The Mystic Rises

by TigerSwarm9122

How will things be different in the Wizarding World if Harry was raised by his grandfather? Charlus Potter knew something was wrong when his son and daughter-in-law went into hiding at the insistence of Albus Dumbledore. Figuring he has some hidden agenda, he hatches a plan to ensure Harry knows how to protect himself, see through the lies and deceptions of those who'd wish to use

13. The DoM's Research lab & Dueling time

Chapter 13: The DoM's Research lab & Dueling time

It'd been a week since Harry and the others arrived in France and started working with the Flamels. As Charlus said, he could stay no longer than six days as there was some business to handle around the continent. However, Sirius and Amelia arrived two days before he departed. Sirius almost fainted after meeting the famous Alchemist and his wife.

The morning after, he completed his normal workout routine, which involved a dueling session with Amelia. She said she needed to speak with him and Susan after he showered and put on some fresh clothes. Once the three were alone in the basement, Amelia spell-locked the door shut and put a privacy ward to prevent anyone from overhearing them. "What is it, Aunt Amy?" She had insisted that he call her that when he was a lot younger and was only happy to oblige.

"I have received word from some of my Aurors and Saul that Dumbledore has been seen more frequently in the Ministry of Magic," she informed. The two frowned at what she said, though Harry's expression was a bit more severe. She had an idea of what he was thinking and continued. "As you might have guessed, he was not too pleased that you did not show up at Hogwarts like he thought you would. Rumor has it that he's sent people to different parts of the country and around the continent to search for any information on your whereabouts."

"Not much of a surprise since I ran into a few private investigators he hired last year," Harry retorted with a touch of edge laced in his voice. Amelia frowned as she remembered Arcturus telling her about that. "Anything else I should worry about?"

Amelia took in a breath. "I am not a hundred percent sure about this. . .but suspect that he might try to draft a law that might have every person born in the British Isles sent to Hogwarts to complete their education. That's only problem number one." She felt her temper begin to flare, remembering her conversation with Andromeda, Arcturus, Severus, and Sirius two months ago. "We, that is—Andromeda, Arcturus, Severus, Sirius, and I—theorize Albus may try and get the information out Susan."

"Can he actually do that? Can he actually order me to tell him where Harry is attending school?" Susan asked, feeling very worried.

"No." Amelia's eyes turned fierce, and her voice was firm. "Regardless of his positions as Chief Warlock and Supreme Mugwump, he does not have the power to force you to say anything regarding family matters. But. . ."

"But what?" Susan inquired.

"It may not matter," said Harry, who sighed, understanding where Amelia was going with this conversation. "Dumbledore has accumulated lots of political favors and is a supreme legilimens. And I bet he will have no qualms about using subtle legilimency against students. I'm right, aren't I?"

"Regrettably, yes," Amelia confirmed. "Severus has informed me that all he needs to do to access someone's mind is to look them in the eyes. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to detect a subtle mental intrusion. Dumbledore likely knows this, so if he tries to probe your mind, it will be very hard to prove that should the matter be brought before the Wizengamot." The annoyance in her voice could be heard.

"Then I say it is a good thing I already developed some rudimentary shields and know how to detect if someone is trying to access my mind," a smirking Susan replied, attempting to lighten the mood. "I just need to strengthen and keep my shields up at a moment's notice."

"Which is precisely what you and I will be working on," said Amelia in a serious tone. "I have already arranged lessons for you and Severus for when we return to Britain and school starts again." She turned her head, "the same goes for you Harry. We will be working on your shields, too."

"Seems reasonable. Better to air on the side of caution and do something without being prepared," Harry voiced in a cool tone. Similar to him, before she entered her first year at Hogwarts, Amelia, and Sirius had been adamant that she learn how to defend herself should she find herself in trouble and not have her wand. Thus, the two had signed her up for Karate and Wing Chun lessons and taught her how to duel in magical combat. While not as skilled as him, she could defend herself. Since the end of school, her training had continued under the watchful eyes of their elders, and she would sometimes join him in his morning or evening workout sessions. Brushing that from his mind, he decided to change the subject. "How are things going in your Department?"

Her expression became one of great annoyance and disappointment. "That bad, huh?" Harry inquired.

"You have no idea," she let out an exasperated sigh. "The funding for my department is low, and we are understaffed. We do not have the numbers we did when Voldemort first rose to power. Adding to that, many of the Aurors I do have are lazy and underqualified, with a handful of them too happy to kiss Fudge's backside. From what I have seen thus far, many new trainees are only doing enough to get through the Academy." The annoyance in her voice was visible enough to make both teens aware that she was not pleased with how things were going within her department and her Aurors.

"Numerous times, I have explained the importance of renewing the Auror budget to what it once was so I could afford more Aurors and have them better trained. But each time, he refuses, citing that the Ministry cannot afford them. Complete dragons dung, in my opinion, as I even appealed to the budget committee."

"Let me guess," Harry began while frowning at the incompetence of the current Minister of Magic of magical Britain. "A few of them agreed with you, but Fudge would not allow them to give you the needed funds."

"Got it in one," replied Amelia.

Harry and Susan shared a look and a groan. The former then said, "I don't get it. How can a moronic man like Fudge get a position as prestige and powerful as Minister of Magic? A position he is unqualified to have?"

