Chapter 6: Surprise and End of the First Year

In the second semester, after the Christmas break, the students were back to working on their academics and revising for their classes. Many of them were relieved with their results from the first semester, and the teachers were even impressed and decided to test the students who achieved possible candidacy to be moved up to attend classes with the older years. Even Sensei Tokugawa had decided to keep a closer eye on the current and new students. More notably, Harry. Having taken an interest in the young man, he decided to give the boy more special training. To his immense surprise, the boy's potential was only matched by his level of determination and the amount of effort he put into his training.

Two months into the new semester, Tokugawa was watching from his seat as his favorite protege dueled against three dueling dummies. The boy had been going at it for an hour and a half, dodging, parrying, and attacking. Only when he finally disarmed them did Shinichi signaled them to stop. "Ah, good. A warrior must be as nimble as a cheetah. Yet fierce as a Hungarian Horntail," he said, walking over to the boy as he grabbed a bottle of water.

"You are improving rather nicely for one so young," Shinichi praised, then added. "However, there is always room for improvement. We will pick this up another time. For now, go grab a shower and get started on your homework, as I'm sure your professors have given you quite a bit."

"Yes, Master," Harry bowed at the man. His teacher was right; since coming back to school, the professors have been on him like bees on honey. They would assign him more advanced spells and potions to work on once they found he could easily do the prescribed work his classmates did. Drinking the rest of his water and wiping the sweat from his face, he went to the boy's locker room to grab a quick shower and change his clothes. ". . .that hurts. Damn sadistic man," he attempted to raise his arms, but they were too sore and felt like they were made of jelly.

Sucking it up, he removed his clothes, turned on the water, and stepped into the shower so the hot water could fall on his body. For whatever reason being in the water or in the air always seemed to make him feel free. The tension in his muscles started to fade away as the warm water droplets continued to fall on his body. While cleaning his body off, his mind wandered to the request he made to his grandfather and uncle over the winter break. The former was easier to convince than the latter as he seemed very reluctant to let him attempt such a thing, but eventually agreed. . .upon the promise that he would read about it first and take the necessary steps. Even then, that was met with some reluctance. Already knowing it would be a difficult process, he had been doing some research and found it would be more prudent to test his hypothesis under a starry night sky and the full moon.

After a quick shower, he grabbed his towel, dried off, and put on some fresh clothes. While still sore in a few areas, Harry pushed through, left the building with his things, and went to make a quick stop at the owlery. Walking up the stone stairs, he set his bag on the terrace and called over two owls; opening his bag, he pulled out two letters. One for his grandfather and the other for Sirius, Amelia, and Lauren. Quickly tying the letters to the legs of the two owls sent them on their way. "That should do it for now."

Taking his wand out from its holster, he waved and said, "tempus." The spell showed there was a half-hour left before curfew, and thus went to his dorm. Because the owlery was so close to the dorms, he didn't have to walk far; entering through the main entrance, he found Natalie sitting in one of the lobby's chairs reading a potion's book. "Hey, Nat. Doing some light reading before bed."

Lifting her head, she saw her friend coming over," hey Harry, and yeah. Professor Augustine is going to test me in a few days to see if I'm ready for the next level. Any chance I can get a little help?"

"Sure. I take it you want me to quiz you?" She nodded her head affirmatively. Harry knew what she'd been studying because Potions was one of the classes he was being considered for advancing in. For the next several minutes, he questioned her on how to properly brew a couple of potions ". . .and at what stage do you add toasted dragonfly thoraxes until the potion turns blue?"

"Stage eleven, after adding three measures of doxy eggs," Nat answered.

"Correct." He closed the book, "I asked you eighteen questions, and you missed three, so you made an. . . 83."

"Ah, man," she groaned in annoyance. "I've been studying for the past three hours, and all I get is an 83?!"

"Don't worry, Nat," placing a comforting arm around her. "We still have four days until the exam, and I am confident you'll receive a decent grade. We'll go through this step by step and—" a muggle lightbulb lit up in his head. "Hold on. I have a better idea!"

"What kind?"

"When you study. . .you try to read and memorize the entire book, right?" She gave him a curt nod. "Perhaps that is the problem. Instead of memorizing an entire book of different potion mixtures, why not stick to the important stuff. You know how Sophie and I study?" Again she nodded, believing she knew what he was thinking. "Meet me in the potions wing of the research lab tomorrow after school. I have an idea that just might work."

With a semi-confused expression, she retook her book, followed him up the steps to the second floor, and went to her dorm. Since last semester she learned that Harry had a thing for surprises and always had a trick or two up his sleeve. Whenever an idea popped into his head, or a challenge was presented to him, he would meet it with cunning, intelligence, creativity, and determination. His resourcefulness was something admired by their peers and the older students.

