Chapter 2: After all these years. Trip to Knockturn Alley.
Early the next morning, at the sound of his alarm Harry got up, and did a set of sit-ups and push-ups. Filius told him that doing muggle exercises would help him in the long run. Whenever the Quidditch team would meet for practice, Oliver would have them do all kinds of muggle exercises. So he was already familiar with moving his body in ways that most wizards would consider unnecessary.
Finishing his sets he grabbed some clothes from his chest and went to have a quick shower. When he finally got out he dressed in his Gryffindor robes and left for Dumbledore's office. Though, not before casting a glance at his sleeping housemates who were still sleeping. Everyone except for Neville made his life a living hell. He'd be sure to pay them back with compound interest. Neville, on the other hand, perplexed him. While he hardly talked with the shy, pudgy boy; he never once viewed him as a squib like the other students. It still surprised him to find out that Neville's mum was his godmother. Perhaps he should get to know him better.
Leaving the tower he made his way to the entrance of Dumbledore's office where he saw his head of house conversing with Professors Flitwick and Sprout. "Ah, Mr. Potter your earlier than expected," Minerva was surprised at how punctual her lion was. She noticed a change in him this year as he was more thorough in his studies and actually put work into his classes. He shot her and Pomona a cold-angry scowl that slightly unnerved them before turning to Filius.
"A good morning to you, Professor Flitwick. I trust you are well today?" Noticing how tight his voice was Filius decided to play along.
"I am perfectly fine Mr. Potter," the tiny man squeaked with a small smile. "It pleases that you have recovered from your ordeal in the Chamber of Secrets. Though, I admit to being disappointed as to why you did not seek to tell one of the professors."
"Mistake on our part. . .most of the other professors at the time were not interested in helping either too happy to look the other way and allow the students under her care to attack me. The other seemed too happy to let things go and not lift a finger to help," referring got Pomona and Minerva. "So much for the house being like your family garbage."
"Anyway can we go up now? It's almost time for breakfast and I would rather get something to eat."
"Quite right," turning to give the password whilst the two other professors bowed their heads in shame and anger.
Granting them passage the four walked up the steps. Before Minerva could knock on the door Dumbledore's voice was heard, "come in professors." Opening the door they walked in to see the headmaster sitting behind his desk with his halfmoon glasses.
"Ah, Harry, I'm so glad you could make it," his grandfatherly voice made it sound he cared for is well-being. "Thank you, professors you may leave now."
"Actually I would prefer if they'd stayed. There are some things I like to discuss with them," not wanting to be alone with Dumbledore. "Also, I would appreciate it if you stopped calling me by my first name—it's bad manners as you have no familial relations to me. The students will also think I'm getting special treatment."
The twinkle in Dumbledore's eyes vanished for half a second, "very well Har—" receiving a glare from the boy forced him to correct himself, "Mr. Potter. I understand this year was difficult on you and for that have my sincerest apologies. What you did for miss. Weasley was incredibly honorable; clearly you care a lot for her."
Mentally snorting as he did not like what Dumbledore was implying. He knew next to nothing about Ginny let alone haven't said more than a couple of words to her. The only time he spent with her was at the Burrow after being liberated by the Weasley boys. Even then she would squeak, turn scarlet in the face, and flee. "I did what I believed was necessary," choosing his words carefully and avoiding the man's eyes. "However, I assume she will be transferred to St. Mungo's for treatment? She did spend the better part of the year under the influence of a dark object."
"That is hardly necessary as Madam Pomfrey has concluded that she will make a full recovery," waving off the boy's concern. "While I'm sure you're aware—for your outstanding bravery in the face of danger have earned your house 450 points and an award for special services to the school." Trying to stroke the boy's ego by awarding him points.
"You're the headmaster. I'm sure you know what is best," holding a slight edge in his voice and turning to Fawkes who stood on his perch. Taking a step closer to the phoenix, "thank you for neutralizing the basilisk venom with your tears. Without them I will surely be dead. I'll be sure to send you some fruit if you want?"
Fawkes happily trilled, hopped off his perch, and flew to the boy's left shoulder to nuzzle against his face. "It would seem Fawkes has taken a special liking to you," Dumbledore commented watching his familiar show affection.
"Yes, I like him to," watching as Fawkes flew back to his perch. "I also owe you a thank you professor?"
"Why do you think that?" A confused Albus asked.
"Because you showed me how useless the professors are," the backhanded compliment shocked everyone in the room especially the former professors who looked down from their portraits. "Starting with that blond peacock Lockhart. The man was a fraud and thief who took credit for doing what other people have done. We didn't learn anything remotely related to Defense—meaning you cheated everyone out of a year's worth of education." No one said anything as they were struck silent by how cold the boy was. Behind his calm words held a sizeable amount of anger. "You should really do a better job at picking your professor's."
Getting over his shock Dumbledore replied, "yes that is my fault. I should have known something was off after Professor Snape informed me on what happened at the dueling club."
"That's not all," turning his green eyes to a stunned Professor Sprout. "For someone who is supposed to be in charge of a house who values hard work and fairness; you are surprisingly lousy at your job."
"Mr. Potter, I am truly sorry for my behavior towards you this year. Instead of doing my job as a professor I stood by and allowed several of my badgers to harass you," looking down in shame.
