Survival of the Fittest

This is my first offical fan fic story. I was lucky enough to entice a Beta to help me out, so thank you Serendipity, youve helped a lot.

this story was origanaly choped into 10 diffrent sections, but because i posted it on a diffrent site, i felt this was just fine for now. I'll add the other chapters as i write them individgualy though.

thanks for your help. and happy reading


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Harry took another look at his 'summer home'. It wasn't what he would call fancy, even though the caretakers tried to make it out to be more then it was. Even with the heat, the lawn was impeccably manicured and the box hedges had edges so sharp you could cut your-self. Even the picket fence had received another coat of paint.
     Yes, Number 4 Privet Dr. was not home by any means, but it was a sanctuary of sorts. Where else, besides Hogwarts, could Harry James Potter, the Boy-Who-Lived, be safe from You-Know-Who?
     For the first eleven years of his life, and as much as Harry had hated to admit it, this was home. But no longer, for one more month, just until his 17th birthday, would he be forced tostay here. Uncle Vernon would be happy.
     With a sigh, and a straightening of his shoulders, Harry picked up his trunk handle, and Hedwig's cage and made his way up the drive to the last relatives he had left.

    
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Chapter 1:
    
Closing the door silently behind him, Harry set Hedwig's cage on the top of the trunk. Having set it inside of the door, in the entry way, Harry assumed it would be out of everyone's way, at least until he could take it up to his room.
    
Wondering where everyone was, Harry walked through the entryway into the main hallway, heading towards the kitchen and main living area. Two voices floated out to him, his Uncle’s and Aunt’s.
    
“Petunia, I will not have that boy in this house! I don't care what promise you made! She's dead and it no longer matters. That boy will end up killing us all." That was uncle Vernon’s voice.
  
  "Vernon, I know you don't like the boy, nether do I, but I have to! I am bound by blood and magic!" came Petunia's voice.

    "But muuuummm," this time it was Dudley. His voice pitched at his, "Give me what I want, or I'll have a tantrum" whine.

    "THAT BOY GOES!" Vernon thundered.
  
  Harry walked into the room and leaned his lanky frame against the doorway.

    "You know Uncle, I won’t be here for longer then four weeks." Harry's voice silenced the argument like a bucket of cold ice water.

    "What the hell are you doing back? I thought you didn't get off the train until next week!" Vernon’s face started to become a blotchy red.

     Harry just smiled. It was sad and full of grief. For a moment the Dursley’s couldn't respond.

     "Jut to let you know, I don't plan on being here past my 17th birthday." Harry walked over to one of the overstuffed chairs and sat down, his grubby cloths smearing grime on the clean upholstery.
  
   Petunia looked outraged at the grime being spread in her beautiful home.
  
   "I do have to thank you both though, for everything." Harry's quiet statement cut through Petunia's outrage.

     "Wha... what?"

    Without looking at either of them, Harry leaned back in the chair and closed his eyes, sighing. "From the moment when Lord Voldemort killed my mum and dad, I became this...this huge celebrity in the Wizarding world. I was no longer just a normal wizard, just another kid; I was now the Savior of the entire world.
    
"People would have done anything, or given me anything, to have gained my favor or attention. I would have been spoiled rotten, and there would have been an even greater chance that I would have turned out EXACLY like Voldemort."

    "Who?" Dudley, ever the genus asked.
  
   "The one Bad Ass that no one would, in their right mind, want to take on."
    
"Why?" Again, Dudley and his brilliant deduction.
    
"Because he is one of THE most powerful wizards in the world. Not many can top him in shear power, not to mention the following he has accumulated. Mum saved me, and in doing so provided the final step in the equation to take him out." Harry blinked and stood up again.

     He stretched for a moment then came back to himself.

    "One more month, that’s all, then I will never bother you again. But I do want you to know, despite everything, you are still my family. The only family I have ever had. If, in the future, and I’m still alive, come see me if you wish. You will always be welcome in my home, no matter where it might be.

     "Good night." Harry walked out of the living room, leaving the Dursley’s speechless.
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(((O)))

    Harry made his way up the stairs to his room, his steps slow and measured.

     He was tired.

    Emotionally, physically, spiritually. Exhaustion clawed at his mind and muscles, but he pushed beyond that and trekked his way to his own small sanctuary. His trunk followed behind him, a small levitation charm placed on it so Harry didn't have to worry about it.
    
Opening the door to his room, Harry waved his trunk into the corner, and threw himself on the bed, facing the ceiling.

    Why was it so hard? To live after all of his family was gone? Oh granted the Dursley’s were still alive, but they didn't count. Family was suppose to be people who kept you grounded and loved you. Who would protect and support you.
  
   Harry sighed and closed his eyes.

    Thoughts were spinning in his head; ideas to where the location of the Horcruxes were and what to do with them. Then there was the problem with Voldemort or Moldy Shorts, Harry snickered to himself.
  
  Then he sobered up.
  
   'In all likely-hood, I'll die trying to kill him, plus there is no guarantee I'll succeed in doing so.'
  
   It was a depressing thought.

    All that had happened in the last few years had not prepared him for any of his adventures, as a mater of fact, they seemed to hinder him more then help.

     DADA was a joke; nothing of importance was learned in that class other then how to defend your self against professors with an obsession with him.

    'Why do I have to be so popular with both the Death Eaters and the supposed Light Wizards?' Harry asked himself, remembering the debacle with Gilderoy.

    'If I didn't know better I would swear they were after my body!'
  
  A small hysterical giggle left Harry's throat.
  
   After all, the Death Eaters were out for him, though they were more interested in his blood then in his body,

     'Well maybe with the exception of Wormtail, I think he may just be Gay.'
  
   Another giggle.

    "I'm loosing it." Harry said aloud realizing he was starting to sound like a new patient for St. Mungo’s.

    Sitting back up, Harry sat in a dejected pose, his back to the door and facing the small, now unbarred, window of his room.

    A beautiful twilight had taken over the sky, filling the once blue sky with deep shades of orange, pink and yellow. Splashes of purple and blue accented the setting sun to perfection. Few clouds littered the sky, making the scene almost perfect.

    'You can't fool me,' Harry thought to the universe at large, 'there is no more beauty in the world, it was destroyed when you let old Moldy Shorts take power.'

     His mental tone had turned bitter and harsh.

    'It disappeared when you let him kill so many people. So many innocents, not even creating a weapon to take him out when you created him! What type of balance is that?' Harry's head dropped into his hands, his elbows were braced against his knees. His fingers tunneled into his hair.
  
   He stayed that way for a long time, not noticing the sun as it finished setting, or the darkening of his room. The shadows filled not only his room, but now they filled his mind, casting it in darkness and doubt.
  
   With a last sigh Harry got up, and cast off his cloths, leaving only his boxers, on and slipped into his bed. Taking off his glasses he folded the wire ear frames and placed them on the nightstand next to the bed.
  
  Rolling over he closed his eyes and slipped into sleep.
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     Cool darkness cushioned him. It enveloped his senses and soothed his frazzled nerves. Comfort and contentment seeped into his very core, and for once, in a very long time, Harry was at peace.
  
   He remembered this place, this feeling from his child hood. It was a sanctuary for when things got really bad with the Dursley’s. But it also symbolized change and a shift in his life.
    
((Flashback)))

    The first time was when he was five. He had cried himself to sleep in his small bed under the cupboard. It had been a bad day, with Dudley and his crew chasing him all over the small park down the way from his aunt's house. They had caught him and had proceeded to not only hit and pinch him, but abuse him verbally as well.
  
   "See, freak? No one cares about you! Other wise someone would have helped!" One of the little Gang members taunted.

    “Yah, your parents obviously hated you so much they had to die to get away,” Dudley laughed harshly.
  
   Harry had just rolled up in to a little ball until they had gotten tired of playing punching bag with him. Then slowly, Careful of the hurts and burses he had made his way back to his cupboard.
  
   Falling into the black void would have normally made him scared. But this, this was different. Soft and warm, it soothed his hurts and cuddled him close.
  
  “Oh, little one,” it was a soft female voice. Warm and full of the promise of both sunshine, and a warm bed at night. A mother's voice.
  
   “I'm here little one. I'm sorry I cannot stay, but you need to know, I am here. I will always be here when you need me the most,” the voice caressed the boy’s heart.
  
  "Will I ever meet you?" Harry asked softly, his five-year-old mind trying to hold onto the only softness he had ever remembered.
  