The next day after classes were through, she managed to get most of her homework out of the way and went to meet Harry in the research lab. She didn't know what he had in mind, but knowing him, it had to be something clever. Sophie and the others went to spend some additional time studying with the different professors to work on their advanced subjects sp that left her alone. Arriving at the building, she walked to one of the elevators, pressed the button for the third floor, and was taken up. The elevator stopped at the desired floor, and Natalie stepped out of the elevator and walked through the hallway to the potion wing. Less than two minutes later, she entered the lab, where she saw several students either working on their projects for class or doing some research under the watchful eyes of the staff members.

In the far back was Harry sitting at a table with two cauldrons and some ingredients in front of him with the door window open. She walked over to take the seat next to him. "So this is your idea? Have me brew a potion?" An incredulous look was on her face.

"Yes. As a matter of fact, it is," he said with a grin. The confusion on her face grew more visible, so he explained. "I've noticed how you are a more practical person. You learn more by doing than by reading through texts. You also learn by seeing it. The latter you do better at when you watch others do it and see things from a different perspective. So what better way to teach you than by making a potion and watching someone else do it?"

Despite sounding a bit unorthodox, she figured it might be a good idea. The two preteens then got to work with Harry showing her how to create the potions that might appear on their test while explaining why every ingredient went in a specific order. Two and a half hours later, Natalie started to get the hang of it. . .more importantly, she managed to alter some of the potion recipes, making her potions more powerful. By understanding the ingredients and the way they're mixed, I can make the potions correctly and more potent."

"Yes, however, it is important to be careful. Some ingredients and stages are volatile, and should a mistake be made, then an explosion could occur," Harry remembered the lectures he got from Severus whenever he would work on a potion with him. "Potion-making is about being prepared and knowing when and how a potion is made. At times there will be subtle changes that you must be aware of. . ."

"In other words, before attempting to fix or create a potion, we need to understand what is needed and what has been done to it," Natalie concluded. "That's real smart thinking."

Harry grinned at what she said. The two of them then started cleaning up their area and dumped their potions down the sink. They then collected their things and left the lab feeling both mentally exhausted and exhilarated, especially Natalie, who just discovered a new way of doing things. Everyone had a different way of learning things: auditory, visual, reading/writing, and by just doing it. There was only so much a person could learn while in a classroom, which is why most decided to experiment or refine their skills through repetition on their own time and later form their own conclusions. No wonder why Sophie and Harry got such high marks on their essays, quizzes, and exams. Sophie was a person with a sharp mind and was intellectually driven.

For this reason, she was the intellect of the group. However, it would be a mistake to dismiss her skills when it came to practical applications; she was second only to Harry in that regard. On the other hand, Harry was the opposite, as he was a more practical and thoughtful person. His ability to quickly master spells, apply what he learned, in theory, to be practical, have more raw power than most children should at their age, and inquisitive and innovative mindset which could think relatively quick ideas. . .is why he became the Leader. Despite his somewhat cold and ruthless nature, he was a good, honorable person and a better friend.

"So, how are you coming along with your mystery project?" She asked as he only said he was working on something big but declined to give any concrete details. While she respected him for wanting to keep whatever it was, he was working on quiet. . .and knowing that it could bring some unwanted attention. In a way, she understood his need for privacy, as he disliked the attention he got after that night he became the Boy-Who-Lived. That night and nickname was a reminder of what he lost. Yet, that didn't stop her from being curious. "Come on. Give me a little information."

Seeing the look on her face, he decided to share a tidbit of information with her, "all right. The surprise should be ready by early May if everything goes as planned. Also, it will be a real surprise. One that will leave many shocked."

This response elicited a small giggle from Natalie, "you sure do have a thing for theatrics. Though knowing you, it will be a sight to behold." The two laughed as they left the research building.

"That is something I can absolutely guarantee," Harry casually replied. "What now? We're caught up on all our homework assignments and other studies. What say we get the gang together and head down to the beach?"

Thinking for a minute, she replied," sounds good to me. Time away from our studies will do us some good." The warm breeze that flew across her face felt nice. It would also be wrong if they didn't take advantage of the time they had off. "Let's find the others."

And so they did just that. From what they could tell, it seemed like the others were mentally drained and in desperate need of some relaxation. More importantly, Jeremy, who looked like he was about to pass out right then and there. The poor boy had been working hard like the others, and his two roommates could tell he had much tension. ". . .we're all tired and have earned a brief rest."

"Agreed. Relaxing my thoughts could help ease my mind," Jeremy massaged his temples. "Oh, and thanks for those books on occlumency you gave me for Christmas." He'd been reading through the books and found them to be very useful. Old. But useful. The idea of being able to protect his mind and store more information like spells, potion-making skills, etc. It would be of great help. What's more, the idea of being able to connect more with his core intrigued him greatly.

"Any time," Harry replied as they went to the beach. "Just keep in mind that it is important to take a break when needed. Working hard is great and all, but without some downtime and moments to relax will be disastrous to our health."

