Harry Potter and the Lightning Blade

by ReaperOfBalance

Dumbledore had no idea what happened when Harry Potter disappeared years ago, but now that he's reappeared, he's got no idea what to do. Harry has shown up strong, confidant, capable, and not very forgiving or big on second chances. What's more, he's shown to be far smarter and knowledgeable than he should be. Dumbledore has no idea what he's in for, nor does the Wizarding World.

1. Chapter 1

Hello all and welcome to a new fic, I know, shout all you want, it won't change anything.

Anyway, been on a Harry Potter kick lately, and this idea has been in my head for a while. This is primary Harry Potter and one other item, what that is I won't say just yet, so you'll have to see as we go. However, I'll tell you there's gonna be people from some other items showing up in this, but not the full item they're from.

Also, you may see spells and magic from other items added into this, but as of this moment I have no intention of crossing anything fully into this until WAAAAAAAAAAAY Later. So you may see spells from Bleach, Warcraft, Chaotic, etc etc. as this fic goes on but not necessarily seeing those items crossed into this.

Gonna give fair warning that Harry is gonna be pretty OP, but I have a reason for it and (to my knowledge) it's never been done before. So give me the benefit of the doubt until you see what's going on in full if you're one of those that isn't into OP characters.

Secondly, Harry will be more mature, smart, and wise than his age would suggest and there IS a reason for it. And NO, it doesn't involve time travel or he died and then woke up in his younger body or he's been reincarnated.

Also, this is a harem fic, though not every girl Harry meets is joining the harem, and no I don't have an exact count or know all of who I'm going to add. Also, this harem will consist of servants, slaves, wives, girlfriends, mistresses, and other such titles.

With that said and done, let's get this show on the road.

Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter or anything else that may appear in this fic.

"Speech"

(Thoughts)

"Language that's not English"

Spell Name

[Conversation Thoughts]

CHAPTER 1: BOY WHO LIVED

HOGWARTS GREAT HALL: 1997

"Welcome everyone, to a new year at Hogwarts." The head of the school stated while standing at a podium and addressing the student body, not caring for the glares and scowls being aimed at them by various students and faculty alike. Similarly, they also weren't caring for the different individuals spread throughout the hall along the walls, a few of which were also glaring at them.

They didn't care, they were too happy to care as decades of planning had finally paid off and their control was being solidified even now. These simpletons would either fall in line or be removed along with any other dissenters, they were sheep after all, they didn't know what they wanted, they had to be told what they wanted. The head would help maintain order within England through the school and the children while collecting any useful artifacts, individuals, and money and the rest of their allies would fulfill their part in other parts of the world.

"Now, we shall of course do announcements and go over the curriculum changes." They continued with a smile, though anyone could see it was far from kind and understanding despite the head thinking otherwise. "First, we have-" The person was cut off as the window behind the teacher's table suddenly shattered. "What the devil?!" They shouted as they turned around wand at the ready just in time to see a hooded and armored figure leap off the teacher's table and was heading right for them.

The main thing noticed was the long blade that was sticking out from below the figure's right wrist and was looking to impale the head teacher.

Said head teacher tried to use their wand, but it was too late as the figure landed on top of them and the blade easily slipped into their throat as they stared into the glowing red eyes of the figure before them. The figure then twisted the blade and stood up glaring at the new corpse, "Requiescat in pace." The figure snarled in a dark and demonic voice before they spat on the corpse and turned their attention to the hall seeing a majority of the people along the walls aiming their wands at them. "You will pay for what you've done to Hadrian Potter." The figure growled as their eyes blazed with pure fury.

The figure glared at all the people who were on their list of enemies, and to think, a couple they once thought of as friends and allies.

But no longer.

They would pay for all that they had done in their quest for power and control, especially all that they had done to Potter.

They couldn't help but remember how things had started.

NUMBER 4 PRIVET DRIVE: 1984

DING DONG

Petunia Dursley nee Evans and her husband Vernon Dursley frowned as they set their cups of tea down wondering who could be at the door at this time of day? Their sweet and innocent son, Dudley, was at a friend's house, and he wasn't going to be back until tomorrow. They weren't expecting any guests and it wouldn't have anything to do with the freak, they shouldn't be bothered about that freakishness until he was at least 11 and by that time they could perhaps beat it out of him.

Petunia personally felt that if she wasn't worthy of magic then it had to be some unnatural freakish thing and her sister's spawn was most certainly not worthy of it.

The fact her sister never even tried to share the magical world with her was another point of anger for her.

DING DONG

Oh yes, the door.

Pushing her cup away, she stood before smoothing her dress. After smacking the cubbard door and ordering the freak to be quiet, she went to the front door and opened it.

Standing before her was an older white man with whitish hair that the light made it almost look blond and had a trimmed goatee of the same color. He wore a nice black suit with emerald accents complete with a black trench coat. However, the thing that drew her attention was the ghostly blue left eye and the amber right eye that he had.

She tensed at the look because she recalled that old freak coming to talk to her parents about her sister being a witch.

Behind the man was a nice-looking German car and three men were standing around it.

At the driver's door, a bald white man wearing a nice black suit with a red tie and black leather gloves stood with his hands folded in front of him. He had blue eyes and an expressionless face though his eyes had an intensity to them that almost made Petunia feel like he was glaring at her in hatred.

The second man was also white though he had black hair that reached halfway down his neck and was clearly a natural look. He had a scruffy beard, black eyes, and wore a suit too, though his was a simple black shirt and black tie. He looked indifferent towards her when he wasn't scanning the surrounding area almost like he thought someone would attack at any moment.

The third man was tanned skin with a buzz cut on the back and sides of his head and the hair on top being a bit messy and spiky. He wore pitch black sunglasses so there was no way of telling what color his eyes were. From what she could tell, he was wearing a black long-sleeved shirt under his trench coat with jeans and boots as well.

All three were very well built and physically fit.

There also seemed to be a fourth figure in the car, but she couldn't make out much beyond that they had a hood up over their head.

"Good morning, madam, are you perhaps Petunia Dursley?" The man in front of her asked with a pleasant smile and she bit back a gulp since she was outnumbered by possible freaks, and she was currently alone unless Vernon came to the door.

She failed to notice the twitch of the man's eyes before she finally had enough courage to answer.

"Y-yes, who are you and what do you want?" Petunia asked and the man smiled reassuringly at her.

"My name is Walldert Grendilleg, I wish to speak to you about your nephew." The now named Walldert introduced himself causing Petunia to pale rapidly.

"Vernon!" She screamed and backed up as her husband came rushing over to her.

"What's wrong Pet?" Vernon asked before looking at the man at the door.

"Hello, Mr. Dursley, I am here to talk to you and your wife about your nephew." Walldert stated making Vernon widen his eyes.

"We don't have a nephew." Vernon stated, not wanting any chance of people teaching the freak more freakishness.

"I am speaking of one Harry Potter, Mr. Dursley. I know he was left here just under 3 years ago. There's not much point in lying, I'm afraid." Walldert stated making Vernon back up with Petunia behind him.

"What do you want?" Vernon asked wondering if he could close the door and get to his room to grab his shotgun.

"The boy. I want him. I'm willing to take him off your hands, with you signing away any rights you have to him as his family, and I will compensate you for doing so." He spoke calmly as the two gaped at him.

"What do you want with him?" Vernon couldn't help but ask.

"Does it matter? He will be out of your lives, and you will be richer, everyone will win." Walldert explained making the two look at each other.

"Uh, do come in, I suppose." Vernon stated as he stepped back and discreetly had Petunia go upstairs just in case.

"Thank you." Walldert stated before waving his fingers at his men and the bald one opened the car and grabbed a briefcase before coming up to him and handing it over and then walked back to the car.

Vernon noted he had some weird marking in the back of his head, but honesty he didn't care.

Walldert entered with the briefcase and sat down on the couch as Vernon sat opposite him with the coffee table between them. Walldert then set the briefcase on the table and turned it to Vernon before opening it showing stacks of money.

"So, let's discuss the boy." Walldert stated, a smile on his face, knowing that having the boy would give them the edge they had been looking for.

He just needed this idiot muggle to sign the papers and then he could leave with the boy and ensure he was as great as his bloodline said he could be.

HOGWARTS HEADMASTER'S OFFICE: AUGUST 1ST, 1991

Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore; Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards (ICW), Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, defeater of Grindelwald, and Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry; had not had a good last 7 years.

Why? Because he had lost Harry bloody Potter, the boy who fucking lived!

Dumbledore didn't know what happened, he had gone to a meeting for not even three hours and then he got back and found his monitoring instruments had all shut down or exploded. Further, upon investigating Privet Drive, it was to discover it was completely empty! No sign of anyone living there and no sign of Harry, even worse the blood wards he had erected had all but disintegrated beyond any hope of repair.

Any and all plans he had for Harry were scrapped and thrown into a furnace after that. He had spent countless resources, counting finances and favors, to look for him without arousing suspicion but it was for nothing. There was no trace of him or the Dursleys.

If not for the fact his name was still written under the Hogwarts Registry, Dumbledore would fear that the boy was dead. If that happened, then a whole host of problems would arise that Dumbledore did NOT want to deal with, but he did have plans ready for if he did need to deal with it.

It didn't help his nerves that he had gotten two letters that made things harder for him. The first was that someone was suing him as well as all the publication companies, writers, and distributors for the "Boy-Who-Lived" books he had commissioned to build up Harry as a light wizard savior that looked up to him in order to build up high expectations and some pressure for the boy, so he'd follow the path he needed to follow. Whoever it was, they were pulling out multiple issues and clauses to bring into the lawsuit and it ended with Dumbledore losing all the money from the sales, the books being cancelled and pulled from the stores, and everyone was forbidden to write about Harry unless there was a contract signed by him involved unless they wanted to be sued as well.

It had completely undermined and ruined his attempt to gain financing and build up Harry's image in the way he wanted it to be built as well as get people's expectations placed on Harry even faster.

He couldn't even find the name of the lawyer involved as there was a gag order in place as well as the fact the companies quickly settled to avoid too much loss should a trial come and they face the public and be found that their books were works of fiction without the boy's consent. They'd likely be ruined and wouldn't recover, so they settled and removed all the books.

