Uzumaki Naruto, shinobi of Konoha just inhibiting a new body. Though he adjusted himself to the world and accepted that he moved on from the shinobi world, he has yet to accept the world around him as his and he is a (significant) part of it.
As he descended, his thoughts went to Jiji, Chunin exams and Kyuubi. Would he have won it if he could have summoned a Toad? Would he be strong enough to beat Sasuke after their training if he still lived in that world? In his thoughts, he didn't notice the chilling stillness of the old house settling around him, its secrets and memories lurking in the shadows as he reached the basement.
The basement of Grimmauld Place is a place of shadows and echoes, a repository of memories and legacies. Naruto didn't see such a large number of old things in one spot anywhere and explored the room, trying to take in everything surrounding him from old-looking tools to many weird-shaped weapons and… a portrait. He walked towards it, curious to know who the person sitting among the valuable things is.
The portrait has a stern-faced wizard with piercing eyes. The nameplate below identified him as Phineas Nigellus Black, a prominent ancestor of the Black family he assumed as he is among the valuable relics.
As Harry approached, Phineas's eyes seemed to come alive, his painted expression shifting from stoic to inquisitive. "And who might you be?" he asked, his voice rich and disdainful.
Harry took a moment to gather himself before responding, joyous as ever. "I'm Harry Potter," he said, his voice firm. "But I'm also the current Heir of House Black. I see you are Phineas Nigellus Black, ancestor of Blacks." He said in an acknowledging tone.
Phineas's eyebrows shot up, his expression shifting from curiosity to interest. "Indeed, I am Phineas Nigellus Black, ancestor of Blacks and former Hogwarts Headmaster." Phineas proclaimed proudly. His eyes then shifted to Harry, rich with suspicion. "But you, young man, are curious. Heir of House Black, you say? That's a weighty claim, especially for one bearing the name Potter." He said his eyes scanning Harry's face for clues of lying.
Harry's eyes met Phineas's, a spark of determination in them. "I know it's hard, but that's what happened a few days ago. Bugs me as well, old man in the frame. Sirius-sensei suddenly said something and I got this funny feeling and then he said I'm his Heir."
Harry's eyes twinkled, his posture casual, hands on his hips as he continued "I get it. It's all weird. But you know what? Even weirder is my middle name—well, not really, it's James. But you get what I mean, right?"
Phineas sighed, his painted mouth pulled into a line of refined irritation. "Young man, your language is as tangled as Devil's Snare. Must you describe such significant matters in such a flippant manner?"
Harry's grin never faded, taking Phineas's disapproval in stride. "Hey, life threw me a curveball, and I'm just swinging, ya know? Sirius-sensei did his thing, and boom! Felt like I swallowed a frog or something, but now I'm the Heir. I mean, who the hell picks a boy you don't know and make him your Heir? Isn't it a big deal or something? Now he is being trialled for crimes he didn't do." Harry raged.
He tried suppressing his persona for so long, that he can't control himself anymore. He tried being Harry Potter, the well-mannered meek kid he was, but Uzumaki Naruto is not Harry Potter and never can have Harry Potter's persona. He is too energetic and free to be like that.
So he decided to be himself, but maybe with more intelligence. This world seems more stuck up than his and he doesn't want to ruin Harry's name with his careless and brash behaviour. So he will try to find a fine blend between their personalities and stay like that.
As he looked up, he saw Phineas's eyes roll so visibly, Harry wondered if they might tumble out of the painting altogether. "Good heavens, the House of Black has certainly fallen on peculiar times. To think that you, with your haphazard manner of speaking and reckless lack of formality, are to carry on our legacy. Truly, it boggles my mind."
Harry shrugged, still as buoyant as ever. "Well, ya better get used to it, old man in the frame! Cause I'm here to stay." Harry heartily laughed, pulling his kunai out to train. The talk with the old man is very helpful to him. It's not like this old man will leak his secrets or is a spy.
Phineas is too stuck up to be either. Harry noticed Phineas looking at the kunai in intrigue. "Oh, you might've noticed this little guy," he said, pointing toward the weapon. "That's a kunai, from my ot-... My favourite TV series. It's super useful from what I saw, believe it!" he almost slipped up.
Whatever happens, he is not going to share about his otherworldly heritage and burden the Kyuubi with the guilt of being ungrateful. TV series sounds like a perfect excuse for them and Naruto decided to stick to them.
