Tribe of mystics: Reworked

by Lord of mystics

This is a rewritten version of the earlier story of the same name. Some incidents in the story have been rewritten in detail so that any unanswered questions can be addressed.

8. Chapter 8

If I say so myself, the reworking and editing is fabulous but the response to this story isn't as much as I had expected it to be. Thank you Hypergym.

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Longbottom Castle

It was a day of celebration for the House of Longbottom after a long period of almost 14 years. At last, the Lord and Lady of the House were cured of their ailments and good times were ahead for them.

Everyone was crowded around the king size bed on which the Lord of the house was recuperating. It had been 6 hours since Frank woke up from his slumber and the effects of the potion of dreamless sleep were about to wear off. Everyone had gathered in this chamber since the time that they had enervated Alice Longbottom from her long slumber. Augusta especially was looking a mix of excited and worried keeping her vigil beside Frank.

Neville sat on the other side of the bed and waited for his father to wake up and notice him at last. He ran through scenarios in his head about how he would talk with his father or what he would say first to him. All this excitement of his was causing his magic to ooze out of him while the Chief Elf Martie, hovered near him drinking in his power and another elf Tippy was tending to Alice on another bed in the same chamber.

"Harry, let me show you something", Neville said as he showed a photograph to him, "I found this photo in my father's cabinet at my Manor where it was kept in a place of honour."

The picture that Neville wanted to show to him was a group photo containing a number of people. The picture was so large that there were three frames of it. In the first were people that Harry had only heard of but Neville perhaps knew a little more about them than he did. There were six people in that frame.

"Do you know these people?", Harry asked him.

"No", he said and then turned to Gran, "Gran who are these people?"

"They were knights", she said, "They were part of the Order which resisted you-know-who and his death eaters during the war. To be featured in this photograph was indeed an honour. Do you both want to know who they are?

As they nodded, she opened the first frame, "See these two who are look-alikes? They are the Prewett twins: Fabian and Gideon. They were ambushed by 10 death eaters of which only four walked away. Their sister is Molly Weasley. The one next to them is Dorcas Meadows. People say that you know who personally murdered him. There are Dedalus Diggle and Elphias Doge. The last one in the photograph is John Sayre. He was killed in a cowardly ambush by the death eaters."

She then turned to the second frame, "Now here is Albus Dumbledore, who was old even back then and the one next to him is the barman from the Hog's Head. Then there is Hagrid who can be identified in any picture with his height, girth and beard with Minerva beside him. The one next to her is Alastor Moody, the only Auror who has ever been designated as Master Auror and one of the best ever. Standing next to him are Lord Edgar and Lady Ellie Bones. They were murdered by you-know-who and Bellatrix Lestrange. Next to her are Hestia Jones and Kingsley Shacklebolt who are Aurors and there is Emmeline Vance, who was so regal looking even back then."

Then she turned to the third frame and Harry's breath hitched in his throat but Augusta continued without being aware, "There is Lord James and lady Lilly Potter. Next is Marlene McKinnon, daughter of the McKinnon family. She was extinguished in a death eater attack. Standing beside her is Sirius Black with Remus Lupin and Peter Pettigrew beside him. Of course the ones next to him are Alice and Frank."

Harry was angry seeing Wormtail in the company of the very people he betrayed. He wondered if the rat already had the dark mark when this photo was taken. Everyone looked so happy in this picture, some rather cheerfully waving at the camera while others were outright laughing. Even in the middle of war, they could smile. He smiled at the thought of being surrounded by people like them who could smile in such grave times.

"Gran, can you tell us about this Order?", Neville asked.

"First you must promise me to not tell anyone what I am about to tell you. Not much is known about this Order, Neville. It was a secret society known as the Order of the Phoenix and it is said that the headmaster was its leader. Apart from that nothing is known about them."

Harry asked, "Gran, when was this photo taken?"

"It was taken sometime before you both were born. Shortly after this photo was taken, many of the members of this Order were killed. When the war ended, only headmaster, the barkeep, Alastor Moody, Sirius Black, Peter Pettigrew, Remus Lupin, Elphias Doge, Dedalus Diggle, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Minerva, Hestia Jones, Emmeline Vance and Hagrid lived. So many lives wasted for defeating a megalomaniac and here we are stuck again with him and a war on our doorstep."

"This time we will be fighting in this war.", Harry said, "This war has come to us again. There will be an accounting for the loss of those who died for us. We who survive will see to it. I know that I will fight him even if I have to do it alone."

With grim determination, Neville stated, "You will never stand alone as long as I have something to say about it. And, when that time comes, I assure you that I will stand by you even if no one else does. You know what they say... Where a Potter goes, a Longbottom follows."

Frank croaked, "As a Longbottom should.", his voice hoarse with over 13 years of disuse.

They turned to him delighted. It appeared that Frank woke up sometime during their talks and was hearing what they were talking about. He was very pale and looked like he was about to be sick, but was smiling at them anyway. He carefully blinked the sand out of his eyes as he opened them before focusing his gaze on Harry. With an effort, he cleared his throat and whispered, "James?... James, what are you doing here? I thought that you were dead."

Harry shook his head lightly, "I am not James, Lord Longbottom. I am Harold, 'Harry' James. James was my father."

"I see you woke up just on time, Lord Longbottom.", said Harsh who had just entered the room, "these fine people were getting anxious."

He pointed to Neville, "This young man here, I believe he is yours, was rather very excited and as such his magic has been out of control. I swear your elves were hovering near him just to taste his power and to get drunk on it."

When Frank looked it Neville, it seemed to him that time had stopped. Frank gazed at his son for a long time before he spoke, his voice clearer, "Neville, my son! You have grown and become a fine young man. I am sorry that I couldn't be there to see you grow up."

Neville had waited all of his life for this moment just to hear his father call him by his name and could not control himself any longer. He rushed to his father and hugged him, making Frank wince a little but Neville didn't care. He was trying to take in everything that he could. His heart was giddy with delight. He was with his father!

"I believe Mr. Longbottom that I cautioned you against exciting your father", Harsh reminded Neville, "he is not going anywhere. You just need to contain your enthusiasm for a few days."

"Mother! Is that you?", said Frank, seeing Augusta sitting on his other side where she was crying softly, seeing her son smile at her. This was not a dream. Her years of waiting had borne fruit.

Frank turned to Harsh, "You know I did not get your name when you were bringing me back. I distinctly remember asking who you are, but you evaded the question."

"I have too many names and too many faces, Frankie," he said smiling, "but for this purpose, call me Harsh Vardhan, just another healer."

Healer Lynn, who had been sitting quietly in the corner the whole time, snorted, "Don't believe him when he says that he is just another healer, Lord Longbottom. As per my reckoning about 50 healers from around the world have all tried and failed to treat you and Lady Longbottom. This one did it like he was walking in the garden."

"Where is Alice?", Frank suddenly asked Harsh, "Please tell me that you were able to cure her. This world would be a dismal place for me without her. Please tell me that she is safe."

"Calm down, Frankie", Harsh said, "Alice is fine. She will be waking up in a couple of hours."

Frank's face lit up, "A couple hours you say? I can wait that long. We will have a lot to catch up on."

He turned to Harry, "So you are Harry Potter, James's little child? Oh, how proud we both were that we had children almost the same day. If you were a few hours earlier or Neville was a few hours later, you both would have been born the same day. You know, I had a bet going on with Sirius Black about who would become your godfather. Your arrival messed my plans up. Since we were at war and were in danger, you both were born in hiding. Neville was born in a non-descript cottage where we used to hide during the war. When Neville was born, I was sure that I had a few days before you were born so that I could beat Sirius in the race and become your godfather. Imagine my surprise when I got a patronus a few hours later telling me that Lilly was in labour. I rushed to the cottage in Godric's Hollow but to my chagrin, when I arrived there, I found Sirius Black come grinning at me and hollering, 'Hey Frank, I am a dogfather.' He rubbed the fact in my face for a few days after that. Damn that mutt!"

Harry actually chuckled. To hear someone talk about his parents and their friends with so much affection interested him very much. He knew that he would be hounding Frank in the future to know more about his parents. There weren't many people who could tell him so much.

Frank took a long drink of water before he continued speaking, "You know Harry, Remus wanted to be your god father but Sirius baited him saying that whenever he married and became a father, Remus would be the god father while poor Peter never said anything. I didn't get to become your godfather, but Alice threatened Lily at wand point that if she named someone else as your god mother, she would take her down and let me tell you, no sane man ever crossed wands with those witches. They were very gentle and humble, mind you, but you enrage them and they would make Bellatrix look sane."

Harry was smiling fondly at Frank. Frank was whispering something to Neville, who was listening intently and smiling. Harry was just thinking about how his circle of friends and some that he could call family had been there for him these last four years, but Neville Had only his grandmother. Now, seeing Neville happy with his own father and the confidence he was gaining daily, seemed happier than Harry had ever seen him.

The next couple of hours passed swiftly as Frank grew steadily stronger and the boys listened to him recount stories of the previous war. There were also tales of the marauders and their days at Hogwarts.

"You know, Harry, my Alice is a very sweet, kind and caring woman but if you irk her one time too many, it is not her but her wand which does the talking."

Then, they all heard a raspy voice from the next bed which had not spoken for 14 years.

"What did you just say, Frank Jeremy Longbottom?", said Alice, who had now opened her eyes and was looking around dazedly. Her eyes fell on Neville, "How did you become 15 years old again?", she said, making Frank laugh.

She looked to Augusta, "Mother, you look so old. Has it really been 14 years? I thought I was dreaming."

Her eyes then fell upon Harry, "James!"