The second was a letter from Gringotts stating that the key to the Potter Vaults he had was now useless and that all of his possessions were screened before all that were Potter family property were reclaimed. Plus, money was taken from his vault to reimburse the Potters for loans and amounts he withdrew for the time that Harry had been at Privet Drive.

Naturally, that had both shocked and pissed him off very quickly. Immediately checking his possessions, he found both the Pensieve and Invisibility Cloak he had taken from the Potters gone. The Pensieve was more annoying than important, but he was Albus Dumbledore, why shouldn't he have his own Pensieve and it wasn't like Harry was ever going to need it.

No, what the problem was, was the Invisibility Cloak as he was sure it was one of the Hollows from the tale of the three brothers. He already had the wand, if he had the cloak then all he had to do was find the stone, but the cloak wouldn't accept him and it rejected any spells he tried to place on it, making him further believe it was the Hollow and as such was loyal to the Peverell line, which Harry was the last of.

The plus side was that nothing involving Gringotts was made public knowledge thus he wasn't going to take any hits politically or just publicity wise from essentially stealing from one of the most ancient and noble houses of not just Britain but of the magical world.

While the money wasn't a huge problem, he could easily get more, the amount sitting in that vault gathering dust could be put to so many good uses. Not only knowledge, but gaining more allies for when Voldemort eventually returned and getting any supplies he may need for it. Plus, money talked and a great many people were willing to listen when it did.

Votes.

Favors.

Allies.

Supplies.

Spies.

Information.

Knowledge.

Fear.

Respect.

Power.

All of it could be gained with money, especially if you were skilled at using it.

It only reminded him of the treasure trove of wealth, power, and knowledge that was likely stored within the primary Potter home. It had stood for ages, since the Potters came to England Merlin knows how long ago.

If only…

"Albus!" His Deputy Headmistress, Minerva McGonagall's cry broke him from his thoughts as he saw her storm into his office.

Quickly taking a moment to push his frustrations and annoyances away, he looked at her in concern, "Minerva, what is it? What's wrong?" Dumbledore asked wondering what could make her react in such a way.

"Harry Potter!" She exclaimed making him widen his eyes in shock as he jumped to his feet.

"What?! What has happened?!" He all but demanded not caring for decorum or control.

"He sent his Hogwarts letter back saying, 'I don't need to go, so no thanks.' Can you imagine that?! What are people going to think when they learn that Harry Potter doesn't want to come to Hogwarts?!" Minerva shouted while not believing the son of her two favorite students didn't want to attend Hogwarts.

If she found out it was because of those damned creatures that Albus called his family were to blame, then Albus was going to be spending a couple weeks in the hospital wing!

"Worry not, Minerva, I shall handle this personally. I'm sure a simple discussion with the boy will be enough to persuade him." Dumbledore stated as his mind began calculating and planning how to best approach Harry and deal with it.

The boy needed to attend Hogwarts so he could ensure Harry was prepared for stopping Voldemort, even if the boy had to die by the end of it. There was also ensuring the boy was a beacon of light for people to follow so they didn't stray towards the dark or the so called "grey" sides.

Another reason for him to die later, nothing got recruits and loyalty like a beloved martyr.

"That's not a good idea, Albus." Minerva stated drawing his attention back as he raised an eyebrow especially as she glared. "You have a lot of explaining to do on why the bloody hell his address is in Knockturn Alley when you said he was left with his muggle relatives!" Minerva shouted as she slammed the letter on the desk showing the return address to the shocked Headmaster.

Hadrian Potter, Crossed Wands Dueling Inn, Knockturn Alley, London England.

Dumbledore was very shocked and worried at Harry living in Knockturn Alley, it was basically the dark wizard version of Diagon Alley. If word got out about him living there, people would start asking many questions that he NEVER would want people to ask.

However, he also saw Minerva's point on him going there not being a good idea.

A political figure and light wizard like him going there would drum up rumors, accusations, drama, and openings for his opponents to exploit, especially if just WHY he was in Knockturn came to light.

No, he'd have to send someone else there to speak with Harry, someone that either wouldn't be looked at twice for being there or their reputation was too solid with his backing to question.

Now the question, after he dealt with a clearly irate Minerva, was who to send?

DIAGON ALLEY: NEXT DAY

Minerva was walking through the bustling street looking the picture of calm, collected, and professional, even if inside she was a wreck. She had been chosen to go talk to Harry Potter alongside her two colleagues Pomona Sprout, Herbology professor and head of Hufflepuff House, and Filius Flitwick, Charms professor and head of Ravenclaw House.

The reason for them three was that they were the most senior members after the headmaster, not counting Professor Binns since he'd been a ghost for centuries, and were nothing to sneeze at if trouble started. Herself and Sprout were skilled and experienced witches while Flitwick was a former dueling champion.

Reaching the main path to Knockturn Alley, McGonagall looked to her companions making sure they were ready. Once they nodded, the three began descending the stairs to the primary area.

However, where they'd usually expect a foggy/eerie atmosphere with many people that you'd go out of the way to avoid looking at you with interest, now they found a somewhat clearer area with only a few people here and there. Of course, McGonagall's enhanced senses from being an animagus let her know there were several hidden in the shadows watching them as they walked.

However, all they did was watch, though a few quickly left, which made McGonagall assume they were going to report that they were there to someone.

After a few minutes, they were stopped by five large men all dressed the same: black trousers, brown boots, green suspenders, white button up shirts with the sleeves rolled up to the elbows, and silver bowler hats while also having a pin of a stylized golden flaming P within what looked like an arrowhead on a castle tower. All five cracked their knuckles as the trio of teachers prepared to draw their wands.

"I wouldn't do that." A female voice stated making them look to see a young girl walking out from a corner. "You three would be on your way to Saint Mungo's before you could truly do some damage." She stated as she stood there letting them see her.

She wore a pair of black boots, trousers, a brown belt with multiple pouches, a silver bracer on her left arm, a red shirt, and a black coat that reached the back of her knees and had a hood that she currently had up.

"Why are you here? I'd think it would be prudent for Hogwarts Professors to not come here." She asked as she looked at them.

"We're here to see Mr. Hadrian Potter about attending Hogwarts." Flitwick stated only for the large men to step forward aggressively.

"That is Lord Potter, to you three. And I believe Harry has already informed you that he has no desire to attend. Now, rather than show proper decorum and etiquette by sending a letter requesting to come and talk to him, you just come here uninvited and expect him to talk to you? I see manners and proper procedure aren't taught in your school." The girl stated making them wince since they were sent off in such a hurry, none of them had thought about common courtesy.

The boy-who-lived was living in Knockturn Alley for Merlin's sake! That alone causes quite a bit of commotion.

"We apologize, we were more concerned over the fact that he was living in Knockturn Alley and worried that he could have been forced to reject the invitation." McGonagall stated as the girl looked at her.

"So instead of contacting the DMLE, your esteemed headmaster sends three of his teachers while not bothering to come himself?" She asked making the three wince since that was also looking quite bad for them. "I see your master is more interested in protecting his image than if our lord is actually all right." She stated making the trio frown since that wasn't totally wrong.

If word got out about this, Albus' reputation would take a grand hit since he had assured many people that Harry was safe and protected and him living in Knockturn Alley was not what anyone would consider to be safe and protected.

Or at least, it wasn't but clearly something had changed in the area.

"My dear, please, we simply wish to speak to Mr… Lord Potter about his decision to attend the school. If he doesn't wish to attend the school after we talk to him, we will leave it at that." Sprout stated as the girl looked at her.

"But will your master? He has already shown his disrespect and lack of caring for what my lord desires by sending you here rather than at least attempting to request an audience as proper procedure dictates. Then rather than coming himself and owning up to his mistake, both in apparently losing track of my lord, not contacting the DMLE about losing him or about him living here, and not coming to face him himself, he sends your three. Three professors and heads of house at that, all of whom could lose reputation by coming here if it was how it used to be meanwhile his Potion's Master comes here quite often to obtain ingredients and yet he didn't send him. Most likely due to rivalry and bit of hatred between him and my lord's father so your master didn't want to risk alienating him further." The girl stated making the trio glance at each other at her being so well informed.

Before any of them could comment though, a raven flew towards them and landed on the girl's arm before giving her a note. The girl read it and frowned a moment, "Hmm, seems my lord wishes to speak to you anyway. Follow me and keep up, if you get lost then just go back to your school." She stated as she turned and started walking away with the five large men motioning them to get going before three moved to flank them as they walked.

"Young lady, must you be so rude?" McGonagall couldn't help but ask as they followed.

"You mean like showing up unannounced to convince a boy to go to your school because you're worried about appearances?" She fired back making McGonagall recoil a bit since she had a point. "Respect is a two-way street, ma'am, you start showing it and then I'll consider doing so. I will be polite when you start being polite." She continued and the three couldn't truly fault her for that.

They were showing up unannounced, without invitation, and without clearance from anyone other than Dumbledore, who didn't have the authority to do that even as Chief Warlock.

As they followed the girl through the winding paths, they noticed various children at play, people repairing old and decrepit houses, chatting, practicing spell work, reading various books, and seeming to have made happy lives out of here, despite the fact that hardly anyone within Knockturn was ever "happy" with how their lives went.

Eventually they came to what they assumed was an inn but could easily be mistaken for a lavish estate. They saw various people dressed similarly to the five large men standing about counting a few women, McGonagall and Flitwick couldn't help but draw comparisons to the old Ashwinder gang that was in the Hogsmeade area a hundred years ago.

As they approached, a door at the top of some stairs burst open before a man was sent tumbling down before landing harshly on the ground. A young man walked out wearing a white collared shirt, black trench coat, dark green trousers, black boots, and fingerless black gloves and started walking down, "You come here under the pretense of doing business in a civilized manner and then try to make demands of our boss like he's some ignorant welp?!" He shouted angrily as the man coughed and spat some blood on the ground as the other people in the area all stood straight and looked very pissed off.

