"Zoollingalism"
"Telepathic communication"
Four years had passed. Harry now, just a few days before his 11th birthday, stood at four foot ten inches, towering over most of his peers, and his physique showcased a surprising amount of muscle for his age. The lightning bolt scar on his forehead had significantly faded over the years, now appearing as faint white lines.
Harry had maintained a consistent schedule each year. During the summer months, he attended Camp Half-Blood, where he honed his skills and trained alongside demigods. The rest of the year, he spent his time with Artemis and her group of hunters, becoming an integral part of their tight-knit community.
Currently, Harry found himself at Camp Half-Blood's Archery fields, joined by Lee Fletcher and the Apollo Cabin. Holding a celestial bronze bow with a blunt arrow notched, Harry relaxed his hand and released the arrow, hitting the target dead center.
"It seems that I win again, Lee," Harry declared with a smirk.
"Only because I let you," Lee replied a playful tone in his voice.
"Keep telling yourself that, Lee," Harry laughed, enjoying their friendly competition.
As Harry basked in the thrill of victory, Victora approached him with two letters in her hand.
"Harry, you've got two letters," Victoria informed him. "One is from Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and the other is from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry,"
Curiosity piqued, Harry accepted the letters. Both were addressed to him at the following location:
Mr. H. Potter
Cabin 8, Artemis Cabin
Camp Half-Blood, Farm Road 3.141
Long Island, New York 11954
Victoria inquired, "So, which one will you be going to?"
Andromeda's green eyes sparkled as she eagerly suggested, "If you pick Ilvermorny, you can be with me." She was a daughter of Hecate, with dark brown hair cascading down her back and freckles scattered across her cheeks. Andromeda had been a friend to Harry ever since he came to Camp Half-Blood.
Harry considered his options for a moment before responding, "Hogwarts. If I go to Ilvermorny, too many questions will be asked. Remember, the bearded old bastard has an unhealthy interest in me. Unlike you two, who he doesn't even know exists."
With a determined look on his face, Harry opened the letter bearing the Hogwarts seal and began to read the contents.
HOGWARTS SCHOOL OF WITCHCRAFT AND WIZARDRY
Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore
Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc.,
Dear Mr. Potter,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all the necessary books and equipment. The term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.
Yours sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
Victoria then shared some additional information, saying, "By the way, there is a Phoenix perched outside your Cabin."
"Probably Dumbledore's doing," Harry remarked dismissively. "It wouldn't surprise me. But even if he tried to cross with the Phoenix, he wouldn't even see the camp. He'd just wander around aimlessly for hours on end. Besides as the Heir to Artemis, Animals do fall under my domain magical or not."
"You don't like Dumbledore," Victoria observed.
"No, I do not," Harry responded firmly, his dislike for the Hogwarts Headmaster evident in his voice.
Harry slowly walked over to the Artemis Cabin, taking in the familiar surroundings and the memories associated with it. The cabin was a beautiful structure made of moonstone and silver, with a statue of the goddess herself at its entrance, holding her bow and arrow, always on guard.
As he approached the entrance, he spotted the mentioned Phoenix. It was a magnificent bird with red and gold feathers, its eyes filled with ancient wisdom. Harry met its gaze, sensing its loyalty and dedication to its master.
"I'm not interested in your games, Fawkes," Harry whispered, addressing the Phoenix by its name, having heard enough about it from various sources. "Tell me why are you here."
Fawkes, the majestic creature perched on Harry's shoulder, tilted his head in response to the boy's words and unleashed a soft, melodic cry. Harry could feel its confusion as it communicated back to him, "My master gave me orders to send A Harry Potter back to his office, milord."
Harry looked deep into the eyes of Fawkes and formed a connection with the animal. He declared confidently, "I am the Son and heir to the Goddess Artemis, and animals fall under my domain - you are an animal. Tell your master that you cannot obey that order."
Fawkes blinked the usual fiery sparkle in his eyes dimming for a moment. Harry's command had struck a chord, challenging the unwavering loyalty that the phoenix had always felt for Dumbledore. Phoenixes were magical creatures with an innate sense of right and wrong, and Harry's proclamation forced Fawkes to acknowledge the presence of a higher deity's heir in front of him.