Jade quickly added, "Harry makes a valid point. We've been up to our necks in paperwork and other studies. A little time to relax will be just what we all need." She pulled out a bottle of cool blue Gatorade and took a quick swig. There are only a couple more months left of school, and in that time, we can maintain our studies, work on things for our advanced classes and show the professors we're ready to be moved up, and still find the time to enjoy ourselves."

"Speaking of enjoying ourselves," Andrew started with a wide grin. "I heard from the older students that there will be a party in a few weeks. You guys game?"

Knowing what her brother was talking about, Jade's lips immediately formed a cheeky smile. "That's a good idea! I know the party you're talking about, and it would be nice to push our studies away for a few hours."

"Is it an open party? Everyone is invited?" Sophie asked with a slight amount of skepticism in her voice.

"Far as I know," Jade nodded. "Don't worry. I'll look more into it," she winked at her friend.

(0^0)

Hours later, in Great Britain, a one hundred and nine-year-old Albus Dumbledore was pacing back and forth in his office at Hogwarts with an aggravated expression on his face. Albus Dumbledore was not a happy man. Not a happy man indeed. He had sent letters after letters to Charlus requesting an audience with him so he could get a read on young Harry. Lord Potter would be steamed if he knew how much his plans hinged on getting the boy under his control. Did he believe that Voldemort had been dead like the rest of the Wizarding World? No. Tom was the only wizard he had ever known to travel down such a dark and dangerous path. It was he who introduced him to the Magical World when he was still a Transfigurations Professor. Did he know the boy was dark, hated muggles with a passion, and had been studying the Dark Magic in the Restricted Section? Absolutely!

He kept a close eye on him during his tenure at Hogwarts, especially after the Chamber of Secrets fiasco decades ago in which many muggle-born students were attacked—petrified—one Myrtle Warren had ended up dead, and Hagrid was expelled. While he suspected that Tom was the one behind the attacks, the evidence against Hagrid was overwhelming. Luckily, he intervened at the last minute by convincing Armando Dippet to train Hagrid as Gamekeeper. Since then, the half-giant had been unquestionably loyal and saw him as a hero. Just like everyone should see him. He was Albus Dumbledore. He was meant to have everything and guide the sheep of this world.

During the war with Tom and his Death Eaters, he knew things would go bad and that many would die, including the Order of Phoenix members. While their deaths were sad, they were mere pawns in the larger grand scheme. They were nothing but chess pieces for him to move as he saw fit. And then came the prophecy Sybil Trelawney created that cold, wet night. When he agreed to meet her that night in his brother's bar, he set a series of events into motion. He knew Severus was tailing him and sought to make it easy for him to overhear his conversation and part of the prophecy before being thrown out. After that, it was relatively easy for him to manipulate things his way; however, there was one wrinkle. Lily Potter.

She was a lot smarter than he gave her credit for. Not to mention would question his motives and orders. The blasted woman never fully trusted him, often suspecting he had a hidden agenda. He knew she was pregnant along with Alice Longbottom, as the two were expecting their children to be born at the end of July. He knew Peter Pettigrew was a Death Eater spy, for he was not a Master Legilimens for nothing. To ensure his plans came to fruition, he placed a loyalty potion and memory charm on James to convince him to move into a small cottage instead of Potter Manor and did the same to Sirius so they'd make Peter their secret keeper. Peter would then go after the Potters and execute James and Lily, thereby leaving their son an orphan and free for him to influence. Even as a baby, Harry had power within him, and the times he would look into his green, emerald eyes saw a brief glimpse of the boy's magic. If, by some chance, Lily's son wasn't the boy the prophecy was referring to, then there was Frank and Alice's son Neville. The Longbottom heir didn't show any signs of having any remarkable magic when he was born. Still, the boy was born on the 30th of July at 11:57 p.m., which was relatively close to the end of July. Being caught between a rock and a hard place, as the muggle saying goes, he confounded the Longbottoms' secret keeper to give them up.

As a result, the prophecy did come to pass, and Harry was chosen. The wards he set up around the Potter's cottage had alerted him that James and Lily were dead and that Voldemort had been defeated. That is why he sent Hagrid to go retrieve him. But for some unexplained reason, Arcturus and Charlus got to him before he could. Being the boy's grandfather automatically granted him custody and, with the backing of Lord Arcturus, cemented it. Adding insult to injury, they barred him from going anywhere near Harry and got Sirius exonerated. This did not sit well with him at all, as Sirius had refused to meet with him or even reply to his letters. What's more, the man had quit his job as an Auror, married Amelia Bones from the Most Noble House of Bones, who became the newly elected Head of the DMLE, and had a child with her. Alliances can and have bothered him to no end of trouble. He needed them as his puppets and to know how magically powerful Harry was before entering Hogwarts.

The more he knew. The more he would be able to create tests to challenge him and see how he will do. Molly and Arthur's youngest son Ronald would be instrumental. The boy would befriend him on the train ride over, implanting information that being in Gryffindor would be the best possible choice and that every member placed in Slytherin was dark and evil. Molly already hated those who came and are sorted into the Slytherin house and has likely passed it down to her children. He strongly hoped that everything would go as planned.

