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Chapter Text

      “Get down here boy! There are some of…your kind down here!” Petunia yelled from the bottom of the stairs. Harry groaned wondering who in the wizarding would just show up. Harry got up and walked downstairs to find a goblin, not a wizard.

       “Heir Potter, it is nice to formally meet you. My name is Barnok. I am a goblin with Gringotts. We have discovered some interesting withdrawals as well as multiple vaults that fall under your name being tampered with. I would like you to come with me to the bank in Diagon Alley to see for yourself and do an inheritance test to determine which vaults belong to you by either birthright or other title,” the goblin said as harry entered the room.

       “D-did you just call me Heir Potter? What does that even mean? And withdrawals. How…how does that even make sense? Im just a thirteen-year-old kid,” Harry responded. The goblin just looked at him and held out his hand, as if to say take it. So, harry did. With a pop they were no longer in the living room of 4 Privet drive. They were now in the lobby of Gringotts bank and walking towards a back office. Another goblin was waiting for them there and this one Harry recognized. “Griphook, what am I doing here? And what about the underage magic trace?” The goblin, Griphook smiled his toothy grin.

       “Do not worry mister potter. The trace can only detect elf and wizard magic. You’ll be fine. Now, on to the accounts. The Potter account has been withdrawn on multiple times a year by your magical guardian. You also, by named rights, have access to the Black accounts. This is due to your grandfather’s cousin marrying Dorea Black and the last male of the name being imprisoned at Azkaban. Sirius has also named you the heir to the Black name. This means that, through birthright you have access to two vaults. We would like to do an inheritance test.” With this the goblin pulled out a blank piece of parchment. “All we need is three drops of blood and this will reveal all the family names that you are born into the heirship or lordship for. Now, you won’t be able to claim lordship until you are of age, unless you are the only possible heir. In that case the lordship can be held by a proxy or left alone until you walk into the wizengamot and claim the title on your 17th birthday.” Harry looked at the goblin and then the parchment. There was a needle next to it that he picked up.

       He pricked his finger and let three drops of blood hit the parchment which glowed a deep red. The two goblins shared a look and watched as the parchment faded and writing began to appear.

Hadrian (Harry) James Potter
Heir Potter
Heir Black
Heir Peverell
Heir Lukov
Heir Zograf
Heir Greengrass
Heir Ravenclaw
Heir Slytherin
Heir Prewitt
Heir Parkinson
Creature inheritance (Zmey)
Blocked Magics
Animagus (Blocked 100%)
Magic core (grey, Blocked 50%)
Occlumency (Blocked 100%)
Soul bond (Blocked 100%)
Intelligence blocking potion
Loyalty Potion (Albus Dumbledore)
Loyalty Potion (Weasley Family)
Reckless inducing potion
Anti-Slytherin potion
Magical Trace Charm

       Harry was dumbfounded by what appeared on the parchment. He didn’t even know what an heirship was, or why he had so many under names he didn’t even know.

       “What…? How do I have Pansy’s heirship?! Her family has multiple heirs! I only know this because I’ve heard about how her cousin has the title. And Prewitt? Isn’t that…” He trailed off as the two goblins bowed to him.

       “We are honored by your presence mister Potter. We have not seen an heir of one, let alone two of the founders in centuries. If you’d be willing, we would like to see how you have come into these titles.” Griphook stated as he stood. Harry just nodded and asked to be brought back to his relatives to prepare for the trip to the burrow. He would have to keep quiet about all of this, but he did request a copy of it to ask Hermione about the names later. If anyone knew who they belonged to it would be her. Griphook nodded to Barnok who grabbed Harry and disappeared with a pop.

       Once back in the walls of 4 Privet Drive Harry disappeared upstairs and started to pack his trunk. Two hours later He was walking into the fireplace with the Weasley family as they flooed to The Burrow.
 
       Harry had been at The Burrow for about two weeks and still hadn’t found time to ask Hermione about the names on his inheritance test, let alone what the potions meant. He also realized letting her see the full parchment might be a bad idea. She adored Dumbledore and he didn’t want him to know that he knew about what Dumbledore had been doing. Finally, the opportunity presented itself and Harry pulled her aside.

       “Hey, ’Mione. I was wondering if I could show you something. But you must promise not to tell anybody. And I mean anyone. Please. It’s important.” He looked at her until she nodded and held out her hand. He had recently learned how to hide the parts that implicated Dumbledore. Not the potions but his name. When she started reading her eyes grew wide.

       “Harry! This is amazing! You have a creature inheritance! And all these heirships…you must have some connection to all these families, otherwise you’d never be able to have the heirship. How…how did you get the test done?” She asked as she handed back the piece of parchment.

       “Well, a Gringotts goblin showed up at my aunt and uncles and told me they had been noticing some withdrawals from the Potter vault that were not…normal for a thirteen-year-old student over summer. So, he took me to Gringotts, and they did the inheritance test to see which other vaults would need to be investigated. That’s when they discovered all of this. They want me to go back before the start of term to purge all the potions and blocks on my magic. We still don’t know why they were put in place.” He said as she hugged him. He had also decided to talk to McGonagall about the process of becoming an Animagus, mostly out of curiosity and partially out of wanting to advance his magic. He wanted to have something else that would bring him closer to his dad.

       They walked back out to the rest of the family around the table and sat down by Ron. He just glanced at them and grimaced before returning to his plate of food. Ms. Weasley had decided that she wasn’t going to intervene this time and would let them manage it themselves. After all Dumbledore had tasked her with the protection of the boy so he could grow and know love from a mother and father figure. Once dinner was finished and the kitchen started to clean itself the younger group; Harry, Ron, Hermione, Fred, George, and Ginny went out back to fly for a little bit before bed.

       A few hours had passed before they decided to stop. As they floated down to the grass a light from the field attracted their attention. Harry, not free from the potions yet was the first to go looking for it. Ron and Hermione were right behind him, wands drawn. He knew better. Even at the burrow he had a trace on him but as far as he knew his two companions didn’t. When they reached the spot where the light was they found an animal. One that immediately looked at Harry and jumped towards him. He caught the animal, and it looped around his neck like a scarf.

       “What is it ‘Mione?” He asked as he pet the strange creature’s head. She just shook her head as they turned to see the rest of the group.
       

       “That my friend-“

       “Is a very rare-“

       “Creature-“

       “Known as-“

       “An Occamy” The twins stated in near unison. It snuggled up to Harry as if it had been waiting for him.

       And what isss your name little one? Harry asked the tiny creature, speaking in parseltongue. It looked at him and blinked before responding in kind.

       I don’t have one massster. It is your family’s tradition to name us after we get to know each other. I am what you would call a familiar. Harry looked at the small creature as it laid against his shoulders. They all began the walk inside when Ms. Weasley yelled at them that it was time for bed as they all had an early day tomorrow to make it to the world cup on time. They followed her inside and the Occamy poked its head out as they walked by the Weasley matron. She shrieked and called for Arthur as well as Bill. When they came downstairs wands at the ready, they weren’t expecting harry to be calming a fifteen-foot creature that wasn’t native to the area.

      “What in the…how did this get here?” Bill asked as he looked on with amazement at the Occamy shrinking back around Harry’s arm like a bracelet.

       I hid away in his trunk when he returned from his last trip to India. I've been hiding since and then you arrived. I felt the tug and knew we had to meet, hence the light showing you where I was in the field.

       “He says he hitched a ride on you. He hid away in your trunk on the return from your last trip to India. And then made his presence known to me once he felt the pull of our familiar bond. Apparently, having an Occamy familiar is a part of my family. I just wonder why I didn’t know about this until today.” Harry replied for the creature. As he and Ron walked up to their room, Harry noticed that his friend was not being his normal self, as if he were jealous of Harry.

Chapter Text

          Harry and Ron woke up the next Day before it was even light outside. Molly decided to make sure they were awake to make it o the portkey in time, as if she knew if they weren’t woken up, they’d never wake up in time.

            “Ugh, what bloody time is it?” Ron asked groggily. Harry just shrugged. He knew that after the cup Mrs. Weasley was going to take him into Diagon Alley for him to go through the purge. She didn’t know why he needed to go to Gringotts, just that he did. He was just hoping that he’d be able to hide the why and the who for a while. He also knew that he’s going to put more effort forward, regardless of what people thought about him and his grades in the past. As he got out of bed he looked around and made sure his wand was in his pocket and that his small backpack was packed. He grabbed it and walked down the stairs to the kitchen for a quick breakfast before they left.

            “Harry, dear, once you're back and were going shopping for your school supplies, I’ll make sure we set some time aside for Gringotts. You said you weren’t sure how long it was going to take, so better safe than sorry,” Molly said as he appeared. He nodded his thanks and sat down. He looked around to see plates of eggs, sausage, and bacon. He piled his plate with what he knew he’d be able to manage and dug in. Shortly after, Ron, Ginny, Hermione, and the twins appeared. They all dug in until Mr. Weasley appeared.

            “Come on kids. Better start walking now so that we can get there in time. We have a bit of a walk ahead of us.” He said mater of factly. The kids followed him with Ron grumbling about walking. As they walked, Harry reached up and made sure the new addition was still where he had settled when they woke up

             Good morning little one. Did you sleep well? Harry asked. The small creature just nodded and curled back up across his shoulders after a quick lick to his cheek. They continued their walk and came across a small hill after a few hours of walking.

            “Why did we have to walk so far? We could’ve easily apparated here!” Ron complained as they reached the top.

            “Because, due to the amount of people showing up and the wards in place we had to time this exactly right. We also have to wait for just a couple more people. Ah! Here they are!” Mr. Weasley said as two figures started to climb the hill, backlit by the rising sun.

            “Arthur my boy!” The smaller one called as they got closer. Harry recognized the taller of the two as Cedric Diggory, seeker for the Hufflepuff house team at Hogwarts. They nodded at each other and that’s when Cedric’s dad narrowed in on Harry, “Well, you must be Harry Potter! Cedric couldn’t stop talking about you all summer! I still can’t believe he beat you in that match! Guess being who you are isn’t an automatic win eh?” He said jovially.

            “Oh, I guess you want people to think that Cedric needs dementors to take out his competition in order to win? That’s good to know, im sure that’s exactly the kind of legacy he wants to show any possible recruiters.” Harry said with a slight sneer. He liked Cedric, but his dad was already a person Harry did not want to associate with.

            “Didn’t realize Hufflepuff’s were ok with using sabotage like the Slytherin’s were. I thought they were supposed to be about hard work?” Fred says and he stepped up beside Harry.

            “They’re right dad. I didn’t win that game fairly. I even asked madame hooch for a rematch. She refused because I had caught the snitch. Even Harry said no. Just drop it. Harry is a good player and if the dementors weren’t there I wouldn’t have been able to catch the snitch at all.” Cedric reprimanded his dad as if it had become second nature when it came to the topic of that match. He also looked at harry apologetically, as if this was the first time, he truly stood up to his dad on it.

            “Right. Well, the portkey is leaving soon. Everyone, hands on the boot. 3…2…Harry!” Harry reached out at the last second and got his finger on the boot right as it started. He felt a tugging behind his navel and started spinning. “Alright, everybody let go!” Arthur said. As soon as he did, Harry hit the ground, knocking the air out if his lungs. He sat up and saw Hermione and Ron on the ground near him. The rest of the group were walking down, as if on some invisible stairs. “Sorry about that. First travel can be rough when it comes to the landing.”

            The three of them stood up and looked around. They saw wizards in a very weird attempt at dressing like muggles. Once they were stable, they walked until they found the tents that were set up for them. The boys in one and the girls in the other.

            “Maybe we should help them? It doesn’t seem like they know much about how muggles camp…” Harry said to Hermione as they settled in until the game. She nodded and they walked off in order to find some water and wood for the fire. After a short walk they returned and were told they could explore until the game later that night. Harry, Hermione, Ron and naturally the Occamy decided to just wander around. They saw more of the wizard community show up dressed like muggles, well attempting too anyway. “It's like they tried combining the last 50 years of muggle clothing trends into one. This is insane,” Harry said as he started laughing.

            “You're right! I can’t believe they’re this behind on the times. Granted, wizards have their own trends when it comes to robes, so it makes sense that they don’t pay attention to muggle trends,” Hermione said as they encountered a witch wearing a corset, jeans, two different heels and a denim jacket. “It’s hideous!” The three of them hid their laughs as they continued back to their tents. That’s when Arthur told them the game was about to start and they should head up to the top box. They all made it up there and that’s when Arthur introduced them to the Bulgarian minister of magic, Dimitirus Oblansk.

            “This is Harry Potter. He’s a seeker just like your Viktor Krum. Particularly good if I do say so myself from what my son has been saying over the years.” Arthur said. The ministers’ eyes grew wide, and he started exclaiming in Bulgarian. That’s when The Malfoy family walked into the top box.

            “Well…what did the Weasley family have to sell in order to afford these seats?” Lucius asked with a sneer on his face and contempt in his voice. Draco just looked bored. Ron started sputtering and trying to produce some sort of remark, but Harry stepped in.

            “Nothing. Unlike you they have friends who were happy to invite them and me here. Maybe being nice instead of bribing and threatening a twelve-year-old girl would actually allow you to ask for favors that would be happily returned. Just a thought.” Harry then turned back to the pitch and turned on his omnioculars. That’s when Ludo Bagman decided the game was ready to start.

            “Sonorus.” He pointed his wand to his throat as he cast the spell. His voice then began to carry throughout the stadium. “Hello! Welcome to the 1994 Quidditch World Cup! This year we have Bulgaria versus Ireland! Without further ado, let's have the teams enter the pitch! First up, with their Veela mascots, BULGARIA!” As he finished a group of women entered the field, silvery hair billowing with fire peeking out here and there. Ron, and most of the other men in the top box seemed to be transfixed on their movements. Harry couldn’t understand why, they were just dancing after all. As they continued their dance the Bulgarian players entered the pitch. Bagman named them but the only player anybody cared for was the seeker, Viktor Krum.

            “Krum! Krum! Krum!” Harry heard both Ron and the twins chanting from beside him. Harry himself was transfixed. As if something was drawing him in. Something he definitely could not control. He was transfixed; and it seemed Krum was as well because the second they passed the top box, his eyes met Harry’s and it was like it was only them there in that moment. Harry shook it off as Bagman introduced the Irish team along with their mascots, the Leprechauns. As the game went on Harry kept finding himself following Krum with his omnioculars. The moves that appeared and were performed made Harry’s head spin. He couldn’t wait to try some of them out, especially the Wronski Feint.

            The game went on for a few hours. The score was currently 220-350 in favor of Ireland. Neither seeker had found the snitch yet. If Krum were to catch the snitch now Bulgaria would win by 20 points. But if the Irish team scored three more times they would win, regardless of the 150 points earned for catching the snitch. That’s when Harry noticed something gold just outside the top box. He followed it and instinctively reached out. Luckily, Hermione saw him, grabbed his arm, and stopped him from disrupting the game. Too late, Krum had seen the movement as well as the gold glint. Luckily, nobody else saw what Harry had done and so when Krum caught the snitch Bulgaria won by 20 points and nobody questioned how he saw it from across the pitch; he was a seeker after all.

            After their comeback win, both teams were asked to come to the top box to be recognized for their skills. The Irish team went first as the losers. The skills of their chasers nearly won them the game and their seeker were right behind Krum, Krum was just faster. After them came the Bulgarians, high off their win. As they walked through and shook the hands of every high ranking official their and collected their cup, Harry felt the crushing pressure. He had to get out of there. Thankfully, both teams left, and Arthur took them back to their tents.

            “Did you see him?! He is a quidditch god!” Ron said as they walked back in.

            “Does our little ronnikins have a crush on the quidditch star?” George asked as he jumped up and down on a bed. The twins laughed as Ron blushed and started to sputter out a response that sounded remarkably close to “fuck off.” Harry laughed and for a short while they were happy. Finally, they went to their separate beds and dozed off into what they thought would be a peaceful sleep. Harry woke to the sounds of screams echoing throughout the campgrounds.

            He jumped up and grabbed his wand. He looked around and saw that the others had also woken up. He decided he couldn’t wait and ran outside. What he saw shook him to his core. There were people floating in the air being twisted into some of the most unnatural positions the human body could reach. Below them were another group of people wearing masks and laughing. Harry realized this was not going to be good. Not even ten seconds later, Arthur appeared at his side.

            “Death eaters. You-Know-Who’s supporters. Ron! You take the girls and run! Harry, go with them! Make sure you don’t get separated!” With that he dashed off in hopes of finding…somebody. Harry wasn’t sure but he knew he had to do something. He rushed off before Ron or Hermione could stop him and started trying to disarm the dark wizards in front of him. During all of this he saw another group of death eaters stalking towards where he knew the teams’ tents were. Before thinking of the absolute stupidity of his decision he ran off towards them. When he arrived the scene in front of him was out of a horror film.

            The Bulgarian team was fighting multiple death eaters. One especially was fighting three different wizards at once. Harry ran up and started casting protego around as many if the team members as he could. He was able to block enough spells that the team gained the upper hand. He finally reached the three on one duel.

            Would you like to help? He asked his familiar.

            Gladly. Let me ssstartle thesssseeee foolssss! The Occamy around his neck flew up and grew to his full size. The death eaters weren’t expecting to see a 15-foot winged serpent appear and the sudden appearance of Harry’s familiar allowed him to disarm one and shield from the other two. Without even thinking he threw the first curse that came to mind.

            “Bombarda!” The curse hit the death eater in the chest and before Harry or his dueling partner could comprehend what was happening the death eater was no more. Harry had just killed someone. Sure, He hadn’t used the killing curse but that didn’t change the outcome.

            “Nice spell! Maybe after ve survive this, you vill teach me?” He heard from next to him. HE looked over and saw none other than Viktor Krum. HE had a gash above his left eye but otherwise looked ok. Harry nodded and continued the duel. He hit another one of the death eaters with the body binding curse while Krum hit the other with a stupefy. Harry was out of breath and surveyed the surrounding area. There were a few casualties, one being the death eater he hit with Bombarda, and the others were civilians and a couple of the reserve members of the Bulgarian team.

            Are you ok? He heard from behind him. Harry turned to see his familiar sitting there with one of the death eater's masks. The Occamy had apparently picked it up and thought it would be funny to have it on his head.

            I’m fine. Take the mask off your head and get over here. Thank you, for everything in this duel. You helped me save multiple lives little one.

            Gladly. The mask isn’t even complementary to my scales or wings. The Occamy shrunk and flew to land around Harry’s neck once more. Harry shook his head at his familiar's vanity and turned towards the Bulgarian seeker.

            “I'm sorry for your friends, Viktor. Hopefully, someone-" Harry stopped as he heard an indistinguishable spell and looked up to see a bright green skull with a snake coming out of its mouth in the sky. “What is that?” He asked looking around.

            “That is the mark of You-know-vho and his followers.” Viktor answered, as he finished his statement he fell to the ground. Harry immediately went to his side and healed the cut above his head. That’s when he heard someone calling for him. He remembered something Professor lupin taught him about his Patronus. It could carry messages for him, so that’s what he did.

            “Expecto Patronum,” as he said the spell, an eastern imperial eagle sprouted from the tip of his wand instead of the usual stag. “I'll think about that later. Take a message to Hermione and Ron for me. Tell them that I’m at the Bulgarian teams' tents and I have a few wounded as well as a few stunned death eaters that need to be arrested. Lead them here if they need help.” As he finished his message the patronus flew away and ten minutes later Arthur, Ron and Hermione showed up.

            “What happened here?” Arthur asked. Harry then told him about how he saw the death eaters and knew he couldn’t just stand by and let them kill whoever they wanted so he followed them and kept the players as safe as he could. He also didn’t skip the part where he killed one. It was hard to when they saw the blood splattered on him from the spell hitting the death eater. “I’m only glad you're safe. Let’s get everybody to the healing tent and the aurors should be headed this way to collect the death eaters. Hopefully one of them is Pettigrew,” with that Arthur helped harry lift Krum and carry him to the tent. If he had only known what was going to happen once the Bulgarian seeker woke up.

Chapter Text

Arthur and Harry finished carrying Krum to the medical tent and laid him down. Harry didn’t want to leave, after all he saved the man and wanted to make sure that he was ok when he woke up. Arthur patted his shoulder and had a Medi-witch come check him over before starting on Viktor.

                “Is everything alright sir? It looks like a small spell hit his head. He should be fine once he wakes up. It wasn’t a dark spell so there should be no lasting effects. If you need anything just call alright?” She said as she walked away. Harry didn’t even acknowledge what she said as she sat there. He wasn’t sure if he’d be able to sleep for a while either, so he got up and started to wander, at least for a few minutes, to see the damage done. As he walked around he saw family’s crying and others looking on in pity. He walked for a while until he thought Krum would be waking up, so he made his way back to the medical tent. When he arrived, Krum was still knocked out, so he sat down and waited. He wasn’t sure how long he had waited but eventually Krum woke up.

                “Vhere am I?” Krum asked when he finally woke up and looked around. His eyes landed on Harry and widened in shock. “I thought that you saving me vas a dream…but it vasn’t vas it?” Harry shook his head and apologized again. “No. It vasnt your fault that the death eaters were here. They chose to do this. This has nothing to do with you,” with that he stood up and started walking out of the tent.

                “I don’t think so Mr. Krum. You still need to be checked out again before you leave. And Mr. Potter here needs to go check in with the Weasley family. They’ve been asking about him for a while.” The Medi-witch stated as she strode into the room. Harry shrugged and walked out.

                “I’ll uh.. I’ll see you later.” Harry said. Before he could walk away though, Krum grabbed his hand and gave him a piece of paper.

                “Here, my address. Vill you vrite to me?” Krum asked with an almost pleading look in his eyes. Harry nodded and walked away, slipping the paper in his pocket. It didn’t take long for him to find the Weasleys and Hermione. Hermione was the first to notice him and ran at him full speed. He had just enough time to brace himself for the impact before he had to steady them as she wrapped him in a hug.

                “What did the Medi-witch say?” She asked. He just shook his head at her antics and told them what she had said. They walked back to the tents and took a portkey back to the burrow. They all decided that they had had enough for one day and went to bed. The next morning Harry woke up early and decided to write to Viktor. He was hoping that he was home already but only time would tell.

                Dear Viktor,

I hope everything is feeling better after the whole debacle at the cup. Congratulations again on the win by the way. Me and my friends made it home safe. That move you pulled off, the Wronski feint, do you think you could explain it to me? I want to see if I can add it to the moves I use at Hogwarts. Hope this letter finds you well.

Best regards,

Harry

                He knew it was short, but he wasn’t sure on what to say. They just met in the middle of a life-or-death situation. He walked over to Hedwig who had woken up when she heard the scratch of a quill on parchment. She made a soft hoot and held her leg out so Harry could tie the letter to her. Once it was tied he gave her one of her mice and she went on her way. He sighed and went back to his bed, only to hear the clattering of Mrs. Weasley in the kitchen. He decided breakfast was in order before they got their letters for school and went off to Diagon Alley for the years shopping. As he walked into the kitchen there was already a plate prepared for him. He sat down and smiled at the care that Mrs. Weasley has always shown him.

                Don’t eat that masster. The twinsss spiked it with one of their new potionssss. Harry heard next to his ear. He rolled his eyes and thanked his familiar. He also noticed a slight laugh in his tone. Just then the twins walked back in and saw that harry hadn’t touched the food.

                “Why aren’t you eating Harrykins?” George asked as he sat down.

                “Because my friend could smell the prank that you had placed in it,” he laughed as the twins face fell.

                Thankssss. I sssstill have to decide on a name for you. Maybe Bill can help me with one. Ill asssk him about his travelssss. The Occamy nodded his head and licked Harry’s cheek as he went back to looking around the burrows kitchen hoping to scare Mrs. Weasley again. Harry felt the mischievous mood his familiar was in. Just then, Bill came in and looked at Harry.

                “Hey Harry. Mind if we talk for a minute? I wanted to ask what you’ve noticed about the Occamy, and maybe shed some light on some myths they might have been the source of.” Harry nodded and stood up and followed bill to the living room. AS they sat down the Occamy, who was also curious, slid off of Harry and grew to five feet. Bill looked shocked at the growth since there wasn’t a space for him to fill. “Occamy’s usually don’t grow or shrink unless it’s to fill a space for one. SO that’s definitely interesting. Anything else you’ve noticed?”

                “Well, he can speak parseltongue and likes to sit around my neck or my wrist. And he told me that in history, members of my family who had a familiar chose their familiars name as they got to know each other. Other than that, there’s nothing strange that I would know anyway.” Harry responded as he stroked the familiars head. “I’ve noticed that in the books Occamy’s are depicted as blue and purple but…” Harry trailed off as he pointed to the end of his tail and the tips of the wings where the Occamy’s colors were fading into gold. Bill just nodded.

                “That actually leads me into the myths. One of the prevalent myths in Egypt is that of the god Ra and his eternal enemy, Apophis. Apophis was basically chaos incarnate and was a red and blue serpent that was depicted in multiple different forms, the most prevalent being a snake or winged serpent as he fought Ra.” As Bill was speaking something clicked for harry.

                Apophisss. I think it fits you with how mischievousssss you are. How do you like that assss your name?

                Itssss perfect. With that Apophis shrunk back down and wrapped around Harry’s wrist like a bracelet. Bill looked at him with wonder in his eyes. Harry thanked him for the help and the name idea before going back upstairs to wake Ron up. When he got to the room they shared Ron was snoring and didn’t want to move, even with the threat of a giant winged serpent laying on him. Finally, Harry threatened the one thing he knew would get Ron awake and moving.