"Oh, dear me Professor Sprout apologizes after months of harassment from the members of her house. Well that changes…nothing," his faux-happy expression masked his anger making her feel even more ashamed. Narrowing his eyes on her, "let's run down what happened this year. In the midst of my duel against Malfoy he conjured a black mamba that would have killed your Hufflepuff—Justin Finch-Fletchley had it bit him. To save his life I had to tell the snake not to in a language I didn't know I had. Instead of thanking me your house verbally and magically assaulted me; claiming that I was the next dark lord and that somehow I was responsible for petrifying the muggleborns. From that point my life became a living hell as I couldn't go anywhere without people looking sideways at me."
"Your house in particular attacked me five times. Five times!" He shouted. "Whenever, I would have to defend myself you would take points away and give me detention while not punishing the attackers. Because of you I spent fifteen weeks in detention and lost 140 points. And after I risked my life to save someone I barely knew you have the gall to apologize for your and your house's actions. You know what I think? You're a fat fucking hypocritical bitch who is nothing more than a worthless cunt who's trying to save face and has lost my respect."
Tears were now running down Pomona's face.
"Do not start crying as that will not help you," he coldly said. "You may be the head of Hufflepuff, but you're also a professor meaning it's your responsibility to be fair with students in and out of your house. If I were to grade you on your performance this year you'd get a Dreadful. I wonder what the board of governors would do if they were to hear how you treated a student who falsely accused of attacking the students. I imagine they look upon that as a bad thing. It might even cost you your job."
Pomona cried harder and turned ghostly pale. She knew the boy was right and shouldn't have treated him so harshly. Minerva recovered from her shock and snapped at him. "How dare you threaten a member of the staff! The professors made a mistake in not helping you, but that gives you no rights to—"
"No rights? No rights!" He yelled, decreasing the office's temperature. "You got some nerve talking to me about rights after what you did. Or should I say failed to do. Where were you when the students turned on me? Where were you when I was being attacked? You were my head of house and did absolutely nothing when the others treated me like an outcast. When I did try to come to you for help you ignored me and gave me detention. After the attacks continued you sent me to the headmaster claiming it was out of your hands. Bullshit woman! That's twice you ignored me and my life was in danger," his rising voice became as cold as steel. "You have also lost my respect, and I am strongly considering changing schools."
Minerva was so taken back that a lone tear came down her face. Never before had someone ever talked to her like that. Several emotions began running through her very being: anger, sadness, and shame. She failed him—her cub—James and Lily's son. He was even threatening to leave Hogwarts for the way his housemates treated him. Were his parents here they shake their heads in disgust for what she allowed to happen to their only son.
"Harry," Dumbledore began. "Mr. Potter," Harry corrected. "Mr. Potter, your anger is understandable and you have my sincerest apologies. However, you are out-of-line as there is no need to insult your professors," chiding the boy to make him repent. He saw no change in the child's demeanor, and continued, "there is also no need for you to leave Hogwarts as it is the most prestigious school in the world. Your education has already been paid for."
"Whatever!" Harry growled. "All I want is to be treated fairly and know that the professors will stop being bias and protect me. As you're in charge of this school it falls to you to fix the problem." He was about to turn but looked directly at the headmaster. "And do not think for one minute that we are on good terms as you have lost my respect as well. For someone who is supposed to be the greatest-wizard-of-all-time you're surprisingly stupid to not have figured out that it was a basilisk who was attacking the students. One more thing you ever try to read my mind again and I promise that everything you have will be gone."
Whirling around he stomped out of the room missing the smile on one of the professors. It had been many years since he'd seen someone threaten Dumbledore. What really surprised him was that the boy was a member of the House of Black. Looking through his portrait with glee the former headmaster Phineas Nigellus Black would certainly be keeping an eye on Potter and be speaking with his descendant. Then turning his attention to the room's occupants.
"Give me one reason why I should not curse you into next century," Filius shouted pointing his wand at Dumbledore with a spell on his lips. "Attempting to invade someone's mind is a serious offense and punishable by ten years in Azkaban!"
"Please lower your wand Filius as there is no need for violence," trying to calm down his charms professor. "I admit that attempting to read his mind was a mistake. It's become a nasty habit of mine, but I only do it under extreme circumstances."
Filius's ire did not waiver in the slightest, but nonetheless lowered his wand then turned to his colleagues. "Mr. Potter is not wrong as the two of you have wronged him." He looked directly at Pomona, "while I do not agree with what he said…you had absolutely no rights to punish him the way you did. Pomona being the head of a house that values fair play you were completely bias this year and never once punished your house. If you do not discipline them I will!" Next he went to Minerva.
"As for you Minerva," saying her name as if swallowing a lemon, "were if James and Lily here they would be very disappointed for how you allowed their son to be treated. I may not have known James all too well. . .but Lily would be furious. Merlin knows she would be turning in her grave. You need to ask yourself: is this what they would have wanted? For their only child to be attacked by his housemates, the other students, professors, and Daily Prophet?"
Minerva could only bow her head in shame. Meanwhile, Pomona was drying her face of the tears she shed.
(0^0)
Walking through the corridors Harry took several breaths while on his way to the kitchen as he had no wish to sit in the Great Hall. He stopped after rounding the corner to see Zacharias Smith wearing his usual arrogant smug. The pompous prick was one of the puffs who made his life a living hell and spread rumors about him being a dark wizard. Continuing his journey he ignored the idiot's angry scowl, "so you appear to be the hero again? The great Harry Potter. Vanquisher of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named has decided to grace the halls with his presence," he sneered in disgust. When Harry didn't acknowledge him he turned red, not liking the fact of being brushed off.
"You don't belong here. You're nothing but a fraud. A dark wizard!"
