The drive only took a little while longer before they landed outside what Harry guessed was some sort of pub. It was quite busy, with plenty of people coming and going. Some were eating, some drinking, and then Harry noticed someone tap the wall with a stick, a similar stick to the one that-
Harry quickly shook the thought out of his mind, not warning to think of the death of the man. Thankfully, Hagrid took him out of the sidecar, which distracted him as he brought him up to the pub. The wall seemed to unfold into an archway before the man who tapped it, shifting to become an entryway of some sort. The person stepped inside, and the arch shuddered before it closed up.
"G'mornin, Hagrid! Up for a pint today?" An older man spoke from behind the counter.
"Naw, naht t'day, Tom. 'ere on business. Takin' young 'arry here to get his school supplies."
"It can't be. Harry Potter?" The old man, Tom, gasped softly.
The entire bar seemed to freeze in time. Not a single sound was heard. Harry was worried for a second, his blood running cold. Did he do something bad?
Everyone's eyes were suddenly on him. Harry panicked. His brain went into overdrive, trying to counteract, to hide, as his magic swirled around him instinctively.
Harry's panic suddenly calmed when someone grabbed his hand. "Thank you so much for what you've done, Mister Potter."
Another hurried and did the same as soon as the young lady let go. "Bless you, Mister Potter. You saved us all."
Suddenly, the entire bar was in an uproar. Harry found people trying to shake his hand, some trying to thank him while others were practically worshiping the ground he stood on. Harry was exceedingly confused, stunned by the crowd until he was finally picked up by Hagrid. "A'right, the lot o' ya! Give th' boy some space."
The crowd seemed to calm, as Harry couldn't help but blush from all the adoring eyes on him. Was this… normal? He peered over Hagrid's enormous arms to the dissipating crowd. Why did they all seem to know him?
Hagrid carried Harry to the wall as Tom hurried over to tap the entryway with his own stick. It didn't take long for the archway to appear, as Hagrid walked through.
As they stepped through the open arch, Harry could see an enormous, medieval-styled city avenue. Shops and stalls were scattered about, as Harry could see how enormous the alley was. It was incredible, the magic in the air palpable as he felt so many around him with magic.
As his gaze stopped on a few people, he thought he could see a slight glow around them. However, as quickly as it came, the glow faded. His eyes fell upon a man reading a newspaper, the back page containing a distinguished-looking man in a moving picture. The article title beneath it read, "Nicholas Avery: Presumed Missing!"
As the adrenaline caused by the crowd faded, Harry felt his body shudder. "H-hagrid, why were they all thanking me?" As Hagrid walked through the crowded alley, he chuckled. "Why, y're a hero, 'arry. When y' defeated You-know-who so long ago-"
"You Know Who?"
"The Dark Lord? He Who Must Not Be Named? The darkest wizard of our time?." Hagrid asked, seemingly surprised at Harry's ignorance. Harry felt foolish; he hadn't heard anything about the wizarding world in the modern era. All of the books he had were of history!
Hagrid smiled before he started to explain. "Yeh c'n't be expect'd t' know much, bein' raised by muggles n' all."
He began telling Harry about Voldemort, Killing Curses, the death of his parents… Harry was shocked by the revelations and information he was receiving. He'd never heard any of this!
Uncle Vernon had explained that he had just been left on their doorstep, and Petunia had never expressed why he had come to be there, only that a letter had been given explaining he would stay there. He was a hero? For surviving some sort of unstoppable spell?
It made Harry a bit confused, but then his gaze slid down the alleyway, seeing a huge white and gold building at the end. Recognizing the building from his book on magical creatures, Harry quickly spoke up "Gringotts! Are we going in, Hagrid?".
Hagrid seemed surprised. "Y' know th' place, 'arry?"
"Yeah! It's in one of the books I have at home. It's said to be the oldest goblin stronghold in the world. Some even say that Goblins created the very first Goblin Silver in its tunnels! Did you know that supposedly its caverns go miles into the earth? I wonder how they drill all of them!" Harry beamed.
"Didn't know that y' had any magical books. But we need t' head there first, t' get you some of your money."
"My money?"
"O' course! Your parents left y' a substantial amount. Y' didn't think they'd leave y' with nothing, did ya? Of c'urse they'd put it in Gringotts. Safest place 'n th' world for anything yeh wan' t' keep safe… 'cept maybe Hogwarts."
