Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or any of the intellectual property associated with Harry Potter.

Hi all,

Here's the next chapter. Harry's grandfather gives him am impromptu lesson and he and his friends go to the gym.

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Chapter 34

Headmaster Flitwick watched Harry as he demonstrated his proficiency with the Velocier skill. Harry wanted to show off a little, so he decided to push it to level three, though he knew he couldn't sustain it for too long. He had to be careful not to deplete his magical reserves since the skill cost more the further he pushed it.

Harry executed a series of acrobatic manoeuvres, including flips, climbs, handstands, and somersaults, wanting to show off his athleticism. However, as he pushed his limits, he couldn't ignore the mounting pressure he felt. His brain struggled to match the speed of his body, causing him to almost lose his balance multiple times. After just a few minutes, he had no choice but to stop, as he was on the verge of collapse. He hadn't taken into account how much his body would be affected by increasing the level of the skill.

Harry waited for the Headmaster's verdict after completing the task. At some point, his grandmother had joined them to watch her grandson.

"It is definitely the Velocier skill," Flitwick said, although he didn't seem happy about the fact.

"What's the matter?" Charlus asked.

"I can't understand how he has the skill in the first place," Flitwick admitted. "Harry's situation is unlike anything we've seen before."

"Could it be because I'm an Animagus?" Harry queried, as he started massaging his limbs to soothe the ache from the punishment they had just endured.

"It's possible," Flitwick replied with a furrowed brow.

"Well, considering we've never seen a magical Animagus before," Minerva reasoned, "we are now venturing into unexplored territory."

Flitwick nodded in acknowledgement of her point. He observed Harry as he continued to massage his body. That wasn't a good sign. "How much magic are you channelling into your body, Mr Potter? It appears as if your body can't handle the amount you are using currently, so I suggest that you lower it to a more manageable level."

"Is that true, Harry?" Charlus asked.

"I'm feeling some soreness in my body from pushing myself to level three," Harry admitted. "I need to fully master the second level before I push it any further."

"Level? Are you able to measure the skill?" Flitwick asked. "Can you use the skill to its maximum potential without any limitations?"

"I have categorised the skill into nine levels. Currently, my body can barely handle level three."

"That's not good," Flitwick groaned.

"Is it dangerous?" Minerva asked, her voice tinged with concern.

"Most definitely," Flitwick replied. "It seems that his version of Velocier differs from mine. If he possesses the capability to exceed the limitations of his physical abilities without any restraints, he may potentially inflict significant harm to himself."

Harry looked away from his grandparents' stern expressions. They didn't need to give him that look, as he was well aware of the dangers involved.

"Mr Potter," Flitwick said, his face serious. "You cannot, in any circumstance, push the skill beyond your current limit. Continue to work at mastering level two until your body becomes accustomed to the physical exertion."

"I understand."

"What can we do to help his body cope with the strain?" Minerva asked.

"His body requires physical conditioning," Flitwick explained. "One option is for him to join a muggle gym, as he can get personalised instruction. It might also be beneficial to enrol him in a gymnastics or ballerina class to enhance his flexibility. Since his body is still developing, the most significant progress will likely come with time."

"We will follow your suggestion," Charlus said. "Is there anything else we should know?"

"You have started to teach him how to duel?" Flitwick asked and continued when Charlus nodded. "He needs to learn a movement technique to take advantage of the Velocier skill."

"What if you teach him your technique?" Minerva suggested.

"I don't mind teaching him," Flitwick said. "But I need permission to share it with outsiders. My master will be the one to teach Harry if he agrees to it."

"Is he a goblin?" Charlus asked.

Flitwick nodded. "His name is Master Footshredder."

"His name does not inspire confidence," Harry frowned. "Where could such a name possibly originate from?"

"When a goblin achieves a certain level of expertise in their field or accomplishes something noteworthy, they are granted a title that replaces their last name." Flitwick smiled. "But the goblins usually keep their titles amongst themselves. Footshredder is a prestigious title bestowed upon those who demonstrate exceptional skill in using Velocier. The user moves with such astonishing speed that it would seem like their feet would be torn to shreds from the friction. It's an exaggeration, of course, but it doesn't detract from the accomplishments of my master."

"Please let me know if there's anything the Potter family can do to convince him to teach Harry," Charlus stated.