They may have been the same height, but the intensity in Harry's eyes burned hotter than his. Doing his best to keep his temper from rising he shoved the fool out of the way, only to stop when his senses kicked in to tell him the boy was about to attack. Thanks to his quidditch reflexes he immediately turned around to knock the wand from Smith's hand and deliver a punch to his face. Hitting the wall he covered his now broken nose, unfortunately for him Harry wasn't done. All the anger he had and the times Smith attacked him with his friends caused Harry to snap. Repeatedly he punched him in the face, ribs, and kidneys. Every blow was filled with anger.
When Zack fell to the floor he had two black eyes, a broken nose, broken jaw, missing some teeth, and clutched his stomach. All the while begging for mercy. "Please…s-stop. I-I'm…sor-sorry," he cried in pain. Harry could only see red as he lifted the boy by his hair until he was eye-level.
"You and your friends attacked me repeatedly this year and now when I fight back you beg me for mercy." Then grabbing his head Harry slammed him face first into the wall and continued to pummel the prick knocking out some more teeth.
When he was black and blue Harry pulled him up, "the next time you attack me I will not be so merciful." Throwing the broken boy on the ground he walked away.
Taking a couple minutes to calm down he entered the kitchen which was located in the basement near the Hufflepuff common room. Harry asked the house-elves if there were anything left? To his surprise they chanted. "The great Harry Potter has defeated the evil snake and saved one of our own!"
"What's going on?" He asked looking at the elves.
One of the senior elves approached, "you has defeated the King of Snakes and freed one of our brethren from his tyrant of a master. Yous saved us from being forced out. We are eternally grateful!"
Catching on, "while I appreciate the gratitude it is unwarranted. This your home as well as mine in some way. The elf I freed was Dobby—" the elf in question popped in front of him. "Dobby? What are you doing here I thought you went to go look for work?"
The young elf's tennis ball eyes looked at him with delight. The great Harry Potter has freed Dobby from his bad masters. Despite Dobby's misguided attempts of protection…Harry Potter has shown Dobby kindness and wishes to be his house-elf."
"Dobby, I did not free so you can be a slave to me. You tried to save me multiple times this year and I was only paying back a debt. A life for a life. You deserve to have a life with someone who appreciates your hard work." Harry said. "Why would you even want to have a master after the way Malfoy treated you?"
An elf who appeared to be the leader answered for his comrade, "house-elves have to bond with a master to survive. If not bonded our lifeforce will be cut down by 2/3 and we will die a most painful death." He explained. "Before you defeated You-Know-Who many of us elves were treated like vermin. All we want in life is to bond with a master who appreciates the work we do."
Dobby went on to add, "to be a free elf is considered to be the worst insult," his voice was breaking as tears welled up in his eyes.
Harry had to think. While Dobby disliked his previous masters he wanted to bond with someone who would treat him with respect and give some praise. Releasing a breath he looked down at him, "what will I have to do?" He reluctantly asked.
Immediately the elf's mood did a 180 and he bounced on his feet. "Harry Potter will have to place his hand on Dobby's head and declare him bonded to your House…"
Placing a hand on his head. "I, Harry James Potter, do hereby bond the house-elf known as Dobby to the House of Potter. So mote be it!" The bond was sealed when a flash of white light enveloped the two.
"Thank yous, Harry Potter! Dobby will be the best elf for master Harry Potter," happily exclaimed as happy tears rolled down his eyes.
"Alright, Dobby let us go over some ground rules," Harry began. "Rule one: there will be none of this 'master' business. Just call me Harry! Rule two: you will no longer inflict pain on yourself. If you do something you believe is a punishable offence then you will come to me and we'll decide an appropriate non-painful punishment." He listed out a couple more rules that caused the house-elves in the kitchen to drop their jaws at how kind he was being. His rules were beyond fair. "Rule seven: during the school year I will need you to work in the school's kitchen and not reveal to anyone who you work for. Is this agreeable?"
"Yes, yes. Dobby is happy to be Harry sir's house-elf and will adhere to his rules," he squeaked in delight.
The other elves applauded him as Harry sat down and was given his breakfast. Harry asked if Dobby would join him, which the little elf eagerly accepted. There they talked about various things about magic and if there was a place where he could practice magic without any interruptions? Dobby and head elf told him about a special room on the seventh-floor called the come and go room. More commonly knowns as the room of requirement. Apparently it hasn't been used in centuries and only a few people know of its existence. The entrance was opposite the tapestry depicting the attempt of Barnabas the Barmy to teach trolls ballet. Since the room hadn't been used in years he figured it be a good place for him to study and practice magic. There appears to be a lot of secrets within the castle.
Resolving himself he decided to find the elusive room when the opportunity present itself and maybe other areas within the castle. But first he would need to get some things not available or frowned upon by others and pay a visit to the home he should have grown up in.
"Um, Dobby," drawing the elf's attention to him. "Do you know where I can find some books that are not prescribed by the Ministry of Magic?"
"Yes, of course. Dobby knows a shop in Knockturn Alley called Borgin and Burkes. Mr. Borgin is a wizard who values confidentiality and possess a collection of rare books and artifacts that is not favored by most."
That definitely piqued Harry's interest. Hopefully the shop owner had what he was looking for. "Can you map out the area where the store is?"
"Dobby will get on it right away!" Bowing his head he disappeared with a 'pop' leaving a perplexed Harry.
"That is one eccentric house-elf." Finishing his breakfast he thanked the elves and left the kitchen.