Harry was surprised about that. He'd never considered that his parents had left him anything before. Hagrid finally set him down at the bottom step of the bank, and allowed Harry Harry to head up the stairs. At the top, Harry looked at the carved stone archway above an open door, a motto carved and auspiciously placed for all to see.
"Fortius Quo Fidelius… what does that mean, Hagrid?" Harry asked as the large man walked inside with him.
"It me'ns Strength Throu' Loyalty." Hagrid said, the question obviously one he had heard before. As Hagrid walked past, Harry hurried to follow as he could see a carved poem on the wall, which he quickly read over.
"Enter, stranger, but take heed
Of what awaits the sin of greed
For those who take, but do not earn
Must pay most dearly in their turn
So if you seek beneath our floors
A treasure that was never yours
Thief, you have been warned, beware
Of finding more than treasure there."
Harry read it to himself and gulped. "I definitely wouldn't want to try to steal from them."
Hagrid nodded at Harry's comment. "Aye, most sane people know not t' try. Would have t' be someone despera'e t' even try."
Harry nodded, as they entered the main bank. The beautifully carved stone, marble, and gold shone with a radiance that took Harry's breath away. The carvings were hewn as if they had been molded by bare hands, looking so smooth that the stone almost looked like it was soft. "This is amazing…"
As Harry looked at the stonework, Hagrid stepped up to a teller's booth to wait in line. Witches and wizards were all around them, waiting in lines in front of other tellers. Some took only a few moments, others seemed to be locked into some sort of conversation with the goblin tellers.
Harry noticed one of the guards nearby. Thinking back to his book and the tales of Goblin warriors, he walked up and smiled, careful not to show his teeth. Giving a second of courtesy, he then gave a warrior's bow. "Greetings, Master Goblin." Harry said, thinking of how the heroes in the book behaved when greeting another goblin.
Harry thought the Goblin seemed surprised under his helmet, but the size of the metal helm made it difficult to tell. "What do you want, wizard?" The goblin's voice was curt and rough, echoing under his gray helmet with a tone that warned not to waste his time.
"Well, Master Goblin, I was curious about the architecture of the bank and some of the history of your people. I have a book that describes much of your past and the glorious battles of your warriors, but most other books I have found don't go much into your people's history beyond a few rebellions."
The Guard paused before he stared at the young boy who was only slightly taller than he was. Did this wizard child get told to say these things? The one who had brought him was the half-giant, someone who the goblin knew of. Perhaps this indeed was a simple, innocent question.
"Wizards refuse to respect our culture. We are a proud warrior race who live with the earth. You won't find anything about goblins in nearly any wizard book." The goblin finally said, answering Harry's request.
Harry noticed the comment. "Nearly any? That means there's a few good ones, right? Could you suggest a few?"
The Goblin's surprise was disguised by his helmet. "Goblins of Blood and Stone, by Millican Wainwright, is one of the only times a wizard was interested in our history. If you are serious about learning our history, wizard, start there."
Harry nodded and smiled at the book suggestion. "Thank you!" He quickly gave another bow and hurried to catch up to Hagrid, the large man still in line at a teller. As Harry got in line, the guard gestured to one of his companions. They nodded without a word, and disappeared out of sight.
Harry heard Hagrid talk with the teller, "I assume you have his vault key?" Hagrid nodded. "O' course." The large man placed an ornate brass key on the counter. As he did, Harry stood on his tip-toes to look at the goblin. "Excuse me, Hagrid? If I have a vault, then how do you have the key to it?"
The Goblin and Hagrid stopped, as the goblin immediately looked at Harry. "Are you saying you were not aware that headmaster Dumbledore, who is listed as your magical guardian, had your vault key?"
"You mean Headmaster Dumbledore from my Hogwarts letter? He's my magical guardian?" Harry was confused. Wasn't Vernon his guardian? "The only guardian I know of is my Uncle Vernon and his family."
Hagrid seemed a bit surprised at that, as the Goblin snorted. "It seems that Headmaster Dumbledore has been… indisposed. The fact he has not brought you to your trust vault is quite interesting information."
"No matter. Teller Griphook will lead you to your vault." Another goblin walked up and gave a polite bow, but was surprised when Harry returned the favor.
"Greetings, Master Goblin Griphook. We are in your care." Harry said, remembering the etiquette book's advice. Griphook seemed amused for a second but after a moment waved his hand. "This way, Mister Potter, Mister Hagrid."