"Is there really a hidden secret to it?" Harry asked sceptically. "I believe that with enough experimentation, I can develop my own movement technique."

"Oh, the ignorance of youth," Flitwick chuckled. "There is more to my master's movement technique than just flooding your entire body with magic blindly. His method enables the user to manipulate their magic in order to enhance specific body parts, which allows for some interesting options during a duel."

"Yes, I can see how that would be helpful," Harry remarked. "Would your master even want to teach a human?"

"I don't think he will need much convincing," Fliwick said with an enigmatic expression. "It's time for me to return to Hogwarts. I'll get back to you as soon as possible with my master's response."

"Have you figured out the Enchanted Wall yet?" Harry asked.

"That's not your concern," Charlus reprimanded him.

"It's all right," Flitwick said. "Your grandson provided Master Karlsson with an idea to address the problem. Mr Potter, the Enchanted Wall has been successfully contained for the time being. It has returned to its original size and is no longer expanding outwards anymore. Unfortunately, it continues to affect the Hogwarts Wards, making it challenging for me to make alterations to them."

"Well, at least for now, you've managed to keep it under control. Hopefully, the rest of the school year goes by without any more unexpected incidents."

"Don't tempt fate with those words," Minerva sighed.

Minerva escorted Flitwick back up to the house, while Charlus and Harry resumed their training. Harry took a moment to check his magical reserves, which were at half capacity. This was sufficient for him to continue training. The important point was to ensure that he didn't completely deplete his reserves, as this would result in magical exhaustion. In order to sustain certain bodily functions, a wizard had to maintain a minimum level of magic. Falling below this threshold could result in severe consequences.

"How do I increase my magical reserves?" Harry asked.

"Why are you interested in knowing? You already possess a decent amount of magic for your age."

"Well, if I want to use Velocier in battle, I will need more magic," Harry said in a reasonable manner.

Charlus grunted in acknowledgement, conceding the point. "I'm assuming you're already familiar with the source of a wizard's magic."

"The magic conduit."

"Yes, this is a metaphysical channel within each witch or wizard that connects us to the fae realm. It allows us to practise magic. As we consistently use our magic, this channel expands and contracts, gradually growing stronger over time, much like a muscle."

Harry remembered the time he dived into his own subconscious and witnessed the spectacle of the magic conduit up close. The experience had been so unsettling that he hadn't tried returning there again.

"I already know this," Harry said impatiently.

"Yes, but were you aware that each conduit possesses its own unique characteristics?" Charlus inquired. "Depending on the individual witch or wizard, it will exhibit different reactions to specific types of magic."

"Is this how magical aptitude is decided?" Harry asked.

"A wizard's magic conduit is set at birth, so this is true to a certain extent," Charlus said. "But by using a specific type of magic regularly, you can naturally enhance your aptitude for it. But there is a potential drawback in that it could have an impact on your state of mind, especially when it comes to dark magic."

"So I could possibly become a dark wizard if I continue to use dark magic?" Harry questioned his grandfather sceptically.

"No. Dark magic is not inherently bad on its own," Charlus said. "But there must be balance. "Depending too heavily on a single type of magic can shape a wizard's thinking. There are scholars out there who think that the conduit is intricately connected to a wizard's psyche."

Harry paused, deep in thought. There was a nagging curiosity at the back of his mind, something unsettling about the mechanisms of how magic worked. It took him a moment, but then it clicked—he finally recognised what was bothering him.

"Is this how family magic was able to have such a profound impact on our family?" Harry asked.

Charlus made a face of displeasure before responding, "Yes, that is the case."

"So Modor, who gave us family magic originally, is from the fae realm?"

"Yes, I believe that she is not a deity, but rather a powerful witch. Somehow, she has gained the ability to manipulate the essence of our magic."

"Are we completely helpless to resist if she decides to do something to us?"

"No," Charlus replied. "She was only able to do so because we summoned her and came to a mutual agreement. If beings from the fae realm had that kind of control over us, I believe the world would be far more chaotic."

Harry sighed in relief. For a while now, he couldn't shake off the sneaking suspicion that the Source originated from Modor, and was trying to manipulate him through it. However, considering the fact that the Potter family's magic had been stripped from their family before he was born, she shouldn't have any influence over his magic. So, what exactly was the Source? Could it possibly have come from the fae realm as well?

