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Chapter Text

Warnings: Tom Riddle/Harry Potter, m/m, Grindelwald was not defeated in 1945.

Inspired/Adopted by Heir of Magic by CakeTops through chapter 7. 

Tom's POV

"She's staring at you again," Abraxas Malfoy, cousin to Lucius Malfoy, said as he glared in the general direction of the Gryffindor table.

And true to his word, Rose Potter sat a little on the right side, looking over at Tom with a love struck expression. Abraxas resisted the urge to sneer. The Slytherins were waiting to see what the esteemed Headmaster had to say. Everyone had noticed that new but older students on the train. Rumors had circulated on who they might be.

"It's just a crush," Alphard Black commented, "Stop being so hard on the girl. It's not her fault our Tom is so irresistible."

The boy in question barely looked up at the mention of his name, preferring to continue his his observations of the Head Table. Abraxas and Alphard continued their conversation despite his lack of interest.

"But seriously, it's disgusting," Abraxas huffed, "she's a Potter for Merlin's sake and yet she refuses to show even the smallest hint of decorum that befits her house. It must be her muggle born mother's influence. Charlus Potter would be rolling in his grave if he knew what had become of his family."

"The girl is barely 18," Black said in exasperation, "Cut her some slack. At least she's doing better than her good for nothing brother of hers. What was his name? Harold or something. It's a pity really; the heir of such a noble house barely able to do a 2nd year spell at 16; now that is a scandal if I ever heard one."

Abraxas huffed in annoyance and turned back to Tom.

"About Harry?"

The horrified look he received in return almost made him laugh...almost because he was Head Boy and bursting out in laughter wouldn't do for his image.

"You...you. Oh Merlin, Tom, I know that tone. Don't tell me you're interested in that...that squib."

"I am," Tom admitted, finally looking away from the Professors.

Harrison Potter was something of a mystery to the magical world. At the age of seven he was declared a near squib and sent to a special school for those without enough magic to attend Hogwarts. That was what Rose and Jacob Potter told everyone.

Rose was the eldest of the Potter children and was in the same year as Tom. Due to the older Potter Family traditions she was unable to take the heirship. Like the Blacks the Potters made it so only the eldest, non squib male could be considered the Heir to the family.

Jacob Potter was the youngest at only 13 years old. He had declared loudly several times that when he turned 15 he would be named the Potter Heir since his brother was a squib.

The more Tom had heard about Harrison Potter, middle child and oldest son the more curious he became. No one had seen or heard from Harrison since he was eight. The school he had been sent to was supposedly a boarding school much like Hogwarts though stricter in its holidays.

"Why..." Abraxas lamented, "Out of all the people in this school, why him? Didn't you say that you would only be interested in someone if they can prove to be your equal? I doubt Potter can ever aspire to that. Even his sister is better!"

"No," Tom said resolutely, "I believe that Harry Potter isn't all that he seems. No children of the Potter family can be this weak without supernatural interference. And don't say something about muggle born blood tainting his magic. You as well as I know that squibs are the result of too much inbreeding between purebloods. The Potters had never, never produced a squib in this entire line. Every one of their children are strong and talented. I believe that Harry Potter has a hidden potential and I want to be the one to unlock it."

Silence followed his statement, only to be broken by Alphard as he sighed, "But why wait until now? Why not start earlier?"

"Because of the attack on the school by Grindelwald," said an airy voice from behind them, "Supposedly a third of Nightingale's students will be coming to Hogwarts. Rumors have it the Potter Heir will be amongst them."

Luna Lovegood a third year stood their. Her eyes dazed as they usually were looking at something only she could see.

Ah yes. The attack on Nightingale had happened in early July. A mysterious school that no one knew much about. Even the extent of Tom's knowledge was that Potter had been a member of student body. That he had been injured in the attack requiring a stay at the French Magical Hospital for two weeks.

Then the Great Hall doors opened and in entered the unfamiliar students. There were maybe fifty in total all wearing pain black robes as if they were first years. They seemed to be organized by some unknown method.

Reaching out with his magic Tom could sense each and everyone of them was powerful. Tightly coiled around their bodies was their magic. If one wasn't sensitive to power it would have been impossible to tell.

Then one single student caught his eye. Physically he was no different from those around him. But much like when Tom interacted with his court there was a sort of difference given to him. With these students they showed the same towards this boy.

A bird's nest of bony black hair lay on top of the boy's head. He had sharp angular features that spoke of a pureblood heritage. It was only when he turned to survey the Great Hall did Tom recognize him. Killing Curse green eyes marked this boy as Harrison Potter, Heir to the Potter Family.

Across the Hall he could see the two other Potters glaring at their brother. It was interesting to see how unfazed the other was by their looks of malice. Instead he seemed bored by it.

Alphard said appreciatively, "For a near squib he looks good. Even with that scar on his cheek. I wonder what that school teaches them."

In the lighting Tom had almost missed the scar Black spoke of. It was faint but large. A X shaped scar ran from almost the bottom of Potter's cheek bone to below his jaw on one side. On the other it started near the jaw line by his ear and to his chin.

Dumbledore said loudly, "Now before we eat we have to sort our transfer students. As you all know there was an attack on a magical school in France. It was Nightingale a smaller magic school that only has about 400 students. As the Professors heal from their injuries they will also be joining to help continue their studies."

The Potter Heir said stepping forward, "Thank you for accepting us, Headmaster Dumbledore. Your generosity is appreciated."

With that the sorting began. Tom only listened with half an ear as his focus was on the Potter Heir. Like the others from Nightingale his magic was wound tightly around him.

McGonagall called out suddenly, "Potter, Harrison!"

With that the Potter Heir made his way up to the stool. The hat was dropped on his head and they waited.

For only a moment before the hat called out, "Slytherin!"

With that the Great Hall erupted in anger.

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

kirsty21: thanks for your review my friend. ^_^.

DarkRavie: thanks for your review my friend.

Harrison's POV

This whole mess started on the evening of the tradition annual feast. But before we go in to it, one has to first understand the history between the Potter siblings.

No one can really pinpoint the exact moment the Potter siblings, Lily Rose and her younger brother Harrison, stopped getting along with each other. Some might say, namely Sirius, that it was around the period Rose finally entered puberty and grew in to herself and stopped looking like the bastard child of a pig and a pug.

Remus had a more sensible theory; he believed that entering teenage years, the two years difference between Rose and Harrison had finally caught up with them. With Rose excelling at everything she does and gaining admirers left and right and Harrison struggling with his coursework and embarrassing himself left and right (according to Sirius), their once companionship just fell apart.

Rose, who was 2 years older than Harrison, barely spoke a word to him. It was thought that they had a fierce rivalry. That he was always looking to one up her. And that was how he saw the way Rose was looking at Tom Riddle, sighing dreamingly and giggling with her best friend.

That wasn't the truth. He couldn't care what she thought of him. After a year in Nightingale he had earned self confidence from his apprenticeship under the Deputy Headmaster. Still he kept up with her comings and goings. Durant sent mail saying that he barely passed his classes to his parents. In truth he was in the top 3 with all his classes. They just expected nothing from him. So Durant helped him keep the facade up.

Harrison knew Rose enough to know that this crush of hers was already pretty deep. If someone came along and snatched Tom under her very nose, she would be devastated, especially if that person was someone she looked down on. That would be amusing for him to watch. Though he wouldn't go after Tom he wasn't interested.

Having turned 15 last July Harrison was now old enough to be courted. Unlike his sister he did not receive a single offer. Not that he cared either way. To the outside world he was barely stronger than a squib. They had been fed lies by his parents and siblings for years.

Headmaster Durant had fed his parents lies that the school was for those without enough magic to go to Hogwarts. In truth only the best and brightest were offered a place in Nightingale. Being allowed entrance did not mean that the students would make it passed their first year. There were a set of trials that had to be passed before Yule of every students first year. One trial included gaining an apprenticeship from one of the Masters.

Harrison's own master was Matthew Keller a tall, tan skinned, brown haired American. He had a long list of masteries and as long as his apprentice was willing to put in the work Keller was willing to teach him. It was from this man that the spacial ring on the index finger of his left hand came from.

Originally only able to hold three square cubic meters of items it had been a handsome gift. Within his first year however that space had been expanded into 10. After proving his skills a deal had been struck between him and the goblins of Grimgotts. He would provide the runes and inscriptions; they would provide the steel. Profits were split sixty, thirty, ten in favor of the goblins then him. While the smallest amount was given to his master at the man's insistence.

Currently Harrison had two masteries under his belt and was working on his third. He was a Bronze Level Inscription Master, a Silver Level Technomage, and that didn't even include his Rank 5 Battle Mage active in status. To top it off he was only in his eighth year at Nightingale.

Officially Harrison could not take his OWLs until after he turned fifteen. For whatever reason the British Ministry had made it as such. When he took his OWLs during the summer he had gotten straight Os.had however taken the French and International equivalent. This summer he would be able to take the equivalent of his NEWT's in the subjects.

Harrison had never wanted to go to Hogwarts. Despite being forced to come here they were making Harrison do fifth year Hogwarts curriculum. Dumbledore did not believe his results and by his word the Board of Governors agreed. Not once he had the taste of freedom that Nightingale provided. They gave him the ability to learn all sorts of magic. Unlike most Schools of Magic they did not just practice one kind. All magic was taught carefully ensuring that every student had a grasp on them so that they weren't overwhelmed if they ever had to use the lesser branches.

The attack on Nightingale made by Grindelwald and his Reapers changed everything though. The students fought back to the best of their abilities as had the staff. But it wasn't enough and their school was heavily damaged by the onslot. Not only that but Durant and Keller had been put into comas from their wound. In total 78 students and staff were injured. Another 23 dead. Everyone felt the loss and struggled when they were separated. It wouldn't be until the next school year that they could open Nightingale again. For now they would have to make do with schools like Hogwarts. Grit their teeth and try not complain about falling behind in their specialized studies.

It had been a surprise to even Harrison when he was sorted into Slytherin. He had expected to go into Hufflepuff as he was a member of the House of Lupus. Then again his sworn blood brother XIII Hunter had also been sorted into Slytherin. The how for that one eluded even him.

XIII Hunter was a tall tanned black haired boy with ice blue eyes. He and Harrison had started out as bitter rivals but by Yule of their first year they had become reluctant allies. Battle Magic Professor Graves, a retired American Auror had insisted on putting them together in the same squad. Black Hawks was the name and it was led by Harrison.

Compromising of seven members in total it quickly made a name for itself. The undefeated they were called. Uncreative but accurate.

As they had in Nightingale they were divided amongst the Houses. Every House having at least one of them. Harrison sat at the farthest end of the Slytherin Table. Eyes of students some he knew some he didn't were all upon him.

Rose fake whispered, "Oh now you've done it brother. Father is sure to disown you now."

Harrison and XIII snorted. Right he would be disowned. Just like the fire beneath his skin and Celtic band across his left wrist didn't exist. They believed he was a squib or close to it because Dumbledore told them to beleive it.

XIII said after a moment, "Stupid kid. She doesn't know what she is talking about."

"Don't start that now, XIII," chided Harrison but his eyes were alight with mischief, "Let the others know we will meet first thing in the mourning. Court an hour before everyone else."

"Of course, Nightingale's King," replied XIII sardonically, "And what of the Slytherin Court?"

Harrison discreetly glanced down the table before answering, "We will just have to ensure we're not followed."

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

kirsty21: thanks for your review my friend. Glad you liked it.

DarkRavie: thanks for your review my friend.

Harrison's POV

The feast passed without incident. Though he could feel the eyes of the students on him and his friends. Lines were drawn between the Houses of this school. Gryffindor and Slytherin were rivals and enemies. Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw were rivals but couldn't really be considered enemies.

This was unlike Nightingale who also had four Houses. They were ruled by the King who either was chosen by the previous or they defeated them. Harrison fell into the latter group. With the help of his master he had picked up dueling skills that the upper years would be envious of.

Despite this the House ranks were based on the grades of the students. They didn't have the point system that Hogwarts did. It seemed childish to the middle Potter. Giving and taking point just because you don't like the House was ridiculous.

From what he could tell every table had it's own system based on the House. Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs went by years. The end of the table reserved for first years and outcasts.

There were some similarities between the Ravenclaws, Slytherins and the other two. However it was the middle of the table that was the most different.

Instead of it being a mix of third and fourth years there was general mix of upper years. All of which were centered around a single boy. They must be the Kings of the House. This boy was Tom Marvolo Riddle. The only reason he recognized him was because Lily Rose or Rose as she preferred was all she talked about.

The look that XIII held showed he felt the same as Harrison. They worked hard to bring Lupus from the bottom to the top. Harrison accepted duels in order to keep his title as King. There would be challenges this year but they would have to be carefully organized. Avoid the eyes of these students.

As the food was taken away Dumbledore stood. Lazily Harrison barely paid the man any mind.

The man said looking across each of the tables, "Welcome to another year at Hogwarts. This year we have been graced by not only first years but transfers. Nightingale students we welcome you to Hogwarts and hope you find a family here. The Houses that you have been sorted into will be your homes. Do well in your classes you will be rewarded with House points. Do poorly or break our rules and you will lose them. The House Cup is an honor for each of the houses. Other things you need to know are that the Forbidden Forest is just that. Forbidden. If you are found there you will be punished severely. For those that are third years or higher and sixth year and higher will be given a list of electives. You must have them returned to your Head of House by Monday morning. That will give you the weekend to decide. A special trip to Hogsmede will be allowed for books needed."

It wasnt that different from home. Though it was disappointing that the Forest surrounding the school was forbidden. That just meant that he would have to be careful about using it.

Then he was introducing their newest professors. One of which was somewhat surprising. His godfathers were declared dual Defense against the Dark Arts professors. Great he would no doubt hear from them tonight or early tomorrow.

For his part, Harrison was a midnight black dingo with piercing green eyes. There was a small patch of silver fur representing the scar across his cheek. Just as his human body changed so did his animagus form.

He was incredibly proud of his animagus form. It represented the loyalty and love he had for his chosen family. Unlike his dislike for his blood family. He couldn't change his past but he could push past it and be stronger because of it.

The man continued, "As you have been sorted into your Houses you will learn to coexist together. Nightingale will not get their own separate rooms or dorms, " here he had to raise his voice to be heard over the Nightingales who rose up in protest, "You will sleep in the dorms assigned to you by House and year. There will be no exceptions and anyone found breaking the rules will be punished."

Several of the older years rose to their feet in protest. They believed as did Harrison that his group should not be separated. They didn't know these people they were with. He could see that arguing would not get them anywhere here. Like Nightingale, Hogwarts was stuck in its ways.

Harrison rose to his feet as he could see the anger rising in the old man's face. He roared drawing his fellow student's attention, "ENOUGH," every member of Nightingale immediately bowed their heads to him. He continued, "Sit down," when there was hesitation he growled, "Now!"

That had every member who had stood scrambling to sit back down. They might not be in their school anymore but each student remembered the painful lesson of why he was King.

Disobeying was never a good idea. Especially when he raised his voice. A normally laid back King he only ever raised his voice when he needed their attention.

Taking a breath to calm himself Harrison said, "We are here as guests. Remember this is not our home and while we have sanctuary it won't last forever. We might not like it but we have to follow their rules."

There were a few grumbles but most nodded their assent. The man raised his chin in acknowledgment but said nothing else as they were dismissed. As he left Jolly felt the eyes on his back. This wasnt over. Not by a long shot.

With that they were told to go to their Common Rooms. The walk to the dungeons only increased Harrison's agitation. He did not like being so far from his family. They should be allowed to stay together not separated. However going against the Dumbledore was not advisable. He was brave not stupid. Which was why he stopped his rowdy bunch.

It wouldn't be their only surprises either. They had to fight for ranks within the House they had been put in. Slytherins would only obey their King. If he wanted them to leave his people alone he would need to challenge the King. Or at the very least the Prince.

Sighing internally. He knew that King would be the best option. As the King of Nightingale it would be expected for him to take the top in his House. To do otherwise would make the others think he was weak. Then they would be more inclined to challenge him to take the King spot within their school.

All he could at the moment was to trust his classmates to do the same. Fight for a spot and set up the rules of Nightingale. They were difficult after all.

Rule one was that all Houses were equal in standing. Any House or year could approach the King or their Bannerman. They must be listened to and judged equally. Failure to do so meant loss of position.

Rule two was against bullying. Blood and creature status meant very little to him. They were all magical and that was what mattered. If you discriminated for whatever reason you were subject to punishment.

Rule three was the most important. When in unfamiliar territory show a united front. There had been times when they visited another school. It was usually to show that they existed and as a power play. To prove that one didnt need to support of the government to have high standards.

He was drawn from his thoughts when the prefect in front of him called out to a wall, "Pureblood."

Harrison rolled his eyes. What an original password. Did they really think something so simple would protect them from intruders? All one had to do was think what would an arrogant ass make as a password.

He didnt voice his thoughts. If he did it might incite a fight before he even stepped foot in the common room. That wasnt on his plans for the evening.

When they stepped into the common room the upper years broke off. Most headed towards the fire while two stood in front of the first years and Nightingale students. By the looks of them they were sixth or seventh years. Prefects and high ranking members of the House no doubt.

The male began his cold blue eyes looking down upon each of them, "First years let me be the first to welcome you to Slytherin. I am Adrian Prucey's current Knight of Slytherin. You have proven your ambition to get into the house. Now you will have to prove that you are worthy of titles. Standoff to one side while we speak with the transfers. Prepare yourselves the best you can for what you will face."

The first years scattered. They knew the unwritten rules of the House of Slytherin. Their parents had been former members of the house and would be foolish not to teach them.

As transfers they were at a severe disadvantage. However he would not allow this boy to upstart his own position within Nightingale.

The girl began her eyes cold, "I am Belladonna Yaxley one of your sixth-year prefects. My rank is Lady in the Slytherin House. Nightingale is here as refugees. If it was up to me none of you would step foot in this house. But we must obey our lord so you will be tested with the first years. Do not expect to be anything other than peasants. You mudbloods sully our house simply by being here. The ranks from lowest to highest are as follows. Peasant, squire, knight, lord, prince, king."

That was enough of that. He would not allow his people to be bullied.

Prucey continued after seeing Harrison's dark face, "You always challenge the Court or the King himself. Know this however. He has not lost a duel since his second year. You should at least try and get a lower position so you can protect yourself."

"Adrian this is not how we greet our new snakes," came a cool voice, "Greet them properly not with veiled threats."

Harrison raised an eyebrow at Tom Riddle who had walked over the the chairs closest to the fire. For his part Adrian paled and tried to make up for his mistake. There was nothing he could say for them to think anything more of him.

Another voice came from behind Harrison this one dark and sneering, "Are the students ready for their challenges?"

Severus Snape was there. His cold demeanor only became colder when he saw Harrison. Harrison knew he looked a lot like his father. But that didn't mean he would let the man treat him as he wished. As King of Nightingale he would allow no one to push him around. Student, professor, or family. He had gone away from home as a hated member of the family. Then returned as a powerful warrior.

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

kirsty21: thanks for your review my friend. God you enjoyed it!

mooneysfate: thanks for your review my friend. Evenentually but not yet.

DarkRavie: thanks for your review my friend.

Harrison's POV

Turning his attention to Riddle he declared, "Tom Riddle I challenge you for the title of King."

Surprised breaths were sucked in. It was obvious that no one thought he would actually challenge one of the court. Much less the King of Slytherin himself.

Snape growled, "Do you accept the challenge, Riddle?"

The older boy looked at Harrison there was something dark in them. Then he said, "I accept the challenge Professor. We fight as we are nothing more. Do you accept my conditions, Potter?"

Harrison grinned as he said, "I accept your conditions, Riddle."

XIII already pulled his wand out and began to place wards. He knew how... explosive Harrison's magic could be. Underneath his skin his magic was like fire. It burned with the need to be released.

After a moment his sworn blood brother held out his hand, "Give me your CAD. We don't need you blasting a whole through the wards with that new spell of yours. Even without a mastery I can tell the wards around the castle couldn't hold against such a spell."

Faking false hurt he asked, "You think I would use that here?"

XIII and the rest of Nightingale students who had made it into Slyrherin gave him a look. One he very much deserved. They had all seen the aftermath of him practicing the spell trying to find the correct phrasing and runic engravings. No one wanted to see it used here.

At least not where the use of it could bury them alive. They were perfectly okay with him practicing it anywhere else. Harrison was a lot of things but he was not that irresponsible. He would not dare use an untested and unperfected spell against another human being.

Harrison said as he pulled off his Slytherin robes and tossed them to XIII, "I'll keep it to low level spells if I use it. I won't use that spell I promise."

Besides if worst came to worst he could always use Fool's World. That spell had been tested and proven to be useful. The card was in his breast pocket.

Harrison was wearing a short sleeved dress shirt. On the left side was the breast pocket that held the Fool's World card. On the right side was the bar marking him as Technomage. It was silver in color marking him as having his mastery. If one wasn't familiar with the bars they wouldn't realize that it was the mastery bars. Then on his shoulder was the Crest of the Black Hawks and the mark of Rank 5. His other masteries weren't shown as he they weren't as important in battle. Only the apprentice wardstone that hung from his belt was recognized.

Snape at that moment finished transfiguring a chair into a dueling table. With a glare he indicated for both boys to get ready to duel. Harrison jumped up onto the table. He could feel the eyes of the students ogling him.

A few looked at what appeared to be a wristband on his right arm. It was in fact his goblin steel CAD. CADs were a new piece of Technomagic. Currently only military mages, battle mages, those within the technomage career carried them. Most people wouldn't be able to recognize it.

CADs allows the processing of all the necessary components for magic in a single moment. In detail, these devices help accelerate the invocation of magic, as well as provide stability. The exceptions were those who were unused to them.

Although CADs show the superiority of modern magic, as it is a precise piece of machinery it requires regular maintenance involving the tuning of the machine to suit the traits of the user's magic. This was where the technomage engineers came into play. Harrison could both use and calibrate CADs. A rare commodity.

Riddle soon followed Harrison up onto the table. He did not remove his Slytherin robe something he would soon regret. It would hinder his movements and Harrison was not above taking advantage of it. Both boys drew their wands as Snape stepped forward.

Snape said glaring at the two, "We go until one of you is knocked off the platform or are unconscious. No Unforgivables or lasting damage. Anything else goes."

Riddle said with a cold smile, "There is still time to recind your challenge, Potter. You are two years my junior I'd rather not see you hurt because you bit off more than you could choose."

"I wouldn't underestimate your opponent if I were you," replied Harrison, "Riddle you have no idea what I or any of my friends were taught. I suggest you prepare yourself for battle."

There was a twist of his lips. Both boys bowed then took three steps back. Three. Two. One. Spells began to fly a moment later.

Harrison kept to Battle Mage Rank 2 & 3 rather than using military magics. Ice spell froze the older boy to the spot. There was a flash of anger in Riddle's eyes.

Stunning spells were sent at him followed swiftly by the a cutting spell. Harrison deflected them easily and shot off several of his own. Riddle used an Incendio to free his legs and it was followed by Locomotor Mortis. Harrison toppled over before he could use a finite. It took precious seconds for him to get his legs free. In that time he barely was able to keep Riddle off of him.

Underneath Harrison's skin the fire was back and ready to be free. Around them the air became heated, more so than just what the spells created. XIII was sending him worried looks but didn't move to interfere.

Spells without words were sent between the two. Many hit the erected shield causing students to flinch away. Some students flinched as if they expected the wards to fall.

Harrison could tell the other was getting frustrated. The feeling was mutual. It was time to take it up a notch. He raised his right arm as he lowered his wand on his left. Focusing his magic that was lashed out trying to break free.

In front of his palm was a magical circle he called out, "Thunder sprites pay heed, and strike with your, electric shock!"

Lightning shot from the circle hitting Riddle square in the chest. It flung him back nearly off of the table. A grin crossed his face as the boy began to fight in extreme earnest. It seemed that he had struck a nerve.

Magic rose in response to their emotions. Harrison lost his tight control over his magic. The fire that had been tightly wound within him exploded out. When Riddle's magic was thrown up against his there was a resounding explosion. Both he and Riddle were throw against the far walls unconscious.

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

shadewatcher: thanks for your review my friend. Glad you enjoyed it.

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freewings99: thanks for your review my friend. Akashic Records: The Bastard Magical Instructor. Not enough to be a crossover but a nice cameo none the less.

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XIII and the other members of the Guard did not hesitate to rush to Harrison's side. The were pressed two fingers into Harrison's neck at the pulse point. His pulse was strong if a little faster than it should have been.

Eon in his final year or what Hogwarts considered a final year was a skilled healer. As XIII's hand retreated he was already casting diagnostic charms. Everything came back as it should have been. No serious injuries beyond mild magical exhaustion.

A little ways away several Slytherins were checking over their own King. Those who weren't checking on Riddle were drawing their wands. Around them other members of Nightingale had drawn their wands in turn. No one so much as breathed heavily. They didn't want war to break out on their first night here. But neither would they just abandon their King.

Snape glared at all of them. It shouldn't have surprised him but it did. Seems the professor didn't like anyone. Not even his own students. However if they tried to attack the group would make the duel look like child's play.

There weren't as many of them as there were of the Slytherins. What they lacked in numbers they made up for in power and combat ability. They had been fighting for years and the members of the Guard weren't called that without a reason.

Twin groans of pain were heard a moment later. This had every student looking to their respective King. Harrison was trying to sit up despite Eon's protest. Riddle was waving off his own people.

XIII's questioned softly, "You alright there Harrison?"

The other boy nodded his hands going into his pocket where Fool's World lay. His movement was recognized by those who knew him. Only a moment later he flipped the card activating the spell. Just in case someone tried something now. Better safe than sorry after all.

One of the Slytherin Prefects growled, "Well who won?"

The two Kings shared a long stare. The air chilled with the two's aura and combined was enough to keep even XIII rooted to the spot.

That had been the question. Who had won the fight? Most likely it would end in a tie. Leaving another question in their minds. Who to obey? The outsider or the unknown individual?

It was Riddle who said as he gained his feet swaying ever so slightly, "I propose a truce between Nightingale and Slytherin. Nightingale keeps their King and Slytherin keeps ours. If there is an issue it is dealt with here in the House. Is this acceptable, Potter?"

His sworn blood brother pushed himself up to his feet. Like Riddle he swayed ever so slightly and his hands trembled. The two Kings faced off their auras intermingling and the temperature of the air fluctuating between ice cold and unbearably hot.

While they couldn't cast spells with Fool's World activated they could release their auras. It didn't matter how many times XIII felt the full force of Harrison's aura he would never be used to it. The heat was unbearable and the power alone made you want to run in the other direction. And he was a were.

Then just as suddenly as it began the auras faded. Harrison said coldly, "I agree to this. But know if you attack us we will retaliate no matter where we are. This goes for all of Nightingale not just those within this House."

With a false smile Tom grit out, "Fine."

The Nightingale group shared a look but did not say anything else. Harrison discreetely removed Fool's World from play. They were given their own dorms as not to incite tensions in the dorms. All of the older students used expansion and similar charms to turn it into small rooms. This gave each of them rooms of their own while staying the same to those on the outside. Only then did they finally go to sleep.

...

Tom watched as the Nightingale students went to their own dorm. As soon as the door was shut behind them he could sense multiple people's magic get started. They were probably changing it to suit their school.

Abraxas sneered at their backs then questioned, "Are we just going to let them talk to you like that? My lord, we should put them in their place so that they know who they obey."

Tom looked over at the Malfoy Heir coldly as he said, "You must think me a fool, Abraxas. Did you not watch our duel? One that I remind you ended in a tie. Did you not feel his aura when I tried to force the issue?"

The other boy stammered before he spit out, "It has to be a fluke. Everyone knows that school is for those who are squibs or close to it."

There was a snort from one of the other Slytherins. Tom looked up to see a first year, Richard Swelyn if he remembered correctly. He was the last remaining Heir to the Swelyn Family.

Swelyn said at their looks, "You people are really naive. How do you not know of Nightingale? Many of the Sacred 28 has previous generations who were invited. It is a school who has gone toe to toe with Dumstrang in dueling competitions and won. As recently as the last Youth Circuit last spring."

Tom knew that the school was more than what it seemed. This however was more than he ever expected. How did this little first year know this?

As if sensing his question the boy said, "My older cousin graduated from Nightingale two years ago. He spoke of Potter with respect. He said that Potter was the first and only one to have been taken in by the Deputy Headmaster."

Well well well. Wasn't that interesting? The more he learned about Potter the more he wanted to court him.

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

kirsty21: thanks for your review my friend.

DarkRavie: thanks for your review my friend.

shadewatcher: thanks for your review my friend. So glad you enjoyed it. He will not enjoy the consequences.

...

It was a Saturday morning and James Potter had been quietly eating his toast while his wife labored away in the garden when a beautiful and majestic owl landed on their windowsill. With one talon, it knocked on the glass and waited patiently for James to let him in. The Head Auror did so with some confusion. None of his friends used owls as obviously expensive as this one and no one from the ministry would ever justify the expense of having one for official business. With all that said, he wondered just who it could be. Quickly, he detached the letter from the owl and turned to look at the front of the envelope, his eyes widening as he recognized it for what it was.

A courtship letter…from Lord Thomas Riddle.

Personally, James didn't know much about the illustrious Thomas except for what his daughter had told him. In her words, he was apparently "drop-dad gorgeous", rich – "Heir of a founder!" and powerful magically speaking.

He was the most eligible bachelor in the whole school. Rose had been crushing on him ever since he had accidently bumped in to her and helped her gather up her books.

"A true gentleman," she had gushed.

James resisted the urge to roll his eyes at the memory. Merlin save them all from teenage girls and their "crushes."

"Oh Merlin," James muttered to himself as he regarded the letter, "She's going to be insufferable when I tell her that her crush has sent her an official courtship letter."

Despite being more then a little happy for his precious princess, James couldn't help but wonder why now of all times. Rose had already passed 16 for some time and it was usually then courtship letters were sent out.

"James?"

James was torn from his contemplations when his wife entered the room, hands still dirty from her previous activity.

"Courtship letter," James told her with a big smile, "From Thomas Riddle."

Lily squealed uncharacteristically as she came over, grabbing the letter from James' hand. The Auror actually tried to push himself away from the table when he noticed the almost manic look in the usually calm woman's eyes.

"Rose will be so delighted," she said happily, "Come, let us inform Sirius and Remus. We'll also inform Dumbledore so that he can let the children come home tomorrow. We will open this letter together!"

"That's a wonderful idea Lily," James told her as he made his way towards the floo.

"Wonderful."

"Oh my sweet princess is growing up," Lily cooed, twirling around the room like a little girl, "About to get engaged."

"You know," James said, gathering up a handful of floo powder, "She can still say no."

"Of course she won't," Lily replied with a roll of her eyes, "She had confessed to me that she had been dreaming about marrying the boy for some time now."

"If you say so," James said, and threw the powder in to the fireplace followed by the call of Sirius' name.

It took about 5 seconds before his best friend's face appeared amidst the flames.

"James?" Sirius sounded alarmed, "Is something wrong?"

"You know that Riddle kid that Rosey had been crushing on? Well, he just sent over a courtship letter for her?"

Sirius' eyes widened in surprise.

"That's wonderful," he said sincerely before grabbing someone by the arm and pulling him over, "Remus! Rosey got a courtship letter!"

"Really?" Remus said with a big smile, face appearing next to Sirius', "What does the letter say?"

"We haven't opened it yet," James admitted, "We were planning to get everyone – the children included – together so we can open it tomorrow."

"If you haven't opened it yet," Remus started slowly, "Then how do you know it's for Rose?"

"It's addressed to us, and we only have one child eligible for marriage."

"But Harry just turned 15," Remus pressed, "He's eligible too."

That gave James pause. Harrison did just just become old enough for courtship. A deep frown crossed his face. The boy was barely more than a squib and he was in a special school for them. They were currently at Hogwarts by the grace of Albus. Even if he was an the Heir of the House.

"No way," he finally decided, laughing a little, "Only Rosey is magically talented enough to attract this boy's attention. Don't be silly Remus. Come over tomorrow and you'll see."

But little did they know, things won't go exactly as planned.

...

Two weeks had passed since he and the others joined Hogwarts. The usual challenges had been made against him. All had been defeated easily though he felt the eyes of a certain Slytherin on him the entire time.

For whatever reason Riddle seemed to always be watching him. As if waiting for something to happen. Not that it ever did. Harrison kept tight control over his magic so that what happened his first night would not happen again.

During that two weeks he had also taken to wearing two spacial rings and his communication bracelet. The first time he had walked out with them curiosity had bloomed in the dark blue eyes of Riddle. He never asked questions about instead choosing to research on his own. It would be next to impossible for him to learn about the bracelet though. Communication bracelets were still in the testing stage and he had yet to authorize them for public use. Only the Black Hawks Battle Mage Squad, Master Keller, and Headmaster Durant had one.

He missed his Master. Keller was still unconscious from the battle. At least when he last heard from the healer. As was their Headmaster. Both men had nearly been killed in the battle trying to protect students.

Currently he sat in the Great Hall with his inner circle around him. They were eating when the owls came in. A familiar brown barn owl headed straight for him. It was the Potter Family owl. A letter stamped with the crest was dropped in front of him before it flew off towards the Gryffindors.

XIII questioned as he opened the letter, "What does your family want?"

"Mom wants me to go home tomorrow."

"Did something happen?" He asked worriedly as he peered at the content of the letter over Harrison's shoulder.

It was short and to the point, offering no further information than the time the portkey would activate and where to go to access it. He and his sister would need to go out of the Hogwarts Gates. There they would be out of the protective wards.

"I hope everything's alright," XIII said softly, glancing over to where Rose was sat, also looking confusingly down at her letter.

What he really meant was that he hoped they didn't try anything. There was a reason Harrison didn't go home for Yule. Trusting his parents wasn't something he had for many years.

"She doesn't sound frantic," Harry shrugged, putting the missive out of his mind for the moment, "I'm sure everything will be fine."

XIII gave him a look telling his sworn blood brother exactly what he thought of that. Harrison simply gave him a grin.

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

kirsty21: thanks for your review my friend. Thank you!

Sly Riddle: thanks for your review my friend. It happens!

mooneysfate: thanks for your review my friend. Because they beleive he is a squib or close to it. In purebloods eyes it is disgraceful.

...

Potter Manor was already a whirlwind of activity when Harrison and XIII finally landed in the foyer, still feeling a little disoriented from his trip by Portkey. He took a few moments to gather his wits before looking around, frowning at the number of servants bustling around; some carrying trays of food, others dusting every corner imaginable.

His mother insisted on having human servant rather than house elves. She could not stand the slavery that the elves were "forced" into. At Nightingale Harrison had learned the truth of the so called barbaric ways of the purebloods. House elves could not control their magics without the aid of a family. To survive they must be bound otherwise they would lose their minds and eventually die.

Harrison had his own house elf assigned to him when he was four just like most pureblood children, much to his mother's ire. The elf's name was Nit and he looked after the young boy since the day he was assigned. Due to the elf being a gift from his father it was one of the only ones left in the manor. Nit only had to listen to Harrison no one else.

"Maria," Harry called out when he recognized one of the maids passing by, "Do you know what is going on?"

"Oh Master Harry," she greeted him; a thousand watts smile on her face.

She did spare XIII a glance as she didn't know him. Unlike his siblings he had never brought a friend home. Even when he still came back. Maria has always been little Ms. Sunshine, always smiling even when she was sad and depressed.

"Mistress Lily wanted the house ready to celebrate Miss Rose's engagement."

"Rose is getting engaged?" Harry echoed, not believing what he was hearing.

Just a few days ago, Rose had still been mooning over Tom Riddle and now she was getting engaged? This whole thing doesn't make the tiny bit of sense in his mind. For a moment, he wondered if Maria had been listening to rumors again. The two blood brothers exchanged a cautious glance.

"Yes," Maria nodded, ignoring Harrison's surprise, "To that nice young man she's been crushing on; Tom Riddle is his name."

Harry choked on absolutely nothing.
"Tom Riddle," he gaped, mind going back to the last Tom/Rose interaction he had witnessed.

Although to be honest, it was less of an interaction and more of a one-sided show where Rose stared with dreamy eyes at Tom while the young man ignored her in favor of his book. Harry had overheard Rose tell her friends later that night how she and Tom were meant to be because they sat on the same library bench. Rose's denials can sometimes reach levels Harry didn't even know existed.

XIII the traitor looked like he wanted to burst out laughing. There was no doubt his mind was thinking the same thing.

"Are you sure?" He questioned unbelieving.

"Of course I'm sure," Maria chided him, "I heard the Mistress tell the Master how Miss Rose would be delighted by the Courtship offer Mr. Riddle sent to the House."

"He sent a courtship offer?" Harry repeated, feeling rather like a parrot at the moment.

Nothing was making sense; why would Tom Riddle send a courtship order to a girl he had barely said a word to? Rose may be a Potter and thus still respected in the Pureblood circles, but she was far from the most attractive marriage candidate vying for Tom's attention. The Beaumonts Family, whose only daughter Emilie had been after Tom ever since his majority, was much older and richer than the Potters. Emilie was also an extremely gifted witch by everyone's account. She would be a much better match than Rose.

Jacob's high pitched voice called out as he too arrived, "You should be thankful you're even allowed to be here for this. Squibs aren't usually allowed to join in the family events after all. I can't wait until Father decides to declare me the Heir."

Harrison immediately covered XIII's mouth to stop the other's retort. Letting XIII's mouth run here would be a terrible idea. He was known for his sharp tongue and even sharper dueling skills. If Harrison didn't stop him he would have his little brother in tears for more than one reason in seconds.

Maria began to fawn over the youngest male. She always did like Jacob better than him. The servants all thought he would end up like them. Worker in the large manor that was all he would be good for. If only they knew.

"Nothing's making sense," Harrison lamented to Remus 10 minutes later.

