Warning: This story will contain scenes of violence, bad language, and maybe other themes that some audiences may find unsuitable. You have been advised.
The True Heir of Slytherin
"Regular speech or spell"
"Parseltongue"
Text
'Thought'
Chapter 18:
An older man in dark red, almost brown robes appeared in front of a small castle with a singular tower rising out of its middle. A babe could be heard crying out from his arms, wrapped in his outer cloak. The man's long, grey beard that still showed signs of once being red reached the child, who had grabbed a baby-sized handful. A light rain descended upon them both as the wizard proceeded forward. The drawbridge was thankfully down, and they were met by a woman in a red dress with silver trim. The stone overhang above the doors to the entrance shielded all three of them from the light downpour.
"Father… is that who I think it is?" The woman asked, her proud countenance tinged with concern.
"It is, Elaine. Salazar's son… I… was forced to do the worst. The boy should not have to suffer the consequences of his father's actions. I would ask you to raise him amongst your own."
His daughter eyed him critically. "Are you sure that is wise? The Longbottoms may take offense. Their allegiance already stands on unsteady terms."
"They have not seen you in much time. Plausible enough to claim the child as yours. He does have our family's green eyes." He offered.
"You are colour blind. They may be green, Father, but the shade is wrong. They are too much like his father's." She countered.
"Please, Elaine. I owe it to the man Salazar was. He was my best friend."
She hesitated. "I do remember him differently as a child compared to now, and I can only imagine the pain he was going through with the loss of Eleanor…"
The man's green eyes brightened in hope. "You mean you'll take the boy as your own?"
"Whether it is the wise thing to do is irrelevant. What matters is that it is the right choice, just like you taught me. Here." Elaine held her arms out. "Give him to me. Gods know how roughly you handle children."
The wizard smiled. "Hey. I like to think I raised you well, Lady Potter."
Elaine rolled her eyes at her father poking fun at her title. "Well, no matter how much we have fooled the rest of the world, we both know the blood of Gryffindor runs strong through my veins."
"Your mother would be proud. I can think of no other family upstanding enough to shield you, my greatest treasure." He picked up a stone and transfigured it into another brown cloak before throwing it over himself. "Now, farewell, my dearest. Until we meet again."
Elaine watched her father, Godric, depart back towards the outer wards of the castle for but a moment before snuggling the babe in her arms closer to her chest.
"You are blessed, little one. A Slytherin raised among the Potter/Gryffindor line. If only…" She paused and shook her head. "No. Best not to focus on things that will not be. Those thoughts lead only to pain."
Harry closed the journal of Elaine Potter neé Gryffindor and rubbed his eyes. It was late, and he was rereading the diary yet again. He already was familiar with the entries, but the words brought him comfort. Possessing his family's history cemented his beliefs. Three grand lines, all culminating with him. He would bring honour to each. The world would see. He would show what happened when the three lines awakened.
Stowing the journal back into one of the blood-locked drawers of his desk, a dark thought crossed his mind, and his fist banged against the wood top. The Potter family vault he accessed on his last visit to Gringotts proved fruitful when he discovered these various journals, revealing his Gryffindor heritage, but something bothered him. Elaine had mentioned the Longbottoms having "unsteady allegiance," but what did that mean? He saw barely any other references to the other family around that time, and none before so far. Even afterwards, there was a few hundred year gap in knowledge when it came to the Longbottoms. Most surprisingly, the next entry related to them was the announcement of the Potter-Longbottom Alliance, yet the reasoning was unclear. This journal at least revealed the family did exist back then and that the Potters/Gryffindors were aware of them, but it also brought as many questions as it did answers.
At least he now had more than enough proof of his lineage, though, to claim both the Gryffindor and Potter lordships when they merged with his Slytherin line roughly four hundred years ago. He should be grateful for so much more ancient knowledge. He was also convinced from vague references that Godric had his own chamber or room at Hogwarts. In fact, he was certain each of the founders of the school did. If Salazar's knowledge was in his, then it was a safe bet that Godric's room contained his knowledge as well.
While tapping his Lordship ring, which had since changed to display all three of his house crests next to each other and in equal size, a sudden thought struck him that gave him pause and made the young man blush.
Checking the time, he reasoned out where his future wife was most likely to be: in bed, like the rest of the castle and himself should be. It was nearly one in the morning.
Just as the thought crossed his mind, the flapping of white wings drew his attention.
"You're right, Hed. I should have called it a night a long time ago." Harry chuckled.
The snowy owl screeched and puffed out her chest.
"I know. I know. Of course you're right. You always are." He conceded as he walked over and started stroking her feathers.
Suddenly, she lightly nipped his fingers, just hard enough to not draw blood, but it did catch him heavily off guard, the lack of sleep definitely not helping.
"Ow! What was that for?" He held his hand in pained astonishment.
She merely replied with a pointed look and a firm hoot.
Harry nodded solemnly. "Okay. I get it. I need to take care of myself too. I'll make sure I'm around a long time just for you." Slowly, he reached to start petting his familiar again, and, with a soft coo, she pushed her body into his hand. After a few moments, Hedwig released another coo.
