Chapter 12: Power, fury, and destruction of ancient magic
A very angry Delores Umbridge strolled through the castle, deep in thought about many things. Most of them were surrounded by the state of the student body and current staff members. Two, in particular, she was all but determined to keep her eyes on. The whimsical headmaster and so-called leader of the light. Shortly after the dark lord's return, he spoke to anyone who would listen. No matter how true it was, she suspected he was trying to gain more power. Possibly the position which Cornelius had. Despite being a fool, he still had his uses. Dumbledore was being viewed in a negative light and had his name smeared in mud. Hardly anyone was taking him seriously. Potter though was a different story. It irked her to no end with the number of times he'd one-up her. What really set her off was that he was interfering with the rulings of the Ministry (secretly the dark lord's plans) as she still remembered the pain from his cruciatus curse.
The mere thought of it would make her twitch as she was positive her master was holding back and had other torture methods in mind. Already contemplating the creation of a new decree, though deciding what it should entail proved difficult. Her thought process continued to flow as she made her way to the History of Magic classroom. Without a knock, she stormed inside to see Professor Greengrass in the middle of lecturing the sixth-year students. Delores could barely conceal her surprise as students usually opted to drop the subject after fifth-year. Of course, that was when Binns was still a professor. Ever since Lady Greengrass started teaching the subject, things started to change as there were more students from the upper years.
Only two or three students noticed her presence as the rest were taking notes as their professor switched to a different slide "… it's important to understand why the law regarding the ban of experimental breeding. Unless given special permission from the I.C.W., the process of—" "Hem hem," coughed Delores, who tried to get her attention. "—illegal breeding will remain as is…anyone caught trying to bring in a species will be sentenced to a minimum of—" "Hem hem," Delores coughed louder.
"Is there something you want, Professor Umbridge?" The coldness of her voice let the students know what she thought of her. More than half the class turned their attention to the DADA professor.
"I was just wondering if you got my note as I'm conducting an inspection on the professors," Delores replied in a falsely sweet voice.
"One would think so otherwise; I would wonder why you're interrupting my class," Roxanne retorted in a cold, sharp voice. "Though, I distinctly remember reading that it said you would be evaluating how I teach not make a nuisance of yourself."
A few students started snickering while Delores looked like she'd been slapped across the face. On the other hand, Daphne looked suitably entertained as she understood where she learned how to throw a mean punch.
Curling her lips, she resumed, as I was saying, the sentence would be a minimum of thirty years onward, depending on the class ranking of the creature."
"How long have you been teaching?" Delores asked.
"It'll be my second year come March."
"Yet what are your qualifications?"
"I received an outstanding on both my O.W.L and N.E.W.T exams in the subject. After that, I got a mastery in it." Roxanne desperately tried to resist the urge to banish the loathsome woman out of the room.
Professor Umbridge scribbled down some notes. Daphne shot daggers with her eyes. The woman was questioning her mother in the middle of class. Ultimately, she left in a huff after being asked about her qualifications as an educator. She obviously did not like it and dodged the question by leaving.
In the students' case, the day passed rather slowly, too slow, as they felt like the day would never end. Mercifully it came with Daphne, and the others ventured to the quidditch pitch for training. Upon arrival, they found Harry sparring against twelve dueling dummies, all of which had his magic and were releasing some serious magic. But he was a different story as they could barely, if not at all, sense any magic coming from him. Daphne and Emily smirked as this was an ability that he'd perfected as it allowed him to conserve his energy. Soon after dodging the last of their attacks, he was on the offensive, with his spells almost a blur.
He then released a powerful wide-area shockwave and a consecutive amount of explosive curse that destroyed the dummies.
"Woah," Adrian and Aaron said together as some of the others were amazed.
"Feels like he's growing more powerful with each battle," Neville observed.
"Today's training session is two-fold," Harry announced, bringing them out of their trances. "The first half, you will have to focus on keeping your power from leaking out. Daphne and Emily have already become proficient with it, so that'll give you an idea of how it's done."
"If the two of you would be so kind as to give a demonstration?" beckoning them to come forward, which they did, making it to the center of the pitch with their wands drawn. They bowed and then took their stances. "Begin!"
Neither of them moved from where they were for a moment and, with great speed, began by firing different spells that met in mid-air. The others were in awe as they couldn't sense any power coming from them except for in their spells. Every time they would fend off one another's attack, they'd respond with a faster, harder, and sharper strike. Each spell they used would have more power than the next.
Five minutes later, Harry called for an end, "that is part of what we are working on today. Pair off." They followed his instructions and partnered with the ones they hadn't sparred with in a while. Taking their unique stances, they were told to begin while Harry watched from the side of the field.
He noticed how they improved their techniques as they were fluid, and their transitioning skills have become more refined. Throughout the session, he had to stop them as they were allowing their heightened energies to leak. He explained the importance of keeping it inside to maximize their powers and keep their opponents in the dark. An additional benefit was that it would mask their intentions so their opponents wouldn't know their goals. They switched partners when he released a cannon blast from his wand and continued with the training.
This continued for forty-five minutes until Harry called, "all right, fifteen-minute break. Water is over there," gesturing to the ice chest cooler near the entrance. They immediately rushed to the chest and pulled out some water bottles.
After drinking half of the water in his bottle, Adrian was the first to speak, "god damn…it feels like my…magic is on fire." He panted, trying to capture his breath.
"That's how it's supposed to feel," Emily clarified. "By controlling the amount of power we're releasing along with our spells, the amount of energy we use will lessen and enable us to fight longer."
"Yeah, but we already know what the death eaters want. To kill us," Neville said, finishing the rest of his water and grabbing a new bottle.
"Knowing that your enemies will strike is a given…but sensing when and how will mean either victory or defeat," they turned around to see Harry standing behind them. "You all know how death eaters or dark witches and wizards fight; that'd be good. However, that doesn't mean you know how they'll do it. I know I'm hard on you guys, but this is about life and death. The best way for me to ensure your safety is by making sure you know how to defend yourselves. For it only by preparing and training for the worst will you live."