Harry turned to face her so that she could see his face properly and waited for her to realise that she was mistaken and realise she did, "you are not James. You have her eyes. I can recognise those eyes anywhere. My best friend's eyes. You must be little Harry."

She turned to Neville again, "Oh my son, you have grown up. I missed so much of my life."

From there it was a merry gathering in Longbottom castle after so many years. Harry stayed the night there and stayed up late with Frank and Alice who refused to go back to sleep just yet. After a few hours of small talk and merry making, they were tuckered out and fell asleep without need for any more potions.

Next day, Harsh woke Harry early in the morning. Saying his good-byes to everyone he was hustled out just beyond the property line where they disappeared. Harsh and Harry appeared outside the Order's headquarters.

Black Townhouse

Following Harsh, Harry quickly entered the town House to be engulfed into a bone cracking hug by Mrs. Weasley while Mr. Weasley simply beamed at him. Ronald gave him an awkward one armed hug and then kept his distance. Sirius literally dragged him to the kitchen and put a plate in front of him heaped with lots of breakfast and he dove in with gusto. After they were done, Sirius dragged him to his room.

"Godson, there are things that we need to do and time is short.", Sirius said, "But before that, I want to know what became of Frank and Alice?"

Harry remembered Harsh's warning about not saying a word about their condition to anyone, "There's not much to report. All I can say is that we tried."

Sirius grimaced, "I had fervently hoped that they could be cured of their ailment", Sirius said, "But if nothing can be done then that's water under the bridge. Now I am told you made quite the spectacle at Gringotts yesterday."

"Who told you?", Harry asked curiously.

"Bill Weasley who works as a curse breaker for the goblins informed us yesterday evening. He said that Rug Nut (Harry snorted) sent a welcome party. An entire battalion of Goblins to face two wizards and all their wards were up. The security trolls were ready to fight as well. The goblins were all shaking in their boots, then Rug Nut came running out, barking something about locking access to the dragon pens. I can't even imagine what that was all about. So, care to fill me in?", Sirius waited with eager anticipation.

Before Harry could start, there was a knock on the door and Remus entered, his hair blue and feathers all over his body. Seeing Sirius, he bellowed, "Those menaces got the jump on me, Sirius. They turned my hair blue and turned me into a canary."

"Let me guess, did they give you something to eat?", Harry asked and when Remus nodded, he explained about the canary creams.

"We will deal with those menaces later, Moony", Sirius said, "They can't keep scoring one on a Marauder all the time. Now Harry was going to tell us what happened at the bank yesterday."

"Well if he is going to tell a story, who am I to interrupt?", Remus said as he pulled up a chair for himself.

"Yesterday, when we arrived at the Bank, the alarms went off and dozens of armed and armoured Goblins came out of nowhere. It took a while for me to realize that the fuss was all about Mr. Harsh. They argued and threatened back and forth for a while, until I showed them my heir ring. Then they got no less a personage than King Ragnok out there to settle the dispute. They weren't going to let Harsh in until I threatened to take my accounts to the Gnomes. Even then, Ragnok made me pledge for any damage or chaos that Mr. Harsh might cause while he was there. It seems that our bankers really don't like him. But, while I was there, I learned that ever since my name was picked as a Tri-Wizard champion, I've been considered as an adult. So, instead of just claiming my heirship, I am now Lord Potter. The inheritance test result was definitely a surprise."

Harry left them hanging and Sirius said, "We didn't ask you to stop, Prongslet. Tell us what did the inheritance test show."

"Well, for one thing, the tests told me that my mother was not muggle born…"

"What!", they both exclaimed.

"Yes, as it happens, she was a pureblood who was adopted by muggles", Harry said, "her parents were killed so she was adopted by a muggle. Her father was Vincent Rosier and her mother was Emilia Weber."

"You are related to the Rosiers?"

"I am the last Rosier as I am the last Weber and I am the last Potter", Harry said, "But that is not the most exciting part."

"What is it then?" they asked, anticipation building.

"I am the Lord of Potter, Rosier, Weber and Peverell", Harry said as he showed them the Lord rings on his fingers.

Sirius was gaping at him, "A… are you Lord Peverell? Do you even know what that means?"

"I only know a little", Harry confessed, "But what I do know for sure is that it will cause a lot of waves."

Sirius chortled, "Harry, your life is never boring is it? You can't even visit the bank without the goblins sending you a welcome party and then they just change your world in a second. Lord of Rosier and Peverell indeed and to think we were only hoping that you would become the heir of Potter. I am amazed."

Remus smirked, "Think how it will affect Dumbledore? His political machinations and intrigue just got a whole lot more interesting. I mean two of the darkest families which have not sat on the Wizengamot for 16 years return and sit on the light side, a Reverent house emerges from the pages of history and the Great Alliance is renewed and presto! Cornelius will not be able to sleep peacefully."

"Two families?", Harry asked confused.

"Yes godson', Sirius said, 'you have taken up lordship of Black, haven't you?".

"No", he confessed, "the goblins told me that I cannot take up the Black Lordship because there is a blood heir in between. Until the blood heir is alive and does not abdicate, no other heir can ascend and become its Lord."

"It means that we get to sneak out and visit Diagon Alley. It has been a long time since I met Ripthroat, the Black account manager," Sirius said, "And I will be able to see you ascend as lord of Black. We must sneak out and get this done."

"Sirius, are you sure that would be wise?", asked Harry fidgeting, "I mean what's the hurry?"

"Without being the lord, you cannot command the wards around this place and you cannot recharge the ward stones which will enhance its protections," Sirius explained, "You have to do it today."

"But will it be safe?"

"Where is your sense of adventure, Prongslet?", Sirius asked him, "Where is the boy who used a time turner to save me and chased away 100 dementors?".

Harry smiled sheepishly, "You make a good point, Padfoot. Let's go on this adventure."

"Hang on", said Remus, raising his hands, "you just can't go off and leave me to fend for myself with those twins lurking about."

Sirius grinned, "You were always the brains of the Marauders, Moony. I expect that you can handle a couple of kids."

"How are we going out?", asked Harry, "the front door is being watched at all times."

"Tell me Godson, have you ever ridden a Hippogriff?", said Sirius grinning at him causing him to roll his eyes.

Sirius was talking to Remus, "I am going out and I need a diversion, Moony. You have my full permission to go nuts on them and unleash the marauder inside you."

Half an hour later, Harry Potter entered the garden in Grimmauld Place with Sirius Black who was hiding under the Invisibility Cloak. When they reached Buckbeak, he bowed to him and Buckbeak returned the gesture. Sirius set about putting tack on the beast and then cast a disillusionment charm on the hippogriff making him blend in with the surroundings. After a few moments, Buckbeak was in the skies, flying towards Diagon Alley.

Gringotts

A young boy with golden hair, brown eyes, tall and well-muscled entered the Bank looking around nervously. People paid very little attention to him as he walked up to a teller, who was unoccupied at the moment and announced, "I need to see Griphook."

The teller sneered at him, "I don't know about wizards but here we have a system. If you need to see someone, you need to make an appointment. Besides, Griphook isn't a Goblin working the front desk or the financial division of the bank. And he is definitely not giving free investment advice. Due to his current portfolio, he cannot see anyone who comes through the door unless they are raven haired and green eyed."

"Are you saying that Gringotts is denying me service? I assure you that I am very rich and a reputable client of this Bank", the boy said, "Surely Griphook can take a few minutes out of his schedule."

"Not unless you are raven haired, green eyed and have a scar on your forehead", the teller sneered.

Someone cast a wandless spell at the boy suddenly dispelling his glamour charms. Standing in place of that boy was a raven haired and green eyed teen with a lightning-bolt shaped scar on his forehead. He showed his rings to the teller and said, "How about now? Do you think he will see me now?"

The teller nodded and ran to an inside office. After a few moments he returned with Griphook in tow, who was trying to suppress his laughter. As he reached Harry, he said, "Lord Potter, I must accept. If you keep on coming to the bank like this, there will never be a boring day in Gringotts. Yesterday, you stirred up the Goblin Special Corps and today you just showed up and changed appearance before him. I did not know that you enjoyed such antics."

"As it happens, Griphook, I am quite fond of them", said Harry and continued, "today I have come to cause more waves."

"Talking of waves, Mr. Potter, what happened yesterday was historic. There hasn't been a day that ever rattled King Ragnok so much. Since I was there to see it, I can attest to the fact that your visit has stirred us up. Elder Iron Fist has been camping in King Ragnok's office since yesterday where he has been personally auditing all your accounts to ensure that there are no discrepancies. And yesterday, the manager of the Gnomes came into the Bank inquiring about your finances and the state of your accounts making us believe that you are considering moving your accounts from the Goblins to the Gnomes. Would you happen to know anything about that?"

Sirius Black's head materialised behind Harry causing the Goblins to jump in surprise, "Don't you know that confidential matters such as these should not be discussed in the open, Goblin? These matters pertain to your most important client and I don't need to mention that there are people out there who are trying to find anything they can about him. And we have a lot to do in the short time that he currently has. My privacy ward won't keep others distracted for long."

Griphook looked startled, "If that is the case, follow me Lord Potter. As it happens, there is a standing order from King Ragnok that whenever you visit the bank, you should be brought before him first so that he can personally apprise you of your finances and estates."

"In that case, let's not waste any time because time is galleons."

In a few moments, they were before Ragnok who was knee deep in account books but Iron Fist was not with him.

Ragnok smiled at Harry and said to the room in general, "You can take off the cloak now, Mr. Black. Everyone here is your friend."

Sirius materialised, "Pleasure to meet you again Rug Nut."