Returning to his golden chair behind his desk, Albus missed the disapproving glare Phineas Nigellus was sending him. "Albus Dumbledore. You arrogant, manipulative, and interfering goat fucking bastard! You will rue the day you crossed the House Black!" He mentally said. "Where if I not dead and could reach out of this portrait, I'd strangle and introduce you to the horrors of hell."

Albus then raised his head when the magic of the office informed him that Minerva and Severus were about to approach the door. "Come in, Severus, Minerva," he said in a grandfatherly voice.

The door to his office opened, and Minerva was the first to enter, followed by Severus. "Good morning, you two. Would either of you care for a Sherbert Lemon?" They declined, and he popped one into his mouth. "Such a shame. They really are good."

He then got down to business, "today's Wizengamot session was the same as last. . . so you both can imagine how that went. Lord Potter and Lord Black were about as conversational and friendly as ever," part of his voice was laced in sarcasm.

Severus had to hold back a sneer that threatened to form against his lips. Instead, he coolly said, "Headmaster, I to find their attitudes and stances in the Wizengamot concerning, but given their ire's, it might be prudent to. . . for the time being step back."

"I would have to agree with Severus on this, Albus," Minerva took a step forward. "It is clear that Charlus and Arcturus are still dissatisfied with your stance from the war and are determined to protect what remains of their families," thinning her lips. "If they wish to have an audience with you, they will do it on their own accord."

"That will be easier said than done as it would be near nigh-impossible," Severus mentally said. "After what Albus did, attempting to get them on his side will be most difficult, not to mention highly unlikely."

"Their angers at me are understandable," Albus clasped his fingers together. "However, for the greater good, it is imperative that they become our allies. Both families have incredible influence within the political sphere and could very well tip the balance of power to each side that could gain their favors."

Minerva sighed. "I have known Charlus and Arcturus for years and could positively say they don't care about the views of the more politically and bigoted minds of the Wizengamot. Among the handful of individuals on the Wizengamot, they are incorruptible and will not bend to the wishes of anyone with questionable agendas."

Thinking for a few minutes, Albus leaned back in his chair, "unfortunately, I must agree with you, Minerva." Perhaps it would be best to adapt his strategy. His mind then went through a list of possibilities: He could wait until the 1st of September in 1991 when the Potter boy arrives for his first year, put a tracking charm on the boy's Hogwarts letter when it is sent out, or get what he needs through Edward and Andromeda Tonks daughter. If he remembered correctly, the girl's name was Nymphadora Tonks. A Hufflepuff sixth year. The last option appealed to him, but the other possibilities might also be good. He would have to think about them more. "However, I must insist on using caution when approaching the two as they are extremely powerful and highly dangerous."

At the end of this meeting, he would need to think.

(0^0)

As the months flew by, Harry would continue to excel in his classes, much to the surprise of his professors and fellow peers. The work was grueling, but nothing he couldn't handle, and under the watchful eyes of Sensei Tokugawa, his skills in both muggle and magical combat would continue to grow. Some of the professors would occasionally discuss whether or not he was just an ordinary student who'd been lucky as of late. Yet he slowly put those theories to rest. The more they observed and evaluated his progress, the more intrigued they became.

During the first week of May, before the older students had to leave for the International Tournament, the Headmistress and one of the Transfiguration professors were heading to the beach where a handful of other individuals were waiting for them.

"What could a boy who hasn't finished his first year have to show us? I doubt it be anything interesting," a skeptical Professor Matthews seemed reluctant to view what a nine-year-old had to show. The man was a strict seventh-year Transfigurations professor and one of the senior members of the staff.

"Settle down, Sam," Mariah chided her colleague. "This student, in particular, is something special and should not be underestimated. You have no doubt heard and read his file."

"The boy is unquestionably skilled at some branches of magic; I do not deny. But that hardly means he should be taken seriously. However," lifting his nose into the air, "I will reserve any further judgment till the end of the year. We'll see if the boy is as exceptional as you and the other professors say." Sam was a man who needed to see it for himself.

Walking onto the beach, the two found that Lord Potter and Lord Black were speaking with the young Potter boy and that the boy's friends were present. "All right, child," walked over to Harry with a strict, no-nonsense expression. "What could be so important that I leave my office while in the middle of grading exams?"

Arcturus narrowed his eyes at the man and was about to speak when Harry cut in with a grin to meet the man's expression. "I assure you that what I have to show will leave you and everyone else stunned."

"I highly doubt that," the man responded with dissatisfaction. "However, I will give you the chance to prove me wrong. Get a move on it. I have things to do."

The grin not leaving his face, Harry took off his academy jacket, handing it along with his wands to his grandfather. He then turned and walked till he was ankle-deep in the ocean. Seeing that he had everyone's attention, he closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and reached down into the depths of being to find his magical core. A minute later, his magic started to flare up in waves.