"But we do not know when they will strike or where," Blaise stared at his friend with skepticism.
"Use your feelings and intuition," Harry retorted sharply. "Voldemort likes to spread chaos and has no qualms attacking people no matter where they are, be it at school, Hogsmede, Diagon Alley, etc. In the past, he launched several attacks at Hogsmede when the students were out trying to enjoy themselves. As a result, the Aurors that were supposed to protect them barely accomplished anything. As a result, several students and Aurors lost their lives."
"How do you know this?" Susan asked.
"I've done my research and have looked into the matters quite extensively," he answered. "While the death eaters are free to attack anyone in sight, Voldemort only goes after high-ranking individuals or anyone close to them."
"Like aunt Amy and I," Susan's eyes widened in fear.
"Indeed," nodding to her, "and given her condition, at the moment, she was put under additional security. Unfortunately, that doesn't make you any safer, as you're a target courtesy of Professor Umbridge. From what Amelia told me, the two are bitter enemies. They have an intense rivalry both during their school days and now in the Ministry. So do not assume that she wouldn't go after you to get to your aunt and vice versa."
"Harry has a point," Luna had her usual dreamy expression. "The nargles surround Professor Umbridge more than anyone else, and the dark aura I get from her makes my skin crawl." Shuddering a bit.
"So you've noticed it too," cocking head to one side. "Though, it shouldn't surprise me… All right, everybody breaks over. Time for the second part." A few of them groaned as they got up. For the rest of the day, you'll be facing them," pointing to five magical dummies.
"Instead of imbuing your magic in them, I already did meaning you all will face me."
They didn't look so thrilled as they'd faced Harry in the past and knew how powerful he was. But that was then, and this is now. "Your opponents like to work in pairs, so you must be prepared to do the same because that is when you are strongest."
Together the teens got up and went to the center of the field while mentally preparing themselves for what might appear to be a brutal duel. But, instead, the next moment, at the sound of a cannon blast, the dummies got into different fighting positions with the two in front-firing spells. Completely caught off guard the others barely had time to dodge, so they were forced to conjure shields as the dummies unleashed spell after spell.
True to what they thought, the duel was exceedingly difficult as they had multiple injuries, were heavily panting desperately, trying to catch their breaths, and sweating buckets. In the end, the group was defeated, and the dummies stopped their assaults.
"So, what did you all learn?" Walking over to them.
"That you have a lot of power," Blaise sarcastically said, only to be elbowed in the ribs by Emily, who shot him a look as he cringed.
"Our strength lies in our teamwork and not becoming overconfident in our abilities, as it will be the end of us," Emily answered.
"And?"
This time it was Astoria's turn to reply, "in the event that we may not always be together we should take a life or death situation more seriously. The people who may appear to be weak will demolish us should we give them an opening."
"Good. But you're missing one," Harry commented.
They looked at each other for a minute, wondering what they were missing. Deciding to take a gamble, Neville said, "our enemies will target the weakest links of a group and target the strongest to get them out of the way."
"There it is, ten points to Gryffindor," congratulations to the boy. "It is like Neville said death eaters will do anything to achieve victory at any cost. The moment you see one of your own injured, fatigued, or outmatched, you step forward and give them time to recuperate. Remember, guys, that even the pillars of a building can be destroyed by a raging storm."
"What?" Adrian needed clarification on what he said.
Daphne then clarified what Harry meant, "he means be careful, and to survive, we must draw on each other's diverse strengths. Only then will we grow as a group and as individuals." Harry gave her a nod.
"Ugh," shaking his head. "I swear I'll never understand the way Japanese students think."
That earned a chuckle from Harry. "Trust me, Adrian, no one will understand a Japanese person. No one." He then addressed them as a whole, "go grab a shower dinner is in ten minutes."
"Emily, your assignment for the night is to study the spells in your book from chapters two through four." He helped them to their changing room so they could freshen up.
Meanwhile, Harry teleported to his apartment, creating a small fire in the palm of his hand. He guided it to the fireplace and let it burn the wood inside. Then with a simple wave, he shrunk the coffee table and levitated it away so he could sit on the ground and meditate. Breathing in and out, he focused on nothing but his magical core as it spoke to him through its song.
(0^0)
The group came out of the changing room in some new clothes feeling slightly better, albeit somewhat stiff.
"Goddamn," Blaise groaned as they walked to the castle. "I know Harry became stronger after having his magical maturity, but I never would have suspected that he had a lot of magic."
"I'm with you," walking next to him, Tracey held his hand. "Somehow, I get the feeling that was only a sample of his power."
"Then you'd be right," Emily casually admitted.
"How do you—ow" the brunette tried to raise her shoulders but found it too difficult as they hurt.
"Do you want a massage later?" asked Blaise.
"Please," was all Tracey said as they made it inside. Then, just as they approached the Great Hall, Daphne went in the opposite direction. Too sore to say anything, the others remained quiet as they had a feeling where she was going.
Climbing the stairs, she made it to the fourth-floor corridors and walked through the hall until she arrived at the door of Harry's apartment. She gave the password, "心、体、精神が一体となって働きます。 (Mind, body, and spirit working together). Walking through, she closed the door behind her and turned to find him meditating in front of the fire. Feeling too tired, she threw herself on the couch with her face on one of the pillows.
Raising her head to see that he was still in his position, she groaned into a pillow. When he didn't move, she groaned louder into the pillow. "Okay, okay, I'm done," turning around and looking at her tired form. "Wow, I must have really done a number on you today."
"What would give you that impression?" Rhetorically asking as he got up to sit next to her. She maneuvered her head so it could rest on his lap.
Smiling, he leaned down and kissed her head, "look at it this way. All the work you put into improving has made you even more beautiful."
She rolled over to face him, "my back and shoulders hurt."