"I… I didn't mean…" The man started only to get kicked by the young man when he reached him.

"Get the fuck out of our sight. You'll find your business will be dried up within the month if you're lucky. I suggest you get out of the Alley while you've still got working legs." The young man stated as two men came and grabbed him off the ground before dragging him away.

"I see negotiations went well." The girl stated as the young man looked at her.

"Fucker actually through he could intimidate boss into giving up his claim to the area." He stated making the girl scoff.

"Idiot. Anyway, I have the three owls of Dumbwhatever to see him." The girl stated, while the trio frowned at being called owls, but they were essentially acting as messengers so they couldn't complain when the shoe fit.

The young man looked at them with a frown, "Their funeral." He muttered as he motioned to the stairs before he and the girl led them upstairs to the door.

"Remember your manners this time." The girl stated as the three teachers grimaced at the reminder.

Knocking twice on the door, the girl waited 30 seconds before opening the door and entering with the three teachers and the young man entering before she followed and closed the door afterwards.

Looking around the room, the three teachers could easily see it was an office combined with a bedroom, which was cordoned off by a partial wall, and saw a large ornate desk with papers and scrolls sprawled across it with some books too. A large plush chair was at the desk with a fireplace behind it, and not a floo type one either, while arrayed across the walls were various weapons, artifacts, portraits, and items that the three teachers couldn't identify.

"Three Hogwarts Professors, counting the deputy headmistress, here to see you on behalf of their master." The girl announced making the professors wonder who she was talking to.

A sigh drew their attention to a corner where a large reading chair sat with a young man in it. All three teachers had to stop themselves from gasping as the young man looked much like his father, but there were clear signs of his mother and paternal grandparents in his face as well given the emerald eyes, high cheekbones, and near perfect complexion. He sat there wearing black pants with various different pockets, a belt with multiple pouches, black dragon hide boots, and an open three button collared shirt with a pair of leather bracers on his wrists.

"How did we not notice him?!" The three teachers thought in shock, with Minerva wondering why he didn't have glasses, as the young man stood, making them note that he was tall for his age at a solid 5 feet in height, and made his way to his desk before sitting in the chair there and then leaned back and looked at the trio, who couldn't help but be reminded of his paternal grandfather when he was NOT happy with someone.

"What are you three doing here? I made it perfectly clear in my letter that I had no desire or intention of attending Hogwarts. Is your master that old and senile that he can't understand clear English? Why should I listen to anything you have to say?" He asked in a clipped tone as the raven flew off of the girl's arm and landed on a stand near the desk staring at the trio.

"M… Lord Potter, we are-" McGonagall found herself cut off as Harry looked at her.

"I know who you are, Minerva Irene McGonagall: Sorted into Ravenclaw when she went to school, wife of the late Ignis Eudoyle Urquart, aunt to five nieces and 4 nephews given to you by your brothers Malcolm and Robert, friend and confidant to Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore back to even before he was the DADA professor, Deputy Headmistress, Transfiguration Professor thereby continuing the unspoken tradition of the Deputy Head being the Transfiguration Professor, and head of Gryffindor House. The latter being a bit of a muddied area and source of concern and dispute since never has a Deputy Head been a Head of House as it could cause conflict and bias." He stated as the trio looked at him in shock as he turned his attention to Sprout.

"Pomona Agatha Sprout: Sorted into Gryffindor when at school, botanist, lover of plants though not to the degree of former Herbology Professor Mirabel Garlick, routinely takes a trip to Japan and Greece for new tips and tricks on growing and maintaining rarer plants, had three bothers that died in the war with old Moldy-Shorts, said war is also why she always carries some preserved quick growth seeds of some plants that are useful in combat, Professor of Herbology for Hogwarts, and Head of Hufflepuff House." He continued before turning to Flitwick.

"Filius Augustus Flitwick: Sorted into Slytherin when at school, charms enthusiast and foremost expert of the subject in Britain, Charms Professor, 1/8 Goblin, Head of Ravenclaw House, my mother's former mentor, and former 13 time Dueling World Champion with a penchant for charms in his duels with three of those wins resulting in the death of his opponent, though that's to be expected at times when one participates in war duels." Harry stated showing that he really did know them, perhaps more than someone like him should or that they'd want him to know.

"Lord Potter, I-" McGonagall was once again cut off.

"The fact he sent three heads of house plus his deputy rather than come here himself tells me that your master thought higher of his political standing than any moral or ethical feelings he had about my safety. The very fact he ensured his deputy and a dueling champion were sent means he knew how dangerous this place can be and still he decided it was better to send you than to come himself, shows both cowardice and stupidity." Harry stated as he just stared at the three, who were quickly finding that they weren't as in control of the situation as they had believed when they first set out. "Then there's not only the clear disrespect of not contacting me to try and arrange a meeting and instead showing up unannounced, but the audacity, lack of manners, and disrespect to show up and just assume I'd take the meeting with you just because your master desires it. You and your master's arrogance offends me as well as your cowardice at you not even considering to report to or ask the DMLE for help before coming to Knockturn in case I was being held against my will, no doubt trying to protect your master's public image since losing the "Savior of the Wizarding World" would not look good on him, especially if the other members of the ICW got wind that he didn't inform anyone about this or the fact he had no idea if I was still in England or not." Harry stated as the boy and girl just smirked at the three, "So again, I will ask, and do not attempt to do anything other than answer the question: WHY should I listen to anything you have to say?" He finished as he stared hard at the three.

The three tried to form a coherent thought, having not expected to be picked apart by a boy not even in his first year at Hogwarts.

Flitwick, always having to think on his feet and be ready for anything as a duelist and a Slytherin, was able to recover first. "I will be blunt and to the point then, Lord Potter." He stated drawing attention to himself as he held himself steady and calm, though Harry could easily see he was ready to move and attack at a moments' notice, meaning his warrior mentality and training hadn't dulled.

A point in his favor in Harry's opinion especially since his moniker 'the snake that learned to fly' seemed to fit him well.

Harry nodded to him and he spoke, "The last time a child didn't attend Hogwarts and didn't receive formal training from someone to get a full breadth of knowledge and training, as well as in a place that could absorb ambient magic to ensure no accidental magic took place, a city block was leveled or more accurately… imploded. It is dangerous for a child, especially when puberty hits and they become hormonal, to be in an area that doesn't absorb ambient magic because it can lash out violently and in ways that are near unpredictable. I won't say that it hasn't at times proven useful as a few every day and useful spells were created by witnessing and trying to recreate their effects. Anyway, Hogwarts has a ward scheme so advanced and intricate as well as ancient that many warders, curse breakers, and rune masters still come by during the summer to study it and learn more about it in hopes of one day duplicating it, one such part of the ward scheme is that it draws away errant and accidental magic to fuel the wards and House Elves that work there and it creates a… tap for that so it drains away a portion of the person's magic to make accidental magic less likely to happen in the summer with the amount weakening as the magical core of the individual matures to make it harder for accidental magic to occur unless severe emotional outbursts occur. However." Flitwick explained but had to add as he looked at the boy before him, and he only felt he could call him a boy because he was only 11 years old.

His stance, the way he moved from chair to chair, the way he held himself, the way he never removed his eyes from them for longer than absolutely necessary, and the aura around him all spoke of someone older, experienced, and battle hardened. It reminded Flitwick of his old dueling mentor, a man who had survived a few wars, civil wars, and skirmishes in different continents and threats and learned from each mistake, loss, victory, and fight.

"I can tell by the way you hold yourself that it may not be necessary for you, your magical core and aura around you is more experienced and seasoned than one would typically see, I'd guess you're capable of some spells with or without a wand, though possibly not that advanced." Flitwick stated using his analytical and tactical mind here.

Harry snorted at that before with a wave of his hand a few papers on his desk floated shocking Sprout and McGonagall before he lowered them back to the desk.

"Yes, so what else do you have as an argument?" Harry challenged, essentially all but completely disregarding the two witches who didn't seem able to keep up with things as well as Flitwick.

"There's also the fact that Hogwarts is considered among the top 4 schools in the world, if not THE top school. Having graduated from there would advance any career aspirations you may have for the future and if you seek further education at one of the few advance schools, graduating Hogwarts would increase that likelihood." Flitwick stated, but he knew that was a flimsy reason at best.

Especially since standard of education at Hogwarts had decreased a bit, and he wasn't foolish to blame it solely on Severus Snape, the Potions teacher, as he had cleaned his act up a little under a decade ago. He was strict, but much fairer than he was before and the Potion NEWT and OWL scores were climbing again. However, Severus was only one part of the problem, what were once mandatory courses were now electives and much of what was great and various material was trimmed/dumbed down increasing graduation numbers, but not giving any impressive graduates.

Lily Evans, James Potter, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Bellatrix Lestrange, Andromeda Tonks, Narcissa Malfoy, Severus Snape, Alice Longbottom, Frank Longbottom, Gideon Prewett, Fabian Prewett, Amelia Bones, and Edgar Bones were the last truly exemplary batch of students that Flitwick had had the privilege to teach and mentor. Those that followed showed promise in areas, but none had the drive, thirst, and desire to go beyond what was required to pass a class. The scores following that only continued to drop, both from the war wiping out so many families as well as people leaving Britain for greener pastures.

In any case, it was also clear to him that the young man before him was in charge of at least a good portion of Knockturn Alley or had a good amount of authority within some branch of the controlling interest. The alley was too clean, too safe to walk, and the area was protected by people that were following his orders and were angered by anyone insulting him.

"I intend to continue my business here as well as expanding into other areas both within the alley and through Gringotts preparing investments and future projects for me." Harry stated since the Goblins were actually friendly when you knew how to show them respect and get their respect.

It was always good to make good impressions on business partners and clients after all.

Flitwick nodded, already having guessed that part since there were numerous ways to make money in Knockturn, and the ways had only increased in the past few years due to the DMLE being underfunded and understaffed after the war thus certain areas like Knockturn fell through the holes to not be touched unless absolutely necessary. He wasn't naïve enough to believe that the young man before them wasn't engaging in some illegal activities, but he also wasn't going to jump the gun and think the boy was dark or a hardened criminal that should be sent to Azkaban. No, Flitwick himself couldn't claim to have never done something that at the VERY least skirted the law, such was the real world unlike the pretty fairy tale that the Ministry and Albus painted for people to believe in.