The ocean's waves started to roil as the wind swirled around him. Everyone watched as his green eyes glowed. "Show time," he said with a bigger grin. He began to change as the water rose to snake around his body. Much to everyone's surprise, the nine-year-old boy had turned into a large fifty-foot tall, blue-green avian beast. There were three pairs of powerful wings with feathers that shimmered with the color of the Circassian sea, five long tails with sharp feathers at its tip, and a blue gem on his forehead. When the transformation was complete, he released a loud screech and waved his wings, generating some strong winds that threatened to knock them back.

"What in the. . ." Sam's eyes looked like they were going to pop out as the large avian ascended into the air with incredible speed. "I-I can't even," he fell on his back unconscious.

Mariah's mouth was completely dry as she watched her student dive into the water like it was nothing. She then pinched herself to make sure she wasn't dreaming. "Potter became an animagus? But how can that be? He's only nine!" Adding to that, his animagus form was a magical creature. A Tsunamibird! Of all things, he became a Tsunamibird. "Merlin, I'm going to need a glass of Firewhiskey tonight. Probably the entire bottle."

"You and me both," Charlus could not the proud smile from appearing on his face. He watched with pride as his grandson emerged from the water. "What about you, Arcturus?" Nudging his brother-in-law to bring him back to reality.

"Uh, yes. Most impressive," unable to take his eyes as the Tsunamibird, who was his nephew, flew towards them with incredible speed and brought a huge wave with him. "I was skeptical and somewhat reluctant to let him try the animagus transformation, as I wasn't sure he would be able to achieve it until he was older. . . But seeing him transform into a magical creature with my own eyes is truly something to behold."

"Not to interrupt here," an amazed yet fearful Jeremy interjected. "But there's a giant wave of water heading towards us!" He pointed at the incoming wave.

"Agreed," Charlus, Arcturus, and Mariah took their wands and quickly created a magical barrier.

Just when Harry neared them, he changed directions, shooting straight up into the air, and the wave of water that had been following him sunk back down. None of them knew that Harry was only having some fun and wanted to test his new abilities. He then started performing complex aerial maneuvers and occasionally dived back into the ocean. Then, after twenty minutes, he flew back to where the others were and transformed back when he landed. "I think I just found a new way to clear my head of stress."

"Th-that was incredible," Sophie shouted. She and the others rushed over. "When did—How did you?"

"A good wizard never reveals his secrets," he cheekily replied, then turned to Professor Stone. "I think you'd might want to revive someone," gesturing to the still-unconscious seventh-year Transfigurations professor.

"That's a No-Maj magician. Start talking," she jabbed her wand, sending a reviving spell at her colleague.

"Since the end of last term, I've been itching to do some research on the animagus transformation," Harry began. "After term, I went home and spoke with my grandfather and uncle about the possibility of me becoming one myself. My uncle," gesturing to Arcturus, "was reluctant, as you might imagine, but eventually gave in to my request, albeit grudgingly. From that point, I've been looking into the published book by Sorceress Minerva McGonagall, compared it to my father and his friends' notes about the transformation, and have been reading through the ancient texts about how some people used a different method. I even made a couple discovering myself," he explained.

"Three of those are that the transformation is more potent under a full moon. The inner animal resonates with the moon and begins to manifest quicker. The second is that each beast that resides in a person is determined by more than that person's characteristics but by how connected they are to their magical core. Then finally, if the person has an attachment to a specific element, that will have a big part in their animal form." Everyone looked at him with bewilderment. "From there, it was only the matter of actually being able to transform."

Realization then hit Andrew. "Wait a minute. Those nights before curfew when we would sometimes find you on the beach or under a tree meditating, you were actually trying to. . ."

"Transform, yes," Harry confirmed. "I finally achieved the form last week while meditating in the water."

Arcturus gave him an impressive smirk, "as expected of someone from the House of Black. Kid, you continue to impress."

"Well, I am your nephew. How can I prove my worth and accomplish my goals if I don't have any ambition or ruthlessness to achieve what I want. You taught me that," pointing directly at Arcturus.

Lord Black then burst out laughing, "you got that right. I did," he then added. "Now we just need to get you registered."

"Leave that to me," Charlus said with a grin.

Jade then entered the conversation with a question. "What kind of creature was that? I've never seen anything like it before."

Sophie answered for him, "that was a Tsunamibird. They're Class- XXXX-type magical creatures who are related to phoenixes and thunderbirds. Like their name suggests, they can create tsunamis, generate massive waves, travel through the water as quickly as they do in the air, and fly at incredible speed."

"Do you know everything?" Traces of complaining were etched in Andrew's voice.

". . .Kinda, yeah," she casually replied. "Continue," waving a finger at Harry.

"In addition to being able to create a cyclone, they are extremely intelligent and are very selective of who they choose to associate with," Harry concluded. "I plan to study the animagus transformation more when I have the time."