Rolling his eyes, "then maybe I can do something about that. Want me to massage them."
The blonde perked up and left her body, "well, if your offering." Harry could feel the mischief in her voice as it was something his sister would use to get things she wanted. Brushing the memories aside, he started massaging her shoulders. Their tension was present and slowly began to melt away as his callous hands did their job. Sighing in pleasure, she leaned into him, her back pressing against his chest.
"I'm feeling a lot of tension in you," moving his hands down her shoulders. "Seems like my training sessions have added more."
"You can say that again," stating a fact, "I'm nearly done with the sixth-year syllabus for my classes. I will never understand how you were able to do it."
A small snicker escaped his lips as he kissed the side of her neck, "believe me, it was no picnic. But don't worry," kissing a little higher, "you'll be thankful for all you've achieved in the end."
Started to giggle as he kissed behind her ear, his warm breath tickled. Three minutes later, she spun around to sit on his lap while cupping his face. "You know I'm ticklish there," giving him a naughty look.
Grinning at her, "oh really? I seem to have forgotten. Please have mercy on me, your highness," pretending to be innocent, then returning to what he was doing by trailing kisses down her neck.
Laughingly she rolled her fingers through his hair. "I might be willing to overlook for a price…" Her laugh turned into a gasp as one hand fell down her back until it reached her arse and gave a gentle squeeze.
"Well. Then allow me to pay the fee," bringing his lips to hers, which she happily allowed until he pulled back after a couple of seconds. "Will that be enough?"
Curling her lips to make it seem like she was thinking, "more of a down payment than anything. A small one, if anything," haughtily replying like a pureblood princess.
"Then allow to make amends for me to make amends for my slight against you, my lady," the mischievous grin on his face mirrored her haughty smile. Bringing their lips together again in a slow yet passionate kiss. She did not mind in the slightest reciprocating with the same level of growing passion as their lips moved in sync and her tongue asked for entrance. Automatically granted access as their tongues started fighting for dominance.
As they continued, their hands began roaming other parts of their bodies. Harry's hands found their way underneath her shirt, unclasping her bra and fondling her breast. Whereas Daphne removed his shirt and rolled her hips above his erection. However, the time for pleasure was interrupted when the crystals above the fireplace chimed.
"Ugh," groaned Daphne. "Why can't I have more than ten minutes with my boyfriend?"
Giving one last kiss, he lifted her off his waist, put his shirt back on, and activated the crystal as she went to the kitchen. To his surprise, Lady Kawada was the person who called, "Aunt Karai? This is a surprise."
Kara curled her lips as she looked him over. His hair was messier than usual, wrinkles on his shirt, and he had a crooked smile. "Hope I'm not interrupting anything," her eyes danced with mischief as he tried to straighten himself up. "Calm down, Hadrian. I was young once, too, and know what teenagers your age get up into." She teased, enjoying his slight discomfort.
"Anyway, onto business," her expression and tone of voice quickly changed to serious. "My spies managed to get some information on the people you will be facing in two days."
"Anything I should be concerned about?"
"Dark mages, war-like criminals, four parseltongues bringing three basilisks." Karai elaborated. "I have confirmation that the people will be using the strengthening potions to give themselves more power. Watch yourself."
"That is concerning, but not unexpected," rationalizing as he suspected they would do anything to come out on top. "Guess this is where the fun begins," he quipped.
"This not a game," she chided him.
"I know, but the jokes make me feel better."
Karai explained what he would need to expect for his battle, not missing a beat when laying out the small and large details. Years of working in the Department of international magical cooperations, serving as the representative of Japan, and then later becoming Minister of Magic had taught her to be thorough in her work. Finally, when everything was set and done, she wished him good luck and cut the feed. Letting loose a sigh, Harry resized the coffee table and returned it to where it belonged, then went into the kitchen to see Daphne next to the stove cooking some type of soup.
Wrapping his arms around her waist, he inhaled the aroma around them. "Mm. What are you making?"
"I happen to know how to make a lot of things," her voice holding some smugness. "My mum taught me this recipe years ago. Mulligatawny."
"Smells good," kissing under her left ear sends tingles through her body.
"Takes some delicate hands to do it right."
Disengaging his arms, he went to set the table. She later announced that it was done, prompting him to bring the bowls over so she could put the soup in them. Along with that were some rolls.
Together they ate at the table, "hey Harry would it be all right if I helped decorate your villa?" Tearing his eyes away from the soup to look at her. "Emily said that if I wanted to help, I should ask you."
"She did, huh," thinking for a few seconds as it was a nice idea, he was going to ask Aunt Sarah and Dora for their input. "Sure. Go ahead. But I'm going to ask my aunt and cousin to assist."
"Cool," awarding him a big smile. "Do you have a preference for the types of furniture?"
Holding up a hand. "I'll leave that up to you and the others. I'm sure she already mentioned this…but I stink at home designs."
Daphne laughed, remembering her and Emily's conversation about the last time he tried to organize a house. "Most people would let their contractors handle the interior decorating or try doing it themselves."
"Well, lucky me, as I am not like most. Plus, it would be better than simply telling you no."
"Why is that?" Raising a delicate eyebrow at him.
Letting loose a chuckle, "Sapphire, you are easily one of the most stubborn individuals I have ever met. Knowing how subtle you are is frighteningly impressive."
Lowering her eyebrow as a smug smile tugged at her lips, "oh, Harry…" she began laughing, "…you do not even know the half of it. When Greengrass ladies decide to pursue a goal, we will use the most subtle approach to achieve them. A trait taught to me by my mum and grandmother."
"What did I get myself into?" Shaking his head while playfully asking for help.
"I'm not that bad," giving him a mock scowl.
This time it was Harry's turn to laugh, "no. Not so bad." He then rubbed his head after she threw a piece of her bread. "Hey, hey, I'm kidding."
Rolling her eyes, she blew out some air from the corner of her mouth.
"So when do you get your next mission? I would have thought that with Voldemort's return, the council would have sent you on a new assignment."