He had entered the kitchen with the intention of finding something to eat and found the werewolf sitting at the dining table, a cup of steaming tea in front of him. Remus had looked delighted to see him and promptly invited him over. XIII had gone off to explore the grounds. His own senses most likely making him curious about the new area. Being a were he would want to know everything he could about the manor.

"From what I know of this whole affair," Remus began, after he had taken a sip of his beverage, "is that James and Lily received a courtship offer from Mr. Riddle and assumed it was for Rose."

"Of course it's for Rose," He groaned, "I'm not doubting the fact that the offer was for Rose; I'm just wondering why he sent it in the first place."

"Harry, without opening the letter, we would never know whom it was addressed to," Remus chided softly, "Maybe it's for you."

"Ha," Harrison snorted, burying his face in to his arms, "That would make even less sense than Rose."

"I do wish you would stop being so hard on yourself," Remus said sadly, patting Harrison's head as if he was still a small child.

It was comforting in a way that Harry really didn't want to admit to; he was 15 for Merlin's sake, he didn't need people treating him with kid gloves any more. Any further conversation was cut short when Rose made her appearance, the bright smile on her face indicating that Lily had probably already told her the good news.

"Isn't today such a wonderful day?" she said in a singsong voice as she nearly danced in to the kitchen, her uniform skirt swirling around her thighs as she moved, "Dear little brother, you look well."

The hair on the back of his neck stood on its end. She wanted something and whatever it was he wouldn't like it.

"Wow," Harry said dryly, "You must be in a good mood if you are actually talking to me and acknowledging me as your brother."

Remus snorted at his tone, but Rose was still too out of it to truly care. Instead of berating him like every time he made fun of her, she swept down and kissed him on the cheeks – KISSED him on the cheeks – before disappearing in to the living room. Harry could hear Sirius' voice pipe up, full of congratulations and Rose's squeal of delight as she was reminded of her good fortune.

"Kill me now," Harry groaned.

Remus sighed and took another sip of his tea.

"Now that we are all united," Lily started, smiling around the room at everyone. "Let's get started."

Harrison sat on the sofa next to Remus and XIII, while Rose sat on another sofa next to Sirius. Everyone but he and XIII were beaming and he resisted the urge to roll his eyes while trying to school his expression in to something resembling interest. But since he had as much interest in the proceedings as being shot in the foot, it was proving to be quite the task.

"Stop grimacing," Remus hissed, elbowing him in the ribs.

"I'm not," Harrison protested, not looking away from his mother, "I'm smiling."

"You look like a deranged serial killer about to strike," Remus hissed back.
Harry frowned at that.

XIII snickered, "He always looks like that. It is far scarier when he goes full stoic. That's when he truly is scary ready to kill."/p>

"That wasn't really nice," he told Remus, and glared at his friend. But the two just shrugged unapologetically and returned his attention back to the front of the room.

"Rose, would you like to do the honors?" Lily was saying when Harry turned his focus back to the Lily-Rose show.

Rose stood up gracefully, hand automatically smoothing down her skirt and she started her way up to her mother. James stood next to Lily and gave Rose a big hug as he passed her what must be the courtship letter.

"Before I open this," Rose said, teary eyed as she turned to her assembled audience.

Harrison resisted the urge to bash his head against the wall; he couldn't believe that Rose was about to do a speech now of all times. He knew that the girl loved dramatics with a passion, but this was ridiculous. It was just courtship letter; one that she didn't even deserve on account of the fact that she hadn't even mustered up the courage to talk to Tom yet.

Oh I can see the wedding now, Harry thought with a snicker, "Rose! Look at your fiancée please! Rose, why are you trembling?"

He must have made some kind of sound because Remus gave him another jab in the ribs and Harry rolled his eyes. XIII had to be thinking the same thing because he was struggling to keep his mask up. They shared an amused glance.

"And I would like to thank my little brother for being so shit at everything that he always manages to make me look good in comparison."

"Rose!" James protested while Lily's smile dimmed a little for the first time that morning.

Harrison was gratified to see that his parents would still defend him when he was the clear failure of the family. Though Jacob roared with laughter and XIII looked like he wanted to curse the thirteen year old.

"Sorry," Rose said, not sounding sorry at all.

"Just open the envelope," Remus said, saving everyone from awkward silences and hurt feelings.

James passed Rose a letter opener and Rose slit finally slit the envelope open and extracted the content.

As per custom, the courtship letter was written on an expansive piece of parchment with the crest of the person making the offer stamped on the bottom. Any hope that Harry had that this was some kind of prank evaporated when he recognized the familiar seal of the Slytherin House, visible even from his seat.

Well that was that. His sister would be insufferable for the next year. It made him want to go home all the more.

Rose closed his eyes for a moment, took a deep breath, and began to read. He could see the exact moment she read something she had not expected, because her entire body froze, her mouth still opened on a silent "oh".

"Rose?" Lily asked in confusion as she came over and looked over her daughter's shoulders. She too for some reason, froze in shock, eyes wide as she read.

"What's going on?" James asked in confusion, no longer smiling.

"Oh," Lily said softly as Rose started to tremble, her face turning redder than the sweater she had on.

Harrison was, for a moment, concerned about her well being when out of the blue, she lunged at him, features contorted in to a mask of fury.

"What the bloody hell?" Harrison yelped as he dove away, his speed saving him from his sister's claws.

He may not be good at  controlling his magic, but he had tried to compensate it by training his body to the max. Years and years of martial art training had given he the speed and reflex to evade any attacker; wizard or not. He knew that technically Rose would never succeed in touching him, but it did not stop the indignant sounds coming out of his mouth.

"You traitor!" she shrieked, trying to hit him once more, "You did this to me."

"What did I do?" Harrison yelled back, diving behind the sofa and using Remus and XIII as a shield.

For some insane reason, Remus looked amused by the whole thing, a glint of understanding in his eyes. Good, Harry thought, Good for you because I have no idea what is going on.

"Rosey," Sirius intervened – or try to before receiving an elbow to the nose.

"Rose!" James snapped, finally had enough of his daughter's theatrics. "You are a young lady for Merlin's sake; this behavior is extremely unbecoming of someone of your class."

With Rose safely contained for the moment, Harrison sneaked towards the forgotten letter. It was lying on the ground so innocently, as if it hadn't just prompted Rose to throw one of her most violent tantrum to date. With a sense of dread he couldn't explain, Harry leant down and retrieved the parchment, smoothing it out and began to read.

"No bloody way," he said.

Sirius moved up behind him, one hand still massaging his bruised nose. XIII was reading over his shoulder. Something dark and cold entered his eyes. It reminded him of the one time a group of older students tried to bully him. Together they had put all four in the Infirmary for nearly a week. For more than a month after that he was rarely allowed to be on his own in the halls.

"What?" he asked and took the letter rather rudely from Harry's hand. His expression of pure shock was pretty satisfying though.

"It was for Harry, wasn't it?" Remus asked calmly, no trace of surprise to be found either in his tone or expression.

"You knew?" He shrieked at the same time as James exclaimed: "What!?"

"Well I didn't before today," he shrugged, "But I, unlike everyone here, didn't presume it was for Rose."

"Oh Merlin," said Lily, sinking down on one of the sofas.

She looked lost, as if her world had just been tipped on one axis. Harrison couldn't really blame her. He too was pretty out of it as well.

"So," James cleared his throat, recovering enough to offer Harrison a small smile, "What are you going to do?"

"Yeah kid," Sirius piped up, eyes still a little wide, but looking more like his usual self by the minute, "Are you going to agree?"

"You could," Remus suggested, "It will give you a chance to get to know him and if at the end of the courtship, you still want to say no to bonding, you can."

XIII said reminding everyone of his presence, "He can't."

James snapped his hazel eyes looking at XIII now, "What do you mean?"

Harrison had already put two and two together however and he said, "It's because I'm apprenticed. As an apprentice," despite having masteries as well, "I have to have permission from my master before I can accept or decline a courtship."

"I never approved of an apprenticeship," snapped his father.

XIII gave a wolfish grin, "You didn't have to. The moment you signed the contract for Nightingale, Harrison had the right to choose his apprenticeships without consulting you. All students are afford this."

With that the room exploded in shouts of anger and outrage. The two Nightingale boys looked at each other. He could feel the fire beneath his skin return. The same fire that had thrown him and Riddle into far walls when they dueled. A fire that would consume everything and everyone around him.

Then Harrison grabbed the Fool's World card he always kept on him turning it and thus activating it. Now everyone in the room had their magic sealed including him till he deactivated the spell. Not even family magics could be invoked. If it came to physical violence he and XIII were capable enough to defend themselves.

Ross screeched, "What Master would ever accept you as an apprentice?! You're little more than a squib!"

Harrison took a breath than released it. He had to stop his emotions from getting out of control. There was no telling what that fire would do here. Especially without his Master to be nearby to stop him.

James demanded, "You will reject his proposal."

Vaguely he could hear XIII groan in the background. Everyone within Nightingale knew two simple unbending truths. One you don't attack a member of the Black Hawks Battle Mage Squad. That would end very gruesomely for anyone stupid enough to try. Two you don't make a direct demand from Harrison Potter. Ask but never out right demand. As stated before it would not end well for you.

The fire underneath Harrison's skin was beginning to lash out. The air around them began to become uncomfortably warm. Sirius and Remus exchanged an uncomfortable glance. As oblivious as ever his family weren't putting together his anger and the rising temperature were connected.

Harrison denied his voice ice cold sending shivers down everyone's spines, "No. What I choose to do with my life is my own choice. Unless there was a betrothal contract in place before I was fifteen you have no say in who I court or don't court. You beleive I'm little more than a squib but you're wrong. That was proven the day my school was attacked.

James drew his wand an angry snarl on his lips. Lily tried to shout at them both to calm down but it was obvious neither Lord nor Heir were listening. Harrison's hand held onto the card ready to pull it out and show them.

James said lowly, "I am the Lord of this family. You will obey me!"

A growl escaped XIII his eyes flashing amber. Harrison said still as cold as ever, "You can't activate any magic right now. Not even Family Magics. Even if you were able to I would invoke my rights as the Heir to the Family. I would call upon Mother Magic to stop you."

It was Lily who asked, "What do you mean?"

Harrison pulled out Fool's World not deactivating it, "This card has a magical circle inlayed into it. It stops any and all magical activations from the moment I activated it."

He didn't explain that it was only within a certain range. If he did, his father would most likely try to get past him and out of the range. Then activate family magics or to use magic against him. Though it seemed his family was stunned into silence.

Remus was the first to recover from his shock, "You created a spell? Magical circles are such a rare form of magic. It's a form of..."

"Technomagic," yawned Harrison, "My Master has many Masteries one of which is in Technomagic. As I am now too. I'm studying Warding as an apprentice now."

James snapped, "That's not possible."

"If you hadn't treated me like I was useless," Harrison returned evenly, "Nightingale only takes the best of the best into its halls. If I hadn't gotten an apprenticeship by the Christmas of my first year I would have expelled."

"It's a squib school," shouted his sister and brother.

"If we were all squibs would we have fought Grindelwald and his Reapers. My school did more for our world in a single night than your entire war against him."

With that Harrison turned on his heel and headed for the Floo Room. XIII was hot on his heels not wanting to stay any longer. Hogwarts would to do for now even if it wasn't home. Not like the way Nightingale had been.

James yelled, "If you leave this manor you will regret it!"

Harrison ignored him and only deactivated Fool's World right before they entered the Floo.

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

DarkRavie: thanks for your review my friend. 💙

shadewatcher: thanks for your review my friend. Exactly!

kirsty21: thanks for your review my friend.

zero fullbuster: thanks for your review my friend. 💙

...

They landed with practiced ease back in the Headmaster's office. Dumbledore was behind his desk and started in surprise at seeing them come through. No doubt he had been expecting the celebrations to go long into the night possibly into the next day. Probably not even considering Harrison or XIII deciding to return early. Even if the truth was that Riddle had made an offer to his sister he wouldn't have stayed. There wouldn't have been a point to it.

Waving his wand he vanished the dust from his robes as he said with the mask he had perfected over the years, "Sorry for their intrusion, Headmaster. We decided to leave the celebrations early."

Dumbledore blinked at them over his half moon glasses before he replied genially, "Not a problem at all my boy. Are you certain you do not wish to celebrate with the rest of your family? I'm certain they would be happy to have you with them given how little you leave your school."

XIII said coolly, "We have studies to get back to Professor. Regardless of what you might think our studies didn't end just because we came here. We have apprenticeships that are still in effect now."

"Apprenticeships? Nightingale is for those who do not have enough magic to go to the other schools."

Harrison leaned back on his heels as he said, "You still don't get it. Do you? We are not just above squibs. In fact many of those who go to Nightingale are extremely powerful. Powerful enough to go toe to toe with Grindelwald and his Reapers. It wasn't just the efforts of our professors."

Dumbledore's eyes became like ice as he denied, "That is impossible. You need to stop being jealous and lying."

"Then you can ask my family as we are heading back to our dorms now," replied Harrison as he showed a feral grin.

Then he turned on his heel and left heading back towards the Slytherin dorms. XIII was right on his heels after giving a low growl. A part of him hoped XIII's eyes went amber as his inner animal came forward. Weres weren't known for keeping their tempers. Born or not their tempers were legendary.

They kept their tongues until they were safely back in the dungeons. Only then did Harrison draw his wand and cast privacy charms on them. XIII cast several revealing spells to ensure there wasn't anyone under a disillusionment charm.

Then he asked, "Are you sure that was wise? Dumbledore isn't an idiot after all."

"That is up for debate, XIII," snorted Harrison, "Besides he would have learned that we are not so weak as he believes eventually. Sooner than I would have liked but Riddle forced our hands with that farce of a courtship letter."

XIII glanced at him before he asked suspiciously even, "What do you plan on telling him? You can't do anything as long as Keller is in a coma. That at least was true when your parents confronted you."

Harrison bit the inside of his cheek to keep from snapping at XIII. He wanted nothing to do with a courtship. It was just one more person trying to control him. As the Heir of his family he should be looking to find a match for marriage. He should in fact already have a betrothal contract even if it wasn't to be completed. That was tradition amongst the purebloods.

To most of the world he was a half blood since his mother was a muggleborn. What they didn't know was that Sirius as his godfather had blood adopter him. This in turn legitimized him as a pureblood. Sirius had meant to do so for all three of the Potter children but James and Lily would not allow it. They barely allowed it for him and it was because they were under the assumption he was a squib.

Wrangling his temper he said, "I plan on being myself and allowing no one to tie me down. Besides I can't be with anyone. Not with how my magic reacts to every provocation. I need to get it under control before I could even consider such things. That doesn't even take into account that I can't enter a courtship without Keller's permission. Which he can't give in a coma."

XIII laughed, "So you plan on either driving away Riddle or drawing him closer with your personality! Brilliant! Can I help?"

Harrison blinked at him before declaring, "Sometimes I question how we became friends. People say I'm the chaotic one but honestly you're worse than me."

"I'm a fucking angel," retorted XIII with a serious face for half a second before he broke back out into laughter, "Besides I'm too lazy to be chaotic."

"Bullshit."

Then Harrison paused glancing around them before asking, "Where are we?"

"No idea I was following you."

Harrison glared at him, "You were following me? You know better than that. I have no sense of direction."

...

An irate James Potter followed his son through the floo an hour after the ungrateful brat had fled. They should have put a stop to this nonsense years ago. Whether that meant setting up a betrothal contract with stipulations that he was never to return to England once the marriage was said and done or obliviating and leaving him in an orphanage. Everything had gone askew the moment the brat had gone off to Nightingale.

James had tried to do research on the school but no matter who he asked no one could give him a straight answer. Most would simply state that it was a school, no more no less. There were a few who thought some of France's political leaders were alumni but no one could say for sure. Every failed attempt raised his blood pressure to dangerous levels. Only his time in the dueling room kept it from boiling over.

Albus, he noticed was frowning at the door as if it had offended him. James was already storming up to his desk as the old man.

He snarled, "You said he was barely above a squib!"

Albus said calmly, "When you had me test him as a baby he was. I couldn't feel much magic within his core."

"Well he obviously has magic now," continued James, "He was able to stop all magic activation in the manor. Nothing I did worked until he flooed back here."

Albus steepled his fingers in front of him and rested his chin on them, "That does not sound like school boy magic. If I didn't know any better I would say... no that's impossible. There are too few left within England now."

"What do you mean Albus?"

Albus turned his blue eyes no longer twinkling towards the door that his brat has no doubt stormed out of, "As few in number as they are in this day and age I have met a few. You, yourself were trained by one personally, Alastor Moody before he retired had the supposed honor of being named one."

"One of what Albus?" He questioned forcefully tired of the old man's dance around.

"A Battle Mage. Though it should be impossible."

James sneered, "Battle Mages are practically extinct."

Albus ran a hand through his beard as he said, "That is true for England at least. The more powerful battle mages though were said to have a different kind of magic. One that could not be sensed traditionally. Many were thought to be squibs or near so until they proved themselves. It seems I have made a grave mistake in not going through every option."

James said, "That's ridiculous Albus. The Potter Family has never had a Battle Mage in its history."

While Battle Magic wasn't necessarily a family magic and could be taught it worked better for those who already had it in their blood. Especially if a child was born with the talent as Albus was ridiculously suggesting.

Albus's hand froze as he looked up and said, "The Potters don't but the Blacks do. And Sirius Black legitimized Harrison when he was a baby making him a third Black."

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

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DarkRavie: thanks for your review my friend.

mooneysfate: thanks for your review my friend. Yeah!

...

It took them over an hour to find their way back to a familiar area. This found them close to the Potions classroom. From there they made their way to the Common Rooms. Because of the hour the Common Room was empty.

Harrison sat in the chair closest to the fire and accioed the edited magic circle scrolls he had been working on. XIII for his part went and laid out on the closest couch. The magic circle breakdown in his hands was for an edited Grade 5 Military Magic spell. If he could figure out how to get the magic circle and inlayed runes within it to work. Work without exploding in his face.

Most of Military Magics were two or three layered spells. The more layers a spell had the more complicated it was. They also required a lot more magic per layer. Not only that was that each layer added a chance of it going terribly wrong. The one he was trying to edit was a five layered spell. Many wizards that were amateurs in transcriptions had been killed by their spell exploding on them. It wasn't just transcription editing that could kill. Wrong wording could be just as deadly.

On the other hand however Fool's World was a single layer spell. If it wasn't for the results most would refuse to believe it was a Military Grade spell.

Normally he would ask Keller for his thoughts but the man was still in a coma. This left Harrison on his own to try and figure why the third layer of circle wasn't working the way it was supposed to. Tracing a finger over the rune he had etched on the edge of the parchment the magic circle floated about it.

It was a five-part glyph that has the glyph core the tips of an eight-pointed black star on the outside as the main symbol with the tips of a supporting eight-pointed star of white in between the black tips. A three-ringed border is the next layer, consisting of black teeth pointing towards a golden chain in the center.

The next layer is a contained border of the script with an inverted layer of hollow teeth whose tips after it, pointing toward the center with stylized waves of fire around that layer. The fourth layer is a simple material ring with three circles arranged in a triangular pattern each having its own symbol within. The fifth layer is another three-part binding circle that has unbound script as the innermost layer, multiple triangles pointing outwards as the middle, and two thin rings of orange on the exterior and black as the interior closely spaced together that allow the tips of the middle triangles to extend past them.

He cut off pieces of the layer to get closer looks at how the runes interacted. One sequence kept drawing his eyes. For what reason he didn't understand. No matter how he looked at it, it both belonged but at the same time didn't.

When editing a spell of this level of complication when editing the incantation they had to edit the runes of the circle. Basic spells didn't need this. They had a lower risk of exploding in the user's face. Thunder Strike was one of the best examples of simple edits. His current incantation was, I am he who slays and captures gods. I am the one who knows the end and the founder of genesis. Return thyself to the cycle of providence, The elements to elements. And sever the links woven between images and truth. Now all of creation shall perish here. At the distant ends of the void. Black Magic, Extinction Array!

With a frustrated noise he summoned his books Egyptian Runes. There he stayed for two hours summoning and sending back books trying to find what was wrong. XIII remained asleep for his part. His breathing having evened out within the first ten minutes. Harrison envied that ability of his.

So engrossed in his work he did not hear the Common Room wall open and Tom Riddle entered. Nor did he notice when the older boy paused at the sight of them. His entire focus was on the books and his layer. Frustration continued to mount within him as he was unable to figure out what the issue was.

"You have the sequence mixed up," said a voice from behind Harrison causing the boy to jump half a foot in surprise.

Glancing up he saw that Riddle was standing behind him. Much like how Harrison had been before his thoughts were interrupted Riddle was staring at the sequence.

He kept his emotions in check as he asked, "What do you mean, Riddle?"

Riddle pointed to the third runes and the seventh as he said, "These two need to be switched. You also can't have these together. Instead you need to use the alternative of your second rune. If you were to use this in an activation it would most likely explode since they are such volatile rune."

Immediately Harrison began to write down the suggestions. While he had a Mastery in Runes he still made mistakes. It was why spells were looked at by another technomage before testing. It ensured injuries and mistakes in testing were avoided. Harrison remembered how many times he had to edit his rune sequences before Keller had approved.

Riddle quietly gave advice on the rune sequences. It was nothing major but it was a different take from someone with fresh eyes. XIII and the other Black Hawks had seen it so many times they weren't much help in finding flaws any longer.

Despite him writing down the suggestions he didn't make any changes. He would do that under the watchful eyes of Keller. One because these were new ideas. Two because Riddle did not have any masteries under his belt. One wrong idea could kill Harrison by accident.

Once he was done he rolled up the scrolls and sent them back to his trunk along with the books. Then he turned his attention back to Riddle. Riddle had moved into the closest chair and was watching him with an unreadable expression. For a moment it was silent between them.

Then Riddle asked, "Have you made a decision on if you will accept my courtship proposal?"

Harrison sat back giving off an at ease perception of himself as he said, "I can't make a decision either way. When I signed my apprenticeship contract with my Master it states he has to approve or disapprove any courtships or betrothals. This was to prevent any parents from interfering with students lives at Nightingale. It works just as well now since I am back in England when I would rather not be."

"And who is your Master? You should be able to send an owl and ask for his permission either way."

Harrison gave a dark smile that spoke of vengeance should he ever encounter the Dark Lord or his followers again, "Deputy Headmaster Matthew Keller is my master. He and Headmaster Durant are one of the many who were injured. Both are currently in a coma and it is not known when they will wake."

Riddle's expression didn't change but he had the feeling the other wasn't pleased. Not that it bothered Harrison. He had no intentions of growing attached to anyone in the school or country. He was a student of Nightingale and was simply here until it was rebuilt. They would be back in a year. Attachments would only cause hurt when he had to leave.

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

kirsty21: thanks for your review, my friend. Yeah!

mizzrazz72: thanks for your review, my friend. Their loss.

DarkRavie: thanks for your review, my friend.

...

Two animals chased each other through the forest. A black wolf with blue eyes tackled the black dingo. They wrestled under the moonlight trying to gain the upper hand.

The dingo might not have weighed as much as the wolf but he was faster. He was able to slip out from under the wolf and playfully back away. He dropped into a play bow and waited. There was annoyance in the blue eyes as the wolf glared. He grinned in response and barked inviting the other to come play some more.

Above them, the sky was turning lighter as dawn approached. The full moon was nearly over for another month. No matter where they were it was the two's favorite time of the month. They were allowed to run free and let loose their worries. Being able to run was what all animagi or weres needed at some point. Harrison and XIII were no different.

It had been slightly disappointing when the other were or animagi of the castle had not joined them. Sirius and Remus were no doubt holed up in their office. It was too bad. There was nothing like feeling the forest beneath their paws.

XIII growled. Then his eyes trailed up towards the sky. Harrison wanted to whine low in his throat. He didn't want to go back. Running in the forest was freeing. There weren't any pesky wizards who wanted to court him.

However, XIII was already shifting back to his human form. There were a few light scratches on his face and arms. Their run through the forest had given him scratches. Well, that and their roughhousing.

With a sigh, Harrison shifted back to his own human form. Bones cracked and reformed and he stood in a white short-sleeved shirt and blue jeans. It was what he had come out in just as XIII was wearing similar clothes. Even though it was October they didn't feel cold. One of the perks of having changed back.

XIII said stretching out his muscles, "I guess we should head back to the castle. As much as I'd rather not deal with the questions."

Harrison rolled his eyes, "Ignore them. The Slytherins have no right to question us. We have our own traditions and running through the woods on nights of the full moon is one of them."

"We could..."

Harrison poked his sworn blood brother in the chest as he said, "Don't you finish that sentence. It is none of their business what we do. Just as it's none of our business what they decide to do."

XIII shook his head and began heading towards the castle, "Stubborn bastard."

"Pot meet kettle."

The two laughed as they headed back. It took them twenty minutes to reach the castle entrance. Due to the early hour, they were lucky and weren't stopped or seen by students. If Nightingale members had seen them they would have understood. Hogwarts not so much.

Their good fortune lasted until they reached the Common Rooms. There much to Harrison's annoyance was the one person he did not want to see. Riddle was sitting by the fire facing so that he could see anyone who entered. In his hands was a book Harrison couldn't quite read the title of.

XIII gave him a questioning glance. Did he need the other with him? Minutely he shook his head. No, he didn't need him here. He could take care of Riddle and his nosiness himself. They were shrugged and headed off to the showers after summoning clean clothes.

Once they were alone Riddle set aside the book and stood. He said coolly, "You never came back to the Common Room last night. No one had seen you or XIII since dinner last night."

Harrison replied noncommittally, "Your point? We do as we please and do not answer to you."

"You do however answer to me, Potter," said a snide voice from behind him.

Well, fuck him. The two people he disliked the most in Slytherin were now in the same room as him. It couldn’t... nope better not go there. Fate would absolutely fuck with by making things worse.

Harrison turned so that he could see them both as he said, "Only for the year, Professor. I refuse to go against Nightingale's tradition because we are temporarily in another school. If you don't like it tough."

There was a twitch in the muscle above the man's eyebrow as he snarled, "You spoiled little brat. Just because you are here temporarily does not mean I cannot punish you appropriately. 25 points for your cheek. Another 25 each from you and Hunter for being out after curfew and detention with me for a week."

Harrison sighed soundlessly he should have expected the detention. Though he still didn't quite understand the value points. Nightingale didn't have a points system. Their merits were based on who was King and the grades that the Houses received.

Riddle had a look of consternation at the loss of points. A few of the upper years who had started coming down from the dorms looked positively murderous. He would need to keep an extra eye out. He would not put it past them to curse him with his back turned.

He could tell the man that XIII was a born were. That he needed to be out in the forest for a run. That Harrison went with him because a were born or bitten needed a pack. But that would give up secrets that weren't his to give. So he bit his tongue. He only had to deal with this for less than a year. Then he could return home.

"Potter!" Snapped Snape.

Oops, he hadn't been listening. No doubt the man was trying to chew him out. Why were these people trying to control them? It shouldn't have been worth the trouble.

"Potter, are you listening to me?"

Harrison had to bite back his sarcastic retort. Making enemies would not help him here. He already had enough people hating him because Riddle decided to take an interest.

From the corner of his eye, he saw members of Nightingale coming down. Sensing the tension in the air they drew their wands. If it came down to it they would protect him and retaliate in kind to any who dared attack him outside of an official challenge.

A boy, a member of the Black family if he wasn't mistaken offered suddenly, "Perhaps Professor you can give him the chance to shower first. By the looks of them, Potter and Hunter went traipsing through the underbrush. They could use a shower before you decide how else they should be punished."

"Black, you are little better than Potter," snapped Snape.

Harrison rolled his eyes up towards the ceiling. This man was going to treat him as if he was James Potter. Despite the fact that he was in Slytherin and already had two masteries. James Potter didn't have a single Mastery.

Anything else that might have been said was cut off by the shadows suddenly swirling around him. Snape took an uncertain step back while Riddle had drawn his wand. Harrison however grinned as he recognized shadow travel. There were only a few creatures that could get through the wards of Hogwarts so easily.

Harrison greeted a fox formed in front of him, "Kiran it's been a while since you last visited me. What news do you bring?"

The fox was almost the same size as XIII fully changed. Its fur was as dark as night and its eyes were a cold grey. Most would think it was a demon and he wasn't entirely sure that they'd be wrong.

Those who had gone through the summoning class were required to bond with a shadow familiar. Failure to do so meant failing the class entirely. Harrison's own was a snake, specifically a black adder. He rarely called forth the shadow familiar outside of school. It tended to make people nervous.

For his part, Kiran merely looked at him disgruntled before holding out an envelope. For a moment he could only stare then he burst out laughing as did a few others from Nightingale. Kiran was feeling disgruntled about being used as an owl.

Carefully he took the letter from Kiran and upon reading his exhaustion and amusement faded. He stood straighter as he reread it a dark look crossing his face. A few of Nightingale stepped back cautiously as the air grew hot with his magic.

Harrison ordered in a cold biting tone, "Cane get the others out into the courtyard. Nightingale needs a full meeting. Now! Kiran tell your master I will be there soon."

The giant fox bowed its head as the others scrambled to obey. Ignoring Riddle and Snape Harrison went up into his dorm. There was no time for a shower so he cast a freshening charm on himself and began to change.

He chose black pants with a multitude of pockets. They were spelled to be fireproof and weatherproof. Next was his white button-down uniform shirt with the same enchantments. Instead of going for his robe next, he choose Nightingale's black uniform jacket trimmed with blue. He didn't know what situation he was walking into exactly. So it was best to be prepared for any eventuality. The jacket had stronger enchantments that would protect from many low and mid-level spells rather than the robe which had only standard protections

XIII entered just as he finished buttoning the jacket. He took one look at Harrison and swore underneath his breath before moving to change into the same. There would be no talking him out of it. XIII would follow him to hell and back if that was what he required.

He asked once he took had his jacket on, "What the hell happened while I was in the shower?"

"Kiran," came his short reply.

"Durant's awake?"

Harrison simply nodded before heading out of the dorms with XIII right on his heels. They left the Common Room aware that they were being followed. He ignored their unwelcome tail. Nothing that was going to be said was a school secret. If they wanted to listen in he wouldn't stop them.

In the courtyard, Nightingale students stood in their own House robes instead of Hogwarts robes. A few shifted nervously wondering if it was bad news. Luckily for them, the only bad news was for him and the Guard. Upon seeing him and XIII the group parted so that he could get to the front.

Once at the front Harrison said, "Thank you for coming on such short notice. I have some good news to share this morning. When XIII and I arrived back at the Slytherin Common Room we were given detentions. However, as I was deciding how to deal with this when Kiran appeared before me."

Gasps were sounded all around him. There were only two reasons Kiran would appear in front of him.

"Quiet!" Shouted XIII.

Immediately the others quieted down and waited for him to continue. Once silence once more reigned he said, "Headmaster Durant is awake. It will be a few weeks before he will be ready to help in the reconstruction efforts. He wishes everyone well and for us to keep up our studies."

One of the younger students asked in a small voice, "Will he be okay?"

Harrison smiled softly as he said, "I don't have all the detail yet but XIII and I will be leaving to visit him. If there is anything else that you need to know I'll pass it through the runners. For now go about things as usual."

"Yes, King!"

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

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shadewatcher: thanks for your review, my friend. Dumbledore and his manipulations. He wants them to stay so that they are under his thumb. Separating them in hopes that it will keep them from leaving.

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...

Dumbledore had tried to stop him from visiting Durant. Too bad the older wizard didn't have any right to argue with him. Harrison knew that it was within his rights to visit his Headmaster. Especially since he had it in writing to expressly do just that. Dumbledore was only his temporary Headmaster and had very little authority over him and the other Nightingale students.

Reluctantly he was forced to let them go or risk an international incident. Both Harrison and XIII flooed to the hospital that was treating the injured professors. It was a small hospital in France that was privately owned. Floo was set up so that anyone international or within the country could enter. The owners were Nightingale alumni and had used their resources to ensure creatures had hospitals they could go to. They had the best of the best when it came to healers. Despite the length, some had been in the hospital students knew that they were in the best hands possible. The best part of it was the secrecy contract that had to be signed before entering.

Both XIII and Harrison had signed their contract after the attack. It would be in effect forever to both protect them and the patients of the hospital. Neither had ever considered trying to get around the contracts. To do so would go against everything they stood for.

Both boys headed straight for the rooms where the Headmaster and Deputy Headmaster were being held. No one tried to stop them knowing that the wards would have stopped them if the contract wasn't in place. They had to go up to the third floor and to the west side.

Once they found the appropriate door Harrison knocked. Then waited for a few seconds before a familiar tenor said, "Enter."

Both he and XIII entered taking note of the entire room. A large window with curtains pulled back to allow warm light into the room was on the far side. Close to the door were potted plants meant to keep up patients' spirits. Two beds were lined up on the wall. In one was a brown hair man about six feet in height his chest rose and fell evenly. There was a light stubble on his face showing he hadn't shaved in a while. Harrison's jaw clenched at the sight of his master still in a coma. Nothing about him had changed since the last visit he had right before Hogwarts started.

On the second bed looking disgruntled was Jack Durant, Headmaster of Nightingale. He had shaggy black hair and cold grey eyes. Like Keller, he had a light stubble across his face from not shaving. His cheeks were hollowed and his eyes sunken but for someone who had been in a coma for several months, he looked well enough.

The disgruntled look left almost as soon as Durant saw them. Relief flashed across his face along with something else Harrison couldn't quite identify. Without a word, he motioned for them to come closer until they stood next to his best.

Harrison was the first to speak, "It's good to see you awake again, Headmaster. Is there any word on?"

The look he gave to Keller was enough.

"Still in a coma I'm afraid," replied the cool tenor, "He's a fighter, Harrison. There is little chance that he will die. Just give him time and allow his magic to heal his body. It is good to see you both again alive and well. All things considered, that is a miracle of Mother Magic herself."

That did not decrease his worry for his master but he knew Durant was right. Keller would wake up when his body was ready. Not before as it could do more harm than good. Sighing he put all of his attention back on Durant.

His shoulders went back and he stood just a little straighter. The note had mentioned being called upon. Now he wanted to know why. Drawing his wand he locked and warded the door against eavesdroppers. Better safe than sorry after all.

Durant nodded approvingly, "Good this conversation is meant to be a secret. A Nightingale secret," magic pulsed around the two sealing in the order, "Nightingale was never meant to be drawn into the conflict. As you both know there have been several seers to come in and out of our Halls. What you don't know was our last seer gave a warning. He warned about a student coming in with fire in his veins. Uncontrolled despite the best efforts of the professors."

Both Harrison and XIII gave each other a glance. That description fits Harrison exactly. His magic was next to uncontrolled despite their best efforts. Mind magicks that should have helped did nothing.

Durant continued, "The warning was for the student not to fall into the Dark Lord's clutches. I understand that you wouldn't normally join a Dark Lord especially given what happened. But I felt it was necessary to warn you about this."

Harrison stared at the man for a long moment before sighing, "At least it isn't a prophecy. Those things are the biggest annoyance."

Durant snorted, "That is true. Now about the other thing."

Harrison stiffened his eyes going ice-cold, "Is it true? They want to activate Battle Mages of a certain rank?"

"It is," he replied tiredly, "The Ministries want to pull anyone Rank 3 and higher. If it didn't include students I wouldn't have a problem with it. But they are trying to push for students to be forced to join."

Harrison's mouth went dry. There were young students in their Second and Third years that were Rank 3s. What the hell was the Ministry thinking? Around them, the air grew hot as his magic reacted to his anger.

Durant snapped drawing him back, "Potter, reign in your magic. Now!"

Biting his lip he used the pain to focus his magic. He tasted blood within a few moments but he took no notice of it. His magic swirled around him. Breathing in and out at slow intervals trying to bring his magic back within his body.

XIII had stepped away from him as his magic lashed out at everything. There had only ever been one person who could withstand his magic in order to help him. That person was still in a coma. Durant pushed himself further up. If they were in Nightingale he could lockdown the wards around him. This wasn't their school and he had no control over the wards.

Harrison wrangled his magic forcing him back into his body. He forced his occlumency shields down. The anger was forced behind the shields. Slowly the air became cooler as his magic returned to him.

Durant said once Harrison's eyes focused on him again, "I will do everything I can to stop this. You need to alert the others who fall into the category. Just in case everyone needs to be prepared."

Harrison said slightly disgruntled, "Of course. What else should we prepare?"

Durant thought for a moment before he said, "Work on your CAD. Nonverbal spells if you can pull it off."

"Yes, sir."

...

Far from the French hospital in the mountains of Germany was a castle. It was warded so that only members of the Reapers could enter without permission. Any other visitors had to be allowed in through the floo. There was only one room where those who weren't accepted flooed in.

A single man sat behind his desk in an office that had a large window overlooking the grounds of the castle. The man had light blond hair and mismatched eyes. On the desk in front of him was a book that was thought to have been destroyed in the last Dark Arts purge over a hundred years prior. The Black Family had been one of the few who had been able to save a copy. It was called Elementals and their history.

Elementals are individuals able to control one of the four elements. Because of this power, they were hunted, either to be killed or used. They had been declared extinct since the last one died back in 1581 after being hunted down. Gellert knew that this wasn't true exactly. The previous Dark Lord had one among his ranks, an Air Elemental if he remembered correctly. But the fool had gotten overconfident, ending up getting his Elemental killed and thus losing the war.

Personally, Gellert could not see himself committing such a grave mistake. Not after his mistake with Credence that had nearly ended the war. He wanted an Elemental, but he would never rely solely on one other person. Elementals were humans, and therefore prone to make mistakes like everyone else.

There was a good chance that there were Elementals out there. They likely would have gotten better at hiding to prevent another hunt for them. No one wanted to be hunted like a monster after all. Werewolves were the case and point.

Gellert's acceptance towards all creatures had brought many to his side. Those who didn't agree to actively stand beside him agreed to be neutral. At least that's what it had been until late in the summer when he made an attack on Nightingale. The attack had originally been to try and force the professors into agreeing to neutrality. He had not expected for the school to still have all of its students.