"Then I can only think of one primary item besides the fact many of your family went to that school." Flitwick stated and wasn't surprised at the lack of reaction from the young man at the mention of his family attending Hogwarts.

The young man obviously wanted to be practical rather than emotional in making his decision.

"The ministry passed a law that states that any heir or heiress must attend Hogwarts to maintain their house seats on the Wizengamot. During the war, there was a bit of an exodus with few returning after it ended and thus the Wizengamot thought it best to ensure that any families wishing to keep their seats had to have their children attend a school within magical Britain." Flitwick stated uncaring that his two fellow staff members just seemed to be stuck at the moment.

"I am aware of said law, I also know that it applies to the children of any ranking Ministry officials as well as a few others in notable positions. Curious though that said positions are currently filled by people who have no children to send." Harry stated as Flitwick snorted having come to the same conclusion already.

It was just a power move to try and control the various houses that were part of the political field. "However, I also know that it was your master that gave the idea and was one of the strongest supporters for it as well as the one who came up with the secondary clauses of that law." Harry asked making Flitwick frown as he wasn't aware of a secondary part.

"I'm afraid I'll have to ask you elaborate, please, Lord Potter, as I know nothing about a secondary clause of that law." Flitwick requested after seeing the confusion on Minerva and Pomona's faces.

"Clause 1: Upon accepting/agreeing to attend Hogwarts the student will be required to attend no less than 4 years of the school before being able to consider other schooling. However, if they intend to take their place as head of house and their seat in the Wizengamot then they must attend the full 7 years or pay a series of fines, tolls, and taxes. All of which shall be distributed "as needed" to appropriate offices including the Chief Warlock and Minister." Harry stated making the trio widen their eyes in shock. "Clause 2: Any heir or heiress that doesn't attend Hogwarts will have to pay half of their total wealth and holdings to the Wizengamot and up to 85% if they wish to still maintain their seats in the Wizengamot." Harry recited as the three were stuck in shock. "There's also the law that states any house that no longer has an heir or heiress can have their holdings stripped and used by the Ministry for whatever they wish. Would you like to take a guess on who allocates and receives money or other valuable items should such a thing happen in either case?" Harry asked as the three sat there in shock.

However, Harry could also see there was rage starting to boil in there as well and decided to add fuel to the fire, "Funny how those laws and clauses were passed within six months of my leaving the Dursleys, isn't it?" Harry stated making it plain that he thought Dumbledore at least, though he likely got several greedy members to join in happily, was preparing his set up to either force Harry to join Hogwarts or to gain from the Potter family in some way.

It had the desired effect of McGonagall and Flitwick narrowing their eyes and looking both murderous and calculating while Sprout was looking thoughtful and upset as well.

"You don't have to take my word for it, of course, you can easily look up the ministry laws and clauses yourself and ask your master to his face and see if he can convince you about his reasons and the "greater good" the laws will serve." Harry stated at last as he sat back and sighed a bit.

"So if that is all true, why did you reject the acceptance to Hogwarts?" Sprout asked making the other two look at him.

"First, because I wanted to see what the old fool would do. Second, I consider it possibly being worth it in the fact I can tell anyone and everyone I please that I left due to unfair treatment created and directed at me by Dumbledore as well as the fact he kept it quiet that he had no idea where I was, let alone if I had been kidnapped or left Britain on my own. Such backlash would be worth it even at the cost of money since they'd only be able to take what Gringotts says I have to be taken since, like most of the older families, we kept places out of public record should we need to shall we say, abandon the government." Harry stated as he eyed the trio.

"So there's nothing we could do to convince you, you've yet to decide which course would be better for you." McGonagall stated, still comprehending that this meeting was NOT going how she thought it would.

"Correct, so not only was your appearance rude, disrespectful, and arrogant, it was also quite pointless and useless." Harry stated as he sat back and grabbed a document, "Now I'm sure Evie and Jacob will be kind enough to escort you out of the Alley as, regrettably, there are still several areas that wouldn't be ideal for traveling in unless you had a big enough group or aura not to be fucked with." Harry stated motioning to the two that were still standing behind the trio before he promptly turned to the paper.

"Lord Potter! I must protest. You remaining here is-" McGonagall was cut off again by a hard stare from Harry.

"None of your concern. You are not my guardian, you have no relation to me, and even if I was to attend your school, you have no say in any decision I make in my life let alone where I choose to live. This is my home and I see no reason to leave or relocate and you would do well to keep in mind your limits, place, and what proper decorum is. You're a teacher and deputy headmistress, know your role and your limits before you end up offending the wrong person since your master will only protect you so long as it serves him to do so." Harry stated neutrally as he stared at her. "Now, I've been kind enough to host you at my home despite the fact you showed up unannounced and had the audacity to just assume I'd take the meeting. Do not take my hospitality for granted and leave, now." He ordered as Flitwick stood and nodded to Sprout, causing her to nod, before they guided McGonagall, who was still in a state of shock, out the door with Jacob and Evie following them to make sure they actually left the area.

Harry then stood and moved by one of the windows watching the three leave with Jacob, Evie, and a few of the crew going as escorts, "That old fool is looking desperate if he sent three of the heads and teachers to talk to you." A dark and demonic voice stated making Harry glance to his right and see a robed and armored figure standing near him looking out the same window while they had a hood up over their head hiding their face except for the red eyes they possessed.

"So, it would seem. Not that it matters, I fully intended to go to Hogwarts, but doing it this way gets me more out there while making Dumbles more paranoid about things. Plus, those three were affected by what they've seen, and I want that to start too, so I can build my power base in other areas as well. When I eventually show up at the Wizengamot, I'll use this and a couple other things to poke more holes into Dumbledore's light wizard of a grandfather appearance and break his holdings even more." Harry stated as the figure chuckled.

"Good to see you've been learning and paying attention. I'll keep my own eyes and ears open as well as I'm out and about." The figure stated making Harry nod.

"You do that. I still need to finish some work before it's time to leave for Hogwarts or I'll be back for a headache." Harry stated causing the figure to shrug.

"You do that. I'll be hunting tonight by the way." The figure stated and Harry sighed.

"Fine, just be careful and don't overdo it. Last thing I want is the DMLE having to snoop around here." Harry stated making the figure turn their head at him. "You're the one always preaching about being careful and never getting complacent in one's skills." Harry commented knowing the figure likely took the first part as an insult.

"I know, still surprising that you listen though." The figure stated making Harry roll his eyes.

"Just get out of here, I have to get back to planning and work." Harry stated making the figure grunt before they vanished, and Harry walked back to his desk to keep looking over his paperwork and plans.

"Master, would you like some tea?" A female voice asked making him look at his personal maid.

She stood with violet hair that reached her mid back, pink eyes, heart shaped face, DD cup breasts, a plump ass, wide hips, fit body, and it was shown off via her strapless leotard style maid outfit complete with black stockings with white frills that went to just under her ass, black high heels, black cuffs with white frills, a maid cap, and a black choker with white frills that had a gold flaming P emblazoned on it.

Naturally, she also had a tea tray in hand.

"Thank you, my dear." Harry stated kindly as she smiled and walked forward before pouring him some tea, not even reacting to his hand caressing her thigh and ass besides smiling at him.

"I am happy to serve, Master." She stated with a loving smile as she stood up straight. "Will there be anything else?" She asked while sticking her chest out.

Harry merely smirked. "No, not right now, I need to focus on work for now. Come back in a little while and I'm sure I'll have something for you to do." He instructed, making her smile as she licked her lips.

"Of course, sir." She stated as he walked off letting her ass bounce and sway with her hips as she walked.

Harry just smirked and went back to his work before a POP sounding near him and he turned to see an old looking house elf there holding some letters. "Deek is bringing your mail, master Harry." The now named Deek stated making Harry smile in appreciation as he took the mail.

"Thank you, Deek." Harry stated making Deek smile in appreciation before he disappeared with another POP.

SEPTEMBER 1st, KING'S CROSS STATION

Harry moved calmly and swiftly through the crowd of people while having a hood over his face making him just look like a kid heading for a train not worth paying attention to. He knew he was being flanked to the far sides as he moved, but they were his people doing so, thus he had no issue with being followed.

He did smirk at the sight of a few of Dumble's own pawns and supporters there, though Harry had long since mastered blending into crowds and if there was a chance they'd notice him, his people would handle it, non-lethally at that.

He rolled his eyes as he passed a red-haired woman talking loudly about muggles, clearly she was also one of Dumbledore's people or was just VERY stupid since it wasn't uncommon for an auror of the DMLE to be at the station just to ensure things were going smoothly.

It was sadder, in Harry's opinion, that the last of the Prewett Family was satisfied being a housewife and mother and not even training her children to be the fighters that the Prewetts were known to be.

Going through the column to get to Platform 9 and ¾, Harry smiled at the sight of the Hogwarts Express and headed for it to get a compartment, though he did accidentally brush against a few people that he knew were on his shitlist that were at the station, counting one blonde asshole and his no doubt equally asshole son. He didn't need the money he had swiped from them, but he could put it to much better use than they could.

Plus, the funny bit of them trying desperately to figure out when they had either lost the money or when someone had managed to steal it.

Harry boarded the train and quickly had his clothes change to trousers, boots, long-sleeved shirt, and vest which were primarily black with emerald and ruby accents. The clothes weren't overly expensive looking, but they weren't cheap either. He glanced around at some of the compartments before he found one and took his seat to relax with one of the few books he wanted to review as he waited for his companions to catch up.

A few minutes later, the door opened before it closed and two people sat in the compartment revealing a girl and a boy. The girl sat with braided hair wearing a white long-sleeved shirt, black bodice, black heeled boots, grey pants with metal studs, grey fingerless gloves, and a simple black cord necklace with what looked like a crystal in it. The boy had a short, matted hair style and was wearing a white Henley shirt with the buttons undone, brown trousers, black boots, and a full-length black glove on his left hand and a fingerless one on his right hand.