Phineas's gaze followed Harry's, resting momentarily on the gleaming blade. "Ah, a foreign implement you brought. I must confess, I find it wholly unorthodox. What merit does it possess in a world steeped in magic?"
Harry picked up the kunai, twirling it deftly between his fingers. "It's not just about magic or no magic, it's about blending styles, you know? Kunai are versatile; you can throw 'em, use 'em in close combat, and even channel chakra through 'em. They're a part of who I am."
Phineas sneered, the distaste palpable in his tone. "Chakra? What in Merlin's name is that? That term is low and uncouth, you dare compare it with our Magic's magnificence. The House of Black has a storied history, young man, it is deeply ingrained in the wizarding world. I struggle to see how such an object complements our heritage."
Harry placed the kunai back on the table and crossed his arms. "Look, each tradition has its own strengths, okay? Why stick to just one when you can have the best of both? I may be the Heir of House Black, but I also like to be a shinobi. There's room for both, dattebayo!"
Phineas's eyes narrowed, contemplating Harry's earnest face. "Your enthusiasm, however crudely expressed, is... compelling, I suppose. Nonetheless, introducing something so foreign to our traditions will stir the cauldron, so to speak."
Harry's eyes met Phineas's, unwavering in his resolve. "Hey, stirring the cauldron might not be such a bad thing. Sometimes you gotta mix things up to get something awesome. That's how progress happens!"
Phineas sighed, a sound that conveyed both resignation and a tinge of curiosity. "Very well. While I cannot fathom what 'mixing things up' may entail for our noble house, your determination, for better or worse, is indisputable. Proceed with your 'kunai training,' but tread carefully. Our world may not be as accepting as you are."
Harry grinned, his eyes twinkling with excitement and a touch of defiance. "Don't worry, old man in the frame, I've got this. And who knows? Maybe I'll end up teaching you a thing or two, dattebayo!"
With a nod, Harry waved his wand and conjured wooden posts similar to the training dummies they have in Konoha and started his Kunai practice. As there is no air disturbing the Kunai, it whooshed past many artefacts and hit the post a bit to the side. Not wanting to reveal his biggest secret to the old man in the frame, Harry walked into another room, which is much emptier than the one before and made a familiar cross sign.
10 clones poofed into existence, each targeting a wooden post of their own and started training. Though he can't see Harry, Phineas can hear many whooshes and many metallic clangs chipping at the wooden posts.
He thought of possibilities to make that happen and concluded that the young Heir must be throwing many 'kunai' at ones to create the numerous clangs he is hearing from the side room.
Though he is a former Hogwarts Headmaster, he is also a proud member of House Black to work for anyone and also holds his sense of independence with him. The House magic is stronger than ever for him to be influenced by anyone, especially by the current Headmaster of Hogwarts.
He went to his other portrait in the Hogwarts Headmaster's office to see what the old man had been up to.
Headmaster's Office, Hogwarts
In the secluded depths of his office at Hogwarts, Albus Dumbledore sat behind his intricately carved desk, his eyes far from the mountain of parchment that lay before him. His thoughts are miles away, skimming over the complexities of Sirius Black's upcoming trial. As the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, Dumbledore found himself torn between roles. As a legal figure, impartiality is required of him, yet as an old friend, his heart ached for Sirius's suffering. He thought of the pros and cons of both sides to decide his stance on the matter.
It is a judicial quagmire, the wheels of justice having ground exceedingly slow for Sirius. Accused without trial and imprisoned without evidence; the very systems that were meant to protect the innocent had catastrophically failed him. And now, after years of languishing in Azkaban, Sirius finally had a chance to clear his name because of his recent ascension into Black Lordship.
Dumbledore was briefed on that by Evelyn, a strong woman of morals. But unlike Amelia who is in constant pursuit of justice, Evelyn chose to preserve what's more precious. She chose to save the real 'King' of the wizarding world. A noble decision Dumbledore appreciated her for. He shook himself, coming back to his current dilemma.
He felt a mix of hope and trepidation; while he believed in Sirius's innocence, the political landscape of the Wizengamot was fraught with unseen dangers. He is still completely undecided on the matter as he doesn't want to be cruel and abandon an old friend who helped him against Tom while he also doesn't want to be unrealistic and assume Sirius would win.