   The voice laughed softly, and a phantom hand caressed his hair, pushing it away from his forehead. Then a phantom set of lips caressed his head, right where his scar was.
    
”Yes, my dear child you will, in many ways you will meet me. Though not until the last will you truly see me.” A soft sigh.
  
  “For now I have to leave you, but I will leave you with a gift of your choosing. What would you like, my young cub?”
  
   Harry thought for a moment, "For the Dursley’s to stop hitting me."
  
  “So be it.” A soft flash, “They will no longer lay a hand on you, young cub, but and I must go. Be safe in the knowledge that you are not alone.”

    For the rest of the night Harry slept in peace.
  
   For the first time in his young life he slept as a normal child, and not one scared of sudden noises, or of the threat of his relatives.

(((End flash)))
  
  There was a hand full of other times since then, with the last one being the day before his 11th birth day, when things had become their worst.
  
   He had wished to leave, at the time he didn't realize why the voice had sounded so amused, nor why he was told he would have his wish at a later time, because this one had already been done, but now he understood.
  
   Hogwarts was his escape.

   His freedom in all ways.
  
   The only exception was the summer, but even now it was only a minor thing.
  
   "Hello?" Harry called into the dark.
  
  No answer.

     The dark changed and light began to alleviate the darkness, turning it into a dark gray.

    Lights began to pulse coalescing into four small balls of light. Each of them took on different colors.
  
   One became a pulsing silver green orb, another became blue shot with sparks of white. Another became dark mahogany that alternated strips of deeper and lighter shades, almost like wood, and the last one was a deep orange, almost red.

     The orange one settled to a continuous pulse, steady and sure. The other three circled the sphere for a moment before the green one traveled away a distance and settled into a steady pulse as well, a cord of white connected it back to the orange ball. Then the blue one separated and as before with the green, settled a little ways away from the orange, but a gain a small white thread connected it back to the orange.
  
  Then the brown one seemed to dim a little in bright ness before seeming to rally and then travel further away from the orange then the previous two, before settling and connecting itself back with a thin white cord.
  
   "What's this?" Harry was confused.
  
   “Look close, young cub, and tell me what it looks like, not what it appears to be.”
  
   And he looked, and looked, and then he saw!
  
  Inside the green, he saw a small necklace, in the blue was a small scroll, and in the brown he glimpsed a goblet. The orange showed a large snake.

    "The horcruxes," Harry whispered. His eyes were wide as he took in the meaning.

     “These balls were the founders before they broke apart. Each left to set up new schools elsewhere to cater to their own ideas of the perfect wizard, all but the original. Godric stayed, taking onto himself the knowledge that for the wizards to prosper, they had to learn from each other's uniqueness.
  
   “Salazar went to Bulgaria and started Durmstrang, Rowena went to France and opened Beauxbatons, and Helga settled in what are now called the Americas to found the Salem Witches Institute. But each kept their ties to Godric. They were still loyal to their old friend.

    “Now a time has come where their most powerful artifacts have been stolen and used for evil. Though they thought their most prized possessions were safe, they have been corrupted beyond all reason. Do not try to save them. You must destroy them, and return back to Godric's home.

    “Deep inside you will find its core. There will be a weapon for you to use in this place that has been lost through the ages of time and neglect. Something that in most worlds, human, elf, goblin and all others combined only considers a myth, a legend. Even Tom dismissed it as fable. But you will prove them all wrong.
  
   “Find the door that will lead you to your desire. There I wait for you my young cub; there the answers you seek will come to you. Use your friends, my dear, they wish to help and they can. Train, use your skills and complete the tasks.”
  
   A last touch over his scar, “I would have given everything I have and am to have protected you when you needed it the most. But both my word and my blood bind me. Find what you seek, my Cub, and return home.”

     The lights faded, leaving the comforting darkness once more.
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    For the first time sense he was 11yrs old, Harry woke up fully rested and relaxed. He took a moment and stretched out all his muscles. He lay in his bed for a few more moments before he swung his leg over the edge of his bed and reached for his glasses before remembering that he fell asleep with them on. He smiles softly to himself.

    Harry looked over to Hedwig and noticed she was still asleep, her head tucked so far down into her chest feathers it looked like she didn't have a head. 'Get some more sleep girl.' Harry thought to himself, as he walked over to his trunk and pulled out some parchment and quills. 'I'm going to need you well rested for this project.'
  
   Harry sat down at the small desk in the room and began to write letters.
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  Hermione
  
   Hay mate, I know that summer just started but I need your help with something. It’s really important.
    
I had a dream last night. Not like the ones I usually have, so don't think it was from the Dark Trotter. It was from someone.... else. Trust me ok?

    Any way I need you to look up some things for me.
  
  Can you find any thing relating to the founders? Not their items but them personally? Specifically, whether or not they all split or stayed together? And if they did split where they went and what they did.
    
I also need your help looking into Durmstrang’s, Beauxbaton’s and Salem Academy's history. I have a feeling its important and it relates to the you-know-what-that-has-this-stupid-hyphenated-code-name.
  
   Don't send any information if you find it, just send Hedwig back with a reply saying you are looking. I'll get in contact with you soon.
  
  Harry

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Ron/Ginny
  
Hey you two. I'm sending this as a single letter so Hedwig isn't totally overwhelmed.
  
  I need you guys to look into some stuff for me. Get your dad to help if you can or even Percy, (I know he's being a git, but this is serious) I need you to ask about the restrictions on enchanted weapons, items and scrolls, yes scrolls. Not parchment, but the little cylindrical tubes of written items.
    
Then I need to know if there is anything in the Department of Mysteries that pertains to Hogwarts itself.

    Please check. Don't send a reply back, I'll get in touch with you in a few days so don't worry too much.
  
   Oh and Ginny.... Forgive me for my stupidity?
  
  Your Mate,
  
   Harry
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Gred/ Forge
  
   Ok you two Marauders’ in training, I need your help. Remember that map you gave me in third year? Do you think you can duplicate it? But not for Hogwarts, but for some other schools?
  
  It’s important. If you need somebody with information on the schools, I think I can arrange it, but I need to know if you can.
  
  Oh, and by the way...I have an idea for a new joke for you if you’re interested.
  
  Any way, got to go cause havoc and mayhem.
  
   Toddles
  
   Harry
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   To Whom It May Concern:

    Greetings.

     My name is Harry Potter and I wish to set up a meeting with both the bank manager and my account manager.

    There are some items I wish to take care of, and I believe it is past time for me to be taking care of my own finances.
  
  I wish to hold this meeting with in the next 48 hours, as I have many things to do, and very little time to do it in.
  
  Please send back a reply with my owl, Hedwig.

    I will be awaiting it.

     Thank you and good day
  
   Harry James Potter
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  No sooner had Harry finished the last letter to the goblins at Gringotts then Hedwig hooted and flew over.
    
"How in the world did I get so lucky to have such an incredible owl as a companion?" Harry asked her as he ruffled her breast feathers with his fingers and gave her an owl treat.
  
   The snowy owl hooted and fluffed out her feathers in pride, allowing Harry's fingers to get the deeper quill feathers and stroke them as well.
  
   "I need you to do a lot of work today girl. I need you to take this to Ron and Ginny first, don't wait for an answer, I don't need one.
    
”Then take this to the Terrible Twins, George and Fred. Again no answer is needed.

    “Then take this to Hermione, you'll have to go back after the last letter, just in case she has a response.

    “And this one is last. Take this to who ever is in charge at Gringotts. ONLY the goblin in charge. Wait for their answer. Got it girl?" Harry asked as he tied the last letter to her leg.
  
   HOOT, and a bob of Hedwig's head in agreement was the only answer as she flew to the closed window.
  
   "Such a clever girl." Harry opened the window and the owl left with a soft hoot.

    Harry sat back on the small windowsill, watching as the sun slowly made its rise over the tree line starting the new day.

     With a small sigh, Harry got up, got dressed, and then walked out of his room. Walking down the hall, he heard the snores that hailed the fact that the entire Dursley family was asleep.
  
   Taking out a frying pan from the cupboard in the kitchen, he started to make breakfast for every one as per usual, when there was a small "pop" behind him.
  
  Not thinking, Harry swung around and crouched, the heavy cast-iron skillet held like a club, ready to bash in the head of who ever was there.
  