"I love you too, girl." He smiled.
Heeding her wise words, the young lord slept until ten, ensuring by the time he got back to his chambers, that he got his necessary eight hours of rest. Walking into the informal dining room next to the kitchens, he spotted no one so went to the cool box, the magical equivalent of a refrigerator. Just as he went to open it, though, a house-elf appeared with a pop and a scolding look on her face.
"Master Slytherin! Chefs be doing the cookings! You sit! What would you like for brekkie?" Her sharp tone softened for her last sentence.
"Scrambled eggs and some cantaloupe please, Daisy. Thank you." Harry chuckled before making his way to his seat at the head of the table. His efforts thus far had been unsuccessful in changing the elves' term of addressment for him.
As soon as he sat down, the day's copy of The Daily Prophet appeared on the table in front of him, courtesy of an illusioned house-elf. They tended to like to work unseen, seeing it as a sign of a proper house-elf. He browsed the articles, seeing much of the same concerning Voledmort's return, his trial, and the upcoming Wizengamot meeting scheduled for this afternoon.
Once more, the mystery of the relationship between the Potters and Longbottoms plagued him, but his breakfast, ready before he knew it, broke him from the melancholic thoughts. He noted
"Ah, milord. You are awake. I am pleased to see you resting for once." Rhys spoke right after Harry took his first bite.
Swallowing his food, he pierced his next portion and replied without looking up. "Good morning to you too. Another one of my trusted confidants finally got it through to me that I need to take care of myself as well. Where is everyone anyways?" He continued to eat.
"Daphne is putting everyone through their paces, but who is this advisor?" Rhys asked curiously.
Harry chuckled. "I guess once I'm done, I'll try to save them… and it's not important, Rhys. Don't worry, you're not out of a job."
The high elf seemed to take no amusement from his Lord's evasions but nodded. "Very well. Shall I go over the notes for the day while you eat?" He took a seat, a small but thick book appearing on the table alongside an everlasting quill.
"Weren't you just saying I needed to make sure I rested?" The young man raised a brow before taking another bite.
"You just said you were rested, did you not? Time waits for no being." Rhys countered.
Once Harry finished eating, the two made their way to the training grounds of the castle, his aide, continuing to go over the daily operations for the day as well as preparations for the Wizengamot session.
Emerging into the courtyard, the sun beat down on them and those conducting exercise drills. An unfit target was easier to hit. Daphne led the training, demonstrating each step until someone fell out of sync and she had to reprimand them. The others knew better than to stop for these interactions or else gain her ire as well.
She spotted Harry quickly and rose from her push ups. "Keep it going. Blaise! Take over!" Her order given, she turned and her face softened at the sight of her fiancé.
"Hello, love." He smiled, wrapping her in a hug as soon as she was in reach. She had long realized the futility of her protests when she was sweaty.
"Feeling better?" She smiled back.
Harry exhaled a breath in mock frustration. "I haven't been that bad!"
Daphne just rolled her eyes, a small smirk on her face. "What finally convinced you?"
"A 'trusted confidant,' according to Lord Slytherin." Rhys interjected. Ever since his edict to ban the use of his formal name, Harry was convinced the high elf was going out of his way to bother him.
She replied with a raised brow at her fiancé. "Well it wasn't me. Care to explain, dear?"
Sparing a pointed look at Rhys that he liked to think still held poise, the young lord replied to her with a smile. "The only other special girl in my life."
A chuckle that warmed Harry's heart escaped her lips. "Good to see she can still keep you in your place."
Harry was happy to elicit her response to his clue, both due to lifting her spirits and the frustrated look on his aide's face.
"Are you telling me that you listened to an owl over me, the one who has helped your family for generations?!" The normally put together elf raised his voice. "Never in all my years have I had to withstand such indecency!"
As if to further accentuate his point or to merely show the humour in the situation, the aforementioned owl seemed to appear out of nowhere and dive bombed Rhys. Thankfully though, instead of attempting to injure or soil him, Hedwig decided to perch atop his bald head. Unfortunately, the high elf could not find any gratitude, especially when his lord and lady failed spectacularly at maintaining their countenance.
Harry and Daphne could not contain their laughter at the sight, the former even bending over due to how hard he was.
"Get off you damn bird!" Rhys waved his arm over his head, trying to dislodge her.
This was, however, the end of the "damn bird's" patience, and she made it apparent when she dug her talons into his scalp.
"Ow! Ow! What was that for, you-" Again, she squeezed her claws.
"...
"Okay! My apologies! You are a fine advisor!" The high elf capitulated, sending the other two into another laughing fit just when they were recovering from their first.
Hedwig appeared satisfied with his words and took off for a short flight to Harry's shoulder, who immediately ensured he provided an adequate perch. Chuckles, though, continued to escape his mouth.
"She is particularly vicious." Rhys looked at the young man in bewilderment. "How do you keep her tame?"