However, the phoenix, still bound by years of loyalty to Dumbledore, hesitated. He sang another melancholic tune, a beautiful melody filled with sadness and conflict.
Victoria and Andromeda, sensing the emotional tension between Harry and Fawkes, approached cautiously. "Harry, be careful. While you might be the heir to a goddess, Fawkes is no ordinary bird. He's bound to Dumbledore by more than just loyalty. There's a bond of friendship, trust, and perhaps even a deeper magic that we can't comprehend," Andromeda whispered, her eyes on the majestic creature.
Harry nodded, taking in Victoria's words. "I understand, but I won't let him whisk me away to some office against my will. I will erase his existence if he does try that."
"Wait you can do that?" asked Andromeda.
"Yes, remember I am not a Demigod, I am Artemis Heir. and She is the goddess of Animals, I have the same connection to that domain as she does, I can simply snap my fingers and that Pheonix will simply cease to exist" Harry replied, his tone serious.
Andromeda gulped, her eyes widening. "That's... that's a lot of power, Harry."
Victoria looked thoughtful. "But using such power against Fawkes wouldn't be right. He's just following orders, and even if he's bound by some deeper magic, it's not his fault."
Harry sighed, looking at the Phoenix. "Fawkes, I am going to give you two options, you leave and tell your master, you can't take me to his office, or I erase your existence."
Fawkes, the loyal and conflicted phoenix, continued to emit a sense of inner turmoil. Harry's ultimatum weighed heavily on the magical creature. Victoria and Andromeda watched with bated breath, fully aware of the magnitude of the decision Fawkes was being forced to make.
The Phoenix, after a few moments of hesitation, seemed to come to a decision. With a graceful movement, it unfurled its wings and flew a short distance away from Harry. Its fiery plumage shimmered in the sunlight as it turned back to face him, its eyes filled with a mixture of understanding and sorrow.
"I cannot defy my master's orders, young one," Fawkes sang softly, his melodious voice filled with regret. "But I also cannot bear to see harm come to you. I will carry you to his office, but know that it is not my desire to do so."
"Then say goodbye to your existence," said Harry
Fawkes released a wail of despair so poignant it sliced through the silence like a sword. Harry's hand trembled over his sword, poised to expel the bird from existence forever. Before he could raise the sword, a familiar voice pierced the air, loud and clear. "Harry, stop!" The word reverberated in his skull as he pivoted to face the speaker.
"Mum?" Harry's voice was hoarse with disbelief.
The woman striding towards them was the embodiment of wild, ethereal beauty. Clad in a tunic and trousers suited for the hunt, her silver eyes reflected the moonlight even in the daylight. The presence of Artemis, the Goddess of the Hunt and the Moon, was both comforting and commanding as she approached her son and the conflicted phoenix.
"Harry, my son, you must not," Artemis said, her voice both gentle and firm. She stood beside Harry, her gaze softening as she regarded Fawkes. "A phoenix's existence is precious; they are creatures of rebirth and healing, symbols of the eternal cycle of life and death. To erase one is to deny the natural order of things."
Harry, struggling with the emotions welling inside him, turned to face his divine mother. "He was going to take me to Dumbledore, against my will," he explained, his voice laced with a mix of anger and confusion.
Artemis placed a hand on Harry's shoulder, her touch calming. "I understand your concern, Harry, but there are better ways to handle this. Fawkes is under the command of his bonded, just as you are under my care. Would you want to be forced to do something against your will?"
Harry lowered his wand, the tension in his body subsiding under Artemis's gaze. "No, I wouldn't," he admitted, his previous resolve waning.
Artemis then turned her attention to Fawkes, who watched the exchange with rapt attention. "Fawkes, return to your master. Tell him Harry Potter is under my protection and that any attempt to forcibly remove him from his chosen path will be seen as an act of aggression against the Huntress herself."
Fawkes bowed his head in a show of respect to the deity before him and, with a final sorrowful trill, took flight, disappearing into the horizon to deliver the message.