  "DOBBY!" Harry exclaimed, dropping the skillet. "What are you doing here?"
  
   "Dobby is worrying about Mr. Potter, sir, so Dobby decided to come to Harry Potter!" Dobby was almost bouncing, and seeing Harry put up the skillet launched himself onto him and nearly hugged his legs to death.

    "Um, I thought you were working at Hogwarts," Harry asked as he disengaged the over excited Dobby from his legs, before the small elf thought about some other way to show his affection, like humping.
  
   "Dobby only works there when Harry Potter is there. Dobby wishes to only look after Mr. Potter." Dobby looked confused as Harry began to mix eggs ham and other ingredients into a large bowl. "What is you doing?" Dobby inquired.

    "Making breakfast, you want some?" Harry asked.
  
   "Oh, Mr. Harry Potter is asking Dobby if he wants breakfast! AND he's making it to while Dobby is a bad House Elf and stands by and watches!" And almost absent-mindedly Dobby grabs the skillet off the stove and begins to bang himself upside the head with it.      "Bad Dobby! Bad Dobby!"

"Dobby stop," Harry snatched away the heavy cooking item from Dobby.
    
"You’re not a bad house elf, so don't punish your self. Besides, I thought you only punished yourself if you went against your master?" Harry asked setting the frying pan back on the stove and began to fry up some omelets.

    "Wells sir, Dobby wants to ask if Dobby can work for Mr. Potter." Dobby asked softly watching wide eyed as the young wizard started to prepare more of the meal, putting toast in the toaster bacon on to fry and setting out orange juice and milk.
  
  "Can Dobby help Mr. Harry Potter Sir?"
  
  "Nope, I’m almost finished. And why Dobby, I thought you liked your freedom." Harry asked sliding the last omelet onto a plate and setting it down on the dinning room table.

    "Dobby likes being a house elf, but Dobby hated old masters!" Dobby shuddered, having to restrain himself from 'punishing' himself for his disrespect. "And since Dobby has a choice, Dobby wants to bind to Harry Potter! Dobby wants to be apart of the Potter family. Sir," The last was said hesitantly.
  
   "My family," Harry asked bemused as he began to clean up the mess he had made while preparing the morning meal.
  
   "Yes. When an elf binds to a family, they take on the family's last name, becoming a part of family," Dobby explained, taking a little courage when Harry didn't dismiss the idea totally.
  
  "Are you sure Dobby? I mean, my life expectancy is close to zero, what with all the death eaters after my blood, and the fact that I seem to get every one around me killed. And what about Winky?"
    
"Oh Harry Potter is so kind thinking about Winky! She is so sad! She wants a family to help but doesn't know any one who would take her in. She thinks she is a bad house elf." Dobby said looking forlorn. "Dobby wishes that young Wizard Harry Potter would let us both bind to the Potter family!"
  
   Harry looked at the small house elf. "Ok. But there are some rules."
    
Dobby nearly fainted when Harry said yes.
  
   "Dobby will follow rules sir, Dobby will do anything Mr. Harry Potter says!" Now Dobby really was bouncing around.
    
"First of, calm down a little, there that's better. Now the main rules are this, and make sure Winky knows before she agrees. One, you are to where CLOTES not pillowcases, not tea cozies, not towels, but clothes! Two, you are to take time off for yourselves. I will provide you with pay. You are never to neglect your self for the sake of me, understand? As for the rest, we'll iron them out as we go along. So my little friend, do we have a deal?" Harry asked, already knowing the answer.
    
"YES," Dobby's voice was now firmly in the 'squeak' category. "Dobby will tell Winky right away!" And with another 'pop,' he disappeared.
  
  Harry chuckled a bit, thinking about the oddities of life and its few small pleasures as he listened to his Aunt, Uncle and Cousin come trampling down the stairs.
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((((((O)))))
  
  Harry walked back up the stairs to his room after makings sure the Dursley’s had enough to eat. Surprisingly the rude comments had been kept down to a minimum.
    
Amazing what a promise of a disappearing act would do for some people's dispositions.
  
   Once inside his room, Harry opened his trunk and took a look at his things.

    With a sigh he went back out of his room and down to the dinning room.
  
  "Hey Dudley, can I use one of your spiral bound notebooks?" Harry asked leaning against the door jam, his arms crossing over his chest.
    
"What you want it fre...for?" Dudley asked, barely managing to cover up the word he was about to use.
  
   "Good choice of words there, Dudders. I need it to make a couple of lists. Parchment just doesn't have the same effect." Harry snorted thinking of trying to write a list of items on a piece of parchment that would more often then not try to roll back up or not hold up under the scratching of a pin if someone was not careful. Usually Harry didn't have a problem, but for once he wanted to not have to worry about it.
  
  "Um...Yah....I'll...Just go get it." Dudley said, noticing the small smirk playing around Harry's mouth as he thought about using 'parchment,’ thinking it was Harry's way of telling him to obey or he would do some really scary magic stuff on him.

    With a small squeal of fright not quiet suppressed, Dudley scuttled from the room to the Cupboard under the stairs where he now kept his school stuff.

     He came back pretty quickly, handing Harry a presetting notebook. "I don't need it so you can keep it." Duddly said quickly, he also thrust out a pen. "I thought this might be easer then using those quills I've seen you with. It rights without having to use that ink pot of yours." Dudley said sheepishly, tiring to get on Harry's good side.
    
"Thanks! You know what, Dudders? When you're not trying to act like king of the castle, your actually pretty smart." Harry turned and walked back to his room before they could catch his full smirk.
    
'Man, I know you can catch more fly's with honey but I think I've just got cavities!'

    He closed the door behind him and went back to his still open trunk. Removing the cloths he took stock of those first.
  
  'Hmm....those robes need to be replaced, as I don't think these ones will be able to last much longer.'
  
   Harry jotted down in the note book for a moment, looked at what he wrote while nibbling on the nib of his pin, and then added something.

    With a nod he turned back to his trunk.

    He thin reviewed his general school supplies writhing down what was missing, low or just plain could be totally replaced.
  
  Next came his stash of books. Looking them over Harry determined he definitely needed to make a trip to Flourish and Blots. Making a note on his note book he realized he had just about filled it half way full.
  
   Looking back at the trunk, Harry added one more item to the list then packed every ting back into the battered box neatly.

     A small fluttering alerted him to the return of Hedwig. She landed gracefully on the edge of his bed, on the foot railing and held out her foot daintily.

     "You are so good." Harry praised her as he removed the two letters. "Take the rest of the day to yourself girl. You did really well." Harry tossed her one of the last owl treats and watched her fly back out the window.

    Sitting down on the bed Harry opened his letters. Out of one a small copper colored piece of mettle dropped out. Harry identified it absentmindedly as a Knut.
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   Harry,
  
  You have some weird requests. But yes I will look into it.

     I've already finished my summer homework so I need a bit of light work to do to keep my mind limber.
  
   I do hope that those...those...MUGGLES Treat you nicely this time.
  
   Contact me soon, I think I already have some information you wanted so take care and write me back.
  
   Hermione
  
   PS: I may be at the Burrow after the next few days, so I hope it's alright to tell Ron and the others what I'm looking for, they might know more or better yet where to find the information we need.
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   Mr. Harry James Potter
    
It is with some surprise that a white owl has swooped down upon my head and promptly dropped a letter onto the documents I have just been in the process of working on.
    
And low and behold the very same person those documents pertain to has decided to contact me first.
  
   I must say that that has surprised me. Most of the time, wizards of your age do not care to much about their finances, regardless of their backgrounds.

    So it is with great pleasure that I ask to meet with you as soon as you wish.
  
   Enclosed is a Knut. Think of it as a symbol of sorts. It is a portkey. Just say the word "Brethren" and it will take you directly to my office.
  
   May your life be full of riches beyond your dreams.

    Griphook

    Head Goblin; battle warrior of the Goblin Army First class
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   'Well that answers that.' Harry thought to himself.
  
   Pulling a piece of the paper from his already used notebook, he jotted a quick note to the Durslys, and picked up the Knut.
  
   With his notebook in one hand, and the Knut in the other, Harry took a deep breath.
  
   "Here goes. Brethren."

    Deep in the pit of his stomach, behind his navel, Harry felt the pull of the damn portkey, and the world around him swirled with color.

    With an unexpected halt, Harry staggered, barely keeping his feet.
  
   Looking around him, he saw five goblins sitting around a conference type table. At the head sat a goblin Harry recognized.
    