He laughed loudly at the question but quickly reverted to standing much more still after a glare from the owl. "I don't. She's the one to keep me in check. You just saw for yourself. She is quite persuasive when she wants to be."
"No wonder she was able to convince you…" The high elf drifted off before straightening himself into his normal composed self and looking at Hedwig. "Thank you for taking care of my lord. I am grateful for your assistance."
"Yours and mine both." Daphne directed a momentary glare at Harry before smiling at the bird.
"Hey! I have not been that bad!" The young lord was quickly cowed by a peck on the head from his familiar. "All right! I haven't been taking care of myself! There! Are you happy?"
Hedwig nuzzled his ear in response. Daphne sent a look at Rhys that he was able to understand. Without speaking a word, she said, "See?"
Hours later, the couple, their aide, their lieutenants, excluding Seamus, Lord Greengrass, Remus, and Sirius reached the floos to exit the castle.
Harry was dressed in the plum coloured robes that were required as a member of the Wizengamot. Sirius had trimmed his hair and beard to look more becoming and wore a black suit, befitting his name. The announcement of his innocence had not yet reached the papers, but his pardon was in effect. Lord Slytherin couldn't let his first meeting in the Wizengamot be dull, could he?
Remus was coming along to be Sirius's advisor while Daphne acted as Harry's. The lieutenants were joining to ensure the other five's safety. The Order of Slytherin would not let anyone gain the upperhand with an ambush. They knew better than to leave themselves exposed.
Minutes later, the large party emerged from the flames of floo travel and into the Ministry of Magic atrium. Several of the posted guards scanned them critically, but none approached.
"It appears Madam Bones was kind enough to ensure the aurors were informed of your updated status." Lord Slytherin spoke without turning his head as they walked towards the check-in desk.
The wand weigher at the security desk gulped upon seeing the large group. "Um, wands, please?"
The lieutenants, Daphne, and Remus nodded, presenting their wands. The other three stepped to the side to stay out of their way. Once they were finished, the middle aged man with a five o'clock shadow looked at the three men.
"I take it you three are foregoing the weighing as lords of the Wizenagmot?"
Harry nodded. "That is correct. I'm sure you recognize the esteemed Lord Greengrass. Beside him is the newly cleared Lord Black, and I am Lord Slytherin. What was your name?" Despite his formality, he made sure to sound warm as well.
"Abernathy, milord. Daniel Abernathy." The man bowed his head low for a moment.
The young lord tilted his head down slightly in return. "Mr. Abernathy, first, I would like to apologize for stunning you the other day. I hope you were not injured."
Daniel was astonished for a moment. "Um, no sir. I was fine, and I completely understand. Couldn't have me getting in the way." He froze for a moment, trying to remember the proper words. "I accept your apology and with the intent it was given."
Harry smiled. "Thank you. I am grateful. Now, I know Lord Black and I are not inducted members yet, but I assure you that we will be before we leave today. Would you allow us on our way without checking our wands in?"
The wand weigher seemed to value his options for a few moments but finally decided. "Doesn't seem like a problem to me, milord. Have a great day."
The smile on the young lord's lips grew wider. "You as well, Mr. Abernathy."
The group made their way to the official Wizengamot chambers on level two before splitting up. Susan stood guard behind Harry and Daphne at the Potter seat. Anthony was guarding Remus and Sirius in the visitor section while both Pansy and Tracey protected Lord Greengrass at his own family chair. As he was more familiar with the Davis family, Tracey sat in the advisor seat. Lords and ladies of the Wizengamot were only allowed one advisor and one bodyguard at most.
Those next to the former prisoner of Azkaban gave him odd looks, not recognizing him with a proper shave and haircut. The months in Slytherin Castle had accelerated his recovery much faster than his time at Grimmauld Place.
When Lord Longbottom and his grandmother arrived and sat to Harry's right, the three halted their conversation, leveling intense glares at the other two. Neville quickly looked away, eliciting a sigh and shake of Augusta's head. Seeing their gaze was effective, the three remained silent but began looking out across the rest of the chamber.
It was not long before Madam Bones arrived and stepped up to the lectern. With a bang of the gavel, she started the proceedings.
"I hereby call this emergency session into order. I know it is traditional to allow matters of importance to be raised first, but, beforehand, I believe we need to fulfill business left open at the end of our last meeting. I, of course, refer to Lord Slytherin-Potter-Gryffindor assuming his seats on this esteemed body."
Several mutterings carried through the chamber but were immediately silenced when the Interim Minister spoke once more. "Lord Slytherin, if you would please."
The young man stood, his wand snapping into his hand in a moment. He raised it in front of him, pointing it into the air. "I, Harry James, hereby claim the seat of the Potters, the seat of the Slytherins, and the seat of the Gryffindors, as is my right and claim as the last of each line. I swear upon the honour of my ancestors to uphold their traditions and serve this body with distinction. So I say, so mote it be."
His wand flashed with a burst of white, sealing his vow. He received scattered applause from those gathered with many abstaining, but Lord Slytherin did not care. Those who mattered to him clapped, and they shared in this moment of glory. Here, they took another step to victory.