Harry watched the phoenix leave, feeling both relieved and unsettled. Artemis's presence was reassuring, but the complexity of his situation was becoming increasingly apparent.
Artemis looked directly at Harry, her voice low and filled with secret knowledge. "The Moriai have revealed to me you must attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in Scotland."
"But, But, But I don't like Dumbledore" cried the eleven-year-old boy.
Artemis smiled gently at her son's distress, understanding the depth of his concerns. "Harry, I know your feelings towards Albus Dumbledore are complicated and not without reason. However, sometimes our path leads us through challenging terrains and against difficult characters. Dumbledore, despite his flaws, plays a crucial role in the tapestry of your life."
Harry looked up at his mother, his young face etched with confusion and a hint of fear. "But what if he tries to control me or use me for his own purposes?"
The Goddess of the Hunt knelt, her eyes level with Harry's. "You are my son, heir to my powers and wisdom. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. You have the strength and support of the gods, your friends at Camp Half-Blood, and the Hunters. Trust in yourself and in the lessons you've learned. Use your intelligence and intuition to guide you."
She reached out, brushing a lock of hair away from his scar, now faint on his forehead. "And remember, this scar does not define you. You are Harry Potter, my son, and an individual with your destiny."
Harry nodded slowly, taking in his mother's words. "I'll go to Hogwarts, but I'll be cautious. I won't let Dumbledore or anyone else dictate my path."
"That's my boy," Artemis said with pride, standing up. "Now, get ready I am going to take you to my temple, where I have something for you, and my mother also waiting for you, then we will go to Diagon Alley."
In a flash of silver moonlight, Artemis and Harry vanished, reappearing in the heart of a magnificent temple bathed in moonlight. The temple, a sanctuary dedicated to Artemis, was nestled in a serene, moonlit forest. Ancient trees encircled the temple, creating a natural barrier that seemed untouched by time.
The interior of the temple was both awe-inspiring and tranquil, with statues of wild animals, intricate silver carvings, and a large altar at the center. The air was filled with a gentle, soothing energy, a testament to the goddess's presence.
"Welcome to my sanctuary," Artemis said softly, guiding Harry through the temple. "This place is as much a part of you as it is of me."
Harry looked around in wonder, his eyes wide with amazement. The temple felt like a part of his soul he never knew was missing, now complete in its presence.
As they approached the altar, a figure emerged from the shadows. The woman was regal and majestic, her presence commanding yet nurturing.
"Grandmother!" Harry exclaimed in surprise and delight, running to embrace her.
Leto's smile was warm as she held Harry close. "My dear grandson, it is a joy to see you. You have grown so much."
Releasing Harry, Leto turned to Artemis. "My daughter, you have raised a fine young man."
Artemis nodded with pride. "He is strong, wise, and kind. He will do great things."
Leto then presented Harry with a small, intricately carved box. "This is for you, Harry. A gift from your heritage."
Harry opened the box to reveal a silver pendant. "This pendant will allow you to contact me whenever you need me," Leto explained. "and here," Leto handed Harry a bag filled with gold Drachmae.
"Mother can you stop spoiling him" chided Artemis.
Leto chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with mirth. "Every grandmother has the right to spoil her grandson a little, especially one as unique as Harry."
Harry examined the pendant and the bag of Drachmae with a sense of awe. "Thank you, Grandmother," he said, his voice filled with gratitude.
Artemis then turned to Harry, a serious expression on her face. "Now, Harry, follow me, I am going to take you to the back I have a surprise for you."
In the secluded rear chamber of the temple, Artemis led Harry to a pedestal was an object was shrouded under a silken cloth. The air around it vibrated with an almost tangible magic, a testament to its power and significance.
"This," Artemis began as she gently removed the cloth, and revealed a watch "is for you, press the left button"
Harry took a steadying breath and activated the watch. A soft, silvery glow began to emanate from it, and within moments, intricate pieces of armour materialized around him. As the armour enveloped him, it was clear this was no ordinary suit.