"Mr. Griphook. Thank you for your time." Harry said politely, remembering not to bow, as it was highly insulting to the shorter creatures.
    
"I hope it meets with your approval, but there are more then one account manager that needed to speak with you, so I have set up a meeting with all of them to get this out of the way as soon as possible so we may all get on with a more profitable day." Griphook said, waving to either side of him.
    
"Not at all. In fact, I am most pleased." Harry took the chair at the opposite end of Griphook, setting the notebook in front of him.

     "The associates to ether side of me are as follows. Mr. Herkendoger." A grungy looking goblin to Griphook’s left stood up, "He has been in charge of the Black Estate for many years." The goblin sat back down.

     "Mr. Generlogen," the goblin next to Herkendoger stood and nodded to Harry, "Has been in charge of the Evans Vault." The goblin sat back down as well.

     Turning to his right, "This is Mr. Achenhu." The one furthest to the right stood, then sat back down. "He has run the Potter Estates."

     "This goblin, Mr. Weed." The one closest to Griphook now stood, "was in charge of..."

     "Wait don't tell me, Dumbledore's vault." Harry interrupted.

     Griphook was stunned for a moment. "How did you know?"

     "I would assume, that after spending enough time with the old headmaster, and any one who had any workings closely with him, sometimes, something's are bound to rub off. For instance, He is the only man I knew who had this insistently annoying twinkle in his eye, which happens to be present to some degree in Mr. Weed's eyes." Harry winked. "Funny the things you notice, huh?"

     "Indeed Mr. Potter." Mr. Weed said.

     "He said that more times then I can count too." Harry laughed.

     "IF we can get back on track?" Griphook looked slightly amused.

     "Yes lets." Harry turned his full attention back to the head goblin

     "As it stands, you have inherited quiet a bit." Griphook looked at the papers spread out before him.

     "Directly, on the monetary side of things, you have inherited from the Potter line approximately two million four hundred thirty seven thousand, nine hundred and twenty two gallons. I will not try to break down the amount into sickles and Knuts, as that would take to long all the way around." He looked at the next page.

     "From the Evans side, minus what is being transferred into muggle money on your seventeenth birthday to go to your relatives, you have one point four million gallons." He looked at another paper.

     "From the Blacks, as Sirius was the only heir, his mother not having the chance to remove him from the family line. And per his last will and testament, which we will get to in a moment, with the exception of a Nymphadora Tonks and her family, all others of the Black family have been disinherited. This includes the Malfoy's."

     Griphook had to stop here a moment as Harry whooped in joy.

     "Take that you peroxide prick." Harry said gleefully rubbing his hands in sadistic glee.

     He looked up at Griphook.

     "Opps. Sorry. It's been one hell of a year and I figure I can go crazy if I'm so inclined now." Harry said in way of apology.

     "Don't worry about it." Was Mr. Achenhu's response. "We are all familiar with the Malfoy family. And on this occasion, as we are assured you will not breach our confidentiality, we agree with you. More pompous wizards there have never been." He paused for a moment, "though I believe Severus Snape may come in second."

     Harry chuckled. "I may agree with you on that, but I have met Tom Riddle, and I must say, if we were living in the regency period, he would have a puffed powdered wig about three feet high just to proclaim himself the best!" All of the goblins grinned, showing off their razor sharp teeth in both their version of amusement and malice.

     "Any way," Griphook once more moved the conversation back, though was still grinning, "The Black Vaults contain approximately, after the Tonks’ and others have been taken care of, seven million gallons." He waited a moment as Harry picked up his jaw from the floor and re-hinged it to his mouth.

     "You know, Mr. Weed, placing that Anima charm in this room. It always has interesting results." Mr. Generlogen said, amused.

     "Indeed. Limon square," he offered a distinctly yellow and SQUAIR lemon candy.

     "I do believe I will. I think I like these much better then the drops."

     "Gentle goblins, if we could please?" Griphook was now beginning to become exasperated.

     "Sorry." They both said in apology, sucking hard on their candy.

     "Now, as to the Dumbledore account," he looked at Harry with great seriousness,      "Due to the fact that Albus' only living relative, his brother I believe, has had an . . . unfortunate run in with a goat and has gone the way of his brother, you are the only one listed in his will as being able to accept his legacy. His vaults contained in the neighborhood of fifteen million gallons."

     "Oh..." Harry was speechless for a moment. Then he blinked and did some quick mental math. "Are you telling me, that I have approximately 25 million gallons and change?"

     The goblins nodded.

     "Holly Shit."

     "And that is only the liquid assets Mr. Potter. We still have to read both the wills of the Potter, Evan's, Black's and Dumbledore's not to mention list the other assets you have now in your possession." Griphook placed the papers in front of him back into a folder and moved out some others along with a couple of shallow cups.

     "These are will pensive. Used for the specific purpose of creating a sort of "Living" will." Griphook explained. "We will start with your parents then Serious Black's, then Albus'." He moved two cups closer to the middle of the table. "Both of these were spelled to be played together." And he taped them with his finger activating the ruins on each cup.

     "Hello son." James Potter said.
--------------------------------------------------------------

     "Hello son." James potter said, as his image appeared out of the small cup. He looked down at Harry, smiling sadly.

     "Da..Dad?" Harry said, his eyes glued to the face of his father, taking in every detail.


    
"I know that the only time you will be seeing this is if I and your mother are gone. And I am sorry for that. As I stand here over your crib, I can not help but think of the past, and look at it with a different perspective." James sighed and looked up at the ceiling of the room.

     "Many things I have come to regret and many more I would not change for the world. You are one of them, my son.

     “You are the brightest thing in my life, aside from your mother, and I hope you never have to see this message.

     "But I know with the war, and that thrice dammed prophecy, that is not going to happen. Your mother has seen you older, and without us. I expect she will explain in her own cup. I just hope you find some happiness in life, for life is not worth living if you cant have some fun with it.

     "Enough with this morbid stuff, on to the goodies," James smiled crookedly. "I'll start with your blood line my son, well at least what you get through me." James looked at his hand, and idly twirled a large ring on his right pinky.

     "Through me, you have inherited the oldest and most respected lines of wizards. Though your mother would say other wise," again, James chuckled.

     "Any way, All Potters have been in one of two houses, Gryffindor or Slytherin. Yes my son, Slytherin. Only for the last few generations have we been placed in Gryffindor only, and only by the slimmest of margins.

     "You see, I had to fight with the hat to place me in Gryffindor. I had already made friends with Sirius and Remus, and they had been sorted before me, and I didn't want to be alone, but the thing that really cinched it, was your mother.


     "I fell in love with her the first time I saw her at Kings Cross. I guess my heart was already concord from the first bat of her eyes and pout of her lips.

     "I wanted...no, needed to be close to her, to learn about her, to befriend her. At first that was enough, than it grew as I grew. She was mine, and I wanted the world to know it, and at the time of my sorting, the only thing I could think about was sitting next to her in the Great Hall for meals, and going to classes with her.

     "So the hat placed me in Gryffindor. And the rest of that story is as they say history. But the main thing I want you to know, You have inherited the blood of Hufflepuff, Gryffindor and Slytherin. There are some others in there, but they will only matter when you reach your majority and attain your full magic ability, some of them you will gain the powers of, like I did for Gryffindor, and others will pass through you to your child.

     "I have left you many books and items in the vaults below Gringotts. Many ancient and powerful things reside in that vault, things only a true Potter can ever touch, others only the heirs of the blood can, that means when you become an heir of one of your ancestors’ power and gifts, you will gain their items as well.

     "You have need to know one thing though, power is a continuous thing. It never diminishes, just gets discharged. Remember that. As you grow, you will experience an enhanced store of magical energy.

     "Some will say you will loose it as you get older, that it is just a byproduct of coming of age, its not. Not many of our line has had it, but I can already tell you will, seeing as you can already do accidental magic, by the way, turning your mum's hair purple for not giving you your toy was not nice, funny, but not nice. Added to the fact that she couldn't change it back for a week....well lets just say you are truly a next generation Marauder." James laughed.

     "Never forget you have a home son. You will one day own Godric's hollow. It is a dower house, belonging to the castle of Gryffindor. Slytherin will probably leave you clues to follow for that inheritance, he did with me but I didn't feel any need to have more then I do now, so I leave it to you with only this word on the subject.

