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Chapter Text

A gentle hooting noise woke Harry. He blinked awake and blanched when he realized he was naked.

Hedwig hooted worriedly, alerting Harry to the presence of another owl. The elegant eagle owl gently laid a letter in front of Harry and flew over to the bed, pulled the ratty blanket off and dropped it over Harry's waist.

"Thanks," Harry whispered, sitting up to read the letter. He yelped when he saw a long black tail curled around his leg.

Was that his tail?!

It was. That wasn't all -- when Harry felt around for more new, weird appendages he found cat ears on his head. Why am I half a cat?

Swallowing, Harry picked up the letter.

Dear Lord Potter,

It seems you have come through an early inheritance. Please come to Gringotts to take your lordships and heirships and discover what your creature is.

This letter is a Portkey. The activation code is "Coming of Age."

Yours Cordially,

Ragnok

Head of Gringotts Bank

But Dumbledore said he wasn't going to have an inheritance because his parents weren't creatures.

Harry bit his lip. Hedwig hooted and flapped over to his dresser. Harry realized that he still wasn't wearing any clothes and decided to get dressed.

Except his dresser was completely empty, and Ver -- Vern -- he had locked Harry's trunk in the cupboard. Harry let out a soft whimper.

The eagle owl hooted gently and tapped the letter. Harry bit back a sob when he realized he would have to go naked.

Hopefully the goblins wouldn't... like him....

Harry wrapped the raggedy blanket tighter around him and picked up the letter. The Gringotts owl landed on his shoulder.

"C-Coming of A-Age," Harry rasped.

The Portkey activated, and Harry was flung into a world of light.

When it stopped, Harry stumbled to the floor, and the eagle owl flew off.

"Lord Potter, what -- Griphook, fetch some clothes and a healer!"

"Yes, your Majesty." A door shut.

Harry looked up and squeaked, covering himself with the blanket again. It had slipped when he'd landed.

He was lying on the floor of a large, elegant office. Instead of a usual office chair, the goblin was sitting on a throne. He was gazing down at Harry with concern and alarm in his sharp golden eyes.

"Lord Potter, may I ask why you have no clothes?" he asked gently.

Harry looked down and fidgeted with his new tail. "M-my u-uncle t-took them all." That was true, but he was vague on the "when" part.

The goblin growled quietly, and when Harry squeaked again, he said, "I am not mad at you, Lord Potter.

"I am King Blackthorn of the Goblin Nation."

Harry gasped quietly.

There was a knock, and the door opened to reveal Griphook, the goblin who had helped him the first time he came to Gringotts, and another goblin, this time female. Griphook was carrying a pair of pants, boxers, a blouse, and emerald robes.

"H-Hi, s-s-sir goblin," Harry whispered.

Griphook smiled thinly and handed Harry the outfit. "If your Neko prefers a skirt that can be arranged, Lord Potter."

"Y-You can c-call me H-Harry," Harry mumbled, accepting the outfit. He realized they were made of soft silk. He blushed when it made him purr. To cover his embarrassment, he got dressed. The two male goblins turned around.

"I am Healer Whitefang, Lord Potter," the female goblin said gently. "Do I have permission to perform the Medical History charm?"

"Wh-what's th-that, lady goblin?" Harry whispered shyly.

"You may call me Whitefang," she allowed. "It shows me exactly what I need to heal."

Harry swallowed. There was a lot. "Um... o-okay. P-please don't ask about it," he added in a very small voice.

"That is your right as my patient," Whitefang agreed. She murmured something, waving her hand over Harry. A rather large scroll of parchment appeared, and she blanched.

"You knew he would be abused, Whitefang," the king pointed out quietly. "Neither of his parents are a Neko."

"Wh-what do you mean?" Harry squeaked, panicking.

"Shh," Whitefang soothed, petting his head. Harry relaxed and purred again. "Nekos are one of the only creatures that can come through abuse rather than through genetics." She opened the scroll, and after a pause, her eyes flashed with horror and fury. "Your Majesty, the supposed caretakers of Lord Potter-"

"What did they do?" Blackthorn asked icily, coming around the desk to her.

Whitefang glanced at Harry. "Do I have permission to show him?"

Harry blanched and shook his head quickly. Blackthorn sighed. "That is your right, I suppose."

Whitefang rolled up the scroll again and swatted him with it. "Yes, it is, and you'd do well to remember that!" Harry burst it into quiet giggles, earning fond looks from the three goblins.

"I'll be back with your potions and your eating schedule," Whitefang instructed.

"Wait, Whitefang," Blackthorn ordered, walking back over to his desk. "I want to make sure he doesn't have blocks, compulsions, or dangerous potions harboring his magic. That way you'll only have to make one trip."

"I certainly hope he doesn't," Whitefang said worriedly.

"Sit down, Lord Potter," Blackthorn offered, gesturing to the seat across from him. Harry got up as he pulled a needle and two pieces of parchment from his desk, one silver and one green.

"Three drops of blood on this one first, Lord Potter," Blackthorn instructed, pushing the silver parchment towards him. "Do you get squeamish?" he added.

Harry bit his lip and nodded, swallowing.

Blackthorn pulled a small vial out of his desk. "Sniff this. If you bristle, don't drink it."

He didn't, so Harry drank it and, at Blackthorn's direction, pricked his finger. This time he didn't feel queasy at the sight of the blood as it dripped onto the paper. Whitefang quickly healed his finger with a snap of her fingers.

"Well? Read it, child," Blackthorn said dryly. Harry blushed and looked down at the words that were forming on the paper.

Magical Aura Test for H. A. R.-P.:

Magic: Dark (100% blocked, A. P. W. B. D.)

Level: Merlin (90% blocked, A. P. W. B. D.)

Abilities: Animagus (panther cub; 100% blocked, A. P. W. B. D.); Parselmagic (100% blocked, A. P. W. B. D.); Death Magic

Creature: Neko (due to abuse) (submissive)

Mate: Draco Lucius Malfoy (Veela, full) (dominant) (100% block, A. P. W. B. D.)

Compulsions: (A. P. W. B. D.)

    Hate Slytherins, Trust Gryffindors, Trust A. P. W. B. D., Trust Hermione Granger, Trust Ronald Weasley, Trust Ginevra Weasley, Distrust Slytherins, Distrust Voldemort, Distrust Severus Snape

Potions: (A. P. W. B. D., M. W. Née P., G. M. W.)

   Amoris Obsequiis (Submissive Love) (keyed to G. M. W.)

Other:

   Marriage Contract between H. J. P. and G. M. W. (unsigned, illegal)

   Horcrux (keyed to T. M. R.-P.) (not harmful)

All blocks, compulsions, and potions unable to hold due to protective Horcrux.

Harry choked. Dumbledore... his friends weren't... and his mate...?

"What's wrong?" Blackthorn asked worriedly, taking the parchment. He swore loudly, making Harry jump and whimper. "Apologies, Lord Potter."

"What is it, Harry?" Griphook asked gently.

"D-Dumbledore," Harry began, then flinched when the three goblins scowled. "A-and, my mate... my mate h-hates..." He stifled a sob.

"Lord Potter, you will need to take a Blood Test as well," Blackthorn stated quietly, still frowning at the Magical Aura Test. "Your initials do not match the birth certificate Lily made for you."

Harry gave him a puzzled, pained look.

"Whitefang, the Horcrux-" Griphook and Whitefang blanched "-is very protective of Lord Potter, so the blocks, compulsions, and Submissive Love potion did not work."

"Submissive Love?" Whitefang breathed, looking furious and horrified. "Which bi-" she glanced at Harry "-woman gave him that?"

"Ginevra Weasley, it appears," Blackthorn said in disgust.

Harry flinched. "G-Ginny?"

Blackthorn gave him a worried look and sent Whitefang out to fetch the potions for Harry. "Would you like to take your Blood Test now or later?" he asked softly.

"N-now," Harry mumbled. If he didn't finish soon the Dursleys would be angry he was gone and Ve -- Ver -- he would punish Harry again.

Wordlessly, the goblin slid Harry the green parchment. Harry pricked his finger again and squeezed a few drops. This time Griphook healed his finger.

Blood Test for Hadrian Alaric Riddle-Prince:

Name: Hadrian Alaric Riddle-Prince

Bearer: Severus Tobias Riddle-Prince (living, compromised)

Father: Tom Marvolo Riddle-Prince (barely living, compromised)

Blood-Adopted Mother: Lily Potter Née Evans (deceased)

Blood-Adopted Father: James Fleamont Potter (deceased)

Godparent(s): Sirius Orion Lupin-Black (living, compromised); Lucius Malfoy (living); Andromeda Tonks Née Black (living)

Titles: Boy-Who-Lived, Chosen One, Dark Lord's Heir, Master of Death

Lord to:

    Potter

    Merlin (through J. P.)

    Gryffindor (through J. P.)

    Hufflepuff (through L. P. Née E.)

    Death (chosen)

Heir to:

    Prince (through S. T. R.-P.)

    Ravenclaw (through S. T. R.-P.)