Not much was known about Nightingale and how it worked. The assumption had been that it worked like the other schools. Students only being there for 9 months of the year. That was something they had been terribly wrong about. Not only were students there but they were also combat trained. Forty-five members of his Reapers had died in the battle. Not even Albus's organization had been able to stun much less kill so many of his men.

When word got out about the attack he had received backlash. Many of the students that had been injured had creature blood. Threats of backing out of their agreements were made. Even months after the attack he was still dealing with the backlash. Many creatures watched his dealings carefully. Weary that he may try to attack their younglings again.

Gellert's head came up in a deep frown crossing his face as the floo flared green. A man with dark hair and grey eyes came through. He was tall nearly six and a half feet. Orion, he realized.

Gellert questioned his voice cold as ice, "Orion what brings you here? I thought you would have stayed in England unless called."

Orion bowed before he said, "My apologies my lord. I received information from my youngest son that could not wait."

Gellert waved Orion over to stand in front of his desk. The man did as he was bid and stood there tall and proud.

After a moment he began, "My youngest son has sent word that there is a possible Elemental at Hogwarts."

Oh really?

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

mizzrazz72: thanks for your review, my friend. Yep.

DarkRavie: thanks for your review, my friend.

...

Two hours were spent by his master's side as he refused to leave the man so soon. If it was Harrison, Keller would be sitting by his side. Even if it was only once a day for an hour. He would make time. Harrison would make time when he could.

After the two hours were up though Durant ushered him and XIII out. They had no choice but to return to Hogwarts. Dumbledore made like he wanted to talk to them but both boys had nothing to say. It irked the Headmaster but he had no official reason to keep them there.

Their first order of business was to call the alert the battle magic students of what was happening. As the Guard Captain that duty fell to XIII. Harrison gave soft orders of what they were supposed to do and what to work on. With any luck, it wouldn't be needed. Still, as Durant pointed out it would be better safe than sorry.

For his part, Harrison went to the dorms to grab his CAD and notes for magic circles. It would be best for him to start on Shock Bolt. If he wanted it to become a silent incantation that would be the easiest one to start with.

As he made to close his trunk he paused hesitating briefly. Then he grabbed his book on magic circle theory. From there he left the dungeons heading for the grounds. There was a tree that was perfectly shaded during this time of day.

There he sat in with his back to the tree and the book in his lap. Magic circles were the bread and butter of any CAD use. The CAD was the focus and it could hold some magic circles. Larger circles needed a stronger metal or time for the user's magic to form the circle. Then there was the time needed for the incantation. Seconds that could be deadly.

Shock Bolt was already inlayed into his CAD. He pulled the book onto his lap and began to read. If he was going to try this connecting to his core again. While using any spacial magic or magic circles needed a small connection to his core. What he was trying to do needed a stronger connection.

Slowing his breathing he entered a mediative state. Meditation with mind magics had been a staple of Nightingale. It was required of all first-years to take it. The only way they were allowed to stop taking the class was if they made an EE minimum. He mastered the magics in his first year.

Zip.

A strong connection formed between him and his core. Heat flooded him with his magic. It took all of his control to keep his magic from trying to exit his body.

Every time it would do this. No matter what he was trying to do. The moment the connection was made it wanted free. He rather thought it was like trying to tame a lion. Even with his training beginning young there were times when first years had more control. Using his CAD helped to a point but it could only do so much. Keller could not figure out why he struggled so much. Neither could the other professors now that he thought about it. It wasn't for lack of trying either. Everyone had tried to help him. Some were more successful than others. Harrison distinctly nearly burned the Battle Room to ash on three separate occasions. After the Keller insisted that he anyone trying to help gave suggestions to him and did not approach Harrison directly.

Using his CAD he forced his magic into the metal. Then he focused on the magic circle for Shock Bolt. Without the incantation, it was much harder than he thought it would be. Normally as soon as they began forming the magic circle the incantation started. The less than a second required by anyone but the most inexperienced was almost unnoticeable.

Slowly the purple magic circle began to appear above his right palm. Sweat began to form on his face. The effort to do this deliberately slow so he didn't call out the incantation was annoying. It didn't exhaust him physically but mentally it was taxing.

Turning clockwise the runes that made up the magic circle began to form. When it was finally completed he held it like that. The focus engraved it into his mind so that when he released it, hopefully, it would come back faster.

As he released his breath he released the circle. Nothing happened not that he expected it to. The circle alone wasn't enough. The intent behind it was needed and casting.

According to their silent casting teacher words weren't required for magic. All magic could be done silently. It simply was forcing your magic to obey your will. Many witches and wizards believed that the Unforgivables couldn't be cast silently. More than once their teacher had proven they could. Without the proper training, it would drain their cores extensively.

Remembering the way his teacher described it he reformed the image of the magic circle. This time instead of trying to form it in pieces he tried to form it completely. Forcing his magic to obey him he formed it completely.

It took less than a second much faster than the previous attempt. Thunder Sprites his mind called. Lightning began to dance across the circle weakly. It wasn't much but without speaking it was more than most could do.

As he prepared to release it a voice breathed in surprise, "That's wandless magic."

Harrison's eyes shot open and the magic faded with his lack of concentration. Despite the fact, he was going to release it soon a string of curses came out of his mouth. Lightning while weak had struck the palm of his hand.

Rubbing his hand to take away the pain he looked up. Tom Riddle was standing out on the grass in front of him. His blue eyes were alight with interest.

Damn it. He should have chosen a more secluded spot. This wasn't Nightingale where he could practice his magic anywhere without being interrupted. The other students knew better than to interrupt a technomage.

Harrison snapped, "You idiot. Don't you know better than to interrupt someone when they are connected to their core? It could have ended in disaster."

Riddle blinked in surprise. He opened his mouth as if to argue. Then he looked down at Harrison's palm which was still red from the lightning.

Then he apologized looking properly chastised, "I'm sorry. We don't learn about magic like that here at Hogwarts."

Suspicion was still clear in Harrison's green eyes. Riddle looked somewhat nervous at his suspicion.

Then he asked, "What was that?"

Sighing he relented and waved for the boy to take a seat. He couldn't teach Riddle, well he could but he wouldn't, technomagic he could explain it.

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

mizzrazz72: thanks for your review, my friend. Ah yes, he probably should have.

DarkRavie: thanks for your review, my friend.

...

Riddle blinked as he explained, "Incantations and magic circles are integral in technomagic. A CAD are required to use magic circles. CADs are made from magic metals typically bought from the goblins. Most technomages have a set contract with the by the time they are a Silver ranked Apprentice."

"How many are there?"

Harrison had to think for a moment. Despite him being a Master of Technomagic he didn't attend the conferences. He had taken after his master in that aspect much to the chagrin of the other masters and the Council. Only twice since he started his apprenticeship with Keller did he attend a conference. One being in his first year as an apprentice. The second being when passed his Mastery examination.

Both had been fairly uneventful and had given him a rough estimate on how many technomages there were. It wasn't a lot. Technomagic was such an obscure branch of magic that few even knew it existed. Those that did were typically like the Malfoy or Black families. They used their wealth to support certain masters in their research. In return, they would get the first of any proven working product.

For Harrison's part, his benefactor was the Nott Lord Benjamin. The two had hit it off in the first conference and he had been offered a deal he couldn't refuse. Benjamin bought most of his supplies and gave him a 10,000 galleon stipend quarterly for research purposes. In exchange, he received high-level spacial rings and a CAD that Harrison personally attended to. Any programming or maintenance that was done was only done by him. Occasionally he would be asked to tutor the Lord in a particularly difficult spell.

Harrison hadn't trusted his father's "generosity" after his first year at Nightingale. The man considered him little more than a squib. It was why as soon as he could he opened a Vault that could only be used by him. The goblins valued secrecy over all else would not tell James Potter about it. Money from his exploits as a Technomage and Rune Master went straight into that Vault.

Blinking he realized he left the question for too long. So he said without a hint of embarrassment, "Between 50 and 75 at last count. Technomages work separately unless it is a big project. Too many different magics cause unpredictable side effects."

"Like what?"

Harrison grinned as he said, "Master Keller once tried to work with four others in creating a new spacial ring. They got halfway through laying the first set of runes when it exploded. The apprentices were protected by a shield charm that all the forges use. This of course didn't help the Master and they each had to spend three days in the infirmary. Master Keller was not happy and kept trying to sneak out."

Despite being injured Keller had proved why he was such a high-ranking Master at such a young age. It was only because of him holding a shield over the masters that they survived at all. They of course tried to berate the younger master for adding more magic into an already unstable setting. Keller had taken it quietly until the Grandmaster of the Technomage Guild had been called. Upon hearing about what the idiots had done he berated everyone but Keller. Keller he told them was the only reason they were still alive.

No matter what anyone thought technomagic was a volatile form of magic. One wrong move. One wrong incantation and you could lose your life.

Explaining as much to Riddle had caused the older boy to nod. Then surprisingly the other asked, "Why not focus on the end result? Even when you are drawing out the circle completely you're still not focusing on the end result which is the lightning."

"Magic circles don't..." He paused and blinked. Wait...

Harrison turned to the book that was laid out before him. Flipping through the pages he read. In theory, Riddle was right. The problem was no one had tried to use it that way. Then again no one tried using it silently either. Sure there was incantation reduction. The most basic of spells could be brought down to one or two lines. Going completely silent hadn't been done before and was widely considered impossible. Maybe they had just been going about it the wrong way.

Harrison jumped to his feet his hands already fiddling with his CAD. Riddle was only half a second behind him. A look of curiosity was plain on his face but he didn't interrupt. Tightening the CAD close to his skin he held up his hand palm out.

Focus on the end result which was the lightning. The rest would come on instinct. As he breathed in he focused his magic out in his mind eye he could see the streak of purple lightning. Around them, the air became electrically charged with lightning and the force of his magic.

Next to him, he felt Riddle stiffen and his magic reach out to Harrison's. For the moment the younger boy ignored him. He kept his mind and magic focused on the lightning.

Until a snotty voice called out, "Hey you're not allowed to use magic outside of the classroom. Riddle, you are Head Boy you should know this. Why are you just standing there?!"

Harrison swore colorfully as the lightning once more shocked him. His other hand came up to rub at his palm as he opened his eyes. When he looked up he found a bushy brown-haired girl with brown eyes. She was an inch or two shorter than him and if he had to guess she was the same age. A red-trimmed cloak lay over her shoulders. This marked her as a Gryffindor and his nose crinkled. Gryffindors they were supposed to be brave but from what he had seen they were lazy and lacked manners. The House of Leo could be brash but they worked just as hard as any House for its ranking.

Riddle said coldly, "I was supervising his use of magic, Miss Granger. You should know better than to interrupt someone using magic in such away. What if you had caused it to react badly?"

Granger said with her nose in the air, "It did react badly but if it had come at me I would have just used a shield charm. What kind of magic was that?"

That's it he needed to find a place where he wouldn't be interrupted by those who didn't have any brain cells. With deft fingers, he undid his CAD and put it in his pocket. Then he picked up the book and tucked it under one arm ensuring the nosy girl couldn't see the title.

Granger for her part was leaning over so that she could catch sight of the title of his book. Muggleborn then. Someone who wanted to prove that they belonged in the Wizarding World. Internally Harrison was glad his only interaction with muggle-borns before Hogwarts was at home. With her manners, she would not have lasted in Nightingale.

Harrison said coldly, "Technomagic. Since you so rudely interrupted me I must go now. No use practicing where I'll be bothered."

Riddle's jaw tightened and his eyes flashed with anger.

Granger tried, "I've never heard of technomagic. Are you sure it's a real magic? If you heard about it from the Weasley Twins you shouldn't believe them. They play pranks on everyone."

Weasley Twins if he remembered correctly were two seventh-year redheads. His father spoke quite often of them. How they were continuing the Mauraders legacy. Aka being bullies.

Harrison said coldly, "Just because you haven't heard of it doesn't mean it is a prank. I in fact have my mastery in technomagic and Ancient Runes."

"That's not possible!"

Rolling his eyes Harrison pushed up the sleeve baring his forearm. There was the rune of Mastery first and closest to his wrist. Next was the golden dragon the ancient sign of the Inscriptors. Finally, there was a ring with tiny runes written on it showing technomagic.

Apart of him wanted to snicker at the look on her face. She was dumbfounded by the marks. Had she believed everything that had been said about him? He wouldn't put it past her. Already he could tell she would believe almost anything an adult said. Never questioning them because they were authority figures. That was part of what was wrong with this school. They didn't allow the questioning that insighted discovering.

Riddle however was looking at the marks with interest. Then Harrison rolled his sleeve back up.

Granger practically frothed, "They must be fake! You can't even get an apprenticeship in Britain that young."

It took a significant amount of self-control for him not to rub at his ears as she continued and he stopped listening. Did she have to be so loud? He knew creatures that were quieter than that.

With a glance at Riddle, he declared, "Miss Granger as I have no more obligations to you or anyone else I bid you farewell. If you wish to speak to me again try to sound less like a banshee. Scratch that, it's an insult to banshees. Try to sound less like nails on a chalkboard with an amplifying charm applied."

With that, he turned and headed back towards the castle leaving behind a shocked Gryffindor and a Riddle trying not to laugh.

Chapter Text

A/N thanks for your reviews and support.

mizzrazz72: thanks for your review, my friend. That he did!

mooneysfate: thanks for your review, my friend. 💙

DarkRavie: thanks for your review, my friend.

...

Most of the Slytherins were in the Common Room. Tom was included partially because he was Head Boy. Partially because their Head of House Severus Snape had called a House Meeting. A meeting that didn't include the transfer students. Tom felt as if he knew what this was going to be about. It wasn't hard to figure out Snape had a strong dislike for the Potters. That had been evident in the way he treated the eldest and only compounded with the youngest. This year however was the first time in living memory that a Potter had been in Slytherin. Snape's already strong dislike was further compounded.

Tom was curious though how Snape could not see the difference. Harrison Potter acted nothing like his arrogant siblings. Or like his father for that matter from what Tom had seen. Harrison was confident there was no questioning that but he had the strength and skills to back it up. If Snape pushed the middle Potter he would not like the consequences.

Once the last few stragglers came in Snape set wards on the door. He would know when anyone so much as walked by it. Tom folded his arms across his chest already not liking this.

Every eye was on Snape as he began, "Now that everyone is here," a glare was sent to the last stragglers, "We are here to discuss the Nightingale students."

Mutters began almost immediately. A lot of the Slytherins especially the younger years were being tutored by the Nightingale. It had not taken them long to realize the sheer amount of work it took to stay in Nightingale for more than 3 months. First years had to have an apprenticeship something not even considered until most people's sixth or seventh year before Christmas. They were required to take a class in Mind Magicks and Etiquette. They couldn't drop either class until they had an EE.

Tom had watched as members of Nightingale did their coursework. Hogwarts was too easy and the upper years were taking charge of the younger. Any time one of Hogwarts student tried to join they were met with cold stares. They did not trust Hogwarts students any more than the old Headmaster.

Snape continued, "Nightingale is different than what I and the other professors expected. We expected those who are weak and barely able to use magic. Now Dumbledore believes they have power and training equal to that aurors. I do not share in this belief."

Theo Nott asked sounding unimpressed, "They are just students. No better than the rest of us. I think everything has been exaggerated. Even Potter's tie with Riddle is little more than a fluke. I say throw them out and be dome with them."

Tom growled, "It was no fluke. Potter is powerful. He likely could defeat most Slytherins one on one and even in groups. It would take four or five of us to defeat him."

A few other the others glanced at him cautiously. They knew he was not prone to exaggerating. If he said it would take more than two of them. Then it would be no question about it. When it came to Potter he knew it would end in a draw if it was just between them. Nightingale did not train regular wizards. They trained the best of the best. That he was beginning to realize. Realize and envy that he wasn't chosen among them.

Snape sneered, "They are spoiled brats used to being coddled at their school. You will not have more interactions with them than necessary. Their use of magic has brought down the Headmaster's attention upon them. If they continue they will be expelled."

"What do you mean professor?" Asked Tom curious.

He already had the feeling that he knew. Either Snape, Dumbledore, or both thought they were using Dark Magic. What was and was not Dark Magic in their eyes was subjective. Rituals that had been part of their culture for centuries were being replaced by muggle traditions. This was because muggle-borns didn't want to accept change.

Hogwarts had a ritual ground that was hidden from prying eyes. The knowledge of where it was and how to access it was passed through trusted individuals. Those taken to the grounds swore oaths to never speak of it without permission. Snape like everyone else was held to the oath.

Tom had planned to invite the Nightingale students. He still did it wasn't like Snape could stop him. It was the choice of the students who had access. The only issue was that Snape seemed blinded by his hatred for Lord Potter. That would not do.

"You, Professor are blind," stated Tom simply.

"Excuse me?" Growled Snape.

Tom said matter of factly, "You are blind to what is right in front of you. As Head of Slytherin, you should be encouraging us to form strong connections with Nightingale. It is obvious that any student who makes it past their first year there will become masters of their craft. You are letting your hatred of Lord Potter blind you to these facts."

Snape's eye twitched the only sign of his displeasure. Internally Tom delighted in getting a reaction out of the man. This was not the year for the man. At every stage, he was making missteps and undermining his potion.

Most of the Slytherin House could see that the Nightingale students were powerful. A few exceptions being idiots like Crabbe, Goyle, and Nott. How those three made it into Slytherin was the biggest mystery? If it was up to him they would be in Hufflepuff.

Abraxas said finally, "Professor like it or not they are here. They will likely join us for the ritual on Samhain. They will be sworn to the same secrecy as everyone else."

Snape's eyes narrowed and a dark expression overtook him, "You would stand with outsiders over your own Head of House?"

Alphard answered this time, "There is power with them. Any good Slytherin follows the power. Professor, you have control, and comparatively speaking you are strong. For Hogwarts. But compared to those who came to Hogwarts as refugees you don't compare to their second years."

Anger flashed in the man's eyes but around them, others were nodding. No one would have put it so bluntly but they knew it to be true. There were second years who had more innate power than most adults. Tom wanted them on his side but most of all he wanted Potter. He would not allow Snape to get in his way.

Snape's head snapped over to the Common Room door suddenly. It opened admitting Harrison and XIII. The two stared assessing the group before them.

Then Harrison asked, "Are we interrupting something?"

Snape glowered, "No. Dismissed."

Chapter Text

...

Explosions. Fire. They were under attack he had to get to the Main Hall. It would be where everyone else would be gathered at. A plan that had been beaten into each of them in case this happened. They never believed anyone would be so bold.

Grindelwald somehow the man had found them. How? How had he found them? The school was supposed to be so heavily warded only students, professors, and the alumni could find it. It should have been impossible! Unless... unless they had a traitor. If he ever found the traitor he would kill them.

Harrison flinched as a body found its way to his right shoulder. The floor shook with the force of another attack. As he stumbled slightly he saw who had caught up with him. XIII, his best friend, and fellow battle mage.

"Plan?"

Harrison shouted to be heard, "Find the others first! I have everyone's CAD. They will be at a disadvantage."

XIII nodded and they continued to run. Instead of taking the stairs when they came up to them, both boys vaulted over the banister. At the count of three, they cast cushioning charms and slowed their descent. Easily they landed and did not hesitate to keep going. They were only a few minutes from the Hall. They never reached it.

Just as they turned down the closest corridor the wall that led to the outside exploded. Dust and debris rained down upon the two students causing them to cough and dodge about. Harrison felt as the wards went down the last few remaining exploding out as their fail-safe activated.

Activating his spacial ring he pulled out his and XIII's CADs. He tossed the others, CAD, before pulling on his own. Tightening the straps he activated. XIII was engaging the Reapers in combat. He did not hold back in the Battle Magic they had trained in for years.

In his mind, he was already running through the early steps to forming the spell. It was dangerous to use it here. If he was smart he would simply activate Fool's World and continue to try and get to the Hall. Fool's World range was not strong enough,h however. It would protect him and maybe five others. That would leave the other kids to fend for themselves. Harrison would never do that. He was their King.

"Enter the school," came a cold voice, "Take as many out as you can!"

Grindelwald.

Harrison and XIII exchanged a look. Grindelwald was looking to kill as many as he could. They could not hold back. Fool's World only worked against forming magic spells. If it had already been activated or had been forming outside of the range it could still kill them. Grindelwald wasn't stupid. He would figure it out within moments. No better to keep Fool's World a secret for now.

XIII formed a large shield between him and the Reapers. As long as his friend lived that shield would hold. It was a dangerous spell Grade 5 Military Magic typically used to protect a large group of wizards from a battlefield. The last time it had been used was when Russian Military Battle Mages were sent to save German Aurors.

He would use his own high-grade military magic. Holding up his right hand he brought the circle into the forefront of his mind. In the air appeared a magic circle.

It was a five-part glyph that has the glyph core with the tips of an eight-pointed black star on the outside as the main symbol with the tips of a supporting eight-pointed star of white in between the black tips. A three-ringed border is the next layer, consisting of black teeth pointing towards a golden chain in the center.

The next layer is a contained border of the script with an inverted layer of hollow teeth whose tips after it, pointing toward the center with stylized waves of fire around that layer. The fourth layer is a simple material ring with three circles arranged in a triangular pattern each having its own symbol within. The fifth layer is another three-part binding circle that has an unbound script as the innermost layer, multiple triangles pointing outwards as the middle, and two thin rings of orange on the exterior and black as the interior closely spaced together that allow the tips of the middle triangles to extend past them.

Once it was set he began the incantation driving everyone into movement, "I am he who slays and captures gods. I am the one who knows the end and the founder of genesis."

He could see Reapers making their way through the hole. A few were thrown back out by XIII's spells. No matter how skilled he was though he couldn't keep them all back.

Harrison continued the incantation as XIII got out of the way of the magic blast that was coming, "Return thyself to the cycle of providence. The elements to elements. And sever the links woven between images and truth. Now all of creation shall perish here. At the distant ends of the void," all the fighting had stopped as a golden light formed, "Black Magic, Extinction Array!"

The golden light shot towards the Reapers. They did not have the chance to do anything more than stare. Then scream when the spell hit them. The screams only last a few seconds but he would never forget them.

...

Harrison shot up from his bed eyes wide with fear. Green eyes searched the dark room and the only thing he could hear was the soft snores of the others. His wand was in his head and he didn't remember taking it out. It took him several long moments of sitting in the cool room with sweat making him shiver slightly before he could release his wand.

There was no way that he would be able to go back to sleep after that. Memories of the day of that attack had been slowly fading. It had a good while since he had a full return of them like that. Most of the time it was reactions to kids screaming. That was why he refused to go to the Quidditch Match yesterday. He couldn't deal with the screaming kids all excited for the match.

Staying in the rooms was out of the question. He got up from the bed and changed into a plain shirt and jeans. From his trunk, he pulled out his apprentice wardstone promptly tying it to a belt loop and summoning paper. While not required to check wards that were around him it did help him focus. He wanted to be sure that he could perform a summoning without getting caught by the old goat of a Headmaster.

A quick glance at the calendar made him sneer. Halloween. Samhain. Hogwarts didn't offer the rituals that Nightingale did. There had to be a place where he could perform the yearly ritual.

Harrison headed for the Common Room and was pleased to find it empty. His right hand trailed to his side where the ward stone was tied. Using it as a focus he sent his senses out. Around him, he could sense the different wards.

Dark magic detection,anti-apparition, anti-portkey, etc. They were the typical wards one would see in a Light Family Manor. There were several spots where wards were more extensive. Three of the Four Houses Common Rooms had specific wards set by the Heads of House. Only Gryffindor didn't have these wards. It seemed Mcgonagall trusted the wards over the school rather than what she could place.

To his delight, there were places where the wards didn't reach at all. A spot that he sure was just a wall on the seventh floor. As well as a place below the second-floor girl's bathroom. It was far below but there was in fact something there. Just like with the seventh-floor corridor.

Summoning magic was classified as grey magic. As such it wouldn't alert the wards and thus the Headmaster. Once he was positive he would be safe to perform a summoning here he released the wardstone. Then he held up the summoning paper.

Harrison was strong enough to perform a summoning without using the paper. He had done it hundreds of times in the past. Normally he would do it without the paper but the magical fluxation might alert the Headmaster or worse Harrison's Head of House. That man was determined to make his life hell. For now, he ignored Snape but if he kept pushing he would find out the real strength that lay in Harrison. He focused his magic into the seal. When it was primed he tossed it into the air.

For a moment nothing happened. The shadows began to form around the paper. A familiar snake began to form within the shadows. It was not a large snake. Only three and a half feet in length but if someone thought it wasn't dangerous they would be in for a surprise. Ziggy was a male mixed snake with a dangerous neurotoxin and fangs that could unhinge to bite someone backward. Ziggy had a green and black zigzag pattern down him. While not his shadow familiar Ziggy still did odd jobs for him.

For a moment the snake stared at him then hissed, §Why have you summoned me human?§

Harrison said looking around to ensure he was still alone before hissing in return, §I need you to watch someone for. You are not to attack them or anyone that interacts with them. Unless they are attacked with the intention to kill of course.§

Ziggy blinked then dryly replied, §That's no fun.§

§It's not supposed to be, Ziggy,§ he quipped.

Sighing was the only way to describe what the snake did. Then he asked, §Who are you wanting me to watch?§

§Albus Dumbledore,§ he bit out, §I do not trust that man's intentions. Watch him but do not be seen.§

§And what will you give in return?§

§The usual price,§ he declared.

§Fine. I'll check in with you if the goat-man decides to do something you sound consider noteworthy.§

And like that he was gone. Harrison made a mental note to get a blood for the summoning. Their agreement was a full quart of human blood anytime he called Ziggy. Expensive but the summoning did good work.

Untying the wardstone he tucked it into his pants pocket and headed back to the dorm room. There was no sleeping again tonight but he could work on his other works. Potions would be good.

Chapter Text

...

The Slytherin Common Room was nearly silent. It wasn't empty. In fact it was filled with both Nightingale and Slytherin students working. Specifically the Nightingale students were encircled around a single table. Tom had tried to see what they were working on several times and was met with cold looks.

So Tom and his inner circle were sitting by the fire. A few were quietly talking amongst themselves. Abraxas and Regulus were also watching the Nightingale students. Curiosity filled Abraxas eyes but there was something else was in Regulus's eyes. Tom didn't trust the look in the youngest Black's eyes. He would have to keep an eye on him.

Tom was sitting with an open book on Ancient Runes in his lap. It was a book he had already read but no one else knew that. He used it as an excuse to pretend not to be studying his puzzle. That was what he considered Harrison, a puzzle. By all accounts he should be a Light Wizard with heavy Light mentality. He was raised by James Potter and the black sheep of the Black Family. Then again Sirius Black was proof that just because you were raised for a certain mentality didn't mean you would believe in it. Black who had been raised on believing in Dark Arts had Light mentality that equaled that of Albus Dumbledore. The difference was that Harrison had spent most of his childhood at a school few could attend.

As he was thinking this he felt grey magic in strength he hadn't felt before. Every magic sensitive member of the House head came up. Surprise and uncertainty was clear in their eyes. Even those that only had a small ability. Tom had called his wand out of the holster. Only the Nightingale students seemed unfazed even though he was sure they felt it.

Shadows began to form around the group of students. This caused those who were in the chsirs furthest from the fire to julp away. A unfamiliar snake began to form within the shadows. It was not a large snake only three and a half feet in length but Tom got the sense that it was dangerous. It had a green and black zigzag pattern and a triangular head signifying it was venomous.

A part of him wanted to speak to the snake and ask it why it was there. He didn't get the chance. Several of the Nightingale students stepped away allowing Harrison to come out. Green eyes were solely focused on the snake.

What would he do? It wasn't like he could speak Parseltongue. Tom was the last of the Slytherin Line.

Harrison greeted with a strange familiarity, "Ziggy it's only been a few days."

Ziggy? Who in their right mind named an obviously venomous snake such a childish name?

The snake hissed, $I wouldn't normally come to you with so many outsiders. There was no choice however. The goat man has called your brother in. They are going to make a challenge to you.$

A challenge?

Harrison's face darkened as he growled, "A challenge? You're sure Ziggy?"

Tom's mouth dropped open. Surely he couldn't understand the snake? It was impossible. The Potters didn't have any Slytherin Line connections.

$I wouldn't be here if I wasn't sure,$ snapped back the snake.

Harrison asked, "Is there anything else I should know?"

$The challenge is intended to be made as soon as you step out of the Common Room.$

Harrison nodded his head as he pulled out his wand. He conjured several large rabbits and recieved a muttered thanks from the snake. It bit each of the rabbits before disappearing with them into shadows.

To XIII, Harrison asked, "Be my second?"

XIII stood straighter his blue eyes were like ice as he said, "Of course. Battle Mage robes or regular?"

Excuse him what?

Harrison replied already heading for their dorms. Several of his Slytherins looked to him for guidance. They wanted to know if they could do anything to help them. He didn't know honestly. It was unlikely the young man he was trying to court didn't want his help here. Even more likely that he didn't need the help either. What should they do?

...

Harrison was already pulling off his robes and unbuttoned his shirt the moment he entered the shared dorm. Regular robes would not hold up in a duel. Especially if he decided to go all out. He had not decided on whether or not he would let loose. He wanted to be prepared either way.

Once his shirt was off he kicked open his trunk and switched it to the third compartment where he kept his Battle Mage equipment. XIII was across the room doing the same. A brief consideration was given before he grabbed his most recent robes. They had all of the patches indicating his rank and status. The most important being that he was the Leader of the Black Hawk squad. It's crest being a black hawk in the center with a grey background and a gold trim. 

The shirt that went under the robes was a black regular look tshirt. Unbeknownst to anyone who was simply looking at it was enchanted. Weather proof, fire proof, resizing charms, and anti trnasfiguratiom. The final one had been added after the last Dueling tournament where his opponent with impeccable aim transfigured his shirt into venomous snakes. His pants were a similar style to that of muggle military fatigues. Plenty of pockets that could hold surprises. They had all the same charms on them as his shirt. Black dragon hide boots were laced up.

Harrison pulled out his CAD and tightened the straps. Flexing his hand to ensure it wasn't too tight he grabbed Fool's World. The card went straight into his pocket so that he could use it if necessary. Then he put on the robes adjusting them so the protective enchantments activated.

He brought his hand up and called, "Shock!"

The purple magic circle formed and sent lightning just as he wanted. XIII was running through his own warm-ups. Magic permeated the air thick with its power. Blue eyes looked up and he nodded. XIII was ready.

Then they headed out of the dorms and back into the Common Room. Tom was trying to get information out of his fellow Nightingale students. They were tight-lipped and refused to answer his questions. When he saw Harrison his eyes trailed up and down him appreciatively. An odd shiver ran down his spine.

What did that mean? No there was no time to think about it now. He went to leave the Common Room but Malfoy and Black put themselves between them and the door. Wands came out. He didn't trust Malfoy or Black.

That's when Riddle glanced over and snapped, "Malfoy, Black step back."

Malfoy did as he was told but Black hesitated. Green and grey eyes clashed as they stared down. There was something in those eyes. Riddle might have his underlings but Black was not one of them. If it wasn't keeping him from leaving Harrison would almost be impressed.

Then Black stepped away but he did not bow his head as others would have done. Riddle's eyes narrowed and his lips tightened in anger. Harrison did not wait to see what happened next instead choosing to slip out with XIII on his heels.

Without needing to say a word they began talking about practicing a "new" spell. They moved up the stairs towards the first floor. Almost as soon as they reached the first floor they were confronted by Jacob.

The angry 13 year old yelled loud enough that a few of the dozen or so students turned to look at them, "Harrison I challenge you to an Heir duel!"

Chapter Text

...

Harrison gave his brother a cold look. Jacob was wearing his school robes without any protections. It was as if he was begging to lose this duel. Most Light Families made dueling robes that had protections in them to prevent severe injury to the wearer. He knew for a fact that James Potter had at least one set that were separate from his auror robes. To think the man would be so arrogant that he wouldn't at least get his "heir" battle robes.

Around him students from all Houses were watching. It seemed his brother decided to make a spectacle of himself. He almost felt bad for what he was about to do. Almost.

Sneering he said, "I'll give you one chance to change your mind."

Jacob sneered back, "What afraid you'll lose? You know that I'll win and you will lose your Heirship and then Riddle will have to send Rose a courtship proposal instead."

Harrison and half of the watching students snorted loudly. There was no way Tom Riddle would be doing any such thing. He had no interest in the eldest of the Potter children. Harrison wasn't sure what drew the older boy's interest towards him of all people but he felt like he had a handle enough that he knew this to be fact. His family was just in denial over it.

Still he tried once more, "Last chance Jacob. At least change into more appropriate robes for battle. Like the battle robes I'm wearing."

A few of the other students muttered appreciatively. They could see that he was trying to do the right thing. Even if it could hurt his chances in a duel. A few Slytherins however sneered at him darkly showing exactly what they thought of his actions. Behind him, Riddle and his group were watching with varying degrees of interest.

Stamping his foot like a child throwing a tantrum Jacob snapped, "Do you accept my challenge? Or do you forfeit your rights as Heir to me?"

Sighing Harrison declared, "I, Harrison James Potter, under the watchful eye of the Blessed Mother and Lady Magic do hereby accept the challenge placed by, Jacob Charlus Potter. So I say it. So mote it be."

A brief burst of light surrounded them as the Blessed Mother accepted his call. His brother's jaw dropped at the declaration and invocation of the Blessed Mother. It was rare that anyone remembered that the option was there. This was also the only way to prevent outside interference. The Blessed Mother would never allow it but could only interfere if she was called upon in judgement.

Before Jacob could recover he continued, "My terms are as follows. First we duel as we are and seconds must be school age. Secondly Heirship and Future Lordship will go to the victor. There can never be a second challenge. We go until one is incapable of incapacitated or one yields. Do you agree to my terms Jacob Charlus Potter?"

For a second the thirteen year old looked positively panicked. Then he glanced to the side where professors and funnily enough their parents had arrived to. James's face was as dark as a stormcloud. If looks could kill Harrison would be nothing but ash. For her part Lily wasn't much better. She had a hand raised to her mouth but there was pure anger in her green eyes. The eyes he was said to have inherited from her but he doubted that. His shade was much brighter than hers. A symbol of his power Master Keller once said.

Abruptly James gave a sharp nod to Jacob who continued to stare a moment longer. Then he straightened his shoulders and declared, "I accept your terms," again magic flashed blinding everyone for a moment, "I name Ronald Weasley as my second. If I win you also have to refuse the courtship offer by Riddle."

Harrison said with a grin, "I name XIII Hunter as my second. And I agree to that if I lose I will have Master Keller refuse it."

"Let us go to the Great Hall."

The trip to the Great Hall was an event in itself. Jacob made a big spectacle of himself talking about how he was going to defeat his older brother. Harrison and XIII kept quiet. They knew what was going to happen and it certainly wasn't going to end how anyone else expected.

By the time they reached the Great Hall most of the school was following. Harrison eyed the room critically. There was a large dueling platform in the middle of the Hall. All around it were chairs so students and professors could watch. Unlike traditional dueling arenas he couldn't sense any protections. He hoped Dumbledore didn't expect for him to hold back any because he wouldn't. His brother being two years his junior or not he wouldn't risk holding back.

Without an ounce of hesitation he stode towards the platform and jumped up onto it. XIII stood in his corner looking as relaxed as ever. Only those who knew him could the way his muscles were tense and his eyes alert. Only Harrison could see the hidden amber in his blue eyes.

:Hide that,: he thought.

They didn't want Dumbledore finding out about his inner creature. That would end poorly for everyone involved. Born or not.

XIII caught his eyes and took a breath closing his eyes. When he opened them there wasn't a hint of what had been there before. Better. Control had been instilled at a young age but there were still accidents. And in Britain that could get one killed.

Jacob continued to parade himself around the crowd. He was trying to rile them into a frenzy of excitement. To Harrison's surprise the only one's who reacted were the Gryffindors and a handful of Hufflepuffs. The rest seemed wary about showing any support for the two.

Dumbledore came in from the professor's entrance an action Harrison caught from the corner of his eye. So the man would come to proclaim his victory. Without actually coming right out and saying it. The man was more of a snake than half of the Slytherins. Always scheming.

Jacob sneered at Harrison which was laughable on his thirteen year old face. Despite Harrison's best efforts a half smile twitched at his lips. A flush appeared across Jacob's face and neck in embarrassment. He knew that the older boy was keeping himself from laughing.

Then his brother jumped onto the platform and the two stood facing each other. One had brown hair and hazel eyes. The other had black hair and green eyes. His brother looked like a carbon copy of their father while Harrison took after the Black genes.

There were similarities in the brothers' appearances but one would have thought they were cousins. Not brothers. Harrison knew it had to do with his blood adoption by Sirius. His godfather had made him a legitimized pureblood. A rare action in this day and age.

Students began to take positions on either side of the platform. Stars were in the younger students eyes. They thought the world of the youngest Potter and barely new the middle. Ron Weasley stood next to Jacob's corner his eyes alight with excitement. No doubt he expected Jacob to win easily. He was the same age as Harrison but didn't act like it. There was no way he would have survived the first two months Nightingale. Much less all the years Harrison had put in.

Dumbledore said drawing their attention towards him, "Are you ready, my boys? Young Harry there is still time to back out and admit defeat you know?"

Harrison's eyes grew hard as he said, "I'm not going to back down Professor Dumbledore. As the oldest male the Heirship is rightfully mine and I will protect it."

Dumbledore sighed as if disappointed, too bad Harrison didn't give a rat's ass about what the man thought, before saying, "Welcome everyone to the duel between Harrison James Potter and Jacob Charlus Potter. This duel will determine which of the brothers is the rightful heir of the Potter family. Are you boys familiar with the rules of dueling?"

Both boys answered, "Yes professor."

"Good then turn and take five paces away then turn and face each other."

Both Potter boys did. Harrison was more elegant about it his Battle Mage training having kicked in. Every step was deliberate and at an exact stride to maximize the space he was given. Jacob was floundering trying to look nearly as well put together. This allowed a few of the bystanders to giggle at it.