It didn't take long before Harry and Hagrid were shooting down the railway that led to Gringott's depths. Harry's eyes flicked about the stone walls as they whizzed past, seeing the carved stone and the massive hewn pillars. The stone carving was done quite well, as he could see indications of hewing done by hand alongside a method that looked almost like the stone was grown. Was it magic?
Still, being this deep under the earth felt both exciting and frightening, the stonework whizzing by as the traveled. Inside of him, his inner fox felt excited to see a den so large, and so secure. It wasn't long, however, before they arrived at the vault.
Harry could see the enormous, ancient petrified wood doors; Griphook getting off the cart as it approached the station. Hagrid did the same with a groan and a wobby step as the massive man took a moment to catch his breath. "I'll be righ' 'ere, 'arry. These cart rides 'lways make m'h feel woozy."
Harry nodded and hurried to catch up with Griphook, who looked at Harry and held out a hand. "Key, please."
Harry handed the key that Hagrid had given him. The key itself was an ornate, orange brass key that had copper filigree, giving it a fancy look but not glaringly so. The goblin took the key, inserting it into the vault door.
With a resounding series of clicks and the clacking of gears, the door slowly opened. Once hidden behind the massive door, the vault lit up to reveal an absolutely enormous mound of gold, stacked almost as tall as Hagrid was!
Harry was stunned, looking at the sheer amount of gold on display. This was more money than he had seen in his life! His mouth opened up to speak, but all that came out was a simple, "Whoa."
After a few more moments of standing and looking at the pile of gold, it was then that Harry realized that he had no way to carry it. Was he supposed to put those heavy gold coins in his pockets? Wouldn't he get robbed?
Griphook saw his confusion, and spoke up. "Gringotts offers bottomless bags for ten galleons each."
Harry was surprised that the goblin had realized what he was thinking. Considering for a moment, he loved up to the pile and grabbed ten of the golden coins before offering them to Griphook.
"Very good," Griphook said as he snapped his clawed fingers. A small bag appeared moments later and fell into the goblin's hand before he offered it to Harry.
Harry graciously took the bag, thankful the goblin had known to offer it and quickly started gathering plenty of gold, as well as silver, and copper coins that were stacked alongside the gold.
After getting a decent bit of gold in his new coinpurse, Harry came out of the vault and nodded to Griphook. Griphook walked up to the huge doors, pushing the vault door closed and returned to the cart as the massive doors have a thudding sound, followed by several clicks as the gears within sealed it once again.
Harry walked over to join Griphook, who had moved up to Hagrid. The large man nodded at Harry as he approached. "Y' get yer coin, 'arry?" Harry nodded in response, before Griphook suddenly spoke as Hagrid's mouth opened to say something. "Shall we get going, Mister Hagrid?"
Distracted, Hagrid closed his mouth, suddenly losing his train of thought. This gave Harry time to carefully put his key into his new bag as well. Harry didn't notice the goblin smirk as he walked over to the cart and hopped back into the driver's seat.
Hagrid turned to get onto the cart, Harry qucikly moving to sit next to him. As Harry got onto the cart, he hoped that Hagrid wouldn't remember to ask for the key back. After all, it was his, right? That means it was one of his treasures, and now that he had it, he didn't want to give it up.
Luckily, Hagrid seemed to be lost in thought. The large man modded to Griphook, who started the cart once more as before long they were once more zooming through the tunnels.
It didn't take long for Harry to notice they were heading deeper instead of returning, the boy turning to Hagrid with a confused look on his face. "Aren't we heading back to the surface?"
Hagrid shook his head. "P'rfess'r Dumbledore asked me t' get somethin' from a vault o' his. We'll get tha', and then head ba'."
Harry nodded as his hair whipped around his head. He didn't mind, as this allowed him to have more time to enjoy the feeling of flying along the track, even raising his arms up a bit to make it feel better. Is this what those rollercoaster things Dudley talked about were like?
The cart soon reached its second destination and stopped, letting Hagrid get out of the cart, once more having wobbly legs and looking a bit green around his beard.
While Harry allowed Hagrid to recuperate, he looked at the vault they had come to. This vault was much simpler than the one before, having a bit of a rustic oaken core surrounded by a silvery metal that seemed to glimmer as Harry watched it. As Hagrid recovered, he walked up opened it with a small key, seemingly not needing Griphook to open it.