"I have strayed from the main topic," Charlus said. "There are specific spells that enhance a wizard's reserves with greater ease. If you can discover these spells that elicit a stronger reaction from your magical conduit, it presents an ideal method for augmenting your reserves."

"Wow, that sounds incredibly helpful," Harry said with a grin.

Now that he was able to measure his magical reserves, he could conduct experiments with different spells to determine the most effective ones.

He was struck by another thought. "What about rituals? Can they help increase my magic as well?"

"Yes, but it is dangerous," Charlus said. "By performing a ritual, we open our bodies and minds up to the magic of the fae realm to enhance ourselves. All rituals require a sacrifice, but sometimes it is unclear what exactly we are giving up, even if it is explicitly stated. You are already a freak of nature when it comes to magic. It isn't worth the risk of using rituals to squeeze out some extra benefits."

Harry nodded in agreement. He understood that messing with anything related to the fae realm was extremely foolish. Although he may have agreed with his grandfather in principle, he had no objection to the rituals themselves. After all, didn't his body and mind undergo a sort of ritual when he acquired new skills and enhancements from the Source? Except without the necessary sacrifice?

"Teach me some new spells, please," Harry begged his grandfather.

"I will teach you the Protego spell next. While I don't like using shields during battle, there is a use for them, especially for a beginner."

Harry didn't spend much time practising the Protego spell, mainly because it required a lot of magic to cast. By the end of the lesson, all he could manage was a paper-thin shield that shattered under his grandfather's Stinging Hex. Each attempt depleted around forty units of magic. He was unsure if that cost would change as he became more adept at the spell.

He planned to closely monitor his magic reserves as he continued to master Protego. Once he discovered a spell that boosted his reserves the most, he would begin exercising his conduit by depleting his magic every day. After a few weeks, he expected to see some results. His grandfather stressed that every witch and wizard has a limit to how much their magic can grow based on their age. It's just a question of discovering one's own limit.

Harry returned to his workshop and the smithing station. If he wanted to be able to craft his own bo-staff, then there were several steps he needed to take to get there. First, he needed to extract the iron from the ore and turn it into iron ingots. Harry didn't know if that was considered a part of the blacksmithing skill, but it would help him gain easy experience if it did. He heated up the furnace and prepared the reducing agent to extract the iron. The agent was made up of charcoal for the base of the agent, and mixed with sand.

Harry wore his protective equipment before he got started, which consisted of his apron, a face shield and some gloves.

Once the furnace was hot enough, he added the reducing agent and the iron ore. Once the iron heated up enough, the molten metal trickled down to the bottom of the furnace. It formed a bloom, a glob of hot metal that formed after the first melting. Harry plucked it out and set it to the side to cool. He needed to heat it up again to finish it further and remove the remaining impurities. While he waited, he started heating another round of iron ore as he waited for the first bloom to cool.

After further refining the bloom, he poured it into a mould to form the iron ingot and set it aside to cool and harden. Harry repeated this step several times before the symbol on his hand heated up, indicating a new message was waiting for him. It was at the right time because he needed a break. Stepping out of the room, he wiped the sweat from his brow.

"Maybe I should have added a cooling array to the apron," Harry mused. He cast the cooling charm on himself and sighed in relief.

Retrieving the Source, he opened it up to read the new message.

The host has learned a new skill!

**Blacksmithing 1 [30/1000] -A blacksmith is a metalsmith who creates objects primarily from wrought iron or steel, but sometimes from other metals, by forging the metal, and using tools to hammer, bend, and cut. This skill encompasses every aspect of smithing, including the smelting process. As the host's skill level increases, he will be able to handle more intricate and difficult projects, as well as work with increasingly harder and unique materials.

Blacksmithing recipes have been added to the Crafting Book.

The Host has completed a Workshop Task.

Learn the Blacksmithing skill: 100 points.

Current Points: 1100

Workshop Level: 1 Next [5000]

Before he started making steel, he would start crafting items with iron. He retrieved the Crafting Book from his inventory and began searching through the recipes. His goal was to find a project that would help him improve his basic techniques. After careful consideration, he settled on one of the first recipes listed in the book.