Lord Slytherin nodded to those assembled and sat back down, exuding poise. Many in the chamber were pleasantly surprised at this, expecting the infamous Slytherin line to make waves immediately, especially after the lord's trial.
"Thank you, Lord Slytherin-Potter-Gryffindor. My office has already verified the records provided, and those of the Wizengamot should see copies underneath your seats." After a few moments of silence, where Amelia waited for any objections, she continued. "Now, are there any important matters that need to be raised before we continue?"
Most of the lords and ladies kept their heads straight and motionless. Some of the less controlled members as well as most of the visitors scanned the chamber. Soon, though, more and more broke their countenance to look over at one Lord, who was standing. A small ball of light was at the end of his wand, which was pointed just over his head. Despite attracting such attention, he remained impassive and silent.
Harry did intend to make waves as soon as he could with his new position, but that did not mean he would violate protocol or decorum. He would command respect.
"Yes, Lord Slytherin? Is there something you feel needs to be addressed before we start to discuss the country's plans for protection?" Madam Bones remained just as stoic as the young man she asked.
He nodded and put his wand away, wandlessly and silently amplifying his voice."That is correct, Madam Minister. I believe the Black Lordship has been undertaken, and to ensure this body holds a multitude of perspectives, I move to immediately have Lord Black undertake his position amongst us."
"There is no Lord Black!" One of the dark faction shouted amongst many of his fellows. Harry noted, though, that Malfoy's complexion paled. He would grin at the sight if it wouldn't ruin his demeanour.
"I assure you there is. In fact, he is with us at this very moment. If you would please stand and present yourself."
Padfoot rose to his feet smoothly and soon found everyone's eyes on him. He always loved to be the center of attention. "Anything for my godson." He grinned. Mutterings immediately erupted.
"I, Lord Greengrass, second the motion for Lord Sirius Black to take up his seat." Anton spoke, rising from his own chair.
Less than hushed whispers engulfed the chamber as most began chattering with each other over the latest development. Few remained stoic, excluding the guards. Finally, though, Madam Bones regained control with the bang of the gavel.
"The motion has been seconded. Are there any objections?"
As soon as the words left her mouth, Lord Parkinson stood, sneering. "Sirius Black is a convicted criminal! I demand he be incarcerated at once! Let alone take a seat among us!"
Amelia seemed unaffected by the outburst but did reply. "Lord Parkinson. Despite breaking decorum, I will address your concern."
Lord Slytherin, though, who had yet to sit back down, stopped her before she could continue. "It is okay, Madam Minister. I was the one to present you with the evidence that cleared my godfather's name. It is fitting for me to deliver it to this esteemed body as well."
She seemed to think it over for a moment but nodded. "The floor recognizes Lord Slytherin." Amelia backed away from the lectern and sat.
"Thank you." He bowed his head slightly. "Sirius Black is no Death Eater. He did not betray my parents to Voldemort." Harry chose to ignore the many flinches and shivers the name elicited. "When he escaped, using a method that we have now informed Madam Bones of, he did so not in search of me but of Peter Pettigrew. Pettigrew was the secret keeper of the cottage in Godric's Hollow, and Lord Black spotted him in The Daily Prophet while he was in his rat animagus form. He, my father, and Sirius were all unregistered animagi to gain the upper hand against any Death Eaters they may cross. Unfortunately, due to failures of Fudge's administration, these details were never uncovered, and Pettigrew escaped before returning to the Dark Lord's side. I am unsure how he was able to find him, though I do have theories regarding the Dark Mark…"
Conjuring a glass filled with water, he took a moment to sip it before continuing. He held the entire chamber's rapt attention. Internally, he smiled, knowing he was making those who supported him proud.
"When Cedric Diggory and I were abducted via the Triwizard Cup at the end of the Third Task, the rat immediately killed the remarkable young man I competed alongside. He had no opportunity to defend himself, struck by the Killing Curse, and I was bound against my will. Pettigrew then was the one to revive Voldemort. I have provided the memory to Madam Bones but am more than willing to share it with all of you today. I will warn all of you, however, that it is not for the weak-hearted. Pettigrew conducted an extremely dark ritual, involving severing his own hand at the forearm."
Eyes went wide at his last statement, though those who did from the dark faction had their own reasons. This would be the perfect opportunity for Lord Slytherin to show those Voldemort summoned after the ritual. They would have to acquiesce or risk the memory being shown.
One rose, though, to counter his claim.
"This is preposterous. You spin a fantastic story, I admit, Potter, but I see no actual proof. A memory does not qualify." Augusta Longbottom spoke loudly so her voice was heard through the chamber despite looking straight at who she addressed.
Harry, though, did not even spare a glance at her. "Madam Longbottom assumes she still has a place on this body but stepped down to allow the ascent of her grandson. It appears she already has lost her manners since. Is Lord Longbottom incapable of controlling his aide?"
