Chapter 8: Messrs Moony and PadfootChapter TextRemus Lupin, known to friends as Moony, was having a better day than he had expected. The August full moon was still three weeks away, and the July full moon had been a relatively painless experience. He'd gotten to his old hiding place in time for his transformation, and no one had been hurt. Well, he'd spent most of the night biting himself, but that was a small price for a clear conscience.
It was on this day he'd been reminiscing.
His education at Hogwarts had been better than he had ever dreamed of. With James, Sirius, and even Peter as friends, he'd even had a relatively normal childhood. He feared they'd turn away from him when they discovered his secret, but that just pushed them to become animagi so they could spend more time with their friend. Running through the Forbidden Forest with his friends was better than he ever dared to dream possible. Adding Lily to their group of friends just made things better, for she was possibly the kindest witch he'd ever met.
Then Harry was born, and things got even better. That little boy was a bright light in the darkness that threatened to consume wizarding Britain. A symbol of their hope for the future, their faith that we would find a way to win, and build a better world for the next generation to grow up in.
But it hadn't gone that way. James and Lily were forced to go into hiding after Voldemort took an unusual interest in them. Granted, he'd had it out for the Order since it began, but this was different. It was like their very existence, and the birth of Harry was a threat to him. So they hid at Godric's Hollow, only to be betrayed by one of their oldest friends. He didn't know how long it took for Peter to sell out James and Lily, but he would pay dearly for it. That was a promise.
Voldemort's defeat, while a time of celebration, was also a time of mourning. Harry had become the Boy-Who-Lived, but James and Lily were gone. Sirius was in Azkaban, and Peter was dead, or so everyone thought. It would be a decade before Remus learned the truth, that Sirius was innocent and Peter was alive, but that decade would be a new darkness.
He was a drifter, moving from job to job, town to town. He'd get drunk, a lot, and pick fights with wizards, muggles, squibs, it didn't matter. It gave him something to do, something to think about, other than his loss, and something to feel, other than horrible pain.
Then, after a particularly rough full moon, he had enough. It was the hardest thing he had ever done, but he turned his life around. He'd sobered up, gotten a Mastery in Defence, bought a house, and resolved to be a better man than he had been. One that would make James and Lily proud.
He had gotten a job at Hogwarts teaching Defence and had reconnected with Harry. That had been more difficult than he anticipated. He had no idea who he was, who his parents were, and even worse, had been forced to live with Petunia and her vile husband. That had come as a shock to Remus because he knew how things were between Lily and Petunia. Lily would try to reach a hand out to her sister, only for it to be smacked away, and be followed by a string of vile insults.
He couldn't imagine what life had been like for Harry. He'd thought of asking but figured that if things were as bad as Remus feared, he would open up in time.
Then Harry had found the Marauders Map and revealed that Peter had been seen on it. Somehow, Peter was still alive! He didn't believe it at first, but he had it seen it himself, the day Buckbeak was to be executed. Harry and his friends had gone down to Hagrid's Hut, only to leave it with Peter in tow! Sirius had been innocent the whole time!
Everything went downhill after that, because of his screw-up! He missed his potion that night and transformed. He had attacked Harry and his friends, with Peter escaping during the chaos. Sirius was arrested, and set to be given the Dementors Kiss, but fortunately had escaped! He didn't know for sure, but there was no doubt in his mind Harry had managed it. He was forced to flee, but he still had his life, which meant there was still hope.
Unfortunately, Snape suspected the same thing, and when he couldn't punish Harry, decided to reveal Remus was a werewolf. He doubted the parents would be happy to discover this, and had considered fighting to prove himself. But after nearly biting Harry and his friends, he would concede the point. He had to leave.
After bidding Hogwarts goodbye a second time, he returned to his home, a cottage in Yorkshire. It wasn't much, but it worked for him. His tenure at Hogwarts may have ended, but he had money saved up from the job, enough to keep him going through the summer, while he decided his next step.
It was during a light lunch that he noticed an owl messenger flying towards him. A particular, snowy owl that was recognizable to anyone who had spent more than a week at Hogwarts. It was Hedwig, Harry's owl. Once she landed next to him, he saw the letter addressed to him, along with one for Sirius. Taking his letter, she immediately took off for wherever Sirius was hiding.
Opening the letter, he quickly read its contents, and by the end, he stared at the letter in disbelief. A conspiracy? Since James and Lily died? It beggared belief, especially given that Harry had discovered it and asked him and Sirius for help. After all, Dumbledore was in a much better position to help Harry than either of them. Still, Harry was asking him for help, and he was in a position to get it.
'But what if I screw-up again? What if I transform again, and he can't get away?' His last mistake nearly cost Harry everything. Remus feared the consequences Harry would face if he became a werewolf. 'But if he needs my help, and I ignore him, the consequences could be far worse.'
"No, I'm done hiding. It's time for me to step up for Harry."
The following day, Harry woke up in his room in the house of the people he despised. The day before he had made contact with the goblins, establishing a relationship with them, destroyed a Horcrux, and found a safe house for Sirius and Remus. The resources afforded by his island fortress meant he was more than ready to prepare for the upcoming showdown with Voldemort and Dumbledore.
But that would have to wait. For now, he needed to get ready for the day ahead. Instinctively grabbing his glasses he put them on... only for things to become more blurry than ever before. Assuming he needed to clean them, he grabbed a cloth and took off the glasses. He then realized he could see quite well. In fact, his sight was even better than when he had the glasses. He could discern the finest of details in the room, down to the wood grain of what little furniture was in the room.
Well, that's freaky.
What?
I can see perfectly without the glasses. Better, even, than I ever thought possible.
That's not surprising. I did mention that your senses would be enhanced. Sight is one of them.
But I was still wearing glasses when the ritual was performed.
Because your body had developed. Your 14-year-old body is still developing, so the changes work themselves in more quickly. Check your physical appearance.
Rushing to the bathroom, Harry took a look at himself and was rather stunned by what he saw. He'd gone up a few inches, and his shoulders were broader than before. Most notably, he had begun to develop muscle mass. Instead of the skinny, emaciated teen he remembered, he was starting to look like a lightweight boxer.
Like I said, that's freaky.
Do you disapprove?
Not at all. It just feels weird to be developing like this overnight. I better get a workout routine going.
Good idea. It'll provide a valid explanation for your new physique. Keep the glasses, just alter the lens.
How many changes should I prepare myself for?
I'm not sure. Your appetite has already increased, though that might be temporary as your muscles develop.
I'm not going to develop scales or horns, or anything like that, am I?
No, though by the time you graduate, you'll look like a Greek God.
Well, that's something to look forward to. I'll need some new clothes if I'll be having growth spurts.
Yes, but not now. I don't know how long the 'growth spurts' will last. For now, let's get the book shopping done, after breakfast.
Keeper Ragnok was having, not an unusual start to his day, but an interesting one nonetheless. The day prior, he had finally had his first meeting with Harry Potter, Heir of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter. That meeting had been the most fascinating in his life, involving traitors, horcruxes, and time travel! The Lestrange Account Manager had been arrested afterwards, for allowing a horcrux in Gringotts, only to be released once it was discovered he was under the Imperius Curse when it happened.
As a result, the Vault had been seized by Gringotts, with the goblins taking half of the fortune, and any goblin-made artifacts. Ragnok hadn't told Harry yet, but the remainder of the Vault was now under the ownership of House Potter, and thus, it would belong to Harry. A fitting punishment, considering what the Lestranges, especially that demented Bellatrix, had been responsible for in the original timeline.