For the rest of the week Harry dedicated himself to his studies making substantial improvement in his grades. The professors certainly seemed to notice the change in his attitude as he became colder and more antisocial with his peers. Even Professor Snape, who thoroughly disliked him couldn't find anything wrong with his work, and directed his ire at Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Neville Longbottom. Since quidditch was canceled for the year the trophy went to the team with the highest amount of points. The party in Gryffindor tower lasted until one in the morning when Professor McGonagall told everyone to go to bed. To keep up his appearance Harry stayed in the company of his teammates and wantonly ignored everyone else. However, a good portion of the students were not so happy as McGonagall punished the ones who harassed and failed to stick up for Mr. Potter by giving them detention until the end of June. Needless to say Ron, Dean, and Seamus were three of the students who received detention and complained for days on end. She even gave Draco Malfoy and his friends detention and took points for their part in harassing a student.
Pomona made a show one night during dinner by giving detentions and taking points away from the people who attacked Harry. The badgers lost moral at their head of house's punishment. Particularly Zacharias Smith's gang as they had two months of detention. One to be completed through the rest of the year; the other at the start of next year. She also sent letters home to their parents informing them what they did and who they did it to.
When classes were over Ron and Hermione tried to follow Harry out of class, but because he was in better shape than the two he managed to give them the slip. Ron complained that Harry was no longer spending time with him, often commenting on how he was turning into Hermione for spending more time reading and focusing on his studies. Hermione was beside herself as Harry continued to outperform her in class. Usually it was her who managed to perform a spell correctly first and get the highest grades in the class. But now it seemed like Harry was the best in his year. Harry knew full well what they wanted as he caught them talking in a deserted hallway not too long ago on how they received letters from Gringotts stipulating that their vaults were emptied and closed. All the money the money they got from Harry was returned, but that wasn't all since they still owed him more and took it out of their parents' accounts. Hermione ranted about the loss of money from both her and her parents' accounts and silently hoped they wouldn't find out. What's more she would no longer be able to access the Potter family library.
Ron had it worse as he received an angry letter from his mother telling him the goblins cleaned out their vaults and no more money would be deposited in them. She told him to do whatever he could to get the money back from Potter or their will be hell to pay when he got home. That was music to Harry's ears as he enjoyed seeing the two suffer. Little did they know was their punishments have only just begun.
When he arrived in the charm's classroom he informed Filius about the room of requirement where the two went so he could evaluate his pupil's skills. Filius had to admit he was impressed with how far the boy had come as his speed and power were commendable. His offensive and defensive skills were impressive as he used a combination of spells to both trick and break through his opponents defenses. In addition to his aggressive dueling style Filius became impressed with the boy's strategic and tactical skills as well as his ability to improve during combat. The duel ended after two hours when the charm's master called time and watched as Harry fell to his knees panting and sweating.
Walking over he asked for the room to give them some chairs while he conjured a cup and filled it with water. "Harry, I have to say…" figuring he failed Harry mentally prepared himself " . . .you have managed to greatly impress me." Handing over the cup filled with water to the surprised boy. Laughing as he watched him guzzle the water down. "This is truly going to be a lot of fun!"
"Glad to see I passed your test," Harry managed to crack a smile. "So, where do we go from here?" Filius raised a hand to stop him from asking any additional questions.
"Do not get a head of yourself," he gently chided. "You still have a long way to go. Despite being more powerful than your classmates; you still lack any formal training, will need to expand your repertoire of spells, hone your skills, and have to learn how to use your elemental and parseltongue abilities."
"What are you thinking?" Harry gave him a curious look when he smiled.
"I'm thinking that after school lets out for the summer we pay a visit to the dimension zone and participate in this year's Dueling tournament in Switzerland."
"My thoughts exactly sir," agreeing as he looked into the different dueling divisions. However, the dimensional chamber intrigued him. "What is the dimension zone? Some kind of bizarre chamber?"
A smile tugged at Filius's lips, "the dimension zone is basically a pocket dimension in which time flows faster than normal and the gravity is heavier. There you will be put through an intensive amount of training similar to what regular mages are put through. It will test you mentally, physically, and magically."
Harry wanted to grow stronger. He needed to become more powerful. More powerful than anyone else! "Let's do it," he said with a look of determination.
"Be warned this will not be easy. Many have tried to survive the harsh environment in the past and they've all failed to last longer than five months."
"Well if the goal is for me to get stronger fast then I can't think of a better way and unlike those who have failed I have something worth fighting for. Take me there and I promise you won't be disappointed," resolving himself.
Filius had to admit his pupil's determination was amazing as he possessed an extraordinary amount of willpower. "If that is what you wish then I will make the arrangements. Keep in mind though the gravity, temperature, and harsh environment will not be kind to you. Only those who are strong-willed will be able to survive. You will be able to do 18 months of training in a month. If you manage to survive the 18 months and demonstrate better control over your abilities I may have a surprise or two for you."
He could see the contemplative look, knowing his apprentice was juggling scenarios on what might be in the chamber. For the time he decided to keep his mouth quiet, as he will certainly be in for a shock. Changing the topic, "this year's dueling tournament will be held in Bern, Switzerland. Have you decided which division you want to participate in?"
"The U-16 Division." This will be a good way for him to get some practical experience, help teach, and refine his abilities. It will also teach him to be more observant, adaptable to the different styles, and demonstrate dueling strategies.
"Then you'd best prepare," Filius stated in a firm voice. "Several of the participants will be older, have a large set of repertoire of spells in their arsenals, and more experience. You will need to be at the top of your game."