    Slytherin (through T. M. R.-P.)

    Peverell (through T. M. R.-P.)

    Gaunt (through T. M. R.-P.)

    Black (through S. O. L.-B.)

    Lupin (through R. J. L.-B.)

Horcrux detected.

Harry stared down in horror at his real parents' names and finally burst into tears.

Alaric: all-powerful ruler

Chapter Text

Hadrian returned to the Dursleys by Portkey. He insisted on leaving the clothes Griphook had given him there, because he would be angry if he saw Hadrian was wearing fancy clothes.

Whitefang had given him a parchment with his new diet, but Hadrian knew he wouldn't be able to start it, given that the Dursleys were h***-bent on starving him to death.

When he got home, he instantly wrote Remus, Sirius, and the Weasley twins. He knew it would take a while for his uncles to write back, given that they were both on a tropical island somewhere, but the twins' answer he would get quicker.

Dear Remus/Sirius/Gred/Forge,

I went into an early inheritance. I'm a submissive Neko. Please do not tell anyone, especially Dumbledore. He put me with the Dursleys in the first place.

I miss you.

-Cub/Pup/Little Brother

Hadrian asked Hedwig to deliver them in secret, so that Molly wouldn't hound the twins into reading his letter. Hedwig hooted softly and soared out the window.

"Boy!" Petunia yelled. Hadrian flinched. "Make breakfast!"

-------

Dear Pup,

My mate is too angry to read right now, and his werewolf can't write. I'm almost too angry to write myself. I've half a mind to set your relatives on fire, and Dumbledore to boot!

Moo-Moo and I are coming back as soon as possible. We can't protect you from here.

(We're also discussing your Marauder nickname. No excuses.)

We miss you too, pup.

Snuffles

Dear Harrikins,

Do you need  us to punish you mean prank Gred dear sorry, Forge, PRANK the idiots for you? We promise not to kill anyone. Gred, don't make promises we can't keep. Right you are, Forge!

Sorry if we worried you, kitten.

Dad got tickets to the World Cup, and Ronnikins will be writing later to ask if you want to come. We'll see you then!

Fred and George Knucklehead

-------

Sure enough, Ronald's letter arrived the next day.

Harry -- DAD GOT THE TICKETS -- Ireland versus Bulgaria, Monday night. Mum's writing the Muggles to ask you to stay. They might already have the letter, I don't know how fast Muggle post is. Thought I'd send this with Pig anyway.

Hadrian blinked at the letter and then stared up at Ronald's little twittering owl. "You look nothing like a pig, you're gorgeous," he declared. The owl hooted quite happily and Hedwig looked jealous.

"Don't worry, Hedwig, you're the prettiest owl ever," Hadrian assured her, and Hedwig hooted haughtily, as if saying, Of course I am. Hadrian giggled and turned back to the letter.

We're coming for you whether the Muggles like it or not, you can't miss the World Cup, only Mum and Dad reckon it's better if we pretend to ask for their permission first. If they say yes, send Pig back with an answer pronto, and we'll come and get you at five o'clock on Sunday. If they say no, send Pig back pronto and we'll come and get you at five o'clock on Sunday anyway.

Hermione's arriving this afternoon. Percy's started work -- the Department of International Cooperation. Don't mention anything about Abroad while you're here unless you want the pants bored off of you.

See you soon -- Ron

Hadrian decided to ask Percy about his work as soon as he got to the Burrow. First, he had to talk to the Dursleys.

He knew he had gotten Mrs. Weasley's letter, because the man had an angry, cold look on his red face.

"You," he barked, and Hadrian flinched. "In the living room. Now."

Hadrian fled, hearing Dudley's snickers behind him. He curled up on the floor, staring at Ver -- his feet.

"This just arrived," the man barked, and Hadrian glanced up at the parchment in his hands before looking back down. "A letter. About you."

He felt the man glaring at him before reading the letter.

"'Dear Mr. and Mrs. Dursley. We have never been introduced, but I am sure you have heard a great deal from Harry about my son Ron.

"'As Harry might have told you, the final of the Quidditch World Cup takes place this Monday night, and my husband, Arthur, has just managed to get prime tickets through his connections at the Department of Ma- Mag- Your Kind Games and Sports.

"'I do hope you will allow us to take Harry to the match, as this really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; Britain hasn't hosted the cup for thirty years, and tickets are extremely hard to come by. We would, of course, be glad to have Harry stay for the remainder of the summer holidays, and to see him safely onto the train back to school.

"'It would be best for Harry to send us your answer as quickly as possible in the normal way, because the Muggle postman has never delivered to our house, and I am not sure he even knows where it is.

"'Hoping to see Harry soon,

"'Yours sincerely,

"'Molly Weasley.

"'P. S. I do hope we've put enough stamps on. My sons told me to put only one, but they've been known to prank people, so I put as many as possible.'"

The man finished reading and glared down at Hadrian. "Look at this," he hissed.

Hadrian looked up and immediately bit his lip to keep back hysterical giggles. Every inch of the envelope, front and back, was covered with stamps.

"The postman noticed," the man said coldly. "Seemed to think it was funny." Hadrian looked down again, keeping silent, and the man was obviously thinking about whether to be free of Hadrian two weeks earlier, or keep his -- his nephew until school.

"Who is this woman?" the man asked.

"Sh-she's the mother of... of my friend Ronald, sir," Hadrian whispered. "Sh-she... she was at the station when you picked me up after term."

"Dumpy sort of woman?" the man mused. "Load of children with red hair?"

"Y-yes, sir."

"Quidditch," he grumbled. "Quidditch -- what is this rubbish?"

"Sport, sir," Hadrian mumbled. "For F-Freaks."

"I suppose you lot need pastimes," the man sneered. "And what does she mean, the normal way?"

"N-normal for F-Freaks, sir," Hadrian rasped. "That's wh-what H-Hedwig's for."

The man glared down at Hadrian for along moment before saying, "Do you want to go, sl*t?"

Hadrian flinched and bit back a sob. "P-please, Master."

The man bent over, but Petunia suddenly entered the room and he straightened up.

"What is it, Vernon?" she asked.

The man handed her the letter, and she scanned it, frowning. "If we don't answer, they'll think we're rude," Petunia hissed. "And what if the Freak tells his godfather?"

They both shuddered. Hadrian had told them that Sirius had been accused of murdering thirteen people, but had forgotten to tell them he was innocent.

"He'll be punished if he does," the man sneered.

"If he doesn't," Petunia warned, "Black might get worried and come here."

"I suppose we could just punish him harder after he gets back from school," the man mused, and Hadrian flinched again.

"Good idea," Petunia agreed. "Freak, go write your friends, tell them we said you can go," she sneered.

Hadrian obeyed, remembering not to stand up until he reached the stairs.

Ron, they said I could come. See you at five o'clock tomorrow. Harry

He also wrote the Demons:

My goblin healer gave me a new diet, but I couldn't follow it here. Could you make sure your mum knows to feed me this? And could you make me the potions? I'm not very good at that.

Hadrian added another letter to Remus and Sirius:

If you want to contact me, I'll be at the Weasleys' for the rest of the summer. His dad's got us tickets for the Quidditch World Cup. Love you, cub/pup

-------

Fred, George, and Mr. Weasley didn't arrive by car, but by Floo, as well as fifteen minutes late. This, as well as them being wizards, made the Dursleys hate them.

Hadrian was alerted to the fact that they'd come through the Floo when he heard a clatter behind the Dursleys' electric fireplace.

"Ouch! Fred, no -- go back, go back, there's been some kind of mistake -- tell George not to -- OUCH! George, no, there's no room!"

"Maybe Harrykins can hear us, Dad -- maybe he'll be able to let us out-"

"Mr. Weasley, Gred, is that you?" Hadrian called hopefully, crawling over to the fireplace.

"Harrykins!" the twins cried gleefully.

"What's going on, Harry? Why is the fireplace blocked?" Mr. Weasley asked.

"It's electric, sir," Hadrian answered.

"Eclectic, you say?" Mr. Weasley asked eagerly, earning snickers from Fred and George.

Hadrian's caretakers, who were standing in the doorway to the living room, stirred at this.

"What is this?" he snarled, glaring at Hadrian, who flinched. "What's going on?"

"They've tried to get here through the fireplaces, sir," Hadrian said quietly. He heard the twins growl protectively.

"I must see your eclectic fireplace," Mr. Weasley said eagerly. "Let's think... yes... only way... Stand back, Harry."

Hadrian backed up. The man moved closer, demanding, "What exactly are you going to-"

BANG!

The electric fireplace exploded, and Mr. Weasley and the twins fell to the floor. Immediately, the Demons swooped Hadrian into a hug.

"Harrykins, we missed you," they wailed dramatically. Hadrian giggled and nuzzled into George's chest.

"I missed you too," he said in a muffled tone.

Mr. Weasley chuckled and then said, "Ah -- you must be Harry's aunt and uncle!"

Hadrian didn't dare look up, but he knew Petunia looked horrified and he was curling his lip at Mr. Weasley with disgust.