The inside of the vault was barren, all except for a small thing in the center of it. The massive man walked up and took the small, canvas-wrapped object from the center of the vault, carefully putting it into the pocket of his large coat.
The half-giant walked back to the cart, as Harry peered up at the man. "What was that, Hagrid?" Harry asked as the groundskeeper got back into the cart.
"Jus' somethin' o' Dumbledore's. Don' worry 'bout it, 'arry."
Harry nodded, but still found himself curious. He felt a strange pulse of magic coming from Hagrid's pocket; it seemed to be similar to his own magic in a way.
It was almost like it was calling for him.
As the cart shot back and turned around, Harry was torn. The object felt like his magic. But it was obviously Dumbledore's. Was it something of his, like how Dumbledore had his key? The more he thought about it, the more he wanted to see it. Just to be sure.
As the cart neared the surface, Harry made his choice. Using some of his magic, he reached out and felt along the edges of the tunnel as the cart came to a slow stop.
Finding a pebble, he then focused his hardest on it and the object he had seen Hagrid grab, trying to will it to have the same sort of feel to it. The pebble shifted, surprisingly turning a bit reddish in color. However, there was a rush of pain in his chest, and Harry suddenly felt that nausea in his gut.
Simultaneously, he felt the magic of that strange object meeting his own, almost as if it was guiding it. Harry's magic shifted, and with a sudden blink of magic, the pebble was gone from its place next to the cart. A heartbeat later, Harry felt a weight in his back pocket.
Happy to be able to investigate it now, Harry felt the presence of the object in his pocket as he and Hagrid left Gringotts. Harry made sure he gave another polite bow to Griphook as he left, also remembering he'd need to get that one book. "Goblins of Blood and Stone". He was excited to learn more about those Goblins!
Harry never noticed the intrigued look that Griphook had on his face; his eyes almost locked upon the young boy as he left the bank alongside Hagrid.
The first stop Harry was taken to was a place called Ollivander's. The large, ancient shop looked like it was carved from a single massive log. Its outsides were rustic and inviting, but Harry could feel that same feeling he got from the object in his back pocket and himself. It was feral and wild, like a wolf about to pounce.
Still, the magic he felt didn't frighten him. Instead, he felt invigorated, hurrying inside as Hagrid rushed to follow. "'Arry! Slow down, lad!"
The door rang a bell as it swung open and an older man stepped out of a back room. Wiping his hands on a cloth, the old man peered directly at Harry.
It took a few seconds of that gaze before Harry felt a whisper of that strange magic, and let out a childlike giggle before returning it with his own. The magic felt nice, like an old wolf walking around him and nuzzling him.
The old man looked awestruck, taking a moment to collect himself before stuttering. "Welcome to Ollivander's. I've been expecting you, Mister Potter." The words were refined, as if he had been practicing the sentence.
Harry smiled and hurried up to the counter. "Really? Well, I believe people do know me a lot here. But you feel like I do!"
Ollivander seemed a bit at a loss for words for a moment, having to take a second moment and collect himself.
"Indeed, Mister Potter. It surprised me as well. Your magic is quite strong for your age… with a uniqueness far beyond the normal. Your wand will need to be something special, I believe."
Ollivander started to go through the wands, before handing Harry a long stick of ebony. Harry recognized the stick immediately, a shudder going down his spine as he remembered where he had seen them before.
So this is what those sticks were. Wands. Objects to channel and harness a wizard's power, according to the books he had read. Harry was eager to try, but as soon as he grabbed it, the wand let out a deep hiss for a second.
Moments later, the wand shook, and then a sudden BANG! echoed through the store, shaking the countertop from its ferocity.
The wand had exploded like it had been filled with firecrackers. The now burst wooden wand looked like something from one of the cartoons Dudley watched, its core exposed around a very split and warped tip. Magic glimmered at the tip, shining for a moment before fading away.
"Oh dear. That's what I was worried about. Mister Potter." Ollivander said as he took the wand's remnants from him. "I doubt many of the wands I currently have in stock would match you quite well. It'd take a strong wand and a stronger core to deal with your potential. Hrmmm… maybe…"
The old man froze before turning away. He seemed lost in thought for a second as he ducked behind the shelves.