                “Ron, Viktor Krum is in the kitchen. Better hurry up before he leaves,” He said and barely had time to move before Ron was rushing down the stairs. Harry followed, laughing the entire time waiting for him to realize the trick.

                Your friend isss sssstupid masster. He fell for that wat too eassssily. Apophis stated as they landed on the last step and saw Ron looking around like a man crazed.

                “That was bloody mean Harry!” Ron complained when  he saw his best friend appear. The twins were cackling and walked over to harry to congratulate him on a prank well done. He thanked them and sat down   at the table. Apophis slithered off his wrist and settled in front of him looking directly at the window as multiple owls flew in. When they dropped the letters in their talons one nearly hit him, causing him to suddenly grow. Not by much but enough to make the table groan under the new weight. Harry reached forward and stroked Apophis’ head so he would calm down. He shrunk back down and grabbed Harry’s letter for him and brought it to him. Harry opened it and scanned the contents. HE sighed as he realized there wasn’t anything new on there besides fourth levels and something called dress robes.

                “Alright, once the girls are awake and we’re all ready we’ll get everybody’s school shopping done. I just wonder why they need dress robes for you this year…” Mrs. Weasley trailed off as she continued her cooking. Harry needed to now buy dress robes and get his robes adjusted so that Apophis could hide on his wrist easier. About twenty minutes later the girls walked in and sat down. At this point the boys were ready and just waiting for the others. Mrs. Weasley rushed the girls, much to their chagrin, and got everybody ready for the floo travel. As they lined up and started the travel, Harry went with Mr. Weasley while Hermione went with Mrs. Weasley. When they arrived in Diagon Alley Harry made a beeline for Madam Malkin’s robe shop in order to have his robes adjusted for Apophis. Once that was settled Harry walked into Gringotts with Mrs. Weasley.

                “Well, go handle what you need to handle Harry dear. I’ll be waiting in the lobby.” Harry nodded as Griphook met him at the desk. Harry followed him to his office where another goblin was waiting. This goblin silently led Harry into an open chamber with a multiple runes in a circle.

                “This is our purge room. We just need you to lay on the bed in the center of the room so we can get a full diagnostic of everything wrong and then cleanse you of everything. It wont take long depending on what we find.” Griphook says as he leads Harry to the bed. Harry laid on the bed and closed his eyes hoping to sleep through the process. As it began he felt a warmth spread through him, which he assumed was the diagnostic magic to see what was actually wrong with him. After that all he felt was pressure, surrounding his body. As the pressure built his scar felt like it was on fire. He started screaming until he passed out.

                Harry wasn’t sure how long he was out, but when he woke up was no longer in the circular room but in an office on a couch. He looked around and realized he no longer needed his glasses so he took them off before he gave himself a headache. Apparently, the ritual did more than purge him of all of his blocks and potions but also healed him. He also realized that he was starving. It was at this moment that he noticed a plate filled with food and a note.

                Heir Potter,

If youre reading this, it means you’ve woken up and I wasn’t there. For that I apologize. Ive left the food with a heating charm as well as some instructions regarding the potion next to it. The damage done to you was extensive and we realized we needed to heal you on top of purging you. You’ve only been out for a couple of hours and the Weasley family is waiting in the lobby for you. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to come in or write to us.

May your gold always flow,

Griphook

                Harry finished the note and turned towards the potion, listed as a nutrient potion to help him be healthy after the years of starvation. HE drank it and scarfed down the food before going into the lobby to meet the Weasleys. AS he walked in he realized that they were laden with bags and Apophis was sitting around Bill’s neck. Upon seeing him he flew over and cuddled up to harry.

                You sssmell different massster. But itsssss better. You don’t sssssmell assss tainted asss you did. Apophis said as he nuzzled Harry’s cheek. Harry chuckled as he scratched his little familiar and took his bags from the Weasley family. They returned to the floo point and after shrinking their items they floo’d back to the burrow. Harry went upstairs and tried on his robes to make sure the sleeve was long enough to hide Apophis should he want it. After this he decided to look in the other bags to see if Mrs. Weasley picked out his dress robes but he didn’t find any. Looks like he was going to have to either mail order or pick them up in Hogsmeade. He went back downstairs for dinner and decided to enjoy the next two weeks until he went home to Hogwarts. But first, as he walked in the room he saw a familiar white shape flying towards the window. Hedwig had returned and tied to her leg was a response.

                Harry,

I am glad to hear that you are safe. My family and I made it back safe as well. Thankfully, the cut above my eye has healed with no scar. Thank you again for saving my life. As for the Wronski feint, it is a move that is all about your confidence in your abilities. You dive as if you’ve seen the snitch and at the last possible second you pull up. It usually ends up with the other seeker hitting the ground thinking that they’ve won and not realizing there is no snitch there to catch. I hope to hear from you more as the year goes on. Maybe next summer we can spend time together.

Best,

Viktor

P.S. Please give your owl an extra treat for me. She is an amazing bird.

                Harry smiled as he scratched Hedwig’s head, who looked proud of herself for two long trips in such a close proximity to each other. He did as Viktor asked and gave her an extra treat and sat down to write his response. He wasn’t going to send it right away to give Hedwig some rest. After all, she went to another country. As he finished his letter he laid down, hoping the next two weeks could hurry up.

Chapter Text

                Harry’s wish had come true, partially in thanks to the letters between him and Viktor. He kept re-reading the second letter that he had received.

                Harry

According to my headmaster, Durmstrang is going to be attending Hogwarts for some kind of event. I look forward to seeing you again and growing closer as friends. I hope I won’t be kept apart from the school; it tends to be Kakaroff’s go to when it comes to me. I hate the fame that comes along with being who I am. Im sure you understand. When we see each other again I hope to actually talk. I already enjoy our letters and hope to expand on them in person. I know I said it in my last letter but thank you again. Without you I am not sure if I would have survived. Please, give my best to your friends. I look forward to seeing you again.

Yours,

Viktor

                Harry grinned as he re-read it for the hundredth time. He wasn’t sure what it was about the Bulgarian, but he had been drawn to him from the moment he laid eyes on him. As the Weasley family was herded out of the burrow and into the ministry vehicles that had been provided for the second year in a row, Harry couldn’t help but look forward to the school year ahead. With the potions gone the only people he genuinely wanted to be around at the moment were the twins and Hermione. He couldn’t explain it away if they started to ask questions the easiest thing to do was to get resorted. If that was even allowed. He wasn’t sure where he would want to end up, after all the hat did say he would do good in Slytherin, but everyone knew that Slytherin turned out the most dark wizards. Maybe he could convince Hogwarts itself and the hat. Being the heir to two of the founders might have some kind of unseen benefits. He wasn’t entirely sure what it meant yet.

                “Harry. You ok mate?” Ron asked as he looked at his best friend. He had to make sure, otherwise Dumbledore would be furious at him. He couldn’t have that. Harry just nodded and looked out the window. Ron hadn’t even noticed until now but harry wasn’t wearing his glasses and decided to bring it up. “What happened to your glasses? Why’d you stop wearing them?” He asked. Harry shrugged nonchalantly and kept staring out the window. Only Hermione could guess. After all, Ron didn’t know about the purge and as long as he could Harry would make sure it stayed that way, but with his possible resorting in the near future he knew it wouldn’t be long before someone found out what was going on in some way, shape or form. Ron decided to drop it. Harry might still be dealing with what they saw and that could keep Harry in the dumps for a while. He knew how bad it could be, even if he didn’t like that his best friend got all the attention.

                Thankfully, Harry didn’t have to put up with Ron for exceedingly long. The car ride to King’s Cross station was a short one. As soon as he was able, Harry said goodbye and boarded the scarlet Hogwarts Express. He found an empty compartment and wandlessly set up wards to prevent anyone except those he invited in. He knew it was dangerous, but he wanted to stay away from Ron as much as possible. Knowing that his best friend might not even be his friend if he didn’t have the potion for as long as he did. Maybe he should have tried being friends with Malfoy, just to see what would have happened. If only he could go back in time. As people started filling the train Ron and Hermione found him. When they tried to enter the compartment, they encountered the wards and realized that something definitely wrong with harry. Hermione shook her head at Ron who looked like he was about to yell at Harry for something that might be accidental in nature.

                “We can’t just leave him to sulk around Hermione! He could be struggling with shit, and we can help him! We’re his best friends after all!” Ron whispered urgently as they continued walking down to find Neville in a compartment by himself. “Hey Neville, mind if we join you?” Ron asked as he opened the door. Neville just shook his head and waved them in. When they sat down, they noticed that Dean and Seamus were in the compartment as well. “Hey guys, how were your summers?” Ron looked at the two ready to hear about their holidays before regaling them with his story of the world cup. They both shook their heads and went back to the game of exploding snap they had been playing. Ron sulked until he saw his sister coming down towards them.

                “Hey guys! Why aren’t you sitting with Harry? He was alone a little bit up from here…” She trailed off with a mischievous glint in her eyes. This could be her chance to get him alone and mold him like clay. She sauntered off before even getting her answer. As she made her way to Harrys compartment she noticed that he was still alone and staring out the window. When she tried to open the door, she realized the same thing that Ron and Hermione had. IT was locked and nobody would be able to except for the person inside. She sulked off and returned to the compartment with the rest of her friends. “I couldn’t unlock the door…wonder what he’s going through.”

----------0

                Harry finally looked up when he heard a knock. When he looked to the door he saw a girl with blond hair and silver eyes. He waved his hand and the door unlocked allowing her entry to the compartment. She didn’t say anything at first as she sat down, reading a magazine called the Quibbler. Harry looked at the cover and saw that it said something about a conspiracy theory regarding the world cup. He looked at the girl wide eyed and opened his mouth to say something about it, but before he could she looked up and smiled at him.

                “Hello Hadrian Potter. You were at the Quidditch world cup correct? Do you think my daddy could interview you for the Quibbler? He would love another eyewitness. After all, even though he was there, people don’t really believe him due to who he is..” She trailed off as she went back to reading the magazine.

                “Yea…I was there. When they started attacking I saw them heading deeper into the camps, so I followed and helped save some people. And you know what? Owl your dad, let him know I will give the interview. And how did you know my first name wasn’t Harry?” He said in one breath. He looked at her incredulously as she smiled.

                “The nargles brought it to me on the wind. Them and the wrackspurts all seem to like you. They don’t like many of the people you spend time with though. They’re very peculiar creatures. They only like those they deem trustworthy.” She looked off in an almost dream like state. “The blibbering humdingers seem to flock around the ones full of greed and envy. Hermione is liked by the nargles and wrackspurts as well…” She went back to reading her magazine once again and Harry realized then and there that he didn’t want to go by Harry anymore. If someone he’d never met knew his real name he might as well go by it.

                Harry looked up as he heard the trolley witch coming down the aisle. He stood up and opened the door and got his usual mountain of treats to split between himself and the girl that had joined him. As he went to close the door he saw Hermione, sans Ron and just quirked an eyebrow as she stopped in front of him.

                “Harry…can we talk?” She asked him with an almost pleading look in her eyes. He nodded as he stepped into the compartment and sat down and handed some of the sweets to the girl. Hermione looked at her with a quizzical glance before sitting across from Hadrian. “Are you ok? I know what happened over the summer was a big shock and I just want to make sure you’re going to be ok…” she trailed off as Hadrian looked at her with a slight smirk.

                “I’ll be ok. The purge helped me realize a lot of things. I think im going to see if I can get resorted. I don’t want to be stuck somewhere that won’t let me grow to my full potential. The hat did say I’d do well in Slytherin, but I think Ravenclaw would be a good fit for me as well. And I think you should too. Ron has never been the best friend to either one of us. You would do so good in Ravenclaw with people who are like minded when it comes to knowledge and learning everything they can from a book. What do you think?” He asked as he finally relented as the girl gave him a knowing look. He still didn’t know her name and he was going to ask as soon as him and Hermione were done with their conversation. Hopefully, Hermione would stay in the compartment with him. Hermione smiled at him and nodded. She couldn’t help but agree with that statement.

                “Let me go grab my trunk. I’ll be right back!” She runs off towards the compartment she had been sharing with the boys. When she got there she saw that Ron was still stuffing his face with the treats he had bought. She sighed and grabbed her trunk before stalking off again. When she got back to Hadrian’s compartment she realized it was warded again. This time though, they split allowing her entry and she saw Hadrian visibly tense. “Why did you tense up just now?” She asked as she sat down.

                “I was taught a couple of detections spells by the goblins when I went to have everything purged. I set it up as part of the wards just to be safe and they went off when you walked through. Somebody has placed a compulsion ion you. When we get to the school we need to see Madam Pomfrey right away to see just who and what is on you.” He said as she settled in. It was Hermione’s turn to tense. She stared at Harry as if he was an entirely different person. “What? You saw the results. My magic had been dampened and controlled and now im able to do a lot more. Want to see?” he asked with a hopeful gleam in his eyes. Hermione nodded, just wanting to see what her best friend was capable of now.

                Harry decided wordless should be shown first. It was easiest to show that skill so as to not overwhelm her. He realized the door was still open and unlocked. Easiest thing to do was use the locking spell. He raised his wand and thought the spell needed, Colloportus, and flicked the door closed. Securing it so that the wards were back in full effect. Hermione just looked at him wide eyed and slack jawed, she didn’t know anybody in their age group that could perform wordless magic, not even most adult wizards could do that.

                “That was bloody brilliant Harry! You started being able to cast wordless magic after the purge?” She asked with glee. Harry knew then he was right to recommend her resorting as well.

                “Not just wordless. Here, get under my cloak with me and show me where Ron is. I’ll show you another one of my new talents.” With that said, him and Hermione both stood up and nodded to the girl before donning the cloak and walking towards Ron’s compartment. Thankfully, the door was still open when they arrived so they wouldn’t give themselves away. After all, Ron knew about the cloak. “Watch this,’ Hadrian whispered. “Confundus.” Without pulling out his wand he had confounded Ron into not searching for him later. Hermione stared slack jawed at the obvious display of wandless magic. She had finally realized just what the block on Hadrian’s core meant. Whoever put it there had been blocking his abilities when it came to spells.

                “That’s amazing Harry!” Hermione whispered in his ear. She couldn’t believe it. After all, even their headmaster couldn’t do both. “What else can you do?” She asked in a rush. He shook his head, an indication to say he’d tell her when they got back to their compartment. As they slid back into the compartment the girl informed them that someone with red hair had come by looking for Hadrian.

                “What were they asking about me for?” Hadrian asked. She shrugged.

                “Just where you were. Seemed like she wanted to see if you were alone so she could try something I think. The blibbering humdingers surrounded her. I told her I didn’t know where you went but she should try looking further ahead. She left in a huff.” The girl said with a slight smirk. Hermione looked at her as if she were crazy. But then turned back to harry.

                “So, what else can you do harry?”

                “Please, call me Hadrian, or Ri. I want my real name to be used. I’m…also thinking of taking one of the names from my heirships. I’m just not sure which one or if I will actually do it. But…can I see one of your books Hermione?” He asked as he held out a hand. HE knew shed be reluctant to hand one over, especially if she knew what he was planning to do. She handed him one of her old class books, defense first grade. He then proceeded to rip pages out and tear it apart in front of her.

                “HADRIAN!” She yelled indignantly. He just looked at her as he waved his hand and the book repaired itself, looking good as new almost. He smiled when she once again was at a loss for words. “you…you can perform wandless and wordless magic as if it’s nothing? You definitely belong in Ravenclaw with that under your belt. Do you think you could teach me?” She asked as she out the book back into her bag. He shrugged and pulled out a book of his own that he had been wanting to read for a while.

------0

                After a couple of hours, they heard a voice announcing that they’d be pulling up to Hogwarts in about ten minutes. Hadrian and the girls all put on their school robes and both he and Hermione looked down at the red with apprehension. Hadrian due to his want out and Hermione because she was scared that she had been manipulated before she even knew what magic was. Hadrian also used this opportunity to let the glamour he’d been using fall. His once black hair, short and like a birds nest became long and auburn brown. His eyes grew even more green if that was possible. But he knew they hadn’t, he didn’t have control over his metamorphagus ability yet. Hermione looked barely recognized him now. They disembarked from the train and went to the carriages. As they clambered in Neville joined them as the fourth and final person for their group.

                “Hey Hermione. Who are you?” He asked Hadrian with a quizzical glance. He looked at Hermione who just smirked, something shed never done in the past.

                “Hadrian, show him what you used to look like. Before we shock the entire school. I still don’t know how you did it though…” She trailed off as Hadrian reverted back to his old looks.

                “WHOA! Harry?!” Neville asked as Hadrian once again morphed. Neville was shocked to say the least. As he looked on Hadrian tied his hair back using a small ribbon, blue in color, produced by the blond girl with them. AS they neared the castle Hadrian grew anxious. HE wasn’t sure how tonight was going to go, but he knew he had some form of pull being the heir of Ravenclaw.

                “Neville, please call me Hadrian from now on. Nobody knows I have this ability. Also…you don’t belong in Gryffindor. Come with Hermione and me and get resorted. I know its possible. But we have to wait until the end of the first years sorting.” Just then the carriage pulled up next to the castle. “Hermione and I have to go to the hospital wing, but first we need to speak with Professor McGonagall and see if shell accompany us. She’s still our head of house so we need her permission.” With that he all but ran inside followed by Hermione and Neville.

                “Ill see you two at the table!” The girl yelled after them. They waved as they finally made it to the antechamber where Professor McGonagall was. She quirked an eyebrow at them as they slid to a stop in front of her.

                “Can I help you three?” She asked with an almost imperceptible glare. She did not like to keep anybody waiting or to be interrupted.

                “Yes, professor. Me, Hermione, and Neville would like to be resorted tonight. I know you don’t recognize me but its me, Harry, I go by Hadrian now. Ill show you later the proof. But we need to go to the hospital wing first. Hermione has some kind of compulsion or loyalty charm or potion in her system we need flushed. St. Mungo’s or Gringotts can do it they did it for me. Please?” Hadrian pleaded. She nodded and with that they started the walk to the hospital wing for a diagnosis on Hermione.

Chapter Text

                As they approached the hospital wing Hermione suddenly grew nervous herself. She didn’t know what to think or to expect and she did not like the feeling. Madam Pomfrey must have been waiting for them because she directed Hermione to a bed right away and cast the most thorough diagnostic spell she could. As the results appeared out of her wand she shuddered, almost imperceptibly. She handed the paper to Professor McGonagall who went white with fury and disgust. Of all the things she expected to see, a five-year-old compulsion and loyalty charm was not one of them.

                “Can you get rid of it Poppy?” She asked the Medi-witch. Madam Pomfrey shook her head sadly.

                “I only know of two places that could get rid of this. And neither one can be done here. She would have to go to either St. Mungo’s or Gringotts. But with school in session…” She trailed off as Hermione sat there with a look of abject horror on her face.

                “If I may, Madam Pomfrey, the goblins did it for me. We can invite them here and they can bring the necessary equipment. They…need a special room but I’m sure there’s a room here they could use somewhere. And…” he hands her a copy of his results that show who put his spells on him, “these are my results. I have an idea about who put the charm on her. Same person who out them on me. I don’t want him knowing that I know or that they’re gone, not until im ready. That’s all I ask.”

                “And who are you? I don’t believe we’ve met young man,” She stared at Hadrian with unadulterated curiousness. Hadrian reverted his looks to those that everyone knew once again, letting it sink in before going back to his natural looks. “Ah, I see. Understood Mr. Potter. If you wouldn’t mind sending a letter to the goblins?” She asked as she turned back to the parchment in her hand. She still couldn’t believe the words.

                “Dobby?” Hadrian called. As soon as the name left his lips the house elf appeared.

                “What can Dobby do for Master Harry?” He asked with wide eyes.

                “Two things. One, I go by Hadrian now, I’d prefer it if you called me that. Two, I need you to go to Gringotts and bring the goblins who perform purging rituals here and show them somewhere they could perform a purging ritual, please.” He stated. Dobby just nodded and disappeared with a pop. After all, his Master Hadrian never asked for much and always treated him with kindness. “This way they’ll be on their way and should be here before the feast is over at any rate. I understand if you need to go Professor. We should be ok. We’ll be back down in time to be resorted tonight if that was ok?” Hadrian asked Professor McGonagall.

                “That is fine Mr. Potter. I will make sure its kept quiet until I call your names later.” As she finished, a small pop was heard as Dobby returned with the goblins in tow. “Hopefully, this won’t take too long.” With that she disappeared out of the wing and Madam Pomfrey put up wards to keep everyone out, even the headmaster.

                “Griphook, thank you for coming and helping my friend. I think Dobby has a room he can take us to. He knows this castle inside and out.” He turns to Hermione, “Let’s get this over with. It shouldn’t take too long with you. You only have the one charm placed on you.” With that Hadrian followed Dobby out as he led them up to the seventh-floor corridor.

                “Master Hadrian, walk in front of the tapestry three times thinking of what you need. I call it the come and go room. It will give you anything you need at any time.” Dobby said matter of factly

                “Lie down on the stretcher Ms. Granger.” As he spoke he looked around the room and saw it was an exact replica of the ritual room at Gringotts. He followed Hermione as she laid on the stretcher and explained the ritual to her. “It should only take a few minutes, and after I would like you to come to Gringotts at your first opportunity to perform a line test.” With that he stepped back and let the healers perform the ritual. Once it was finished Hermione got up and looked at the time.

                “Crap! Hadrian! We have to get Neville and get to the Great Hall. The sorting is about to start!” She grabbed his hand and rushed out. Hadrian threw the traditional goodbye over his shoulder as he was dragged out of the room. The goblins stared after them and shook their heads.

                “Hermione! Relax. We still have to grab-“ He looked up as Neville rounded the corner. “Neville. Headed down as well?” He asked.

                “Yep! The sorting should be starting, and I don’t want to miss it!” With that they ran into the Great Hall barely avoiding interrupting Professor McGonagall as she started. As she unrolled the parchment, the entire hall grew quiet; they knew not to make noise while the sorting started. Harry zoned out for the first few names, but one made him pop his head up.

                “Aideen Finnegan!” A girl who looked like a younger twin of Seamus walked up to the stool the hat was on and placed it on her head. It only took a few seconds before the hat yelled out

                “HUFFLEPUFF!” The girl took the sorting hat off and jumped off the stool, walking to her new house and sticking her tongue out at her older brother.

                “You never said you had a sister!” Neville whispered to Seamus who shrugged.

                “It was never brought up.” With that they turned their heads back to the front of the hall as another last name that sounded familiar was called out.

                “Ashleigh Finch-Fletchley!” she walked up to the hat and plopped it on her head. Immediately the hat called out her new house.

                “GRYFFINDOR!” She walked over…albeit it a little shocked. She had wanted to be with her brother. Hadrian listened as more names were called out and his eyes narrowed, only slightly, when another familiar name was called.

                “Alder Nott!” Professor McGonagall called out. They were only about halfway through the first years and Hadrian’s nerves were all but fried in anticipation. He watched as another student walked up. He had some of the same features as his older brother, but he didn’t look as smug. As soon as he put the hat on his head it yelled out the house the first year belonged too and considering that the hat wasn’t even fully situated meant it was meant to be.

                “SLYTHERIN!” The younger Nott jumped off the stool and walked over to his brother who patted him on the back as he finally sat down at his rightful place in Hogwarts. Hadrian zoned out again as the rest of the names were called out. He only tuned back in when McGonagall cleared her throat when Dumbledor stood up. He looked at her curiously as she unrolled a smaller piece of parchment.

                “We have three students wishing to be re-sorted tonight, as their current head of house and as deputy headmistress I have approved this re-sorting. First up we have Hermione Granger. Please step up to the hat Ms. Granger.” McGonagall stated. Hermione stood up and with her head held high walked straight up to the sorting hat. When she put it on her head the sorting hat immediately knew what to do, after all he did tell her that Gryffindor would stifle her and her mind.

                “Re-sorted eh. Its exceedingly rare that I am able to do this these days thanks to nobody wanting to go against what either I or we decide together. I know exactly where to put you. Better be… Ravenclaw!” As Hermione stepped down she was grinning as her school robes and tie changed to the blue and bronze of Ravenclaw. As she sat down the rest of the houses looked on stunned. She was the first of three, and they were in for even bigger shocks as the next person was called up.

                “Neville Longbottom!” As she called his name Neville walked up, shy as always, and sat down. The hat didn’t even talk to Neville, it didn’t have a chance to fully reach his head before yelling out the house that Neville knew he belonged in.

                “HUFFLEPUFF!” Neville smiled as he walked away and sat down with the house that people always say was nothing special. Neville was going to make them eat their words one day. After he sat down with his new house and silence settled once again Professor McGonagall called out the last name to be resorted.

                “Hadrian Potter!” As she called his name voices began clamoring at the prospect of the new name. But they realized who it was when the last name registered. Harry potter was going to be re-sorted. Why? And what is causing it? As Hadrian walked up from the end of the great hall he saw a flash of blue and gold out of the corner of his eye.

                Would you like me to appear in front of your friends again masster? Or maybe settle around you as you get sorted? Apophis asked as he made a reappearance after hunting. Hadrian only realized he had been missing once he got out of the room of requirement, he had become so used to the weight that it was hard to notice when it was missing now.