The helm shone brightly, its silver hue glowing under the moonlight. It had been designed with precision, hugging every contour of Harry's head, offering protection and yet allowing him unobstructed vision. The eyes were the window to the soul, and he remained visible, giving him a deeply human touch amidst the metal.
The pauldrons were works of art. Crafted to appear like a wolf's head, they symbolized strength and loyalty. They were reminiscent of guardian angels, ready to fiercely protect Harry's vulnerable shoulders from harm.
The cuirass, the centrepiece of the armour, had intricate carvings that told stories of ancient forests and legendary creatures. The scaled plate not only provided robust protection but also held a functional design for Harry's hunting gear: a spot for his trusty bow and quiver, ensuring they remained close to his heart.
His arms felt powerful, covered in gauntlets that extended up to his elbows. Engraved with images of forest creatures. Every time he moved his fingers, he could feel the strength and artistry flowing through them.
The girdle was practical, with slots designed for two hunting knives, A sword, two canteens for those long journeys, a wand holster and a compact pack for essential items.
The greaves were simplistic, emphasizing function over form. They encased his legs in protective silver, ensuring that as he moved through forests or faced adversaries, his steps would be confident and unwavering.
Lastly, the sabatons adorning his feet were nothing short of majestic. Like the gauntlets, they bore the carvings of animals, reminding Harry of his bond with nature and his responsibility towards it.
Artemis then handed him a bow and quiver, a sword, and two hunting knives "The bow I presented you was once my symbol of power. As for its capability, it grows stronger the closer we are to the full moon. The sword, Nightingale, possesses unique powers - it heals you and revitalizes your energy with every strike. Simultaneously, it wears down your adversaries and drains some of their life force. The hunting knives can cure anyone of the curse of lycanthropy, just ensure a non-fatal strike when the moon is less than full. The sword can also channel your magic, and if you turn the hilt 360 degrees it will turn into a wand, to turn it back to a sword, just say change back in Greek"
Harry's eyes widened in amazement as he examined the equipment his mother had given him. The bow felt perfectly balanced in his hands, its pull smooth and strong. Nightingale, the sword, was both elegant and formidable, resonating with an energy that seemed to pulsate in sync with his heartbeat. The hunting knives were sleek, their edges razor-sharp and gleaming under the temple's light. He tested the sword's transformation into a wmarvellingeling at the seamless transition.
"Thank you, Mother," Harry said, his voice filled with awe and gratitude. "These gifts... they're incredible."
Artemis smiled, her eyes reflecting pride. "You are ready, my son. These gifts will aid you in your journey, but remember, the greatest strength lies within you."
Harry nodded, feeling a surge of confidence. He was no longer just Harry Potter; he was the heir of Artemis, equipped with skills and gifts that set him apart. He knew his journey at Hogwarts wouldn't be ordinary, but he felt prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
As they left the temple, Artemis turned to Harry one last time. "Remember, Harry, Hogwarts will be a different world. Now let me get you to Diagon Alley"
Leto walked over to Harry as he put away his armour and weapons and walked put a hand on his shoulder. "I will be going with you two to Diagon Alley,"
"Ready Harry?" asked Artemis.
"Ready as I'll ever be," Harry replied, his voice steady and determined.
With a nod from Artemis, the trio disappeared in a shimmer of moonlight, reappearing in a secluded alleyway next to an old worn-down pub.
As they rounded the corner, Artemis saw a small, dingy store with a faded sign above it that read "The Leaky Cauldron." But as they got closer, she noticed that the words were shifting and changing in a magical display. The sign now clearly read "The Leaky Cauldron." They entered the pub to find music playing in the background and a lively crowd of people chatting and laughing.
"Oh, Leto! The usual, I presume?" greeted the bartender with a smile. Artemis raised an eyebrow at this exchange.
"No thanks, Tom. I am with my daughter and her adopted son," replied Leto with a stern tone. This caused Artemis to raise her eyebrow even further.
"Bless my soul. It's Harry Potter!" exclaimed Tom, causing everyone in the pub to turn and notice.
One man eagerly approached Harry and shook his hand before being interrupted by Harry's piercing silver eyes beginning to glow.