"Mr. Black, my name is Ragnok and please remember it.", Ragnok sneered, "that wizard is a menace but you are not that wizard, are you?"

"You called for me, Lord Ragnok", said Harry, "my account manager said you wanted to see me instantly."

"Lord Potter, yesterday the manager of The Gnomes of Zurich came into the Bank asking us about your financial status and how much money you had. He further enquired how many days it would take to transfer your assets from the Goblins to the Gnomes if you choose to move your accounts. The rivalry between us goes back generations. They are always trying to take our business away. If you were to go with them, it would be a catastrophe from which we would never be able to recover. Iron Fist has asked me to do anything you want so long as you do not take your accounts away", said Ragnok looking beseechingly at him.

"Now that you mention it Rug Nut, the Goblin Nation can do something for Harry Potter.", said Sirius, his eyes full of mirth, "And it won't cost you a single Knut."

"What would that be, Mr. Black?", sneered Ragnok.

"You see Rug Nut, the wizarding world is going to fight another war soon and we need the Goblins on our side, covertly if not openly. We will need written assurances from you that you will not shift with Voldemort and his merry band of fools. In exchange, Lord potter – Peverell – Rossier – Webb will keep his considerable holdings here. ", said Sirius gleefully.

This was an opportunity which had presented itself to them. In the meeting of the Order conducted last evening, Dumbledore had been picking everyone's brains for ways in which they could make the goblins stay neutral, if not aligned to the light side. Who knew that this would be so easy. It made sense. Goblins are motivated by money and war. They could not fight wizards anymore. If they lost this much money in one go, it would have a huge impact on the bank and cause an economic upheaval that would turn the wizarding world against them. Agreeing to Sirius's demand was good business, plain and simple.

"The Goblin Nation agrees to your proposition, Mr. Black.", said Ragnok, "now what is the other business that we can help you with?"

Sirius took his wand in both hands and began, "Hear my declaration, O Ragnok Goblin of Gringotts", Sirius pronounced, "Hear ye and be witness. I, Sirius Orion of Black, of the Adder who blessed us with his magic, in presence of Harold of Potter and Griphook Goblin declare that from this moment forth, I as the blood heir of Black, abdicate my …"

Griphook cut in, "Heir Black, what is your intention?"

Sirius caught mid oath and wrong-footed answered, "Wha… what do you mean? We're going to make my god-son and heir the next Lord of Black."

Ragnok nodded, "Then we must do things in order for once you abdicate your heirship, and yes, yours is the strongest case to ascend to the lordship at this time, you will have no more say in the ascension of the next Lord Black than I do. To complicate things, there are two other heirs who have stronger claims than Lord Potter, those being: Andromeda Tonks nee Black and Draco Malfoy. In the absence of your son by blood, one of them will become the next lord."

Sirius shook his head, trying to deny the complications, "I thought that Andromeda was disowned when she was blasted off the family tree for marrying a muggle-born. And if that Malfoy boy is one tenth as nasty as that death eater scum his father is, the lordship must never pass into his hands. Would blood adoption make Harry's claim strong enough?"

Ragnok answered, "Precisely what I was about to suggest. First, we perform the blood adoption ritual, then we confer him as an heir of House Black with an heir ring and when you abdicate your heirship in his favour, he will become the heir apparent. At which point, there being no Lord Black and Harry being considered an adult according to our laws, may immediately ascend to become the Lord of black."

Harry's head was swimming, trying to keep up with all that was said, "What's this about a blood adoption ritual? And why can't Sirius be the Lord of Black?"

Sirius answered the second question first, "Sadly, Harry, I cannot take up the Lordship for the same reason that I cannot have any children. My time with the dementors has also diminished my magic to the point that the Black family magic does not recognize me as the lord. That will not be a problem for you, Pup."

Ragnok answered the first question, "Blood adoption is what is done when parent and child both recognize that their bond is as strong as blood. This ritual makes it as if you were his natural born son in all matters, both legal and magical."

Harry asked, concerned, "But does that mean that I am no longer a Potter?"

Ragnok answered, "Usually, that would be the case, the exception being when the adoptee, that being you, is already the lord of another house. I dare say that your case is unprecedented, being the lord of four houses already. For this process, your blood and his will be mixed in the ritual bowl with a special potion which would then be partaken of by both of you. This will make you his son by magic."

Sirius added, "You have always been the son of James and Lily and that is what you will remain. With this adoption, the only thing that will change is that you will add another name to your already greatly hyphenated name although I would like it if you would keep Black after Potter,"

"Padfoot, I have no issue with being blood adopted by you, but it is just that it was rather sudden. I have no memory of my father or mother on this mortal plane other than what I hear during a dementor attack. If anyone has been a father to me, it's been you. The last year you did everything in your power to keep me safe. You were willing to risk everything for me. Ever since the third task, you have been around me and ensured that I remain safe. You are already a father to me, Sirius. I know Dad won't mind and mother might glare at you but would agree", he said smiling.

Sirius was sombre for a minute thinking of all the harshness that the boy had faced and yet stood firm. He never imagined that he would have a son, not since Marlene died but in that moment he realised that Harry was his son as much as he was James's.

"Lord Ragnok," Harry addressed the goblin, "if you would proceed with the ritual."

Ragnok touched a rune on his desk, summoning a younger Goblin who arrived on the double through the huge double doors. Ragnok spoke a few phrases in rapid Gobbledegook and the younger Goblin ran from the room.

Ragnok produced two ring boxes and said, "When I heard that the two of you were in the bank, I took the liberty of having the heir ring and the lord ring for the House of Black brought to me. My assumption being that you, Sirius, would take up the lordship today and that Lord Potter would be invested as your heir. However, I did not anticipate What we are about to do."

With that, the younger Goblin charged back into the room, carrying a tiny stone basin with runes carved on its outer surface, three potion flasks of which two were empty and a ceremonial silver dagger. He arrayed all the items on the desk, then rushed back to the doors to hold them. Shortly, Ripthroat, the ancient Black account manager and Griphook entered, then the younger goblin left the room.

Ripthroat, seeing Sirius, grinned ferally, "I wondered why the Bank was so black, today. I heard you are becoming a father today, Sirius. A gloomy day for the Wizarding world, I am sure."

"Ripthroat, you stinky old goblin, ripped any throats recently?", Sirius asked the goblin, who guffawed. Sirius continued, "Now move your old backside or my son will make sure that we get a new manager for our family before the day is out."

While Sirius and Ripthroat exchanged pleasantries, Griphook made haste to pull up chairs for the elder and himself.

Ripthroat took the heir ring from Ragnok and handed it to Harry, "Try this on, Lord Potter and see if it suits you."

Harry took the goblin silver band with an Obsidian stone atop it having an adder on its face. As he slid it onto his finger, he felt a sharp pressure as the Black family magic recognized him and the heir ring fitted itself to his finger. Sirius nodded with approval.

Ragnok, seeing that the heirship was successfully conferred, intoned, "Hear ye, Harold of Potter and Sirius of Black, hear my warning. If ye go through this, this is irreversible. Harold of Potter, this makes you a Black in name and Magic. Become the Lord and you take responsibility for every Black out there. Hear to my warning and think again. All the responsibilities of a Black will become yours and the will of the Adder be yours to command."

"We have considered and agree to do this knowing all the consequences of these actions, Ragnok", said Sirius, "Start the ritual."

Ragnok produced the ritual bowl, "If ye agree to this, then pour your blood into this bowl but not more than 7 drops each. The mixing of the bloods of the Griffin and the Adder will bring it around that you can claim the will of the Adder."

Harrys slashed his palm with the ceremonial knife that Ragnok offered him and then Sirius did the same. After 14 drops of blood had been shed, Ragnok swirled the tiny stone basin mixing the blood thoroughly.

Harry was asking Sirius, "Is that it?"

"Yes, what were you expecting? Some kind of fireworks, an explosion powerful enough to rock the building maybe?", Sirius asked, mirth in his eyes.

"No, it is just that it feels very anti-climatic after all the pomp and ceremony."

"He has yet to mix the potion in that will hold the two together", Sirius said, "Blood of two different lines won't mix well until the potion is mixed to hold them together. Wait for it."

Ragnok pulled the stopper from the flask which contained a blood red potion that he poured into the basin. As the potion touched the blood, there was instant hissing, sparks flew from it and there was a lot of smoke. The smoke coalesced, forming a griffin and an adder with its hood raised ready to strike hovering over the surface of the basin eyeing each other. At the same moment, the Griffin and the Adder attacked each other but something pulled them together and they became one instantly.

Ragnok poured the potion into two equal portions and presented the flasks to Harry and Sirius, "Now drink this potion which will bind you both together and do your will."

Harry looked at Sirius who instantly quaffed the entire contents of the flask leaving nothing behind. Since Sirius showed such courage, Harry followed suit. The potion was odourless and tasteless. When they were done, they looked expectantly at Ragnok.

"Congratulations, Mr. Black, you are a father now", proclaimed Ragnok, smiling while Sirius grinned. "You may now proceed with that oath I so rudely interrupted earlier."

Sirius looked utterly gormless for a second, then recalled what he was doing earlier. Taking his wand in both hands, he intoned, "Hear my declaration, O Ragnok Goblin of Gringotts. Hear ye and be witness. I, Sirius Orion of Black, of the Adder who blessed us with his magic, in the presence of Harold of Potter, Griphook Goblin and Ripthroat Goblin declare that from this moment forth, I as the blood heir of Black, abdicate my claims to the Lordship. Hear ye that I revere the Adder and that I name my godson, Harold of Potter to be the heir apparent of the House of Black. That he will be the Lord of Black in his own turn. So I say so mote it be." A golden light surrounded Sirius and Harry, then vanished into Harry's body.