"I, understand. Thank you, for today's session," Harry gave him a small bow. Rising from his chair he willed the Potter heir ring to materialize on his finger. "If you excuse me I'm going to pay a visit to my ancestral home."
After a short nod, Filius watched as his pupil portkeyed himself away. It astounded him to see that someone could portkey out of the castle as it was widely known that only the headmaster can use a portkey within these walls. Then shifting his thoughts to a different topic as he would need to speak with some people.
Hundreds of miles away the ring deposited Harry in an unfamiliar living room. For a minute he thought he would be sick, summarizing that wizarding travel hated him. Taking a minute to gather himself and taking in his surroundings. Before he could make a move a well-dressed house-elf popped in front of him. Unlike the other elves he'd seen this one did not wear a potato sack.
"Master Harry! Oh, bless the magic of Merlin you've finally returned. When Master James and Mistress Lily said they were going into hiding we feared the worse," tears came down his eyes.
"Who are you?" A stunned Harry asked.
"I, be the Head elf of the Potter family, master. My name is Bucky," wiping his eyes and giving a small bow. "The others have also been waiting for your return."
"How many other house-elves reside here and can you please not call me master? Harry will do," he politely requested.
"Of, course, young Harry," Bucky squeaked in a way that reminded Harry of Dobby. "There are currently sixteen of us left. I could call them here if that's what you wish?"
"Please. I would like to meet everyone and to know if anyone who is not a Potter by blood has been here."
Bucky gave a curt nod then popped away for a couple minutes to retrieve his companions. Arriving back in the living room with the other elves. They cried tears of happiness to see the young Potter heir. He spent some time getting to know each and every one of them, requesting the same thing he asked Bucky and letting them know of the new addition, Dobby. Bucky promised to take care of the new elf when he arrives as it was apparent he had suffered a lot at the hands of his former masters. The house-elves who lived at Potter manor were treated like family and never abused according to Bucky. Despite being old he kept the others in check. When enquired about if anyone else had been in the manor the elder elf shook his head, explaining that James had all of the Potter properties locked down. Harry breathed a sigh of relief to hear his dad had the foresight to take some initiative before passing away.
However, the good feeling washed away when one of the elves said how neither of his parents had enough time to create portraits. Though it was not a total loss as Lord and Lady Potters portraits were in the Lord's study. Resolving himself Harry followed as Bucky took him to a secluded area on the third floor of the manor where the study was.
"They is waiting in here," popping away.
Exhaling a breath he opened the door and walked in to see a richly decorated study in different colors, and a large golden portrait with two elderly people he figured to be his grandparents. Several shelves filled with books were present, along with a large mahogany desk. Expensive trinkets were scattered around; a dark-grey plush couch sat in front of the lit fireplace and the floor to ceiling windows gave an excellent view of the garden outside.
"James, is that you?" The woman with silver eyes settled on him, looking on the brink of tears. The man standing beside her put an arm around her shoulder while beaming at the young man who bared a resemblance to his son.
"Um no ma'am." Trying to find the right words, "I'm Har—"
"Harry." The old man gasped with tears threatening to come out of his eyes. "My grandson. We have waited a long time to meet you," his voice was solemn and full of relief.
"My, you look exactly like James did when he was younger, though you have your mother's eyes," getting a good view of his long-lost grandson. "The last time I saw you, was when Sirius tried to smuggle you out of the manor for a sleepover. Hard to say your mum was not too happy and cursed him with a few painful spells that made it impossible to sit right for a week. She also banned him from coming to visit for a month."
A small chuckle escaped his lips at hearing what his mum did to his in-prisoned godfather. It was therapeutic to be in the presence of some people who didn't want to use him for money and fame or treat him like a slave.
"Do not forget that he's also a Black," the woman known as Dorea, according to the name plate at the bottom of the portrait said. "Only members of the House of Black have cheek bones like this," wiping the tears from her eyes. "Where are your parents? It's been years since we've seen them."
The expression on Harry's faced changed into a mixture of anger and sadness, "wait, you mean, you don't know?" Looking at the pair with distant eyes. "I'm sorry, they were killed eleven years ago."
Charlus narrowed his eyes in anger. "How?" Seeing red as he had a feeling who killed them.
"Voldemort killed them a week after they went under the Fidelius charm," Harry replied.
Dorea started to sob her heart asking how this could have happened. Charlus was enraged swearing violently, that if he were not dead then he'd kill Voldemort himself.
"Mother fucker! I warned James to take better precautions. Had he stayed within the manor like I told him then he and his wife might still be alive. Of all the reckless and thoughtless things he's done he put his faith in Albus Dumbledore and joined his little society."
Before he could continue Dorea asked. "Where is Sirius? He should be here."
Harry gave her a confused look, "Sirius? I never met my godfather." If possible Charlus became a lot angrier as his wife opened her eyes in surprise. "The only thing I know about him is what Filius told me about his days as a students, that he made me the Heir to the House of Black, and that he now resides in Azkaban for killing my parents. I recently found out that Peter Pettigrew was their secret keeper; not Sirius. They apparently switched at the last minute."
"Who else knows of this? Who raised you?" Asked Charlus, who looked moments away from jumping out of the portrait. "What happened after the night he killed them?"
"Hold on," Dorea stopped him from asking anymore question. "We might need another opinion. Harry since you're the heir to the House of Black, you can call any of the remaining house elves."
"I'll try," taking a deep breath. "If there are any house elves still in service of the House of Black please come to me," he called.