"From what I know… they've been sending people to different countries. Some failures and successes. The latest report is the giants and werewolves attacks on wizard and muggle towns then leaving before the Aurors can appear." He explained.
"Let me guess," putting her spoon down. "Fudge is doing nothing except claim their isolated incidents."
"You guessed it," he replied. "Pompous idiot will get people killed because he cannot face the truth. And his secretary is not making things any easier as the students who haven't dropped her class are in danger of repeating the year."
"Don't look at it like that," Daphne chimed. "The students in your study sessions are making substantial progress, especially the ones who dropped Umbridge's class. Many are happier and more eager than ever to learn about the different branches of magic."
"I guess, though, it would be easier if she wasn't here," leaning back in his chair in deep thought. "If I can only get a hold of her school grades, then removing her will be much easier."
Rounding the table, she walked behind him and rubbed his shoulders, "a smart person once told me that to defeat your enemy…they will need to be patient…and unbalance them."
Out came an exasperated sigh, "some days I wish things could be easier. But one step at a time; first things first. Deal with Voldemort's death eaters. Earlier today, I received an interesting gift," shifting his gaze up.
Daphne lowered her head to his, "and what was that?" Wrapping her arms around his chest.
"A collection of rare books," a smirk tugged against his lips. "Somehow, I have a feeling you had something to do with…"
"Then you'd be right," Daphne replied. "But I wasn't the only one. The people who attended your sessions last year wanted to express that gratitude by giving you something you might like."
"Mm. I'll be sure to thank them tomorrow."
"Back to our earlier conversation…" shifting the conversation to something else, "…do you have any idea when your villa will be done?"
"Mr. Grayson sent a letter saying the place will be ready on the 7th of November."
She began to think but was interrupted by the buzzing from her watch, which she groaned. "I have to go on patrol in ten minutes."
He felt bad for her for a second as she partnered up with Malfoy. He suspected that Dumbledore had something to do with that.
"Good luck. Try not to let him annoy you too much." He joked.
"Easier said than done. Stupid ferret thinks I'll accept his offer of being Lady Malfoy."
Harry's expression darkened, "if he tries anything, there will be a new definition of pain waiting for him." Daphne kissed his cheek.
"No reason to be jealous," was all she said before leaving.
An hour later, Daphne was walking through the corridors with Malfoy, and much to her chagrin, he wouldn't stop talking about how he'd make the perfect match for her. "Just look at the facts we're both purebloods from powerful families, and if our families were to unite, then—"
"Will never happen," Daphne coldly interrupted. "As I have said before, I am perfectly happy with my current partner. It may surprise you to know that unlike you, he actually works for what he wants and has accomplished more than what you could have ever imagined."
Draco scowled angrily, "it would do you better to think about your future. Things are changing in the political sphere, and if you persist in associating with Potter, I will be unable to provide any protection. Who knows what might happen to your sister and parents if…"
Faster than he could blink she had the tip of her wand aimed at his neck with her eyes glowing showing that she meant business. "Listen to me," her voice was deadly cold. "If you or any of your death eater wannabes come after my family, then I will show you a fate worse than death. The only thing stopping me from killing you is that you do not have the dark mark. But make no mistake, the moment you take it will mean the end of the Malfoy line."
To emphasize her point, she sent a freezing charm to his genitals and broke his nose with a right hook. Watching as he crumbled to the ground holding his bleeding nose and family jewels, she sent a final murderous glance, then turned away to continue with her duties for the night.
At the end of her shift, she went to find a secluded area, transformed into a phoenix, and iced herself to Harry's apartment. Upon arrival, she transformed back to see Byakko and Iroh sleeping near the fire. Suzaku was fast asleep on his perch, and Genbu was asleep on the couch. Shooting them a smile, she walked up the stairs to the bed chamber she shared with Harry. Opening the door, she found him knocked out under the covers. Quickly exchanging her day clothes for pajamas, she got into bed beside him, laid her head on his shoulder, and then fell asleep.
(0^0)
Here it comes people. The battle you all have been waiting for is about to happen.
Two days later, the day finally came as Harry donned his battle suit, strapped his sword to his belt, made sure both of his wands were in their holsters and put eighteen shurikens in his watch. The shurikens were special, something he created in his free time to boost their effects. He added basilisk venom, making them dangerous should they cut or get stuck in their enemy's. As an added bonus, the suit he wore would soon make its debut as the people would soon be placing orders so they could fly.
"Are you ready young one?" Dayvee asked.
"I am! Today will be the first real blow to Voldemort and be the chance for me to show the people what I'm made of."
"The magic within you burns like a volcano," Suzaku flew from his perch to the boy's shoulder. "Remember, in the heart of a warrior lies their strength. Fight not for yourself but for the people you wish to protect."
"You are not alone, Hadrian." Byakko trotted over, "feel the magic flow through you."
"We stand with you," Naga gave him a fierce look as he'd grown to care for his companion and could understand why the others had decided to follow him.
"Your faith in me will be rewarded," lifting his cloak so they could take their tattoo forms; once done, he grabbed his cloak, threw it on, and teleported out of his apartment.
He truly liked the teleportation spell as it made traveling a lot better. The feeling of being squeezed through a tube and wanting to throw up was nonexistent. Landing at his destination in the open plains of Magadan to take in his surroundings. Reaching into his watch, he pulled out a time potion to help him adjust to the time difference as the Russian people in this country were eleven hours ahead. After downing the potion, he sat on the grass and started meditating to prepare for what was about to come. Already he could feel the magical energy running through the area he was in. The magic flowing was greater than in Britain. At least he wouldn't have to worry about any muggles, witches, and wizards getting caught in the crossfire, as they have already been evacuated from the three regions.