"Er... yes, sorry about that," Mr. Weasley added. "It's all my fault. It just didn't occur to me that we wouldn't be able to get out at the other-"

"Dad," Fred said loudly, "we don't want to take up their time."

"Yeah, Dad, and Harrykins is probably starving," George added, inflecting the word just slightly. Hadrian peeked out of the Demons' embrace and saw Mr. Weasley's eyes widen, then study him surreptitiously. The red-haired man sent a faintly angry glance at the Dursleys before clearing his throat.

"Yes, yes, we shouldn't take up your time. Why don't you two get his trunk and owl-"

"-she's out delivering a letter to Moony -- I mean, Professor Lupin," Hadrian added.

The twins gasped. "Moony?"

"Dost thou meanest the great Marauder Moony?" George exclaimed.

Hadrian giggled. "Yes. I wasn't supposed to tell you, but you're my brothers."

"Thanks kitten," they whispered.

"Don't hound the poor man," Mr. Weasley sighed. "You two go fetch his things, I'll take him back to the Burrow. Don't break anything."

Fred and George grinned wickedly, released Hadrian, and disappeared so swiftly that Petunia and her husband jumped. Hadrian ran over to Mr. Weasley and hugged him, not just because he'd missed the man, but because he wanted to get away from him.

"You remember how to use the Floo?" Mr. Weasley asked gently.

"Yes, sir," Hadrian said dutifully.

Mr. Weasley pointed his wand at the fireplace, cast "Incendio!", pulled a little drawstring bag out of his pocket, and tossed a pinch of powder into the flames. They turned emerald green and flared higher.

"The address is The Burrow," Mr. Weasley informed him.

Hadrian stepped into the fire and called, "The Burrow!"

Chapter Text

"Harry!"

Hadrian's view of the Burrow's kitchen was obscured by a blur of red, and he was suddenly being squeezed to death by Ginny Weasley.

"Get off, can't breathe!" he squeaked, trying to push her away.

"Ginny, you're suffocating him," an unfamiliar voice scolded exasperatedly. Someone pulled the girl off of him, and Hadrian gasped for breath.

"Thanks," Hadrian rasped, looking up.

He knew this was Charlie Weasley, due to the many scars and calloused hands he had. He was shorter than Ronald, muscly, and stocky, with a broad, kind face that was so freckly he looked tanned.

"You're welcome," Charlie grinned, shaking Hadrian's hand.

That meant the other unfamiliar man in the room was Bill. Blackthorn had had nothing but good things to say about Bill, and Hadrian could tell why. Bill was wearing what most goblins wore: black dragon leather jeans, t-shirt, and boots. He also had a fang earring, and long hair tied up in a ponytail.

"I like your earring," Hadrian said shyly, shaking Bill's outstretched hand.

"Thanks," Bill said with a smirk. "I like your hair."

"But it's messy!" Hadrian exclaimed.

"It's elegantly messy," Bill declared, and Hadrian blushed.

"It makes him look like a girl," Ronald sniffed. "Mum won't mind cutting it while you're here, if you want, Harry."

"I like it long, it's easier to work with," Hadrian declined. "Thanks, though, Ron."

The twins came through at that moment, evil grins on their faces. George laid down the trunk beside Hadrian and regally handed him his wand. Hadrian giggled and thanked him.

"What did you do?" Charlie sighed.

"Only what the-" Fred began icily.

"-evil Muggles deserved," George finished coldly.

"What do you mean?" Ronald demanded.

"Ronald, you didn't forget them putting bars on his window, did you?" Fred demanded.

"And starving him?" George growled. Hadrian thought he saw the twins' eyes flash amber, and he blinked. When were the twins bitten?

"Apparently his cupboard used to be his bedroom," Fred added darkly. "We found a broken soldier and two crayons there, as well as an old blanket and a pillowcase stuffed with rags."

Ginny gasped. "Oh, honey," she said concernedly, fluttering her eyes.

"Are you okay, Ginny?" Hadrian asked in a puzzled tone.

The twins gasped, losing their angry looks. "Gred, she's having a stroke!" George exclaimed.

"Quick, Forge, call a Healer!" Fred wailed.

Ronald rolled his eyes, but Bill and Charlie were barely paying attention. They looked as angry as the twins had.

"His bedroom," Bill said icily, "was a cupboard."

"They gave me Dudley's second bedroom after I got my letter to Hogwarts," Hadrian said quickly.

"Your cousin had two bedrooms and you got a cupboard?" Charlie exclaimed.

"What's going on?"

Mrs. Weasley entered the kitchen. "Oh, hello, Harry dear," she said with a smile. "Your hair's getting a bit long, why don't you let me cut it?"

"I like it long," Hadrian said quietly. "Hi, Mrs. Weasley."

"What's all this noise about?" asked another voice, and a very annoyed Percy entered the room.

"Hi, Percy," Hadrian said with a smile. "Ron said you-"

"Mum, did you know those stupid Muggles were abusing Harry?" Charlie demanded angrily. Percy gasped.

"Of course they aren't!" Mrs. Weasley exclaimed. "Where did you get an idea like-"

"They put bars on his window and starved him!" Bill snarled.

"His bedroom was a cupboard until he turned eleven, and then he got his cousin's second bedroom!" Charlie yelled.

"And those are the only clothes he has besides his school uniform!" Fred snarled.

"We found blood all over his room!" George added, looking nauseated. "And not only that-"

Hadrian blanched and tried to stop them from continuing.

"We also found evidence of r***!"

"What!" Mrs. Weasley shrieked. Ronald and Ginny looked disgusted, and Bill, Percy, and Charlie paled dramatically.

Hadrian ran out of the room, collapsing on the floor of the twins' bedroom and sobbing. He removed his glamour, revealing his Neko status and his real looks -- a miniature Tom Riddle with Avada Kedavra green eyes.

They're going to hate me. I'm used, I'm a freak.

There was a soft knock on the door after a while. "It's me, Harry," Mr. Weasley said quietly.

Hadrian whimpered quietly. The door opened and Mr. Weasley gasped.

"Oh, Harry," he breathed, pulling him into a hug. "The twins never meant to hurt you," he whispered softly as Hadrian sobbed into the man's chest. "They were just so angry... but I have enough evidence to get your relatives arrested. You never have to go back to them again."

"Wh-where... am I... g-going... to go?" Hadrian cried.

"Stay here, we'd love to adopt you," Mr. Weasley suggested.

Uncle Pads isn't going to like that. Hadrian waited until he could speak properly and said quietly, "There's someone else I w-want to st-stay with."

"Who?" Mr. Weasley asked curiously. Hadrian sat up and explained what had happened at the end of his third year.

Mr. Weasley blinked. "I had no idea Remus was gay," he said absently.

Hadrian flinched a little. "Is, is it wr-wrong?"

"No!" Mr. Weasley exclaimed. "No, no of course not. Most people don't have a problem with it. It's usually Muggleborns or the few purebloods who agree them."

"But you like Muggleborns, and Muggles," Hadrian pointed out.

"I like Muggle technology," Mr. Weasley corrected. "After today, my opinion of Muggles has lowered. I don't have a problem with most Muggleborns, but some of them are trying to remove all magical traditions."

"But that's like going to Iran and telling women to stop covering their hair," Hadrian exclaimed.

Mr. Weasley nodded. "It's rude." He paused. "I'm sure you'd prefer to stay with Fred and George rather than Ron, Bill, and Charlie."

"Yes," Hadrian said quietly.

The redhead hesitated, then gently rubbed the top of Hadrian's head. Hadrian purred, relaxing, and leaned into the touch.

"I've never met a Neko before," Mr. Weasley admitted. "You're very cuddly and soft."

Hadrian blushed. "I don't want anyone but the twins to know."

"They know?" Mr. Weasley asked in surprise. "You didn't tell Ron and Hermione?"

Hadrian flinched. "N-no. I told Uncle Moon- erm, Uncle Remus and Uncle Sirius, too."

"What did my son do?" Mr. Weasley asked in a slightly dangerous tone.

Swallowing, Hadrian quietly told Mr. Weasley about the love potion, compulsions, and blocks. He didn't tell him about the horcrux, that he was Dark, and who his mate was.

"I'm sorry, Harry," Mr. Weasley whispered softly, looking torn between anger, horror, and concern. "I had no idea. I'll make sure you're never alone in a room with my daughter again."

"You can't tell them!" Hadrian squeaked. "They'll tell D-Dumbledore and then he'll-" his voice cracked and he stifled a sob.

Mr. Weasley sighed and pulled him into a hug again. "I promise I won't tell anyone without your permission." He paused. "Fred, George, I know you're there."

The twins entered the room, looking pale. "Harry," Fred whispered. "We -- we didn't mean-"

Hadrian wriggled out of Mr. Weasley's grasp and threw himself into Fred's arms. "'m not mad at you," he whispered, nuzzling into his chest. He pulled George into the hug, too, and they both choked off sobs.

"I'll leave you to get settled," Mr. Weasley said softly, leaving the room.