"Believe me, Harry, I agree with you. Where if Lucius Malfoy and his lot hadn't funded his campaign and Crouch Sr's son hadn't been discovered to have been a Death Eater, then he would not be in office. Fudge is a cunning and power-hungry man whose primary goal is to increase his public image. It doesn't help that he is firmly in Malfoy's pocket or only does what he is told." Her disdain for Fudge was not unwarranted, in Harry's opinion, because both his grandfather and uncle were unhappy with the man. Whenever Fudge's name was brought up or mentioned, Lord Black would sneer in disgust, showing his disdain for the portly Minister.

"What of Dora? How is she doing?" Harry asked in a casual voice. Susan looked at him from out of the corner of her right eye.

"She is doing pretty well and is actually one of our better recruits. Because of her past training with Arcturus and current apprenticeship under Alastor, her skills as an Auror in training and as a witch have grown by leaps and bounds. Aside from her being a bit clumsy with a tendency to be cheeky, she will undoubtedly make a fine Auror once she fully graduates." In truth, Amelia was happy that the young metamorphmagus decided to join the Corps. She has great potential.

Due to Amelia's position as the Head of the DMLE, she is unable to give special treatment to others. . .even if they are family. Not that she ever would, of course. She did not play favorites. She'd seen enough of that in her days in school, her early years in the Auror Corp, and the other Ministry departments. Some would give special treatment to the people they were close to; they'd often looked over those with sufficient skills in favor of friends, family members, or blood status. But not her. No, Amelia made a silent vow the day she became the Head of her department that she would not violate her principles in evaluating potential Auror candidates. She would judge them all fairly and equally regardless of their connections and blood status.

"Sirius already informed me that the two of you were talking again. Rest assured, I haven't said anything about it to either Arcturus or Charlus. That is your right to tell them when you are ready," giving him a warm smile.

"Thanks, Aunt Amy," Harry hugged her, which she returned.

"All right, you two go have fun. We have an hour and a half before meeting Nicolas at the Ministry," Amelia removed the wards on the door so the two could leave.

The two walked up the steps and went to the backyard, where they sat silently on the grass for a few minutes- until Susan interrupted with a question: "Why are you suddenly interested in how Dora is doing?" She regarded him with a look.

"Merely curious. She's an old friend, and we've been exchanging letters for a little over a month now," he replied, leaning back on the grass as the wind blew across his face. "Plus, the old goat has people in the Ministry who would likely report to him. And besides, I am more concerned about you."

That caused her to blink. ". . . Oh? Why is that?"

"Dumbledore," Harry said in a firm voice. "He probably knows or suspects that you and I are close. So, I imagine he might attempt to use you either directly or indirectly—probably both. From what I understand, he is highly skilled at manipulating others to suit his own purposes. Or have those who blindly follow him get into your good graces. People like the members of the Weasley family, who are staunch followers of his and will do what he says without a second thought. Remember what you told me about Granger?"

She nodded her head, understanding where he was going with this. Hermione Granger was a muggleborn Gryffindor in her year who had quickly established herself as a know-it-all teacher's pet. The girl seemed to have a need to know everything, would always raise her hand to answer a question in class, and, whenever called upon, would give answers straight from the book. Her attitude certainly doesn't help things either, for the way she would answer a question correctly or successfully cast a spell before the other students. She would become arrogantly smug, thinking she was better than her fellow peers, and what's worse is that she was bossy, arrogant, and condescending. Those qualities have essentially alienated and earned her the ire's from the other heirs, heiresses, and many other students. If that weren't enough, she seemed to think that Dumbledore was the second incoming of Merlin and that people should either look up or listen to what he says.

"If my theory is right, she is already on her way to becoming one of his most vocal and devoted followers," he concluded his thought process.

"No need to theorize, as you are right about her being a Dumbledore loyalist," Susan replied, remembering having her fair share of run-ins with the girl while at school. She and the youngest Weasley male had been getting on her nerves. "Thankfully, I am in a different house." She gave him a thankful smile for his concern over her. "You also do not need to worry about me. While I do appreciate it. I can look after myself."

Harry chuckled at what she said.

The two spent the remainder of their time relaxing outside, joking and talking amicably with one another. They enjoy each other's company. Susan may be older than him, but Harry is smarter and more powerful, doesn't judge people based on their blood status, nor believes himself to be above everyone else. Yes, he can sometimes be cold, anti-social, and a brooder. But he is also loyal, hardworking, observant, compassionate, reserved (a private person), and honorable. He would never forsake his principles or go back on his word. There were times when she would catch herself thinking about the house he'd end up in if he was sent to Hogwarts.

A lot of people would assume he would be placed in Gryffindor like his parents, but not Susan. While he did have courage and was strong-willed, they did not rule him to the point of being shortsighted or getting involved in something without first thinking it through and considering the variables or other options. So Gryffindor would be out. He was hardworking and loyal, but he was not naive enough to think of things as black and white, would not be pressured into doing something he didn't want to do, and could be anti-social. No Hufflepuff there. She figured he would likely end up in either Ravenclaw or Slytherin since he displays ingenuity, strategic and tactical thinking, determination, ruthlessness, and resourcefulness.

(00)

Upon their arrival at the Ministry, Nicolas led the two teens through the large Atrium to the elevator. Stepping inside, he pressed the button for level 9, and the three rode the elevator down. Nicolas looked at the two as they descended down to the lowest level of the Ministry. "Remember that even though you are both here as my guests. Many of the Unspeakables will be unaware of why two teenagers are present, so stay close and do not wander off." Harry and Susan both nodded their heads.