While quick and easy, that interrogation and been rather boring for those involved. After everything he had seen and heard, Ragnok was in the mood for a little bloodshed. Griphook did not disappoint.
When the guards had arrested Griphook, he had been 'uncooperative', a euphemism for 'obnoxious', and the guards had been required to use more 'forceful means of persuasion' to get him into his cell. Afterwards, it had been a few hours of questioning, the Truth Crystals of Gringotts allowing no lies, and they had been illuminating, if somewhat disturbing.
As Harry had suspected, Griphook was in league with Dumbledore, but for far longer than expected. Griphook had in fact been working as Dumbledore's spy within Gringotts for years now. Griphook would provide information on the goings-on with Gringotts, and other favours, while Dumbledore would provide wealth or artifacts to further Griphook's career and influence within Gringotts.
Harry would change all that.
The night after Harry's parents were murdered, and he became known as the Boy-Who-Lived, Dumbledore had brought Harry into Gringotts, by means of a secret entrance known only to the goblins. After this, Griphook performed a Blood Test, on Harry, and had given the results to Dumbledore, while keeping an extra copy for himself.
Ragnok had reviewed the results himself, and even he had been astounded.
Gringotts Blood Test
Subject: Harry James Potter
Date Of Birth: July 31, 1980
Parents: James Charlus Potter (deceased) and Lily June Potter 'nee Evans (deceased)
Blood Status: Half-Blood
Magical Core: Unclassifiable
Abilities:
Parseltongue (via matrilineal line)
Animagus: Great Caledonian Fire Drake
Animagus Guardian
Aura of Hope
Aura of Leadership
Total Recall/ Perfect Memory
Resistances:
Potions Resistance: 75%
Poison Resistance: 75%
Imperius Resistance: 80%
Ragnok had never seen a Blood Test quite like this one. He'd never even imagined something like it was possible, especially from a wizard still in diapers!
'Animagus Guardian', it was rare, but Ragnok had heard of this ability. The animagus possess an inherently stronger connection with the wizard, allowing them to communicate on a mental level. What truly made this ability powerful, however, was the animagus was immune to memory modifications. Even if a wizard was Obliviated with the Elder Wand, the animagus would remain unaffected. It was extraordinarily rare, even thought to be a myth, but it was real, and Harry was living proof.
'Auras of Hope and Leadership'', were even rarer, and no one had ever heard of someone possessing both. The Aura's functioned on a subconscious level, discretely using the magic of its owner to influence others.
The Aura of Leadership made its master a natural-born leader. Others would instinctively look to them for guidance and leadership. And that was on a subconscious level. Consciously, it could rally entire armies, and convince even the most die-hard fanatics to abandon their masters in favour of the Aura and its master.
The Aura of Hope was an entirely different story. On a subconscious level, it gave people its namesake, with others believing things would be better in its presence, or where the host was concerned. On a conscious level, it was the most powerful of mental magics aligned with the Light. It could bring even those lost in the depths of despair back into the light of hope.
But the most shocking thing of all was the Magical Core. Contrary to the beliefs of many, the Magical Core part of the test did not measure how powerful a witch or wizard would become. Rather, it was meant as a measure of the Core's actual development versus expected development. A child could have a core labelled "standard" or even "underdeveloped" and they could grow into powerful witches and wizards.
Harry's was Unclassifiable. This meant that even as an infant, Harry's core was beyond anything Gringotts had seen. And after several years of training, there was no telling how powerful he was. In fact, Harry hadn't cast any spells since coming back. Aside from Appartition, everything had been done thanks to Dobby. This meant Harry had no idea as to the full extent of his power.
Afterwards, Griphook revealed the extent of Dumbledore's betrayals and deceptions.
He'd had Griphook place bindings on Harry, and it was that list that made Ragnok privately swear, if he ever got the chance, he'd strangle Dumbledore using his own beard!
Magical Core: BOUND, 13 TIMES - EXPERIMENTAL - WARNING: HIGHLY UNSTABLE
Animagus: Great Caledonian Fire Drake - BLOCKED
Animagus Guardian - BLOCKED, 2 BINDINGS - EXPERIMENTAL
Aura of Hope - BLOCKED
Aura of Leadership - BLOCKED
Total Recall/ Perfect Memory - BLOCKED
Resistances:
Potions Resistance: 10% - formerly 75%
Poison Resistance: 10% - formerly 75%
Imperius Resistance: 10% - formerly 80%
Additional Bindings:
Willpower - 75% BOUND - EXPERIMENTAL - WARNING: UNSTABLE
Owl Mail Redirect
'13 bindings on the core of a baby!?!? By the Elders, what was Dumbledore THINKING!?' Of course, there was something of an upside, although a disappointing one. That final binding on Harry's core was so unstable, it had broken almost immediately after the binding rituals were complete. The magical outburst it caused had killed the healer responsible, thus solving one problem, though denying Ragnok the satisfaction of settling that matter himself.
In any event, that outburst had frightened Griphook to the point he had all but cut-off contact with Dumbledore for a few years, keeping the paperwork as an insurance policy if Dumbledore ever decided to play dirty with him. It wasn't until Harry was days away from turning 11 that Dumbledore came calling, and renewed their old partnership. This time, he was to keep an eye on Harry Potter when he came into Gringotts.
That was the true reason Hagrid had been chosen. Rubeus Hagrid had originally been chosen, he thought, because the Dursleys were known to be 'unpleasant', and Hagrid would certainly intimidate them, even when he didn't mean to. Hagrid was also the one who brought Harry to Dumbledore after the attack on Godric's Hollow, so he already had some manner of connection with the boy.
The true reason Hagrid had been chosen was, unlike McGonagall, he could be manipulated. Sure, he was loyal to Dumbledore and respected the man greatly, but that just meant anything that seemed wrong or out of place on his behalf was likely an 'honest mistake.' Hagrid had originally meant to take Harry to Ragnok. Even he knew the importance of Harry meeting with the Potter Account Manager.
The plan, as he thought it was supposed to be, was he would take Harry to meet Keeper Ragnok and be brought up-to-speed on matters relating to his family. Afterwards, he'd go down into the Vaults with Harry and Ragnok. Ragnok would help Harry get his money, while Hagrid went on to retrieve the Philosopher's Stone. Instead, he'd been placed under mind magics almost the moment he arrived by Griphook, and Dumbledore would handle any lingering confusion personally.
Ever since then, he'd been keeping vigil in the front area, making sure that whenever Harry showed up, he'd be kept as far from Ragnok as possible. And it had apparently worked. In the original timeline Harry never even knew about Ragnok until he had stolen the Hufflepuff Cup and broken out of Gringotts with one of their dragons. That, of course, was after Griphook had betrayed Harry even more than he already had, and stole the Sword of Gryffindor.
Figuring out the answer to that little betrayal had been a bit more complicated, without revealing the changes to the timeline. But the answer was no less disturbing. Griphook was an ambitious goblin, and his disdain and mistrust for wizards were remarkable. His interest in the Sword was not just in 'righting a wrong perpetuated by wizardkind,' but an attempt to rally other goblins behind him. He hoped to stoke the fires of rebellion in the goblin nation and use that momentum not only to usurp King Ragnok but begin another war with the humans.
Fortunately, his attempts to rally support thus far were practically pointless. Very few of the goblins were interested in starting another rebellion, and even fewer wanted to usurp King Ragnok. When the Sword was mentioned, Griphook had explained his intent to use it to rally the goblins behind him, and thus fulfill his ambitions.
It was a bold plan, Ragnok had to admit. Sadly for Griphook, all it got him was his head on a pike outside Gringotts.