     "There is only one true line of Slytherin. It started with Salazar and ends with you, Harry, or with your children or their children, no one else. There will be those who think they are, or claim to be, but they are from a lower branch, from Salazar’s uncle’s side. We are the only ones.”

Pausing in his little speech, James seemed to control an emotion

     "I promised myself I wouldn't make a speech. That I wouldn't take longer then a few minutes to explain this to you. It seems as I broke that. I will stop here though, and I will leave you journals and books with more detailed explanations.

     "There is one other thing, before I go. Our family has always been entrusted with a jewel. It is clear and large, the size of a chicken egg, and more precious then a diamond. We don’t know what this is for, we just know we have all had to hold this in trust for a time when Gryffindor Castle would need to protect its own, so I hope you never have to find out. But on the off chance that I will not be there to tell you, Gryffindor Castle was renamed after its construction all those centuries ago. Only the line of Gryffindor knows that.

     "The Castle is now Called Hogwarts." James looked once more down at Harry, looking right through him. "Guard it well my son." And with that, James faded back into the small cup.

     Harry just looked at the cup.

     His father’s words running through his head.

     How did that fit in with all that he already knew?

     And why was it so important that he protect the crystal thingy, and where was it?

     "IF you are ready, MR. Potter, I believe your mother's self-will is next." Griphook said gently, placing the cup of James Potter aside. Harry just nodded
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     Placing the new cup in the center of the table, Griphook activated it as well.

     Swirling mist rose up from the cup, slowly taking the shape of one Lilly Evans-Potter.

     "Mum." Harry whispered, looking hungrily once more upon the face of the woman who gave him life.

     "My son," Lilly began, her voice full of sorrow, her eyes showing her sadness.

     "Your father has just finished his will, and handed this cup to me with the instructions on how to use it. I realize that we are in a war for our lives, but sometimes I wish I never had to worry about things like this. I wish I could look forward to watching you grow up and become the man I can see you to be."

     Lilly sighed, her gaze taking a far away quality.

     "Not many know it, but the Evan's line is not an entirely Muggle one as some would say. We are actually decedents of two very powerful lines.

     "Unfortunately, both lines active side died out hundreds of years ago, only the squib side survived to pass down the genetic code. The DNA hoped to find a suitable descendant to bestow its gifts on, hopefully reawakening the lines.

     "Alas, I am the result. As I am not a very powerful witch, just extremely clever and agile," Lilly smiled again, this time with a hint of smugness, "I only received one of the lines.

     "Even though I was sorted into Gryffindor, I could have easily have passed as a Ravenclaw. My blood made it so.

     "So many times I cursed the name Ravenclaw in my years at Hogwarts, the pain it brought me was immense, but now I know the rewards as well. I find myself unable to be bitter over what amounts to a small discomfort, in the grand scheme of things.

     "You see my son; Rowena had a very powerful gift. It's not magic, but it is tied to the inner core, some wizards call it the inner eye," Lilly did a coughing thing that most use to cover up saying a name.

     Harry caught it though, and smiled himself. After all he had enough classes with that nutcase to know how many times in one day the 'Inner Eye' could be exercised.

     "It's actually a completely Muggle gift, as many from the non-magical world can tap into it. What made it so special in Rowena was that it was connected to her magical core instead of just her personal one like most Muggles.

     "Because of that, most of her predictions were more...I guess you could say accurate and detailed. Very few were ever severely vague and misleading. If she saw something, then you better bet she gave enough information to go with it.

     "She was a firm believer that if we are given a vision, it is our duty to ether prevent it or see that it comes true. She held to the doctoring that no ones past or future was ever set in stone, just their present as they were living in that moment, and even then, nothing was ever certain.

     "Many called her eccentric; others just shrugged their shoulders and moved on. Only four others believed in her. The founders. Plus one. No one knows who that is, only that they came when the world was at its darkest to protect the light.”

     Lilly contemplated her hands for a moment. "The only prophecy she ever made that was vague was one that she wrote in her personal diary. I've read it, and I think I understand. I'm going to tell you nothing about it, for it concerns you, you may read it if you wish, but until it the time comes close for it, you will not know its meaning."

     Again, Lilly smiled smug. "Be comforted in the fact that it does not harm, hinder or expedite the dark in any way that would cause you pain. I can not tell you more, for this is my way of making sure you will fulfill that which she wrote. Yes son, another damn prophecy about you.

     "I've seen your father and I die. It's ok. Something's must happen for other things to come into effect. I've told your father, which is why these cups are sitting before you."


     Lilly seemed to break down a little there, tears streamed down her cheeks and she choked back a sob. "Who am I kidding? Its not ok, it's not fair, it's not even right! But it is the only course of action your father and I have, otherwise......she trailed off.

     Shaking her head, she brought herself back to her task at hand.

     "Harry, you will have a...Convoluted destiny, one we can not interfere with, no one but fate can, since they were the ones who chose you to take up this mantle.

     "Many things in your life will be hard, often cruel. Never lose hope. Never give up on life and it’s meaning. You will be tested, time and again, always until the day comes, when you can clam it all.

     "I leave to you my son, the knowledge that you are more then the some of your parts. There are things in the vaults below Gringotts. Things that haven't seen the light of day in thousands of years, they can help you.

     "I can do no more for you my son. Never doubt you are strong. Never doubt that you can and will succeed.

     "There was once a famous muggle scientist, a man by the name of Charles Darwin.

     "He witnessed something in nature that had been taking place since the dawning of time. He then proceeded to study and analyze. He came up with the only thing that ever comes close to the truth in all worlds, humans, witches, elves, dragons, all mythical beings. He learned that only the Strong Survive and life is about the Survival of the Fittest.

     "He was right. Hopefully your father and I will leave you with the tools you need to be the fittest. It's in your hands now. I love you and always will.

     "Never despair, for with great pain, and loss, comes great rewards. The fates are never one sided, my son. They will test you, try you and pull you through what seems to be the very bottom of hell, and when you show your self true, they will reward you beyond your dreams."

     Lilly looked up to the ceiling, her face radiant.

     "I will watch you, and root for you. May be one day we will meet as we should."

     With those last words, Lilly's visage disappeared from above the cup.

     Harry sat, his eyes tightly shut, silent tears trickling down his cheeks.

     "I'll be strong mother, you will be proud."
---------------------------------------------------------------------

     Harry took a moment to compose him-self. His eyes had misted up and a fine trimmer had infected his hands, causing him to clutch them into fists to hide the shaking.

     "I know you wish some time to digest all you have been learning, but we must proceed with the last two. These are not so long and somewhat straight forward. Do you think you can continue?" The goblin asked. Belaying his races temperament, the small creature knew that this was hard on the young wizard.

     "Let's finish." Harry lifted his head, his eyes shining bright. "I have a thousand things to do, and little time to do it in. Please, continue."

     With a small smile, only showing the barest hint of razor teeth, the goblin placed the Black Will Cup in place of Lilly's and opened it.

     Small wisps of smoke curled out of the small stone receptacle, creating an atmospheric effect.

     “Wotcha, pup,” Sirius Black's voice boomed out. “Normally I'd be the first one to open my big mouth, but I figure that by the time you get around to actually viewing this, you will more then likely be more interested in your parents then in little old me.

     “There is only one thing I have to tell you, about being a Black. Which by the way, you are one now, the last of the Black's.

     “God, at one time we were as numerous as the Weasleys. Now, you are the last of the line, not counting Tonks, but that doesn't count because she is not of the direct line,” Sirius’ voice sounded awfully huffy for a moment.

     “Aw well, all's well that ends well. Back to the real stuff, along with all the goodies in the Vaults and Properties, you also receive a...guardian ship.

     “None of us know what it is for, or why, but the fact is we have all, all the Black Males, have been entrusted with a single heirloom, that can never pass to another. The goblin in charge of the Black Vault will give you the particulars.

     “It's not complicated or very trying, but it is a guarded secret.

     “Well that's all I have, Pup. Watch after Moony would ya? I know that he will be alone, now that he's the only Marauder left. Know that I am very proud of you.

     “Always have, all ways will. Bye Pup, Prongslet, stay strong and live life!”

     It was strange, next to his parents' wills this was some what of a let down. No holographic face had risen up to meet him. But with the shortness of the message what would he be upset about

     . It had his godfather all over it, short, and sweet and to the point. It was comforting in its own way, and no amount of visual would have changed it.