Hadrian snuggled deeper into the twins' embrace. After a long pause, he asked curiously, "When did you become vampires?"

Fred and George yelped. "How-"

"-what?"

Hadrian burst into quiet giggles.

Chapter Text

Hadrian felt someone shaking him and blinked blearily up at Mr. Weasley. "Time to go," he whispered. "There's a surprise waiting for you when we get there," he added.

"'kay," Hadrian said sleepily, casting the glamour again so his Neko status and real looks were hidden. Then he got dressed.

Mr. Weasley had taken him shopping before dinner, and Hadrian had gotten an entire new wardrobe. Most of it was skirts, but he had a few pairs of pants. He'd also gotten the girls' school uniform.

"Harry, why are you wearing a skirt?" Ronald asked groggily when he got downstairs.

"I-" Hadrian yawned "-comfortable."

"Aww," the twins cooed, pulling him into their arms. "You look cute," Fred declared.

"Adorable, if I may say so myself," George added.

Hadrian giggled sleepily and nuzzled into their chests.

Mrs. Weasley appeared with Ginny and Granger in tow, and Ginny gaped at Hadrian.

"Harry Potter, why are you wearing a skirt!" Granger exclaimed. "You are a male-"

"Hey, Granger, ever heard of something called crossdressing?" Fred growled at her. George did, too.

"Freddy, don't be rude," Hadrian yawned. "I'm comfortable in this, 'Mia."

"It's wrong-"

"No, it's not," Mr. Weasley said firmly as he came into the kitchen. "How d'you think? We're supposed to go incognito -- do I look like a Muggle, Harry?"

He was wearing a golfing sweater and and old pair of jeans that were slightly to big for him.

Hadrian giggled. "Uh-huh."

"Where're Bill and Charlie and Percy?" George asked.

"Well,l they're Apparating, aren't they?" Mrs. Weasley explained, casting Hadrian's outfit a slight frown before grabbing the pot and ladling porridge into bowls. "So they can have a bit of a lie-in."

"So they're still in bed?" Fred complained. "Why can't we Apparate too?"

"You can wait a year, right, Freddy?" Hadrian giggled.

"A yeeeeaaaarrrrr," George whined. Hadrian giggled harder.

"Why are we up so early?" Ronald grumbled.

"We've got a bit of a walk," Mr. Weasley explained lightly.

"Waaaalllllllk," Fred groaned, earning more giggles from Hadrian.

"Are we walking to the World Cup?" Hadrian managed when he'd stopped giggling.

"No, no, that's miles away," Mr. Weasley answered, giving Hadrian a fond smile. "We just need to walk a short way. It's just that it's very difficult for a number of wizards to congregate without attracting attention. We have to be very careful how we travel at the best of times, and on a huge occasion like the Quidditch World Cup-"

"George!" Mrs. Weasley exclaimed.

"What?" George complained.

"What is that in your pocket?"

"Snacks," George said indignantly. "For the Cup. We can't very well pay for our own snacks."

"Yeah, what if we get hungry?" Fred said irritably.

Mrs. Weasley studied them sharply but didn't press them. Mr. Weasley gave them both tired looks when she wasn't looking, and Fred and George smiled innocently. Hadrian was suddenly very curious at what the twins were smuggling.

As they were walking up the path in the soft morning light, Hadrian climbed onto George's back and asked, "What's in your pocket?"

"The one ring," Fred smirked.

"You read Muggle books?" Hadrian giggled.

"Tolkien's a halfblood," George shrugged. "Anyway," he lowered his voice, "we've been developing stuff for our joke shop."

"Sweets that make your tongue grow to insane lengths-"

"-sweets that make you sound like animals-"

"-sweets that turn you into animals-"

"-fake wands-"

"-and more," Fred finished.

"Are you going to sell them at the Cup?" Hadrian asked, clinging tighter to George as they started up the hill. The twins grinned in response.

At the top of the hill, there was someone waiting for them -- a familiar, tall, rugged blond, and a huge black dog.

"Uncle Moony! Snuffles!" Hadrian squealed, sliding down George's back and running up the hill to them.

Remus swooped Hadrian into his arms and whispered, "I missed you, cub."

Sirius barked indignantly, as if saying, 'I want to say hello, too!' Hadrian giggled and wriggled out of Remus' grasp, pulling the huge dog into a hug. "Yes, I missed you too, Snuffles."

The dog gave him an enormous wet, slurping kiss, and Hadrian squealed indignantly. "Snuffles! Ew!"

The twins cackled and scratched the dog's head. "Hey-"

"-Professor Wolf," George grinned.

Remus blinked and studied them curiously. "Of course, you're vampires," he grumbled. Sirius jumped in surprise. "And I'm no longer your professor."

"So we can call you Wolf?" Fred asked innocently.

"Don't tease my uncle!" Hadrian protested.

"Sure, kitten," George agreed.

"You can call me Remus," the werewolf said dryly.

"Can we call you Moony?" Fred asked sweetly.

"Cub!" Remus complained. Sirius sniggered.

"They're my brothers," Hadrian pouted.

Remus melted. "Fine. We'll talk about it later."

"P... Professor?" Granger panted when the rest of them arrived.

"I'm no longer your professor," Remus said. "You can call me Remus."

"How... come... you're... not... tired?" Ronald gasped, glaring at the twins as he collapsed beside them.

"Because we're special," Fred deadpanned. Sirius barked out a laugh, and Remus smiled briefly.

"Come on, Ginny, you can do it!" George called to the girl mockingly. She hissed at him.

"Fred, George, that's enough," Mr. Weasley said breathlessly as he arrived last. "Remus. You got my message."

"I did," Remus agreed. "Thanks for inviting me to see my cub."

"Cub?" Ginny asked in a puzzled tone.

Granger huffed. "He's a werewolf, Ginny, and he sees Harry as his cub."

Remus' eyes flashed gold briefly and he frowned at the girl. "I do," he agreed. "Have you enjoyed staying with the Weasleys, Harry?"

Hadrian nodded eagerly, letting go of Sirius. "Fred and George kept me entertained."

The twins grinned. "It was a pleasure-"

"-to hear your adorable giggles-"

"-little kitten."

"Arthur!" a voice called. "Arthur, we've got it here!"

"Ah, Amos found the Portkey," Mr. Weasley said. "This way."

They found Cedric Diggory and what was obviously his father beside him. Mr. Diggory was carrying an old boot. Cedric smiled at them and George blushed, hiding behind Fred.

"Hi, Cedric!" Hadrian said brightly.

"Hey, Harry."

"This is Amos Diggory, everyone," Mr. Weasley introduced. "He works for the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures-"

"I know," Remus said sourly. Cedric winced.

"Lupin," Mr. Diggory said stiffly. Sirius growled at him. "Control your dog."

"Don't be mean to Snuffles, he's just protecting Uncle Moony!" Hadrian exclaimed indignantly.

"Dad," Cedric said quietly, and Mr. Diggory sighed, then turned away.

"I think you all know his son, Cedric?" Mr. Weasley added in a slightly apologetic tone.

"Hi," Ginny flirted. Cedric gave her an appalled look, and George muffled his growl into his hand.

"Cedric," Fred drawled.

"Fred," Cedric deadpanned. Hadrian giggled.

"Long walk, Arthur?" Mr. Diggory asked.

"Not too bad," Mr. Weasley answered. "We just live on the other side of the village there. You?"

"Had to get up at two, didn't we, Ced? I tell you, I'll be glad when he's got his Apparition test. Still.. not coming to the Quidditch World Cup, wouldn't miss it for a sackful of galleons -- and the tickets cost about that. Mind you, looks like I got off easy." Mr. Diggory gazed at the Weasleys, Hadrian, and Granger. "All these yours, Arthur?"

"Well, I think of Harry as one of mine, but just the redheads are my kids," Mr. Weasley explained. Hadrian beamed at him. "This is Hermione, a friend of Ron's -- and this is Fred and George's friend-"

"He's mine too!" Ronald complained.

"Sorry, Ronnikins-"

"-we don't share," George smirked. Hadrian giggled.

"Merlin's beard," Mr. Diggory said in shock. "Harry Potter?"

"Um, yeah," Hadrian said shyly, covering his scar. Sirius growled again, pressing closer to Hadrian.

"Ced's talked about you, of course," Mr. Diggory said. "Told us all about playing against you last year.... I said to him, I said -- Ced, that'll be something to tell your grandchildren, that will -- You beat Harry Potter!"

"Yes," Fred snapped, "be proud of your son, winning when the other Seeker fell thousands of feet because of the Dementors."

"It wasn't thousands," Hadrian protested. "It was only about a hundred."

"Dad," Cedric said again, and his eyes flickered between gold and blue. Remus' eyes widened minutely, and Cedric gave him a faintly pleading look that Mr. Diggory didn't catch.

"Must be nearly time," Mr. Weasley said quickly, glancing between Remus and Cedric curiously. "Do you know whether we're waiting for any more, Amos?"

