Aside from his interview, Harry’s month was rather uneventful. That doesn’t mean his plan didn’t progress at all. No, it was quite the opposite. Aside from the public's improved view of the Slitheryns, Harry had the opportunity to sue Guilderoy Lockhart, under the alias the man used to write those ridiculous books. That had netted him a small fortune, which he promptly donated to St. Mungos. Rita, proving her usefulness, milked the situation dry and generated more publicity. It was beyond convenient to have a reporter working for you.
The other changes were based on the way the other students treated him. Although no one apologized, he was no longer scrutinized like before. Now, all the ill intent came from incompetent morons that envied him for one reason or another. But aside from glaring, they didn’t dare to act against him. Good thing too because he doubted he had the patience to deal with another idiot.
The Slytherins, seeing Marcus following him around like a lost puppy, began whispering about the imperius. However, when the two boys that were hospitalized in St. Mungos returned to school, all kind of rumours stopped. Perhaps they were frightened by the scars that were unable to be erased even with magic, or maybe it was the way those boys’ hands trembled from time to time. Whatever it was, it was a positive outcome in Harry's opinion.
After that small event, he thought no one else would get close to him aside from his two shadows, but he was surprised when one brave soul did.
“Good evening, I have something to tell you,” Daphne Greengrass announced with a stony expression, not even bothering with small talk or pleasantries. “My father ordered me to get close to you, so if you could publically repudiate me, I would be thankful.”
“Mmm, why would I earn from that?” Harry asked, examining the girl's expression.
“To hopefully provoke a heart attack to a blood purist,” she stated with a smile.
“I see... While I would enjoy that, I have a better proposal. Join our little group. I’m sure he will not approve," Harry proposed, more as a joke to intimidate the girl than any real desire to have her close.
“I think this is the beginning of a beneficial partnership,” she agreed, leaving him speechless.
And that is how Daphne Greengrass joined their small group.
A few weeks later, Draco Malfoy and Blaise Zabini followed her example. Harry had noticed their glances and nervous interactions but he ignored them, he had never thought they would have the guts to talk with him. It seemed that between two people they had half of the guts that Daphne did.
“Good evening Potter, Greengrass,” Malfoy greeted, blatantly ignoring Theo. “My name is Draco Malfoy and he is my friend, Blaise Zabini.” Harry only raised an eyebrow in response and the blond boy faltered.
"We want to offer you our friendship,” the other boy finished.
“I see... Take a seat, will you? I want to ask something first, is your sight impaired?”
“Ehm, no,” the mocha-skinned boy almost asked, confused at the strange question.
“I see. A shame, really. I would have not believed that is the education that purebloods receive. Purposefully ignoring someone, how crass,” Harry stated in a velvety tone that did nothing to conceal his contempt. None of the boys dared to respond so he kept talking, “I wonder what I can earn with your friendship. Tell me, what can you offer?” he asked, enjoying the way both students squirmed under his taunting gaze.
"My father is-"
Harry didn't even bother to listen to whatever the blond boy was saying. He guessed Malfoy was one of those sheltered kids that only threw their parents name and money to have success in life. A shame, Harry almost got curious about those two.
"What Harry means Draco, is what can you offer, not your father," Theo decided to say, perhaps taking pity on the boy.
That is when the blond faltered. Zabini, who had remained silent until the moment, seemed to arrive to a decision.
“My mother is an expert on poisons of every kind and she taught me everything she knows... Ehm, I’m also good in defence,” Blaise answered with clear hesitation.
Harry only looked at him and smiled. Well, he was officially curious about the boys' motivation to approach him, so he would wait and see what happened next.
“I don't know what to offer...” Malfoy whispered.
“One day you will know."
Harry didn't say this as a promise, just as an eventual outcome. He could feel Malfoy's magic and knew that he could be a valuable ally in the future. Just like Zabini.
In that way, the small group expanded. However, Harry paid attention to the interactions between his newest acquaintances and his oldest shadow, just in case the formers decided to go back to ignoring Theo.
----------------------------------------
A small group arrived at the great hall for breakfast, earning many glances on their path. Harry was humming with satisfaction, which made his companions curious. They were eating when the owls carrying the newspapers flew in, many people's eyes widened in fear and others spat their food in shock. Harry just smiled. November first was the day of the Wizengamot meeting regarding him. How convenient and opportune news can be?
LORD INCARCERATED WITHOUT TRIAL!
By Rita Skeeter
That is exactly what happened, my fellow citizens! Ten years ago were dark times for us, but even the worst death eaters were tried with fairness. This man, however, was thrown in prison without given the same opportunity. Sirius Orion Black, who was named by Arcturus Black (the Lord of the Ancient and Noble House of Black before his death) his heir on the spring of 1981, was captured accused of different crimes. The problem is that no trial took place, as you know, magical records cannot be hidden or destroyed and they are available to the public. Imagine my surprise when I discovered there were no records!