Coming to the desired floor level, the three stepped out of the elevator when the gate opened and walked down the corridor. Their destination was the door at the end of the hall. The door was guarded by two Aurors who were speaking with what appeared to be the Head of the department.

"Hello, Pierre. How are you doing today?" Nicolas asked. The man known as Pierre turned around at the sound of the voice. His hair was entirely gray, much like the color of his eyes, and he appeared to be in his mid to late seventies.

"Hello, Nick. It's good to see you again, my friend, and I am well," his French accent was heard. The man's eyes diverted to the children next to him. "I trust these two are with you?"

"They are," Nick confirmed. "Susan Bones, Harry Potter. I would like you two to meet a good friend and an old colleague of mine. Pierre Davault, Head of the Department of Mysteries."

The man raised an eyebrow when his grey eyes settled on the boy. "Harry Potter. The Boy-Who-Lived?" Harry's eyes sharpened as he greatly detested that nickname, though he bowed respectfully at the man. "Please do not think I am one of those shortsighted fools from the British Ministry who believe the rumors or imaginative stories created about you. I was merely surprised by your presence here."

Harry relaxed a little. "Understandable. Rest assured; I am not like those books they spun about me. I thank you for allowing my sister and me to enter your department. My only request is that no one on the outside knows we were here."

"It is perfectly acceptable, and no one in my department will make any mention of the two of you being here. Now, if you two would present your wands, my guards could validate your identities."

Harry and Susan brought out their wands and handed them to the guards. The two confirmed their identities, handed the wands back to them, and allowed them to proceed. Monsieur Davault pressed a series of runes on the door to allow them inside. When the door opened, they were allowed to go inside. Harry and Susan tensed up when they passed through the protective wards and enchantments. Davault explained that due to his department's immense importance, the work conducted by his Unspeakables was viewed as highly classified material. Therefore, anyone who leaves would be unable to divulge any sensitive information.

From there, the two were taken to the different divisions within the department and given an overview of what they do. Needless to say, the two were enamored by what they'd seen. A little more than half an hour later, Monsieur Davault pulled them aside as they left the Time Room.

"I take it you, the two of you, like what you've seen thus far?" The man looked at the children as they stood near the wall. The expressions on their collective faces said it all.

"May I ask something?" Harry stepped forward. The man inclined his head, letting him know he could. "You said thus far. Please pardon my skepticism, but I thought Unspeakables were more than researchers and developers who study different forms of magic."

"Do you believe there is another side to being an Unspeakables besides studying and developing different types of magic?" Pierre narrowed his eyes.

Harry locked eyes with the man. "I do," he replied in a firm voice. "The areas you have shown thus far are indeed important; however, I noticed a few of the Unspeakables exhibit a different type of air and have dispositions that do not correlate with the others. It is almost similar to yours. . . You have the vibe of someone who has been involved in numerous dangerous situations before. More than those in the Auror officers and Law Enforcement personnel."

The two continued their little stare-off for a few minutes until Pierre started laughing. "You're very observant," he praised. Then, turned to a smiling Nicolas, "this one is not only intuitive but also clever," turning his attention back to Harry as Nick grunted.

"Well played, young man. You are indeed correct, as there is more to being an Unspeakable than what the general public knows. Those men you were talking about and I are, in fact, Hit-wizards." Susan and Harry's eyes widened considerably at the revelation. Never would they have something like this.

"How is that possible?" Susan asked, her mouth dry and her voice barely audible. "How can a Hit-wizard be an Unspeakable? I thought they were a part of the DMLE?"

"That is partially correct but not the complete truth. Your Aunt is the Director of Law Enforcement in Britain, correct?"

Susan nodded her head.

"Has she mentioned ever working with Unspeakables before?"

Once again, Susan nods her head. "Only a few times. But only on private matters. Anything about what they discuss, she wouldn't say."

This time, it was Nicolas's turn to laugh. Their attention was now on him. "Those Unspeakables she meets with are Hit-wizards. There are two sides to being an Unspeakable. Either you are a researcher/developer or a Hit-wizard." He let that information sink in for a minute before continuing. "The Department of Mysteries is actually an independent organization that works with the DMLE and, by extension, the Ministry of Magic, but that is it. They don't work for them but with them. Some of the people in your Aunt's department are probably Hit-wizards, albeit undercover ones."

Harry let out an impressive whistle. From what he knew, Hit-wizards were considered more elite than the standard Aurors and far more dangerous. The Alpha Dogs. "What's next?" There was a big twinkle in Harry's eyes.

"Follow me," visibly smiling at the glint behind the young man's eyes. He had seen the same look before many times in some of the sixth and seventh years at Beauxbaton students whenever they took a tour of the Ministry, went for internships as Unspeakables, Aurors, and Hit-wizards, and when they first applied after graduation. He silently wondered if the British Head Unspeakable and his people were watching the boy. Escorting the two to the door, he pressed another series of runes, and once again, the door changed. Pierre opened the door and led them inside to a large work area. "This is our Research lab. Here, we conduct all our magical experiments and design different magical objects, spells, etc."

Against the walls were dozens of shelves filled with books and scrolls, a few filing cabinets, and a few rows of workbenches in the center, on which around fifteen witches and wizards sat working on different projects. "These are only the scrolls and texts we have in here. Please follow me."