"No, the Lovegoods have been t here for a week already and the Fawcetts couldn't get tickets," Mr. Diggory answered. "There aren't any more of us in this area, are there?"

"Not that I know of," Mr. Weasley answered. "Yes, it's as minute off.... We'd better get ready." He turned to Granger and Hadrian. "You just need to touch the Portkey, a finger will do."

--------

Mr. Weasley agreed that Fred, George, and Hadrian could go with Remus, who was using one of Sirius' tents. It was jet black, two stories, and had what looked like an entire manor inside.

"Hello?" a voice called quietly from the first floor.

"Mate!" George yelped, darting down the stairs. Fred and Snuffles followed, sniggering, and Remus gave Hadrian a piggy back down the stairs.

Cedric was waiting nervously for them in the front hall, wringing his hands nervously. He lit up when George entered and pulled him into his arms, eyes turning gold. "Mate," he growled quietly.

"Mate," George purred, eyes flashing amber.

Fred and Sirius snickered, and the two mates glared at him, eyes turning back to normal. "Your dog is annoying, Professor," Cedric said dryly.

"You can call me Remus, and I agree with you," Remus smirked, earning an indignant yelp from Sirius. Remus' expression turned concerned. "I take it your father doesn't know about..."

"No, he doesn't know I was bitten," Cedric said bitterly. "He's... not entirely fond of werewolves, as you probably know."

Remus nodded in tired agreement. "How did you hide it from him?"

"I turned seventeen a month before I was bitten," Cedric answered. "Several powerful silencing charms later, and some repairing charms in the morning -- presto, a hidden werewolf."

"I'm sure Severus could make you some-"

"Wolfsbane is actually very bad for werewolves," George interjected.

"It slowly kills your wolf and by extension, you," Fred added.

Moony blanched.

"I talked to my wolf when it wasn't full moon," Cedric said quietly. "It helped a lot with the physical pain, and he's a lot like a regular wolf because he knows he can't make too much noise."

"Does anyone else know?" Remus asked.

"My mother," Cedric said with a slight smile. "She agreed to help keep it hidden from my f-father, and she's not... I mean, she doesn't..."

"Hate you?" Remus suggested gently. Cedric nodded, swallowing, and George nuzzled closer.

"Aww," Fred cooed, and George growled at him quietly.

"Freddy, don't tease your brother," Hadrian scolded, hiding a giggle.

"Why does Harry smell like cat?" Cedric asked curiously, obviously wanting to change the subject.

"I"m a Neko," Hadrian explained quietly, and Cedric's eyes flashed briefly gold. "Only the people in this room, Mr. Weasley, Healer Whitefang, Griphook, and King Blackthorn know, so-"

Cedric yelped. "You met the goblin king?"

"Even we didn't meet the king," said Fred, look a mix of jealous and pleased.

"Harrikins is descended from Gryffindor and Hufflepuff, remember, Freddy?" George said.

"Ah, a Hogwarts heir," Fred said dramatically.

Cedric gaped at them.

"James was descended from Gryffindor, and Lily was descended from Hufflepuff's Squib great-great-grandson," Remus explained tiredly.

"Um..." Hadrian bit his lip and climbed down from Remus' back. "I took a Blood Test and a Magical Aura Test at Gringotts, too...."

---------

"Well, Hadrikins, can we-"

"-call you Little Lord now?"

Chapter Text

"I wonder how high up we are," Hadrian said dazedly, eying the ground far below. Remus groaned and pulled him back from the rail.

"Let's put it this way," came a familiar drawl. Hadrian noticed Mr. Weasley's ears turning faintly red.

Lucius and Draco Malfoy were standing behind them. Lucius smiled lazily. "If it rains, you'll be the first to know."

Hadrian felt his Neko straining to attach himself to Draco, but he pushed him back. Hates me.

"What do you want, Malfoy?" Ronald snapped.

"Ron, don't be rude," Mr. Weasley said sharply.

"Why?"

"We came to apologize," Draco said abruptly.

"What?" the twins exclaimed.

"I have divorced from Narcissa Black," Lucius said bluntly. "Our marriage contract ended. My father insisted I marry a woman and have a child, and I ended up marrying the most stuck-up bigot ever."

"But so are-" Ronald began angrily.

"Ron," Mr. Weasley said sharply. "Let him finish." His ears were turning steadily redder.

"I had to change my entire viewpoint when I married her," Lucius continued, nodding a little to Mr. Weasley, whose cheeks were now turning the same color as his ears. "If I did treat Muggleborns and blood traitors with anything but utter disgust..." he shuddered lightly. "I apologize for my behavior, and I am endeavoring to make up for it."

"Did Sissy ask you to join Voldie, too, Lord Malfoy?" Fred piped up. Hadrian burst into quiet giggles.

Lucius choked and Draco stared at them. "Yes," the man replied in a strangled tone.

"I apologize as well," Draco added. "I was an utter a**-"

"Language, Draco," Lucius chided.

Draco ignored him. "-to all of you, and you didn't deserve it."

Hadrian's eyes widened.

"Well, I don't believe you," Granger said haughtily.

"Me neither," Ronald sniffed. Ginny sneered at them.

"I accept your apology," Hadrian piped up. Draco smirked at him, and Hadrian's heart pounded.

"Us too," the twins declared. "We can be polite-" Fred scoffed.

"-unlike some people," George added, glowering at his younger siblings and Granger.

"What! But they're slimy-"

"Fred, George, why don't you take Hermione, Ron, and Ginny to our seats?" Mr. Weasley said quickly. The twins smirked and dragged them off, all three still protesting.

"I accept your apologies," Bill said calmly, extending a hand to Lucius. Lucius looked surprised and accepted the handshake. Charlie echoed him, and Percy agreed in a slightly pompous voice.

"Draco, why don't you go secure our seats," Lucius told his son quietly. Draco nodded and left.

"I..." Mr. Weasley started. Lucius turned to him expectantly, and Hadrian noticed with surprise the slight hope in his eyes.

"Dad, we know why you're not saying anything," Charlie said dryly. "We won't tell Mum."

"Definitely not," Bill added, winking at Mr. Weasley, who flushed brightly. "She's just as big a bigot as Miss Black, just against Slytherins and ex-Death Eaters." He cast Lucius an apologetic look, and the blonde nodded regally.

"I accept your apology," Mr. Weasley said quietly, blushing harder.

"I also wanted to apologize about that day in the bookstore," Lucius said in a slightly softer tone. Mr. Weasley flinched a little and looked away.

Hadrian quickly dragged a startled Remus and a wide-eyed Snuffles away without being noticed, and Bill, Percy, and Charlie quickly followed.

"What's going on?" Hadrian asked the oldest Weasley kids as they left.

"Dad and Lord Malfoy were dating when they were in school," Charlie sniggered.

Bill swatted him, trying to hide a smirk. "Dad's parents were against it, so they pretended to break up and dated in secret. Lord Malfoy's parents decided he needed to marry a pureblood woman, and they had to break up for real."

"The twins found Dad's secret stash of pictures of when they were dating," Charlie continued, laughing. "Dad's face was so red! Then he started telling the five of us the most adorable stories-"

"We can't dwell on that," Percy said abruptly, though he looked sad. "Father is married."

"I think he'd be happier with Lord Malfoy," Bill insisted.

"Mum's a little over-bearing and rude," Charlie grumbled.

"And homophobic," Percy agreed quietly, expression slightly pained.

Hadrian blanched, and Remus looked concerned. "She's...?"

"Yeah," Bill said tiredly. "Which is why the twins and Percy-" he paused.

"I'm dating Oliver Wood," Percy interjected.

"It's almost as adorable as Dad and-" Charlie began, and Percy glared at him, blushing harder.

"I thought you were dating Penelope... um..." Hadrian couldn't remember her last name.

Percy smiled fondly. "She knows I was gay and agreed to pretend to be my girlfriend so Ginny wouldn't snitch to Mother." He wrinkled his nose a little.

"The twins are bisexual," Charlie added.

"I know," Hadrian replied, giggling. "They told me in a very dramatic way." He didn't tell them that George was actually mated to another male.

Bill snorted. "I'm not surprised."

-------

"Don't tell your mother you've been gambling and selling your products," Mr. Weasley groaned.

Fred and George grinned wickedly, and Draco laughed. "Oh, don't worry, Dad," Fred said sweetly.

"She won't know a thing," George smirked.

"We've got big plans for this money-"

"-and we don't want it confiscated."

Mr. Weasley rubbed his face, sighing, and Lucius chuckled. Mr. Weasley flushed darkly.

"Shall I escort you back to your tent?" Lucius offered without looking away from Mr. Weasley.

Remus rolled his eyes in amusement. "We'll take the kids," he said dryly to Lucius.

Ginny, Ronald, and Granger scowled and the twins quickly scooped them up.

"Oh look, the Golden trio yawned-"

"-we'd better get them to bed!"

"FRED! GEORGE! PUT ME DOWN!" Ginny snarled as the five of them disappeared down the path. Hadrian giggled.