                Not yet…I want it to be as dramatic as possible. And im ssurre you want to caussseee sssome chaossss when you do make it known. Hadrian said with a smile as Apophis settled around his neck. He finally made it up to the hat and without looking, he knew everyone had heard his whispered conversation if they were close enough. They all assumed he’d be going into Slytherin due to his Parseltongue ability. They were in for a surprise when the hat finally called out his new place in Hogwarts.

                “Harry Potter. I never expected Dumbledore’s chosen to be re-sorted, especially not willingly. I had sensed something the first time I sorted you. I meant it when I said you’d do well in Slytherin but now it seems like a new house would suit all of you. Your thirst for knowledge, the way youre going about your revenge and the loyalty you’ve shown to your true friends. There is only one house for you now I believe…” The hat trailed off as Hadrian started shaking slightly. “Better be.. RAVENCLAW!” Harry sighed in relief, but not before it turned into one of exasperation as he felt the weight grow before leaving his neck. He turned around as he saw Apophis growing before everyone and spreading his wings blocking the teachers from view.

                Couldn’t wait could you buddy? Harry asked Apophis who just hissed in laughter and took a lap around the hall before shrinking and landing around Hadrian’s neck once again. After that display he walked to the Ravenclaw table and sat next to Hermione across from the girl that he had been with on the train.

                “Im sorry, I never got your name…” He said sheepishly at the blond girl.

                “My names Luna. It’s nice to officially meet you. By the way…the blibbering humdingers are surrounding the headmaster a lot more after that display. Be careful Hadrian Potter. Also…it seems like the bird is the way to go when youre free. Ravens do love shiny new things.” She said airily with a far off look in her eyes. It was at this moment that he decided she was going to be a major part of his life from here on out. Dumbledore stood up and all but glared at Hadrian as he started speaking.

                “This year is going to be one for the books if tonight is anything to go by. For now, enjoy the feast!” with that he clapped his hands and the food appeared. Hadrian, Hermione, and Luna all dug in and started talking as if they had been friends their entire time at Hogwarts. The other Ravenclaws all welcomed them in and couldn’t wait to show them their new common room. And due to the circumstances it was very possible they would be the lucky ones who had a room to themselves due to being resorts.

                “I wonder what Viktor was talking about. Hermione, have you heard anything happening this year that would have Viktor coming here?” He asked as the main dish disappeared and dessert began to appear. She shook her head and looked around. She caught the eye of Dumbledore who was staring right at Hadrian. She nudged him and shook her head in the direction of the staff table. Hadrian looked up and smiled ruefully at Dumbledore who quickly looked away.

---------0

                How did this happen? Dumbledore thought as he saw Harry and Hermione talking to the Lovegood girl. How did the hero of the wizarding world get out from under his control. He’d have to talk to him as soon as possible. But that might cause some issues with Filius. He was a stalwart defender of his Ravens. Especially when it came to one-on-one meetings with him. Minerva was too busy, thankfully, to fully care. Why she approved of the re-sort was a mystery; after all, Albus knew that she was one of his biggest defenders. Hopefully, he’d be able to do some damage control and get Harry back into Gryffindor. He could care less about the Granger girl; she had served her purpose. And what was with Harry’s looks. He had made sure the glamour was fool proof.

                There was no denying that it was Harry. Those green eyes were unmistakable, regardless of the fact that his hair was different, and his glasses were missing. How had he changed his looks and the need for glasses. He knew what the Dursleys had been doing to the boy, but it was necessary so that Harry looked upon to him for saving him from the abuse, even if it was only for a short while. But right now, his main focus was announcing the tournament. Yes, he pushed for it to see if anything would happen to Harry, however, he also hoped nothing would. The boy did deserve a break. But if something happened, he could make sure as the revered leader of the light that he was believed when he told the world that Voldemort was back.

                “Welcome back to Hogwarts!” He yelled over the noise as the dessert disappeared. “I am excited to announce that this year we will be having guests grace our halls. The students from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang will be joining us in the last week of October. The reason for this is that Hogwarts is the host of the newly revived Triwizard Tournament!” He allowed the students to gasp in shock and awe before he raised his hands asking them for silence. “More details will come the night our guests arrive. Please, have a good night and get some rest for classes will be starting tomorrow!” He saw Harry looking at him and smirked. He knew Harry wouldn’t intentionally join the tournament. Especially once it was revealed that only those of age would be able to participate.

-----0

                Hadrian looked up at Dumbledore and had a feeling that a meeting was in his future. After all, he was that assholes so called “Golden Boy.”

                Apophisss…want to be dramatic again? He asked his newest partner who had slithered to the table in front of him.

                What do you have in mind? He asked back with a gleeful tone to the hissing. Hadrian whispered in his familiars ear who then started letting off a hissing laugh. Apophis started flying up in a spiral until he reached his full size and glided towards Hadrian who stroked his wing as Apophis flew by. When he looked back at the table he saw a new face, scarred and with an eye that was looking around by itself in an almost erratic way. He turned toward the Gryffindors who had noticed the new face as well and heard a voice he was starting to despise.

                “That’s Mad-eye Moody! He’s the best Auror of his generation. Most of the dark witches and wizards that are in Azkaban are in there because of him!” Hadrian rolled his eyes. He needed to learn the difference between light and dark, because as far as he knew through some independent research, dark light and grey cores were all normal and could change depending on what your magic favored as you grew both magically and physically. He does know for a fact that dark does not mean evil. After all his grey core was growing darker already, all because of his anger towards the light. He couldn’t wait for tomorrow when he’d get his timetable. He would talk to Professor Flitwick about the electives he’d already decided on during the summer and hopefully they had been changed in time.

                Hadrian glanced up again as Apophis soared towards the staff table. Most of the professors were in shock and awe at such a gorgeous creature being in their school, namely Hagrid whose eyes were as large as saucers and Flitwick because this creature would make its home in Ravenclaw tower with Harry, who he’d talk to first chance he got about the name he had heard earlier. Unlike some other professors he respected his students as if they were adults. Some of them were immature for sure, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t deserve respect. As Apophis flew by Dumbledore he spread his wings just enough to knock Dumbledore’s glasses slightly askew. He glared, playfully he hoped, at both the creature and Harry before fixing his glasses and clapping, to let everyone know he hadn’t been joking about going to the common rooms. He watched as the creature flew back to Harry and shrunk and landed safely around his neck.

                Good job Apophisss…hopefully he leavesss usss alone for a while. Hadrian said as he and Hermione followed the other Ravenclaws up to the tower to get used to the new accommodations. As they entered the tower the Ravenclaw prefect, Marcus Turner, showed Hadrian to his dorm room.

                “Since youre a re-sort, you get your own room. Don’t abuse it. Same rules as Gryffindor, we aren’t allowed into the girls dorms unless we can prove to have a legitimate reason or proof that we aren’t there for any frivolous activities. They are allowed into our dorms, however.” He shrugged. “Not much we can do about that one. Everything you need should be here. If you have any questions you can find me on the sixth-floor dormitory.” With that he walked off and left Hadrian to explore his new room. He immediately went to the desk and started writing to Viktor.

                Viktor,

I hope all is well. We just found out that Hogwarts is hosting the Triwizard tournament this year. I cant wait to see you Halloween night when you arrive at Hogwarts. Its been too long since we’ve been able to see each other. I also went ahead with the resort. Im in Ravenclaw now and couldn’t be happier to be away from the red of Gryffindor. How has training been going alongside school? I miss you.

                Love

                Yours,

Harry

P.S. Ignore the scratched-out word. It’s what I use with most of my friends but I wasn’t sure how you’d react. Can’t wait to see you!

                With that he put the letter off to the side. He’d mail it in the morning before breakfast. After he finished setting everything up he climbed into bed and let sleep take him as Apophis curled up in a ball next to him on the pillow.

Chapter Text

Hadrian and Hermione walked down to the great hall after they both showered and got ready. They were quickly welcomed the night before, especially by Luna, who had told them about how Ravenclaw house worked. She explained that they were truly a family; due to her mannerisms and dream like personality ,the blond had been seen as the “black sheep” since her first year. Both newly sorted Claws decided to put an end to it as soon as they could.

                “I just hope my return letter with the electives I chose instead of divination came through in time.” Hadrian said to Hermione as they sit down at the Ravenclaw table. “I mean…” He put up a silencing charm around them, “Now that I’m free of the compulsions, I want to see just how easy all of this stuff is for me. And I’ve been interested in runes since you started taking it.” He trailed off and lowered the charm as Professor Flitwick came down the table to hand out their timetables. Hadrian looked down and groaned. Of course, divination was still on there. This had to be interference on Dumblefuck’s part, and he wasn’t going to take it sitting down quietly.

                “Problem, Mr. Potter?” Professor Flitwick asked before he continued his walk down the table.

                “Yes sir, I had sent a letter to let the headmaster and my head of house at the time know that I would be dropping divination and instead be taking Ancient Runes. I was wondering if it is too late to still have that changed or if I would have to deal with Professor Trelawney predicting my death again this year.” He looked at the small man with a very obvious scowl written on his face. Professor Flitwick looked at the boy and assumed that it must be a misunderstanding or lost letter.

                “Am I to assume you sent this letter with enough time for the owl to arrive? As well as having assumed that it would be switched, you also bought the necessary books and materials for the class, correct?”

                “Yes, sir.” With this Hadrian pulled out the book for Ancient Runes as well as the previous year’s book which he had already begun reading. Flitwick looked at Harry in a new light. Before this, the boy was average in everything except for Defense Against the Dark Arts but he’s already showing that there’s more to him than meets the eye. He nodded and took Hadrian’s timetable.

                “I’ll have this fixed before the first Ancient Runes class tomorrow. Good luck with the first day, Mr. Potter.” With that, Flitwick continued down the table to hand out the rest of the student’s timetables.

                “I’m sure he can get it figured out Hadrian. Come on…looks like we have potions first thing.” With that him and Hermione made their way to the dungeons with the rest of the fourth years and the Hufflepuffs. As they waited for the resident dungeon bat to make an appearance, Hermione and Hadrian decide to continue their conversation from before breakfast.

                “Do you think Dumblefuck had something to do with my schedule not being changed? He’s the only one who could veto the head of houses decision. Oh! We need to write to Gringotts so you can get in for your heritage test. I’m curious what families, if any, you’re tied to. And see what inheritances you get from them. Like my metamorphagus abilities and creature inheritance.”

                “Ok, but Dumblefuck-“ She stopped as she stared behind Hadrian, and he just knew Snape had just shown up.

                “As much as I appreciate the gall you both have at the name you just called our lovely headmaster,” he said with a sneer, “50 points from Gryffindor for your disrespect.” He walked inside the classroom and both Hermione and Hadrian looked down as their classmates laugh at what their potions master just did. They just shrugged and walked in. Maybe Snape won’t be so bad now that he’d seen Hadrian renounce Gryffindor and Dumbledore. As Hermione and Harry sat down and looked to the blackboard where Snape had the ingredients and directions for their next potion written, they saw Snape look at them with respect and a curious glint in his eyes.

                “Today you will be brewing the wolf’s companion. It cannot be taken by itself and is named such for its purpose. This is a potion of my own creation. It is mainly used by werewolves. You have an hour. All the required ingredients are in the cupboard except for one which will not be handed out until you reach the stage that calls for it. Before you begin, can anyone tell me why I named it such?” Hadrian and Hermione are the only two students to raise their hands. He was curious to see what they have to say. “Potter,” He called on the eager looking boy.

“It’s named such due to the fact it has to be taken with the wolfsbane potion.” Harry looked smug as he answered.

“Correct. Why else would I name it such?”

“I’d assume because the potion ingredient we can’t handle is Yellow aconite, also known as healing wolfsbane.”

“Correct. 10 points to Ravenclaw. Have you always been this knowledgeable?”

“Yes.” Harry says with a slight smirk on his face.

“Yes, sir,” Snape responded.

Hadrian cheekily replied, “There’s no need to call me sir, professor.”

“Detention, Mr. Potter. Tonight, after dinner. You may begin brewing.” With that, Snape sat at his desk and the students sprang into action. Hermione went to gather the ingredients, the main ones being silver ragwort, water hyacinth, snake fangs and beetle wings.

                She returned with the ingredients, and they got to work. They needed to first crush the snake fangs and hyacinth together into a paste and add it to the water as it boiled. Once that’s done, they had to stir counterclockwise eight times before adding the beetle wings, letting it sit for 10 minutes before stirring clockwise 6 times. At this point they added minced silver ragwort leaves and turned the heat down to a simmer before adding the yellow aconite. Once they reach this step Snape walked over and looked into their cauldron.

                “Where has this talent been, Potter? This is perfect. Another 10 points to Ravenclaw, each. Put on your dragonhide gloves and go grab one stem of yellow aconite. Make sure to separate the hood from the stem before you add it to the potion.” With that he walked off and checked the other students’ potions. When he reached Neville’s station he audibly gasps. “Mr. Longbottom, yours is ready for the aconite as well. 10 points to Hufflepuff.” Hadrian and Neville stood up and collected the yellow herb together.

                “Well, whaddya know? Without Slytherin’s breathing down our necks and sabotaging us we actually do good in class.” Hadrian looked at his friend who smiled shyly.

                “It’s nice being able to prove that I’m not an idiot in potions. Hopefully, I can convince Professor Snape to give me extra lessons so I can maybe prove to my grandmother that I am worthy of a new wand and some tutors over the summer.” They went their separate ways and added the final ingredient to their potions. Once the aconite had been added, the once dark grey potion turned into a bright silver with wisps of gold vapor coming off of it. According to the instructions written on the board, both Hermione and Hadrian’s potion, and Neville and Susan’s potion, turned out perfectly fine.

                “30 points each to Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff. Longbottom, stay after.” With that Professor Snape turned around and continued walking the classroom pointing out the flaws of the other potions in the room. Thankfully, Ron wasn’t going to be with them in any of their classes unless by some miracle the schedule had changed, and some classes were split up and switched due to his new house. Hadrian wouldn’t put it passed the manipulative old man. As the bell rang and class ended Hadrian hung out around the door waiting for Neville. They had Herbology next and, while Professor Sprout loved Neville, even she wouldn’t excuse one of her badgers for being late; especially if said badger just became a badger.

                Are you worried massster? Hadrian heard hissed from his robe sleeve. He chuckled and shook his head at the creatures antics.

                No. That being ssssaid, Professsssor Ssssssnape hassss alwayssss had it out for two people. Me and Neville. I jusssst want to make sssure that Neville isss ok. As he finished speaking to Apophis Neville walked out of the classroom with a slight smile on his lips.

                “He said yes. He realized that maybe, just maybe, I wasn’t a total loss when it came to potions. He said yes to giving me extra potions lessons with one of his best fourth years. Would you want to join?” Neville asked as they started the walk to the greenhouses. Hadrian shook his head. He could get all the help he wanted later. He just wanted to get this detention over with. And, on top of that, he couldn’t wait until he got to defense. Sadly, he had double Herbology followed by Transfiguration for today. Defense was tomorrow. “Oh yeah, I’ve been meaning to ask. What’s with the new look? Suddenly you grew out your hair to shoulder length and changed the color to auburn, and your eyes…it’s like they glow all the time.” Neville asked as they made their way out of the entrance halls onto the sprawling grounds of Hogwarts Castle.

                “Well…I went to Gringotts over the summer due to some unforeseen circumstances. I learned a lot, including that someone I thought I could trust was manipulating me and blocking my magic. When the goblins purged the blocks it also cleansed me of a very heavy glamour that wasn’t found on the test. When that fell away I had the hair and eyes. I still wear my glasses even though I no longer need them. I still don’t know why my eyesight improved but it did. I honestly have no idea why I look like this. But it also unlocked an inherent ability that I’m learning to control very quickly.” With that said, he tapped into his metamorphagus ability and took on his Harry Potter Looks. Neville looked on in stunned silence as they reached the greenhouses and Hadrian let his true looks come through once again.

                “Hello boys. Come in come in. Why are you both late?” Professor Sprout asked as she saw them walk in.

                “Professor Snape wanted to speak with Neville after our potions class and I stayed behind so he didn’t have to walk to the greenhouses alone, Professor. Plus, it allowed us to catch up in a way we usually don’t get to during the year and over the summer.” Hadrian said as they took their place along the tables. Professor Sprout nodded as she went over the class work for the day, They would work on getting the new pots ready for the bouncing bulbs that they would be repotting after lunch. As Hadrian and Neville got to work they continued their talk from when they were walking to the green houses.

                “So…let me get this straight, your magic abilities and apparently some family magics were blocked by someone you trusted? Who was it?” Neville asked.

                “I’m not quite ready to have that out in the open yet. Don’t take it personally either. There is only one person I trust with the information right now and until I can figure out who will and won’t tell this person I will not be revealing it to anyone except the few people who know. You were there when I showed Professor McGonagall and Madame Pomfrey. Their reactions were not what I was expecting at all.” With that the conversation was dropped as Neville realized that Hadrian truly was a different person.

                As they were finishing the third pot the bell signaling lunch rang. Neville, Hermione, and Hadrian walked into the great hall and decided to sit with each other. This naturally ended up causing an uproar, but since it wasn’t a formal meal no one could actually say anything about it to them. Hermione and Neville had taken it upon themselves to keep Hadrian out of the view of Ron, because if they knew anything it was that Ron would try to say something to Hadrian and he did not need the jealousy or anger that would surely be directed his way.

                “Harry! Harry!” Almost as if their actions had caused a chain reaction they heard Ron walking over and all three turned to look at him. “Mate, why don’t you come back to Gryffindor? I’m sure Professor Dumbledore would overturn the re-sort if you only asked him. We all miss you,” He said, ignoring the other two former lions next to Hadrian.

                “Two things. Actually, three. I like where I am now. My name is Hadrian, please call me by my name and finally, what about Neville and Hermione? They were a part of the house as well. Seems like the only one you care about in this little trio is me and I am so far from alright with that. Leave, Ronald, before I hex you into next week for disrupting what could have and should have been a peaceful lunch hour.” With that said, Hadrian turned around and continued his conversation with Luna. HE didn’t notice Ron turning a shade of red that matched his hair, nor did he notice Draco looking on in smug satisfaction at the fact that he was right about who harry should have been friends with from the beginning.

-------D

                Dumbledore looked at Harry with disdain in his eyes. How dare that brat turn on the respectable light family that he had appointed as Harry’s friends from the beginning. He had to think of something quick before Harry was truly lost. The brat had to have learned something. As he continued to watch the trio disrespect the school rules on where to sit an idea started to form. HE stood up and strode from the great hall towards his office. It was time to shake things up. He made it to his office and gave the password to the gargoyle guardian and started to look at the timetables when he reached his desk. If he switched the Slytherin’s and Ravenclaw’s for defense so that it was the Gryffindor’s and Ravenclaw’s he could still make sure that Ron was there to watch and be friends with harry. And if he switched the Hufflepuff’s and Slytherin’s for charms he could still fuel the animosity between the Malfoy boy and his golden boy. It was perfect. HE adjusted the timetables accordingly and the second the students and teachers saw this they would think he was just helping forge new friendships. His true reasoning would never be found out, at least he hoped.

====D

                Hadrian glanced up at the head table and realized that Dumblefuck wasn’t there anymore. He turned to Hermione and nodded. They stood up and made their way to the owlery. As they got there Harry called Hedwig down and handed her the letter he had written for Viktor while Hermione called a barn owl down and attached her letter for Gringotts. What Hadrian didn’t know was that Hermione had made sure to request that Hadrian was there as well. She wanted a friend and, he should have realized this, she was going to make him take an actual line test as well. They began their descent but were blocked by someone they had hoped to not have to deal with now that they weren’t in the lion’s den.

                “Potter. Never thought I’d see the day you left the blood traitor. Even if you did take the mudblood with you.” The words had barely left his mouth when a wand was pointed at his face.

                “You may be a pureblood and you may even be a part of my family. But that’s where it ends. You will not disrespect my friends again, Malfoy. If you do I promise to make your life a living hell. Do I make myself clear?” Hadrian said with a steel to his voice that was only reserved for those he was truly angry with. Hermione grabbed his hand and pulled him through the Malfoy heir and his two goonies. As they passed Hermione whispered to the platinum haired boy.

                “Did your nose heal properly? Or is it still broken?” With those final words they returned to the greenhouses just before the bell rang.

                Once their classes were said and done, and Hadrian had eaten his fill of dinner, he made his way to the dungeons for his detention with Professor Snape. He was dreading it but, he knew it needed to be done otherwise his life at school would truly be hell. As he reached the door to the potions classroom it swung open of its own accord, and he walked in. He looked towards the desk and saw his potions master sitting there writing down instructions for some kind of potion or salve.

                “Mr. Potter. Take a seat. Tonight, you will be making a burn salve. Madame Pomfrey has asked for a batch and as much as I am capable I wanted to test your…intelligence as well as your skills. I believe that today was a fluke due to you being paired with the Granger girl. Here are the instructions. You may begin.” With that Professor Snape walked to his own workstation and continued the preparations. Hadrian read the parchment given to him and got to work. As he worked he noticed Professor Snape would check on the salve periodically without saying anything.

                “Sir, I’m done.” Hadrian said as he sat back and wiped his brow. He knew it was a burn salve, but the heat was unexpected. As he started to clean up, Professor Snape checked the consistency as well as the color of the salve.

                “Mr. Potter, would you be willing to test this salve?” He asked with an almost proud look in his eyes. Hadrian nodded and cast a small incendio on a piece of parchment before grabbing it and burning his hand. Professor Snape immediately grabbed the salve that Hadrian had made and put it on the burn. “Wait twenty minutes before you wipe it off. If you have made it correctly then the burn will be gone, and you won’t even see a small scar.” Hadrian looked at his orange covered hand and hoped that he was finally able to prove himself. As the minutes clicked by, he decided to work on his transfiguration essay that had been assigned and was due in two days’ time. He was only able to write about a quarter of it before Professor Snape was at his side again.

                “Well, let’s see how well you did.” With those few words his hand was grabbed, and Professor Snape wiped off the salve. His hand wasn’t even red where he had burned it. “It seems that you truly are a competent brewer Mr. Potter.” Professor Snape turned and left, his cloak snapping like it had been electrified behind him as he strode into his personal quarters. Hadrian no longer knew what to think of the dour man that had been tormenting him for the last three years. He packed up his supplies and began the long trek back to Ravenclaw tower. Just another couple weeks before he’d get to see Viktor again and the Triwizard tournament would begin.

                The next morning saw Hermione get a reply from Gringotts. The large barn owl that the bank used swooped in and landed in front of them and Hermione took the letter before it hooted and flew off to the owlery for a rest before heading back to its home.

                “Let’s see what they said…”Hermione whispered to herself as she opened the letter. “They want us there this Saturday. But students aren’t allowed to leave during the year except for Hogsmeade weekends. This just isn’t going to work!” She sighed and looked utterly defeated. Hadrian took the letter from her hands and walked up to the head table to speak with their head of house.

                “Professor? I was wondering if Hermione and I could have special permission to go to Gringotts this Saturday? They’ve requested us both. I know that it’s against school policy, but seeing as they’re asking us and it’s the goblins…” He trailed off as Professor Flitwick nodded in understanding.

                “My father would have my head if he knew that I was keeping someone from his personal request. I will ensure your arrival there. What time are they asking you to be there?”

                “They want us there at nine in the morning sir.” Flitwick nodded and wrote a password on a piece of parchment.

                “This will get you into my personal quarters. Meet me there 10 till and you may both use my personal floo.” With that Hadrian took the parchment and walked back to the Ravenclaw table. Hermione was ecstatic to say the least and couldn’t wait for Saturday.

                The rest if the week flew by and Flitwick, true to his word, had made sure that Hadrian had his schedule changed to reflect his new course in ancient runes. He had to be tested to make sure that he was where he was supposed to be after having missed a year, but he had proven himself and Draco was surprised to see just how well Hadrian had done. He was also right about Dumbledore switching up the house pairings for certain subjects. HE had to deal with Ron in his first defense class and it had not gone well.

--FLASHBACK—

                “Can anyone tell me the name of an unforgivable curse?” Professor Moody asked to the sea of red and blue in front of him.

                “The imperious curse sir.” Ron said in a quiet but sure voice. Moody nodded and pulled a spider out of the jar on his desk. HE cast an enlargement charm on it and cast the spell.

                “Imperio.” With that he controlled the spider until he asked for another curse. Hermione raised her hand and called out the cruciatus curse, the torture curse. Moody once again performed the curse on the spider until he looked around the class and locked eyes with Hadrian. “The last and final curse is the killing curse. It can’t be blocked, and it means instant death for those hit with it. Only one person is known to have survived this curse and he’s sitting right here in this room.” By the time he was finished speaking all eyes were trained on Hadrian.

                “How do we even know he survived it? For all we know he could’ve gotten that scar from anything!” He heard Ron yell from the back of the class.

                “Tell me, Mr. Weasley, if it wasn’t the killing curse that had given him that scar, why is said scar in the shape of the wand movement for the curse?” Moody said with an eye roll. It took all of Hadrian’s patience not to use that curse on his former best friend. Moody turned once again to the spider and before anyone could say anything, “Avada Kedavra.” A jet of green light flew from the tip of Professor Moody’s wand and struck the spider, killing it instantly.

--END FLASHBACK—

                “Are you ready ‘Mione?” Hadrian asked as they met in the common room of Ravenclaw tower. She looked a little pale at the prospect of finding out just who she was. She nodded and Hadrian took her hand while they walked towards Flitwick’s office. When they arrived and walked in they were surprised to see not only Professor Flitwick there but also Professor McGonagall as well.