At first, the older witch's face fell into a deep scowl at his disrespect but ended up wide eyed in embarrassment, realizing the implications of her actions. She sat down in shame.
"Despite her speaking out of turn, I do acknowledge the Madam's point. Do you not have any other proof?" Malfoy stood, surprising many at the two agreeing when typically they were opposed.
"You think I would present my case unprepared? Typical from one so easy to fall under the Imperius… if you did at all." This time Lord Slytherin looked at who spoke to him.
"You dare?!" Malfoy snapped.
A hollow laugh erupted from the young lord's mouth. It held no warmth and sent chills down many spines, including the blonde ponce's.
"Your pathetic attempts of intimidation may work on some, Lord Malfoy, but do not think for a moment they will be effective against me. We both know why you are seizing the opportunity of evidence outside my memory. Scared of seeing who else was there the night the Dark Lord returned? Or, more accurately, everyone else seeing his inner circle? I wonder what would inspire such trepidation." He grinned cruelly as many in the Dark faction were visibly shaken. "Well, the best way to overcome one's fears is to face them head on, as my Gryffindor ancestors would say. Before we help Lord Malfoy, though, I would ask everyone to look underneath their seats for evidence of my claims. You will find Lord Black was willingly interrogated under Veritaserum by aurors Kingsley Shacklebolt and Nymphadora Tonks."
"I also would be willing to swear to the documents' validity upon both my life and magic." Sirius added.
This time not just the lords and ladies received copies of the documents but the visitors as well. House elves were an undervalued resource in the wizarding world, and now the information would spread like fiendfyre.
Malfoy and many others of the other dark faction blanched, realizing the trap they had walked into. Once a few minutes passed, Lord Slytherin spoke again. "Any other questions?"
Lord Parkinson cleared his throat and stood back up. "I withdraw my objections and move to immediately allow Lord Black to take up his chair." With his motion presented, he immediately sat.
Amelia returned to the lectern and looked out at the lords and ladies assembled. "Any opposed?"
Not a single wand rose.
"Those in favor?" This time most of the chamber lifted their wands.
The bang of the gavel rang out. "It is settled then. Lord Black, if you would please."
Sirius removed his wand from its holster and held it in front of his face. "I, Sirius Orion Black the Third, hereby claim the seat of the Blacks, as is my birthright. I swear upon the honour of my ancestors to uphold their traditions and serve this body with distinction. So I say, so mote it be." Just as Harry's had, the tip of his wand flashed in a burst of white magic, acknowledging the sealing of his vow.
Even less applause greeted the sight, but the newest lord of the Wizengamot did not appear affected in the slightest. Instead, he waved his wand over his clothes, transfiguring them into the required plum robes before moving and taking his official seat. Harry was happy to note it was only a few chairs away from his.
"Any other matters for us to address before we continue?" Madam Bones asked.
"Yes, Madam." Lord Slytherin still had yet to sit down. "With your approval and as long as there are no other pressing matters, I would like to propose we start the session by viewing my memory of the night the Dark Lord returned. I believe transparency will only benefit us and the citizens of our world. Many of you will find it… most illuminating."
Lord Malfoy immediately stood, his eyes wide. "I object! There is no way to prove its validity! You could just be framing your enemies for all we know!"
"Oh, but you see, Lord Malfoy." Harry's eyes glowed with emerald power. "You are quite close to the truth, but just a shy bit off I am afraid. If you exclude the term frame and replace it with the word, 'target,' then you would be more on the mark. Because I am targeting my enemies when I want the truth to be known. My enemy is Voldemort and any who follow him. I will do what I must to bring their terror to an end. It is a blessing to be able to do so using the truth."
The two lords locked eyes, neither blinking for several moments, imparting as much hate as they could to each other.
Finally Lord Slytherin smirked and turned back towards the interim minister. "Now, unless anyone has a better argument to try to save their own arse, do I have your permission, Madam Bones?" He didn't even spare a glance at the others in the chamber.
A few moments of silence passed on. Having her answer, Amelia banged the gavel. "Bring in the pensieve. If you would please come down to the center and present your memory, Lord Slytherin."
His normal stoicism returned and he nodded. Daphne stood and began to follow after her beloved but was interrupted by Madam Longbottom. "As an advisor, you should know your place. Don't assume you are allowed or even necessary on the floor."
The blonde Slytherin merely raised a brow at her. "Did you not listen to my lord before, Madam Longbottom? It is no longer your place to speak."
The elder's face twisted into a vicious scowl but just as she went to reply, Harry stepped in. "My fiancé does know her place unlike you apparently. She knows that there is no other place I would have her than beside me. No one else could advise or protect me better."
"You need others to protect you then? Rather than actually fighting themself you hide behind your followers." She countered.
Then, to many's discomfort and surprise, the raven-haired lord smiled. "Are you presenting a formal challenge, Augusta Longbottom, against my house and me?"
Many in the chamber gasped, silence following it as everyone watched the encounter with bated breath.
The former Regent Longbottom gulped in plain fear.
"She is not." Neville stood. "I am."