'Well, no more time for reminiscing.' Given all that was revealed, Ragnok had decided to conduct an audit on the Potter Account and see just how much Dumbledore and his minions have stolen.
You think I should drop Divination?
Yes, and switch it for Ancient Runes or Arithmancy.
Is it really that bad? I know Trelawney's rather... out there, even for a 'Seer,' but that doesn't mean-
On the contrary: We need to put distance between ourselves and her because of her abilities.
During another breakfast, courtesy of the Leaky Cauldron, Harry and Goliath were having a lengthy conversation about the upcoming school year.
This is the first time I've heard anyone but Dumbledore say something good about her. And that doesn't inspire confidence.
We can blame the staff for that. Her great-great-grandmother, Cassandra Trelawney, was a famous Seer. When the other staff look at her, they see what she isn't, namely Cassandra. Because of this, they don't respect her, or Divination. And if the staff don't respect her-
The students won't either. Is it really that risky being in her class this year?
For two reasons: One, she's already produced two prophecies about you, and when she actually clears her mind of distractions, she can get her divination correct. We can't risk her producing a prophecy about us, especially in class, since it would get back to Dumbledore.
Alright, I can see how that would be a threat. What's the second reason?
Ron'll be taking that class for the easy grade, and I refuse to be near him any longer than absolutely necessary. Otherwise, Trelawney can predict the future with his intestines.
Charming. Alright, after breakfast I'll see about writing McGonagall. But I'm not dropping Care of Magical Creatures-
"Harry?"
Recognizing that voice, Harry turned to the source and found Remus had just arrived in the Leaky Cauldron.
"Remus!" Jumping out of his chair, he ran towards him and gave him the biggest hug he could. Even after travelling back in time, Harry feared he might never see Remus again. After laying him and Nym- Tonks, to rest, it almost felt like yesterday was a dream.
"I'm... happy to... see you too... Harry." He spoke with humour in his voice, but it came out strained, as Harry realized he was much stronger than before.
"I'm sorry Remus! It's just good to see you."
"It's good to see you too, just be careful. I'm not as young as I used to be." Dusting off his jacket, Harry noticed he was looking thinner than he remembered.
"Have you eaten anything yet?"
"I'll be fine, I wasn't expecting to see you so soon."
"That answers that. Tom! The breakfast special for Mr. Lupin, on me."
"Right away Mr. Potter!"
Leading him by the arm, Harry forced Remus to take a seat.
"Harry, you don't have to-"
"I know. That doesn't mean I'm not going to treat the best Defence teacher I've ever had."
"I was only the third. The bar couldn't have been that high."
"True, but after Lockhart, I don't think it could get lower either."
Soon after, Tom brought out a platter of food, and the former teacher and student began catching up.
"You certainly look like you've been keeping busy Harry. I don't recall you having muscles during school."
"What can I say, it keeps me out of the house, and that suits the Dursleys just fine."
"I still can't believe you were raised by Petunia and her husband. I thought they hated magic."
"Magic, me, anything that doesn't fit their idea of normal. Of course, the feeling is quite mutual, so we've been giving each other some space."
"Harry... I-I'm sorry that you had to live like that. If I knew a way to change that-"
"It's alright Remus, I don't blame you for it, so there's nothing to apologize for. I am, however, working on something that is going to get me FAR from those three as possible. If I'm right, by next year I'm going to be with people who actually care about me."
"I'll help however I can."
"Thank you. But enough about that. Tell me about that cottage you've been living in."
Most people who wake up on a tropical island in the Caribbean would count themselves quite fortunate. Sirius Black was not one of those people. To be fair, he was extremely grateful to be somewhere sunny and warm, especially after twelve years in Azkaban. This, however, was not the life he was hoping for after breaking free. What he truly wanted was the chance to set things right.
That night, when Voldemort had been defeated, Sirius had made the biggest mistake of his life. Instead of tending to Harry, insisting that he go with Hagrid if he wouldn't give him Harry, he had gone after Peter. He had pursued that rat, determined to bring him before the Wizengamot to answer for his betrayal. Instead, he had been pranked by Peter and framed not only for betraying his friends but for the murder of twelve innocent Muggles. And instead of being given a trial, where he would be able to prove his innocence, he had been Portkeyed directly into Azkaban and thrown in a cell with the rest of Voldemort's minions.
For twelve years he had languished in that hellhole, with only one thought keeping him truly sane: he was innocent. It wasn't a good thought, because he had screwed up beyond belief. He hadn't done his duty as Harry's Godfather. He had gone charging off like an impetuous youth, so caught up in his own anger and grief, he failed to do what James and Lily would have wanted him to do.
Then Minister Fudge showed up, with that paper from the Daily Prophet, showing him what he was 'missing out on.'And there he was! Peter Pettigrew, alive and well, in his animagus form with a family of wizards. But worst of all, that traitor was the pet of the youngest son of the Weasleys, and he was attending Hogwarts, WITH HARRY! He knew then and there he had to get out. He needed to escape so he could find Pettigrew and expose him as a traitor to the world! But most importantly of all, he had to protect Harry. It was time for him to act like a Godfather.
Things had NOT gone as planned. He'd made it to Hogwarts, after seeing Harry in Little Whinging, and had kept watch for his opportunity. That cat, Crookshanks, was a huge help, and he might have been caught earlier were it not for his help, and his clear dislike for 'Scabbers' as Peter was called. But he had only managed to get him during a full moon! He should have been more careful, he should have timed it better, so that Lupin wasn't at risk of exposing his secret. Instead, he had transformed and nearly attacked Harry and his friends. His animagus form let him protect Harry, but then the Dementors, those vile demons, found him.
He wasn't sure when they brought him to Hogwarts, but he paid closer attention this time around. That bastard Snivellus took credit for catching him, and for 'saving Harry' from him. Then the bastard revealed he was going to be given the Dementors Kiss, a fate worse than death. But then, in what Sirius could only call a miracle, Harry arrived on a Hippogriff named Buckbeak, along with the witch Hermione. Given how well they worked together, Sirius would swear they were a couple but thought to save the teasing for another day.
They had given him the means to escape, and so he did. It had been a long flight, and Buckbeak was certainly cranky by the time they landed, but eventually, they made it out of Europe and arrived in the Caribbean.
They'd set themselves up on one of the smaller islands, one with minimal human presence, magical or Muggle, and kept out of sight. Here he reviewed his options and began considering his next step. He had to find a way to clear his name, but more importantly, he had to find a way to be there for Harry. Before his capture, he'd mentioned how he was Harry's godfather, and if Harry wanted, when he was free, he could come live with him. Harry didn't even need time to think about that. He had immediately accepted.
He didn't think much of it at the time, but now that he thought about it, it set off alarms in his head. After all, he had been feared as a mass murderer since his escape, and in one night he was ready to move in??? Something was going on there, and it could only mean bad things. Who exactly had Dumbledore left Harry with? And there was another problem: Dumbledore. The so-called 'Leader of the Light' had left him to rot in Azkaban for twelve years! In all those years, he never sought to give Sirius a trial or launch an investigation into what happened that night in Godric's Hollow.
If Sirius ever made it back to Britain, Dumbledore would have some explaining to do, and that was a promise.
'Wait a minute, is that an owl???' Sirius had just noticed something flying toward his hut. As it got closer, he realized that it not only was an owl, but a very distinct snowy owl. One that had been used to deliver him messages before his arrival in the Caribbean - Hedwig.
Landing on a tree near Sirius, she waited patiently for him to take his mail, consisting of a letter and a package.