Ragnok intoned, "Lord Potter, Heir of Black, you being the heir apparent and there being no Lord of Black at this time, do you now wish to become the Lord of Black with all privileges, rights and responsibilities pertaining to that title?"

Harry answered, "Yes, King Ragnok, I do."

Ragnok presented the ring to Harry, "Harold of Black, by the will of Mother Magic and the proclamation of your father Sirius Orion of Black, you have been chosen to ascend to the position of the Lord of Black and to uphold its dignity. You shall be responsible for the house and for its members. The Adder will always help you in upholding your will through all the trials and turbulences of life and overcome all challenges. Do you accept?"

Harry took the ring and focused on the Adder atop it, drawing courage and pondering over Ragnok's words as he put it on. The power of the ring was so intense that it almost overwhelmed him making him pass out. In his mind, he could hear someone asking, "Will you do what is right or what is easy? Will you give up all you have to uphold your dignity? Will you do my bidding as I would do yours?"

As Harry answered "yes", the pressure eased and when he could breathe again, his blood was singing to this magic which felt as natural in his veins as Potter or Peverell family magic.

"Here is the written assurance that you wanted from us, Mr. Black", Ragnok said handing a scroll to Sirius while he handed another to Harry, "this is a letter bestowing a title of 'Goblin friend' on you, Lord Peverell-Potter- Black- Rosier."

It was a very high honour that had not been bestowed in living memory. Sirius asked, "Why are you giving this title to him?"

"Because he is also Lord Peverell, a protector of the realm, the scion of the war mages. Being a protector of all creatures, we also deserve his protection if the need ever arises. Our bestowing this title upon him is an acknowledgement of the same. Now I believe Griphook has several investment opportunities for you."

Half an hour later, in Griphook's office, they were discussing investments and they were joined by Ripthroat and Sirius.

"Mr. Potter, your family has investments in a lot of businesses. Some of them are doing very well while others, not so well. I believe that with a little cash and a change of management, they could earn you a good profit. Then there are businesses which cannot be redeemed and it would be prudent to pull out of them before their losses become more substantial", Griphook advised and passed a piece of parchment to him, "This is a summary statement of businesses which are doing well."

Silver Arrow broom company (now Firebolt) 45%

Quality Quidditch supplies 10%

Zonko's joke shop 30%

Scrivenshafts 25%

Herbs and weeds apothecary 20%

Eeylops Owl Emporium 5%

The Daily Prophet 20%

Madam Malkin's 5%

"What? I own 20 % of the Daily prophet?", asked Harry, bewildered "I own a major portion of that rag, hardly fit to wrap fish in, and they have the nerve to liable and defame me every chance they get? "

Sirius answered, " Prongslet, When the Daily Prophet was established, the ministry purchased majority shares of the publication with a view to keeping control of the media and to keep it honest. Various houses owned small portions in it but some of them acquired other houses' interest", Sirius replied.

Griphook, who had been doing his research, updated, "That might have been the case when the paper was established but since then, conditions have changed. With the Ministry's increase in its absurd expenses, it has been raising money by selling its interests in various sectors. About 8 years ago, the ministry was short on funds. To raise money to meet its expenses, it sold the controlling interest in the paper. Sensing an opportunity to make more money for his client, my predecessor, Rodlast the former Potter House manager, bought 10% shares thus bringing the tally to 30% for house of Potter which is quite the gold mine. We hadn't listed the additional 10% in that record because knowing their tendency to besmirch Mr. Potter and his reputation, we assumed that Lord Potter may be inclined to divest those shares of the Daily Prophet. If that is your choice, I have buyers ready to pay thrice current market value for those shares. If you decide to sell them, we will furnish you with money worth those shares", said Griphook knowing full well that business sense dictated that the young Potter keep the shares.

"I will keep those shares, Griphook", said Harry, "and I want you to see about obtaining more. I want controlling interest in that paper if it is possible. Since the ministry will not do its duty, I will keep the media honest."

"As it stands, House of Potter owns 30% of those shares, due to aggressive buying of shares by Ripthroat, on advice of Lord Arcturus Orion Black, House of Black owns 20% shares of the Daily Prophet, House of Rosier has always owned 5% shares, House of Bones owns 10% shares of Daily Prophet, House of Greengrass owns 10% shares, House of Macmillan owns 5% shares, House of Longbottom owns 10% shares, House of Malfoy owns 5% shares and 5% shares remain with the ministry."

Harry mused, "So, I already have controlling interest. Good! But, it won't do to have those shares in the hands of the ministry or the Malfoys", Harry said turning to Ripthroat, "I want you to buy those shares of Malfoys by any means possible. Offer then double rate, if you have to but get it done before the day is out. And Griphook, if you are also handling finances of House Weber then acquire those 5% shares of the Ministry at any cost. But in any case, my involvement should not be reported. Is that clear?"

Both the Goblins nodded, "Yes, Lord Potter. With this purchase, your holdings in the Daily Prophet will rise up to 65%. We will get it done today."

"If you get it done today, I will give 1000 Galleons each to both of you as a reward which will be in addition to the standard fee charged by the Bank", said Sirius.

With that Ripthroat walked out of the office with Griphook to finish his mission

"Griphook, I have a question for you."

"Please ask", the goblin said.

"Why do you call me Lord?", Harry asked.

"Two reasons, Lord Potter. First is that the heads of the Houses were ennobled as such in the past and thus they keep the title going. However, most of them are not worthy of the title anymore. This title was bestowed on them for their contributions to the wizarding world, for bravery shown in war or other similar achievements. Second, there is another reason for which I call you a Lord. The same reason that I would call Voldemort as Lord Voldemort or Dumbledore as Lord Dumbledore and I would also call the wizard who accompanied you yesterday as Lord", Griphook finished.

Harry tilted his head to one side, "And what is that reason, Griphook?"

"The wizard who came with you yesterday, ask him this, Lord Potter. He has all the answers that you are seeking", answered Griphook smirking at Harry.

"Now, are there any instructions for me, Lord Potter?", asked Griphook.

"Yes, I need to register a new business which some of my associates will establish in the near future. I will also require a title deed for premises in Diagon Alley where they can set up their shop. While you are at it, please liquidate my shares in Zonko's. They won't be in business much longer", Harry concluded, with a wink and a smirk toward Griphook, "And if you want to show that you are a clever banker, you can advise your brethren that investing in Zonko's in the long term will not be feasible anymore. It would be best if they were to sell and leave while they can get the highest gold for it or it will go for a pittance in the near future."

As they were leaving the Bank, Sirius conjured his patronus murmuring some instructions to it and sent it away. When Harry asked what he did, he smirked, "Now that we have a Lord Black, the family needs to know so that they can come and pay their respects."

Black Townhouse

Even after they left Diagon Alley, the duo did not return to Grimmauld Place instantly but Sirius went on a shopping spree with his son. They visited many stores buying clothes, books and a trunk which was followed by lunch at a busy restaurant in the muggle world.

When Harry Potter and Sirius Black finally did enter the Black Townhouse, it wasn't the same as it was when they left it just a few hours ago. Chaos reigned. The house was filled with smoke, people were running around, trying to put out fires.

Some had their hair colour changed. Some had their entire skin colour changed. There was a metal basilisk which was chasing everyone around. There was Dumbledore who was trying to rein in the basilisk and Snape who was fighting a boggart which was changing its shape every second. Many Order members were trying to douse the fires which were burning but Harry could see that they were unsuccessful. There was an alarm wailing throughout the house which rather sounded like a horse whinnying.

There were Fred and George who were looking as if they had been through the mill, their robes torn, hair dishevelled and hanging upside down from the ceiling changing from human to elf to goblin to merpeople, laughing stupidly.

Sirius raised his wand and let out a sound like a canon blast, which got everyone's attention. Dumbledore approached him looking tired and wary of everyone around him, "Sirius, we are in trouble here. The situation is out of control. Nothing we have tried can extinguish the fires. The basilisk is running around terrifying people. That boggart has been tormenting Severus for more than half an hour. There is a caterwauling charm going on the third floor, which Misters Weasley and Weasley tripped, and they have been changing appearances since then while dangling upside down from the ceiling. I have also noticed that the house elves have made themselves scarce since all this commotion started."

Sirius was rolling on the floor laughing at everything that had happened. What Dumbledore did not know was that this was a prank war. There had been small incidents since Sirius had accepted the challenge, but; Sirius had not imagined that things would escalate so quickly. They must have harassed Remus beyond all patience to have inspired him to use such elaborate pranks as these.

Raising his wand, Sirius inaudibly shot a spell at the Weasley twins who fell to the floor. Then he went to work removing the other jinxes until the twins looked normal again. Then he proceeded to the Boggart which had not yet noticed him. It was a James Potter with Sirius taunting Snivellus. It made Sirius flinch to realise that he had such a visible catastrophic effect on his childhood rival. First, the bogart transformed into James with buck teeth and skinny legs that tripped and landed on his face with the Ridiculous charm. Then Sirius waved the rapidly dispelling bogart away with his wand. Then he summoned Kreacher and Winky, to help subdue the metal Basilisk. When he transmuted the basilisk back to its original form, it turned out to be his motorcycle! He then ordered the elves to douse the fires then clean up the mess and repair any damage.

With the fires and most of the chaos under control, he went up to the third floor to deal with the caterwauling charm. When he arrived there, the noise was going at full volume. He terminated the noise with a flick of his wand. When Sirius entered his room, he found Moony there, lounging in a squishy recliner, reading a copy of hexes and Jinxes for Fun and Profit while munching on a box of chocolate from Honeydukes. No sooner had peace been restored than the door opened to admit Fred and George. Entering the room, They immediately bowed to Remus and started offering their apologies and praises in their twin speak.