He thought of the strategies and counter-strategies, the myriad possibilities that might arise. The Wizengamot chambers would be buzzing with anticipation, scandalised whispers filling the air like swarms of Cornish Pixies. Many had already deemed Sirius guilty, a fallen star in the bleak night sky of the wizarding world. Dumbledore pondered the political implications, foreseeing the Ministry's desire to wrap up the matter swiftly and neatly, like a particularly unpleasant Christmas gift. After all, what better way to distract from their recent failures than to offer up a notorious scapegoat?
But justice, true justice, requires diligence and unwavering integrity. And as Chief Warlock, it is his solemn duty to ensure the scales are balanced fairly, even when dark forces seek to tip them toward prejudice and untruth.
As Albus sipped his tea, thoughts of Sirius led him to another, one with even heavier burdens to bear: Harry Potter. The boy has been through so much, orphaned and left with relatives who treated him with less affection than one might offer a stray Niffler. How is Harry handling all this turmoil, especially with the very godfather he'd just reunited with standing on the precipice of life and ruin?
He knew the Dursleys were not fond of Harry. But he hoped with time they would warm up to him. But when Harry came to Hogwarts 3 years ago, he was proven wrong. Yet it's too late in Dumbledore's eyes to change anything and he resigned Harry for such fate and sent him to No 4 to 'recharge' the wards all for the greater good he convinced himself.
Unknown to many, the wards don't need to be recharged, ones activated by Lily's sacrifice, they will be up until Harry likes to live in the place and no one can attack Harry there. But Dumbledore failed to account for Harry's hate for the Dursleys as the old man trusted his silver instruments too much.
He doesn't even know that Harry is not there in Privet Drive as his silver instrument didn't give him an alarm of anything wrong. If only he knew the Harry he raised as a martyr and the Harry in the world are different. Shaking himself from another distraction, Dumbledore came to a final decision.
For now, he could only prepare for the trial, with an assumption that Harry would be there, as he doesn't doubt the boy's affection for Sirius. And as he placed the parchments back into a drawer, Dumbledore couldn't help but muse: sometimes, it is the youngest among us who taught the oldest and wisest the most valuable of lessons. Why he had that realisation, only he knows.
Thus, fortified with renewed purpose, Albus Dumbledore returned to his duties, but not before his eyes lingered one last time on a photograph of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, frozen in a moment of youthful laughter. If justice is served, if truth prevailed, perhaps—just perhaps—they could all find a reason to smile once more.
Dumbledore shook his head slightly, as if to dispel the heavy musings that clouded his mind. Time would unveil the consequences of these tumultuous events. He could only prepare, strategize, and hope that when the gavel finally fell, it would proclaim a verdict of justice and mercy.
He leaned back, his fingers lightly touching as he cast his gaze toward Fawkes, who sat perched in a quiet blaze of red and gold plumage. The phoenix met his gaze with understanding eyes, as if sensing the depth of the thoughts that weighed upon him. For in the quiet of his office, Albus Dumbledore felt the weight of futures yet undecided, lives hanging in the balance, and at the centre of it all—Harry, a wild card in a high-stakes game that no one yet understood.
Phineas shook his head. Dumbledore didn't change. Still planning, always plotting something that is better left to Fate and Destiny. The old man seems to have a knack for attracting the ire of the fabled threads of the world. Deciding he had enough, he decided to rest for the day.
Grimmauld Place
As Andy left to talk and test Evelyn, Sirius made his way in search of Harry and though he could use the wards to ask for Harry's location, he chose to walk as it allowed him to plan what he wanted to teach Harry.
Sirius knew Harry is smart and courageous. He managed to save him from many Dementors from what he understood from that Hermione girl's words with his Patronus and Sirius felt very proud at that. Though it equally saddened him. He has to be rescued instead of being able to protect others.
He decided to make Harry a more competent saviour than him. He will not fail Harry. He will make him the best man he would be as he promised himself. After an hour of searching, he reached the dark and dusty basement and heard hitting sounds.
He walked to the far side of the room, the floor creaking beneath him. After winning the trial, Sirius decided to renovate the Place, not wanting to let Harry live in such a poorly maintained place.
Hearing footsteps, the shadow clones dispelled, hitting the original with many sets of kunai-throwing memories that overwhelmed Naruto's mind. He decided to practise the few exercises Sirius explained about Occlumency and started regulating his breathing.
With every intake of breath, he let the memories sink in, settling them down. After 25 breaths, the sudden pain he felt in his mind vanished, all memories smoothly settling in.