Lucius chuckled again, and Mr. Weasley actually squeaked. The blonde extended an arm to the redhead.

"I'm married," Mr. Weasley rasped. A flicker of hurt passed over Lucius' face.

"Oh, for Merlin's sake, Dad," Bill groaned. "Your parents are dead, and you don't have a contract with Mum. You can easily divorce her."

"Besides," Charlie added, "a few of your kids are dating people of the same gender, and want to be open at home with them."

"Rather difficult when Mother dislikes even the mere mention of homosexuals," Percy said sourly.

Mr. Weasley looked surprised, then hopeful. "I'll do that, but after your siblings have gone to school," he decided. "You'll be away from the force of your mother's anger." He took Lucius' extended arm, and the man smirked.

"Would you like us to stay?" Bill offered.

"I can't," Charlie frowned. "I have-" he glanced at Hadrian and Draco "-that thing."

Lucius raised a brow.

"Father told me about it ages ago," Draco declared. "He said under no circumstances was I to enter."

"There's an age limit, anyway," Mr. Weasley said quickly. "I think that's a rather smart idea. I should make sure the twins don't do anything-"

"-twinnish?" Charlie suggested dryly. Hadrian burst into giggles, which caused everyone else to laugh.

Chapter Text

Everyone was screaming. There were men in masks and Muggles in the air. The Dark Mark rose in the sky-

"Hadrian!"

Hadrian jumped awake, shaking, and immediately clung to Fred.

"It was just a dream," George said gently.

Fred scowled. "I want to give those idiots a piece of my mind."

"Don't," Hadrian mumbled, nuzzling into his chest.

"Fiiiiine," the twins grumbled.

Hadrian heard a laugh behind them and turned to see Cedric standing in the doorway, looking amused. "Hi, Ceddy," Hadrian smiled.

"Mate!" George yelped, flinging himself into Cedric's arms and almost knocking them both back into the corridor.

"Hello to you too," Cedric laughed, catching his balance and lifting his mate up princess style. He sat down and let George sit on his lap. "Hey. You okay, Had- Harry?"

Fred shut the door with one foot, casting a few silencing charms.

"I'm fine, it was just a nightmare," Hadrian replied. "How was your summer?"

Cedric made a face. "My father has been pestering me about finding a girlfriend."

"Mine," George growled, eyes turning amber.

"Yes, yours," Cedric said dryly, pecking his cheek. George turned bright red and his eyes went back to brown. "I managed to stall him, saying I was paying more attention to my career in the Ministry than a girlfriend. Eventually, though, he'll want me to find a wife."

"Is he against gays?" Fred asked, giving his twin a concerned look.

"I don't know," Cedric sighed. "I don't think I want to find out."

George pressed his face into Cedric's neck, and Cedric flushed a little. "Thanks, George," he said quietly.

"Aww," Fred cooed, earning glares.

"How was your summer?" Cedric asked forcefully.

Hadrian giggled. "Mr. Weasley took me shopping again so I could get a dress for the Yule Ball instead of dress robes. And he told Fred and George not to enter."

The twins pouted, and Cedric frowned. "Enter what?"

"The Triwizard Tournament," Hadrian answered.

Cedric's eyes widened. "You are definitely not entering," he growled at George. "That Tournament is dangerous."

George huffed. "Dumblebutt's going to put up protections, anyway, it's not like anyone younger than seventeen is going to get in."

"Your dad's going to make you enter, isn't he?" Fred said quietly.

Cedric winced, and George looked alarmed. "Probably."

"I think someone might put my name in, too," Hadrian said softly, and all three of them looked furious and worried. "Crazy things happen to me every year."

"I'll protect you, my Lord," Cedric said abruptly.

"I told you guys not to call me that!" Hadrian squeaked indignantly. "You're my brothers!"

"Deal with it," Fred sassed.

"We're yours," George agreed. Cedric nodded stiffly.

"I liked 'Little Lord' better," Hadrian muttered. "It's like 'Kitten'."

"Little Lord it is, then," George said gleefully.

"What? No! That's not what I meant!"

--------

"To be Resorted:" the Sorting Hat yelled before McGonagall could walk off with the school. "Fred and George Weasley and Harry Potter!"

"WHAT?" Ronald yelled, as the Gryffindors exclaimed in protest and the other three tables began talking loudly.

"Are you sure, Alistair?" Dumbledore frowned.

"Yes I am b***dy sure, Albus, they won't be safe in Gryffindor after Halloween," the Hat snapped.

Dumbledore rubbed his face. "Very well."

"Fred Weasley first," McGonagall sighed, scowling. Hadrian knew she didn't want to lose her lions.

Fred sauntered up to the stool and McGonagall put the Sorting Hat on his head. "SLYTHERIN!" the Hat bellowed after two seconds.

"WHAT?!" Ronald shrieked. The Gryffindors weren't happy either.

Well, most of them. Neville was smiling a little, and Seamus and Dean exchanged startled but pleased glances.

Fred sniggered and walked over to the Slytherin table, which was utterly silent in shock.

George walked up to the Hat next, and he was very quickly sorted into Slytherin as well. He cast a worried glance at Cedric as he walked over, relaxing when Cedric raised an eyebrow, looking completely unsurprised.

"Mr. Potter," McGonagall said sourly. Hadrian shyly got to his feet and walked up to the Hat. He wished his Neko side wasn't hidden so he could hold his tail.

The Sorting Hat was slipped onto his head.

"Hello, Mr. Riddle-Prince," the Sorting Hat said, luckily in Hadrian's head. "I wondered when you would get those blocks and compulsions removed."

Hi, Hadrian thought.

"Let's see, let's see.... Not Gryffindor again, that's for sure... not brave enough... I would put you in Hufflepuff, but you trust very few people... Would you like Ravenclaw or Slytherin, little kitten? You would thrive in both."

I want to stay with my brothers, Hadrian thought, though the thought of Draco Malfoy made him want to cry.

"You'd be surprised at what your mate really thinks of you, little kitten," the Hat said gently. "If you're sure... very well then... SLYTHERIN!"

The Hall erupted. Hadrian squeaked in panic and clutched at Professor McGonagall, who looked at him in concern.

Dumbledore raised his wand and fireworks erupted from it. Silence instantly fell. "I'm afraid you can only be resorted once," he said apologetically. "I'm sure you will continue to treat Harry the way you have always treated him."

"Let go, Mr. Potter," McGonagall said gently. "Go sit with Mr.s Weasley."

Hadrian swallowed and reluctantly let go of her robes, then darted over to the Slytherins. He sat down between the Demon twins and hid in Fred's robes.

He thought he heard Pansy Parkinson coo, but he wasn't sure.

"Well, now that we have sorted everyone -- and resorted a few -- it's time to fill our bellies," Dumbledore said. "Tuck in."

-----------

"So, now that we are all fed and watered," Dumbledore said with a blinding smile, "I must once more ask for your attention, while I give out a few notices.

"Mr. Filch, the caretaker, has asked me to tell you that the list of objects forbidden inside the castle has this year been extended to include Screaming Yo-Yos, Fanged Frisbees, and Ever-Bashing Boomerangs. The full list comprises some four hundred and thirty-seven items, I believe, and can be viewed in Mr. Filch's office, if anybody would like to check."

Fred and George snorted, and Hadrian giggled quietly.

"As ever, I would like to remind you all that the forest on the grounds is out-of-bounds to students, as is the village of Hogsmeade to all below third year.

"It is also my painful duty to inform you that the Inter-House Quidditch Cup will not take place this year."

"What?!" Hadrian squawked. He loved Quidditch!

"We'll suggest a mock match with the other Houses," Draco Malfoy assured him over the loud complaints. "Like Graham would pass up having you on the Slytherin team."

"Darn right!" Montague said indignantly. "Best Seeker since even before Charlie Weasley? You're on the team, Potter."

Hadrian beamed, then shyly hid his head in Fred's robes again, blushing.

Dumbledore was speaking again.

"This is due to an event that will be starting in October, and continuing throughout the school year, taking up much of the teachers' time and energy. I have great pleasure in announcing that this year at Hogwarts-"

The doors to the Great Hall banged open at that moment, accompanied by a loud clap of thunder. A man stood in the doorway, framed by the light of the torches, but Hadrian couldn't make out his features due to the heavy cloak he was wearing. He shook out a long mane of grizzled hair and limped forward towards the staff table.

Another flash of lightning illuminated the man's face, and several people gasped, including Hadrian. He was covered in scars, part of his nose was missing, and one of his eyes was fake, whirling around in his socket and staring at everyone in the Hall with a terrifying blue gaze. The other eye was frighteningly still, small, dark, and beady.

He reached Dumbledore, muttering something to the man. Dumbledore asked him a question, and he shook his head, then took a seat beside Dumbledore.

"May I introduce our new Defense Against the Dark Arts Teacher?" Dumbledore asked. "Professor Moody."

The twins immediately clapped. "We approve of-"

"-his dramatic entrance," they said when Draco Malfoy stared at them. Moody glanced at them, looking faintly amused, but otherwise his expression was dark and blank.