Emptying his thoughts, he allowed the magic within him to resonate with the world's magic. "By the magic of mother, I call upon you to show me the truest way to restore balance to our planet. Here me!" Answering his call, the magic began showing him fragments of the future and what was to come. There he understood that to restore balance was to remove Dumbledore and Voldemort, for if he were to fail, then darkness would rein, and everyone and things would be lost. Making a promise to not let it happen, he continued with what he was doing until the time drew near, and he heard the apparition pop from his opponents.
Opening his eyes, he saw the seven death eaters standing opposite him with an army. True to what Karai said, they were indeed amped up with the strengthening potion in their systems. Scanning through them, he found the parseltongues in the middle.
Moments before the battle could begin, the crystals were released into the air so they could stream the battle to every magical community worldwide. One, however, was in the middle and showed a different image. The face of the Supreme Mugwump appeared with him in his office flanked by a dozen or so I.C.W. commanders.
"To every witch and wizard at-home viewing, today we are about to witness a battle that has never been recorded. By the laws of ancient magic, Lord Potter has challenged Lords Parkinson, Nott, Carrow, Goyle, Crabbe, Selwyn, and Yaxley to Contingent X for crimes against the wizarding world. In accordance with the challenge, these men were allowed to bring back up," pointing to the lords and the men behind them. "Furthermore, anything can be used. Meaning the unforgivables, dark creatures, weapons, potions, and anything to achieve victory. The rules are simple to win at any cost," the crystal deactivated
Harry flicked his wand out and got in a stance, as did his opponents.
"Prepare to die, Potter," Lord Nott snarled. He had been on the receiving end of scrutiny after the trial and subjected to the dark lord's punishment. Out of the two, he would have preferred the scrutiny. "My only regret is that you didn't die that night."
"Which night? The night I kicked your pathetic ass." He retorted sharply. "How does it feel to kiss the backside of your half-blood master?"
"You dare mock the dark lord," Crabbe growled. "I will relish in ridding you from this planet."
"Enough talk! Everyone holds nothing back and kill this son of a bitch," Selwyn ordered.
Without wasting a breath, Harry kicked things off using a dark-cutting curse that sliced through a line of mages. He purposefully made it wide, knowing that the seven death eaters would shield against it. After blocking Potter's attack, they apparated to the back as their forces moved forward, unleashing the deadliest of spells in their arsenals. Much to their irritation, none of their spells were making contact as the boy dodged and blocked their spells. They were at a loss as they thought this would have been an easy win; clearly, they were wrong as their opponent was not only able to fend them off but also retaliated with his own spells. That and the power radiating from him sent shivers down some of their spines. The clouds began turning dark, the winds were howling, and the ground beneath them shook.
At first, they thought it seemed like overkill, but after hearing how he became a master duelist, they started to think differently. Avoiding their attacks, Harry retaliated with a large ball of green flames wrapped in black. It was an ancient battle spell he found in Gryffindor manor. The moment it made with their shields, the fire exploded, incinerating them in a brutal fashion with only their screams of agony filling the area. Harry followed up with another ancient spell, a black energy ball that grew bigger as it closed in.
What's more, the now large energy ball was sucking in the air along with whatever else was in its path. A smirk appeared on Harry's face as the fools had no idea how to get rid of the attack heading their way. To dispel it would require a substantial amount of energy and a battle of wills; shooting spells at it would only make it more powerful. Finally, seeing that it was close enough, Harry manipulated it to the ground, where it caused a giant explosion taking thirty of them and leaving a big sinkhole.
Taking advantage of their shock, he drew his sword, chanted the sacred words, and raced forward, swinging with incredible speed. His enemies weren't expecting him to charge forward, and using that to his advantage, he sliced, stabbed, and left various cuts. The basilisk venom embedded in goblin silver and archfiend steel spread through their bodies, causing them to drop dead. Quickly regaining themselves, they resumed their assault with grey and dark magic. Their spells would kill anyone in the most painful ways imaginable. Undeterred, he swung his sword, deflecting and slicing through their spells. Much to their astonishment, Potter managed to deflect their attacks. What truly shocked them was that he showed no interest in stopping. Just who was this man?
Their screams fell on deaf ears as the only thing on his mind was the chaos of battle itself. He was giving everything his mind, body, magic, and spirit to the fight. Slicing the arm of one of them, he threw his senses to the right, where he saw them releasing basilisks. 'Oh, this should be fun,' he mentally groaned, wiping the sweat off his head. Reaching into his watch, he pulled out the special glasses that counter the effects of looking into a basilisk's eyes. As the snakes approached, Harry released a massive war cry that shocked everyone. Having researched basilisks, he knew how to deal with them. But first, he had to deal with the people controlling them. Teleporting to them, he caught them off guard by appearing in front and sending a collection of piercing, blasting, brain-exploding, and organ-liquefying spells. Not expecting the spells, they were taken out, and with them out of the way, the young warrior went to deal with the basilisks.
(0^0)
All across the planet, the people were watching, with no one daring to look away from the projections.
The students of Hogwarts were in the Hall watching with both amazement and fear. Normally they would still be asleep. Though today was an exception, they wanted to see the battle for themselves. Sitting at the head table were the professors, who wore various expressions. Delores had an evil smile as she silently prayed for someone to kill that disrespectful bastard. It would certainly save her a lot of grief. However, her expression changed after he slayed one of the three basilisks with some sort of spell. Whatever type of magic it was, she knew it was old and powerful.
Dumbledore could barely tear his eyes away as he watched the Potter boy finish off the second basilisk. His mind was trying to process the turn of events as Harry was using old magic. Magic that hasn't been seen in over 500 years. How had his pawn become so knowledgeable in the mystic arts? From what he could glean, the people he was facing were war-like criminals and dark mages of a high caliber.
His spies reported they consumed a large amount of strengthening potion before the battle began. And yet Harry proceeded to slaughter them without a second thought. The dark, cold expression on the boy's face caused the old warlock to involuntarily shiver as he hadn't seen a look like that since the Great War.