He took them to one of the two other doors in the room. Slowly, he opened the one in the back of the room. Harry's eyes widened considerably, and his eyebrows vanished as he stared in awe at what he saw. Placing his hands on the stone rail, he looked to see a vast underground library. "Merlin," Harry breathed. "Sophie would have a field day if she were here." There were a great many shelves that housed hundreds. If not, a thousand different books and scrolls. A couple of long tables with chairs were around so the people could sit and read. The area was also more populated as more than twenty people were present.

Susan caught him when his legs were about to give out. "I got you, bro," she said, helping him stand up straight while the two adults laughed.

"Thanks, sis."

The two were then taken to the experiments room and then to the Hit-witch and Hit-wizard offices. That time, Harry lost energy in his legs when he saw the training facility, which was very different from the one used by the Aurors.

Already, his mind was singing and mentally thanking whoever designed this beautiful place. He wondered if all the Departments of Mysteries in the MACUSA and magical Britain had the same facilities in their Ministries. Overall, he would be spending a lot of time in this department.

Nearing the end of the day, Harry soon found himself in the Research lab looking at a strange ore with a unique kind of metal inside. It was like nothing he had ever seen before. Moreover, there was something different about this one; it had magical properties. Natural even. He was so enthralled by the substance that he nearly jumped at the sound of someone's voice.

"Curiosity can sometimes be a great thing. But it is always best to air on the side of caution."

"Sorry, Monsieur Davault. I was just curious about what kind of ore this is," Harry said as the man moved toward him.

"Ah, I am not surprised that this has caught your attention," the man said as he picked up the rock. This particular rock is known as Tachyon, the rarest and most valuable ore on the planet. It can be used to create different gems like diamonds, rubies, emeralds, musgravites, and blue garnets. And be used to create steel called Beskar."

"Beskar?" That certainly got Harry's attention. Never had he heard of that type of metal before.

"An extremely powerful and rare type of metal that is extremely durable. It's stronger than the metal created by the goblins. At one point, they were plentiful, used by the witches and wizards of the old. But now, they are rare and hard to come by."

"How old are we talking here?"

"A little over 600 years."

"Back to a time when the people of the world were more powerful and versatile in the ways of the obscure branches of magic," Harry surmised in a cool voice. "Two questions here: Can I perhaps study this ore? Do you have a sample of the Beskar alloy? I would like the chance to see and study it for myself."

Pierre studied him and thought about his request for several minutes. While the ore and, more importantly, the Beskar were considered highly rare, there shouldn't be a problem with allowing the boy to at least study them. "Return tomorrow with your guardian, and we will talk."

"Thank you, sir." He nodded his head in gratitude and then left with Nicolas and Susan.

(00)

Over the next few weeks, the day before his 12th birthday, Harry spent a great deal of time in the Department of Mysteries library, research lab, and Hit-wizard training room. Under the supervision of Nicolas and either Sirius or Amelia. True to what they discussed the first time Harry enquired about studying the Tachyon ore and Beskar alloy. The Head Unspeakable did, in fact, discuss the matter with Amelia. After discussing the topic for an hour or so, they reached a compromise.

Harry would be allowed to study both objects under the watchful eyes of either Nicolas, a senior Unspeakable, Amelia, or Sirius. At one of the workbenches, he sat on a stool with both materials in front of him. A few books (about their origins, use, makeup, and where the ore was once discovered), the journal he'd been using to take notes, and some writing materials.

The alloy, known as Beskar, was stronger than the alloy made by the Goblins. Completely pure of any other substances and can be melded into any form a person could want. While similar to goblin metal, the magical properties contained in the Beskar were more potent, thereby making the steel more durable. He wondered if the metal could be used for any other purposes. Could it be used to channel magic?

"You ready to go?" Amelia asked. He yawned a yes and began to pack up his stuff.

"I trust you have enjoyed your time here these past few weeks?" Pierre came by as Harry put his things in his backpack.

"I have, sir. Thank you for allowing me to review the research gathered by your department and for letting me use the training facility." This would be the last day he would be allowed to enter the department's facilities. He picked up the two metal bricks and the two ores and handed them to the man.

To Amelia and Harry's great surprise, he pushed the three items back toward Harry rather than taking them. "I don't understand," confused at what was going on.

"Consider them an early birthday present," Pierre said. He continued after seeing that Harry was still confused and could tell several questions were running through his mind. "In the time you've been here, I have kept a close watch over you and been in the Time Room long enough to believe these two items would be best left in your possession. I have a theory about you. . . You will be able to do great things with these materials."

Harry felt truly honored by this and the man's trust in him. "Thank you, sir. I give you my word that I will not betray the trust you have put in me," he bowed in gratitude.

The man chuckled and then walked off. Harry put the four items in his bag and followed Amelia out of the room.

"What is that little mind of yours thinking?" Amelia asked with a light smirk on her face as they rode the elevator up to the Atrium. Having known Harry since he was little, she could always tell when he had something on his mind.

". . . The number of potential uses the Tachyon ore and Beskar metal could have. Given the right amount of time and experimentation, I believe the two can revolutionize the Wizarding world. The possibilities are endless," he responded as they arrived at their stop.

Walking through the Atrium, they made it beyond the apparition point. Harry grabbed her hand, and she apparated them out of the Ministry to return home. The sun had begun to set as they arrived in front of the wards surrounding the property. Strolling through the well-kept garden to the door, Amelia took her key and unlocked the door. The two walked inside to see Susan and Lauren sitting on the sofa, talking amicably about something.