                “You may not be my lions anymore, but I will always be there for you. I will be waiting to see if your adventure is as fruitful as you hope.” With that she hugged them both and they were on their way to Gringotts. As they walked up to the front desk, Hadrian bowed low and asked for Barnok, who appeared in an instant.

                “Follow me, Mr. Potter, Ms. Granger.” He led them to an office and closed the door behind them. “Now, Ms. Granger, the line test is very simple. All I need is seven drops of blood on the top of this parchment. Once the parchment absorbs the blood you will see your family tree and it will tell us of any magical ancestors you may have. It will also show us any inherent magical abilities you would have due to the family you are related too.” As he was speaking Hadrian grew pale.

                “I didn’t have a line test done?” He asked the goblin in front of him. Barnok shook his head.

                “We only needed to see what other vaults and titles you were entitled to at the time. If you’d like we could perform a line test for you as well Mr. Potter.” Hadrian nodded and was handed another piece of parchment. They both pricked their fingers and let their blood land on the parchment. As the parchments glowed an almost blinding blue they saw their trees appear before their very eyes.

                “This is amazing…Ri…” Hermione trailed off as she saw her grandparents and her mom appear. People she never would have thought also started to appear, including a name she didn’t expect to see. “I…I can’t believe it. I’m not muggleborn. I’m a half-blood.” She looked over to Hadrian who had gone sickly pale with his results. “Ri? Are you ok?” He passed his own parchment over to her and she gasped at the parchment as she read something that would change their lives and shake the wizarding world down to its foundations.

Chapter Text

“Ri…I know this is a lot. But think about it. It makes sense. Your eyes, your hair. Plus, the Black Heirship. Sirius being your biological father would make sense. As for the rest…we can figure it out. Would you like to see my results? It might come as a bit of a shock to you…” she trailed off as she handed Hadrian her parchment. As he looked down at his best friends results his eyes grew wide in shock.

Family Tree for Hermione Guinevere Granger

Parents

Amycus Carrow (Biological Father)

Titania Black (Squib)

Othello Granger (Adoptive Father)

Grandparents

Marius Black (Squib)

Ophelia Bulstrode (Pure blood)

Great-Grandparents

Arcturus Black

Melania Black nee MacMillan

Maynard Bulstrode

Guinevere Bulstrode nee Ollivander

Family Traits and Inheritances

Natural Healer

Eidetic Memory

Greek Sphinx

Hadrian looked at her with a newfound respect. Not only was she his best friend they were family. Cousins. He had family. Actual living family. He saw other names, but these were the ones that jumped out at him.

“Why is yours so much shorter than mine?” He asked as he handed back her parchment.

“I only asked to see until my closest magical family. Immediate family. It honestly probably should have stopped at my parents, after all the Carrow family is a known pure-blood line.” She looked down at her parchment again while Hadrian looked at his, re-reading it

Family Tree for Casimir Vega Black-Slytherin

Parents

Sirius Black (Bearer; Biological Father)

Fabian Prewitt (Biological father; Zmey; Deceased)

Gideon Prewitt (Biological Father; Zmey; Deceased)

Tom Marvolo Riddle (Blood Adopted)

James Charlus Potter (Magically Adopted)

Lily Clementine Potter nee Evans (Magically Adopted)

Casimir, as he finally found out his real name, stopped reading after he saw his parents names; after all, there were six and all of them were there for a different reason or in some other way connected to him. Sirius wasn’t his Godfather as he had been led to believe but was his biological father. Voldemort, it seemed, was his blood adopted father which could only happen with consent from one of his other parents as he had found out from reading up on inheritance tests.  This meant that Sirius was not on the side of the light and was probably being manipulated somehow. He also realized that the one person he hated most in the entire student population, Ronald Weasley, was his cousin.

“Hermione…my name isn’t even Harry, let alone Hadrian.” He turned toward Barnok. “Why did my real name not appear on the Inheritance test?”

“Because it was not a family tree would be my guess. And the magic used in the tests is very different, it’s possible it wasn’t listed because of that as well. Heir Slytherin, welcome back.” With that he left the office in order to let the two young wixen to collect their thoughts about what had been revealed.

“Hermione…I…I don’t know what to do. My name was hidden the entire time, even on the Hogwarts registry which should be impossible from what I’ve read. And on top of that I now have to deal with the fact that Dumblefuck has fucked with my life more than we had thought. It also makes sense on why everything that we saw on my test was done. My…fathers…couldn’t have been killed by Death Eaters. Not if they knew who Sirius actually was. And why is Voldemort my Blood adopted father. Did Sirius cheat on him? Or, more likely, Voldemort and Sirius came together before I was born. But the Prewitt Twins had to have known Sirius was Dark…” Casimir trailed off as he looked down at the parchment once again.

“I think…maybe…it might have been political on Voldemort’s part. Think about it…why would he blood adopt you after only being with Sirius for a short time? Especially if he wasn’t sure it was going to last. And we know that Voldemort’s original goals were not the torture and murder sprees and raids; not at first anyway. Maybe…just maybe the Prewitt’s were dark and on His side and him and Sirius came to an agreement. IT would have been too obvious if you looked like Voldemort, pre-insanity, that he had a child and then it would’ve been a much worse situation. At least with a blood adoption only minor things were changed. Higher cheekbones and your eyes. Now, all we have to do is “come out” as it were.” She stopped talking as she saw Casimir’s eyes grow wet with unshed tears.

“I just want to be with my family. I don’t care who they are. The old coot told me my only living relatives were those Muggles. They abused me Hermione. And now…I have a chance to be with family. But two of them are dead, one of them is on the run and the other is a supposed madman who doesn’t even have a fucking body! And on top of that, those muggles aren’t even related to me! It was a MAGICAL ADOPTION! Those supposed blood wards were never there to begin with!”

“Casimir,” here she put a hand on his shoulder, “what if he isn’t the mad man we are led to believe. What if…he’s never been insane until the end when his curse rebounded. It’s also possible that Lily’s sacrifice isn’t what saved you but family magic. You were his Heir. Maybe the Slytherin family magic prevents family from killing each other?” Casimir looked at her and nodded before they called Barnok back in. “Sir, thank you for seeing us for the tests. We would like to return to Hogwarts now. After all, I’m sure we’ve been gone longer than the professors had anticipated.” Barnok just nodded and led them back to the floo of Gringotts.

Once they had landed back in Professor Flitwick’s quarters the door opened and both he and Professor McGonagall arrived within minutes. They both stood there looking at their young charges with anticipation.

“Well Ms. Granger? Mr. Potter?” Professor McGonagall asked as soon as they were all seated.

“Well…it’s a lot professor. Especially for…” She trailed off and looked at Casimir who nodded his head. He didn’t want to have to hide from everyone. Just Dumbles. And that would be the trickiest part. “Casimir. What he found out is…a shock.” She looked at the two professors in front of them who both had looks of confusion on their normally stoic faces.

“Casimir? But we were under the impression that the Potters had named you Hadrian, Mr. Potter.” McGonagall said as she reached for his parchment.

“They did, Professor, after I was apparently kidnapped from my real parents who must have had memories implanted by someone. My name is Casimir Vega Black-Slytherin; at least according to the official test performed by the Goblins. And as we all know, they never outright lie to their clients and their tests are one hundred percent true.” With that he handed his parchment over and watched as the realization dawned on both professors. “Any way you could help me figure this all out? I know what we’ve been told about my fathers by Mrs. Weasley, after all they were her brothers, but why would she not know they had a son? Or that they were creatures?”

“Molly has always been a bit…conservative when it comes to creature inheritances. However, the fact she possibly doesn’t know about you being her nephew would make sense if very strong memory and compulsion charms were in play. And there are only a handful of people strong enough for something like this. And I doubt your father would use them in his own husband, let alone the fathers of said child. That leaves one person, and we have seen what he can do.” McGonagall stood up and walked over to Casimir and knelt down in front of him.  “When you’re ready to talk, ill be here. Just come see me, alright?”

“I will…I just need time. Hermione, you’re up.” With that he sank back in his char as Professor McGonagall walked back over to her seat.

“First off, I am not a muggleborn, I’m a half-blood. My father…is Amycus Carrow. My mother is a Black, descended from Marius Black. Casimir and I are cousins. I’m also a Bulstrode and an Ollivander.’ At this point she hands over her parchment. “I want to change my name, on the registry. I would like to be known as who I am. Hermione Black.” Casimir looked at her like she had inherited the Black Madness.

“Mione, that’s a dangerous game. Look at what has happened to our name…” He trailed off, deep in thought. It was only a few seconds before he spoke again, but it had felt like a lifetime. “But youre right. Professor, change my name as well, please. Casimir Vega Black-Slytherin. I’m ready to face the storm that this is going to cause.”

“Well, I will have you know its already been done. You see, a young Ravenclaw came up to me today to inform me that two students would return from a trip different people. She claimed to just know and gave me the names of these new people. She also said that you two had something to say to me?” Professor Flitwick leveled them with a knowing gaze.

“Luna Lovegood is being bullied by almost every single female Ravenclaw Professor! I’m the only one who doesn’t, and she acts like it doesn’t bother her, but I just know that it does especially when she has to walk around the castle and grounds barefoot because they keep stealing her shoes!” Hermione burst out like the floodgate had opened. The professors looked at her and nodded.

“That lines up with what she said would happen when confronted about it. I still wonder how exactly she knows…” Flitwick mused, as if the answer wasn’t obvious.

“She’s a seer, sir. Not in any full capacity but when she says something is going to happen it usually does. Before our trip, she told me that I would accept the news, as shocking as it is, quite quickly. I all but scoffed at her, my family tree was going to show I was a potter and nothing more. But then I got the test back. It took me all of five minutes to realize I had family and I truly do not care who they are, I. Have. Family. Living breathing family, and I deserve to be with them, regardless of who thinks otherwise for whatever reason. Once again, Luna was right.” Casimir looked at the two professors and stood up. “I, however, am very hungry and have a lot to digest. I also have a certain red head and blond to torment with some news.” He smirked as he walked out of the office. Today was going to be a good day.

“Casimir! I am so sorry for his manners, professors. Thank you for helping us! Goodbye!” Hermione called as she ran out after her best friend. When she finally caught up to him he was almost all the way down the stairs from Ravenclaw tower. “Casimir! Where are you going?”

  “Lunch. And to remind Malfoy that we’re family, you included. And then to amuse myself, if only slightly, by letting Ronald know that we’re cousins,” he shrugged. “After all, nobody would expect the son of THE Slytherin to be cousins with a Weasley. I also love tormenting him lately, and after his fiasco in defense earlier this week I think he deserves to be ridiculed a little bit.”

“I…can’t deny that, but we have to be careful. Most people will still think we’re Potter and Granger. If it gets out…well imagine what the Slytherins would do!”

“They can’t touch me. And that rule applies to anyone I name as under my protection.”

“What? How do you know they can’t touch you?”

“Slytherin rules. If the heir of Slytherin is in the school, especially Slytherin house, they rule Slytherin, regardless of year. They can be challenged, formally, but they cannot be harmed outside of the common room. And if I name you, Neville, and Luna as under the heir of Slytherin’s protection  you will be free from taunts and other things as well.” He shrugged like it was common knowledge.

“How do you know that?”

 “The diary. It was a piece of my dad’s, gods that’s still weird to say, soul. It had his memories from his time at Hogwarts and so I asked him a couple things. We obviously didn’t know about our relationship at the time. Plus, the memory was sixteen, no way he ever thought he’d have a kid. Gods why does this have to be so difficult?!” He yelled out as they got closer to the Great Hall.

 “I honestly don’t know Casimir. Do you think that the Death Eaters know about you?”

“It’s possible. After all, I am their lord’s son.” With that they entered the Great Hall, and before they made their way to the Ravenclaw table Casimir walked over to the Slytherin table and right up to Draco. “Heir Malfoy. I would like to have a word with you, in private.” He said as the blond looked up at him from his plate.

“Fine. If only to get you to leave me alone.” With that the blond stood up and followed Casimir out into the entrance hall.

“Well? Talk.”

“I would like to apologize for our first meeting, as well as my actions the other day. However, you must also apologize to Hermione for your atrocious words towards her. Some things have come to light that will have some far-reaching shocks. If you need, she and I both have proof of what you will find out.”

“And why would I need to apologize to a mud-“ seeing the look and Casimir’s face he switched tactics, “Muggle-born?” Malfoy asked.

“Simple, she’s not muggle-born, but muggle raised. Much like I was. That is not an excuse for the way we have acted when it comes to our world, however it is the reason. Again, some truths are going to be revealed in the following days and we have proof. Hogwarts herself is looking forward to what this will start.” With that, Casimir left a stunned Draco and made his way to his house table. Hermione looked at him and smiled before the head table filled up. It may be a Saturday, but after their revelations it was decided that the heir to Hogwarts should be announced, not in name but in title.

“Greetings!” They heard the headmaster say above the noise. As everyone settled down he started speaking once again. “It has come to my attention that we have a student in Hogwarts who is an heir to two of the founders lines! I do not know who this student is so if they would like to be known they may stand now. If they refuse, they may come forward at their own time. With nothing else-“ He stopped as he heard Minerva clear her throat. “Yes, Minerva?” He asked.

“It has come to the attention of myself and Professor Flitwick that a couple of students had line tests done at Gringotts earlier today. Those students have decided to officially change their name on the registry and therefore their schedules, roll and letters will be addressed to them from this point forward. Also, the magic of the point system will not take if their old names are used.” She paused to take a sip of her pumpkin juice before a malicious glint entered her eyes. “If those two students would please come see me and Professor Flitwick?” Casimir and Hermione both stood up as the Great Hall erupted into a cacophony of noise. They walked with their heads held high towards the head table.

“Ms. Granger? Harry?” Dumbledore asked in disbelief.

“Yes, headmaster. We are the students that had line tests done. I was curious, due to some research as well as prior events over the summer, to see if I had magical blood. It turns out that I do. The results were quite shocking, and I have decided to use my mothers maiden name. I have already talked to her as well as my dad before taking the line test. They agreed it would be a good idea.”

“As for me, well, it just seems natural for me to go by my real name. I do hope you understand, sir.” Casimir replied like a true pureblood heir.

“Of-of course. Are we announcing your names for all to hear?”

“I believe that to be best, don’t you agree Casimir?” Hermione asked. Casimir nodded and turned towards the two professors who knew everything.

“Thank you. For helping us make this decision. If Hogwarts intervenes, know I am proud to have been a part of both of your houses, whether it has been for three years or a week.” With this he turned towards the rest of the hall and as the eyes fell on him, the silence fell as well. “My name is Casimir Vega Black-Slytherin. I am Heir to both Ravenclaw and Slytherin. I had an inheritance test done at the beginning of summer and just today had my line test done. We all know that the tests performed by Gringotts do not lie! I have the proof if any of you,” At this he glanced at the Slytherin table, “wish to refute my claims. So I have sworn it so mote it be.” As he finished the magic of the castle came to life, with both house crests forming above his head in a show that the magic recognizes him. “Thank you,” he whispered as he felt a warm embrace.

“Well, that is…an interesting development. And you Ms. Granger?” the old coot looked at her as if nothing could be as shocking as his golden boy revealing himself to be the heir.

“My name is no longer Granger, sir,” she said as she too turned towards the rest of the student population. “My name is Hermione Guinevere Black. My mother was a Black by blood from the squib line created when Marius was cast out by Arcturus Black. I am not muggleborn as I had believed. I am a half-blood as my father was a pure blood. That information will be shared at a later time, thank you.” With that the two students took their seats once again walking with their heads held high, after all, the castle’s magic recognized Harry in a way that hadn’t been seen since the founders first heirs had graced these halls shortly after the founding. Before they could fully sit down however, a voice from the Slytherin table stopped them.

“We of the Slytherin house request proof of your claims! The house crest could have been an illusion!”

“Who here remembers my second year?” Casimir yelled out. Everyone third year and above nodded their heads. “Those in fourth year especially should remember what happened in that dreadful excuse of a dueling club Professor Lockhart had started. I am a parseltongue. A family trait that can only present itself in those of Slytherin blood, at least in Britain. If you need more proof I will gladly show you my line test. That being said, I will only show it to your year leaders, I know how Slytherin politics are. If each year leader would like to see the parchment for themselves, please come see me.” With that statement he sat down and waited, something he didn’t have to do long.

Draco was the first to arrive followed closely by the other year leaders. Casimir merely raised an eyebrow at the seven students before him.

“If you truly are the heir, you would be allowed in our common room without question. We only want to make sure. After all, you are the golden boy of the Light, and our families follow a certain teaching.” Draco said smoothly while the other students bristled at the name that Casimir had been given by the old fool.

“I completely understand, Heir Malfoy. Here.” Casimir pulled his line test out of his satchel and handed it over. Those who knew the Dark Lords true name dropped their pure blood masks for looks of open shock. Draco, however, was more shocked at who his fathers were as well as the creature inheritance.

“Of course. You can’t do things by half, can you Heir Slytherin? I would like to be the first to welcome you into our house,” He said with a nod and then turned towards Hermione. “Ms. Black. Please accept my humble apology for the way I have treated you throughout the years. Even if you were truly muggle born that does not mean you are lesser, and I am starting to see that. Even if some muggleborn do deserve the treatment they receive, you were not among them. You are truly bright. I know it will take time as well as an attitude adjustment, but I do hope you will be able to forgive me.” Hermione sat there stunned, as did most of the purebloods in the vicinity, after all Malfoys never apologize.

“I accept your apology, Malfoy. I would also like to ask your help. Casimir knows the minimum in terms of etiquette,” At this Casimir shot off an indignant look and a soft “hey” before she continued on, “However, we both need to learn. I may not be an heir to a family, as far as I know I did not have an inheritance test done, but I do believe that I will be around the pureblood circles more often moving forward. Would you and the others be willing to help us learn as quickly as we can?” Her asking this Casimir realized, was an olive branch to show that they weren’t as Light as everyone assumed. After all, a Light witch and wizard in pureblood families hardly adheres to the etiquette unless at a formal function.

“It would be a pleasure. Heir Slytherin. Ms. Black. Oh! I’d also like to be the first to introduce you to the Black and Malfoy families. You may not carry the Malfoy name, but both my mother and I are Black by blood. That makes you both family.” With that he and the other year leaders walked back to the Slytherin table.

“Well…that was interesting. Don’t you think Hermione?” Casimir asked as they turned back to their food and started a conversation with Luna. As the students began to wander away to their own devices Casimir and Hermione had a letter to write. “How do we tell him that I know without letting anything slip past Dumbles. No doubt he is going to be watching my mail now…”

 “Just write a normal letter, letting him know about me and how school is going and then sign it with your real name. Maybe that will jog something in his memory.

======D

Damnit! The brat found out his real name and heritage. As long as he doesn’t know about the potions and charms it should be fine. Dumbledore thought to himself as he walked towards his office. Of course, the Granger girl finding out doesn’t matter, he would’ve suggested it himself later in order to make her even more endeared to him but that obviously wasn’t going to work.

“Fawkes, my dear familiar, what ever shall we do?” The phoenix trilled softly and sadly as he watched the old man try to come up with yet another scheme involving the young boy that he was sworn to. Merlin and Rowena both saw young Casimir’s arrival, albeit in different ways. The founders, specifically Rowena and Salazar had formed a familiar bind between him and their families so that any of their heirs would have help within the castle. The Occamy, who came to visit him often, was just an extra friend for his young master and he couldn’t wait to reveal that tidbit of information.

Phineas Nigellus Black, former headmaster and a member of the young students family had to find a way to warn them. Thankfully even portraits were affected by family magic and due to the nature of the Black family magic, even Dumbledore’s attempts at silencing him would fail. All family members had a right and duty to warn the lord and heir of anything that could cause the family harm. As he watched the current headmaster pace and mumble to himself about more potions and charms he walked out of his portrait and into his frame hanging in Grimmauld place, the home of his nephew, Sirius.

“Sirius! There is something you must know about! Come to my portrait!” The man screamed out into the void of the house. Not even a minute later he heard running footsteps and the shouting of his niece Walburga.

“Shut up you nasty woman!” He heard followed by the telltale incantation of a stinging hex and silence. “You yelled Uncle Phineas?” the man asked as he rounded the corner and came to a stop in front of the portrait.

“Your heir and niece are in danger. Have you received a-“ Just then a snowy owl appeared on the windowsill of the floor they were on. Sirius walked over and opened it knowing exactly who it was from.

“I don’t have a niece. Im pretty sure that’s something I would have found out, no?” He asked as he opened the letter only to gape in shock. “Hermione? Hermione Granger is the granddaughter of Marius Black and Ophelia Bulstrode? But… why did Harry sign it Casimir?” He looked at his uncles portrait to see a sad look on the face of one of the few family members he liked.

“He and his friend had gone to Gringotts. Casimir first went over the summer where a small fraction of things had been revealed, at least that’s the understanding I have from listening in through other portraits throughout the castle. Earlier today, him and Hermione had gone to Gringotts to have a line test done for her. He realized that he didn’t have one completed the last time he was there and so had one done today as well. And it revealed his true parentage and name. Dumbledore is…irritated… for lack of a better word and is trying to find a way to bring young Casimir back under his manipulations.”

“Dumbledore would never manipulate anyone! How could you even say something like that!?” Sirius roared in anger as he turned on the portrait with a furious glint, reminiscent of the Black madness, in his eyes. “He is a good man Uncle Phineas!”

“By the Black Family magic I hereby place a vow of secrecy on this conversation. Now, you won’t be able to run to the old coot and tell him what im about to say or have said.”

“I didn’t know portraits could activate the family magic like that…but why would you do that?” Sirius asked, this time in a little bit of shock and in no small part anger still.

“Because, Sirius, I am honor bound to warn you and the heir of any harm that could potentially come to the family by anyone or anything. Casimir was apparently controlled through charms and potions and glamours. Are you curious why he looked so much like James and Lily? Aren’t you curious why the killing curse rebounded in the way it did? There is so much more going on than you think. I have done my duty. I must return before the old fool realizes I’m gone. I will be back. Write to Casimir, see what he has to say. I’m sure you’d be able to meet him in Hogsmeade in a few weeks.” With that, Phineas returned to his portrait in the headmasters office, finding him still pacing and none the wiser that he had left.

=====D

As Harry and Hermione sat down for dinner that evening, this time at the Hufflepuff table with Neville, they saw a head of blond hair appear in the entrance of the great hall and called Luna over. She happily sat down next to them.

“Professor Flitwick has taken care of the problem. The girls in my dorm and even the older ones have stopped harassing me. So, thank you both. Oh, and Casimir, Hedwig is returning with a letter from snuffles at morning post.” She looked off with her head tilted and a far away look in her eyes. It didn’t take long for her to return to them and offer a small smile before helping herself to food. It was common knowledge between the four of them at this point to not question when Luna said something was going to happen, after all she was the one to warn the professors about the impending name change and she had been correct.

“Thank you Luna. How was your day Neville?”

“It was alright. Gran isn’t too happy with the re-sort but its my life not hers and I still need a new wand. But she refuses still.” He looked down, like he was ashamed after he had finished his statement.

“What if we went without her knowing? I was thinking of going and getting a custom wand from Knockturn Alley, after all custom wands are always better and offer a wider variety of woods and cores.” Casimir shrugged. It would be difficult to do until the holidays, but they could maybe pull it off if Neville’s gran never caught wind of it and they found a suitable chaperone. Sure, he and Hermione had been able to go to Gringotts, but that was different than the alley in its entirety. “Plus, I’m sure Professor Sprout or Flitwick would be willing to chaperone us if necessary.”

“Flitwick will say yes with the condition of being allowed to have his father present as well. Neither one is afraid to venture into Knockturn, however Sprout will deny it outright, If you explain tis for new wands due to yours no longer being compatible and holding you back it would be even better of a reason for him to say yes.”

“Thanks, Luna. You’re amazing!” With that Casimir and Neville returned to their food as Professor Sprout walked by with Professor Flitwick, and Casimir took his chance. “Professor Flitwick? I was wondering if it would be possible for you to escort me and Neville shopping tomorrow. I know it’s a Sunday, but you see, our wands are no longer compatible with us, and we need new ones.” Casimir turned on the charm he knew he had and saw Flitwick and Sprout having a silent discussion between them.

“On one condition. My father, the head goblin of Gringotts, comes with. He is, after all, well known and is an amazing duelist. He’s the one who taught me.”

“Of course, sir! Thank you!” Neville said with a large smile on his face at the prospect of having a custom wand.

“I want my badger returned safely Filius. If anything happens I’ll sick some devils snare on you!” Professor Sprout glared at the half-goblin before she smiled, and they continued on their way.

“I still don’t know how you know what you know Luna, but damn are you good.”

“Why thank you. But it’s the wrackspurts. Sometimes they aren’t even near me and that’s when I see best.” She explained. She once again had a dreamy look in her eyes as if she was looking at something very far away. The gears in Casimir’s head started to spin as did Hermione’s. “In know that you know I’m a seer. Ask your questions.”

“Is it how Professor Trelawney describes? Is it true sight?”

“It’s not true sight, but more premonitions and knowing. The nargles say it will…develop in time and I may have to be cleansed of some things for my sight to truly reveal itself.” With that she dropped the conversation and continued to eat. Casimir and Hermione looked at each other and shrugged, they knew they weren’t going to get much more out of her.