If those assembled were shocked before when Harry smiled, they were absolutely floored when he laughed in Longbottom's face. It echoed through the chamber, seeming genuine but not at the same time. Many began to feel more than a slip of fear.
"Oh… Longbottom, Longbottom, Longbottom." Lord Slytherin sighed. "You don't know how happy I would be to accept a duel if I knew you wouldn't let a champion take your place." He turned to address everyone. "I think all of you have forgotten who survived facing Voldemort several times, not to mention a Hungarian Horntail, a basilisk, and a hundred dementors all without proper training."
He turned back and locked his eyes on Neville. "Swear you'll use no champion or a second. Swear that you will fight me yourself, and I'll give you your duel."
Neville silently returned to his seat, his head bowed in fear and cowardice.
"That's what I thought." Harry stated before resuming back towards the chamber floor, followed by Daphne and Susan, respectively.
Minutes later, the three were protected by the wards that previously imprisoned Harry at his trial while they stood around a projecting pensieve. Aurors remained stationed around the chamber. Just as Lord Slytherin started to pull the memory from his temple, though, chaos erupted.
All at once, several of the Dark faction rose up together and pointed their wands at the young lord. "Avada Kedavra!"
The killing curses rocketed towards the trio from all directions. Most in the chamber froze in shock at the act, though a few did start to immediately respond. Thankfully the aurors and Madam Bones did not hesitate as they began to move to subdue the perpetrators, but it was too late. The curses were already cast.
Susan and Daphne reacted immediately to protect their lord, rising walls of stone from the floors to block the spells' paths. The curses blasted out the walls, especially in their multitude but were halted by several layers of black granite. The two had bought Harry enough time to react. Their enemy had tried to use his focus on the memory to their advantage, but there was a reason why the young man trusted those beside him with his life.
Pansy and Tracey moved to protect Daphne's father, ushering him to the ground and launching their own spells at the attackers while Sirius, Remus, and Anthony all joined in the fight as well.
The hidden Death Eaters quickly turned to meet their opponents' attacks. While the aurors limited themselves to stunners and disarming spells, the members of Slytherin held no such qualms. Unprepared for their vicious cutting and blasting curses, many that none had ever encountered before, the dark faction fell quickly and bloodily.
Within moments, silence fell back over the chamber again, as those who cast the Unforgivable were either killed, stunned, or bound. It didn't last more than a few additional seconds though, as aurors poured in to secure the area.
"Wands down, hands up!" Kingsley ordered, leading the charge of over two dozen aurors.
Those standing quickly obeyed, though those of the Order of Slytherin returned their wands to their wrist holsters before standing with their empty palms raised slightly over their shoulders.
"Kingsley, the perpetrators have been dealt with. Lock this chamber down. Nobody enters or exits without my permission. Is anyone hurt?!" Amelia called out to the assembly. To her relief, she was met with shaken heads and other forms of negative responses. "Good. Then aurors, I need all of you to first secure anyone who is downed before examining everyone's wands. I don't want anyone slipping away."
"Ma'am!" Many of the aurors shouted in acknowledgement before being directed by Kingsley and several of the other senior aurors.
Once the first of Madam Bones's orders were carried out, Kingsley ensured he was the one to look over the trio on the chamber floor. "Are you sure all of you are all right? You three were the most exposed to spellfire."
The three grinned before Daphne replied. "They tried catching us off guard, but we were ready. It'll take more than that to kill us."
"I couldn't agree more." Harry smiled at his future wife.
"I'm glad to hear it." The tall auror nodded. "Now if I can just see your wands for transparency?"
Susan and Daphne agreed and their wands were quickly used to cast, "prior incantato." With no overtly dark curses found, he turned to the young man while outstretching his hand. "Your wand, milord?"
Harry pursed his lips and sprang the wand into his hand before hesitantly putting his black and white swirling wand into the auror's outstretched palm. He paused for just a moment before releasing his grasp.
"Thank you, sir." Kingsley nodded before changing his grip on the wand to be able to cast.
Immediately he was struck with a cold feeling as if the wand did not recognize him and even detested being held. Powering through it, he cast, "prior incantato," once more. This time, however, nothing occurred. The tall man tried the spell twice more but was astounded when no spell was cast.
Seeing the man's confusion, Lord Slytherin provided clarification. "My wand does not like being held by another. It's very loyal if stubborn. I can cast the spell if you wish?"
Despite his neutral tone, Kingsley swore he heard some mirth. "Very well."
"Prior incantato." Harry whispered before the echo of a spell slicing through the air coalesced as if made of smoke.
"Thank you, Lord Slytherin." The veteran auror nodded before leaving to assist the others.
"Did you see his face?" Susan chuckled. "He doesn't know what to make of you."
Daphne grinned. "Don't sound so surprised."
The session was quickly closed once everyone was cleared with the next session to be held in two day's time. When the group of Slytherins returned to the castle, they were met by Seamus and several other members.
"Are all of you okay?" The Irishman asked, stepping close to Tracey but speaking to them all.