'Huh. I wonder what Harry sent me? I hope he liked his gift.' Collecting his mail, he noticed Hedwig didn't fly off right away, meaning she was probably waiting for his reply. Or she was just tired and wanted to relax.
Not wanting to keep her waiting, Sirius read the letter and went pale as a ghost.
Harry and Remus were sitting in the office of one Keeper Ragnok. Minutes earlier, they had received a message via communication mirror. Padfoot had made contact and was ready to Portkey to Gringotts.
If one looked at the two of them, it would be easy to notice the apprehension both felt at the coming meeting. However, only Ragnok suspected it was for very different reasons. Lupin was worried about the state his friend would be in, and the fact that he was bringing a hippogriff with him. Harry, on the other hand, felt apprehensive from his last memories of Sirius. Memories of watching him die in the Department of Mysteries, and later speaking to him with the Resurrection Stone. This was definitely going to be one of the more awkward reunions going forward.
"He's ready." Ragnok kept it quick, taking that moment to expand the office, making room for their new arrivals.
A second later, with a loud POP, the office had three new occupants: one slightly ruffled hippogriff, the shaggy wizard riding him, and the very annoyed snowy owl perched on his shoulder.
Before anyone could speak, Hedwig flew off Sirius and perched next to Harry, and proceeded to screech at him in annoyance.
"I'm sorry Hedwig. I didn't realize it would be such a long flight." SCREECH! "Wait, you're angry because I didn't bring you any bacon?" Screech! "Alright, I'll get you some bacon as soon as I can. I promise." Hoot! At that, she nibbled his ear and took off.
As she flew to parts unknown, the office was filled with the bellylaugh of Sirius. "And I thought Lily had James under control!" He dismounted Buckbeak and walked towards Harry and Lupin. "She's got you trained godson!"
Grinning at his godfather, Harry rushed forward and wrapped him in a, slightly less intense, bear hug. "It's good to see you too... dogfather."
Laughing even harder, Sirius returned the hug, and while Harry was happy to see him again, he fought back tears when he realized how thin Sirius really was.
Lupin approached them slowly, letting them have their moment. When Harry and Sirius broke away, Lupin stepped forward and was likewise pulled into a hug.
"Moony, you old dog! How have you been?"
"Fine Padfoot. Glad to see you've made new friends." Lupin nodded toward Buckbeak as he said that.
"What can I say? He's so understanding." Sirius had a cheeky grin on his face, one that Lupin recognized as he shook his head in exasperation.
SQUAK! It seemed Buckbeak was unhappy at being left out of the meeting, but when the trio bowed to him, he respectfully returned the gesture.
"Glad to see this reunion, but I believe we have a meeting to carry out, Heir Potter?"
"Indeed. My apologies Keeper."
"Not at all. I'm well acquainted with these two, so I understand the importance of this. Are we meeting here, or at your safe house?"
"That's right pup. Your letter mentioned somewhere Buckbeak and I can be safe?"
"And that is where we're headed." Pulling the bracelet Portkey off his wrist, Harry simply snapped his fingers and the bracelet expanded to allow all in the room to grasp it. With everyone holding on, the Portkey was activated, and three wizards, one goblin, and a very grumpy hippogriff found themselves standing at the gates of a massive fortress.
"Pup... what is this???"
Before Harry could answer his godfather, a dozen house elves appeared in front of them. One among them, an ancient-looking elf wearing black robes stepped forward, bowing his head in reverence.
"His Lordship has returned. Welcome home, Master."
Confused by this turn of events, Harry simply replied "I look forward to answering your questions, and mine."
Chapter 9: Ancient HeartstringNotes:This is a long one, so strap yourselves in.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter TextAfter Portkeying Sirius, Remus, Ragnok, and Buckbeak to the Isle of Wrath, Harry found himself meeting with a dozen house elves. Elves that hadn't been here the last time. The apparent leader, one wearing the black robes of a monk, bowed before him, acknowledging Harry as the new Lord of the Isle of Wrath.
"Um, who are you?"
"This one is called Redtooth. Redtooth is bound to the Lord of the Isle of Wrath. Redtooth served Lord Cicero as Chamberlain. Redtooth now serves Lord Harry Potter."
"Where did you all come from? Last time I was here, Dobby never mentioned you."
"Lord Cicero had us hide in the catacombs below Fortress. Lord Cicero then cast Old Magics, made us sleep, and stay hidden, until Lady Magic would name a new Lord. Now that Lord Harry has returned, we are ready to serve.
"The fallen have all been lain to rest, and the Royal Apartments have been prepared. Would your Lordship like your guests to accompany you to them?"
"Um... yes Redtooth. We'll let Buckbeak explore his new home while we have our meeting."
"As you will, your Lordship."
A moment later they were standing in an impressive bedroom. The room itself was nearly twice the size of the first floor of Privet Drive, and far more welcoming. The northern part of the room, where they now stood, possessed an elaborate sitting area, complete with small silver tables. The chair and couch frames were made of intricately carved wood, decorated with silver, and rich velvet for the cushioning. This sitting area also possessed a large fireplace, one big enough to rotisserie a bear, that roared to life at their arrival. In a corner of this area, the floor opened into a set of stairs that led further down into the fortress.
The eastern wall was dominated by a double door that opened outwards onto a large balcony overlooking the fortress in all its glory, while the southern area possessed a magnificent dining area. The dining table was carved of exquisite dark wood, with high chairs to match. Above it hung an ornate brass chandelier. Where one would expect to find candles, instead there were enchanted crystals, that carried a faint glow, ready to brighten as people sat for dinner.
But the western part of the room was perhaps the most impressive. A set of magically extending stone stairs led to an upper floor, one that contained a massive bed, easily big enough for three people, or more, to comfortably lie upon. Harry could also see the top of a large desk, with bookshelves lining the wall.
The stone walls, of the main floor, were lined with tapestries and hunting trophies, ranging from deer antlers to decorated auroch horns. The floor lacked carpeting, but the stonework was intricate, with flowers, animals, and even some arcane symbols carved and painted into it.
All in all, it was easy to believe this room had been made for a rich and powerful Lord.
"Will your Lordship or guests be needing anything else?"
"No thank you Redtooth. I shall call upon you if we need anything."
With a bow, Redtooth simply disappeared, no doubt overseeing the rest of the elves, and ensuring their transition into their reawakened lives was as smooth as possible.
"Well... umm... take a seat?" Harry gestured to the seating area with a sheepish look on his face.
Everyone took a chair for themselves, though Sirius also grabbed a small table to use as a footrest. Harry, meanwhile, noticed a large chair that resembled the throne. Assuming it was meant for the Lord, Harry sat down slowly and turned to face his audience. Ragnok had a calm, almost serene face, as though wanting to sit back and watch the proceedings. Remus was looking at him with curiosity, wanting desperately to ask questions, but realizing Harry would answer them on his terms.
Sirius, on the other hand, was trying his best to look calm and laid back, no doubt trying to break the tension in the room. But when Harry looked at him, he could see the concern in his eyes, worried at what Harry had gotten himself into.
"So pup, nice place you've got."
"Uh... yeah. It is. Though it's much nicer than the last time I visited."
"Yeah, Redtooth mentioned that. The first time you visited you claimed the Lordship of the island."
"Yes, although technically this counts as my third visit. Or is it my fourth? Originally, I didn't leave much left of the fortress on my first visit."
"Originally? Harry, have you been using a Time-Turner?" Remus took this moment to chime in.
"Not since Hermione and I freed Sirius and Buckbeak."
"Then what do you mean 'originally?'"
Harry simply sighed. "There's more than one way to travel through time, Moony."