Dumbledore looked on in barely disguised anger. How dare the brat and his friends ignore the rules! How dare he be civil with that death eater in training! He had to get him back under control and soon. But first, an announcement of new school rules. He needed to separate them as soon as possible.

“Attention! Just today a new rule was passed by the Board of Governors. If you are in the Great Hall for a meal you are to sit at your assigned House Table. Study hall is the only time students are allowed to mix in the Great Hall. If you are currently at another house table please, return to your assigned table.” He smirked as he saw Harry (he refused to call him by that ridiculous dark sounding name), Hermione and the Lovegood girl all stand up and start walking towards the Ravenclaw table when suddenly, the Lovegood girl stopped and whispered something to Harry.

“Headmaster, did you realize that the Board of Governors must pass any new rules they want to implement past any founding heir that is currently at school or recently graduated BEFORE it can be implemented? Therefore the new rule is null and void until I am approached by the Board. Furthermore, I have the right to veto any of those rules per the school charter.” Here he paused as the information sunk in. “Therefore, house tables are a free for all. If you have friends you would like to eat with that are in a different house, please feel free to do so now.” Neville stood up at this point and walked over to the Slytherin table in front of everyone and promptly sat down next to one Theodore Nott who welcomed him with a smile and small sideways hug.

Casimir looked up at the head table to see all of the professors, sans Dumblefuck, with a smile on their faces as the colors soon mixed. Casimir was proud of the students. That being said, there were still two colors that didn’t move, green and red. It made sense, they stuck to their own. Slytherins less so due to the purebloods in other houses they’ve known for years. With this they walked back to the Hufflepuff table and sat back down.

“Do you think I should claim my heirships? I mean…it would be helpful, but I was under the impression that the Prewitt heirship and lordship had to be held by twins?” He said this just loud enough for Ron to hear him,  and like he had planned, the red head erupted.

“LINE THIEF! HOW COULD YOU HAVE THE HEIRSHIP TO MY MOMS FAMILY?! I’LL SUE YOU SO FAST AND TAKE IT BACK!” The red head yelled pulling his wand out at the same time. “Stupefy!” The red light of the stunner flew towards Casimir who raised a shield wordlessly and wandlessly. The stunner fizzled out as it connected with the shield.

“If you must know Ronald, I am no line thief. My FATHERS, as in the ones who got my bearer pregnant, were none other than your uncles, Gideon and Fabian. I am the direct Heir to the Prewitt line, dear cousin. Still not sure how but it is true. Would you like to see the test?”

“RONALD WEASLEY! HOW DARE YOU ATTACK A FELLOW STUDENT IN THE GREAT HALL! 100 POINTS FROM GRYFFINDOR AND A MONTH OF DETENTION WITH PROFESSOR SNAPE!” They all heard Professor McGonagall over the sounds of the students and only then did Dumbles try to say something.

“Minerva, my friend, surely that is a little harsh considering it was a simple stunner, especially considering the line-“ albus balked as Professor McGonagall turned her stern glare onto him.

“I have seen the test myself, Albus. Mr. Slytherin is correct, he is the direct heir to the Prewitt line. Therefore, not only was the attack unjustified but also a stunner could have hit someone else. It is lucky that Mr. Slytherin has such control over his magic that he was able to cancel the spell with his shield instead of deflecting it. 100 points and a month of detention is more than fair.” With that she strode towards Casimir and Ron. “Mr. Slytherin, I apologize on behalf of Gryffindor for the outrageous and egregious accusation posited towards you by one of my students.”

“Professor, while I appreciate the apology it is not you who should be apologizing. It should be Mr. Weasley. As well as his mother for failing to notify her family that her brothers were fathers and had a creature inheritance. If I-“

“My uncles were not disgusting half breed creatures! You take that back you freak!” At this point Casimir had enough. Before anyone could react his wand was at Ron’s throat and Apophis was behind him nearly full size in an attack position. If anyone had doubts about the familiar bond between Casimir and the Occamy, they were now gone.

“How dare you disrespect my fathers. I do not care if we are family, right now I see Heir Malfoy as more family than you and I will EVER be. One more word against me or my family and I will not hesitate. Do I make myself clear?” His magic was running wild, his auburn hair was rising and falling in a wave like motion and his eyes seemed to glow even brighter than normal.

“Maybe I should have never rescued you in second year from your abusive relatives house. Maybe-“ before he could finish five stunners had hit him. The Weasley twins, Hermione and most shockingly, Neville and Draco, had all shot them off at the mention of abusive relatives. Draco may not have known but he knew that if he didn’t react then Casimir would have done something he’d regret. The same thought had gone through the twins mind as well. Except their reasoning was to shut their idiot brother up.

“100 POINTS EACH FOR THE UNJUSTIFIED-“ Albus stopped as all eyes in the great hall seemed to glare at him. “Five stunners was much too much! And against another student!”

“Albus, your hypocrisy is showing. You just told me 100 points was too much of a punishment for an unjustified stunner and just tried to do the same. Notice how two Gryffindor’s were also in that group? Would you have taken points from them?” She saw the look in his eyes. “No? That’s what I thought. Poppy, would you be a dear and call St. Mungo’s? Five stunners is a bit much, but they were also well deserved. Casimir, if I may, would you be willing to provide memories of what he alluded to? As well as your inheritance test to me and Filius only?” Casimir nodded and went to walk towards the headmasters office before Flitwick stopped him.

“No, Mr. Slytherin. We are going to be using my personal Pensieve. You still have the password to my personal quarters correct?” Professor Flitwick asked. Casimir nodded and before he could say anything another question was thrown his way. “Would you like anyone to join us? And did anybody know outside of Mr. Weasley and his family?”

“One person. I begged him to see if I could stay over the summer at the end of first year. He said that as my only living relatives I had to go back because of the blood wards that were supposedly in place due to Lily’s sacrifice. But, as it turned out, they were only my parents through a magical adoption. So, magically I am still a Potter but that is not my name. Headmaster Dumblef-Dumbledore knew. And he said I was exaggerating. I swear on my magic that they starved and beat me and that is the truth.” As if to prove his point he summoned a small ball of light and played with it for a few seconds before throwing it up and causing a mini firework show. “Do you believe me now, Headmaster?” And with that he strode from the great hall towards Professor Flitwick’s personal quarters. He didn’t notice the glares that every single teacher, including Professor Snape sent towards the headmaster, nor did he notice the sneer on his face.

“Well. And he was one of my lions? How could you Albus?” With that Professors McGonagall and Flitwick followed Casimir and not even ten seconds later, Hermione followed them out as well. As they made their way to the seventh floor where the professors office was located, Casimir decided to not hold anything back before he got there and was starting to sort his memories. “Casimir, is everything all right?” McGonagall asked.

“Yes professor. Just sorting my memories. I don’t want to overwhelm you both with what you’re about to see, but it isn’t pretty. My…guardians…were not the nicest of muggles. And they’re the reason I reacted so violently when Weasley called me and my fathers what he did; it was one of the words they liked to use the most.” He looked up and saw the horrified expressions of his two favorite professors. “The memories…you’ll see.” With that they reached the office and walked in. Professor Flitwick pulled out his Pensieve and directed Casimir on how to put the memories into the silver substance in the basin.

“I would rather not live through what you’re about to see again, so I’ll just wait while you look through them.” After Casimir finished speaking the three of them put their heads into the basin and slipped inside of the memories that Casimir had provided. He wasn’t sure how long they were going to be, so he summoned one of his extracurricular books about how runes interact with wards. After about 20 minutes, three shaken and pale faces emerged from the Pensieve. “As bad or worse than you were expecting?” He asked as they looked towards him.

“Albus knew? He knew that you didn’t want to go back for whatever reason you gave, and still forced you back for something that was never there to begin with?” Professor McGonagall asked. Casimir merely nodded and looked towards his best friend and his head of house. They both looked like they were about to pass out or puke, but they held his gaze and with a look that can only be described as sad yet caring, both walked over to him and sat on either side of him.  “I will string him up from his beard so help me Merlin!” She exclaimed loudly as she started to pace the office.

“I don’t want him to be ousted just yet. I have plans for him, but I need Sirius cleared of all charges and I know that won’t be able to happen for quite a while. Plus, I want to find my dad and visit the graves of my fathers. I don’t believe they were killed in a death eater raid like we’ve been led to believe. If Tom knew who they were he wouldn’t have targeted them, because if not for them he wouldn’t have an heir. His actions aside, I don’t see him coming after someone he swore to care for and adopted. There has to be something else. But first, I want to cause some chaos in the school. Which as im sure you’ve seen by now, I have a knack for. I think its because even though James Potter was not my biological father, my bearer was still a marauder and my fathers were apparently just like their nephews, pranksters.” He looked around and a small smile started to form. He knew he’d have a support system at least.

They made their way back to the great hall to find it in a state of madness. Albus was having to shield himself from spells being shot at him by everyone, Professor Snape most of all, except Moody who seemed to be helping the old coot. Casimir smirked and looked over at the Slytherin table to see the entire house throwing spells, minor hexes and jinxes, at him following the actions of the professors. Hufflepuff was using the opportunity to have a food fight, some accidentally going towards the headmaster. Ravenclaw was sitting there watching and waiting for their chance, except for Luna, she was throwing hexes at moody who was too focused on helping the headmaster he didn’t see the overpowered stinging hex headed his way. And Gryffindor, well, only the twins were helping the other houses. The rest of the lions were sitting there in shock that the great and wonderful headmaster was under attack from students.

“Listen up! Every student who has thrown anything, spell or otherwise at the headmaster, 5 points will be taken from your house per person. However, ten points will be given per person who has decided to stand up for a fellow student regardless of his house and name. That being said, 50 points to Ravenclaw for Luna Lovegood being the ONLY member of his house defending him. To your common rooms, now!” Professor Flitwick’s voice carried over the great hall as if it had been amplified. And from the feeling of warmth Casimir was feeling, he knew that Hogwarts herself had done so.

“Draco!” Casimir yelled out across the hall. “Thank you for standing up for me!” as he was finishing he started getting quieter as the blond walked up to him.

“It truly was not a big deal. After all, we are family as you pointed out. My father is on the Board. When you’re ready, I would write to him about what Dumbledore has done. I know you’re waiting for something but, let the storm rage on for a little while. Make the old fool sweat.” As he said this a sneer adorned his usually blank mask as he looked towards the headmaster and his puppet as they walked out of the great hall whispering. “I just hope you know what youre doing, cousin.”

“I do, for once.” At his own admission Casimir snorted derisively. “However, it is going to take time, after all I have to find my dad and get my father cleared of all charges. If you’d like, I can show you the test. But I’d rather do it in front of your father as well. I need to apologize to him, also. After all, I cost him a house elf and destroyed something he had been tasked with protecting. I am worried about how that will go once the person that gave him said task finds out.” Casimir shrugged at the confused face of Draco. “You’ll see I promise.” With that they went their separate ways and decided to meet up at some point in the next week to go over how Casimir could apologize properly to the Lord of the Most Noble House of Malfoy.

“I can’t believe we are being friendly with Malfoy of all people. But I guess with us being family and with you being the heir it makes sense. And what’s this about apologizing to Lord Malfoy for costing him a house elf? They’re slaves Casimir!” Hermione said demandingly as she walked up to him.

“Actually, ‘Mione, they’re not. Not in the way youre thinking they are. They need to be bound to a family otherwise their magic will cause them to combust. They can’t control it themselves. They need a wizarding family to help them control it. They like serving families. I read about them in a book about magical creatures and talked to a few of the kitchen elves. Now, if you’ll excuse me I have a letter to write.” With that he walked to his dorm room and sat at his desk pulling a piece of parchment towards him.

Viktor,

Thank you for the wonderful letter. I can’t believe that in just a few weeks we get to see each other again. I, personally, am excited for a quiet year. Hopefully I get it. I will be cheering you on if you are selected for the tournament. I know that your headmaster is wanting you to compete, but please promise me you’ll be careful, that’s all I ask. By the way, this is my Familiar Apophis. He’s an Occamy and loves to create chaos. Don’t let him. He loves rats and mice just like an owl but hates owl treats (go figure). Hope you are well, and I can’t wait to see you again. Oh! Also, I had a line test done and found out what my real name is. My real name is Casimir. Not Harry or Hadrian. I hope you’ll be able to get used to it. I know it may take time, I just found out myself so I know it will take me some time.

Yours,

Casimir

Apophis, can you carry this to Viktor for me?§ His familiar merely nodded his head sleepily, grabbed the letter in his beak and flew out the window, growing as he did so. Casimir looked after him for a while and felt a tug on his magic. Apparently Occamy had a way of finding who they needed to find, and for long distances Apophis was the better choice for messenger. As Casimir leaned back he felt another tug in his magic and decided to follow it. He didn’t have very far to go when he saw green flames in the common room fireplace.

“Hello? Who’s in there?” He asked as he approached.

“It’s me, Harry. Its Sirius. Can we talk?” The once empty fireplace roared to life and Sirius’ face appeared.

“Are you insane?! Someone could catch you!” Casimir whispered into the fire.

“Not now, Prongslet! I was thinking of this weekend, after all you’ll have some free time to sneak away right?”

“Not this weekend. Neville, Professor Flitwick and me are going to Diagon Alley to get Neville a new wand. I might get one too, but I’m noy sure yet. We have another Hogsmeade weekend closer to Christmas. Say noon on the Saturday of that weekend?” Casimir asked. Sirius nodded as he disappeared. Casimir could not wait to get this meeting over with, even if it was a few eeks away. He had to find a way to get Sirius to Gringotts, but it wasn’t going to happen for a while. As Casimir made his way back to his dorm a thought occurred, he wouldn’t be able to do anything until the summer and he did not like that at all. He could easily start the search for his dad before then, but he wouldn’t be able to do much else. Maybe Draco could help. With that thought he decided that he had to meet Draco sooner than later.

The next morning Casimir did something nobody expected. He sat down next to Draco and started a conversation. The entire Great Hall, except for a few people close to him and most of the teachers kept on with their tasks as if nothing was out of sorts. Dumbledore and Moody, however, stared at him like he was the next Dark Lord. They may even know who his actual parents were anyway. Might as well give them a show.

“Morning Draco. I was wondering if you’d be able to help me write the letter to Lord Malfoy today. Plus, I am willing to show you my tests.” Casimir asked as he started to pile food on his plate.

“Of course, Casimir. How does the library after breakfast sound? I know you have plans later today with Professor Flitwick and Heir Longbottom?”

“That sounds perfect, Draco. Thank you,” Casimir responded. With that decided, the topic of conversation easily changed over into what they thought the tournament was going to be like and what schools would be showing up. Casimir let it be known that he had a friend at Durmstrang, and they had confirmed that their school was going to be a part of it. They only had to figure out the third one. Casimir was under the impression it would be a school in Spain while Draco and Theo both assumed that it was going to be the French school, Beauxbatons.

“I mean…it is possible. But we have to wait for a few weeks.” Casimir looked up as he heard the hoots of owls arriving for morning post. He wasn’t expecting to see a speck of blue and purple among the brown and black of the owls as Apophis started to shrink until he was the size of an owl and landed in front of Casimir.

He wouldn’t let me leave until he had penned a response master. May I have some bacon?§

Thank you, Apophis. Let’s see what my friend has to say§

Casimir opened the letter in the flowing script he was coming to love. For someone so gruff, his writing was truly exquisite.

Harry,

Or should I call you Casimir now since that is how you signed your name? I am sorry for the late reply to your last letter. I am busy training and Headmaster Kakaroff has decided that I will be the only Durmstrang student entering my name into the tournament so that I have to be chosen. I am glad to know I will have your support. Durmstrang will be arriving in the next week. Our headmaster wants us to acclimate with the students of Hogwarts to hopefully convince some to join Durmstrang at the end of the year, but I don’t see that happening except for some very drastic instances. Also, your Occamy is very vocal, even if I could not understand him and made sure I had a rat as well as some bacon waiting for him. I will see you soon Little Eagle

Love,

Viktor

P.S: . I saw your patronus and thought the name would fit. I didn’t use it before because I was debating between little eagle and fierce flyer. I think little eagle fits better. Also, sign your letters however you wish, it means much to me that you consider me a friend

Casimir looked at the letter with a silly grin on his face and before he could react a certain red head had walked by and saw the letter and snatched it from his hand.

“Look at what we have here! Seems like Harry Potter has a love letter. Lets see who its from!” At this Casimir was reacting but before he could grab the letter back Ron had read the name it was from and saw where said person was from. “Is this…FROM VIKTOR KRUM?! But…he can’t be gay! HE’S VIKTOR KRUM!”

“Mr. Weasley, I would like to have my letter back please. It is none of your business who I am seeing, but since you have decided to make it your business, we are not dating we are simply friends. We were just talking about his imminent arrival to Hogwarts for the Triwizard tournament. We have not seen each other since the world cup and have missed each other. And on top of that, even if he was gay and we were dating it wouldn’t be any of your business. He is his own person and deserves to be whoever he wants. My letter. Now.” After that final statement he grabbed his letter and walked off to the library. He couldn’t wait for next week. As he got to the charms classroom he re-read the letter and let a smile grace his lips once again. He was finally going to see the one person he truly could say he had a crush on, even if he couldn’t admit it to himself quite yet.

Chapter Text

It had been a week since Casimir received his last letter from Viktor. Today he would finally get to see the Bulgarian again, after so many letters going back and forth. He couldn’t sit still at the table and Hermione was getting irritated with his antics. She looked up after her book shook again and sighed.

“Casimir. Please stop the incessant shaking. He won’t be here until tonight. Plus, our dear cousin,” here she sighed, still getting used to the idea. “Is looking for you. I believe his father asked him to ask you something.” She returned her attention to her book as Casimir decided to stand up and walk over to the Slytherin table.

“You were looking for me, Draco?” Casimir asked as he sat down next to his enemy-turned-cousin.

“Yes, father would like to meet today, here at the school. He wishes to discuss both your letter and other issues that have been brought to the Board of Governors; specifically your heirship as no one had told the board until your letter reached him. And that was days after it had been announced. Would you be willing to meet him? He said it was better in person and the Board had to send a representative anyway due to the incident with the weasel.”

“Sounds good!” Casimir stole a sausage off of Draco’s plate as he spoke. “I think I’m going to eat here more often. Better food choices.” Casimir laughed at Draco’s face as he walked back to the Ravenclaw table. “So…Uncle Lucius…yeah never again, anyway. Lord Malfoy wants to meet in person, and I want you to come with me, Hermione. After all, as much as we both loathe it, we are related to him through marriage.” Hermione looked at Casimir as if he had suddenly turned into Fluffy.

“What?! Are you absolutely insane? Don’t answer that, because yes you are. He hates muggle-born’s! I may be a half-blood but still! He’s known me as nothing but a muggle-born! He hates me on principle!” She sighed exasperated at her best friend’s casual disregard for past interactions. “I don’t think it’s a good idea, Casimir.”

“We need to get used to the political dance bullshit of pure-blood society ‘Mione. And Malfoy would be the best start BECAUSE of our rocky past. Come on, it won’t be that bad.” Casimir gave her his best puppy dog eyes and she sighed in resentful acceptance.

“Fine! Now, onto a less annoying subject, you never did say how getting Neville’s wand went. I’ve seen how much better he’s been casting since getting a replacement. Is it a perfect match?”

“The best. We actually went into Knockturn for it. Custom wands are better after all. He chose the wand the core and it uses some of the wizard or witch’s blood so it can never be used by another. I got a new one made for myself, as well.”

===FLASHBACK===

“Professor? This is going to be a risky request. But we should go to Knockturn for his wand. They have a custom wand maker there and custom wands are always better. Would that be ok?” Casimir asked as they entered Professor Flitwick’s father’s office.

“That shouldn’t be a problem, Mr. Slytherin. You are correct, I have a wand from the same wand maker. Goblin magic mixing with wizard magic is a very rare thing and most wands won’t work for us unless they are custom. My father and I will make sure you both get there safely.” As the professor finished, his father walked in.

“Filius! I am so glad you are helping young Mr. Slytherin and his friend. Did I hear correctly? We are going to the same wand maker that made your wand?”

“Yes, father the very-“

“YOUR FATHER IS THE HEAD OF GRINGOTTS?!” Neville lost all composure and blurted out the first thing that came to his mind. “I apologize…it’s just…” Neville trailed off and kept quiet as all eyes turned towards him.

“Yes, Mr. Longbottom, my father is the head of this branch. His name is Aglor. No apologies necessary, however. You are excused for your shock. That fact isn’t generally well known.” Professor Flitwick looked at Neville with a small smile. “You need to grow your confidence, young man. It will get easier for you now that you’ve been sorted into your true house. Now, let’s get you your wand.” With that final message, the four of them walked out of the bank and into the bustling noise of Diagon Alley. They made the short trip to Knockturn Alley and walked for only a few minutes before they stood in front of one of the few brightly lit and colored buildings in the area.

“This is Lady Borealis’ shop. She is a witch with a High Elf inheritance, and she knows more about wands than most other wand makers, save Ollivander and Gregorovitch. Will you be getting a new wand as well, Heir Slytherin?” Aglor asked.

Casimir nodded his head in excitement.

“I am sir. My current wand doesn’t feel the same as it did when I first got it. Shall we go in?” As Casimir finished his question, he opened the door and a young woman with straight dark hair and bright brown eyes looked up from the counter.

“Hello. Who might you be?” she asked as they all entered. When she saw Professor Flitwick and his father she smiled. “Filius! And Mr. Aglor! I haven’t seen the two of you since you came in for Filius’ wand! How have you been?”

“We have been well, Lady Borealis. We are here today for Mr. Longbottom and Mr. Slytherin to get new wands. Do you have time for two wands in one order?” Aglor asked. The woman nodded enthusiastically and turned towards the two young wizards.

“Alright, who’s first?” She looked between Casimir and Neville before Casimir pushed Neville forward.

“He is, Lady Borealis. My wand still functions for me, just not as well as it used to.” Neville looked at Casimir with wide eyes while Casimir just smirked and nodded his head.

“Alright. First, we choose wood, then core and then bind everything with your blood. Just hold your hand out over the woods and if you feel one reach out to your magic its ok to point or grab it. I, personally, will not be touching any of the components you react to with bare skin, Gloves and magic only.”

With this she pulled out three trays with different woods covering every available part. Neville did as she instructed and held his hand over each wood. When his hand hovered over a piece of reddish-brown wood, he couldn’t stop himself from automatically grabbing it.

“Well, I haven’t seen a reaction like that in a long time. Cinnamon wood. Alright. Cores next.” .” She directed the young man over to the selection of different wand cores. Most of the cores were in sealed vials, but some were displayed in small trinket boxes with velvet lining.

Neville repeated the process with the cores. When his hand hovered over a small pile of bones, he almost stabbed himself on them.

“A very interesting combination. Cinnamon wood with Magma Python Ribs. Alright, next I’ll need about five drops of blood in this vial.” Here she handed him a small crystal vial and he pricked his finger, letting five drops land inside.

“That…was insane. I never knew wands could be custom made start to finish like this.” Neville said as he took the paper towel from Lady Borealis.

Casimir just nodded as he stepped forward and repeated the process, having pistachio and wiggen tree wood react the most to him. . A double wood wand was almost as rare as the way Neville wand components had reacted, apparently, based on the wandmaker’s surprised expression. When it came time to choose the core Casimir didn’t even need to hover his hand over them. His magic rejected those being displayed, while reaching for another location in the shop.

“Lady Borealis? You’re not showing me all of the cores, are you?” Casimir asked.

“No, just the most common why?” Lady Borealis looked at Casimir as if he was some miracle child, and maybe he was.

“My magic isn’t reacting to any of them, its reacting to two of them in the case behind you. May I see them?” She looked at him with bright eyes and turned around pulling out a final tray of cores. This one only had six. Casimir however, only had eyes for two. His magic reacted on its own, picking up a Stygian hair and a Jersey Devil hair, floating them inches above the counter. “I’m going to assume my magic doing that means there’s no ifs ands or buts about this wand only working for me huh?” Casimir asked with a sheepish smile.

“None whatsoever. I’ll get right on these wands. If you want a custom hilt and wand holster let me know now,” The witch showed the two boys where the holsters were. Casimir settled on a grey and green holster made from the combined hides of a Ukrainian Iron Belly and a Romanian Longhorn while Neville settled on a simple black holster. They had both decided to let her have free reign on their wand design, since she was the expert.

The wands were completed quickly while they browsed around the shop’s wares. The shelves were piled with different holsters, wand polish, and cleaning cloths. They probably spent the most time looking at the posters on the walls showing off wand designs, both simple and incredibly complex.

“Alright, for Mr. Longbottom I went with vines on the wand hilt climbing about halfway up the wand and for Mr. Slytherin the hilt is wiggen tree wood with a simple snake coiled around it in pistachio wood as well. Anything else?” Lady Borealis looked justifiably proud of her creations as she described the wands to their new owners.

Casimir and Neville shook their heads, both very happy with the results. Before Neville could even reach for his wallet, Casimir had paid for everything.

“Consider this a gift for always being there for me Neville. Let’s head back.” Casimir said with a smile. The group of four thanked the wand maker and left to return to Gringotts. They were almost there when they heard a voice come from behind them.

“Harry! Harry dear! What are you doing out of school? And where is Ronald?” Casimir sighed and turned around with a blank expression on his face, barely keeping a sneer from forming on his lips. After all, this woman and family had been there for him in the past, but she had raised her children, and he was not going to be hated by anyone for what he was.