It took a minute but an old elf 'popped' into the room with a severe expression. He was dressed in a similar potato sack like Dobby, and his tennis ball eyes narrowed at Harry with disgust. "Disgusting half-blood has the nerve to demand Kreacher's presence. If my mistress were to learn that a vile—"
"That is enough, Kreacher. You will not disrespect my grandson," Dorea snapped.
Kreacher's eyes softened as he looked at the portrait of Lord Black's sister. Despite being old he remembered her well as she was always kind and never punished him like the others. "Kreacher will punish himself for angering Mistress Dorea," bowing his head in shame.
"None of that," she waved it off. "This young man is my grandson; the Heir to the House of Black, and I expect you to show him the same amount of courtesy you've shown me." Pointing to Harry.
Following her finger the old house elf looked at Harry with bewilderment, like he was struggling in the inside. The Blacks were a family that valued blood purity as they were amongst the best and respected families in all of Europe. Yet standing in front of him was a half-blood. Lady Walburga would roll in her grave if she learned that a half-blood was the heir to the family. As much as he wanted to decline Kreacher could see the boy had a substantial amount of the Blacks family magic within him. Coming to a decision. "Kreacher will adhere to the Black family rules and traditions."
Bowing to her and Harry. Dorea continued, "I need you to bring the portrait of my brother. This will require some his expertise."
Kreacher nodded his head then apparated away. Not long later he returned levitating and sticking the portrait of Arcturus on the wall next to them. The former Head of the Blacks took in the surrounding of the manor, spying to the left his hard gaze softened some when his silver eyes rested on his little sister and brother in-law. Below him was a child he had never met before. The severity in his eyes returned.
"Why have you summoned me?" Shifting his eyes towards Charlus and Dorea. The cold steel in his voice sent shivers down Harry's spine.
"Cut the high and mighty attitude, Arcturus. We need your help," Charlus sending a serious look.
Arcturus narrowed his eyes, "even after we've died your still a pain in my arse." Briefly looking at a pleading Dorea, releasing a breath, "fine. I take it the child is your grandson." The two nodded as he turned his attention away.
"Hm," inspecting his great nephew with a once over. "How old are you?"
"Twelve going on thirteen at the end of July," replied Harry.
"You might be a Potter, but you have traits exclusive only to my family," narrowing his eyes. "Tell me boy. Are you a metamorphmagus?"
Rather than answering, Harry showed him by changing his appearance to look exactly like Filius much to everyone's astonishment. He then morphed back to normal. A ghost smile threatened to form on Arcturus's face as the metamorphmagi was a dominant trait of the Blacks. "Do you know anything about the House of Black?"
"Only what I've been told which isn't much. The Most Ancient and Noble House of Black are considered one of the most powerful and influential family's in all of Europe. They are members of the Dark faction, and apparently my godfather Sirius who resides in Azkaban for the supposed death of my parents made me his heir."
"Sirius? That useless mongrel is a disgrace to the family." A dark look quickly flashed across his face at the mention of his grandson. The boy spent most of his life rebelling against the family and was disowned after running away to his sister's family at only sixteen. He could say a lot about the mongrel, but the fool was loyal. Another thing that struck him was that he was in prison. "What do you mean he supposedly killed your parents? Despite being a disappointment he was loyal to James who he viewed as a brother rather than a distant cousin."
Harry told him everything he found at Gringotts from his parents will, and how they went inro hiding under the fidelius charm. While they wanted Sirius to be their secret keeper Dumbledore convinced them to make him a decoy while Peter became the actual keeper. But, unfortunately, Pettigrew sold them out to Voldemort and a week after being under the charm he killed them, then went after him. However, instead he was left with a lightning bolt scar on top his forehead which held a portion of his soul.
Arcturus was crossed between anger and sadness. "You have my condolences on the loss of your parents. But tell us what happened after he tried to kill you."
"You better get comfortable as this is gonna take some time and will not be pleasant." Charlus held his wife's hand as Arcturus grunted preparing himself for what he was about to be told.
Spending the next hour or so Harry told them everything on how Hagrid pulled him out of the destroyed cottage to where he was met by Sirius who demanded he hand him over as he was his sworn godfather. Hagrid refused as he had orders to deliver Harry to Dumbledore so he could be placed with his mother's muggle sister and her family. Grudgingly agreeing Sirius gave him his bike for the journey while he went after Peter. After meeting with Professor McGonagall and Dumbledore they left him on the doorstep of #4 Privet Drive with nothing but a letter. From their his life went to hell. For the next 10 years he never had contact the wizarding world and was treated like a slave who received an insurmountable amount of chores, frequently beaten by his uncle for the slightest amounts of accidental magic or whenever he did not have a good day at work. If not that he was beaten to a pulp by his Cousin Dudley and his gang whenever they would play 'Harry Hunting'. Sometimes they would leave him in his cupboard for days on in without any food.
The day of his eleventh birthday Hagrid came to deliver his Hogwarts letter even though his aunt and uncle tried to hide the fact he was a wizard. For years they told him his parents were drunks who died in a car accident. James sold drugs while Lily worked as a common whore. Naturally, Hagrid was steamed about what they told him regarding his parents; gave Dudley a pig's tail, and the Harry left. After leaving Gringotts with enough money they went to get his school supplies; Hagrid bought him a snowy owl as a birthday present who he named Hedwig. When time came for him to leave for school Hagrid disappeared in the middle of the muggle station. Wandering alone for a couple of minutes he heard Mrs. Weasley loudly asking where Platform 9 3/4 was? It was there he met the Weasley family. After that he found a compartment where he soon met Ron who immediately became fascinated with him. Not long after being sorted into Gryffindor Harry's first year began and he soon made friends with a muggleborn named Hermione Granger after a troll incident. From there the three were inseparable.