"We are sorry that we angered you", said Gred

"You turned the tables on us", added Forge

"We accept defeat, Prank Lord Moony", said Fred, bowing and scraping to Moony who was now smirking at them.

"We are not worthy, Prank Lord", they chanted together, "please add us to your minions."

Finally with a gesture of his hand, bidding his minions to rise, Remus nodded signalling that he accepted their surrender and grinned toothily at them, "Remember boys there will be a second round. And this time, I will not be alone."

"Prank war and everything aside, I have something for you both", Harry said as he pulled out the scrolls, "These forms are letters of partnership for a business which shall be spearheaded by you two. Included is a silent partner and financier, namely mee. The agreement is that you two will provide innovation, development, production, sales and branding. I will provide gold and premises as required for which I receive in return a 30% share. And by silent, I mean that nobody, especially your mother, ever hears about the details of the arrangement, specifically my involvement. Do you accept?"

They both readily agreed because it will make things very easy for them. They wouldn't have to worry about the gold and premises and could invest themselves into research, "yes we agree, Harry. Where do we sign?"

Harry passed the form to them, already containing his signature, "I have the deed drawn up already and a shop in Diagon Alley earmarked for you. You just have to fill in the details and take it to Griphook, Potter Account manager at Gringotts. He will get the rest done. And remember not to breathe a word of this to your parents."

After an hour, a very happy Fred and George Weasley left Sirius's room with a big bag of Galleons and the partnership agreement for their shop in their hands.

"What brought on this prank war, Moony?", Sirius asked.

"Those two fed me chocolate laced with draught of rage and had Dobby deliver it. When the draught started doing its thing, Dobby got panicked and subdued me with Kreacher and Winky and administered the anti-dote to me. I had been ignoring them taking them to be children but when they did that, I snapped and went full Marauder on them. With the help of the elves, I transmuted the motorcycle into a basilisk and powered it enough to go around on its own. But that was not enough, I put a trap outside their room which simultaneously set off the caterwauling charm, levicorpus jinx, and a random transmutation to switch them between humanoid forms and change their hair colour. With the trigger in the doorway and a 3 foot radius to the effect, it hit both of them. A stray boggart took up residence in a desk drawer and Snape decided to open it without thinking about the consequences when he came with Dumbledore to control the situation. The fires were the work of the elves."

Later in the evening, a meeting of everyone present in the Townhouse took place before dinner.

As usual, Dumbledore presided over it. He started in his professional tone,

"As we know, yesterday young Harry went to take up his heirship at Gringotts. Now we shall hear from him about how it went."

"The goblins told me that due to my participation in the tournament, I am now considered an adult and the limitation of underage sorcery doesn't apply to me anymore. The other consequence is that as an adult, I can immediately take up the lordship of any house to which I am the heir that does not currently have a lord."

"What happened after that?", Albus asked.

"I took up the lordship of the House of Potter as expected but the parchment which shows the results of the inheritance test revealed that I am also the Lord of Peverell.", Harry announced to the room.

There was a pin-drop silence for a moment in the room. Then they all began to ask questions at once, out of which most prominent was, "What is Peverell?"

Dumbledore waved for them to fall silent and then started saying, "House of Peverell was one of the three Reverent houses which helped King Arthur in his war. When the last descendant of the House, one lady Iolanth Peverell married Hardwin Potter, the house of Peverell was absorbed into it. Since then their family magic waned from the world, or at least that was what everyone believed. However, it was found later that it manifests itself only in those whom it finds worthy. Lord Peverell is the first Peverell lord in a thousand years."

Many people in the hall clapped at this revelation while most of them congratulated Harry at his ascension. Mr. Weasley shook his hand and offered House Weasley's support to them.

"Now, Lord Potter is there anything else about that meeting which you would like to share with this company?", asked Dumbledore, yielding the floor to Harry.

"Yes Professor, the tests also revealed that I am the Lord of Rosier claiming that title through my mother, who was not a muggle born but a pureblood witch, adopted by a muggle named Harrison Evans."

Harry took a moment to watch the reactions on people's faces as the meaning of this news sank in.

Dumbledore's gaze was intense, concentrated on him and he felt like someone was probing his thoughts. Snape looked ashen. Minerva's eye-brows disappeared into her hair. Alastor was indifferent. Molly sat there, her hand over her mouth. Remus and Sirius were sitting there looking upon Dumbledore with interest. Arthur was looking intrigued.

The moment passed, and Snape was the one to ask the question everyone was already thinking, "If Lily was a Rosier then who were her parents? As we know most of them were dead before she came to Hogwarts. The only Rosiers alive at that time were Felix Rosier and his son Evan Rosier who were killed in the war. In fact, Alastor here, killed Felix Rosier himself."

"I am glad you asked that question, Professor", said Harry smirking, "Her ancestry is indeed the most curious thing in this whole situation. Most of you would remember that Felix Rosier had a brother named Vincent who was killed way before the war began. What very few people know is that Vincent married a pureblood witch of an old German family named Emilia Weber. Vincent and Emilia were killed shortly after my mother was born, at the hands of a former lieutenant of Grindelwald. By the same connection, I am also Lord of Weber, an old pureblood family of Germany. It means that the muggles were never my relatives. So that gives rise to the question that if they were not my relatives and we did not share blood between us then how did the blood wards around Privet Drive work? What do you say, headmaster?"

Dumbledore whose mind had been engaged in taking in everything that had just been said, and understanding all which that implied, took some time to understand Harry's question. When he did, he had no answer for the boy.

When the answer did come, it was Severus, "Harry, the wards are based on blood and magic. The blood which came of you and your mother and the magic in you would have put the wards in place. Any other protections which the Head Master thought were present would not have been there. It would seem that the only thing really protecting you was the protection your mother put in place at the cost of her own life. You have to remember that we did not even visit you once in a decade so we did not know anything for certain. When the head master visited your home at the end of your fourth year a couple of days ago, those protections, if there were any, were already gone. We believe they disappeared sometime before you started 3rd year."

Harry understood what Severus was saying and it made sense to him. He wanted to rage at the headmaster but chose not to. The old man had already accepted so many times that he had made mistakes in his regard. Then he said thoughtfully, "Even if those blood wards were effective, they would have dissipated the moment your name emerged from the Goblet of Fire. According to the Goblins, that event marked your passage into adulthood."

Sirius stood up, proudly puffed out his chest, and announced, "Now I have another declaration to make. I am proud to inform you all that Harry Potter is the new Lord of the House of Black and my adopted son by magic. This afternoon, he ascended to the position of the Lord of Black."

Several of the people clapped their hands while a couple of them stood and congratulated Sirius on becoming a father which Sirius accepted jovially. As the celebrations were going on, the kitchen door opened and Tonks entered the room. She however, was not alone but she was followed by a woman and a man. Almost everyone in the room stiffened at the sight of the woman who was tall, olive skinned, with brown eyes that resembled Sirius's and she regarded the room imperiously until her gaze fell on Harry.

Sirius stood up laughing and hugged the woman who returned the hug with equal joy before she came to Harry and dropped on her knees lifting her robes to show her ankles while her head remained bowed, "My Lord, I have come to seek reinstatement in my house."

This was all very strange to him for he had not met anyone yet who had these mannerisms or who prostrated before him in such a manner. As he debated over what to do, Sirius moved to him and said, "My lord, this is my cousin, Andromeda Tonks nee Black. This is her husband Theodore 'Ted' Tonks. And this is their daughter Nymphadora Tonks." Tonks glared at him and he stuck his tongue out at her, showing her maturity.

He turned to Harry again, "Andromeda was disowned from the family by her mother for refusing to marry Thaddeus Nott and running off to marry a muggle-born. For doing this, she was deprived of her dowry and inheritance. She has come to petition her new lord for reinstatement into her family."

Harry, who was puzzled until now, felt like someone was whispering words into his ear, "They did something that was thought of as a crime and a disgrace to the house. Arcturus, the previous Lord of Black, did not agree with them but he held his tongue for the sake of peace in his family but now you control the reins. What will you do, Black of Black? Will you tread the same well-worn, well-treaded path or blaze a new one?"

Harry thought over it for a minute and then signalled the Tonks family to bow. When they did, he turned to Andromeda, As it happens, the previous Lord of Black never expelled you from the House of black. However, your dowery and inheritance, which were spitefully and wrongfully withheld from you shall be restored in full along with all rights, privileges, protections and responsibilities commensurate upon all members of the house of Black. Do you, Andromeda Cassiopeia, daughter of House Black accept your admittance back into the House of Black?"

She raised her head, "I do."

He asked further, "Do you vow to defend your house and its secrets with equal zeal and fervour as is expected of a member of the family?"

She firmly repeated, "I do."

"Then I, Harold James, Lord of House Black welcome you back into the House of Black as a daughter of the house. You will be given your inheritance and the customary dowry. The family will care for you as one of its own expecting you to do the same when the occasion arises. So I have said, so mote it be", he proclaimed and a golden light engulfed him and Andromeda and disappeared into their bodies and he continued further, "Since they are your family and you share a bond with Theodore Tonks while the blood of Black flows in the veins of Nymphadora, so they will be members of this House and the Tonks family will be considered a cadet line to the House of Black and augment the Black clan."

When it was done, Harry turned to Sirius, "Send a missive to Ripthroat informing him of the return of a daughter of Black to this family and to pay her dowry and other emoluments which traditionally have been paid to all daughters of House Black on their wedding."