From there it went straight into protocol both bowed to each other. Harrison's was lower and more formal than Jacob's. The lack of respect made him grit his teeth but he said nothing. Then came the count. Three. Two. One.

Jacob in wide obvious movements that lowered the power behind his spells began firing off disarming charms. With ease Harrison deflected them and those too close to the platform were sent diving for cover. One after another he deflected the spells with a bored attitude simply allowing his muscles to warm up.

"Fight back you coward," snarled Jacob.

Harrison remained silent. A bombarda was directed at his feet likely in an effort to make him jump back. That would have been a rookie mistake. Instead Harrison cast a silent Protego. This allowed him to jump on the offensive.

A weak Confundo.

Was this first silent offensive spell. Panic entered hazel as he didn't know what spell had been used. As a third year in Hogwarts he hadn't learned silent casting yet. Too bad. Maybe he would keep to low grade spells. Or maybe not.

Harrison sidestepped a Stupefy that had been aimed at his chest. Someone likely their father had at least taught him one decent dueling spell. Relying on Expelliarmus would not get him very far after all.

A weak Protego from his brother and wavering shield just barely withstood his attack. For a moment Harrison just assessed his brother. Sweat had began forming on his brow and his teeth were gritted. It was obvious that he didn't think it would be this difficult. Should he just end the duel? It would be easy to bind and incapacitate his brother if this was the result of his studies.

A glance at their parents showed anger on both of their faces. It seemed like the youngest child they had thought this would be easy. Maybe he would let it drag on for a little longer. Stretch his magic and muscles in a way he hadn't since arriving to this Merlin forsaken school.

"Obskur," he growled out in perfect German.

His brother was successful in deflecting the spell, but only just. He tried and failed to cast an accio to which Harrison didn't even feel his wand react. The next spell he threw landed. Bruchpunkt, the German equivalent to the bone breaking curse. It landed on his brother's left arm in the upper bicep shattering it. He would need the bones removed before receiving.

Jacob screamed in pain trying to clutch at the injured arm only to scream again. Hazel eyes were glazed over with pain. From the corner of his eye he saw James jolt towards the platform only to be held back by Lily. Had he gone too far? It was a simple curse and as long as it was treated it wouldn't cause any permanent damage.

Casually he asked, "Do you yield, Jacob?"

With tears in his eyes Jacob declared, "I switch with my second."

Too injured to continue? Really? He had received worse curses as a first year. It was little wonder that Hogwarts never made it far in the youth dueling circuit.

With a sigh Harrison returned to his own corner and allowed his brother to retreat. He didn't want to hurt the kid but neither did he wish to lose. It wasn't just his Potter Heirship on the line. If he lost he would lose his Black Heirship. That he refused to lose. Ever.

Weasley jumped onto the platform looking a little green around the edges. Once more there was a countdown and the duel began again. Harrison quickly grew bored with the duel. It was one thing to duel his brother but this was pathetic. Weasley was the brother of a Dragon Tamer and a Curse Breaker yet he used only first and second Hogwarts year spells. Pathetic for a fifth year student.

Furnunculus was first before Weasley had the chance to react or try to shield. He shrieked in pain he was covered in boils and they popped as he moved. Following the movement he began the spell for Rictusempra and a Stupefy. As soon as Weasley hit the ground he turned to face the crowd.

Everyone but the Slytherins showed shock and surprise. They had believed what Dumbledore said. That Nightingale students were barely above squibs. Yet here was one of the students easily performing NEWT level casting with ease. The twinkling in the old man's eyes had gone out and now he stared at Harrison with cold eyes. There would be trouble from that man he knew.

Chapter Text

...

Harrison jumped off of the dueling table with ease. Riddle immediately made his way over a new light in his eyes. It was curious. What did that look mean? XIII beat Riddle to it. He slung an arm around Harrison's shoulder and pulled him close laughing maniacally.

"That was great," he announced loud enough to be heard by everyone in the Hall, "I haven't seen you make someone look so stupid since you became King."

"King," came Dumbledore's cold questioning voice.

Harrison growled low in his throat as he turned towards the old man. He answered, "Yes, Headmaster. I am the King of Nightingale. King is a title given to the student that is the strongest. Challenges can be made throughout the year and when one graduates they can make their successor."

"You?" Came Lily's shrill shriek.

Harrison watched as she and James pushed through the crowd. Disbelief was written all across their faces. He was tired of this. Loyalty was the aspect of the House of Lupus very similar to that of Hufflepuff. Before he arrived at Nightingale they were considered the lowest House. They rarely made it into the 3rd rank and never had one of their own obtained the rank of King.

It was his and XIII's arrivals that had changed everything. Despite being first years they had the fire of Leos. His blood was showing it's true colors are he tried to rally the other members of his House. Having Battle Magic as one of his electives in his first year gave him an edge. Early in his school years he was learning jinxes and curses as well as how to defend against them. Battle Magic actively put them against other students both individually and in groups. His group the Black Hawks were founded by him and co-founded by XIII much to the lazy teen's annoyance.

Words were not enough to gain the confidence of his House. Strength alone was not enough to win against someone eight years older than him. Every day had been a struggle to do more than survive his school. Every day he spent as much time as he could afford in the Battle Magic Halls. He couldn't neglect his studies or apprenticeship otherwise he'd end up expelled. It was a fine balance.

He had done and now he stood in front of his parents. Not only as King of Nightingale but as representative of the school. Students looked to him first before taking action. Time to prove his pride as a member of the House of Wolves.

Harrison bared his teeth in a wolf like fashion as he said, "Yes, me. You would know that mother if you ever paid attention to my life at Nightingale. You would have known I was in the process of uniting the Four Houses under a single banner if you bothered to listen to me. All you had to do was listen to me once my first Yule back at the manor."

"We didn't ignore," she tried but he cut her off.

"You did. When I tried to explain what I did in class and show you my grades of the term you cut me off. All you wanted to talk about was my sibling who were in Muggle primary school."

The two sputtered but it was Dumbledore who tried to jump in and make them look better, "Now my dear boy, surely you're exaggerating. Your family loves. Just because you're jealous that siblings have magic..."

"Don't even go there Dumbledore," interrupted Harrison his green eyes flashing as the air grew hot, "I have proven time and time again I have magic. In front of all these witnesses and the Blessed Mother herself I defeated my brother. The only one who could have challenged me for the right of Heirship. Unless you're going to continue with the lie that I am barely above that of a squib. Which would make Jacob? A squib?"

A broken sob came from the direction that his brother was. However Harrison never let his eyes wander from the old man. He didn't meet the twinkling blue eyes. No matter how skilled he was at Occlumency he would not risk his secrets against Dumbledore.

Murmurs broke out across the Great Hall. Students who previously wanted him to be put in his places were now watching him in awe. The flakey love of the public. It made him want to go to the Spacial Hall for those who had a Spacial Magic Mastery. Spending most of his time in the library researching his different projects.

He couldn't. Facing this was part of his duty as the King of Nightingale. He had to show that he was strong and that he could protect them.

Dumbledore scoffed, "Of course we are the best school."

"Really? I don't see any sponsorships or apprenticeship offers here?"

Dumbledore opened his mouth to argue but was cut off by a 17 year old from the House of Styx, one of Harrison's own, "Didn't hear of Hogwarts even being invited to the Internation Youth Dueling Circuit. Most schools at least send one team but in the four years I've attended you haven't been there."

Eon stepped out of the crowd. He was a pale from his time spent in the library with blond hair and piercing blue eyes. Standing at just over six feet tall he towered over many of the other students around him. From Germany his accent tended to be thick when he was passionate about a topic. He was entering his final year at Nightingale and intended to become a full time Curse Breaker with Gringotts. Already the goblin banks were bidding over who would get him first when he graduated. A rare honor amongst humans.

"Nor have I seen Hogwarts at the scholars conferences," came another voice sickly sweet with false friendlyness this time female, "Surely as one of the top schools you would be invited."

Blue, while not part of the Black Hawks was a key advisor to the group. Her last name was unknown to all but the professors of Nightingale. That caused immense frustration to the Hogwarts professors. She was only fourteen but was already considered a Master Scholar. She was a short girl reaching barely five feet. Despite her youth she had silver hair and eyes. Few knew this but she was in fact a seer. Harrison had kept her secrets for many years and would continue to do so.

Dumbledore looked between them looking as if he sucked on a sour lemon drop. Behind Harrison the Nightingale students closed ranks. Hands were on wands or CADs ready to fight. The Hogwarts students had given them space allowing professors to step up behind Dumbledore.

James unlike most of the others was not hiding his hostility. He had drawn his wand and looked seconds from firing curses. Riddle came up so that he stood shoulder to shoulder with Harrison. The air around them became unbearably hot and was obviously unnatural.

Behind them a bang sounded as someone threw open the doors. Cool air rushed inside cooling the tempers of those who had faced off.

An American accented voice called out, "Now what's going here? Put that wand away Lord Potter. Don't you know attacking a student is an arrestable offense? Not to mention attacking students who sought refuge is an act of war? Does no one pay attention any longer?"

Chapter Text

A/N Thank you to everyone who has been supporting this fic! We hit 100k on a03. It's such an amazing adventure with everyone!

...

Excitement and happiness flooded Harrison as he turned slightly to face the Entrance. Even as his mind began to realize the voice didn't belong to Master Keller. He was still a familiar face but not the person he had been looking for.

Battle Mage and Director of Magical Security for MACUSA Percival Graves. The man was looking a little ragged but he stood tall and proud in his battle robes. Harrison remembered how hard the man worked them in their Battle Magic classes. He was a task master but one that Harrison had respected for years.

Harrison greeted in a sickly sweet voicr even as he eyed James Potter, "Battle Master Graves it has been awhile. How are you?"

From the corner of his eye he saw James's face lose a significant amount of color. Not many outside of MACUSA or Nightingale had met the man. Fewer still could name him on sight. His reputation on the other hand was well known throughout the world. He had faced off against Grindelwald many years ago losing only by the skin of his teeth. It was said that the Dark Lord still bore the scars from their duel.

Graves eyed him suspiciously as he knew that tone and the trouble it usually brought, "Heir Potter. Always causing trouble wherever you go."

"Oi," he tried to retort, "It's not my fault! I was the one who was challenged."

Graves gave him a look that said exactly what he thought of that, "Potter I still remember what you did in your first year. Now what is going on here? Report!"

The last part came in a snap that made them all stiffen. Harrison dutifully reported, "I was challenged for my Heirship by my youngest sibling Jacob Potter. I accepted his challenge with a few stipulations. My stipulations were Heirship and Future Lordship will go to the victor. There can never be a second challenge. It was accepted under the eyes of the Blessed Mother and Lady Magic. He accepted."

Graves nodded his acceptance of the report. There was a light of respect in his eyes when the two locked eyes. He approved of what Harrison did and how he handled things without his Master being there.

The man began to walk up to them. His dark eyes went between Harrison and his father. James Potter still held his wand in his hands. His grip was too tight and would hamper him if it came to a duel. The other members of Nightingale relaxed slightly as they recognized their once Battle Master. He had been away from the school for a few years.

Even being gone for so long every member of Nightingale still had trust in him. The teachings of the Battle Masters were the reasons they survived. Without it, more students and professors would have died.

"Hunter," XIII didn't jump but it was a near thing, "Report."

"I was called on to be Heir Potter's second," he reported like it was second nature, "I was not needed in the duel. Heir Potter did not need my assistance as he took down his brother expertly."

Graves gave another short approving nod. Then the dark eyes turned to Harrison. He looked the green eyed teenager up and down critically. Harrison did not move under the gaze.

Then the man took his forearm up in a firm grip and greeted Harrison properly, "Heir Potter well met."

Harrison's face was wiped of all emotions as he replied tilting his head in respect, "Well met, Battle Master Graves."

A sharp nod was given. Then he turned so that he was directly facing James Potter. His body was directly between Harrison and his father despite the fact Harrison could fight his own battles. Graves never was one to let an underage student face a full adult if he could help it. The only exceptions were battle magic classes. There he believed fairness was an illusion. You had to be prepared for anything. The number of bruises, broken bones, and curses Harrison had to have seen by the healer was more than he could count. Though he could proudly say that it was never the same mistake twice.

He barked clearly annoyed, "Lord Potter put away your wand," once more than man hesitated something that would prove ill for his health if it continued, "Unless you plan on trying your hand with a full registered Battle Mage."

What little color was left in James's face immediately fled much to Harrison's amusement. There were few better to put someone in their place than Graves. Reluctantly James put away his wand glancing at Dumbledore who was glaring daggers at Harrison as if it was his fault.

How in the name of Merlin could this be his fault? It wasn't like he had summoned his former professor. Harrison hadn't spoken with the man since he left Nightingale.

Once he was sure the Lord Potter wouldn't try anything stupid Graves fully faced Dumbledore and declared loud, "Headmaster Dumbledore in accordance with your agreement with the French Ministry I'm reporting in. Headmaster Durant has requested my services as a replacement teacher as his previous Battle Magic died in the attack by Grindelwald."

Oh things could not get any better today could they? Dumbledore had agreed to house professors as well as students from Nightingale. Those at least that could be spared from repairs on the school. Graves coming signaled Nightingale was headed in the right direction.

Dumbledore tried to refuse, "We don't need any extra professors, Mr. Graves."

Graves gave the man a withering look as he snapped, "Don't even think about it, Dumbledore. You had an agreement with the Ministry and you have to abide by it. Meaning I am here to stay until Durant no longer needs me."

The old man's jaw worked and his eyes no longer twinkled. Nightingale's students didn't so much as twitch. They would stand by Graves no matter what.

Dumbledore finally conceded after a moment, "Well then, welcome Mr. Graves."

Before he could continue further Graves interrupted him, "Battle Master Graves, Headmaster Dumbledore. Do try to use proper etiquette and remember my title."

Riddle snickered, "I like him. No one has ever dared to talk to Dumbledore like that."

"Wait until you see him duel," whispered back Harrison.

Chapter Text

...

After the students were dismissed they met in an unused classroom. It was the most effective way for them all to meet with and talk to Graves. There were bound to be questions. Harrison specifically had several questions. It was surprising when Riddle joined them.

XIII had given him a questioning glance when Riddle walked in. The question was clear. Kick him out?

Harrison shook his head. No. He would take care of this. So his best friend stayed by the door in order to keep others from crashing the meeting.

The two teenagers stood in front of the classroom watching the Nightingale kids. Young and old students were excitedly considering what was going to happen. If there might be news on certain favorite professors.

Harrison tried to ask, "Why are you here, Riddle?"

Riddle answered, "I'm curious about your professors. Anything I should know about this man?"

He sighed, "He is a former member of the MACUSA's Military Mages. Any Rank 4 or higher Battle Mage can test into Military Mage. It's not mandatory but usually seen as a honor. We don't usually advertise it to the public. It tends to bring up uncomfortable questions. He spent time at Nightingale teaching Battle Magic as an elective. He made things interesting to say the least."

There were more times than Harrison could count where he ended up in the Infirmary because of the man's teaching style. You either sank or swam. There was no in-between and Graves only kept the best in his classes.

"Are you?"

Harrison shrugged, "I'm certified but I have no oathes sworn to any country. If a country wants to use my abilities theyd have to pay handsomely. Back to Graves though. Outside of his Military Mage status

It took about twenty minutes from when they arrived Graves entered. He looked around the room clocking who was there and who wasn't. His eyes fell upon Riddle and raised an eyebrow at Harrison. Harrison simply shrugged.

Slowly he made his way through the throng of students. Several times students would call out friendly greetings. The greetings were returned with kind ones. Graves was a gruff man in the classroom but outside of it with his students he was kinder.

After a minute he reached the front of the room. The two clasped forearms in greeting their hands touching the other's Nightingale tattoo. While Graves had not gone to Nightingale he was still given a tattoo based on his patronus. It was a sure fire way for Nightingale students and staff to immediately recognize each other. Unlike other options it could not be faked or glamoured. The magic that came off even an unactivated one was unique.

Harrison immediately recognized the magic and knew this was the real Graves and not an imposter. Good. One could never be too careful right now. With Dumbledore dead set against Harrison he would not put it past the old man to send an imposter. He gave XIII the barest of nods letting him know this wasn't an imposter.

With that he said stepping back and bowing slightly in respect to the professor, "It's good to have you back, Battle Master Graves."

Graves retorted darkly, "I'm not back permanently, Heir Potter. Durant asked for me to watch over this group until either Keller or himself could come. Somehow the most chaotic and trouble making members of your lot ended up at this school."

A young female voice piped up, "How is the Headmaster? Is he healing?"

"Will we be able to return to Nightingale soon?" Came another voice.

This started other questions to be shot at them without ryme or reason. It didn't take long for the volume to get so loud it simply sounded all the same. They couldn't tell who was asking what. Grave's shoulders tightened the only outward sign of his displeasure. Oh how Harrison wished he had the man's self control.

Harrison drew his wand and shot a bolt into the air silently. There was the briefest burn of smoke scent on the back of his throat. It exploded causing everyone to quiet down and look at him. Silence fell immediately.

Graves gave him an appreciative nod and said, "Okay. First off Durant is doing well. He will be allowed to leave the hospital by Samhain. I do not know when you will be able to return to your school. The repairs are on track that's all I can say. Any other questions?"

One of the Lupus members piped up, "Sir, what about Master Keller?"

Graves shook his head and said, "I'm sorry. Master Keller is still in a coma. Nothing has changed about his condition."

Several of their shoulders slumped in disappointment including Harrison's. It hurt that his Master was still in a coma. All they could do was hope that he healed soon.

There were a few other questions about different teachers. A few were still in the hospital while others had been released. Riddle watched with interest as he listened. He was learning more about them and their school than he had in a year.

When the questions died down Graves said, "So far you've been able to keep your heads down. With a few exceptions," that was said with a look to Harrison who grinned, "This is good. We don't want attention from the Ministry of Magic. Britain is not as kind towards certain kinds of magic. However I will set up a spot in the forest for you to work your magics. Keeping it bottled up is not safe."

A cheer rose up. They were excited to have a safe place to practice their magic. Riddle for his part glanced around the room with a furrowed brow. He didn't know what exactly they were cheering about.

Harrison leaned over and whispered, "A lot of our students have specialized magics. The masteries allow us to work on our specialization. Hogwarts is extremely far behind the times. It's barely recognized as an accredited school at this point."

Riddle asked, "Why are you here then?"

Harrison shrugged, "The other schools didn't want to take us on. Nightingale is too unknown for their tastes. Dumbledore wanted to control us."

Riddle hummed. They listened as Graves went over the basics of when and where they would meet. When it was over Riddle left them to have necessary conversation with Graves.

...

Three days before Samhain was the first Hogsmeade day of the year. He was sitting at the Slytherin Table per usual. For Harrison it was just another day but other students were excited. They were talking about which of the shops they would visit.

Currently he had a streaming bowl of porridge sweetened with honey. He had only taken a few bites out of it. It was just sweet enough that it wasn't bland but not overly so. Nightingale kept their sugar intake to a minimum and most of the kids kept to that regimen.

Harrison for his part was ignoring the students around him. His plans for the day were to be working on his pet project. The project was Black Magic and technically illegal in Britain. If he had to guess it would give him a one way ticket to Azkaban. Only if it was cast however. For now he was ready to actually cast it so he would only need to be careful about who saw the notes. In his hands was a book on Spacial Magic.

Occasionally he felt hate fueled eyes on his back. Given that his "parents" went home it would have to be his siblings. If Harrison had to guess it was his brother. He had wanted to take the Heirship from him. Too bad the kid hadn't waited a few more years. Then he might have actually been able to challenge him.

Above their heads there were fluttering wings of owls. Mail time his mind supplied. Given that he rarely got mail Harrison didn't look up. Until there was a screech and an unfamiliar grey owl landed in Harrison's food.

Harrison snarled as he looked up from his book, "Really?! You had to land in my food?"

The owl simply looked up at him with its dark brown eyes. It held out his leg towards him where there was a letter tied to it. Intelligence laid behind the eyes and he sighed.

Sighing he put the book down after marking his place. With sure fingers he undid the binds holding the letter to the owls leg. Inside his chest his heart skipped a beat when he recognized the Military Mage Council of France seal.

Next to him XIII leaned over and asked, "Is that?"

"Yep."

XIII whistled, "What do you think they want?"

"Only one way to find out," he replied as he ripped open the letter.

To Battle Mage Potter:

We have been searching for someone to aid in creating a new spell for Mastery Level CADs and those who are authorized to use Military Magic. The spell needs to be a large area scale spell with output being adjustable.

Spacial Magic is preferred but other Magics will be considered. Keep it on the Grey to Dark Grey Magic.

If you accept our request we are open to offering you and any who help you, up to four others (5 total) 5,000 galleons. If you should choose to accept our request send a reply back with our owl.

Regards
Ministry of Magic France
Rank 7 Military Mage
Jacque Moreau

Oh that wasn't what he was expecting. He was half expecting for the law to be passed and the letter being orders. This was much better. The law must not have passed given the offer. It was good money too. Harrison had a decent amount of savings in his personal vault but this would greatly increase it.

Harrison leaned back in his seat and called down the table, "Hey Eon," the boy in question leaned back to look at him frowning at the grin, "You free for a creation project?"

Brown eyes widened with surprise as he realized what was asked. Eon asked, "What kind?"

"V.L.A."

That drew the attention of those who understood the acronym. Eon immediately pushed himself up from the table and made his way over to him. A few of the Slytherins muttered but shoved down so Eon could sit next to him.

Harrison handed over the letter and began explaining it to XIII in French. The more he explained the bigger the grin on his friend's became.

"Can I help?"

Immediately Harrison nodded. XIII had helped him with creating spells several times before. That makes two. Who else?

Harrison considered the students that were at Hogwarts. His first choice would always be his Black Hawks Battle Group. They had a strong set of skills that would work for this job. He could only use four out of the seven. Two of which had already claimed their spots.

Riddle's voice came from behind him curious, "What's going on here? Isn't it a little early for your brand of chaos, Harrison?"

The amused low tenor of Jacob declared, "Potter I'll take your third person!"

Harrison gave him a thumbs up. That made three. Now who to choose for his final. Mikage, Zach, or Kavar. Each one of them their ups and downs. 

An elbow planted itself in his side. Eon tipped his chin behind them and Harrison remembered Tom. Tipping his head back he looked to see that Tom was frowning at them. There was curiosity in his eyes.

Harrison answered a moment later, "Morning, Riddle. I got a letter that was a request for work and am trying to build a team."

Eon reluctantly shuffled down some so that Riddle could sit. Riddle did so as Kavar and Zach were arguing over who would be the final one to join the group. With a fond smile Harrison watched the two his chin laying on his open palm. XIII held up five fingers and glanced pointedly at the too. Harrison considered for a moment before flashing ten. The grin on his partner's face grew feral as he nodded. It was a bet.

...

Albus stared daggers at the Slytherin Table. Specifically he was glaring at the Potter brat who had decided to destroy all of his plans. That boy should have died in the attack that Gellert made. Instead he came to Hogwarts.

Now the brat was over there laughing with the other Nightingale brats. They seemed to be excited over something. Two in particular were arguing about who got to participate. It looked as if they might come to dueling. Briefly Albus considered the fact that he might be able to manipulate the brat who lost. There had to be something he could use as leverage.

Then the Potter brat seemed to say something and the two stopped. They looked at each other then at the brat then back at each other. After a moment they shrugged and walked away. There went the plan of manipulating one of the brats.

Still Albus had to find a way to bring Potter to heel. Disowning him wouldn't work since the duel. The stipulations kept him from being disowned unless James wanted to be punished by Magic.

Chapter Text

Warnings: homophobic comments, homophobia,

...

Letting out a sharp whistle Harrison caught the attention of his Hawks. The good natured argument died after a few moments. They looked at him curiosity in their eyes. Even Tom looked at him.

Harrison declared, "XIII, Stryker, Eon, Eden. You four will assist me with the project. Sorry Kavar but Jacob and Zach work better together and their skills are more complimentary. If we need an extra pair of eyes though I'll ensure you're paid."

Kavar let out a disappointed sigh but nodded his acceptance. Zach Eden looked like the cat who got the canary. Jacob Stryker gave him a look before disappearing from the table. He would likely spend all day in the library. Eon was right behind him. Their research would kick start the work that would need to be done.

Tom asked with interest clear in his eyes, "Are you going to need outside help? Or financial help?"

Harrison waved the other off, "All finances will be paid by the Ministry. On the off chance that they don't support us which has never happened before then I can go to the Nott Lord as he is my patron."

"How did you get a patron from Lord Nott?" Questioned Abraxas Malfoy.

This got the attention of his cousin Draco who sneered, "He probably sucked up to the Lord. Everyone knows Benjamin Nott doesn't become a patron for anyone ever. He must owe your "Master" a favor."

Harrison ignored both of the Malfoys standing up with plans to head to the library. He needed to start his own research for this project. The sooner they got started the sooner he could start on the fun stuff. Harrison loved working on the practical side of new spells. Though where they were going to practice it he didn't know. XIII stood ready to follow him to the library.

Only for a hand to grab his bicep before he could take more than a few steps away from the table. A frown crossed his face as he looked at Tom. He raised an eyebrow as if to ask what? There was a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes then his shoulders squared.

Tom asked as the eyes of half of the Great Hall were on them, "Harrison would you go with me to Hogsmeade today?"

Harrison's brain chose that moment to short circuit. Excuse him what now? The other hadn't given up on his courting plans? Why?

At seeing his shocked face Tom continued, "I realize this can't be part of courtship but I thought we could get to know each other better. This would be the best chance as other students would be doing their own thing."

Harrison searched the older boy's face for a long moment. He was unsure of how he felt about this. They barely knew each other before he sent the courtship. Now he wanted to get to know Harrison better? What was he supposed to say about this?

XIII's wand was now twirling in his fingers ready to intervene if necessary. Harrison gave a miniscule shake of his head. Wait and watch. Then he turned his attention fully to Tom trying to decide. He seemed genuine about wanting to get to know Harrison. Keller, he knew would simply ask if he wanted the courting. If he knew nothing about the person the answer would of course be no. However this was a chance for him to get to know Tom outside of school.

After a moment he asked slowly, "Are you sure about this, Tom? People are going to talk especially since we haven't made the courtship request public."

Tom looked around at the Great Hall with a raised eyebrow. Everyone was watching them now. He could feel glares from many of the girls as everyone wanted to go out with Tom. Right he had a point. If Tom wasn't serious about this then he wouldn't have asked in the middle of the Great Hall.

What did he want to do? He wasn't against going out with Tom? Beside that first night he had been cordial with him and the other members of Nightingale. He showed interest in their dealings and was ready to stand with him at any given moment.

Finally he said, "Okay Tom. Sure I'll go with you to Hogsmeade."

Surprise flickered across the man's face as if he had expected Harrison to reject the idea. Then a bright smile spread across Tom's face. A smaller more hesitant smile crossed Harrison's.

...

Harrison had swiftly returned to his dorm and changed. He chose a black button down shirt with the Crest of Lupus on it, black slack with his shirt tucked in, and a dark green robe over it. For a moment he hesitated but threw on his CAD just in case. They were going outside of the castle. If the attack on Nightingale had shown him anything it was never to be complacent. If Grindelwald could attack his home, the Dark Lord could attack Hogsmeade. Dumbledore or no Dumbledore.

Tom was waiting for him outside of the Great Hall and together they walked down the path to Hogsmeade. The cool crisp air of Autumn greeted the two wizards. Refreshing given how stuffy the castle had begun to feel. It surprised him how easy the silence was between them.

They took the long path to Hogsmeade. Like the returning students he and the other members of Nightingale had taken carriages in. They were too old to take boats and the risk of ending up in the lake was too high. This path was longer than that one but equally as beautiful. The leaves on the trees were changing colors and beginning to fall.

As they left the wards he shuddered at the feeling. Being intune with the magic around him had its downsides. It always felt as if a part of him was being ripped away when he left wards. Heat begun to bubble in his core. Around them the air warmed a few degrees but not enough to be uncomfortable. Tom didn't react to it. Maybe he didn't notice.

When they neared the village Tom asked, "Is there anywhere that you would like to see first?"

Harrison shrugged, "Not particularly. I heard there is a bookstore there but other than seeing their selection I don't know much about the village."

Tom nodded and said, "We can look in there last. I have a few books that I want to see if they have as well."

Soon they entered the village. It was teaming with life as students were coming for the first visit of the year. Most were Third Years making their first trip ever. Those who were staring at the shops starry eyed, stared at Harrison and Tom. Harrison's fingers twitched with his irritation at the staring.

Tom led him towards Honeydukes. The candy shop was positively packed with people. Students were grabbing as many sweets as they could and taking them to the cashier. The poor cashier looked overwhelmed and as if they were regretting their life choices. Harrison was glad he had three masteries under his belt and a patron. He wouldn't need to work in a shop like this to make ends meet. Even if he was disowned by his father.

Sensing the turn of his thoughts Tom nudged him with his elbow. He blinked and pushed away the thoughts of the future. Instead he decided to enjoy the day. The two Slytherins had to shoulder their way over to the chocolates.

Harrison's eyes became bright as he looked over the selection. Remus had given him a chocolate addiction when he was young. Nightingale didn't give their students weekends like this. So it was a rarity that they got treats. Usually it was the occasional care package from home. Remus sent him occasional chocolate care packages but usually it was books from the Black Library. They agreed to keep it a secret from his godfather as the man did not approve of the Dark Arts. It was something Harrison didn't understand. Magic was magic. Labels just gave an excuse for prejudice.

He chose several large dark chocolate bars and a handful of other sweets. When they went to the front they had to wait ten minutes to pay. There Tom insisted on paying despite Harrison's reasoning he could easily pay for himself. To his annoyance the older boy wouldn't hear of it.

Once the candy was paid for they headed into the Zonko's shop. Despite being the son and godson of Marauders, he had no interest in pranking. He heard what James and his friends had done. They were little more than bullies. Something James never grew out of. In spite of his feelings towards pranks the two did spend some time in the shop. The prank items were very basic but he could see how they would be useful in Hogwarts.

From there the two decided to get lunch from the Three Broomsticks. It was a loud smokey pub that like everywhere else was full of students. It took them over half an hour to even get a table. They ordered a butterbeer to drink before looking over the food options. Tom ordered fish and chips and after a moment Harrison chose a burger. They stopped at their drinks while they waited. Harrison didn't find the drink the best thing in the world. He would rather have a muggle soda or fire whiskey. Either would be better but he knew the owner would not allow him to drink.

Tom leaning forward he asked a little louder than normal to be heard, "What is Nightingale like?"

Harrison hummed and his eyes went slightly unfocused as he answered, "Honestly it was home for so many students including myself. It was a castle. It is a newer build than Hogwarts is but that allows it to keep better with the time. The wards are powered by the students within the school both old and new. Our House tattoos keep us tied into the wards no matter who the Headmaster is. It works as a portkey should the worst come to the worst."

"Then how did Grindelwald attack the school?" Tom asked sounding honestly curious.

Harrison's eyes grew dark as he growled, "We had a traitor in our midst. I don't know who they are but if I ever find out there won't be anything left of them to bury."

Tom blinked at the murderous intent that was coming off of him. It wasn't something that he normally gave off. The hand not grasping the butterbeer unclenched and unclenched on the table. His agitation was clear to anyone who was watching him.

A little quieter Tom said, "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have brought it up. It's still a touchy subject for you."

That brought Harrison back to himself. He blinked at the older boy surprised by his empathy.

After a moment he sighed, "It's okay, Tom. You didn't know how touchy that subject would be. What about you? What do you think about Hogwarts?"

Tom leaned back in his chair as he answered, "I grew up in an Orphanage in London. Hogwarts much like how Nightingale was for you was my first home."

Harrison hummed in response but they weren't given the chance to go further into the conversation. It was interrupted by a high pitched screech. He winced as he turned to see his sister storming over to them.

Rose screeched angrily, "Tom what are you doing here? Why are you with my cheating lying brother!"

"You actually acknowledge me as your brother," quipped back Harrison his hand mockingly grabbing at his chest, "Oh no what will I do, Tom?"

Tom actually laughed lightly. His eyes came alight with his own amusement.

Rose snarled at Harrison and poked a finger at him, "You shouldn't be here! You shouldn't be the one Tom asked for a date. This should be me!"

Tom said with a slight wince, "Miss Potter you should keep your voice down. There are other patrons here and you are disrupting everyone's meal."

A red haired boy who could only be a Weasley came out of the crowd and yelled, "You can't talk to her like that! You were supposed to date Rose. I can't believe you're a poof!"

Really? They were going to homophobic. He knew that Rose and her friends were bad but not this bad. Rose for her part look like she agreed with the Weasley. That didn't surprise him in the slightest.

There was no reason for homophobia in the Wizarding World. They had potions that would allow same sex couples to have children. It wasn't like lines would die without children. Most families would

Tom narrowed his eyes now. All of the amusement left his face and body language. Anger and disgust took its place and all of Harrison's instincts were screaming danger to him. The air temperature jumped up half a dozen degrees. Blue eyes trailed over to him for half a second before snapping back to Rose.

Tired of her homophobia Tom snapped, "Miss Potter, Mr. Weasley enough of this from both of you. I have no intention on ever dating or courting you, Rose. You are not my type. You never have been."

"And my brother is?" Her screeching raised in volume.

The entire restaurant was silent now. Every single eye was upon the four of them. Harrison ignored the audience for watching Tom. The older boy's magic was wanting to lash out just like Harrison's was. Unlike Harrison's magic his was tightly kept under control.

Tom answered her coldly, "I don't know if Harrison is yet. We are just getting to know each other right now. I do know that I will NEVER date you. I'm not interested in you and you need to get over your crush. It's embarrassing for you and your family."

Harsh thoughts Harrison. Harsh but accurate. If Rose kept on the path she was on then she would be a crazy stalker. Many purebloods thought that was just a muggle thing but he knew it wasn't. Witches and wizards could be stalkers and were infinitely more dangerous. Love potions could force someone to love another. Thankfully his Heir Ring would protect him from such a thing.

Rose stamped her feet like a petulant child as she demanded, "You weren't supposed to fall in love with the squib. You were supposed to fall in love with me! Why don't you love me?"

Did they have harpy blood in them? Or did they have banshee blood in them? There was no way her screeching could be anything but the byproduct of a creature inheritance.

Tom's eyes flashed and he cruelly sneered, "I was never going to fall in love with you. Even before Harrison came to Hogwarts I had no interest in you. You never spoke more than four words at a time to me. At the same time it should have been obvious. I'm gay. I was never straight and therefore you never had a chance."

Rose's eyes grew wet with crocodile tears. She screamed making everyone close to her wince, "That's not true! There is no way you can be a faggot!"

Tom and Harrison had their wands out faster than she could blink. They were pointed directly at her chest and murder was in their eyes. Rose looked around the room trying to find support from the crowd. Only to find most of the faces showing various degrees of disgust directed at her. Only the Weasley male and a bushy haired girl Granger he thought seemed to be agreeing with her.

"Don't you dare insult us like that again, Miss Potter," whispered Tom his voice like ice, "Even if I never met Harrison we would never be a thing. I would find another wizard. Wizard not witch."

"But Tom," she whined now looking like a kicked puppy, "We would be perfect together."

"No," denied Tom immediately and he turned his back on her.

Weasley snarled, "You smug bastard. Bomb..."

He didn't get any further as a shield appeared between them. A non verbal spell Harrison used effectively despite it not being taught at Hogwarts until after OWLs. Really it should be taught much earlier.

Madame Rosemerta shouted, "That's it! Weasley, Granger, and Miss Potter you are banned from the Three Broomsticks for the rest of the year. To think you would try to curse a fellow student while their back was turned. You better be glad I don't go to your Head of House. She would ban you from Hogsmeade altogether."

Harrison doubted it. The lioness was protective of her cubs. She would simply take points from them and let them be on their way.

The three Gryffindors were shoved out the door much to Harrison's amusement. At least he could now have some peace.

Chapter Text

...

The rest of their meal was eaten in relative peace and Harrison found himself actually enjoying it. Tom showed an interest in learning about his studies as a Technomages. Harrison used the napkins to draw out basic magic circles explaining how they worked. Tom's blue eyes were alight with interesting and excitement.

After they ate the two teenagers left the restaurant and headed for the bookstore. Harrison felt eyes upon him almost immediately. A quick glance around told him the other students were standing off to the side whispering behind hands. Their eyes were raking up and down them with deep disgust.

Somehow they still saw homosexuality as being disgusting. Despite the fact potions could allow partners to have children together. Muggleborns were influencing their world in too many ways. Harrison wasn't against muggleborns being in the Wizarding World. They brought new blood into the old lines. What he had a problem with was them trying to change their traditions and rights.

Tom asked in a low whisper right next to his ear, "What's wrong, Harrison?"

Harrison returned to whisper, "They are watching us in disgust. Honestly the bigotry in this country is positively disgusting."

"Is France any better?"

Harrison considered the question for a moment before he answered, "For the most part yes. Those who are disgusted by same-sex relationships tend to hide it better. To show their feelings in such a way would lose the family support by most of the community."

Tom hummed but didn't say anything else. Instead he looped his arm through Harrison's and pulled him closer to the bookstore. They were able to enter without any issues. The scents of the bookstore hit Harrison like a brick. They were dusty smelling in a way that only books could be. It was relaxing for the young man.

The two boys split from there each heading to seek out their own books. Harrison was hoping to find a book on Runes. The books on Runes were in the back part of the shop in a forgotten corner. Only a handful of shelves held anything on them that weren't school related.

That was disappointing. He had hoped that the shop would have at least more books than was used by sixth years in other countries. With a shake of his head Harrison turned away from the disappointing books. He headed for the Defense books hoping to find something interesting there.

Only to run almost directly into Regulus Black, Sirius's much younger brother. They were just inches from each other. So close Harrison could smell the other's cologne. What the hell did this boy want? They were close no matter how close they were in age, Regulus being two years older. Or the fact that Sirius was his godfather.