"I appreciate your effort to learn Occlumency, Harry. But your ass kicking first then rubbing balm on that." Sirius said with a challenging look.
"You wish, old man. Let's move to a better room." Harry said looking around the broken stumps and blunted kunai. Sirius blew an appreciative whistle.
"We have to build you a training room. I don't want you destroying precious artefacts here." Sirius said in a serious tone. Harry gave him an unimpressed look. Nothing worth 'value' exists in the room. The room is full of broken glass and wood as if it's some kind of repair garage.
"Let's not delay your ass-kicking," Sirius said in a high tone and inclined his head, walking both of them to the drawing room of the House.
The drawing room in Grimmauld Place has been cleared, its antique furniture pushed to the edges to make room for what is to come. Sirius, wielding his new 15-inch Ebony wand adorned with intricate golden patterns, stood facing Harry, whose Oak wand with a Thestral hair core felt like an extension of his arm.
"Ready, Harry?" Sirius' eyes twinkled with excitement, cutting through the tension.
"Ready as I'll ever be," Harry replied, gripping his new wand firmly. At Sirius's wide grin, Harry smirked. "Let's get started then."
With a flick of his wand, Sirius nonverbally cast a Stupefy spell, opening their duel. Harry countered, his wand reacting with a newfound precision, deflecting the spell effortlessly.
They moved like dancers across the makeshift battleground, sending spells and counterspells in a cascade of magical bursts. Sparks flew, furniture shifted, and the air itself seemed electrified. Sirius's Ebony wand, with its Phoenix feather core, reflected his seasoned grace and formidable magic, while Harry's Oak wand harmonised with his ninja reflexes, showed grace in dodging and counteracting.
"Expelliarmus!" Harry shouted, but Sirius easily neutralised it with a casual "Finite."
"Try this, Harry! Petrificus Totalus!" Sirius aimed to immobilise Harry.
Narrowly dodging the Full Body-Bind Curse, Harry retaliated with a powerful "Reducto!" that shattered a nearby vase.
The room is filled with magical tension, every moment amplifying the thrill of the duel. "Levicorpus!" Harry lifted Sirius momentarily, only for him to land gracefully with a counter-spell, "Liberacorpus."
The duel reached its climax when Sirius caught Harry off guard with a Feinting charm and cast "Immobulus."
"Got you!" Sirius exclaimed, relishing his momentary victory.
With a grin and a quick "Finite," Harry broke free. "You win this round, Sirius."
Harry is surprised by Sirius's battle instincts. He only saw that in Kakashi, the experienced jounin is able to plan everything before he does while Sirius is taken aback at Harry's spell precision and fox-like grace. He seemed to react instinctively as if he knew where the spell goes by just the angle of his wand point.
Sirius is also surprised at himself. He didn't think he could hold himself even against a 3rd year graduate like Harry and gain an edge like that. Maybe if he keeps up, he can get back to his pre-Azkaban level of proficiency. At the same time making Harry stronger? The idea is certainly enticing.
"That's a great spar, Harry. If you keep up, you'll soon surpass even the likes of your parents and Dumbledore." Sirius saw a flicker of sadness pass in Harry's emeralds before they brightened.
"Believe it!" Harry loudly proclaimed, changing the mood to lighter subjects as they sat to eat lunch and moved to Harry's Occlumency practice.
As the aftermath of their spar settled, Sirius took Harry to the study to get started with his Occlumency training.
Step 1: Understanding Your Mind
The atmosphere in Grimmauld Place's study is different today. Gone were the wands and the exuberance of their previous sparring session. Sirius gestured for Harry to sit, setting the mood for what is to come.
"Let's get started with your Occlumency training. You remember step 1, right?" He asked and Harry nodded.
"The first step is to understand my Mind. Mind is a complex thing with many unknown mysteries hidden at every turn and corner. So I've to get a better grasp of what I want before I can do it." Harry explained and Sirius was impressed by the level of detail Harry explained it with.
"Perfect. Think of your mind as a fortress or something you feel is strong enough to stop anyone entering." Sirius began, his tone introspective. "A fortress is generally preferred, as it has multiple doors, each one leading to a room filled with thoughts, emotions, and memories. But the core purpose is to have a strong defence as Occlumens guards these doors to keep unwanted intruders out." Sirius explained and Naruto's mind immediately formed the strongest thing he knew of.
Sirius went into detail about how a defence should be to stop an intrusion and how an intrusion is possible and how it can be avoided. Harry listened to everything with rapt attention and started working on his defences simultaneously.