On the battlefield, Harry sliced off the head of someone in his way, then on top of the final basilisk, where he ran his sword through the beast's head, killing it. Jumping off, he took a few shurikens from his watch and threw them to four people. Then, giving a mock two-finger suit, he backflipped away. After several backflips, he propelled himself high in the air executing a corkscrew.
Out of the 152 people present, 37 were now dead. Leaving only 115 mages left.
"Kill him! Somebody kill him already," the amplified voice of Yaxley ordered. Obviously grown tired of their incompetence to kill a single boy.
Angrily around thirteen or so, people yelled all at once. "Fiendfyre!"
The hellish emerged from their wands, taking the forms of a dragon, tiger, bear, chimera, etc. "Let's see you stand up to this magic, Potter!" One of them yelled.
Taking a couple steps back, Harry readied himself as the flames enclosed around him. Not a second later, the fiery beast pounced on their prey with righteous fury.
The army of dark witches and wizards was about to celebrate as they had just killed the last living member of the House of Potter. Parkinson and his friends hooped and hollered with joy as they were now the owners of the Potter family fortune. The dark lord would be most pleased.
But unfortunately, all good things had ended as the ground and heavens shook with acts of vengeance, the winds were howling with so much fury that they cut through the rocks, and the lightning was striking everywhere in sight. To top it off, they sensed an incredible amount of power from the flames.
"This can…n-not be…pos-possible," Lord Carrow exclaimed, watching as the flames of fiendfyre were pushed back. "How the hell is he still alive? He should be nothing but ash right now!" He yelled.
Standing in the distance, Harry took a couple breaths. "My turn," he stared angrily, channeling an enormous amount of power.
Speaking in ancient Greek. "Σε όλες τις επτά θάλασσες μας δόθηκε από την αρχαία μητέρα που μας έδωσε τη δύναμη να δώσουμε και να πάρουμε ζωή. Όλα ξεκίνησαν με νερό. Η αφύπνιση του ξεχασμένου Δράκου που κυβερνά τις θάλασσες θα καταβροχθίσει τα πάντα στο μονοπάτι του. Η ατελείωτη πείνα του δεν κυματίζει ποτέ. Ακόρεστη, ατελείωτη κενότητα. Όλα τα πράγματα πρέπει να ρέουν ακόμη και επιτέλους στο maw μου. Ουροβόρος!" (Across the seven seas was given to us by the ancient mother who gifted us with the power to give and take life. Everything began with water. The awakening of the forgotten dragon who rules the seas will devour everything in its path. Its endless hunger never wavers. Insatiable, endless emptiness. All things must flow even at long last to my maw. Ouroboros!) Violently shoving his sword and wand to the ground.
The power of this new spell caused an enormous deafening sound reverberated in all directions like a cascade. The ground-splitting water current gushed out, hitting the heavens like a spear in all directions. Furthermore showed no signs of stopping as it expanded throughout the surrounding area at a frightening pace submerging everything in sight. This was a disaster that exceeded natural disasters. Hundreds of pillar-like reversed waterfalls stood towering as the water spread like a lake. Having control over the water, Harry stood above the surface without any issues as his opponents struggled to get to the high grounds. He lightly tapped the surface of the water with his foot wearing nothing but an aloof attitude with the tip of his toes, causing the waves to grow violent. A second later, the waves took the form of a wingless dragon with tendrils. With a mighty roar, the watery beast charged forward, devouring or strangling the fiery beasts with its tendrils.
The mages and death eaters could only watch in utter shock as they had never seen a spell like this before. Not in all their lives. While it was known that fiendfyre could be transfigured and likely extinguished, it would usually take a group of highly accomplished and exceedingly powerful individuals to do it. However, standing four kilometers away, a single person could destroy the hellish flames with a single spell.
"Ho-How did…y-you? How are you capable of doing this?" Goyle Sr exclaimed, having trouble believing what he saw was true. It's like fate was pulling some kind of sick joke.
The young man amplified his voice with the sonorous charm, "did you not think I would be prepared to face death eaters without a plan? A spell was cast which counters fiendfyre. It was conceptualized by two brilliant witches…who your master relentlessly targeted. I have spent years developing and testing this spell and believe it has finally been perfected. Behold the powers of… Dorea Phoebe Black and Lily Janine Potter!" Images of his mother and grandmother flooded his mind. Mentally thanking them.
Figuring that the time was right, he began chanting in parseltongue, drawing on the magic in the surrounding area. Unlike the one used by Voldemort's Horcrux two years ago, there were no drawbacks as he could keep his mind and stay in control of his magic.
He could feel the power coursing through his very being. The water and land shook violently, making the people standing away slightly fearful as it felt like the land was shaking apart. Several of the braver ones unleashed whatever spells they could in rapid succession, albeit with some difficulty, as the ground beneath shook and the air became increasingly thin. By teleporting into the air, he was able to avoid the assault. Unknown to them his uniform had been specially designed and outfitted with orbs capable of flight.
"Where did he go?" One of the mages asked in a strong Russian accent.
"Up there!"
Everyone looked up to a startling discovery as Potter was hovering hundreds of feet in the air with his arms crossed around his chest. The seven death eaters were speechless as no other than the dark lord could perform unsupported flight.
Swiftly contemplating his next move, he decided to use an ancient long forgotten battle spell. Reaching deep within himself, the power he had at his command began to release itself in waves. The ground shuddered and started to tear apart. As for the people on the ground, they did not know what was going on as the force of Potter's magic terrified them. "देवानाम् प्राचीनं विनाशकारीं शक्तिं जागृयतु। मम क्रोधस्य प्रतिक्रियां दत्त्वा मम शत्रून् नाशयतु: रग्नारोक्!" (Awaken the ancient destructive power of the gods. Respond to my rage and destroy my enemies: Ragnarök!)