With that, the feast began. The feast was a long joyous affair which ended after the third course had been brought and finished. When the feast was done, Dumbledore resumed, "So, what is the next course of action, Lord Potter?"

Harry turned to the head master who looked like he had aged a decade in the last few minutes, perhaps still guilt laden about the fact that he had left Harry with the muggles who were not his relatives, but; Harry could not hold the old wizard liable for it.

"I found out that through my families, I own around 65% of the Daily Prophet", he announced to the room, making all conversation go silent, "imagine being slandered by your own newspaper."

Everyone was looking at him, trying not to laugh while Harry pulled a pouty face. Only Ron looked a little jealous, but soon that look was changed to one of thoughtfulness.

"My boy, if you own the Daily Prophet, maybe it's time we brought them into line.", said Dumbledore, "This means that we can use our influence to persuade them to publish truthful stories, stop with the smear campaign against our ranks and stop suppressing the stories that really matter."

"How do we achieve it, Headmaster?", asked Harry, interested.

It was Ted who answered, "My lord, I was the solicitor of your parents and if you would like to retain my services then I will send a message to them on your behalf with a goblin statement that the House of Potter owns 65% shares of the Daily Prophet and they shall cease and desist. Knowing that you own their lives, they would not dare to print any lies about you. We can also ask them to print only those stories for which credibility can be confirmed by a memory or some written evidence."

Harry grinned ferally at this making people shudder while Sirius and Remus smirked inwardly knowing that the newest marauder was out for blood.

"I desire to retain the services of your firm for all my ventures and Houses henceforth. However, I am going to entrust Aunt Andromeda to take the message to the Daily Prophet. That being that they will, effective immediately, implement new policy according to the will of a majority vote of their shareholders. We'll just leave out the tiny detail that I hold the majority vote.", Harry said looking at Andromeda who nodded in reply.

"Is there anything that requires my urgent attention?", Harry asked Sirius who nodded, "You need to recharge the ward stones and take control of the wards."

"I will recharge the stones but I ask you to keep control of the wards in your hands for the time being. I will be unable to attend to them while I am away from here."

The night finally ended with Harry Potter charging the ward stones which were located in the cellar beneath the Lord's study, with his blood magic.

---

The next morning, Harry decided to corner the erumpent in the room i.e. to have a talk with Ginny and Ronald. He had not talked to Ron since they had got off the Hogwarts express and Harry wanted to get it out of the way before the small wound festered between them.

He found Ron in his room absentmindedly looking over a book on Quidditch, "Hey Ron, why have you been ignoring me?"

"Harry, I haven't been ignoring you. It is just that I had a lot of time to think about the last 4 years and I was a prat. I know I had no right to do those things. You are Heir Potter and I should have at least told you about it. I mean, that is what a best friend would do. But I didn't and then I walked out on you last year. What kind of best friend could I be if I can't believe my friend! I am sorry, Harry and I promise I will do better from now on."

"Such profound thoughts", Harry said, "who are you and what have you done with my friend Ron that I spent the last four years with? Look, prat, you have already apologized and did your best to mitigate the damage you did. Now I am leaving on a journey this evening and I won't be back for a few weeks so I need you to stay sharp and keep an eye on things, alright?"

"Thank you Harry", Ron said gratefully, "I won't let you down again."

---

A few hours later, Harry Potter was in a room where a temporary library was set up for the students, "Ginny, we need to talk."

She looked startled but nodded, "yes, Harry."

"Ginny, I don't know how to say it so I will be blunt. Hermione told me everything that happened after the last task. I know of your obsession with the fictional boy-who-lived and that you have been disenchanted recently. Ginny, you are Ron's sister and I see you as a friend at best. There is nothing that can happen between us but we can be best of friends. There is a big world out there filled with a lot of wizards who are smarter, more handsome and braver than me. Don't shut yourself down but go out and explore the world."

She nodded, "You know, any romantic feelings that I may have had for you were over once I realised that you are an ordinary boy like any other. I mean yes you are powerful; you can do magic that most people about our age can't but in the end, you also can be hurt by others and you are not invincible. I am sorry that it took me three years to understand this."

"So do you promise not to brood over this anymore?", Harry asked her.

"Yes."

"I am leaving this evening for a journey and I hear that they are going to teach defence to everyone they can find. If they offer to teach you, I want you to take this opportunity and learn all that you can. That way, you will not need anyone to come help you but you will be able to help yourself."

"I will learn everything that they will teach", she said.

The next day, there was a feast in honour of Harry leaving for his voyage. Most of the Order members were in attendance and Dumbledore presided.

Dumbledore and Sirius cornered him after lunch was served, "Harry, it is a long-standing tradition in our world, that when a wizard comes of age, he goes on a voyage of the world. You leaving on this voyage is continuing the tradition which was started by wizards of old. It is befitting that you go on a voyage to the other side of the world as soon as you are considered an adult. We hope that this voyage will prove fruitful to your endeavours and you will learn much of what is unavailable to many of us."

Sirius spoke next, "I hate to see you go but I understand the necessity for the same. Remember that I have loved you since I saw you when you were about 30 minutes old. I want you to do everything in your power to become the best wizard that you can be. Black family magic manifests itself the best in only the most powerful wizards so you can say I have a hidden motive for you to become as powerful as you can become."

"Thank you for your words, Headmaster and Sirius. I know it is a momentous occasion in your eyes but I won't be going away for long. I will be back with you in a month at most. And I will…"

Harry was cut-off by Mrs. Weasley, "Susan Bones is on the floo waiting for you."

Susan's head was sitting in the floo and Harry grinned at her, "hey Susan, wanna come over?"

"I wish", she said, "But Auntie has told me to stay here. Anyhow I know you are busy and I would be in the way. Are you ready for the journey?"

"Yes", he said, "All the preparations are made. We will be leaving in an hour for Port of London. Auntie Amelia said that she will be there."

"I know" Susan said, "I wish I could come but she told me how secret it is and how important. I don't want to be a distraction to you and perhaps I should not waste too much of your time. Wherever you are going, learn anything and everything that they teach you. When you return, I will be here waiting for you."

Harry saw a bit of moisture in her eyes as she averted her eyes, "Are you crying?"

"No, I am not. Now go, Harold Potter and fulfil your destiny. And whenever you come back, you better come to see me first", her voice quivered as she ended the connection.

Port of London

A large group of wizards scouted the area of the London Port which was only frequented by cargo vessels. Earlier in the day, various wizards had been coming and going through this part of the port securing it for the evening. And throughout the day, they had been raising wards around that particular area with a berth for a ship coming to port that evening. This part was generally reserved for magical vessels but even then they were few and far in between. It was considered prudent that the muggles, they were generally squibs, who worked in the wizarding world and maintained this part of the dock should be kept away from this part since the ship which was coming to port was nowhere in the logs. There were no records of this ship sailing on the waters. For all the muggles knew, it was a ghost ship.

Mad-eye, in charge of security briefed Harry, "Potter, we are going in a group to a parking lot about 3 kilometres from here. In that parking lot, you will find an automobile, an olive-green Rover 200 Cabriolet. The car is driven by one of Harsh Vardhan's men. We will be following you to the parking lot where Remus and Weasley will join you. It will take you to the port of London where the arrangements for further travel have been made. I will bring your luggage with me. Is that clear?"

Harry nodded and they left Grimmauld place. As they stepped out, Nymphadora met him, "Wotcher cousin. Consider this my good-bye. I am going on scouting duty and will not see you again until you come home. Mother has asked for you to come visit us when you return."

Harry walked ahead while Arthur Weasley was a few steps ahead of him walking with Sturgis Podmore. He was flanked by Alastor Moody who walked beside Hestia Jones and Remus Lupin and Emmeline Vance walked at their sides and everyone of them was dressed in muggle clothing. Alastor had chosen only those of the Order who could wear muggle clothing well.

After about 30 minutes, Harry reached the parking lot where he found the car pointed out by Moody. The driver saw him and asked him in a low voice, "Where did Harry Potter meet his godmother for the first time?"

Harry understood this to be a question to ensure that he was not an impostor and answered, "I met Alice Longbottom for the first time in the Janus Thickney ward for permanent spell damage."

"Get in Mr. Potter", he said holding the door open. Harry took the shotgun seat beside the driver while Remus and Arthur sat behind him. As soon as they were secure in the car, the driver stepped on the pedal and it roared away. It slipped through spaces too narrow, jumped red lights, obstacles jumped out of its way. In that way, they arrived at Port of London at 6 in the evening.

When they reached the designated area, only Albus Dumbledore, Harsh Vardhana, Remus, Mr. Weasley, Amelia Bones, Alastor Moody and Minerva McGonagall had followed him while the others scattered throughout to form a perimeter and to join the other order Guards who were posted around the port, keeping a look out. Instead of going through with the muggles, they took another route where there was no one else except them. After being cleared through security, they were joined by some other men Harry did not know but judging by their alert expressions and their eyes taking in everything, he supposed that they were guards perhaps the same ones who had escorted Harsh and Harry when they visited St. Mungo's.

Remus embraced Harry tightly and whispered to him, "Harry, you are going to learn some stuff that not even most grown wizards know about. They will train you by treating you anyway they like but remember Harry they are the best that we could hope for. They will not go easy on you and their methods may seem harsh at times, but time is short and I believe that they know what they are doing. Sirius will be here, waiting for you when you return, hopefully, he will be a free man by then. In the meantime, don't worry about us. Remember that we all love you."