“I haven’t heard from you in so long!” Molly Weasley’s raised voice was attracting more attention than Casimir was comfortable with.

“Mrs. Weasley, it’s good to see you, Has Ronald not told you everything that’s happened since term started?” Casimir asked with a smile, albeit a forced one. “I’d be happy to catch you up to speed over a quick lunch?” She nodded enthusiastically and the five of them sat down at a small café. “So, Ronald and I are no longer friends. He took it badly when I was re-sorted into Ravenclaw, and I discovered some things over the summer that made our friendship strain to the breaking point. I know my real name, my birth parents, and even what I am. I will no longer associate with Ronald or Ginevra. The twins are cool though. They actually defended me against your perfect little Ronald.” Casimir ate his last bite of food as the rest of his group finished as well and set down payment. “Have a good day Mrs. Weasley. Or should I call you Aunt Molly?” With that, the group left before Mount Molly could erupt. Casimir wondered how long it would take her to send a Howler.

===END FLASHBACK===

“You actually did that?” Hermione turned to Neville. “He actually did that?” She repeated. Neville laughed and nodded his head. “Cas…that was reckless! How have you not been on the receiving end of…” Hermione trailed off as she looked up and saw two owls with red envelopes. One was headed towards the twins the other was headed right for the Ravenclaw table and Casimir. “Never mind…”

Casimir looked up and saw the red envelope and laughed.

“Does she think intimidation will work on me? Or do you think she got into contact with Ronald, and he told her what he found out?” Hermione shook her head as the owl and the howler it held landed in front of them. He smirked, ready for the entertainment to start.

Hermione shook her head as the owl and the howler it held landed in front of them.

“HARRY POTTER! HOW DARE YOU LIE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY! HOW DARE YOU SPREAD LIES ABOUT MY FAMILY! MY BROTHERS WERE NOT DISGUSTING CREATURES AND THEY MOST CERTAINLY DID NOT LIVE SUCH A HORRID LIFESTYLE AS TO BE GAY! CONSIDER THIS YOUR WARNING! ONE MORE TOE OUT OF LINE OR WORD AGAINST MY FAMILY AND I WILL SUE YOU FOR DEFEMATION AND LINE THEFT YOU ROTTEN BRAT!”

Casimir laughed as the howler finished and looked over at the twins who were trying not to laugh, especially at the smug look on their brother’s face. So, it was obvious that Ronald had tattled to his mother. Casimir stood up and walked over to the twins who looked at him with stiff faces for a moment, then broke laughing when they saw the grin on his face.

“Ronald, maybe you were right for contacting your mother, but what gives you the right to QUESTION my heritage and the proof of the Gringotts documents? You are nobody. Fred, George, thank you for sticking by me even if we haven’t talked often through the years. Let it be known you always have a place in my family…once I find them.” He looked towards the headmaster and saw a glint in the old man’s eye and knew he needed to train on his occlumency. He may be a natural, but he had no inkling of what to do with that.

-------D

Albus looked over at the Gryffindor table and listened as the brat talked. Of course, he would have realized that young Mr. Weasley had spoken with his mother. Albus didn’t need to see the look on Ronald’s face to know that he was fuming at what Harry had just said to his brothers.

Casimir…what a horrid name, Albus thought to himself as he returned to his tea. Albus knew that he needed to bring the brat back under his control in order to bring him back to the light. Getting him back into Gryffindor seemed almost impossible with how well he and Ms. Granger had settled in to Ravenclaw. Albus needed to find a way to get the boy back.

“Albus, why are you staring at Casimir so intently? Has he done something to upset you?” Professor McGonagall asked him with a slight glare as she turned towards him. The rest of the professors close to them also turned to look at him. He knew he needed to avoid another confrontation. These days it seemed like his only friend among the professors was Alastor.

“No, not at all. It just seems odd that his friendship with Mr. Weasley has gone downhill so quickly when they seemed fine over the summer. It is saddening to see, that’s all.” Albus put on his ‘old grandfather’ persona to make himself seem more innocent. “After all, they’ve been friends since their first year.”

“Well, Albus, it seems you haven’t been paying attention much as of late. They haven’t been friends since before the school year started.” Albus looked at her in shock just as the doors burst open.

-------D

Casimir turned towards the doors as they flew open, and he saw none other than Lucius Malfoy walking in with two of Casimir’s favorite people. He ran towards them and wrapped his arms around the two men in quick succession.

“Moony! Sirius! I thought…Sirius do you know who I actually am?” Casimir looked at his bearer, who he had started to call papa in his head, with a hopeful look in his eyes.

Sirius nodded. “I’ve known since last year. I’ve had to keep up a façade, and for that I apologize. Peter wasn’t the reason I escaped…” He trailed off when he saw Lucius shaking his head. “We’ll discuss this later. Right now, the board needs to meet with the heads of houses, Headmaster Dumbledore and you. Something about new positions and making things better.” Sirius hugged Casimir again who was standing shell shocked. After all, he saw Peter escape at the end of his third year and there was no way Sirius had been cleared when they had their last conversation unless he had been hiding it so as not to worry Casimir more.

“Precisely. With the backing of Lord Black, and with you being heir to two of the founders, it gives us more power to actually enact these changes. Now, I believe the headmaster has requested the meeting to take place in his office and has also requested that you not be there. We decided he could, for lack of better terminology, stick it. You are the heir to two families and need to be there per the school charter.” Lucius said as he started walking towards the head table once again. Casimir and the others followed him. “Headmaster. It’s time for the meeting. Lead the way.”

With that, Lucius and the others followed the headmaster up to his office. When they arrived and Casimir went to follow them inside, Dumbledore tried to stop him.

“Harry, my boy, this is a closed meeting.” Albus turned away and closed the door, warding it. As he was going to sit at the head of the table the door flew open, and a chair started to form. Albus turned to see Casimir stride into the room and sit in the chair that was now at one end of the table. It was an ornate chair with the Slytherin and Ravenclaw crests on either side of the back. “I had that door warded, Harry. How did you break the wards?” Casimir declined to answer. The headmaster started to move to the side and attempted to conjure his usual wingback chair, instead a stool appeared. He frowned, but wanted to get this farce of a meeting over with, so he just sat down. “Yes, well now that we’re all here let’s begin shall we?”

“It has come to the board’s attention that your muggle studies teacher is retiring. We also know that Professor Binns is still teaching. It is time for him to move on, Headmaster. We already have replacements for both. Also,” at this point Lucius looked towards Casimir. “With Casimir being the heir to both Slytherin and Ravenclaw we the Board have made the executive decision to give him personal quarters within the castle. He can ward them how he likes, and this is non-negotiable. Mr. Lupin, Lord Black, we will also be having one of you take over Professor McGonagall’s duties as head of Gryffindor house, so she is not overwhelmed with three titles to juggle.” Lucius looked at the others who all nodded.

“I only have one request, if possible. I would like to offer one of the extra rooms in the private quarters to Hermione. She’s my best friend and being away from her would be a little weird. And before anybody says anything about us being opposite gendered and all, I’m gay. She’s like my sister and absolutely nothing will happen between us.” Casimir made a point to look at the old coot as he sat very uncomfortably on the stool that Hogwarts had conjured for him after trying to take the spot at the head of the table. Lucius nodded his consent.

“Surely we can’t allow that. And surely the parents would revolt at Remus being back at the school?” Albus asked and looked towards Snape who had sat quietly throughout the meeting. Snape shrugged and looked at Remus who nodded. “Severus, you were the one who saw what happened and reported his transformation to me and the Board.”

“Why would I object to my mate being back at the school Albus?” Snape reached over and took Lupin’s hand and smiled a true smile, one the other teachers hadn’t seen since last year. “And if the board are the ones who requested him to come back shouldn’t that show something is not right in your supposed story?” Lupin smiled back and squeezed his mates hand.

“But…wait…you…” Albus looked at their joined hands and back to Lucius who had a smug smirk on his face.

“Hold up. Moony? And SNAPE?!” Casimir couldn’t hold back from blurting out. “Is that why…” He trailed off as he saw the warning look he was sent by Sirius, Remus and Snape. Casimir sat back in his chair and waited for the other heads of houses to speak.

“I personally have no problem with either Casimir having the quarters or Miss Black having her own room in them. Minerva, Pomona?” Professor Flitwick asked as he looked around the room. The two woman shook their heads showing that they had no issues either. “Severus?”

“Not at all. I think it would be best for him considering he is the heir to my house. Lucius, are we done here?” Severus responded.

“The only items left are deciding who will take over as Gryffindor head of house and what subjects they will be teaching. Any preferences?” Lucius looked at the two mean he had brought with them.

“I would like to take muggle studies. I spent a lot of time working in the muggle world due to the restrictions against werewolves. I would also like to take the head of house position, Minny you have too much on your plate as head of house, Deputy Headmistress and transfiguration professor,” Lupin answered. He looked towards Sirius who was trying to not so subtlety set up a prank to hit the headmaster with.

“I’ll take history of magic then. I have a mastery in the subject thanks to the prodding of my husband before I was sent to Azkaban. Plus, the students deserve to learn about more than just the Goblin Wars. I’m pretty sure Binns hasn’t changed a thing about what he teaches.” At this point, he turned towards Casimir who nodded in affirmation. “See? Win-win.”

“That concludes the business the Board had. Sirius, if you’d like to stay behind to have a conversation with Casimir you are more than welcome to. We must exorcise Professor Binns anyway before you can begin. and that will take a few hours at least.” Lucius stood up and strode from the office followed by the heads of houses.

“This is preposterous! I am the headmaster; I get to decide who teaches here and what positions they hold!” Albus yelled out after the retreating figures. Lucius paused and turned around.

“Headmaster, the muggle studies teacher wanted to retire before the start of the year, but you refused to let her. The board has decided that for these two positions you have dropped the ball and we needed to step in. Be prepared to have the ministry step in next.” With that he continued his walk from the office.

“Sirius! Can we talk? Seems like a lot is going to be changing around here.” Casimir asked as he stood and let the chair dissolve away. The teen walked up to the man who he had come to love in a short amount of time.

“Of course. Let’s find your new quarters and talk in there. Plus, I think Moony needs time with his mate. Come on Chaton. Wanna cause some mayhem on the way?” He missed the looks he received by slipping the nickname in there. Casimir just laughed as the door closed and once they were far enough away he hugged Sirius once again.

“You remember don’t you papa?”

“I remembered even last year. But we really do need privacy for this conversion.” Sirius answered. He didn’t want to say too much out in the open.

They continued the walk towards Casimir’s new quarters. Once they arrived the door opened and allowed them entry. The room was a mix of colors from all of the founders and Casimir was automatically drawn to the green of Slytherin and opened the door to a round room colored in greens and blacks. He saw a potion station as well as a small library and a beautiful black oak desk.

“Well…your dad would be happy with your choice, chaton. Leaning a little heavy on the Slytherin heir thing don’t you think?” Sirius joked.

“Well…I kind of have to make it up to him after destroying his horcrux in second year. That diary was no joke, and we obviously didn’t know about each other considering it was his 16-year-old self.” Casimir trailed off as Sirius started to laugh.

“That wasn’t his horcrux. I know what it actually is. That diary was a failed attempt at creating his own version of a Pensieve. So, no worries about having hurt him or anything. I actually have one as well. How do you even know about horcruxes?”

“Independent research. I borrowed a friend’s books about dark arts, and they were mentioned in there.” Casimir shrugged and sat down on the couch. Casimir pulled up the sleeve of his robe up and woke Apophis.

• Hey buddy. Time to meet my papa. And yes, you can shock him with your size but not a lot, ok? We don’t have much room here.§ Apophis hissed out a laugh and flew off of Casimir’s wrist, growing to about six feet and going up to Sirius.

“An Occamy…of all the things you could have gotten from that magical adoption it had to be the familiar bond with a damn Occamy. And what is his name?” Sirius asked as he stroked the serpents feathers.

“His name is Apophis, named after the Egyptian god of chaos. You should have seen what he did when we defended the Bulgarian team from a group of death eaters running rampant after the match. He thought wearing a mask of the one I killed would be a good idea.” Casimir responded as his familiar shrunk again and landed around his neck.

“Killed? You killed someone and didn’t need therapy? And well…how?”

Casimir looked at his papa and sighed. He knew this was going to be asked and yet, he wasn’t sure if could answer. He took a deep breath before continuing.

“Bombarda. Hit him in the chest. I still don’t know who it was. After the spell hit he was basically blood and dust. And honestly? I don’t feel regret for saving someone but at the same time, knowing I killed one of Dad’s followers fills me with a smidgen of guilt. I hope he doesn’t hold it against me.” Casimir shrugged and stroked Apophis’s head. Sirius looked at him and knew it was time for his own explanation.

“So… my knowing. I had a memory block placed on me right after James and your mom were killed.” Sirius shrugged at the look Casimir was giving him. “She didn’t give birth to you, but she was your mom. She loved you, even before she and James were placed under memory blocks and changes themselves. The story is that your dad went to kill them, and you, and that is the farthest from the truth I have ever heard. He went to fix their memories and bring you home. Someone,” at this Sirius looked straight up and huffed. “Someone had placed a trap on your crib. The trap is what nearly killed your dad and if not for his horcrux he’d have been dead. The backlash from the magic in the trap caused the collapse and gave you the scar. When your dad showed up…James and Lily were already dead. I know this is a shock, but it gets worse.

“After I found out what happened I knew who it had to have been that betrayed us to Dumbledore. This part of the story is at least partially true. Peter Pettigrew was a spy for Dumbledore. He betrayed us before we even knew what betrayal was. I did chase him down. I did go to Azkaban for his murder. The Peter you met was a golem. I created a horcrux myself that Halloween night when I killed him. After I was caught my belongings went to my next of kin, and that included my horcrux. It went to Remus and the summer before your third year…he showed up and had my horcrux with him. He was able to sneak it in and give it to me. It broke through the blocks, and everything came rushing back. I knew I needed to get to you hopefully, with you knowing who you were. But that didn’t happen until this summer, so I had to wait even longer. And then Phineas showed up and I had to act like the old coot’s lap dog still.” At this Sirius shuddered and stopped his monologue.

“So…how can we get dad back?” Casimir asked the first adult member of his immediate family he had back.

“I don’t know, chaton. But I’m sure we’ll think of something. Now, isn’t one of the other schools for the tournament showing up tonight? Should we head to the great hall?” Sirius countered and smirked as he saw the blush that started to appear on his sons face.

“S-sure. Let’s go.” Casimir was almost at the door when he remembered something. “Shit. Wards.” Casimir turned around and started his search for the ward stone; it took about ten minutes but eventually he was able to locate it. He made sure it was keyed to Hermione and himself and would add any others at a later date. “Now I’m ready.” The two wizards walked out of the room and Casimir set the passwords. One in parseltongue for himself and one for the others that would be tied to the wards in the future. As they descended the staircase they ran into Hermione.

“Hey! Where did you disappear to after the meeting? I was waiting by the dorm entrance for forever Cas!” She nearly yelled at the auburn-haired boy in front of her. Casimir gave her a sheepish look and rubbed the back of his neck.

“Sorry…papa and I went to my new rooms, organized by the Board so that I had no choice in taking them. And then me and papa started talking and-this should not be so easy to call you papa,” he paused, looking at Sirius with a very confused face. “Anyway, before I get ahead of myself on THAT topic; Hermione, I made a stipulation for me taking the rooms that I made sure was non-negotiable. The quarters I was given has a living room, library, and a kitchen and like…four bedrooms. I made sure you were allowed to use them too. Your own room that you have for the rest of the year without any other dorm mates to fight through in the morning…if you want it?” Casimir looked at his best friend with a hopeful look in his eyes. He knew he wouldn’t be able to stay somewhere his biggest supporter wasn’t.

“Oh…Casimir, thank you! I love our dorms in Ravenclaw tower but…it felt stuffy. I will gladly take you up on your offer. Now, come on! Durmstrang will be arriving shortly, and the headmaster wants all of us, students and professors, to be outside when they arrive. Plus,” she looked at his neck where Apophis was currently dozing. “I think he could use a flight, don’t you?”

Casimir nodded and they made their way outside into the frigid October air. Casimir was a bundle of nerves as the entire population of Hogwarts was waiting for some sign that their first guests would be arriving. He looked towards the lake when he saw a stronger than normal wave hit the sand. All of a sudden a ship that looked like it belonged in an old pirate movie broke through the surface.

As the ship finished rising from the lake and the walkway was lowered to the sand, Casimir couldn’t feel anything but excitement over who was about to be stepping off the imposing ship. He watched the students, looking for the one person he wanted to see. He didn’t care what others thought. He had come out to A LOT of people at once and now possibly the rest of the school depending on what happened when he saw him.

Casimir’s eyes narrowed as he saw Viktor step out followed by who he assumed was his headmaster. The teen looked to the side and saw Sirius visibly tense and heard a low growl rip its way from his papa’s mouth.

“Papa? Who is that? And why do you look like you want to rip his throat out?”

“That, Casimir, is Igor Karkaroff. He is a traitor just like Peter was, except instead of death he not only escaped Azkaban but threw multiple fellow Death Eaters under the bus, including Barty. Great kid but his dad…we don’t know how Barty turned out the way he did. Be careful with that man around.” Sirius glared at the traitor, already trying to think of the most vicious pranks he could torture him with.

 Casimir nodded and as he turned back towards the ship, his eyes locked with Viktor’s, and a smile started to form on both of their faces. Before either knew what they were truly doing, they were walking towards each other. Casimir didn’t think he’d be able to be patient and started to take off in a run towards his second favorite person in his life.

Viktor saw Casimir starting to run and matched him. Neither one realized that a certain headmaster was eyeing them like it was perfect and a certain redhead were watching them like they were freaks. Before they could meet Casimir jumped and Viktor caught him, hands landing under his thighs as Casimir wrapped around Viktor like a koala. Casimir hugged onto Viktor like he was all he needed, and he didn’t care who was watching or what people thought.

“Letters were starting to not be enough. It’s so good to see you my Little Eagle. My Svirep Letets.” Viktor said as he hugged Casimir close. Casimir truly did not care anymore. He decided to throw caution to the wind and pulled his head back so he could look into Viktor’s eyes to make sure they both wanted the same thing. “Yes, little eagle?” Viktor asked as he searched Casimir’s eyes. Casimir leaned forward and pressed his lips to Viktor’s in a hesitant and chaste kiss. Viktor closed his eyes as Casimir leaned away and surged forward for another kiss, much to the shock of everyone around them.

“Welcome to Hogwarts, Viktor.” Casimir laughed as Viktor started walking towards the entrance hall. As they passed Ron, Casimir made sure to look him dead in the eyes and give a wave and smirk. He felt Viktor pause and turned his head to see his very pompous and very blond cousin standing in front of them. “Yes cousin?” Casimir asked as Viktor slowly lowered him, so his feet were back on solid ground.

“Going to introduce your family, or not?” Draco asked. Casimir finally saw that Hermione was there, her eyes wide and mouth slack jawed. She saw him looking and quickly snapped her jaw shut with an audible click. Casmir sighed and shook his head.

“I’m sorry for him. This is my cousin, Draco Malfoy and behind him is my cousin Hermione Black. She is my best friend and well…Draco and I are working on it. They’re family and-“ Casimir stopped talking as he stared behind Viktor. Viktor turned around to see a man with shoulder length black hair and grey eyes walking up to them with a very, very angry glint in his eyes and his mouth in a thin line. “And I was hoping he wasn’t paying attention…”

“Casimir Vega Black-Slytherin. Do you even know what seeing that does to your old man?! I mean good on you for scoring THE Viktor Krum, but next time maybe don’t eye fuck him in front of the entire Hogwarts AND Durmstrang population, yeah?” Sirius asked as he finally reached them.

“Papa, I’m sorry! I wasn’t thinking.” Casimir looked only slightly ashamed if the smirk on his face was anything to go by. He looked towards Viktor who, shockingly, was not completely cowered in fear.

“Sir, your son is very important to me. Not only did he save my life, but he also kept me company this summer, through his letters. I vant you to know that I vill never hurt Casimir, as a friend or partner. He is too important to me.” Viktor looked Sirius in the eye as he spoke, and Sirius nodded curtly.

“Fine, but I’m not even the one you need to convince. His dad is much more protective.” As Sirius turned, he muttered under his breath something that shocked everyone in their small group. “Maybe if you turned over your traitorous bastard of a headmaster, you’d win some brownie points.” He walked away not realizing that they had overheard him.

“Did he just-?” Hermione stopped as she saw Casimir looking at Viktor like he was afraid. Afraid they were over before they even had a chance to begin. Viktor turned towards Casimir and took his hand.

“Your…papa? He is a very interesting man. Thankfully, I don’t like Karkaroff, and I do wonder what he meant about him being a traitorous bastard. But, oh vell. That is for later. Show me around your school Svirep Letets?” Casimir sighed and took the lead, showing Viktor all the important parts of the school. As they neared the great hall Casimir went to drop Viktor’s hand, scared of the reactions from earlier. “Casimir, are you ok?”

“Yes, with you and when it’s not as crowded. Earlier was definitely not in character for me at all. I’m just nervous. What if…What if they react badly? And I already know one person will for sure react in the worst way possible.” Casimir looked at Viktor who squeezed his hand gently as they followed Hermione over to the Ravenclaw table. Once Viktor sat it was like a flood. The rest of the students from Durmstrang all sat down mixed among the Ravens while the other three tables had no guests except for a sparse few at Slytherin.

“Would it be ok if I vent to classes with you my little eagle? I don’t have any classes while here and I vant to spend time vith you.” Viktor turned to Casimir who had the goofiest grin on his face.

“I’d really like that. I will warn you now though, I have a former friend that hates me and idolizes you. Be prepared for-“ Casimir cuts himself off as the aforementioned person walks up to the Ravenclaw table.

“Harry! It’s so cool that you kept in touch with Viktor! Want to introduce your best friend?” Ron asked expectantly like there hadn’t been a rift between the two of them for months.

“Ronald. Didn’t learn your lesson you tried ‘talking’ to me? Or did you want more stunners thrown your way? I’m sure we can arrange that.” Casimir looked towards the red head and smiled a sickly-sweet smile.

“That was all a joke between friends!”

“Is this the friend you vere talking about? He seems a little…unhinged? What is his problem vith you?” Viktor asked.

“He’s mad because I left the house he’s in, as well as who my fathers were. And the fact that they had Zmey inheritances. This in turn led to my being the direct heir to one side of his family as well as apparently having a Zmey inheritance myself. Do you have a creature inheritance Viktor?” Casimir replied.

“I do. My mom is Greek, and we have a Hydra inheritance from her father’s side of the family. Would you like to see some of the traits?” Viktor asked and started to stand up.

“OH! Please? I’ve heard that some witches and wizards have traits that don’t disappear even if they aren’t in their full creature form. I recently learned I have a sphinx inheritance and I’ve been trying to learn all I can since then!” Hermione squealed out in delight.

“Ignore her,” Casimir laughs. “When she’s in research mode it’s all she can talk about. We would love to see babe.” At this, Viktor took his outer coat off and his shirt and turned around. Across his shoulder blades and tail bone were red scales mixed with black and brown.

“The scales are always there, and they are also vhat my scales look like in full form. My mom has purple scales. And that thing about the nine heads? Not true, at least when it comes to us with the inheritance, we max out at six.” Viktor put his shirt back on and left his coat off as he wrapped an arm around Casimir’s shoulders.

“But…but…the rules about creatures in Quidditch!” Ron spluttered as he looked between Casimir and Viktor. “You can’t be on a team with a creature inheritance!”

“That is a thing in Britain only. In Bulgaria ve have no such rules. Half of my team has an inheritance. As do most teams. Vhy do you think Britain hasn’t von the world cup in so long?” Viktor barely turned his head to look at Ron and shrugged. “Little eagle, vhen is breakfast?”

“Breakfast starts at 6 in the morning and our first lesson tomorrow is at 7:30. ‘Mione? What is our first class?”

“First up is Runes tomorrow. Then we have charms and transfiguration. Then lunch and then we’re free. Short day for the arrival and so we can have time tomorrow to get to know them.” Hermione responded without looking up from her book on inheritances that Sirius had given her from the Black library.

“Ever have a question about my schedule I can’t answer just ask ‘Mione. She has the best memory ever. Pretty sure it’s an actual family trait, we just aren’t sure where it comes from.” Casimir looked at Viktor and smiled as he turned back to his dinner.

“Don’t ignore me! Viktor you don’t want to be seen with this freak!” Casimir saw red and turned around and stood up wand drawn in one fluid motion.

“What did I say about calling me that word you absolute bastard?!” Casimir yelled out, not caring who was watching. And as he looked around, Casimir noticed the entire hall was looking at them. He slowly took in deep breaths and lowered his wand. “Leave, Ronald. And don’t you ever try to speak to me again. If you do I will file a complaint against you. And if your Banshee of a mother ever tries to contact me again, either through mail or in person again, I will file a restraining order against both of you. Leave.” Casimir finished his rant and sat back down, leaning in to Viktor’s side as the rest of the hall sat there stunned.

“I take it he is the one you warned me against?” Viktor asked. Casimir nodded silently and kept picking at his plate.