Invoking the god's power was more dangerous. It was pure insanity. Originally there were eight continents; however, a war orchestrated by an evil tyrant caused the death and destruction of hundreds, if not thousands, of wizards and witches. Together a squad of forty-seven magus used their brands of magic to end the conflict by channeling the mighty power of the gods. Combining their magic, they defeated the warlord and his army by destroying their home region. Though their intentions were pure, their hopes were naïve as they were unprepared to handle the backlash from invoking the gods' powers. Summoning that kind of power carried a risk of astronomical proportions as it destroyed them and the continent they tried to defend. From then on, no one had ever used the spell until now.
The heaven viciously shook as the ground began to tear. Harry himself started glowing blood red. The sky soon followed as it roared in anger. From the heavens came the holy power of the gods, with red and black beams, rained down like a meteor storm. If that weren't bad enough, a massive trench was carved through Magadan. When the beams of death finally stopped after what seemed like ages but were actually a couple minutes, they reacted to the battle cry Harry released. Feeding on his power and anger, the boy directed his hands down, and out of the heavens came a massive demonic red and black beam of destruction that obliterated Magadan and a good part of Kamchatka Krai and Chukotka. The resulting destruction killed thirty-four people. Their screams of agony were a demonstration of how powerful and destructive ancient magic was.
Adrenaline surged through Harry's body, wavering away any fatigue he might have had. Then, spying over at the remainder of Chukotka to see a fair number of his enemies trying to help one another, he teleported over to finish the job.
Several of the mages groaned in despair and agony from their injuries. A couple of them blinked their eyes in fear as Potter appeared some meters away. Just who was he? There was no question he possessed amazing power. Destroying an entire country and being capable of releasing that much magical power showed they were wrong to take him so lightly. His cold, dark expression let them know he was far from down.
"I will destroy you all!" Shouting his declaration. With a wide swipe of his wand, dark purple flames erupted all around, creating massive explosions. The mages were now on the defensive as Potter unleashed a barrage of ancient and destructive magic. The dark clouds were erupting, and thunder and lightning were striking everywhere. Barely able to mount a counterattack, the people who thought this would be a simple walk in the park quickly understood why the boy's family was revered and feared.
"पातालस्य ज्वालाः" इति । (Flames of the netherworld) dark blue and black flames sprouted from the ground destroying everything and everyone in their paths. All of which were being directed by Harry's wand movement. His anger continued fueling the flames. With every jab, slash, and swipe, they became more potent.
Dumbledore could only stare in shock at the amount of power being released. Never before had he seen such dark and destructive magic being used at once. The battle he had with Gellert years ago and a couple of times he faced Voldemort could have never prepared him for what he was seeing now. Before his eyes, Harry unleashed magic he thought was lost to the memory of time. Ancient battle magic was dangerous and not to be underestimated. Having dedicated most of his life to studying archaic magic, he became well-versed in the different branches. However, as skilled and knowledgeable as he was, there were still artifacts and different magics he knew nothing about.
The hair on his eyebrows became nonexistent as his eyes shot open when Harry obliterated another country with a massive red energy sphere, brutally killing the was fighting. So far, two regions have fallen. What really intrigued Dumbledore was that Harry was able to move a considerable distance without apparating. Apparently, it was a new form of magical transportation. He would need to learn it himself.
Just as he was about to breathe, Harry conjured a protective ring of black fire around himself. Protego Diabolica. An extremely powerful dark charm used by Grindelwald at the Lestrange Mausoleum in Paris. Too many things were running through his mind, and his emotions were running high. His calm grandfather visage morphed into fear as he was reminded of his old lover. The last time the spell was used, Gellert nearly destroyed all of Paris. Almost afraid to ask where Harry even learned that spell, his thoughts drifted to the one family that might have the answer: The Blacks. What the hell did Lord Black and his sister teach him? And who thought that would be okay? He felt every bit of his old age and knew he'd have trouble sleeping the next few nights.
The professors and students were experiencing their own variety of emotions. Severus, Minerva, and Filius shared the same shocked expression. Sure they were aware of how powerful Harry had grown, but this was something else.
Several students were terrified as they witnessed the deaths and destructions of two federal regions and over a hundred people within the last hour. Some of them thought Potter was a demon. The way he dealt with his opponents shocked them to their very cores. Moreover, they also felt the quakes he created until Dumbledore activated the enchantments around the castle.
"Motherfucker," was all Blaise could say. "I knew Harry's exceeded the norms, but never knew he was this powerful."
"Nor that he could fly," Tracey exclaimed. "I thought unsupported flight was illegal..."
Closing her eyes, Emily responded, "it is, and he is being supported." Her friends and a handful of others turned to her. "What you're seeing here is my brother's newest invention. His suit was designed to allow the wearer to fly by channeling his magic."
"Why doesn't it surprise me that you would know what that is?" Asked Neville, who held onto Luna's hand. "Hopefully, I can get a suit like that."
Daphne, on the other hand, stood in silence as she watched the battle. She saw the expression on Harry's face; while it was dark, his eyes showed he was sad. The fact he was forced to kill was not something he enjoyed.
The large flaming tendrils spread everywhere as the battle raged, incinerating their master's enemies. Feeling the spatial magic around him coming to an end, Harry cut it off, deciding to rely on his own. To absorb a large amount of magic was not something he'd do lightly, as there was a price that would always need to be paid. Normally the caster's life force would be reduced, or they'd die. Luckily he had Byakko, Genbu, and Suzaku with him so the aftereffects of the ritual wouldn't kill or reduce his life force. However, that did not mean he was safe, as the muscles in his body felt brittle as the slightest touch could break them, and his ligaments were on fire. Ignoring the pain and exhaustion, he pressed on. Soon the black flames manifested winged demons and dragons, all bent on attacking and destroying the remaining individuals.
"Spread out and form a circle quick," Nott yelled, his fear growing as the fiery black demons neared. He knew his history. Six incredibly powerful wizards and witches shoved their wands into the earth casting Finite to disperse the rampaging dragon and demon-like flames. "Do it! Now!"
"Finite," plunging his wand at the earth.