Sirius sat up, seemingly catching the meaning. "Harry, are you saying you-"
"Yes, Sirius. I have travelled through time. Physically, I'm the Harry of 1994, albeit with a recent growth spurt." He gestured to the muscles that Remus had mentioned earlier. "But mentally, I am the Harry of the 2020s."
"Harry... how did you do this?"
"I'm more interested in the 'why' Moony."
"'How' is a complicated ritual, performed on the Witching Hour of Halloween at Stonehenge. As for 'why,' I came back in time to set things right. To save the lives ruined and destroyed by Voldemort. But most of all, I came back to end the schemes of Molly Weasley, and Albus Dumbledore."
Remus looked stunned and seemed like he wanted to say something, but Sirius beat him to the punch.
"Harry, I think you should tell us everything. Don't leave anything out."
So Harry told them everything. He told them how this year had originally gone. He told them about the Quidditch World Cup, and the Death Eater riot after, along with the reappearance of the Dark Mark. He told them how he was entered into the Tri-Wizard Tournament against his will, forced to compete as the school turned against him. Remus and Sirius were furious to hear how he had been abandoned by everybody, save for one kind and beautiful witch. They were beaming with pride as he told how he performed in the First and Second Tasks but became silent at the Third Task, and the return of Voldemort.
Things only got worse. The cowardice of Fudge, his letting Dolores Umbridge loose upon the school, with Sirius going pale with the mention of his death. Although, his mood did brighten quite a bit at Harry's mention of Remus marrying Tonks. Or as Harry so eloquently put it: Moony and Nymmie were getting busy. He also perked up at the realization that his brother Regulus had turned against Voldemort, and stolen a horcrux, sadly losing his life in the process.
Things didn't improve much from there, especially at the Battle of Hogwarts, and the deaths of both Remus and his wife, leaving their son an orphan. Remus, for his part though, was relieved to discover his lycanthropy wasn't hereditary. After that, came the intervening years, when Harry became an Auror alongside Ron, only to fly through the ranks while Ron barely got by on his connections as Harry's friend.
They were shocked to hear how Harry had married Ginny, while Ron had married Hermione, who would go on to become Minister for Magic. But that shock turned to rage when Harry mentioned the potions he and Hermione were given. That Ron was a knowing and willing participant, only furthered their rage. "And I gave that bastard an owl," Sirius muttered under his breath.
Then came the animagus ritual, how he had finally managed to connect with 'Goliath' as he was now called, only for the ritual to undo years of Obliviations. Harry told them how Dumbledore had intentionally weakened him, left him isolated and unprepared, all so he could die, leaving Voldemort vulnerable, and allowing him to secure his place as the greatest wizard of all time. He went on to describe the times he and Hermione had shared moments together, where they had confessed their feelings to each other, only for Dumbledore to appear and Obliviate them before they could do anything else.
All of that, he revealed, was done so Harry could, hopefully, impregnate Ginny, making her the underage mother to the Potter Heir. With Harry dead, and her underage, Molly Weasley would step in to act as regent. Molly would then split the fortune with Dumbledore, and he would be free to act as he wished, defeating Voldemort at whatever point he wished, no doubt when Wizarding Britain begged him to intervene, as had happened with Grindelwald.
By this point, Sirius and Remus were looking murderous. Sirius was clutching his chair with such intensity, his knuckles had turned white. Remus, on the other hand, was practically growling in rage.
"Unfortunately, it doesn't end there."
He went on to describe the overwhelming rage he felt, how he had been unable to control Goliath, and how he transformed into the 500-foot-long dragon that reduced an entire country to ash.
They had no words for this. But they were relieved when he told them how Hermione found him here, in the gutted ruins of this fortress, and how she had coaxed him back. She had soothed the rage of Goliath, and it had allowed him to regain control. He continued, telling them of life after his transformation, and how he couldn't take it anymore. He couldn't handle being praised for avenging the people that betrayed him, especially since he was the one that killed him. He couldn't handle the fact his entire life he'd been manipulated and controlled, with even his family a product of potions.
But most of all, he couldn't stand the adulations Dumbledore continued to receive, and how he couldn't do anything about it. After all, Dumbledore's legacy had been all but secured, and nothing he did in the future would change that. So Goliath told him of the ritual that he used and travelled back in time. To save his friends and family from Voldemort, but most of all, to end the scheming traitors before they had another chance to use him.
"And that's everything up till now. I returned yesterday, met with Keeper Ragnok and his father, and secured this place to act as a safe house. This way, Sirius, you, Buckbeak and Remus have somewhere to stay until I secure your freedom."
"Not that I'm ungrateful Pup, but how do you plan on doing that? It sounds like Dumbledore will intervene if you try and get the Ministry to review my case."
"I'm still working on that. When the riots start, I intend to be there, this time, to stop the Death Eaters in their tracks. Anyone who survives will be given a trial. I'm hoping that as a witness, that allows me to speak with someone. But I don't know who yet."
"Madam Bones is the one to talk to pup. She's your best bet."
"The current Head of the DMLE? You trust her?"
"Far more than I trust Fudge, that's for damn sure. But more than that we... have a history. And from what you've told us, it sounds like she isn't even aware I wasn't given a trial. She's very 'by the books,' and didn't join the Order of the Phoenix the first time around. That might give you an opening."
"Got it: Madam Amelia Bones. You Ok Moony? You've been pretty quiet the whole time."
"It's just... so much to take in. Sirius being left to rot, you stuck with the Dursleys year after year, the potions. All of it prepping you to become a sacrifice."
"Yeah, it really is a lot to take in."
"I just wonder one thing: why did he hire me as a teacher? Surely he figured that I'd tell you about your parents, or even your legacy."
"My guess is he figured the curse placed on the Defence position would 'take care of you.' Besides that, he likely assumed that at some point, we'd meet, and he wanted it to happen in a place he can control."
Remus slumped into his chair, running his hands over his face. Before anyone could continue, Ragnok, who had been sitting quietly listening to everything, decided to speak up.
"Before you go any further, I'd like to bring up the goblin known as Griphook."
"I assume you caught the traitor?"
"Indeed, and he had many things to tell us. The most important, when it comes to you Heir Potter, is that he is responsible for far more than just abandoning you to your fate: he has actively helped Dumbledore attempt to bind you to his."
With a snap of his fingers, three pieces of parchment appeared in front of the three wizards. Taking them, they began reviewing the contents, the results of a Blood Test, and subsequent bindings.
"MERLIN'S BLOODY BALLSACK!" Sirius rose from his seat with a roar as he finished the list. "13 BINDINGS!? IS HE INSANE!?!?"
Remus was stunned by the results, and could only stare at the list in shock.
Harry, on the other hand, was slightly more focused. "How are 13 bindings even possible???"
"As I'm sure you're aware, Heir Potter, bindings placed on a magical core without any specifics involved, automatically weaken the core by half. This is why it's so rare to have more than one binding. The first already has the most effect. Your core, on the other hand, was labelled unclassifiable."
"What does that mean?"
"It means your core, at the age of a year old, was already powerful and developed enough that none of our tests could measure it. I'll wager that now that the bindings have been released, your spells are now significantly stronger."
To test his theory, he produced a quill and placed it on a table. Taking the hint, Harry produced his wand and cast a simple spell.
"Wingardium Leviosa."
The quill shot up like a bullet, embedding itself in the ceiling. But that wasn't what caught everyone's attention. Instead, Harry's wand burst into flames.
"ohcrapohcrapohcrap" Attempting to extinguish the flames did nothing, until his wand had been destroyed, leaving Harry holding a feather. Not just any feather, but the phoenix feather that comprised the core of his, now incinerated, wand.