"So, professor. Have I met your expectations?" He turned to the man, who still seemed shocked by what he had seen.

Sam regained his voice a second later, "that you have. Were this for a grade, you'd receive a 110," he replied. "To think that a nine-year-old boy could transform into an animagus is astounding."

Harry then looked back at his uncle and grandfather. "Do me a favor and keep this quiet from Sirius, Amelia, and Lauren. I want this to be a surprise when I show them." Knowing his godfather loved a good prank now and then. This surprise would leave him shocked. The two caught onto what he was thinking and agreed, though Arcturus shook his head in an attempt to cover up his smile.

The kids were then sent back to their quarters so the adults could talk. On the way back, they began talking. Well, it was more of Sophie and Natalie grilling Harry for answers. He tried to look pleadingly at the others for help, but they sent a look to him that said you knew this was coming.

"Ladies. Ladies, please, one at a time," he went to respond to Sophie's question about how long it would take for him to get registered. "I don't know. I don't work at the Ministry or the ICW. Though, if I had to guess, maybe a week or two."

"When are you going to do more tests on the form?" Natalie hoped it would be soon.

"Whenever I have the time," Harry replied, then added. "Don't forget we only have one month left of school, and it is very likely that we will be up to our necks in essay assignments and revising."

"Ugh, don't remind me," Jade groaned. This school is nice and all, but I'm praying that time goes by fast." Andrew through an arm around her shoulders.

He smiled and said, "let's just try and make it. From what I've heard, we all have a good chance of being moved up into our respective subjects."

Jeremy then started to laugh, "no doubt about that! With the amount of work we've done thus far, we should be allowed to move up." Entering the residence hall's lobby, he then suggested. "Why don't we play some exploding snaps? All our homework is done, so what's the harm in playing a game."

"Good idea," Jade perked up. The others agreed, and Jeremy pulled a deck of cards from his pocket when they sat down.

(0^0)

As the rest of the school year went on, the students found themselves up to their necks in assignments and revising for exams. Especially the OWL and NEWT students, who'd been working hard in preparing for their end-of-the-year exams. No matter where you looked, groups of students huddled together studying. Most believed their professors were trying to torture them, but none complained. By the time it came for the students to do their last exams of the year, a handful of the younger years were eager to get them completed and return to their dorms.

After their final exam, the Ouroboros Squad carried themselves up to their dorms. Sophie, havin' pulled her key out, unlocked the door to let herself and the others in. Jeremy and Andrew immediately threw themselves onto the sofas as Harry took his wand and transfigured the coffee table into a large mattress. He then threw himself onto the mattress, with the girls following suit. "Hey, Jeremy."

"What?" The boy groaned.

"Remind me. This was our last exam for the year, right?"

"Yes!" Andrew cried. "Thank Merlin! No more essays or tests to study for."

"Don't jinx it, brother," Jade raised her head. "Chances are we might get summer homework." That made him groan loudly. "That is exactly how I feel."

Sophie then commented, "at least we're done for now. Spain, here I come." She and her parents would be spending the next three weeks there. "It'd be nice to get away."

"Yeah, right. For now, let's just take a short nap," Harry suggested. Within minutes they were all asleep.

An hour later, they woke up and went to the cafeteria for dinner. Today's special was beef stew with rice, potatoes, carrots, and rolls. The students were relieved that school would officially be over in two weeks. Many of the seventh years were happy that they would finally be done with their educations and were ready to leave then and there. However, that was against the rules since school had yet to officially be let out despite them already finishing their NEWT exams.

"Man, I'm so hungry," Harry ate more of his stew. He skipped breakfast this morning. "This is pretty good. I wonder what they put in this?"

"No clue. But I'm going back for more," Andrew stood from his chair, grabbed the tray and bowl he was using and left.

"Save some for the rest of us and room for dessert," Natalie called out. "There had better be some slices of coconut cream pie left," she too got up and left to get back in line.

Jeremy then clicked his tongue, "I'll be back in a minute."

"Off to get some Oreo cream pie?" Harry teased and finished the remainder of his stew.

"Maybe," Jeremy mumbled with a small smile yet growing smile. Before Harry could respond, his stomach growled, "seems someone is still hungry. Better get a move on before the other students take what's left of the stew."

Spying a glance at the line, he saw that it was short for now, but that could change, and given the way a few of the other students were ready to get seconds. And knowing Andrew, he had quite the appetite. "Be back in ten," leaving his seat, he grabbed his tray and bowl and went back in line.

A couple minutes later, he returned with Andrew, Jeremy, and Natalie, yet he made a quick stop to get a slice of Oreo cream pie. The former then chuckled as his sister, and Sophie went to get their desserts. "You couldn't resist getting more stew, could you?"

"I can say the same about you," Harry looked at his bowl will with rice and stew. "Hungry, aren't you?"