[Iron] Twist Forged Bracelet

Crafting Book Experience: +40

General Experience: + 40

Skill Experience: [Blacksmithing, Dexterity] + 20

Shop Points: +3

Workshop Points: + 3

It didn't offer much general experience, but it was a fairly easy project. Before he got started, he needed to forge some more iron ingots. Harry returned to the Blacksmithing station and continued working.

2nd January

After Harry quietly celebrated the New Year by spending it with his grandparents, he got back to work. He practised smithing by crafting a dozen twist-forged bracelets, before moving on to another recipe in the Crafting Book. He decided to take on a slightly more challenging task; crafting iron hooks. Although they took him longer to make, the experience gained from crafting them made up for it.

The host has created a [Iron] Hook.

Crafting Book Experience: +50

General Experience: + 50

Skill Experience: [Blacksmithing, Dexterity] + 25

Shop Points: +4

Workshop Points: + 4

The Blacksmithing skill has increased to level 2.

After crafting twelve iron hooks, he advanced his blacksmithing skill to level two. Almost immediately, he observed that every aspect of smithing became slightly easier and the frequency of his mistakes decreased. This gave him a lot of confidence and he decided to tackle a more challenging project: fashioning a dagger. Once he had mastered this recipe, he would then attempt to create a prototype of his bo-staff.

3rd January

Harry trailed behind his grandfather as they climbed the front steps leading to the Granger residence. Hermione lived in a middle-class neighbourhood in Cornwall. The houses were two-storey buildings with spacious, well-maintained lawns and neatly trimmed hedges. Hermione's house had a brick exterior and was topped with a dark shingled roof. An open double garage was attached to it, where two cars were parked. It was evident that her parents were quite comfortable financially. Harry recalled Hermione mentioning that both of them were dentists.

Charlus rang the bell, and the door opened almost immediately. Hermione stood there, dressed in purple leotards and a sweatshirt.

"Hello, Mr Potter," Hermione greeted Charlus before engulfing Harry in a hug. "The others have already arrived. Come inside."

A woman and a man were standing in the entrance hall, waiting to be introduced to their guests. They were clearly Hermione's parents, as they bore a remarkable resemblance to her.

"Mr Potter, Harry, allow me to introduce my parents, David and Helen," Hermione said.

David extended his hand and firmly shook Charlus' hand. The man was tall and solidly built, with a tangled nest of brown curls. Hermione had inherited her hair from her dad. "Hermione told me you are a lord. Are you a member of the nobility in the magical world?"

"Yes, but it is less impressive than it sounds," Charlus smiled. "You may call me Charlus. The same applies to you, Miss Granger."

"I will address you as Mr Potter." Hermione insisted. "It's a matter of respect,"

"That's not necessary, but I appreciate the sentiment. I do wish my grandson showed me the same level of respect."

"Only as much as you deserve," Harry smirked.

"Hello, Mr Potter," Helen greeted Charlus before turning her attention to Harry.

Helen stood a full head shorter than her husband, her shoulder-length blonde hair shaping her face. She shared the same chocolate-brown eyes as Hermione. ", I have heard a lot about you from my daughter. She failed to mention how handsome you are."

Harry attempted to hide his embarrassment with a joking remark. "I believe she is more captivated by my amazing personality and intellectual brilliance."

"Mum, don't embarrass him," Hermione said before she grinned mischievously. "He is likely to get his two girlfriends to gang up on you."

Harry glared at Hermione, who poked her tongue out at him.

Helen arched her eyebrows in surprise, although she didn't express any disapproval. "Is that a common occurrence in the magical world? Having more than one partner?"

"It's rare, but it happens," Charlus replied. "I have no objections, provided that he treats the young women with respect. The Potter family faces the threat of becoming extinct, so the responsibility lies with Harry to continue the family line"

"Well, let's hope Harry chooses my daughter as well," Helen grinned. "I wouldn't mind having many grandchildren to spoil."

"Mum," Hermione groaned.

"Perhaps we should allow the kids to leave to do their own thing, "David suggested, playfully tugging on Hermione's curls. "We can resume our conversation in the kitchen."

Charlus nodded and followed Hermione's parents as they left the entrance hall.