Harry nodded. "We are. I take it, you have heard?" His eyes scanned his followers in front of him.
"We did. They haven't announced on the Wireless who started the attack, but we can imagine." Seamus answered.
"Send Draco, Vincent, Gregory, Theodore, and Adrian to my office, please. In the meantime…" Lord Slytherin turned to his newest lieutenant. "Pansy, would you mind accompanying Daphne and me?"
"Of course, sir." Pansy bowed slightly before walking to his left. Daphne, as always, was to his right.
Once they were alone, Harry finally spoke again. "How are you holding up?"
"I'm fine. Besides, my father got off easier than some of the others."
The young lord quirked a brow. "None of whom I am about to tell were there fighting. You were. No one would fault you for feeling conflicted."
Pansy sighed and was silent for a few more moments. "He was not exactly the best father, but he was mine. I… couldn't cast at him. I targeted the others. I hope you don't-"
He stopped and turned to her immediately. "Pansy. You will not finish that sentence. I trust you implicitly. If you had frozen back in the chamber, nothing would have changed. I am sorry you were put in that position. I should have thought it through."
"Harry… you have nothing to apologize for. I knew what I was signing up for when I chose to go against the pretend lord, and I knew exactly where my father's allegiances lie." Pansy replied.
A chuckle escaped his lips with a small smile. "That's the first time I haven't had to tell you to call me by my name."
"Are you sure you're okay?" Daphne checked.
"It wasn't pleasant, but it's okay." Pansy assured.
The couple nodded and interlocked their arms back together before the three resumed their path to his office. Shortly after, they arrived. Harry, though, stopped them just before they entered, the door still closed.
"If you ever need anything… someone to talk to… we're here for you, but I'm sure anyone here would be willing to talk with you as well. Just please take care of yourself."
"I will." Pansy smirked. "Milord."
Harry groaned. "Just when I thought we were making progress." He chuckled before straightening himself and opening the door.
"Milord." Those already not standing, rose from their chairs as soon as they saw him.
This time, Harry's groan held no mirth. "Please remember, it's Harry." He grabbed Daphne's cloak off her shoulders and put it on the coat rack behind the desk then proceeded to pull her chair out for her and help her sit down. "Everyone is more than welcome to sit." Harry said when he saw all except Pansy still standing as he removed his own cloak and it joined his future wife's. By the time he turned back around and sat down, everyone else was seated.
"Thank all of you for coming." Lord Slytherin's hands joined together on top of the desk. "I wanted to be the one to tell you all myself. All of your fathers attempted to kill Daphne, Susan, and I. We were forced to respond." He paused to take a breath and collect himself. "Draco, Adrian, the aurors got to your fathers, and they were stunned and are in holding cells. Vincent, Gregory, your fathers were wounded but received medical care and are going to be fine. They too are under arrest…" Harry sighed and looked Nott Jr. in his eyes.
"Your father… was hit by a blasting curse in the gut after casting several more Killing Curses. I'm sorry for your loss, and I'm sorry it happened."
The young man's eyes went wide in shock at the news, before the reality set in. Bowing his head low for a few moments, he looked back up with a determined gaze, pain evident in his features. "If you will excuse me, sir. I think I need to be alone."
Harry nodded in sympathy. "If you ever want to talk, I assure you that you'll find any of us willing to listen." The others in the room nodded in agreement.
"I know, Lord Slytherin." Theodore replied as he stood. "Thank you."
Those were his last words before he exited the room.
Once the door closed behind the young man, Harry looked at his other followers. "I know all of your fathers are still alive, but if any of you need to talk to someone as well, don't hesitate. It is not a sign of weakness. We are in this together."
Those in front of him voiced their agreement softly, still shocked at the news.
"Do any of you know who is close to Theo?" Daphne asked.
Draco rose from his seat. "I am. I'll go check on him."
"Wait." Pansy stood. "I'll come with. I was there." She gave her lord a look, seeking permission.
"Excellent idea." Harry followed suit, the rest of the room rising in response except Daphne. "Again, if you need anything, I'm here for you. If any of you wish to leave, feel free."
Draco and Pansy quickly rushed after the first occupant who left with the others following soon after. Harry sighed and fell back into his chair, looking up at the ceiling.
"It's not going to get any easier." He did not pose his words as a question.
Daphne shook her head. "No. We've had some victories, but the war is just beginning. No matter how much we try, the people we care about will be hurt, either directly or through those they love. War does not spare anyone. We will tear families apart if we win, but if they do…"
"Then we should be grateful if that is all Riddle does." He finished, remembering his lessons. "We must do all we can to ensure that doesn't happen. I want this family to grow. I want our family to flourish."
Suddenly, the young lord was struck with his thought from the night before once more and blushed.
The pink on his cheeks did not escape Daphne's gaze. "Something you wish to tell me?" A ghost of a smile was on her face.
He flushed further in embarrassment. "Well… last night I had a bit of a realization…"
"Oh? What was that?"