"Well, goblins aren't allowed to wield wands, but even we know they're not supposed to do that."
Harry didn't respond. He simply stared at the feather, which now looked like it had just been handed to him by Fawkes.
"Messrs Sirius and Remus, do either of you have any ideas?"
"No, wandlore was never in my skillset. But... Lily might have known. What do you think Moony?"
"You're right. She studied wandlore, mostly out of curiosity, but she mentioned something like this. When the wand owner changes, the wand itself may no longer respond, so a new one is required."
"Well, I've changed from my original 14-year-old self. But the wand never did anything like this."
"Then it must have to do with the bindings being released, Heir Potter. I'd recommend you go to Ollivanders. I need to discuss some matters with Sirius while you're gone."
"Alright. I'll be back before long." Stepping onto the balcony, the three watched as Harry Apparated away.
"Now then, Sirius Black. The Black Account Manager has asked me to act on his behalf for this meeting..."
Harry walked into Ollivanders and immediately noticed Garrick wasn't out front.
"Hello? Mr.Ollivander?"
"One moment, one moment... Harry Potter! Welcome back, how can I help you?" The old wandmaker had been in the back and was quite happy to see his latest customer.
"Well, Mr.Ollivander, my wand just did something quite... unexpected."
"Oh? What happened?"
"Well, I was practicing my spellwork and..." he simply held up the phoenix feather.
Garrick's eyes went wider as saucer plates. "Mr.Potter..."
"It just burst into flames. Phoenix flames, I should think, because I was holding the wand and I never felt the heat."
"Remarkable. Mr.Potter, as I've mentioned before, it is not the wizard who chooses the wand, it is the wand that does the choosing. Sometimes, a wand will refuse to serve the wizard who originally wielded them, usually due to some great change that has occurred. In this case, the core of your wand wishes to continue to serve, but it has destroyed the holly wood, finding it unworthy. I've never heard of such a thing."
"So, what do I do?"
"Follow me. I shall craft a new wand for you, using the phoenix feather as part of the core."
Garrick led Harry from the front area into a large room. In the centre of this room stood a round table with various carving instruments, along with a stand for holding the wand in place. Lining the walls of the room were tables covered in a variety of woods and wand cores, ranging from feathers to heartstrings, to bones and horns.
"Now, Mr. Potter, go to the wand woods, and with your wand hand, select the wood that feels warmest. Then, you will repeat the process using the cores, selecting whichever ones feel the warmest. Finally, I will need a few drops of blood to determine the wand length and any stabilizing agents that may be required. After that, come back in an hour, and I should have the wand ready by then."
When Harry walked over to the various kinds of wood, he followed Garrick's instructions, holding his wand hand over them, searching for the one that felt warmest. Soon, he found it, and when he picked it up, he heard a slight gasp from Garrick, that gave way to a look of excitement.
"Elder wood, the rarest wood used for wands. They contain powerful magic, but it takes a remarkable wizard to keep an elder wand for any length of time. Those few that succeed are reputed to have been marked for a special destiny."
He has no idea how right he is.
Before either of them could say anything else, Harry walked over to the cores and repeated the process. As he went through the dozens of cores, including various feathers and hairs, he finally settled on one item: a heartstring from some manner of animal. When Harry showed his chosen core, Garrick at first went into shock, only to then look orgasmic.
"Um, Mr.Ollivander? You're starting to freak me out."
"Forgive me, Mr.Potter, but, are you familiar with the Great Caledonian Fire Drake?"
Harry went slightly stiff at the question, though if Garrick noticed it, he never mentioned it.
"Very little. A dragon that went extinct 2,000 years ago?"
"Disappeared, Harry. Not extinct. In the days of the Old Tribes, these dragons were revered as the avatars of Lady Magic, the physical embodiment of her power. They were the largest, and most powerful dragons the world has ever seen, growing to lengths of 500 feet. According to the legends, they were remarkably intelligent, capable of human speech, and would pass on the greatest secrets of magic to those they deemed worthy.
"During those ancient days, they were known to offer pieces of themselves for a select few to be used as components in the most powerful of magics. Then, they simply disappeared. No one knows what happened to them, or why it happened. Many a wizard has delved in search of their ancient secrets, only to be driven mad by their discoveries.
"One wizard, a friend of my father, was one such man. An Unspeakable for the Department of Mysteries, he believed he was close to discovering what happened to them, only to barricade himself in his office for seven days and nights. When they finally broke in, he was dead from blood loss. He had used all the blood in his body to paint the walls with elaborate symbols no one in the DOM had ever seen before. That office is now a DOM research site, with a small team of Unspeakables dedicated to unravelling the mysteries they represent."
"Forgive me, Mr.Ollivander, but what does that have to do with my wand?"
"That terrible event occurred during my fourth year at Hogwarts. That summer, my father took us on vacation in the Highlands, where I stumbled upon an ancient ritual ground. Sitting atop the altar of that site, was a small box, containing that very heartsting, perfectly preserved. My father told me that it was no coincidence I found that site. He promised that one day, I would use this heartstring to create my magnum opus. Today, Mr.Potter, I fulfill that promise."
After taking a few drops of blood, Garrick ushered Harry out of the store and put out a CLOSED sign.
Well, that was interesting.
I must admit, his knowledge concerning my kind was impressive.
So it was all true?
Every word. And before you ask, no, I don't know what happened to the other Fire Drakes.
Why didn't you tell me all this sooner?
Because there was always something bigger for us to deal with: destroying the traitors, returning to normalcy, the ritual, and now getting Sirius set up. I had no intention of keeping this from you, I just wanted to tell you when you could focus on it. I'm sorry for not doing it sooner.
Apology accepted. Now, since we have some time, do we get the book shopping done?
Actually, I see someone you should talk to. It'll save you writing a letter.
Scanning the crowds, Harry noticed a very distinctive hat that could only belong to one witch.
"Professor McGonagall!"
At hearing her name, she turned from the two children she was leading, to the voice calling for her.
"Ah, Mr.Potter. Good to see you. Getting your school shopping done early?"
"You could say that. My wand is... no longer functioning, so Mr.Ollivander is preparing a custom wand. What about you?"
"Welcoming muggleborn students to Diagon Alley. Say hello to Anna Anderson, and Brian Robinson." She turned to the duo that accompanied her. "Children, this is Harry Potter, he'll be starting his fourth year at Hogwarts." The children promptly introduced themselves. Brian was a boy with shaggy blonde hair and had a fearless look to him. He took in everything he saw with wonder, and Harry was quite confident he would be exploring the castle, and breaking the rules, within his first week.
Anna, on the other hand, looked like a brunette pixie, with a small stature, even for her age, to match. She had a look of intense curiosity and fascination. Harry was quite certain this was the next Hermione Granger, even more so when she asked her questions in a single breath.
"Are you really a wizard? Do we all get wands? Can we go see the wandmaker? Do we need any extra books? What kind of spells will we learn? How many spells do you know?"
Harry chuckled at the list of questions while McGonagall shook her head in exasperation.
"Yes, I'm really a wizard. You all get wands. Mr.Ollivander's busy for the next hour. Extra books never hurt anybody. You'll first learn the useful, cool, and fun spells first. And I know 1,752 spells.
"Where were you taking them, next Professor?"
"I was going to show them Ollivanders, but if he's busy then we'll head to Flourish and Blotts."
"Ahh the bookstore." Anna's face lit up at the word 'book.' "Well, how about I accompany you? We can get the kids their books and mine, then if we have time, I'll treat us all to ice cream at Florean Fortescue's. Then we'll go see Garrick."