Near the end of the year they thought Snape was after the Philosopher's Stone, but in reality it was Quirinus Quirrell who was hosting what remained of Voldemort from the back of his head. When Quirrell tried to attack Harry he pressed his hands against his face burning the man to cinder then passed out where he awoke I the hospital wing. Not a moment later Dumbledore came in where he explained the stone had been destroyed and his theory of why Voldemort could not harm him. When asked why Voldemort came after him he brushed it off. At the end of the year feast Dumbledore awarded some last minute points to Gryffindor who later won the House cup.
During the summer things did not get any easier save for the fact of him being moved from the cupboard to Dudley's second room. From there he got a lecture from his aunt and uncle saying they knew he couldn't use magic outside of school and was treated the same way as the years before. In the last few weeks of summer Vernon put several locks on his door, installed a cat flap, and put bars window. This was because Dobby sabotaged his Vernon's dinner with a client. He would have remained a prisoner had it not been for the three youngest male Weasley's who liberated and took him to the Burrow where he spent the remainder of the summer under their care. There he met their sister Ginny and father Arthur.
In his current year at Hogwarts he spent most of the time being blamed for releasing a basilisk to petrify the students. Only a handful of people believed he was innocent, but it was less than a third of the overall population including the professors save for Filius who believed him to be innocent.
At the end of April he initially went to the Chamber of Secrets with a reluctant Ron and fraud Lockhart. Halfway through the chamber Lockhart pretended to faint after seeing the basilisk skin—thankfully it was just the skin—he then snatched Ron's destroyed wand from his hand, and tried to obliviate them only to be hit by the spell himself and flung against the wall causing a cave in. Thus leaving Harry to continue alone, by the time he made it to the chamber Ginny was laying on the cold stone floor with a diary in her hand. Turns out the diary belonged to Voldemort back when he was in school; turning it into a Horcrux. The Horcrux manifested a fragment of his 16 year old self, where he revealed part of his origin, and unleashed a basilisk to attack Harry. It would have been the end of him had it not been for Fawkes clawing the beast's eyes out, and when he got the Sword of Gryffindor he drove it through the top of its mouth stabbing it brain. But in doing so a tooth filled with venom entered his blood stream. With his life fading he took the fang and stabbed the diary destroying the fragment of Voldemort.
Before the basilisk's venom could kill him Fawkes cried into his wound nullifying the venom, and carried him, the revived Ginny, her brother, and the obliviated Lockhart out of the chamber where they met Professors McGonagall and Flitwick at the entrance of the chamber. While Filius took Gilderoy and Ginny to the hospital wing, Minerva escorted Harry and Ron to the headmaster's office. After a short talk Malfoy came bursting in demanding to know why Dumbledore had returned only to find that the Board of Governors reinstated him and removed Lord Malfoy from his position as Chairman. Seeing how he treated Dobby, Harry tricked him into freeing the elf, and before the man could fire the killing curse at him Dobby blasted him away. Later that day he went to see Filius, but lacked the strength, and shortly after the diminutive professor opened the door he collapsed and was taken to Gringotts for treatment.
It was there he learned of his true heritage and that Dumbledore had sealed his parents will, put several blocks on him, been stealing money from along with Hermione, Ron and Molly Weasley.
So many emotions were cycling the adults the one they all felt the most was rage. Charlus and Arcturus were the most vocal as they were swearing like no tomorrow and cursing those bastards to the depths of hell.
"That goat fucking bastard has crossed the line," Charlus roared in anger. "If I were not dead I'd introduce him to the horrors of hell."
"He's fucked with the wrong family," Arcturus yelled feeling just as angry. "They all have." Turning his attention to Harry. "If what you've told me is true. . .then I will help you prepare. Dumbledore has gone too far."
"Why would you help me?" Giving the old geezer a cautious look. Filius told him the Blacks were known for their unsavory disposition and lack of warmth's.
Appreciating the boy's air of caution, "because you are as much of a Black as you are a Potter. I will also not allow our families Lordship and money to fall in the hands of that French swine Malfoy. Aside from you there is only one other candidate. . .Narcissa's brat son. Lucius should never have been allowed to marry into the family, and I'll bet that his bastard of a son was pampered all throughout his life. From what you've told me he's exceedingly arrogant and is used to getting anything he wants. That fucker will not get this Lordship!"
Harry had to admit he was impressed with the old man. Behind his harsh words was a person who valued his family above all else. "What happens now?" Emerald eyes met stormy eyes.
"For starters you will need to fix any and all health problems you might still have. Then you'll need to grow as you are far too short for your age. At Black manor our ancestral home we have some special food that will help you grow and make your body stronger. Mind you the ingredients and knowledge of how to make it belong only to certain members of our House. No one else on this planet has access to it. Luckily, for you this was created by the old members of the House of Black nearly six centuries ago. We have a generous supply and know how to make more in case there's a shortage. When you get the chance go to the Lord's study at the manor, and get the family grimoire. It's located in a gold and black chest with several security measures. Three drops of blood will be required and declare who you are."
"But before that you will need the Potter family grimoire," Charlus cut in pointing a dragon statue next to the wall. "That statue houses the grimoire, drop some blood on its head, and pour your magic into it."