"All right?" Harry asked as he turned a page in his book.

"None of the kids we saw in any compartments look up to snuff, hell even the prefects we saw could be taken down within a couple minutes." The boy stated as Harry nodded.

"None of the adults at the station were worth mentioning either, some pretty females, but no one was sensory aware or really giving off a danger sense. The blonde woman with a black streak at least had a somewhat subdued aura, more like she was looking for long distance or obvious threats rather than the possible up close." The girl stated as Harry nodded again.

"Remind me to increase your situational awareness training." He stated absently making the two blink. "You missed the semi-crippled old man standing exactly 22 feet from the entrance to the platform under a low grade Notice Me Not charm, strong enough for anyone not trying to look, but not for those who are being more aware of their surroundings." Harry stated making the two frown at that information.

"22 feet?" The boy asked and Harry turned a page.

"The maximum distance a fit attacker can get to someone while wielding a melee weapon is 21 feet. They can cover that space in the time it takes the average wizard to draw their wand, raise it, and then fire a spell. Inside 21 feet, the attacker wins 99% of the time, outside of it they have the options of negotiating, not attacking, retreating, or running for cover. The man you two failed to notice is Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody, the Head Auror for three decades and one of the most brutal fighters in the Ministry's army as well as one of Dumbledore's most trusted confidants and friends. He's known to be barking mad, paranoid, and lethal in any fight he's in. He primarily trains the Auror recruits to get them up to wartime standards, though the Ministry has been decreasing funding making his job harder and the fact that the war decreased their numbers in multiple ways also didn't help things. He's also one of the few that didn't attempt to spy on us after the three professors were sent away." Harry explained as he turned another page making the two look at each other in silent agreement that they needed to do better.

The two then looked at the door as it was suddenly opened, "Have you seen Harry Potter? He's supposed to be on this train." The younger blonde asshole that Harry had swiped money from asked while two burly looking boys stood protectively behind him.

The two glanced at Harry then at each other, "Nope, haven't seen a Harry Potter. Heard of him, yet to see him though." The girl stated as the boy shrugged and left, they had decent clothing, even if it wasn't robes, so no reason to look down on them too much.

"Well, he's on the shit list right now." The boy in the compartment stated making the girl nod while Harry hummed.

A few minutes later had a pair of girls arriving at the door, "Oh, do you mind if we sit here?" One, a red head with a couple freckles, asked with her blonde friend standing by her.

"Not at all, go ahead." The girl in the compartment stated making the red head smile in appreciation before Harry idly flicked his hand and their trunks levitated up onto the rack, shocking the two arrivals.

"You can do Wandless?!" The red head gasped in shock as Harry shrugged and turned the next page of his book.

"Get used to it, if we're in the same class you'll be getting a lot of surprises from him." The girl that was there stated as she leaned back and, those raised in such a way, could see her sitting like a perfect pureblood.

"Oh, where are my manners. I'm Susan Bones and this is Hannah Abbot." The red head informed as the blonde nodded in greeting.

"My name is Evie Frye, this is my brother Jacob, and that's Lord Hadrian." The now named Evie stated as she motioned to the other two.

"You're a lord?!" Susan asked in surprise as Harry nodded. "Which House?" She couldn't help but ask and Harry was silent as he flipped the page.

"If you don't mind waiting, you'll find out at the sorting; I don't need too many people learning beforehand." Harry stated as he kept reading idly.

"Don't mind him, he's just not a fan of people gossiping and the like when they see him." Evie stated as the two frowned before Susan widened her eyes.

"You're Potter!" She stated while trying not to shout causing Hannah to look at him in shock.

Harry sighed and nodded. "Yes, I am." He stated as he kept his book up.

Before anyone could comment, the door opened again making Harry sigh at people lacking manners to knock on the bloody door.

This time there were three girls and a boy there. The girls were white skinned with two having blonde hair, just different shades, and one having black hair and looked to be first years. Two had blue eyes and one had brown eyes, though one of the blue eyes had glasses on as well. The boy was dark skinned with black hair and hazel eyes.

The four quickly entered and closed the blinds before waiting, not noticing Harry wave his hand at the door, as footsteps passed making them sigh in relief. "Sorry about that, we were just trying to avoid a prick and his two meatheads before they could cause us problems." The black-haired girl apologized with a sigh as she looked at the people there.

"Let me guess: About 4 feet 4 inches, heavily gelled blonde hair, skinny frame, expensive robes, shit brown eyes, higher than thou aura, a little annoyed and/or pissed off, kind of looks like a ferret?" Harry asked as he flicked a page again.

The four blinked before nodding, "Uh… yes actually." The taller blonde of the two, being about 2 inches taller than her fellow blonde, there stated as she blinked her blue eyes at him.

Harry merely hummed, "Well you have my sympathies for being subject to his bigotry, his stupidity, his greed and ambition combined with his advances, and for having to share blood with him, respectfully." Harry stated as he flipped the page making the entire cabin look at him in confusion.

"I'm sorry?" The black-haired girl asked.

"That was Draco Malfoy, heir to the Malfoy family and son of Lucius Malfoy and Narcissa Malfoy nee Black. You, heiress Greengrass, are the target of his greed, ambition, and advances since even at 11 you're showing how attractive you'll be in a few years, and he wants your family's status and money as well as control any houses that swore fealty to yours. Your friend Tracey Davis, the taller blonde with glasses, is the subject of his bigotry for both being a half-blood and for belonging to what is classified as a sub family even though they have their own political and financial muscle for themselves. Your other friend, Blaise Zabini, is having to suffer Draco's stupidity because if they aren't under his control, he doesn't want any males near you at all, never mind the fact you two have been friends for years and have a near brother and sister relationship than anything close to romantic. Finally, your last friend, Isabella Malfoy, has to deal with being the idiot's better looking twin sister and thus has my pity for having to be related to him." Harry stated matter of factly as he finally looked at the group as they just stared at him in surprise.

"How did you know all of that?" Isabella asked and Harry glanced at her.

"I make it a point to know everything I can about everything I can, counting notable families and their heirs who I may have to coexist with for the next 7 school years." Harry stated before looking to Susan and Hannah, "And yes, that means I knew who you were, Heiress Bones." Harry stated as he went back to his book and turned the page again.

Greengrass frowned as she looked at him. The fact he addressed her as heiress but not Tracy meant that he belonged to a house that was higher than her friend's and yet was likely equal or greater to her own as he would have bowed in greeting. Only a handful of houses reached that level and only one was supposed to have a green-eyed black-haired male as an heir.

Looking at his hand both confirmed and one-upped her suspicions as sitting on Harry's right ring finger was a platinum ring with a blood diamond atop it and then a stylized flaming P that looked to be made of emerald.

A ring far too grand for an heir, meaning only one thing.

"A pleasure to meet you, Lord Potter, allow me to formally introduce myself. I am Daphne Elizabeth Greengrass, heiress to house Greengrass and first year waiting to be sorted." The now named Daphne stated as she gave a light curtsy, more respectful than submissive, and Harry closed his book and bowed his head lightly before offering his hand and Daphne took it allowing him to lightly kiss her knuckles.

"Charmed, my lady, Hadrian Artorius Potter, Lord of House Potter and heir to House Black, first year waiting to be sorted." Harry introduced though his name was longer for different reasons, but unlike a certain old goat, and actual goat not the acronym, he didn't need to flaunt his name constantly.

"I am Blaise Leonardo Zabini, heir to House Zabini, first year waiting to be sorted." Blaise stated, getting over the shock of the boy-who-lived being in front of him, as he gave a bow to Harry, who returned it before they gave each other a firm handshake.

"A pleasure, Heir Zabini." Harry stated as Susan suddenly stood and curtsied.

"Apologies, Lord Potter, I am Susan Marguerite Bones, Heiress of House Bones, first year waiting to be sorted." Susan stated knowing she had forgotten proper etiquette when it came to houses and such.

"Be at ease, my lady, it is a pleasure to meet you as well." Harry stated as he took her hand and kissed it lightly, showing there was no offense taken.

"Tracey Margery Davis, heiress to house Davis, first year waiting to be sorted." Tracey stated giving a grander curtsy than Susan or Daphne did, mainly due to the distinction of their houses.

Mainly, Tracey's house was a Noble House, meaning it's history could be traced back to at least 500 years. House Greengrass was a Medieval House traced to at least 800 years. House Bones, however, had the distinction of being a Founding House, meaning it could be traced to at least 1,200 years.

House Potter though was classified as an Ancient House, meaning it could trace its prominence back at least 2,000 years, though many speculated it went back much further than that, but no one knew how far exactly.

Many believed they could even be a Most Ancient House, meaning the roots could be traced back no less than 3,000 years.

The last confirmed of those was wiped out in the war with Voldemort.

As such, Harry was technically of a much higher rank than she was, and it would not do to be disrespectful when they were formally introducing themselves. This was especially true since her house was a sub or servant house that had sworn fealty to another house and would provide aid, money, and help in any situation their head house needed in return for protection for their own house from larger threats.

It was even more important for her to show respect, from the purebloods' point of view, as he was a former Sacred 30 Family member. The Sacred 30 being the longest running pureblooded families left in England, which Harry's family was removed from when his father married a Muggle-Born witch.

"A pleasure." Harry stated dipping his head enough for proper decorum and giving a kiss to her hand as well.

"Hannah Lilah Abbot, Heiress of House Abbot, first year to be sorted." Hannah stated giving the same curtsy as Tracey.

"A pleasure." Harry stated giving the same treatment he had to Tracey.

"Isabella Louise Malfoy, daughter of house Malfoy and first year to be sorted." Isabella introduced taking a curtsy that was deeper than Daphne's but lighter than Hannah and Tracey's.

"A pleasure to meet you miss." Harry stated as he gave a kiss to her hand as well. "These are my friends, Jacob and Evie Frye." He stated as the two nodded to them. "You're welcome to take a seat if you want, Draco won't be able to find you here." Harry stated as he turned back to his book.