Harry looked at the poor wand that had burst, examining it from where Ollivander had carefully set it on the counter. Hopefully Mister Ollivander could fix the damage he did. Harry felt rather guilty for it, but soon the old wandmaker came out with a long box.
"Holly and phoenix feather. A powerful combination," Ollivander said as he opened the box and offered the contents to Harry. Harry felt a strange flicker of warmth from the wand within the box as he took it.
His magic roiled and burned suddenly, reacting to the wand he had picked up. Some of his hair stood on end as he felt his magic flowing over the wand. The wand itself seemed to warm slightly in his hand, but after a moment it let out some simple sparks.
Ollivander nodded, as if he had confirmed a theory he had. "It's not the best match, young man, but it will do the job. As you grow older, keep an eye out for magical items that seem to resonate with you. When you find such items, send them to my shop by owl, and I will forge you a better wand."
Ollivander looked over the boy's shoulder at Hagrid in the doorway. "It's quite interesting, that this one exact wand would be able to match you, even if only temporarily. That wand specifically matching to you is quite interesting."
"Why is that?" Harry asked curiously, looking at the wand.
"Because, Mister Potter. I remember every wand I have ever made and sold. The core of this wand is a phoenix feather. The phoenix that produced it gave only one other. One brother core. The wand that has that second feather is the wand that gave you that very scar." Ollivander said, a finger pointing at Harry's forehead.
Harry's eyes grew wide as he looked at the wand again. "It won't… hurt me or anything, will it?"
Ollivander snorrted at the worried boy. "Poppycock. A wand hurting its own chosen user? Never in all my years have I ever heard such a thing. Now, off you go. I believe you have many more things to purchase today."
Ollivander nodded to Harry. Hagrid moved to leave the store first as Ollivander's hand grabbed Harry's shoulder as the boy turned to leave, his voice whispering to him.
"Make sure to send me an owl when you can. There are many things about your magic that you should know… away from those who have loose lips and prying ears."
Harry felt a chill go down his spine, but nodded to the wandmaker and hurried to follow Hagrid. as Ollivander watched the boy leave his store with a curious gaze.
The two of them continued onwards as Harry made his way to a bookstore next. The large sign with a book and quill caught his attention as he approached it. "Flourish and Blots" The name sounded unique, as Harry hurried inside before Hagrid could stop him.
Buying the books listed on the school list was quite simple, but he was happy he had found a copy of Goblins of Blood and Stone quite easily. It had been hidden away on a bottom shelf, alongside a book named "Hogwarts: A History".
He knew he had to get both books for his collection, as it was another of the "A History" series that he had! As he was searching for his books, he found himself looking over different things on magic, grabbing a few extras as he brought them to the counter.
Hagrid peered over the books as he seemed curious. "Runes? Spellcrafting? Tha's not need'd fer school, 'arry."
"But Mister Hagrid, I really love reading about magic, and those seem really cool. Please?"
Hagrid seemed a bit uncomfortable. "P'rfess'r Dumbledore said not t' let you spend too much… But ah think a couple books couldn't hurt."
"Thank you so much, Mister Hagrid!" Harry hugged Hagrid happily. Hagrid blushed, and returned the gesture from the small boy. After purchasing the books, the two left the bookstore and continued their shopping.
As they walked, they passed by a pet store of some kind. "Magical Menangerie. Hey, Hagrid, that reminds me." Hagrid turned, looking at the shop's sign as if he had gotten an idea. A second later, he looked at Harry. "Yeh?"
"Would it be okay if I brought something that's not a cat, owl, or toad? I was curious because they're mentioned in the list of school supplies."
Hagrid considered, seemingly surprised Harry had asked that. "Well, t' be 'onest, no one really pays attenshun to tha' rule." Hagrid grinned. "Ah bet y' could sneak one in fine."
"Well, would it be alright if I got some sort of special permission? Is there such a thing?"
"Y'know, Ah… don't quite know, 'arry. We're near th' Post Owl office, y' could send an Owl t' P'rfess'r McGonagall. She's th' one who handles tha' sorta thing." The half-giant raised his hand, gesturing at a nearby building with dozens of owls within, and several circular ports for the creatures to fly.
Harry nodded and hurried inside, quickly writing a quick letter to the professor. He asked about a permission slip for a special type of pet, carefully wording it so that she didn't need to ask what type he wanted to bring.