Walking over to the statue he followed his grandfather's instruction, biting his thumb hard enough to draw blood and placed his hand on the dragon's head he transferred some of his magic and allowed his blood to be scanned. A minute later the statues underbelly slid open revealing a black leathered grimoire with a gold 'P' in the middle and the Potter family crest below it.
"That book is only for your eyes. If you allow anyone to read it then the consequences for you will be dire that I promise." The cold dark tone in his voice showed he meant it.
"Understood, grandfather," he could already feel the essence of his family's magic within the book.
With a final bow he had Kreacher return Arcturus's portrait to #12 and left the study. Heading back downstairs to the living room he found Dobby speaking with the other house elves. When the newest edition saw him he squeaked. "Dobby has completed the task sir," pulling the map he made from his pocket and handing it over.
"Thank you, Dobby." He said while looking over the map. Finding the shop, route, and a couple of hidden places where he could appear. Then changing his appearance, his emerald eyes became silver, his black hair became brown, and finally his skin tone became darker. "I need you to drop me off right here," pointing to a darken area, "and keep a lookout. Can you, do that?"
"Of course, sir. But wait Dobby suggest you leave your Hogwarts robes as it might draw attention."
"Good idea," taking his robe off he threw it on the couch. Then took Dobby's hand so the elf could apparate him to Knockturn Alley and with a silent pop they were gone.
The two reappeared a couple of buildings aways from the shop in a dark alley. Expanding his senses to see if anyone was nearby. A brief smile came across his face, "remember Dobby stay out of sight and keep a watchful eye."
The house elf nodded. Harry emerged from the shadows and walked to store. Borgin and Burkes was the most infamous store in all of Britain as it housed and sold various items from both the grey and darker categories of magic. Harry snorted as the Ministry and Dumbledore only authorized the use of light magic, mostly out of fear. Despite its reputation he felt like the shop would be of great use to him.
Opening the door to enter the shop it looked just as deplorable as the first time he came, but it had an unusual atmosphere that radiated power and darkness. His attention was drawn to the man in charge as he came down the stairs with a dark smile. "A new customer such a rarity. How may I be of service?"
"A few friends of mine told me you had a collection of rare and powerful books. I would like to see if you have anything worth my attention. Namely to destroy my enemies," Harry's voice was dark yet serious.
"Mm. Then follow me," leading his new customer to the back room where several books were hanging off the shelves. Borgin saw his eyes light up, showing he was impressed. Maintaining his usual business façade, "the section you will find most appealing will be in the back. Come to the register when you're ready and we will negotiate prices," emphasizing the word negotiate as he wondered how much he could get.
Harry went to the shelf in the back to see if he really did have something beneficial. The shelves might be spooky—heart stopping to most. Though that did not stop him. Looking through the shelf his eyes then rested on two large dueling books Tactical Strategic Methods for Dueling by Antonin Dolohov and Master the Art of Magical Combat: Both Conventional and Unconventional by Bellatrix Lestrange. From what he knew the two were a part of Voldemort's inner circle and two of his deadliest combatants. They were sentenced to life in Azkaban. Learning how to fight like Voldemort's top Death Eaters could prove useful.
Moving to some of the other shelves he found an ancient book about parseltongue magic, followed by A Guide to Understanding Elemental Magic, and a standard Auror Handbook, along with several others that would be most helpful. Gathering everything he needed he went to the front desk and handed them over to Borgin.
"I must say you have some good eyes," the man said in a silky voice. "Most of these books you want are frowned upon—some like those idiots in the Ministry would call them dark and not be viewed by those so young."
"Well, I couldn't care less," Harry replied in a casual tone. "No one controls me and I am way past the point of caring about the opinions of small-minded men and women."
Borgin began laughing at the response, "you got balls boy. I'll give you that. It's about time someone sticks a broom up their asses. The total will be 31,260 galleons."
Narrowing at the steep price for the books. Twisting his lips as he really needed them. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out his wallet, and said the amount he needed to withdraw along with an additional 200 galleons. "Mr. Borgin, we may have a future together," sliding the money over then taking his wand to shrink the books.
The greedy merchant's smile became bigger. "I trust my visit will remain quiet," giving an imperius look.
"Confidentiality is my specialty. What you purchase in my store is your business," Borgin put the gold away.
Accepting the man's answer he collected his books and left. Heading back into the dark alley where he told Dobby to stand guard. Ensuring no one was around he reached for the elf's hand and was apparated back to Potter manor, where he retrieved his Gryffindor robes, and bag before being taken back to Hogwarts in one of the castle's unused classrooms. Then taking his wand he resized his books, added an undetectable extension charm to his bag to make carrying the items he bought a lot easier. Leaving the classroom he went outside to get some air and enjoy the sun light.
A/N: Harry has finally met his uncle and grandparents who were less than happy to hear how his life went after Voldemort killed his parents. He made a trip to Borgin and Burkes to obtain some beneficial books to help, him in his journey. And with Filius on board as his mentor he will gain a reputation both as a man and duelist. It's time the world knew who he was and why they should fear him, no longer will he take anyone's crap. All the people who crossed him will learn what vengeance is.
Also, I should point out that #12 Grimmauld Place is not the same as the Black family Manor. The former is merely a townhouse.
BTW the Dimension Zone is inspired by the Hyperbolic Time Chamber from Dragon ball.
The first poll for this story will be on Pa tre on. The poll will last for eight days and end at 2:30 p.m.
Next Chapter: Return to the Chamber. The Head Serpents.