"Your task," Sirius concluded, "is to become the guard of your own fortress." He said knowing that the whole task is not easy and will take time to completely understand and organise one's mind.
Harry nodded in sincerity, deciding to give his best in learning and organising his mind. He practised throughout the day and as the night rolled in, Naruto sat in his room, trying his best at organising everything he went through into what Sirius said.
He couldn't do it. He made the familiar cross sign to discuss with his clones when 6 clones appeared before him. "You know the question, boys. There are too many things in this mind to be sorted." Naruto said in frustration.
"We know, boss. Kyuubi has 9 tails but you are trying to cram everything into his brain. Maybe that's the problem?" He said and Naruto looked at him in shock.
That's right! The big fur ball has 9 big ass tails sticking out. Why didn't he think about THAT, damn it. Naruto banged his head at his stupidity and after a minute of scolding himself, he sat to organise, this time with the help of his clones.
"Ok, boys. Let's do this. You 2 sort my bad memories and Harry's bad memories into the 2 tails at the end. You 2, sort all training experience and Magical spells into the tails beside those 2. You 2 sort Harry's and my life, memories and experiences into 2 tails, leaving the 2 beside them empty for all the future memories I make and I'll sort all the good memories into the middle one.
He ordered and all clones sat to work, all 7 of them sitting to sort 2 - 13 year olds memories into 9 tails of the Kyuubi. After a few hours of work and sorting, everything has been sorted.
The Kyuubi stood tall behind the familiar seal in Naruto's mindscape with its 9 tails in the pattern of a Lotus. The outer 2 on each side with Harry's and Naruto's bad memories. The 2 following with Harry's and Naruto's magical spells as defences and the middle 5 holding the memories of their respective lives with the central tail holding the memories Naruto is very fond of.
Satisfied with his work, Naruto dispelled his clones, getting knocked out by the amount of strenuous effort they put together. He didn't wake up for morning exercises the next morning.
3rd July 1994
The next day, Sirius replaced the room's battle-ready atmosphere with an aura of tranquillity. Candles flickered softly, casting gentle shadows on the walls.
"How did your practice go, pup? Making any progress?" Sirius asked with a teasing grin.
Harry wore a confident grin, his eyes locking onto Sirius's. "Why don't you try checking for yourself, Padfoot?"
Sirius paused, considering Harry's words. Maybe he should test the defences and then they can go to the next step happily. With a nod, he raised his wand to Harry's temple and softly whispered, "Legilimens." As Sirius's consciousness dove into Harry's mind, he was greeted by a surprise he could never have anticipated.
Before he could so much as glimpse the corridors of Harry's memories or emotions, a roar shattered the mental landscape. The visage that met him is not of walls and doors but of fiery crimson eyes and gnashing teeth— a nine-tailed beast stood tall in front of him, in its terrifying glory, snarling in anger that felt old as time. The force of its presence is so overwhelming, that it pushed Sirius out of Harry's mind and felt as if he has been physically thrown.
His eyes snapping open, Sirius took a staggered step back, a look of astonishment mingling with awe. "Merlin's saggy balls, Harry. What was that--?"
"It's a nine-tailed fox known as the Kyuubi in Japanese legends," Harry replied calmly. "It's a long story, but when I saw him in the anime, I liked him. He is the guardian of sorts, you could say."
"Guardian? That beast looked like it could tear down the gates of Azkaban single-handedly," Sirius said, still a little rattled but visibly intrigued.
"Believe me, he could," Harry admitted with a slight chuckle. "He is my inspiration, you can say. That's why when you said the strongest defence, he immediately came to my mind." Harry said in a chipper tone.
"You've been full of surprises, haven't you? To think you could harbour such a being and then use it to your advantage in Occlumency." Sirius looked at Harry with newfound respect and wonder. "Your mother would've been fascinated, and your dad would've tried to figure out how to make a prank out of it."
Harry laughed, imagining the scenario. "It's a tricky balance, but it's part of who I am. And it's saved my life more times than I can count."
Sirius placed a hand on Harry's shoulder, squeezing it affectionately. "Then I reckon we're all better off for it, Kyuubi or not. So, are we calling this Occlumency lesson a success?"
"With a guardian like that, I'd say it's more than a success," Harry replied, his eyes twinkling in the low light, mirroring his godfather's.