     Instead of it leaving him feeling emotions that tore him down, it left him feeling refreshed energized as only his godfather could. The bitter taste that had followed him since his godfather's death slowly left the back of his throat.

     A weight that he never knew he carried lifted from his shoulders, and Harry unconsciously straitened up.

     Mr. Herkendoger took a small box from next to him. Sliding it across the table, it came to rest in front of Harry.

     "This is the item which Mr. Black referred to." Mr. Herkendoger said. "Only the Black Heir can retrieve it."

     Harry looked at the box, then back at the goblin, then once more to the box.

     "He didn't prank it did he?" Harry asked with a raised eyebrow.

     Herkendoger through back his head and laughed. "No, no. This is something that cannot ever be tampered with. Its quiet safe."

     Harry just nodded.

     His hands gently touched the wood panel inlay. The deep rich color turning deeper as it warmed with his body heat.

     Designs of animals were frozen in different acts, some frolicking, some hunting, others just being their natural selves.

     Dragons floated among wood caved clouds, birds played at their wing tips. Cats of all sizes and types pounced in the grass. Deer's and Stags grazed quietly in a meadow. Wolves crouched down on the rim of the meadow, watching the deer, their eyes showed more play then intent. Phoenix flew close to the carved sun.

     A small inset latch graced the front, the crest of Black faming it.

     Without hesitation, Harry opened the box.

     Inside, laid in crushed velvet, was a ring.

     "That is the Black family ring. With it, comes all responsibility and inherited powers of the family. By wearing it, you take on the mantle of Black." Herkendoger said. His eyes were intent.

     Harry just smiled. "I guess I'll be adding some extra names to my last. Oh well, the more the merrier!" Hi picked up the ring and slid it onto his left pinky.

     Immediately the ring resized, fitting his finger to perfection. Looking at it he new it would never come off, at least not till the next generation was there to take it from his hand.

     The more he looked at it, the more he was entrapped by it. Small trickles of magic made its way from the ring into his body, binding with his core. Information, generations of it, lodged in his subconscious.

     Harry closed his eyes as he assimilated it all. A small smile playing at his lips as bits of the memories caught his attention.

     After a few minutes the young boy opened his eyes.

     The change was subtle, hardly noticeable, but to a well-trained eye you could see it. The slight darkening of the iris, the small lines of silver that shot out from the pupil to the edges of the iris deepened the color to the deepest of the emerald. A slightly darker ring of silver outlined his eye color now, almost giving it the eerie glowing quality.

     "So the new house of Black begins." Herkendoger said, bowing slightly in his chair.

     "So it begins." Harry repeats slightly, his mouth twisting in wary amusement.

     "One more, I believe?" Harry asked, his gaze turning to Mr. Weed.

     "Albus wanted you to know he was sorry for the mistakes he had made, to forgive him if you could." Mr. Weed said positioning the last cup on the table.

     Albus's voice filled the chamber.

     “Harry, my boy, I'm sorry for all the danger we have put you through, the torment and the betrayal. Not many grown Wizards have your fortitude. Not many could make it through half of what you have faced in a single year. Yet you keep coming back, keep taking up the mantle and forging ahead to meet the challenge.

     “I have no issue and since my brother's last run in with a goat...well I have no problems about leaving you with all my worldly goods, everything. Down to the last lemon drop!

     “Now I know you worry about Ron and his family, don't worry; I have set something up already for them. Now, don't go moping around, there are thousands of things to do and very little time to do them dear boy, and I have every confidence you will find a way to enjoy every minute of it. Enjoy life, take a breather, and remember, in the darkest of nights, light still shines if you look hard enough for it! Now on to the next great adventure!”
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     Harry sat for a few minutes absorbing everything he had been told. It was a lot to take in, and it was almost making his head hurt.

     So much money now moved through his hands. By inheriting from his godfather and Albus, he now had more money then all of the pureblooded families together. About twice as much land and an indeterminate amount of business assets. Each one of them appeared to be extremely solvent and capable of providing a highly comfortable life style individually.

     'Apparently,' Harry thought, 'if I were to rely only on my business income and profits, even with the 90 reinvestment we have decided on, I would make my fortune over again with in the year!!' It boggled his mind. He was stinking, filthy, unabashedly rich!

     He wasn't even going to add his stocks and bonds into the mix; it would make his head explode. It was too much to think about, and quiet frankly he had just spent too much time doing just that.

     He shook his head, getting his thoughts to form a coherent train instead of repeating over and over again on the figures and facts of his estate.

     "Well I think that is everything." Harry said, his voice slightly ruff from the use he had put it through. He closed the file in front of him and pushed it towards Griphook. He set down the quill he had been using to sign and correct documents, and linking his fingers together he stretched, popping the joints in his back and hands, stretching his sore muscles and taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly.

     Taking a quick look at the clock he was startled to notice the time. Unlike most of the wizarding populace, the goblins were immensely practical creatures. Nothing was ever wasted or created just to be. So it came as no surprise to see a working, normal grandfather clock in the room. One that showed time rather then the normal wizarding ones that showed every thing but.

     At a quarter past six in the evening, Harry had been there for well over half the day, listening to the wills and taking care of the new business's that now fell under his name. For the most part he hadn't even noticed the time go by. But now...he could swear he could feel every minute of time in the chair bent over the table. Even his eyes let him know how much he had strained them.

     "We will make sure the other benefactors will receive the items you have listed to them, discreetly of course." Griphook said, as he and the others began to stack the papers and other legal documents into neat stacks and spelling them away into their proper storage places. The will cups had long been put back to their proper places.

     "You have your spending card key. I have been told it will act as a muggle debt or check card will, allowing you to draw the funds directly from you vaults, whether in the wizarding world or in the muggle. You will have to come back every couple of years to renew the keying wards on it though, that's the only draw back, but you will be notified before that happens. And don't worry about it getting lost. Unlike the muggle ones, this one is charmed to rest in a fold of wizard space until you call on it. It will appear for you to use when ever you need it and will resist all summoning charms and theft of any type."

     "Sounds really handy," Harry said, looking at the small peace of plastic. Non-descript, it looked like any generic banks check card. Inconspicuous indeed.

     A small smile played at his mouth and he looked up at Griphook. "Is that a wand less charm? Or spell that can just be spoken?"

     Griphook stopped for a moment and thought. "It’s actually an off shoot off goblin magic, some of the only spells we share with humans."

     Harry really smiled now. "Can you show me? I want to be able to store things like this card without having to worry about a trunk or holster for items."

     "Very practical," The goblin said, pleased. "The spell is simple, 'Plico abs Spatium.' If you say your name after that pocket of space will become yours, attuned to you and available for your storage needs. Whenever you put something else in that space, just make sure to label it in the spell. For example, say you were storing your wand; the incantation would be 'Harry's Plico Abs Spatium de Holy Wand,’ which would literally tell the spell to place your wand in your space. To retrieve it just repeat the spell saying 'amoveo ab Harry's spatium de Holly Wand' the same would go for any thing you place or retrieve, once you get the hang of the spell, its quiet easy to think the incantation in your mind to receive the same affect. The only draw back, nothing living. Plants...well that's a hit or miss thing, seeds do well as do some form of eggs, but not delicate plants or living creatures. There's nothing in there to sustain them."

     "Thanks. That helps a lot." Harry said, going over the spell a few times in his head. Drawing out his Holly Wand and placing it on the table in front of him, Harry concentrated on the spell. With a small pop, the wand disappeared. Harry's eyes widened and he let out a small exclamation, his widened eyes focusing on something just above the goblin's head, training on something with slightly unfocused eyes.


     "What?" Griphook asked, interested. The spell was different for each person, reacting in different ways. It was based on the organization of the mind of a person as to how the spell would react and what effects it would give to the wizard working it.

     "I...I can feel it, its almost like I've just created a large...I don't know...storage area in my brain and the wand just got placed there, in a neat spot, clearly labeled and everything!" His voice was amazed.

     "That's very good," Griphook said, slightly impressed, "that's an ideal reaction to the spell. You've effectively created a storage space in your mind for your items to be placed. It will stay neat and orderly, and you'll probably never have to worry about forgetting what you've placed in there. And I wouldn't worry about loosing any thing either, if I may say so, your mind my create a sort of...reference for you to use, kind of like a cheat sheet so you know what's stored where and what would suite best for what you need. Oh and I wouldn't worry about running out of space ether." Griphook grinned, showing off rows of his sharp teeth.