Because the twins had started applauding, the rest of the Hall joined in quickly. Dumbledore raised a hand to silence them after a moment.

"As I was saying," Dumbledore continued, "we are to have the honor of hosting a very exciting event over the coming months, an event that has not been held for over a century. It is my very great pleasure to inform you that the Triwizard Tournament will be taking place at Hogwarts this year."

"You're JOKING!" Fred yelled, as if he hadn't already known.

Several people laughed, and Dumbledore gave him a sharp look. "Do not interrupt me, Mr. Weasley. One point from Slytherin."

"Albus," McGonagall chided.

Dumbledore gave her a weary look, but Hadrian could see the anger in his eyes. "Some of you will not know what this tournament involves, so I hope those who do know will forgive me for giving a short explanation...."

Chapter Text

Arthur Weasley Divorces Wife and Marries Lucius Malfoy! Malfoy-Weasleys to Adopt the Five Oldest Weasley Children

---------

"HOW DARE YOU BE SORTED INTO THAT FOUL HOUSE! YOU ARE NO LONGER MY SONS! DON'T YOU DARE COME HOME!"

"Hey, Forge, should we prank Ronald to celebrate not being the hag's sons anymore?"

"I was thinking the same thing, Gred!"

---------

"Potter!"

Hadrian flinched and turned to see Ronald, Ginevra, and Granger marching up to him, looking furious. "Y-yes?" he squeaked.

Beside him, Zabini gave a muffled groan, and Nott rubbed his face irritably.

"Why are you a slimy snake?" Ronald demanded.

"Snakes aren't slimy," Hadrian frowned. "They're actually quite smooth."

"You would know," Granger sniffed.

"Have you said your piece?" Zabini asked with a sigh.

"We haven't finished yet!" Ginevra snapped at him.

"You're being rude and mean," said Nott flatly, "so you are finished."

"We're just telling Potter exactly what he deserves!" Ronald snaps. Hadrian flinched a little.

"You don't decide what he deserves," Zabini said icily.

"We're his friends!"

"And I'm going to be his wife," Ginevra added smugly. Hadrian squawked in protest.

"What, have you got an arranged marriage?" Zabini demanded. "Merlin, I'm sorry, Harry, she's a b****."

"Language!" Granger shrieked.

"He can't be in an arranged marriage with Weasleyette," Nott frowned. "The only people who can do that are Harry's parents, and they died when Weasleyette was barely a week old."

"Dumbledore wrote it up-"

"Not even his magical guardian arrange a legal marriage," Nott retorted.

"I'm not marrying Ginny," Hadrian said in a small but determined voice.

"Yes, you are!" Ginevra snapped. "You've been hoodwinked by the Slytherins and I'm going to put you right."

"Can't do that-"

"-ex-sister!"

Everyone jumped, and Granger and Ronald instantly had their wands out, staring at Fred and George with anger and alarm.

"Merlin!" Zabini complained. "Do you have to do that every time?"

"Yes," Fred drawled.

"As for you three-" George continued.

"-leave Harrykins alone, or-"

"-we will show you what-"

"-it means to be a Slytherin's enemy."

"How dare you!" Granger raged, and Ronald lifted his wand.

"Furnun-"

Bang!

"OH NO YOU DON'T, LADDIE!"

Everyone spun around as Professor Moody came stumping forward, wand pointed at the trio. He glanced at Hadrian. "Did he get you?"

"No, sir," Hadrian said shakily, having leaped into Fred's arms at the loud spell and the shout.

"LEAVE IT!" Moody barked. Hadrian jumped again, turning to look at Ginevra, Granger, and Ronald.

There was a chicken in the place Ronald had been standing. Granger was bending down to pick it up, but it let out a loud B-kaw! and fled down the hall.

Zabini, Nott, and the twins roared with laughter as Granger and Ginevra ran around the hall, trying to catch him.

"I don't think so!" Moody snarled, Summoning Ronald with a flick of his wand. He began flinging the chicken up and down.

"Professor Moody!"

McGonagall was standing behind him, looking shocked.

"Hello, Professor McGonagall," said Moody distractedly, still bouncing the chicken.

"What -- what are you doing?" McGonagall asked in alarm.

"Teaching."

"Teach -- Moody, is that a student?" she squawked, dropping all the books in her arms. Hadrian wriggled out of Fred's arms and began picking them up.

"Yep," Moody answered.

"No!" McGonagall pulled out her wand and turned the chicken back into Ronald. He looked panicked. "Moody, we never use Transfiguration as a punishment," she said weakly. "Surely Professor Dumbledore told you that?"

Hadrian noticed that Fred and George had begun whispering eagerly, and he groaned inwardly, knowing the two idiots were going to use chicken pranks on Ronald in the future.

"We give detentions, Moody! Or speak to their head of House!"

"That'd be you, then?" Moody drawled. "This one was trying to curse Mr. Potter."

"What?"

"Nasty one, too."

McGonagall's eyes blazed.

"He was calling Harry some nasty names as well," Zabini piped up.

"And Ginevra is insisting she's going to marry him, even if he made it clear he doesn't want to marry her," Nott added.

Ginevra huffed. "I don't understand why he doesn't want me! It's not like he's a f****t-"

Hadrian flinched and dropped the book he was holding.

"Miss Weasley!" McGonagall shrieked furiously. "How dare you! Fifty points for coarse language!"

"What!"

"And another thirty for harassing Mr. Potter!"

"We were only saying the truth!" Granger said angrily.

"And detentions for all three of you!" McGonagall snarled. "Thank you, Mr. Potter," she added in a much softer voice when Hadrian handed her the books, shaking a little. "Professor Moody, please escort Mr. Potter to the hospital wing. I believe he's in shock."

"Right," Moody drawled. "This way, Potter."

Hadrian waited until they were far away from the hall before saying quietly, "Th-thank you, Professor."

Moody blinked. "Wasn't he your friend?"

"D-doesn't like Slytherins," Hadrian mumbled. "And... and he's a j-jealous prat."

"How did you get sorted into Slytherin?" Moody added. "Dumbledore told me you were a true Gryffindor."

"The Hat w-wanted to p-put me in Slytherin," Hadrian whispered, "b-but I asked them n-not to. The f-first person I m-met who was supposed t-to be in Slytherin w-was really rude a-and reminded m-me of my c-cousin-" he flinched.

"I thought you grew up with purebloods," Moody said blankly. "Your father's closest relatives are Blacks, and most of them are ex-Death Eaters or in Azkaban."

"I grew up w-with M-Mum's sister," Hadrian rasped. "They..." he swallowed. "They d-didn't like me."

"Magic-hating Muggles?" Moody guessed. Hadrian nodded, and Moody's eyes darkened. "What is your cousin like?"

"He always g-got everything he w-wanted and r-rubbed it in m-my face," Hadrian whispered. "Th-they d-didn't get me anything-" except pain and r- that "-and I d-didn't w-want to share a d-dorm with someone l-like my c-cousin for t-ten years."

Moody studied him. "What did they do to you?" he didn't sound quite as gruff.

Hadrian flinched. "D-don't -- d-don't want-"

"Mr. Potter!"

Hadrian jumped and hid behind Moody as Madam Pomfrey emerged, looking startled and annoyed. "What happened to you this time?" she demanded.

"I don't think Potter likes loud, sudden noises," Moody said flatly. "And he's in shock."

"Well, he's not showing most of the signs of shock," Madam Pomfrey frowned. "Since you're here, I might as well give you your checkup."

"Ch-checkup?" Hadrian squeaked, peeking out from behind Moody with panicked confusion.

"You were supposed to come down here every month so I could make sure you were eating and exercising," Madam Pomfrey said briskly. "Didn't Minerva tell you?"

"No," Hadrian whispered, frowning.

Madam Pomfrey frowned. "I'll be having words with her, then," she sighed. "Sit down, Mr. Potter."

Hadrian hesitantly walked over to the bed and sat down.

"Do I have permission to perform the Medical History Charm?" Madam Pomfrey asked.

Hadrian paled dramatically. Moody's eyes darkened in concern and anger.

"I won't tell anyone, Mr. Potter," Madam Pomfrey said. "As a Healer, I have made a vow to keep all the secrets of my patients. Not even Dumbledore will know."

"O... okay," Hadrian whispered. "J-just... d-don't ask, p-please."

"Would you like me to leave, Potter?" Moody asked.

"C-can you get me F-Fred and G-George?" Hadrian rasped. Moody nodded and left.

"Medica Historis," Madam Pomfrey chanted, waving her wand over Hadrian. A thick scroll of parchment appeared. Madam Pomfrey blanched.

"What..." she unrolled the scroll, and the color drained from her face. "Who did..." she stopped, shaking herself. "No questions," she muttered to herself. "Well, Mr. Potter, it seems I have a lot of work to do."

Hadrian stared at her. "Wh-what d-do you m-mean?"