"Well, look who finally decided to come out of the lab," Lauren quipped when she saw Harry plop down on the sofa beside them. A big smile crossed her face. "Long day?"

"It was eventful," he casually replied, rolling his shoulders. I also got a few souvenirs." Opening his backpack, he pulled out the three items and placed them on the coffee table, much to their surprise. He explained how Monsieur Davault decided to allow him to keep the items and what his theories about their potential uses could be. "However, that will be for later. Right now, I just want to relax and enjoy my time with my sisters."

Susan smiled. "That's good because, the day after tomorrow, I want to go into the village and stroll through the garden." The house they'd been staying at was in the countryside of France. It was secure enough so they could be away from prying eyes but still near a beautiful, magical village. The place also had a nice cafe, which she had become fond of.

"You're taking some of your O.W.L.s this year, right?" Harry groaned at Lauren's question. "Good luck to you."

"Thanks, Ren. At least after this upcoming year, I can be eligible to start doing an internship," running his fingers through his unruly hair.

"Any indication where'd you like to start?" Sirius came into the room with Amelia.

"Hmm. I'm still undecided, but I am leaning toward the Department of Mysteries. I just haven't figured out in what capacity." Shaking his head. "Anyway, what's for dinner?"

Sirius grunted. "Come see for yourself."

The remaining few days in France were great. Harry received a variety of birthday gifts from his family and friends in MACUSA. Truly, he did enjoy himself and what happened throughout the month of July. Not only did he learn from Nicolas and his wife Perenelle, but he could also do some work in the Department of Mysteries Research lab and train in the Hit-wizard training area. But more importantly, he was thankful for the time he got to spend with Susan and Lauren. It wasn't like he didn't enjoy being in magical California or with his friends. Still, the opportunity to spend time with his sisters was something he would never pass up.

The day they were scheduled to leave, Nicolas and Perenelle escorted them to the Ministry of Magic's Department of Magical Transportation. After thanking the duo, they used the International Floo Network to return to magical Britain. There, they were met by Lord Black, who had to attend a with the bureaucrats earlier; one could see he was annoyed with how things went during the meeting. The group then went to Black Manor, or in Harry, Amelia, and Susan's case, Potter and Bones Manors. They agreed to meet at Potter Manor once everyone had gotten readjusted to the timezone.

His grandfather had been in the Lord's study reviewing some files when Harry arrived. His expression was similar to Uncle Arcturus's. "I take it that the Wizengamot meeting went as well as the expression on your face says," he casually replied.

"Understatement there. I swear that idiot fuck Fudge has no business being in office. On top of that, a new law was established today. The Muggle Protection Act." When Harry blinked in surprise, he continued. "It was written by the Head of the Misuse of Muggle Artifacts Office, Arthur Weasley, and has been endorsed by Dumbledore. The damn thing was poorly written."

To say Harry was a little irritated would be an understatement. Why would a law protecting muggles come into effect when they outnumbered the people in the Wizarding world? If anything, it's them who need to be protected against them. While he may not have been a bigot or supremacist, he was still a wizard who respected his ancestors and valued the traditions of the magical world. The magical community in Britain was stagnant, where the parasites—the people who fought for Voldemort as his Death Eaters pleaded to being under the imperius curse and got off with a slap on the wrist—and greedy politicians were able to thrive. "Spineless fucks the lot of them," he mentally scoffed. Many of the Lords and Ladies in the Wizengamot have become so content with maintaining the status quo, which has unfortunately passed to their Heirs and Heiresses. Instead of trying to stand on their own two feet and attempting to rise and become better, they use their family's name and connections to get by in life and what they want.

In short, they have done more damage than Grindelwald, Voldemort and his Death Eaters, and Dumbledore have ever done. The people have the mentality of sheep, too happy to follow the herd instead of thinking for themselves. It's sad, all things considered. If people in magical Britain want to evolve, then they need to stop relying on others and get off of their arses. Harry talked with grandfather for a couple more minutes before heading to his room to deposit his stuff. When done, he went to lie down on the soft grass in the backyard to look up into the sky. An hour later, Susan and Lauren arrived. Together, they spent the day relaxing outside, enjoying each other's company.

On the morning of the 5th of August, Harry got up early like he normally did and decided to strengthen his Occlumency shields through mediation. As the magic flowed around him, his thoughts drifted off to the day before as he registered his name as a participant in the U-14 Dueling Tournament, paid the 50 galleon fee, and went to devise some different strategies. This tournament would be a good way to help him refine and strengthen his dueling techniques and overall style. In addition to his dueling lessons under Master Tokugawa and sparring sessions with his grandfather and uncle, this would help him further hone his skills. Magic sharpens magic. The more he is pushed to his limits, the stronger he will become.

At 10 a.m., Harry finished his meditation and left the Manor with his family. The stadium for the tournament would be held in the magical part of Sheffield, Britain. Arriving at the apparition point, Charlus accompanied Harry to where the other contestants would enter while Arcturus and the others went through the visitor's section. A smile tugged his lips when he sensed some very familiar people coming behind them.

"Andrew, Jade. Glad you two could make it," he said, turning around as they approached with their father.

"Good to see you, Harry. You didn't think I would miss this year's Dueling Tournament, did you?" Andrew asked as a determined, competitive smile crossed his face. "I hope you're ready to play. Because you're going to be in for a real surprise."