     "Ohhhhh good. That makes my life so much easer." Harry said, repeating the gesture to the goblins. "Well folks, I must be off, do you happen to have another portkey to take me home, one that will activate with a word? There are some things I need to do first." Harry asked.

     "Of course, the Knut that brought you here will return you to where ever it was you left with the same trigger words."

     "Thank you gentle goblins, it has been a most...profitable day." And Harry let himself out of the Room. Walking out of the bank, Harry strode purposefully, knowing he was going to have sooo much fun shopping for things. He wore an almost maniacal grin, his gaze surveying the whole of Diagon Ally, deciding on his first stop.
O--------------------------------------O

     Harry walked out of Flourish and Blots a little over an hour and a half later, taking with him almost all of the stock of the establishment.

     He had been to almost all of the stores in the Ally, from Olivander's to get a second wand, to Madam Malkin’s for new robes. The apothecary and Potent Potions and Poisons also received a visit from the shop happy Harry. The only place left on his list was to the magical menagerie, and he wanted to make sure that Hedwig came with him there. He didn't feel like fighting what ever animal he got if it and Hedwig took a strong dislike to each other.

     Almost as if he had summoned her with his thoughts, a soft hoot was all the warning he got before the snowy owl landed on his shoulder and nipped his ear.

     "Haya girl, any news from Ron?" Harry asked as he settled her more easily onto his shoulder.

     She hooted negatively, shaking her head.

     "Oh well, may be he go a little side tracked. I'll talk to him later, hopefully this will be done quickly and I can get on with my life. I'll go see the twins later, after I finish up this last run." Harry said walking down the cobbled street.

     Hedwig hooted in question.

     "The Menagerie, I want to pick up some more pets. I waited for you so you can approve of them to, after all, we all need to learn to get along."

     Another nibble of affection accompanied this statement and the two entered the front doors of the Magical Menagerie.

     "Welcome!" A bright voice said from the back of the store. "Were going to be closing in a few, so make a quick browse and see if you can find anything interesting."

     "Will do," Harry yelled back.

     He quickly scanned the small habitats scattered around the shop, walking down the isles, looking for the perfect addition to his little family.

     For almost two minutes he wandered before he saw something that drew his attention. It was a bird, well a chick really. Small and fluffy, it had what appeared to be the head of a pheasant and the tail of a peacock. The little sign on the exhibit said 'Feng-huang' and under that it described it as a Chinese firebird.

     The little creature looked up at Harry and cheeped.

     "What do you think Hedwig?" Harry asked looking at his familiar. She hooted in approval and bobbed her head.

     "Good." Harry reached into the tank and lifted the small chick into his hand. "And what about you, little chickadee? Want to come with me?" The bird cheeped and settled down into his hand closing its eyes and seemingly falling asleep. "Well that seems to be a yes." Harry said, moving on down the rows.

     Almost finished looking through most of the store and not finding anything else that attracted his attention, Harry moved to the counter to pay for the chick in his hand.

     He was almost there when he heard a pitiful meowing.

     Curious, Harry walked towards the sound and saw a small crate shoved almost into a dark corner, almost forgotten it seemed. It was labeled "Demon Cat, Beware"

     "Oh, I wouldn’t get to close to that one, its almost certainly been infected with something. It just won’t calm down." The hyper voice from before came from behind the counter.

     Harry didn't move from where he crouched, still looking into the dark interior of the crate. "What type of creature is it?" He asked, not even looking at the person.

     "Its species is called the CAIT SITH. It’s Scottish for fairy cat, though it’s anything but!" the voice belonged to a vivacious blond. "It’s got an attitude problem and wont let any body near it to see if they suit."

     Harry tore his gaze away from the front of the crate and gave the woman an incredulous look. "I don't blame it. If I remember my class work correctly, those cats are meant to stay wild, only seeking out humans if they wish to bond, not the other way around."

     "Yah well..." the blond had no excuse. She knew it, and Harry knew it. And so, Harry having the 'Hero' streak a mile wide said, "How much?"

     The woman looked at him, "Two thousand gallons."

     Harry just nodded and stood up, walking to the counter he held up the small bird in his hand, "And this one?"

     "Oh that? Only two hundred." The woman said flippantly. Harry handed over his charge card without another word. "I'll get the cat myself so feel free to go back to whatever it was you were doing." The lady looked at him, shrugged and moved back into the back once more, flicking a wand at the front door, locking it tight before she went.

     Going back to the crate, Harry crouched down. "Its ok, small one, I'll let you go. Just hold on." Harry began to open the box, removing boards and other items to get the creature out. Finally he reached in, half afraid he would be scratched. When nothing struck out at him, Harry reached for the warm body with his free hand. Pulling the apparently small animal out, he cradled it gently.

     "Why you're no bigger then a kitten!" Harry said, "Probably not much older too. You should be with your family." Harry was slightly angry. No creature deserved to be yanked away from its parents. It was a little peeve of his.

     "Oh well, I'll ask Hagrid if he has away of finding your parents." Harry said, finally looking into the eyes of the cat creature.

     It was like falling into a molten lake of ice. Shiny and cool, it reminded Harry of quicksilver or Mercury, only it was oddly tinged with green, and became more so the longer he looked.

     A feather light touch brushed his own thoughts and before he could do anything, a mind linked to his.

     It was small, gentle and for lack of a better description, warm and fuzzy. Harry realized with a small jolt of surprise, it was the cat...no correction it was Alaya. Smiling, Harry realized he was truly caught. "So you knew I would come for you huh?" He asked quietly.

     He received the feeling of smug self-satisfaction, after all, only the best CAIT SITH could Harry own, he was a prince among wizards after all, or he should be.

     "Ok then. Lets all go home." A small chirp from his other hand made Harry stop for a moment and look at the bird in his hand. Again the feeling of a small mind entered his, and this time Harry knew it was the bird bonding with him.

     A small smile slipped onto his face, "and a hello to you to, Ming" Harry said, knowing the name of the bird. A cheep was his only answer as Ming once again settled down for a nap. Alaya followed suite and was soon drowsing, purring loud and contentedly.

     Harry looked at Hedwig to see an almost smug look on the owl's face. "And I suppose you had nothing to do with this?" Harry asked.

     Hedwig gave him an emetic look as if to say 'and I would tell you why?'

     "Ok smarty feathers, how am I supposed to get to the Knut to go home?"

     The owl had no answers.
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     Harry walked out of the pet store holding his new pets. Being small in size, they were easy to carry in his hands, but that left him with the problem of getting to the Knut Portkey with out dropping them.

     Hedwig Hooted in amusement.

     "Shush, you." Harry growled playfully, shrugging the shoulder that Hedwig rested on lightly. Hedwig squawked in mock indignation.

     "Now thanks to our new friends, I have to find a new way to get home." Harry continued talking to his owl. "I just wish I had my apparition license." A suddenly wide grin spread over his mouth, an idea had just hit him up side the head.

     "Dobby," Harry called out softly, trusting to the small magical bond he knew he had formed with the Elf.

     A small 'pop' of displaced air hailed the arrival of the little creature. His long ears flopped as he looked up at the much taller wizard, barely holding back from attaching himself to Harry's leg in greeting.

     "Yes, Wizard Harry Potter Sir?" The little elf squeaked enthusiastically. "You called your Dobby?" Even though the little house elf had not been inducted to the Potter family, in Dobby's mind, it made no difference. With or without a bond of servants, he was Harry's loyal elf.

     Harry kneeled down in front of Dobby, bringing his eyes on a level with the elf's. Holding out his left hand, Harry showed him the Chinese Firebird. "I need you to take Ming here and make a nest for her in my room. Make sure she's settled. Ok?"

     Dobby practically glowed with delight. "Oh yes!! Sir!" Even though he was shaking with pure joy, Dobby's hands were steady as he gently picked up the small creature and held it with both hands. The small chick didn't even open its eyes at the shift of hands.

     Cuddling it close, Dobby looked down at it and smiled. "I's take real good care of her." Another 'pop' and the creature was gone.

     "Well, that takes care of..." A loud series of apparition pops sounded out around the Ally.

     Harry looked around him wildly trying to find the disturbance. Loud screams coming from down the ally in front of the bank drew his attention to the newly arrived Death Eaters.

     They were well over twenty strong. The dark robed adults wore their masks, the pail white shining sickly in the light of the torches some were caring.