"Let's jump into the next step of Occlumency…"
21st July 1994
In the weeks that followed Harry's initial Occlumency training and sparring, many things happened in addition to Harry's training. Andromeda went to the Ministry to assess the whole situation.
While the Aurors and DMLE are scrambling in search of Sirius, the Department of Magical History and Heritage, located on level 7 along with the goofy Department of Magical Games and Sports, the office is a far cry from their neighbours.
Decorated with pictures of many old ancient lords, artefacts and in some cases the artefacts themselves adorned the corners of the office the department has a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Her subsequent talk with Evelyn went well for Andromeda, the woman being reasonable with a sense of purpose.
After concluding that the whole 'Sirius becoming Lord thing and given a chance to defend himself' is true, Andromeda handed the letter to Evelyn and got confirmation to meet them alone in person that weekend.
The meeting itself went smoothly for them as Evelyn readily believed their part of what happened and showed them Dumbledore's signature as Chief Warlock to safely accompany Sirius to the trail and assured them she would accompany them to the trial room.
Deciding to trust his ex-interest, Sirius agreed and asked her to come to No 13 Grimmauld place an hour before the trial and Evelyn nodded.
For Harry, time flew very fast. In 9 days of starting, he mastered his Occlumency and successfully showed Sirius his trial and how he won. Sirius hugged Harry after the incident, unable to suppress his high emotions.
The most interesting thing that happened in the weeks that followed aside from his spars with Sirius getting better was his meeting with a pink-haired clumsy gi-woman that's Andromeda's daughter.
That meeting certainly entertained Naruto not only because of the woman's clumsiness but her flabbergasted look when he showed her his 'metamorphmagus' ability. Everyone in the room loved the Flare girl's reaction and Naruto decided to prank her.
As the days to his trial approached, Harry observed Sirius's increased distracted look and assured the man that he would win and trust the Ramen gods. He also tried the world's Ramen in an effort to distract Sirius and he must say he is disappointed.
Finally, the day came for the trial and the group gathered at Grimmauld Place, preparing for a day that will inevitably be filled with tension and uncertainty. Sirius, dressed in his best robes, tried to look calm, but the shadow of worry is unmistakable in his eyes.
Beside him, Andromeda offered a comforting hand, her expression a mix of determination and concern. Harry, who has grown accustomed to the body he now inhabited, stood strong and supportive, while Evelyn Rosier, a regal figure known for her intelligence and authority, is ready to lend her expertise.
With a collective breath, they Apparated to the Ministry of Magic, the grand entrance hall coming into view around them. Harry definitely didn't like the side apparition.
The moment they appeared, a hush fell over the bustling crowd. Whispers spread like wildfire as heads turned and eyes widened. The very presence of Sirius Black, once considered a dangerous criminal, sent a wave of shock and curiosity through the onlookers.
"What's he doing here?" a Ministry worker whispered, her voice dripping with disbelief.
"Isn't that Andromeda Tonks? And oh Merlin! Evelyn Rosier?" another remarked, his eyes narrowing with intrigue. Harry was tactically hidden by the 3 adults as they didn't want their planned surprise to Wizengomot spoiled by some enthusiastic fan.
Sirius maintained his composure, his gaze fixed ahead as he began to walk, the others following closely. A group of Aurors approached, their faces stern.
"Mr Black," one of them addressed him, his voice tinged with suspicion. "You are expected in Courtroom Seven."
"We know," Sirius replied, his voice steady. "We'll make our way there."
Evelyn stepped forward, her presence commanding attention. "Let's not make a spectacle of this, shall we? We're here for a legal proceeding, not a public execution."
Her words were met with a mix of respect and resentment. They continued on their way, the crowd parting as they passed, the weight of the stares and whispers bearing down on them. The crowd is too surprised to notice a 4th figure following them under his invisibility cloak.
In the elevator, Harry turned to Sirius, still invisible. "Are you okay, Sirius?" he asked, his voice filled with concern.
Sirius offered a brave smile. "I have to be, don't I? But thank you, Harry. Having you all here means everything to me."
The elevator doors opened, and they made their way to the courtroom. The atmosphere is thick with tension, the room is filled with Wizengamot members, reporters, and spectators. Harry finally revealed himself, standing strongly beside his Godfather, showing his support.
As they took their seats, the room's focus shifted entirely to Sirius, his past crimes and reputation, a dark cloud that hung over the proceedings.