"What do you want, Black?" Growled Harrison, "I am trying to shop. So if you don't mind?"

Harrison tried to step around him. Only for Black to grab his arm. The arm with the orange and black band on it. He froze his gaze going frosty and the air heating with his anger.

"Let go," hissed Harrison in a low voice.

Black did not release him instead moved in to whisper, "I know what you are, Potter. You cannot hide it forever."

What he was? That made about as much sense as the boy cornering him. What did he know that Harrison didn't? Dark grey eyes searched his face. Confusion spread across the boy's face before it turned into recognition and he began laughing. The air grew even hotter as Harrison's anger rose. A few people began to sweat and look around as if expecting a fire to be spreading through the building.

"Oh this is rich," declared Black still too quiet for anyone else to hear, "You don't even know what you are."

"What do you mean?" Hissed Harrison.

He was missing crucial information and it seemed the boy in front of him had it. At this point he wished they were within the walls of Nightingale. He was certain that Durant would forgive the use of Veritaserum. Information like this could mean life or death within their walls. And as King Harrison had more leeway than other students.

Black grinned madness shining in his eyes now, "This is precious. No I don't think I will tell you what you are. The fact that you haven't figured it out yet is a boon to my master."

His ma... Grindelwald. It had to be Grindelwald. Before he knew what he was doing he twisted out of Black's grip. His magic was instinctively forming Electric Shock in the palm of his hand. The CAD simply acting as a conduit instead of the activator it had been before.

Black released his arm and drew his wand ready to fight back against if necessary. For a moment they just stared at each other. The only sound the crackling lightning in between his fingertips. A flicker of interest crossed the older boy's eyes at it but he didn't look away from Harrison. They were both waiting for the other to make the first move. And it had been such a nice start to his day too.

"You can't hide forever, Potter," laughed Black, "He will find a way to get to you."

Harrison wasn't stupid. Of course Grindelwald would. He was the Dark Lord for Merlin's sake. It was all about being prepared for anything. In Hogwarts the wards would protect him from most things. Portkeys being the main one but out here he was vulnerable. Now that he knew the Dark Lord was after him he could prepare accordingly.

The only question was why. Why was Grindelwald after him? What had he done that caught the man's attention? Or more accurately what was he that caught Grindelwald's attention? He knew he was different. The band on his wrist was proof of it but he didn't know what it meant. No one did.

No one except the boy in front of him. The urge to curse Black was nearly overwhelming. He needed answers and he needed them now.

"Harrison, have you found everything... Black what are you doing here?" Came Tom's voice from behind Black.

Black turned so that he could see both of them. The Black Madness was sparking in his eyes and it reminded Harrison of Bellatrix.

"Don't worry about it, Riddle," said Black waving Tom off, "We were just having a conversation. I'll be seeing you."

Just like that the magic dispelled and the air cooled. Black then spun on his heel and stalked out of the room. This left Harrison uncertain and worried.

...

Tom was worried about Harrison since Black left. It was obvious the two had words before Tom arrived. Hell by the time he arrived they were seconds away from cursing each other. He could taste the magic in the air from what they were putting off. Not to mention the unseasonably hot hair. That had to have been magic but none like he had ever seen before.

No. That wasn't quite right. He had seen it before but only within the last month. Every time Harrison's emotions had been up high. Every time he had gotten angry the air had become like a sauna. Then there was their duel that first night. Something was happening and Tom didn't like the fact he didn't know what it was. It wasn't like he could ask either. Black wouldn't answer him, he never acknowledged Tom's place in Slytherin and followed Grindelwald.

Asking Harrison. He paused and looked at the younger boy. Green eyes were glazed not truly seeing anything they passed on the streets. Asking him wouldn't do any good right now. Any good will he earned would be lost if he pushed. So he just kept walking.

Chapter Text

...

The musty scent of the library calmed him. No matter what school it was every library had the same musty smell. Harrison and the members of the Black Hawks sat around of him. XIII looked frustrated at the book in front of him. Harrison understood the feeling as the Runes book in front of him was Second Year level at best.

XIII let out a cry of anger and threw the book across the room, "Fuck this! Why are these books so boring?! I learned more sleeping in Runes class in our first year."

Harrison barely withheld a snicker. Eon gave XIII an exasperated look as he stopped writing notes on the parchment in front of him. It was deep into the Arithmancy aspect of creating a new spell. The first step of many that they were working on.

Stryker commented as his amber eyes checking the room over, "That's true. We would have learned more going to Durmstrang but they refused to take creatures. So those who were obviously creatures had to be split between Hogwarts and the Beauxbatons Academy."

"It wouldn't have helped," muttered Harrison as he shut the book a little too forcefully, "They have very light centered teachings only a little better than Hogwarts. At least here we can take a run in the Forest. Beauxbatons wouldn't afford us such a luxury. Though I would prefer to be away from my siblings."

Zach sighed, "That's true but we can't exactly practice our usual magics. I mean XIII you specialize in Blood Magic and Summoning. You can't exactly do that here. I use Blood Magic as well in my Warding which is almost completely illegal here."

"Not to mention our statuses as creatures," Stryker commented with a wave of his hand, "I'm sure Dumbledore knows that we are creatures but not what kind."

Harrison rubbed a hand down his face and admitted, "That is true. It's why we keep our runs to the correct moon phases. Just like you all I want to run through the Forest in my animagus form."

"My skin crawls with the need to run," groaned XIII, "At home I would spend at least two nights in the forest a week. So many of our plans are disrupted by being here. I mean what are we going to do about Samhain?"

Harrison tapped his fingers on the table the only sign of his annoyance as he replied, "I have already worked out where we will be going tomorrow night. There is a door in the Common Rooms that takes us to a clearing used for rituals. Those in Gryffindor will be joining us in Slytherin. Their Common Room is too closely monitored."

XIII nodded and said, "That works for me. Now..."

"King?" Interrupted a young voice.

They all startled in surprise having not felt the wards shift. Turning in his chair Harrison found a short mousy haired boy with green eyes. He had lithe muscle under his Hufflepuff uniform. The green eyes blazed with the power under his skin. It rolled off of him in waves.

Harrison raised an eyebrow at him and asked, "Takaharu correct? What can I do for you?"

Soya Takaharu was a Third Year Lupus 11 year old student who specializes in Necromancy. From what Harrison understood he came into his abilities at an early age after the loss of his older brother. Due to the stigma against Necromancy he had been sent to Nightingale at seven. Due to there being so few Necromancers left in their world Takaharu was mostly self taught. Headmaster Durant had used what little free time he had to teach the basics of Necromancy to him. It wasn't enough however and the kid spent much of his time in the library trying to gather any information he could.

XIII gave him a look over and frowned. That made him give the kid another once over. There was a flicker over his right ear. A clear sign that he was using a glamour but without other signs he wasn't sure what kind. Maybe a Blood Glamour since it wasn't taken down by the wards within the Common Rooms.

The boy nodded empathically as he replied, "That's right. I am Soya Takaharu a third year. I... I was wondering if you would teach me Battle Magic? Please?"

Eh? That wasn't what he was expecting. Harrison looked up and caught a few of the other students looking at them through the bookcases.

For his part XIII had laid his head down on his arms and his shoulders were shaking. Eon, Stryker, and Zach were hiding smiles behind their hands or books. Harrison felt his eyebrow twitch in annoyance. They were laughing at him!

Internally he swore to get back at them later but to Takaharu he said calmly, "I'm sorry, Takaharu but I'm not a teacher. Battle Magic is a delicate art that should be taught by an experienced teacher. Have you spoken to Professor Graves?"

Or anyone else for that matter? Why did the kid want his help?

Takaharu shook his head and said stamping his foot like a petulant child, "No. You are the best in the school, King! I want you to teach me not Graves. Graves didn't even go to Nightingale!"

The Black Hawks members all exchanged look uncertain about this. Harrison pinched the bridge of his nose. Unfortunately that was the thought of many of the younger years.

Holding back his annoyance he explained with patience, "Listen Professor Graves is probably the best person to teach you Battle Magic. Ask any of these guys my way of teaching is do or die. You also need the ability to manipulate spacial magic. Our use of Battle Magic is mostly in Magical Circles. That requires an apprenticeship with a Master of Spacial Magic."

Takaharu opened his mouth to argue or ask for an apprenticeship. Nope that was not going to happen either.

Eon interrupted before the kid could get the question out, "Unfortunately King can't take any apprentices right now either. He entered an apprenticeship contract for Warding last year. With the uncertainty around Master Keller he cannot take an apprentice for Spacial Magic. If you wanted an apprentice you will have to make an appointment with the Guild Hall."

The fallen expression made Harrison's heart go out to the kid. Their lives were made more difficult with being here. Apprenticeships were disrupted and apprentices were left to their own devices. Being used to the hectic schedules of Nightingale having so much free time made everyone antsy. It made him grateful for the work he was given.

Still the glamour ate at him. There is no reason a kid of his age should be wearing a glamour. Unless...

Harrison asked in a quiet but firm voice, "Are you hurt?"

Takaharu flinched. The flinch was so heavy Harrison knew he hit the issue on the head. Someone had hurt one of his people. Someone was going to die today. His expression made the kid shake slightly with fear. Despite his fear he held his ground wanting to learn. Bravery equal to that of the House of Leo.

XIII immediately saw his murderous and stepped in, "Harrison isn't mad at you, kid. He's plotting whoever dared lay a hand on one of his wolves murder. Now tell us, little wolf who do we need to kill?"

Stryker swore under his breath but the two older Lupus members ignored him. Things had changed since Harrison took over as King of Nightingale but it had taken time. Before he took over as King in his Second Year the House of Lupus was considered the weakest of the weak in the Houses.

Lupus had been regularly bullied by the other Houses. Only a handful of the students took Battle Magic classes. Most of them focused less on combat and more on theoretical magic. It was because they were steeped in the belief that they couldn't do combative magic. That they were less than the other Houses. Being beaten down the way they were they believed it.

Professors in Nightingale did not step in to help students. Nightingale was a do or die kind of school. It was steeped in everything they did and every challenge they overcame. By the End of Term every student had to receive an apprenticeship. If they didn't the student would be expelled from the school. Several of the Masters took on multiple apprentices to ensure they stayed in the school. Out of the Four Houses Lupus students had the most difficulty getting an apprenticeship.

Harrison's appearance at the school had begun to change things. He wasn't afraid to fight back against bullies or help students that needed it. In his first year he had taken three electives instead of the usual one or two. One of which had been Battle Magic and he continued to have it as an elective throughout his years. The Black Hawks were formed after the first month. Only XIII, Stryker, and Kavar had been part of the group at first. No one was sure about Harrison and so they didn't want to take a chance on him. Black Hawks as a whole were hellbent on causing chaos and getting back at those who looked down upon them. The first being a massive food fight between all the houses after the "table" had dumped food into the King's lap. In his rage he had accused the House of Ouroboros of going after him. A smirk crossed his face each and every time he thought about that day.

At the end of his first year he had been challenged by the King. A challenge he had won by the skin of his teeth but he still won. That started the real work. Building up the House of Lupus into a real powerhouse. Confidence was the first and most important of it. How here at Hogwarts they were breaking down the confidence he so carefully built up.

Takaharu answered in a small voice, "It's the Fifth and Seventh Year Gryffindors. They hate us because we are part of Nightingale. Despite us being in groups they attack us. The Professors tell us not to provoke them and it's our fault. Except for Sprout but she only takes a few points. She doesn't even give them detention."

His hands shook with his anger and outrage. Harrison understood the feeling. It was the same feelings he had when he first arrived at Nightingale. The older students could take care of themselves. But third years especially ones who specialize in what Dumbledore would consider "Dark Magic" couldn't defend themselves.

Harrison relented, "Gather the others who are having trouble. I can't teach you Battle Magic but I can give you some of the skills to defend yourselves. Afternoon classes will be cancelled tomorrow so we will meet on the second floor of the Charms Wing. One of the abandoned classrooms will work well enough."

Almost immediately Takaharu perked up his green eyes bright with excitement, "King! Thank you!"

"Don't thank me yet," replied Harrison, "You have no idea what you're in for."

...

Tom stood just inside the doorway to an abandoned classroom. The smell of spellfire had overtaken the musty scent within ten minutes of being in the room. It had been an hour since Harrison had called together this band of misfits. Every house from Nightingale was represented even those who joined Gryffindors.

From what Tom could tell they were students from all the Houses. They were young students mostly First or Second Years by their ages. Harrison mentioned once that Nightingale took in students much younger than Hogwarts and other schools did. He wouldn't explain why exactly but it had something to do with their abilities.

To his surprise Harrison had started the children on basic spells. Mostly Expelliarmus and Flipendo. He worked them through the wand movements and aiming. The other members of Harrison's group, Black Hawks he thought they were called helped adjust stances and grips. Tom had to admit that he was impressed at Harrison's teaching ability. He would make a good Professor if he chose that route.

The group were quick studies. In an hour of study they were using the two spells better than most Gryffindors. Which Tom suspected was the point and that they would continue to improve just to spite the lions.

Harrison shouted to be heard over the spellfire, Alright everyone enough of that now. We are moving onto one more spell for today. I don't want to wear you out too much before the rituals tonight."

Tom could practically feel the excitement in the air. They were excited that Harrison wanted to teach them one more spell. Tom wanted to duel him again wanting to see if that first night was truly Harrison's potential. Somehow he didn't think it was.

"Alright the next spell we will be working on is Protego, a shield charm," announced Harrison looking over his students.

The green eyes didn't pause even for a moment on him. They just continued right over him onto the next person. Cheers erupted from the children.

Harrison ordered firmly, "Watch closely. Note my wand movements and precise clear incantation. You must have this otherwise the spell will not work as intended. Protego!"

A translucent shield formed directly in front of Harrison. A silent red colored spell came from Hunter's wand hitting the shield and bouncing off. Tom felt the heat as it hit the wall next to his ear. Powerful. It wasn't every day he saw someone not only stop but redirect a spell using Protego.

Without missing a beat Harrison continued, "Now pair up everyone. We are going to practice the Protegos with Expelliarmus."

There wasn't an ounce of hesitation as everyone sprang to do so. Tom watched as the group started once more. One would attempt to shield while the other would attempt to disarm. This was the perfect way to give them practical experience. Admittedly Tom was impressed by the foresight. They would need more experience to actually take on Fifth and Seventh Year Gryffindors but it was a start.

After another half an hour they stopped the practice. The children's magic was worn but in a good way. Not too exhausted for the night's ritual but not too excited either. One by one they made their way out of the classroom with a nod given to Tom.

Only when it was just Tom and Harrison's Battle Magic Squad still in the classroom did Tom approach. Seeing him Harrison gave Tom a smile but his attention returned his attention to XIII. They were discussing Runes to use that night specifically Blood Runes.

"People would be surprised to learn you're not a Light Wizard," commented Tom, "Blood Runes are considered Dark Magic in England."

Harrison raised an eyebrow at him and asked in a sarcastic tone, "And you have a problem with Dark Magic?"

There was a round of snorts from the others. Even Tom had a smirk on his face. No he didn't have an issue with Dark Magic. A lot of what was considered Dark Magic in England was something he thought taught. It was actions from wizards like Grindelwald that gave Dark Wizards a terrible reputation. There was no good or evil. Only power and those too weak to use it.

Tom conceded with an easy going smile, "It's true I don't have an issue with Dark Magic but you are a Potter. So admittedly you can still surprise people."

Harrison shrugged and said, "No one out there knows me. I don't particularly care what they think of me. The only ones I actually consider to be my family are Sirius and Remus."

Lord Black did not like Dark Magic despite being a Dark Wizard himself. Tom didn't mention this as he didn't want to push Harrison away. Family was important to him but he had been hurt deeply by the Potters. Alienating him from his Godfathers would only be detrimental to Tom's goals.

Grindelwald was right about somethings. Their world needed to change to accept all magic and return to their traditions. Separating themselves from muggles and bringing muggleborns into their world early was key in protecting their world. It was the way he went about it was wrong. Attacking witches and wizards decreased their numbers. Grindelwald wanted to subjugate the muggles which was unrealistic.

"Tom?" Asked Harrison drawing him out of his thoughts.

"My apologies Harrison," apologized Tom easily, "My thoughts were wandering. Are you prepared for tonight?"

Stryker yawned, "Of course we are, Riddle. Samhain is the biggest holiday for us in the year. Every House performs the ritual together. It strengthens our bonds and magic. Are you ready for it, Riddle?"

Tom gave a short bow of his head as he said, "I am ready. Do you have any plans until then Harrison?"

"I do," admitted Harrison as he scratched at his cheek, "I have to meet with the other leaders of the Houses today. It's a tradition within Nightingale the King meets with the leaders of the other Houses after a month into a new school year."

Tom sighed, "Then I will see you tonight?"

"I'll see you tonight, Tom," promised Harrison as he left.

"Don't attack Nero this time!" XIII called after him.

"No promises!" Returned Harrison.

"That man," muttered XIII with a shake of his head, "Eon I have twenty galleons on a duel happening within five minutes."

Tom was barely able to stop himself from gaping at the younger boy. What the hell?

"I'll take you up on that," replied Eon, "But I say it takes ten minutes."

Both of them looked at Stryker who shook his head and denied, "Nope I'm not getting in this one. King doesn't like it when you two bet on him. Last time you did this he used you for target practice."

XIII and Eon broke out into hysterical laughter. Tom had to leave. He didn't understand that group or how they were such good friends with Harrison.

...

Afternoon sunlight filtered through the trees as he stepped into a clearing. During his run with XIII he had found this clearing. It was at the very edge of Hogwarts wards but still close enough to the school that if they were attacked they could run back for help.

As he expected there were three people waiting for him in a half circle. Blue who had been considered leader of the House of Styx for since last year bowed to him. Her right hand was crossed over her heart forearm, bared revealing the nightingale bird tattoo there. Just as he had a wolf tattoo on the forearm of his right forearm.

To Blue's left was a male standing a full foot taller than her. He had messy blond hair and light green eyes. Unlike Blue, Tanner did not bow to him. His back stayed straight and true but he did bring his hand over his heart and turn his arm so that the Snake tattoo was shown.

Finally there was Nero to Blue's right. His brown hair was styled perfectly as usual and hate filled brown eyes met his green ones. Some things never changed. Harrison did not believe that the Gryffindors would help the seventeen year old views of him. Still the proper greeting of revealing the Lion tattoo was given.

"Well met, leaders of Nightingale," he greeted smoothly making eye contact with each of them one at a time.

"Well met," they intoned only Blue giving the proper bow.

For a moment there was silence between them. The forest wasn't silent like the humans who intruded upon it. The sounds of insects were clear and Harrison could smell the scent of a young wolf watching them on the edge of the clearing. It didn't smell like it was sick or had any intention on attacking them.

Harrison turned his attention back to them and asked, "How are the Houses? Has anything changed since we came here?"

Blue answered airily as she stepped forward, "Styx are doing well enough. We have found peace with the Ravens and spend most of our time reading their books and sharing ours. Flitwick treats us well and no different from the other Ravenclaws. There is one girl I am worried about though she is not one of us."

"Oh?" He questioned curious.

Blue wasn't someone who took an interest in just anyone. If she took an interest in them, they must be important. Or in enough trouble that it could end in tragedy.

"Her name is Luna Lovegood," explained Blue, "She is being bullied by the members of her house. So I have taken it upon myself to bring her into the fold. Perhaps you can talk to Headmaster Durant when our return is closer."

Harrison considered it for a moment before he replied, "I will need to speak to her myself before promising anything. We still haven't found the traitor that let Grindelwald into Nightingale. He had to have at least one person on the inside."

"I will vouch for her," insisted Blue her silver eyes piercing him.

Internally Harrison sighed. He was afraid of that. Still he trusted Blue's judgment and her assessment of people. So if she trusted this girl enough to bring back with them, he would give the girl the benefit of the doubt.

"I will speak with her and then with Durant," he conceded.

That seemed to be enough for Blue. She stepped back and allowed Tanner to step up.

Tanner explained shortly, "Ouroboros as you know have been well. Slytherins mostly ignore us in favor of each other."

With that he stepped back and Nero stepped forward. Harrison's fingers flexed and the air grew warmer. Would Nero make the first move? It wouldn't surprise him. The older boy had attacked him twice last year trying to take the title of King.

The glare intensified as he bit out, "House of Leo is fine. We are handling the Gryffindors the best we can."

Harrison sighed not bothering to hide it this time. Nero wasn't giving him the full story. They didn't know that Harrison had spoken to the younger years. Kids in every house were having issues with the Hogwarts students. This could not be allowed to continue.

With a critical eye over the three in front of him Harrison said, "Since that is all you three have to report I have something. A young Third Year of the House of Lupus approached me yesterday. The younger years are getting attacked by Upper Year Gryffindors. I confirmed it with each of the Houses. It's not just Lupus but everyone. The younger children are scared to go out alone and have to travel in packs of four to deter the Gryffindors. These are specifically children that haven't taken Battle Magic or any other combative classes that can be used at Hogwarts."

The others even Nero winced in sympathy for the kids. They were many things but they did not abide by bullying. It was their jobs as leaders of the four Houses to protect the students. If it was beyond them then they came to the King. It showed a lack of faith that the younger years hadn't come to them first and went straight to Harrison.

Harrison continued, "I have started them on the path of learning basic offensive and defensive magics. Today we did Flipendo, Expelliarmus, and Protego. But they need more experience and spells. With the project I was asked to take on by the French Ministry of Magic I don't have time to do this twice to three times weekly. Which is what they need."

"What do you suggest then, King?" Questioned Nero slightly ever so slightly more respect than he had ever given Harrison.

"That we split it between the four of us," he answered, "Two of us will take it one week. The other two will take it the next week. We will keep a log of what spells were taught and if anyone needs extra attention or help. Does that work for everyone?"

There was a silent conversation between Nero and Tanner. He knew what their decision would be. It was obvious that they would have to agree otherwise it would seem as if they didn't care about the younger kids.

Then the two nodded their consent. No matter the issues between the leaders, the kids came first. It was they who would be the future of the school. Harrison hoped that his actions would inspire the next King to do the same. It wasn't surprising to him when Blue nodded as well.

Chapter Text

...

The cool evening air hit him in the face as he stepped out of the tunnel. It was a welcome change for Harrison. Hogwarts had become stuffy for the young wizard and he was looking forward to the evening's rituals. Samhain was sacred for Nightingale students. It allowed them to meet with those who had passed on while they studied and or allowed them to perform summoning.

Summonings could be done at anytime of the year but it was at its strongest during Samhain. So if anyone wanted to do a bonding with a summon they would wait until Samhain. Those who would have attended the summoning class this year were attending so Harrison and the older students could supervise.

Students from Hufflepuff and Slytherin came out of the tunnel after Harrison. Those who were a part of Hogwarts originally moved to choose their spots. His students looked at Harrison a question in their eyes.

Firmly he ordered, "If you are doing the regular Samhain ritual go find a spot. If you doing the Summoning Ritual then wait for me over there. There will be time for those who are doing the Summoning Ritual to also do the Samhain Ritual. You will just want to do the Summoning first as it requires more magic."

"Yes, King," answered the students and they began to do as they are told.

Harrison watched over them marking off mentally each of his students that arrived and where they went. Almost every Nightingale student arrived within ten minutes. There would be a handful who wouldn't come. Not everyone did Samhain Rituals. Which was fine. Everyone was welcome to have their own opinion as long as it didn't endanger the rest of them.

Minutes before the rituals would begin he saw Blue slip into the clearing. Next to her was a short blond haired girl in Ravenclaw robes. She had bright blue eyes that seemed to take in everything around her. When the eyes fell upon Harrison he felt a jolt. It was as if she could see into his very soul. Wasn't that the oddest sensation?

That must be Luna Lovegood. She would definitely be someone to keep an eye on. At least now he knew who he what she looked like. He would have to find her at a later date. Tonight was not the night to have such conversations. It was the night of mourning and communicating with the dead.

At exactly fifteen minutes after the first person entered the doors shut and locked. One could leave at any time without problems. However they could not re-enter the clearing until the next holiday. Harrison turned his attention to the group of fifteen students who would be performing the summoning.

"How many of you need me to check your Runes or provide the Runes?"

Five hands rose in the air. The rest of the students shook their heads.

He waved off the other ten with a quick, "Then you can go about your own rituals. If you need me don't hesitate to ask. That's what I'm here for as a Rune Master."

"Yes King!"

The remaining five nervously switched from foot to foot. He could see the embarrassment on their faces at not being confident in their own abilities. It made him want to sigh in exhaustion.

Three of the five were from the House of Leo and now were in Gryffindor. Leo was a proud lot and for many years had reigned as the top House within Nightingale. The Guardian Spirit of the Lion had received much larger amounts of magic throughout the years. Yet it never allowed itself to think it was above the other Spirits. Unlike some of its students until Harrison came along.

One of the others was from the House of Ouroboros. They were a quiet lot. Even though they regularly took the second spot in House Rankings; they were never prideful like the Leos. It was said if a person was able to earn the trust and respect of the members of Ouroboros they would have it for life. The Snake Spirit was a quiet spirit much like its students. It lay in wait always ready to strike if there was a need for it.

Then there was the young House of Styx member. He was barely old enough to be considered for Hogwarts but Harrison could sense the power that lay in his small frame. Dark eyes stared at the ground and his jaw was clenched. If Harrison remembered correctly he had taken part in the Battle at Nightingale. His summoning had died in the battle valiantly protecting its master from a group of Reapers. This was likely his first attempt at making a second contract since the battle.

Harrison felt for the boy. One of his own summonings, Veinoil was still recovering from his own injuries. Most of Nightingale thought the black with golden stripes along its sides snake was simply his familiar which that was true a way. However Veinoil was summoned from the world between this one and the next. What that meant he had absolutely no idea. The contract made in his Third Year had been the start of their relationship. It wasn't until he turned 12 that Veinoil agreed to become his familiar. He missed his familiar and hoped that he would be able to summon him again soon.

He questioned in a quiet welcoming voice, "Do you need me to inscribe the Runes? Or do you just need me to check them when you're done."

All but one only needed him to check the Runes when they were done. It was the young Styx student. What was his name? Ki... ri... Why was it eluding him? This was unusual he knew the names of the injured and dead from the attack. It shouldn't be eluding him like this. Unless... Unless it was secrecy contract.

Green eyes flashed down to consider the boy before him. Mousy brown hair dark eyes and aristocratic features. Pure or halfblood then. The calmness of his magic spoke of him likely being a pureblood. Their magic was calmer than anyone else's. Calmness though did not equivalate to power.

"It was my uncle's idea," muttered the boy, "He didn't want Grindelwald to be able to remember me. It didn't work completely but at least without my name he isn't as much of a danger to me."

Harrison admitted, "That's brilliant actually. Congratulations to you and your uncle for your work. Now are you looking to do a regular summoning or a shadow summoning?"

The boy considered for a moment before he answered, "Regular summoning. I want to find a new summoning that might become my familiar."

Harrison asked as he bent down to begin inscribing Runes in the dirt, "You know they might not accept you like that, right? Not all summonings can become a familiar. There has to be a special between you and the creature."

At the boy's side his fists clenched in anger and frustration. Harrison understood the frustration. Samhain was the best chance for him and it only came once a year. His next best chance for most people would be during the Full Moons but summoning rituals were known to be weaker during them. What few knew was the actual best time was the New Moon. The problem was that it took more magic than most witches and wizards could afford to use in one go. If a witch or wizard was going to try for it during the New Moon they needed to have someone there to watch their backs.

The difference between the two times was not only the amount of magic needed; but the quality of summon that it brings about. The quality of the summon would always be higher during the New Moon. It would be the closest one could get to it being the Samhain. The dangers were what kept most from even contemplating it. Harrison wouldn't bring it up. It was up to the kid when he decided to summon. Nothing Harrison said would make a difference.

After he finished the runic sequence he stood and brushed the dirt off his robes. To the boy he demanded, "Use a cutting charm on your finger and allow the blood to do its job. I assume you know the chant?"

"Yes," replied the boy shortly.

With that he left and went to check the other's work. Only one of the Leo's needed to redo his rune sequence. He used the wrong form for what he was trying. Harrison drew the right form and sequence as an example and then watched with a critical eye as the Leo redid his circle. When he finished Harrison gave a sharp approving nod. This bright about pride and excitement in the other's eyes.

Harrison then went to find his spot to start his ritual to connect with the dead. It would be the first time he connected with the dead since the battle. A part of him wondered who he would see there. A part of him was scared to see the other side once more. With the Veil so thin it may allow him to communicate with those who were on the verge of passing on. He was afraid to see one person in particular there.

Tom appeared at his shoulder and asked, "Are you going to participate in the Samhain ritual, Harrison?"

Harrison jumped and growled, "Where in the twelve hells did you come from?"

His heart raced in his chest as he flushed. How the hell had Tom snuck up on him? He was better than that! Graves would have him running through perception training for weeks if he heard about this! The man was almost as bad as Alastor Moody!

Tom smirked as he replied, "I was watching from the sidelines. A couple of the Ravenclaws were not looking at you in a friendly way. It might have something to do with the little raven hanging around that girl of yours. Blue I think you called her?"

They made their way to a secluded spot where they could see everyone but not to be interrupted. Distractedly Harrison began to draw his Rune Sequences for the ritual. With a moment's hesitation Tom began to do the same but Harrison could tell he was hoping for an answer.

Harrison took a breath and released it before he said, "That would be Luna Lovegood. She is under our protection from now on. It is Blue's intention to bring her back with us when Nightingale is repaired."

"You can do that?" Choked Tom in surprise, "I thought she would be too old to be considered for entrance into Nightingale."

Harrison looked at Tom over his shoulder considering the older boy for a moment. It wasn't a secret but neither was it well known. To be accepted into Nightingale late was a difficult process. Unless one met with the Headmaster or Deputy Headmaster directly then it was much Easier. Mainly because you had to meet one of the four leaders and earn their approval. Then you had to meet the King in this case Harrison and be approved by him. Only then would they be allowed to meet with the Headmaster. What made it so difficult was that Nightingale only had one week off a year and it was during Yule. Unlike Hogwarts and most of the other magic schools Nightingale was year round. It was pure luck if someone was able to come across one of the leaders as more often than not they stayed in the school for their holiday. Too much work to be done in too little time.

Slowly he answered, "It can happen. It's rare considering how little a Nightingale student is allowed out of the school. The process isn't an easy one either. Earning the respect of one of the four leaders, then of the King, and then the Headmaster. Or you can try directly speaking with the Headmaster. In my time as King it hasn't been done."

The sequence was finished and Harrison stood his full attention on the circle. A fire began to burn inside his veins and the ground in the middle of the sequence erupted into flames. It was more controlled than his previous outbursts of magic but was still worrying. Another difference was that there's any smoke.

Tom said with a tightening of his jaw, "We will be talking about this later, Harrison. For now however I'll leave you to your ritual."

Not looking at the other Harrison nodded. He expected nothing less from Tom. Something told him the other would be trying to earn a spot in returning with them to Nightingale. Tom then retreated to do his own rituals leaving Harrison alone. A silent spell split his finger open and blood dripped onto the rune sequence. Magic flared and his flames went from orange to green to black as the veil opened.

Chapter Text

...

The rancid scent of death permeated the air around him as the summoning worked. A red and a black furred leg came out of the flames. The leg was thick with muscle and he knew instinctively if it were to strike him, he would end up with broken bones. Another leg came out and then a large black muzzle. By the length of it he guessed it was some kind of canine. When he could see its large eyes they were blood red. Definitely canine.

It took a minute and a half for it to be fully summoned. The summon stood over three feet tall. The red and black fur was all over it and seemed to pulse with its breath. If Harrison was a lesser man he would have trembled in fear at the sight. This was not a regular summoning even by his standards. This was a Hellhound. A creature summoned from the gates of hell itself.

Was it summoned because it was Samhain? Even with the Veil between Life and Death thinned it shouldn't be enough for him to such a creature. What had drawn it here?

The beast let out a loud snarl the shock wave of which nearly knocked Harrison off his feet. It was powerful! He drew his wand from its holster ready to use his magic against the creature. It would be the first time since he first summoning Harrison would have to fight the creature.

The creature snarled surprising Harrison with its human speech, "Why have you brought me here? A human like yourself should not have been able to summon me!"

Grimly Harrison answered not lowering his wand, "I am Heir Harrison Potter. I have summoned you in order to make a contract."

"You contract with me?!" Questioned the beast in a deep rumbling laugh that echoed through Harrison, "Why would I let a mere human contract with me?!"

Harrison didn't answer. His green eyes flashed with anger however and the air grew hot with his magic. That caused the blood red eyes to focus completely on him. Magical pressure equal to that of a Family Lord pressed down upon him. He pushed back with his own magic not willing to back down for an instance.

The scent of sulfur permeated the air. It made him want to gag but he suppressed the instinct. To do so would be a sign of weakness which could get him killed against such a summon. Their magical presences fought for dominance and control. Harrison refused to budge a single inch with the Hellhound.

It gave a low roar of anger then it lunged for him. Expecting the attack Harrison cast a nonverbal shield. Unlike the usual Protego, this particular spell could stop physical attacks. The Hellhound bounced off of his shield and snarled again. This time he didn't wait for the beast to attack him again.

First spell was a silent binding spell. As he expected it didn't work but right behind it was an ice spell right behind it. That one hit its mark right at the beast's feet. The ground froze half way up the hellhound's legs preventing it from moving. The strength of the spell kept it from breaking through easily.

The Hellhound growled, "What are you? You aren't any regular human?"

Harrison warily answered as he watched it, "Like I said. I am Harrison Potter Heir to the Potter Family. I am a Master of Spacial Magic, Runes, and Inscription. I am apprenticing as a Ward Master. That is all that I am."

For a moment the Hellhound considered him before shaking its head and it said, "No you're something more than just another human. Your magic is different. Darker and with the heat of Hell itself."

What? The heat of Hell itself? What in the fuck did that mean?

It turned its head to the side and laughed, "You don't know! You are a stupid one aren't you little human. No normal human would have been able to summon me. Even amongst your little summoners no one has been able to summon a Hellhound in several hundred years."

Again with this! Harrison was tired of being laughed at!

"What are you talking about? What am I missing?" He snarled.

The creature turned its head to the side in curiosity as it answered, "You are an interesting one human. I will accept your contract. Little Fire Elemental."

Recognition flooded him. Mother fucker. How had he not realized beforehand. The reactions of his magic made so much more sense now.

An Elemental. He was a fucking Elemental. Things made a hell of a lot more sense now. He should have known that it was something like this.

Harrison released his spell allowing the Hellhound to walk up to him. This was far different from any other contract he had made. The Hellhound's muzzle pressed into the delicate skin of the inside of his wrist.

There was a flash of pain as a symbol etched its way into his skin. ᚥᚮᛚᚠ. It wasn't a set that Harrison was familiar with. From what he could tell however it was old. Older than even his Mastery tattoo that was a rune. He would need to do some research. Maybe even contact the Runic Guild.

"When you need me, Little Elemental," growled the Hellhound, "Put a drop of blood onto the rune sequence and call out my name. You may call me, Fenris."

Well wasn't this night full of surprises?

...

Stepping back as the flames died Harrison considered what had just happened. His newest summon was one of the hounds of hell. On top of that he learned why his magic reacted the way it did. A bloody Elemental. Of all the things he considered that was not one of them.

Elementals. A forgotten branch of magic that had not been seen in hundreds of years. No one knew exactly why, beyond that it was the fault of a Dark Lord. How it was passed down was even forgotten. Harrison doubted the Potters were Elementals. The Evans family were muggles. Or maybe squibs if the rumors on how muggleborns came about was true.

From the corner of his eye Harrison caught Tom standing in front of a Veil for the Samhain ritual. He wondered what the other was seeing tonight. Then he turned away. It was none of his business. Who and what one saw during Samhain was incredibly personal. To ask was one of the biggest insults someone could give. Even staring at another's ritual was considered rude.

The next set of runes he drew were for the Samhain ritual. On the ground before him in the middle of the new sequence he placed a cloth to act as a Veil. The flames from within him that he finally understood lit the Veil up. As usual it was smokeless and as his summoning had done it went from orange to green to black as the veil opened.

A black void enveloped him taking away his senses and leaving nothing in its place. No matter how many times he performed the ritual the feeling was disconcerting. All he could feel was the magic and how his calmed. The fire that was always burning turned into a low ember.

As he took a slow breath of the cold air. It seeped into him freezing the young wizard to his very core. This was not normal. Even for a Samhain ritual. Was he missing something?

"Oh," came a voice that sounded as if was everywhere and nowhere at the same time, "A little wizard. It has been many years since I had one of you appear in my domain. Are you the little Elemental who called one of my hounds?"

Harrison looked around trying to see who was speaking yet all he saw was darkness. What the fuck? There was no way.

In an instant the darkness faded and a figure in black stood in front of him. A hood kept its face from being seen by him. The oppressive air however was unmistakable. Death magic which meant this could only be Death. This was neither normal or like anything he had read before. If he survived this he was going to have questions for a certain Master of his.

"Have nothing to say little wizard?" Asked the figure with amusement, "With your gall in speaking to my hound I would have thought you'd have the same attitude with me. Maybe you're not like your ancestor."

Somehow Harrison got the feeling the entity in front of him was disappointed. His ancestor? What? This was not what he was expecting of this evening. Damn his Potter luck.

Gathering his wits and courage Harrison asked, "My ancestors? What do you mean, Death?"

"He speaks," exclaimed Death, "I was surprised by your appearance as well, little wizard. It's not often your kind surprises me anymore. Your kind usually so predictable. Yet here you are. A Potter whose Peverell Blood is strong. Far stronger than any in your family in the last 100 years or so."

"Peverell?"

Harrison had heard of the Ancient Family but he didn't know the Potters were related. In fact he thought they were taught that the Peverell Line had died out. Was he mistaken? Or was that another lie his family had told?