     Harry ducked behind the side of a building before any could spot him. He ducked just in time to see a red spell, a stunner; fly close to the place he had been standing. The yells of more spells and the light from the spells filled the now panic stricken ally. Screams of pain washed over his ears, making them ring. Curses flew thick and hard, finding bodies to hit.

     A high-pitched feminine laugh rang out across the din. Maniacal and cold, it instantly whipped Harry's eyes to the owner. Just in time to see a green jet of light leave her wand and impact the back of a fleeing wizard. Harry watched as Bellatrix Lestrange flung back her head and again laughed in glee.

     For the second time in his life, Harry's view of the world down to one, single, solitary, thing.

     Bellatrix.

     Flashes of the D.O.M. played through Harry's head. He saw images of his godfather, his face frozen in a surprised expression as he fell behind the veil. The fight that had preceded it, every thing narrowed down to her, her laughter her expression of glee when her dirty shot sent the only one Harry had truly cared about to his resting place beyond the veil. Her eyes. Her magic.

     It was like something inside of him awoke. A creature that until that moment had been content to just lying dormant. Content to stay buried deep with in him. Hot molten power full of life moved through Harry's blood, quickening it. Lighting up specific DNA codes and suppressing others. The ring on Harry's hand, bequeathed to him just that morning, glowed in response. Finally! Over a millennia watching, waiting, biding its time for the next time the blood would call it. Waiting to fulfill its purpose and the time had come. Almost in glee, the ring gave up the key deep inside, adding the final needed code to complement the change sweeping through Harry.

     All around Harry a wind had been picking up. Small and gentle at first, it was no more then a breeze ruffling his hair softly. Then it got stronger. A LOT stronger. It wasn't long before the small breeze was a gale force wind, flatting every thing in the ally, knocking down signs and pinning people were they were.

     The cat that had been sleeping in his hand had long since given up its sleeping place. Jumping down to the ground next to Harry, Alaya watched as the wind picked up, her eyes glowing. Then about the same time that the ring gave up its key, her body begin to glow as well, her tail swishing softly not at all perturbed by her body's change in color.

     Once Alaya had begun to glow, Hedwig (being the extremely smart owl she was) flew for a safer perch, well safer and one with a better view. She glided, unharmed by the winds, to a high rooftop to enjoy the show.

     With the loss of Hedwig's soothing weight from his shoulders, what ever had been holding Harry back snapped.

     To any one who was watching, it seemed as the wind that had been howling around them, converged on one place, its force so much it created an immense amount of friction, creating lightning, and obscuring any details from the observers, what they could make out was a form of a body inside the newly formed vortex.

     Every single person in that alley, anyone with an ounce of magic at all, from London to Tokyo felt something rip through them. Their cores sang for a moment in time in recognition. The world around them realigning, shifting welcoming something that had been lost to it for a long, long time.

     Inside of the vortex, a lone boy stood, a small cat sitting at his side, a deep purr mixing in with the sound of cracking lightning and howling wind. His head was thrown back and a silent howl of primal rage escaped him. A howl that could not be heard with the ear, but deep, deep down in the marrow of one’s bone. Blood curdling it made quite a few lose control of their bodily functions. Both mages of the dark and light, shivered in terror.

     Harry's feet left the ground as the atmosphere lifted him off the ground, lighting playing over his skin, wind riffling through his hair, the light seemed to dim as the transformation cut through Harry's body.

     Harry's hair, while it had not been truly long before, now shortened considerably, going from its unruly shaggy mop to a short and wildly spiky style, the tips glinting in the dull light.

     He grew five inches, going from his previous five foot nine frame to what would now measure six foot two. His muscles filled out to complement his new stature. His stomach became ripped, strong and defined; he had the definition of a washboard stomach. His pecks bulged as they toned and added mass, defining his chest to perfection. His biceps bulged and his leg, calf and thigh muscles toned and firmed, becoming a body builders dream. Even his feet grew longer and bigger to match his new body, growing by three sizes, totally shredding his new dragon hide boots.

     As a mater of fact all of his clothes were now in shreds, being torn from the sudden change in his body, his pants and shirt pulling an almost exact parody of the Hulk. Only enough of his pants remained to cover his...well...unmentionables, and then only barley, leaving almost nothing to the imagination.

     The left over pieces of his shirt fluttered in the wind, being tugged to an fro. Suddenly it too was ripped from his body, this time by his own hand.

     His back arched. Muscle and skin tore and shifted, some muscle increasing in strength and bulk along his shoulder blades, others shifting their functions to act as grounders and ligaments. Blood vessels vanished and rearranged. Bones, white and new, forced their way out into the air. As fast as they shot out, bracketing each side of his spine, ligaments followed, binding them together. Cartilage formed between bone creating joints in some places as two long bones on each side were caped with one claw like bone between them. Muscle wound its way over the bone, holding nerves and other blood vessels, followed closely by skin.

     With one major joint in the middle of his newly formed wings, the span of them stretched out six feet on either side of him, almost touching the sides of the small space between buildings Harry had found himself in, creating a wingspan of over twelve feet.

     Stabilizing fingers of pure cartilage and ligaments shot down from each of the wing's center joints. Three on each side formed, lengthening to nearly five feet, ending in very sharp, hollow barbs.

     Membrane began to form between the fingers. At first it was a very fine mesh, thinner then the silk of a spider web and a thousand times stronger. Then it began to solidify. Becoming leathery and strong. Black as sin and thin as paper. The outside was tough and leathery, pure black with no color for contrast, it seemed to absorb light, letting none escape it. The inside of his wings, on the other hand, was a black iridescence. Shimmering with each tinny movement, one could almost see the pulse of blood and life in them. Soft and supple, almost like crushed velvet or the softest of sateen to the touch, they could retain heat or cool down his body.

     The wind died down, settling Harry gently on the cobbles of the ally, right back on the exact same spot he had been lifted off of just moments before. His cat stayed still watching, waiting for Harry's first move.

     The entire process had taken less then a full five seconds to complete, so naturally not many had been able to comprehend what had just happened, much less react to it very much. Almost everyone was still staring at the now quiet side ally where moments before there had been lightning and wind.

     Coming out from the shadows, Harry walked out into the now quiet ally way. His presence washing over everyone, seeming to hold them in place. Harry didn't even notice. All of his attention, his entire focus was on Bellatrix.

     For a moment, Bellatrix could not move. The eyes of the creature before her locked her in place, striping her of all cognizant though and action. Pure terror mixed with awe, creating a paralyzing affect.

     She felt his eyes pierce through her. They arrowed down to her very soul, judging, trying, and sentencing. She felt judged. And she felt she came up wanting. His eyes held no warmth. No compassion, no pity. Sympathy was as alien to this boy as ice was in hell. Harry's eyes, which had gained the slight silver accents during his meeting with the goblins, glowed. The silver having expanded the tiniest bit becoming more pronounced, making his eyes flow and move like quicksilver. The glow was subtle, almost unperceivable. And was all the more threatening for it.

     With one last long stride, Harry's hand closed around her neck, cutting her air supply almost in half.

>"I clam wergild." His voice was harsh and low.

>For the first time, Bellatrix gaze left his eyes and caught on the scar that still graced his forehead.

"Oh shit." She gasped out.

Harry just grinned. His gaze turned to the captivated audience of wizards. Death Eaters and others watched, unable to even act.

I clam my rite," Harry began, his mouth moving forming the words that were buried deep within him, knowing exactly what he needed to do. "I clam wergild by rite and might. To repair the wrong done me and mine, I enslave." Power crackled around his hand, circling the neck he held tightly, "Subigo ac Mancipoin, perpetuum ut meus cruor ac voluntas!!!" His voice boomed out on the last word.

A sock wave ripped from around him, sending ripples across solid stone buildings and making the ground shudder as an ancient spell was once more invoked. For the first time in a thousand years, a true slave was made. The color that formed around Bellatrix's neck bound her to Harry Potter, mind, body and soul. Nothing could break the spell once invoked. Not even death. For the spell to even work, the elements had to approve and agree that the one being enslaved owed such a debt before they would even allow the binding to be placed. So once placed, no one and nothing had the power, not even the elements themselves, could revoke it. Not even the one who cast it.

     So now, every thing that Bellatrix is, belonged to the godson of the man, she murdered.

     Deep down inside she shuddered.
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     Enslave and enthrall forever to my blood and will)