"Then this should be fun," Harry smirked. "May the best man win." He turned to see Jade roll her eyes. "Anyway, how has your summer been?"

"Pretty good. Though, I did have to keep this idiot," tilting her head toward Andrew, "from ending up in the hospital last week."

Harry had to stifle a laugh at his friend's embarrassed look and made a mental note to ask Jade what happened at the end of the tournament. "Well, we should take advantage of the time we have left before. . .you know," Harry said with a knowing look.

"Ugh, don't remind me," Jade groaned. This coming year, they will take some of their O.W.L. exams and be up to their necks in revising, writing essays, and practicing spells. During the third week of July, she and Andrew had been in their family library studying for their exams. "I'm gonna need to stock up on sweets, headache and calming potions, and set up a planner."

"Look at it this way: We'll be together and, therefore, able to help each other study and practice," said Andrew.

The three made it to the front, verified the numbers they were given, had their wands checked, and were allowed to proceed inside. They then went to their respective locker rooms to get changed. Once done, they went to where the other contestants were in the main area where the duels would take place. A few competitors were already sitting on the long bleachers with their chosen guests. The competitors in the U-14 and U-16 Divisions will be competing today.

Jade narrowed her eyes after briefly scanning through the other competitors. She nudged Andrew and Harry's arms, getting their attention. "Look who's here. . ."

"Great," said Andrew, sarcasm and irritation dripping down his voice. Of all the people that would be competing this year, why did that guy have to show up?"

At the furthest bleacher, sitting on the end, was Caleb, surrounded by three of his friends. Harry took in a breath, "eh don't bother with him. He's not worth it."

When it was finally 11 o'clock, Fudge walked onto the stage, flanked by Ludo Bagman, the Head of the Department of Magical Games, and Bartemius Crouch Sr., the Head of the Department of International Magical Co-operation. Fudge drew his wand and pointed it at his throat, casting the sonorous charm to amplify his voice. "Ladies and Gentlemen. I welcome each and every one of you to this year's Under-14 and Under-16 International Dueling Tournament. As you can no doubt see, we have several young wizards and witches competing this year," he pointed to every contestant. "Seeing as we have so many people, we will start things off with the preliminary, and those who win their matches will be able to advance to tomorrow's match." Fudge explained how many people could advance to the elimination rounds and announced this year's cash prize of 10,000 galleons.

"Upon registering to participate in the tournament, each competitor was given a number for their division. The officials would randomly draw a ball with a number from the box to see who would face whom. The matchups will be completely random, which will keep things fair." Fudge took the time to explain the rules of the tournament. "And now, without further ado, let the tournament begin." Applying the counterspell, he and Crouch left Ludo to take control in announcing the competitors for the Under-14 competitors.

"The competitors for the first Under-14 will be. . ." he looked at two of the officials who pulled out two green balls with numbers on them. "In platform one, we have no. 5 Jade Zhang of MACUSA vs. no. 41 Noa Lawrence of magical Samoa." The two walked onto their stage. "The duelists for platform 2 will be. . ." again, he looked to see a new set of numbers, "no. 17 Caleb Miller of MACUSA and no. 31 Ricardo Gonzales, also of magical Brazil." Harry listened carefully for the competitors who would be on platform three and, a second later, heard his number. "No. 16 Harry Potter of magical Britain. Mr. Potter will face no. 24 Elijah Anderson of magical New Zealand."

Calmly, Harry strolled up the stairs of platform 3 with an expressionless mask on while his opponent walked up with a superior smile crossed on his face. From his expression, it was clear that the thirteen-year-old did not view him as a threat or problem. "Save yourself the embarrassment, and leave while you still have your dignity," the New Zealand boy smugly said in his native Australian accent.

Harry's expression remained cool and indifferent as he took one of his two stances, a combination of his grandfather's and uncle's. Meanwhile, his opponent took an offensive stance against him. Then, in a split second, one of the officials gave the green light. "Begin!"

The New Zealand boy quickly said, "locomotor mortis, furnunculus, petrificus totalus." The three spells left his wand and shot straight towards Harry, who didn't seem the least bit worried. Harry easily sidestepped the three spells and shot back with a knockback jinx that caused the boy to fall on his back.

Elijah got back to his feet and immediately started shouting and firing a rainbow of hexes, jinxes, and curses. All of which Harry dodged with ease while at the same time sending low-powered spells to make the boy look ridiculous. To his slight disappointment, his opponent's attack patterns were simple and predictable, and he could see the boy was becoming frustrated as none of his spells could even land on Harry. Clearly, the boy's strategy was to throw every spell he knew and hope that would be enough to defeat his opponent. Just like a novice.

Harry ducked under a stunning spell, then summoned his opponent's belt with a flick of his wand, making his pants drop and exposing his blue boxers. Everyone in the audience started laughing when the boy tried to pull his pants up. But Harry had other plans. Seizing the opportunity, he sent two bone-breaking curses, a disarming charm, and a stunning spell. The stunning spell pushed the boy onto his back, rendering him unconscious, with a broken right hip and a broken left arm and his wand in Harry's outstretched hand.

"That was certainly interesting and somewhat harsh of him, but the winner is Harry Potter of magical Britain," the official said. Harry ignored the cheers and displeased looks from the crowd, tossed the stunned boy's wand to the official, and walked off the platform to stand by his grandfather near the benches.

"Minimum effort. Debilitated and took down your opponent. Impressive," Charlus grunted in amusement.