I’m horrified to see a Lord belonging to an old family receiving this treatment, because if he was not granted a trial, what will happen with everyday citizens like us? Will we also be thrown to Azkaban with no further consideration?
I took the liberty to investigate more about the situation and the results scare me to no end. Sirius Black was the magical guardian of Harry Potter, but the man in question was captured on November 4th. However, our hero was placed on a muggle household on the first. Why was the man not notified? Harry Potter's other magical guardian was his godmother, Alice Longbottom, who was tortured to insanity along with her husband by death eaters on November 10th. Why was our young Potter not placed with them? While I’m glad our saviour was spared from their terrible fate, I have to wonder why he was not placed with his legal guardians.
Further investigation led me to discover the will of the Potter's was sealed! For the ones who don't know, a will can only be sealed in the case of a war, after it has been read to all the beneficiaries and with the signature of the Minister, Chief Warlock, and head of the DMLE, who at the time were Millicent Bagnold, Albus Dumbledore, and Bartemious Crouch, respectively. However, it was never read and it was sealed on November 2nd. They were the same people who signed the documents that incarcerated a Lord, and close friend of the Potter family, without trial. Why did they send a baby to the clutches of those muggle monsters? What information did the Potter's will contain for it to be sealed?
Today, Friday, I will be present at the open session of the Wizengamot and I urge you to do the same. Rest assured, my dear readers, I will strive to find out the answers for these perturbing questions!
“You should inform us before pulling a stunt like this,” Marcus complained while reading the article.
“He is right, it is a bloody nightmare because they don't stop staring at us,” Daphne agreed, looking around in disdain.
“I promise nothing.”
"Whatever, I heard yesterday a troll got in the castle. Quirrel came running to the hall and fainted, but no one else saw it, not even the professors,” Draco gossiped.
“It was good that we stayed in Harry's room to have dinner, I like Flitwick even more for giving us permission not attend to the feast,” Blaise added, ignoring Draco's pout.
“He is a sadistic monster,” Theo complained “And you too!” he exclaimed, pointing at Harry.
“It is called exercise, I will one day take you to a gym if you continue whining,” he threatened and the boy's eyes widened in a comic way, but he remained silent.
“It is good to celebrate Samhain as it is meant to, for a change,” Marcus commented and they all agreed.
Harry and his group were having dinner that same day in his room when Ella popped in.
“Young Master, the Wizengamot session just ended,” the little one informed.
“Thank you for coming in person to inform me, dear Ella, have you had dinner yet?"
“I will, at the castle.”
"Would you please do me the honour of joining me and my friends?” he asked, ignoring the three boy's wide eyes and Theo's amused expression, Daphne was too concentrated on her chocolate éclair to notice.
“Of course,” she agreed and sat beside him, a plate appeared in front of her.
“Hello, Ella,” Theo and Daphne greeted in unison.
“Hi!” the little one greeted excitedly.
“First thing first, how are the new members integrating into the family?” Harry asked, referring to the new elves.
“It is so sad Young Master, most of them are healthy now but a few still need time to heal. They didn't want to accept clothes, shoes, or food. Bad masters washed their brain. But they are starting to adapt, many like to wash in the cleaning waterfall,” she commented and began eating her food after a few moments she continued. “They like their new names and enjoy the work. Misa and Cleo enjoy making clothes.”
“Good, they should take care of themselves during their pregnancy,” Harry approved.
“They are healthy and Lady Elizabeth enjoys sharing designs with them. Though we still have to be monitoring some of them constantly for them not to find ways of punishing themselves,” she sighed and continued eating.
“I will talk to them tomorrow. I feel their magic growing so I won't worry too much. I assume they are been taught the correct use of language and I will need to speak with Rome about how we will be distributing them around the house... I have to think on the Yule presents too,” he muttered and got lost in his thoughts. "What happened in the Wizengamot, Ella?"
“It was fun!” she announced and Harry wondered if psychologists treated elves. “Miss Blair destroyed them! Many people came to watch. When Madam Bones requested a trial for Mister Black, they had to agree for the pressure they received. He was declared innocent, the rat was condemned to thirty years in Azkaban, the man with the white beard and hideous clothing was the most vocal about denying him a trial... Mister Black demanded your parents' will to be released and all the people who were watching agreed, he also demanded your custody and it was approved. Miss Blair is having all the fun though, she is suing Millicent Bagnold, Bartemious Crouch, and Albus Dumbledore for compensations,” she informed with stars in her eyes.
“That is good to know, finish eating before you leave, dear.” She nodded and kept eating, throughout this time Draco, Blaise, and Marcus looked confused.
“Thank you for the dinner, sir.”
“Thank you for the company, Ella. Do have a restful night.”
“Before I leave, I must tell you that the Minister is getting desperate for approval, be careful sir, goodnight,” and she popped out, after a few moments, the shocked boys composed themselves.