"Yeah, well, thank god I work out and can burn the calories off," mused the Chinese-American boy.

Just when Harry was about to speak, he frowned when he sensed someone was approaching him from behind, and they did not seem nice. He, of course, knew who it was. "What do you want, Caleb? Here to strut around in the belief that you are better than the rest of us?" Turning around, he saw the look of anger on the dark-haired boy's face. While Harry didn't much care for the boy, Caleb, on the other hand, had taken to antagonizing and challenging Harry and the others at every possible chance. It also didn't help that he was a real arse-kisser who acted like a real teacher's pet.

"Watch yourself, Potter," the boy sneered. "You may have somehow been able to trick the professors into believing you deserve to be moved up, but the truth is that it's only because of your family's connections."

"Sure, you're not talking about yourself," Harry stood up and met his gaze with a smirk. "Unlike you, I don't do half-arse work and think others will just bow to me because I come from a wealthy family. The difference between you and me is that I actually work hard to accomplish my goals and don't wish to take the easy way out like you."

"What did you—" the angry boy didn't get to finish as Harry quickly summoned his wand and had the tip pointed at his neck. "You. . .You wouldn't dare. Not in front of so many people," a wave of fear trailed down his voice.

"Do you really want to find out?" Harry challenged. Their interaction got the attention of a handful of people who wondered what might happen next. "Tell me do you think you can take your wand out and attack me before I curse you?" He stared intently into the boy's brown eyes. What sent shivers down the boy's spine was when Harry started speaking parseltongue. 'Go back to your own seat and leave me and my friends alone, or the next time, I won't be so lenient,'he threatened.

Harry then sent him to the floor with a punch to the nose, breaking it and delivering a front kick to his stomach. A mortified Caleb clutched his bleeding nose. "Yo-Your a par-parseltongue?" Positively scared.

'Damn right I am, and you know what that means,'Harry replied and sent a dark glare. The boy scrambled to his feet, still holding his nose, and fearfully ran in the opposite direction.

Returning to his wand to its holster and sitting back down, he grabbed a spoon and prepared to eat his stew when he saw the stunned expression on his friend's face and knew why. "Yes, I'm a parseltongue. Have been since the day I was born. I'm not evil."

"No, it's not that," Jade waved her hands. "We just didn't know you were a parseltongue."

"Yeah, buddy," Andrew added. "Whether you are a parseltongue or not, you're still our friend."

"And that will never change!" Jeremy declared, placing a hand on his friend's shoulder.

Sophie then places a hand on his other shoulder, "we're a team to the end."

"Now and forever," confirmed Natalie.

Harry felt his heart soar. They didn't care he could speak to snakes. "Thank you, guys." Thinking he ought to eventually tell them at some point. "Listen. I'll tell you, guys, everything one day in the future. I promise."

(0^0)

The last day of school finally came, and the students were all waiting at the entrance, ready to go home. Caleb eventually got over what happened in the cafeteria and tried to start a rumor about Harry being an evil, cheating wizard. Luckily, however, no one took him seriously for two reasons. One: the people who had seen Harry or had partnered up with him knew he wasn't evil, and he treated them fairly. Two: The older years found Caleb's rumors to be immature and petty, as they knew about the one-sided rivalry. Believing it to be a waste of time. When that didn't work, he tried to complain to the Headmistress and demanded that Potter be kicked out of the Academy for being a cheat and an evil wizard.

Professor Stone simply laughed at the child's face before telling him off. Potter was a student just like him, and he should end the pointless animosity he built toward him. Several of the professors and many of the older students seemed to like having Potter as a student within the school and found him to be an exceptional and hard-working young man. She laid into the boy more before dismissing him from her office. That apparently didn't sit well with him as he stomped away like an immature child being denied a piece of candy.

Standing in front of the gate as multiple parents came to get their kids, the members of the Ouroboros were finishing saying their goodbyes.

"There's my dad. Well, I'll see you guys later. Hopefully, we can get together this summer when I get back," Sophie pushed a few strands of hair away from her face.

"Absolutely. Make sure to send us a postcard," Natalie said after the two hugged and separated.

"Promise. See you guys," Sophie left to meet with her father.

Releasing a breath, Harry looked at the others, "time for me to get going as well. Have fun, guys. Jade keep Andrew out of trouble," he and the boy high-fived.

"Easier said than done," she giggled.

"Try to have some fun," said Natalie.

"Later, man," came Jeremy.

Harry walked outside the gates, activated the portkey in his heir ring, and was transported away. Arriving in the front of the wards surrounding the house, he walked towards the door, took out his key, and unlocked the door. Before he could open it, a familiar black shaggy dog jumped on him, knocking him to the floor, and began assaulting him with its cool tongue.

"All right. All right, Padfoot. That's enough, come on," he pushed the dog away, and it then transformed into his godfather.

"Hello, pup. How's my favorite godson doing?" With a smile, Sirius helped Harry to his feet.