"Thank you, but we still need our trunks and the compartment isn't-" Daphne was cut off as Harry pulled his wand and tapped it on the luggage rack three times causing the compartment to expand along with the luggage rack and the four saw their trunks there causing them to gape in shock.

"Always amazes me how people who grew up with magic can still find themselves shocked by it." Harry stated as he turned the page in his book again.

Daphne recovered first and quickly took a seat with the other three quickly sitting down as well. Harry merely turned the page in his book before Isabella decided she had a question she needed to ask. "How are you the Heir to House Black?" Isabella asked knowing her brother had been bragging for a long time about being the heir.

"I have two connections to House Black within the last three generations. My Great Grandmother was named Darla Black and she married my Great Grandfather Octavius Potter, she was a mainline member thus I have claim that way. However, my claim supersedes your brother's and therefore yours by the fact my godfather was, and still is, Sirius Black." Harry stated making those that weren't with him originally widen their eyes.

"But isn't he in Azkaban and exiled from the Black Family?" Isabella asked in shock knowing about her mother's cousin.

"Azkaban, yes. Exiled, no. His mother wanted to, but her father-in-law was Lord Black and refused to do it since her complaint was that he went to Gryffindor and didn't want to become a Death Eater. Arcturus Black was many things, but he always kept in mind how to ensure the family survival, so while most of the family was siding with the Dark Asshole, he let Sirius side with the light sided group to fight to ensure he had family on both sides of the conflict to increase likelihood of survival while knowing that there was family blood still flowing in the Potter Family. As such, when he, his son, his daughter-in-law, and youngest grandson died, Sirius became heir and Lord Black and as I'm his godson, that makes me next in line to be Lord Black then your brother." Harry explained as he turned a page and the others blinked at his casual cursing.

Before any of them could comment, the door opened again making Harry sigh, "What is with people not having manners to at least knock before they open the door to a compartment?" Harry groaned out making a few in the compartment and a few at the door flinch and look embarrassed.

"Sorry, I just wanted to ask if you'd seen my toad?" A somewhat fat boy with blonde hair asked at the door.

"No, but one of the prefects or one of the heads should be able to summon him for you or at least find him with a Point Me spell. If he keeps running away, I'd suggest getting a teacher to place a tracking charm on him so you can find him easily." Harry suggested making the boy nod and smile in thanks before he bowed a bit and walked off, clearly knowing Harry was a lord but didn't have time to formally introduce himself.

"You're Harry Potter!" A red-haired boy exclaimed in surprise and excitement as he looked at Harry.

"Would you believe I'm not?" Harry asked dryly hoping the boy would say yes.

"Do you really have the scar?" He asked tactlessly making Harry sigh while the others looked at him in disbelief or annoyance and the red head girl next to him groaned and palmed her face.

"What scar?" Harry asked calmly as he turned another page in his book.

"You know! The lightning scar on your forehead from surviving you-know-who!" He stated nearly shouting again.

"Hmm, never had that, sorry. I do have a scar on my forehead but it's not a lightning shaped one nor did I get it from the dark wanker." Harry stated as he raised his hair off his forehead showing a scar that seemed to be a three-armed pinwheel but blocky.

"What happened?" One of the girls next to the red-haired boy asked, she had brown bushy hair.

"Something I'd rather forget, also you could introduce yourself." Harry stated idly as he let his hair go.

"Oh! I'm Hermione Granger, Muggle-Born first year waiting to be sorted." The now named Hermione stated, making sure to nod her head to all the occupants, though before she could start rambling, the boy next to her spoke up.

"I'm Ron Weasley and this is my sister Ginny." The now named Ron stated as he motioned to the red haired girl next to him and he only looked at Harry.

"Ginerva Agatha Weasley, only daughter of House Weasley, and first year to be sorted." Ginny stated as she gave a curtsy to Harry, almost touching the ground with her knee, since she had seen the ring on his hand unlike her brother and then dipped her head to the others.

"Why did you curtsy to him?" Hermione asked wondering if Ginny was just overly proper like that.

"He's a lord of a highly esteemed house, my family is lesser ranked than his. It would be terrible manners to not show proper respect for his position and title." Ginny stated calmly knowing Hermione likely wouldn't know about Wizarding politics and etiquette.

"Isn't that a bit archaic?" Hermione asked trying not to sound rude.

"No more than the muggles' way of doing things in England. When the queen dies, her family will still hold the throne, same with the different dukes, barons, earls, and such. Main difference is that we elect the two people that are the primary leadership positions, houses primarily have voting power as well as being able to push different motions and issues more than a normal person can. It's no different than a person lobbying for a politician or rich person to back their cause or claim thus giving them more weight and muscle to use. Plus those who have a knighthood from the monarchy are technically a slightly higher status to the everyday citizen." Harry explained as he turned another page making Susan and Hannah wonder how long that book actually was if he hadn't finished it by this point.

Hermione blinked and nodded seeing what he meant before she noticed the book he was holding. However, Ron spoke before she could say anything. "Do you mind if we sit in here?" He asked already stepping in slightly before he was stopped by Jacob.

"First, you're being rude to everyone else you didn't bother acknowledging. Second, you're being rude by just barging in here before anyone has said anything. Third, you're being rude by thinking that if Harry gives the okay, we'd all accept you being in here. Your arrogance and lack of manners is grating and annoying." He stated flatly as the majority of the compartment nodded, Susan and Isabella being the only ones not to as they didn't want to start an altercation.

"And who are you?" Ron asked frowning at him while giving a look that said he was already hating him.

"Jacob Frye." Jacob nearly growled at him.

"With him and myself is Jacob's sister Evie, Susan Bones, Hannah Abbott, Daphne Greengrass, Blaise Zabini, Tracey Davis, and Isabella Malfoy." Harry stated knowing that he had to step in before Jacob killed the idiot.

It worked too as Ron jumped back in shock, "Your families are Slytherins!" Ron shouted acting as if they had just admitted to killing children in front of him.

"Yes, is that a problem?" Daphne asked with an icy glare.

"Yes it's a problem! Everyone knows Slytherins are evil and nothing but dark wizards and witches! You should avoid them Harry, they're likely plotting to either turn you or kill you." Ron shouted drawing attention from the other compartments.

Daphne glowered at him, but someone else beat her to the punch in addressing him. "First, I don't recall giving you permission to use the shortened version of my name. Second: If you're implying that all Slytherins are evil, then you're going to be facing a bit of a problem since quite a few members of my family have been Slytherins. And I see no reason why I can't be friends with these four." Harry stated calmly to Ron while not even looking at him while Evie and Jacob were still trying not to laugh at the idea of someone getting the drop on Harry.

"But they're Slytherins! They followed You-Know-Who in the war!" Ron nearly shouted drawing more attention to them as his sister was facepalming hard in embarrassment.

"Except it wasn't only Slytherins that supported him evidenced by Sirius Black being a Gryffindor, Barty Crouch Jr. being a Ravenclaw, Walden Macnair was a Gryffindor, Augustus Rookwood was a Hufflepuff, and there were others since he had a couple hundred followers at least and there was no reason for him only pull from Slytherin since talent is useful no matter what house you're placed in." Harry countered as the others looked at him in surprise. "For other instances of the House not mattering what you would become in life, there's Dumbledore as he was a Ravenclaw, not a Gryffindor. Professor McGonagall was a Ravenclaw, Professor Sprout was a Gryffindor, Professor Flitwick was a Slytherin, Professor Sinistra was a Slytherin, Professor Babbling was a Ravenclaw, your uncles were Hufflepuffs and were two of the fiercest duelists seen in years, an Auror named Alastor Moody was a Slytherin and he is a close friend of Dumbledore's, your ancestor Matilda Weasley was a Slytherin in her time at Hogwarts, the head of the DMLE was a Hufflepuff, the Minister was a Slytherin, and from what my mother noted in her journal, she was considered to join Slytherin but asked to not be placed there after her best friend warned against it." Harry informed as he turned a page again not caring for the stunned reactions he was getting nor the whispers that were funneling in from the hallway, "Evil comes in all forms, in every house, and in different people. There is no 100% good house, 100% evil house, 100% light, 100% dark, or even a 50/50 house. The house is merely what your strongest trait is at the time of the sorting and nothing more, you decide what path to walk in life just like everyone else does. If that's not acceptable to you, then please find another compartment as I'm not leaving nor am I asking them to leave." Harry stated as he sat there while Evie and Jacob were smirking.

Ron sputtered and tried to reply as he was extremely red in the face, "Good day, Mr. Weasley." Harry stated in a dismissive tone as Ron finally found it in him to stomp away before he was further embarrassed.

The two girls stood there a bit awkwardly before Evie spoke, "Would you like to sit with us?" She asked glancing at the others.

"Do you mind?" Ginny asked and saw Evie look at the others, who all shrugged since there was still space from Harry causing the compartment to expand.

"Go ahead." Harry stated as he turned another page.

"Thank you." Ginny stated as she and Hermione pulled their trunks in before Harry waved his hand and caused them to go up into the rack much to the astonishment of Blaise, Ginny, Hermione, Daphne, Isabella, and Tracey.

"You can do Wandless?!" Daphne asked in shock as she stared at Harry.

"Yes." Harry stated as he kept reading.

The majority just stared at him for his nonchalant attitude, "As I told Susan and Hannah, be prepared to be surprised a lot when it comes to Harry." Evie stated as she shook her head at his actions.

"What house do you think you'll be in?" Jacob asked trying to get them to focus again.

"Uh, well I'm pretty sure I'll be in Hufflepuff, I'm not very cunning, I'm not very smart but not dumb, and I'm not really brave either." Susan stated as she sat there.

"I think I'll be in Slytherin or Ravenclaw, though Hufflepuff is acceptable, I don't want to be in Gryffindor, I'll be facing the opposite kind of bias that I would in Slytherin." Daphne stated recovering from her shock quicker than the others did.

Blaise, Isabella, and Tracey indicated they'd likely be the same as Daphne making Harry snort, "Then best of luck, I can guarantee you that Draco will be in Slytherin, you'll have your work cut out for you if you don't want to deal with him that often. Hufflepuff will make you have to be more social, Ravenclaw will be accepting if you are an isolationist or a group person, and Gryffindor is kind of a bag of shit and gold at the same time." Harry stated making them frown at his point about Draco.