"There's no reason to go all out yet," Harry replied loosely. A cheeky grin soon tugged against his lips. "Though I might as well make things entertaining while I have the opportunity."

He looked around at the other competitors. A few of them were unmistakably from Hogwarts, in Susan's year nonetheless and a year ahead of her. He recognized the Heiress to the Ancient and Noble House of Li, Sue Li, and the Heir to the Most Ancient and Noble House of Smith, Zacharias Smith. Among the other Most Ancient and Noble Houses, the Smiths were considered to be on the lower end of the spectrum. According to Susan, the current Heir, Zacharias, was arrogant and self-important. Not as much as the Malfoy Heir, but still. The pompous git would strut around the castle like he was better than his peers. Moreover, although they were members of the Light faction, they were Fudge loyalists. Talk about weak-minded fools.

The House of Li, though, was different. They were members of the Neutral faction and were well-known for producing skilled duelists. The current Heiress, Sue Li, was a Ravenclaw and was ranked third in her year. Rumor had it that Lord Li was considering moving his House to the Grey faction. It might be a challenge if he were to face someone like her. He'll be sure to use caution should he end up pitted against her.

Before the second preliminary matchup could be announced, Harry watched as Andrew and Jade won against their opponents. Regrettably, so had Miller. The officials then called for the second round, where Harry would face off against Smith. Smith's lips immediately formed an arrogant smile when Harry stepped on the platform, almost like he had been waiting to get a crack at him. "Let's see what you are made of, Potter, though I highly doubt facing you will be worth much," Zach arrogantly remarked.

"You must think yourself real special being The Boy-Who-Lived," he mockingly said. "A title you got by some random fluke. Your grandfather and Lord Black then used it to get you sent to a second-rate magical school. Probably because they think Hogwarts is not good enough for the supposed savior of the wizarding world. You're probably nothing more than a fraud and a weak, mediocre wizard. My, just how far has the House of Potter and House of Black fallen? To think that such prestigious Houses fall from grace is pathetic."

Much to his surprise, Harry only raised an eyebrow at him. When Bagman was about to tell them to start, Harry raised a hand at him. "Is there a problem contestant Potter?"

"Not at all. Though I would like to say something before we begin," casting the sonorous charm on himself and turning to look at the boy's Head of House. "Lord Arnold Smith," his magically enhanced voice got everyone's—Lord Smith's—attention. "Your son and current Heir has not only insulted me by hurling accusations on my person but has insulted the honor of both the House of Potter and the House of Black with his deceitful words." The man paled at the withering look Arcturus was giving him.

Harry turned his attention back to Zach. "Now, let me see if I understand you, Smith. You believe I am an unworthy, mediocre wizard. Why? Because I do not attend Hogwarts, correct?"

Zach flushed, as Potter had just brought everyone's attention to him. "Well. . .yeah. Why else would you attend a different institute? There's no school better than Hogwarts. My father told me how Lord Potter and Lord Black sent you elsewhere." Andrew had to be restrained by his sister before he could take his wand and curse the arrogant boy. However, Jade wasn't any happier with the arrogant boy's slanderous comments. Susan and Lauren were also shooting angry glances at him.

"Then, by your own admission, you believe the other schools that teach magic in our world are inferior and have no real worth. Does your Head of House share the same opinion as you?"

Lord Smith struggled to find his voice as he was torn between being angry and scared. Angry because Zach just brought the attention of the other international competitors, their guardians, and a handful of the other high-ranking individuals from both in and outside of the country. Scared because Lord Black and now Lord Potter were looking at him with looks of displeasure. Lord Black then asked. "Well, Smith, do you agree with your Heir's statement?" His cold voice bordered on danger and sent shivers down Arnold's back.

"Lord Black, please understand that—"

"Oh, I understand you're as arrogant as you are a weak Lord and Head of House. Your father would turn in his grave if he could see how weak you are into believing you have a right to dictate what goes on in the House of Black," he icily said. "It seems like your arrogant and spineless attitude has passed to that useless spawn you helped bring into this world."

"I'll deal with you later, Arnold," the fire behind Charlus's eyes intensified, holding promise.

"Hold on, grandfather. Let us make things interesting," Harry said. The attention was back on him as he turned to Zach. "Allow me to fill you in on something. That nickname they gave me: The Boy-Who-Lived. May seem grand to most, but to me, it is a curse and a constant reminder of what I lost—or, more accurately, what was taken from me." His voice was ice cold, and he stepped forward. "In truth, I have no idea how I survived Voldemort's killing curse," Smith and everyone else gasped or shuddered when Harry said his name. "The only thing I remember about that night is my Mum begging for my life to be spared before he killed her right in front of my eyes. And now you, the Heir to the Most Ancient and Noble House of Smith, have the audacity to remind me of the pain I suffered that night and claim that my two Houses are weak and below your own."

The boy then realized that he indeed made a big mistake. Harry pressed on. "Since you believe me to be a mediocre wizard who is weak and a fraud and believe the Houses I am a part of to be inferior, then why don't you prove it?"

"Wha. . .What are you getting at?" Zach did not like his situation and knew that if he backed out now, it would only get worse. Plus, the dark smile on Potter's face was making him sweat bullets.

"You and me. Right here. Right now. The duel will end only when one of us admits defeat and the other opponent accepts it or if either one of us is unable to continue. The prize will be whatever our Head of House wishes. Do you accept?"