"Don't you dare touch me again," sneered Harry, causing the man to back away. The pub fell into a stunned silence as all eyes were on Harry.
Harry stood tall, his piercing silver eyes reflecting the confidence and power he had inherited from his divine lineage. The crowd at The Leaky Cauldron, though initially taken aback by his stern rebuke, soon resumed their activities, albeit with murmurs and glances thrown in his direction.
Artemis, Leto, and Harry made their way through the pub, the patrons parting to give them space. There was an air of respect, and for some, fear, as they passed by. Harry, however, was focused on the task at hand, feeling the weight of his mother's and grandmother's presence by his side.
They reached the back of the pub, where Artemis tapped the bricks in a specific pattern, revealing the entrance to Diagon Alley. As they stepped into the bustling wizarding street, Harry's eyes widened in wonder. The alley was alive with witches and wizards, shops displaying an array of magical items and the sounds of a thriving magical community.
Harry, Artemis, and Leto continue walking down Diagon Alley. Artemis turns towards Leto and says "Mother, what was that all about"
Leto glanced at Artemis with a knowing smile. "Oh, Artemis, you know how it is. Apollo takes me here all the time, so I got to know the bartender on a first-name basis."
Artemis looked slightly amused, a rare expression for the usually stoic goddess. "Apollo and his adventures," she mused with a hint of affection in her voice.
Leto nodded, her eyes twinkling. "Indeed. Now, let's focus on getting Harry everything he needs for Hogwarts."
Their first stop was Gringotts Wizarding Bank. The goblin guards at the entrance eyed them warily but stepped aside, recognizing the power surrounding Harry, Artemis and Leto. Inside, they were immediately escorted to a private office, where a goblin named Griphook awaited them
"Uh, Grandmother, Mum, what exactly are these things?" asked Harry.
"They're goblins, Harry. Clever as they come goblins but not the most friendly of beasts," said Artemis before she turned to the Goblins, "I would like to go to Vault Eight please"
"Do you know what you're asking girl?" said the teller. "And who you are claiming to be?"
Artemis's eyes narrowed slightly at the goblin's tone, but she remained calm. "I am Artemis, Goddess of nature, vegetation, childbirth, wildlife, the hunt, sudden death, animals, virginity, young women, forests and hills, the moon, archery. This is my mother, Leto, and my son, Harry. We are here to access my vault."
"Mum you have a vault here?" asked Harry.
"All Olympian gods have a vault here" replied Leto, "Now hush let Artemis do the talking"
The goblin's expression shifted from skepticism to a mix of awe and apprehension. He glanced at Harry, then back at Artemis and Leto, before nodding curtly. "Very well, follow me."
They were led through the labyrinthine passageways of Gringotts, deep into the earth where the most secure vaults were kept. The air was cooler here, and the sound of their footsteps echoed against the stone walls.
Finally, they arrived at Vault Eight. The goblin produced a large key, which he inserted into the vault door. With a loud creak, the door swung open, revealing a vast chamber filled with an array of items that glittered with an otherworldly sheen.
The vault was a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, shimmering gems, and piles of gold and silver. "Harry, when you live for as long as I have, and collect wealth for millennia, you end up with this. Now take what you need in Galleons, Sickles, and Knuts and then let's go" Artemis instructed, her voice echoing slightly in the cavernous space.
Harry's eyes widened at the sight of the wealth before him. He had never seen so much gold and treasure in one place. Cautiously, he approached a pile of coins and filled a small bag with Galleons, Sickles, and Knuts. The weight of the bag was reassuring in his hand, a symbol of his heritage and the support of his divine family.
With their business at Gringotts concluded, the trio made their way back into the bustling streets of Diagon Alley. Their next stop was Madam Malkins, the clothing shop.
At Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions, the bell above the door jingled cheerily as they entered. The shop was a cozy establishment, filled with fabrics of various colours and textures, and mannequins displaying robes for witches and wizards of all ages.
Madam Malkin, a plump and cheerful witch, greeted them with a warm smile. "Welcome! How can I assist you today?"
"We're here for Hogwarts uniforms," Artemis said, guiding Harry forward.