He was about to sign it simply as "Harry Potter", but after a moment, he felt the calming warmth of the thing in his pocket. With a bit of bravery or perhaps foolishness, he decided to sign it as "Heir Harry Potter, House of Potter". He could pretend to be important if he wanted to be, right? He giggled to himself, wondering if the Professor would even notice it.
Now grinning like a loon as he imagined all of the reactions to his letter, Harry brought it over to an owl and gave a sickle to the attendant nearby. Soon the owl took off, his letter on its way.
As Harry left the Owl Post, Hagrid walked up and patted his shoulder. "Don' worry, 'arry, it should get back to yeh before yeh leave t' get on th' train." Hagrid explained. Harry nodded in response, as the man continued.
"Ah admi', Ah was gonna' try t' buy ya 'n owl fer yer birthda'. Ah'm surprised yah have a pet." Harry nodded, before beaming like a ray of sunshine. "She's absolutely gorgeous, Hagrid. Maybe I can show her to you at Hogwarts?"
"Aye, ah'd like that." Hagrid said as he walked with Harry further down the Alley. "Now, 'arry, next is t' get yer robes. You'll have to wait an' get measured, so it'll take ah while. I'll be over t' getcha in a little while. I 'ave something I want to do bef're we finish."
Harry nodded, as Hagrid took him to a quaint tailor store. The sign over it read, "Madame Malkin's".
Harry stepped inside as Hagrid closed the door behind him. Harry's gaze fell over all of the different robes; they reminded Harry a lot of suits. One or two of them were like the ones Uncle Vernon wore. Some of them even had tails like a tailcoat!
Walking over and through the mannequins that were garbed in the robes, Harry could see an older woman. Harry felt she must be Madame Malkin, as she was taking measurements of a boy with silvery white hair.
Harry could feel magic from him, but it was more of a stable, ordered magic. It was like his magic had been turned into bricks and carefully stacked into an organized pile.
Harry couldn't understand how anyone could stand having their magic like that. It felt confined and forced, as if his magic was bound rigidly to a certain purpose.
Sitting down and idly waiting, Harry caught the gaze of the young boy as Madame Malkin walked into the back room with the measurements. "Here for Hogwarts robes?" The boy asked, as Harry nodded in response.
The boy puffed his chest out arrogantly. "I'll be sorted into Slytherin, of course. That's the best house, for those who are ambitious. I hope they can give me an exception to allow me to bring my broom."
The boy turned about, as if he was trying to pose for Harry. "I am really good with it, and I think they'll let me on the Quidditch team when they see just how amazing I am!" The boy seemed a bit snooty to Harry, but if he lived in a wizarding family, maybe he would have been able to practice with a broom too.
Harry's gaze flicked over the emblem on the boy's robes, depicting a coat of arms. He must be someone from one of the Sacred 28, Harry thought; he let the boy talk about Quidditch, some sort of game that was played on brooms and how he was something called a Chaser.
After a little while, the silver-haired boy's topic changed. "Muggleborns are of course going to be in this year as usual, but I wish they weren't. Muggleborns and half-breeds like that man outside are nothing but trouble. They shouldn't be around good pure wizards at all. Hopefully you agree with me on that."
Harry remembered some of the books he had on magic. Especially for the Sacred 28, diluting magical blood was considered taboo; especially for the larger families.
"But don't forget that some muggles have a lot of magical power," Harry said as he remembered a passage. "So the Sacred 28 are allowed to marry into them if they are strong, to keep the magical power true. And one of Merlin's quotes states that muggles are a necessary evil for the wizarding world, as without the muggles, the wizards would have a hard time with many mundane tasks."
The silver-haired boy looked at Harry with surprise in his eyes, making Harry let out a grumble under his breath. Why were so many people surprised by everything he said or did today?
A few seconds later, the boy nodded appreciatively to his comment. "Nobility and Customs of the Wizarding World, Chapter Thirteen. You're definitely not a muggleborn, then. I'm Malfoy. Draco Malfoy."
Harry was surprised, his eyes widening a bit at a name he recognized. Malfoy? The Magical House of Malfoy? Harry had been right; he WAS one of the Sacred 28! He couldn't really contain himself as he let out a "Wicked!"
Draco smirked again and nodded. "Seems you know your magical families then. What's your name?"
"Oh, I'm no one from a special family. My name is Harry Potter. I was raised in the muggle side of things, but I found some books about families, you see…" Harry was a bit worried that the revelation would lead to the boy not liking him, due to the comments he had made moments before. He knew he couldn't please everyone, but he wouldn't mind having a friend from the Sacred 28.