“Nope, not doing this. Cas, eat. They can’t touch you ever again and Ronald,” she spit his name out like it was poison, “is a bloody imbecile. You’re safe now. Sirius is here and we’re looking for your dad. They. Can’t. Hurt. You.” Hermione looked up and grabbed Casimir hand as she said this and made him look her in the eyes. “I will find a way to make sure you don’t go back there. You’re my best friend and my cousin. I will work with Sirius and Lucius to make sure of it.” She dropped his hand and went back to her book, marking her page. She put it away and walked right up to the head table.

Casimir and Viktor watched her go and have a small conversation with Professor Flitwick and Sirius who seemed to grin in an almost feral way. The three of them walked by the Ravenclaw table and Sirius put his hand on Casimir’s shoulder as they passed. Casimir and Viktor watched them leave towards the library. Viktor took Casimir’s hand and stood up and walked him back to his rooms. When they arrived Casimir hissed the password and followed Viktor inside his rooms, like a shell of a person.

“Svirep Letets, vhat is vrong? Vhat was ‘Mione talking about? Talk to me, please?” Casimir shook his head at Viktor and sat down. Twenty minutes later Sirius, Professor Flitwick and Hermione walked into the rooms. Sirius sat on Casimir’s other side and held him and before they knew it Casimir was gripping Sirius’ shirt and sobbing.

“Don’t let me go back…please. I won’t be a freak anymore. I’ll be good. Don’t make me go back into the cupboard. I’m sorry…” Sirius looked towards Viktor who shook his head. He then looked towards Hermione and Professor Flitwick. They looked at each other and delved into the story of what they saw in Casimir’s memories. As they talked both Sirius and Viktor grew more and more angry and heartbroken. At the end of the tale a very large black dog was growling and pacing the room and a very pissed off Hydra was curled around Casimir like the entire world was out to get the auburn-haired boy in the center. Thankfully, Flitwick had locked and warded the room so no one could get in or out until he let the wards fall. The two men in front of him were proof enough that Dumbledore’s time was limited. Sirius was the first to shift back, but his eyes were still glowing an eerie bright yellow and Viktor was still curled around Casimir like an overprotective watchdog.

“I vill burn their house to the ground! How dare they do that to a child! No vonder he was having flashbacks! Vhere are these despicable people?” Viktor all but yelled as he felt Casimir shift in his pseudo-slumber. Viktor pulled him to his chest and held him as he woke up.

“Why is everyone so upset?” Casimir asked as he went to rub his eyes he felt the dried tear tracks. “No no nononononono…what did I say?” He looked at Hermione and turned his head towards Viktor, whose eyes still promised a life of pain to those who hurt his eagle. “’Mione? Professor? What. Did. I. Say?”

“Casimir…you…you mentioned the cupboard. Viktor and Sirius went full creature when we told them what the Dursley’s did. I know you didn’t want people to know but they needed to! Please don’t be mad. I’m sorry…” Hermione replied. She looked at Casimir like he was going to explode on her and he did, just not in the way she was expecting. Casimir leaped out of Viktor’s hold and hugged Hermione like she was the best person on earth in that moment.

“Thank you. I wasn’t sure if I could tell them. Thank you ‘Mione.” Casimir looked around the room and his eyes grew wide as he saw the scales lining Viktor’s arms. “Ummm those weren’t there earlier tonight?” He asked as he sat next to Viktor and ran his hands across the new scales.

“Vhen I shifted something happened. My Hydra side couldn’t believe what he was smelling. It…I don’t know how to describe it. One whiff and I vas a goner I had to protect you. The smell came from you, little eagle. You smelled like…” Viktor trailed off as he tried to come up with what Casimir apparently smelled like. Casimir took a sniff of himself and was very confused. All he could smell was his deodorant.

“Did he smell like a mix of the street after it rains and a warm summer morning?” Sirius asked Viktor who whirled towards him and nodded fervently. “Well…shit. Now I can’t be too overbearing towards you.”

“Would someone please tell me what the fuck is going on? Sorry professor…” Casimir said sheepishly. Professor Flitwick was very obviously ignoring the language as he smiled at Viktor and Casimir.

“Your scent is unique to you and your creature has no bearing on it. Only three people in the world can smell it besides you, and you won’t be able to yet because you haven’t come into your inheritance. Those three people are your parents and your fated mate. Everyone has a fated mate but not everyone meets their mate. And some mates don’t have creature inheritances. Look at me and your dad, for instance. He doesn’t have an inheritance, but your fathers did. And that whole situation is another story. Point being, Viktor here can smell your scent so he probably is your fated mate.” Sirius looked at Viktor who was nodding, as if he had heard the same information and Hermione was taking notes as if her life depended on it. Casimir, however, was sitting down shocked at the implications.

“Did you know before this Viktor? Did you know we were mates at the Cup?” Casimir asked. Viktor shook his head and sat down next to him.

“I had no idea. We can only figure it out in our creature form, not our human form. That being said, now that I have smelled you I can’t turn it off.” Viktor kissed Casimir’s forehead and pulled him into his side. “Vas it really as bad as ‘Mione and your Professor said?” Casimir nodded against Viktor’s chest and started to drift off again. “I think ve should wait and talk about this later. Sirius is it possible to pull him from classes tomorrow because of this?”

“I will handle that. I am his head  of house and can pull him when needed and after tonight he will need it. Ms. Black, if you can get his assignments for him and Viktor, you can stay in the castle for the time being and if your headmaster has any issue tell him the truth, that Mr. Slytherin is your mate. They cannot argue against that. Now, I will be off to see what has happened to Mr. Weasley. Sirius, if you’d join me. After all, you are a professor as well as the father of the student affected.” With that he walked out of the rooms followed by a still pissed Sirius. Hermione and Viktor looked at each other and nodded. They would do anything to protect the boy in Viktor’s arms.

=====D

When Sirius walked into the great hall behind Professor Flitwick the first thing he noticed was two heads of red hair yelling at another head pf red hair. He started to march over there when a hand on his shoulder stopped him. He turned around and saw Professor McGonagall shaking her head. He stopped and instead turned his yellow gaze on the head table where he saw Professor Dumbledore sitting.

“Minnie…what the hell? I had to watch my son have what was basically a PTSD attack! His cousin, professor and boyfriend all had to hear him beg to not be put back in a fucking cupboard! I barely know my son and he was acting like it was me that did that to him! The Dursley’s?! What the fuck was Dumbledore thinking?!” Sirius didn’t care how loud he was being, thankfully the Weasley clan was louder, and all eyes were trained on the twins as they yelled at their younger brother.

“I didn’t even know until last week Sirius. He didn’t trust anyone after he was refused when he asked to stay here over the summer. And…Snape not knowing who he is didn’t help. We all thought he was James’ son. Now that the truth is out he doesn’t need to go back. You’re here and he can go back home, where he belongs. I’ll even fight for that for you. Now, we have a week to prepare for the next arrivals. This is not going to look good if we can’t at least…pretend…to be cordial with Albus. He only has one friend on staff currently and only one of the houses stand with him. Casimir has a plan for ousting him. Help us prepare for Beauxbatons academy and Halloween night. I know it’s a hard night for you.” At this she pulled Sirius into a hug and whispered in his ear. “He’ll be back, and he will be so proud of the man Casimir has become. Just…make sure he doesn’t randomly kill people yes?” Sirius stared after his old professor with a slack jaw. She had never been so blatant in her support before. She kept appearances up better than most of the actual death eaters.

Sirius walked up to the head table and right up to Dumbledore. When he stood on front of him he cleared his throat and Dumbledore looked at him and then away, something Sirius didn’t take too kindly.

“Albus. Now.” Sirius growled and that’s when Professor Dumbledore decided to pay attention to him.

“Sirius, my boy. What can I do for you?” Sirius growled and walked towards the antechamber of the great hall. Albus followed him and the second the door closed Sirius lit into him.

“How dare you not tell me that Harry was being harassed by his supposed best friend! How dare you send him back to his aunt’s knowing they were abusing him! How could you Albus?! He’s Harry Potter! If news of this gets out it will not end well for anyone involved! You could lose your position and You-know-Who will find someone to send in here to take over! What were you THINKING?!” Sirius had to hide the smug look that threatened to cross his features as he saw the reality hit the headmaster.

“I…I don’t know Sirius. But with you free he won’t have to go back. It’s over.”

“It better be.” Sirius walked out of the antechamber and straight to his new quarters near the History of Magic classroom. He had to make sure the old coot couldn’t see through his façade.

=====D

Damn. I have to think of something. Harry needs to go back to that house. Dumbledore thought to himself. Sirius would be expecting young Harry to go with him at the start of summer break but that couldn’t happen. Thankfully he had time to plan a way to get the brat to that house. If Harry was going to come back to the light he needed to see Dumbledore as a savior from the abuse. Maybe…just maybe his old friend could help. He straightened his robes and walked out as if nothing had happened and sat down next to Moody who hadn’t moved from his spot near the center of the table.

“Alastor, if I may have a word with you later?”

“Of course, Albus. When do you need to see me?” Moody asked.

“Say…tonight? My office at 8 o’clock? I have something that you can help me with.”

“I’ll see you then.” The two men turned back towards their plates and continued dinner while keeping a close eye on the Ravenclaw table where a certain auburn-haired boy never returned.

=====D

Casimir ended up staying out of class for two days. Viktor and Hermione took shifts watching over him and trying to get him out the funk that Ron had put him in. They weren’t sure what to do but they knew they had to try. Finally, three days after the incident Casimir went to class, Viktor looming like a shadow at every turn and making sure Ron didn’t come near him.

“Viktor, I’m ok. I guess the twins decided that they no longer claimed him as their brother and, as much as she hates me, his mom told him in no uncertain terms that he was being a prat. I don’t think he’s going to try anything like that again. And if he does well…I’m learning a lot of prank spells from my papa that are more a nuisance than anything. He won’t teach me more harmful ones yet.” Casimir huffed out a breath, and Viktor let out a chuckle.

“He doesn’t vant to see you in trouble, that is all. I have seen him practice the more harmful spells. They are very strong.” Viktor took Casimir’s hand as they walked onto the grounds towards the lake. It was a Friday and lessons had ended about an hour earlier. It was easier to avoid Ron during the school day seeing as they only had once class together but after school was a different story. Hermione, the twins, Draco and Neville were already waiting at the lake for them, and they needed to hurry. They were almost there when they saw a white beam of light headed their way. Before Casimir could raise his shield Viktor stepped in front of him and took the spell to the chest, a gash starting to form and drip blood.

“I swear to…Viktor!” Casimir didn’t realize that his shout had been heard by their group, as well as a couple of others and a small crowd had begun to form. “Will someone please get a professor? I don’t know who fired that spell and I am not in the best of moods right now!” The crowd still hadn’t moved by the time Casimir was speaking so he decided to do exactly what he had done at the cup when he saved Viktor’s life last time. “Expecto Patronum!” The patronus flew from the tip of his wand and landed on his shoulder. “Take a message to Professors Flitwick, McGonagall and Black. Tell them a visiting student has been attacked. Please, hurry.” The eagle flew off and Casimir didn’t care if it was one by one or all at once. He needed his papa and the two teachers he knew cared.

“Cas, let me look at it. Please?” Hermione asked from next to him. He looked up and nodded and saw the other four members of their group standing around them giving them privacy. He didn’t know when or how Neville and Draco became friends but right now he was glad to have both of them there. Hermione removed Casimir’s hands from Viktor’s chest and suppressed a gasp. The cut was growing, and more blood was flowing out as more time passed. She felt a tug on her magic and reached out to feel her magic around her like she had been studying to do. The second she did she felt her magic start to heal Viktor; not enough to bring him back to one hundred percent but enough to stop the blood loss from getting worse. She didn’t realize that Madame Pomfrey was with the professors, nor did she notice the green glow emanating from her hands.

“Ms. Black. Do you know what you just did?” Madam Pomfrey asked as she knelt next to the group. Hermione shook her head and sat down, suddenly feeling very drained. “You just performed a very advanced healing spell wordlessly and wandlessly. Your magical core cannot handle that. Onto a stretcher with you. Sirius, Minerva, can you please load up Mr. Krum onto one as well? They need the hospital wing now.” Casimir watched as two of his favorite people were led away.

“I swear, once I find who did this and tried to kill me, they will pay.” His magic flared up and suddenly the temperature dropped even more than it normally should have and Apophis was behind him at full size. “Draco, are any of the Professors able to track a magical signature?” Draco shook his head.

“No, but my dad can. Sadly, he’s not here right now and I don’t think we have access to a floo-“ Draco cut himself off as Casimir jumps onto Apophis’ back.

“My room is connected. Lets go get your dad.” Draco jumped on after him and they flew off towards the castle. When they landed Apophis shrunk down to a more manageable size and flew ahead of the two boys making sure the way was clear. When they ended up at the portrait that guards Casimir’s rooms, Casimir hissed the password and they rushed inside. Draco dropped to his knees in front of the fire place and threw in the floo powder and called out for his dads study.

“Draco! What is going on? And how are you using a floo connection? You are supposed to be at school!”

“Dad! This is important! Someone fired a very nasty cutting curse at Casimir, but Viktor stepped in front of it! We didn’t see who fired it and none of the professors can detect magical signatures as far as I am aware. I know it’s a long shot with us being at Hogwarts, but can you please come try to figure out who it was?” Draco rushed out and barely had enough time to stand up and out of the way before Lucius was stepping through.

“Why does this magic feel so…” Lucius turned as he trailed off and saw Casimir struggling to contain his magic. His hair was once again rolling in waves and his eyes were brighter than they had ever been. A slight wind was starting to pick up and the books and papers that had been sitting on the table were swirling around Casimir and being torn to shreds. “Draco…is there something you forgot to mention when you told me he wanted to apologize?”

“Huh…” Draco looked between his dad and Casimir. “OH! Yes, father. He is the Heir to Slytherin as you know. I’m shocked you didn’t put the pieces together sooner. His dad is the Dark Lord.” Draco grabbed Casimir’s hands and helped calm him down. “Now, the magical signature Father?”

“Of course, lead the way.” The three of them walked towards the grounds and soon found a sight that would’ve been comical if not for the fact that there was a family squabble going on for some unknown reason.

Chapter Text

Casimir struggled to hold in his laughter as he saw Fred and George defending him, even if they didn’t need to. Ron and Ginevra were standing in front of them screaming right back in their faces.

“It wasn’t either of us! That was a dark curse! We can’t use dark magic without it hurting us in some way!” Ron yelled as his brothers drew their wands. Before anybody could utter another word, Lucius stepped in.

“Weasley’s. Your siblings are telling the truth. Neither one of them could have cast this curse, but not due to it being dark magic. Dark and light have nothing to do with type of spell, more your core. Yes, you can cast dark magic but it won’t be as powerful as someone with a dark core. That being said, the signature matches none of you four. Give me a few minutes.” Lucius closed his eyes and started to meditate while brushing his magic against the gathered students.

When he opened his eyes, they automatically narrowed in on a Gryffindor student trying to hide in the crowd.

“You. What’s your name and year level?” Lucius asked. The second he was finished speaking the student tried to run. “Levioso.” Lucius intoned, stopping the student in his tracks. “I suggest you answer me before Professor McGonagall shows back up.” The student shuddered at the thinly veiled threat and answered.

“Cormac McLaggen. I’m a fifth year.”

“And do tell, where did you learn such a dark curse at such a young age?” Lucius asked as he slowly lowered the boy back to the ground.

“My father is an Auror, he showed me a memory of it being used. I figured it would be perfect to take Potter down.” McLaggen bragged, failing to notice both his new head of house as well as Professor McGonagall standing behind him.

“His name is Casimir Black-Slytherin, Mr. McLaggen. Two months of detention as well as 200 points from Gryffindor. And that’s just to start. You may very well be looking at expulsion over this. Follow me.” McLaggen paled as he turned around.

“But Professor-“ He was cut off with a silencing charm and the two professors in front of him shook their heads.

“This was a disgusting attack on a fellow student. You injured an invited guest. Expulsion will be the least of your worries.” The trio walked away as the group dispersed, except for the Weasley children who continued to glare at each other.

“If that was all I was needed for, I will be heading home. Draco, a word?” Lucius and Draco walked off to the side while Casimir sank to the ground. After their conversation ended, Draco seemed to have just appeared in front of Casimir.

“Come cousin, I believe we have people to visit in the hospital wing.” He pulled his cousin up and they walked to the hospital wing to see the two people that suffered for Casimir.

“Mr. Slytherin, they’ve both been asking after you. I hope you’re ready for the questions they have prepared, there are quite a few.” Madame Pomfrey said as the two boys walked into the room. Casimir nodded and sat between the two beds, grasping Viktor’s hand while Draco shook his head at the public affection.

“I think I will leave you to the questions, Merlin knows I won’t have the patience.” Draco said before turning on his heel and walking away.

“Vhat happened? Who vould do that?” The Bulgarian asked.

“It was Cormac McLaggen. He decided I needed to be taken down a peg. Are you ok? Why did you step in front of that spell?” Before he could continue however, Viktor squeezed his hand.

“Because you vere in danger. Besides, your medi-vitch is quite skilled. She said I vould be better in a few hours.” Casimir looked to Hermione who nodded.

“We should both be out of here before dinner. What’s going to happen to him?” She asked.

“For now, he lost 200 points and gained two months of detention; however, expulsion is on the table.” Casimir answered before looking around the room. When he saw that the coast was clear, he clambered onto the bed next to Viktor and laid his head on his chest. “I was so scared. Can we talk about something else?” Hermione didn’t miss a beat when presented with a perfect opportunity.

“When will we go through our inheritance Viktor? I’ve been so curious! I had a block on mine, so, I should come into it at school during our fifth year, isn’t that dangerous?”

“Not at all. A pulse of magic vhen your inheritance hits is the only thing that vould happen, however depending on the size of your core that pulse could greatly vary in strength.” Viktor responded. The two heard a soft snore come from between them and saw Casmir had quickly fallen asleep in the few minutes he wasn’t part of the conversation.

Madame Pomfrey came over and smiled at the sight before her. They woke him up and the trio walked down to the Great Hall in order to make it in time for dinner.  As they walked through the entrance, all eyes turned towards them; most with sympathy but one specific table looked at them with barely concealed hatred. They took their seats at the Ravenclaw table and were quickly hidden from view. The students ate in silence and as the night wound down, everyone went their separate ways, anxious for the days to come.

--HPVK--

It had been a week since the attack and Hogwarts was finally returning to a sense of normalcy. The Gryffindors finally realized what actually happened and stopped glaring at Casimir and Viktor, except for Ron and Ginny. Classes were once again cancelled for the day however, for tonight Beauxbatons Academy was arriving. Tonight needed to go perfect, at least according to all of the teachers. Viktor was on high alert; more people meant more threats to his little eagle.

“Please promise to be careful Svirep Letets. I only know a few people from France and they may not be here with their school. I hope they are however, ve could use them for vhen ve travel the vorld and don’t vant to shell out money for a hotel. And on top of that, ve may need allies here in Hogwarts as vell.” Viktor said as they walked down to the great hall from their personal quarters.

“I will be. But we can't control how everyone will react, especially once I come out as my father’s son. I…need to show you the result of the Gringotts papers.” Casimir reached into his school bag and pulled out the paper and handed it to the Bulgarian.

“Ah. So that is vhat your papa meant vhen he called Kakaroff a traitor. I think I vill get these…brownie points,” his voice held an unasked question, “that he mentioned.” Viktor looked between Casimir and Hermione who nodded.

“Brownie points are basically nothing. It just means you would gain favor with my father for turning in a traitor. We’re still trying to figure out how to revive him. My papa said once he knows something he would let me know.” Casimir explained. As they continued eating conversation flowed until Dumbledore stood up and waited for silence to fall upon the great hall.

“Today, our friends from Beauxbatons Academy will be joining us. I hope that you will show them all the same kindness you have shown our guests from Durmstrang. I expect everyone here to be waiting outside the entrance doors tonight. Enjoy your day off.” After his small speech, Dumbledore sat down and turned towards Moody and continued their conversation.

After they ate, the trio plus Neville and Draco went to sit by the black lake, something they have done often in the last ten days and enjoyed some time to study and relax. As they sat down, Casimir started playing with his wand when an idea struck him.

“So…who wants to learn an advanced spell? I have one that is definitely useful, for a lot of reasons.” Casimir looked around at the four faces in his group and saw curious looks on all of them. “Viktor, I’m pretty sure you know it but,” Casimir shrugged, “no clue until we try.”

“Is it the patronus charm?” Hermione asked with the fervor she always had when presented with new knowledge. Casimir nodded and held his wand a loft.

“I do know this charm Svirep Letets. Vould you like help teaching your friends?” Viktor offered.

Casimir nodded once again before trying to formulate a quick lesson.

“Alright, so for starters, you need a memory of pure joy or love. The stronger the positive emotion the stronger your patronus. These things can change, by the way. My patronus was a stag, but now it is an imperial eagle.” Here he looked at Viktor and smiled. “From there its all about practice. Here, I’ll show you guys. Expecto Patronum.” A silver eagle flew from the tip of his wand and soared around the group until it landed on Casimir’s shoulder. “Give it a try.”

“I already know mine is going to be a bird as well. Family trait.” Draco said as he raised his wand. “Expecto Patronum.” Draco had not been lying. His patronus was not fully corporeal yet but a beak was forming and Casimir barely held back a laugh.

“Good to know. Hermione?” His best friend seemed shy all of a sudden and when she attempted to cast it, only a small wisp of white dropped from the tip of her wand. She groaned in frustration. “Like I said, practice. That and choosing a different memory. Sometimes the one you think will work won't and you have to go through some trial and error. Neville?”

“Expecto Patronum.” Casimir had a feeling what Neville’s memory would be but no one was prepared to see a dragon, an Antipodean Opaleye glowing in the white light of a patronus.

“Umm…I’m assuming magical creatures aren’t normal?” Neville asked. As soon as the words left his mouth the spell disappeared and everyone present looked at him with differing levels of shock.

“From my research they are very rare forms, Neville.  That was amazing!” Hermione said and wrapped Neville in a hug. Neville blushed and stuttered and before anyone could react, Draco walked up to him and wrapped his arm around the blond boys shoulders.

“I hate you. My namesake is your patronus. But, I will admit, that was an amazing display of magic. And to think, people thought you were a near squib.” Draco did not mention he used to be one of those people, but apparently a fast friendship had formed between the two even with their rocky beginnings.

“Alright, I will help Draco. Viktor, Neville? Would you help Hermione? Oh! And Viktor, please show us your patronus?” Viktor obliged and the second the spell left his lips a beautiful white osprey burst from his wand. Casimir followed the bird as it flew around before disappearing.

“It used to be a Kodiak bear. I wonder why it changed.” He looked towards Casimir who just shrugged. They continued their teaching until Draco suddenly shouted in excitement.

“It’s a hummingbird! I knew it was going to be a bird!” Draco looked smug as his small bird flew around the area and landed on Draco’s shoulder.

“You're….not mad that it’s a hummingbird?” Casimir asked. Draco just shook his head as the silver light dissipated. Casimir shrugged as they all helped Hermione, hoping to make the three of them all have corporeal forms by the end of the impromptu lesson. As it was getting darker suddenly the shore of the lake they were on suddenly lit up again. A Persian cat burst forth from Hermione’s wand and coiled its way around all of their legs before disappearing. The five of them made the walk back up to the entrance hall to meet up with the rest of the students from both Hogwarts and Durmstrang to wait for the final arrivals.

“Hello Casimir. By the way my ex is going to be here. She’s going to be a hostage for the tournament. The wrackspurts let me know.” Casimir turned around and smiled seeing Luna and decided not to ask what she meant. He learned fairly quickly that he didn’t want to know what those creatures were. Suddenly they heard a gasp from their left.

“There! A carriage!” Madame Hooch said as she pointed in the direction that the carriage was arriving from. Almost as one entity, the group turned and stared as a powder blue carriage pulled by large, winged horses slowly drew closer. Casimir grabbed Viktor’s hand and nearly jumped when he heard the wing beats from the horses.

“Those are Abraxans. They’re the largest winged horses around. My grandfather Abraxas was partly named after them, due to my great grandfathers business of breeding champion Abraxans.” They all turned towards Draco who turned a slight shade of pink. “Sorry…” Casimir smiled at him encouragingly.

“That’s why you chose to take care of magical creatures, isn’t it?” Hermione asked the blond. Draco just nodded and turned an even more vivid shade of pink. By this point the carriage had landed and the door opened. A woman taller than Hagrid stepped out of the house-sized carriage and towards Dumbledore.

“Dumblydoor. ‘ow good to see you again.” She looked around and noticed the students from Durmstrang. “and ‘ow long has Karkaroff been here?”

“Madame Maxine. He and his students have only been here a week due to their longer travel. We have not moved forward as we waited for your school's arrival.” The new students followed Dumbledore into the school followed by the Hogwarts contingent. As they sat at their respective tables chatter started among the three schools. Viktor and Casimir were in their own little world when Draco walked over and unceremoniously dropped onto the bench next to them.

“Alright, will someone please tell me where you guys disappeared to the other day with Cousin Sirius? Neville won't say anything and you guys haven’t brought it up.” He asked as he loaded up his plate.

“We had to figure some things out and I showed them memories of some of the things I've been through. That’s all. Now, what the hell are we going to do? We all know the pattern of my years here at Hogwarts. First year it was the troll, second year was Mrs. Norris and third year was Sirius slashing the Fat Lady’s portrait. This year, the names are being chosen and I just know something is going to happen,” Casimir said, fed up with Fate playing with his life. The rest of the students, specifically those from Beauxbatons, looked at Harry as if he was slightly crazy.