The Wizengamot chamber, usually a solemn and dignified place, is charged with an electric tension as it is filled with witches and wizards, all awaiting the beginning of Sirius Black's trial. Whispers and sideways glances pervaded the room, as the accused, a man whose name had become synonymous with betrayal, is escorted to the defendant's chair.
Sirius's presence commanded attention, but it is the sight of Harry, standing loyally by his side, that sent shockwaves through the crowd. Dumbledore, acting in his position as Chief Warlock, adjusted his half-moon spectacles, his piercing blue eyes widening as they landed on Harry. An inscrutable expression crossed his face, his wise mind undoubtedly racing with questions and realisations.
The room fell into a heavy silence as Dumbledore rose, his voice filling the chamber. "Ladies and Gentlemen of the Wizengamot, we are here to preside over the case of Lord Sirius Orion Black. The charges are grave, and the implications far-reaching."
His gaze shifted momentarily to Harry, a flicker of surprise and concern still evident in his eyes. "Before we proceed, do any members have any announcements to make?" He asked, scanning the chambers for any raised hands. 3 hands rose.
The hands belong to the 'notable' members of the chambers such as Lucius Malfoy, Caeser Greengrass and the current Lord on Trial, Sirius Black. Many whispers started, everyone curious about what announcements each Lord has to make.
Amidst whispered conversations and a growing sense of expectation, Lucius Malfoy stood up, his flowing silver-blond hair shimmering in the magical light of the chamber. He cleared his throat, his eyes glinting as he spoke in a voice steeped in confidence and entitlement.
"Esteemed members of the Wizengamot," he began, "it is with great pride today that I introduce Draco Malfoy as the Heir Apparent to the Noble House of Malfoy."
On cue, Draco Malfoy stepped forward, looking every bit as self-assured as his father. He was impeccably dressed in robes of deep green and silver, adorned with the Malfoy crest. A murmur of approval rippled through the chamber.
As Draco resumed his seat, Lord Greengrass rose to his feet, his demeanour not quite as ostentatious but still filled with dignity.
"Esteemed colleagues," Lord Greengrass started, "I have the pleasure of presenting Daphne Greengrass as the Heir Apparent to the Ancient and Noble House of Greengrass."
Daphne, stepped forward, more dignified and respectful than Draco. She wore soft green robes, representing her house, and her gaze remained calm and composed as she met the eyes of the Wizengamot members, spending a second longer on the raven-haired young man beside Sirius. The chamber is filled with respectful nods, acknowledging the significance of this moment for the young Greengrass Heiress.
Just as the chamber seemed ready to move onto the order of business, Sirius rose from his seat. His confidence drew attention; his fall from grace very evident as he wore an enigmatic expression.
"Honorable members of the Wizengamot," Sirius began, capturing the room with his charismatic voice. "I would like to announce that, at long last, the Noble and Ancient House of Black has an Heir Apparent."
A gasp filled the chamber, heads turning to face him with a mixture of shock and curiosity. It had been years since the House of Black had a proper heir; the family line had seemed all but doomed and ready to be swallowed by the Malfoy line if not for Sirius's ascension.
"Who is the heir?" someone shouted from the floor, unable to contain their curiosity.
Sirius looked around the chamber, his eyes twinkling with a mysterious light. "All in good time, esteemed colleagues, all in good time. Today is not the day for that revelation. But rest assured, when the time comes, it will be... quite the occasion."
Murmurs of speculation spread like inferno throughout the chamber, but Sirius merely leaned back in his chair as defendant, enjoying the suspense he's created. In the secretive, power-filled game of the Wizengamot, knowledge is currency, and Sirius Black has just made himself one of the richest men in the room.
Dumbledore has to appreciate Sirius's confidence in creating suspense and easing the minds of his soon-to-be executioners as it allows them to take everything that is going to come with a calm mind and rational thinking and set himself in a better position.
As the whispers reached their zenith, Dumbledore loudly banged his gavel. "As the quorum for the session has been met, let us proceed with the utmost care and dedication to justice," his voice resonant with authority across the chamber.
The crowd seemed to hold its breath as the trial began. Sirius's face is a mask of determination, his eyes flicking briefly to Harry, whose presence is both a support and a mystery.
Dumbledore's surprise at seeing Harry is palpable, and his mind is clearly at work, processing this unexpected development and the other mysteries of the day. This is a strategy, and a bold move at that. Dumbledore doesn't have a doubt, but if it's something more profound, only time will tell.
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.