Draco seemed surprised, as his eyebrows rose. "Harry Potter? THE Harry Potter? As in, scar and everything?" Draco asked.
Harry was surprised, but raised his hair to reveal the scar. Draco was stunned for a second as he stared at it.
"What do you mean you aren't from a special family? The Potters are one of the Eight! You're practically magical royalty!" Draco said, before he hopped off the stand where he had been waiting for Madame Malkin to return.
Harry shook his head, eyes going wide. "U-um, isn't the name Potter widespread in England? I didn't want just to assume I was one of THOSE Potters..."
"Not in the magical world." Draco said quickly. "There's only one family of Potters. And that's you! Wait until my father hears about this! Meeting Harry Potter, here in Madame Malkin's!"
Draco smirked and looked directly at Harry. "Trust me, Potter; I can help teach you things about the magical world. There are those who aren't that good to be around, you see."
Harry rubbed his chin, apprehensive about being told who he should be around. However, he didn't want to be rude. "Thank you, Heir Malfoy; I'd be appreciative for friendly advice, but I am still unsure which House I will be in."
Draco seemed to get excited. His demeanor was getting more like a kid who was happy to meet a friend than the Pureblood prince attitude he had moments prior. "You'll definitely want to be in Slytherin. It's where all the purebloods are. Sure, you're a Halfblood, but you're the last of the Potters. You'll definitely be welcome there." Draco explained.
Harry moved his hand to his chin, stroking it as he thought. "What are the other houses? As I mentioned before, I was raised by muggles, so I know very little."
Draco grimaced, having not heard that revelation from before due to his excitement. Harry was worried the boy would immediately reject him, but was relieved when Draco spoke once again.
"A pity. There's four houses, Slytherin, the best house, for the ambitious and cunning. Ravenclaw, for smart witches and wizards who think that books are everything, and Hufflepuff, who are supposed to be loyal but they feel more like people who wouldn't fit in the other houses."
Harry nodded to each, and then waited. After a few moments that had made it apparent Draco was skipping something, Harry spoke up. "And the fourth house?"
"Hm?" Draco looked at Harry before he grimaced. "Oh, right. Gryffindor. They're a bunch of tossers. People who are brash and jump head first into things without thinking anything through. They're supposed to be the house of the brave, but my father tells me how they're more the house of the bullies. They love picking on Slytherin because of how many Dark Lords came from our house. It's only because Slytherin has so many strong witches and wizards that some of them turn bad!"
Harry frowned a bit. "I'm not a fan of bullies. Surely they aren't all like that?"
"Well, not all of them. I hear there's some good ones, but they're few and far between. Just be careful if you speak to a Gryffindor."
Harry nodded once more as Madame Malkin stepped out. As he was guided to the stand to get his measurements, she looked at Draco. "You're all finished, Mr. Malfoy." She said, as Draco nodded. "I'll stay here to wait for my father, if that's alright. Harry is quite a good listener."
Madame Malkin arched a brow at the name, but soon went back to work on Harry's measurements.
Harry and Draco spent the next few minutes speaking of Hogwarts, of the houses and of something called "Quidditch", a sport that was played while riding brooms. Harry spoke up and asked about a few points of the Etiquette book he hadn't understood, as Draco was ever so happy to explain the details of it. Both boys seemed to be delighted to have someone to talk about pureblood etiquette with.
As Harry's measurements were finished, he stepped down from the stand. As he did, an older man who looked much like Draco with pure white hair walked into the room. "Is that your dad?" Harry whispered to Draco.
Draco nodded, and Harry quickly gave a sweeping bow. "Greetings, Lord Malfoy, from the House of Potter. A pleasure to run into you today." Harry was nervous. Had he bowed using the correct flourish? There were plenty of methods, so he tried to use a method that indicated someone far above your station.
Lucius Malfoy had not been expecting a formal greeting, let alone by a child. His body moved on its own from years of practice, the words coming to his lips unbidden from repeating the formalities hundreds of times before.
"And a greeting to you as well, Heir-" He peered at Draco, who mouthed the word. "Potter?" The white-haired Lord seemed surprised as he looked at Harry. Draco quickly made himself busy showing Harry how to hold his arms for the greeting.