Spying a look at his father for confirmation, he agreed, knowing he had no way out. "I do."

"Get him, Harry! Make that arrogant, self-righteous coward regret he challenged you!" Harry heard Susan's voice.

"Then let's go," turning his attention to Bagman. "Care to give us the green light?"

"Yes, yes. Begin," the blustering fool said.

Even though Smith lost some of his confidence and composure, he said, "Expelliarmus. " The wand movement for the disarming charm was incorrect and out came a weak red spell that Harry effortlessly sidestepped. The boy tried again, "Rictusempra." The tickling spell was also dodged with little to no effort. "Furnun-"

He didn't get to finish as Harry silently cast a cutting curse and knockback jinx that sent him onto his back with a deep gash on his left shoulder. Raising an eyebrow, Harry asked. "Come on, Smith, is that the best you can do?"

Zacharias gave an annoyed growl as he got back onto his feet. "Everte Statum!" With a lazy flick of his wand, Harry easily blocked the spell. Trying again with the same spell, though this time, the spell was redirected back at him, and Zach was sent a few feet backward. Harry quickly sent a string of spells comprised of cutting curses, bone-breaking and shattering curses, knockback jinxes, and tripping jinxes. All the while making his opponent look like a complete fool as he littered the boy's body with broken or shattered bones and a handful of deep cuts.

He smirked the second when Smith used the smokescreen spell to create a wide-area fog. With a wave and flick of his wand, the fog intensified around them, blocking their and the audience's vision. However, thanks to his avian form and his ability to sense another person's magical signature, he could tell where the boy was through the deep, thick smoke. He sent a handful of green-blue spells into the fog, followed by another series of cutting, bone-shattering curses and a pimple jinx. Then, with a slash of his wand, part of the fog vanished so the people could get a good view of the two. Harry had no scratches or injuries, but Smith was another story as the boy's body was littered with dozens of cuts, small and large ones, a handful of broken and shattered bones, and heavily panting.

"Are you ready to admit defeat because I have grown pretty tired of this?"

"No! Stupefy!" The blond boy cried. The dark red spell left his wand and rocketed toward Harry, who deflected it elsewhere with a lazy flick of his wand.

"Well, don't say you weren't warned," Harry grinned as he narrowed his eyes. The tip of his wand glowed green-blue when he jabbed it and waved it in an intricate pattern. The fog around them condensed into a ball and nailed Smith in his left side, blasting him to the right.

"What the bloody hell was—" He did not get to finish as another ball of compressed air shot at his right, sending him to the ground on the left.

Smith was now being attacked from all sides. Every time he tried to stand up and raise his wand at Harry, another ball of compressed air would blast him to different parts of the platform. This continued on for a few minutes as the cuts on his body were becoming more noticeable and deeper; blood was leaking from them. Finally, the last bit of the fog started spinning around, forming a tornado that lifted the boy high into the air. He was screaming as the tornado was making him spin wildly on his back until he was flown twenty feet into the air.

The boy had lost his grip on his wand while he was in the air, which Harry then summoned to his free hand. Zach then crashed down hard on the platform, completely dizzy and utterly defeated. "No more," groaning weakly. "I give. I give!" He pleaded, conceding defeat. Not that he had a choice since he had been heavily injured and humiliated.

"Zacharias Smith had admitted defeat. The winner is Harry Potter of magical Britain," Ludo announced. Harry tossed the man his opponent's wand and walked off the platform so some of the Healers could help the broken boy.

Arnold looked ghostly pale at the looks Lord Black and Lord Potter were giving him. The former had a more severe predatory look on his face. "All right, Smith. A deal is a deal. Time to pay up." Lord Smith nervously nodded his head.

Charlus went first. "I will have an official apology from your Heir and your House. As well as 7.5 million galleons from you."

"I will also have an apology from your House and Heir. You will pay me the sum of 8 million galleons," Arcturus added in a firm voice that showed he meant it.

Lord Smith's eyes went wide at the steep price. His son had cost him 15.5 million galleons, and he knew that if he didn't pay them, the situation would be brought before the Wizengamot. Above all else, he wished to avoid that scenario as the two may be in their advanced years. But they were still the Heads of very powerful Houses and had great influence. It wouldn't even be a contest or debate as the other Ancient House would side with them.

"Very well. On behalf of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Smith, I, Lord Arnold Smith, hereby apologize for my son's slanderous remarks on your Houses."

"You have 24 hours to get us the money, or we will take this matter to the Wizengamot," Charlus warned. "It would be best for everyone—you particularly—to teach your son to mind his tongue and manners."

Arnold bowed his head in defeat before requesting one of the officials to bring over two rolls of parchment, a bottle of ink, and a quill. There, he wrote a couple of sentences stipulating the immediate transfer of the required sums to both Lords. Once he finished signing them, he pressed his Lord's ring onto the parchments and handed them over before leaving to check on his son.

A/N: Harry learned there was more to being an Unspeakable and a Hit-wizard than meets the eye. Hit-wizards are the wizard equivalent of MI6 Black Ops in the muggle world. And yes, the Beskar metal is from The Mandalorian. It's a good show.

Now that they are back in Britain, Harry has entered the U-14 International Dueling Tournament. I never liked Smith, as he was a pompous, arrogant, spineless coward— the Hufflepuff version of Draco from Slytherin. The fool got a taste of defeat and humiliation for running his mouth.

Next Chapter: The Tournament winner. A challenge?