Death sighed, "So many traditions and histories forgotten by your kind. One would think that a family blessed by Death would be more memorable. Yet now it is nothing more than fairy tales now."

The Tale of the Three Brothers he realized. Bloody hell. If that story was true then that meant the Hallows must exist. There had to be wizards who realized this. They had to be hunting for it... Grindelwald. Grindelwald must know and that must be the weapon everyone said he was looking for.

"Ah so you know the story," said Death amusedly breaking through his thoughts, "You're right. The Dark Lord is looking for the Hollows. It was why he attacked your school. Looking for the Hallow you carry. And why he will be looking at someone close to you. As they too carry one."

Harrison wracked his brain for any important artifacts he carried. Almost all of them were ones he had gathered at school or created. Nothing that would fit one of the Hollows. At least until his eyes trailed to Death. The dark cloak he was wearing was billowing in an invisible wind.

A cloak that allowed him to avoid even Death's eye. The stark reminder of the story that he had forgotten. A cloak of invisibility taken from Death's own cloak. The Potter's invisibility cloak that had lasted generations. The amusement became sharper but still he didn't understand who close to him could have another.

"Who is the person close to me?" He asked curious and cautious.

"Now that would be telling," said the entity, "No you will have to find that out on your own, little wizard. Don't let Grindelwald gather all three or your kind will regret it. Now it's time for you to go."

Harrison reached out a hand as the darkness began to return, "Wait..." But it was already fading and he return to the physical world.

Chapter Text

...

Smoke burned the back of his throat as he returned to consciousness in the real world. The others must have finished their rituals. It took Harrison a moment to realize he was laying against the cool grass of the clearing. His heart was racing from having met Death. He received a job to do from the entity of Death. What kind of fucked up life was this?

To his right was Tom who looked down at him with worried blue eyes. Slowly Harrison sat up noting that the clearing was mostly empty. There were a handful of members of Nightingale who stood scattered about. Despite the scattering they watched every movement that was made ensuring that if someone tried to attack him they would know.

Good they weren't letting their guards down. Tom was more trusted than other Hogwarts students but he still wasn't completely trusted. Mistrust was born from the attack on their school and only grew when they learned one of their own sold them out. Someone he still needed to find before they returned.

Tom asked in a raspy voice, "Are you okay, Harrison? You suddenly collapsed during the rituals."

Harrison waved him off as he stood, "I'm fine, Tom. There was just a strange surprise in the second ritual."

"What surprise?"

"Was it the Deputy Headmaster?" Asked one of the students.

"None of your business," he snapped at Tom before he looked at the student, "No it wasn't Master Keller. For now no news is good news when it comes to him."

There was disappointment on their faces but they nodded. Harrison caught sight of a sixth year boy named Markus Flannigan nicknamed Mayhem for the pranks he caused. The boy was a Gryffindor at Hogwarts but could have easily been a Slytherin. They had been friends at one time but for unknown reasons the two had drifted apart in the last year. He had mousy brown hair, plain features, and dull green eyes. Most people wouldn't look at him twice in passing.

Harrison made a mental note to make contact with Mayhem. His younger brother had been one of the students that perished by Grindelwald's hand. Despite their distance he should be a good friend and reach out.

Tom asked drawing his attention back, "Harrison are you okay?"

Shaking away his thoughts Harrison answered, "I'm fine. Just drained from the rituals. I think I will excuse myself to retreat to my bed. I'll see you tomorrow."

It was a school night so they would have classes in the morning. No matter how far ahead he was the Professors here would take points off because they could if he wasn't paying attention. Especially Snape and McGonagall. Those two did not like him. One because of his father. The other because he wasn't the perfect Gryffindor pet like his siblings.

Tom frowned at him but said, "Alright let's walk back to the Common Room."

Honestly Harrison expected the older boy to push him further. It was in Tom's nature to do so. He didn't like not knowing something. Harrison was grateful for the reprieve.

...

7 o'clock came too early the next morning. A bleary eyed Harrison sat at the Slytherin table nursing a cup of bitter black coffee. XIII was talking away with the Lestrange boy. Apparently the two had found a kinship in summoning rituals. Harrison didn't know how or why and he didn't want to know. Who XIII made friends with was his own business.

Tom sat across from Harrison quietly talking with Abraxas Malfoy the Heir of the Malfoy Family. They would both be graduating that year and were talking of their plans after graduation. Ministry and politics were in their futures.

A shudder ran through Harrison. Besides his duties as Lord Potter when he was finally able to take the mantel Harrison had no interest in politics. Most of his focus would be researching and creating Military Magic as well as taking his place within the Technomage Guild. A few other Guilds would be looking to seek him to join them full time. He wasn't interested. His place would always be with Technomagic.

There was a sudden hissing sound and it was followed by screams from students. Harrison turned to see what was hissing and found his familiar Jörmungandr or Jörmy for short heading his way. Jörmy was a magical snake of unknown descent that he found during his Third Year at Nightingale. Someone must have gotten him from the magizoologist and shrunk him down. Jörmy the last time Harrison had seen him was nearly six feet long. He was a venomous snake and Harrison had allowed the Potion Mistress to make anti-venom. He made a mental note to give a sample to the mediwitch.

Leaning back Harrison held out his arm to Jörmy as he greeted, §Jörmy I wasn't expecting you to come here. When did you finish healing?§

Several student near him sucked in surprised breaths. Jörmy hissed in a pleased tone, §Master, the man who smells of prey finished healing me yesterday. Then the man who smells of spell fire came to get me. Said you needed me and he's right. You smell of Death, Master.§

Harrison winced. That was to be expected since they performed Samhain ritual last night. No matter how many showers he took his scent always changed around Samhain. Honestly he was surprised XIII hadn't mentioned it.

"Potter," stuttered the Malfoy cousins, "You're a Parslemouth?!"

Harrison blinked at them not understanding what the problem was. Of course he was a Parslemouth. They had figured that out in his second year when he mentioned understanding snakes to Master Keller. His Master had been surprised by the announcement and was excited when he proved it. Nightingale accepted all abilities no matter what parts of the world thought of them.

Tom was staring at him open mouthed for a moment. Then his jaw clacked shut and a light unfamiliar to Harrison entered his gaze. It sent shivers down his spine. What in the fuck did that look mean?

Focusing so he didn't accidentally enter parsletounge Harrison declared, "Yes? I'm not sure why you're so shocked. I've had Jörmy here for years. He was injured in the attack on Nightingale that's the only reason why no one has seen him before now."

"Jörmy?" Asked Nott, "What kind of ridiculous name is that?"

Harrison grinned as he sat completely up and scratched Jörmy behind the head, "Well his full name is Jörmungandr but it's a mouthful. I would be cautious about insulting him or myself, Heir Nott. He understands English."

Jörmy chose that moment to let out a large yawn that caused several people to flinch away. Movement caught Harrison's eye as Tom stood from his seat and came around the table. He stood in front of Harrison even as the Professors were leaving the Head Table. Graves gave him a mild amused look.

Tom hissed in a low tone, §You're a beautiful snake, Jörmungandr. Your master is certainly a pleasant surprise for me. I thought I was the last Parslemouth in the British Isles.§

Honestly Harrison felt like a fucking idiot. How could he have forgotten Tom was the Heir of Slytherin? Tom was a Gaunt on his mother's side and thus he would likely have the inherited ability to speak to snakes. No wonder he was looking at Harrison like that. He was likely intrigued by the knowledge there was another.

"Mr. Potter," came Dumbledore's annoying happy voice, "Perhaps we can go have a discussion about your... pet in my office."

Sighing Harrison pulled back from Tom and turned to face the old man. The air grew several degrees warmer his magic reacting to his annoyance. He pulled his hand back from Tom and Jörmy let out an annoyed hiss.

To Dumbledore he said coldly, "Like many things, Headmaster this is something you cannot interfere with. Jörmy here is bonded with me and it is illegal for you to separate a familiar from their Master. Since Jörmy is venomous I will ensure that Madame Pompfrey has anti-venom on hand. However in the years since I bonded with Jörmy he has never bit anyone. This is something you can confirm with Headmaster Durant."

"But, snakes are not on the approved pet list," tried Dumbledore his twinkling eyes dimmed.

Harrison reiterated, "Again, Jörmy is not a pet but a familiar. If you try to separate us I will sue you and everyone else involved."

He could practically hear the old man's teeth grinding as he conceded, "Fine."

Chapter Text

...

Harrison dropped his outer robe on the ground as he moved to standing in front of a large rune circle on the ground. The air smelled of fresh dew. It was only seven in the morning in order to prevent Hogwarts students from interrupting. So far the idea had worked.

To his left were the younger Nightingale students fiddling with their wands nervously. To his right were his fellow Black Hawks. It was a simple game of Battle Royale between everyone. Rules were simple if you left the circle, were knocked out of it, or stayed down for more than three seconds you were out. Winner got bragging right until the next game. It was a common occurrence on the Nightingale grounds especially during the dueling tournament season. Like everything else since coming to Hogwarts it had pretty much been cancelled pending further notice.

This day was a little different. Harrison specifically got permission from Graves who would be acting as the referee. The man appeared to be bored on the outside but he could see the stiffness in his posture. No doubt it was from his meeting with a certain Headmaster earlier that day. He made a mental note to ask him about it.

"Alright I think this is everyone who is going to participate today," said Graves interrupting his thoughts, "Rules are simple. Any basic spell work is allowed. No Technomagic, Spacial Magic, or summoning. Keep dark magic to a minimum a certain Headmaster is no doubt watching us. If you are ejected from the circle you cannot reenter. Any questions?"

Everyone shook their heads.

"Begin."

And like that members began to enter the circle. Grey magic flashed with each person who entered. Harrison was the last to enter as arguably the most powerful participant and King.

As soon as he had crossed the line spellfire flashed in front of his face. Harrison redirected the spells with expert precision. It hit the barrier with a loud bang but it was ignored. He had expected the attacks. As the King they would want to take him out of the equation as soon as possible. It would not be that easy.

On the balls of his feet Harrison danced around the spellfire. Occasionally he would redirect a spell back towards its owner. The spell would then find its mark and the poor soul would go down. Some of the older students realized they wouldn't be able to take him down just yet and began to dwindle the numbers of the younger.

Suddenly ice was coming towards Harrison and a quick overpowered Incendio took care of that. When he looked up he saw XIII giving him a cheshire grin. Harrison gave his friend the middle finger before engaging a sixth year.

The sixth year had a decent amount of power but none of the finesse for dueling. Harrison allowed him to get a few decent spells off while arranging their positions so that she was close to the edge of the ring. With a single flick of his wrist he sent a silent spell that sent her out of the ring. A faint smile crossed his face when he saw her swearing viciously on the other side.

Better luck next time, little lion. Better luck next time.

Harrison's foot was suddenly caught on a root that had not been there a moment before. He fell to a knee catching himself before he could hit the ground fully. The root had wrapped itself around his right ankle keeping him from moving about any further.

Dull green eyes caught the bright green ones of Harrison. Matching feral grins crossed both boys' faces. No longer could Harrison play the deflection game that he had been doing up to this point. Mayhem was a skilled opponent and this wasn't the first time he had challenged the King. He doubted it would be the last challenge either.

A silent Incendio was directed to the root and he was freed. Only to be forced to create a shield between him and Mayhem. A purple spell bounced off it and hit young Takaharu in the chest. There was a sickening crunch of breaking bones. Almost immediately Takaharu was pulled from the circle to allow for him to get medical help.

From the corner of his eye Harrison saw the other Black Hawks members forcing the others out. Soon it would only be them and Mayhem remaining. Mayhem seemed to forget the number one rule when dealing with the Black Hawks. Take as many out of the game before being alone with them. Or they would surround you.

Mayhem growled angrily and puffed up like an angry cat when he saw Harrison's smile. He began to loudly shout and fire off spells. It made Harrison's job at shielding and deflection much easier. Twice he had to burn off roots that tried to grab at his ankles again. Mayhem was a skilled duelist but subtly and ingenuity in spellwork was not his strong suit.

Slowly the Black Hawks surrounded Mayhem encasing him in a semi-circle. Harrison cast a silent flipendo to knock him back towards Eon. As expected Eon used the disarming charm to rid him of his wand. That in turn disqualified him from the fight. Mayhem was snarling as he was sent out of the circle. Eon tossed him the wand and finally it was just the Black Hawks.

All the humor left their faces. Harrison rolled his shoulders back and bent his knees slightly. In his veins he felt the heat that he now recognized as his elemental side rise. For a moment nothing happened and then XIII was the first to fire a spell at him.

Recognizing it Harrison ducked out of the way with clenched teeth. That would have broken any shield he put up. Eon and Stryker were dueling each other but it wouldn't take long for Stryker to overpower Eon. Mikage threw a spell at Harrison as he dodged around XIII's spell not giving him any moment to breathe or counter attack.

Good they were getting smarter about their attacks.

To his surprise thought Zach attacked XIII with a vigor rarely seen. Had XIII done something to annoy Zach again? That wouldn't surprise him at all. Zach was regularly annoyed at how effortlessly XIII got good grades while being lazy as hell.

The distraction gave Harrison the moment he needed to stun XIII and engage Mikage. Spell after spell was thrown at the dirty blond haired boy. Each were deflected or dodges with ease. Only one spell deflected by XIII towards them got close to him. It burned the top of Harrison's right shoulder but he ignored the pain. Mikage growled and Harrison stuck his tongue out childishly.

A spell hit the ground at Harrison's feet and thorny vines came out. Incendio was used once more followed by a shield. Stryker was suddenly knocked out of the circle. His arm swinging wildly trying to right himself caught Harrison on the cheek. It didn't hurt as it was just a glancing blow.

Mikage and XIII advanced upon him. A quick glance told him that he was too close to the border to keep dodging like he had. It was time to go on the offensive.

He fired off an overpowered basic spell at XIII to give himself some room to work with. He redirected a spell from Mikage towards his best friend a second later while firing off a stunner right behind it. The redirected spell was met with a shield that was then shattered by his stunner. Then Harrison conjured foxes to distract XIII by using his instincts against him.

Much to his amusement XIII's eyes flashed golden with his inner wolf. That allowed Harrison to direct his full attention to Mikage for a moment. Mikage eyed the foxes warily and was caught by a bone breaking curse in the shoulder. He let out a yelp before it was followed by a disarming charm.

Just like that it was just Harrison and XIII left. There was no preamble as the two began to exchange spells with gusto. The two danced around each other expertly. Blue and green eyes clashed.

Harrison was watching his friend closely. As serious as XIII seemed Harrison knew better. He was waiting for the perfect moment to step out of the circle. He would duel to his full strength while there were others within it but when it was just the two of them; he gave up. Every single time. It was frustrating for the leader of the Black Hawks. He wanted to face his best friend at full strength just one time.

An accio on the other's clothes kept him from stepping out. There was a flash of annoyance in the blue eyes. Harrison simply made a face at him.

Three spells came in quick succession of each other. One was deflected and the other two were shielded. Harrison was surprised when the third broke his shield and there was a hidden grey spell behind the third. It hit him in the abdomen. He hissed in pain as ice began to form where it hit him.

Instinctively he drew upon the heat from within his veins. It took a precious few seconds for the ice to melt during which he was deflecting many spells from XIII. Heat began to fill the air between them. He was having a hard time controlling the fire. The ice was gone now but it was trying to run rampant.

As he moved to send another spell at XIII flames encircled his arm. He paused in the middle of casting. It was fascinating to see the orange and red going down his arms. Even in the previous duels nothing like this happened before.

XIII tilted his head to the side considering the flames for a moment. Before he could really do say anything XIII stepped back and out of the circle. He had the biggest shit eating grin on his face as he did so. It made him wish he had any control over the flames within him. If only so he could wipe the smug smile off his face.

With Harrison being the only one left within the circle it flashed green twice before the barrier fell. Loud claps rang out across the grounds and several of the younger students rushed towards him. Questions spilled out faster than he could keep up. The rest of the Black Hawks watched in amusement as the kids surrounded him. Only Mayhem truly hung back. He watched with an unreadable look as he talked quietly with Graves.

Chapter Text

...

The room is filled with a large pile of books that the trio had gathered together over the years and was working off them. He spent the last few days avoiding Tom. He wanted to discuss the revelation on Samhain. Harrison had no intentions of discussing it for the time being.

"Alright the spacial array is set." Harrison says.

"The arithmancy is done and clear," agreed Eon, "Are you sure about this? If this goes wrong in here we could very well destroy half the library."

"We've gone over it enough times, and the safety spells are ready," he replied not looking up from his notes, "We could use the Room of Requirement but we want it to be self contained."

Most people didn't know about the Room of Requirement but the house elves had told him about it. They had overheard the Black Hawks talking about using new spells. They had been worried both about their safety and about them destroying parts of the school. A part of him regretted making more work for them.

Harrison continued after a moment, "Besides we will use it as a smaller version of the full spell. I just want to make sure this will work."

"I know, that is the reason I am here," Eon eyed the spell again, "But I would still feel better if we were trying this outside."

XIII didn't say anything. He just sat back with the relaxed posture of someone who trusted his friends completely. Harrison eyed him wondering if his friend was up to something. He wouldn't put it past XIII to do something just to cause a little chaos.

The Black Hawks were bored because they were stuck at Hogwarts. His group were used to having at least weekly duels in Battle Magic class. That didn't include the chaos they would cause when their were House Wars. Lupus and Leo were regularly having duels between them to determine who was the better House.

"It's a bit late for that," Harrison said deciding it wasn't worth bringing it up yet, "Now is the time or never."

Eon sighed noticing his side eye, "Alright. Let's do it."

Harrison took a deep breath and began to chant the spell with the first rune circle forming above his hand. Eon joined in and XIII sat back as he watched the show. The first circle etched itself into the air with runes glowing bright, the second and third followed.

Soon the whole room was filled with the glowing runes that covered the walls, the floor and the ceiling. It was like looking at a glowing ball of light with all the runes spinning around in a whirl. Then unsurprisingly given it was their first attempt the circle exploded.

It wasn't a huge explosion thankfully, but the whole library was shaking and the runes were fading out as the spell died down. The books had been thrown from their shelves and now lay scattered everywhere.

For his part Harrison was thrown from his chair and into one of the bookshelves. The impact knocked the air out of his lungs and left him winded for a moment.

"You know I am really glad we weren't using the full power on that one." Eon said, "I guess the spell was a failed. Do we know why?"

Harrison groaned as he sat up, "Likely a wrong rune or it was placed in the wrong spot. We might have to recheck the books."

XIII was sitting up after the blast, he was the most unaffected since his body was enhanced from his were heritage. He was also the only one that was laughing at the whole thing, "This is great, and I can't wait to tell the others about this!"

"I'm glad someone is finding this funny," Eon remarked dryly.

Oh don't be like that," XIII chuckled, "I mean seriously it was only the first try and the place is still standing."

"And we did learn something from it." Harrison added, "I'm guessing the fourth rune was in the wrong place."

"Most likely," XIII agreed.

"I'll have to check it and the others," Harrison paused looked at XIII and accused, "You knew? Why didn't you say anything?"

XIII shrugged and said, "I wasn't completely sure so I didn't say anything. If I was wrong then it would have worked out. If I was right I knew you weren't using enough magic to destroy the room."

Harrison looked at the room and saw the damage was mostly to the books and not the place itself. While the books were scattered and many of them damaged, the shelves were fine. The walls had a few scorch marks and the ceiling had a hole in it but the floor and furniture were fine.
Oh no. Madame Pince was going to have their heads on a stick.

"Well lets get this cleaned up before anyone comes to check the noise." Eon suggested.

Harrison agreed, "I'll get the cleaning charms, you start repairing the books. XIII you work on the ceiling."

XIII just continued to cackle madly. They got to work cleaning the library as best they could. The whole time the three were trying not to laugh at the situation and how ridiculous it was. Harrison was glad that they had the place to themselves. Next time they would use the Room of Requirement.

It took them nearly an hour to fix everything. The whole time XIII was complaining that his job was the worst of the lot.

"How did I end up stuck on the ceiling," the wolf complained.

Harrison hid a grin. It served XIII right for not warning him about the wrong rune. He didn't say anything as the two had the same amount of magic. They could have traded jobs but Harrison liked fixing books.

"Stop complaining," Eon said, "It's not like you're going to get a rash or anything."

"Yeah, yeah."

Harrison and Eon exchanged grins as XIII went back to work. The ceiling was done shortly after. When they were done the library was back to how it was before the experiment, though it was missing the books they were using.

Not a second too soon.

They were just finishing the last book when the library door opened and Madame Pince came in. She didn't even notice the boys at first, just walking by and making her way to a table.

"Well that was close." Eon said.

"Too close," agreed Harrison.

"What are you guys talking about?" XIII asked, "I think it went rather well."

Harrison and Eon ignored him.

Chapter Text

...

It was after a week that Tom finally found him alone. The weather was warm for November and Harrison was enjoying some time outside. He stood in a small circle to work on his footing in dueling. Jörmy was watching him in amusement as he went through his spellwork.

"You have been avoiding me."

Harrison turned to find the older Slytherin boy standing not too far away. Tom stood in the sun his blue eyes narrowed slightly. They were a dark blue not the bright blue they were when he was happy.

Harrison lowered his wand, "Yes, I have."

"Why?" Tom asked, "What did I do that was so bad that you would avoid me?"

Harrison didn't answer right away. Jörmy let out a long hiss at him.

$Master, the boy is worried about his mate,$ said the snake, Harrison choked, $Talk to him. You have been avoiding him. If I didn't know better, I would think you are scared.$

$Jörmy!$ he chastised the snake, $We are not mates!$

His familiar let out a hiss and then curled up with a pleased sound, $Denial is a river in Egypt. Master.$

He shook his head, and turned back to Tom. There was no point in arguing with the snake. Tom looked amused by the snake.

"Sorry about Jörmy, he has a weird sense of humor," he said shooting the snake a glare.

"It's okay," Tom shrugged, "So you've been avoiding me. Is it because of the Samhain rituals?"

Harrison took a deep breath and asked, "Did you what, Fenris called me?"

Tom shook his head and said, "No, I was focused on my own ritual. Mine didn't finish until after you attempted to contact the dead. Did it work?"

"In a way, yes," he said, "First Fenris's revelation. He called me, Little Fire Elemental."

Tom's eyes sparked with interest as he asked not quite believing it, "You're a Fire Elemental?"

Harrison shrugged not knowing the truth of the statement, "That is the claim. Though I'm not sure how that works. The air has always grown hot with my emotions but beyond that nothing has happened. I always thought it was just the way my magical presence works."

Tom tilted his head, "Maybe, though there is no records of an Elemental in the last five centuries. They were hunted down by the Wizarding Governments because of the dangers they possessed."

"What dangers did they possess?"

"The biggest danger was an Elemental losing control," he said, "They have the potential to become wildfires, and are very destructive. They can burn a village to the ground within seconds. Even when not lost to their powers they were destructive. Most were either killed or exiled by the governments."

Harrison shuddered, "And here I was hoping this would be easy."

That would explain Grindelwald's interest in him as well. Black was most likely the one who brought it to his attention. Harrison was really beginning to hate Sirius's brother.

Tom laughed and said, "Life is never easy."

"So true."

The older Slytherin asked, "It's not just Fenris calling you an Elemental that's bothering you. What else happened?"

Harrison shook his head, "Nothing. Well, not nothing. I don't think this is the time and place for such discussions. I need to do some research of my own on it."

"If you're sure," Tom said, "You can come to me for help. I don't mind researching."

"Thanks."

Silence fell between the two.

"Why haven't you said anything about other students being able to join Nightingale on recommendation?" Asked Tom.

Harrison sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose as he said, "Because it's extremely rare for a student over the age of 11 to be accepted into Nightingale. You have to get the attention of one of the Leaders or the King, myself. Then you have to get permission from Durant. He doesn't want people joining because they want power."

"Then I'll just have to get your attention," Tom declared.

Harrison's eyes widened as he realized the implications, "Tom, no. Don't do it."

"Why not?"

"It's a terrible idea," Harrison said, "You are set to graduate this year and go into a career in the Ministry. Don't risk your future by attempting to get into Nightingale. Trust me on this, okay?"

"But-"

"Trust me," he interrupted the older boy.

Tom stared at him. He didn't agree or disagree but Harrison could see the flicker of hurt. His instincts were screaming at him to do something, anything.

"Okay, I'll drop it," Tom conceded.

He wouldn't hut Harrison knew that. It was for the best that Tom stayed in England. Before Harrison came into his life he was on the political path. He should stay on that path.

"Good," Harrison nodded.

The older Slytherin changed the subject, "What were you doing?"

"Practicing my footing," he said.

"You already have pretty good footwork," Tom commented, "You have a strong foundation, and you're not afraid of getting in close. I can't imagine that would be easy."

Harrison shrugged, "My instructors were very clear in their teachings."

Tom gave him a look but didn't press. He had seen enough of Harrison's abilities to understand what was meant.

"Well," he said after a moment as he cast a silent Tempus, "We need to get back. It'll be time for lunch soon."

Jörmy was quick to slither onto his shoulders. He gave the snake a look.

$It's about time, Master. You've kept me waiting all morning.$

$Quiet, Jörmy.$

Tom laughed as the two of them made their way to the entrance. Harrison was glad they were no longer fighting. He didn't want to fight with Tom.

...

Albus felt a flash of anger as he watched the two boys come back towards the castle. Ever since the oldest Potter boy had come to Hogwarts his plans had gone askew.

He was supposed to be weak and useless. Albus should have been able to manipulate him and the other Nightingale brats. Instead Potter had grown strong and gained a following in another school. L Now that following was growing in Hogwarts. Slytherins who ignored Jacob and Rose, seemed to respect Harrison.

Then the boy was powerful. His ability to speak with snakes and his dueling prowess were the least of it. Albus knew of the experiments the boy and his friends did. It was a good thing they were doing them in the Library where they could be contained. Otherwise Albus would be very upset.

What he didn't like was the closeness with Riddle. He had been watching the older Slytherin since the he came to Hogwarts. It was clear the boy was a rising Dark Lord. His power and knowledge of Dark Magic was impressive. His ambition was not the kind of ambition Albus wanted to see in a student.

He could not allow Riddle to continue his association with the Potter boy. There was already one Dark Lord to deal with. The world didn't need a second.

"Excuse me," Albus turned and saw a young Ravenclaw, "Are you alright Professor?"

"I'm fine," he smiled at her.

He would have to have a talk with both boys. He could not have them influencing the other students.

Chapter Text

...

Hard packed snow on the forest floor crunched underneath his paws. The wind howled in his ears, and ice formed in his fur. Snowflakes danced in the sky. The cold of winter was in the air. It was only mid-November and there was still much of the season left.

Next him, XIII in his wolf form also ran. His black fur blended in with the dark woods and shadows around them. They had left the grounds hours before and were just now coming upon the the castle. It wasn't home but it was enough for the moment.

A loud crack had the two wolves stop. They listened carefully for a moment and heard it again. XIII was the first to turn towards the sound. He let out a growl, and the fur on his neck and back stood up.

A figure came into view, a woman, she was dressed in furs and was covered in snow. Her scent was not one either were familiar with. She was a stranger and so near the castle that did not equate to being a friend.

A wolf and a spotted jackal were not native to the those part of the world. That would immediately mark them as animagi. Or in XIII's case a born werewolf. Neither of them liked the idea of a stranger so close.

XIII's fur stood up and his ears were forward. Harrison's ears were back and his teeth were bared revealing sharp fangs.

"Peace," the woman held her hands out, "I mean no harm. I come with an offer."

Both animagi growled in response. She was not apart of Hogwarts or any Nightingale delegation. Her accent was not a French or Scottish one. Harrison had a feeling that she was an American.

"I am here with an offer from my Master," the woman continued, "He wishes to invite you, Potter to visit him in Nurmengard."

Grindelwald. This must be one of his followers. Why was he inviting him to Nurmengard? What purpose could that possibly serve?

"Potter, my master has much to discuss with you," she continued, "It is a matter of great importance."

XIII growled lowly in warning. The woman was not impressed.

"If you do not accept the invitation I shall be forced to bring you by force."

That was enough. He would not go with anyone following Grindelwald. He would rather have tea with Albus Bloody Dumbledore.

A snarl escaped his throat as he leapt forward. The woman's wand came up to raise a shield but she was too slow. He was through her shields and his jaws latched around her wrist. Her screams were music to his ears.

"You dare," she hissed through the pain.

His jaws tightened as he jerked his head. More screams echoed through the forest. A spell hit his flank and sent him off the woman. The smell of blood was in the air and was growing stronger.

Harrison landed on the ground and turned to face the woman. Her hand was a bloody mess and he could see bones sticking out. He could also see a wand in her other hand.

"You will regret that," she growled, "Cruc.."

She didn't get the chance to finish the spell as XIII barled into her. Teeth latched onto her other arm and a loud crack followed. More screams echoed around the area.

Harrison didn't care for her screams. He moved closer as XIII pinned her down. She was trying to reach for her wand. With a growl Harrison picked it up and snapped it in half. The woman looked at him with wide eyes.

He moved closer and let his breath wash over her face. His teeth were bared and his lips were pulled back. XIII let go of her arm and stepped back.

They would not kill her. If they did he was sure Dumbeldore would be alerted. Regardless of who she followed, Harrison had little doubt the old man would put them in Azkaban. No, death would not serve them well.

She spat at him before bringing a ruined hand up to a necklace previous unnoticed. She swore, "I'll be back, you mongrels. You'll wish you had come willingly. Reaper."

With a swirl of magic she was gone. The adrenaline left his body in an instant and he shifted back to his human form.

"I don't think this is over," he said looking at the blood stained snow.

XIII shifted and agreed, "No, I don't either. Grindelwald?"

"Grindelwald," agreed Harrison, "Let's get inside. We need to tell the others."

"Right."

The two hurried towards the castle. There was an uneasy feeling in the air. It was not a feeling Harrison liked.

Once back in the castle they went straight to the dungeons. They were able to dodge Snape. Both were too eager to find the other Black Hawks.

Eon and Mikage were sitting in the Common Room with a large stack of books between them. The two looked up at them.

"Harrison, XIII," Eon greeted, "You're back. Did you have a good... What happened?"

His eyes were on Harrison's injured leg. Both of them case towards Harrison with wands out. They ran diagnostic spells while the two explained.

"So, Grindelwald just randomly invited you to visit him," Eon repeated slowly.

"Yeah," XIII said.

"You didn't actually consider going did you?"

Harrison gave him an, Are you a fucking idiot look.

"Well, I don't know," the younger boy protested, "Maybe you were curious."

"I would rather have tea with Albus Fucking Dumbledore and my father," declared Harrison.

"Alright, that makes more sense," Eon agreed, "Where is the blood from? You don't have injuries here."

"Grindelwald's follower," he said with a tooth grin.

Mikage nodded, "Yeah I should have expected that. How bad did you injure her?"

"We weren't trying to kill her," said Harrison.

"Too bad, though," XIII said, "That would have solved the problem."

Harrison shrugged not disagreeing. He had a feeling there would be problems coming their way. Grindelwald would not take rejection well.

"So what happened?" Eon asked.

"After the woman was gone I shifted back," he explained, "I think she was an American. I don't recognize the accent."

XIII added, "She tried to attack Harry with the cruciatus. I stopped her."

"I broke her wand, and then she called the name Reaper and disappeared."

"Portkey," declared the other two, "Password not timed. You need to be careful, Harrison. She's going to come back."

"Yes, and she'll have reinforcements," said Harrison, "This is not the end of it."

"You'll have us with you," said Eon, "I would rather die than allow Grindelwald to have you."

"It won't come to that," he promised, "And if it does we'll burn him down together."

The three laughed and the tension bled out of the room. The four were not scared of dying. The attack on Nightingale had burned away that fear. It would not be their first time they were willing to die.

"Alright, well you need to rest that leg," said Mikage, "You might not be able to feel it but I'm sure it hurts."

"Probably," Harrison agreed, "Where are the others?"

"Stryker is with the snakes," said Eon, "He's been doing a lot of reading recently. I think he has a new pet project. Mayhem is with the Gryffindors I believe. He's been spending a lot of time with the older students. Specifically Granger and Weasley. I think he has a crush."

Harrison laughed and shook his head.

"Zach is around here somewhere," said Eon, "He was muttering under his breath and complaining about something when I last saw him. It was the usual complaints about his siblings and father. I didn't bother to listen."

"So the usual."

"Pretty much."

"I think Blue went to speak with Graves," Mikage said with a thoughtful expression, "She's been acting odd. Do you know anything about it, Harrison?"

"Blue can take care of herself, Mikage," Harrison replied.

"That is true," Eon agreed, "She could kick any one of our asses. Except you Harrison. She's not strong enough to beat you."

"She could probably take me," he corrected, "She just chooses not to. Neutrality and all that. Now I need to change out of these clothes. They are covered in blood and dirt. See you later."

He made his way up to his dorm and stripped out of his clothes. His body was sore from the shift and his leg did hurt. He could feel the bruising. The pain was a mild inconvenience compared to the thought of the confrontation.

A fight was coming.

...

The woman stood before her master, bowing low out of respect. There was a rage burning within her and it took everything not to attack. She was a fool and had allowed two young children to get the better of her. They weren't even of age. It was a disgrace.

"My Master, I failed," she said.

Grindelwald raised an eyebrow, "Did you now? What happened?"

"They were stronger than anticipated. I did gain some previously unknown information, Master. By following his magical signature I was able to find out he is an animagus. A spotted jackal if I'm not mistaken. The other boy was a wolf. It is likely he was a born werewolf, Master."

"I see," her master was considering the information.

The woman could practically see the gears turning in his head. She did not envy the ones who would have to deal with the brat.

"What happened next?"

"They attacked me, Master," she said, "They were able to break my wrist and arm as well as snap my wand. It is obvious they are used to working together."

"Let me see," he demanded and she met his gaze, "Legilimens."

He dove into her mind and memories. The fight replayed in her mind. He watched her get caught and then the wolves attack. Grindelwald watched her fight back with everything she had. She had fought bravely.

"Good work," he said, "Rest now. We will find out more about these two."

"Of course, Master."

Chapter Text

...

James stalked through the manor unable to believe the audacity of the goblins. He knew they could be ruthless creatures. They had no loyalty but to their gold. Their greed was infamous.

Yet, he had never expected this from them. As his right as Lord Potter, James tried to demand that they remove Harrison from being the Heir. The goblins would not allow him to. They refused to acknowledge his authority over Harrison. They claimed that since the boy was not a squib and had no intentions of giving up his inheritance that it was not his choice.

Then they went a step further and threatened him. They said that the goblins would no longer support the House of Potter. If he continues down this path he would not be allowed to keep any of his gold at Gringotts. It was preposterous.

He stormed into the sitting room and was met with a cool stare from his wife. She sat on the couch with her hands folded neatly in her lap. She didn't even react as he threw himself down on a chair.

"Did you talk with the goblins?"

"Yes."

"And," she demanded.

"It's as we suspected," he said, "They wouldn't hear it. They refused to allow Rose to take Harrison's place. They wouldn't even hear the possibility. Then they threatened me. They told me that if I attempted to push the issue that they would freeze all my assets."

"What," Lily demanded, "I'm sure they couldn't do that. You're Lord Potter, he is just a useless Heir. Surely the goblins understand."

James shook his head, "They didn't, Lily. The goblins were very clear on their position. They are supporting him as the next Lord Potter."

"I don't believe it," she shook her head.

Without the goblin's support they would be unable to bring Harrison to heel. There were several ways that could have happened. They would have to rely on the other Noble families and their influence.

"What are we going to do, James?"

"I'm not sure yet," he said, "We're not without resources, Lily. There are things we can try. It'll take some time but we'll get there."

"We have to do something," Lily said, "Our plans depend on us controlling him."

"I'm aware," James snapped, "I don't like it anymore than you. Don't forget that I was the one that had to go to the goblins."

"We can't allow this to continue," Lily insisted, "This isn't acceptable."

"Lily," he reprimanded, "I am aware. I will deal with the goblins and Harrison. Just give me some time."

"You better, James," she hissed, "Failure is not an option."

James flinched as she stalked out of the room. He rubbed his forehead as he leaned back against the chair. Maybe Sirius would have an idea of where to go from here. The Black Family should have something to bring an unruly family to heel.

...

Sirius was disgusted by the letter in front of him. At first he was unwilling to admit how disgusting his once best friend had become. Now he was starting to wonder what else had changed in his life.

It was so bad that he couldn't even read it to Remus. Not only was the request for help disgusting, the way it was worded was appalling. It was clear James had little interest in Harrison. If anything it was a thinly veiled threat.

"Are you going to tell me what is in the letter or are you going to let me suffer with not knowing?" Questioned his husband.

Sirius shook his head and held it out, "Here, you can read it. I can't stomach it."

"That sounds ominous," remarked Remus.

He took the letter and opened it. As his eyes scanned the page his jaw dropped open. He looked up at Sirius with disbelief written on his face.

"He can't be serious."

Sirius didn't make his usual laughing comment about no he was. His face was stoic as he looked at the letter. He had already read it so many times that it was burned into his brain.

"I'm not sure if he is or not," Sirius said, "If he is being serious, I'm not sure what to think. This goes beyond just his usual dislike of Harrison."

Remus shook his head, "He doesn't even want to acknowledge him as his son. This is even worse than your mother's actions Sirius. This is a level of disgust and cruelty I haven't seen in anyone."

"Yeah, I know," he agreed, "I haven't been able to respond to the letter yet. I don't want to. How can James act like this? He wants me to search the library for a way to control Harry. Harry is just as much my son as his! How could he think I would agree with this?!"

Remus reached across the table and put his hand on top of Sirius's.

"Sirius, love, breathe," he instructed, "We'll get through this. We always do."

"I don't know if I can," he confessed, "James isn't the same. He's not the same man I followed around Hogwarts. This is a cruel and heartless monster. I don't want to be part of it."

"We'll deal with it," Remus said, "Just give me a minute. Okay, Sirius?"