"I'm your only godson," Harry hugged his godfather, which the man returned.

"Hence your, my favorite," ruffling the boy's hair. "Come on, Lauren's with grandfather and uncle waiting for you."

Entering the house, Harry found the three sitting in the living room on the couches. The minute she saw him, Lauren hopped to her feet and raced to grab him in a hug. Lauren may have just turned seven, but she already had characteristics from both her parents. She had Sirius's black hair, the Black family's high cheekbones, and her mum Amelia's navy blue eyes. The girl also had a bit of a temper. "Hello, Harry. I've missed you."

"Hello, Lauren. I've missed you too, little cousin. Are you staying out of trouble?"

"For the most part," she said with a cheeky grin. When Harry raised an eyebrow, she explained, "I turned Daddy's hair orange." He then came out laughing.

"Did she really?" He turned to his godfather.

"Two weeks," Sirius laughed. His daughter will be starting Hogwarts in 1993. Part of him wanted her to have fun but not get up into what he and his friends did when they were younger.

Arcturus then cleared his throat, bringing the attention to him. "I believe you need to greet some people," he looked at Harry.

"Right," immediately going into heir mode, he walked over to stand before his uncle and grandfather. "I have received my end-of-the-year grades," pulling out the envelope from his pocket, he handed it to his uncle and hugged his grandfather.

Arcturus finished reading through the boy's grades before handing them to Charlus and giving a stern look at his grandson. "How is it that your godson got better grades than you when you were younger?"

Sirius rolled his eyes at the man's question. He looked over Charlus's shoulder to see what his godson made during his first year.

The Results of Harry James Potter First Year

Passing grades: Failed grades:

O- Outstanding P- Poor

E- Exceeds Expectations D- Dreadful

A- Acceptable T- Troll

Charms: O (100*)

Defense Against the Dark Arts: O (100*)

Transfiguration: O (100*)

Herbology: O (100)

History of Magic: O (97)

Astronomy: O (96)

Potions: O (100*)

Care of Magical Creatures: O (100)

Arithmancy: O (100*)

Ancient Runes: O (100*)

Alchemy: O (100*)

Dueling: O (100*)

The * means that you have demonstrated absolute mastery in these subjects in your first year. After much discussion, the professors have agreed to place you with the third year in the Fall of 1990 for the following subjects: Charms, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Potions, Dueling, Arithmancy, Alchemy, Ancient Runes, and Transfiguration.

We congratulate you on this accomplishment.

Signed, Lorena Claire, Deputy Headmistress of Merlin's Magical Academy.

"You really did work hard. The grades could not have been achieved without determination and hard work," Sirius commented.

"That is not all. I have something to show you and Lauren. Come with me," giving his grandfather and uncle knowing looks.

"A surprise? What kind?" Lauren asked.

"Follow me," Harry led them to the backyard. "Here we go," squatting to his knees, he jumped into the air and morphed into his animagus form. Apparently, it had the desired effect as Sirius stared with wide eyes, and his jaw hit the ground. Lauren wasn't that far off as she looked at her cousin with amazement.

"You're an Animagus?!" Sirius exclaimed. In response, Harry released a loud billowing screech. "What in the hell is he?" He asked after removing his hands from his ears. That screech would have been enough to make him deaf. His godson. His own godson was an animagus now.

Unknown to him, Amelia and Susan had also arrived to witness Harry transform and were startled by what he had become. She then slapped her husband on the back of his head for his language. "Sirius Orion Black! How many times have I told you not to curse in front of the children? I will not have my daughter or niece hear any of that filth from your mouth again!"

"Sorry, dear," Sirius rubbed his head.

"But Aunt Amy," Susan interjected. The ten-year-old auburn-haired girl couldn't take her eyes off the large avian. "What has Harry become?"

Harry morphed back into human form, "a Tsunamibird. That's the name of my animagus form." He reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet, which housed his animagus license.

"As you can see, I'm registered with the ICW," handing Amelia the license. Which she quickly verified was authentic.

Getting over his shock, a proud grin crossed Sirius's face. "Oh, I'm so proud. My own godson became an animagi. James, if you were here, you'd dance like a loon," he looked to th sky, hoping James was watching.

Harry then spent a good hour explaining how he achieved his animagus form at such a young age. Sirius was bouncing on the balls of his feet, clearly happy that his godson had used the Marauders' notes on the animagus transformation. He remembered that it took him and the others up to their fifth year to obtain their animal forms, yet Harry managed to transform in a matter of months. He silently wondered what forms his daughter and niece would take if they decided to become animagi? However, that would be if his wife allowed it.

A/N: How do you people like my little surprise? Harry became an Animagus. A Tsunamibird. I intended to give him an animagus form but questioned what form he should have. Either I give him a: non-magical creature, a magical creature, or create a creature out of my mind. I went with the latter!

Harry has also achieved high marks at the end of his first year and will be moved up.

Next Chapter: An unexpected wrinkle