"Why did you treat her like that?” Draco asked.
“Like what?”
“You know, a person," Draco said with clear hesitation, making Harry sigh in exasperation.
“Elves are powerful beings, capable of feats that no wizard would ever dare to dream of. However, they are unable to create their own magic, the reason why they form a bond with a mage. They turn the magic given to their own and, in exchange, they offer their aid. However, that tradition was perverted by our ancestors in their belief that they were superior and started treating what once were close friends and allies as slaves. Nowadays, the bonds are so weak that they don't have enough magic to perform things they once did. The bond I share with the two elves in my house is so strong that father forgets my existence and I live in my room, they can manipulate minds with nothing more than sheer desire,” Daphne explained.
“But we were taught they are nothing more than beasts!” Draco exclaimed.
"We were also taught that no half-blood could ever be more powerful than a pureblood and here we are,” Marcus commented and the blond shut up.
“Magic is magic and is present in different ways. Most magical species have different abilities, and many times, their magic is purer than ours is,” Harry said in a serious tone.
"What about muggleborns?" Blaise asked with genuine curiosity.
"They do tend to be unusually talented and overly ignorant. Do some research and ask me again, but don't forget that blood has nothing to do with power.”
----------------------------------------
Winter holidays arrived at last, much to Harry’s pleasure. The school was getting on his nerves and people were on the border of making him lose the little patience he had. But what irritated him the most was the headmaster's disturbing interest on him, such as the time he was called to his office to discuss his vacations, it was good Professor Flitwick accompanied him. He needed to get the man a good present for Christmas.
“Harry, it is good to see you,” Dumbledore greeted, ignoring the professor.
“Headmaster,” Harry said and waited for the old man to talk.
“I see that you didn't put your name in the list of people who are staying over. I know your godfather is free but he needs time to heal and-"
“I’m sorry to interrupt, but I’m not going with him. I’m going to the orphanage, a lot of help is needed this time of the year.” It was a simple enough lie.
“I see, my boy, but wouldn't you like to stay at the castle? Our Christmas feast is wonderful!” the headmaster said with an overly excited tone, wearing a genial smile.
“I would rather go home,” Harry said, confused at the desperate glint on the old man’s eyes.
“I see no more reason to continue this discussion, Mister Potter has classes, Albus,” Flitwick announced and they left the office.
Harry frowned at the memory but decided to ignore it for the moment. He guided his group to the compartment he had used the last time on the train. He took a seat and signalled them to do the same.
“If I had known this compartment existed, I would have never ridden in the others,” Marcus pouted, glaring at the comfortable seats.
"What are you planning on your holidays?” Draco asked, "we have to go to the Ministry ball, but mother promised to take me to that new restaurant and clothes shop.”
“I will listen my grandfather complaints. Well, at least I will have my elf,” Theo sighed.
“Same as the bleached blonde, but mother wants me to hang out with a girl that she likes,” Marcus complained.
“I will be the perfect daughter,” Daphne added before Draco snapped at the older boy.
"We will visit my grandparents in Italy,” Blaise informed them.
“The Ministry also sent us an invitation to their ball. Opportunist buffoons won't leave me alone. Anyways, I will travel with my sister to the Asian Empire,” Harry said leaving them shocked.
“Sister? You have a sister!” Draco exclaimed.
“Adoptive sister,” he explained, taking out a book from his backpack.
"Will we finally be able to get the backpack you promised?” Daphne asked, once again diffusing a troublesome situation.
“You will, a new shop will open in Diagon Alley tomorrow, go there. Give your names and you will be able to choose the design you like,” he said.
“That is great! The Ravenclaws would have followed your example if they were not so jealous, the Slytherins are afraid, the Gryffindors stubborn, and the Hufflepuffs don't want to offend you. But I bet most of the school will have them when we go back,” Theo analyzed with a wide smile.
“I wanted to talk to you about something,” Marcus said in an almost inaudible voice when the train left the station. “Have you ever heard of the Slytherin Guild or Hogwarts Court?” he asked, looking around and only receiving some curious glances. “A Guild is formed when a Slytherin fulfils the following requisites: defeat the person that rules the house by force, defeat the person who follows him or her in power by cunning, and earn the respect of at least half of the people on each year in the House. Harry already accomplished those three.”
"What benefits does a Guild have?” the boy in question asked.
“A Guild rules Slytherin, even the prefects obey him. They put the rules and the house follows.”
“Mmm, I think I like the idea of a Guild,” Harry smirked.
"What is a Hogwarts Court?” Daphne asked.
“A Hogwarts court is a Slytherin Guild applied to school, but with a defined leader or a king," Marcus said, eyes fixated on Harry.
"What do we need to form a Court and what are their duties?”