Madam Malkin's eyes widened slightly as she took in the presence of the goddess and her entourage, but she quickly regained her composure. "Of course, right this way, young man."
Harry was led to a fitting area where Madam Malkin began measuring him for his school robes. As she worked, her tape measure fluttered around him like a silver serpent, taking his measurements.
While Harry was being fitted, Artemis browsed through the shop, occasionally picking up an item of clothing and examining it with interest. Leto, meanwhile, engaged Madam Malkin in a conversation about the latest fashion trends in both the wizarding and mortal worlds.
Once the fitting was complete, Madam Malkin packaged several sets of Hogwarts uniforms, along with a winter cloak and a few other necessary items. Harry thanked her, and the trio left the shop, the bag of clothes floating gently beside them as they walked.
Their next destination was Flourish and Blotts for Harry's schoolbooks. The bookstore was a towering maze of shelves, filled with books of every size and subject imaginable. Harry was immediately drawn to the various titles, his eyes scanning the shelves with keen interest.
Artemis and Leto followed Harry through the aisles, occasionally pointing out a book that might be of interest. They gathered all the textbooks linted on the Hogwarts letter, along with a few extra books on magical creatures, herbology, and a beginner's guide to potions.
With their arms full of books, they made their way to the counter. The shopkeeper, an elderly wizard with spectacles perched on his nose, tallied up their purchase and packed the books into a large bag.
As they exited Flourish and Blotts, Harry's excitement was palpable. He clutched the bag of books close, eager to start reading and learning.
Their final stop was Ollivanders for Harry's wand. The shop was narrow and dusty, with thousands of boxes stacked from floor to ceiling. Mr. Ollivander, a pale, elderly man with bright, keen eyes, greeted them.
"Ah, Mr. Potter, I was wondering when I'd be seeing you," he said, his voice soft and mysterious.
Harry felt a thrill of anticipation as Ollivander began the process of finding the right wand. Box after box was opened, wands were waved, but none seemed to choose him.
Finally, Ollivander brought out a wand that seemed to resonate with Harry immediately. "Try this one," he suggested. " 11 inches, Cypress, with an Amaranth flower core."
Harry took the wand, and as he gave it a wave, bright sparks flew out of its tip. A warm feeling spread through his hand and up his arm. It was as if the wand had recognized him.
"Curious," Ollivander murmured, a glint of intrigue in his eyes. "Cypress is known for its association with nobility and heroism, while the Amaranth flower symbolizes immortality and hidden potential."
Harry looked at the wand, feeling an almost tangible connection. It felt right in his hand as if it was an extension of himself. He nodded, indicating his choice.
"That will be seven Galleons," Ollivander said, his voice returning to its usual businesslike tone.
Harry paid for the wand, and they left the shop. As they stepped back into the bustling Diagon Alley, Artemis turned to Harry.
"Now that we've got everything you need for Hogwarts, it's time for us to return to Camp Half-Blood. There are still a few days before the term begins, and you should spend them preparing and saying your goodbyes."
Harry nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness at the prospect of attending Hogwarts. He was stepping into a new world, one filled with challenges and unknowns. But with the gifts and guidance from his mother, Artemis, and his grandmother, Leto, he felt ready to face whatever lay ahead.
The trio made their way back to the Leaky Cauldron, and with a swift motion, Artemis teleported them back to Camp Half-Blood. As they reappeared at the camp, Harry felt a sense of homecoming. The familiar sights and sounds of the campgrounds brought a smile to his face.
"Remember, Harry," Artemis said, her voice filled with maternal warmth. "No matter where you are, you are always a part of this world and my world. You have the strength of the gods with you. I will have Jophiel watch over you, and I will be giving you a hawk that you can send letters with."
This is the start of the second Act of this Fic, the Philosopher's Stone Act.
This chapter showcased a Glimpse of Harry's fatal flaw.
Please review, I read and try to reply to every review for folks on FFN I will be replying to your reviews in your DM's.
As I stated last chapter Updates for the next couple of months will be Irregular.
For readers of PTATF, the rewrite will be up sometime before April.