"Draco? A pleasure meeting your new friend." Lucius said, as he suddenly realized the opportunity before him. "I never expected to see Heir Potter here, of all places. it truly is an honor to make your acquaintance."
Draco was beaming, happy to see his father seemingly take a liking to his new 'friend'. "I hope that you and Draco remain as good friends while at Hogwarts." Lucius gestured to Draco, as the boy moved by his side. "See you at Hogwarts, Harry!" Draco gave a slight wave and a grin too him as he and his father left the store.
Harry waved back to Draco as he left as the bell of the door jingled lightly. Madame Malkin walked up shortly after. "All finished, Harry. Did I hear that right? Harry Potter?"
Harry winced. Was she going to gush over him as well? "Y-yeah, I didn't expect to be a part of THOSE Potters…"
"Pish posh, dear. You're THE Harry Potter. Of course you are. And it's been a pleasure to have you here." She beamed and patted his head, making Harry grin. "Come again if you need any other robes, dear!"
"Okay! I will!" Harry said, as he hurried to the door. He saw Hagrid stepping in front of the store, waiting for him to be finished.
As he left the store, he quickly gushed to Hagrid about meeting the other boy. Hagrid's face fell for a moment, frowning. "Ah. Y' best be on yer toes around th' Malfoys, 'arry. The Lord, Lucius Malfoy, used t' work fer You-Know-Who."
Harry was surprised. "Really? Then why isn't he in prison or anything?" Harry asked quietly, doing his best to make sure that they weren't heard.
"Well, th' rumors have it tha' he paid quite a bit o' gold to stay out of Azkaban."
Harry frowned. "Like, bribes?"
"It's jus' rumors, but I wouldn' put it pas' 'im." Hagrid replied as they walked down the street together. "Is tha' everythin' then?"
Harry took out the list and checked it a second time before nodding. "That's everything! Before we go, though, Hagrid, could we stop by that magical toy shop that we passed when we arrived? I wanted to get something for my Aunt, Uncle, and Cousin."
Hagrid beamed. "Tha's mighty nice o' ya, Harry. O' course we can."
Harry beamed once more. His face was starting to hurt from how much he smiled today!
"Was that truly Harry Potter, Draco?" Lucius' silky-smooth voice slid from his lips as he gestured for the boy to follow. Draco hurried to catch up with his father, nodding profusely as he did. The two passed through the Floo fireplace in the Leaky Cauldron, returning to the Malfoy Manor.
After handing what they had purchased to a few elves who quickly popped away with the items, Draco spoke in response to his father's question.
"Yes, Father. He seems like an interesting sort, even though his parents are Blood-Traitors. I believe he may end up in Slytherin."
"I see." Lucius walked over to his desk and sat down, deep in thought. Closing his eyes, the man seemed to collect himself for a second more. Reopening them after a second, he spoke. "I believe it would be in our family's best interests for you to get close to that boy."
"Father?" Draco asked, looking confused. His father had never told him outright to make friends with someone before. Sure, it was THE Harry Potter, but he never expected to be outright told to befriend anyone, let alone Harry Potter.
"Do as I say, Draco." Lucius snapped. "Harry Potter has an air of power about him that I have only seen once before."
"Potter is as powerful as the Dark Lord?" Draco made a connection immediately, his eyes going wide.
"No."
The quick retort seemed to calm Draco a bit, but his eyes grew wider as Lucius continued, "He has more power than the Dark Lord. No, the boy has an air of raw, feral power that I have only felt from one person alone. Dumbledore's Master, Nicholas Flamel."
-Author's Notes-
And so enters Draco. He is about the same as in canon for now, but exposure to a Harry that is respectful to Pureblood traditions will definitely change things around a bit, don't you agree? And what mysteries will Ollivander be able to reveal? Only time will tell… assuming Harry remembers to send a letter.
As many of you in the US probably heard, the Appalachians of NC got hit really hard by Hurricane Helene, and has gone radio silent due to lost internet and connections. Despite this, I decided I would at least get you guys a single chapter this week, even if it is a bit rough and it didn't go through the 3rd or 4th editing pass.
I'm perfectly fine myself, the only thing going on is that I don't have internet. So, using my phone's data I am uploading this to all of you.
Once more, if anyone is interested in beta-reading this, please PM me. I could use the help, and it would let me get chapters out sooner!
Finally, Harry Potter is owned by JK Rowling. This is merely a retelling of her story.