“To form the Court you need to: have every house respect the leader, have at least ten powerful members, and have a person of each house in the Court. However, the benefits are unbelievable, the last Court was formed seven hundred and something years ago, the Queen was reported to have control over Hogwarts. Common rooms, passages, wards, ghosts, portraits, and many more. It was written that the power she had over the castle rivalled the one from the headmaster because she recognized both as her protectors."
"We will establish a Guild once we return, the Court will have to wait,” Harry decided and everyone agreed. They had found their King.
“Brother!” Elizabeth exclaimed and he was attacked with a hug that threatened to bruise him later.
“Elizabeth,” he greeted and hugged the girl back. “May I introduce you to my friends? Theodore Knott, Marcus Travers, Daphne Greengrass, Blaise Zabini, and Draco Malfoy. She is my sister, Elizabeth Potter.”
“Adopted you say...” Theo muttered and was hastily elbowed by Daphne. Though, she had to admit the similitude was staggering.
“Pleased to meet you. Now, I apologize, but my brother needs to deal with his childish godfather and a few elves,” she said with a smile.
Love what you're reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.
“I will see you after New Year,” Harry said and the siblings left.
“She is pretty,” Draco commented with a slight blush.
“Never mention that to him,” Marcus warned, smiling when the boy blanched.
----------------------------------------
Harry and Elizabeth arrived at the manor through a portkey and he admired the grounds, satisfied. Even when he liked winter, he appreciated the ever-present spring inside the castle wards. He heard his aunt's voice from the moment he put a foot inside, it seemed his childish godfather would be eviscerated by the angry woman.
“Aunt Eleadora, I missed your sweet voice,” Harry announced and was enveloped into a tight hug. He did not miss his godfather's thankful expression.
“Here you are dear, it is so good to see you, I would have gone with Lizzy but the idiot had to try and play a prank. Now we need to find another formal suit,” the woman lamented.
“I didn't know it was meant to be formal, it looked like a dress to me!” the man defended himself, cowering behind an exasperated elf.
“And that, dear sister, is the ignorance of this country personified. Do try to not follow his example.”
“Yes, that... Wait, how dare you, little brat!"
“I see that you are recovered Sirius, however, do refrain from playing any prank in the property. Though, the guards are always looking for decent target practice,” he commented, smirking at the man's wide eyes.
“You got too much of Lily, I swear that the only thing that came from your father is the name and the hair colour,” the man complained.
“Whatever, are you ready for the trip?"
“Yeah, I tried to contact an old friend but I can't find him,” the man complained, looking serious for a change.
“Sirius, have you thought about asking an elf to see where your friend is?” Eleadora asked.
“I... No, I never even considered it,” the man said with wide eyes.
“You can stay, I doubt you will have fun with us and it is obvious you want to see that friend of yours,” Eliza told the man who nodded.
“We have time to catch up Sirius, besides we have met every weekend since you were taken from Azkaban, you can always join us later,” Harry said taking pity on the confused man.
“I will stay, but I will go there for Christmas,” the man announced “Have fun pup, ladies!” he said as farewell going to look for an elf with haste.
“I’m kind of glad that man didn't raise you,” Elizabeth said while they waited for their elves to join.
“I’m too, dear sister, I’m too,” he agreed. “Never mind, now that we are all here let's go,” and with that order, three humans and four elves disappeared from the castle.
They arrived at a parlour that while simple was tastefully decorated. Harry walked towards a window and raised an eyebrow at the sight, large fields were covered in snow but no other house was in sight.
“If I’m not wrong, Ploutos said he bought a small cabin... Once again, I’m showed how much better taste elves have,” Harry commented with a diminutive smile grazing his face. “I believe it's time for dinner here, do you want to go to a restaurant?” he asked the people in front of him. When he saw the mutinous pout of Lea, the cook for the trip, he added, “to taste the food this country has to offer.”
They popped to the closest magical city, where they found a tasteful restaurant and walked in. Harry thanked his excellent memory for he only had a few months to dominate the language. They were led to a small room that had a table in the middle and waited for their food. He was pleased when it arrived, he had ordered a Kaiseki type of dinner that included a taste of everything, he smiled at his elves wide eyes at the variety of unknown food and saw the sparkle in Lea’s eyes at the possibilities. It seems he would be able to enjoy these delicacies for a long time.
After paying for the dinner and thanking the people who served them, they walked through the city, finding many souvenirs in the process. His aunt was fascinated by the books and lamented the fact she only knew the basics of the language, his elves bought many types of street food, fascinated by the differences. Harry took advantage of their distraction to look for presents for all the elves, considering he now had more than four hundred, it was going to be an arduous task. Afterwards, they popped back to the ‘cabin’ for a restful night.
The next day Harry woke up early, three twenty-seven, to be precise. He sighed at the time zones messing with his internal clock. Knowing sleep was not an option, he began doing his homework, by the time Ella came to wake him up, he had finished and had nothing else to do. He got ready for the day and went downstairs only to find two zombie looking females.