"Are you sure Professor Dumbledore wasn't a Gryffindor? A couple books hail him as such and that he upholds the principles of the house." Hermione asked as Harry nodded.

"Yes, there's a book called Noteworthy Wizards of the ages, it lists a hundred witches and wizards along with details about them such as what house they were sorted into, greatest achievements, and notable facts and deeds. Along with that, I have a journal by one of my ancestors that went to school with him, he wrote that Albus was brilliant but naïve about a great many things." Harry stated as he flipped a page making Hermione frown since she had wanted to go to Gryffindor to be like the great Albus Dumbledore, champion of the light.

What she didn't know was that Dumbles got that rumor and notion floating out there intentionally to get Gryffindor as the "light" house so he knew who could be recruited to his side easier by going after those sorted into Gryffindor. He still kept eyes on the other houses, but Gryffindor was his chief recruitment point for his plans and efforts. Since the rivalry between Gryffindor and Slytherin was so legendary, all of his opponents would go to Slytherin unless they had enough brains to know that going to Hufflepuff or Ravenclaw would draw far less attention to themselves.

A rather predictable and boring plan, but it had served him well and like many wizards, Albus was of the approach of "if it isn't broken, don't mess with it" when it came to things.

He and many others would quickly learn the problem with following that principle very quickly if Harry had anything to say about it.

"What about you three?" Daphne asked looking at the three unknowns before her.

"Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff are the only two for us." Jacob stated motioning to his sister and himself.

"Not the other two?" Daphne asked making the twins smirk.

"No, Gryffindors don't know when to shut up and observe, and Slytherin has too much negativity and blood supremacy in it for our liking, we'd be sending housemates to the hospital wing daily and that wouldn't be ideal." Jacob stated knowing that Harry was likely to go to Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff, though they knew which one he was more likely to go to.

"And you, Lord Potter?" Tracey asked as she turned to the young man still reading the same book.

"Same." Harry stated simply as he turned the page again.

"What are you reading?" Hermione asked as she couldn't take it anymore and was wondering how long a book that seemed so thin could be.

"Currently, I'm reading Runes book that used to be on the required reading for school back when Runes was a mandatory subject. However, our esteemed Headmaster and several others thought it wasn't necessary anymore and made it an elective, though that was more so they could cut funding and pay for the subject. It not being required meant that the school and ministry didn't have to pay for the full breadth of the supplies used, could reduce the teacher's pay, and charge less for admissions as cutting costs means cutting necessary funding. A few of the older houses found that unacceptable and quickly made sure they bought one copy of every Runes book ever made, even if the book was solely theory." Harry explained as he turned another page.

"I'm sure there must have been a good reason." Hermione stated with a frown and Harry shrugged.

"If there was, he never gave it, not even when questioned by people in a higher position of authority than him. Coincidentally, those people who questioned him were replaced within a year." Harry stated idly as he kept reading making a few of the people frown.

"Can I see it?" Hermione asked and Harry shook his head. "Why not?" She asked in confusion.

"A) I'm currently reading it. B) It's advanced, so you need to at least have some understanding of Runes first before you read, or you won't understand it. C) I don't know you that well so I'm not loaning you anything yet." Harry reasoned politely and calmly making Hermione frown, but she couldn't fault him for that since they had just met after all.

Conversation then broke out into a variety of topics and subjects with all but Evie and Jacob being surprised at the literal wealth of information that Harry had whether it was school subjects, politics, quidditch, history, it didn't matter, he had information to share and opinions on it.

Eventually they reached the station, with the boys changing first in the compartment and then the girls doing so as they were required to wear school robes. Disembarking, they found a rather tall man named Hagrid calling all First Years to him before he led them to a group of boats and told them it was four to a boat.

The Slytherin Quartet as Harry had jokingly named Daphne, Tracey, Isabella, and Blaise's group got in one boat, Hermione got in another with Susan, Hannah, and Ginny. Harry, Jacob, and Evie were in one boat and were joined by a boy named Terry Boot before they set out.

"Unless you want the giant squid to possibly slap you, or anything else living in the lake to get agitated, I'd stop splashing if I were you." Harry suddenly called looking at a boy that was splashing the water a bit.

The boy yelped and jerked away from the edge as Harry shook his head before smiling at the grand sight of Hogwarts illuminated by various torches, sconces, braziers, and candles with the moon as a backdrop to it. "Never gets old seeing that." Harry idly thought with a smile enjoying the fact his two friends were getting such a sight as well.

Reaching the docks, they disembarked and followed Hagrid inside to a staircase where McGonagall was waiting for them. "All yours, Professor." Hagrid stated as McGonagall nodded to him and he lumbered off.

"Welcome, I am Professor McGonagall, I teach Transfiguration here as well as serving as Head of House for Gryffindor and Deputy Headmistress of this school. In a few moments, you will enter through these doors and will be sorted into one of the four houses of this school: Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, and Slytherin. While you are here, your house shall be your family, and with all families there will be some getting used to and adjustments required. Do well and act appropriately in school and you will earn points for your house in order to win the House Cup at the end of the year, do poorly or break rules and you will lose points. Act out badly enough and you will receive detention, continue to do so after that and you can face suspension or even expulsion with the latter carrying a minimum two year wait before you can possibly be readmitted, and you will be returning as the year you were expelled." McGonagall stated with a harsh tone making Harry roll his eyes knowing in the history of Dumbledore being Headmaster, no student had been expelled no matter what they had done.

Even before he became Headmaster, Hagrid had been the only expelled student in the last 140 years and that was because he was framed by a certain asshole with a stupid made-up name.

If Hagrid proved to be a useful ally, or at least a kind enough man that he could remember him being, Harry could probably get his record expunged and maybe get him a wand again.

"Now, wait here while I ensure everything is prepared for your sorting." McGonagall stated as she walked through the large doors.

"What do you think it is?" Daphne asked as she stood by Harry and the others.

"Don't know, boss?" Jacob asked looking at Harry, who smirked.

"I could tell you, but why ruin the surprise?" Harry stated with the smirk in place making Jacob sigh in annoyance before a voice spoke.

"So it's true, what they said on the train, Harry Potter has come to Hogwarts." Draco Malfoy stated as he came up with his two thugs, Vincent Crabbe and Greggory Goyle, right behind him. "This is Crabbe, and Goyle, and I'm Malfoy, Draco Malfoy." Draco stated as Harry looked at him.

"Oh, license to kill?" Harry asked getting some snorts and light laughs from a few of the half-bloods and Muggle-Borns.

"What? What the bloody hell are you on about?" Draco asked and Harry rolled his eyes.

"Yup, he's a Malfoy all right." Harry thought before addressing him. "It's a muggle reference." Harry explained somewhat enjoying the offended/disgusted look on Malfoy's face when he mentioned that.

"I have no idea why you'd want to associate with those cretins, but you'll learn quickly that associating with the wrong sort of families can lead to ruin. I can help you there." Draco stated with a smirk as Harry nodded.

"Interesting, tell me, is a family that engages in rape, theft, murder, genocide, bribery, extortion, corruption, blackmail, terrorism, and attempted line theft, a family I should associate with?" Harry asked as he gazed meaningfully at Draco, who felt a bit unnerved at Harry's look as well as the whispers that were starting to break out from Harry's question.

A few more observant students noted it was a real Slytherin move in that he just brought suspicion and attention onto Draco without actually accusing his family of doing anything. It was even more impressive as the first years would spread what happened to all the other years and thus everyone would be talking about it, meaning Draco had to do damage control before this possibly spiraled and made its way back to his father.

"Uh, no, you shouldn't." Draco stated trying to keep some confidence.

"Hmm, good to know." Harry commented before McGonagall returned and ushered them into the hall.

Harry didn't pay any mind to the floating candles, enchanted ceiling, the four tables, or the teacher's table within the hall. No, his eyes were locked on Albus fucking Dumbledore and Harry had to restrain himself quite a bit.

Now was not the time to make any move against him, but Harry already had several plans in the works to do so when he was ready.

For now, he'd bide his time and build his own power base before tearing away at the old man's power and image.

"When I call your name, please step forward and take a seat on the stool, I will then place the Sorting Hat upon your head and you will be sorted to your house." McGonagall stated as she held the old hat up.

"Hannah Abbot." She called and Hannah went up and was put in Hufflepuff and the sorting continued down the line of names alphabetically.

The only ones Harry paid attention to were Susan, who went to Hufflepuff unsurprisingly, Terry Boot, who went to Hufflepuff, and Tracey, who went to Ravenclaw to the shock of many save for Daphne, Blaise, and Isabella.

"Evie Frye." McGonagall called making said girl walk up making Flitwick and Sprout pay a bit attention and Harry easily saw the plain interest Dumbledore had.

The hat was placed on her head, [Well, you're an interesting one, though from what your mind tells me, Lord Potter will definitely be a one-of-a-kind experience for me.] A voice stated within her mind, but she didn't react. [Yes, I am the Sorting Hat, and to ease your mind I can't reveal any information I find to anyone. Now let's see where to place you, plenty of bravery, cunning, and intelligence but your loyalty is where you shine, though considering your feelings and the history involved, it's not that surprising. However, given your own predilection for things, I'd suggest Ravenclaw.] The hat continued making Evie raise an eyebrow.

[You're asking me?] Evie asked and the hat snorted.

[I am not so callous to not take into account your own desires and feelings. While you would no doubt thrive in Slytherin, I fear your brother's prediction that you'd send people to the hospital wing constantly is true. Hufflepuff will let you bond with others, but you'll find less privacy than you'd like at times. Gryffindor you will have a hard time tolerating the people there at times and the requirement to be rivals with Slytherin would begin to annoy you." The hat continued as Evie gave a mental nod of agreement. [Best of luck.] The hat commented before shouting, "RAVENCLAW!" Getting cheers from said table as Evie removed the hat and made her way over.