"Yeah, I can do that."

Remus left the kitchen and went towards the library. Sirius was not looking forward to the letter he would need to send to Harry. His god-blood adopted son was not going to take this well. He didn't blame the kid, Sirius wasn't taking it well.

After a few minutes Remus returned. He was holding a letter in his hand.

"Who is that to?" Sirius asked.

"Harry, obviously," his husband explained, "I'm writing him to explain the situation. We're not going to be able to avoid this. So we will have to pick a side. I'm standing with Harry."

Sirius didn't even hesitate to agree, "As am I. Harry will need all the support he can get. It's time for us to stop pretending that James is the same person he was before."

It was sad. Sirius always saw James as his brother. Now he didn't even recognize the other man. James wasn't the same man he had known and followed into war.

...

Harrison stood next to the window as he watched the snow fall. It was the first snow of the season and was a sign that winter was just around the corner. He didn't hear the footsteps coming his way until a hand landed on his shoulder.

"King," greeted Mayhem, "What's wrong?"

He gave his friend a wry grin, "Nothing is wrong. Nothing, yet."

"That sounds ominous."

"Well, the goblins did send me a letter," he admitted, "And I'm not sure how I'm supposed to take it."

"What did the goblins have to say?"

"James, my father, is attempting to disinherit me as the next Lord Potter. He went to the goblins and asked for a way to strip the title of Heir. He has requested that they give it to Rose," he explained, "They turned him down and sent him packing."

"How is that a problem?" Mayhem questioned, "You have pretty tight control over everything. They would have had to go through the Blessed Mother to remove you. And she would never allow thay. Not when you won the challenge. "

"I have no doubt about that," Harrison agreed, "It's not the goblins that concern me. It's my father."

"Ah," he nodded in understanding, "You're worried he will try something drastic."

Slowly Harrison nodded. He wasn't sure what the man would do. He suspected the next person James would go to was Sirius. Who his godfather would side with, Harrison didn't know.

"What do you want to do, King?"

"I'm not sure, Mayhem," he confessed, "Part of me wants to go back to France. To leave behind the drama and politics. Another part of me wants to confront him."

"If it was me, I would confront him," the older boy admitted, "Then again, I am a lion. We're a very confrontational bunch. It's something we all have to work on."

Harrison let out a bark of laughter. Despite their differences, Harrison and Mayhem had a good understanding of each other. Both of them knew exactly what the other needed. Even if they fought like cats and dogs 95% of the time.

"So what are you going to do?"

"Talk to Graves, first," he decided, "He'll have an idea of where I can go from here. Then, well, then I'm not sure. I'll figure it out. Thanks for listening."

Mayhem smiled, "That's what friends are for, King."

Chapter Text

...

Snow fell slowly from the sky, and a light layer coated the ground. The wind blew gently, and it was peaceful. It was the perfect day to enjoy the winter weather.

Rose couldn't enjoy it. She was too upset.

Her mother had told her everything. She told her how the goblins would not strip Harrison of his title as Heir. They also refused to allow Rose to become the next Lady Potter. She didn't know why and couldn't understand.

Rose wanted to become the Lady Potter. She had spent her entire life training to become a Lady of a noble house. She didn't understand what she did wrong. It didn't make sense that just because she was born a girl, she wasn't allowed to become the Head of House. It was such an old-fashioned and outdated concept.

There were plenty of female Head of Houses. Why couldn't she be one? Why was the House of Potter so backwards?

It was a question that was running through her mind as she went in search of her younger brother. It was easy enough to find him. She didn't need to use magic.

Harrison stood in front of Black Lake with his werewolf friend. Drawn in the snow there was a rune array that she didn't recognize. There was no doubt in her mind that the two were working on something mundane.

"Why did you do it?" She demanded as she strode towards them.

"Do what?" Asked Harrison not looking up from the rune.

"Why did you refuse to let me become the Heir and Lady Potter," she demanded angrily.

Harrison looked up and met her gaze. His eyes were cold and his voice was steady as he said, "Because you are not meant to be Lady Potter. Honestly you would be a terrible Head of House, only a little better than Jacob."

Rose felt her cheeks burn. Her fists clenched at her sides and she glared at him. How dare he say something like that to her. She was better than both of their brothers.

"Take it back," she ordered.

"No," he said.

"Take it back," she hissed, "How dare you say something like that."

"You wouldn't know what to do with the title," Harrison said, "You couldn't even handle the duties as Heir. You would run the House into the ground. Our reputation would be ruined and our standing would go down. I can't allow that.

"That's not true," she argued, "I would be a wonderful Lady Potter."

"I disagree," Harrison said, "You wouldn't even have the basics knowledge down. Your etiquette is positively horrendous. You couldn't manage a staff and a House."

"It's not fair."

"No, it's not," he agreed, "But life is not fair. If life was fair I wouldn't have been treated like an outcast by my own family. That you all for whatever reason hadn't thought I was a squib. Then again if that happened I would never went to Nightingale. I don't regret my schooling there. So in a way, life was kind."

"That's not what I'm talking about," Rose protested.

"You're talking about being a Lady Potter, I know," he agreed, "And you can't. Lady Magic would never accept you."

Rose blinked, "Lady Magic?"

"Yes, Lady Magic," he repeated, "You can't be the next Lady Potter."

"I want the title."

"But Lady Magic won't allow it," he said, "The only way the title will go to anyone else right now is if I died."

"Would that really be so bad," she snapped, "Then Father could make Jacob the Heir and everything would be fine."

Harrison didn't say anything, and Rose immediately regretted her words. She just said that he should die. That was horrible even for her.

"I'm sorry, Harrison, I didn't mean-"

"You did," he interrupted, "I understand why you said it. Just like you understand why I said what I did. Don't lie and try to make it seem better than it is."

"I really didn't mean it," Rose repeated contrite.

She didn't want him to die. All she wanted was for things to go the way they were supposed. Why couldn't he understand that?

"If that is all," he said dismissively, "I have a project going on here."

"Wait," she said, "You're really not going to give up the title?"

"Not even if I had to," he confirmed.

Rose couldn't believe him! He would really ruin their plans. Did he hate them that much?

"This is stupid, Harry," she exclaimed, "Father will never give up."

"Neither will I," Harrison responded.

"It's not fair," Rose repeated and stamped her foot, "You should just let the title go. Father wants it and the family needs it."

"What family," Harrison asked, "All you've ever shown me is animosity and hate. When have you ever tried to show me kindness?"

"It's not my fault your weird and creepy."

"No, but you haven't helped the situation. Now go away, Rose," Harrison dismissed her, "I have a project I need to get back to."

She considered drawing her wand and cursing her brother. Yet, she couldn't do that. The consequences of attacking her twin would be disastrous. Instead, she stormed off. She would find a way to convince her brother.

...

A loud bang echoed around the lake and smoke filled the air. Harry coughed and waved his hand in front of his face. It was his third failed attempt at a large area spell. They had the correct array down for the spell. It was simply finding the right amount of power and the minimum number of circles required to power the spell.

Three magic cirlces were not enough to contain the power of the spell. They didn't have the capacity to hold the magic. So now he had to come up with a fourth circle. He wasn't sure how many it would take.

"We could always use a crystal," suggested Eon, "There are different ones that can hold different amounts of power. Depending on what type we get the crystal can be used to focus and amplify the spell."

Harrison shook his head and said, "That would only work temporarily. Likely we will need to spread out the magic over four to five circles."

"Then why don't we just add a fifth circle," the other boy questioned, "That way we have a better chance of containing the spell."

"It would work," he agreed, "The issue is, of how many can use five magical circles in one go. That would require a lot of practice."

"It is for the military," reminded XIII, "The members of the military would already be trained."

He hummed and looked at the runes in the snow. This spell would require multiple arrays. It would be easier and more efficient if they could place the arrays in a grid pattern. That way the magical energy could be spread evenly.

"We need to change the shape of the rune array," Harrison declared, "It can't be in a square or circular shape. We'll need something with multiple sides. A diamond would work well."

Before they could go any further with the discussion they were interrupted.

"Potter, I've been looking for you," came the annoyed voice of Snape.

The three looked up at the greasy haired man.

"Did you need something, Professor?"

"Headmaster Dumbledore would like to speak with you."

Oh for the love of, the old man would never give up.

"Thank you for the message, professor," Harrison replied politely, "I'll head up to his office."

"Now," the man said and started walking back towards the castle.

Harrison looked at the other two.

"Don't worry about us," said Eon, "We'll keep working on this. See you later."

"Bye," he waved before following after the professor.

It was quiet between the two. Harrison was not going to attempt small talk. Not with Snape. There was no point in trying.

Instead he walked behind the man in silence. They went through the halls and up a few floors before stopping outside the gargoyle.

"Pumpkin pasties."

The gargoyle moved aside revealing the staircase. Harrison followed the potions master and knocked on the door.

"Come in," came the voice of the headmaster.

The two entered the office and the door closed behind them. Harrison folded his arms across his chest and he glared at the old man. He was tired of the game the man was playing. He didn't like it.

"Mr. Potter, I would like you to reconsider taking the position as the Lord Potter."

Harrison didn't react to the request. This was the second time someone brought this up today. He was already tired of it.

"As I've said before," he stated, "I will not step aside. I will not let Jacob or anyone else take the title."

"I understand," the headmaster nodded, "But I ask you, are you sure this is the path you wish to walk down. You are making enemies out of old family friends. Do you truly believe that is wise?"

"I will not allow my family's reputation and honor to be torn apart by those who would destroy it. I will not give up the title and allow it to fall into the hands of a man who would bring us low."

A pointed look was sent to Dumbeldore. The old man flinched but didn't comment.

"So you won't listen to reason?"

"Reason is subjective, Albus," Harrison said, "To me, giving up my title is not reasonable. I don't care if you don't feel the same way. It does not matter, it is my choice."

Dumbledore nodded, "Very well, Mr. Potter, then I'm afraid you have made an enemy."

"I'm not surprised, Headmaster. We were never friends to begin with. Is there anything else?"

He watched as Dumbledore's jaw tightened with anger. He didn't like being called out on his manipulations. He didn't like the idea that he wasn't in control. It was clear from the look in his eyes.

"Yes, your Headmaster Durant wants you to speak with him," Dumbledore said, "He would like to meet with you."

"I'll be happy to," Harrison replied, "Was there anything else?"

"No," the headmaster replied, "You may use the floo."

Harrison gave a curt nod and went to the fireplace. He grabbed a pinch of the floo powder and threw it in.

...

The medical room hadn't changed much since his last visit. There were a few more chairs and tables. Otherwise, it looked the same. Keller's bed curtains were drawn but he could see Durant sitting up. He looked much better than before.

"Mr. Potter, good to see you," Durant greeted.

"Headmaster Durant, it is good to see you are recovering," he returned, "I hope I'm not bothering you."

"Not at all, lad. I called you here after all," he shook his head, "Please sit. There are a few things I would like to discuss with you."

Harrison took the chair closest to the bed. He wasn't sure what Durant wanted. There were problems with his father and Dumbledore but that didn't have anything to do with that. The encounter with Grindelwald's follower not withstanding there wasn't a reason for him to be called here.

"What would you like to discuss, sir?"

"The first is this: the attack on the school," Durant explained, "We are still working to identify the traitor. However, I have no doubt there is one. As we are in a delicate position at the moment we would like you to remain at Hogwarts."

"Is that safe for the students?"

Durant nodded, "We believe so. Grindelwald seems to have turned his focus to you. The Ministry will be stepping up the patrols."

"If you are sure," Harrison said.

"I am," the man agreed, "Now, the next thing is about your father."

"My father?"

"Yes, your father, Lord Potter," he continued, "I have heard he has attempted to remove you as the heir of the Potter estate. Is this true?"

"Yes, it is."

"The goblins told him he could not," Durant commented.

"The goblins informed him that the only way for them to change the succession is for me to die."

Durant rubbed at his eyes tiredly, "Yes, that would do it. I wouldn't put it past him to kill you. Or use a potion to try and control you."

"I'm not worried," Harrison assured the headmaster.

"Why not?"

"The Blessed Mother, she is watching out for me. She won't allow anything too bad to happen. She would punish the entire family if they tried to kill me. Potions won't get past the Heir Ring anyways. It's not a concern."

"Well, then that takes care of the easy problem. Now we have a bigger one," Durant sighed.

That could only be one thing. Harrison didn't want to go into this but there was no other option.

"Grindelwald."

"Yes, Grindelwald," Durant agreed, "Graves told me about what happened. We have decided to step up your training. If he attacks again we want you ready.

"I agree," Harrison replied, "How will we go about doing that?"

"I have a few ideas," the headmaster said, "Graves will set up a schedule for you."

He was going to be extremely busy it seemed. He missed his quieter days. It would seem they were over.

Chapter Text

...

The day dawned cold and wet. Snowflakes fell softly and blanketed the ground. It was picturesque and beautiful. Unfortunately for Harrison he could not enjoy it. No he was standing in front of Snape while the potions professor was glaring down at him.

"Are you just going to deny stealing from my store, Potter?" Hissed the man.

Harrison had his arm crossed and a bored expression on his face. He didn't need to steal potion ingredients. He had his own stores, and if he was out he had plenty of money to buy more. Or he could even just collect what he wanted.

"I don't have a reason to steal," he replied, "So, no, Professor Snape, I have not stolen anything."

"Then explain this!" The man hissed and slammed a potion bottle down on his desk.

It was the potion that Harrison had made the night before. It was the one he had made in case of an emergency. It was an adjusted formula that the Nightingale Potion Master, Nila taught them.

"It's a healing potion," he replied.

"I know what it is, Potter," Snape spat, "It is not one of mine. Now tell me where you got it!"

The urge to curse the infuriating man was strong. Harrison wanted to make the man regret ever accusing him. He was an animagus, a mage, and a wizard. He did not need to steal.

"Professor, I have my own potions supplies. I am fully capable of making my own potions. Nightingale teaches all of its students potions," he replied, "Why would I steal from you? I can make much better potions than whatever you have."

Snape's eyes flashed angrily and he snapped, "How dare you! You arrogant child!"

Harrison felt the air heat rise with his anger. How dare the greasy man accuse him of being a thief. He didn't have to steal anything.

"I would not advise continuing to insult me, Professor Snape," he warned, "Do remember I am to be Lord Potter and Lord Nott is my patron. If you make me your enemy, you make him your enemy."

"Do not threaten me," the man surly ordered.

"It wasn't a threat," he replied coldly, "It was a warning. I will not allow someone who is beneath me to speak to me so. Now, will you retract your accusations or not?"

"Never," the man denied, "I know you stole those ingredients. It is the only answer."

"Fine, then you can deal with the consequences," Harrison said, "I will have to make a complaint to the Board of Governors. They will have to decide if you will continue teaching at this school."

It wasn't his first issue with Snape and this might be enough to get him fired. If not, well, he knew some other tricks that could get rid of him.

"I'm sure the board will listen," Snape replied sarcastically and he smirked, "I am a highly regarded teacher."

Harrison smiled back coldly, "We'll see. You may be a highly regarded teacher but I am a highly regarded Technomage who has the interest of the French Ministry of Magic. Specifically their military. Would Britain risk an international incident for one professor?"

He could practically see the blood drain from the man's face.

"Oh yes," smirked Harrison darkly, "I'm a high profile student, Professor Snape. I'm sure the Minister and his minions would be happy to help. Now, would you like to apologize or not."

Snape glared at him, and said, "There is nothing for me to apologize for. You stole those ingredients and that is all there is to it.

Harrison shrugged his shoulders and replied, "Very well. I guess we will see what happens. Good day, Professor."

He turned and walked away from the fuming professor. It was always satisfying to get the upper hand over the greasy man. Time to talk to Lord Nott.

...

Outside, he found his friends standing by a tree. XIII, Mayhem, and Eon stood around with bored expressions on their faces.

"Did the greasy bat give you any problems?" Asked Mayhem.

"Nothing new," answered Harrison with a shrug, "I have sent a letter to Lord Nott. Hopefully he will take care of the issue. If not, I will have to go to the Ministry. That should be enough."

"And if it's not?"

"We'll burn that bridge when we get there," XIII responded, "We don't know what will happen. We'll figure it out."

"I just don't understand why Snape would decide to pick a fight now," commented Eon drily, "There isn't really a point."

Harrison shrugged, "Maybe he got tired of pretending. Maybe he was bored. Maybe it was Dumbledore's order. Who knows? Who cares? Have everyone be on watch with the man from now on. Until the Board has time to investigate don't give him a reason to talk to you."

With that Mayhem was dismissed and went off in search of his lions. Eon left a moment later, saying he would contact the rest of the team. XIII was the last to leave.

"Make sure you have a backup plan, King."

"Come on," Harrison grinned, "Have a little faith."

"In you," the other boy said seriously, "always. In others, never."

With that said the other boy left.

XIII was right. He needed a back up plan. The last thing he wanted was Snape following him or his friends around.

...

Days later Harrison sat with his team around him. A chessboard was in front of him. He was playing against Eon, Mayhem was against XIII, and the others were cheering. They were in a secluded corner of the library enjoying the last day before break started.

"I hate chess," grumbled Harrison.

"It's the best game ever," countered Eon, "Now shut up and play."

He stuck his tongue out and made a move. This was not his day.

"Your move, Mayhem," XIII reminded his opponent.

"I know," he hissed, "Give me a second."

Harrison watched as his friend studied the board. He was hoping the lion would fall into XIII's trap. It would serve the arrogant brat right.

"No," declared Mayhem and moved his rook.

"Check mate."

Mayhem stared at the board, his mouth agape. Then he scowled.

"Rematch!"

"You lost, deal with it."

Harrison chuckled as the two began bickering. Their argument was broken by the entrance of the youngest member of their team.

"Hey guys," greeted Mael, "Sorry I'm late."

"Not a problem," Eon said, "What's up, Mael."

The girl was looking excited and a grin split his face. Harrison sat back giving his full attention to the young Styx member.

"I heard some things and wanted to share," the younger boy exclaimed, "First off, a bunch of people were talking about Snape and the accusations. It sounds like the old greasy bat is going to have a disciplinary hearing.

"Oh?"

It seems he owes Benjamin a nice gift. He wondered if the man would want a new spacial ring. He knew how difficult those were to find.

"Yeah, they have been talking about the accusation and how he is going to be fired," explained Mael, "There's also a lot of discussion about Dumbledore."

"Is something wrong with the old man," Harrison questioned.

Please let the old man be forced to retire. Even if he doubted that would happen with Grindelwald being free. Why people thought Dumbledore would do something about it now when he hadn't before Harrison didn't understand.

"Yeah, apparently the board is getting annoyed at his antics. He's gone to them too many times," continued the youngest member, "A lot of people think it's going to happen."

"Let's not count our chickens before the eggs hatch," said Eon, "They will still keep the old coot."

Harrison snorted, "That's not a saying. That's horrible grammar. Never say that again."

"Like hell I'm taking language advice from you."

"I'll put an accent spell on you," threatened Harrison, "Don't think I won't."

"Boys," chided Blue, "Enough, what's the next piece of news."

"Well," started Mael, "Apparently Rose was crying because of a letter she received. No one could get a word out of her though."

"Poor thing," mocked Harrison, "Must have been terrible."

"She is an annoying bitch," XIII replied, "So she deserved whatever was in the letter. Let's move on, there's nothing to gain by discussing her."

"You're right," nodded the young Styx.

"Now," Harrison interrupted, "Is there anything else you can tell us, Mael."

"Not at the moment, sir," the youngest member said, "We will keep listening. However, with the winter holiday coming, that might slow things down a bit."

"Don't worry," Harrison smiled, "Keep up the good work. If you learn anything interesting pass it on, Blue will be staying for the holidays. Unfortunately I don't have a choice."

"We know, and we'll do our best," promised the Styx member.

"That's all I ask," Harrison grinned, "Now, who wants to play me."

Chapter Text

...

The Great Hall was full of students and faculty alike. It was the last meal before the break. The majority of the children would be leaving the school and heading home. Many would not be returning for the next few weeks.

Harrison and his team were among the number that would remain. Most were the muggleborn or halfblood students that were unable to leave the country. There were a few purebloods who stayed as well.

His family would not miss him and the headmaster refused his request. Not that it mattered, Harrison would be able to visit Nightingale.

"Potter."

Harrison turned and came face to face with Draco Malfoy. Abraxas was watching them with an unreadable look.

"Malfoy," he returned, "How can I help you?"

"My father sent a message," the younger boy stated, "He asked for you to visit. There is an event happening this weekend. It is important."

An event? He wasn't aware of any event. He also didn't have any loyalty to the Malfoy Family. His only ties was the Blood ties through the Black Family.

"Is there an invitation," Harrison asked.

Draco pulled an envelope out of his robe pocket. Harrison took it and looked over the name written on the outside.

"Thank you," he replied and put the letter in his own robes, "I'll look it over. Please inform Lord Malfoy that I will send him a reply soon."

"Very well," agreed the younger boy.

With that he disappeared back to his side of the table. Harrison's fingers twitched wanting to see what the invitation had to say. Yet, he resisted the urge. Now was not the place for this.

"Interesting," Mayhem hummed.

"What is?"

"I think someone wants to meet you," the older boy smiled, "Be careful about your decision with that. The Malfoys have been known to side with Dark Lords."

Harrison hummed in acknowledgement. It would not be out of the realm of possibility. Especially if they had something planned.

"Are you going to go," questioned Eon.

"Maybe," Harrison replied, "We will discuss this later."

"HARRY," came the shrieking shout of his sister.

He rolled his eyes. Of course she would try and bother him today. Today was the last day after all.

"Hello, Rosie," he greeted, "To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?"

"Do not call me, Rosie," she screeched, "My name is Rose. Rosie is a child's name."

"And you are a spoiled and entitled brat," he returned calmly, "Why are you here?"

"You cannot accept the invitation," demanded Rose, "Father will be upset."

"Your Father," he corrected, "Has nothing to say in my affairs. What he thinks doesn't matter. So, you can leave. Tell Father, if he has something to say, tell him to send his owl."

"You should not speak to him so disrespectfully," argued the girl, "He is your Father."

Harrison shrugged. His father might be biologically his father but he wasn't his dad. The closest thing he had to an actual parent was Master Keller.

"He is my Father and not the person I am close with," he replied.

"But-"

"If you're not going to be constructive, leave," Harrison said coldly, "I'm done listening. Leave."

"Fine," she snapped, "Father will be hearing about this."

"Potter," called the Weasley brat and Harrison rolled his eyes, "You should listen to your family before you are disowned."

"As far as I'm concerned," Harrison stated, "I'm already an orphan. I have no need of my 'family'."

That earned a shout and Weasley stood. There was something in his hand and Harrison's grin grew feral.

"Did you want a fight, brat?"

Weasley growled and tossed the object. A bowl flew and Harrison ducked under the projectile. The sound of breaking ceramic echoed.

Then all hell broke loose.

Food was thrown and magic sparked. A Slytherin to Harrison's right was struck by mashed potatoes. There was a growl and the food fight turned into a house vs. house battle.

"Potter!"

"Weasley!"

"Malfoy!"

"Longbottom!"

"Black!"

"Nott!"

"Creevey!

"Goyle!"

"MacMillian!"

The professors were trying to regain control of the situation but they were ignored. The students were having fun.

Harrison laughed and threw his food back. A pie smacked one of his cousins in the face. Laughter echoed.

"I'm telling my father!"

"Good," retorted another student, "Go tell Daddy that Potter doesn't want to play nice."

"Screw off!"

Harrison caught Graves wtching with amusement. He wouldn't interfere unless someone was dumb enough to try and hit him with food. Out of everyone there, Harrison was pretty only Graves and Dumbledore had the strength to stop all the students.

"Get him," roared someone and then there was a rush of green cloaks.

Students rushed the Gryffindor table.

"Protego Maxima!"

"Reducto."

"Aquarius Maxima!"

"Wingardium Leviosa."

"Expelliarmus."

"Glacius."

"Accio wand."

"Lagann!"

"Petrificus Totalus!"

"Furnunculus!"

"Confundo!"

"Stupefy!"

"Incarcerous."

"Rictusempra!"

"Aquamenti."

Harrison laughed as he danced around the spells. He bumped into someone and looked back to find Tom there. The older boy was covered in different foods and his wand was pointed at the Weasley Twins.

"I will teach you," he growled.

"Bring it, Riddle."

Tom flicked his wrist and the twins went flying. They landed on their backs with a thud. Harrison laughed and threw his bread.

"Take that," he shouted.

When he caught Harrison's eye, his gaze softened. Then he smirked and flicked his wand.

"Reducto."

He spun around and felt a splash of liquid cover him.

"Oops," chuckled the other boy.

"You did that on purpose," he accused.

"Whatever gave you that idea," Tom asked, and raised his hands.

Oh he was so going to get him back.

"Aguamenti," he chanted and drenched the boy.

Tom yelped and stumbled back. His arms waved frantically as he attempted to regain his balance. He failed and fell.

"Harry!" Yelped Tom in an undignified way.

"Yes," Harrison answered cheekily.

"You little," Tom growled.

Harrison cackled. He was so screwed. Then he felt the shifting in the air, a tell tale sign of CAD being activated. He looked up as Blue gracefully took flight using her CAD to drench everyone Hogwarts and Nightingale alike in juice. This included Harrison who sputtered in annoyance.

"Blue," he whined.

"No fair," yelled Draco.

"That was not cool, Blue," XIII growled.

"Damn," muttered the twins.

"Bloody Hell," exclaimed someone else.

Flight magic was not something Harrison could use. Not in the graceful way that Blue did. Everyone had their specialities. He knew he would never be able to fly the way she did.

Tom grabbed Harrison by the back of his robes. Then he was dragged forward and shoved into the puddle forming.

"Tom," he whined.

"Revenge, dear King," Tom smirked.

He sighed and sat up. He would get him back, eventually. Dumbledore tried to get them to settle but someone threw something at him. Harrison couldn't help but laugh.

It would seem the Headmaster wasn't exempt from the students. Tom wrapped his arms suddenly around Harrison. A spark of warmth flashed through his body and he flushed.

"Gotcha," whispered Tom.

"Let me go," Harrison ordered.

"I think not," Tom replied, "I will keep you as my prisoner."

"You wouldn't," challenged the younger.

"Oh," Tom grinned, "But I would."

He rubbed his cheek against Harrison's neck. Then his lips brushed the skin and he shuddered.

"Tom," he gasped.

"Hm," the older boy hummed, "Wouldn't you like to have a quiet date?"

"Not really," denied the other boy, "I enjoy the chaos."

Still he leaned back into the warmth. Mother Magic could be felt even now faintly. It was soft and gentle. The two watched the school delve further and further into chaos.

"This will take hours to clean," commented Harrison.

"That sounds like a problem for the house elves," Tom returned.

He hummed. From the corner of his eye he saw a very brave, very stupid Hufflepuff sneak towards Graves. That was not going to end well.

She raised a hand to throw some food when her hand was suddenly trapped. Graves looked down at her and the entire hall stilled.

"Would you like to try that again," the man said lowly.

"Uh," the girl squeaked.

"Try it."

There was no hesitation, the girl launched the food at Graves. It stopped an inch from the man and dropped harmlessly onto the floor.

"Please, please," begged the girl, "Spare me.

Graves smiled. It wasn't a comforting smile. No, it was the kind of smile that said, 'your fucked.'

"No."

The girl shrieked. Harrison would have felt bad for her, but it would have been easier to get Mad Eye Moody.

"Should we step in," asked Tom.

"And risk becoming targets ourselves," Harrison retorted, "Not a chance. Let him handle it."

"You know," Mayhem said from behind them, "you can just kiss and shut up."

Harrison flipped the lion the finger. He didn't need anyone interfering.

"Fuck off."

"Make me," challenged Mayhem.

"I would, but then you'd complain," Harrison teased, "and then we'd both be bored."

"Bored, my ass," scoffed the older boy, "Don't blame me if the Greasy bat decides to start sniffing around you."

"What's a bit more trouble?"

Mayhem's mouth opened, and then closed.

"Good point."

With a snap, Mayhem left.

"How does he do that," groaned Tom, "It's infuriating."

"Magic."

"That is not an answer and you know it," the other boy growled.

"So? Who's going to make me give a proper explanation, hmm," questioned Harrison.

"Me."

"Sure, sure."

Again Tom rubbed his cheek against Harrison's neck. It sent a wave of pleasure and the faint feeling of magic. He wanted to feel more.

"Stop," Harrison whined.

"Why," the other boy breathed.

"Because we're in the Great Hall and you can't be doing that."

"Can and will," declared Tom, "You will not escape."

"I would rather not deal with Snape if you get me into his line of sight."

"Oh, so he does have a self preservation sense."

"Shut up."

Tom chuckled and continued to press himself against the younger boy. The other members of the team were slowly moving towards the exits. It seemed that they didn't want to draw attention to themselves.

"They're escaping," he whispered.

"Then we will let them," Tom replied.

"You can let go."

"No."

"I have things I have to do."

"Nope."

"You can't be serious."

"Very."

"Well, then," he started.

"Yes?"

"I don't know, I guess I will have to call in reinforcements."

"Who?"

"XIII," Harrison yelled, "Tom won't let me go."

"You called," the older boy said and appeared out of nowhere.

"Yes, please rescue me," Harrison pleaded, "Before I lose my mind."

"Alright," nodded the other, "I will rescue the poor prince from his evil kidnapper. Come, Your Highness, and let us flee the scene. Quick, before the kidnapper catches us."

Tom hissed and held him tighter.

"XIII," Tom said, "He is mine, you cannot have him."

XIII gave him a toothy grin and replied, "That is a matter for debate. However, since it seems he is unhappy, I will be taking him."

Harrison felt the air shift and XIII grabbed his arm. Wait. He wasn't going to do what Harrison thought he was?

"XIII," he protested.

"Bye," the other boy said.

"What, no, XIII," shouted Tom.

Harrison was suddenly thrown into the air and he let out an undignified yelp. XIII laughed as his hand slipped away. Then Harrison was falling and the ground was approaching fast. Until he was caught by Blue.

"Did you see the look on their faces," snickered the young woman.

"Blue," he scolded, "That wasn't funny."

"I think it was."

"Yeah, it was," agreed Mayhem.

"Of course you do," grumbled Harrison but there wad no heat behind it.

She took him to the other side of the Hall. It was the last day before break. So, Harrison didn't feel too badly about what they had done.

Right up until the Great Hall doors blasted open. Harrison's heart stopped and all of the students froze. One by one the Nightingale students, no matter their year or status crossed their right arms over their chests. Those who had the tattoo rotated their arms so that the tattoo was shown. They bowed respectfully to the intruder.

Chapter Text

...

A tall brown haired man with hazel eyes walked into the Great Hall. Powerful magic radiated off of him and called to the Nightingale students. He wore a black dress shirt tucked into dress pants, a belt, and dragonhide boots. Over it was a cloak with a silver trim.

Matthew Keller, Deputy Headmaster of Nightingale, was back on his feet. He couldn't believe what he was seeing. His Master was back on his feet. No one even told him that Master Keller was even awake.

He looked around and took in the sight of the food and water. His expression did not change, not that Harrison expected anything else. He always did have the best poker face.

"Hello, children," the man greeted in a low gravelly voice, "I must apologize for interrupting your fun."

The teachers were frozen in shock and disbelief. The man didn't appear to notice. Instead, his eyes scanned the crowd and settled on Harrison.

His expression didn't change but there was a new light in the hazel eyes. He walked past the teachers and moved closer.

"Sir," Dumbledore greeted and came back to himself.

"Ah," Master Keller acknowledged the old wizard his American accent prevelant, "Headmaster Dumbledore. I will speak with you in a moment."

Dumbledore's shoulders stiffened and a small frown flittered across his face.

"Master Keller," Graves stepped in, "It's a pleasant surprise to see you."

"Percival," he replied and inclined his head, "It is nice to be back."

"Will you be returning to work, Sir?" questioned the Auror.

"Of course," answered Keller, "First however, I have an apprentice to greet. Harrison."

Harrison jumped at the call of his name. He stood up straighter and stepped forward.

"Yes, sir," he answered and made his way towards the older man.

Harrison stopped a few steps away from his Master. He waited to see what the man would say. To his surprise he was pulled into a warm hug.

"My apologies for making you wait, Harrison," Master Keller said quietly, "You are not alone, not anymore. I'm sorry it took me so long to come back, kid."

Harrison could smell the man's scent, unmistakable and warm. It was comforting in a way his father's should have been but never was. It was safe.

"You're back," he mumbled into the man's shoulder.

"Yeah," his Master agreed, "I'm back. Are you okay?"

"Yes sir," he replied, "There's a lot to go over but not here."

"Of course not," agreed Keller, "I'm glad to see you, kid."

"You, too," admitted Harrison, "It's not been the same without you."

Keller's chuckle was deep and rich. His grip was tight, reassuring. Harrison was safe. He wasn't going anywhere.

"Come," his master ordered gently, "You have things you must tell me. We will be back later, Percy. Dumbledore as per your agreement with our Ministry, I am here as on part of the Nightingale delegation."

"I understand," Dumbledore replied, "Welcome to Hogwarts, Master Keller. It is a pleasure."

There was strong disdain it that but it was ignored. Harrison couldn't help the snort. Of course the old wizard would pretend everything was alright.

"Now," Master Keller ordered.

"Yes sir," answered Harrison being more polite than he would ever be for Dumbledore.

...

Master Keller sat in the chair. They were borrowing one of the abandoned classrooms and offices. No one would be coming near it. Not unless they wanted a rude awakening. Keller had warded the rooms against easedropping. His personal wards had nasty consequences.

"Alright," Keller began, "First, how are you?"

"I'm doing good, Sir," answered Harrison, "It's been busy but nothing I can't handle."

"What's been happening?" asked the man.

"A lot," he replied, "But it is better explained from the beginning."

"Please," the older man gestured for him to continue.

So he did. He explained everything that had happened since the attack on Nightingale. Keller remained quiet the whole time and let him finish.

"This is a mess," muttered the man, "But the situation is not a total loss. There are some positives. We will discuss it later. What else?"

"A student of Hogwarts, Slytherin, wants to enter a courting contract," Harrison answered, "Tom Riddle."

"Oh, well that is a surprise," replied the man, "Are you going to accept?"

"I would like too," Harrison confessed, "If you asked me that a few months ago, I'd have said no. But he's grown on me and I'd like to give him a chance."

"I won't stop you," Keller said, "I want you to be happy. Just remember the terms and conditions. If you need help or advice, don't hesitate to ask."

"Thanks, sir," Harrison smiled.

"Anything else," Keller inquired.

"My father is trying to get rid of me as his Heir," he told the older man, "he has sent me several letters threatening to disinherit me. My godfather, Sirius Black is not pleased with the current events and has tried to help me."

"Have you talked with him yet?"

"No," shook Harrison, "Sirius has been sending letters currently. I'll see him over the holidays."

"Good," nodded the older man, "We will work with him. What about the others."

"Most of the Slytherins follow Tom," Harrison said, "He is the future heir. They will follow him. The rest, they will follow his orders and will keep the House and Family traditions alive."

"And the other Houses?"

"Most will stay silent or turn a blind eye. They would like to avoid a war and are unwilling to take sides."

"Not surprising," mused Keller, "They are afraid. That's understandable."

"True," agreed Harrison, "However, a handful will cause problems. Like my so called parents."

"Do you have the letter, the most recent one?" asked Keller.

Harrison dug around his pocket and passed it over. Keller accepted and unfolded the piece of paper. His eyebrows shot up in surprise and Harrison snorted.

"That bad?" he asked.

"Your father," started the man, "Seems to be quite desperate. Is he this stupid normally or did you just bring the idiot out?"

"No he's just normally this stupid," sighed Harrison, "Unfortunately. You have no idea how many times he's put the family in trouble because of his actions."

"I can imagine," replied the man.

"Anyways," Harrison changed the topic, "Its not just my father, but Snape and Dumbledore too. Snape has accused me of stealing the ingredients he needs for the potions class. He claims that I was the only one with access. Dumbledore has been trying to convince me to give up my title as Heir. No doubt he is at least partially behind my father's actions."

"Of course, and they would have a hard time proving your guilt," stated the man.

"They might," countered Harrison, "However, Snape could make it very difficult. His word would have weight as my Head of House. Even if there isn't enough proof, it would be easy for the public to blame me. Especially when Dumbledore gets his supporters riled up."

"Hm, true," hummed Keller, "However, you would still win. They would need concrete evidence."

"That doesn't mean we can't be hurt, either," reminded Harrison.

"Also correct," conceded the man, "But there is little we can do now. For now, keep your nose clean and watch yourself."

"Yes sir," answered Harrison.

"As for Dumbledore," continued Keller, "Be wary. If he's already made attempts to get rid of you, he's going to try again. That and he might use you to negotiate with Grindelwald."

"Grindelwald," growled Harrison and the air grew hot with his anger.

"Yes," the older man replied calmly, "There is a chance. You would have to be careful and keep a close eye on the old man. Make sure that you are never alone with him."

"Alright," nodded Harrison.

"We'll set up a plan when you get back from the holiday," decided Keller, "I want to be certain this works."

"Okay."

"Anyways, have you heard anything about the Nightingale investigation."

"I know the Ministry and Wizengamot have opened the inquiry. However, the exact details have not been shared."

"I see," murmured the man.

"Sir, if it's alright," Harrison began, "Can I ask something?"

Keller gestured for him to continue.

"What exactly happened," he asked.

"It was an inside job," revealed the man, "Someone in the school sold us out. We were ambushed. You were there. I don't remember the attack clearly."

Harrison nodded. He knew about the ambush and the fighting. What he didn't know was why. Why would anyone sell the Nightingale students out?

"For now," said Keller, "We won't act. Until we have more information and professors healed."

"Yes, sir," answered Harrison.

"Good, and if you run into trouble, come to me."

"Understood."

Chapter Text

...

The next morning Harrison sat with the other Slytherins. Most would be leaving that morning to go home. Tom was sitting next to him with the Prophet in his hands.