“Why do you look so alive?” Eliza complained.
“That is not normal,” Eleadora agreed.
“It's a secret,” he stated, taking a seat. A salad fruit and juice appeared in front of him, remembering Lea’s curiosity for the food, he called her and she popped in.
“Does young master want a different breakfast?” the little one asked, confused.
“No, dear, it's delicious. I wanted to ask you if you want to take classes in here, you enjoyed the food yesterday, so I thought you would like to learn how to make it,” he explained to the little female who nodded enthusiastically. “Good, today you can look for places to learn.”
“Thank you sir!” the excited elf exclaimed.
“Today both of you go and see the city, I have matters to take care of. Ploutos is coming with me, so don’t worry,” he explained the women.
“You are just like Lily; she never lost a chance to make business... Did you know she dated an Asian duellist before?” his aunt asked with a wide smile, her eyes glinting in mischief.
“Of course, they were together for a year and a half,” he responded, spoiling the woman’s fun. “If I’m not wrong she broke up with him when he suggested her to leave England because of the war. But do try to tell Sirius, he probably believes my father was her first boyfriend,” he suggested with a smirk.
“Yeah, James and his friends could be... dense."
Days went by in similar a fashion. His sister had been the one finding presents for all the elves, which included objects from the muggle side of the place. She was making plans with Eleadora for what the menu of the new cafe would contain, taking ideas from the Empire cuisine.
At last, the day to visit the royal palace arrived. Seven people dressed and ready popped to the castle.
Rich colours were the first thing Harry noticed, along with breathtaking carvings, taking an immediate like to the decoration of the place.
“It is good to meet you, Lord Potter,” an old man who was wearing silk clothes and had a slight accent greeted.
“Your Highness,” Harry bowed, thanking the time he spent practising. “I’m not a Lord yet, so please, call me Harry."
“Ah, I see you have learnt our traditions, good to know,” the man approved with a twinkle in his eyes. “May I introduce my granddaughter and heir, Hwasa Nur Wu,” he introduced a slight girl with rich caramel skin.
“Pleased to meet you, may I introduce my companions?” he asked after bowing to the girl. “My aunt, Eleadora Pittsum, my sister, Elizabeth Potter, my friends and confidants Lea, Ares, Mars, and Ploutos.”
“Pleased to meet you, it is good to know that you do not share the British idiocy concerning elves,” the man approved. “I myself work along with Yosei, fairies that have similar powers to elves and who, I must admit with shame, my people hold with little regard. Let’s go to the dining room, I’m an old man after all.”
They followed the man and again he approved their good taste, an occidental style table waited instead of the traditional, he guessed they wanted to make them feel at ease with the familiar furniture. They all took a seat and food began to arrive.
“Thank you for inviting us, Emperor Shi Huan,” Harry told the old man.
“I wanted to meet the child of Lily Evans. Did you know she dated my nephew years ago?” the man asked with mischief shining in his eyes.
“I did, Hanyu Takashi if I’m correct,” he said, ruining the man’s fun.
“That one, your mother was a true jewel, too bad the moron let her go. I was more than willing to accept the wedding,” the man sighed.
“My mother was a brilliant woman.”
“Yes, it is good that you inherited more than her beauty,” the man nodded looking at his aunt. “Hags have powerful magic that interlaces with blood magic, ignorant British Ministry does not appreciate what they have.”
“I could not agree more,” Harry nodded.
The rest of the evening was passed between food and laughter, he learnt about how did the empire work. Apparently, the country had been built before muggles created countries. They had multiple cities spread through the continent, where the Emperor assigned one of his Yosei to overview. There were ten magical schools, four dedicated to teaching the basics to children age nine to twelve, afterwards, there were many choices for specializations and five magical universities for later studies. Harry had to admit being impressed, especially when Hwasa mentioned a few of the subjects. It seemed his mother had gotten inspiration from the Asian education system, which would explain the variety of books and extensive notes on different subjects.
Throughout the night, he discovered the emperor was a jovial man with a somewhat twisted sense of humour and the princess was an intelligent teen with who he shared many interests. Overall, it was an excellent evening and he was looking forward to their dinner next week. He had also realized his mother had an excellent taste in suitors, first a member of the royal family and then a future Lord. Although she had loved both, she approved of personal power and both had that to spare. He decided that moment that, if he ever dated, the person would need to be as intelligent as him, as beautiful as his mother, and powerful in their own right.
It was the twenty-fourth when the princess arrived at the manor. She had taken a liking to his sister and both enjoyed pestering him to take them out. It seemed the Emperor had found a way of having a peaceful holiday by sacrificing him, not that he could blame the old man. They were chatting in the parlour, with Lea bringing them her little experiments with food when Sirius and a worn-looking man popped in.
“Good evening Sirius, yes, of course, you can come. We have no plans nor guests, how thoughtful of you,” Harry said with sarcasm dripping off his words and saw the man about to answer when he saw their guest.