He licked his lips nervously. "As the lord of the Potters, Slytherins, and now the Gryffindors, not to mention your position as heiress Greengrass, according to the old laws…"
"Yes?" She was enjoying seeing her love struggle and was not going to make it easy for him.
"We're going to have to have quite a few children to pass on our titles." Harry blurted.
Daphne giggled in amusement. "Is that a problem?"
The young lord's brain and voice seemed to stop working as his mouth opened and closed silently in confusion, eliciting further giggles from the blonde.
"Um, you're okay with that?" He finally got out.
Daphne stood and sat sideways in his lap, her legs hanging off the chair as she snuggled her head into the crook of his neck. "You've always wanted a family to call your own, and a big one. I love the idea of granting you that wish… besides, if they're anything at all like either of us, I can't imagine being anything else but ecstatic to be their mother."
Harry wrapped his arms around her with a contented sigh, snuggling into the woman he loved. "Thank you, my sweet. I don't know what I ever did to deserve you, but I am so grateful to have you in my life."
"I could say the-" Daphne was cut off as Seamus burst into the room followed by Anthony, Susan, and Tracey.
"The outermost wards have detected traces of magic on the mountain face!" The Irishman reported before noticing how the couple were snuggled.
"Do we have an idea on the number of beings?" Harry asked as he and Daphne disentangled themselves and stood.
Seamus shook his head. "Not yet. We just sent house-elves out to scout under their invisibility charms. We should hear back shortly."
"Good." Harry nodded as he started leading everyone out of the room. "Rhys."
The high elf popped into existence without a sound. "Yes, milord?"
Lord Slytherin was too focused on the task at hand to acknowledge the term of address. "Assemble all of our fighting forces in the courtyard. Lock down the castle, especially the dungeons. Nobody goes in or out without approval." Rhys bowed before popping away. Seeing how he and the others were dressed, Harry added. "Get into your combat robes. I hope all of this is nothing, but I'm not taking any chances."
"Understood, sir." The lieutenants replied at once before turning to head back towards their individual quarters. Harry and Daphne quickly continued on their way to their own which resided side by side.
Minutes later, they emerged from their rooms ready for battle.
Both were adorned in black-dyed basilisk armor. Black woven nundu fur filled in any gaps in the armor and held the entire set together. The outer portion held a hood that they could flip over as needed. It barely limited their mobility if at all and would make them impervious to almost all attacks. Each had their wands set into holsters on their wrists to dual wield if needed. The Sword of Gryffindor hung in a black scabbard at Harry's side.
"Rhys." Lord Slytherin called, continuing as soon as the elf appeared. "Any update?"
The veteran advisor nodded. "The house-elves have confirmed it. There appear to be two dozen Death Eaters, mostly grunts but a couple in nicer masks. We don't know how they found us."
"There is only one thing I can imagine: our prisoners' dark marks. It has to be. The wards and the mountain are probably concealing our exact presence, but it still pinpointed them here." Daphne theorized.
Harry's eyes went wide. "Any idea on how we can subdue the link? I don't want to give up the opportunity of reversing it back to Riddle, but I'd rather not give up our location."
Daphne's lips pursed in thought as her hand went to her chin. She thought hard for a few moments before suddenly jerking her head. "I think I know how, but I'll only be able to take care of one prisoner at a time unless I get some help."
"Who do you need?"
"Anthony, Susan, and a dozen of our followers." She replied.
Rhys nodded. "I'll go tell the house-elves to summon who you require and meet you in the dungeons."
"What are you going to do?" Daphne asked, turning to her future husband.
An evil smirk grew on his face. "Oh you know… give them the proper Slytherin greeting for intruders."
"I have faith in your ability to defend the castle, milord, but are you sure it is wise to reveal our presence so blatantly?" Rhys asked nervously.
"They won't think this is our home if we appear out of nowhere, leave maybe one or two alive and act like this was merely a trap. The mountain face is the perfect place to mount an ambush. Besides, the fact that they're here will raise suspicion enough. This is our only chance for them to think this isn't where our home is."
Rhys bowed. "Forgive my impertinence, sire. I shouldn't have questioned you; you obviously have put more thought into this than I."
Harry shook his head and put a hand on the elf's shoulder. "No, Rhys. There is nothing to forgive. You're doing exactly what I need by ensuring I'm making the right choices. No one is infallible."
"Thank you, sir." Rhys rose from his bow to stand straight.
Removing his hand, Lord Slytherin gave a meaningful look towards Daphne with all the love he could muster, trying to convey it solely through his eyes. "Good luck, love."
A small smile grew on her face and she nodded. "Don't take any chances. If any of them kill you, I'll revive you myself just to kill you once more."
"Of course, milady." Harry smirked before melding with the shadows.
The next battle of the war was to shortly begin.
AN: Hopefully not too many of you will mind the cliffhanger ending, but I wanted to give it the justice it deserves. I really enjoyed showing more of the everyday life Harry is starting to fight for. Please review with your thoughts if you enjoyed.
As Always,
Occidere Prima Vel Occidi