"You have been malnourished, which requires several potions and a change of diet," Madam Pomfrey explained. "You have also have broken several of your bones repeatedly, which then healed incorrectly, so you will have to regrow them. You also have Amore Peribat, a form of depression for when someone believes their mate hates them. I cannot heal a broken heart."

Hadrian swallowed. "You... y-you're g-going to... t-to h-help me?" he asked in a soft, hoarse voice.

"Of course, dear," Madam Pomfrey said gently. "That's my job." She flicked her wand, and the scroll disappeared, replaced with a slip of paper. "Now, here is your new diet and the potions you are required to take for the next two months...."

-------

Medical History:

Summary: Amore Peribat, broken bones healed incorrectly, malnourished, r***d multiple times

Age 0-1:

   none

Age 1-2:

   broken arm (fell from crib) (treated properly)

   witnessed death of parents (untreated)

   Killing Curse (ineffective due to Blood Protection)

   blocks on magic (treated properly)

   malnourished (untreated)

Age 2-3:

   malnourished (untreated)

   broken finger (beaten) (treated improperly)

Age 3-4:

   malnourished (untreated)

   broken arm (beaten) (treated improperly)

   sprained ankle (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   sprained wrist (beaten) (untreated)

   burned hand (cooking bacon) (untreated)

Age 4-5:

   malnourished (untreated)

   broken leg (beaten) (treated improperly)

   sprained ankle (beaten) (untreated)

   sprained wrist (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   repetitive r*** (untreated)

Age 5-6:

    malnourished (untreated)

   broken arm (beaten) (treated improperly)

   sprained ankle (beaten) (untreated)

   sprained wrist (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   repetitive r*** (untreated)

Age 6-7:

    malnourished (untreated)

   broken ankle (beaten) (treated improperly)

   sprained ankle (beaten) (untreated)

   sprained wrist (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   repetitive r*** (untreated)

Age 7-8:

    malnourished (untreated)

   broken leg (beaten) (treated improperly)

   sprained ankle (beaten) (untreated)

   sprained wrist (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   repetitive r*** (untreated)

Age 8-9:

    malnourished (untreated)

   broken collar bone (beaten) (treated improperly)

   sprained ankle (beaten) (untreated)

   sprained wrist (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   repetitive r*** (untreated)

   cuts on arms (self-inflicted) (untreated)

   cuts on legs (self-inflicted) (untreated)

Age 10-11:

    malnourished (untreated)

   broken leg (beaten) (treated improperly)

   sprained ankle (beaten) (untreated)

   sprained wrist (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   bruised rib (beaten) (untreated)

   repetitive r*** (untreated)

   cuts on arms (self-inflicted) (untreated)

   cuts on legs (self-inflicted) (untreated)

Age 11-12:

    malnourished (untreated)

   broken hip (beaten) (treated improperly)

   sprained ankle (beaten) (untreated)

   sprained wrist (beaten) (untreated)

    repetitive r*** (untreated)

   compulsions (treated properly)

   cuts on arms (self-inflicted) (untreated)

   cuts on legs (self-inflicted) (untreated)

Age 12-13:

   malnourished (untreated)

   broken hip (beaten) (treated improperly)

   sprained ankle (beaten) (untreated)

   sprained wrist (beaten) (untreated)

    repetitive r*** (untreated)

   compulsions (treated properly)

   cuts on arms (self-inflicted) (untreated)

   cuts on legs (self-inflicted) (untreated)

   bruised arm (cave-in) (treated properly)

   minor cuts and scrapes (cave-in (treated properly)

   bitten by Basilisk (treated properly)

Age 13-14:

   malnourished (untreated)

   broken fingers (beaten) (treated improperly)

   sprained ankle (beaten) (untreated)

   sprained wrist (beaten) (untreated)

    repetitive r*** (untreated)

   compulsions (treated properly)

   cuts on arms (self-inflicted) (untreated)

   cuts on legs (self-inflicted) (untreated)

   minor cuts and scrapes (crashed into Whomping Willow) (treated properly)

   Dementors (treated)

  Amoris Obsequiis (treated properly)

Age 14-now:

   malnourished (untreated)

   broken foot (beaten) (treated improperly)

   sprained ankle (beaten) (untreated)

   sprained wrist (beaten) (untreated)

    repetitive r*** (untreated)

   cuts on arms (self-inflicted) (untreated)

   cuts on legs (self-inflicted) (untreated)

Chapter Text

Triwizard Tournament

The delegations from Beauxbatons and

Durmstrang will be arriving at 6 o'clock

on Friday the 30th of October. Lessons will

end half an hour early.

Students will return their bags and books

to their dormitories and assemble in front

of the castle to greet our guests before the

Welcoming Feast.

Hadrian shivered. He'd forgotten that Nekos didn't do well in the cold. Fred and George wrapped him into their arms, and he relaxed a little.

"Aha!" Dumbledore said. "Unless I am very much mistaken, the delegation from Beauxbatons approaches!"

"Where?"

Fred smirked and silently pointed out a large object in the distance.

"There!" yelled a sixth year Gryffindor a moment later, pointing in the same direction.

It came hurtling towards them. Hadrian smelled horses a moment later, and realized it was a carriage. He burrowed deeper into the twins' arms. He was not a big fan of horses.

The huge carriage landed in front of them, and Hadrian whimpered when he realized how big the horses were. The door opened, and a boy jumped out, unfolded a set of stairs, and sprang back. The next moment, a high heel the size of a sled emerged from the carriage, followed by a woman who was exactly the same height as Hagrid. She stepped onto the cold ground, and a dozen seventh years appeared after her, shivering.

"My dear Madam Maxime," Dumbledore said warmly over the smattering of applause. He approached and took her extended hand, kissing it.

"Ew!" Hadrian whispered, and the twins sniggered.

"Welcome to Hogwarts."

"Dumbly-dorr," Madam Maxime smiled thinly. "I 'ope I find you well?"

"In excellent form," Dumbledore replied, "I thank you."

"My pupils," she added, waving a hand carelessly behind her. One of her students ducked, and Hadrian muffled a giggle in to Fred's arm.

"'As Karkaroff arrived yet?" Madam Maxime questioned.

"He should be here any moment," Dumbledore answered. "Would you like to wait here and greet him, or would you prefer to step inside and warm up a trifle?"

"Warm up, I think," Madam Maxime agreed.

About ten minutes later, several of the students hopefully watching the sky, the Durmstrang students arrived.

"Wicked!" Fred and George exclaimed in glee as the huge black ship rose from the lake. It gently glided forward and stopped on the beach. There was a thud as the plank hit the sand, and several hulking figures in shaggy furs emerged from the ship. At the front was a tall wizard in silver robes.

"Dumbledore," the man said with a shark's smile. "How are you, my dear fellow, how are you?"

"Blooming, thank you, Professor Karkaroff," Dumbledore replied.

Fred stiffened beside him, eyes locked on a figure directly behind Karkaroff. Hadrian glanced up to see that Fred's eyes had turned amber. He looked at the handsome boy behind Karkaroff and gasped quietly.

"Mate," Fred growled quietly.

The Durmstrang students walked past them, and the boy stopped, glancing around. When his eyes met Fred's, Viktor Krum's eyes turned black.

Viktor Krum is a Dark Veela? Hadrian thought in surprise as the boy growled, "Mate."

"Viktor, what have you stopped for?" Karkaroff demanded. "We don't want you to catch a cold."

Viktor glared at his headmaster. "I'm coming, old man." He glanced at Fred longingly before following Karkaroff inside.

Fred blinked, and his eyes were brown again.

George grinned good-naturedly. "Your mate is a famous Quidditch player? Unfair."

The students returned inside, and Fred was delighted to see that the Durmstrang students were sitting with the Slytherins. Hadrian giggled as Viktor and Fred immediately started a conversation. George's smirk made Hadrian's giggles worse.

---------

"The champion for Durmstrang," Dumbledore called, "is Viktor Krum."

Fred looked a mixture of pleased and worried as Viktor stood and stalked out of the Great Hall. Hadrian squeezed Fred's hand.

When the applause stopped, a second name flew out of the Goblet. Dumbledore caught it.

"The champion for Beauxbatons is Fleur Delacour!"

The dominant quarter-Veela that Draco kept growling at stood, brushed her long, silver hair off her shoulders, and swept between the Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff tables. She smiled sweetly at Hadrian, earning another snarl from Draco, and disappeared after Viktor.

"The Hogwarts champion," Dumbledore yelled, "is Cedric Diggory."

"No!" Ronald yelled from the Gryffindor table, making George hiss. No one else heard over the noise from the Hufflepuff table. Cedric cast his mate an assuring look as he passed and smiled at Hadrian.

"Excellent," Dumbledore said over the applause. "Well, we now have our three champions. I am sure I can count upon all of you-"

He stopped. The fire in the Goblet had flared red again, and it shot another piece of paper into the air.

Dumbledore caught it, and Hadrian felt a cold shiver down his spine. Fred and George pulled him closer, looking angry and worried.

For a long moment, Dumbledore was silent. Then he said, in a quiet, cold voice, "Harry Potter."