“And who is this lady? New girlfriend, you-“
“She is Princess Hwasa Nur Wu, next in the line for the crown,” Elizabeth interrupted the man before he said something even more stupid.
“I apologize, my godfather has the tendency of forgetting the uses of a brain,” Harry explained.
“I see... I understand how hard is to deal with feebleminded individuals. Elizabeth, let’s go for a walk,” Hwasa said and both disappeared. Harry only sighed, thinking about how the princess would overstay her welcome and annoy him when there were no witnesses, using this event as an excuse.
“I hope you are happy now Sirius,” he said to the man who looked like an ugly kicked puppy.
“How was I supposed to know?!”
“Ah, asking would be an excellent start. Sorry for the idiot,” he apologized to the other man.
“I’m used to him. Remus Lupin,” the man introduced himself.
“Harry Potter, a pleasure,” he responded. “Mother wrote about you, if what she said was true, would you please control your friend?”
“I will see what I can do,” the man answered, smiling at the pouting Sirius.
“You are getting too cocky squirt. I’m your godfather and that means that you have to respect me,” Sirius demanded.
“When you start acting your age.”
“See what I told you, Remus? He has no sense of fun or humour! What would James say if he knew the next generation does not want to follow our footsteps?”
“He would look at my mother and agree to whatever she says,” Harry answered instead.
“Cruel, that is what the child is. We need to teach him how to have fun, he is always reading! Do you remember the muggle torture machine Lily enchanted? Her son does the same, he runs every morning!” the man exclaimed, horrified.
“I’m going to find the girls, Remus please control him. I hope we are able to talk without the drama queen in the middle,” he said and left. Sirius had a tendency to exaggerate, attribute that amused and annoyed him at the same time.
The holidays flew by with a particularly interesting event. Hwasa and Harry were in a snake reserve to talk with the parselmouths, it was a surprise for him to discover he was one. The emperor had given him a thick tome containing information about parselmagic that he read with devotion. Harry had no idea how he ended up possessing the talent, but he was satisfied. After hiring two people to work at the reserves, the boy wondered how similar snakes were to dragons if parselmouths were able to understand them...
Before he knew it, he was back in England, a day before the train parted to Hogwarts. He had enjoyed experimenting with a new culture, finding food he enjoyed, making many interesting deals, and finding a person who shared his sarcastic nature. Now he was sitting along with his sister, aunt, and Remus in the new cafe he opened. It was an elegant place with three floors and a large patio, being a novelty, people crowded the place to the point the same system as the restaurant had to be implemented. He saw familiar faces approaching and smirked at their wide eyes.
“This place has style,” Daphne said as a greeting.
Harry smirked in acknowledgement, "You already met my sister. I introduce you to my dear aunt Eleadora, and a family friend, Remus Lupin. My godfather tried to play a prank on the security elves and now is serving as target practice,” he informed the amused people. “They are my friends: Theodore Nott, Marcus Travers, Daphne Greengrass, Blaise Zabini, and Draco Malfoy,” pleasantries were exchanged and they sat down.
----------------------------------------
Remus Lupin lived in a constant state of confusion ever since Sirius had found him. After hours of apologies and tears, they began to talk about their lives. When Sirius described Harry, he could not help but imagine a small James with Lily’s personality, however, when he met the boy, he was beyond surprised. He did have some Potter traits but most of him was pure Lily, even his hair looked like his mother’s in the sunlight. He was not expecting Harry to be a Slytherin, nor to accept his furry problem as if it was a simple quirk instead of a dangerous curse.
He was surprised when the child asked if he had wolfsbane in a blasé tone and had been dumbfounded when he was asked to offer jobs to werewolves. Harry said that they tended to have an excellent memory, never forgetting a scent or a face, making them excellent undercover guards for his business. The salary was more than excellent plus the additional bonus of wolfsbane and a safe place to turn in the Potter sanctuary. Dozens of werewolves were given jobs and acceptance, Remus thought that Harry didn't understand how important this had been. With that simple act, he gained the unwavering loyalty of dozens of werewolves. It was understandable for him to be in a constant state of amazement, and now, when he was meeting the boy’s friends, it was no different. Most of them were children of death eaters, but seemed to adore Harry.
“I hope you enjoyed your presents,” Harry said to the newcomers.
“The necklace is a work of art,” the girl said with a smile.
“Go is a game that I never imagined that existed,” sighed a dreamy boy.
“Father almost had a heart attack when he discovered the shoes you sent me were made by muggles,” Malfoy's son chuckled “You have to tell me where to get more though.”
“A shop will open in a few months, we are still getting the materials,” Elizabeth said with a gentle tone, signalling the menu that appeared on the table.
“My father looked on the border of tears when he discovered the tasteful new stores were based on muggle designs. I think he is still having a breakdown after he praised the fountain pens that you sent me,” the oldest teen commented, looking blissful.