Harry had never seen the werewolf so emotional. He knew that Remus loved him as much as Sirius did but Remus never showed it preferring to keep it all bottled up. Seeing him opening himself up to the teen was a surreal experience for him. He embraced Remus tightly when he felt something being pressed into his hand. It was a square packet wrapped in paper and Remus whispered, "This is an enchanted mirror which will let you contact us. When you want to talk to any of us, just speak our Marauder name into it and you will be able to contact us. When we call you, just say the marauder map activation code into it and it will connect you with us."

The next one to say good-bye to him was Mr. Weasley, who clasped his hand formally, "Lord Potter...", he began.

Harry interrupted him, "To you Mr. Weasley, and your entire family, I am Harry. I always have been and my lordships will not ever change that."

Mr. Weasley smiled genially at him, "in a private setting, you are Harry Potter to me but in public, you shall always be addressed as Lord Potter. I know you don't like the fame, the fortune or all the formality and trappings that go along with it. However, there is a reason for it and I hope that this will be part of your education in the near future. Harry you can use the fame to do so much good. You should learn to use it."

Harry could understand what Mr. Weasley meant and nodded. He himself had seen how fickle the wizarding world is over the last four years. They basked in his glory whenever he did something for them but scorned him whenever they felt like it. The way they had all sided against him when they called him the 'heir of Slytherin' still hurt but no one had helped him then. Then in fourth year, the entire school and later the wizarding world teamed up against him, calling him a liar and a cheater for entering the Triwizard tournament, when it had all been part of a plot by Voldemort. Hermione seemed to be the only one who believed him and stayed by his side during that dark time. Later, Rita's articles did not help improve the perception. The only thing that the wizarding world respected was power and fame. It was power that made them all fear Voldemort even when he was considered dead and it was the power of money that Lucius Malfoy and other death eaters had used to worm their way out claiming the 'imperious curse defence'. He resolved in that moment to use his power to achieve his goals.

Mr. Weasley started saying again, "so, Lord Potter, I wanted to say that the Weasleys stand behind you firmly. You have been one of our own since the day my sons rescued you from Privet Drive. I never knew your parents personally being senior to them at school but I knew of their bravery and courage and I admired them for their heroics. I know that Ron is not your best friend at the moment but I hope things will get better between you two. He caused some trouble unknowingly but his heart has always been in the right place. I trust you will give him another chance with time."

Harry nodded. Ron had been distant to him since he woke up but that could have been due to the guilt that Harry knew he was feeling. Ron had a real problem with jealousy, but; that should never overcome his affection for his friends. He was glad that they had talked it over. Harry hoped that Ron would get over his guilt soon and things could be better between them.

Professor McGonagall stepped up to him next, "Mr. Potter... Harry, I know I have not been very helpful to you in all these years at Hogwarts and there is no excuse that I can make up for my failures. Your father was my godson and I failed to care for his son. I should have checked on you during all those years. I am sorry for my failures."

Harry smiled at her and said, "Professor, while there were moments that you did not help us, you have done for me what a parent would do, right from buying my first broom to caring for me. You are one of my favourite people in this world."

Minerva hesitantly smiled at him and hurriedly moved away lest her tears were seen by the teen she had come to love as one of her own. Since the time Harry Potter came back to Hogwarts, she had been burdened with guilt for not doing anything about his living arrangements, even though Harry had been placed with the Dursleys only over her strenuous objections. She was heart-broken when Harry Potter had reached the Hospital Wing unconscious and dying at the end of first year. Then the next year he had to face a Basilisk and she was still not able to help him in anyway. Then in his third year, he had to stay at the castle because of those wretched Dementors and then had to face a mass murderer (she did not know then that Sirius was innocent). She could not even think about the fiasco that was fourth year and all the mistakes that she made. Even after all this, he had stood tall and was forgiving of her.

Alastor Moody hobbled up to him and growled, "Constant Vigilance Potter. Harsh is a tough man but he will teach you things that none of us can. Train hard and remember Potter, do not hesitate to learn anything. When you come back, I expect you to be able to duel me."

Amelia embraced him lightly and smiled at him, "Harry, I know everyone has told you to train hard but I expect you to remember that there is life beyond training for war and there are people who need you to stay human as much as they need you to become the warrior you need to be. Remember after you come back, you have to come and stay at Bones Manor for a week or so. She asked me to tell you that if you renege on the promise you made today, she will curse you so badly that no one will be able to sort you out."

Harry cringed at the tone of the message but smiled at Amelia, 'Please tell her that I will honour my promise to the best of my ability, no matter how long it may be."

Dumbledore came to him next, "Harry, I need you to take the training seriously as everyone said. Mr. Harsh Vardhan is very powerful and he can help you learn things that I cannot even dream of. With all that out of the way, my boy, please remember that you have a life to live and you are not just a weapon for killing. You will make your choices which will not leave you alone for the rest of your life. For good or bad, these choices will stay with you bringing you fame or infamy. Our choices are what define us, Harry. Tom made his choices and they led him down the path of destruction. Your choices have made people love you."

Harry smiled at the old wizard, "I will never let my choices be the wrong ones, Head Master."

Dumbledore smiled at him, eyes twinkling madly, "I know my boy. You are a better wizard than many who have had to face problems like you. You embrace love, kindness and empathy for others while others would have taken the path of cruelty and destruction. Thank you for understanding an old man and his limited choices, Harry. I thought that you were going to hex me yesterday after you told us about your family lineage."

Harry just shrugged at this, not having any experience at dealing with emotions in such conditions.

"Now young Harry, Sirius has told me to inform you that he will be most disappointed if you fail to learn some pranks since you are part owner of a future pranking business", said Dumbledore smiling at him.

Harry winced just thinking about asking Harsh to teach him pranks. The mystic seemed to have quite a vicious sense of humour.

After Harry had said his good-byes to everyone who was present, Harsh approached him, "Mr. Potter, are you ready?"

Harry nodded and hefted his trunk which he had bought from Diagon Alley yesterday while he was out with Sirius. Sirius had withdrawn some money through Ripfang and insisted on spoiling Harry with buying him stuff that he should have had for years. After looking at it from every angle, Harry had given up trying to understand Sirius's antics. So they left Gringotts and went to Madam Malkin's where Sirius stayed under the Invisibility Cloak and Harry had just sort of ordered something of everything and was assaulted with shears, pins, needles, robes, measuring tapes and an elf who insisted on measuring his foot to choose some dragon hide boots for him. While the clothing was being finished, he and Sirius visited one of the trunk shops where they brought a four compartment trunk for him, built with feather-light charms and emblazoned with the crest of Potter leaving other houses off for the moment knowing that the news would have gone out about his being Lord of other houses. The same crest was on the clothes he had ordered. Then they visited Flourish & Blotts where they bought a trunk full of books which were stowed in the trunk with the clothes and which Dobby had offered to arrange in the compartments when they returned to the Townhouse of Black. They rode the hippogriff back to the garden behind the house before walking into the pandemonium that was reigning inside the house.

Harry nodded to Harsh that he was ready, "Are we going to sail in a ship?"

"Mr. Potter, India is very far away and it will take us a good 7 days if we go cruising the muggle way. I said that I would surprise you. We will go flying."

"Flying in carriages? Like the Beauxbatons Academy of Magic?", Harry asked eagerly.

"No, Mr. Potter. Heard of a flying ship?", Harsh smirked at everyone's expressions. Remus was looking at him curiously, Amelia was looking surprised, Dumbledore as his usual cheery self with his eyes twinkling, Mr. Weasley looked like a boy who was just given a wonderful gift for his birthday, Minerva looked stoic as ever but her eyes were full of delight while Alastor was looking around suspiciously and Harry Potter stood there with his mouth hanging open.

Suddenly, the blast of a ship's horn was heard and a ship appeared moored to the pier as if it just materialised out of thin air. It appeared as a classic wooden ship with both oars and sails. The ship was modest by appearance except that it had a figurehead of a Fish which none could recognise and as the gangplank landed with a thud, several men debarked and lined up along either side of the gangplank, wands facing outwards. These men were dressed in Indian garb and wore armour over their upper bodies and dragon-hide boots. One of the men relieved Harry of his luggage, banishing it towards the ship.

Harsh stepped on the gang plank followed by his entourage and reached the deck of the ship where the captain of the ship, a gruff man stepped forward. The man had a long beard perhaps to rival Dumbledore's, but; his was raven black, his eyes were beetle black and he had a strong voice. He bowed to Harsh, sinking low to the deck, "Welcome to Marichika, master."

"Marichika?", asked Dumbledore curiously, "Do you mean the ship that I have heard so much about? The same ship which was in port when the Vikings invaded Avalon? The same ship which had docked in the port during the second Goblin rebellion? The same ship rumoured to appear at those ports where there is war and strife going on or about to happen. The same ship which has always docked at a country where they were having problems with a dark lord? The same ship which is thought to sail around the world evading all forms of detection?"

By the time Dumbledore had done asking his questions, his eyes were twinkling like two miniature suns and others were just looking amused at Dumbledore.

"Albus my boy," chided Harsh, "your enthusiasm is contagious, but; yes, this is the same ship. Though we have had changed parts which needs changing. Even magic cannot make things last forever."

"I just have to see this", pouted Albus, "I cannot know all of your secrets, but; you can at least show me around the ship. I have been intrigued by this as long as I can remember."

"I think his request is from all of us, Mr. Harsh", said Amelia, her curiosity barely contained, "I wish to see this legendary ship. I found references to this in the old archives of the ministry but could not fathom that it was real."

"As you say, Amelia", smiled Harsh.

He started showing them around the ship. The top most level was the deck which was quite vast now that they could see it. They understood that it was a miracle of expansion charms. The level below the deck was a couple of rooms which were the Captain's Room, the Ward Room, a large hall where there were several beds installed and a couple of other rooms which were for the men to sleep in when there was a large number of them.