"Finite!" Carrow followed suit.
"Finite!"
"Finite!"
Everyone who remained cast the General Counter-Spell. It was a battle of wills, and they could feel their cores working overtime to combat Potter's spell. When the beasts were vanquished, they crumpled to the ground, heavily exhausted from the exertion. They could feel their strengths leaving them as they were now running on fumes.
Attempting to stand up proved to be a challenge.
"You have got to be fucking kidding me," Goyle Sr exclaimed. They all turned to where Crabbe Sr was pointing, and there they saw Potter walking through the residual flames like they were nothing.
"Who or what are you?" Amycus growled, throwing a brain-melting curse that Harry easily dodged by sidestepping.
"You look like you've seen a ghost," his lips formed a smile as his eyes narrowed at the man. "What's the matter? I cannot be harder to kill than a 'muggle' or 'blood traitor,' right?" He mockingly asked.
Eight tried to catch him off guard by sending piercing curses but were easily knocked away by a banishing charm. They then fell to some pink arrows that made them explode, spewing their guts and other organs on the ground.
"Let me put this as plainly as possible." Harry's expression changed into a serious one. "I am the grandson of a Magus who managed to kick your master's arse during the first war. I am your reckoning. I am justice. I am the Protector of the Magical world!"
He unleashed a barrage of spells, holding nothing back as the area quickly became a warzone filled with blood, destruction, death, and chaos.
"The Dark Lord with avenge us, Potter," Lord Selwyn roared.
"Your master will get his due that I promise you," Harry finished off thirteen more of their companions. Drawing his sword once more, he raced forward, firing spell after spell while also cutting through theirs.
With only twenty-one remaining Harry felt like it was time to end things. Permanently. Swiping his wand horizontally, he sent a powerful shockwave that sent them in different directions separating the mages from the death eaters. The mages were out of their depths as they struggled to deal with Lord Potter. All their spells were deflected away, back to them, or sliced through. Meanwhile, Potter's attacks became harder and sharper, breaking through their defenses. His last spell cleaved the man in two.
Then giving attention to the death eaters, he returned his wand to its holster, leaving his sword out. He was tired, and his body hurt all over; sucking it up, he mustered his strength to dash forward.
Scared out of their minds, they fired whatever spells they could though it was in vain as the teen parried their attacks. Closing in the first to fall was Crabbe as Harry sliced across the fool's chest. Goyle was the next to die. Followed by Carrow, then Nott, Selwyn, and then Yaxley leaving only Parkinson to watch as his friends succumbed to the venom of the boy's sword and the flames consumed them. For him, Harry had something else planned, sending a wandless cutting curse to the man's wand arm. Refusing to let up, he summoned the man's wand catching it in his hands, then snapping it.
Utterly defenseless, Parkinson tried to look strong, but the fear in his eyes betrayed what he felt. Before he could even react, Potter waved his hand again to make some chains erupt from the ground to wrap around his waist, arms, and neck and force him to his knees.
"Do not mistake the situation on your end as you're going to die," Harry glowered. "But before that, you'll give me some information whether you want to or not."
"I won't tell you anything," he spat.
"We'll see about that," Parkinson was assaulted with the most painful mental intrusion he had ever felt. His occlumency shields were no match for the younger man's attack as he was forced to relive all his memories. Sifting through the man's mind for information, he pulled out after getting what he wanted.
Summoning the devil's fire, the flames wrapped around his left hand. The flames quickly morphed into sharp tentacles. "Lord Parkinson, I hereby judge you evil and will therefore remove every trace of you," thrusting his hand forward, the fiery tentacles separated into seven demon-like mouths that sank their teeth into the man's body, causing him to scream in pain. Then with one swing of Harry's sword, he decapitated Parkinson, then sheathed it back into its scabbard, and walked away as the black fire turned the now deceased Lord Parkinson's head and body to cinders.
The battle ends.
He fell to one knee breathing heavily as the adrenaline coursing through his body started to leave. All of his bones felt like they were moments away from turning to dust. Flickering in and out of consciousness, he missed the fact of Akingbade announcing him the winner. When the last of his strength left, he would have fallen on his face if not for the timely arrival of his godfather, who caught him in his arms. Fortunately, he wasn't alone as Jack arrived next to him with a squad composed of British and Russian agents.
The two then apparated Harry to one of Russia's I.C.W. buildings for treatment. Appearing in the building, they raced to the medical ward where the Chief Healer was waiting with a couple of others. She placed him in a nearby bed and waved her wand over his body while muttering some diagnostic spells. Sirius did not understand the woman as she spoke entirely in Russian. But luckily, Arcturus was present, and he understood. Giving her a nod to proceed, she had two of her agents strip their down until he was in his boxers and placed him in a healing chamber. Sirius's lips formed a smirk as some of the female agents eyed his godson's body. Little did they know that if they tried anything, Daphne would tear them limb from limb.
During the healing process, Harry snapped his eyes open, fully aware of what was happening around him. Close to ten minutes later, they finally let him out; ignoring the offered towel and ogling, he ignited his inner fire to wrap the flames around his body to dry off. When done, he put his clothes and suit back on, then went to meet with the representatives from the Far East. He never liked dealing with politicians, but thankfully he knew how to deal with Russians, as they had a code and respected those with power.
A/N: Delores continues to inspect the professors asking about their qualifications and what not to see if they're competent enough to teach. Pretty stupid in my opinion as the one who should be evaluated is her as she has no teaching credentials or any experience as an educator.
Harry training regime might be intense, but it's necessary for them if they want to survive. To ensure they can protect themselves he must make sure they are prepared for the worst.
Then finally came his battle in the Far East. I know many of you will have questions and or comments so let me get it out now. He will not be keeping the money as it will be used for something pragmatic. Among the three basilisks one will go to the Ministry in India; the other will be given to the people in the Far East as payment for destroying parts of their territory. Harry will keep the last one and used it for the good of the people.
Next Chapter: Release the beasts