“It seems my mother was the only one pleased seeing the robe you sent me,” a dark-skinned boy said with a smile. “Did you like your presents?”
“I did, books make me infinitely happy,” Harry answered, looking amused for some reason.
“How did you get a place in here?” Malfoy's son asked and Remus wondered how did he and Harry even become friends. “Mother did everything she could to get one, but she only got a table a week from now.”
“The perks of owning the place,” Harry said, laughing at their wide eyes. “Order whatever you like, it is my treat today.”
“So that is why so many people come here, there is so much to chose,” Daphne whispered.
“You should try the matcha latte, it is delightful,” Eleadora suggested the girl and she agreed. Minutes later the food was served and they enjoyed their last evening before classes.
Harry's friends didn't have the best parents, Remus decided, but it would be hypocritical of him to dislike children for their parents' sins. In the end, it was Harry's decision who to befriend and he had no right to interfere in his life. That didn't mean he wouldn't take care of James' son.
----------------------------------------
The train ride was uninteresting, except for the fact that most of the students seemed to be carrying a backpack. The feast was plain boring as always, while Harry tried to ignore the looks from the head of his house and the headmaster. However, the other professors smiled at him. He had sent a gift card to his shops and a reserve for both the restaurant and café to all the teachers including Madam Pince, Poppy Pomfrey, Rubeous Hagrid, and Argus Filch. He, for obvious reasons, ignored Snape, Binns, Quirrel, and of course, the headmaster. Harry had given professor Flitwick a special briefcase with the man’s initials as a way of thanking him for all the aid.
However, the attention he was receiving would not distract him from the most important event of the night, establishing a Slytherin Guild.
They took a seat in the common room, a thing that was not usual, so many people stared but no one would dare to ask. They waited until the room was full and Marcus spoke.
“We will establish a Guild from this moment on,” he announced, his deep voice demanding all the attention of the observers. “Most of you may know what a Guild is, but I will explain either way. The Slytherin Guild is in charge of placing rules and enforcing them, we order and you obey. Does anyone wish to challenge our authority?” he asked, few seemed to want to, but a look at the boy that had defined the hierarchy months ago was enough to keep them silent.
“It is good we can all agree,” Harry said standing up, and even with his gentle tone, people were not fooled. “We have simple rules, so please, don't break them because no second chances are given. First, the words mudblood, blood-traitor, and everything related to blood supremacy are forbidden. You may believe in that ideology but don’t ever let me catch you speaking about it or acting on it. Second, no bullying. I don’t care what your excuses are. If you feel the need to feel powerful by harassing helpless insects go ahead, but if I ever hear a whisper about it, you will plead me to be as lenient as I was with Marcus. Slytherin is a noble house, don’t you dare to blemish it with your uncouth actions. You will act like civilized people. Third, be polite to everyone, from the house-elves to the first generation magicals, or muggleborns, as you call them. I will not tolerate a single act of foolishness from now on. These are simple rules, don’t dare to force my hand because you won’t like the results.” he threatened, giving his public a gentle smile that contrasted with his words.
“Also designate a representative from each year to speak with us, excepting our year. Our duty is to help, so if anyone has problems in any subject, we will find a solution. We will be changing the common room for a place where you can actually work in, anything you need, don’t be afraid to request from us and as long as it is reasonable, we will make it.” Daphne announced with that regal air that made people nod in agreement. “Good, have a restful night then,” she dismissed them and everyone but them left the common room.
“I expected it to be harder,” Blaise commented.
“Either way we did it, Rome?” Harry called his elf.
“Master Harry called,” the little one said popping in.
“Yes, I want to ask you a favour. Have this place decent for tomorrow and bring as many elves as you need to redecorate it. It needs to be bigger, has good illumination, has enough sitting places and tables to work in, and please, put some curtains on that window. I trust you, dear Rome, you know what to do,” he said and the little elf was analyzing the room with distaste.
“It was time, no Potter should be in such a place,” the elf announced and left with a pop.
“I want to see how this place looks tomorrow,” Draco said in anticipation. “Dobby, my house-elf, is still wary of me but at least I convinced him not to punish himself. I will offer a personal bond in the summer. Mother wants to meet you by the way; she invited all of you to the manor this summer.”
“I have a trip planned but we can meet, you should also come to the castle, my elves don’t have enough people to take care of. Though the businesses are enough to distract them from organizing a revolt,” Harry said, looking seriously concerned, not noticing his friends’ incredulous expressions.
“I also talked with my elf. We made a personal bond instead of the family one a few days before school. She looks healthy and happier than I have ever seen her, I asked her to make father forget he has an elf so she can be in peace while I’m gone,” Marcus commented.
----------------------------------------
“I told you elves are powerful. Now, time for bed, we have too much to do tomorrow,” Daphne ordered and everyone went to their rooms.