Before McGonagall could object, the two children gave a resounding 'YEAH!', leaving her both flustered and amused.
As they led the children to their next destination, Harry leaned over to McGonagall. "Are you certain her last name isn't Granger?"
"I was worried I was the only one thinking it."
Harry chuckled at their similar sentiment. "In any event, I was hoping to write to you. It concerns my classes for this year..."
While Harry was in Diagon Alley, Sirius, Remus and Ragnok had finished their meeting, and were lounging about, waiting for Harry to get back.
"So, Moony, the future isn't all it's cracked up to be."
Remus, on the other hand, was far from amused. "Really Sirius? THAT'S all you have to say??? 'Not all it's cracked up to be?'"
"You expected me to say something different?"
"PLENTY!!! Our deaths, Harry being deliberately kept in the dark, the bindings, Obliviations, potions, all of it! And that's all you can say!?"
"What do you want me to do Remus? Jump up and down, scream at the heavens, pull my hair out?? It happened, Harry had to endure all of that. Because I screwed up and because none of us questioned the bearded bastard when we should have. Because Dumbledore had free reign on Harry thanks to that Howling bitch Molly and her traitorous bastard of a son.
"We failed Harry, the first time around. Now we have a second chance, a chance to set things right and protect the people we care about. I'm not wasting that just because I'm furious at everything we've learned."
"I suppose you're right. When did you become the mature, responsible one?"
Grinning, Sirius replied, "I don't know, but I've always considered myself serious."
"I walked right into that, didn't I?"
"Yep! But enough about me. When did you become such a ladies' man?"
"Oh Merlin, no..." Remus went red as a tomato.
"You and Nymmie were getting busy."
"Why did Harry have to say it like that?"
"Well, look on the bright side. You know you've got a shot with her, and your kids won't inherit lycanthropy."
"I suppose that is a good thing. It still feels odd to hear about a future someone else has already experienced."
"No stranger than hearing the man we respected as a mentor and friend is secretly trying to get the son of our best friend killed."
"That's another thing we should talk about. Do we think we can handle him?"
"What, whiskers? Pfft. From what Harry told us, it sounds like without the bindings placed on him, Dumbledick doesn't stand a chance."
"Not Dumbledore, Harry."
Sirius shot Remus a look of suspicion. "What do you mean, 'can we handle Harry?"
"Don't get me wrong, Dumbledore needs to go down for what he's done, never mind what he will do, but you saw it, didn't you? Harry's angry, angrier than I've ever seen. Even when he thought you were a murderer, he didn't show that kind of rage. And I don't think Goliath is helping."
"You make it sound like he's an unhinged monster. Ragnok, you mentioned seeing Harry's memories, do you think he's out of control?"
"No, but from what he described, not to mention the 'Animagus Guardian,' I think it's safe to say that he is in control... for now."
Remus and Sirius stared at him, waiting for him to continue.
"The key is in the depth of the bond they share. With a standard animagus, like you Sirius, the wizard and the animal are clearly distinct. You take on the form of Padfoot, but that's as far as it goes. The Animagus Guardian functions as an additional layer of security, protecting the wizard's mind from external influences, like Obliviation, Legilimency, and even some Potions. It's no wonder Dumbledore went to such lengths to suppress it in Harry.
"But the ritual that Harry underwent in the future has deepened the connection even further. At this point, I don't think anyone could tell you where Harry ends, and Goliath begins. They are so deeply connected that Harry can feel the influences of Goliath. He doesn't just hear his thoughts, he can feel his rage at everything that's happened, so closely I doubt he even knows anymore if it's his or Goliath's."
"Then can Harry keep Goliath under control?"
"For now, definitely. He's specifically planning for the timeline to proceed as normal, aside from a few alterations. He'll be securing the horcruxes, at which point Gringotts will remove the soul fragment, and place the restored item in his Family Vault. Hopefully, by the Third Task, we'll have disposed of all the horcruxes, and Voldemort will be vulnerable.
"From there, I don't know. Goliath spent decades imprisoned within Harry's mind, forced to watch as he underwent torture and betrayal, all while being helpless to intervene. Assuming Dumbledore or the Weasleys don't do anything stupid, or drastic, we should be fine."
"And if they do?"
Sirius answered Remus, "Then we'll be there for Harry. We can handle this Moony. Just trust Harry on this."
"I do Sirius. It's just..."
"What?"
"Hurt and angry students I can handle." He looked at the parchment still in his hands, focusing on the word Unclassifiable.
"But a vengeful god? I doubt anyone can handle that."
Harry Potter, Anna Anderson, Brian Robinson, and to a lesser extent, Minerva McGonagall, were all enjoying Florean Fortescue sundaes courtesy of Harry. He'd taken a liking to Anna and Brian. Anna was proving herself Hermione's equal in terms of curiosity and desire to learn. Brian, on the other hand, was what Harry imagined himself as a child, were it not for the influences of Dumbledore and the Dursleys.
Of course, for now, at least, he had to keep that much hidden from Professor McGonagall. In the original timeline, she'd been willing to assist Hermione, and by the end seemed willing to believe that Dumbledore was not what he made himself out to be. But that would be years from now, and many things had happened. Until he knew for certain, she must be kept in the dark.
An easy matter, as Anna had by now asked question number 73, 'Why is the Forbidden Forest forbidden' since sitting down to their sundaes. She'd been too distracted by the bookstore to ask any questions, while McGonagall had graciously agreed to have Harry drop Divination in favour of Arithmancy and Ancient Runes. It would leave him with less free time, but fortunately, the scheduled classes didn't conflict, and Harry was confident that, with some help, he'd be caught up in no time.
McGonagall had assumed he was referring to Hermione. He wondered how she would react when she learned he had help from elsewhere.
"Well, it's been an hour. Garrick should be ready by now. I can get my wand, and we can get you your wands."
Brian became excited at the prospect of his own wand, though Anna was slightly disappointed to put her questioning on hold. Led by McGonagall, they four headed towards Ollivander, noticing the sign now said 'OPEN.'
"Keep it up, Mr.Potter. That behaviour is exactly what I would expect from a Gryffindor Prefect... and Head Boy."
Grinning at the compliment, Harry said nothing as they went into Ollivanders... and found Garrick looking like he was in a trance.
"Mr.Ollivander? Are you alright?"
Hearing Harry's voice seemed to snap him out of his trance.
"Yes... yes of course. Forgive me, I am simply... overwhelmed."
If I didn't know any better, I'd swear he spent the night with a Veela Matriarch.
Don't put that image in my head. Please.
"Well, I'm here for my wand, and we have two first years here for theirs."
"Right.. yes. Forgive me, I'll be with you two in a moment. First, Harry..."
Reaching under the counter, Garrick pulled out a box which presumably contained his wand. Setting it on the counter, Harry noticed the box was completely black, but the lid had a single word written on it, in gold cursive: Invictus.
"Harry, this is a wand without equal. Only the Elder Wand could hope to surpass this, and that was made, if the legends are true, by Death itself. This one has been built solely by mortal hands. Elder wood, 13 inches long, with twin cores of Phoenix Feather and the Heartstring of an ancient Fire Drake, and a single gram of the purest silver. This wand does not need you to voice a spell, or even move your wand in the required pattern. It is capable of hearing your thoughts and responding in kind. Even if someone were to disarm you, the wand would automatically return to you, for it will acknowledge no other as its master, but you."