The captain's room was regal and yet sparsely decorated containing a bed, a wardrobe and a rug on the floor. There was a compass on the wall which the captain used to navigate. There was an ornate chandelier hung on the wall and it looked like it was made of crystals fused with bones which lit the room with ever burning fire. The ward room was extensive. There were stones the size of large boulders in the room. There surfaces were covered with runes. Harry was now lamenting the fact that he had not taken Ancient Runes as one of his electives. These ward stones were more than twice the size of the ward stones at the Black Townhouse and were buzzing with energy.

Then there was a large hall where there was a large table set up which was obviously the mess hall of the ship adjacent to the sleeping hall. Down the corridor from the hall, there were some cabins which had name plates set on the door. One of them had the name 'HARRY POTTER'. The room was bare with the exception of a small sofa on one side of the room.

Harry was confused, "Umm... Am I supposed to sleep on the floor?"

"Are you a wizard or not?", chided Professor McGonagall, "I believe that I have taught you to transfigure one thing into another. You can transform the sofa into a bed. In fact, set to it right now."

Harry was inwardly cringing at her tone. He indeed had made a mistake and now his favourite professor was taking him to task. Repeating his motto, "Gryffindors charge forward!". He said meekly, "But I don't have a wand, Professor."

McGonagall turned to Albus with her stern expression, "How can you let him go on a magical voyage without a wand, Albus?"

The others laughed at the scared look on Albus's face who looked helpless before the stern witch who looked like she was about to put the Headmaster into detention.

Albus cringed at her tone and said almost pleadingly, "Minerva, Mr. Harsh has offered to make a wand for him, suited to him with special materials."

Before Minerva could turn her fury to Harsh, he deftly took out the same wand he loaned to Harry for helping with the ritual, "There will be a better wand for you, but for now, here you go, Mr. Potter. Take this wand and transform this couch into a bed."

Harry concentrated hard and with the precise wand movement, the couch was replaced by a bed.

Minerva drew a rune on the bed and turned to Harry, "this rune will make the transfiguration permanent Mr. Potter thus you will not need to transform the Couch into a bed every time."

As Harry turned to give the wand back to Harsh, he told him to keep it telling him that Harry will need the wand lots of times before their journey was done.

The tour progressed further and they reached the lower deck where there were a number of oars at rest. These oars were used to propel the ship and worked with magic. There was a broom shed wherein there were a lot of brooms. Some were rather old and some were very modern. Harry even spotted a couple of Firebolts in the shed making him think about his own Firebolt which was in his room at the Black Townhouse. The brooms in the shed were from all different countries and each one was superb in its own way.

All too soon, it was time to depart. The others disembarked from the ship. Harry and Harsh were standing on the deck waving at the others when the ship disappeared from view.

Earlier that day, Bones Manor

Susan was not having a good day. Scratch that, she was not having a good summer. She had come home from Hogwarts fearing that she would not hear from Harry Potter for the entire summer. She knew that Dumbledore knew about the contract now and she thought he might allow Harry to stay at the Bones Manor. But no, he took Harry to the muggles and later to his god father. Susan thought that she had not done the compulsion charms properly because she did not receive even an owl from Harry but just the day after she returned from Hogwarts, he visited Bones Manor with the trainee healer. Susan had to exercise all of her restraint to resist dragging Harry away from the gathering.

When Auntie told everyone that she had obtained his guardianship, Susan could not control her enthusiasm and had hugged Auntie so tightly. When auntie asked them to go out, she wished to have some time alone with Harry and may be, she could gather the courage to kiss him on the cheek. She had no overt intentions but hearing of other girls kissing, she wanted to experience it once. Damn Neville Longbottom! He could not get the hint that he needed to leave the both of them alone. Perhaps she would ask Hannah to see to it that he never interfered again when he was not needed. Thinking of Hannah made her feel sorry for her friend. She had made up with Susan and had promised to apologise to Harry and never badmouth him again but she still had not apologised. May be when Hannah gained redemption from Harry, Susan would be best friends with her again. For the time being, she was content being away from everyone.

This morning, Auntie had informed her that she was going after the muggles who had been constantly on the run. A team of her Aurors was investigating Harry Potter's former home to determine what his life was like before Hogwarts. They found evidence that the spider infested closet under the stairs had been his bedroom. They found several neighbours who were able to give reliable and consistent accounts of Harry being neglected and beaten. Mrs. Figg was most helpful in recounting how Harry was underfed and often had bruises and other signs of injury. What Auntie had gathered from the preliminary investigation was enough to send the muggles away for 7 years minimum.

She had also heard her Auntie talk about the plans for training her in defensive magic. It had been in planning since before her 4th year because Amelia wanted her to know basic defensive techniques before she started learning her family magics. The arrival of Voldemort had only sped up those plans. Plus, if she wanted to be at Harry's side, she had to show that she could take care of herself.

For now, however she thought of the Raven haired boy who was going away for the summer and she had no idea when she would see him again.

Earlier that day, rock in the sea

Vernon Dursley was hiding in the shack on the rock in the sea. The same one where he tried to hide from Hagrid on the eve of Harry's eleventh birthday. He had been having nightmares. Nightmares of gruesome death, of being killed by a dragon or suffering with some horrible nasty disease that his doctors could not cure. However, what happened to him and Petunia in the last 4 days was a nightmare from which he could not wake.

After the freaks left, Vernon was left hanging from the ceiling for 6 hours while Petunia was busy in the house doing who knew what. When he finally fell to the floor, he narrowly escaped breaking his neck in the fall. The strain in his neck was severe. His whole body was aching and he just wanted to lie down, but; he knew the freaks were going to come for him. The first thing he did was to call his realtor and put up his pristine home for sale. He had not wanted to do this but there was no other way. May be if he ran, the freaks would not be able to catch him. He had once asked Petunia of the freak world and she had told such horror stories about how horrible the freaks were that he had never again asked her. He knew the freaks had some system called families and they were the nastiest of the bunch. Petunia had recalled a story Lily had told her where one family had killed another and those were gruesome killings. Some had their intestines expelled, some had their flesh pared from their bones, and some had all the flesh burnt off their body.

Wanting to avoid any such fate for him and his family, he entered his bedroom with a view to discuss and form a plan with Petunia and found his bedroom trashed. The books from the shelf were thrown around the house, the mattresses torn and their clothes from the wardrobes were strewn around the house. Petunia was filthy looking like she had crawled out of the chimney. Her clothes were ragged and mismatched making her look like a street urchin. It was a small mercy that they had not cursed his son. In retrospect, Vernon felt a little ashamed that they showed more sympathy to his child than he had ever shown to Harry. Ever since that freak was found on his door step, he had never said a kind word to him or about him. But that was water under the bridge now. The freaks had said that some long dead freak had come back but how? Vernon could only wonder. They had also said something about prosecuting him and his family for mistreating the child and the one who cursed him said something about telling a Dark Family about how his family had treated that freak. Vernon had known that the boy was a celebrity to the freaks. He remembered how they celebrated his victory 14 years ago.

Vernon knew he had to secure his family. He sent Dudley to Marge with a letter that he was going out of England with Petunia on an urgent errand and he could only hope that Dudley did not come to harm. He and Petunia tried to take a room in a hotel as they left Privet Drive under the cover of night. They spent the night in a decent hotel but the next morning, the manager threw them out for causing a disturbance in his hotel causing some customers to complain or leave. The customers had complained that Vernon's room smelled like rotting meat. When the manager asked them politely to leave, Petunia started insulting him, turning the air blue with her profanities.

As they were thrown out of the hotel, Vernon spotted some freaks keeping an eye on him. They were dressed in their unnatural clothes, not even trying to hide. For the last 3 days, Vernon ran from the freaks. Whenever he thought that he found a place to hide, he spotted one of them spying on him making him run again. Yesterday, he went into his office to apply for leave. That was when he was informed that an audit had discovered his embezzlement of company funds and that by a unanimous vote at an emergency meeting of the board of directors he was dismissed without pay, notice or references. As security escorted him off the lot, he was informed, in no uncertain terms that if he ever showed his face around the company or any of their clients again, he would be arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Vernon had no doubt that all the problems in his life were being caused by the freaks. He thought that he should have shipped the boy off to the orphanage the moment he came into their lives.

As he left the office, he saw several of the freaks spying on him. Taking Petunia he ran to the first place that came to mind. He remembered how hard it had been for them to get back to Privet Drive 4 years ago after the giant took the boat away. When the toothless man returned to the cottage with the boat, he took his family back to the mainland but not until Vernon paid for the door broken down by the giant freak. So, this time, Vernon went to the toothless man and stocking the boat with a week's provisions, he rowed out to the shack on the rock to hide. He had to survive this and may be somehow, someone could help him. Someone who could control these freaks and return his life to him.

BOOM! With a report like a cannon shot, the door was blasted off its hinges. Vernon charged downstairs with a rifle in his hand. Petunia cowered under the bed, shaking with fright. He saw a man dressed in pure black. His face obscured by some sort of net and a wand in his hand. Vernon began to aim his weapon, but before he could, the man waved his stick and Vernon was holding a snake. Yelping loudly, Vernon threw the snake away and the man stepped up to him and said in a high pitched voice, "Your bill has come due, Vernon Dursley. I have been sent to collect the first instalment."

The man waved his stick again and Vernon was lifted into the air before falling back to the earth. He did it a few more times before he again pointed his stick at him and said, "Tortius Corpus", and pitch black light left the stick hitting Vernon in the face making him scream. He could feel the skin being peeled off his body, his bones breaking and his blood clotting in his veins. The torture went on for about 20 minutes before Vernon passed out.

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