"I already mentioned that my Mum is a bit eccentric," Hermione said with a sigh. "She enjoys playing pranks on people. It wouldn't be a surprise if she pulls off something truly crazy by the end of the day."

Harry followed her into the living room. "You definitely don't take after her."

"I am more serious like my dad," Hermione agreed. "I do have my moments, though."

They stepped into the living room where Daphne and Susan were waiting. Harry's eyes appreciatively gazed at Daphne. She donned leotards similar to Hermione's but in a shade of navy blue. They complimented her long, beautiful legs and her shapely derriere.

Harry kissed his girlfriend and gave Susan a hug.

"Are you ready to work up a sweat?" Harry asked the girls.

Susan turned red. The girl was prone to being easily embarrassed by any suggestive jokes.

"Don't embarrass Susan," Hermione slapped his shoulder.

The three girls were going to join him at the gym, where they would be taking a gymnastics class. They were the only members of their Hogwarts club who were able to join. Gabrielle was at a veela conclave to visit some relatives, while the rest of the club was on vacation elsewhere.

"Harry, have you seen the Daily Prophet today?" Daphne asked.

"Not yet. Does the newspaper include my article?"

"That's right," Daphne affirmed, as she retrieved the paper from the couch and passed it over. "Take a look. The picture is definitely interesting."

Harry sat on the couch and the girls joined him. On the front page, there was an unflattering picture of him, showing him striking various poses as if he were partaking in a photo shoot.

"I look like a total wanker," Harry complained. "What was Lauren thinking?"

"I think Sirius had something to do with it," Daphne smirked.

"I am going to pay him back," Harry growled.

"I like the picture," Susan admitted, then looked embarrassed by the admission.

Harry chose to spare her from further embarrassment by pretending he hadn't heard anything and began reading the article.

Harry Potter Voices His Support for Half-Breeds

Hello, all my wonderful readers. I have had the privilege of sitting down with Hadrian (Harry) Potter to get his thoughts on the Ministry's recent push to ostracise Half-Breeds. He is also known by other titles–the Boy-Who-Died, and subsequently, the Boy-Who-Lived. It's just as absurd as it sounds. What is the British magical community's obsession with hyphenated names? But I digress. Allow me to share his thoughts on Half-Breeds and their place in our community.

Do you believe that the Ministry's push to exclude Half-Breeds from significant positions in our society is justified?

No. Individuals should be evaluated based on their abilities rather than their race. Take Headmaster Flitwick of Hogwarts as an example. He has been the Charms Professor for decades and is one of the primary reasons why Hogwarts is renowned worldwide. Throughout his career, he has trained numerous students who have gone on to achieve their Charms Masteries, Additionally, he is a five-time European Duelling Champion. However, under the new policy suggested by the Ministry, they would fire him because he is a Half-Breed. It is utterly ridiculous.

Speaking of Headmaster Flitwick. There is evidence to suggest that the policy was created to specifically target him because he was chosen as the new headmaster.

Well, I don't know anything about that, but it wouldn't surprise me. Headmaster Flitwick is half-goblin, and I am sure that is twisting a few wizards and witches unmentionables into a knot. When you step into the Ministry foyer, it becomes evident how they perceive goblins. They have a statue of a goblin gazing up at a wizard in worship. Utter nonsense. This exemplifies the British wizard's arrogance and intolerance towards them and other races. Haven't they learned anything from the Goblin Rebellions?

These words may be seen as provocative. Aren't you concerned about offending the public with this opinion?

Maybe so, but it is important to acknowledge the truth. Some of our most talented individuals have already departed from Britain to seek better opportunities elsewhere due to the prevailing prejudice. This includes Squibs, Muggleborns, and Werewolves as well. As a result, not only does Britain suffer from a lack of skilled witches and wizards, but our economy and reputation within the wider wizarding communities are also adversely impacted. Perhaps as an aspiring Artisan, I may seek greener pastures in the future as well.

Strong words. The new policy is being driven by the Senior Undersecretary, Dolores Umbridge. Her intolerance of anything that is not Pure-Blood is well-known. Is the policy merely a way for her to satisfy her own prejudices?

I am not familiar with the Undersecretary, so I cannot provide any comments on her beliefs. It is less important to consider who is driving the policy. Your main concern should be the Wizengamot members who will be voting on the policy. I suggest that every member carefully consider just where this is headed. Are we truly going to diminish our population and talent even more due to a mistaken belief of our own superiority?