The next morning they were sitting in the common room from an early hour, waiting for the people to arrive and admire their new space. Slytherins walked in, amazed at the majestic splendour of what once was a dour place, the light fell from the ceiling and people were confused to notice strange things that were responsible for it. The floor was black stone and the walls pale cream, green couches were arranged in different places surrounding white tables and over silver rugs. Many white bookcases filled to the brim with books dominated one side of what used to be an empty wall, next to small desks with separations to work on. There were many white tables surrounded by comfortable looking green chairs. Few noticed that the room was twice as big as it once had been, but everyone noticed that what the Guild promised became truth, and that horrifying realization made them understand that punishments were included. No one dared to consider disobeying the rules the Slytherin Guild had established.
----------------------------------------
Severus Snape was itching to find a way of punishing the boy for such a blatant show of disrespect. Most of the teachers, including the ones that were in charge of the electives, had received gifts from the brat, thanking them for their dedication to teach the next generation. It had been a subtle jab that had hurt his pride, but he was not able to punish the Potter brat for that. He was paying attention to his snakes when he felt his blood turn to ice.
Harry Potter and his friends were sitting in the middle of the table and his snakes were divided by year. As a snake himself, he knew what that meant but did not wish to believe it was possible. He could not have done that... But no matter how much he denied it, the image did not change. A Slytherin Guild was created after more than a century. Severus understood that if he messed with Harry Potter, the whole house would turn on him, the boy had overpowered him without even trying and that idea frightened him more than he was able to express.
----------------------------------------
Headmaster’s Private Quarters, Hogwarts
Albus Dumbledore was reading the last report of the long school year. Nothing had been going well for him. After Easter, a few Gryffindor students had tried to pass all the obstacles and they were almost murdered by the troll. He would have been impressed if not for the amount of trouble it caused. Filius had been livid to discover the measly defences he put on the door and had gone to the DMLE without hesitation, putting in risk his own job, but stating that his honour demanded him to protect the students. Madam Bones had been ruthless with her sanctions; every single teacher that had known was in probation except for Filius. Albus, as the Headmaster, had been the one to receive most of the repercussions. The fine he could deal with, even if his vault had never looked so miserable before. What really bothered him was the constant scrutiny he was now subjected, even the most diminutive mistake would have him kicked out of the castle.
Minerva had been furious enough to almost step down as Deputy Headmistress and rip him a new one in the process. It was good that Filius had managed to speak with her and agreed to share the responsibility. The problem is that what happened with the DMLE was nothing compared to the complications that Harry Potter presented.
Albus observed the strange interactions of the Slytherins the first day of classes after the Christmas holidays, he was curious but he dismissed it as unimportant. That had been a terrible mistake... He noticed their attitude changed in a positive way. All the teachers were glad to report Slytherin had turned into the house with the politest students, they never caused problems, they helped their classmates, and they were civil with muggleborns...
It was too good to be true so he had pestered Severus to tell him what was going on, but the man was always busy. He had searched in the library and was in the border of insanity when one of the portraits of an old headmaster spoke to him about the Slytherin Guild. A group with more power over the house than any professor. Albus’ blood curled at the prospect, almost ordering the portrait of the old headmaster to give him more information. It said that the last Guild belonged to Evgenia Tserova, a Slytherin that ruled the house with an iron fist. He remembered the woman from his youth, the wife of Frederick Potter, who possessed an aura of undeniable power even at her advanced age. Never before, he had met a person that imposed so much respect as her. She and her husband made the Potter fortune multiply during their times, not mentioning the fact that they obtained more power in the Ministry than the Minister and the Wizengamot combined.
Albus would be lying if he said he was not afraid of what would the child do with power at his disposal, but having no more ways to guide the boy, there was nothing left to do but hope that another Dark Lord was not created.
----------------------------------------
Omake: McGonagall vs. Dumbledore
Minerva was a stoic woman who showed little emotion but, at the moment, she was furious with Albus Dumbledore. She had told the old fool that those muggles were the worst sort of muggles that he could imagine, but had he listened to her? No, of course not because he knew better! See the consequences now; the poor boy had suffered throughout his life. She would make sure he regretted not listening to her.
“Minerva, it is good to have you here-” the man began in an appeasing tone, almost hiding behind his desk.
“Did you know?” she asked, looking murderous.
“I didn't until it was too late,” Albus admitted, closing his eyes.
“You promised you would take care of him!” the woman shouted, pointing her wand at him.
“Now, calm down Minerva, I’m sure that revenge is not the solution,” the man said with wide eyes and discovered with growing horror he could not move.
An incantation later, Minerva McGonagall left the office with a spring in her step and a mane of white hair in her hand.
The next day, students watched in amusement and fear the hairless man that walked in a funny way. Severus would have helped him if not for the fear of retribution. The waxing spell was one of the cruellest punishments a person invented.