Jacob was called next, and the hat barely touched his head before it shouted, "RAVENCLAW!" Making him nod as he placed the hat down and went and sat beside his sister, who merely rolled her eyes at him while giving a smile.

The sorting continued with Hermione also going to Ravenclaw and Daphne then joined her, shocking many as they truly believed she'd go to Slytherin. Draco Malfoy was the most shocked and it looked like he was a bit angry, no doubt planning to use the time in the same dorm to get Daphne under his thumb in some way.

Apparently, he wasn't so angry or upset to change houses as he predictably went to Slytherin, with Harry knowing he had more respect and command in that house than in any other. Plus his two guard dogs were there already, so he wasn't about to go to a "lesser" house without protection.

Isabella then stepped up and it surprised people that she actually needed a bit before being sorted. Of course, her going to Ravenclaw was even further shocking to people and Draco looked even more enraged by that.

Harry did notice her sending a questioning and curious glance his way as she walked to the table. The fact that she immediately began whispering to Daphne about something while subtly looking at him meant the hat likely made a passing mention on something.

Some more names were called that Harry had marked on three mental lists. Neville Longbottom, the boy looking for the toad on the train, went to Gryffindor.

Pansy Parkinson, Millicent Bulstrode, and Theodore Nott went to Slytherin.

Padma Patil went to Ravenclaw while her twin sister Parvati went to Gryffindor along with a girl named Lavender Brown.

"Hadrian Potter." McGonagall called making the whole hall go quiet until Harry stepped up and then whispers broke out with Dumbledore showing clear surprise at the sight of him and McGonagall, Flitwick, and Sprout showing relief since they didn't know if he'd come.

Harry ignored them all as he waved his hand at the hat, casting a simple cleaning charm on it, before he sat on the stool and let the hat be placed on his head. [Oh! Most interesting, most interesting indeed, Lord Potter. I must say, each of the founders would be begging to have you in their house, both due to your lineage and for your actions, plans, and persona. To say that you are loyal, brave, intelligent, and cunning would be an injustice to how you really are. You exemplify Gryffindor in that you are fearless and take all that you desire without fear, but you're not so foolish as to be blindly courageous or charge in without planning. You're a true Hufflepuff in that you are loyal to your people and obviously are hardworking but not blindly so and will fight to destroy anyone that threatens that which you choose to protect. You show a true Ravenclaw as you seek knowledge to better yourself and those around you while at the same time not turning down the advancement of knowledge to live in the past as others do and seek to understand the knowledge rather than just possess it. And must we even go over why you are a true Slytherin? To say you're dangerous, ambitious, and tactical would be an understatement to your skills and mentality. Your plans for the future, both to improve your position as well as destroy your enemies are also intriguing, and I wish you the best of luck as I can't interfere in those, and as you know, I can't divulge any secrets of yours to anyone, not even the headmaster. Your plans are already showing results as your information on the train caused ripples in the different students being influenced by your words.] The Sorting Hat stated as Harry sat there.

[You've stated where I can fit, and that you know my plans, but you've yet to actually pick my house.] Harry replied as the hat wasn't telling him anything he didn't know.

The hat merely chuckled, [Ah, I like you, Lord Potter. I'm sure I will enjoy you tormenting and driving Albus up the wall with the things you'll do and I do hope your plans for succession work out for you. As for your house, you obviously will need one of the solitary rooms, meaning Ravenclaw or Slytherin. Given your desire to keep the public away from you too much, and not have to send people to the hospital each year, you'll be going to Ravenclaw, where you'll likely have to whip some of them into shape as there are a few bullies there that will need to be fixed.] The hat continued making Harry hum a bit, though the hat could sense his annoyance and anger at that and no doubt that many would be getting humiliated or sent to the hospital wing in the coming years.

[I'll handle it.] Harry stated simply already having a guess on who the problem children were.

[Best of luck and thank you for the cleaning charm, it's been ages since someone used one on me.] The hat stated before he shouted, "RAVENCLAW!" It shouted getting the table of blue to start cheering wildly that "they got Potter", though a few looked curious of if he could keep up intellectually.

The Hufflepuffs politely clapped not caring what house he was in, though some fear and worry would have come from him being sent to Slytherin.

The Gryffindors sat there in shock and horror at the Boy-Who-Lived not being a Golden Boy Gryffindor as expected especially since his parents were Gryffindors. Many were wondering if the hat had malfunctioned or something.

And the Slytherins were a mixture of shock, confusion, and contemplation. Many of the True Slytherins had been planning for years on how to interact and handle a Gryffindor Potter, not a Ravenclaw and were quickly weighing pros, cons, and the proper course of action.

Many of the Slytherins-in-name-only were simply thinking about how Potter must be a weakling as he only had brains going for him.

They'd learn their lesson soon enough though.

Of course, it wasn't only the students that were reacting to Harry's placement.

McGonagall was disappointed, but she figured she didn't make that good of an impression on him when she went there with Flitwick and Sprout. He was at Hogwarts and that was good enough.

Flitwick was ecstatic over having Harry in his house and hoped he could mentor the boy like he had his mother, though he could see easily enough that Harry was more advanced than his current peers, especially in offensive magic since his stance was that of a trained duelist as well as an Auror mixed in.

Someone had definitely trained the boy, though who that was, Flitwick couldn't begin to guess. Plus, the mature air around the boy would serve him well among the teachers and possibly help keep some of the rowdier members of the house under control and keep the house unified and together.

Severus Snape could also see that Harry was trained and knew how to carry himself in a fight. As a target for bullies in school, and dealing with his bastard father, he had to be able to read people at a mere glance and know who a threat was and who wasn't. Potter clearly had the stance of a fighter, if not an Auror, and carried himself with confidence but he wasn't strutting around like a peacock. If not for the fact that he had buried his feud with the Marauders, except for Black since he led to the death of his best friend and sister figure Lily, he likely would be scowling and despising the boy.

He just hoped the boy was as smart as his parents were, otherwise, he'd likely feel a dislike through disappointment.

He was annoyed at Draco Malfoy being in Slytherin, despite the fact the boy was his godson, since the boy couldn't be tactical, cunning, or careful even when his life depended on it. His father was a true Slytherin, and his mother was a Slytherin incarnate, but the boy relied too much on his father's name and money to protect him rather than being smart about how to do things. His anti Muggle-Born sentiments would only increase Snape's headaches, especially if the boy thought that being his godson would give him a pass in Potions.

Yes, he certainly hoped he didn't have as many idiots, dunderheads, and aggravations in class this year. The fact that there was a new set of Weasley twins attending did not get his hopes up that high.

Albus was contemplative as he watched Harry, not happy that he wasn't put into Gryffindor and that he was trained by someone outside of his control. He wanted Harry to be a stereotypical Gryffindor that would charge headlong into trouble bravely yet foolishly without fully planning and look up to him as a mentor, role model, and leader. But a Harry that would think, plan, and learn all he could to face his problems was not good, especially since Albus knew Harry would need to die eventually and an intelligent and questioning Harry may try to escape that.

He at least wasn't in Slytherin, from what Minerva had told him it was entirely possible that he was semi-dark since he was taking over Knockturn Alley and wasn't exactly friendly towards outsiders. He'd have no control over a Slytherin Harry, and the Boy-Who-Lived being a Slytherin and possibly dark would NOT be good at all.

Harry had a lot of influence on the younger generation and even some of the older generation, whatever stance he took in life people would follow or try to do the same and THAT was dangerous for many reasons. Albus needed to get Harry under his control, which he hoped to do through some scheduled meetings at the Wizengamot while also having some resources looking into where the hell the Dursleys had gone.

The fact that people were referring to him as LORD Potter was also not good. Harry wasn't ever supposed to know about, let alone take, any lordship he was eligible for. The problem was that he couldn't check and see if Harry had somehow gotten his rank as heir elevated to Lord without drastically overstepping his bounds and drawing more attention to himself. He just had to hope that they only called himself that because he somehow got in charge of that group, not because he'd actually ascended to the status of Lord since that would cause several problems.

His thoughts were broken with shock and fear as the next name on the list was read, "Delphini Riddle." McGonagall called making a young girl with silver hair that had blue tips and hazel eyes.

She walked up and sat on the stool and the hat was quiet for a few minutes before it shouted, "RAVENCLAW!" Sending her to the raven table where she promptly sat next to Harry and smiled at him and the Frye twins before engaging in some talk.

Albus couldn't comprehend it, WHEN could Voldemort aka Tom Riddle have possibly had a child?! And who did he have her with?! He idly remembered some subtle rumors that perhaps Tom had been close to his chief lieutenant a few times, but he had passed them off as absurd as Tom had NO intention of dying and thus wouldn't need a legacy or something to continue after he was gone as he had no intention of being gone. What's worse, he could see her sitting with Harry and his two cohorts and talking as if they were friends for years! This was not good, and he had to figure something out soon or he could lose his weapon and key, not to mention his only chance at getting one of the other Hollows!

The sorting continued from there as Blaise went to Slytherin and Ron Weasley went to Gryffindor. However, the surprise came when Ginny went to Ravenclaw, whether that was to strike out on her own or just to avoid her twin or to possibly be closer to her semi-friends or just be closer to Harry was anyone's guess.

Once it finished, Dumbledore had some random words to say, which Harry knew were just the signal for the House Elves to deliver the food for the feast.

Harry was in Hogwarts, now it was time to start fucking up the status quo.

DONE!

Next time? Shit happens, classes, confrontations, assholes losing their minds, who knows! We'll see when I eventually write it!

Also, Walldert is NOT an OC.

Thanks to my Patrons: Terminator1738. Andrew Stephens, Shadow9Fox,Janus Christoffer Sønderskov, Patrick Ferro, Smilix, Dylan Page, William Skondras, Tom Khoury, Joseph, Matthew Andersen, Jason Anderson, Hert Fanfiction, Kelly Payeur, Rich Didcott, Matthew Jackson, Joeri Lissens, Cory Toler, Aysha, Knight, Ellis, dragonkw213, TheDarkKnight, Tommy Mars, William Kwok, and VisibleColt136. Thank you all for your continued support!

That's it, see you all next time.