Opening the box, Harry saw the most incredible wand he had ever seen in his entire life. It had the faintest glitter to it, as though the silver had been worked into the wood itself. Where the Elder Wand had knobs that looked like elderberries, this one had runes carved into the wood. The runes were noticeably dark, and Harry swore they looked like they had been filled in with blood. Most noticeable of all though, was the grip was shaped like a roaring dragon, with the rest of the wand protruding from its mouth.
With the barest whisper, Harry spoke "Invictus, the Unconquerable Wand."
Before he could even reach out to grab it, the wand levitated into the air, stopping just in front of Harry's chest. Reaching out, he took it in his hand, and felt a great warmth fill him, and the room. The wind blew around him, circling him like the eye of a cyclone, as his eyes began to glow with power, power that had not been seen in millennia. He could hear the song of the phoenix and the roar of the dragon.
With this wand in hand, he felt beyond powerful. He felt unstoppable. He felt invincible. He felt... complete.
With barely a word between them, Harry paid for the wand, a new wand-holster, and a standard wand-care set, for 50 Galleons. Garrick had nearly refused any pay, regarding the work as reward enough, but Harry had been insistent, convincing him to accept it as a tip for his efforts. When he paid, Garrick whispered the wand was free of the Trace, and he doubted the wand would even allow something like that to taint it.
When he turned to look at McGonagall and the kids, they looked like they had seen the face of God.
"Are you three OK?"
Minerva didn't say a word, she merely nodded, though Harry suspected it was more to acknowledge she had heard him. A minute later she had recovered enough to push Anna and Brian forward to receive their wands. After a dozen tries each, Anna received a willow with unicorn hair (she squealed at the revelation that unicorns were real) while Brian got mahogany with a thunderbird feather (which he thought was awesome), with Harry happily paying for both wands.
When the four of them left, and it became time to part ways, McGonagall shook his hand, while Brian gave him a high-five, and Anna gave him her own brand of Hermy-hug.
"I'm back baby!" Harry had apparated into the Royal Apartments and began laughing when his sudden appearance startled Sirius and Remus.
Ragnok chuckled as well. "Glad to see you back. I take it your trip was a success?"
Rather than answer, Harry summoned his wand into his hand. His three guests went wide-eyed at the sight of the wand. Ragnok whispered in Gobbledegook, while Sirius' mouth fell open. Only Remus was coherent enough to answer. "I can feel the power radiating off of it."
"Yeah, I'll have to work on that. But how are things here? Your meeting go ok?"
Ragnok recovered and answered as professionally as he could manage. "Yes, I've discussed all I need to with Sirius. As for you Heir Potter, I believe it's time we finally went through your Family finances."
Taking a seat across from Ragnok, Harry waited for him to continue. Instead, he produced a lengthy piece of parchment and handed it over.
Gringotts Accounting Report
Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter
Current Owner: Harry James Potter, Heir of Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter
Vault 687 - Potter Family Vault (Possesses 3 Subvaults: Treasure Vault, Heirloom Vault, Library Vault)
Treasure Vault Total Value:
62,375,924,605 Galleons
9 Sickles
20 Knuts
Heirloom Vault Contents:
Precious Stones (Diamonds, Rubies, Sapphires, etc.) Total Value: 10,799,356 Galleons, 15 Sickles, 1 Knut
Lord and Lady Rings, Heir Rings
Assorted Jewelry (Rings, Necklaces, Bracelets, Tiaras, etc.) 9,560,192 Galleons, 5 Sickles, 12 Knuts
75 Swords: 50 Longswords, 20 Rapiers, 5 Cutlasses
30 Spears: 20 hunting spears, 10 halberds
2 War-hammers
50 Flintlock guns: 40 muskets, 10 pistols
1,200 Bullets: 1,000 lead, 200 silver
100 Cannons, 500 cannonballs
1,000 Caskets of Gun Powder: stasis enchantments equipped
50 Suits of Armour: 30 Steel, 15 Iron, 5 Silver
12 War Robes
2 Captain Uniforms
Library Vault Contents:
Potter Family Grimoire
750 Scrolls
623 Tomes and Books
50 Stone Tablets
VAULT 704 (Harry James Potter Trust Vault)
Total Monetary Fortune: 20,000 Galleons
Note: Vault refilled with 20,000 Galleons transferred from Vault 687 on July 31 every year between 1981 and 1998
Everything so far had been familiar to Harry, having received a similar list in the original timeline, albeit much later in life. However, at the bottom of the parchment, past the family properties, was a separate list.
Gift Vaults
Vault 1180 to Harry James Potter (1981) Contents: 15,000 Galleons
Vault 1181 to Harry James Potter (1981) Contents: 50,000 Galleons
Vault 1182 to Harry James Potter (1981) Contents: 10,000 Galleons
Vault 1183 to Harry James Potter (1981) Contents: 12,000 Galleons
Vault 1184 to Harry James Potter (1981) Contents: 5,000 Galleons
Vault 1185 to Harry James Potter (1981) Contents: 9,000 Galleons
Vault 1186 to Harry James Potter (1981) Contents: 20,000 Galleons
"Keeper Ragnok, I don't recall ever seeing these Gift Vaults in the original timeline."
"When did you finally receive an Accounting Report from Gringotts?"
"Years in the future. I think it was 1999, around the New Year."
"Well, just in case my future self was being careless, as well as oblivious, I took the liberty of reviewing that list down to the last Knut. There are supposed to be three more Gift Vaults, totalling 72,000 Galleons. I know this because I received notices for the opening of each, given that you were the intended recipient."
"I think I have an idea of where they went, it's just a question of how it was done."
"Griphook. Each year, when you didn't attend your meeting with me, courtesy of one bearded meddler, Griphook would have one of the Vaults 'seized' as punishment for neglecting your duties as a Family Heir. He admitted the finances from the Vaults would instead be divided between Albus Dumbledore and Molly Weasley, placed in separate Vaults only they are aware of. Arthur Weasley has no idea his wife was 36,000 Galleons stolen from you."
"What do you recommend? If Griphook did this every year, then Dumbledick is expecting a fresh transfer of Galleons, probably in a matter of weeks."
"I've already placed an owl redirect on anything meant for Griphook to me. If Dumbledore sends anything to Griphook, I'll respond with a standard letter informing him the intended recipient is no longer employed, due to execution. That'll keep him away from Gringotts for the time being."
"Good enough. Anything else?"
"Just one: you have yet to formally claim this place. Also, it needs a name. According to Redtooth, your predecessor never thought to name it. So that falls to you, Heir Potter."
Thinking over his options, Harry stood from his chair and pointed his wand into the air. With a voice of ironclad authority, he spoke.
"I, Harry James Potter, Lord of the Isle of Wrath, Heir to the Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter, do formally claim this fortress in the name of the Potter Family. Henceforth, this fortress shall be known as the Dragonstorm Citadel. SO MOTE IT BE."
The room briefly glowed, and Harry felt a shift in the magic of the island, as it recognized his claim and the new name it had been bestowed. When he turned to look at his audience, Ragnok was grinning, showing all his shark teeth, Sirius was nodding, and Remus looked impressed.
"That almost sounded like a declaration of war."
"We are at war Remus. We're at war against Voldemort and his Death Eaters. They are the rot that has poisoned Magical Britain as it rots from the inside out. And we are at war with Dumbledore, who fancies himself the Lord of the Light as he skulks and schemes in the shadows like a rat. Make no mistake, this IS a war. A war that will alter the course of Magical Britain, a war that will decide the fate of generations yet unborn. A war in which the final battle draws near. But with your help-" Harry turned to look outside, out into the wider world, that contained his greatest enemies.
"They will never see me coming."
Notes:I had fun writing this one. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.