The article continued onto the next page, but the majority of the interesting content was found on the first page. Harry lowered the newspaper with a self-satisfied expression.

"I sound amazing, don't you think?" Harry grinned.

"Don't get full of yourself, Potter," Daphne shoved him. "No one likes a braggart."

"I think you are going to get a lot of hate mail for this," Susan said, twisting her hands anxiously. "Although I like the message it sends to those old geezers in the Wizengamot."

"Lucky I don't have to deal with the nasty letters," Harry shrugged. "I am sure I would lose my hearing from all the howlers they send my way."

"It's an amazing article," Hermione congratulated him. "Although, I believe it is irresponsible to exploit a thirteen-year-old for political reasons."

"I made the decision on my own," Harry said. "If it helps get the policy thrown out of the Wizengamot, then it is worth it."

The adults entered the room and told them that it was time to leave. Helen would be driving them to the gym, while her husband had to go to work. Charlus was coming along because Dumbledore was still out there. While the likelihood of encountering dangers in the Muggle world was low, he still preferred to avoid taking unnecessary risks.

Harry and the girls squeezed into the back seat while Helen started the car. Susan and Daphne appeared both fascinated and terrified by automobiles, and both of them clinging to Harry's arm for security. He certainly didn't mind. As they made their way through the streets towards their destination, their nerves began to settle a bit as they realised they wouldn't crash into anything.

Although Charlus could have found a gym on his own, he decided to call upon the Grangers to find a suitable place to train. David Granger took the opportunity to encourage his daughter to join Harry and engage in some physical activity. Daphne and Susan had also decided to join when he told them about it. Harry appreciated their company as he didn't want to do it alone.

They arrived at the gym, which was a massive structure that appeared to be a recent addition to the neighbourhood. The building stood three stories tall and boasted a spacious parking lot. The ground floor was entirely constructed of glass, offering them a clear view of the interior.

After Helen parked the car, everyone grabbed their bags and made their way toward the entrance. Glancing through the window, Harry was greeted by rows of exercise equipment and people fully absorbed in their workout routines.

"This building is huge," Susan looked around with amazement. "Why would people gather here to exercise together? Wouldn't they be embarrassed to be seen in such thin clothing?"

Susan was clearly self-conscious about her outfit, which was almost identical to Hermione's and Daphne's.

"Unlike wizards and witches, muggles tend to be less self-conscious," Hermione smiled, trying to offer her some reassurance. "They go to gyms for the sake of convenience, as everything they need is readily available in one place. Generally, people are too preoccupied with their own activities to pay much attention to others, so you don't have anything to worry about."

They walked into the gym and headed towards the front counter. Harry and Hermione opted for a year-long membership, while Daphne and Susan only paid for a single day. They wanted to return to the gym on the weekends throughout the school semester. The headmaster was more lenient in permitting students to leave the castle on weekends if accompanied by an adult. However, they were unsure if they would continue visiting the gym after today.

"The class isn't starting for another fifteen minutes," Helen said, gesturing towards a nearby enclosed room. "Why don't you take a quick look to see what they have to offer?"

"Sure, Mum," Hermione replied, before taking the lead and guiding the rest to explore the gym.

Harry surveyed his surroundings with keen interest. To his surprise, he discovered a wide array of classes available, far beyond what he initially anticipated. This was not simply a gym, but a comprehensive sports fitness centre offering a plethora of classes catering to various activities. Given the sheer size of the building, it was not surprising.

He halted beside another closed room and peered through the glass. His attention was captivated by a man wearing a white uniform and black belt. The man skillfully twirled a staff with precision and finesse while moving across the room. He made it seem so effortless that Harry was filled with amazement.

"What is it, Harry?" Daphne asked.

"I want to learn how to do that," Harry said.

He glanced at the sign on the door and discovered that the instructor taught karate. He was an expert in bojutsu and even taught his own style that incorporated it into traditional karate. A class was scheduled for later in the day, providing him with the option to attend today if he desired.

He was determined not to miss out on this opportunity.

So, what do you think? Next chapter, Harry returns to Hogwarts.

Thanks for reading.