“It’s true. Every year something happens to the school or Casimir on Halloween, almost like a curse,” Luna piped up from next to Hermione. The Beauxbatons students all gaped before one of the older students looked over towards them and saw a pot of stew in front of Viktor. She pointed at it and with a very heavy accent asked a simple question.

“Pass the bouillabaisse?”

Chapter Text

Casimir looked at the student with a dumb expression marring his face.

“Did…did you just ask us to pass some stew after hearing that something bad usually happens to me on Halloween?!” He asked the girl. She nodded and Casimir could only look on in a state of shock before numbly grabbing the pot and passing it to the girl. “Ok then…”

“My name is Fleur Delacour. You are Casimir, but who else is with you? I see who I assume to be Viktor Krum,” Fleur nodded in Viktor’s direction who simply nodded back and took Casimir’s hand under the table. “And…is that Luna? Oh! It’s so good to see you again! How are you?” Casimir looked between the two blonds for a few seconds before his jaw dropped in a very undignified manner.

“You guys dated didn’t you?” He asked. Luna blushed and hid her face while Fleur laughed at his look.

“We did. We’ve been writing letters since we broke up because we ended on very cordial terms.” With that said, Fleur turned to Hermione. “And what’s your name?”

“Hermione Black. It’s a pleasure to meet you Mademoiselle Delacour. I’m Casimir’s cousin.” Hermione held out her hand and Fleur shook it before conversation among the five of them flowed as if they’d known each other for years. It was easy and simple and Casimir had never felt more free until a voice from behind him made him freeze.

“You are the most gorgeous girl I’ve ever seen. My name is Ron Weasley and I would be honored if you went on a date with me,” Ron reached forward and attempted to grab her wrist.

“Don’t you dare.” Casimir sent a stinging hex, hitting Ron’s hand when it was only inches away from Fleur. “Miss Delacour is a guest. She deserves better than you grabbing at her so disrespectfully. If I see you near her again I will do much worse.” Casimir’s magic had begun swirling in the air, the scent of ozone filling the air and static electricity running across the skin of those closest to him.

“30 points from Ravenclaw Mr. Potter!” He heard Dumbledore yell from the head table. Before he could respond, however, he heard another voice that surprised him.

“He just stopped one of your precious Gryffindors from possibly causing an international accident, and you used the wrong name. Therefore, whatever points you do decide to deduct I will give back and then some. Mr. Slytherin has been nothing but respectful to our guests since Durmstrang arrived last week. Now, if you don’t mind headmaster, I believe that its time for the feast to end and students to get to bed before tomorrows event.” Professor Snape then walked away and led his snakes back to the dungeons for a meeting.

“Never thought we would see the day Professor Snape defended anyone but the Slytherin house. Huh, interesting. Anyway, Fleur, are you alright? I didn’t graze you with that stinging hex did I?” Casimir asked as he turned back to the partial Veela.

“I am fine, Casimir. It came nowhere near me. Thank you for stopping him. He seems…more affected by my allure than other men that have been hit with it. What is the issue with that boy?” She asked.

“His name is Ronald Weasley. He is the sixth son and sixth child of the local Weasley family. He is an arrogant, selfish, narcissistic little boy who is constantly jealous of Casimir’s fame and completely disregards what happened in order for Casimir to have said fame. In summary, he is a loathsome little cockroach.” Hermione responded while stabbing her food. Fleur looked at her and simply nodded. She knew not to piss someone off more when their magic was going haywire, and Hermione’s magic was making the air smell like overheated pavement and scorched parchment.

“Hey, Hermione, think of it this way. We don’t have to deal with him twenty-four seven anymore. We aren’t in his house or at his table anymore. Add to that we have books in the common room now that we have free reign over.” Casimir said as he took her hand. She nodded and squeezed his hand before going back to her food and finishing up.

The students all filed out of the great hall and off to their respective areas after that. Hermione, Casimir and Viktor all accompanied Luna to the Ravenclaw common room entrance. They said a quick goodbye, then the trio fell into a comfortable silence as they walked the rest of the way to Casimir and Hermione’s private quarters. Once they were in the rooms and the portrait was locked for the night, they all broke into an almost hysterical laughter at the nights events. They stayed awake for a couple more hours, reading and working on homework until they all fell asleep on the couch.

----HPVK----

The next morning Casimir woke up wrapped in both a blanket and Viktor’s arms, his face against Viktor’s bare chest. He smiled as the warmth seeped all the way to his toes before he heard grumbling coming from the kitchenette.

“Hermione?” He called as he unwrapped the blanket and stood up. Stretching, he walked into the kitchenette to a scene he deemed hysterical. Hermione and a house-elf he didn’t know were arguing over the stove and Hermione was looking flustered, whisper yelling at the small creature. 

“But I don’t need you to cook us breakfast! We are capable of looking after ourselves!”

“But Miss does not need to! I want to cook breakfast for the young master and his company!” The house elf whispered back.

“Uhhh… hello. I assume the “young master” you’re talking about is me. May I ask your name?” Casimir said as he finally made himself known. Hermione and the house elf both jumped, looking at him with sheepish expressions on their faces.

“Yes, young Master, my name is Aconite. I am the head house elf for the Slytherin family and have been working at Hogwarts since the time when the Slytherin name combined with the Gaunt family. What would young master and guests like for breakfast? Classes are cancelled for the day due to the entrance of names,” The house elf responded while threatening Hermione, who had opened her mouth to speak, with a wooden spoon.

“We would love a full English for us and if you know of any Bulgarian breakfasts, my boyfriend would love something along those lines. Thank you Aconite.” The house elf nodded and began working. Casimir grabbed Hermione and dragged her out of the kitchenette and sat her on the couch. “Hermione, its time for research. I’ve heard of house elves and their lives thanks to Dobby. They need us. I’ll ask for any books from Draco and Lord Malfoy so that you can research your way but don’t start anything until you know, deal?”

“Deal,” Hermione sighed. “I just hate thinking that the magical world would be ok with slavery.”

“I know. But house elves are more than slaves. Dobby isn’t free but I do pay him and let him wear what he wants as long as he looks professional and not all the crazy mismatched outfits he was wearing when  his magic was going haywire.” Casimir nodded at the look on Hermione’s face and their food was being set on the table. Casimir turned towards Viktor who was still asleep and shook him awake. Viktor shot awake in a panic until the scent of both Casimir and Banitsa hit his nose.

“Hmmm…good morning Svirep Letets. Who made the Banitsa?” He asked as he wrapped his arms around Casimir’s shoulders and sat behind him.

“My new house elf. Her name is Aconite and is the head elf for the Slytherin family. She asked what we wanted for breakfast and I figured you would like a taste of home so I asked her if she knew of any Bulgarian breakfast foods and this is what she gave us.” Casimir replied, leaning back into the embrace. Viktor picked up a piece of the banitsa and had Casimir take a bite. Casimir hummed in appreciation before digging into his own breakfast. Hermione just watched on with a smile on her face before they were interrupted by a knock on the door.

“Who in the bloody hell is knocking at,” Hermione cast a quick tempus spell, “at seven thirty in the morning?!” She got up and walked to the entrance ton their rooms and swung the portrait open. She stopped dead upon seeing a tall, black haired, blue eyed Slytherin standing in front of her. She must have had a dumbstruck expression on her face because the Slytherin smirked at her.

“Good morning. I apologize for the early hour, however, Professors Karkaroff and Flitwick were wondering if Viktor Krum had spent the night here. May I come in?” He asked. Hermione nodded and stepped aside, shaking herself from the stupor she had found herself in. The Slytherin walked into the living room and nodded. “As I told Ms. Black when she opened the portrait, I apologize for the early hour. My name is Theodore Nott. Professor Flitwick sent me here because he and Professor Karkaroff had been wondering where Mr. Krum was and assumed he would have been here. I hope to see you all down at the great hall to watch as people enter their names into the goblet throughout the day.” He nodded again and walked out. Hermione once again found herself in a stupor.

“-Mione? Hermione?” She shook herself as Casimir called out to her. “You ok?” He asked.

“Yea…I didn’t realize he was a Slytherin. Ive seen him in the library a few times and always wanted to see if we could study together but never got the nerve to ask. Ummm…what did it feel like when you and Viktor first met each other?”

“Like the world narrowed until my only focus was Viktor, at least at that moment. Like my world had shifted on its axis.” Casimir responded. Viktor nodded along as he spoke.

“It was the same for me. But, add to that my creature purred the first time we touched. Having Casimir near is the only way I will ever be truly content again. Obviously, we can be separated and be fine but it will never be the same as when we are together. Why do you ask?” Viktor looked at her and cocked his head to the side, almost like a dog who had been confused.

“Because….I’m pretty sure he’s my fated mate. When I looked into his eyes just now, it was like something inside me just clicked. Like I had finally found my place in the world.” Hermione scratched the back of her neck in embarrassment before letting out a startled yelp as Casimir jumped up and wrapped her in a hug.

“That’s awesome ‘Mione! Now, lets get ready for the day and get down to the great hall. I know this one is  entering his name. According to a letter from over the summer his headmaster wants him to be the only one to enter his name into the damn competition!” Casimir’s magic started going haywire for the second time in twelve hours and Viktor immediately pulled him into a crushing embrace to calm him down. It only took a few minutes before Casimir nodded and Viktor pulled away.

“The others decided to say screw it and are entering as well,” Vikor informed them. “There is still a chance I won’t be chosen Svirep Letets. Even if I am, we will get through this. Now, get dressed so we can go down.” Casimir nodded again and walked into his room. His closet had apparently been filled with casual robes by Sirius because there was a deep green robe with a deep blue trim and a constellation on the back. Even when he looked closer, he couldn’t figure out the shape that had to be there. He laid it over his arm and walked out into the living area.

“Hermione? What constellation is on the back? I can’t tell but I do know papa put it there thanks to the note that was attached.” He asked as he held the robe up in front of himself, showing off the back. If anyone would know what it was, she would.

“Oh! It’s gorgeous Casimir! The constellation is Lyra. Vega is the brightest star in that constellation.” Hermione explained, a little envious of such beautiful embroidery.

Casimir flipped the robe around quickly and nearly cried at the sentiment behind the stars. Love from family was still so new to him, that he couldn’t help but get a little emotional.

Viktor looked up from where he was going over one of Casimir’s essays as the other boy put on his new robe. His low whistle of appreciation gained him a smile from his soulmate. Casimir then tapped into his metamorphagus powers and changed the color of his hair into a raven black before tying it up into a ponytail with a green ribbon.

“Let’s go!” Casimir told them both.

The trio walked down to the Great Hall and noticed they were among the first few students there. Viktor gave Casimir’s hand a reassuring squeeze before walking up to the table next to the goblet and entering his name. He walked back to Casimir and Hermione and sat down, pulling Casimir onto his lap.

“Really babe? I am going to be in so much trouble if one of the professors see us. Especially professor-“ Casimir stopped as he caught sight of a certain dungeon bat’s robes out of the corner of his eye.

“Mr. Slytherin, I understand that this relationship is new, but please refrain from such public displays of affection. Please, sit on the bench.” Professor Snape walked away before anyone could respond. Casimir slid off of Viktor’s lap, looking after the potion master with shock written clearly on his face.

“He didn’t take points. Has the entire world gone mad?” Casimir asked as Hermione giggled.

“Your last name is the same as the House he heads here at school. What did you expect?” Hermione shrugged as she cracked open a book she had found in their new rooms. Casimir and Viktor watched as student after student put their name forward until Hogwarts was the only school who had not had any students put their name in yet.

The first to step up from the host school was Angelina Johnson who got an uproarious applause from Casimir and Gryffindor. A few Slytherins also put their names forward but the shock of the night came from the loud, echoing cheer that the entire Hufflepuff house let out when Cedric Diggory dropped his name into the goblet.

Not long after that, a bell-like tone sounded throughout the Great Hall. An opaque shield suddenly surround the Goblet of Fire and the pedestal it was sitting on. It seemed that the deadline for entering the competition had passed.

“Now that all students brave enough to enter have done so,” Dumbledore announced, giving Casimir a very judgmental look, “its time to eat!” As soon as Dumbledore had stopped talking, the tables were filled with food and everyone dug in. Beauxbatons was once again eating at the Ravenclaw table and Fleur was talking in animated French with a dark-haired boy next to her.

“Casimir, this is Antoine. He is a member of the Veela Coven my Grandmother leads. He doesn’t have the typical hair due to his father’s family. He is one of the students who put his name in yesterday. If I don’t get picked, I hope you will cheer him on as well. He is a very strong Veela and wizard.” Fleur looked towards Casimir who nodded.

“I think we can swing that.” He chuckled. “I honestly hope it isn’t you that gets picked Fleur. I’ve come to like you quite a bit in our very short time knowing each other. And Viktor, if you get picked and aren’t careful I will find a way to make your pain worse.” He glared at Viktor before smiling and turned back to his food. Ever since Bulgarian food had been introduced he tried a new one every day and he was very quickly falling on love with it. “Also, I very possibly will be moving to Bulgaria with you for the food alone.”

A short time later, talk around the great hall grew to a crescendo when the candles all dimmed and the food disappeared. What wasn’t missed though was one voice above all the others lamenting the loss of food.

“Why do they have to take the food away just because some people are getting the chance at fame? Its stupid if you ask me.”

“Ronnikins…shut up.”

“Yes baby brother, do be quiet.” Casimir turned towards the entrance to the great hall to see the twins returning after they tried to get passed the age line that Professor Dumbledore had set up before anyone put their name into the goblet. They had grown beards to match the professors and had to go to the hospital wing. “Madame Pomfrey helped us get back to our dashing good looks.” They sat down and one of them, Casimir couldn’t see who from this angle, clamped a hand over Ron’s mouth.

“Yes, well, it is time for the goblet to choose the champions of the Triwizard Tournament. If I call your name, please step into the antechamber so that we may explain what we can of the first task,” the headmaster announced. After a moment of silence, the goblet’s fire turned a blinding red and a piece of parchment flew into the air.

“The champion for Beauxbatons is… Antoine Beaulieu.” The dark-haired Veela stood up to a round of applause and stepped into the antechamber. The flames once again turned red and another parchment flew into the air.

“The champion for Durmstrang is… Viktor Krum.” The great hall erupted into applause and Viktor stood up. He stepped over the bench but before he could get any farther, Casimir stood up and kissed him which caused another round of applause, with some wolf whistles thrown in on behalf of the Weasley twins. Viktor smiled and made his way into the antechamber. Just as he stepped through the doorway, the flames turned red for a third time.

“The champion for Hogwarts is…Cedric Diggory.” The Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin tables all erupted into cheers while more than half of the Gryffindor table was silent. Casimir looked over to the Slytherin table due to the amount of noise they were creating and saw something he never expected. Draco Malfoy was staring after Cedric like his pet had just been murdered before nearly bursting into tears and running from the hall. Heir Nott and a blond girl he didn’t recognize ran after him before anyone could notice their leaving.

Chapter Text

The three champions were in the antechamber waiting when Antoine finally spoke up.

“Why was the hall so loud after you your name was called, Diggory?”

“Simple. I’m a Hufflepuff. We aren’t seen as much by the other three houses, mainly Gryffindor. They
were surprised and the other puffs were ecstatic. But the excitement should die down soon. Viktor,
please tell me Snape hasn’t-“ Cedric cut himself off as he stared behind Viktor to see the
aforementioned Professor stroll in followed by Professor’s Sprout and Dumbledore.

“Please tell you I haven’t what, Mr. Diggory?” Snape asked.

“Nothing sir!” Cedric all but squeaked out and turned towards the ministry workers as they entered
behind the professors. Snape simply smirked and slunk into the shadows.

“Now, the first task is set for November 21st . It is a task to test your courage in the face of an unknown
foe. You will find out what the rest of the task is right before you enter the arena. Research everything.”
Ludo Bagman said as everyone finally looked at him. The champions nodded and left the antechamber.
Viktor was immediately tackled by a blue-haired Casimir and a shy Draco was standing next to him
looking at Cedric with puffy eyes.

“Catch up with your boy toys, gentlemen. We can speak more tomorrow,” Antoine said. He smiled softly
at the two unlikely pairs , then continued on his way out of the Great Hall. Draco blushed fiercely across
his cheeks and neck, while Viktor grinned and hugged Casimir comfortingly.

“I’m sorry, I just…I couldn’t…” Draco trailed off as Cedric pulled him into a tight hug and kissed his head.

“It’s ok, love. We couldn’t keep it a secret forever. Plus, I think it’s ok that your cousin knows, don’t
you?” Draco nodded and buried his face into Cedric’s chest. The Hufflepuff knew that his partner just
needed some reassurance, considering the events of the evening.

“Oh please, you guys were not as subtle as you think.” Casimir said to the pair. Draco pulled back from
Cedric and raised an unimpressed eyebrow at him as if to say he knew he was lying. “Well…not in the
last few minutes at least.”

Viktor chuckled as Casimir’s hair finally started to return to its natural auburn color. He was relieved that
his love had calmed down quite a bit. “Ve should call it a night, Svirep Letets. There is sure to be a lot of
commotion tomorrow about the champions.”

“That’s true,” Casimir agreed, not looking for to the next day’s paper. “Have a good night you two. I’m
dragging this one back to my rooms for some much-needed cuddles.” With that, Casimir and Viktor
nodded to the other two boys and headed towards the stairs leading to Casimir and Hermione’s rooms.

‎----HPVK----

“How long have they been together, do you think?” Cedric asked Draco as they walked through the area
of the dungeons leading to the Hufflepuff common room.

“They’ve known each other since the World Cup. As for being a couple, that only started when Viktor
came to Hogwarts with the rest of Durmstrang. Why do you ask?” Draco prided himself with being
caught up on the waves of gossip that passed around the school like fiendfyre.

“They seem like they’ve been together for months. Its…sweet.” Cedric opened the common room door
to a wall of noise as the house of badgers began their celebrations; their house was no longer going to
be known as the house of duffers. Draco stuck close to Cedric the entire time, not wanting to let the
man he loved out of his sight.

‎‎‎----HPVK----

“You ok, baby?” Viktor asked as he and Casimir walked. Casimir just nodded, squeezing Viktor’s hand
like it was a lifeline. “Svirep Letets, its ok if you’re scared. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t scared myself. This
tournament is going to be crazy,” Viktor said, pulling Casimir to a stop and kissing his forehead. They
continued to Casimir’s rooms in silence, walking close and not letting each other go. When they arrived
at the portrait, the door opened before either one could give the password and a brown-haired missile
had them both wrapped in her arms.

“They’re absolutely insane! Please tell me they told you exactly what you’re going to be doing for the
first task!” Hermione said as she clung to the both of them.

“Hermione, let them in and let them breathe,” Sirius voice carried out into the hallway.

Casimir’s head whipped up to see Sirius standing in the door frame. Hermione dragged the boys inside,
making sure the wards on the now closed door were fully up. Casimir shoved Viktor onto the couch and
sat on his lap, needing the closeness. Hermione sat next to them while Sirius sat in the armchair across
from the couch.
“So,” Sirius started, “this has been a crazy day. And well…our timeline has been moved up. Your father
is…worried that you will be targeted in some way even though you aren’t a champion. Thank the
goddess for that.”

“I thought he was still a disembodied spirit? How the hell are you talking to father?” Casimir asked as he
snuggled in closer to Viktor.

Sirius chuckled, nodding his head. “I may have created something for said spirit to inhabit and use as a
body…I also may have gotten hexed for my troubles.”

“Sirius…what did you do?” Hermione asked.

“Ever seen Pinocchio?” he asked the trio. Hermione and Viktor nodded while Casimir shook his head.

“Sirius…you didn’t…” Hermione trailed off into giggles. Casimir looked between the two, his face showed
nothing but confusion.

“Papa…what did you do?” Casimir asked.

“Pinocchio is a movie and story about a puppet who, through fairy magic, became a real boy. Which
means Sirius here made a wooden puppet, then used magic to make it become a ‘real boy’ for your
father to possess until he regains a body, right?” Hermione answered for Sirius. Sirius nodded and lost it,
laughing and wiping his eyes.

Viktor chuckled and wrapped his arms tighter around Casimir. He also put Casimir’s face against his
neck, hoping his scent will help keep his mate calm, even if the younger wizard hadn’t come into his
creature inheritance yet. Casimir sighed and snuggled in further, falling asleep within minutes.

“When are we going to help the Dark Lord, Sirius? Casmir deserves to know both of his parents and I
know he will want to help.” Viktor looked towards Sirius as he adjusted Casimir to make sure he was
comfortable.

“Before or right after the first task. We want you and Hermione to be there as well. Casimir will need
both of you,” Sirius said as he looked towards his sleeping son. “The ritual we have planned is…kind of
insane and very, very dark. It will be a learning experience for you both. And, depending on how this
year goes, we may be moving before fifth year.”

“Moving? Who? Am I included?” Hermione asked, worried about losing her only real friend.

“Not with us. But I did speak with your parents, and they gave me your magical guardianship due to us
both being Black by blood. You and your parents won’t be moving, but they agreed to tour Beauxbatons
so that you don’t have to come to Hogwarts without Casimir. Beauxbatons and Durmstrang have an
exchange program as well, so you’d be able to visit each other’s school.” Sirius smiled as he was tackled
in a hug from the girl he already saw as his niece. “Now, I have to go and yell at some people that
decided not to look for my husband. Stupid people win stupid prizes after all!” Sirius called back as he
walked out of the rooms.

Hermione looked towards Casimir and smiled. The overwhelmed boy had stretched out on the couch
and was using Viktor’s lap as a pillow.

“This is going to be an insane year. I hope you’re ready for the position of Casmir’s helper. Every year
we’ve been involved in some kind of adventure, and they always end with Casimir in the hospital wing,”
Hermione smiled. “Just…be prepared for some crazy shit to happen.”

“How crazy are we talking?” Viktor asked, though he already knew nothing she told him would be able
to scare him off. Casimir had his heart and his protection.

“First year…our defense professor was possessed by the Dark Lord and Casimir fought him, not knowing
the truth about his parents. Second year, we destroyed a diary that was possessing a first-year girl, also
his father’s. Third year was Sirius escaping from Azkaban and fighting dementors and using a time turner
to save a hippogriff and Sirius. This year, it’s the tournament and we were expecting Casimir to be
selected because that’s just his luck.”

Viktor stared slack jawed at Hermione before nodding slowly. He may not understand everything
but…their school years seemed to be full of tension and nothing good. He lifted Casimir up and walked
towards his bedroom, turning back at the door frame.

“I will always stand with him. And I am glad he’s had you for so long. He will need us even more in the
near future.” Viktor walked inside the bedroom and kicked the door closed, Tucking Casimir in before
snuggling in beside him. That night, Viktor’s dreams were full of Casmir fighting for his life and Viktor
swore to always be by his side, magic flaring between the two mates and glowing a soft blue and purple.

----HPVK----

High up in a tower, near the top of the castle, an old goat plotted.

“Why didn’t Harry try to enter the tournament?” he complained to Fawkes. “James certainly would
have. The adjustments I made to his should have made him desperate to prove himself. It must be that
Dark child, Krum. He must have his own compulsions on the boy.”

The headmaster paced back and forth across his office, not even acknowledging the glare his familiar
was giving him. He had needed to reinforce the bond between them some time ago, after the phoenix
had helped Harry in the Chamber. Albus didn’t realize that the spells he used had only partially worked.

Fawkes mourned the bond they originally had, before Dumbledore’s heart had turned. As it was, he was
able to resist the old wizard’s orders, unless he was VERY specific. Fawkes was old and he had learned
much in his time, like how to annoy someone to the point of committing an unforgivable.

He decided it was time for another lesson. The shelves near the headmaster’s desk were clutter with
trinkets and books, along with a few treasures hiding in plain sight. One in particular caught Fawkes’s
attention. It was something that was supposed to have been destroyed a few years before, but
Dumbledore simply hid it away. A simple, shiny, red stone.

When Albus starting digging into a cabinet on the far side of the room, looking for more lemon drops no
doubt, Fawkes put his plan into action. He glided over to the shelf and, before Dumbledore could do
anything, swallowed the Sorcerer’s Stone. Besides angering his master, it would make an excellent aid to
digestion.

“Fawkes! How could you?! Spit that out right now!” Dumbledore demanded. The phoenix was beyond
pleased that, due to the nature of the stone and his species, he could refuse the order. It was part of his
body now, eternally helping him break down food and giving him more resistance to damage. Even
when Fawkes had his burning day, the stone would go with him. He certainly wasn’t the first of his kind
to eat a stone like that; the Flamels had a special relationship with phoenixes.

Dumbledore was struck speechless when the bird simply turned his head away, ignoring him. He even
let out a few notes of song before gliding back to his perch. Angered beyond belief, he raised his wand
threateningly.

“That stone is essential to my...the wizarding world’s future. Give it to me!” Albus tried to force his will
down the bond that shackled the creature to him. Nothing happened, so he prepared to make Fawkes
have an early burning day. His only hope was that the stone would be found in the reborn bird’s ashes.

Unfortunately for him, Dumbledore didn’t order Fawkes to stay there as he fired a spell at his own
familiar. Fawkes simply flamed away to safety; if he didn’t hear the order, he didn’t have to obey it.
Maybe it was time to visit some of his family, in France, perhaps, Fawkes thought to himself.