Above their heads, the owls arrived with post. A single silver winged falcon amongst them carrying a letter. It circled for a moment before landing in front of Tom. The boy looked surprised.

Harrison smirked into his pumpkin juice as Tom untied and read the letter. The look went from one of surprise to disbelief to joy in the matter of seconds.

"Is there a problem, Tom?" Abraxas questioned.

"No," Tom answered and slipped the letter into his robe, "It is not a problem. It's the opposite."

"Then, pray, tell, what is the occasion," drawled the blonde.

"Master Keller has written," answered the older boy, "I have full permissions to court Heir Potter.

"Well, then, congratulations," smiled Abraxas.

"Indeed," echoed Draco dully.

The younger malfoy was no doubt disappointed by the potential alliance. One that he had hoped to have. Yet, the young Slytherin would not voice his displeasure. He wasn't that foolish.

"Thank you, Abraxas," nodded Tom, "Harrison, will you do me the honor of attending the Malfoy Yule Ball with me?"

Harrison blinked in shock. A blush rose and spread across his face. This was certainly unexpected.

"Y-yes," he stuttered, "Of course, I'll attend with you."

Tom's eyes brightened and a gentle smile pulled on his lips. Harrison ducked his head in embarrassment.

"Perfect," declared the other boy.

"So," interrupted a new voice and they looked up.

It was Blaise Zabini. His dark brown eyes were staring intensely.

"Zabini," greeted Tom.

"Riddle," returned the boy.

"Hello, Zabini," Harrison spoke.

"Potter," Blaise greeted, "Congratulations on your courtship. May it bring happiness to the two of you."

"Thank you," said the brunette, "I'm looking forward to seeing where this will take us."

"Likewise," added Tom.

"Ah, I am glad," the Slytherin prefect said, "May you both have prosperous holidays."

"Thank you," nodded Harrison.

With a bow the boy disappeared.

"I didn't expect him to wish you well," commented Abraxas.

"Neither did I," Tom admitted, "It is a pleasant surprise. Perhaps the other Slytherins won't oppose this. At the very least, they won't stand in the way."

Harrison wasn't putting his galleons on it. Not after the stunt with his father and Dumbledore.

"Maybe," agreed Abraxas.

"In any case," Harrison added, "You shouldn't concern yourself with those who can't even make an attempt."

"That's true," nodded Tom, "Though, the purebloods are not known for accepting change easily."

"True," said Harrison, "Still, they have no right to say anything. If they don't approve, then their children won't be invited. Simple as that."

"A valid point," Abraxas chimed, "Though, that won't stop all of the traditionalists."

"Of course not," dismissed Tom, "Yet, it is better than the alternative. It will not do to have our guests and the public to witness an internal battle. We can deal with the more vocal ones once we are ready."

"You are quite calm about the entire situation," noted the blond, "Are you not concerned?"

"I am," retorted the boy, "However, getting worked up over every single problem is a waste of energy. Besides, what is done is done. We cannot change the past."

"How very true," murmured Harrison.

"In the meantime," started Tom, "We must plan for the Ball. Harrison, would you join me this evening?"

"Why?"

"I was planning on making an appointment at Twilfitt and Tattings. You are not obligated to come," explained the boy, "Only if you are willing."

"Oh," blinked the brunette, "Alright. What time?"

"I'm not certain," admitted the dark haired boy, "Would 1:30 tomorrow be agreeable?"

"It's fine," answered the other.

"Very well, I will inform you should something come up."

"Good."

...

The trip back to London was uneventful. Harrison was mostly able to avoid being cornered by his family. Tom sat with him having decided to stay with the Malfoys. For his part Harrison would be staying with his godfather. He would be avoiding the Potters as much as possible.

The train slowed and came to a stop. Harrison waited for the people to disembark and left.

"Harry!" Came the familiar shout of Sirius Black.

Harrison turned and there stood the older man. His grey eyes sparkled with mischief. The robes were cut to reveal a dress shirt and pants. He looked the perfect gentleman.

"Sirius," Harrison grinned.

His godfather wrapped him in a large bear hug. Harrison laughed and returned the gesture. It was nice to see his godfather.

"How have you been?" the older man asked.

"Alright," Harrison answered, "Its been an eventful year. What about you?"

"Meh," shrugged the man, "Quiet without you around. Now, let's go home. Mooney is waiting for us."

"Really?"

"Of course," nodded Sirius, "Now, where is this courting partner?"

Harrison felt the blush spread. He could hear the whispers start.

"He is currently dealing with the Malfoys," the boy informed, "They are less than pleased. Apparently, Lucius thinks his son should have a higher place in society."

"Oh, yes, the youngest Malfoy," nodded the older wizard, "He's a spoiled brat. How's the little prince holding up?"

"Fine," snorted the brunette, "he is still the same. Nothing is wrong."

"If you say so," agreed Sirius reluctantly.

"Sirius," Harrison scolded.

"Fine," whined the man, "I will listen. Happy now?"

"Overjoyed," Harrison replied dryly.

"So mean, Harry," pouted his godfather.

"Sure."

The walked out of the train station and onto the muggle street. Sirius took his arm and Disapparated. The air shifted and changed.

Harrison stumbled and felt a pair of arms wrap around him. Sirius grunted but managed to keep his footing.

"Thanks," mumbled Harrison.

Black manor hadn't changed much. There was more light in the windows and the gardens were trimmed. No doubt Remus's doing.

"Welcome back," came the tired voice.

Harrison and Sirius turned and standing on the doorstep was the werewolf. Harrison moved to envelope the other in a hug. Remus sighed and held him.

"Missed you," he mumbled into the man's shirt.

"Me too," murmured Remus, "You look better. Has your magic calmed down?"

"Yeah," nodded the boy, "I'll have to tell you what's happened since I got the courting letter. A lot haw happened in the last 24 hours."

"Of course," the older man chuckled, "Go on. Go change and we'll meet you in the living room."

"Okay," answered Harrison and ran up the stairs.

He was back.

...

Harrison changed quickly and joined his godfathers. The two men were lounging on the couch. When they noticed his arrival, the turned. He wore a black t-shirt and black sweat pants.

"Tell us everything," ordered Sirius.

"Everything," echoed Remus.

Harrison sighed. Then he started at the beginning. How close he got to Tom, their conversation, the first letter, the second, the attack, his parents, Snape, Dumbledore, and finally, his visit with Master Keller.

"So," said Sirius, "Dumbledore is trying to get you kicked out of the line of succession?"

"Yeah," confirmed Harrison.

"Your dad's an idiot," the black dog snorted, "As is Lily."

"That is a given," sighed the brunette.

"And Snape has tried to use the incident with the potions supplies to kick you out of Hogwarts," Remus murmured, "What a fool."

Sirius asked, "How much do you trust, Matthew Keller? I know you have been his apprentice for years but how much do you trust him?"

"More than anyone else," Harrison replied, "Master Keller has always supported me. Never once has he abandoned me. He's helped me become a stronger mage and a better person. He's the one of the only people I would truly call 'family.'"

"If that's the case," his godfather began, "I won't stand against you."

"Thank you, Sirius," smiled Harrison.

"Anytime," the older man winked, "Now, tell me. What do you have planned?"

"I was planning on talking to you about the Yule Ball," admitted the boy, "Since it will be the official announcement, I would like some advice. After, Master Keller will begin training again. So, my days will be busy."

"Alright," hummed the older wizard, "Have you already purchased a dress robe?"

"Not yet, Tom and I plan to go tomorrow. But I have a question. Why did you insist I come here? My original plan was to spend it with Lord Nott as he is my patron."

"Oh," his godfather said and grinned, "Well, I thought I'd see how you really felt about this contract. And I wanted to give you a safe place away from James. He is going to throw a fit."

"Why are you encouraging this?"

"Because you deserve to be happy," Sirius declared with a sparkin his grey eyes, "And if this makes you happy, then why not. Also, the fact that this would piss off James and Lily."

"Fair enough," laughed the younger.

"Anyways, as long as you're happy I'll support your decisions. So will Mooney."

"Thank you, Sirius."

"Of course, my pup."

Chapter Text

...

Harrison awoke late the next morning. It was nice to sleep in and not worry. To know that he was safe and sound.

He yawned and sat up. The curtains were still drawn and the room was dim. It would be another hour or two before the sun rose. His stomach rumbled and Harrison stretched.

Then the bed covers were pulled back and the cold rushed in. He shivered.

"Sirius," he complained.

"Wake up, Harry," the man cheered, "Today is the big day. You get to have your first date and pick out your robes. Come on, wakey, wakey."

Harrisom groaned and rubbed the sleep out of his eyes.

"Go away, Sirius," the brunette complained.

"But its the start of the rest of your life," the man argued.

"You have too much energy," muttered the boy, "Its too early."

"That is because its a wonderful day. So, lets have a fun day," continued the man, "Come on, the shower's already running."

For a moment he contemplated throwing a book at Sirius. Instead, he dragged himself out of bed and into the bathroom. The steam wafted and warmed him. He undressed and stepped into the water.

The water was warm and the pressure perfect. He scrubbed the remaining grime and dirt from the train. Once clean, he stepped out. The towel was waiting for him and he dried off.

He chose a dark green dress shirt and black slacks. Then he chose a black robe with silver trim. The outfit would show he was an adult, and the robe would show that he was a young heir.

"Are you almost done?" asked Sirius.

"Yeah, just finishing," Harrison replied.

He ran a hand through his hair before stepping out. Sirius was wearing his normal, black, casual clothes. The man was practically bouncing with excitement.

"Let's go," his godfather announced.

They then headed to the dining room. Remus was sitting with a cup of coffee and reading a newspaper. Harrison was pretty sure that it was the Daily Prophet.

"Hello, Harry," the older wizard greeted, "Sleep well?"

"Yes, thank you, Mooney," Harrison said and sat across from the werewolf.

"I have already prepared breakfast," Remus told him.

"Thanks, Mooney," the boy grinned.

"It is my pleasure," the man assured.

There was bacon, toast, sausage, and eggs. There was a variety of teas and coffee.

"You didn't have to do this, Mooney," commented Harrison.

"Don't worry about it," the older man said, "Eat."

Harrison nodded and loaded his plate. Breakfast was quiet and enjoyable. It was different and yet not. They hadn't been together like this in awhile. The meeting wasn't until that afternoon so Harrison could eat at his leisure.

"So, are you nervous?" his godfather teased.

"Maybe a bit," he confessed, "Though, mostly excited."

"I remember when I first took out, Mooney," his godfather mused, "It was terrifying and exhilarating."

"When was this," asked Harrison.

"Sixth year," Remus revealed, "Sirius and I went to Hogsmeade. We weren't allowed to attend the dance so instead we snuck out and found a party."

"Was it worth it?"

"Yes, it was," agreed Sirius, "We had a great time and we spent the rest of the evening talking. It was perfect."

"I see," nodded the boy.

"Anyways, the most important thing," the man added, "Is being yourself. If he's chosen you, he obviously likes the person you are. So, don't worry about impressing him. Just be you."

"Alright," agreed Harrison.

"Good, now, eat," instructed Remus.

Harrison dug into his meal. The conversation drifted away.

...

At exactly 1:30, Tom came through the floo . The fire turned green and there was the familiar popping noise. The flames settled and the young Slytherin was revealed. He wore his normal dark attire and a polite smile.

"Hello, Sirius," greeted Tom, "Remus, its nice to see you both. May I join you, Harrison?"

"Of course," nodded the other boy, "We're not leaving yet. Would you like something to drink or eat?"

"Some water, please," the older boy answered.

Harrison stood and went into the kitchen. He returned with water and tea. He offered a seat and placed the glasses and mugs on the table.

"Thank you," Tom thanked, "I am grateful."

"Its no trouble," dismissed the other, "So, have you made any plans for our trip?"

"No," the older boy admitted, "Honestly I thought it would take longer to get approval from Master Keller. Especially considering the situation. This was rather unexpected. However, it is not unwelcome."

"I see, that makes sense," said Sirius watching them, "It has been a strange year. But its also brought a few pleasant surprises. I don't know much about Matthew Keller. Harry never brought him to meet us and I have never been invited to one of Nott's parties."

"Understandable," remarked Tom, "The Nightingale professors are notoriously private. They tend to stick to themselves. Even amongst the families they have few contacts."

"So I have heard," mused the older wizard, "Yet, Harry trusts the man."

"As I should," commented Harrison dryly, "He's been more of a parent to me than either of my actual parents."

"Ouch," his godfather feigned hurt, "That was cold, pup."

"But true," the younger defended, "I'd much rather stay with the man who's been there for me than the people who've abandoned me."

"Fair," agreed Sirius.

"I have a feeling this isn't an innocent chat," interjected Remus.

"Sorry," Sirius apologized and held his hands up.

Tom watched the exchange with amusement and Harrison bumped shoulders with him.

"Shall we leave?" asked the dark haired boy.

"Probably best," agreed the brunette, "Otherwise, we'll miss our appointment."

"Agreed," the older boy nodded, "After you, Harrison."

The boys walked towards the fireplace. Before Harrison could even say the name of the store, the flame burned bright. He stepped back and instinct had his reaching for his wand. The air grew hot.

It only lasted a few seconds before Harrison recognized who came through. Orion Black, technically his grandfather by blood adoption. The older man was tall with shoulder length black hair. His face was angular and pale. The black robes were immaculate.

"Harrison, child," the pureblood greeted, "You look well. Are you alright?"

"Hello, Lord Black," Harrison answered and gave a slight bow, "Yes, I'm doing quite well."

Dark grey eyes so similar to Sirius's looked him up and down for a moment. Then he nodded and stepped aside.

"I apologize for the unannounced visit," Orion began, "However, I thought I would check on you since Sirius mentioned you would be here for the holidays."

Harrison kept a polite expression on his face. No matter how much he wanted to hit the man with a barage of spells. He knew that Orion Black was part of Grindelwald's inner circle. He would need to make sure the old man did not learn the truth.

"That is kind of you," he forced a smile.

"Well, we wouldn't want a repeat of the last year," Orion murmured and turned his attention to his son, "Sirius, its been a while. How are you?"

The air grew hot. This bastard! How dare he so casually bring up the attack on Nightingale.

Harrison just about threw all caution to the wind when Tom's hand landed on his shoulder. Harrison took a breath and felt the rage calm.

"Father," greeted the animagus, "How did you know I was home?"

"You're not hard to track, son," the older Black smiled but there was something dark in it.

Tom said politely, "If you'll excuse us, Lord Black. Harrison and I have an appointment."

"Do you have permission, child," questioned Orion, "I heard you were having a courting issue. Something about a breach of protocol."

"No," replied Harrison, "Master Keller has approved of the courtship. As my Master, he is my current guardian."

"I see," hummed Orion, "It is fortunate then that he survived and came out of his coma with relatively no permanent damage."

"Yes, sir," agreed Harrison, "Excuse us, my lord."

"Of course," nodded the old man, "Have a good time."

"Thank you, Sir," Harrison and Tom answered.

By the Blessed Mother he hated that man.

Chapter Text

...

Harrison's fists were clenched. The nails dug into his skin. He breathed through his nose and counted. One, two, three, four. Exhale. Repeat.

"Calm, love," soothed placing a hand on Harrison's shoulder.

The tension left his body. Tom's presence was grounding. His magic pulsed. It was a soothing cool against his fire.

"Thank you," whispered the younger boy.

"Always," the older promised, "Shall we go? We don't want to be late for our appointment."

Tom was right. There were plenty of other things that he would like to be doing. Getting in a fight with his "grandfather" was not one of the things. Ignore him and maybe he would go away.

"Let's," nodded Harrison and turned to the Floo.

...

Twilfitt and Tatings was an impressive shop. Located on Diagon Alley, it had the highest quality clothing. It was also the preferred location of many high-ranking pureblood and half-blood families.

Inside the shop was a variety of styles and designs. From the standard to the eccentric, anything could be purchased here.

"Welcome to Twilfitt and Tattings, Mr. Potter and Mr. Riddle," the clerk greeted, "We are ready for your appointment."

"Thank you," nodded Tom.

"This way, please," the employee requested.

They followed the clerk into the back of the shop. In the center of the room was a circular dais. On it was a stool and mirrors. There were several racks with various outfits.

"If you would sit," the worker suggested, "Your measurements will be taken. We will start with your color."

"Green," answered Tom, "Perhaps, emerald green with a silver trim."

"An excellent choice, sir," the woman praised, "What is the event?"

"A Yule ball," the young Slytherin stated.

"Very good, sir," the girl agreed, "Mr. Potter, what are your colors?"

"Green and black," he told her, "While my family colors are red, white, and gold, I am a Nightingale student. I have always preferred the darker colors."

"Ah, yes," the lady smiled, "Nightingale. My family gives our condolences to you and yours, Mr. Potter. Would you prefer your Family Crest or your House Crest on your chest?"

"My family," answered Harrison, "With my House Crest on the right shoulder."

"Understood," she agreed, "And for you, sir?"

"Mine will remain as is," the older boy answered, "On the chest, my Family Crest. On the right shoulder, my House Crest."

"Now," the lady continued, "What is the style? Formal or semi-formal?"

"Formal," they answered at the same time.

Harrison gave Tom a grin on that was returned.

"Wonderful, if you will undress, and stand on the dais," the lady directed.

"Of course," nodded the younger.

He pulled off his shirt and folded it. His shoes were next. Then his pants leaving him only in his boxers.

He could feel Tom's eyes trailing up and down his body. Harrison had several small scars and tattoos across his body. The smaller ones were from accidents in school. The larger and newer ones were from Nightingale's fall.

There was a long thin scar along his ribs, a present from the ambush. Another one, jagged, was on his shoulder, from a rogue spell. A large scar went from right shoulder across his back to his left hip.

He had gotten that after protecting a first year. He was lucky it was just a glancing blow and he had healed within a month. The others were more minor, though, each one was a memory. Some were better than others.

The clerk sucked in a surprised breath. Her eyes were glued to the large burn. Harrison ignored the staring. He had long since grown used to it.

"Shall we continue," Tom asked politely.

"Right," the woman blushed, "Stand with your arms at your side, please."

Harrison obeyed and waited. The woman approached and pulled out a wand. He didn't flinch but he did eye the wand warily. She noticed and gave him an apologetic smile.

"Please, relax," the lady coaxed, "This won't hurt a bit."

Harrison did not relax. His shoulders tensed. Tom approached and touched his bare back. It was warm and soothing.

"Its alright, love," the dark haired boy soothed, "Just hold still. Nothing bad will happen. Its a measuring charm."

Harrison did not want this stranger performing spells on him. Not with a wand. But Tom's presence helped. So, he took a deep breath and tried not to tense.

The witch muttered under her breath and pointed the tip. There was a brief flash and the air grew thick.

"Finished," the clerk smiled.

Harrison moved away from her still tense. He began to put his clothes back on as Tom did the same. The young heir kept an eye on the clerk and her wand.

"You're both free to have some refreshments," the worker informed them, "Or browse our selection. Your robes will be ready in about an hour. Would you prefer the robes delivered to your place of residence?"

"That would be great," Tom agreed placing his hand on Harrison's shoulder.

"Wonderful."

To directed him outside and Harrison sighed. The touch had relaxed him. It was strange and unexpected. Yet, he had no objections.

"Feeling better?" the older boy inquired.

"Sorry," apologized Harrison, "Normally I'm fine but Orion's arrival earlier has me on edge. Having a random person cast a spell near me put me on edge."

Tom's hand tightened slightly on his shoulder. He said after a minute, "It's fine Harrison. With everything that's happened I'd be more surprised if you didn't have a problem with magic being cast at you."

"Still," the brunette huffed, "I should be better. That's a simple spell and its harmless. It doesn't mean anything."

"Its natural, Harrison," the older boy said softly, "Your instincts are trying to protect you."

Tom pulled Harrison against him. His arms were wrapped around him and pulled him close. He pressed his forehead to Harrison's. Harrison relaxed into the hold.

"Heir Potter, Lord Riddle," came a high pitched voice that grated on Harrison's nerves.

The two boys parted and faced the source. Harrison groaned inwardly. He really was not in the mood to deal with these idiots.

"Miss Skeeter," Tom greeted politely.

"Are you both having a fun afternoon?" she questioned.

"Indeed," Tom answered, "Harrison and I are preparing for the Malfoy Yule Ball."

"Oh, I was not aware you were invited, Heir Potter," the reporter commented.

"I wasn't," admitted Harrison, "But since I'm courting Lord Riddle I'm going with him."

"Really, I haven't heard anything," Skeeter said and whipped out a parchment and quill.

"Well, now you have," shrugged the younger.

"So," she drawled, "Would you mind sharing some details?"

"We aren't obligated to speak to you," stated the older boy, "Especially since you haven't spoken with my godfather."

She sneered but backed away. They knew the consequences of speaking to a minor without permission of their guardians. Sirius was known for suing.

"Now," continued Tom, "Harrison and I will be heading back. We look forward to your article."

"Yes, Lord Riddle, of course."

She immediately retreated and Tom directed him towards diner. They had a table and food. Harrison felt his shoulders sag.

"That could have gone worse," the older boy murmured.

"I'd have been happier if we weren't interrupted," grumbled Harrison.

"I agree," the older boy said, "However, Skeeter is a pest."

"Agreed."

The two shared a smile and a laugh.

"Come on, eat," ordered Tom, "We've got some gome to kill."

...

The diner they ate at, was a small hole in the wall place. The atmosphere was comfortable. The owner was a pleasant woman and the food was excellent.

"Thank you, Miss," Tom said when she dropped the bill.

"Enjoy the rest of the evening," the owner waved him off, "Oh, and congratulations."

"Thanks."

Tom left a couple of Galleons and escorted him outside. Harrison leant into Tom's side and the older boy wrapped an arm around his waist.

"Do you have any plans for tonight?" the dark haired boy asked.

"Nothing special," shrugged Harrison, "Remus is going to take a look at my Runes work for my spell."

"Spell?" the other boy inquired, "You are working on a new one?"

"No," Harrison denied as he shook his head, "It's the same one we have been working on for awhile. I just wanted a second opinion on the runes we chose."

"Why not use your Master's help?" Tom inquired.

"I'll ask him to double check it before we start on the incantation," explained the younger, "For now, I'm focused on making sure the spell doesn't destroy us."

"Fair enough."

They were quiet for a few moments and walked down the street. It was cold and windy. People bustled and shops were closing.

"Can I apparate you home?" asked Tom.

"Sure," accepted Harry.

Tom twisted and there was a loud pop. They appeared in front of the townhouses. Remus was standing there waiting for him.

"Good evening, sir," the older boy greeted.

"Welcome back," the man said then smiled softly at Harrison, "Did you enjoy your date?"

Harrison gave a grin and nodded. He couldn't quite wipe the smile from his face.

"Yeah, Mooney," he agreed, "It was perfect."

"I'm glad," the werewolf smiled.

"Well, I won't keep you," Tom remarked, "I will see you tomorrow. Have a pleasant evening."

"You too, Tom."

Before Tom could leave, Harrison placed a quick kiss to his cheek.

"Bye."

Chapter Text

...

The Malfoy Ball was full of purebloods. As a matter of practicality Harrison stood out like a sore thumb. He wore his new robes, his CAD, and two Spacial Rings.

"Hello, everyone," Abraxas announced, "On behalf of my Father, I'd like to welcome you all to our Annual Yule Ball. Tonight is a celebration. Of old and new friendships. Of prosperity and the end of another prosperous year. Please enjoy yourselves. And remember, do not hesitate to mingle and converse. No matter your loyalties or beliefs this is neutral grounds."

Didn't that sound ominous. It was directed to those like Harrison who were born Light or worked alongside the Light. If their intentions were to discuss things that people like weren't to hear, why invite them at all.

He spotted Sirius across the ballroom floor talking with a man he didn't recognize. Maybe an auror if his core strength was anything to go by. Harrison was grateful that James and the rest of his family weren't invited.

"Hello, Harrison," said the familiar voice of Regulus Black, "I have to say, the rumors didn't do you justice. You clean up well."

Harrison turned and saw his cousin dressed in black. A green cloak was over his shoulder. He had a drink in hand.

"Regulus," grumbled Harrison darkly, "What do you want?"

"Don't worry, I'm not here to cause trouble," the Slytherin told him, "Father sent me to talk with you."

"Is that so?" he asked highly doubting that was the truth.

"Yes," the boy agreed, "Now, lets take a walk, shall we."

He held out his arm and Harrison eyed him for a moment. Thankfully however Tom chose that moment to appear at his shoulder.

"Are you alright, Harrison?" he inquired, "Black."

"Everything is fine," the younger wizard assured him, "Good evening Tom. I'll see you later, Regulus."

There was a slight tick to the other boy's jaw. His expression didn't change and his posture remained relaxed.

"Very well," the dark-haired boy acknowledged and disappeared.

Harrison took a deep breath and leaned against Tom. He let himself be calmed.

"Better?" asked Tom an arm snaking around his waist.

"Much," murmured Harrison, "Thanks."

"Let's have a good time," suggested Tom, "Come on, I want a dance."

Harrison didn't get a chance to protest before Tom dragged him onto the dance floor. His cheeks were burning as he was placed in position. He knew how to dance. It was part of the etiquette class. The air warmed with his anxiety.

"Calm," his partner murmured, "Breath. Don't worry. You won't fall. I won't let you."

He nodded and took a breath to settle. The warmth retreated back under his skin. Then the music started and they moved. Tom guided him through the movements.

As the first song ended, a familiar figure cut between them. Lord Nott dipped his chin in greeting. A greeting that Harrison returned.

"May I have this dance," the man requested.

"Of course, sir," the young heir agreed.

Nott placed a hand on his hip and they began the waltz. This time, the Lord lead the dancing. He was graceful and controlled.

"I am happy you decided to accept the invitation," Lord Nott spoke, "It's been awhile since we last spoke. How are your injuries?"

"I am healed sir," answered Harrison easily, "Master Keller is back. Did you hear about his arrival at Hogwarts? It was hilarious."

"I did not," chuckled the elder, "Though, knowing the man it was rather entertaining. Will you allow me to view the memory?"

"Of course," agreed Harrison readily.

He was going to continue asking the man about his autumn when the hairs on the back of his neck rose. His steps faltered. Nott steadied him.

"Is something the matter, child?" the man inquired.

"Sorry, sir," the boy apologized, "I thought someone was watching me."

"Its likely nothing, child," the man assured him, "Lots of people are probably curious."

It was more than that though. Every instinct in him was screaming danger. Where was Tom and Sirius? Harrison saw Tom at the edge of the dance floor to his right. But he couldn't see Sirius.

Then there was the prickling. Like the air was thick with magic. Was a spell about to be cast?

A hand appeared at his elbow as the song ended. This one was unfamiliar but the magic was dark, even darker than Tom's. It called to Harrison's magic and the heat flared out from his skin.

Nott stiffened and there was a flicker of fear in his hazel eyes. Who could possibly make the powerful Lord be afraid so much that it went past his mask?

"May I cut in?" Came a low sultry voice that made a shiver run down his spine.

From the corner of Harrison's eye, he saw Tom try to get back on the dance floor. He was stopped by four figures in black. There was still no sign of where Sirius might be.

"Of course," Lord Nott bowed slightly, "Have a nice night, Harrison."

Harrison dipped his chin in acknowledgement. Nott tapped his left hand against the ring. Good. He would let Master Keller know what was happening.

Harrison considered trying to get away from the newcomer. A hand gripped his shoulder firmly and kept him from taking more than a few steps away.

Damn it! Who the fuck did this guy think he was?

He turned to look at the figure and his heart dropped to his shoes. Now he understood his Patron's fear. Gellert Grindelwald had his hand on Harrison's shoulder. The man's magic was suffocating.

Oh he was positively fucked.

Immediately he tried to put space between them. Which the Dark Lord was expecting and prevented him from escaping. Harrison's heart pounded in his ears. The air grew hot around them.

The intrigued look fell from Grindewald's face turning into one of triumph. Harrison understood his mistake. He was most likely looking to confirm that Harrison was an Elemental from himself.

"Let go of me, Grindelwald," spat Harrison turning his body to face him fully.

His right hand drifted down towards his pocket and his wand. Before he could make it, the grip on his shoulder tightened and he was spun to the left. That would work more in his favor and his left hand came up.

"Where do you think you're going," the Dark Lord whispered, "Stay. You have nothing to fear from me."

"Right, cause kidnapping kids and killing their families is such a great thing," growled Harrison and a magic circle formed in his left palm, "Thunder Sprites, pay heed..."

Harrison didn't get any further. Ice filled him from where Grindelwald gripped him. It interrupted his incantation and his knees nearly gave out.

"You caught me off guard with that nifty little incantation during the summer," murmured Grindelwald, "I know better this time."

Harrison tried to pull away. Anything to get away from the ice in his veins. It was chasing away his Elemental flame. The chill was overwhelming and painful.

"Stop struggling," Grindelwald ordered and the cold grew stronger, "It'll be much easier if you stop fighting me. I just want to..."

"Stupefy," shouted a familiar voice and Harrison was dropped.

Without the hand on his shoulder his legs weren't able to support him. He collapsed onto the floor and tried not to lose consciousness. The air was too thin. He was freezing. The familiar fire that was always in his veins was sluggish and didn't jump to his call.

What had Grindelwald done to him?

Chapter Text

...

Spell fire flashed above him and a hand touched his shoulder. Harrison flinched but it was Tom crouched beside him. His dress shirt was torn and bloody. There was a nasty bruise forming under his eye.

"We need to get you out of here," Tom stated, "Can you move, Harrison?"

"Grindelwald did something," he answered through clenched teeth, "My body won't obey me."

"Fuck!" the older boy swore and pulled him close, "Alright, come here. We can't stay here."

Tom pulled him to his feet and wrapped an arm around his waist. Harrison's arm draped around his shoulder and the taller boy's hand came around his chest. Lord Nott appeared on Harrison's otherside. He pressed a ring into his hand.

Portkey, his mind supplied. They would have to get out of the wards first but it was better than nothing. Harrison nodded his thanks.

Tom pulled him towards the end of the dance floor. They didn't get very far before four of Grindewald's men appeared. Their wands were drawn and pointed at Harrison's chest.

"I can't let you do that, Riddle," one of the Reaper's stated, "Hand over the Potter kid. Or you'll have more than a simple fight on your hands."

"Why should I hand him over?" snarled the other boy, "What is the Dark Lord doing here, in Britain?"

Harrison's magic was sluggish as he called forth the spacial magic on the ring on his middle finger. He pulled for the magic crystal. If there was a time and place foe military magic it was now. With the way his magic was acting he wouldn't be able to call upon enough strength to perform the spell. The magic crystal would probably cover it. Probably.

Sirius and Grindelwald were exchanging spells back and forth. Surprisingly Sirius was holding his own. However it wouldn't last forever. They were outnumbered and Grindelwald had a larger core.

"Tom hold me steady," whispered Harrison as he flicked the crystal into the air and caught it.

It was warm in his palm as he activated the seven layer magic circle and chanted, "Seven points of contact accept my sacrifice."

The crystal in his hand turned to dust. Magic rushed forward and surrounded him. His sacrifice was accepted but the spell would be weaker than if he used his own magic.

"Breath of destruction, rise from the depths," he ordered, "Cause of all devastation, Divine Judgment!"

The blood drained from the faces of the Reapers as a burst of black and grey magic came from the magic cirlce. Even with his sacrifice his own core was drained to almost dangerous levels. Harrison collapsed into Tom's hold.

Tom grunted as he was forced to take Harrison's full weight. Nine Reapers some that Harrison hadn't seen dropped to the ground. Their skin where exposed was red as if sunburned. They were unconscious but should survive.

A large hole gaped in the stone wall. The debris lay on the floor.

"Merlin," breathed Tom as he pulled them away from the battle.

Harrison had only a second to appreciate his victory. Before the chill returned. It spread from his heart, which beat painfully. The pain grew and his vision darkened.

"Harrison!" the shout echoed and Harrison felt his legs give out.

It sent both him and Tom crashing to the floor. A spell flew overhead and slammed into the pillar next to them. The room shook and Harrison could feel the stone crumble.

Tom was just able to get them away from the falling stone. Harrison looked up trying to see where Grindelwald and Sirius were. Sirius was bleeding from several places and Grindelwald limped slightly.

Tom pulled him back to his feet. There were still four Reapers guarding the door. It was impossible for him to use a portkey now. Not when the guards were alert.

"We can't escape," murmured Tom.

"Yeah," he agreed.

"Give him to me," the voice of Abraxas Malfoy said and he appeared behind Tom, "You won't escape the manor without my permission. Hand him over and you can leave."

"Like hell!" snapped the other boy, "Harrison isn't going anywhere. Especially not with Grindelwald!"

A cutting curse hit Sirius in the chest. Harrison didn't see him go down as the guests and outright Reapers closed in on him and Tom.

Too many people to reliably be able to duel even with Tom. There was only one way to possibly get free. He didn't have enough of his own magic to pull it off but maybe three crystals sacrificed could.

"Hold on, Tom," he muttered.

"What are you planning," asked the Slytherin.

"Trust me," replied Harrison and slipped the two remaining rings off his fingers.

Harrison reached inside his core. His own magic was sluggish. So, he pushed passed it. Ignored the strain on his core.

Three crystals appeared in his hand. A five layered magic circle began to form sluggishly. Too sluggishly. Harrison's breath hitched and his lungs burned.

"Bloody Hell," the curse was a mere whisper but Harrison could hear it clearly.

"Whatever you do, stay behind me," he whispered to Tom then began the chant, "I am he who slays and captures gods. I am the one who knows the end and the founder of genesis. Return thyself to the cycle of providence. The five elements to elements. And sever the links woven between images and truth. Black Magic: Extinction Ray!"

Tom's gasp was lost among the cries and shouts from the others. His body burned. His magic roared and his soul was shredded. The spell ripped at his flesh and his life's energy.

Magic erupted from him and blasted through the room. It knocked him back into Tom. They stumbled and crashed into the stone wall.

The wards of Malfoy Manor fell. The sound of glass shattering was like a shockwave.

Everything went silent. Fuck he over did it. He could barely open his eyes. Harrison was so tired.

"Hey, hey, look at me," Tom demanded and shook him, "What the fuck was that?"

"The most powerful spell I know," coughed Harrison, "A spell of my creation the highest grade military magic spell in existence despite only having five layers of magic circles."

Harrison tried to see the dust and rubble. Did it get Grindelwald? Did he avenge his friends? A dark chilling laugh came from the darkness.

No...

"Well, well," came the voice of the Dark Lord, "What an interesting development."

There was a flicker and Grindelwald appeared. Blood dripped from his shoulder and there were several large injuries in his arm. As the dust cleared more than a dozen bodies lay across the ground. Only a few were moving including Sirius.

"Grindelwald," hissed Tom and stepped forward.

Harrison tried to move after him. Only to crash into the marble. The wind was knocked out of him and everything was spinning.

"Such power," the Dark Lord mused, "You are truly a prize worth pursuing."

"He's mine," Tom hissed and stepped in front of Harrison.

"Really," hummed the Dark Lord, "You are still young. Hmmm. You'll continue to put yourself at risk huh, my little Elemental? Even having used up most of your magic you still glare at me with defiant eyes. I'll make you a deal, Mr. Potter."

A deal? Tom looked back at him but Harrison caught Grindewald's gaze. The Dark Lord pointed his wand at Harrison's prone godfather.

No... Sirius.

"Come with me, child," the man ordered, "And I won't kill your dear guardian. What say you, Potter?" Asked Grindelwald with one hand extended.

Harrison stared at his godfather. No, no, no! This wasn't how things were supposed to go. They were going to have a happy Christmas and spend time together.

But if it came to his freedom or Sirius's life? He'd choose Sirius. Every damn time.

"No, no, Harry," whispered Sirius.

"You're not being given a choice, Potter," the Dark Lord continued.

"Harry, no," Sirius shouted.

"Alright," agreed Harrison, "I'll go with you, Grindelwald. But I want a guarantee. An oath."

"Smart boy," praised Grindelwald, "But I agree. What sort of guarantee would suit you?"

"If you promise not to harm Sirius or any of the people here, I'll willingly accompany you."

"Fine," the Dark Lord smirked, "I, Gellert Grindelwald swear on my life and magic that I will not harm Sirius Black or the occupants of this building tonight. So I say it, so mote it be."

His magic pulsed and a gold light shot into the air. Grindelwald turned and looked at the stunned audience.

"Harrison don't," said Tom as he tried to rise.

"Thank you, Tom," he whispered, "For everything. I'm sorry."

Tom stood with his wand drawn. Grindelwald was fast. A silent spell was thrown at Tom and the older boy collapsed unconscious. A second was thrown at Sirius then Grindelwald looked to Harrison.

"Now, lets be off," the Dark Lord said and held out a hand.

...

Tom grabbed the back of Harrison's robes to stop the younger boy. The brunette had taken the deal. He had traded himself.

Tom couldn't let him do this. His blue eyes trailed to the giant hole in wall. If that didn't work against Grindelwald none of his spells would.

"Don't!" Tom ordered, "Harrison don't."

Harrison looked over his shoulder. For a moment nothing happened then he pulled Tom into a hug and pressed something into his hand.

"Find Keller," he whispered barely audible, "All of my CADs have tracking charms. Take this. Just in case, the Reapers try something. To activate it turn it out. Its the last line of protection."

Tom understood the plan. Use a tracking charm to find Harrison and a portkey to escape. He'd have to use a lot of power to make sure they could get out.

"I won't lose you, Harrison," Tom swore, "Not again."

"Tom..."

"Mr. Potter," Grindelwald said sharply, "It's time to go."

Harrison looked at Tom and nodded. The younger boy turned and headed towards Grindelwald. The Dark Lord smirked triumphantly.

Tom's jaw tightened. This was a stupid plan. Gryffindor level of stupid but he couldn't do anything to stop Harrison.

The two disappeared with a pop. Leaving him and the unconscious bodies around him.